Nestled in downtown Wayne, The Wild Nettle is more than just a shop. It is a space where art, wellness and community come together. Founded by Lindsey Whitt, the shop grew from a lifelong love of natural living and handmade items as well as a dream to create something meaningful in small-town Nebraska.
“The Wild Nettle began from a love of natural living, handmade goods, and community connection,” L. Whitt said. “Growing up on a farm in central Nebraska, I learned the value of resourcefulness, paying attention to the land, and noticing the beauty in what others might overlook. That sense of place inspired me to create a space in Wayne that feels grounded, genuine, and welcoming.”
The shop’s name holds deep personal meaning: “The Wild Nettle comes from the plant that grows freely in Nebraska fields. Most people know it as a weed, stinging nettle,” L. Whitt said. “I love that it has a dual nature. It can sting, but it also heals. That balance – a little sweet, a little sharp, a little untamed – feels like me and the shop.”
That spirit of embracing imperfection, growth and transformation flows through everything The Wild Nettle offers. Visitors will find shelves lined with locally made tallow balms, herbal tinctures, candles, art prints and stationery, all chosen with care and purpose. “Everything we carry has a story or a maker behind it,” L. Whitt said. “It’s not about polished perfection; it’s about small-batch, meaningful things that nourish people and the community.”
More than a place to shop, The Wild Nettle is a place to learn, create and connect with regularly hosted workshops and gatherings, from candle-pouring and pressed flower cards to the Honeysuckle Breastfeeding Support Group.
“My goal is to create a cozy, maker-led gathering space where art, craft and wellness intersect,” L. Whitt said. “I want The Wild Nettle to feel like a deep breath, a little wild, a little cozy, and full of small reminders that healing and joy can come from simple, natural things.”
Her husband, Joe Whitt, plays an important behind-the-scenes role in helping that vision come to life.
“It’s been a joy to support her vision,” J. Whitt said. “Anywhere from painting walls and changing light fixtures to making shelves and putting in a new door, anything that could bring the aesthetic of her vision to life – that’s been my role.”
J. Whitt also helps facilitate workshops and community events, including their recent grand opening downtown.
“She invited and coordinated everything. I just did what I could to help make it happen,” J. Whitt said. “I was hanging lights, setting up tents, making popcorn and cotton candy. Whatever it took. I’ve really enjoyed supporting her mission and doing whatever I can to make it come to life.”
Behind the cozy atmosphere and handmade charm is the hard reality of starting a small business in a rural town.
“With any small business, getting started is no easy feat,” J. Whitt said. “You have to get your inventory, tax IDs, all of that, and make sure the space is functional and inviting. But even with those challenges, she’s really built something special.”
That special something extends far beyond products and into personal connections.
“One of the most rewarding parts of opening The Wild Nettle has been meeting people who truly need what we offer, from older men with back pain, young kids managing asthma or allergies, to hormonal wellness and postpartum,” she said. “Alternative medicine isn’t easy to find in rural Nebraska, so being able to provide that and see someone leave a little lighter or more hopeful is incredibly meaningful.”
The Wild Nettle also reflects L. Whitt’s creative life as an artist under Golden Hearth Studio, blending her love of design and natural elements into the shop’s aesthetic.
“The shop reflects my personality, sweet and sour, practical and magical, soft and strong,” L. Whitt said. “For me, the nettle represents transformation, turning something that might sting into something restorative. That mirrors my life as a mom, artist, and small business owner.”
Looking forward, the Whitts have no plans of slowing down. J. Whitt said his wife has “a lot of upward trajectory in terms of growth,” including expanding to offer bulk items and refill stations.
“There’s an eco-minded approach to a lot of what she wants to do next,” J. Whitt said. “Bulk herbs, grains, refill soaps, all sourced from small farms or ethical producers. It’s about serving the community and offering things you just can’t find anywhere else around here.”
The Whitts describe the business in the same spirit: grounded in authenticity and driven by heart. When asked to describe The Wild Nettle in three words, J. Whitt didn’t hesitate: “Cozy, refreshing and inspirational.”
J. Whitt said that last word holds personal meaning.
“She’s an incredible mother, and she already does so much for our family,” J. Whitt said. “But to also serve the broader community and lean into her creativity is an inspiration to me and, I hope, to others. It’s kind of a lesson in just going for the things you love, even when it’s hard.”
As The Wild Nettle continues to grow, L. Whitt remains focused on that balance of simplicity and connection.
“I want to keep creating a space where people feel seen, supported and inspired, a small-town hub that celebrates creativity, wellness and the joy of [the] handmade,” L. Whitt said.
In the heart of Wayne, The Wild Nettle has become just that: a little wild, a little cozy and full of the kind of warmth that lingers long after you walk out the door.
