Isabella Grace LLC, a newly established craft and art retreat in Dowagiac, offers a distinctive environment for artists, writers, and crafters to connect and unleash their creativity.
Owner Debbie Uhrik is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where individuals and groups can feel at home and leave inspired.
“I’d like them to leave knowing they had fun,” Uhrik says. “Even if you don’t know somebody and you’re coming to an open retreat, you’ll leave with friendships and you’ll leave with knowledge, but in the meantime, with that, you’re going to have fun.”
The retreat features two distinct areas: a dedicated workspace and a retreat zone, along with a craft store that stocks everything you need for your creative endeavors. Uhrik’s vision stemmed from her desire to share the joy of artistry and the retreat experience with others.
“We want it to be open to every aspect,” Uhrik says. “They could have a business retreat here if they wanted. You know, we have the tables that you can be at that you need to be at to do those kinds of things. It’s not limited to just art.”
In light of the recent closures of Joann’s art stores across Michigan, including Benton Harbor, Uhrik sees this as a chance to play an essential role in the community. She plans to offer public workshops, and craft events, and support fellow small businesses, making it easier for customers to discover local creative resources.
“I think everybody in the sewing community and art community is sad that Joann’s closing, “Uhrik says. “I feel like Joann’s is a staple for us, whether it’s just to go buy thread, you’re painting or you want to buy a sweatshirt to sew on or paint on. Joann’s is going to be thoroughly missed.”
“But I can’t say that I don’t think this is going to help small quilt shops because they struggle to compete with Joanne’s pricing,” Uhrik adds. “I think a lot of people will go to the local quilt shops and buy. We’re trying to get like a lot of different art in here, not just sewing. I think people will like to travel toward us because we’re going to have more than just sewing. I do believe it’s going to help my business.”
When asked what she hopes to communicate to the Dowagiac and Southwest Michigan community about her vision, Uhrik emphasizes her desire to give back and her commitment to being present for them.
“I’m very community minded and this community has been the best,” Uhrik says. “They have supported me from the day I started this. Even the other business owners around here have helped me. People have volunteered to come do things here and I want to be able to give back to that community. So I think it’s real important that the community knows that I’m here for them as well as they’re being here for me.”
The retreat space, which opened just two weeks ago, allows guests to book stays for three or four days, immersing themselves in crafting during their visit. The quilt shop, which opened in November, is accessible to the public and boasts a wide selection of fabrics.
Isabella Grace LLC recently marked its opening with a grand celebration and ribbon-cutting event in partnership with the Women’s Business Center.
To book a retreat, you can reach out to Uhrik via phone at 269-287-9259 or through Facebook Messenger.
The store is open Tuesday through Friday from 12 PM to 6 PM and on Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
