05/31/2026
Lately I've been reflecting on something that has been on my heart for a long time.
People often ask about our shops, our vision, or what makes them different. The truth is, from the very beginning, we've viewed these businesses as more than just businesses. In many ways, they've become a ministry.
Every day before we open, we pray over our shops. We pray that everyone who walks through our doors feels welcome, loved, and valued; whether they spend a dime or not. We pray that they feel peace here. We pray that God would use us to be a blessing to others and, if possible, plant a seed that helps someone draw closer to Him.
Yesterday, a couple of ladies came in and told us they love our shops and that they feel loved when they visit. The day before, one of our vendors shared that a customer told them we had become their favorite shop at the Emporium.
Those compliments mean so much to us 💜 not because of the praise itself, but because they affirm the very thing we've been praying for.
The truth is, this has never been about us.
The moment it becomes about us, we've missed the point.
Hearing that someone feels loved when they visit means the world to us. Hearing that we're someone's favorite shop is incredibly encouraging. But not because it boosts our ego. It's because those moments remind us that God is answering the prayers we've prayed over these businesses for years.
💜We want people to feel seen.
💜We want people to feel welcome.
💜We want people to feel encouraged.
💜We want people to know they are loved.
You'll find prayer boards, reminders of faith, and little pieces of God woven throughout our spaces. Not because we're trying to preach at people, but because we want to meet people where they are and create a place where kindness, grace, and love are felt.
We're just ordinary people trying to steward what God has entrusted to us. We may sell candy, gifts, clothing, handmade goods, and all sorts of treasures, but our real purpose has always been bigger than that.
If someone walks through our doors and leaves feeling encouraged, cared for, or a little more hopeful than when they arrived, that's a blessing.
If someone feels loved, that's a blessing.
If a seed is planted that helps draw someone closer to God, that's a blessing.
And if God chooses to use our little corner of downtown to remind someone that they matter, that they are loved, and that they are never alone, then all the glory belongs to Him. 💜
Thank you for supporting our shops, our vendors, and the dream God placed on our hearts. Whether you've shopped with us, prayed for us, shared a post, or simply stopped by to say hello, we're grateful for you.
If you've ever visited one of our shops, what made you come back? What made you feel welcome? We'd love to hear your story. 💜
"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." ~Matthew 5:16
