About Paper Leaves

     Welcome to our page! Paper Leaves is an independent bookstore and plant shop that opened on March 5, 2022. Our quaint shop is filled with books, plants, and novelty gift items. At Paper Leaves Book Shop, we have taken the comfort and escapism found in your favorite books and translated them into a serene refuge for our readers. The vintage décor keeps the aesthetic of the 1881 home that the bookshop is located in while providing a modern feel by keeping up with trends as well. An abundance of plants around the store along with ample sunlight contributes to the peaceful atmosphere at Paper Leaves. Located at 510 Water Street in historic downtown Waxahachie, Texas, the bookshop is the first independently owned bookstore to open in Ellis county since 2016 and is currently the only independent bookstore. With a quaint, café-style seating area with games and complimentary beverages, readers are invited to take their time enjoying all our shop has to offer. Plants, crafts, and gift items for sale alongside our books ensure that there is something for everyone at Paper Leaves.

      Beyond our cozy sanctuary for book lovers, we also value giving back to our community. With partnerships with local schools, special discounts for teachers and students, and other charity donations, we intend to make our presence in Ellis county a positive one. We highlight local talent within our store with wares and local authors, as well as support other local small businesses. In Waxahachie, we participate in local vendor events to increase our presence and showcase all that we have to offer. We look forward to growing with our community and doing what we can to provide a safe haven for book lovers of all ages with all different interests.  Paper Leaves prides itself on being a place where a life-long love of reading is heavily encouraged. Our shop hosts book clubs for all different ages, encouraging fellowship and shared enjoyment of our books. With children's book readings in our fun yet tranquil children's room, even those who cannot read for themselves yet are invited to delight in the joy of reading. Our bookshop offers not only books, but a sense of belonging, community, and peace that not many places in this world can provide. We hope to be able to continue to be book lovers retreat for many years to come.

Meet the Team

  • Gabrielle

    Founder & Bookseller

  • Charly

    Bookseller & Plant Expert

  • Izzy

    Bookseller & Book Club Host

  • Carlie

    Bookseller & Writer and Editor of Paper Leaves Postescription goes here

  • Rosanne

    Bookmobile Programmer & Magical Storyteller

  • Olivia

    Bookseller & Social Media Manager

THE HOUSE

Paper Leaves has a lengthy history that extends beyond being an Independent Book and Plant store. The keys have been passed from hand to hand throughout history, each telling a different and unique story. 

The house was built in 1881 by one of Waxahachie’s first-ever physicians. It was originally a 1-story home, and shortly after, a 2nd story was added, although the exact date is unknown. One of the most memorable parts of the home is the original stained-glass windows that adorn its exterior, dating to the 1881 build. Additionally, the majority of the flooring and fireplaces in the home are original. 

While we do not know who all inhabited the house, the Wilson family lived here the longest. Mr. Wilson completed renovations, including adding stained-glass transom windows to the house's interior above many of the doors. 

Mr. Wilson’s daughter, known to be an excellent painter, extended the house by adding a rear structure where she provided art lessons to members of the Ellis County community. 

Sometime after the Wilson family no longer inhabited the home, it became the first location for First Look, a crisis pregnancy agency that aided women and families in Waxahachie. Upon First Look's relocation, the house was transformed into a group home.

And finally, in 2022, Paper Leaves opened its doors, becoming Ellis County’s first independent bookstore since 2016, while also adding a unique twist by transforming the upstairs space into a plant room. We recognize the impact this home has had on the community over the decades, and we strive to leave a lasting impact on its members by fostering a love of reading, creating meaningful connections, and providing a cozy, safe space where stories can take root. 

If you have any further information on the history of Paper Leaves located at 510 Water Street, we would love to hear it! Please share any information in person with our employees or through email at paperleavesinquiry@gmail.com. 

Written by Carlie Renee

Meet Gabrielle

My name is Gabrielle Tranel, I am the founder and owner of Paper Leaves Book Shop and Plant Shop. I have always felt captivated by stories and growing up I constantly found myself buried in books. I am so lucky to have been able to translate that passion into a successful small business and have been able to share that with the community I call home. Each item that we sell in Paper Leaves has been handpicked by me, ensuring that my customers are getting the best products and books available. After working in the counseling field, I look forward to getting to help others and spread joy in a different way. In addition to all our wonderful employees, we are also often joined by the shop dog, Capri (my best friend). I hope our shop brings life, community, and joy to you and your family!

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