Today, stepping through the doors of Gatherings on Alameda is like stepping through an autumn-themed labyrinth of wall-to-wall collectibles, jewelry, gift baskets and decor. In a few months, it will become a winter wonderland. Owners Sheri James and Marsha Polansky change the look and feel with the seasons and encourage their customers to have fun getting lost in the sights and scents of this one-of-a-kind shop for all-occasion gifts. 
“Some people who come here for the first time might feel overwhelmed by all the products we have,” James said, “but our staff is always around, ready to help them navigate.”  
Since opening its doors in November 1997, Gatherings has filled its inventory with domestically made products crafted by local artisans from Texas and the Coastal Bend. The co-owners go on market trips, meet with local artists and vendors and showcase them in store displays. The result is a complete inventory for every customer need. 
“We have something for everybody, even men,” Polansky said. “We have a great customer following that loves to share ideas with us, and we're always willing to listen.” 
Brand name items include jewelry by Pandora, bags from Texas-based designer Consuela and handmade, freshwater pearl accessories from Corpus Christi-based Tula Blue. 
Gatherings also includes a selection of gourmet foods, gift baskets, coffees and chocolates. They carry floral arrangements, home decor, clothing and shoes. 
The idea for Gatherings began two decades ago as the brainchild of James and Polansky, who were already colleagues in the retail field.
“Myself, Sheri and Sheri’s mother, Patricia Bickham, have been involved in the antiques business since the 1990s,” Polansky said. “We wanted to come up with a store name that would reflect our huge collection of treasures, and so we thought of the name ‘Gatherings.’”
Located in the trendy shopping district along Alameda and Doddridge, the building itself represents a piece of Corpus Christi history.
“My mom found this venue, which used to be Godwin Shop, a popular fine ladies dress store in the 1950s,” James said. “In fact, some of our older customers still reminisce about that to this day. We still have the original chandelier in its place.”
The staff of three has now grown to 15, working to accommodate customer needs from the casual browser to last-minute shoppers. 
“If someone's in a hurry, they can come in, quickly pick out a gift and rush off to their party,” James said. “We even offer our signature gift wrapping.”
The store’s environment is also conducive to the more relaxed shopper who wants to browse while sampling gourmet coffee and chatting with staff. 
Both James and Polansky agree the most enjoyable aspect of their work is the relationship with their customers.
“The best part about this business is all the wonderful people we meet and the customers who’ve become our personal friends,” Polansky said. “There’s nothing more satisfying than knowing the gift merchandise you selected not only brings joy to the customers but to the loved ones for whom they’re buying it.” 
 
Gatherings is located at 3744 Alameda St. Call (361) 225-3744  or visit gatheringsonalameda.com for more information. To keep up with the latest news on Gatherings, “like” them on Facebook or follow them on Instagram by searching for “Gatherings/giftbox.”