It started on our honeymoon in Paris, 28 years ago. We became enamored and ultimately inspired with the amazing neighborhood shops all over Paris. We loved how they could mix everything you needed for the home, all under one beautifully curated space.

In 1996, my husband, Robert H. Ballard (40+ years in the art business) was offered a place for a small gallery in Little Washington, VA, the town where my mother lived. The art & rug gallery garnered quick success, so we purchased a 1930's building on Main Street, moved in the apartment upstairs, and began our marriage & partnership in business.

Having worked for a French fabric firm, I wanted to bring in Le Jacquard Francais table linens, and anything French. After 28 years, that inventory has expanded to one-of-a-kind finds, table wares, European & vintage items, women's accessories, books, children's gifts, African artisans, and a wide mix of fine gifts and home accessories.

We've won awards and accolades, "Best Shops in the South", by Southern Living Magazine, "Best Shops in Virginia" from THE SHOPKEEPERS, and in the press: the Washington Post, Washingtonian Magazine, among others. Also awarded 5-stars and touted on TripAdvisor by loyal fans and clientele.

We are still here on Main Street, still live above our shop, and still have a bustling online business. Come and visit our destination shop in Little Washington, VA!

 

 

r.h. ballard shop & gallery, little washington, va

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