If you’ve followed me on social media for any length of time, you probably noticed that I’m kind of obsessed with Joanna Gaines and everything she does. The woman is magical! I’m that girl who watches Fixer Upper replays while editing wedding photos just for the inspiration. So I basically jump at any and every opportunity to visit the Magnolia Silos in Waco, and I never go home empty-handed (dangit, Joanna!) I just happened to be in the neighborhood during Silobrations this year, so I decided to check it out! I must say it was extremely overwhelming, and I wouldn’t necessarily recommend going during that time if you’ve never been before. The Market was PACKED like there was a Black Friday sale going on (I checked–there wasn’t LOL) and it was hard to move around and actually enjoy the hard work Jo jo and her team put into creating such a beautiful space. In fact, I only snapped one photo inside because it was just too crowded.
But I did bring home three bags FULL of goodies. If you must know, I bought three of her carved wooden pots (one in all three sizes) because I’m a total plant lady, two Magnolia T-shirts, a baseball cap (for working on our “farm” haha), The Magnolia Journal Spring issue, and some goodies from the vendors who came to the Silobration. Y’all–I only intended to buy a baseball cap *face palm*.
With all of that being said, Here are some tips for those of you who have never been! Scroll down for a plethora of photos.
Make sure to check your weather app and plan ahead! Waco is HOT. It was 90 degrees in October, and I was MELTING. I’m actually used to being hot(#Texasproblems), but there isn’t much shade at the Silos, so it feels ten degrees hotter. There are white umbrellas at the Market entrance, and I definitely recommend picking one up for yourself!
Go on a weekday if possible! As you can imagine, everyone and their mama wants to see these Silos and experience the Magnolia magic. Going on a weekday would allow you to embrace the beauty without worrying about bumping in to someone. Magnolia Market isn’t a place like Walmart where you know what you came for and you go in and come out with that one item. When you step into the market there are works of art, books to be skimmed, and decor to be appreciated. Plus, you’re going to want everything to go home with you. HAHA! And if you end up buying more than can fit in your suitcase, they have a Fedex shipping station.
Parking: While the Silobrations were going on I was able to park RIGHT next to the silos for free! The parking lot is the corner of South 8th Street and Jackson Avenue. There is also a church parking lot right next to the Silos on Webster Avenue between 5th and 6th street . It’s $10, and totally worth it if the other parking lot is full.
Don’t worry about eating before you come. There are plenty of food trucks with something for everyone! There are also gluten free and vegan friendly options.
Leave your credit card in the car (I’m not joking)! And wear comfy shoes. And if you want a cupcake from the bakery get there early and get in line first before you do anything else!
I’m going to give you my photography tip here: Use the umbrella to create soft even light on your face when you’re having your photo taken. If I didn’t have this umbrella my face would be half shaded and half sunny, and I would have the squinty eyes going on.
I can’t even tell you how much I love this greenhouse! I want it in my backyard!
If you want a cupcake you better get there EARLY! I have yet to see the inside of the bakery in person. One day!
Something I really did love about the Silobrations was the Vendor aspect. So many amazing makers were lined up in white tents outside of the market square. And this VW van spoke to my soul! So so cute!
Wildfield Paper Co was my absolute FAVORITE vendor booth! I got three of these beauties– Magnolia, Dogwood, and “Grow old along with me the best is yet to be” :)
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xoxo, Allison
Allison Jeffers is a photographer and educator serving sweet couples and helping other creative entrepreneurs reach their goals. She specializes in wedding photography, elopements, and proposals as well as Bridal and Engagement portraits in Texas. She is available for travel worldwide and has her passport ready!
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