If you are a woman who loves home decor, beautiful design and HGTV- then more than likely, you have a bucket list that includes going to Waco, Texas and seeing Magnolia! Am I right?
Well, I am all of the above…and when I had the opportunity to go to Texas for a business mastermind that also included a 1 day trip to Waco, I jumped on it!
But, here is the deal.
I do love Chip and Jo. Who doesn’t? BUT…my draw to Magnolia was not about THEM. Sure, it would have been fun and awe inspiring to meet them…do not get me wrong, but my draw to the Magnolia brand is more than them…it is the story. It is the meaning. It is the feeling.
I hear all the time, from sooooo many people that they went to Magnolia and it was just not worth it to them. They said it wasn’t worth all the hype. They said the items were overpriced. They said there wasn’t enough shade. They said a lot of things.
BUT, guess what? I never listened. I understood their feelings about it, but I knew I was going for far different reasons…and I never let it deter me from experiencing it on my own!
You see, I love the show Fixer Upper, just like many of you. I absolutely adore Chip. He is my favorite. I love Jo too, but Chip has always been my draw to the show. His personality resonates with me. It reminds me of my dad and my brother…and Jo’s design is always so on point that it just inspires me in every way.
The show was what originally drew me to them, but it is not what kept me interested and inspired.
When I read their story, read their ups and downs, read their start and their trials along the way…I connected. I felt it. I connected with them on a whole new level that far exceeded a fixer upper show or a beautiful home. I connected with their souls and what they stood for as a brand.
You see, I have a business. I have a brand. I have so many people who feel like family to me that has come to me through my business adventures and my social media pages and blog. These people connect to ME, the way I do to them. It is a humbling thought…and it is one that I do not take for granted.
My business has experienced the ebbs and flows of life, much like Magnolia. It has experienced some big highs, but it has also experienced some big lows along the way. BUT, what keeps me going- and what kept them going, is my love for what I do. It is my passion. I have always given it my ALL in every single detail, and I hope that shows through to everyone who follows and loves me for what I do.
I know that beyond a shadow of a doubt, Magnolia as a brand, has figured this out in every way. They have figured out how to connect to their people, both in their magazine, their show and most definitely- their businesses in Waco that represent them.
It was apparent from my first step onto their property that it was a special place. It was apparent that every detail was thought out and planned meticulously. It was apparent that there was a love for the PEOPLE who would step foot on this property. You could tell they wanted to inspire you to be more and to live life to its fullness in HIS grace. They nailed that in every way.
If you are going because you think you are going to fill up your car with lots of vintage goodies, you are going for the wrong reason. Their store is beautiful. I bought several items- but my whole intent was not to go and BUY all the things…it was to go and relish in the feelings and inspiration that they bring. I wanted to be a small part of what they created….and I most certainly was.
PIN THIS REVIEW FOR LATER! Maybe it will help someone else decide if this is the trip for them!
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Last Updated on May 10, 2021
Wonderful adventure looks like to me! Awesome story of fulfilling yourself!
I love your blog Brooke! ?
You are so. While everything they do is beautiful, it is the two of them and the family that I connect to. Their love for Jesus enables them and they never forget that!
Made my husband promise me that the next time we visit our son in Austin, we’ll stop at Waco. Like you, I’ve wondered if it’s worth the hype, but I also won’t be going for the perfect sandwich, cupcake, or vintage goods. Rather, to just experience the vibe of what Chip and Jo have created together. You’ve convinced me the stop will be worth it.
Brooke, enjoy your blog so much. Would love to go to Waco TX
I enjoyed your blog about Magnolia. I’m glad you enjoyed your visit to Waco. I loved Fixer Upper but Jo was my pick. lol I also read their book about the trials they’ve been thru & love that they got thru all that, never losing faith that they were doing what they were meant to do. I love your Facebook page & your blog & hope it continues for a long time! Can’t wait to see your new home!
You are so right! Magnolia stands on its’ own. It was on my bucket list and I went on a busy holiday weekend. It was so crowded, as to be expected, the energy in the air was contagious. I loved it! Chip and Jo have created a brand all their own and there is something for everyone. I sometimes wonder if they realized just how big it would get and if they would change a thing….?
Brooke, I too have wondered if it was as good as all the hype. You have answered my questions. It was never going to be all about the show or the goodies or even in the beautiful home. It’s always been about the something you can’t always touch but you always feel.
Thanks Brooke for being you. I love all the things you stand for. Have an Awesome time decorating your new home. I will definitely be waiting for a tour.
Thank you for sharing your Magnolia trip with us! Your kind spirit makes me strive to be a better person! I love everything about your blog and your crafts! You inspire many!
I went to Waco about 2 1/2 years ago. Fixer Upper was still putting out new shows, so the interest in all things Chip and Jo were at peak level. It was very crowded the day I went, but ya know what? It was still worth it standing in line to get in to the store. Their system of dealing with the crowds worked. They had plenty to do for people with kids. Lots of food trucks and places to stretch out and make an afternoon of it. I really liked that. I knew the merchandise would be pricey, if anyone has ever shopped the online store, you should know that. I loved the bakery, they had awesome goodies! Overall, I really enjoyed my few hours spent there.
You are so RIGHT! I’ve been to Waco several times and love the atmosphere and feel of the place but knowing the background and Chip and Jo’s family and faith story is what makes it special. ❤
Yes, I have been to the Silos. Nope not worth it. Yep looks just like it did on tv. But the store was overpriced and had too many of the same items. I don’t want what everyone else has. I did buy a canvas bag to show I had been there but it was disappointing visit.
I absolutely agree with your insight on getting to GO to Magnolia, in Waco! I love everything they represent…as individual people….as a brand…as a family….and as a growing business!! I can’t wait for the opportunity to get to go visit!!
A must-visit for sure!
I used to live near Waco and shopped there often. The Silos were ever present. It was before we all got to know Chip and Joanna. I’m sure they lived there at the time, though. This past April I was able to spend some time in my old stomping grounds. So a trip to Waco with a couple friends was a must. I did enjoy it very much, even though what they sell isn’t really my style. I loved the grounds and all the little shops. Over priced, yes, but I already knew that. I enjoyed sitting in the old Church on the grounds that they hauled there and restored. We all three had a very good time. GrannyL.
That sounds like a fun trip!