Des Arc, Arkansas – The scent of pine, twinkling lights, and festive music fills the air as shoppers from across the country converge on Guess and Company in Des Arc, eager to capture the spirit of Christmas months before the holiday officially arrives. The 16,000-square-foot warehouse has become a seasonal pilgrimage for holiday enthusiasts, offering an immersive shopping experience that few other places can match.
“I drove from Batesville, Mississippi — which is two and a half hours,” one shopper said, reflecting the dedication of visitors willing to travel long distances for the event. The warehouse, owned by Des Arc native Paul Guess, first opened nine years ago, and it has grown into a must-see destination for those looking to decorate, gift, and revel in early holiday cheer.
“I never thought in a million years that this is what Guess N Company would be,” Guess said. What began as a modest venture has since transformed into a sprawling wonderland of holiday decorations, ornaments, and festive displays. Each year, hundreds of shoppers flood the aisles, carrying boughs of holly, twinkling lights, and carefully selected Christmas decorations, eager to get a head start on their seasonal celebrations.
Visitors come from near and far. Lori Coxtoups, who drove all the way from Louisiana, said that visiting the warehouse was on her bucket list. “It’s just magical,” she said, walking among the towering displays of wreaths, trees, and themed decorations. Many families make a day trip or even plan weekend getaways around the event, treating it as more than just a shopping excursion but a festive outing in its own right.
The warehouse has something for everyone, even those who think October is too early for Christmas cheer. Guess and Company has a Grinch section, catering to visitors who prefer a playful, offbeat twist on holiday decor. From mischievous elves to whimsical ornaments, the section adds a fun and lighthearted counterpoint to the more traditional Christmas displays.
Over the years, Guess has watched the warehouse evolve into a central hub for holiday excitement. “Seeing families and friends come together, laughing and sharing in the holiday spirit, is the best part,” he said. The combination of festive music, elaborate decorations, and unique shopping opportunities has created an experience that keeps visitors returning year after year.
For shoppers seeking early Christmas magic, the warehouse in Des Arc offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends nostalgia, holiday cheer, and creativity. Whether it’s driving across state lines or exploring quirky themed sections, the crowds at Guess and Company show that the desire for festive joy knows no distance or season.
