Mrs. Cook's celebrates its 30th anniversary in retail with sales and prizes

Some stores you come to rely on for the selection, the service and because you find what you're looking for 99 percent of the time. Mrs. Cook's is one of these shops. The kitchenware and gadget emporium owned by Carol Bromel in University Village quietly flies under the radar, but you can depend on it whether you need a set of martini glasses, a festive tablecloth, a kitchen clock or a cooking tip. It's celebrating its 30th year in business this month with specials, giveaways and demonstrations.

What's Bromel's secret for longevity in a tight retail market? "Our managers Amy and Nancy have been with Mrs. Cook's almost since the beginning, and our staff's committed to sharing their culinary know-how and kitchen wizardry," says Bromel. "Our longevity stems from a genuine desire to make each customer experience a positive one. We don't believe in 'selling,' but instead make a match between what the customer wants and the right product for the job. Sometimes we even discourage customers from buying anything at all and instead give them ideas on how to use something they already have!"

Stop by to say congratulations, browse the deals and enter to win the daily prize giveaway. Some of the events and sale items this month include:

• Daily drawings for gifts such as a KitchenAid artisan stand mixer, a Chantal tea kettle, a VillaWare panini grill, an Infinity round retro kitchen clock, and a Donvier ice cream maker.
• Savings of 30 percent on a variety of kitchenware and gadgets. Special items will also be marked down to $30.
• For every purchase of $100 or more you'll receive a free Mrs. Cook's flour sack dishtowel.
• Limited edition Emile Henry dinnerware in orange (Mrs. Cook's signature color) will be available all month.
• Demonstrations include Pumpkin Recipes from noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 7, Creepy Cupcakes from noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 21, and the Haunted House Cookie Kit on Oct. 28, also from noon to 3 p.m.

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