Gilbert Family Foundation and Bedrock Announce the Return of the Downtown Detroit Markets and Cadillac Lodge

Funded by Gilbert Family Foundation and managed by the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) with support from Bedrock, the Downtown Detroit Markets will feature 17 pop-up vendors during the holiday season on Cadillac Square.

TechTown Detroit returns to provide consulting and mentorship support for participating small businesses.

Cadillac Lodge will offer an assortment of tasty treats and festive drinks for the entire family.

Oct. 17, 2024

Gilbert Family Foundation and Bedrock today announced the return of the Downtown Detroit Markets and Cadillac Lodge, providing Detroiters and visitors with a dynamic, festive experience this holiday season. Starting Thursday, Nov. 7, 17 local businesses, the majority of which are Detroit-based and BIPOC- or female-owned, will offer a unique variety of retail options in Cadillac Square. The Downtown Detroit Markets will remain open through Jan. 5, 2025.

"The holiday season in Detroit is magical," said Laura Grannemann, Executive Director, 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."

Now in its seventh year, the Downtown Detroit Markets have served as a launchpad for more than 145 small businesses, collectively generating nearly $5 million in sales. This year, each vendor will receive $3,000 in support-$1,500 to help with business operations during the season and an additional $1,500 post-season to access 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, Wayne State University's hub for entrepreneurship, continues to play an essential role in the Downtown Detroit Markets. TechTown provides specialized training and mentorship for participating vendors to ensure they are equipped with the knowledge and tools to succeed before, during, and after the market season. Vendors will have the chance to work one-on-one with a TechTown retail strategist, gaining expert guidance on areas like inventory management, merchandising, customer service, and revenue growth.

"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."

Returning vendors, like Michelle Smart, founder of Bags to Butterflies, will once again offer her luxurious, sustainable handbags crafted from repurposed wood, empowering formerly incarcerated women 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. Being part of the market again this year feels like a dream come true, and we can't wait to continue sharing our mission and products with the community."

Newcomer Erin Pineda is enthusiastic about exploring everything the Downtown Detroit Markets has to offer.

"27th Letter Books is thrilled to be a new vendor and participate in the markets for our first time." Said Erin Pineda, founder, 27^th Letter Books. "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."

Cadillac Lodge

The Cadillac Lodge also returns this year, offering a cozy, family-friendly environment in the heart of downtown Detroit through Jan. 5, 2025. The Lodge will serve a variety of festive foods and beverages, including walking tacos, warm pretzels, Detroit-style chili, hot cocktails and more. Visitors can enjoy an inviting space to relax and create new memories throughout the holiday season.

For more information about the Downtown Detroit Markets and Cadillac Lodge, including hours of operation, visit DeckedOutDetroit.com or follow @DeckedOutDetroit on social media with the hashtags #DowntownDetroitMarkets, #CadillacLodge and #DeckedOutDetroit.

Downtown Detroit Market Vendors include:

• 27th Letter Books - Community-oriented bookstore highlighting underrepresented voices.
• Asher & Arnold - Children's gift store focused on holistic family wellness.
• Bags to Butterflies - Sustainable handbags handcrafted by formerly incarcerated women.
• Big Mitten Linocuts - Award-winning printmaking inspired by Michigan's natural beauty.
• The Brave Wimp Society - Handmade pop art wearables celebrating diversity and inclusivity.
• Conscious Living Brand - Unique crystal jewelry and creations.
• Detroit Streetwear - High-end apparel celebrating Detroit's history and future.
• FOLK - Corktown café offering curated gifts and high-quality foods and beverages.
• For the Love of Cheesecake - Specialty cheesecake company known for unique flavors.
• Jetta's Gourmet Popcorn - Gourmet popcorn and snacks for every occasion.
• Kiloh & Co. - Detroit sports-themed apparel for female fans.
• Preva Body - Organic skincare products handcrafted with plant-based ingredients.
• Scentana Candle Co. - Clean-burning, non-toxic candles with a minimalist aesthetic.
• Speedcult - Metal art fabrication company creating Detroit-inspired décor.
• Waffle Cabin - Belgian dessert waffles with delicious toppings.
• Whimsy & Wine - Detroit- and Michigan-themed wood décor and gifts.
• Yarn Nerds - Hand-dyed yarn and crafting accessories for knitting enthusiasts.

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