Great Escape: A Little Retail Therapy

You’ve just realized that between little league games, dance recitals, and end of year school room parties, you haven’t relaxed in about two weeks. Next time you leave the kids with your parents, or at a friend’s house, head downtown to focus on you. Treat yourself, while still saving money for your twelve-year-old’s braces, by checking out these favorite and reasonably priced Libertyville items.

1. Red Velvet Cupcake from Lovin Oven Cakery

Just like your kids, you’ll want to eat all of the icing on this cupcake. The creamy zesty icing sits on top of the moistest cake a cupcake has ever seen and surrounds another creamy center. For only a few dollars, you can completely indulge your inner kid.

2. New Age White Wine from Vive Le Vine

This light, refreshing wine is great for relaxing during the summer. It’s sweet, citrus taste and light effervescence is perfect for finally sitting down after finishing a long to-do list. Another plus: a bottle retails for under $10.

3. Hanky Panky Thong from Adrienne Clarisse

Truly the most comfortable thong ever made, but with beautiful lace and patterns, this purchase will make you feel like a queen. Adrienne McGill, Adrienne Clarisse owner, described this panty as, “like wearing sweats, but it’s so pretty, you can’t go wrong.” She was completely correct. Starting at $18, these lacy panties come in many colors and patterns. Added bonus: they are made in the USA.

4. Mixture Candles and Sprays from

What woman doesn’t love a scented candle? Not only do the floral, citrus, or earthy scents soothe and calm our nerves, but they can also cover up the undesirable aromas drifting from our kids’ hampers or book bags. These scents are fantastic, never overpowering. As an extra incentive, the company will recycle the glass votives, after the candle is burned, if returned to the retail stores. A small glass votive costs $7.

5. Olive Oil, Vinegars, and Barbecue Sauces for the Cook

If your way to unwind includes sautéing vegetables or preparing marinades, pick up one of the many Olive Tap olive oils from , barbecue sauce varieties from Mainstreet Smokehouse, or the aged balsamic vinegar from . Each bottle will offer its own distinct treat for the palette.

Every item on this list is under $20, and sold right in downtown Libertyville. Enjoy a stroll through Cook Park and the other downtown businesses. Sometimes it’s not just the retail therapy, but the act of spending some time thinking about yourself.