Soaps & Scents

First and foremost, do not be fooled by the name. This is WAAAAAAAAY more than soap.
I LOVE this store. Every single time I need a gift for someone, I go here. They always have the perfect somethin’ somethin’ to show «Hey, I care. I thought of you. I went out and got this cool thing and not some crap that I wrapped up from around my house.»
In particular, they excel at gifts for women and children. There’s a great little kids area with super cute stuffed animals (Jellycat brand — my fave), bath accessories and toiletries, books and other neat items a kid and parent would love.
And if you’re looking to score something for your mom or bestie, this is the place. They have tons of beautiful toiletries for pampering. Great little bags and accessories to put them in to enhance the gift.
And for anyone on your list, they have some cool local stuff as well as kitchen items. Great decorative dish towels that highlight the great state of Wisconsin. Cute pot holders and magnetic grocery lists.
Just try to walk out of here without buying something for at least one person you love, as well as yourself. Oh and they have GREAT cards! New babys, birthdays, etc. Often hand crafted and extra special.
And added bonus: the staff are all really nice and helpful.

I definitely dig this adorable little spot in the ‘Tosa village! #YelpShopsMKE
S&S was housed at Mayfair mall for a long time, despite its nature of being an independent biz. I always immediately equate malls with chain stores, but seems that’s not always the case!
Soaps carries a wide array of bath + body products, as well as some cleaning supplies, home décor, and other sundries/​notions of similar vein. They have products for women, men, and children, and carry various lines from Crabtree + Evelyn to Tokyomilk to Caldera, etc.
I spent a good half hour perusing this store, just smelling, sampling, and familiarizing myself with the brands as well as the products. I settled on a few gifts before heading out, and may even return for a few more gifts. Who doesn’t love a gift of nice-​smelling, luxurious product? Even men-​folks like to be fancy from time to time. (Luke likes beard oil a lot, case in point.)
Shop local this holiday season! S&S is a great little gem of a spot, and you should definitely add it to your short list of spots to visit for local holiday shopping. Bam.

Tosa Village just keeps getting better. It’s got La Reve, Yo Mama, Ruby Tap, Oro d’Oliva and now Soaps and Scents. S&S used to be in Mayfair but kindly moved closer to my house by taking over the space vacated by Blue Lapin.
They just opened, so stock is still coming in but you can expect a great selection of upscale bath + body items. They stock Thymes, Pre de Provence, Porto, Crabtree, Kniepp, Caldrea and so much more. There’s a section for the gentlemen as well with shaving supplies — soon to include Proraso products! The owner is helpful and kind, so don’t be afraid to ask for advice.
In case you visit and become overwhelmed, here are a few of my favorites: Nesti Dante soaps, Barr Co. Hand cream, Caldrea Neroli home products and Burt’s Bees Baby Bee lotion. S&S is a great spot to pick up a gift or something special for yourself.
Welcome to the Village, Soaps & Scents!

Love Soaps and Scents. Friendly and helpful staff. Great bath and beauty products that make awesome gifts. Guys, this is a great place to buy your special lady a gift she will love. If you aren’t sure what to buy, ask a staff member or buy a gift certificate.
Great new location. The hardwood floors give the place a lot of character. Highly recommend.