Beloved Local Business The Home Studio Begins a New Chapter

We may be thinking differently when it comes to our holiday shopping this year, making wiser decisions on where and how we spend our money, but you might also be consciously thinking about how you can support truly local businesses.

One local business I have been following for a few years now, The Home Studio, has been offering some great home decor, but also some truly unique experiences, and creating memories. Founder Bethany Jay had a hobby and a passion that she just couldn't keep to herself, so three years ago she decided to open The Home Studio inside Kilburn Mill in New Bedford. Later in 2024, relocating to Mattapoisett at 33 County Rd.

It was a lifelong dream to open a space like this.

Bethany Jay’s Journey and Inspiration

For Jay, the journey to open this shop was not an easy one. She was working her day job while also taking care of herself after fighting and beating breast cancer and needing a bilateral mastectomy when he decided it was time to make her dream a reality. From amazing wreath-making workshops to full-blown interior home design, Jay made it all happen, and did it with grace and tenacity.

Why the Leadership Transition Happened

Running a small business isn't easy, and Jay still kept her day job. As this small business grew, she started to realize that maybe it was time to shift her focus back to her family and slide the business over to to someone with the same passion and drive as her, to bring this small business to the next level.

Recently, Jay made the announcement that she would be taking a step back to dedicate more time to her family, and is passing the baton to Laura Soares of Mattapoisett.

"This community has embraced me, The Home Studio, and my love of home from day one, and even though it's hard to let go, knowing Laura will care for it and the customers who've become family makes me confident it is the right next chapter," Jay said. "I look forward to watching her expand the design service offerings and bring in touches of her own design vision."

If you haven't stopped into The Home Studio, you must go take a look for yourself. Try to get into one of the wreath-making workshops. I think you will be surprised by how good you are at making them.

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Soares shared her excitement about stepping up to take over.

Laura Soares’ Vision for the Future

"Bethany created such a beautiful, inviting space with The Home Studio, and I’m truly honored to carry on what she began," she said. "We will still feature the soft, calming neutrals you love, but I’ll also be adding a few fresh pops of color – think deep, cozy plums, earthy tones, and sophisticated summer blues."

"I’m also excited to bring in some new product lines, along with a few special touches inspired by my home state of Texas and my adopted home of Massachusetts," she said. "One thing that will definitely stay the same is that we will continue to warmly welcome our guests and remain a space where people feel comfortable spending time and staying to chat. This is your home away from home. Welcome home. Stay awhile."

If you are someone who loves supporting truly local businesses and making your home feel cozy for the holidays, you may just have to step into The Home Studio this holiday season.