The Brown Derby Wine Center
Our wine friends from Arizona rate this better than any wine store the metro Phoenix area has to offer
Mud House / Mud Lounge
The Lounge is a great place to go for a snack and libation after an evening at The Landers and the House is fun to visit with the underagers for a smoothie or coffee drink. They are both comfortable and inviting. Plus, the Lounge has chocolate fondue; need I say more?
Smoothie King
This is actually a chain, but there are only two in the Springfield area so it seems more personal. Great, healthy smoothies. Brie turned me onto these.
Factory Card & Party Outlet
Again, a chain, but only one in Springfield. Not a fancy store, but decent, cheap cards. I like to send cards but the Scots in me (my mother was a McIntosh) balks at $4.00 plus for a piece of card stock and an envelope.
Maria's Mexican Restaurant - downtown
The food is great, the service is great and the atmosphere is open and fun.
Gamble's Gifts
Great place to go for wedding and anniversary gifts. Knowledgeable sales staff and quality merchandise. A little pricey.
Just For Him
This is in the Fremont Center and is a great little shop for guy gifts. But, there are other gadgety things there, that might be of interest to the ladies in your life. Don't let the name fool you; it is not, necessarily, Just for Him.
Countryside Cottage
This is on Republic Road and is a wonderful little gift shop.
Martin's Floral on Campbell
I get all of my framing work there and buy ribbon for gift wrapping. They have always seemed reasonable and knowledgeable.
Harter House
The best meat in town. Nuff said.
W F Cody's
For burgers, best in town. A little smokey sometimes; but worth it.
Diamond Designs Jewelry (Nixa)
This is where the "metro" comes in. Diamond is an independent store that will bend over backward to take care of your jewelry needs; big or little. I love them.
Hair Wynders (Nixa)
For my money, the best hair stylist in metro Springfield. The shop is small, not fancy, very clean and Valerie is the best stylist I've ever had.
Randy Bacon Photography
OMG - How could I forget Randy Bacon. Brie's Sr. pics are terrific! The sitting was so much fun, Randy is the best. Check out his website.
Spec Shop in the Galleria
I've gotten my glasses there for years. Mark and Heather are fantastic people and take really good care of their customers.
Antonyms
The opposite of small business these are the major stores that often suck up our cash. They are fine for what they offer and we use them fairly often, the experience is just not as nice.
Lowes
Target
Barnes & Noble
Bass Pro
OnMyList
List your pants off!