Crisis Bread Basket
By BONNIE EISSLER
Texas is a large, diverse state and a major economic power with a rich history and culture. The caricature of proud Texans who like to brag about everything that’s “bigger and better” in the Lone Star State is well known. However, Texas also has the dubious distinction of being the state with the highest percentage of food insecurity (limited or uncertain access to enough nutritious food) with more than one in every six households affected, mostly in rural areas, and Wimberley is no exception. We see abundance in close proximity to scarcity. Although the United States produces so much and is a top exporter of many agricultural commodities, hunger continues to be a persistent problem.
Nearly 40 years ago, St. Stephens and St. Mary’s churches recognized the need to serve economically disadvantaged individuals and households impacted by food insecurity in the Wimberley area. They registered the charitable organization using the name Wimberley Crisis Bread Basket (CBB) and both churches donated
Volunteer Gina McKinney.
www.wimberleycandlecompany.com
It soon became apparent that vouchers wouldn’t be enough for the most needy, so the decision was made to distribute weekly food baskets. The number of community sponsors continued to grow as more churches, businesses and clubs joined the original sponsors. Wimberley has a long history of rallying behind worthy causes and it seemed like everyone in town wanted to help by donating money and canned goods, volunteering, or sponsoring food drives.
The first year (1986), 400 food baskets were provided and by the next year CBB was serving 50 families (130 people) every week. “We’re really lucky that the community is so generous and that we often have fresh produce from local and community gardens,” says Christine Walker, who serves as Community Outreach Coordinator for CBB. Christine began working as a volunteer about four years ago and joined the Board in 2023.
Good nutrition is a top priority. CBB worked with a nutritionist to decide what to include with the standard items available from the pantry as well as the weekly food boxes provided for students during winter and summer breaks. 2“Our aim is to provide 60%
weekly nutritional value,” Christine says, “the students’ food boxes include items like tuna, peanut butter and jelly, bread, milk, juice and healthy snacks.”
Christine emphasizes that this is very much a community effort. CBB purchases food wholesale and works closely with Barnabas, a social services organization, along with volunteers from eight churches to sort and deliver the boxes.
Over the years, CBB has served an increasing number of their neighbors-in-need, filling grocery orders since 1997 from the pantry building that’s centrally located on land donated by the Wimberley Senior Citizens Activities, Inc (WSCAI). In 2024, there were 13,308 total distributions.
The Peanut Butter Bowl kicks off at the beginning of each school year with the Wimberley High School football team collecting jars of peanut butter for CBB. Last August was the 10th year that the Wimberley Texans have led this popular food drive!
The biggest fundraiser of the year is “Turkeys on 12” and it takes place in November leading up to Thanksgiving. This is a collaboration between CBB and Ozona Bank, which matches community donations up to $5000.Don’t miss the entertaining sight of volunteers wearing turkey costumes to raise awareness and attract donations.
Christine says, “It is an honor to be one of the ‘neighbors helping neighbors’ with food and encouragement.” CBB treats their clients with dignity and whenever a person comes back after his situation has improved and wants to donate money or contribute in any way, it is most gratifying.
FYI • The Crisis Bread Basket pantry is located at 14092 Ranch Road 12. For more information visit the website at crisisbreadbasket.org or call 512–847–5323 Distribution hours are Tuesdays 5:30 pm to 6:45 pm and Thursdays 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm
Tom Toporowski and Shiila Safer from Jacob’s Well Community Garden donating a cornucopia of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs.
Crisis Bread Basket’s volunteer coordinator, Ieuan Lewis, keeps things running smoothly.
Stacey Parrish and Joe Morris sorting food.
Experience the iconic Wimberley landmark, and get some exercise to boot! Once at the top of the 218 rock steps, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Wimberley Valley. Mount Baldy has been the site of countless marriage proposals, scout camping trips, and family traditions, and it’s also fitness lovers. Most just climb it for the magnificent view.
Photos courtesy Wimberley Parks & Recreation.
To visit Old Baldy, head north on FM 2325 from the square. Go 1.7 miles and turn right on Woodcreek Drive, then take the first right onto El Camino Real. Travel 0.2 mi to the dead end, then turn right on La Toya Trail. After about a half mile, you will see the parking area and the Old Baldy steps.
Within Wimberley’s Blue Hole Regional Park, there are 5.5 miles of trails to choose, with options for all types of hikers. In addition, two trails extend outside of the park. The Wimberley Hike and Bike Trail extends outside of the park limits for 2.2 miles one way, offering the chance to explore even more. To make the most of your adventure, check out the park’s trail map. This guide features trail locations along with accurate mileage, making it easy to plan your route and navigate the trails. Pick up a copy at the park, or download the map to take along with you on your phone.
Blue Hole Regional Park is at 333 Blue Hole Lane. For more information, call 512-660-9111 or visit cityofwimberley.com.
Climb Wimberley’s Mount Baldy
DINING GUIDE
Blanco Brew
14200 Ranch Road 12.
Organic coffee, fresh pastries, lunch specials and daily dessert specials. Monday-Friday 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30 am to 6:30 pm. blancobrew.com, 512-842-3400.
Brookshire Brothers Deli
14100 Ranch Road 12. 512-847-2296
Breakfast, lunch & dinner, signature fried chicken and beer on tap. Delivery & Curbside pickup available.
Chill’s on the Creek
14004 Ranch Road 12, on the Square
Casual bar & grill. Indoor and great deck seating overlooking Cypress Creek. chillsonthecreek.com, 512-847-6060
Community Pizza & Beer Garden
111 Old Kyle Road.
Family friendly with live music, cold beer, full bar, house made pizza. communitybeergarden.com, 512-412-0914.
Creekhouse Kitchen + Bar
14015 Ranch Road 12
Modern Texas Fare & Finely Crafted Cocktails on Cypress Creek. creekhousewtx.com, 512-722-3394.
Dairy Queen
14600 Ranch Road 12. 10 am to 11 pm daily. 512-847-3670.
Dos Olivos Market
13904 Ranch Road 12.
Food, wine. dosolivosmarkets.com, 512-842-3044
Driftwood Bistro
4001 Elder Hill Road, Dritwood
Amazing views! thedriftwoodbistro.com, 737-414-0222
Durango’s Authentic Mexican Food
401 FM 2325.
Delicious carne guisada, rice, beans, migas, tacos made to order, more. durangoswimberley.com, 512-847-3473
Hays City Store & Ice House
8989 FM 150, Driftwood.
Full bar, 50+ beers. hayscitystoretx.com, 512-722-3905.
Kelly’s Hill Country Barbecue
Food Trailer
14306 Ranch Road 12.
Tuesday - Saturday 11 am ’til sold out. 512-947-1609.
Longleaf Craft Kitchen + Bar
314-A Wimberley Square.
Chef-inspired, handcrafted menu. Craft cocktails, beer and wine. longleafwimberley.com, 512-842-3044
Marco’s Italian Restaurant
303 Wimberley Square.
Salads, pastas, pizza, more. Open Wednesday through Saturday 4 pm to 9 pm. marcoswimberley.com, 512-847-0742.
Mima’s Tacos
701 FM 2325.
Popular family owned & operated Tex-Mex restaurant. Call 512-847-1305.
Nada Mucho Tex Mex Heaven
13710 RR 12
Tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, plates, tequila and more. Open 11 am to 10 pm everyday. nadamuchotexmexheaven.com, 512-648-8904.
Oldie’s Burger’s & More
411 FM 2325.
Burgers, sides and more! Tuesday through Friday 11 am to 3 pm, Saturday 11 am ‘til sold out. oldieswimberley.com, 512-842-3363.
Pizza Hut
101 FM 2325. order.pizzahut.com, 512-847-2844
Rosita’s Food Truck
14306 Ranch Road 12 at the Junction. Monday-Friday 7 am to 2 pm. 512-648-1342.
Social on the Square
701 FM 2325.
Beer, wine, bubbly bar serving charcuterie. socialonthesquare.com, 512-842-3070.
Subway 809 Ranch Road 2325. 512-847-7824
Taqueria San Judas
801 FM 2325.
Authentic Mexican dishes, including quesadillas, tortas, enchiladas, street tacos, birra,huaraches, breakfast tacos and more. 512-722-3357.
The Leaning Pear
111 River Road, # 110.
Hill Country inspired cuisine. Indoor/outdoor seating. Beer and wine. LeaningPear.com, 512-847-7327.
The Let Go
13904 Ranch Rd 12 Suite 1. Sandwiches, tacos, burgers, more! theletgobar.com. 512-858-6751.
Un Mundo De Sabor
Food Truck
100 Old Kyle Road Tacos, flautas, enchiladas. Located at Willow Lake Watering Hole and Mercantile. unmundodesaboratx.com/#2. 512-792-1290.
Whiskey Ridge
8750 W RR 150, Bldg 300, Driftwood Full bar, Meats, fresh seafood. whiskeyridgetx.com, 512-262-0222.
Wimberley Cafe
9595 Ranch Road 12. Breakfast, sandwiches and homestyle entrees. Daily lunch specials. wimberleycafe.com, 512-847-3333
Wimberley Inn + Bar
701 FM 2325. Delicious brunch and evening menus. wimberleyinn.com/dining, 512-847-3750
Don’t forget to check the business website and/or call ahead to verify hours and offerings.
Local Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries
Driftwood Estate Vineyards
Driftwood Estate Winery sits on a bluff overlooking the Estate Vineyard and the Hill Country. Ages 21+ only. 11 am to 6 pm seven days a week. The Bistro is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 4001 Elder Hill Road in Driftwood. 512-858-9667, driftwoodwine.com.
Middleton Brewing
Customers appreciate the high quality of the beer, friendly service and relaxing ambience. Taproom hours 2 pm to 10 pm Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; noon to 10 pm Friday and Saturday; noon to 9 pm Sunday. 101 Oakwood Loop, San Marcos, TX, 78666. 512-847-3435, middletonbrewingtx.com.
Rough House Brewing
Located on a 50-acre family ranch, Rough House Brewery makes tasty ales, crisp lagers and cave-aged beers. Kid and dog-friendly. Snacks and sandwiches (until one hour before closing). Open Thursday through Saturday 11 am to 9 pm and Sunday 11 am to 7 pm Rough House Brewing is located at 680 Oakwood Loop in San Marcos. 512-667-7000, roughhousebrewing.com.
Seventh Son Vineyards
A family-owned and operated vineyard and tasting room is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1 pm to 6 pm. A full-range selection of red, white and rosé wines is offered. Kitchen offers shareable boards that pair perfectly with any bottle, with food specials rotating according to the season. 5424 Fischer Store Road in Wimberley. 830-935-4078, seventhsonvineyards.com.
Dripping Springs Distilling
Visitor center open Thursday through Sunday for craft cocktails and tasting flights, tours of the small batch distillery throughout the day, and elevated comfort food from the scratch kitchen. There is plenty of seating available in the beautiful tasting room, on the patio and outside under the oak trees. 5330 Bell Springs Road in Dripping Springs,. 512-858-1199, drippingspringsdistilling.com.
Wimberley Valley Winery & Lone Man Mountain Brewing
A wide range of wines are available – from sweets to dries, reds to whites, and sparkling — in the tasting room. Inside the same building, you’ll also find Lone Man Mountain Brewing, offering small-batch beers brewed on-site — from easy-drinking lagers to bold, hop-forward ales and smooth, barrel-aged specialties. Weekends, enjoy live music. 2825 Lone Man Mountain Road in Wimberley. 512-847-2592, visit wimberleyvalleywinery.com.
Ghost Note Brewing
Nestled among five peaceful acres in Dripping Springs, Ghost Note Brewing welcomes you to unwind and enjoy this Texas Hill Country backyard oasis. With wide-open spaces, rustic charm, and a dynamic music scene, the brewery invites you to relax, and to taste the notes of expertly crafted beers. Come for the beer. Stay for the music. 23663 Ranch Road 12 @ Ghost Note Lane in Dripping Springs. 512-375-3300,www.ghostnotebrewing.com.
Nada Mucho TEX-MEX HEAVEN
By ERNIE ALTGELT
Alittle feigned modesty has often been the hallmark of heroic actions. The humble fireman who saves a family from a burning house and says, “Shucks, I was just doing my job.” The ball player who scores the winning touchdown then sheepishly states, “Anyone could have caught that pass.”
Yep, we Americans just aren’t big on gloating when and/or where greatness occur and, maybe that was the logic behind Wimberley’s newest and, now much-love, Mexican restaurant and bar’s selfeffacing name: Nada Mucho Tex-Mex Heaven.
In reality, there’s nothing “nada” about the place. The food, the refreshments, the friendlines ... why it’s absolutely heavenly, “y mucho mas.” Ole! A visit is definitely required and those that venture in will not be disappointed.
Located a short hop from the town square in a beautifully bright and airy structure designed for casual and comfortable eating, drinking and fraternizing, Nada Mucho’s atmosphere truly is one of welcome, sit on down (inside or out) and enjoy. But the reassurance really kicks in with that first sip of an icy cold beer (15 slaking brews to select from) or a perfectly-blended Margarita (13 must-try varieties made with only the best in tequilas).
See NADA MUCHO, Page 14
WIMBERLEY ZIPLINE
Experience high-flying fun on an action packed ride at Wimberley Zipline, as you soar over canyons and creeks with 15-mile views of the Wimberley Valley on a series of 10 zip line crossings. Tours last from one and half to two hours, and are $110 per person, including taxes, parking, equipment, training, guided walking tour, bottled water, plus all 10 lines of the Zipline Adventure. Reservations are required.
Photo courtesy Wimberley Zipline.
Wimberley Zipline is located south of Wimberley on Four Winns’ Ranch at 300 Winn Valley Drive. Advance reservations are required; guests must be age 9 years or older; legal guardian must sign release for participants less than age 18. Visit wimberleyzipline.com or call 512-847-9990.
Nada Mucho’s full bar doesn’t stop there, with additional offerings including tarty grapefruit palomas, creative cocktails and a wine list that’s got you tastily covered. So, whatever one’s libation of choice, satisfaction is guaranteed. Salud!
After that great start, it’s time to think about the savory and spicy edibles since the outstanding Tex-Mex cuisine and more is the real hero of Nada Mucho. One glance at the extensive menu and all doubt is removed concerning this eatery’s humble moniker. Many diners begin the experience with appetizing chips and queso, welldressed nachos, even ceviche and/or a cool shrimp cocktail. ADdon’t overlook the delicious salads and soups.
For many, it’s the entrees that really get the juices flowing. Sizzling fajitas, “grande” burritos, enchanting enchiladas, myriad magical tacos, not to mention the cheese-pleasing quesadillas and really, the heartiest eater couldn’t ask for anything more… except possibly, for a dessert (churro fries, or maybe, chocolate tres leches?)
Saturdays and Sundays, Nada Mucho offers an especially tempting brunch menu (available 11 am to 1 pm).
The restaurant’s rapid success (it only opened in January 2025) is attributable to several factors. The owners are savvy restaurateurs who live in Wimberley and have accrued years of experience satisfying the public’s demand for only the best at their other area operations.
At Nada Mucho — their newest enterprise — they’ve again established an environment conducive to fun and fine dining and filled the same with a responsive team lead by their outstanding chef, Chris Ruiz. He has guided the evolution of the menu since inception that always includes a large helping of tradition coupled with lots of forward-thinking imagination. Obviously, this recipe has proven to be a hit, based on the large amount of repeat business the eatery enjoys every day.
Are you willing to indulge in some Tex-Mex heavenly wonderment in Wimberley? Say “si” because otherwise, you’ll miss out on what’s clearly “mucho mas!”
Photos courtesy Nada Mucho Tex Mex Heaven.
FYI • Nada Mucho Tex-Mex Heaven is open seven days a week from 11 am to 10 pm. The restaurant is located at 13710 Ranch Road 12, near Wimberley’s center. It is children- and pet-friendly with play areas. as well as plentiful parking. For more information, visit the website at nadamuchotexmexheavan.com or call 512-648-8904.
NADA MUCHO,
BOOTIFUL WIMBERLEY
Have you ever seen anything like it? Spend some time enjoying the six-foot fiberglass cowboy boots — painted by area artists — all over town! Bootiful Wimnberley is a project of the Wimberley Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance, and includes a collection of 60 whimsical and unique boots. Follow the Boot Trail! It’s a great way to explore Wimberley! Visit bootifulwimberley.com for information and a Boot Trail map.
CALLEY’S JEWELRY
Wunique custom pieces and expert gold, silver and platinum repair services, as well as a personal touch that has kept customers in Wimberley coming back for 25 years. Whether you’re searching for the perfect engagement and wedding bands or a custom pendant fashioned from two or more antique pieces, Calley’s is the place to go.
When Craig and Cheryl moved from Waco to Wimberley, their two children were entering their freshman and senior years of high school, so they were looking for good schools, a strong sense of community and family-friendly environment. They soon realized that this charming Hill Country town was the perfect place for setting up their jewelry shop and raising their family, which has grown considerably since then. “Our daughter got married in 2009 and our son in 2011,” Cheryl says, “we now have seven grandchildren and everyone lives right here in Wimberley — our roots are deep in this town.”
Craig and Cheryl were both working at the same jewelry store in Waco when they first met, Craig as assistant manager and Cheryl as a jeweler. Cheryl credits her grandfather as an early influence, tracing her interest in the mechanical aspects of jewelry repair to the time that she spent with him. “He worked on cars and lawn mowers as a hobby and I was always following him around watching him work,” she says.
Later, while still in high school, she worked at a Zales Jewelry store in Waco. She recalls working on watches there, sizing bands and changing batteries.
“On my off days, I would be at the store watching the jewelers work,” she says. Cheryl went on to earn a degree in jewelry design and repair from Kilgore College. She does all of the repairs at Calley’s, everything from resizing rings, tightening set stones and straightening prongs to repairing chains and restringing pearls.
Craig’s parents were both involved in the arts and provided an environment for him that encouraged artistic expression. His dad had a master of fine arts and his mother taught high school art for many years. From an early age, Craig enjoyed whittling and woodcarving, skills that are directly related to the wax designs he carves by hand using the lost wax casting process, a process by which a single metal object is cast from a wax model.
See CALLEY’S, Page 17
Craig and Cheryl Calley.
The Calleys combine their talents to create beautiful pieces often using inherited heirloom jewelry that customers want remodeled into one-of-a-kind rings or pendants. Designs are inspired by the color or shape of the stone. Once Craig makes the prototypes and they’re in metal, Cheryl sets the stones and does the finishing work.
“Making something new out of pieces that are damaged or outdated is one of the most satisfying and exciting parts of this business,” Cheryl says.
This might involve combining elements from two items, such as two gold wedding bands, to create a cross or a fish pendant, or a large initial pendant made from a cluster ring with diamonds meticulously removed and reset into a striking cursive letter shape.
Calley’s commissions some of their custom cut gemstones — sapphires, aquamarines, onyx and rubies — from acclaimed stone cutter Larry Woods. Woods has 40 years of gem-cutting experience and is internationally recognized as a master gem cutter and artist, having won many prestigious awards for his carvings and designs.
Photos courtesy Calley’s Jewelry.
FYI • Calley’s Jewelry is located at 13501 Ranch Road 12, Suite 107. Hours are Monday to Friday 10 am to 5 pm, and Saturday by appointment. For more information, visit calleysjewelrytexas.com or call 512-842-2281.
Wimberley Flower Shop
By BONNIE EISSLER
It’s still hot in Texas in September but Wimberley Flower Shop is ready for autumn with all the colors of the season “of mists and mellow fruitfulness,” as described by John Keats in his poem “To Autumn” — warm yellows, vibrant oranges, rich reds, and earthy browns.
A tower of ceramic pumpkins, gourds and several straw-haired scarecrows dressed in burlap greet customers at the door. Fall floral designer’s choice bouquets are bold and fiery: “Bonfire Nights” features bronze mums and orange roses, while the “Wild Amber” arrangement dazzles with orange lilies and tulips.
Kristy Clanton began her journey in floral design in July 2004 when she purchased the original Wimberley Flower Shop that was established in 1971. Moving from a corporate background (Information Technology in the medical field) to running a floral design studio has been exciting and challenging, a lot of work and long hours to be sure, but building her own business has been the fulfillment of a long-held dream.
Manager Ashlie Harriott has been in the flower business for 16 years. She started out working in a local flower shop in Bloomfield, New Mexico as a delivery driver during a holiday rush. After this seasonal work turned into full-time, it wasn’t long before Ashlie’s natural creativity opened the door for her to make some arrangements demonstrating a flair for floral design. Ashlie continued to work as designer and manager of the Bloomfield shop for five years before moving to Texas. She has been the manager of the Kyle (opened in 2018) and Wimberley shops, “bouncing backand-forth between the two,” since the spring of 2024.
In the Victorian era, during the 19th century, particularly from 1820-1880, there was an extensive and weirdly specific floriography, whereby people used flowers to send covert messages they were too culturally repressed to say openly.
It was a very interesting time for flowers, to put it mildly, that sometimes necessitated referring to a flower dictionary to decode the significance of a nosegay, to determine whether the message was “I am dazzled by your charms” or “my heart knows no love“ or “let us bury the hatchet.”
In modern times, with social media and prolific sharing of feelings, both in person and online, there’s no longer a need for secret floral messages. Nonetheless, the famous advertising slogan “say it with flowers” harkens back to that era and is recognizable and relevant today, even though it was created over a century ago for a Mother’s Day campaign in 1918.
Mother’s Day is still one of the three biggest events every year for the floral industry, along with Valentine’s Day and the Christmas holiday season.
“We sell a lot of flowers for Valentine’s Day,” Ashlie says, “but Mother’s Day — that takes the cake!“ Roses and carnations are the most popular flowers to send on this holiday, with carnations in red, pink or white the official flower symbolizing appreciation and enduring love.
Even as the more obscure aspects of Victorian floriography have faded, the cultural significance of sentimental expressions of appreciation, sympathy, friendship and love has not. Words that
See WIMBERLEY FLOWERS, Page 20
Greg and Kristy Clanton.
Beware the order gatherers!
So many scams, it’s hard to avoid them. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is getting better at tricking us with each passing year, but we have learned to recognize and avoid a great many online and text scams. Phishing, foreign money exchange, IRS imposter, online shopping and fake job offers won’t persuade us to give out our personal information or send money.
But there’s another scam you may have been burned by without even realizing it. In the floral industry, there are companies known as “order gatherers” (OG’s) that pretend to be local, but are actually based in large call centers or operate as national services from anywhere in the world, including places like Asia. Why are they considered scams?
They take your order either over the phone or through their website, keeping big service fees and then sending a smaller amount to local florists to fill. For example, you pay for a $125 arrangement and the florist may receive half or 60-70 percent of that amount. Since the florist can’t create a $125 value arrangement with only $75, your favorite aunt’s birthday flowers very likely won’t be the deluxe ones you ordered, they’ll be smaller with fewer or less expensive blooms.
Unlike the OG’s, local florists have a physical location, inventories and suppliers, and they deliver the flowers directly to the recipient.
How can you protect yourself from being the victim of an OG’s deceptive practices? Check for a physical address. If a website lacks a clear local address or maps lead to a non-flower shop location, this is a red flag. Verify the phone number by calling to see if it connects to a local florist. Use a reputable directory website like localflowershop.com.
When you order directly from a local florist, at home or in another town, every dollar goes into fresh flowers, thoughtful design, and beautiful delivery — exactly what you intended!
can be difficult to say in person are beautifully expressed with a gift of flowers: “We are proud of you. We are here for you in your sorrow. I appreciate your friendship.”
Whether traditional, modern or whimsical, floral arrangements transform even an ordinary space into something rather spectacular and magical, enhancing any event, especially that all-important life-changing one — the wedding — with color, romance and the timeless beauty of nature.
Four years after Kristy embarked on her new career at Wimberley Flower Shop, she launched Wow Factor Floral in 2008 as a specialized branch focusing on weddings and events. “We have a small but mighty special event team that’s very adept at transforming creative visions into reality,“ she says.
Kristy works personally with each bride, keeping within their budgets, whether the wedding is a year or a month away, bringing all the floral details together from the bride’s bouquet to the table centerpieces. Wow Factor Floral creates floral decor for 225 to 250 weddings a year, traversing the Texas Hill Country to venues in Austin, Kyle, Dripping Springs, New Braunfels and Fredericksburg. Appreciative couples often say that choosing their flowers was their favorite part of the wedding planning process, a testament to Kristy and the talented team at Wow Factor Floral.
Photos courtesy Wimberley Flower Shop.
FYI • Wimberley Flower Shop is at 13600 Ranch Road 12, Suite B. You can order online at wimberleyflowershop.com or by phone at 512–847–7673. Hours are Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm and Saturday 9 am to 1 pm For information about Wow Factor Floral, call 512-395-7159 or visit the website at wowfactorfloral.com.
Photo by Melissa Ball.
LIVE MUSIC @ Susanna’s Kitchen
Concerts Third Thursday of each Month
A true Wimberley treasure, Susanna’s Kitchen Coffee House monthly concerts are the third Thursday each month at Wimberley United Methodist Church. The intimate smoke- and alcohol-free venue offers a wonderful listening experience. 2025 performances include Jeff Black October 16, Dana Cooper (pictured) November 20, and the Cary Swinney Trio December 18. The 2026 musical lineup includes Warren Hood January 15, the Del Castillo Trio February 19 and Susan Gibson on March 19. Check website for more!
Photo courtesy Dana Cooper.
Doors open by 7 pm, music starts at 7:30 pm. Food and drink is available for purchase, including tamales, pie, coffee and sodas. Wimberley United Methodist Church is at 1200 County Road 1492. Tickets available at the door. wimberleyumc.org/events/susannaskitchen.
SHELTER GOODS
By BONNIE EISSLER
Shelter Goods, a delightfully unique shop close to Cypress Creek in downtown Wimberley, offers a vibrant globally inspired collection of items for the home. How does this extraordinary eclectic blend of art and antiques, tableware, textiles, toys, ceremonial tribal masks and rejuvenating facial masks all come together so seamlessly? One of Shelter’s owners, Will Rothelle, explains their curating process, “We look for something you would find in a home,” he says, “more specifically, we ask if this is something we’d want in our own homes.”
Will and partners Oren Porterfield, Andrew Ashmore, Carrie Sexton, Everett and Lauren Robuck, own three distinctive boutiques — Shelter, Joon and Ceremony Botanical. “When we opened Ceremony [in 2020], we had antiques as well as plants,” Will says, “as Ceremony became more of a plant store, we scaled back the antiques for lack of space and because the high humidity wasn’t the best environment for them.”
When the space next door became available, Will and partners embraced that opportunity to open a home goods store, updating the building with a classic grey stucco façade. Some of the art and antiques from Ceremony found a new home there.
See SHELTER GOODS, Page 24
Photo by Sarah Natsumi.
Photo by Kara Buse | Wyld Roots.
Photo by Kara Buse | Wyld Roots.
Photo by Kara Buse | Wyld Roots.
Photo by Sarah Natsumi.
Shelter offers many items not found in typical home and lifestyle stores. A large selection of products are inspired by Mexican and Japanese aesthetics.
“We appreciate the quality of Japanese products so much,” Will says. Hasami porcelain cups and plates are among the tableware selections. These elegant dishes blend modern minimalist design with traditional craftsmanship, using a combination of clay and crushed stone.
Other items from Japan include a vintage Buddhist gong, kimonos, cookbooks, spice blends, teas and teacups, rope necklaces, and hand crocheted dish cloths. A large colorful carp wind sock, Koinobori, a symbol of strength and persever ance, decorates an interior wall. Koinobori are flown in Japan to commemorate Children’s Day, May 5th, a day set aside to respect children’s personalities and celebrate their happiness.
The defining feature of functional art is the combination of beauty with utility, and functional art is the defining feature of Shelter’s collections. A sampling of these items includes: Gary Weeks rocking chairs, vintage African ceremonial stools, Turk ish kilim rugs, Mexican black clay pottery soup bowls, vintage kimonos, and Sabah shoes.
Sabah shoes are stitched entirely by hand using highquality leather. Traditional shoemakers in the southeastern region of Turkey have been making these slipper styled shoes since the late 1800s. These are classy comfortable shoes (with a story to tell) that you will wear for years!
her style is all her own. Her functional folk art is practical and alive with the spirit of her ancestors.
Joon Self-Care is an essential member of the Shelter Goods family. Carrie Sexton has worked for twenty years in the skin care industry as an esthetician and she has observed how thoughtful holistic care can transform a person’s perspective on skin care.
Closer to home, Nam’s hand-woven whisk brooms (pictured above) are rooted in the tradition of Appalachian broom makers, but
“When I began planning a second location for Vetiver Skin Studio in this historic house, I knew the charming downstairs needed to be more than an extension of the studio,” she says. Her vision of a welcoming environment dedicated to nontoxic, cruelty-free skin care became Joon, a place to connect with conscious skin care.
She selects and tries out skin care products, ensuring all ingredients are beneficial and ethically sourced with no links to potential health or environmental harm.
The moisturizers, facial masks, lotions, serums and elixirs come in thoughtfully designed, visually appealing packaging, “but it’s what’s inside the package that counts,” says Carrie.
Shelter extends beyond a mere physical enclosure, be it cabin, castle, tent or townhouse, to encompass all the myriad everyday artifacts that make a house a home.
Shelter is located at 14000 Ranch Road 12. Hours are Sunday through Thursday 10 am to 6 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am to 8 pm, Joon is open Monday through Thursday 11 am to 5 pm and Friday through Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm. For more information and to see photos and detailed descriptions of products, visit the website at sheltergoods.com. You can also call 512-722-3350.
Photo by Sarah Natsumi.
Photo by Sarah Natsumi.
Walk-to-everything lodging on the Wimberley Square.
New, modern-western suites at Gaines Ranch on the Square + cozy, creekside Cabins on the Square—sister properties right next door. Park once and stroll to shops, restaurants, wine bars, and galleries. Perfect for a romantic weekend for two or a whole-crew getaway.
On the Square: true walkability no car needed. Two stays, side-by-side: book one suite/cabin or the entire property.
For every trip: couples, girls’ weekends, wedding guests, and family groups.
Gaines Ranch: five boutique suites (inc. ADA + a 2BR/2BA with living area Cabins on the Square: intimate cabins on Cypress Creek with private water access & fire pit.
Wimberley Bike Tours
By ERNIE ALTGELT
Compact Wimberley has always been known as a “walking town” where folks like to conveniently stroll from shop to shop, maybe saunter down to the river or, take five for a quick snack at a very local eatery. But the beckoning burg, as locals can attest, has been in a seemingly unending growth spurt and continues to reach farther afield, way beyond its beloved town square, creating situations where walking isn’t always practical.
Today, many of Wimberley’s abundant charms, natural and commercial, quite simply require a more concerted effort to enjoy because of proximity. With so much, in and around, to experience, what’s a body to do?
Well, the solution many would-be wanderers have discovered that happily saves on shoe leather and/or a few gallons of gas, is to hop on an electrically-assisted bicycle. This can make to area destinations easier, more adventurous and, a heck of a lot more fun, as well. And, for those inclined, the Wimberley Bike Tour company is all about making that happen. Yep, join the pedal party and, let’s make Wimberley a “two-wheeling town.” Beep, beep!
Bike rentals have been a standard of vacation venues for decades. It was only a matter of time before Wimberley joined the group and, what a great fit it’s been.
Founded in 2018 but now under new management, the company strives to make their rental biz the best it’s ever been. With a rentable fleet of high-tech Nakto e-bikes and RadRunners available coupled with user-friendly tour route suggestions, including distances and the ride times required, exploring Wimberley and its environs via bicycle has never been easier.
Make your reservations online, download a comprehensive route
map then plan your exciting day that might include getting your new bike’s feel at Jacob’s Well Natural Area, then heading by Cypress Falls Swimming Hole followed by lunch in downtown Wimberley. Later, Blue Hole Regional Park makes a fun stop. Really, you’re free to roam as you please, quietly rolling along with the cooling breeze caressing your smiling face. You’re totally in charge, renting and riding by the hour or the day.
See BIKE TOURS, Page 27
These are not the old Schwinns and Murray’s we grew up with. Equipped with electric-assist motors, ascending an elevation or, just giving your legs a break is as simple as pushing a button. And, they are extremely comfortable and easy to pilot, even if you haven’t been on a bicycle for years.
You’ll feel like a kid again and, won’t that be neat. All of the bikes have baskets for carrying essentials like snacks, water and, of course, cell phones. These are adult-sized bikes however, not suitable for the little tykes. So, are you ready to ride?
FYI • Wimberley Bike Tours is located north of town at 310 FM 3237. For more information, visit the website at wimberleybiketours.com for rates, routes, hours and reservations, or call 512-790-0947.
LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY SUNDAY
The Market at Blanco Brew
Expect a wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce, handcrafted products, and delicious food options. Open 9 am to 1 pm. 14200 Ranch Road 12.
FIRST SUNDAY
Wimberley Coffee & Cars
Anyone with a hot rod, muscle car, sports car, exotic, classic truck or unique ride is welcome to come out and put your car on display. 8 am to 11 am. Blanco Brew, 14200 Ranch Road 12.
FIRST THURSDAY
First Thursday Art Crawl Galleries stay open late for special activities, themes, food, drink and more. gallerytrail.com/artcrawl.
FIRST & THIRD THURSDAY
Jon Conboy’s Song Circle
Musicians invited to join in. 6:30 pm to 9 pm. Willow Lake Watering Hole & Mercantile. 110 Old Kyle Road.
THURSDAY - SUNDAY
Live Glassblowing at Wimberley Glass Works
Watch a team of artisans create beautiful art glass using age-old techniques before your eyes. 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. 6469 Ranch Road 12, San Marcos. 512-393-3316, WGW.com.
EVERY FRIDAY
Live Bingo at the VFW
Four-game “Early Bird” session starts at 7:15 pm. Main event at 8 pm with 10 games and a midway intermission. Oldham-Cummings VFW Post 6441, 401 Jacobs Well Road.
FIRST SATURDAY
Wimberley Market Days. (March-December)
Shop the Hill Country’s largest outdoor market, with 490 booths on 20 oak shaded acres. 7 am to 3 pm. Lions Field. 601 FM 2325.
OCTOBER 4, 11, 18
Haunted Trail
Prepare for an unforgettable night of chills and thrills as Blue Hole transforms its scenic hiking trails into a spine-tingling Haunted Trail. Brace yourself for an immersive experience filled with eerie encounters, ghastly surprises, and the rustle of unseen creatures lurking in the shadows, featuring local theater actors. 8 pm to 9 pm wimberleyparksandrec.com. pm
OCTOBER 9, 10, 11, 12
“Jubilation - An Ol’ Time Gospel Music Show” Dinner & Show
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday dinner at 6:30 pm and show at 7:30 pm; Sunday lunch 1 pm and show at 2 pm. EmilyAnn Burdine Johnson Studio Theatre. emilyann.org.
OCTOBER 18
22nd Annual Hunter’s Night Out & 30-Gun Raffle
Tickets include a barbecue dinner, beverages, and chance to win one of 30 guns. Food/bar opens 5:30 pm; live music, bucket raffles, live auction, card scrambles. Under the Big Tent at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 14711 Ranch Road 12. Tickets at the door or online at HuntersNightOut.com.
OCTOBER 18
Boo! Hole Halloween
Trick-or-treat trail, carnival games, a costume contest, haunted trail, s’mores, and photo booths. Admission is free. 4 pm to 10 pm at Blue Hole Regional Park, 333 Blue Hole Lane.
OCTOBER 25
Best Little Dog Walk in Texas
Bring the whole family, whether they have two legs or four, to enjoy a morning gone to the dogs. Fun fall family activities start at 9 am before the one-mile walk begins at 10 am, and more activities follow. First Baptist Church. freedomcanines.com.
OCTOBER 25
Star Party at Blue Hole.
Enjoy an evening of stargazing and fascinating presentations by the Wimberley Dark Sky Committee. wimberleyparksndrec.com.
OCTOBER 25
Groovin’ to the ’70s.
A funky fabulous evening of music, dancing and retro vibes. Live performances by the Hill Country Honeys, 5 O’Clock Somewhere and Austin Horns at the Wimberley Community Center. BYOB, 7 pm to 10 pm. wimberleyccc.org.
OCTOBER 31
Trick-Or-Treating on the Wimberley Square
Bring the whole family and visit the merchants on the square for a community trick-or-treating experience. 4 pm to 7 pm.
NOVEMBER 2
Harvest Moon Dinner, Dance & Silent Auction
Fundraiser for Wimberley Valley Museum. Doors at 6 pm, dinner 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm, dancing 7:30 pm to 10 pm. Dinner by Kelly’s BBQ, music by Hot Texas Swing Band, plus a silent auction. Fischer Hall at 701 Fischer Store Road. wimwic.org
NOVEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 17
Wimberley Players present “Christmas Belles”
A Southern-fried Yuletide comedy. Get your tickets online at WimberleyPlayers.org.
NOVEMBER 22-23
Blue Agave Art Fair
Juried indoor art show features works of artists, photographers, sculptors, fiber artists, ceramicists, woodworkers, jewelry, more. Wimberley Community Center. WimberleyValleyArtLeague.org.
Real estate PRofessionals
PARTNERS IN REAL ESTATE GROUP
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY
Partners In Real Estate Group is the “premier real estate experts” in Wimberley, Dripping Springs, Blanco, and the Texas Hill Country. As highly trained, full time, experienced Real Estate Agents with Keller Williams Realty, Partners In Real Estate Group are always your best resource for the Texas Hill Country Real Estate information and community knowledge. We work with both buyers and sellers sharing our extensive knowledge in the latest real estate strategies. Partners In Real Estate Group has a team of agents with more than 50 years’ experience combined. We are a knowledgeable experienced team that specializes in residential homes, water properties, lots and ranch properties. Stop by our office in Wimberley today.
TRACI PHILLIPS
Assoc. Broker/ Realtor, CRS, ABR, ALC
& RANCH REAL ESTATETHE HILL COUNTRY GROUP
We are located in the middle of one of the most desirable areas to live, according to US News and World Report and MSN. We would love to help you find your piece of the Hill Countrywhether you are looking for a home in town or a large ranch and everything in between..
With 40-plus years of experience, we are ready to use our experience and knowledge for you. We serve ALL of the Texas Hill Country which is rare!
Traci has been voted “Best of Wimberley — Best Real Estate Agent” for the past four years, nominated as “Best of Hays” and recognized as an outstanding Woman in Leadership for Hays County in 2020 and Visionary in 2021. The connections she has gained over the years are a benefit not many can offer. We love what we do - and our many clients can attest - our clients are the focus and we would love to have you be part of those satisfied clients!
LOCAL CHURCHES
CHAPEL IN THE HILLS
14601 Ranch Rd 12 512-847-9762 wimberleychapelinthehills.com
HILL COUNTRY COWBOY CHURCH
120 Green Acres Drive 512-847-9526 hillcountrycowboychurch.com
COWBOYS
FOR JESUS
8400 FM 32 Fischer, TX 210-389-6235 cowboysforjesus.com
CYPRESS CREEK CHURCH
211 Stillwater 512-847-1222 cypresscreekchurch.com
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
15951 Winters Mill Pkwy. 512-847-9035 fbcwimberley.com
FREEDOM VALLEY FELLOWSHIP
10691 Ranch Road 12 512-680-9765 freedomvalleyfellowship.org
JEHOVAH’S WITNESS
443 Jacobs Well Road 512-847-8129 • jw.org
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION
Spoke Hill at RR 12 512-847-3386 welcometonewlife.org
ST MARY CATHOLIC
14711 Ranch Rd 12 512-847-9181 smwimberley.org
ST STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL
6000 Ranch Road 3237 512-847-9956 ststeve.org
UNITY CHURCH OF WIMBERLEY
455 White Wings Road 512-847-6587 unityofwimberley.com
WIMBERLEY CHURCH OF CHRIST
15500 Ranch Rd. 12
512-847-9357 wimberleychurchofchrist.org
WIMBERLEY CHRISTIAN CHURCH
13706 Ranch Rd 12 512-847-3853 wimberleychristianchurch.com
WIMBERLEY PRESBYTERIAN 956 Ranch Rd 2325 512-847-5292 wimpres.org
WIMBERLEY UNITED METHODIST
CR 1492 & RR 12 512-847-3109 wimberleyumc.org
Call ahead or check website for information about service times, online services, etc
Around Wimberley....
Photo by Maengel Gonce.
Photo courtesy The Yurtopian.
LOCAL EVENTS
NOVEMBER
27
Community Thanksgiving
For more information, call or text 512-842-7882. Serving 11 am to 2 pm at Wimberley Community Center. wimberleyparksandrec.com.
NOVEMBER 29 - DECEMBER 26
27th Annual Holiday Trail of Lights
Eight acres of lighted exhibits at the EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens, with live entertainment most nights and a yule log where guests can enjoy complimentary marshmallows and hot chocolate. Schedule and details at EmilyAnn.org.
DECEMBER
2
Stocking Stuffer Night at Ace Hardware
Discounts on stocking stuffers, Santa, surprise giveaways, hot cocoa, holiday tunes and more from 6 pm to 9 pm. 14307 Ranch Road 12. 512-847-2356.
See a team of artisans create beautiful art glass before your eyes using age-old techniques at Wimberley Glassworks. Find details at WGW.com. Photo by Eric W. Pohl.
DECEMBER
6
The Pioneer’s Table
A night of dining and dancing at 7A Ranch. Main Street in Pioneer Town transformed into one long dinner table under the stars— where you enjoy a chef-crafted meal, sip paired drinks, and soak in the charm of an old western boardwalk. Vendors, silent auction, live music in the Opera House. 512-749-0825 7aranch.co.
DECEMBER
6
Christmas Market at St. Mary’s Catholic Church
Holiday gift shopping, entertainment, kids’ arts and crafts, raffles, food and drink, and a special surprise from the North Pole! 11 am to 7 pm. 14711 Ranch Road 12.
DECEMBER
13
Wimberley Cup of Cheer
A festive evening of sipping, shopping and fun. Participating businesses will be open late, offering extended hours for your shopping pleasure. Sip on warm holiday drinks, find the perfect gifts, and soak in the holiday atmosphere. 4 pm to 8 pm on the Wimberley Square. wimberleymerchants@gmail.com, visitwimberleytx.org.
DECEMBER 13
Santa Pub Crawl
Get into the holiday spirit at the Santa Pub Crawl 6 pm to 9 pm alongside Cup of Cheer! Don your favorite Santa hat or full red suit and stroll through Wimberley’s coziest pubs. Sip on festive cocktails, enjoy seasonal specials, and share laughs with fellow Santas. You’ll encounter surprise Santa hosts and holiday carolers to keep the cheer alive. wimberleymerchants@gmail.com, visitwimberleytx.org.
DECEMBER
13
Winter’s Eve in The Quarter
Enjoy festive fun, seasonal finds, and cozy vibes all afternoon, plus live music! The Quarter Shops, 14015 Ranch Road 12. For more information, call 512-966-779
DECEMBER
16-18
Jack Knight’s Neil Diamond Cherry Cherry Christmas
Nobody does Christmas like Neil Diamond, and nobody does Neil Diamond like Jack Wright! Family friendly, this show will delight audiences both young and old and get everyone into the Christmas spirit! wimberleyplayers.org, 512-847-0575.
DECEMBER
20
Breakfast with Santa
At Scudder Elementary, sponsored by the Wimberley Community Civic Club.wimberleyccc.org/breakfast-with-santa.
JANUARY
4, 2026
Polar Bear Plunge and 5K
5K route begins in Blue Hole, winds through downtown, ends with plunge into ice-cold waters of Cypress Creek. Plus music, vendors, games and prizes, fire pit, more. wimberleyparksandrec.com
TASTING ROOM HOURS
THURS-SAT 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM SUNDAY 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM
HAPPY HOUR THU/FRI 3:00 - 7:00 PM BRUNCH SAT/SUN UNTIL 3:00 PM 5330 BELL SPRINGS ROAD
