Shop Local: Downtown Detroit Markets return for holiday season
Festive music plays, fresh greenery is on display and twinkling lights hang up above.
The annual Downtown Detroit Markets have returned, and shop owners say, this year is even better than before.
Nestled in Cadillac Square, 18 local businesses have opened pop-up shops inside the winter market.
My friend Stephanie and I loved walking through each and every shop, there’s truly something for everyone.
One of our favorites was Cookette, a curated collection of items for the creative cook in each of us. Steph grabbed a few specialty salts and sauces to make little gift sets for her friends. I loved the craft cocktail section and the Buffalo Wax candles, hand poured in Nebraska (the state I lived in for six years!)
Well Done Goods was another shop we spent quite a bit of time in. I purchased the most unique earrings with raw rose quartz stones woven into the geometric wire shape. Stephanie found a few stones and crystals that will look amazing in her home.
The market is managed by Bedrock and the Downtown Detroit Partnership; it’s funded by the Gilbert Family Foundation.
"The Gilbert Family Foundation believes in the power of entrepreneurship and public space," said Laura Grannemann, Executive Director of the Gilbert Family Foundation. "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."
At the end of the market, you’ll find the Cadillac Lodge. A cozy tent filled with cabin furniture, games, pub food and a full bar with specialty Christmas cocktails.
Here’s the vendors you’ll find inside:
3 Dogs 1 Cat– An urban pet shoppe that carries an assortment of quality 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 exquisitely crafted gift baskets.
Dcreated Boutique– A curated shop featuring aesthetically pleasing fashion and accessories for children and mamas. All items are either handmade by the founder or carefully selected.
Estella's Vegan Dessert Boutique– An all-vegan bakery serving flavorful cookies, cakes, donuts, bread, and a mission to spread a plant-based lifestyle with its many health benefits to all.
Flamingo Vintage– An extensive 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 exceptional 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 friendly 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.
The Downtown Detroit Markets will be open through the end of the year.
More information can be found here.
