We welcome another new local sponsor for the 2011 Soque River Ramble:  Cottage Garden Plants & Gifts!

Cottage Garden Plants & Gifts has long been a favorite of the Lake Burton & Scenic Hwy. 197 shopping corridor for tourists, visitors, and local residents. Its eclectic blend of flowering plants, yard art, lake cabin furnishings, and local artist creations has broad appeal for those looking for just the right piece to compliment their home or landscape.

“It’s a shop you can walk into and find something for a gift for just about anyone,” says new store co-owner Gretchen Vanderbunt, “such as a thank you gift, house-warming gift, or other special occasion. The draw for our store is that you should be able to shop for your home, cottage, or second home and find something unique that suits your tastes.”

Recently Gretchen, along with Julie Cheatham and Barbara Rush, became the new co-owners of the Cottage Garden store. The three ladies alternate managing the shop daily while they also work at coming up with new gift ideas for display.

“We’ve always dreamed of owning our own shop to be able to sell what we create,” remarked Gretchen, “and selling what others make locally as well. Our little adventure is getting to do what we want to do every day. We get to be creative every day, and meet new people doing it.”

The trio intends to offer high-quality unique plants, as well as paintings, furniture, stained glass, quilts, and hand-sewn items. Hours are 10A – 5P Monday –Saturday and 12-5P Sundays.

“We plan to be open year round,” explained Gretchen.  “During the growing season, our main focus will be the plants and garden art. During the winter, we’ll feature more of our own handmade crafts.”

“Everyday, one of us will be working on one of our pieces to present to the public. We’re open to taking on commission pieces, or creating custom designs for a specific need.”

“What I enjoy most about this business is that it doesn’t feel like work,” laughed Gretchen. “I get to play in the dirt and make stuff . . . it’s like kindergarten all over again!”

Cottage Garden Plants & Gifts is located at 15729 State Highway 197 North, near the corner of Burton Dam Road and Hwy. 197. Visit the Cottage Garden web site or call 706.947.1601.