When Kathy Louderback took ownership of The Artist’s Kitchen Shop in 2018, she wasn’t stepping into unfamiliar territory — she was stepping into a passion. With a background that includes 30 years running an artisan meat market in New Jersey, Louderback’s appreciation for fine kitchenware and culinary craftsmanship made it an easy transition.
Located in the heart of the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Shopping Village in Sedona, Arizona, The Artist’s Kitchen Shop is an experience. From the moment visitors walk through the door, they are met with displays of unique and high-quality kitchen tools, tableware and exclusive culinary finds. “I want them to be dazzled the moment they step in,” Louderback said. “I believe we hit the mark.”
And dazzle she has. The Artist’s Kitchen Shop will be honored for merchandising excellence as the U.S. housewares winner among 32 retailers from around the world at the IHA Global Innovation Awards (gia) gala during The Inspired Home Show 2025, Sunday, March 2.
While The Artist’s Kitchen Shop’s beautiful Southwestern architecture and colorful murals — painted by a former Disney artist — were part of its original design, Louderback has made her own imprint on the store by curating an inventory of unique items. “I’ve changed the selection from what was originally here,” she explained. “I’ve gone to more unique, special items.”
Louderback keeps an eye on trends and scours trade shows, publications and online platforms to find the best kitchen tools and accessories. Her favorite gadget? The Jar Pop jar opener. “I joke with customers that it renders a husband totally unnecessary,” she laughed. “My husband doesn’t think that’s funny at all.”
Louderback’s passion for the store is evident, but it extends beyond the shelves. She believes in being an integral part of the community; she embraces local involvement and regularly supports charitable causes. When a local school launched a culinary program, she donated chef’s knives to help young students get started. “It’s very important to be part of the fabric of the community,” she said. “If we can’t go through life giving and doing good, then why are we here?”
In addition to its curated selection, The Artist’s Kitchen Shop sets itself apart with hands-on experiences. Every month, the store hosts a “Playing with Knives” event, where customers can test different knife brands by slicing apples. “The best knife is the one that feels right in your hand,” Louderback insists. She educates consumers on knife care and function to allow them to leave with knowledge and confidence — even if they don’t make a purchase.
Despite the challenge of competing with online retailers and even some of her own suppliers, Louderback has found a way to cultivate customer loyalty. Most of her customers are tourists, but she’s developed a personal touch that keeps them coming back. Using an interactive app, she can virtually place tableware in a customer’s home, helping them visualize their purchase. “I’ll give them my cell number. They can text me a picture of the room they want the product in, and then I can place it in the room so they can get a good idea of how it’ll look,” Louderback said.
She makes the experience very personal. “I tell them to text me anytime and ask me questions. Today, people don’t get much of an opportunity to interact personally with someone who is selling them something,” she said. “And they miss that.”
Under Louderback’s ownership, The Artist’s Kitchen Shop has flourished by refining the product mix and enhancing the shopping experience. “Exceptional service, exceptional quality,” she said. “I’m always on the hunt for the quintessential anything.”
Looking toward the future, Louderback is working on expanding her online presence to keep in touch with the countless travelers who visit her store. “Every one of them can be a repeat customer if I make it easier for them,” she noted. And while she recognizes the importance of digital expansion, she still values the in-person experience above all. “I love face-to-face interaction,” she said. “That’s where I’m in my element.”
The Artist’s Kitchen Shop isn’t just a store. It’s a reflection of Louderback’s passion for cooking, quality and connection. As for those who step inside, it’s cultivated to be an unforgettable experience, one jar opener and one chef’s knife at a time.
