About a year ago my family took a road trip to Waco, Texas to play. We went to the zoo and did fun stuff, but my underlying motive was to visit the Magnolia Market store. We were loving their hot new show and wanted to see about all the fuss in real life. My husband grew up in Waco so it was fun to drive around with a “local” and see the changes, old houses and fun shops. But my eye was on making it to that store. The little one on Bosque.
It was a postage stamp size store. Small, cute, everything you thought it would be. A display of Joanna’s decorating goods from her hit show Fixer Upper. I bought a #SHIPLAP t-shirt that I flaunt with pride because I love this crazy decorating/remodeling duo.
The number one question I got when I posted our pic in social media land was…Is it worth the drive?
Honestly, I had a hard time answering that question. My love runs deep and the store was cute, but was it worth a cross country trip? I didn’t feel confident.
After all it was small and there are fun things to do in Waco, but not necessarily in conjunction with Magnolia Market. So…I think I made vague comments about how cute it was and “hey, look at my shirt”, but tip-toed around shouting from a roof top “YES…drive there now!!!”
Fast forward to last week.
One year later and Magnolia Market at the Silos is open and running full steam ahead. So… you know I had to check it out and see if my feelings would change! Lucky for me I live about 1.5 hours of easy country windshield time away.
My girlfriend and I pulled up about 11:00 expecting a line based on all the noise I’ve read on Facebook. Pleasantly surprised, we sauntered straight in. The staff did admit they can get upwards of 6,000 people through on a weekend, so we felt lucky that it was only moderately packed.
We were immediately sucked into the atmosphere. Every detail of this store is scrumptious. If you love Joanna’s selections, but don’t know how to put things together this place is for you. There is display after display of innovative vignettes showcasing her style that you can easily reproduce in your own home. I don’t think there is anything for sale in the market that isn’t displayed somewhere in a precious way. Yes, you can shop online, but there is more to the store than buying stuff. It is a series of decorating light bulb moments. You can tell things are changed seasonally and if you return for a visit later the merchandise and scenery will be different. She is fresh.
While Joanna frequents Roundtop most items in the store are reproduction, which is necessary when you sell on the scale that Magnolia Market does. However, there are a few original items up for grabs, like her famous marquee letters. There is a great price range of merchandise, which means there is something to be found for everyone and every budget. There is even a HUGE back room of sale items that I devoured! Of course I also got a new t-shirt to commemorate the trip. We wandered through the store for over an hour and once we left and rehashed our finds it was clear my friend and I each saw things the other had missed. That means there is a TON to take in!
And I haven’t even started on the outside.
The silos are still under renovation and it seems a tad hush hush as to what is actually gonna go down in there, but the anticipation is electric. The buzz says the silos will house their bakery (Magnolia Flour) and possibly her furniture line…who knows…I can assure you it will be fabulous even if it is just a bathroom. 🙂
Next to the silos is a precious little garden, bright and beautiful, meticulously maintained and a sweet spot to take a load off after all that shopping.
You can grab lunch from any one of the unique food trucks that are parked on site in the large outdoor eating/resting/play area. I had a grown up person’s grilled cheese and tomato soup that was delish. I can only imagine the fun my kids would have had running around in the big grassy expanse that I saw other families taking full advantage of. Oh – and speaking of bathrooms…there is a great one semi hidden outside, they seriously even did that pretty!
When chatting it up with employees they spoke so highly of the family, their kindness, how sweet the kids are and how the work atmosphere is one of a family vibe. This made my heart soar to know they are who they appear to be. This mini utopia the Gaines family has created is inspiring, beautiful, family oriented goodness that you don’t come across everyday. All through the store there are hints of Jesus.
Scripture.
Hymns.
Just an overall feeling.
I watched an interview in which Joanna says she felt God was giving her a platform. I have no doubt God has blessed this family in a way only He is able in return for them walking out in faith and sharing their faith so boldly. That’s just one more reason they have my vote.
I’m so enamored that I want Fixer Upper style for all so I am kicking off a new series here at Hunt & Host…Magnolia Market DIY. In case you live to far or have zero budget I will roll out projects to get the look on your own for next to nothing. I can’t wait to get started! Make sure to stay tuned for the action.
Until then why don’t you ask me the question again social media friends?
Is is worth the drive?
Hold on while I climb to the roof and shout as loud as I can, “YES…get in your car and go RIGHT NOW!”
I hope you’ll check out the projects inspired by my visit to Magnolia Market…starting with my Spring Mantel.
I flew from Memphis to Austin in January and drove to Magnolia Market. I went specifically to go to Waco for a fun girls trip. It was well worth it. I would definitely go again.
So glad you agree and had a great time!
One of these days I hope to make it to Magnolia Market, thanks for sharing. It makes me so happy to see their success but more importantly that they give God all the glory! I’m excited about your new series!
Come stay with me and I’ll give you the tour!!!!
Where would be the best place to stay
there area ton of hotels in waco, I often stay at the hilton downtown!
Thank you for confirming my belief that the Gaines family are real. I want them in Florida! Will follow you now that you have taken the challenge. Look forward to your ideas. Love your style
Yes! I lucked out with them almost in my back yard. I was happy to hear kind words about them for sure!
So where do you live? I grew up on a farm between Waco & Fort Worth and will be back in April for two shows — Antique Alley in Grandview and Vintage Market Days in Waxahachie. Gonna make it back to Magnolia in between. Hope to see you at one of the shows!
I am in Bryan – Would love to stop by one of those markets if I can between soccer and baseball 🙂 I will look up the dates and let you know!
I can’t wait for your new series! Eek! So excited!
🙂 me too
Sounds like a really inspiring good time. Maybe someday I will make it there, I am sure I would have to spend the night. Thanks for letting us know.
It would make for a fun get away!!!
I am so glad to hear that Magnolia Market is everything I hoped it would be. I am lucky that I live an easy drive away and plan a trip soon.
I am really enjoying Hunt and Host.
please let me know what you think! So glad you are enjoying the blog, it’s nice to know 🙂
You’ve inspired me! I think I’ll head down next week. (Fort Worth based)
Well, keep me posted on your trip…I want to make sure others agree that it is worth it! Plus I want to know what you find
Looking into a road trip from Prescott AZ to Waco in Spring. Looks like such a charming area with NO snow and ice like here! ????
yep – you will LOVE it! Have fun!!! Check out my other post other places to shop in Waco for some other places to check out!
I’m so jealous since I live in Maryland it would not be a quick jump in the car! I love the clean look that Joanna provides to every home she does. I am not good at decorating so I struggle with placement and ideas. I’m glad I just came across your post and can’t wait to see and learn more since I am on a budget. Thanks for willing to give us your time 🙂
Jessica
I can only imagine the beautiful things you have in your area that we miss out on down here…like seasons! I hope the little projects I show will help infuse some simple style into your home! fingers crossed yall like what I do!!!
I have been to their original store, but have not yet made it to the Silos. Like you, it is about an hour and a half drive for me. Going to have to make this happen soon!
It really is a fun outing, especially living that close. You can make a whole day of it in Waco! Let me know what you think
I just stopped in for the first time a few weeks ago when my oldest son and I were visiting Baylor as a possible college choice. Coming from Seattle it was on my must see list. It’s a fun store and I loved that back room of sale items! I soaked them up! But I might disagree with you on one thing. While I loved the store, I wouldn’t say that it’s items were all unique. That was the most disappointing thing for me. I felt like I could go to home stores in my area that sourced many of the same items. If I have friends that are more than an hour and a half drive away (and most are!), I would say that it’s not worth the trip. But, if you are close, for sure! Drive down, spend the day in Waco. It’s totally worth it. Even for just the coffee. Seriously, give me some of that cowboy coffee from common grounds. I’m dying!
I love the show.They have such a gift of talent.Would love to go there,but pretty far from Northern California
That would be a haul, but hopefully you can live vicariously through me 🙂
My hubby and I drove to Waco, while attending Canton Trade Days a few weeks ago–about a 2 ish hr drive–and it was sooooo worth it!! The store was crowded, of course–but the long line to check out went quickly and everyone was very nice…Just being there, made me giddy and I’d have loved it, no matter what, because of Chip & Jojo!! Love love love Fixer Upper and really enjoyed visiting Magnolia Market…My hubby even liked it!! We ate at a cute restaurant called Buzzard Billy’s, that overlooked the Brazos River–it was an awesome day!!
I’m so glad you agree. I thought the line went fast and everyone was SO friendly! We have eaten at Buzzard Billy’s with the kids. It is a great place, especially to sit outside on a pretty day!
Thanks for this post! I live in Virginia far away from Texas and really enjoyed an inside look at magnolia market- thanks especially for the bible verse and song lyrics!! I am inspired to make something similar for my house!! Blessings!!!
Yay! I hope the little peek can hold you over till you get a chance to head to Texas! There are so many fun projects you can make to bring a touch of Magnolia into your home.
you are SO blessed to live close enough to visit Magnolia Market and actually experience & see all the creations but most of all experience & SEE their love for Christ!
I’m new to your site just today but I can tell I’m gonna love it here!
love in Christ,
Brenda
Thanks Brenda! So glad I can be eyes for you! It was a special place. I am glad you are enjoying the scripture cards too!!! Welcome friend!
forgot to say thank you for the monthly scriptures…………I’ve already printed 3 copies! one for myself and one for my each of daughters!
Brenda
I have to disagree..I went to Waco on my way from Austin (at meetings with my husband) to Dallas (visit my son at SMU). I am from Florida and would not recommend a girls trip to Waco. If you want to go to Magnolia to shop, stay in Austin or Dallas and drive to Waco for the day. Waco really does not have much going on…Baylor is pretty but not going to keep you very busy. The store/silos/garden and food trucks will keep you busy for a few hours. The store is very well merchandised..but, when you take home the home goods they will look like stuff you could have bought at Pier 1, HomeGoods etc…I love the show..just a bit disappointed with the store..most of the stuff is made in China and has no originality. When they open the furniture store etc I might change my mind.
I completely understand your thoughts on staying in Austin or Dallas, there would be a lot more to do there! I also agree on the items not being one of a kind. I don’t think there is any way to do that on the scale she is serving! I loved it and have been back once since this trip…they have added on more outside and are obviously getting ready to expand with the silos and bakery. I still think it was a slice of heaven!
Well . . . Looks like I need to make the drive down there from Dallas! I would love to see more of your DIY Magnolia Style posts. I do love her style, but struggle to incorporate the same types of things in my own space.
You are so close you should make the trip!!!
Hello Kim, I really like your website. I live in Oregon and am flying into DFW and going to Hillsboro to help my daughter who is having surgery. My ultimate goal is to visit Magnolia Market. The comments on your website was very interesting and glad to know they have a bargain room as my funds will be very limited.
have fun!!! You should be able to find at least a few goodies to carry home, there are also a ton of other fun places to shop in Waco, enjoy your time in Texas!
I plan a trip to Magnolia late October. Do you have a store somewhere close as well? Would you fly into Austin or Dallas-Fort Worth I’m coming from Arizona
well, the drives are about the same, so I would go with the cheaper fare and I might lean toward flying into Austin over Dallas, the drive is prettier! I don’t have a shop, but thank you for asking, you might want to check out the list of stores you can visit besides Magnolia…the post is here: https://www.huntandhost.net/24-places-shop-waco-texas-spring-trip-magnolia-market/
I’m so glad I found this blog!!! My husband and I were taking about taking a road trip to Texas (from California). His goal was to hit up Austin and visit Franklin BBQ. But mine was to visit Waco to see The Silos and the Bakery. I didn’t know they had a shop/store as well! I’m even more excited now!! I love seeing a little sprinkle of God in their store and also this blog too! God bless!!
Well, I am so glad you found it too! Have fun on your trip, there is so much to do in Texas and the places you are thinking will be so fun!!!
I am planning a trip to Dallas, with a side trip to Waco to visit with a friend, and I came across your blog. Now this makes me REALLY excited to come to Waco. I love the Gaines family and I am happy that they are doing so well in all of their ventures. Praise our wonderful God for such blessings!
there is so much to do there if you like décor shopping and thrifted finds. I always find Magnolia to be an inspiring place, even if I don’t buy a thing! Have fun!!!
My mom, aunt, sister and I are planning a trip to fly into Dallas, drive to Waco and visit Austin as well. Obviously Magnolia is our number one reason for going. What other fun activities can you suggest in those three cities including unique shops to outdoor activities? BTW I will be following your site from now on and sharing!!
HI Nicole, so glad to have you here. I did a post on other places t shop you will like: https://www.huntandhost.net/24-places-shop-waco-texas-spring-trip-magnolia-market/ In Austin there are great food trucks, nightlife and shopping as well. I don’t have a defined list for Austin though! I hope the list for Waco help, you are going to have so much fun! Enjoy your vacation and be ready to be inspired!!!
My sister and I are going to be in Fort Worth in August and we would like to visit Waco to see Magnolia-Market do you know of any day trips that we could take to come to Waco
tell me what you mean. Waco is about an hour and a half from Ft Worth and you could easily drive over for the day, visit Magnolia then tour through some shops on this list. Are you looking for a place to stat, etc? Tell me more about your needs!
People are so funny when they talk about driving an hour and a half and is it worth it-My daughter and I are thinking about doing an “All-Magnolia girls trip” all the way from Youngstown Ohio! Probably mid October. Hope it’s worth it and all the money that we’ll spend on flight/rental car/hotel/shopping/food. I’m nervous about it but want to come sooo bad-just hope we get to see everything and nothing is closed and the traffic isn’t horrible. I also need to find a nice hotel close by. I would soooo love to meet the Gaines family too ????
My husband and I are planning a trip down from Kansas City for our anniversary in August. So excited! It’s going to be a quick trip… we’ll really only be able to spend one full day in Waco. Thanks for your review/comments!
I just purchased tickets to their 4 year anniversary of the silos for the Saturday night concert in October 2018. My wonderful husband will fly with me from Vancouver Canada for a long weekend. I can’t wait. Sounds crazy to some, but this is on my bucket list.
I think it sounds delightful! You will have a blast and be inspired!!! Have fun!
1278 miles round trip from Ocean Springs, Mississippi to Waco in 3 days. Yes, it was worth the trip. We shopped the Silos, went over to Harp Design, drove by their Bed & Breakfast in McGregor, the Magnolia Table and all the other “Fixer Upper” hot spots. Very crowded, but check out lines went fast. The other stores in town have similar items for much less. We should have brought the bigger car. Has a plus, we got to eat at In-n-Out again.
We are Going to Waco in the middle of September
Can’t wait. Glad I found this article and your blog.!
I went when it first opened and there were so many people I couldn’t even get close to the store. There were traffic police everywhere and could not get any place close. I’m handicapped and in a wheelchair and it was impossible. Such a shame because I really wanted to go,had six people in the car from Massachusetts,Puerto Rico, New Orleans, we all missed out and were terribly disappointed. We went to eat and headed back to Austin.
We are planning a trip to Texas next month and I so want to go to Waco for their Silobration! Has anyone been to one of these yet and is the concert worth the cost? We have two weeks for a road trip from Chicago so we need to make the most of every day. We also want to go to Santa Fe but realize that the distance might be a problem. Let me know what you think! BTW, I just LOVE Fixer Upper and have read both of their books along with my husband and we just love them!
Hi Nancy – I have not been to Silobration yet, but have heard it is great, I am sure it is worth it! I have read both books as well, they are inspiring! Hope you have a great trip