#MyDowntownRochMN with Sheryl Willms

In our last #MyDowntownRochMN we had the opportunity to hear from one of Rochester's youngest and his dad about all the family friendly things they do together Downtown. This week we are speaking with Sheryl Willms, a Rochester native who boomeranged back to Rochester in 2013 from Wisconsin. She shares her love for events, shopping, eating, and of course socializing with friends; below is her #MyDowntownRochMN story.

Samantha: Hi Sheryl, thanks so much for joining me today, can you start by telling me a little about you?

Sheryl: Thanks for having me. To start us off, I am 57 years old, a Rochester native, and I graduated from John Marshall H.S. in 1979. I went to college in Wisconsin, graduated and ended up living in Wisconsin for the next 28 years, yes, still remained a Viking's fan, as difficult as that was at times. I moved back to Rochester in January 2013 to be closer to family. I was pleasantly surprised and excited to see all the positive Downtown growth that took place in Rochester over the years and was ready to explore what Rochester had to offer. My first downtown event experience was SocialICE. I was thinking, only in Minnesota, second thought, I HAVE to check this out. I remember 2013 being one of the coldest winters ever, but it was worth bundling up and venturing out; I had such a great time that I haven't missed SocialICE since.

Samantha: I’m so glad you decided to come back home and it’s funny that you came back in 2013, as I did as well and it is so true! Rochester changed so much and now offers great events and activities, like SocialICE. Are there any other events or activities that bring you to Downtown?

Sheryl: I know its cold now, but during the warmer months I try and make the Downtown Farmer's Market most Saturday's. You will definitely see me at Thursday's on First; during the day, as I will grab lunch with my parents and in the evening to meet friends for the music, drinks and more food. Of course, SocialICE, as I mentioned above, the ice sculptures always amaze me. I also enjoy Rochester's restaurants and will meet friends at least once a week for happy hour and or dinner. We like to mix it up but usually will go to The Tap House on Tuesday's during the summer months and either The Loop or Terza for the other seasons. Chester's is a must for me for dessert, I crave their deconstructed banana cream pie. Mango Thai is another favorite of mine for the Garlic Chicken. In addition to great food and drinks, I also enjoy art and will stop in the SEMVA Art Gallery at least once a month. I really like that they support local artists.

Samantha: Seems like you really enjoy all the things Downtown has to offer, but what do you think about the shopping?

Sheryl: Well I have two children, a son and daughter that both live in Montana. But my daughter, Kristen, is the shopper, and when she is here visiting, we head Downtown to her favorite shops, Tangerine, Primp, and Poppi’s.

Samantha: Those are great stores and it’s so much fun to get a mother daughter day in! So, did your daughter get her love for shopping from you?

Want to learn more about what Poppi Italian Leather has to offer? Click here.

Sheryl: Yes, I have a love for shoes and handbags! One of my favorite downtown shops is Poppi's; they carry handbags, clothing and accessories, all from Italy, that you won't see anywhere else. I also like shopping at Tangerine for their unique gift ideas, lots of fun items on hand.

Samantha: It sure sounds like you and your daughter have something in common. So, to round out this interview, let’s hear what you would do in your perfect day?

Sheryl: My perfect Downtown day would begin with a run around Zumbro River followed by a Latte from Cafe Steam, it’s my favorite coffee shop, I love the atmosphere, it’s relaxing and great for people watching. Then I would head over to the Downtown Farmer's Market, it’s my Saturday morning hangout. Because this is my "perfect" day I would fit in a facial with McKaela at Essence Spa, they are so knowledgeable and I’m totally hooked! I would then meet some friends at the Loop for lunch and wine. Later, I would meet up with friends at Bleu Duck for a drink then head over to Terza for dinner, ending the night at the Red Room, for their live music and a martini.

Samantha: Sounds like a day filled with great people, food, drinks, and so much more! Thanks so much for sharing your story with us! We hope you can join us at SocialICE this year on February 7, 8, & 9.

Sheryl: I wouldn’t miss it! It is a fun, unique creative way of enjoying the outdoor weather in the dead of winter.

Want more #MyDowntownRochMN stories? Check out the links below.

Individual Features

Business Features

Disclaimer: the views, comments, and opinions located within this blog are those of the community individual, not those of the Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA).