The Gathering Table: Where Our Story Begins

On Saturday, the very first Gathering Table came to life inside our little shop—and what a beginning it was.

From the moment the doors opened, there was a sense that this wasn’t just another event. All ages gathered here, from tiny babes in arms just a few months old to wise friends nearing 70, each one bringing their own spark to the table. And somehow, it all fit together as if we’d been meeting like this for years.

Afternoon picnic around the table

The day unfolded like chapters in a storybook. The sidewalk out front blossomed with bright chalk drawings as kids and adults alike left their marks in color. At the big table, an impromptu picnic spread out—snacks passed around, conversations meandering from books we love to new ideas worth sharing. Hands were busy with crochet and diamond painting, projects traded back and forth for advice, little tips and tricks offered with the kind of encouragement that feels like family.

Sidewalk chalk art between Mom & Daughter

And oh, the laughter. The kind that starts soft, then builds until tears are streaming down cheeks. The kind that binds people together in an instant. New friends were made, phone numbers and social media handles exchanged so the night wouldn’t be the end of the conversation.

As evening fell, cake made its way to the table, a sweet pause before the nightcap of Phase 10 began for those who stayed. The cards passed from hand to hand, jokes kept coming, and the room held onto its warmth long past the sunset.

Card games around the table

All around us, little signs of home began to appear—new decorations found their places on the walls, adding to the cozy atmosphere. And when it was finally time to close up shop, those who had lingered didn’t just slip out the door. They stayed to help tidy, still laughing, still talking, still carrying that glow of connection. We locked up with hearts full and a store that somehow felt even more loved than when the day began.

We can’t wait for the next one.