New life for old church

The Old Church Marburg was a place of worship for many years and is now a place where those who worship shopping can go for a unique experience.

The Soul Nook Collective, famous for styled bell tent picnics, have opened a new retail venture inside The Old Church Marburg.

Owner Taryn Ryan grew up in Marburg and said the town remained close to her heart.

“Having grown up here and watched the sleepy little town come alive over the last few years, it really was a no brainer to call it home,” Ms Ryan said.

“Marburg has so much country charm and is quickly becoming a destination in its own right.

This image was taken before the pandemic

As well as their retail offering The Soul Nook Collective will be running their styled picnics for up to 30 people on site which are perfect for birthday celebrations, work functions and girls’ days.

“The Old Church Marburg and its grounds are so beautiful, offering so much potential to create boho picnics, events and artisan workshops,” Ms Ryan said

“Joining me in this new venture is Karhi Collection and Boho Posies who each have their own creative spaces to sell their handmade items and to run their own workshops.

“We want to develop a hub that brings together local artists and creatives to showcase and teach their talents.”

“My mother and auntie own the hair salon and that is where I did my apprenticeship, so being able to bring something unique to my home town is really special to me,” she said.

“Instead of just dropping in for a coffee, day trippers can spend a couple of hours here browsing around in a hub of new businesses.”

Ms Ryan had opened the doors just weeks before the pandemic hit.

“It was a bit of a slap in the face but we were lucky that I already had an online presence so instead of people coming to the store I was posting out instead,” she said.

“Since we have opened back on Saturday we have been busy.

“The community has been very supportive, I’ve been amazed.”