Sponsored content:
The Waldo area is a quintessential neighborhood—a bustling ‘burb to socialize, shop, dine, or reside. And with so many handy, local stores and services, Waldo has plenty to offer visitors on Small Business Saturday.
Many local business owners are pulling out all the stops so you can get a jumpstart on
your holiday shopping. We’ve got the 411 from several shops:
Sierra Winter Jewelry
Owner Sierra Winter is excited to see customers support local stores in the community. “We have so many talented makers and unique stores in Kansas City and that is something we should be proud of—so get out and shop small!”
While she doesn’t want to give away any secrets, Winter says she’ll offer a surprise gift with any in-store purchase. And she says to pay particular attention to a few items flying off her store’s shelves. “Check out the Eclipse necklace, Talisman necklace, hoop earrings, and our Mama Collection,” she says. “We also carry a selection of candles, sassy ornaments, graphic tees, and perfumes from some of our favorite brands!”
Given that she opened her shop earlier this year, she’s more than ready to experience her first holiday rush of eager shoppers—and, hopefully, some normality. “It’s hard to tell what normal is,” Winter says. “Half of our business is selling our jewelry to other stores across the country—which definitely slowed down for about six months. Going into the holiday season though, that part of this business is picking up and picking up fast. I think that’s a good sign for retailers not only in Kansas City but the rest of the country.”
Eclectics Gallery
The squad at Eclectics Gallery knows that Small Business Saturday brings in plenty of new customers—as well as loyal, long-time clients. “We look forward to that day and plan for it with extra staff,” owner Lynette Fisk.
This ongoing pandemic has caused Waldo retailers to think creatively and to pivot their services in order to stay ahead of the game. In April, Eclectics launched an online shopping store which initially sold masks. “Just selling masks online in April and May paid our rent,” says Fisk. The website has since expanded to offer selected items from their extensive gallery of handmade items for gifts, body, and home.
For the upcoming gift-giving season, they are introducing “Eclectic’s gift boxes. Customers can shop from the comfort of their home and we’ll send a gift box of curated items from Eclectics, chosen for you based on your selection of theme and price,” Fisk. “Send a new baby gift, a pet-lover package or a wedding gift of home-decor items.”
Meanwhile, handmade Christmas ornaments remain wildly popular—and guests will find a wide assortment from which to choose. “Everything including glass, fiber, copper, tin, paper, and ceramic ornaments,” says Fisk.
K9 Closet
Not only will K9 Closet owner Heidi Schamberger have sales galore in her pet boutique on Small Business Saturday, she’ll “also be out shopping and supporting our local Waldo businesses personally,” she says.
Schamberger says one of the upsides of the pandemic is that quarantine has made people more attentive to their pets. “It’s also helped the rescue community as many people are going out and adopting animals. Since people are spending so much time at home they are trying to find toys and treats to keep their pets occupied,” she says.
Given that more and more people are out walking with their dogs, the business’s harness and custom-made collar sales have been booming. “K9 Closet has been hand-making collars for 19 years in Kansas City. We offer hundreds of fabric choices, custom embroidery and so much more. Our personal favorite are our martingale collars,” she says. “They give you more control, prevent choking, they are effective for training and work with all breeds. We have fabrics suitable for every taste and make them in six different widths and any length to fit your dog!”
She also mentions she’s ready for the holidays. Why? “Waldo is a very pet-friendly community and people love spoiling their pets,” she says. “We are blessed to be a part of such a wonderful community.”
Classic Cookie
The beloved eatery recently reopened under new ownership but kept the well-liked, original menu intact. “Our customers will enjoy the same breakfast, lunch, and baked goods as we offered before for so many years,” says owners Bob Rosson and Ellen Klem. “Since the menu was so popular, we decided not to change a thing!”
On Small Business Saturday, the cookie gurus will be offering a free cup of coffee for anyone visiting their store. “Since it will potentially be chilly on November 28th, this will be a good opportunity to get warmed up,” they say. That will pair perfectly with a couple new seasonal specialties, such as apple cinnamon muffins and sugar cookies.
Right now, the team is gearing up for the hustle and bustle of the holidays, but they understand if people choose not to go out and about quite yet. “We have been filling a large number of take out and to-go orders to serve those with these concerns,” they say.