Hobby Lobby Grand Opening June 4, Shelves Being Stocked

 known to be a place where all things crafts and hobbies converge under one roof is expected to have its grand opening on June 4.

According to Earl Kortemeier of Hobby Lobby, the store located in the former Mervyns space in the Marketplace at Laguna Niguel, 27200 Alicia Pkwy., will host the event at 9 a.m. However, customers could get a sneak peek a few days prior.

"Somewhere around Wednesday, Thursday or even Friday, the store could have a soft opening," he said. "Customers will be able to come in on any of those days once we get the remaining permits. It will give them a chance to come in and see the merchandise and shop, and it will give employees a chance to get used to things like cashiers learning to work cash registers."

The store will also be sending out direct mail fliers that will include coupons that run from May 28-June 2, as well as a 40 percent coupon off one item. 

To date, Kortemeire said between 40-60 people have been hired to work in the Laguna Niguel location and there could be more new hires in the future.

At this time, the store is being stocked with merchandise, and employees are ordering, marking merchandise, and training for their various departments.

"Hobby Lobby is a great place to shop, and a place where customers can come in and enjoy the surroundings, and mix with their neighbors whether they shop or not. Our goal is to be a fun experience."

 was leased to the Hobby Lobby. The building is the second largest in Laguna Niguel after the vacant , which may be 

Hobby Lobby officials said the company chose to open a store in Laguna Niguel after researching the demographics and deciding to "make a conscious effort to enter the California market in 2012."

Founded in 1972, the company's website states, that there are "over 60,000 products in 13 departments ... ranging from crafts, hobbies, picture framing, jewelry making, fashion fabrics, floral, cards and party, baskets, wearable art, home accents, and holiday supplies."