When Wendy Hudson came to Mason around 1992, her driving goal was to be near her grandchildren. Following her son and daughter-in-law, who were established here, it was clear to Wendy that she needed to become a part of the community. Market Square, established in 1992 in an 1800s-era building on Mason’s square, revealed itself to be the perfect opportunity to build a life and a relationship with Mason.

Now, after a 29-year career, and not without thorough inter-family discussion, Wendy has decided to retire and pass the torch to Natalie, her daughter-in- law. Interestingly, Natalie and her husband, Treg, are now grandparents. So, life is imitating life for the next generation of Market Square. Natalie grew up as a minister’s daughter and began her ministry work by assisting in the classroom at the age of 12. After moving to Mason, she followed her passion for children by serving a Family Ministerial Director at River of Life Church. Teaching has been an extremely important part of her life and moving back to the day-to-day operation of a retail business is not a decision Natalie takes lightly. Having a place for her grandchildren to visit her in the store is important to her so that she can continue her treasured job as Grandmother.

Natalie and her sister-in-law, Heather have experience owning their own business, however, as Natalie states, “there is a lot to do during the ongoing transition.” Having traveled to market with Wendy in the past on buying trips; Natalie has a firm knowledge of purchasing for the shop and wants not only to continue to stock familiar items but also to progressively add new items. Market Square offers, but is not limited to, home décor, gifts for all ages, jewelry, kitchen items and bridal registry. Natalie has plans to expand to include online shopping. The shop will remain open during the transition. With the firm support of family, Market Square will see a new generation of grandchildren through their own journey of life. It is a business built upon a foundation of fostering close ties to family which will, no doubt, be a driving force for its next chapter.

You can visit Market Square at 114 Moody Street on the square in Mason, Texas; call 325-347-5516, check them out on Facebook, or at [email protected] and www.marketsquaremason.com.