Hidden Gems: Meet Autumn VanGunten of Rabbit Hole

Today we’d like to introduce you to Autumn VanGunten.

Hi Autumn, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Rabbit Hole started from a very personal place. I’ve always been drawn to beautiful, thoughtful things and the way spaces can make people feel. For a long time, I didn’t have a clear plan; I just knew I wanted to create something that felt warm, curious, and welcoming.

The shop grew out of a desire to slow things down and build a space that felt like a soft place to land. A place where people could wander, feel inspired, and connect with art, objects, and each other. It’s been shaped by trial and error, a lot of trust in my instincts, and the community that’s grown around it.

Today, Rabbit Hole is still evolving, just like I am. It’s less about perfection and more about care, curiosity, and creating something that feels genuinely human.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. There have been moments of doubt, financial stress, and the constant learning curve that comes with running a small business. I’ve had to figure out how to balance creativity with sustainability, and how to trust my instincts even when the outcome felt uncertain.

Some of the biggest challenges have been learning to slow down, asking for help, and letting go of perfection. Growth has come with trial and error, but each challenge has helped shape Rabbit Hole into something more grounded, resilient, and true to its purpose.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Rabbit Hole is a thoughtfully curated retail space rooted in curiosity, creativity, and community. We specialize in art, home goods, gifts, plants, and objects that feel meaningful, things that are beautiful, functional, and often a little unexpected. Many of the makers and artists we carry are small, independent, and values-driven, and supporting them is central to what we do.

What sets Rabbit Hole apart is that it’s more than just a shop. It’s a place to slow down, wander, and feel welcome. We care deeply about how the space feels, warm, human, and lived-in, and about the relationships we build with our customers, many of whom have become friends and chosen family. The store is intentionally curated, but never precious. Everything is meant to be used, enjoyed, and woven into everyday life.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the sense of trust and connection we’ve built. People come to Rabbit Hole not just to shop, but to spend time, to be inspired, and to feel part of something.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I think we’ll see more retailers orient around community, real conversation, localized experiences, events, partnerships, and spaces that feel like gathering places rather than just stores. People want guidance and curation without the hype or high-pressure sell. Retailers who can provide thoughtful curation based on taste and lifestyle, rather than trends alone, will set themselves apart.

For Rabbit Hole specifically, that means leaning into authentic connection, curated discovery, and objects that feel personal and enduring, not disposable or generic. I’m optimistic about where the industry is headed if these values continue to shape the future: more human, more rooted in craft, and more aligned with how people actually want to live.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rabbitholemacon.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbitholemacon/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rabbitholemacon

Image Credits
Cedric Smith