Ehrhardt purchased a 1910 Methodist church located at 701 N. Austin Ave. in June. The church was previously used as a wedding venue.
Ehrhardt said when looking at possible locations for her antique home decor and furnishing boutique, she remembers standing in the church’s garden area and feeling like she found paradise.“It’s just so peaceful here,” Ehrhardt said. “My Realtor suggested that I take a look at warehouse space ... but when I saw this place, it was like an aha moment.”
Ehrhardt held a soft opening for the new location Sept. 22 and will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony in November.
Unlike the original store, which will remain open, this location will focus entirely on European-style furnishings and decor.
“Having the opportunity to travel to places like England, France [and] Belgium has really been rewarding,” Ehrhardt said. “Finding beautiful pieces that you can feel the history of where it’s been, who’s touched it, who’s used it, is really special.”
Ehrhardt said she handpicked every piece of furniture in her stores—including each dining table, decorative sign, candlestick, armoire and escargot pot.
She also said while some pieces might be mended, she prefers to keep the original finishes and wear.
“It’s amazing how well-built some things are,” she said. “It’s even more impressive finding pieces that have been able to endure so much time.”
Ehrhardt has also curated new, modern housewares, such as aprons, scented candles and hand towels to sell as well.
She joked that while her late husband would say that her passion for shopping and antiquing was an obsession, she found a way to make it her living.
“I am very blessed to wake up and do this every day,” Ehrhardt said. “I am thankful for the support of this community, my daughter Amanda, family and dear friends.”
Ehrhardt said she is open to helping customers find specific pieces.
“I always say when decorating a space, fill it with something you love,” Ehrhardt said. “So yes, show me photos of your living room; ask questions; I will be more than happy to help you make your home feel special.”
Gatherings
Original store: 1009 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown
512-930-2600
www.gatheringsofgeorgetown.com
Hours: Wed.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sun. noon-4 p.m., closed Mon.-Tue.
New store: 701 N. Austin Ave., Georgetown
512-240-5040
www.gatheringsofgeorgetown.com
Hours: Thu.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., closed Sun.-Wed.
