When Caroline Rash, a 23-year-old hairstylist, began learning to make her own jewelry, she never imagined that within a few months she would be running her own shop. But that's exactly what happened on March 10 when Scot and Haven opened in St. Elmo.
"I've always wanted to own a store, but I never really thought it was something I would be able to do," Rash said.
Caroline Rash offers local products and home goods at her new store, Scot and Haven, in St. Elmo. (Contributed photo)
Shoppers will find a range of home goods and accessories at Scot and Haven. (Contributed photo)After listening to the audiobook of "The Magnolia Story" by Chip and Joanna Gaines, stars of HGTV's "Fixer Upper," Rash and her husband Charlie decided to take a leap, and Scot and Haven was born.
The family-owned business sells home goods and accessories by local artists, including Caroline Rash's pearl-and-leather jewelry. Everything is handmade, with a Nashville-based soap company representing the farthest distance from which a product is sourced.
Rash said one of her main goals is to promote local artists and to encourage the community to support the people who are making products with love.
"A lot of times, [the artists] love what they make and love what they do but don't necessarily love the business side of it, and I love that part of it," she said.
Some of the local artists featured are Rangemark Textiles, Forman Pottery, Bright Forest Woodturning, Jamie Leake's quilts and Sarah Kate Design's calligraphy art.
The name of the store comes in part from the Rashes' 19-month-old daughter, Kenna Scot. "Haven" is because they want their future employees to feel like it's a peaceful place to work, they said.
"I've worked in some tough work environments, so I've gotten to see firsthand what not to do," said Caroline Rash.
Scot and Haven is currently open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but the couple hopes to expand the hours in the future. They also hope to showcase more creators and to offer workshops with local artists.
Scot and Haven is located at 4501 St. Elmo Ave. in the St. Elmo Fire Hall, above brunch restaurant Syrup and Eggs. Caroline Rash encourages people to visit the shop while they wait to be seated, or even to just hang out.
Charlie Rash said things are always being added, offering a reason to visit again and again.
To learn more, call 931-215-3102 or visit scotandhaven.com.