The approaching holiday season can bring a certain joy and excitement. With that comes plans for family gatherings that are topped off with gift exchanging.
While you’re thinking about what to get your loved ones, there’s no better way to also show support for the community than by shopping local. Not only does it provide support to the local economy and reduces environmental impact, but it helps build community connections and cultural preservation. It also means unique gifts for your loved ones.
This year, the Downtown Detroit Markets will return and offer a shopping experience that showcases the incredible talents of local businesses.
Kicking off Nov. 7, the festive experience will highlight 17 local businesses, predominantly BIPOC- and female-owned, and offer an array of shopping options right in Cadillac Square.
“The holiday season in Detroit is magical,” said Laura Grannemann, executive director of Gilbert Family Foundation. “Despite the cold, our community comes together to celebrate the holidays and support local businesses. We are proud to partner with Bedrock and the Downtown Detroit Partnership to once again create the Downtown Detroit Markets, contribute to the holiday spirit in Detroit and support local entrepreneurs.”
When we talk about how shopping local supports the local economy, there’s proof. In the now seven years of Downtown Detroit Markets, it has generated nearly $5 million in sales.
This year, every vendor will benefit from a total of $3,000 in support—with $1,500 allocated to assist with seasonal business operations and another $1,500 provided after the season for additional wrap-around services.
“The Downtown Detroit Markets not only add a special element to the holiday season in the city, but they are also an important annual initiative for Bedrock,” said Ivy Greaner, Bedrock’s chief operating officer. “The Markets offer a platform for hundreds of local small businesses to kickstart and expand their businesses, and year after year demonstrate Detroiters’ ingenuity, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. We look forward to another successful season for all participating vendors.”
TechTown, the entrepreneurial hub at Wayne State University, is a key player in the Downtown Detroit Markets. It provides targeted training and mentorship to help vendors succeed throughout the market season and beyond. Participants will benefit from personalized sessions with a TechTown retail strategist, who will offer valuable insights into managing inventory, enhancing merchandising, improving customer service, and boosting revenue.
“TechTown is looking forward to continuing our partnership with the Downtown Detroit Markets in 2024, providing coaching and support to this year’s cohort of talented entrepreneurs,” said TechTown Retail Strategist Carrie Vestrand. “We’re happy to help these businesses maximize their exposure and success during the Markets, and we’re confident they’ll offer a diverse and engaging experience for shoppers throughout the holiday season.”
“The Downtown Detroit Partnership is excited to welcome the Downtown Detroit Markets back to Cadillac Square for their seventh year,” said David Cowan, chief public spaces officer for the Downtown Detroit Partnership. “This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to create vibrant and engaging public spaces that support local businesses and contribute to a thriving downtown economy. We’re proud to continue this partnership and offer another season of unique shopping and dining experiences for Detroiters and visitors alike.”
There are several popular vendors who will return this year like Michelle Smart, founder of Bags to Butterflies. The handbags are made from repurposed wood, empowering women who have been formerly incarcerated through meaningful employment.
“Last year was a transformative experience, allowing the women behind our products to connect directly with customers, which significantly boosted our sales,” said Michelle Smart, Founder, Bags to Butterflies. “We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support from the Gilbert Family Foundation, Bedrock and TechTown.”
A new vendor, Erin Pineda, who owns 27th Letter Books, said she’s excited to explore everything the event has to offer.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to share our growing business with a wider audience and serve more Detroiters and visitors to the city over the holiday season,” she said.
The Cadillac Lodge will return this year with a warm and family-friendly atmosphere, where guests can enjoy a variety of festive treats and beverages, including walking tacos, warm pretzels, Detroit-style chili and hot cocktails. It’s a place where visitors can relax and create cherished memories throughout the holiday season.
If you want to make it a point to celebrate on Small Business Saturday, it will be held on Nov. 30. The markets will run through Jan. 5.
For more information about the Downtown Detroit Markets and Cadillac Lodge, including hours of operation, visit DeckedOutDetroit.com or follow @DeckedOutDetroit on social media.