Our Story
Born from summers by the lake and a dream for something local.
We spent years enjoying the beauty of Balsam Lake, and fell in love with the local community. We wanted to create a place for community. So, we built one.
HopSack was created to be more than just a gift shop. We wanted a space where people could sip something warm, browse something beautiful, and feel right at home. With help from incredible locals, we brought it to life—combining a boutique gift store with a cozy coffee bar, all rooted in our love for this lake town community.
Meet the Owners
Jerry & Trisha Szykulski
Founders of HopSack
Balsam Lake, WI
Meet the people behind your favorite local coffee and curated gift shop…
Jerry and Trisha Szykulski, the husband‑and‑wife team who turned a dream into a community hub.
Jerry brings his entrepreneurial spirit and a lifetime of leadership experience to HopSack. He is also the CEO of Rotary Systems, Inc., an engineering and manufacturing firm based in Minnesota that builds custom solutions for industries around the world. With a strong background in business and a love for creating spaces where people connect and thrive, Jerry knows what it takes to build something meaningful and lasting.
Trisha is the heart behind HopSack’s carefully curated collection and welcoming atmosphere. Her eye for thoughtful gifts, regional makers, and beautifully designed goods sets the tone for everything you’ll find in the shop. Together, Jerry and Trisha share a passion for community, quality, and bringing people together, one perfect cup and one unique gift at a time.
When they’re not serving up coffee and introducing customers to local artisans, you might find them soaking in lake views, chatting with neighbors, or dreaming up the next delightful addition to HopSack…
Our Mission
Locally crafted. Community centered.
At HopSack, we believe in thoughtful curation and hometown connection. That’s why we focus on gifts, goods, and treats made right here in the USA – many from regional artisans and brands we personally love, like Lake House Candle and Hagen & Oats.
Whether you’re grabbing your daily chai, finding the perfect hostess gift, or just stopping by for a friendly chat, HopSack is here to make your day a little brighter.
The Building
Built in 1953. Filled with stories ever since.
Our building has a history as rich as the coffee we serve. Originally home to the Fazer-Nash car dealership, it later became the headquarters of Ledger Publications, which printed newspapers here for over 50 years.
We love the stories that linger in these walls—like how, in winter, staff would pour water on the floor to add moisture for the paper press, or how condensation on the windows would reveal old lettering advertising ‘minnows’ and ‘bait.’ Today, HopSack continues the legacy of this historic space—serving the community once again in a whole new way.
Meet the Manager
Rachel Hartman
Manager, HopSack | Balsam Lake, WI
Rachel is the friendly face helping bring HopSack’s daily magic to life. A local of Balsam Lake, she knows the community like a neighbor should—and she brings that hometown heart to everything she does. Whether she’s crafting the perfect latte, recommending a unique gift, or welcoming a first‑time visitor, Rachel’s enthusiasm and attention to detail set the tone for your HopSack experience.
Her role goes beyond operations—Rachel helps shape the culture of warm hospitality that HopSack is known for. From coordinating local events to highlighting regional makers, she’s passionate about showcasing the best of what Balsam Lake has to offer.
When you stop in, chances are you’ll find Rachel smiling behind the counter, ready to make your day a little brighter.