There’s something so incredible about shopping local and supporting businesses within our community. It’s something we’re extremely passionate about here at Detroit Mom. Buying local gives back to our community and, I don’t know about you, but that’s something I want to be a part of.
This year, we wanted to try something different + unique with our holiday gift guide. We turned to our Detroit Mom community and asked our readers who they wanted to see in our holiday gift guide this year. What businesses were they going to be supporting, who did they want to shout out, and what gift items did they have their eyes on? We wanted to know it ALL so we could put this guide together knowing it was full of personally-recommended businesses submitted by moms in and around Detroit.
For our Detroit Mom-Approved Holiday Gift Guide, we’ve made it super simple for you to shop. The majority of these businesses have the option to purchase online and ship anywhere. Read through the list below!
BLACK-OWNED
Lettering By Kenisha | Calligraphy, Chalk Menus, Apparel, + More
The Lip Bar | Makeup + Skincare
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Black-owned, women-owned, located in downtown Detroit but also available at Target, Walmart, and CVS. Quality makeup and skincare products with natural ingredients. Reasonably priced!
EXPERIENCES
The Art Shack | Art Classes
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Art classes for kids and adults! This location even offers summer camps. Owned by a wonderful woman who cares about her students and the community.
Broadway in Detroit | Broadway Show
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Not only is the Fisher Theater the most amazing venue, but a night out isn’t complete without stopping in for dinner first at one of the incredible restaurants downtown. Tickets to a show would be the *perfect* date night or night out with friends!
Detroit Dye House | Dye Classes + Clothes
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Detroit Dye House provides dye classes and lessons. They also have a great collection of expert dye clothes for purchase. This is a fun outing with friends and families. We have even been here for a two-year-old’s birthday party!
Detroit Zoo | Zoo Membership
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: When in doubt . . . we go to the zoo! A membership to the Detroit Zoo is a wonderful family gift that can be used year round.
House of Reclamation | Retreats
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: These retreats are truly life-changing. Lauryn + Elizabeth are doing so much work locally and internationally in order to make sure that women are walking through life together, as their highest selves, feeling supported 100% of the way. Their annual Traverse City Homecoming Retreat looks absolutely amazing!
Serenity at Home | Home Organizing
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: A gift certificate for home organizing is the perfect gift for that special person on your list. Available in any dollar amount, the gift of organizing can be a life-changing experience for anyone looking for some help getting their home in order in the new year.
Sidetrack Bookshop | Books
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: This is my favorite cozy bookstore with the best owner and staff. It is an experience just walking in the door. From books, to candles, to paper products and bags, there is something for everyone here. My family visits almost every Saturday just to stop in and say “Hi!”
FASHION + ACCSSORIES
Chaos Collection | Oversized Detroit Shirt
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: This shirt seriously looks SO cozy and comfy! Plus, I love how much the blue color pops and that you could really wear it any time of year.
Clara’s Craft Boutique | Custom Handmade Gifts
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Clara’s Craft Boutique has something for everyone. Customize a gift for a friend, teacher, relative, or yourself. Everything is handmade with love and has a quick turnaround time!
George Gregory | Men’s Clothing + Accessories
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: George Gregory has men’s clothing and accessories that you are not going to find at the mall. The owner is always helpful in finding the perfect gift too!
Kiloh + Co. | Corded Crew Sweatshirts
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: The Corded Crews from Kiloh + Co are so comfortable! Since it’s one of their most popular styles, there’s bound to be a team or phrase your gift receiver will love. It’s designed to be a loose fit, and I practically live in mine!
LovePeaceThreads | Jean Jackets
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: I made a jean jacket with Lauren and I wear it constantly!! It’s so comfy, stylish, and really adds nicely to my outfit. I love styling it with a comfy sweater underneath and some leggings!
Maisie Mae Boutique | Baby Bows
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: My girls LOVE their bows from here. They’re made with so much love and are so cute!
Mend on the Move | Handcrafted Art, Jewelry, + Bags
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Beautiful art that reuses materials that would otherwise be scrapped, and a beautiful cause local to Detroit to employ women survivors of abuse.
The Little Design Co | Purses + Other Leather Goods
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: I cannot choose just one purse, they’re all so gorgeous! You can see how much attention to detail goes into every product made here.
FOR FOODIES
Clementines | Baked Goods
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: The macaroons are always fresh. The service there makes you feel like you are family!
Sabbath Coffee Roasters | Coffee + Coffee Merchandise
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: For all the coffee lovers and moms in your life! Sabbath is a tiny shop (no seating area) that has the coziest monthly specials and comfiest shirts. They also have a delicious frozen oat latte that’s perfect for any season, in my opinion!
FOR KIDS
Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids | Children’s Haircuts
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: When children step into the salon, they’re greeted by a fun-filled waiting area complete with an indoor slide and a coloring table. During their haircuts, they can unwind in whimsical fantasy chairs while watching their favorite TV shows. Afterward, they leave with big smiles, a balloon, and a sucker in hand! The stylists are highly trained to work with adults, children of all ages, and those with unique or special needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Fascination Factory | Toys + Play Place Experience
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Fascination Factory has a huge play area with wooden and educational toys for kids newborn to six years old. This place is equipped with coffee and snacks and great for meeting up with friends. They also offer summer camps and parent night outs. There are also toys for purchase for last minute shopping!
Go Grow Playrooms | Open Play
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: This is the perfect spot to sit back and relax while your kiddos play and have fun! Parents can rest easy and actually sit for a bit knowing their kids are having so much fun!
Goldfish Swim School | Swim Lessons
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Goldfish Swim School offers swim lessons for all ages at all different levels of swim experience. The staff is knowledgeable, helpful, and always friendly. The water is warm, and showers and changing rooms are available!
Hank a Roo Readings | Children’s Books
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Quality and fun picture books for kids ages 3-8. The stories are engaging, with beautiful illustrations. The board book, To the Moon and Back, is perfect for new or expecting moms. A great baby shower gift!
Main St. Rocks | Crystals + Gems
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: If you’re looking for a good energy, thoughtful gift that maybe no one else has thought of, this is the spot. Shopping for someone who may need some grounding, positive thoughts, or even a Michigan gem ring? Main St. Rocks has it all.
Modern Natural Baby | Baby + Kids Toys and Essentials
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: This is our go-to for baby products and toys for birthdays and holiday presents (free wrapping!). The staff always has great recommendations based on age for gifts and their toy section is always fun to play in!
No Fear Cafe | STEAM+ Kit
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: The STEAM+ kits for kids are a fantastic holiday gift because they spark curiosity and foster a love for learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Each kit is designed to be engaging and hands-on, encouraging creativity and critical thinking while allowing kids to explore real-world concepts. By providing a fun and educational experience, these kits not only entertain but also help children develop essential skills that will benefit them in their future studies and careers. Give the gift of discovery this holiday season and inspire the next generation of innovators!
RNB Press: Children’s Book Imprint | Children’s Picture Books
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: This holiday season, gift your child the joy of imagination with author Renee’s highly recommended picture books, Finding Bunny, Imagine That, and The Truth About Stepmoms. Each story sparks creativity, fosters a love for reading, and creates lifelong memories that you can cherish together. With glowing reviews highlighting their heartwarming narratives, these books are not just gifts—they’re experiences. Plus, by choosing her books, you’re supporting a local mom and author dedicated to nurturing young minds through the magic of storytelling.
Stemville | STEM Open Play Session
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Stemville is a children’s activity center with all play focused in STEM. They offer open play, monthly memberships, and birthday parties. There are two locations in Northville and Howell, and a pop up location in Detroit that is open until December 28th. Best for children ages 3 to 8 years old. It is their hope to stimulate the minds of all who visit so they too can imagine, explore, design, and create!
Toyology Toys | All Toys For All Ages
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Your local toy store that has everything you need! Fun toys for everyone on your shopping list, from babies to adults. They also gift wrap!
HOME DECOR + GIFTS
Applewood Candle Co | Clean, Luxury Candles
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Applewood Candle Co offers a clean home fragrance collection that invites indulgence, without sacrificing wellness. The owner, Allison, believes you should never have to choose between beauty + quality, especially when it comes to the comforts of home. Free from toxins found in traditional candles, their artfully-inspired scents transform raw ingredients into refined elegance. Experience pure, luxury fragrance–sustainably sourced + consciously crafted from wax to wick. Applewood Candles are hand-poured in small batches in Michigan and they offer a wide variety, from individual candles to ready-to-gift boxes to their quarterly subscription. They have the perfect gift for anyone on your list!
Bloom Honeybee Florals | Flowers
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: The absolute best floral arrangements! A woman-owned business who works directly with her customers to create gorgeous arrangements. She offers personal delivery as well. I’ve ordered florals for Mother’s Day and birthdays through her–and they last!!
Catching Fireflies | Gift Shop
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Catching Fireflies is my go-to for cards and gifts for my mother-in-law. This is a small gift shop with fun and unique gifts with lots of Michigan love products too!
City Bird | Gift Shop
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: City Bird is a gift shop in Detroit where you can find home goods, local stickers, greeting cards, and unique gifts for everyone on your list!
Four808 | Unique Decor, Jewelry, + So Much More
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: All made by local artists! A wide variety of options including Detroit sports apparel not found anywhere else, and also unique home decor (door hangers, wood signs, crystals, etc.). I have custom ordered many items if I see something in the store that I want to slightly change, like a quote or colors. The staff is great and will help you find the perfect gift!
Kelz Creates | Art + Art Experiences
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: It’s so important to support local art! With Kelz, you can buy art or gift an Art Experience! Kelz is a local value-based and social justice-focused artist, social worker, and educator who can curate a one-of-a-kind art experience to meet your wishes: group bonding, healing, identity exploration, mindfulness, the list is endless!
Panek Artistry | Home + Floral Portraits
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Each portrait is drawn or painted by hand. There is no shortage when it comes to detail. Every single one is personal and created from the heart!
Rail and Anchor | Unique Home Gifts
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Rail and Anchor is my go-to store for unique gifts. There is something for everyone on your list here. They also gift wrap!
Riverside Vintage Market | Home Goods
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Super cute place to shop for unique decor for your home! All of the items sold here are either vintage finds or handmade items.
Soul Roots | Soy Candles
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Soul Root’s candles are perfect for gifting to your loved ones: clean burning, non-toxic, hand-poured, and ready to make their spirits brighter!
SELF-CARE + BEAUTY
ArtiSun Soap | Bath + Body Products
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Amazing, natural bath and body products! Sue Finley has a unique line of quality products that smell amazing. Customer service is top notch!
Citizen Yoga | Yoga
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: There is no better gift than something that serves the soul. Citizen Yoga offers multiple yoga classes a day in three locations, along with retreats, workshops, and wellness services.
Regeily | Essentials Collection Minimalist Duo
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Regeily’s Essentials Collection Minimalist Duo is the perfect holiday gift for anyone who deserves a little self-care. This clean beauty set, featuring their luxurious body cleanser and deeply hydrating lotion, is designed to nourish the 97% of skin often overlooked. Created by a Black, female, veteran-owned brand, it reflects their mission to inspire others to prioritize their well-being. Give the gift of radiant, healthy skin while supporting a brand rooted in resilience and empowerment!
Sculpt Pilates | Pilates Classes
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: A women-owned Pilates studio in midtown Detroit. Wonderful facility with passionate instructors and fun classes! I’ve taken several Pilates classes but the ones here are my fave!
Sirona Wellness Spa | Massage/Float Therapy
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Sirona is a place that allows for whole body peace and self-care. Owned by a fellow mama, Sirona has been curated to allow you to fully release your stress when you step foot in the door. After your service, there is a small lounge area where you can sit and continue relaxing with a cup of tea or water. Such an amazing spot!
Sisu Mobile Sauna | Mobile Sauna Rental or Gift Card
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: Treat your loved one to a unique experience to unwind in the 8×12 traditional Finnish mobile barrel sauna. Book a specific date, or buy a gift card!
TRV|FIT Berkley | Workout Session
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: TRV|FIT Berkley, located in Oak Park, is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and supportive fitness community focused on total wellness. They offer dynamic group workouts, personal training, and semi-private programs like Peach City, League, Perform Camp, and many more designed to help you achieve your fitness goals. Their unique approach combines quality coaching with an inclusive environment, ensuring a fun and approachable path to health for all fitness levels. With a passionate team committed to positively impacting you, they strive to empower you to feel stronger and more confident after every session!
Walking Lightly | Eye Cream with Cucumber, Hyaluronic Acid, + Coffee
WHAT OUR READERS HAVE TO SAY: I love this eye cream. When I had my son, it was the only thing that made me feel alive after a long night of feeding/crying. Helps brightens my eyes and from a great woman-owned shop right in Ferndale focused on reducing waste!
We hope you love these local businesses in our holiday gift guide as much as we do! They are truly some of the best gems in Detroit. You’ll find something special for everyone on your list. 2024 is the year to shop local, shop small, and support our community. We know just how much our favorite small businesses appreciate you! Stop by or shop online, and tell them Detroit Mom sent you!
