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Brookside Community Comes Together

Brookside Community Comes Together While Maintaining Social Distance

Even though times have been uncertain for everyone here in the Brookside/Waldo communities there is still a lot of good to be found when taking the time slow down and take a look around. In the words of, Ellen Zetmeir, with Brookside Real Estate,

“I have really been challenging myself, my friends, and my clients to observe the good that is happening right now and the closeness of the community through all of this. I am truly blessed to live in Brookside. The community coming together in this time just reminds me of all of the reasons that I was excited to move into this neighborhood in the first place. “

For example, some kind individuals are offering their help by sewing masks either for free or simply for donation; other neighbors are purchasing and delivering groceries to elderly friends who are stuck at home. A couple of kind hearts are volunteering simple joys like free flowers and other plants from their own gardens in the hopes of brightening people’s days. The Brookside community is more close-knit than ever thanks to thoughtfulness. chalk hopscotch

It is evident that the community’s creativity is alive and well. Many families are taking the time to create sidewalk chalk art – these bright and colorful creations include fun hopscotch games and meaningful messages of encouragement!

Brookside’s creativity has also forged a way for the community to still share music; sit out on your front porch some evening and you may well hear “Front Porch Concerts” drifting through the streets. From cellos and violins to pianos and flutes, neighbors are serenading the community from their very own homes. If you’re lucky, you might even witness ukulele concerts or some pretty phenomenal bagpipe playing!

Following proper social distancing and precautions of course, Ellen recommends getting out and breathing some fresh air.  Take note of the fluffy dogs delighted to have their humans home; watch for the kids on bikes or playing in their backyards.

See if you can discover which neighbor has a pet tortoise! Admire the sweet signs of spring like bright tulips! Wave to your neighbors! Remember, there is plenty of joy to go around! Take a stroll around your lovely Brookside community and you might just be surprised at what you find.

Ellen knows all about buying and selling homes, but she also has all the key insights into the Brookside community! Contact Ellen today for any questions about your home or any tips on becoming more involved in your Brookside neighborhood.

And please, feel free to share your own messages of encouragement with Ellen! Brookside Real Estate is delighted to have you as part of our beautiful Brookside bunch!

 

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Welcome to the Neighborhood: EB and Co.

New to 63rd Street – Brookside Real Estate Company wants to welcome EB and Co.!

The perfect addition to Brookside, EB and Co. owner, Emily Bordner, has a mission to, “celebrate all the ways accessories empower confidence and inspire individuality.” We recently spoke with Emily to learn more about her new business and why she chose to open in our favorite neighborhood – Brookside!

Tell us a little bit about your background: Are you from Kansas City? What made you decide to open your own shop?

I grew up in Lee’s Summit, but have lived in the KC area most of my life. I’ve been in business for seven years working with different local retailers. Then I had my first personal location as a booth in the Made in KC Marketplace on the Plaza. We’ve been there for just over a year. I have loved having a space there and after getting a taste of that, I knew I had to save up to open a store of my very own. It just felt like that was the next natural progression.

Emily Bordner

Do you design/create your own jewelry pieces? If so, do any of the pieces have a story behind them? 

It’s really a combination. I’ve designed some of the jewelry myself in addition to wholesale many pieces. I’m most proud of the collaborative pieces, which I design with local bloggers and have handmade in Los Angeles. The bloggers and I sit down and think about what’s missing or lacking in the market right then.

Our Shelby pieces were fun. We were trying to come up with something dainty with minimal sparkle that works great for the office or if you’re looking to hit a happy hour. They’ve been our best-selling pieces of jewelry so far! I also design all of the the leather goods, which are all currently manufactured in Kansas City. 

What can customers expect when they shop at EB and Co.? 

We want people to have a chill experience in a modern but welcoming environment. We want people to not feel pressured and take the time to try things on as much as they want. We were able to capture this relaxed and fresh feeling with our hand painted mural, a space to have an Instagram moment and tons of approachable stylish pieces. We aim to have a range of options. We have classic, trendy and multigenerational pieces. We also offer complimentary gift-wrapping which people seem to really like.

Why did you decide to open your shop in Brookside?

I have always loved Brookside and spent a great deal of time there in college when I worked at Bella Napoli, which was such a rewarding experience. Supporting local businesses is a real matter of pride in Brookside. It’s just a fun, exciting place to be. When the space became available, I just had to move on the opportunity to be part of this great community.

What’s your favorite thing about having your shop located in this area? 

I love being among so many long-term shops that span generations from Design in the City to World’s Window to Brookside Toy and Science. As the new kid on the block I have so many wise mentors for neighbors to learn from.

Next time you’re in the neighborhood, be sure to stop by Emily Bordner’s new shop and see for yourself why we love EB & Co.! While you’re here, pay a visit to your friends at Brookside Real Estate Company located at 9 W 63rd St – when the flag is up, we’re open!

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Brookside – Your One-Stop Destination for The Holidays!

The holiday season is here! The air is filled with cheer and Christmas lights are already twinkling in Brookside! For years, holiday shoppers have flocked to Brookside for the best in local shopping. Home to over 70 shops, restaurants, boutiques and small businesses, and of course, your friends at Brookside Real Estate! We’re here to fill you in on our favorite go-to spots for all things holiday!

The STUFF Sisters: Sloane & Casey Simmons

a store named STUFF: Locally owned and stocked with plenty of locally made art and gifts, STUFF is Brookside Real Estate’s pick for one-of-a-kind, handmade holiday gifts. Whether you’re looking for a bigger more extravagant gift, or some unique stocking stuffers, STUFF is sure to have something for you!

The New Dime Store: A Brookside local staple, The New Dime Store is, “Brookside’s everything store.” Browse through an assortment of gifts or pop in for the Christmas essentials – decorations, wrapping paper, gift bags, ribbon and holiday cards – there’s something for everyone at The New Dime Store!

Carmen’s Café: Wanting to host a holiday party? Let Carmen’s take care of you! Carmen’s Café offers a private dining room featuring an open kitchen and full bar for parties with up to 85 guests. Rather host your holiday party at your home? Carmen’s Café can cater your event! With the ability to customize the perfect menu and accommodate most any budget, your guests are sure to be pleased with Carmen’s! For more information about events and catering, click here.

Brookside Barkery & Bath

Brookside Barkery & Bath: Your furry family members deserve extra love during the holidays as well! The best local shop for all your pet’s needs is Brookside Barkery & Bath! Treat your furry friend to a pet stocking filled with all-natural holiday treats and toys. While you’re at it, bring the whole family in on December 7th and take a family photo with Santa! Click here for more information.

Charlie Hooper’s: The #1 destination for Brookside Real Estate owner, Jim Kraus, Charlie Hooper’s is Brookside’s original neighborhood bar and grille! With two private event areas to host your holiday party: The Trophy Room seats up to 50 people and can accommodate up to 100 for a casual cocktail party. Perfect for a smaller holiday party, The Tap Room seats up to 20 and can accommodate up to 30. Click here for more information.

Although these are just five of 70+ options, one thing is for sure – Brookside is your one-stop destination for the holidays! Don’t miss out on Small Business Saturday this November 24, 2018 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Not only will shoppers be supporting local businesses, they’ll also enjoy an assortment of refreshments and gift wrapping at various businesses!

While you’re in the neighborhood, stop by and see us at 9 W 63rd St – the home of Brookside Real Estate. When the flag is up, we’re open!