Summertime and fresh produce from the area farmers’ markets–just can’t beat the taste of freshly picked berries, tomatoes, herbs and veggies. Fortunately we have two farmers’ markets in the neighborhood so you can stock up twice a week!
The Brookside Farmers Market is open each Saturday at 63rd and Wornall Road. This market features local (less than 100 miles away) vendors that sell ‘organic and non-GMO food’. Besides fresh produce, you’ll find eggs, meat, herbs, flowers, baked goods and homemade items like soaps and crafts. Hours are 8am-1pm on Saturdays.
The Waldo Farmers Market is also open for the season at 303 W 79th St, just east of 79th and Wornall next to Habitat ReStore. Although smaller than the Brookside market, it offers a great selection of ‘local, certified organic and non-certified sustainably produced’ products, ranging from vegetables and herbs to snacks and ice cream. Offerings can change weekly. This market is open every Wednesday from 3-7pm–which is so convenient if you need inspiration for a quick weeknight dinner!
Remember to bring a bag to the market to tote your goodies back home, plus cash in small bills, and watch for pedestrians while parking. Thank you for supporting area farmers and merchants!
The organizers behind 
Like so many locally owned Brookside businesses, Coco makes you feel welcome the moment you walk in. Abi Wagner, Manager, Enabler and Empowerment Queen (yes that is her official title!) –greets you with a big smile, ready to help you navigate around all the pretty and practical goodies on display. Abi is on the left in the photo, and Abby Flores is on the right.
Abi explained the store’s concept to me: “It’s minimalist but not basic. We have brands that fit all body types—from small to 3XL. And our prices are very reasonable. Most items fall in the $30-$50 price range”. Browsing the racks you’ll find tops, pants (including ‘magic denim’ Judy Blue jeans for $39), dresses, bralets, jewelry, purses and some gift items. The tag line for the store is “style, community and empowerment” and the clothes are selected so that the wearer will feel “amazing in your own skin, no matter what your body type” per Abby. To fulfill their commitment to the community, Abby and Abi host classes for women with options that include calligraphy, weaving, making your own bath bombs, and plans are in the works for a book club.
Owner Abby Flores has a masters in art history and worked in merchandising for the Target corporation. She has a keen visual eye as her shop is serene, color coordinated, comfortable and attractive. Although she opened Itsy Bitsy Buns in 2010, it was always her goal to have a women’s clothing store as well. And like the shop next door, this one is very customer focused and on trend with what buyers are looking for now.
Tomorrow is the day for the 37th Annual Brookside St Patrick’s Day Warm Up Parade! Rescheduled from last week (due to weather), the forecast for tomorrow is for a high around 60 degrees–much better!
Centered Spirit
Inside Brookside (And Waldo) 