I've said it before and I'll say it again: Shop Local.
By shopping locally, you are not only supporting small, independent businesses, but you are also putting money back into your local economy instead of throwing it at big box retailers (who, let's face it, probably don't need anymore money). And if you live in a place like Detroit, those dollars are vital to the growth of the city.
To encourage you to visit your neighborhood retailers, I've teamed up with the Michigan Retailers Association for their Buy Nearby campaign. I'll be sharing some of my favorite places to shop local - and then you can participate in a social media contest highlighting you own favorite Michigan retailers for a chance to win a $500 discover gift card!
Check out a few of my favorite places to shop (and if you're looking for more ideas on where to shop in Detroit, shoot me a message or comment below - I've got lots more recommendations!).
Best Selection of Party Dresses: The Peacock Room
Have a garden party coming up? A black tie event? A Date night? The Peacock Room is your spot. The selection of dresses have a nod to the past - think 1950s Elizabeth Taylor and 1960s Audrey Hepburn - yet are contemporary enough for the modern woman. Owner Rachel Lutz also prides herself on the range of sizes she carries - from a 00 to 24. And if your'e just looking to glam up your LBD? The shop has an incredible array of accessories as well.
Best Shop for Gifts: Nest and City Bird (which conveniently are located next door to each other):
Whether you're headed to a birthday party or a housewarming party (or let's face it, just shopping for yourself), these next two stores have you covered. Both Nest and City Bird have a mixture of housewares, gifts, and accessories, including many Michigan-made products. It's my go-to spot when I'm in need of a quick gift or card.
Best Treasure Hunting: Eldorado General Store:
Be prepared to spend some serious time in Eldorado. Around every nook and cranny is a new treasure waiting to be discovered. Owner Erin Gavle travels all over the country sourcing the best vintage pieces to bring back to her curated shop in Detroit. In addition to the totally amazing vintage finds, she also sells a variety of items from local creators - like Goldeluxe jewelry, Wolf Moon mixers, and Detroit Rose candles. In need of a disco ball for your holiday soirée? Eldorado has you covered there too.
Best Contemporary Shopping: Detroit is the New Black:
What started as a t-shirt line popping up at Eastern Market has become so much more. Now in it's new central location in the heart of downtown, DITNB is showcasing not just tees, but unique designs by owner Rosalyn Karamoko, as well as a rotating selection of designers and artists (like party dresses by Detroit native Tracy Reese, leather goods from Douglas & Co, Hats from Will Leather Goods, and more). The industrial space also showcases the work of artists, with pieces displayed throughout the store (currently on display is Detroit artist, Leon Dickey).
To encourage all of you to shop local and "buy nearby," the Michigan Retailers Association is giving you a chance to win a gift during their Buy Nearby weekend. All you have to do is post a photo of you supporting your favorite local retailer to social media using the #ibuynearby hashtag during the weekend of October 1-2 and you could win a $500 discover gift card! And it doesn't have to be limited to your favorite boutique - feel free to choose your go-to restaurant, hair salon, bar, coffee shop, etc.
Follow along and tag your photos on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Good luck!
This post is sponsored by the Michigan Retailers Association, but all thoughts are my own. And thank you for supporting local businesses!
