It’s just not a holiday without it… 

Sometimes a gift becomes a tradition, and a holiday just isn’t a holiday without it.  These tried-and-true Brookfield favorites are sure to please.  A gift box or gift card from Penzey’s, sweet treat from Nothing Bundt Cakes, a special bottle from Total Wine, is sure to please even the most (ahem) “discerning” gift recipient.  (That means your in-laws.)  But if you’re on the hunt for something new- check out Magnolia Soap and Bath!

Penzey’s

I’ve always been a Penzey’s fan and having a store right around the corner at 19300 Janacek Ct. means it’s even easier to stock my cupboard with Penzey’s products. I like that I can see (and smell) the herb or spice blend and I can purchase small jars and sample bags to try.  Gift boxes and gift cards make the perfect gift.  This summer we were invited to a bridal shower and guests were asked to bring an herb, spice or condiment for the couple to enjoy.  Guess what we gifted?  Even if you don’t have a store close by, hop online to https://www.penzeys.com/  and check out the recipes.  Who doesn’t love an Oatmeal Craisin Cookie?

Nothing Bundt Cakes

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again- this ain’t your momma’s bundt cake.

These tasty treats come in a variety of flavors and sizes- little Bundtlets, even smaller Buntinis and full sized Bundts, all with their signature buttercream frosting. Red Velvet remains a favorite in our house as is White Chocolate Raspberry.  The GF vanilla chocolate chip is so delicious, you’ll never know what you’re missing.  Earn brownie points this holiday season when you ring the doorbell with a box from Nothing Bundt Cakes in your hand.  In Harvard Square, 18000 W Bluemound Rd.  or online at https://www.nothingbundtcakes.com/

Total Wine and More

We remain firm in this opinion-  is it even the holidays without Bailey’s in your coffee or some Brandy Slush in the freezer?  From that bougie bourbon your brother wants, to the house chardonnay that keeps peace in the family, if it comes in a bottle, you’ll probably find it at Total Wine.  Knowledgeable staff will help you pick the perfect wine pairing for any holiday meal.   Remember, it’s an election year…better stock up before the family arrives. Located in Calhoun Crossing, 17300 W Bluemound Rd

Fava Tea

We still start the day with coffee in my house, but we are definitely drinking more tea.  If you’re not sure where to start your tea journey or want to upgrade from Lipton, head to Fava Tea for some great advice.  From traditional black, green, and white teas to fun brews like Pumpkin Harvest Rooibos, Caramel Apple Chai, and Maple Sugar Black, you’re sure to find “a cuppa” to your liking.  Find them at 18895 W Bluemound Rd or online at https://favatea.com/

Oro di Oliva

Located in the Brookfield Fashion Center, Oro di Oliva offers a carefully curated selection of olive oils and accessories, cookbooks, vinegars and olive oil-centered bath and beauty products perfect for any occasion that requires a gift.  Their selection of pure Spanish olive oils spans from soft and buttery in flavor,  to herbaceously complex.  Flavored oils include rosemary, Persian lime and habanero to name just a few.  Oro di Oliva also stocks a variety of nut and specialty oils like avocado oil, white and black truffle oil, and roasted sesame and roasted walnut oil to take your dishes to the next level.  Vinegars include 18 different dark balsamics like fig, herbs of Napoli, and a beautiful aged 18 year.  18 more white balsamic vinegars include a traditional bianco, jalepeno lime, and a delightful Sicilian lemon, plus a variety of wine vinegars like Champagne, red wine and sherry reserva.  Find them online at http://www.orodioliva.com and browse their recipe section, or visit the store at 17000 W Bluemound.

New Store Alert!  Magnolia Soap and Bath

Move over Bath and Body Works, there’s a new kid in town!  Magnolia Soap and Bath opened it’s Brookfield doors in May of 2024 in the Harvard Square shopping plaza.  Offering plant based, chemical-free bath and beauty products all made locally in the store. Products include soaps, lotions and butters, shower oils (my favorite), bath bombs and shower steamers (my husband’s favorite) plus shampoo, conditioner, laundry wash, pet items, candles and more.  Nearly all items can be custom scented to your preference.  Dry Wisconsin winter is coming, so is cold and sniffle season.  Head it off at the pass with luxurious body products for yourself or someone you love.  Find them online at https://www.mymagnoliasoap.com/brookfield or at 18000 W Bluemound Rd. in the Harvard Square shopping plaza.

Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday happens on November 30, 2024.  Recognized as a day to celebrate and support small businesses, Visit Brookfield encourages you to seek out and patronize local shops in the Brookfield area.  #shopsmall #shoplocal

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