Cover Feature
Birdie's & Howell by Elyse Apel
Birdie’s & Howell is preparing for its third holiday season in downtown Hillsdale. The gift shop, known for its unique gift selections, also sells home decor, apparel, and much more. Monique Sarles is the owner of Birdie’s & Howell and said she has just been blown away by how supportive the community has been of her endeavor since first starting it in 2021. “We are so grateful for our community. I have been blown away by its support and am grateful,” Monique says. “I am excited going into our second full year knowing our community has been so supportive.” Monique is in Birdie’s & Howell on a daily basis, which she says she loves. “If I’m not with my children or grandchildren, I’m at the store, typically six days a week.” While Birdie’s & Howell is always looking to expand its selection, Monique said they’ve recently made a few special additions that she has really loved and is excited to share with her customers. “One we have taken on is called Dune,” she said. “It is jewelry that incorporates different natural elements like sand from the Great Lakes, semi-precious stones, etc. Another line
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