A new wellness and gift shop, Fen & Hallow, has opened its doors in San Marcos, offering a tranquil environment filled with carefully curated products aimed at promoting self-care and holistic health. Located at 165 S Guadalupe St. Ste. 112, the shop is designed to serve as a calming retreat for both locals and visitors.
Shop owner Heather Van Eck brings over 15 years of experience from the cosmetology industry, which she describes as a form of art and energy work. After a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic to spend time with her children, she felt compelled to return to the realm of service, leading her to establish Fen & Hallow. “Serving others is where you’ll find the most fulfillment,” Van Eck noted, highlighting her commitment to creating a supportive community space.
A Tranquil Retreat in the Heart of San Marcos
Fen & Hallow embodies a modern holistic collective, blending aspects of natural wellness and clean beauty with artisan-made goods. Van Eck’s vision was to create a space that emanates serenity, providing a sanctuary for individuals seeking wellness solutions. The shop’s location on the quieter east side of downtown San Marcos allows it to be accessible without the distractions of the busier areas.
Van Eck shared her enthusiasm for the charm of San Marcos, stating, “Every building has whimsy and character and story.” This sentiment is reflected in the shop’s name, which combines the concept of a fen—a green area rich with life—and hallow, meaning sacred. She draws parallels between the local environment and the shop’s mission: both are designed to nurture and sustain well-being.
The store offers a diverse range of products, including fair trade organic coffee and teas, handmade artisan gifts, books, and botanicals. Notably, the shop features Maxine’s Heavenly Oatmeal Cream Pies, which Van Eck describes as “dreamy.” Each item has been selected to contribute to the shop’s overall calming and grounding atmosphere.
Community Engagement and Events
Van Eck is eager to establish Fen & Hallow as a community hub, facilitating connections among individuals on their wellness journeys. Within just two months of opening, the shop has already made significant strides in community involvement. It has sponsored the Queer Festival, hosted local authors for book signings, and participated in events like Bubble Fest.
“I want this to be a welcoming melting pot,” Van Eck expressed, emphasizing her desire to collaborate with local businesses, arts, and non-profit organizations. Her vision is one where mutual support among community members leads to collective success, stating, “When one is doing well, we all do well.”
Fen & Hallow is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 to 18:00 and on Saturdays from 10:00 to 18:00. Those unable to visit in person can explore the shop online at fenandhallow.com or follow them on Instagram @fenandhallow.
As Fen & Hallow settles into the San Marcos community, it promises to be a significant addition to the local landscape, fostering wellness and connection in a serene setting.
