Just the facts…note these street closures for Sunday! Another run coming through our neighborhood.
The 37th CCVI Trolley Run will close off streets the morning of Sunday April 27 . The race begins at 75th and Wornall, and runs along Gregory and Brookside Blvd north to the Plaza. Here’s the route map:
The website doesn’t share any info on an approximate end time for the race; be prepared for these streets to be blocked off all morning on Sunday and plan accordingly!
Blue Sky…those words conjure up a smile and warm vibes. That’s the feeling you get when you walk into a new Waldo shop, Blue Sky Art+Home at 408 East Gregory, a few steps from the Front Range Cafe. Owner Leslie Beck opened the space November 1, and invites you to stop by!
Leslie grew up in Brookside and graduated from the University of Kansas with a BA in Fine Arts. She worked out of her home for years as a graphic designer (and still does that work); after her Dad passed a few years ago she started to paint on canvas. She had pop up shows at various locations at First Fridays, and eventually wanted to have her work on display in her own space. She met up with her close friend Katherine Bramble Taylor and together they had a long collaborative “blue sky” session, talking about “what would you do if you could do anything”. They decided to look for space together in the Waldo area and found this perfect spot. Katherine’s floral and gift shop, Bramble and Stem, is next door.
Blue Sky is an art studio, gallery and boutique. Inside you’ll find Leslie’s original paintings on the walls and unique merch for sale: pottery by Rachael Akin from Lees Summit; Archive bath and body products by Margot Elena; beautiful textiles and pillows, small vases, books and a special Blue Sky candle, scented by Brookside’s The Corner Candleshop. In the back of the store, Leslie hosts creativity workshops, often collaborating with Katherine from Bramble and Stem next door. Leslie explains these workshops are not technique or skill driven. “Each one has a theme, and we start out with some journaling thoughts for inspiration. Then everyone uses paints and various marking tools to create a personal piece of art”. No judgement here–Leslie knows everyone is born with a creative spark of some sort and she works with you to naturally bring out your inspiration in a unique way.
Besides creating art in this space and offering workshops and special gifts, Leslie also works on commission. Her mission is to create art with love; her work is deeply personal and meaningful. Through the commissioned pieces she will transform cherished photos into abstract paintings or create something entirely new, guided by emotions as she listens to your favorite songs via a playlist. Every piece is very personal and lasting.
Like so many working artists, Leslie has two full time jobs: working in this space and raising a family of five children with her husband. You can email her (leslie@blueskyartandhome.com) for shop hours or pop by when you are walking in the neighborhood.
One of Brookside’s most cherished events is happening tomorrow-the annual St. Patrick’s Day Warm Up Parade. I believe this is the 43rd year for the parade–and every year, it seems more and more people participate. The parade kicks off at 2pm.
Dreaming of Green is this year’s theme, and yes, there are prizes for participants! You’ll see huge colorful floats, an assortment of dogs, drill teams, crazy cars and local vendors, services and schools walking the route. Note: the streets around the parade route will be shut down starting early in the afternoon (parts of Wornall, Meyer, 63rd St and Brookside Road) so be aware and plan accordingly. The residential streets will be clogged with extra parked cars and traffic; watch for pedestrians, bikes, strollers, wagons and general merriment as the neighborhood gets out to celebrate.
Remember to stop in one of our local businesses for a beverage or shopping while you are in the area!…and thank you for supporting Brookside!
One of life’s greatest pleasures is to share a good meal with friends. There are so many options: invite a few people over for burgers on the grill, or order take out and bring it to a homebound friend. Or…set a date to meet up at “the new place that just opened in Brookside”…which would-be Cru Bistro and Bottles at 128 W. 63rd St. Try a new dish, catch up with another couple, no screens for a few hours…just good conversation and tasty food, priceless!
So if you haven’t been to Cru yet, here’s a taste: the interior has been completely remodeled from the former Michael Forbes decor. Warm and inviting, the room is anchored by a long wall of wine bottles and white tablecloths on the tabletops. The large windows that overlook the streetscape will open during warm weather. The bar is still there, up the steps on the east side if you just want a drink and a nosh. Owners Hannah Koenig and Avery Bailey have extensive restaurant and hospitality experience (Avery was the GM at Bella Napoli), and when this space was vacant, somehow Avery convinced his wife to open Cru. Hannah told me “He was so excited when the space became available. We live within walking distance and love the community here, we love the neighborhood. We are both passionate and driven and we wanted to open this nice spot where people could connect over wine and good food in a relaxed atmosphere.”
The Cru name comes from that part of the vineyard where the best grapes are grown. And if wine is your thing, Cru offers some very unique varieties. They have bottles from Greece and Switzerland; Avery and Hannah work with small family producers and know the people behind the wine. Craft cocktails feature local spirits such as Tom’s Town. But what about the food?? This is a “bistro” but not solely French focused. You’ll find plenty of cheeses and a charcuterie on the menu, plus salads, a fish and chicken option and the very popular pork schnitzel and risotto. Some menu items will change seasonally.
Cru is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday; weekends are the most popular so you may want to stop in during the week to have a more leisurely experience. Reservations can be made via their website.
So many people want to buy homes..and yet inventory is very low. Here’s an option: consider a condo! I just listed this beautiful, move-in ready in the Berkeley Condominiums near the KC Art Institute, Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, the Kemper Museum and…just two blocks from the Southmoreland streetcar stop, scheduled to open later this year!
The one bedroom, one bath condo is on the first floor, measuring 718 square feet. The vintage exposed brick wall and hardwood floors give the place a warm, inviting atmosphere, plus lots of sun pours into the space from the three sides of the sunroom.
Other features and benefits include top down/bottom up shades, new in-unit washer/dryer, new fridge and dishwasher, large pantry plus a dedicated extra storage space in the basement.
The bedroom fits a king size bed with extra space for a dresser.
The HOA fee includes water, snow removal, building insurance, exercise and party room in lower level. This is city living at it’s best–just lock the door and go! So many amenities outside the front door: museums, restaurants, the Country Club Plaza is just a few blocks south and once the streetcar stop opens two blocks away–that’s free transportation to Crown Center, Union Station, and the River Market area. Contact me for more details. 200 E 43rd St Unit 102, Kansas City MO. Offered at $169,000.
Valentine’s Day is almost here…and if you plan on getting a special gift for your partner…consider stopping in Brookside and Waldo’s newest florist and gift shop, Bramble & Stem, 410 E. Gregory. The shop opened in November and has lots of unique gifts and lovely floral arrangements to inspire you!
Owner Katherine Bramble Taylor had been operating her own floral business out of her home as Studio 421, where weddings were her main source of business. . As a stay at home Mom–she was juggling the home business and family, yet always had an interest in operating a storefront floral shop. Her father was a small business owner and kept encouraging her to take the big step. When he passed away in 2023, she finally decided to follow his advice. Katherine says “I knew I would only open a storefront in Brookside. The welcoming and supportive community here is what sets it apart”.
Living with her family nearby in Brookside, this location is convenient for her and her customers. Katherine creates her arrangements with a loose yet modern vibe and a garden aesthetic: colorful and attractive yet natural, just like a garden full of blooms. Besides weddings and special events, Bramble & Stem sells plants and offers subscription services for residential and office use. Inside the shop you’ll also see fun extras available for purchase: small books, earrings, cards, chocolates, candles–even wine and snacks. Katherine can put together a special unique package for your or check out one of her special Valentine’s Day gift boxes for around $100. Delivery is available.
Bramble & Stem is available to rent for private events, and there is a separate room for the special seasonal workshops offered to the public. You can also stop by the special Valentine’s celebration featuring local pop up vendors happening this Saturday February 8 from 1-3pm at 410 E. Gregory.
As a residential real estate agent, I have toured some beautiful houses. Some look spectacular, yet somewhat generic on the inside. Some have a mish mash of eclectic decor. And some look like a college dorm room! Most people find it challenging to “decorate” — having your home reflect your distinct personality in a comfortable yet organized manner. Getting the balance just right is how Sid & Company can help. New to Waldo but not to the KC area, Sid & Company offer custom interior design services at their new home, 21 West Gregory.
Owners Jean-Anne Suderman and her husband Mark are both from Wichita and met at KU. Mark has his MFA in interior design from the Atlanta College of Art and at one time worked at Mark Shale. Jean-Anne was an art director for a couple of national advertising firms. After working in Atlanta for many years, they decided to move to Kansas City to be closer to family. They opened a shop in the 45th and State Line area offering design services and a retail store in the West Bottoms. They purchased this building in November 2023 to combine both retail and design services in one spot; and opened to the public October 5.
Why the move to Waldo? Jean-Anne explained they have many clients in the south KC / Mission Hills area and felt this location better served their clients. “Waldo is growing in such a positive way”, says Jean-Anne, and she especially enjoys talking to people that come into the shop to browse. This store is inspirational, packed with beautiful furniture, accessories, artwork and design books. Sid & Company rep several special manufacturers, including Verellen, a Belgian furniture company. When I asked about current trends in the interior design industry, she explained “We don’t do trends. We will use the special decor pieces the client already has, and work with them to choose other items that compliment their personal style..a style that will look good for many years. We can also design the interior of a new build home from start to finish, working with the builder and architect to be sure the space functions well with the decor plans of the buyer”. One very important feature of using a locally based designer as compared to a big box chain store: Jean-Anne and Mark have similar prices yet offer much better quality and selection with their items, plus “white glove service”, meaning everything is delivered to your home and properly placed and set up inside rather than dropped at the front door. And if you are looking for some decorating inspiration, sign up for SID LIFE on the website, a weekly journal of inspiration.
You are invited to stop by Sid & Company and browse the store anytime; they are open Monday through Friday 10am-5pm or Saturdays by appointment.
Well if you didn’t indulge in food too much during the holiday season…here’s your chance to catch up!! Kansas City Restaurant Week starts Friday and runs through Sunday January 19. This year’s charity recipient is House of Hope, a non profit based in North Kansas City. It’s the perfect opportunity to try someplace new for a meal and support a good cause.
How it works: dozens of restaurants all over the metro area are offering special lunch and dinner prix fixe menus with prices ranging from $20-$55; a portion of profits are directed to House of Hope. Reservations are encouraged and you can make them via the website. Note: not all restaurants have posted their special Restaurant Week menus–but you know you will get a pretty good deal, wherever you dine!
Participating restaurants in the Brookside and Waldo area are:
| Aixois French Restaurant | Boru Asian Eatery |
| Charlie Hoopers Bar & Grille | City Barrel Pizza + Patio |
| Home Grown KC | Lew’s Grill and Bar |
| Red Door Grill | Pizza Tascio |
| South of Summit Taqueria | Summit Grill |
Plan a night out with your friends and family and support our locally owned restaurants during KC Restaurant Week!
By this time next week, Santa will have come and gone…yes, the Big Day is that close! If you still need to purchase a few gifts, consider supporting our newer, local merchants when you shop. Each of these businesses opened in Brookside or Waldo this year and are ready to help!
For new parents, consider buying cloth diaper service from The Diaper Society. They also have items you can purchase for new parents, such as all natural shampoos, lotions, baby balm and body wash.
For pet lovers, stop in Callie Mae’s Barkery and Bath, 7140 Wornall. Just about everything your doggie needs is sold here (along with a few cat items), including toys, food, leashes and of course–in house baked special treats!
Sometimes, you have to get the kids out of the house! Humanette, at 118 W 63rd St, is a play cafe for toddlers and their parents. The little ones can play as the adults sip a beverage and get to know other neighborhood families. Gift cards available.
Everyone eats and many people do not like to cook…. visit City Barrel at 120 E Gregory, pick up a six pack of beer and a gift card for pizza. Hemma Hemma at 7122 Wornall serves up delicious food for breakfast and lunch and also offers several grab and go items to enjoy at home.
Finally, two new businesses recently opened right next to each other–I haven’t had time to stop by and check them out yet. But wanted to mention them in this blog: Bramble & Stem at 410 E Gregory makes stunning floral arrangements and the shop has a few gifts and plants for purchase; Blue Sky Art + Home at 408 E Gregory is a “studio, gallery and boutique” with one of a kind art pieces for sale.
And if you need a break after your shopping spree..stop in Vita’s Place at 5514 Oak for a nice glass of wine and small plates. Their sister place Underdog Wine Shop is around the corner at 327 E 55th St, offering a large wine selection, chocolates and small gifts.
There are so many independently owned shops in Brookside and Waldo where you will find unique items for purchase–and personal service–as you browse. Thank you for supporting the small businesses that make our neighborhood special!
There are so many decisions to make when a baby is on the way…and so many preparations. It’s tempting to follow the crowd and plan to use disposable diapers… most people do. Here’s an option: a new Brookside business, The Diaper Society, now offers you a convenient alternative to consider. Why fill your home with boxes of disposables when you can have cloth diapers picked up, laundered, and delivered back to your home?
Justine and Ryan Richard started The Diaper Society this year as a side business; both work full time and have two children ages 4 months and 3 years. When pregnant with their first child, Justine was very interested in using cloth diapers. Both are environmentally conscious and research shows that the average child uses 5000-7500 disposable diapers during the first few years of life. After using a small local cloth diaper service, they decided to open their own and spread the word about this convenient disposable diaper alternative. Justine spent a full year researching cloth materials, soaps, cleaning supplies, e-commerce and route optimization. “When you are an expectant mother, so many products are pushed at you for the baby. Many of them contain forever chemicals. I wanted to do all the legwork so we could operate a service that is convenient for parents yet using safe products for the child.“ This process includes a “closed loop” for cleaning the diapers: each soiled load is washed separately so that your child’s laundry is individually washed and not with another child’s soiled diapers.
Cloth diapers have changed quite a bit since the old days. Design innovations have done away with sharp pins! Cloth diapers are now easily fastened with hooks; and the plastic pants worn over the diapers come in adjustable sizes to fit a growing bottom. Also offered are separate pad “inserts” to for extra absorbing. The Diaper Society offers three levels of service to choose from, all described on their website. They can provide the diapers, inserts, cloth wipes and delivery service; or if you have your own diapers, they will launder them for you. There is a rental option available as well. If you are interested in learning exactly how the program works, Ryan will come to your home and give you a demonstration of how the diapers fit and the service options.
Another couple of services to note here: Ryan and Justine participate in the TerraCycle program: this is a company that recycles certain items that can’t be recycled (check the website for details). They also have an online shop, full of various all natural baby products you can order and have delivered with your diapers. Gift cards are available!
During our visit in their Brookside home (diapers are not laundered here FYI), I was impressed with this operation and how it works. Most families with two full time working parents and two young children do not have time for a side hustle! However, Ryan has always had an “entrepreneurial bent” and both of them want to do what they can for the environment. Using the cloth diapers for their own children turned out to be pretty easy and at a similar cost to disposables. Starting The Diaper Society is one way this couple can have an impact and bring along others with them. Find them on their website and Instagram.
Inside Brookside (And Waldo) 