We scream, you scream for ice cream – Austin Daily Herald

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The Gromelski’s have added the ice cream option to further add attractions to their downtown business.
Rachel Campbell/newsroom@austindailyherald.com

Anybody with a taste of ice cream can now visit Gypsy K on Main Street for a fresh scoop. Rachel Campbell/newsroom@austindailyherald.com

Gypsy K highlights new offering downtown

By Rachel Campbell

Gypsy K Consignment is more than a consignment store. It has everything from delicious ice cream to a warm welcome. Behind the racks of stylish finds, and the new and improved ice cream bar there’s a story that’s been unfolding for over a decade.

Gypsy K began nearly 12 years ago before Hy-Vee in Albert Lea bought out the local mall.

“There was nowhere for me to go downtown here. We were over there for 10 and a half years.” Katelyn Gromelski said.

The Gromelski’s built a loyal community in Albert Lea. When Katelyn found out she was pregnant, the decision to move back home to Austin felt like the right one.

“Best move we’ve done,” she said adding that Gypsy K now being located right across the SPAM Museum has opened their door countless times. “We’ve met people from all over the world thanks to Spam.”

Originally Gypsy K was focused on Women’s clothing.

“We were so busy, I needed more help.” Katelyn said.

Her husband, Alex, joined the team, however, his only condition was to add men’s items too, broadening the store’s appeal and making it even more of a local staple.

Gypsy K’s return to Austin wasn’t just a homecoming–it was a reunion. Many of Katelyn’s Albert Lea customers still make the trip to support her, and she’s met countless new faces along the way.

“Consignment has really been growing,” she said.

For a long time, Gypsy K wasn’t very active online, but now that’s changed. Now you’ll find them on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, with Alivia, Kenzie, Bridget, Lexi, and Katelyn herself posting what inspires them.

“We kind of give them free reign.” Gromelski said.

One of the most exciting additions to Gypsy K has been their ice cream counter.

“It was a year in the works,” Katelyn said.

The response? Fantastic. High schoolers swing by for scoops, and acai bowls are soon to hit the menu. Of course it wasn’t all smooth sailing–with plumbing challenges, changing health codes, and building upgrades kept things interesting. But with help from a local inspector and a clear vision, the dream came to life.

“Endless opportunities with this building,” Katelyn said. What makes it more well known is their ice cream, just like the store itself is women-owned. People love the prices, the fresh inventory, and the vibe Gypsy K brings. “They say it doesn’t feel like a consignment store when you walk in.”

The team prides itself on being kind, personable, and genuine. Austin has been known to support young entrepreneurs, especially with the Mower County CEO program. Some Alumni students from CEO work at Gypsy K and have been using their well learned skills evidently. Being an entrepreneur isn’t easy but the Gromelski’s say: “Go for it. You don’t know until you try.”

Katelyn  at 23, who went to school for hair, always had a small passion for running a business.

“If you don’t do it, somebody else will,” she said.

The Gromelski’s mentioned that their faith plays a big role in how decisions are made at Gypsy K.

“I pray on things, talk to god about it.” Katelyn said. “If it keeps feeling right, we do it. If it doesn’t, we don’t.”

Coming from a background in car sales, Alex appreciates the variety and creativity this business brings. And behind the scenes? It’s all about teamwork.

Katelyn’s mom has been a huge help, especially with their little Haven, who’s now watched full-time by grandma.

“We owe everything to our team,” Katelyn expressed.

Gypsy K is built on resilience, creativity, and community. Whether you’re shopping for a new outfit, grabbing a scoop of ice cream, or just stopping by to say hi, you’re a part of something special.