Gisela's Haus was founded in 2018 by Julie Morgan Morissette upon returning to her hometown of Havana, Illinois after a 35 year hiatus. Julie knew her hometown wouldn't be the same, and upon her arrival, was saddened to see a desolate Main Street. While on her daily walk with her dog LuLu, she walked passed the storefront, turned around and within hours had written an escrow check. What was once a beautiful historic building now needed gutted and a whole lot of love. It didn't take long to envision her business. It would be a store paying tribute to her mother, the late Gisela Morgan, who was known for her flair, style and warm personality as well as her cooking and entertaining.
Gisela Morgan
Julie was inspired by her mother throughout her lifetime. "I think a lot of us remember our mothers cooking from scratch in the kitchen. My mother gardened and sewed my dresses and painted walls and entertained. Gisela threw fabulous parties. Summer birthday parties on our wrap around porch and traditional Christmas parties complete with a visit from Santa. There were always two elements: Family/Friends and Food. I learned a lot from my mother, but I think there may be a generation out there that didn't have that advantage." Julie hopes that her store will ignite passion in others to decorate, cook, entertain and gather together to make memories.
One visit to Gisela's Haus and it is easy to see Julie's passion for all things home. The beautifully restored historic building boasts skylights, exposed brick walls, and high ceilings as well as a full commercial kitchen where she will give culinary demonstrations and host classes. The store is brimming with home decor, culinary gadgets, cooking, entertaining and wedding gifts, and unique items for baby, pets, hostess and so much more. It truly is a place where you can find a unique one of a kind item for your own home or a gift for someone special.
It goes without saying that Gisela was largely responsible for the closely knit Morgan family. Gisela's Haus would not have come to fruition without help from cherished family and an army of childhood girlfriends and was an experience that will not be forgotten. Pictured below is Julie with her father and two of her brothers who were a huge help in making Gisela's Haus: All Things Home a reality.
Dennis, Steve, Julie & Jim Morgan
