Tucked away on Duckwood Drive in Eagan is a coffee shop like no other. It offers all the traditional coffees you could imagine, but it also offers unique flavors that not only tantalize the tastebuds but also have you wondering what to try next.
Recently, I chatted with Marcy Baumann, owner of Vendella, that very coffee house—or should I say coffee haus—and euro-style boutique. It’s a unique place in every way, and Marcy’s story and sense of style mean it's a new experience every time you walk in the door. Trust me; what makes Vendella a place of its own is its exceptional coffee, unique, eclectic style, and boutique offerings that Marcy has meticulously curated.
Marcy shared with me that over the past three decades, she has had the pleasure of visiting coffee shops across the U.S. and Europe. Each experience left an indelible mark, shaping her understanding of what makes a coffee shop truly special.
Marcy never intended to open a coffee shop, but her love for unique shopping experiences and a great cup of coffee inspired her to create something extraordinary. "When Vendella started to become a reality, there was no question we would have a boutique element, loaded with gifts and accessories you couldn’t find anywhere else," Marcy shared.
Scandohemian Style: Where Scandinavian Meets Boho
Marcy’s personal style is a fusion she calls "Scandohemian." It combines Scandinavian minimalism and Bohemian layers. "In Sweden, we find two strong styles: minimal and timeless colorful layers. Scandohemian describes the combination of the two," she explained. This style is evident in the clean lines of Vendella’s clothing and jewelry, mixed with comfort, texture, and a touch of the unexpected.
"I want you to walk out of our boutique with a gift or article you can wear that is functional art, understated or a little outrageous, but either way practical and something you’ll want to use," Marcy emphasized. Her careful selection process involves sourcing from local artists, international fair trade vendors, and unique items that are simply too cute to pass up. This dedication makes sure that every piece at Vendella is something she would wear or want to receive as a gift.
A Curated Collection of Unique Finds
Recently, Marcy pivoted her jewelry selection to focus on waterproof, sterling silver, stainless steel, and gold-filled pieces. "These new metal combinations have been a game changer where we can afford to own several pieces that will never tarnish and can last a lifetime," she noted. The current trend is to layer these pieces, creating a stylish and personal look.
Another popular item at Vendella is their ever-changing selection of blue-light and reader glasses. Marcy constantly searches for new designs; even this small accessory is designed to express the wearer's personality.
For clothing, Vendella is moving towards more versatile, one-size-fits-most items like kimonos and jackets. "Hands down, my favorite item I wear all year round is our marshmallow ridiculously soft Nordic Beach jacket," Marcy shared. Designed in California for chilly beach evenings, these jackets are perfect for Minnesota’s variable weather, whether boating, around a campfire, or traveling.
Marcy shares, “We are trying to do more custom orders on local and European items made just for you.”
The Secret Menu: Hidden Gems in Every Cup
I’ll let you in on a little secret for those not yet in the know. The coffee shop has a secret menu, a fun twist that invites visitors to discover hidden gems. "One of our core values is to be intentionally simple, stick to what we know, and streamline our menu to do what we do really well," Marcy explained. Yet, the secret menu offers many exceptional flavor combinations. Marcy’s favorite, Angie’s Puerto Rico, features banana and coconut layers paired with a double or triple shot of espresso.
For the inner foodies in Eagan, the Kasebrote is a must-try. This signature open-faced toasted sandwich, lovingly named “The Renate” after Marcy’s kids’ grandmother in Germany, combines sourdough toast with mustard, salami, onion, pineapple, and Havarti cheese.
More Than a Coffee Shop: A Community Hub
Vendella is more than just a place to enjoy coffee and shop; it’s a community hub. Further, Marcy and her team host blood drives every 60 days, support Foster Minnesota families, and organize various support groups. "We truly want to be the heart of the South Metro," Marcy said.
Many people still don’t know about Vendella. And from another Minnesotan Scandinavian, I can tell you that I think that’s about to change.
So, next time you’re in Eagan, bring your friends to Vendella for a coffee, some shopping, and a chance to experience the unique Scandohemian style firsthand. Whether you’re looking for a special gift, a stylish accessory, or a cozy spot to relax, Vendella is your home away from home.
To learn more about Vendella, visit the website: https://www.vendellacoffee.com/.
"Hands down, my favorite item is our marshmallow ridiculously soft Nordic Beach jacket,"