FAQ's
Do you offer personalized items?
Yes! Personalization is one of the heartbeats of The Cottage Shop.
You’ll find it throughout my Board Bar experience, Cottage Keepsakes, and Cottage Charm Collection — all designed to make meaningful gifting simple, timeless, and lasting.
Most personalization discussions happen in-store, where you can choose your piece and design details with me. It’s a thoughtful, collaborative process — and one of my favorite parts of the shop.
​
​
Do you accept custom orders?
On a limited basis.
I focus primarily on the personalized options already offered through my collections, as they are thoughtfully designed and streamlined for quality, consistency, and longevity.
​
Occasionally, I may accept custom work depending on availability and scope. If you have something specific in mind, feel free to reach out — but please note that fully custom-from-scratch designs are limited.
​
​
How long does personalization take?
Turnaround time is typically 1–3 weeks, depending on the season and current workload.
During peak seasons (especially fall and holidays), timelines may extend slightly. If you’re working with a specific date, it’s always best to ask ahead of time.
​
​
Do you have an online store?
No — The Cottage Shop does not operate a full online store.
The Cottage Shop is primarily an in-store boutique experience. Most personalized items — including my Board Bar, Cottage Keepsakes, and Cottage Charm Collection — are designed to be selected and discussed in person, where you can see materials, ask questions, and choose details thoughtfully.
From time to time, I may offer limited items or special releases online, but the heart of The Cottage Shop is meant to be experienced in person.
​
​
Do you ship items?
Yes — limited shipping is available for select smaller, non-fragile items.
The Cottage Shop is primarily an in-store boutique experience, so most items are intended to be selected and enjoyed in person. However, I do offer limited shipping for certain items when possible. This most often happens when a customer has visited the shop and later decides they’d like something sent.
If you have a specific item in mind, feel free to message me — I’m always happy to let you know what’s possible.
​
​
Do you sell home décor as well?
Absolutely!
While personalization is a large part of what I do, The Cottage Shop also offers décor, seasonal pieces, gift sets, and meaningful items designed to feel cozy and timeless.
You’ll find a blend of handcrafted keepsakes and thoughtfully curated home décor throughout the shop.
​
​
What is The Cottage Blend?
The Cottage Blend is my signature fragrance — warm, cozy, and a little elevated.
It’s available exclusively at The Cottage Shop in both home fragrance and select personal fragrance products, and has become a customer favorite over the years. Many guests recognize it the moment they walk in.
​
​
Can I pick up locally?
Yes!
Orders may be picked up at The Cottage Shop during regular business hours at:
4469 W 575 S
Portland, Indiana 47371
​
​
Where is The Cottage Shop located?
The Cottage Shop is located at:
​
4469 W 575 S
Portland, Indiana 47371
Nestled in the countryside between Portland and Redkey, Indiana, we’re open Fridays and Saturdays, mid-March through December.
You can find full directions and hours on our Plan Your Visit page.
​
​
Why do handmade items sometimes vary from the photos?
Because each item at The Cottage Shop is handcrafted, no two pieces are exactly alike.
Variations in wood grain, stain, ribbon, beads, florals, and other materials are an inherent part of handcrafted work and are what make every piece unique.
For wood products in particular, features such as grain variation, knots, mineral streaks, and pinholes may appear. These are normal characteristics of wood and are not considered defects.
​
​
How should I care for wood products?
​
Wood products should be wiped gently with a damp cloth and allowed to dry.
Do not immerse wood items in water.
For cutting boards, occasional conditioning with a food-grade oil can help keep the wood from drying out. This is especially helpful after washing or when the wood begins to look dry. Board oil is also available in the shop if you should ever need it.
Because wood is a natural material, it may expand or contract slightly as it adjusts to changes in temperature and humidity. Over time, small cracks or subtle changes may develop as the wood ages.
