Behind the Scenes at Fern: A Creative Partnership
By Allison Harrell, Creative Director
When Anna Marie first told me about her vision for Fern, I knew immediately that I wanted to be part of it. What I didn't know was how much this experience would teach me, inspire me, and honestly, change the way I see beauty in everyday life.
Working alongside Anna Marie has been nothing short of a masterclass in curation, design, and the art of creating spaces that feel both elevated and welcoming. She has this incredible eye for pottery- the way she selects each glazed piece, understanding how the light hits it, how it will look on someone's shelf or dining table. I've learned that choosing the right pot isn't just about function; it's about how it makes you feel when you walk past it every morning.
Anna leads our business with such clarity and intention. She knows exactly what Fern should be- a place where beauty takes root, where people find treasures that matter. Watching her work with plants and design the overall vision for the shop has taught me to slow down, to consider not just what looks good, but what feels right.
Where I Come In
While Anna Marie shapes the soul of Fern, I get to bring in some of the magic that makes us unique. My passion has always been discovering brands and products that you won't find just anywhere- especially for our Little Fern section. Sourcing toys and treasures from Europe and across the U.S., finding those heirloom-quality pieces, that's where I come alive. I love knowing that a child will grow up with one of these toys and maybe, one day, pass it down to their own little one.
Anna Marie has this beautiful way of making people feel seen and valued, and I try to bring that same spirit. Whether it's a child wide-eyed in Little Fern, a bride celebrating with her closest friends, or a neighbor picking up a few things for the house, I want everyone who walks through Fern's doors to feel like they've found something rare.
A Team That Works
What makes Fern special is that Anna Marie and I complement each other so naturally. She's the foundation- grounded, thoughtful, with an impeccable sense of what makes a space feel timeless. I bring in the unexpected, the playful, the "I didn't know I needed this until I saw it" pieces. Together, we've built something that feels both refined and joyful, classic and fresh.
I've learned more about home décor, design, entertaining, and gardening in the past year than I ever imagined. Anna Marie doesn't just teach through instruction—she teaches by example. The way she styles a vignette, the way she talks about the origin of a ceramic bowl, the way she greets every customer like an old friend. It's all part of the Fern experience, and I'm so grateful to be learning from her every single day.
What's Next
As we continue to grow, I'm excited about the events we're planning, the new brands we're bringing in, and the ways we'll continue to surprise and delight our community. Fern isn't just a shop- it's a place where people gather, learn, celebrate, and find beauty in the everyday.
And I couldn't imagine doing it without Anna Marie leading the way.
Come visit us at Fern and see what we've been creating together. I promise you'll leave inspired.
With gratitude,
Allison
Follow our journey @FernGiftsHomeGarden