Around Town ~ KJ's Boutique

     

    Just over a year ago, KJ's Boutique opened its doors at 214 Main Street, bringing children's fashion to downtown. The sister store to Marlene's Sass and Class, KJ's was named after owner Marlene's first granddaughter's nickname — a sweet tribute that turned into a thriving business. Shoppers can visit in person Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or browse anytime at www.shopkjsboutique.com.

The idea for KJ's took root years earlier. Shortly after Marlene's opened more than eight years ago, customers kept asking for children's and tween clothing. When Marlene's first grandbaby was on the way, and the building next door happened to come available, KJ's Boutique was born. Today the store carries girls' sizes from newborn through tween (14/16) and boys' sizes from newborn through 7/8, with newborn items quickly becoming customer favorites.

Clothing is only part of the story. KJ's also stocks toys and squishies, including Discovery Toys; a popular educational brand you won't find in big department stores. Whether you're looking for a thoughtful gift or a cute new outfit, it's an easy stop for the kids in your life.

Marlene has also made sure shopping with little ones in tow is easy. A dedicated play area with books, toys, and movies keeps kids entertained while parents browse. That attention to experience extends to the staff, personal shoppers are on hand to help customers find just the right piece for any occasion.

Many of the items at KJ's are one-of-a-kind finds you won't see at corporate retailers, including matching outfit sets for moms and their kids that are especially popular for holidays and family photos, and tend to sell out fast, so it pays to shop early.

KJ's also hosts a regular lineup of community events, many of them free. Storytime with Kate is a favorite, along with craft and painting projects for tweens led by Babrae McFarlin (a small fee covers supplies). Seasonal events have included Valentine's bath bomb making, egg decorating, ornament decorating, and visits from the Easter Bunny and Santa. Follow KJ's on Facebook and Instagram for the full event schedule.

Kids who love the spotlight can stop by to "model" new outfits for the shop, while parents can head to the Hat Bar to personalize their own trucker hat.

As football season approaches, KJ's is the place to find cheer outfits, not just in Sulphur Springs colors, but for surrounding area schools too. Check back this fall for costumes and "make-believe" play outfits, and watch for holiday pajama sets arriving in September.

B2B Travel ~ Your Secret Weapon for Client Meetings

     Picture this, you are traveling for business to a new town and it’s a smaller market than you are used to and you still want to impress your clients with your local knowledge.  How can you best achieve this with a minimal amount of effort?  This is where a Bed and Breakfast is a great option. The innkeeper will have all the local knowledge and send you to the best locations to help impress your clients.

As a hospitality business owner, I believe the best travel experiences offer the same personalized service and local expertise I provide my own guests.  That’s why, at the Oaks Bed and Breakfast in Sulphur Springs, Texas, we treat every business traveler as a VIP with dedicated concierge service. Your stay is more than just a place to sleep; it’s your point of entry to a successful, memorable trip.  

We serve as a personal concierge to each guest, especially our business travelers.  The personal touch each guest receives is what marks every visit as unique. A lot of that personal touch is directing our guests to the best places to eat and find entertainment.  By choosing to stay at a local inn where you are a name instead of a number, your business travel experience is instantly elevated.

Imagine, it’s your first visit to Sulphur Springs, Texas and your clients asks you to select the dinner spot. Do you rely on generic online reviews or do you ask your local innkeeper for the best spot to take your client?  The smart choice is the latter. 

Your innkeeper knows the ins and outs of town and can guide you to the perfect choice for the entire group. Every time you travel to a new environment, you have an opportunity to make a powerful impression.  Do you need a unique venue for a client lunch, or a refined atmosphere to wine and dine a prospective customer?   

Choosing a local bed and breakfast or boutique inn offers a unique and authentically local stay that a chain hotel simply can’t match.  The local insight of a small business owner levels up your business because they are personally invested in your comfort and success. 

Demonstrate your willingness to learn and impress by leaning on local knowledge.  Your innkeeper will know the perfect spot to create an unforgettable experience for your client. We can direct you to a local caterer or, hint, we might even be able to prepare delicious, locally-sourced meal right here at the Oaks.   

Why take the predictable road?  Even if you have visited the same city multiple times, the next best restaurant is the latest food truck or just downstairs from your room.  Why not take the adventurous road and stay somewhere new and exciting to experience the town from a different point of view.  Discover the difference when your accommodation is more than just a place to lay your head it’s the launchpad for your business triumph.  

Travel ~ Mineral Wells, Texas and The Magpie Inn

     

   Mineral Wells, Texas boasts the home of Crazy Water.  The story goes that a woman who was suffering from her mind failing, came to Mineral Wells and drank the healing waters and recovered.  Thus, Crazy Water was born.  There are four levels of Crazy water to choose from, based on the mineral content.  One being the lowest amount to four being the highest amount.  No matter where you go in town you are bound to experience Crazy Water.  While I was there, I tried number two and felt that by itself, it had too much mineral flavor but with food, it evened out to have a "regular" water flavor.  When you plan your stay, be sure to check out the Crazy Water to discover your favorite and see if it helps you to feel better mentally.

 

    Of course, during my visit, I had to check out the downtown area of Mineral Wells.  It was a short walk from the Magpie Inn, where I stayed the night.  While making my way downtown I saw quite a few murals on the exterior of the buildings and just loved the different images they portrayed.  Murals are such an easy way to incorporate art into your downtown area that can also be a draw for people to visit.  Hint, hint City of Sulphur Springs. 

 

    I decided to step into one of the shops which ended up leading me to four different shops.  It was pretty cool how they were all connected and just flowed from one to the other.  There was a little eatery in one of spots.  Here you could order sandwiches or salads, along with some fresh meat, pasta and sauces as well.  It was cute little spot to enjoy lunch, grab something you might be missing for dinner, to a souvenir to take home and enjoy later. 

 

    One of the staple shops of Downtown Mineral Wells sports a two-story building that literally has something for everyone.  From olive oil to balsamic vinegars, housewares, kids clothes, and even something for the men in your life.  The Market has a little bit of everything, including a cocktail and coffee bar for guests to enjoy while they shop or just to sit awhile and enjoy. 

 

    I even managed to make my way to the brewery, Rickhouse Brewing, that is located downtown in the same building as the Crazy Water Hotel.  I tried a flight of beers and did not find one that I didn't like.  Each one was unique and with a story that resonated with the brewery, creating a history for why they brew the beer and the name given.  Their brew space is right where guests can see it all and I was really impressed with the quality and quantity of beers that they create in the space allotted to them.  You can regularly find musical groups playing at the brewery and a good conversation if that is what you are looking for.  Be sure to ask about the beer stories while you are there and of course find your favorite.

 

    My favorite part of my visit was staying at The Magpie Inn.  This Chef owned and operated inn is a short walk from the center of downtown and is a lovely getaway for couples.  Select from five rooms and enjoy a group breakfast or an in-room breakfast during your stay.  Be sure to look for Waldo, the tortoise, during your stay.  He is definitely part of the Inn experience.  Each room is designed with your comfort in mind and is welcomed retreat during a visit to Mineral Wells. 

 

    If you are visiting family or just looking for a getaway you can't go wrong with a stop in Mineral Wells.  There is plenty to do and see during your visit, and of course wonderful places to stay, eat and drink.  Explore Clark Gardens or hop on over to the lake or take a tour of local wineries or a history tour.  Don't forget to grab a bottle of Crazy Water and find out which level you like the best. 

Around Town ~ Miss Behavin

 

               Twenty-Twenty changed many things and one great thing that changed was Miss Behavin moved to the square.  County Court offices moved to a new facility and a large space opened up on the square.  Miss Behavin took over a large part while the Chamber of Commerce occupied the rest.  They are open Monday thru Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Their website is www.missbehavinss.com.  You can shop there anytime you need.

 

               Miss Behavin has been in Sulphur Springs since 2010 and is owned by Chris and Lis Childress.  They started out at the VF Outlet mall, grew an online presence and moved downtown.  It’s been a great adventure that has been made even better because of their customers and community.

 

               Community is important to Miss Behavin, you can pretty much expect their support at major local events in the city and county.  They provide support to all the county schools when requested and feel it’s important to being part of the community as a whole.

 

               When you stop by Miss Behavin you can find something for multiple people on your lists.  Even those new baby boys.  While they feature mainly girls and women clothing, their junior department is a huge hit.  With customers coming from all over the State and even out of state while visiting Sulphur Springs.  The move from the VF mall did not deter the customers who loved their store, now they just have more reasons to visit Sulphur Springs because of the new location.

 

               You can find casual dress options, along with Sunday dinner items inside. Plus, a selection of jeans and shorts to help keep your wardrobe well rounded.  Spice it up with a cute pair of shoes from their selection and top it off with a necklace or hat.  We are sure that you can find a new piece to add to your wardrobe or start new with a little makeover. 

 

               Sizes range from baby to curvy and everything in between.  Be sure to check out their social media and website for new pieces that are hitting the shelves.  Your style can expand and grow at Miss Behavin.  Their staff is friendly and inviting to each customer and they keep up with current fashion trends to make sure you do as well.  Stop in to grab your summer finds and bring your friends.

Around Town ~ Everything Unique

 

For over 25 years Everything Unique has been a downtown Sulphur Springs staple. Ready to help you with all your home decor needs, and now so much more. At The Oaks Bed and Breakfast, Everything Unique helped us fill our shelves with beautiful items in our great room for guests to enjoy or purchase. As with life, Everything Unique has seen change over the years and has adapted to welcome in new products and services to help serve their customers.

 

Located at 124 Main Street in downtown Sulphur Springs, you can visit and shop six days a week, or 24/7 shop online at www.everything-unique.com. Steve and Carrie Nuckolls have owned Everything Unique for the last ten years and have been the driving force behind the changes made in store as shopping and dining habits of their customers have adapted over time.

 

With the addition of apparel in 2020, and the wine bar in 2023 Everything Unique offers customers a chance to shop for gifts, personal items, wine, and apparel in one location. You cannot forget their signature self-proclaimed tag line, The Christmas Store. One of my favorite pastimes is going in to see what each year’s theme will be and what their nutcracker selection will look like each year. Some of my favorite holiday pieces have come from Everything Unique over the years.

 

Bring your group of friends, men and women alike for a fun shopping trip to downtown Sulphur Springs to find the perfect item for yourself, a loved one or to enjoy a great glass of wine while browsing. Some of their best-selling items are related to the wine bar. The beautiful charcuterie boards, spicy bacon jam or cocktail mixers are crowd favorites. Do you want to up your charcuterie game, grab one of amazing cookbooks to better enhance your guest experience at your next dinner party.

 

Do you need a gift that will be loved at your next bunco or party night, look no further than their hilarious kitchen towels or devotional book selection. While upon first inspection the store might seem to cater more to women, there are great options for men in store as well. Especially if he loves to cook!

 

Everything Unique has many different opportunities for you or your group. Plan your next girl’s night out, or just because it’s Tuesday event. Their redesigned wine bar area is perfect for groups to get together and enjoy an evening of fellowship. With wine, beer, and charcuterie options available your group will be welcomed at Everything Unique.

 

Rediscover what downtown and Everything Unique has to offer the next time you are in Sulphur Springs. Shop their store in person, online or have a group event, and find out why it’s called Everything Unique.

Around Town ~ Market on Main

 

            Downtown Sulphur Springs, Texas has so many great shopping options for everyone on your list or in your family.  One of the newer spots to hit up is The Market on Main.  Located at 213 Main Street, this unique shop is full of gift ideas and shopping fun.  Not only can you experience freeze dried candy, but clothing, kitchen items and so much more.  The Market on Main is home to not just one vendor but over seventeen (17) women owned stores.  They are open Tuesday thru Saturday from 10 – 6 and have plans to extend Friday and Saturday hours during the summer days.

               Not only can you shop while you visit the Market on Main, it is also home to Masterpiece Ultrasound, were you can view your baby in 4D.  The sweet baby faces can be viewed from 6 weeks to 36 weeks, with 30-32 weeks being the ideal time to view the best “chubby face” images while on the inside.

               Bring the whole family to see those baby faces and then pick out the best baby or mom gift while in the shop.  The Market on Main has something for everyone.  Recently the shop has changed hands and welcomed a new owner.  They are currently at capacity for vendors but you can always put your name on a list if you are not yet ready to take the plunge into a full shop of your own. 

               Let your creativity flow when you stop by the Market on Main and find many local, handcrafted gifts among those curated by the ladies who each create their space for the goods that they display.  Along with the small shops a local photographer hosts mini sessions on site and currently has a Spring or Easter display ready to capture images of your cute little bunnies heading into the Spring season.

               The Market on Main brings together women from all over Hopkins County who would otherwise might not be able to share their goods with the public in such a way as a physical store front. While some might have an online presence this shopping experience brings out a wider audience to their unique brand and products.

               While shopping next time downtown, be sure to stop by the Market on Main to find something worth taking home or gifting to a friend.  Do not forget about baby, they offer adorable Easter outfits for your little ones.  Share with us your wonderful finds from the Market on Main and keep your support and shopping local.

Around Town ~ Nail Luxe

               

            Hello 2024!  What a whirlwind 2023 was and boy are we looking forward to 2024 to see what this year holds and how it will shape up.  To shake things up this year for your entertainment, I am going to start a new series where we look at the different shopping and services that our town has to offer.  I’m sure most people are aware of many of the places we will visit, but just in case you haven’t yet tried it out, we want to tell you about our experience.

 

               First up we visited Nail Luxe located in downtown Sulphur Springs, Texas at 230 Main Street, suite A.  Their hours of operation are 9:30 a. m. – 7:30 p. m. Monday through Friday.  Saturday from 9 a. m. – 7 p. m. and Sunday 11 a. m. – 5 p. m.  Just as the name suggests they offer all nail services, from pedicures to manicures, along with gel polish, dips and more.  In addition to nail services, they offer massages, waxing and eye lash extensions.  Before you go, you can review other services on their website, which offers the option to schedule an appointment online as well.   When you select your service, you can even select the technician.  This way if you find a technician you like, you can always use them.  What a great way to build relationships with your clients.

 

               We went in for a pedicure today to help keep our feet and skin heathy during the dry winter months.  It always amazes me how much the cooler temperatures dry out a person’s skin.  Overall, our pedicures were efficient and comfortable.  We were walk-in’s and we were able to be served right away once everyone was at the location. 

 

               Since we were there on a weekday, we received a discount on our services, which was unexpected but nice.  The offer a discount on the weekend as well just in a smaller amount and based off the total spent.  The store front is conveniently located downtown on the corner of Main Street and Davis Street.  Close to the parking near the police station.  The inside looks clean and fresh.  The brightly colored chairs stand out well against the white background of the floor and walls.  Our technicians were pleasant and did a good job over all on our pedicures. 

 

               If you are out and about shopping and need a break or are planning a spa day with friends, be sure to stop by Nail Luxe and experience what they have to offer their customers.  If you have a business in Sulphur Springs, you would like us to visit and highlight please reach out to Allison at The Oaks Bed and Breakfast so we can stop by and let more people know about what you have to offer. 

Travel East Texas ~ New Boston

 

    In my recent travels I made my way before a soccer game to New Boston. It’s always nice when the stars align and I can visit a place on the way to a kids game. New Boston is the current county seat and at one point each of the three “Boston” named cities held that title. Old Boston, Boston and New Boston.

    New Boston use to have the railroad running right through the middle of the town and the current museum building. The Museum also houses the Chamber of Commerce office. While the Chamber office was not open when I visited the lady who ran the museum was very helpful and directed me to talk with the person in charge of the Entertainment District.

    New Boston is trying to drive more visitors to their downtown area and the pavilion they have for hosting various events throughout the year. Their largest event is Pioneer days in August. A city Mayor at one point wanted it to be to “Hottest Festival” in Texas which boasts a street dance, rodeo, and something different every day for a week. They have a Country singer, Josh Ward, planed to headline the event on August 11-22, 2023. This festival is bound to be fun they will feature a carnival as well, food trucks, concert every night featuring multiple genres of music such as rhythm and blues, local talent and an Eagles Tribute band. It sounds like this will be an event you won’t want to miss.

    Boston entertainment district goals are to have an event every month. So far they have 10 festivals scheduled including an April 8th Easter Egg-Stravaganza. A July 4 fireworks show with a BBQ cook off and live music, actually scheduled for the 4th of July.

    The best places to eat in town are Maria’s, and the Boston General Store. I didn’t have time to stop at Maria’s and the General Store was closed by the time I made it down there. Instead I found a coffee shop to visit for a pick me up before soccer.

    If you happen to be staying at The Oaks bed and breakfast, explore East Texas with us and stop by New Boston.  Plan your visit and be sure to check out their festival dates and see if you can join in the fun. The shops downtown are few but growing. We look forward to hearing about your New Boston adventure.

Travel East Texas ~ Cooper

 

    Just fifteen minutes North of Sulphur Springs and The Oaks bed and breakfast lies the bedroom community of Cooper, Texas.  The best part about Cooper is the State Park.  Before you hit the park be sure to pop downtown and grab a cup of coffee or cappuccino from Vetch.  Vetch is a cute coffee shop with a little bit of a farmers market vibe going on.  They offer fresh veggies and meat from local farmers along with condiments and other items for purchase along side your caffeine option of choice. 

    There are just a few places to drop in for other shopping with in the square.  A little boutique called Rosie and Co, right off the square and an antique shop.  I would have missed Rosie's had they not set out mannequins on the sidewalk.  Rosie & Co, has lots of great options and styles that fit the season.  The Antique shop has a great selection of items that you could spend  hours browsing through to find exactly what you want.

    The dining options are very few, just the coffee shop and Tejano's Tex-Mex.  Tejano's was a popular stop for all the locals who happend to be downtown.  But make sure they remember you are there, otherwise you have to ask to be served.  I was suprised to see that they had a guacmole enchilada with a spinach enchilada option on the lunch menu.  It's always nice to be able to order food and not have to make changes to fit your needs.  I will say downtown Cooper does have a super cute, walking book "tour" to read while wandering around the square.  A children's book has been placed around the square on little podiums and made to be protected from the weather.  It's a cute way to keep readers engaged and provide a creative way to exercise while reading. 

    Cooper Lake State Park is the perfect spot to spend the day.  Pack a pinic lunch and hit the trails.  The State Park has great hiking trails and shore line for all your outdoor needs.  Plus the park is always hosting events that are fun for the whole family.  Be sure to check out their website for more information on activities and adventures you can have while staying with us at The Oaks bed and breakfast, while exploring the outdoors.  Grab a fishing pole, binoculars and lunch and spend the day exploring Cooper Lake State Park.