There’s something special about the holiday season in Kenosha — the lights glow a little brighter, the lakefront feels a little cozier, and our small businesses shine in a way only locals understand. From festive storefronts and family traditions to community events that bring everyone together, the people behind our shops, cafés, studios, and boutiques play a huge part in what makes this time of year feel magical.
In this series of holiday interviews, we sat down with a handful of Kenosha’s small business owners to hear how they celebrate the season — from their favorite local traditions to the ways they spread joy through their work. Their stories show exactly why supporting local isn’t just a purchase… it’s being part of something bigger.
Let’s spread some holiday cheer and get to know Emily and Jenni!
This daughter and mother pair, Emily Sturino and Jenni Zoerner, co-own Magnolia Bridal Boutique and are part of the group that operates Station on 6th, a firefighter-themed bar. Both are located in Downtown Kenosha.
What are your favorite local holiday traditions or events in Kenosha?
Emily: One of my favorite holiday traditions in Kenosha is attending Christmas at Kemper. My family has gone every year, and it never loses its charm. I love seeing the mansion fully decorated for the season and walking through the Gallery of Trees. We actually have four trees in our home from the event! It’s become a beautiful part of our holiday memories, and I’m always excited to see what they have each year.
Jenni: My favorite Kenosha holiday traditions are visiting the Gallery of Trees at the Anderson Arts Center and, new for me this year, enjoying the Lightin’ Up events. I also love supporting local businesses and their festive happenings — Captain Mike’s Annual Ice Bar is always a must-go!
Do you have any special holiday traditions or themes for your business this year? Are there any new holiday specials or events you’re hosting?
Emily: At Station on 6th, we’re going all out for the holiday decor, and the whole place is already feeling festive. Our holiday and winter cocktails ... definitely stop in! Plus, we’ll continue offering different specials throughout the season.
At Magnolia Bridal Boutique, we’re celebrating with a variety of holiday specials for brides purchasing their gowns. We’re also doing 12 days of Christmas, where every bride who visits before Christmas gets to choose a gift under the tree–each one with a special surprise inside. It’s our way of making the season a little extra magical for our brides.
Jenni: At Magnolia Bridal Boutique, we’ve transformed our windows into an enchanted winter wedding theme — complete with a Christmas tree shaped like a wedding gown.
At Station on 6th, the elves have completely taken over, causing mischief around every corner! Our holiday windows make it very clear where the party is.
How does your business collaborate with other Kenosha businesses during the holidays?
Emily: At Station on 6th, we are excited to be part of the Rowdy Rudolph Bar Crawl on December 14th, which brings together several local spots for a fun, festive day out. Our event that day will be Holiday Trivia.
Jenni: This year, both of our businesses participated in Small Business Saturday, and we’re partnering with Tavern on 6th and Rustic Road Brewing Company for the Rowdy Rudolph Bar Crawl. We’ll be hosting trivia and offering lots of fun specials throughout the celebration.
What role does your business play in making Kenosha a festive destination?
Jenni: We always make it a priority to decorate, participate in local events, and show how much Kenosha truly means to us. Bringing joy and excitement to the community is something we take seriously — and love doing.
Can you share a story about how your business has positively impacted someone’s holiday?
Jenni: This year, we put out a call for firefighters across southeast Wisconsin and Illinois to participate in a 2026 Firefighter Calendar, with proceeds benefiting a local Children’s Burn Camp. The response has been incredible, and it’s something we hope becomes a long-standing tradition — as long as firefighters keep volunteering!
What do you love most about interacting with the community during the holidays?
Jenni: Seeing the joy, laughter, and excitement on everyone’s faces. The holidays truly bring out the best in people, and being part of that is something I cherish.
What do your customers seem to love most about your business during the Holidays?
Emily: Our customers love how festive we are getting this year. They enjoy seeing the place fully decorated for the season, and they are excited to see our holiday cocktails. Station on 6th is the place where people can relax, celebrate, and feel the holiday spirit.
How do you thank your customers for their support during the holiday season?
Jenni: We offer a variety of specials and promotions at both businesses. The best way to stay updated? Follow us on social media and check our websites regularly!
What surprises out-of-towners most about Kenosha during the holidays? How can the community support local businesses like yours?
Jenni: Most out-of-towners are surprised by how much there is to do downtown in the winter — we’re definitely not just a summer town!
The best way to support local businesses is by spreading the word, stopping in to say hello, and recommending your favorite spots to friends and family.
What’s the best holiday gift you’ve ever received?
Jenni: My two Santa Bears flying an airplane in my living room — nothing beats that charm!
Do you have a favorite childhood holiday memory?
Emily: Some of my favorite childhood memories were walking through Christmas Lane, decorating holiday cookies, and coming home from church on Christmas Eve to watch the Santa Tracker with my cousins at my Grandparents' house. We’d stay up together until we couldn’t keep our eyes open.
Jenni: Decorating the Christmas tree and watching A Christmas Carol with my sister.
Is there a childhood tradition you still carry on today? What’s your favorite holiday treat?
Emily: Yes, we do! We still make what we call “mom’s bars”, my mom’s famous Chex Mix, and I love decorating all of our Christmas trees and setting up the village. Those little traditions make the season feel special every year.
Jenni: I still watch A Christmas Carol several times each season, bake my family’s classic recipes, and decorate the house with my daughters — those traditions mean everything to me.
What’s your favorite holiday movie or special?
Emily: Oh, this is a good one; there isn’t just one. Top 3: Christmas Vacation, The Ref, and White Christmas.
Jenni: A Christmas Carol — always and forever.
Real tree or artificial?
Emily: I grew up with artificial trees. I’ve never had a real tree before, and honestly, I feel like the upkeep would stress me out. I love artificial trees because they’re easy to take care of, last for years, and are simple to pack away when the holidays are over.
Jenni: I love a real tree, but I also keep artificial trees for easy decorating and a mess-free holiday season.
Ugly sweater fan or avoid them?
Emily: I love an ugly sweater for the holidays, I think they are funny.
Jenni: I absolutely love them!
Eggnog — yes or no?
Emily: 50/50 - have to be in the mood for it.
Jenni: No thank you!
Naughty or nice?
Emily: Nice, I am a perfect angel lol……I think I am.
Jenni: Nice, of course.
