By Molly Snyder Senior Writer Published Dec 10, 2020 at 1:01 PM

Milwaukee is filled with hidden retail gems boasting unique collections of housewares, clothing, jewelry and one-of-a-kind gift items. In this series, we're highlighting some of the best of the bunch and giving you all the information you need to shop smarter while supporting local artisans and business owners.

Just Goods
4451 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood
Facebook: facebook.com/justgoodsmke

Lisa Castagnozzi opened Just Goods a few years year ago this week. Her shop is a unique combination of Fair Trade items and handmade pieces by Wisconsin artisans.

"It’s a nice mix of global and local," says Castagnozzi. "My background is in Fair Trade work to help small-scale artisans around the world."

Nothing in the shop is constructed with animal byproducts, thus the items are not made from leather, felt or wool. Castagnozzi was a vegetarian for 15 years before becoming a vegan last year.

"It’s a personal passion of mine," says Castagnozzi. "I love animals."

The Fair Trade wares come from South Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Ecuador, Mexico, India and other countries. Just Goods features the creations of 40-45 local artists, as well.

"There’s just so much talent in Wisconsin as well as around the world," says Castagnozzi.

Just Goods is the perfect place to shop for open-hearted friends and family, creative types, travelers, animal lovers, kids and babies, appreciators of exceptional oddities.

Here's a sneak peek at a few more of the treasures you will find At Just Goods:

Just Goods is  open Thursday - Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and other times by appointment only by emailing justgoods11@gmail.com. The buusiness also has online ordering with free local delivery: Www.justgoods.org 

 


Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.

Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.