Local Love: Crown Brew Coffee Co. and Clad & Cordon Vineyard

Saturdays are my permission slip to slow down and choose what feels good. My best friend and I bundled up, dropped the top on the convertible, and let the day take the lead. Our first stop was Crown Brew, where we thawed out and settled in for a couple of hours. I ordered my usual matcha latte with oat milk and honey. Matcha always gives me calm focus and steady energy, and it is one of my favorite ways to ease into a morning. We split our go-to peanut butter chocolate scone and drifted from laughter to self-growth conversations the way only good friends can.

When we finally stepped back into the cold, it felt like the day had opened up just for us. We took the long way into the country and stopped at Clad and Cordon Vineyard, where Caleigh welcomed us with the kind of warmth you only get from local spots that truly care. She listened to the flavor profiles I love and put together a thoughtful wine flight that felt like a little journey of its own. Gigi's Diamond White, Peach Berry, Apple, and the Cranberry that instantly became my favorite.

Before we left, we found the sweetest Shawnee Cake House stand inside the tasting room and grabbed brown butter chocolate chunk cookies for me and bourbon pecan mini pies for my husband. The sun finally pushed through the clouds, so we kept driving with no real destination. Just two friends, a good playlist, and a day that reminded me how meaningful it feels to support the places that make Southern Illinois special.

This is why I love my Local Love series. Community, connection, and simple moments that feel like home.

Mural and sign location: Union Street Arts in Marion, IL