Unable to find an outfit for her son’s school pictures locally, Katherine Graham opened Liebeskind after seeing the need for a children’s clothing store in Fredericksburg. In 2018, Katherine and her mother, Kathleen, opened the boutique in the front room of her father’s office. Kathleen worked in the shop during the day while Katherine taught high school English and ESL, then managed the business in the afternoon.
The store later moved to Main Street, expanding its selection to include premature infant clothing through sizes 14/16. Katherine and Kathleen choose recognizable, quality brands, work with small, local and women-owned companies, support local authors and artists, and seek clothing made under fair working conditions. Even the name reflects the store’s roots: Liebeskind, a term Katherine’s great-grandmother used for the children, means “a child that you love.”
That meaning has become especially visible during Katherine’s recent cancer treatment. Her mother, Kathleen, has carried the daily work of the store, while Katherine’s father, children, and longtime employee Miss DeeDee and close friends have stepped in wherever needed. Customers have become part of that supportive community, too. When physical restrictions prevented Kathleen from lifting and Katherine needed help, local mothers volunteered to set up, staff and take down a patio sale.
For Kathleen and Katherine, the support has demonstrated what Liebeskind has been since the beginning: a children’s store built by family, sustained by community and shaped by the families who return to it season after season together.
Liebeskind can be found at 127 E Main Street in Fredericksburg, Texas. (830) 307-9349
#1 Hildi & Hans Great Abenteuer
Authored by Liebeskind’s owners, this children’s book guides young readers through kid-friendly places and activities across Fredericksburg. Designed for toddlers through early elementary ages, it features the boutique itself and invites children to search each illustrated page for Arnie the Armadillo. The store also carries books for older readers by other local authors, extending its support of Hill Country storytellers.
#2 Me & Henry
Me and Henry is one of Liebeskind’s longtime favorites for boys, combining polished style with fabrics children can comfortably wear. The boutique has carried the brand since its first season and continues to select pieces with classic details and playful themes, from nautical looks to vacation-ready prints. The result is clothing suited for family photographs, celebrations, travel and ordinary days at home alike.
#3 Bondi Kidswear
Fredericksburg’s German heritage comes to life through Bondi’s children’s Trachten, sourced directly from Germany. The collection includes lederhosen and dirndls made with soft, child-friendly fabrics rather than stiff traditional materials. Especially popular around Oktoberfest, the pieces allow children to take part in local celebrations with clothing that reflects the occasion while remaining comfortable enough for playing.
#4 Steiff: The Original Teddy
The German brand Steiff-pronounced shtyfe- is known as the original teddy bear maker. Steiff brings heirloom-quality toys to Liebeskind’s shelves in a range of colors, animals and styles. First created in 1902, the bear was associated with President Theodore Roosevelt. Today, each authentic Steiff piece is identified by its signature button in the ear.
Liebeskind means ‘a child that you love.’ Liebe means love and Kind means child. It was something my great-grandmother called us when we were little, so the name is especially meaningful to our family. - Katherine Graham