Interview by Lysa Allman-Baldwin

Take My Word for It

Together with her sister Sloane, Casey Simmons owns and operates - Stuff, A Store Stuffed with Wonderful Stuff - in Brookside, Mo. Casey takes us on a tour of Kansas City and shares some of her insider tips on the wonderful shops in Kansas City.

When it comes to shopping, what’s Kansas City’s best-kept secret?

• Local artistry. Kansas City has probably one of the most diverse, interesting and accessible collection of handmade goods—artist-created items—that are for both form and function.
• We are very blessed with a very hearty, artistic community that encourages creative products.

What’s your insider tip for shopping in Kansas City?

• If you take that little effort to seek out the small, privately owned shops and boutiques, the reward for that little effort is extraordinary. Because what you find is something that really fits your personality, reflects your style, and again,
  going back to more of that human connection, speaks to what you choose to
  own, give as a gift or wear.
• When you go to those stores, that’s where you find those things that fit your personal style.

If you had visitors for one day and could do only three things, what would you do?

• We would take them to Brookside because we’re very proud of the neighborhood that we are in and all that it offers.
• Also, to the current exhibits at The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and if there was a production at the Unicorn Theatre, we would for sure have that on the schedule. Theater in Kansas City is outstanding and it would be great to highlight that aspect of our city.

To learn more about Casey and her store - Stuff, A Store Stuffed with Wonderful Stuff - visit her Web site at www.pursuegoodstuff.com.