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Comfort’s Heart Cottage Epitomizes Eclecticism
By Ernie Altgelt

     Nestled in the heart of Comfort, Texas’ charming historic district exists one of the Hill Country’s most unique and eclectic retail establishments. Jan Warren, founder and proprietress, has assembled a diverse collection of delightful one-of-a-kind items that would require savvy shoppers to travel across the USA (and beyond) to find. Fortunately, you don’t have to because she has it all attractively housed under one roof at her incredible Heart Cottage. Patrons agree that where the unusual is concerned, Jan has a knack for selecting the best, but never the boring.

The native Houstonian’s retail roots go back 20 years when she opened her first shop in North Carolina. As the wife of a career United States Marine officer, however, reassignments kept her business ventures moving from city to city. In 1995, after multiple relocations, her husband’s retirement finally meant “no new orders”. In 2001, they both agreed Comfort was where they wanted to be—establishing stationary homes for them and for the business that had been evolving over the past two decades. Today, the Heart Cottage’s inventory reflects those years of travel where Jan met, and grew to know, the very craftsmen, artists, and others whose quality work would come to define the essence of her business. Her one-on-one relationships with members of this gifted group coupled with her intuitive knowledge of just what customers want has made The Heart Cottage a shopping experience where product and ambiance totally transcends the ordinary in every way. Unfortunately, with her stock and trade, putting a label on just what The Heart Cottage is, is almost impossible. When asked, Jan suggests, “How about a sophisticated folk art gallery and gift shop?” Her loyal clientele might want to add, “and so much more.” Upon entering, one’s first impression of The Heart Cottage is, “There’s so much here.” Every shelf, countertop and display area overflows with handmade, custom, high-end, totally unique (often exclusive but always fun) merchandise featuring exquisitely carved Santas, solid brass sleigh bells, collegiate leather goods, hand carved Halloween characters, and hand forged iron hooks. Some of the recognizable lines are Tea Forte, Bethany Lowe Designs, Vaillancourt Folk Art, Silver Stag Knives, Robeez Baby Shoes, Barefoot Dreams Baby, Gund, Terrafirma Pottery, Hobo Purses, Pure Grace ornaments, and Keepers of the Light Candles.

Once a year, The Heart Cottage transforms itself into the host venue for a truly special folk art happening called A Haunting on 7th. Opening day for the event is always the last Saturday in June. Eager attendees from far and wide look forward to an incredible celebratory experience of two magical seasons. Collectors, art lovers and those simply curious are drawn by the event’s impressive assemblage of original, predominately handmade, Christmas—and Halloween—themed works (creatively displayed and all for sale) by noted American wood carvers, folk artists, craftsmen and others who share a love for St. Nick and ghostly specters. These special displays remain in place throughout the month of July.