This exciting event is open to the public and invites families from the greater Milwaukee area to explore a diverse range of kids’ classes and activities offered by local organizations.

Set in the sunny atrium of the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, located at 929 E. Wisconsin Ave., the expo promises a day of interactive fun and discovery.

Families will have the unique opportunity to engage with representatives from various organizations, ask questions, and find the perfect activities to enrich their children’s lives.

In addition to learning about classes and programs, the expo will feature interactive activities and small giveaways for kids and families, ensuring a fun and engaging experience for all attendees.

As a special gift, each family will receive up to two free admissions that can be used that day. Stop by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum booth to pick up your passes!

Parking is conveniently available in the adjacent Museum Center Park garage, with easy access to the museum via elevator or stairs.

Interested vendors looking to participate in this premier event can contact Jessie Abderholden at jessie@mkewithkids.comfor more information on how to get involved.

Join us on August 11th for a day filled with exploration, learning, and fun at the 2024 Kids Activity Expo at Betty Brinn Children’s Museum.

We look forward to seeing you there!

For additional information or media inquiries, please contact: Jessie Abderholden
Email: jessie@mkewithkids.com

The post Kids Activity Expo: Free Event at Betty Brinn Children’s Museum appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

In this article, we’re excited to introduce you to five incredible photographers who we are partnering with to help spread the word about their offerings for families.

Each of these professionals brings a distinct style and creative flair, ensuring you’ll find the perfect match for your next photo session.

Read on to learn more about these talented artists who are ready to help you preserve your most treasured memories.

Chelsea Matson Photography

Address: Parc Studio 2410 N Murray Avenue, Milwaukee WI 53211
Phone: 914-960-2667
Website: https://www.chelseamatson.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelseamatsonphoto/

Chelsea Matson Photography specializes in capturing timeless moments through the lens of creativity and passion.

With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to storytelling, Chelsea Matson crafts stunning visual narratives that resonate with emotion and authenticity. Whether it’s weddings, portraits, or commercial projects, each photograph reflects her commitment to excellence and her ability to encapsulate the essence of every subject.

Through her unique blend of technical expertise and artistic vision, Chelsea Matson creates images that transcend the ordinary, leaving a lasting impression + emotion.

With a focus on both studio + natural light and genuine connections, her work celebrates the beauty of human experiences and the magic found in everyday moments. 

Katiebee Photography

Website: https://www.katiebee-photography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/katiebee_photog
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ktbee.photo

Katie’s photographic style is reminiscent of film, featuring a moody ambiance enriched with earthy tones, all adorned with the essence of your love and connection.

She thrives on capturing perfectly imperfect moments – those genuine instances that make life truly beautiful. Her mission is to assist you in narrating your story through emotionally charged images that authentically capture the depth of your connections.

Katie specializes in moments beyond the traditional “smile-and-look-at-me” images – she captures the details, in-between moments, and the tender touches during your adventure together.

From newborns to first year milestones, or graduating seniors to extended families, Katie proudly serves the Lake Country area & Milwaukee/Milwaukee Suburbs.

Pics By Nic Photography

Website: www.picsbnic.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/picsbnic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/picsbnic

Hi! I’m Nicole and I am also a mother of 4 young kids. So I get how crazy and chaotic family life can get. My job as a photographer is to help you leave that anxiety of getting your pictures done in the car!

My number one goal is to preserve all of your family memories no matter how spectacular or mundane for you to cherish forever. And I know just how fast all those little babies grow up.

I specialize in newborns, children, families, and senior portraits. All of my sessions are care free, laid back, and fun for kids and adults of all ages and include posed and candid shots.

I serve the greater Milwaukee area and if you’re interested, reach out to me and I hope to hear from you soon! – Nicole

Reminisce Photography

Website: https://reminiscephotographymilwaukee.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reminiscephotomke/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReminiscePhotoMKE
Phone: 414-405-6693

Reminisce Photography – founded by married creative duo, Miranda and Adam – shares a passion for storytelling, and they skillfully document the warmth and love shared within families of all shapes and sizes.

From playful candid shots to sentimental portraits, every image shows the joy and connection within your family so you can reminisce together for generations to come. They’re great with kids and make sure your family photos are a fun experience for everyone!

If you’re adding another member to your sweet fam, their maternity sessions capture the radiant glow of expectant parents and all that love, excitement and wonder. And when it comes to welcoming your new addition, Reminisce brings the magic right to your doorstep with their in-home newborn sessions. No need to pack up all your baby gear; they’ll come to you!

There’s something truly special about capturing those first cuddles and tiny yawns right in the comfort of your own space. It’s relaxed, natural, and all about creating those timeless portraits that you’ll treasure forever. Whether it’s family fun through the years, belly bumps or baby’s first days, Reminisce has you covered with memories that’ll warm your heart every time you look back on them.

Shannon Wucherer Photography

Website: shannonwuchererphotography.com
Instagram:  Instagram.com/ShannonWuchererPhotography
Facebook:  Facebook.com/ShannonWuchererPhotography
Phone: 608.290.2068

Hi! I’m Shannon and I’ve had the joy and privilege of photographing Milwaukee-area families for over 15 years.

My camera and I have followed kids from toddler-hood to senior year of highschool and some of my very first teen clients have gotten married (I was there!) and are now parents of their own (yep, I get to snuggle those new babies, too). I get to watch babies grow up in front of my lens and have clients that feel like extended family.

My sessions are a combination of candid lifestyle photography and posed portraiture – always laid back and fun. I look forward to capturing your love story – whatever chapter you may be in.

Preserving family moments is more than just snapping a picture; it’s about capturing the love, laughter, and unique connections that define your story.

These five talented local photographers bring passion and creativity to every session, ensuring your family’s memories are beautifully and authentically documented.

Whether you’re planning an annual family portrait or marking a special milestone, you can’t go wrong with any of these skilled professionals.

Connect with them today and let them help you turn fleeting moments into timeless treasures.

The post 5 Milwaukee Family Photographers You’ll Love (2024) appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

You’re not alone.

That’s why we turned to our most trusted experts – you, our readers!

Based on your shared experiences and recommendations, we’ve curated a list of the best, most kid-friendly ear piercing spots in Milwaukee.

These places not only promise a safe and gentle experience but also come with the seal of approval from local families like yours.

Let’s take a peek at where Milwaukee parents are flocking for those special first earrings!

1. Avant-Garde (Top Recommendation!)

7201 W Greenfield Ave, West Allis, WI 53214
Website

The most recommended spot by our readers is Avant-Garde in West Allis.

Avant-Garde offers expert ear piercing services for families in Southeastern Wisconsin. Catering to all ages, they provide earlobe and cartilage piercings in a clean and safe environment. For those under 15, ear piercings are available with parental consent, and for ages 16 and 17, a parent or legal guardian’s permission is required.

Avant-Garde ensures a hygienic experience, adhering to stringent sterilization and disinfection standards, making it a reliable choice for your family’s ear piercing needs.

Pro Tip: Get both ears done at once!

2. Body Ritual

1459 N Farwell Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53202

“Body Ritual was great with my 4-year-old! Just call ahead – not everyone pierces kids.” – @lseuff

3. Golden Crystal

1700 Coral Dr Suite B, Waukesha, WI 53186

Website

Readers also recommend Golden Crystal Body Piercing, nestled in downtown Waukesha since September 19, 2018.

They set a high standard in body piercing. All piercers are members of the Association of Professional Piercers and hold a Wisconsin Body Piercing License. They exceed state regulations by using sterile gloves for procedures, maintaining Bloodborne Pathogen, CPR, and First Aid training, and conducting weekly spore tests on their autoclave.

4. Piercing Pagoda at Mayfair

Mayfair Mall (2500 N Mayfair Rd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226)
Level 2, near the Food Court
Website

Since its establishment in 1969, Piercing Pagoda has earned a reputation as a trusted leader in gold kiosks located in shopping malls, specializing in ear piercing.

5. Claire’s

With locations at Bayshore, Mayfair and Southridge, Claire’s was recommended by readers as a convenient and trustworthy place to go for ear piercing.

6. Absolute Kids Spa Party Salon

14023 W. Greenfield Ave., New Berlin, WI 53151
Website

Absolute Kids Spa Party Salon specializes in infant, kids, and children’s ear piercings in Wisconsin. They provide a kid friendly atmosphere, are licensed by the state of Wisconsin, and offer videos on their website to let your child hear other children talk about their experience. 

Other Recommendations:

Ulta (Locations in Glendale, Wauwatosa, and Greenfield)
Pigtails & Crewcuts (Brookfield)

Have other ideas? Email them to hello@mkewithkids.com

Related Posts:

5 Places to Get Haircuts for Kids Around Milwaukee

The post Milwaukee’s Top Spots for Your Kid’s First Ear Piercing (2024) appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Ever feel like your day is a non-stop whirlwind of carpools, diaper changes, and the never-ending quest for the elusive “me time”?

Enter The Real Good Life, a local Milwaukee meal delivery service that might just be your new best friend in the kitchen.

Here’s the scoop on how they can sprinkle a little ease into your family dinners:

1. Menu Variety

Imagine a weekly menu that changes faster than your toddler’s mood.

Each week, you’re greeted with two unique menus that keep your dinners far from dull.

You get to pick from soups, salads, entrees, and desserts, all available in various sizes to fit your family. Whether you’re feeding one or six, they’ve got you covered.

Plus, they offer Marketplace products that feature local food artisans!

2. No Fuss Delivery

Picture this: It’s Wednesday or Sunday afternoon, and voilà – a cooler bag full of yumminess arrives at your doorstep, no signature required.

Just order by noon three days before your preferred delivery day, and consider your meal planning sorted.

So go ahead and chase the kids around the park; dinner will wait for you, not the other way around.

3. Time-Saver

All those hours you’d spend chopping and saucing? Reclaim them!

Heat, serve, and enjoy. This means you can spend more time playing hide-and-seek (and less time hiding from cooking duties).

4. No Commitment

No subscriptions here. You order when you want, how you want.

5. Pricing That Makes Sense

When it comes to feeding a family, we all know the budget is king.

The Real Good Life offers a variety of serving sizes with prices that respect your hard-earned dollars.

With discounts on larger orders and no delivery fee, it’s kind to your wallet.

Plus, the more you order, the more you save—up to 20% off. And with no delivery fees, you might just find yourself splurging on that extra dessert.

And, loyalty pays off with their rewards program. Earn points for every dollar spent, and keep an eye out for bonus opportunities. Birthday coming up? Cha-ching, points! Plus, share your personalized link, and when your pals order, it’s a win-win with discounts for both of you.

More Info

What About My Dietary Preferences?

They’ve got variety—think vegetarian, dairy-free, nut-free, gluten-friendly. While they don’t customize each dish, they aim to include something for everyone every week.

Allergy Awareness

Navigating food allergies can be tricky, but The Real Good Life encourages a chat before your first order to see if they can accommodate your needs. They’re upfront about their kitchen environment, so you can make informed choices for your family.

Portion Perfection

Their portion sizes hit that sweet spot between nutritional guidelines and Midwestern heartiness. Whether you’re dining solo or with the squad, you’ll find the sizes just right. And since everything comes in recyclable containers, you can feel good about your environmental footprint too.

Sustainability & Community Spirit

The Real Good Life doesn’t just feed you; they feed the soul of Milwaukee. With a focus on reducing waste and a commitment to giving back, they donate a portion of sales to local causes and encourage sustainable practices within their operations.

Gift Giving, The Easy Way

Know someone who just had a baby or could use a helping hand? A meal from The Real Good Life is like sending a warm hug they can eat. Plus, they offer gift cards for that extra sprinkle of thoughtfulness.

We all have those days when we want to be there for someone but just can’t. Sending a meal or a gift card from The Real Good Life is like sending a personal chef to their doorstep. It’s thoughtful, practical, and sure to be appreciated.

So if you’re in their delivery radius, why not check out The Real Good Life?

It could be a game-changer for your family’s mealtime madness.

And who knows, you might just find yourself with enough time to actually sip that coffee while it’s still hot.

The post The Dinner Dilemma Solved: Milwaukee Parents, Meet ‘The Real Good Life’! appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

If you’re like most parents, you’re probably on the hunt for affordable winter gear for your little ones.

Our partners at Once Upon a Child Brookfield have you covered.

The store is hosting its super exciting Coat Event for the second year in a row, offering incredible deals on winter essentials for your children.

Happening on September 9 and 10, Once Upon a Child Brookfield will feature racks and racks of winter gear, from coats to hats, gloves, boots, and so much more!

And the best part?

You get an extra 10% off when you mention Milwaukee With Kids at checkout, through the entire month of September.

Why Shop at Once Upon a Child?

Budget-Friendly & High Quality

Once Upon a Child® offers gently used kids’ clothing, shoes, toys, and baby gear at up to 70% off regular retail prices.

All Sizes, All Seasons

Whether you need something for a preemie or a youth size 20, they have it all. Plus, they offer gear for all seasons, not just winter!

Eco-Friendly

Shopping for second-hand clothing is not only easy on your budget but also on the Earth. By recycling gently used items, you’re giving them a second life.

Cash-on-the-Spot

The store even buys gently used items from you, paying you in cash on the spot. There’s no appointment needed, making it convenient for busy families.

Save the Date!

Make sure to mark September 9 and 10 on your calendar for Once Upon a Child Brookfield’s Coat Event.

It’s the perfect opportunity to get quality winter gear for your kids while saving money and being eco-conscious.

Final Thoughts

Southeastern Wisconsin offers a myriad of activities to keep your family entertained throughout the winter season.

But first, gear up with essentials from Once Upon a Child Brookfield’s Coat Event. It’s a win-win situation for your family, your wallet, and the planet.

This blog post is brought to you in partnership with Once Upon a Child Brookfield. We hope to see you at the Coat Event!

The post Gear Up for Winter with Once Upon a Child Brookfield appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

Milwaukee’s Brewers Hill Neighborhood is about to welcome an innovative concept that will make life easier for working parents in the area.

Le Village Cowork, a coworking space with onsite childcare, is set to open its doors on July 31, 2023, offering a unique solution for parents who want to balance their careers and parenthood.

With an existing location in Chicago, Le Village Cowork provides a lifeline for many overwhelmed and isolated parents.

Recognizing the need for such a space in Milwaukee, Kellie Overton, Owner of Le Village Brewers Hill, was inspired to bring this progressive coworking-childcare model to the local community.

“During my first year of Motherhood, Le Village (Chicago location) saved me. I felt so isolated and overwhelmed, and the thought of going back to work and leaving my 12-week-old son was crippling,” says Kellie Overton, Owner of Le Village Brewers Hill.

“So, when my husband and I moved to Milwaukee, we knew we had to bring Le Village to our new community and provide local moms and parents with acceptance and accessibility we experienced at this progressive coworking-childcare space.”

At Le Village Cowork, parents can enjoy the benefits of a modern and collaborative workspace while ensuring their children are well-cared for and engaged.

The coworking area offers open office spaces designed to facilitate productivity, with designated “phone booths” for private calls. For those who require additional privacy or dedicated workstations, private areas, desks, and offices are available for an extra fee.

Meanwhile, children aged 3 months to 4 years old are in good hands in curriculum-centered classrooms with trained teachers. The classrooms foster exploration and social development, providing a nurturing environment for little ones.

With a focus on creating a sense of community, Le Village aims to connect parents with other families who are going through similar parenting phases, allowing them to build lasting support networks.

In addition to the workspace and childcare facilities, Le Village Brewers Hill boasts an array of amenities aimed at enhancing the overall experience for parents and children. A wellness room with a Peloton Bike, a Mother’s Room, and a seasonal outdoor patio area are available for families to enjoy, fostering both physical and mental well-being.

They are hosting an Open House on July 23 from Noon to 4:00 p.m. Parents and children are invited to explore the space, participate in activities, and learn more about the unique features and benefits Le Village offers.

Private tours are also available before the official opening on July 31, and interested individuals can schedule a visit through the Le Village Brewers Hill website.

To learn more about Le Village Brewers Hill, request enrollment or an onsite tour, please visit www.levillagecowork.com/brewers-hill.

Stay updated with Le Village Cowork’s latest news by following them on Instagram, and connect with them via email to join their community and be part of this exciting journey.

The post Le Village Cowork: Milwaukee’s Game-Changing Workspace for Parents appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

 It’s hard to believe, but graduation season is upon us and kids of all ages will be taking the next big leap in their academic journey.

As a parent, it may seem overwhelming – one minute your kid is in elementary school or middle school, the next minute they’re off to college.

Where does the time go? 

It’s fun and important to recognize this rite of passage by letting your child know how proud you are of them by doing an activity they enjoy or throwing a small celebration.

You can also talk to them about changes that are coming and help prepare them for the next step in their education journey. 

Here are a few ways to celebrate your graduate and motivate them to keep achieving:

1. Talk to them about their dreams for the future.

Graduation provides parents and families with a great opportunity to discuss the future, and it’s never too early to begin talking with a child about the benefits of education beyond high school.

In fact, the younger a student is, the more open they will be to envisioning the endless possibilities that higher education can provide!

If you have a kiddo graduating from kindergarten, ask them simple questions like ‘what do you dream about being when you grow up’ and use their unique interests to give examples of how higher education can help them achieve that dream.

For example, if they are interested in animals, share how veterinarians and vet techs go to college to learn and study how to make animals feel healthy and playful. If you have older kids graduating from middle school, you might encourage them to get involved in extracurricular activities in high school that allow them to explore or find interests. Do they have a summer job, or did they receive graduation cards with cash?

Think about starting to discuss the cost of higher education and encourage them to set aside some of their earnings or gifts for their future.

If your child is graduating from high school, they’ve likely already selected where they’ll be headed for the next two or four years, or maybe they’ve chosen to take a gap-year. Let them know it’s okay not to know exactly what they want to do right away but encourage them to learn more about themselves and help them discover interests, strengths, and passions.

This 101 Career Paths for Every Personality resource can help them explore professions and think about what types of classes, programs, trainings, or majors they might want to pursue.

The most important thing you can do is keep an open dialogue about higher education throughout a child’s life, remembering to keep conversations interesting and age appropriate.

Save for College & Career Training with the Edvest ‘529 Day’ Bonus Offer

One of the best gifts you can give to your child is a bright academic future free from a substantial amount of student debt. But with the increasing costs of higher education, it’s hard for many families and students to imagine how that might be possible.

Fortunately, Edvest 529, Wisconsin’s direct-sold 529 college savings plan, has been offering families a tax-advantaged way to save for higher education for more than 25 years. Over that time, Edvest 529 has helped hundreds of thousands of Wisconsin families save for a loved-one’s education and career training.

To help even more families get started on their college savings journey, Edvest 529 is celebrating National 529 Day – recognized annually on May 29 (5/29) – by offering a special bonus contribution incentive.

Individuals who open a new Edvest account between Monday, May 22, and Wednesday, May 31, 2023, can be eligible for a $50 or $100 bonus incentive. So mark your calendars now!

• For a $50 bonus – open an account during the offer time with a deposit of $250 or more and set up recurring contributions totaling $50 or more per month until 11/30/23.

• For a $100 bonus –open an account during the offer time with a deposit of $500 or more and set up recurring contributions totaling $50 or more per month until 11/30/23.

More details about the Edvest 529 Day incentive can be found at Edvest.com/529offer23.

Get Family & Friends Involved in Your College Savings Effort

Many families celebrate a child’s graduation with friends and loved ones, and most of those friends and loved ones give the new graduate a gift of cash if they’re older or a little toy or book if they’re younger. What if instead, friends and family helped your child mark this important milestone by gifting to their college fund?

Perhaps one of the most beneficial features of an Edvest 529 account is the fact that once open, anyone can make a gift contribution.

Using the Ugift® platform, account owners can simply invite others to contribute to a child’s Edvest 529 account. Simply share the graduate’s unique Ugift code via email or text message with friends and family for them to make gift contributions easily and securely at Ugift529.com.

You can even include the Ugift code on graduation party invitations. Be sure to keep this unique gifting option in mind for other occasions, like birthdays or holidays. You can reach your goals more efficiently with help!

While a child might not be able to fully appreciate this gift right away, saving for their higher education can be the gift of a lifetime. Funds saved with Edvest 529 can be used for most education and career training that comes after high school, whether it’s through an accredited four-year university, two-year technical or community college, graduate school, or an apprenticeship program registered with the U.S. Department of Labor.

Account owners can use savings to pay for qualified higher education expenses that include tuition, certain room and board expenses, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for the enrollment and attendance of a student.

The Take-Aways

• It’s never too early to begin talking about higher education with a child.
• Start saving for a child’s college and career training as early as possible.
• Invite friends and family to give a gift to a child’s Edvest 529 college fund for graduation, birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions.
• Mark your calendars to take advantage of the Edvest ‘529 Day’ bonus contribution that runs from Monday, May 22 – Wednesday, May 31, at Edvest.com/529offer23 to get a jumpstart on your college savings.

However you decide to celebrate your child’s next big step in life, also be sure to recognize yourself for the hard work and support you’ve provided for them along the way!

To learn more about Wisconsin’s Edvest 529 College Savings Plan, its investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses please see the Plan Description at Edvest.com. Read it carefully. Investments in the plan are neither insured nor guaranteed and there is the risk of investment loss. TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC, Member FINRA, is the distributor and underwriter for the Edvest 529 College Savings Plan. 

Wisconsin taxpayers can qualify for a 2023 state tax deduction up to $3,860 annually per beneficiary from contributions made into an Edvest 529 College Savings Plan (married couples filing separately and divorced parents may claim a maximum of $1,930).  Check with your home state to learn if it offers tax or other benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, or protection from creditors for investing in its own 529 plan. If the funds aren’t used for qualified higher education expenses, a federal 10% penalty tax on earnings (as well as federal and state income taxes) may apply. Consult your legal or tax professional for tax advice. 

Withdrawals for registered apprenticeship programs can be withdrawn free from federal and Wisconsin income tax.  If you are not a Wisconsin taxpayer, these withdrawals may include recapture of tax deduction, state income tax as well as penalties. You should talk to a qualified professional about how tax provisions affect your circumstances.

Ugift is a registered service mark of Ascensus Broker Dealer Services, LLC. 

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The post 3 Ways to Celebrate Kindergarten Graduation (From Edvest) appeared first on Milwaukee With Kids.

From traditional indoor shopping malls, to open-air town centers and discount outlet malls, southeastern Wisconsin has something for everyone.

11 Best Malls Around Milwaukee

1. Bayshore Town Center

5800 N Bayshore Dr, Glendale, WI 53217
thebayshorelife.com

Bayshore Town Center (formerly known as Bayshore Mall) in Glendale is a popular shopping mall featuring popular stores like Ulta, Athleta, Evereve, Gap & Gap Kids, H&M, Nike, Kohl’s Target, Trader Joe’s, Old Navy, and much more.

For lunch, options include Culver’s, California Pizza Kitchen, Qdoba, and Potbelly Sandwich Shop.

The Yard, an open green space in the center of the open-air shopping area, is the heart of Bayshore. It’s a great spot for families where you’ll find free live concerts, and cultural and seasonal festivals. There is a large screen for viewing sporting events and family movies.

For the latest news and events, head to their website.

2. Mayfair Mall

2500 N Mayfair Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226
mayfairmall.com

Mayfair Mall is an indoor shopping center located just outside of Milwaukee in Wauwatosa.

Anchor stores include Nordstrom, Crate & Barrel, Container Store, and Macy’s. Other stores include LuluLemon, Banana Republic, Barnes & Noble, Build A Bear, the Children’s Place, Eddie Bauer, Forever 21, J Crew, Gap, and more.

Sit down restaurants include the Cheesecake Factory, P.G. Chang’s, and Maggiano’s. Casual restaurants include Panera, Potbelly, and Five Guys Burgers and Friend. There is also a food court inside where you can get an Auntie Anne’s pretzel, cinnabon, and other fast food.

Santa and the Easter Bunny usually make their rounds at Mayfair. Check their website for dates and times.

3. Mayfair Collection

11500 W Burleigh St, Wauwatosa, WI 53222
mayfaircollection.net

The Mayfair Collection is a 69-acre, mixed-use outlet mall anchored by Whole Foods and Nordstrom Rack in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

In addition to 400,000 square feet of shopping, The Mayfair Collection also includes an eclectic mix of local restaurants, a 146-room Hilton Homewood Suites, and 269 luxury apartments with plans to build up to 1,000 residential units and 500,000 SF of corporate on-site over the next five to ten years.

Golden Nest Pancake & Waffles is one of our favorite spots for a family brunch. 

4. Southridge Mall

5300 S 76th St, Greendale, WI 53129
southridgeshoppingmall.com

Southridge in Greendale is one of the biggest malls in Wisconsin, and it’s home to Macy’s, J.C. Penney, T.J. Maxx, American Eagle, Bath & Body Works, and more.

Santa and the Easter Bunny visit each year and they hold family events through their Kids Club.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the choo choo train that departs from the kids playing area in the center of the mall. Your kids will love chugging around the mall in a real train!

5. Corners of Brookfield

20111 W Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, WI 53045
thecornersofbrookfield.com

The Corners is a walkable town center with shopping, dining, and entertainment options for the whole family, located in Waukesha County.

Anchored by Von Maur, other stores include Anthropologie, Evereve, Free People, and LuluLemon.

Dining options include Cafe Hollander, Bel Air Cantina, and local favorite Goddess and the Baker.

For family entertainment and date night options, there’s a movie theater, Silverppot Cinema, and a comedy club called Improv Milwaukee.

6. Brookfield Square

95 N Moorland Rd, Brookfield, WI 53005
shopbrookfieldsquaremall.com

Anchored by J.C. Penney, Barnes & Noble, and Marcus Theater Movie Tavern, Brookfield Square in Brookfield, WI is also home to favorite stores like American Eagle Outfitters, H&M, WhirlyBall & more!

You can eat at Bar Louie, Bravo Italian Kitchen, Chick-Fil-A, and more.

Check their website for family events like Santa Visits and photos with the Easter Bunny.

7. Drexel Town Square

361 W Town Square Way, Oak Creek, WI 53154
drexeltownsquare.com

Drexel Town Square is a new development in Oak Creek with a blend of shops and residential living. There’s a Main Street, City Hall, Library, retail stores, restaurants, shop, businesses, and apartments.

Oak Creek is also home to the state’s first IKEA.

8. East Towne Square Mall

1505 W Mequon Rd, Mequon, WI 53092
easttownesquare.com

For a upscale shopping and a unique retail experience, head to East Town Square Mall in Mequon, located in Ozaukee County. It’s been a shopping and dining destination for 27 years.

This indoor specialty mall features women’s stores, unique boutiques, jewelry, eyewear, gift shops, salon/spas, and restaurants. All businesses are locally owned. Cafe 1505 is the perfect place for a delicious meal and great service.

9. Mitchell Street Mall

1020 W Historic Mitchell St, Milwaukee, WI 53204

Mitchell Mall is more of a flea market, located in the city of Milwaukee on a historic street that was once home to Goldmann’s and the Modjeska Theater.

Read all about this special place here.

10. Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets

11211 120th Ave, Pleasant Prairie, WI 53158
Website

Pleasant Prairie Premium Putlets is one of the best outlet malls in Wisconsin. You can save up to 65% off regular prices at stores like the Nike Factory Store, Pandora Outlet, The North Face, and more.

It’s conveniently located off I-94 and Highway 165, about a 40 minute drive from downtown Milwaukee.

11. Johnson Creek Premium Outlets 

575 Linmar Ln, Johnson Creek, WI 53038
Website

Johnson Creek Premium Outlets is located at I-94 and Highway 26, exit 267, between Madison and Milwaukee, about a 50 minute drive from downtown Milwaukee.

There are 60 outlet stores from name brands like Adidas, Coach, Columbia Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren, and more.

More Ideas

If you’re looking for more great shopping in Milwaukee, head to the Historic Third Ward where you’ll find unique specialty stores and great restaurants and cafes. Be sure to stop by the Milwaukee Public Market for lunch.

Brady Street on the east side of Milwaukee, and the trendy Downer Avenue are also great spots for local shopping.

We hope this list helps you find your perfect day of shopping in Southeast Wisconsin!

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Milwaukee With Kids is proud to partner with Edvest to help spread the word about their college savings programs.

By Jessica Wetzel, College Savings Program Director – Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions

Tax season is in full swing, and while filing your taxes isn’t necessarily fun – a refund can be a great incentive to get them done.

While it may be tempting to spend it, saving all or even some of a refund in a 529 college savings account can make a significant difference in a child’s financial future.

It’s probably not news to you that higher education can be expensive.

Like me, I am sure many of you reading this are paying back student loans of your own.

Unfortunately, tuition costs are predicted to continue growing, and according to U.S. News data, the average annual cost of a public college education is $10,423 (for in-state students) and $22,953 (for out-of-state students).¹ Multiply that by an average of four years, and you could look at anywhere from $40,000 to $90,000 for just tuition.

But don’t be scared by these big numbers.

Rather, focus on the fact that every dollar you save today may be one dollar your child does not have to pay back in student loans down the road. 

Saving for Higher Education with a 529 Plan

My role as the Director of the Wisconsin College Savings Program is to help families develop a higher education savings strategy that works for them using Edvest 529, the state’s direct-sold 529 College Savings Plan.

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged investment account designed to help families save for future higher education expenses for a designated beneficiary – usually a child, grandchild, or other loved one.

Savings in a 529 plan grow free from federal income tax, and withdrawals remain tax-free when used to pay for qualified education expenses like tuition and fees, books, laptops, and more at any accredited public or private university, college, technical college, community college, or professional school nationwide and abroad.

Additionally, Wisconsin taxpayers who open a new Edvest 529 account or contribute to an existing account by Tuesday, April 18, 2023 – regardless of their relationship to a child – can deduct up to $3,560 annually per beneficiary from their 2022 Wisconsin state income taxes for married individuals filing jointly. Individuals filing separately or divorced parents can deduct up to $1,780. Limitations apply.²

Use a Tax Refund to Boost or Start Your College Savings

I like to let families know that when it comes to saving for a loved one’s higher education, the most important thing you can do is start. And while that may seem easier said than done, leveraging ‘extra money’ that comes from a tax refund can provide the spark to get you started.

Consider the fact that the average tax refund amount for U.S. families in 2022 was $3,039.³

Assuming one only saves the average tax refund amount every year for 18 years – with no investment return – annual savings would accumulate to almost $55,000!

If you are already a college saver, think about contributing some or all of your tax refund to your existing 529 account to give it a boost. If you haven’t started saving for college yet, use that refund to open a 529 account for your child, grandchild, or other loved one and start your savings journey.

Get Started

At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong way to fund a 529 account. A lump-sum contribution that comes with something like a tax refund can certainly be appealing, but keep in mind that you can open an Edvest 529 account any time with as little as $25 and make regular ongoing contributions from your bank account or via payroll direct deposit. The first step is simply starting as early as possible in a child’s life.

Visit Edvest.com to learn more and start saving today!

¹ Source: U.S. News. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/paying-for-college/articles/paying-for-college-infographic

²To learn more about Wisconsin’s Edvest 529 College Savings Plan, its investment objectives, tax benefits, risks, and costs, please see the Plan Description at Edvest.com. Read it carefully. In 2022, Wisconsin taxpayers can qualify for a state tax deduction up to $3,560 for each contributor per beneficiary per year from contributions made into an Edvest College Savings Plan. In 2023, Wisconsin taxpayers can qualify for a state tax deduction up to $3,860 for each contributor per beneficiary per year from contributions made into an Edvest College Savings Plan. Investments in the Plan are neither insured nor guaranteed and there is the risk of investment loss. Consult your legal or tax professional for tax advice. If the funds aren’t used for qualified education higher expenses, a federal 10% penalty tax on earnings (as well as federal and state income taxes) may apply.  Check with your home state to learn if it offers tax or other benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, or protection from creditors for investing in its own 529 plan. TIAA-CREF Individual & Institutional Services, LLC, Member FINRA, distributor and underwriter for Wisconsin’s Edvest 529 College Savings Plan.

³Source: https://www.fool.com/the-ascent/research/average-tax-refund/#:~:text=Sources-,Key%20findings,average%20tax%20return%20was%20%242%2C827

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Find something for everyone on your list while supporting local businesses at the same time!

1. Art Smart’s Dart & Juggling Emporium

1695 N. Humboldt Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 273-3278
Website

You’ll obviously find darts, dart supplies, and juggling props at this dart mart and juggling emporium on the corner of Humboldt and Brady Street, but you can also buy kites, boomerangs, yo-yo’s, disc golf equipment, a selection of gag gifts, and more.

Their selection of novelty items would make for great stocking stuffers, too! Some of their inventory is even available online, and they offer free worldwide shipping on orders over $100.

2. BlackBear Children’s Boutique

4312 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood, WI 53211
(414) 368-0110
Website

Inspired by a love of shopping for her nieces and nephews, Emma Carollo launched BlackBear Boutique in 2017. The shop carries a curated collection of high-quality clothing, accessories, books and toys for children 0-10 years old. Emma scours the globe for products with a focus on sustainability and ethically produced goods.

BlackBear often hosts special events and classes, including storytime and crafts for ages 1-4 on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m.

3. Fischberger’s Variety

2445 N. Holton St., Milwaukee, WI 53212
(414) 263-1991
Website

This delightful gift shop in the Riverwest area has unique finds for all ages, and they pride themselves on carrying something for everyone. You’ll find games and toys, puzzles, clothing, crafting and sewing supplies, jewelry, greeting cards, candy and more.

Some items are available on the Fischberger’s website, and you can place an order for pickup. They also offer free, no-contact delivery for local customers ($10 minimum purchase).

4. Goo Goo Gaa Gaa

18905 W. Capitol Dr., Brookfield, WI 53045
(262) 790-6890
Website

This store started out as a baby boutique, and it has grown into a lovely store for kids of all ages. It’s a great place to find special occasion outfits and mommy-and-me sets.

They offer fun clothing, toys, stuffed animals, books and children’s décor. They also have meaningful gifts for important milestones in a child’s life, as well as gifts for parents and grandparents. There’s an online storefront too, and free gift wrapping is available for all purchases.

5. Little Monsters

2445 N. Farwell Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53211
(414) 964-2323
Website

This adorable, high-end children’s boutique on the east side of Milwaukee has a great selection of trendy clothing (sizes infant thru 10) and accessories, interesting toys, books and even a candy bar.

Free gift wrapping is available for any purchase. Their Instagram account is fun to follow, too!

6. Rainbow Booksellers

5704 W. Vliet St., Milwaukee, WI 53208
(414) 774-7205
Website

This adorable place just so happens to be the last children’s bookstore in the city of Milwaukee. They are open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and their books are ALWAYS 25% off the cover price! Plus, they offer gift wrap to make gift shopping even easier.

Titles for kids from birth through high school age are available, including unique books in the areas of science, math, multi-cultural, foreign language and art, in addition to general titles. They also have wooden toys, puzzles and small items for birthday favors, plus a candy counter, chock full of treats.

7. Rooted MKE

5312 W Vliet St., Milwaukee, WI 53208
(414) 488-9545
Website

This BIPOC, women-owned children’s bookstore and literacy center provides a space for youth to thrive, learn and foster literacy, Rooted MKE has a curated selection of children’s and young adult (YA) titles that are all written, illustrated by, or showcase BIPOC characters.

They also offer literacy kits, exploratory learning courses, and private tutoring and academic support sessions.

This year, they are open to the public Friday 4:00-7:00 PM, Saturday 10:00-3:00 PM, and Sunday 10:00-3:00 PM.

8. Ruckus & Glee

805 N. 68th St., Wauwatosa, WI 53213
(414) 395-3201
Website

Photo from Visit Milwaukee

Ruckus & Glee is a quirky and colorful toy store in the heart of Wauwatosa. You are sure to find the perfect gift for a birthday party or the holidays on any budget. A visit here is hands-on and interactive, and the owners choose high-quality toys and board games that awaken children’s imaginations.

Opt for in-store or online shopping, or call ahead to order a gift that’s wrapped and ready for pickup. You’ll also find them in our Birthday Guide. They have a Birthday Club and offer birthday registry to make shopping easier for everyone.

9. Winkie’s Hallmark and Gifts

629 E. Silver Spring Dr., Whitefish Bay, WI 53217
(414) 964-2130
Website

Winkie’s is a landmark in the endearing shopping district of Whitefish Bay, and it has been locally owned for many years.

Upstairs you’ll find unique home décor, scented candles, stationery and other gifts for adults, and downstairs you’ll find a great selection of popular and whimsical toys and games for older and younger kids, as well as an assortment of novelty candies and chocolates.

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