Detroit Regional Chamber > Racial Justice & Economic Equity > Holiday Pop-up Small Business Shops Return to Downtown Detroit in Time for Christmas

Holiday Pop-up Small Business Shops Return to Downtown Detroit in Time for Christmas

November 17, 2022

MLive
Edward Pevos

Oct. 27, 2022

Tis the holiday shopping season in the heart of downtown Detroit. Just make a right at the ice skating rink and you’ll come across the outdoor holiday market right next to the city’s huge 65-foot Michigan-grown Norway spruce Christmas tree.

Located in Cadillac Square next to Campus Martius and the Monroe Street Midway, the holiday markets feature all local businesses, 18 local vendors in all, along with a warm, cozy lodge. The shops open on Thursday, Nov. 10 and run through the end of 2022.

“The Gilbert Family Foundation believes in the power of entrepreneurship and public space,” said Laura Grannemann, executive director of the Gilbert Family Foundation which is funding the markets. “The Downtown Detroit Markets are an important opportunity for Detroit entrepreneurs to test new products, gain exposure to new customers and grow their brands in a beautiful public space that brings everyone together.”

This is the fifth year for the Downtown Detroit Markets which have generated nearly $6 million overall sales for more than 130 small businesses. Over that time, 19 small businesses have taken part in the Markets more than once and some have gone on to open brick-and-mortar storefronts.

“The Downtown Detroit Markets and Cadillac Lodge have become beloved traditions for many local residents and families to visit during the holiday season,” said Ivy Greaner, Bedrock’s Chief Operating Officer. “Throughout the years, we have been fortunate to help foster the growth of a mix of local businesses at the Markets, and this makes the program truly special. There will be something for everyone to enjoy this season and we are ready for this next round of entrepreneurs to flourish.”

Participating Downtown Detroit Market Vendors:

  • 3 Dogs 1 Cat– An urban pet shoppe carrying an assortment of items for both furry friends and their humans. Products include treats and toys made in the USA, trendy apparel, Detroit-inspired accessories, and home decor.
  • Alcott’s Attic– An independent, neighborhood book retailer that sells books and specialty products including candles, dolls, and stickers to make your own personal reading nook more special.
  • Cookette– For people who love food and beautifully designed items, this specialty kitchen shop offers a growing collection of gorgeous cookbooks, globally inspired cuisine, specialty pantry staples, as well as crafted gift baskets.
  • Dcreated Boutique– A curated shop featuring fashion and accessories for children and mothers. All items are either handmade by the founder or carefully selected.
  • Estella’s Vegan Dessert Boutique– An all-vegan bakery serving cookies, cakes, donuts, bread, and a mission to spread a plant-based lifestyle with its many health benefits to all.
  • Flamingo Vintage– An collection of men’s and women’s vintage clothing and accessories, this Art Deco-inspired shop has a large inventory from purses, hats, wallets, jewelry, dresses, and menswear.
  • Halie & Co.– A jewelry shop with the belief that everyone should have access to affordable jewelry that not only makes them feel beautiful, but that is created with high-quality materials, intention, and love. They sell size inclusive, handmade jewelry, candles, hairpieces, and various artwork.
  • Inkcourage– Featuring encouraging gifts and apparel to make someone’s day brighter, their evolving product line includes temporary tattoos, sweatshirts, hats, and accessories with positive phrases.
  • Janna Kay– Luxurious charcuterie boxes filled with ingredients intended to engage with the senses – the collection also includes glassware, lounge wear and other home accessories.
  • Love Travels Imports– With artisan goods that journey from South Africa, Guatemala, Peru, and Haiti, their principle is to offer high-quality crafts through fair trade from developing areas of the world.
  • Mongers’ Provisions– A culinary outfitter for fine cheeses, chocolates, and charcuterie, they also sell wine and beer, along with numerous other specialty foods.
  • Not Sorry Goods– A sustainable and inclusive retailer that specializes in upcycled clothing and accessories, vintage, unique goods, and gifts from small batch artists.
  • Opal Grove Games– A local game shop with a mission to create a space where people feel safe and welcome to explore tabletop gaming. They sell board games, card games, RPGs, and accessories.
  • Quétarshé Textiles Design Studio– A handcrafted selection of colorful wearable arts, home decor and print designs, the studio uses only natural materials for sustainability and longevity.
  • Well Done Goods– A dedicated water based silkscreen print shop that sells t-shirts, tank tops, hoodies, neckties, bow ties, scarves and pocket squares. They recently launched a new department that really rocks – crystals, minerals, and jewelry to uplift your vibe.
  • Whimsy & Wine– Handmade wood decor, charcuterie boards, DIY craft kits, ornaments, doormats, and creative coffee mugs that feature a Detroit or Michigan theme or sarcastic slogans, encouraging customers to laugh and have fun with the products.
  • Young Socialites Clothier– With confidence-building fashion for all ages, each piece of clothing is designed and manufactured exclusively in-house.
  • Zapenda– An African-inspired apparel brand with the mission to connect the African diaspora through fashion – clothing and accessories are made-to-order by expert tailors in the Democratic Republic of Congo using high quality African wax fabrics. The brand is contemporary and accessible, marrying traditional prints with more modern styles.

“I am thrilled to participate in the Downtown Detroit Markets for the second year in a row,” said Michelle Gebhard, founder of Whimsy & Wine. “Last season was an incredible experience – from the guests and fellow small business vendors to the staff and security team – I loved it all and am so ready to be back again this year to make new connections and continue to grow our brand.”

Register for the ODP Business Solutions savings program.