Favorite Things: Dara Marie’s

Favorite Things: Dara Marie’s

Find stylish surprises and great tastes in Norman boutique and bakery Dara Marie’s.

 

Surprises abound in the little gem of a bakery and gift shop called Dara Marie’s, 1420 N Porter in Norman. They have a well-deserved reputation for serving up the best chicken salad and brownies around, and while noshing, you can also get in some shopping. This is not a large store, but it holds a lot to enjoy.

Named after John and Debbie Wullich’s daughters Dara Rice and Darcie Marie McCabe, this is most definitely a family affair, and all play their part in the running of the business. Back in 1999, the Wullichs sold their concrete business, and John learned to bake from Truman Barnhill, the owner of Green Leaf Bakery. McCabe says, “We want our food and cookies to always be consistent, and we pride ourselves on using the best ingredients, even if that costs a little more.” The proof – what you’ll find along with impeccable service and great merchandise – is in the pudding … or should I say, the coconut cream pie filling!

 


 

Boutique Mexico Resort Collection tote, $139 “These bright and colorful totes are so happy! They are artisan crafted in Cancun, Mexico: ‘Our mission is to support native artisans in their efforts to earn a living with the skills and talents that are their birthright.’” Bella Tunno silicone “Wonder Bib,” $14 “We love this company; every one of their baby products is amazing. They have tethers, bibs, plates, pacifier clips and so much more. My baby girl, Lucy Love, has used all their products and I can say they are wonderful. Also, they give back: They have donated over a million meals to people facing hunger.” Chavez for Charity bracelets, $12 “A company that makes bracelets to support different charities. With each bracelet sold, 25 percent goes to the color designated charity. For instance, pink goes to the Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation.” Caroline Hill crossbody, wristlet and clutch, $28 “Our best-selling gift item, it’s perfect for everyday wear, travel and gameday. We have over 15 different colors, and are always getting new colors.”

 


 

Chicken salad sandwich, $5.49 “An old Southern Junior League recipe. Our chicken salad is our number-one-selling lunch item. We use a whipped cream base and add white meat chicken breasts, almonds, celery, grapes and a few other secret ingredients.” Coconut Cream Pie, $3.99 per slice “Handmade pie crust, hand-stirred pie filling, rich whipped cream and topped with toasted coconut. Our best-selling pie!” Grannie’s coconut oatmeal cookies and brownies, $1.49 each, $13.99 per dozen Cookies “This is an old family recipe passed down and our number-one-selling cookie. It’s a mouthful: coconut oatmeal chocolate chip with walnuts.” Brownies: The old Green Leaf Bakery recipe from Truman Barnhill is our number-one-selling dessert. It’s cake-y in texture and then topped with a light chocolate icing.”

 


 

Glamorous Wash Diva laundry soap from Tyler, $19.50-$95, depending on size “Our customers are addicted to this stuff, as they should be. Use this on your sheets and towels and your guests will be asking you about it. People come in and I immediately smell them and know they use this. It’s amazing!” Running in Grass Barefoot candle by Lollia, $36 “We picked this candle line up about six months ago and fell in love. We have eight different scents, and this is our favorite. All the scents are clean and subtle, and the candles burn great.” Breathe hand creme by Lollia, $27 “We first found this shea butter hand creme at Dallas Market many years ago. My mom and her friend decided to order it, and a month later, it made Oprah’s Favorite Things List. We sold out immediately and have had it ever since.”