Cara (left) and Paris.

“When customers come into 121 Home, they get excited,” says store manager Paris Hughes. She credits store owner Cara Kettenbach for her “incredible job of renovating and merchandising.” Cara never intended to become a retailer but knew she wanted to own property in Woodstock. When Woodstock Pharmacy—on Central Street since 1853—closed its doors, she says, “We bought the card and gift side of the building. It took about a year to renovate.”

“I feel like everyone who comes into our store finds something they like,” says Cara. The shelves and floors are stocked with home décor, furnishings, and gift items from local, national, and international artists and vendors. You’ll find linens from France, bedding from Italy, “stunning” lace flowers on velvet from Woodstock, and candles from Belgium. “We have a woodworker from Vermont, local artists for paintings and photographs, and a potter who makes dishware specifically for our store. We have two jewelry craftspeople—one local, one out west.”

From ever-changing displays in the window to the small gallery of fabrics and rug swatches to the shelves filled with wedding and birthday gifts, Cara says, “Anything to do with the home we can help you with. I want customers to have a place in Woodstock to grab a runner, order a sofa, pick out glassware, or decorate a holiday table. Customers come in and spend $5 or furnish their whole house. We sell lots of everyday dishes and silverware to locals and visitors. Sofas and candles are big sellers. When I bought my home, I would have to go to West Lebanon or Hanover in New Hampshire to shop for these items.”

Cara plans to open 121 Home’s bridal registry in July, and online shopping will be available in September. Eventually she might open another location, but she’s unsure where. “Right now, the store and concept are doing well catering to many different types of customers.” She acknowledges that’s because she’s lucky to be in Woodstock.  121 Home has been open for slightly less than a year but already has repeat customers. “It’s just really fun working with the public,” says Cara. “I like doing the custom orders to work with people one on one. But I also like helping every customer find the right thing.”