Bookstore coffee shop coming to downtown

Jon Garrett and his wife, Alyssa, recently purchased and closed on the historic Sears building downtown, known today as “Happy’s Warehouse,” where they plan to create a bookstore coffee shop on the first floor.

Although there are other coffee shops and even a bookstore located downtown, none are located on the courthouse square, and Garrett said he feels there is a need for that. With the combination of the bookstore and a coffee shop, the Garretts plan to offer something unique.

The bookstore will include new releases as well as novelty items. Garrett hopes it will be similar to Hastings “back in the day.”

“When I didn’t have anything to do, I would go into Hastings, get some coffee and walk around,” he said. “This will be like that.”

Throughout the building, there will be several places to sit for customers to enjoy a book and a cup of coffee or to hold quick meetings or to complete work with a cup of coffee.

Alyssa will oversee and run the bookstore, and they will hire a coffee consultant and barista to help create delicious coffee.

Plans are still being discussed for the second floor of the building with office spaces and lofts as possibilities. The space offers tenants a view of the historic Ellis County Courthouse.

They are currently creating design renderings for the space and will begin working in the building after the new year, Garrett said.

Another project currently in the works by the Garretts is the renovation of the Texas Theater, which people can follow @TexasTheaterWaxahachie on Facebook for updates.

Originally published December 7, 2022 - https://www.waxahachiesun.com/business/bookstore-coffee-shop-coming-to-downtown/article_117beb78-7677-11ed-ab46-bf0a86579874.html