My Favorites
It’s HERE! Our annual gift guide featuring 100% local businesses. Check it out by clicking image below.
___________
PAST INSPIRATIONS:
“My parents often worked on luxury Texas ranches and the owner’s homes were always so beautiful, so some of my first memories were spending time in these gorgeous homes with beautifully designed interiors. My mom was very good at putting our homes together on a budget, she definitely was instrumental in nurturing that side of me. In my teens, she would bring me to Fredericksburg and we’d spend hours looking at the beautiful shops on Main like Homestead and Room No. 5 which further fueled my passion for design. I knew one day I wanted a furniture shop.”
DESIGN: THE BEGINNING:
“After living in Wyoming for 8 years, I knew it was time to come home and be with family again. My mom had moved to Fredericksburg several years ago so I knew that’s where I wanted to be and knew I wanted to open a store here and offer my design services.
My first “real” client was someone who came into my store in Wyoming and wanted me to help with his house. I kept putting him off because it wasn’t really something I did at the time, I was busy running a store. He wouldn’t leave me alone and got pretty annoying, so finally I decided to go over and give him some ideas. We ended up discussing a furniture plan and changing some floors- and by the end of it we had gutted the whole house and changed everything. He also became my best friend. He flew me to Dallas to decorate his family’s home there, my husband and I vacationed at his Hawaii home earlier this year with he and his wife, and I am decorating that for him and he also introduced me to my current business partner, I decorated her lodge in Jackson Hole and homes in Dallas. The doors that friendship opened were life changing.”
STYLE PREFERANCE:
“I love clean forms on a chair or coffee table but I also love the coziness of a down sofa. I find that to create the most well balanced interiors, it’s important to incorporate furniture from many styles. It feels collected rather than showroom. I love old with new and rustic with refined.”
STYLE: MID-CENTURY MODERN + TRADITIONAL
“It works because it’s clean. I don’t like clutter or too many accessories etc. a magic happens when you declutter a room.”
STAGING: IT’S A GIFT
“I think I would agree that not everyone can stage a home. For me staging is easy, because it’s only me and the house involved. I walk in and imagine a lifestyle, and I don’t have to ask anyone any questions. I love having the freedom to just go for it.”
GEOGRAPHICAL INFUENCES:
“I love the relaxed style of California coastal homes and the sophistication of New York prewar apartments. California has this earthy simplicity, organic materials and calming palettes that really speak to me. In New York, there’s so much built in charm in those old buildings, the marble fireplaces, herringbone oak floors and plaster walls.”
THE VALUE OF STAGING:
“I feel like when people walk into a staged home, and especially a home that otherwise might not show well because of dated finishes or odd spaces, they have an opportunity to see past those quirks and envision the spaces in a new light. For newer homes that are otherwise already gorgeous, it just sets the scene for the ideal lifestyle there and makes an empty home feel warm and inviting, so they can instantly see themselves there.”
STAGING VS. LATE MARKET STAGING VS. NO STAGING
“I’d have to say late market staging is better than no staging, but ideally we would stage it before it goes live for the best chance and a quick sell.”
BUDGET
“I am asked to stage all kinds of homes from small starter and spec homes to larger luxury homes. The only difference between the two, for me, is the quantity of furniture, I never sacrifice the quality. On average, I place $35,000 to $85,000 worth of furniture in a home. The rental rate for those homes is a set fee ranging from $750/mo to $1250/mo plus the cost of set up and removal.
I treat every home I stage like a design job, I want to walk away feeling like I designed a space for an imaginary buyer vs just furnishing a space. The final attention to detail makes all the difference.”
WHAT TO EXPECT + CONTACT
“I think people should expect and prepare to be ready to make changes and trust the process. I think the biggest misconception is that design isn’t attainable for everyone. I work with all budgets. The best way to reach me is to call me, all of my clients have my cell number so they can call or text me anytime, I’ll answer 307-690-3127.”
____________
to learn more about design consultation with Christina or
contact her directly at (307) 690 – 3127 for any home staging requests.
Shop Christina’s immaculately curated store online
or in person:
109 N. Adams Street
Fredericksburg, Texas 78624
(830) 307-9798
We know it’s hard not to be apprehensive scheduling your Fredericksburg get-a-way during a pandemic. One week, everything is shut-down. The next, everything is wide-open. Then – before we know it – only bars and wineries have to close. It’s incredibly frustrating to you, to us, and to the devastated owners of these establishments that help make up back-bone of our tourist industry. The good news: there’s still plenty of ways for you to enjoy the wineries when you come to Fredericksburg. Read ahead to learn how you can help support our local vineyards while having a GREAT time all-the-while abiding by social distance guidelines to keep you and everyone around you safe.
Keep in mind restaurants, shops, and museums are still open so this article is focused mainly on how to get creative and experience wineries in Fredericksburg during the recent closures by Gov. Greg Abbott.
Signor Vineyards | 830.304.7446
Hailed by many as one of the most beautiful vineyards in Texas, Signor Vineyards boasts lavish landscaping throughout their vast grounds as well as Joanna’s Market and Deli; a farmhouse inspired market located on site that features hand-curated gifts and gourmet bites. Signor vineyards is currently offering guests the option of purchasing wine and picnic lunches. We highly recommend this as one of your stops!
Grape Creek Vineyards + Stouts Trattoria | 830.644.2710
While the tasting rooms at Grape Creek Vineyards and Heath Sparkling Wines are, indeed, closed…. The on-site restaurant, Stouts Trattoria, is available to dine at and have a glass of wine on the patio. The stunning atmosphere at GCV makes for a very popular destination so we highly recommend making a reservation or calling ahead.
Kuhlman Cellars | 512.920.2675
Kuhlman Cellars is currently offering picnic baskets and wine to be enjoyed on-site throughout their vineyards. Call to inquire and book!
Pontotoc Vineyard Weingarten Picnic Basket and Sangria | 512.658.0023
The darling Weingarten at the hidden locals favorite spot, Pontotoc, is open for to-go wine and the most delicious picnic baskets. We recommend this stop, then walking the block over to Marketplatz for a romantic picnic date among the beautiful gardens. Don’t forget the plastic cups and picnic blanket!
Cross Mountain Vineyards | 830.992.3273
Delicious food (amazing pizza!) and Italian wine (including lots of sparkling, sweet, and dry options) available to-go at the locally owned and operated Cross Mountain Vineyards tasting room on Main Street. Get some wine and food to go and have a picnic at Marktplatz (pictured). Salute!
Fresh Pickens Market + Deli | 830.765.0468
This sweet road-side farmers market has fresh, local peaches and a TON of freshly made sandwiches, salads, and hot paninis available to-go. They also have all the things to build the perfect charcuterie board.
Insider Tip: This is a must stop for our photographer when she’s out taking photos on 290!
Hye Rum | 830.265.5644
Did you have your eye on trying a certain wine or winery but are bummed now because they are closed? DON’T BE! These wineries (and don’t forget about the distilleries + bars like Lincoln St. Wine Market (wine t0-go!), Hye Rum, Garrison Bros., and Elk Store) are STILL open for wine pick-up. So stop by, briefly check out the grounds (and take your photos!) pick up a bottle or two, and take it back to your BNB or favorite picnic spot and have your own little tasting. Don’t let tastings rooms stop you from checking out a winery or distillery you’ve had your eye on. We can’t stress this enough because this is the time of year the vines are the most beautiful so make a killer playlist and hop around from vineyard to vineyard collecting bottles as you go. You can view our extensive list of ALL wineries, bars, and distilleries in the Fredericksburg area HERE.
Tip: Always call ahead and verify exactly what is allowed when visiting!
Marktplatz
Located centrally in town, this stunning little marketsquare park is scattered with picnic tables and clean, grassy spots perfect for a picnic any time of day!
Coastal grass swaying in the breeze, live oak trees so old they might as well be historical landmarks themselves and trails taking you to one spot more historical than the next… check out Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site.
Home to Lady Bird Golf Course and the spot where 4th of July City Fireworks are displayed, this beautiful park is not only close to town but boasts a large RV park and plenty of walking trails offering secluded and private spots. Tip: our favorite picnic spot is along the river… bring bird seed to feed the ducks!
There’s no better place to soak up the beauty of Fredericksburg from a birds eye view than Cross Mountain. This 10 minute hike 5 minutes from Main St is secluded, tough enough to get your heart rate going, and -if you come at sunset- THE perfect spot to watch the sunset with your hunny.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area | Photo by Jake S. Fagan
For the adventurous couples or groups Enchanted Rock is a must. It’s beautiful and complex terrain, and the best workout you’ll get on your trip. The summit trail is not for the faint of heart in the summer time… be sure to bring plenty of water and flashlights if you want to watch the sunset. TIP: Dogs are allowed on some trails (not allowed on the actual rock) but we really recommend you leave them at home during hotter months. Reward yourself with a picnic lunch at the top of the summit trail… just remember to take your trash with you when you go.
With a little thinking outside the box there’s still so many ways to enjoy and support our Fredericksburg vineyards and wineries. We hope you’ll still come, adhere to local social distancing regulations (bring a mask!) and most of all; we hope you enjoy your stay! Note: Masks / face coverings are now REQUIRED in all public places in FBG.
Have questions of comments? Would you like to add something to this list? Text or call us at 830.998.8766
Marketplatz
What’s the perfect Saturday in Fredericksburg?
That’s a question I’m often asked. I’m Booker & Butler, a private concierge and my company plants customized Wine Country getaways for clients visiting the Texas Hill Country, as well as Napa and Sonoma, California.
It’s no secret that Fredericksburg is chock full of places to shop, eat, drink, hike, enjoy live music, and take in some history. In 2018, the Travel Channel named it one of “10 Great Small Towns for Big Vacations.” That same year it drew over 55,000 visitors.
With that much traffic, it’s best to plan your getaway in advance for most months of the year. Even January and August, months that are historically slower in terms of visitors, recently beat all previous years.
That’s where Booker & Butler comes in. With so many options of things to do and places to go, we help you cull it down and figure out how to make the most of your time. We do the legwork for you, so all you have to do is show up, follow your itinerary and have a good time.
If you’re considering coming with your family or group of friends and want a place where you can all be together, we can find you that home, even bring in a private chef to cater dinner.
Naturally, you’ll want to go wine tasting. After all, there are 100 wineries here, 50 in & around Fredericksburg alone. We can make the most of your time, helping you choose the ones that best fit your palate, your schedule, even your four-legged friends. You only want to taste 100% made & produced Texas wine? No problem. You want the best views? Easy. Food pairings? Done. We put it all together so you don’t waste your time driving hither and yonder. It doesn’t matter what your beverage of choice is – beer, whiskey, wine – we make it happen.
As of today in our Covid era, restaurants, shops, wineries, and other tourist attractions and activities are re-opening but things are far from what they were before the pandemic. There are all kinds of rules for social distancing and every winery, store, park and restaurant is responding to them in their own way, depending on how their space is configured. To accommodate the new rules, businesses will be operating at reduced capacity for the foreseeable future. They will only be able to accept so many visitors; most requiring reservations and some only hosting wine club members during the busier weekend days. This state of flux means each establishment’s hours and offerings are subject to change, making what used to be a carefree outing harder to plan. That’s where Booker & Butler comes in.
Whatever you want, we will make happen, even with all the Covid-related challenges.
Back to that perfect day in Fredericksburg. The fact is, everyone has their own idea of what’s best. That’s why we put so much effort into surveying our clients, teasing out their personal preferences and group needs. We help them strike just the right balance. But if you ask me what my perfect day is, it would go something like this . . .
Enchanted Rock at Twilight. Photo by Jake S. Fagan.
Wake up early and hike Enchanted Rock at my scheduled reservation time, followed by a full-on breakfast at the Rathskeller – hey, I earned it. It’s located in the basement of the historic 1800’s Keidel Hospital, which is super cool.
Rathskeller Restaurant
Then, with a full belly, it’s time to hit the 290 Wine Road. I like to start with some bubbly so my first stop would be the stunning new Heath Sparkling Wine.
Heath Sparkling Wine
After that I’d head next door to their sister property, Grape Creek Vineyards.
Grape Creek Vineyards
Many award winning wines to be had there, enough to work up my appetite. So I grab a bite at their on-site café, Stout’s Trattoria.
Stouts Trattoria
To cap off a day of tasting, my last stop on this day would be the new Augusta Vin, an estate winery just south of town focusing solely on wines 100% grown and produced in Texas.
Augusta Vin Winery
I’m always game for shopping, and I could use a new cute mask for my weekend outing. Musts on my hit list are Blackchalk Home + Laundry (yes it really used to be a Laundromat) and Haberdashery, two sister stores, they never disappoint.
Blackchalk Home + Laundry
Haberdashery Boutique
Same goes for Vaudeville with its exquisitely curated collection of home goods. It’s simply the most stylish place. There’s even a gourmet to-go shop and bistro in the basement. Dinner is served on weekends only so plan accordingly as it gets booked up fast. Speaking of dinner, no place is more lauded than Cabernet Grill, in the historic Cotton Gin Village. There’s a reason why it is consistently one of the most booked spots on Open Table.
Vaudeville
At this point I’d be about done for the night. But I rally for one last stop for some live music at Hondo’s on Main Street before they close with earlier hours these days. It’s run by the children of Hondo Crouch who bought the town of Luckenbach in the 70’s and carries on his tradition of all things Texas Fun. Now that is a full day!
For a comprehensive list of restaurants please click here.
Hours are subject to change. Please all ahead to confirm operating hours of any business!
The following businesses are going above and beyond by offering additional services like grocery orders and family style meals to help meet consumer demands:
Do you know of a business that belongs on this list? Text info to: 830.998.8766
We are filling in this list with detailed info as we receive it. Are you a winery wanting to update your status? Text 830.992.9708
BY ORDER OF GOV. ABBOTT ALL WINERY TASTING ROOMS ARE CLOSED. Many are open for CURB-SIDE PICKUP. Please contact the winery directly to inquire about their wine pick-up status as information is changing daily.
BY ORDER OF GOV. ABBOTT ALL BREWERY TASTING ROOMS ARE CLOSED. Many are open for CURB-SIDE PICKUP. Please contact the BREWERY directly to inquire about their pick-up status as information is changing daily.
| Breweries | Open Y/N | Extra Notes |
| Altstadt | ||
| Brewbonnet Biergarten at Wildseed Farm | ||
| Fredericksburg Brewing Company |
| Distilleries | Open Y/N | Extra Notes |
| Elk Store Winery and Distillery | ||
| Garrison Brothers | ||
| Hye Rum | ||
| Iron Goat Distillery | ||
| Spirited Oak Distillery |
