It’s not just for the birds even though the sign on the shop reads, “For the Birds”. Located at 9207 Broadway Ave. in Brookfield, For the Birds is clearly about more than bird seed. One only has to enter the store to know that more is available.
Owned and operated by Riverside resident Keith Brennan, the store has been located at its present address for two-and-a-half years. Prior to that, the store called LaGrange Park home for two-and-a-half years. When you enter the store, you are greeted by the owner and serene music before letting your attention go to the shelves and walls within the shop, stocked with a variety of objects that would be good for gift giving or as a gift to one’s self. I walked out with a bracelet.
Brennan started his business, deciding on a career change after being involved in a family moving and storage business. After the business was sold, he knew he was too young to retire and was looking for something else to do. A longtime interest in birds and lots of research led him to opening For the Birds. He claims he is not an expert on our little feathered friends, but he can answer questions and has plenty of information available in his shop.
His business has expanded with more gift items (I saw some nifty socks) and many items for decor in the garden. He keeps in touch with what is new by attending three gift shows a year. Most of all his items are made in the U.S.A. or are fair trade items, something he is very conscious about.
Most recently he has started carrying a line of dog and cat food – a higher-end product out of Minnesota which has never had a recall. Stop in and get a free sample for your pet.
He has more plans for the shop and encourages people to sign up for the email list to keep informed of specials. So whether it be something for our fine feathered friends, a greeting card, a children’s book or a garden flag, stop in, meet Keith Brennan – who says the best part of his business is “the people” – and find out why this unique shop is not just for the birds.
