Shopping

from Brookings Visitors Guide 2023

by Brookings Register

SDSU

Local entrepreneurs thrive in our community. Each bringing a different style and unique perspective to our boutique landscape. From handcrafted jewelry and Midwest inspired graphic tees, to home décor and bicycle gear, each destination offers a little piece of Brookings.

ESSENTIAL DOWNTOWN

SHOPPING GUIDE By Mara Wheaton

Brookings has a robust selection of locally owned stores that are a pleasure to visit. Here is a breakdown of five must-visit businesses in the heart of downtown.

WINK’S FINE JEWELRY

With over half a century in the community, Wink’s Fine Jewelry continues to build on its deep-rooted history. This multi-generational business is women-owned and operated and is run by a tight-knit staff, who are ready and delighted to assist you with making special occasion purchases.

PARTY DEPOT

Whether you are hosting a party for 10 or 500, the Party Depot can help you find exactly what you need. They stock decorations and supplies for every occasion. The basement is filled with costumes of every kind to help you out in a pinch. They work with you every step of the way to create an experience you will never forget.

BROOKINGS BOOK COMPANY

Whether you are an avid reader or just looking to visit the store cat, Hester, you’re sure to enjoy the cozy atmosphere of Brookings Book Company. Browsing the tall wooden bookshelves brings back the nostalgic feel of visiting your hometown library as a kid. With friendly staff who are willing to help you find the best book, the bookstore stocks a wide range of genres for you to discover.

HONEYCOMB GIFTS & HAND-TIED

This downtown location is a two-for-one experience as it is the home base for both Honeycomb Gifts and Hand-Tied. You will never come across a more aesthetically pleasing shop than Honeycomb Gifts. Not only are you bound to find something perfect for you and the kids, but you will also get the opportunity to smell the flowers - literally - as Hand-Tied floral boutique occupies the back of the shop. From dishware to jewelry to an array of kids’ toys to keep them entertained, Honeycomb has everything you could dream of.

SEVEN SONGBIRDS BOUTIQUE

In its 30th year, Seven Songbirds Boutique is a downtown staple. With an emphasis on inclusivity by offering apparel for all sizes, the shop has a charming Western feel right when you walk through the door. A highlight is the purse wall. If you ask owner Shirelle Englund, she will tell you the shop has more purses than anyone else in town. You will immediately feel welcomed by the staff and are sure to fall in love with something you can add to your wardrobe.

MADE IN BROOKINGS COUNTY

By Lucia Frias

If you’re looking for community flavor to take home and remember your visit, then check out the fantastic handmade and homemade goods produced here in Brookings County. Little Shire Farm, Quail Honey and Halogi Hot Sauce are some of the top brands.

LITTLE SHIRE FARM in Aurora makes honey-based delicacies like raw honey, infused honey, beeswax, honey candies, all-natural extracts, and more.

QUAIL HONEY is gathered and bottled near Brandt. Over the years, this second-generation family business has added honey and goat’s milk lotion in a variety of scents, spun scented honey, honey sticks and candy, scented roll-ons, and beeswax lip balm.

HALOGI HOT SAUCE is made in White. All of the ingredients used to create these delicious flavors are sourced in South Dakota from local farmers. A local graphic artist designs the T-shirts Halogi sells. “Halogi has succeeded because local people supported it, so we want to support locals back,” says founder Nick Curry.

Many local businesses offer the products along with other selections of Made in South Dakota items.

SPA DAY

Treat your mind, body, and soul to a relaxing day at the spa.

Traveling can be hard on the body, especially during a long road trip. Insert, spa day!

Taking care of yourself is the new experience worth scheduling when taking your next vacation. For many of us, taking a few minutes out of the day to spoil ourselves with a manicure or massage is all we need to bring us back to life. From salt floats, to full body wraps and everything in-between, get ready to relax.