From Hudson Valley to Waco: My Magnolia Market Escape

 

 

I traded the rolling hills of the Hudson Valley for a little Southern charm—and found myself completely enchanted by Waco, Texas. For years, Magnolia Market has been on my dream list. I’ve always admired Joanna Gaines’ style—warm, welcoming, timeless—and stepping into her world in person was every bit as magical as I’d imagined.

Ben and I made a day of it, starting with a walk through the shops around the Magnolia Silos. The entire campus is beautifully curated, with every little corner inviting you to slow down and enjoy. Each shop was filled with thoughtful pieces—home décor, florals, textiles, cookbooks, and seasonal touches that felt so “Joanna.” I loved how they’ve made the shopping experience travel-friendly too. As you browse, you can snap a photo of each product’s barcode and order it later. Ben was secretly keeping track of the things I pointed out, and later surprised me with a few of my favorites: a pressed flower print, a hangable flower vase, and the cutest Magnolia t-shirt. I may have teared up just a little. I also loved that they use Apolis bags for shopping, which I already own and adore—such a thoughtful, sustainable touch.

We started the day with a treat from Silos Baking Co.—the cutest little bakery. I had a strawberries and cream cupcake and a lavender cupcake (no regrets!), plus a strawberry matcha latte that was creamy, balanced, and not too sweet. Truly one of the best lattes I’ve had anywhere. Everything felt elevated but simple, and so full of flavor. Later that day, we had lunch at Magnolia Table and it was beyond amazing. Ben and I shared two plates: thick, golden French toast and a special chicken Benedict that I still can’t stop thinking about. He also ordered a specialty coffee that tasted like an Irish coffee—warm, rich, and cozy. The it whole meal felt like comfort food, but with a Magnolia twist.

Even though we were already full, we couldn’t resist trying the Magnolia food trucks in the open courtyard. I grabbed a cinnamon sweet tea from the Sweet Tea Truck that completely surprised me—spiced, refreshing, and so Southern in the best way.

As if the day wasn’t dreamy enough, we ended our visit with a tour of The Castle, the historic home Chip and Joanna renovated. Walking through each room was like stepping into one of their shows. The details, craftsmanship, and layers of history and design were so beautifully balanced—it was both grand and intimate, and so full of heart.

    Waco may be far from the Hudson Valley, but it had the same kind of soul I love about home—warm, thoughtful, and built on a love for community, beauty, and gathering. I came back full of ideas and inspiration—and a little more in love with design, baking, and Ben, too.

    Have you ever been to Magnolia Market or dreamed of going? 

Let me know—I’d love to hear your favorite details or what’s on your dream trip list.