NEW BIZ: Handcrafted goods, hands-on workshops at South of Here
Kamille and Jacques Deysel, with son Noah, prepare for the grand opening of South of Here Co., an artisan shop and creative space on the Burnet courthouse square that offers handcrafted goods and hands-on workshops. Staff photo by Elizabeth De Los Santos
South of Here Co. is bringing handcrafted goods and artisan workshops to the Burnet courthouse square. The new shop and creative space at 310 N. Main St. celebrates its grand opening from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Feb. 15.
Shoppers attending the Saturday ribbon-cutting can enjoy live music, wine tastings, a coffee bar, and arcade games as well as live leatherworking demonstrations that showcase the passion of owners Kamille and Jacques Deysel.
“We’ve always wanted to build something like this: a creative space where people can connect with the art of making,” Kamille said. “We hope South of Here becomes a special part of the Burnet community.”
The Deysels have spent years refining their craft, specializing in leatherworking, candlemaking, and silversmithing. What began as an online business and weekend market booth has grown into a brick-and-mortar space.
“We wanted to create a space where people don’t just shop; they experience the craftsmanship behind every product,” Jacques said.
South of Here offers hand-tooled leather goods, hand-poured candles, pottery, jewelry, and more, all made by the Deysels and other independent artisans.
The shop’s name holds a special meaning to the couple, who both grew up in Texas.
“He’s from South Africa and I’m from South Texas, and anytime someone says, ‘Where are y’all from,’ we both just say, ‘South of here,’” Kamille said.
“Friends of ours helped with the branding, ‘Texas made goods, made by good Texans,’ and we’re the good Texans,” Jacques added.
In the shop’s interactive workshop space, visitors can take classes on leather stitching, candle pouring, and silversmithing.
“We love the idea of people making something themselves,” Jacques said. “It’s one thing to buy a handcrafted wallet, but it’s another to make one with your own hands.”
The shop also offers kid-friendly craft activities and plans to host community events like movie nights and private workshops in its outdoor space.
For more information about South of Here Co. or to sign up for workshops, visit southofhereco.com.