Photos and Story by Bailey Ballard
bailey@bbnews.today
Eclectic is the wonderland for gifts, jewelry and home accessories in downtown Milledgeville.
Karen Barrett is the owner and founded Eclectic in October of 2014. Barrett has been working in retail since 1990 and had closed a previous retail shop when the inkling to another slowly dripped into her heart. For this new store, she wanted to open something defining of her personality that was diverse and showed interest in a range of items rather than a center focus.
“I wanted something different for Milledgeville. I wanted something my style with so many different unique gifts and styles to explore,” said Barrett. “Eclectic is like me, and it is eclectic with its collection of things.”
The name Eclectic is a direct reference to the diversity of products within the store. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, eclectic means to be composed of elements drawn from various sources. The store is true to this definition as it carries a range of local art, signage, home accessories, jewelry, knick-knacks and more.
“A lot of my products come from local artists. I partner with them to host art shows and we leave some of the artwork in here for consignment,” Barrett explained. “Another part of getting these products is going to the Atlanta Mart and meeting with new businesses and the other part is going around showrooms to meet with businesses.”
Eclectic is most popular amongst tourists, lake enthusiasts, and real estate agents for its large variety of potential souvenirs, house decor and signage. According to Barrett, anything connected to Lake Sinclair is a popular seller, especially maps of the lake.
“We have a variety of sized maps of the lake that are on sale as well as vintage signs that you can customize with your name and location. Both products are very popular,” said Barrett. “Our other most popular products are our range of jewelry near the front door. We have a very diverse style selection so anyone can find something to fit their tastes.”
For Barrett, Eclectic has become more than a retail store. The shop has become a creative outlet for her to arrange, select and create items for the community that she loves. Growing up, Barrett always visited her summer home in Milledgeville and enjoyed the distinct, historic and natural atmosphere of downtown. She believes that Eclectic plays into that atmosphere perfectly by having hand-crafted items, modern selections and a diversity that other stores downtown cannot offer.
“People come into my store interested in the rich history of Milledgeville. I love to tell people about tidbits I know of our history and hear the stories of their tours or interests as they look around,” said Barrett. “My store is complementary to the stores downtown, but I work very hard to specially organize and arrange everything in my store and have products that are not in the other stores. Coming to Eclectic, I want my customers to find something fun and exciting for them.”
Eclectic takes customers into a rabbit hole of diversity and special selections from Baldwin County and around Georgia. Stepping into the door, welcomes people into delicately arranged tables and shelves each with something different to find. The shop focuses on being unique, giving customers a social and creative atmosphere and inviting tourists and locals to learn more about Milledgeville.
“I want to offer everyone a chance to find their perfect gift or interest. We offer wrapping for gifts, card selections, community events, and more to our customers so they can have a unique and enjoyable experience downtown,” said Barrett.
To learn more about the store and its large variety of products visit 132 North Wayne Street in downtown Milledgeville. Eclectic is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.