Visiting the Oxford Exchange + GIVEAWAY

Oxford Exchange in Tampa was so many things...one of them being, absolute amazing!  I had the opportunity to attend a Holiday Blogger Event last week to learn all about Oxford Exchange in downtown Tampa.  I must admit, before the event, I had no idea what Oxford Exchange was or where it was located.  Now, I can't wait to go back!

Oxford Exchange is located across the street from the University of Tampa on Kennedy Boulevard.  It's housed in a building that was originally built in 1891 as a stable for the Plant Hotel (now UT).  Oxford Exchange opened last year and offers a gathering place atrium that sells coffee and tea; a bookshop; a boutique; a restaurant and conservatory; and office and conference rooms.

We started out our night in the bookstore.  I loved this centerpiece Christmas tree made from books!

 

We walked from the bookstore, through the beautiful hallway, to the atrium where we tasted party appetizers from Chef Erin Guggino.

She prepared Butternut Squash Soup Shooters

And Dried Figs, Goat Cheese & Toasted Walnuts

These appetizers were delicious!  I especially liked the dried figs as I went back for thirds.

We also sampled TeBella Tea Company paired with Mast Brothers Chocolate and Buddy Brew Coffee paired with Dandelion Chocolate.

In the atrium, we learned about the history and creative process behind 7th Avenue Apothecary.  Their 100% soy candles are hand poured in Ybor City.  They offered many unique fragrances that reflect the history of Ybor City.  Two of my favorites were leather & vanilla and tobacco & vanilla bourbon.

Next, we went on a tour of the upstairs office and conference room space.  Oxford Exchange provides a quite workspace and private meeting rooms for members of their Commerce Club.  The building's charm and character continued throughout the upstairs area.  I loved the reclaimed wood, exposed brick and vintage looking furnishings.  Oxford Exchange delivered!

Our tour continued to the restaurant and conservatory. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.  The kitchen counter featured a piece of petrified wood that washed ashore in Asia.

The conservatory appeared to be a sanctuary; with a glass ceiling, calming fountain in the center and plants surrounding the room.

Last but not least, I ventured into the boutique.  The boutique offerd an eclectic assortment of gifts including, best selling candles from 7th Avenue Apothecary, Christmas ornaments and spa accessories.  Many of the gifts were one of a kind items.

I had an incredible time at Oxford Exchange, learning and tasting what it has to offer.  I look forward to going back soon for lunch or one of OE's other events.

Now, it's giveaway time!  I have three chocolate bars to give away to one lucky reader.  I sampled two of these scrumptious, smooth, incredibly, dark chocolate bars at the blogger event.  I'm excited to be able to share these with one of you.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I attended a free blogger event in exchange for my review and promotion.  All opinions are my own.