Local entrepreneur Liz Neddo has expanded her Cedar business ventures with BeeWell, a new children’s play and community space situated across the street from her existing Wool & Honey establishment.
“I’m still a bit I’m shocked that we pulled this together,” Neddo said.
The venture began when the building’s owner mentioned the available space to Neddo.
At first, she considered the space for storage purposes, but Neddo thought of greater potential in the location located next to Buntings Market.
“I think something was telling me I need to do something here. Finally, with a lot of my just dream of consciousness going with people, I think you keep coming back to this kid thing ... we do a lot of social emotional (youth activities) with Wool & Honey,” Neddo said.
Neddo is the fourth owner of Wool & Honey that specializes in natural dyeing and knitting techniques.
The Neddo family has faced significant challenges in recent years. Their oldest daughter, Cecily, battled childhood cancer after receiving a brain tumor diagnosis in January 2023. Now in recovery, Cecily has completed one year of treatment, though the family continues to navigate the emotional aftermath of their experience.
The concept for a children’s community space was inspired by Gilda’s Club in Detroit, where Cecily received cancer treatment.
“(Cecily) thinks about a lot and has these fun memories of wanting to go back. It was just this big play area ... For kids coming in that either their parents were going through cancer or whatnot, she made buddies from just playing next to them,” Neddo said.
The space accommodates parents as well, offering areas to work or read while their children engage in activities.
“Made a quiet space in the back there that we’ve got a chair and soft lighting for either naps or nursing or feeding and changing. Or the other day, a parent needed to pull their kid aside and we need to have a chat,” Neddo said.
BeWell launched during ‘Light up Cedar’ Friday, featuring Christmas wreath-making activities.
“Wanting to be able to have a space that is soothing and helpful for families in the area,” Neddo said.
Future plans include a New Year’s celebration combining a dance party with collaborative scrapbooking activities.
Great uncle and nephew, Bill and Owen, connected in a new way at BeeWell in Cedar, a new community and children’s center in Cedar. Courtesy photo
