The entrepreneurial spirit in Woodstock is thriving with a new success story from the Downtown Development Authority's initiative, Made Mercantile. Lauren, a program alumna, recently moved her business from a shared workspace to Main Street, opening Gather & Bloom, a floral boutique.
According to a City of Woodstock release, in just four months, Lauren used Made Mercantile's resources to turn her idea into a business. "We feature about 10 women-owned businesses in the store," Lauren said. "You can find local goods alongside the perfect bouquet for any occasion."
Mayor Michael Caldwell praised Lauren's success, noting that it aligns with Made Mercantile's goals. "This is what Made Mercantile is all about—providing makers with the resources they need to grow their businesses. Seeing a graduate like Lauren not only succeed but also support other local entrepreneurs is truly inspiring," he said in the same release.
The boutique is located in a historic building from 1905, once owned by the Dobbs family, a name linked to Woodstock's entrepreneurial history. Bill Morrell, a Dobbs descendant, chose Gather & Bloom to honor his family's legacy. "This is a story of Woodstock's past and present coming together," said Mayor Caldwell, in a statement obtained by the City of Woodstock.
Made Mercantile is an incubator and co-working space for local makers, helping them develop business skills and engage with the community. The initiative continues to support innovation and sustain Woodstock's vibrant maker culture.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit Gather & Bloom on Main Street, where they can explore local craftsmanship. The boutique not only sells flowers but also showcases products created by women in Woodstock.
