Spring has arrived, and as St. Louis continues to shake off the last dregs of dreary winter weather, we all can look forward to sunshine and blooming flowers. But the seasonal shift isn’t limited to the weather. From visits with the Easter Bunny to new fashion trends and shopping opportunities, there’s a lot springing up at West County Center in Des Peres, too.

As part of the spring fun at West County Center, a very special guest is hopping by. Through April 8, shoppers can enjoy a meet and greet and purchase a photo package with the Easter Bunny. And furry family members are welcome as well! On March 27 and April 3, dogs, cats and other pets can get their picture snapped with the big bunny. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended and can be made through the shopping center’s website—just look for the ‘Bunny’ tab.

And if you are looking for accessories to elevate your spring wardrobe, look no further than Brighton Collectibles. The brand is known for its handcrafted, artisan-designed handbags, jewelry and charm bracelets. Its only local store is in West County Center, and president Laura Young notes that it’s been a great fit. “We’ve been in the shopping center for 20 years, and it’s a wonderful reflection of what a vibrant community St. Louis is,” she says. “The management and marketing teams have always been supportive of retailers, and our staff loves working with them. It’s been a wonderful long-term partnership.”

Young is excited about what Brighton Collectibles has to offer for spring. She notes that seasonal trends include brilliant colors, prints and patterns like florals and butterflies, braided and woven leather goods and statement pieces with elements such as hammered metal or sparkle. “We’re also seeing a strong return to Americana and Southwestern styles,” she adds. “Our accessories include unique works designed by 12 artisans. Their collections all have a distinct voice, inspired by not just fashion but also art and architecture.”

The latest seasonal fashion trends just scratch the surface of what is new at West County Center. Spring also is a great time to check out the new offerings at the shopping center, according to senior marketing director Sean Phillips. Last fall, it welcomed exciting new tenants, including local businesses, such as Arch Apparel, The Normal Brand and Mark Jenkins Footwear, which is relocating to a new storefront. The dispensary Green Gene CBD also recently took up residence at the center.

Spring is bringing even more opportunities for visitors. Aldo will offer stylish men’s and women’s footwear, The Back Store will help shoppers catch some zzz’s with mattresses, pillows and accessories, and Golden Gems is a local boutique focused on accessories, apparel, stationary goods and home decor. In the food court, Da Picky Vegan is getting ready to serve up vegetarian and vegan cuisine. “Later this year, people can look forward to the openings of Gearhead Outfitters and Offline by aerie, and LoveSac is moving into a new space,” Phillips adds. “Starting in April and continuing through the summer, there’s a lot to look forward to at West County Center.”

West County Center features many exciting spring activities, including pictures with the Easter Bunny through April 8. Pictured on the cover: Lynn Seise, Hiba Syed, Vera Mehrtens and Kathy Elliott in Brighton Collectibles. For more information, visit shopwestcountycenter.com.

Cover design by Julie Streiler
Cover photo by Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography

Pictured at top: The Normal Brand opened at West County Center last fall
Photo courtesy of West County Center