Behind the Briar Patch

  • A woman with layered, shoulder-length brown hair and side-swept bangs, wearing a black top, looking over her shoulder with a slight smile.

    Karen Staples

    As the owner and heart behind The Briar Patch Shoppe, I wanted the boutique to be filled with cozy home décor and thoughtful gifts to make everyday spaces feel beautiful. My hope is that everyone who visits The Briar Patch feels welcomed, inspired, and right at home.

  • Yvette Small

    Yvette Small

    Yvette is a seasoned retail professional with a deep connection to Norwich’s creative community through her work with the Norwich Arts Center. She brings her talent for curating meaningful, beautiful collections to The Briar Patch Shoppe, helping make the boutique feel welcoming, thoughtful, and uniquely Norwich.

  • Lorrie Hansen

    Lorrie is a creator, artisan, and natural joy-spreader. As Karen’s sister, she makes the shop feel like family—welcoming, genuine, and full of heart.

  • Heather Shaw Solomon, creator and events professional at The Briar Patch Shoppe in Norwich CT

    Heather Shaw Solomon

    Heather brings decades of experience running her own events business, along with a sweet spirit and steady strength that’s felt the moment you meet her. As both a creator and contributor to The Briar Patch, she shares her creativity in ways that feel personal, joyful, and full of heart.