Hazel General Store

It’s a cozy store with intersting gift items — t-​shirts, cards, quality hand-​made bags. As the name says, it’s a general store — a lot of varied items, and that’s what it suffers from, too much variation, and not enough focus. I went in to check out the selection of cards, and they were mostly Birthday cards (beautifully designed) or animal cut-​out cards, so I didn’t find what I was looking for.

I met a friend to check out the Grand Opening for Hazel General Store last evening. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I found the space to be adorable. It is a bit smaller than I expected, but it’s clean, colorful and very bright. The owner means it when she says it’s a modern take on a general store; you won’t find dry beans and molasses here. However, they carry a variety of art supplies, cards and stationary, toys, totes and wallets, or household items like patterned cloth napkins, pottery, and soaps. All products are made in the USA. For the opening they offered water, small bottles of beer and a variety of cookies for a donation.
I picked up a wonderful smelling oatmeal lavender lye soap (I’ll update this review with the maker later). I’ve been on a mission to find a reliable, locally sourced oatmeal lye, so this was pretty exciting! The price was comparable to other handmade soaps I’ve bought before, so there was no second guessing. The scent is amazing when dry; I can’t wait to try it and see how it feels/​smells after a shower. I was tempted by some of the handmade cards, but decided to hold off for the time being.
My friend already knew the owner but it was my first time meeting her; as I listened to them talk I was struck by how nice and clearly excited about her new venture she is. She owns Hatch Gallery next door and wanted to offer more to the local community that can’t be found at the surrounding shops. All of the people helping with the opening were friendly and approachable, with that wonderful quirky creative vibe that’s common in Madison. If that group is staffing the place I’m sure they can’t go wrong.
So, upon first impressions, the shop is small but really cute. Hazel isn’t a one-​stop-​shop for everything you might need, but it is a really great place to stop for gifts for others or yourself, and certain supplies. They’re located in a great spot, right across the street from the Willy Street Co-​op. I adore itty-​bitty businesses, so I’ll definitely be back. I have high hopes for Hazel and look forward to not only having an excuse to head over to the East side of town, but another location for quality USA made gifts.