Two Buds Boutique is a Growing Success

'Tis the Season for Holiday Shopping

Big box stores are the go-to for big ticket items like televisions and appliances, but nothing beats a small gift shop for that special item to match a unique personality.

Take Two Buds Boutique located on Route 45 in Third Lake, just north of Washington Street between Grayslake and Gurnee.

Those in the know have been seeking it out since their June 2011 opening. Others have no idea it's tucked away on the upper level of the Park Place Hand Car Wash & Detail, a gem waiting to be discovered.

Owner Gina Muzik started out creating and selling jewelry from home. It was her dream to open her own specialty gift boutique.

The name of the family owned and operated business represents the nicknames Muzik gave her daughters, a rose for Kylie, 9, and a petunia for Caitlyn, 17, who works at the store along with two of her friends.

"We've got all the unique stuff you can't find everywhere," said Muzik. For example, she said, "I don't sell Pandora because I know you can get it at another place."

The boutique sells home and holiday decor, artwork, handmade jewelry, accessories, knick-knacks, serving pieces, wall hangings, handbags, clothing from high-end lines like Elan and Miss Me, and much more.

Artsy, eclectic and one-of-a-kind pieces are hand-picked by Muzik, who has connections to artisans who live locally and across the country.

Regular customer Ellen Swidler, of Lindenhurst, has been coming to Two Buds Boutique since it opened. "We don't have a boutique like this," she said.

"Gina's got something for everyone. It's very trendy but affordably-priced," said Swidler, who is hooked on the boutique's handbags and unique fashions.

Holiday Party

The boutique will host a holiday party from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1. Stop by to check out what's new over cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. There will also be raffles and merchandise discounts.

Regular boutique hours can vary, but are generally 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, and noon to 7 p.m. Thursday. Call ahead at (847) 989-5782 to be sure.

To learn more, visit www.twobudsboutique.net.

The boutique also has a Facebook and Twitter page, which Muzik updates daily.

Do you know of a small local business that's perfect for holiday shopping? Let us know in the comments or e-mail Editor Angela Sykora at angela.sykora@patch.com and we may profile it!