By Jennifer Eisenbart
Editor
It’s not an Academy Award, but for local businesses, it’s the next best thing.
A pair of Burlington businesses was recently voted as the best in their categories for the WISN 12 “A List” awards.
The Coffee House at Chestnut and Pine was voted “Best Coffee Shop,” while Burlington Flowers and Interiors won best “Best Florist.
The coffee house beat 67 other entries for the award, while Burlington Flowers outpaced 54 other entries.
In addition, Get Artzy – a local painting studio where everyone from veterans to beginners are encouraged – finished third among 37 entrants for “Best Art Gallery.”
Kevin and Cyndi O’Brien, the owners of Burlington Flowers and Interiors, were both thrilled with the honor.
It wasn’t their first, however. The flower shop was ranked third two years ago, and has been in the top five for the past four years, Cyndi explained.
“It’s always pretty exciting leading up to it,” said Cyndi, who added that customers who express pleasure to vote for the shop, but don’t actually dwell on it.
“It’s another part of the conversation,” she pointed out. “This younger generation really likes to review…and they like to read reviews.”
She was happy to see other businesses getting recognition as well.
“It’s also just so exciting to have two of us in Burlington,” Cyndi said.
The Coffee House has become a downtown fixture in the last two years for artists, musicians and coffee drinkers. In addition, the shop has hosted a music festival each of the last two years during the summer – with both name performers and student workshops.
“We are so grateful to the Burlington community for making The Coffee House a gathering space for art, for music, for collaboration, and for conversation,” said general manager Carly Hurley.
Get Artzy, meanwhile, offers painting workshops for individuals and also small parties.
“People come by themselves, or they can book a private party,” said Get Artzy owner and operator Jennifer Miller. “It’s simple set-by-step instruction.
“Everyone can enjoy the evening and go home with a pretty cool painting,” she added.
All three businesses had reviews that glowed about what the shops had to offer.
For the Coffee House, Eric Erickson – who runs the open mic night at the shop every week – said:
“The Coffee (House) on Chestnut and Pine in Burlington is like no other. It is a welcoming environment, where you can just be who you are. The atmosphere is perfect. Coffee, tea, beer, wine, flavored drinks and waters, sandwiches and desserts and pastries. Fabulous live music on weekends, and the best open mic around on Thursday nights.
“If you go once, chances are you’ll keep coming back. All the stars line up there.”
A user by the name of Fuzzy left this review for Burlington Flowers: “Burlington Flowers and Interiors owner, Cyndi O’Brien takes personal care of all customers. She has great floral designers and always has the best selection available to her. All of this in a cozy, friendly environment.”
For Get Artzy, Terry W. said, “Get Artzy is a place where ANYONE can be creative. You just don’t want to leave!”
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