we like to think of ourselves as a big shop

in a small town

we focus on finding the most fabulous, fun & inspiring pieces for our customers,

whether they are $5 or $500

Why Ballgowns and Barefoot

Ballgown Barefoot is named to evoke life’s perfect moments where you feel incredibly special and yet also perfectly at ease. 

Owner and designer Gari Lister came up with the name many years ago when she was living in DC, practicing law and attending black tie fundraisers on weekends . . . her absolute favorite part of every event was late in the evening when most guests had left. She and friends would take off their heels and dance barefoot, spinning like princesses in ballgowns . . .

Ballgown is all about adding more beauty and inspiration into our everyday lives and finding more of those perfect moments . . . whether your perfect moment is dancing barefoot in a ballgown, having a picnic on a dock or sitting with a blanket in your favorite chair.

How it Started

In 2020, Gari bought, reimagined and renovated The Chesapeake Inn, transforming it into a small luxury inn focused on personalized hospitality and decorated with a mix of vintage classics and modern pieces. Her inn quickly lived up to its motto “your retreat by the river” by earning a reputation for laid back luxury in a coastal elegant style. When guests asked how they could bring this style and spirit home, Gari opened Ballgown Barefoot, first in a room, then in a temporary space and finally in its new spacious home next door to the inn.

Both The Chesapeake Inn and Ballgown Barefoot have allowed Gari to showcase her distinctive design style and her commitment to self-care.  She loves creating spaces that make guests feel welcomed and appreciated -- whether in a backyard or in a hotel lobby.  She loves to curate a mix of vintage and modern finds, often throwing in a touch of whimsy. 

About Gari

Gari grew up in Washington, D.C. and spent her childhood vacations exploring English country houses, hotels and cathedrals. Those experiences shaped her sense of design, as did her love for entertaining. She worked at both the New York Public Library and The National Building Museum before a 20-year career practicing antitrust law in DC and Dallas.

Gari splits her time between Washington, DC and Urbanna, Virginia where she runs The Chesapeake Inn, its Studio, Sauna & Spa and Ballgown Barefoot. She loves spoiling her guests, and offers Equus Coaching Sessions when her schedule permits.

When she’s not at work, you can usually find Gari in a local antique shop or spending time with her family. She has six wonderful daughters and three amazing grandchildren, and a house full of cats and dogs.