our story

Once upon a time in the charming town of San Marcos, Texas, two local strangers’ lives intertwined through the serendipitous friendship of their daughters. Kelly and Janice, founders of the San Market, didn’t just bond over school pick-ups and theater rehearsals — after collaborating on a merchandise fundraiser for their daughters’ school, they discovered they shared the dream of opening a retail gift space that celebrated the rich history and vibrant community of San Marcos.  

Kelly, a native Texan, moved to San Marcos in 2007 to attend Texas State and quickly became a successful businesswoman.  With her husband Troy, she runs a wholesale company that prints snarky and hilarious graphic tees and mugs right here in San Marcos and ships them to retail stores nationwide. Kelly’s business experience on the wholesale side is invaluable and she has already facilitated numerous connections with vendors that will make The San Market a unique shopping experience with a distinctly San Marcos vibe.  

Janice is a BISM* and a proud graduate of San Marcos High School (go Rattlers!).  Her dad Bernie is a local legend of sorts, leaving a legacy of 50 years of small business ownership in San Marcos.  Janice left Texas for a while to study politics and law in Arkansas (Woo Pig!).  When she moved back to Texas, she encouraged her husband to open his law office in San Marcos, which is coincidentally just a few doors down from the San Market on San Antonio Street. Practicing law wasn’t really Janice’s jam, and she had kicked around the idea of a local gift store for years but wasn’t brave enough to do anything about it… until she met Kelly!  

Together, they’re the creative forces behind San Market—a retail gift space that’s more than just a store. It’s a love letter to San Marcos, filled with whimsical treasures and local goodies that capture the town’s spirit. Whether you’re searching for a unique gift, a souvenir of local history, or just a good giggle, Kelly and Janice are there to welcome you with open arms and plenty of Texas-sized laughs.

So, next time you’re in San Marcos, swing by the San Market. Kelly and Janice are there, ready to share their love for their town, one charming gift at a time. 

*born in San Marcos, for those of you that aren’t familiar with the local lingo