I just wanted to take the time here to acknowledge some of the local business owners who I’ve had conversations with:

Curl Up and Dye – Jen

Photo Credit: Model D Media

My conversation with Jen, the owner of Curl Up and Dye, really opened my eyes to why people would want to open up a small business in Detroit. She said that the Cass Corridor, which is where her store is located, is already starting to change for the better, and she hopes that her salon contributes to that positive change. “You know, you have to support the community if the community is going to support you.” I love that! What an inspiring way of looking at business.

Spiral Collective

Photo Credit: Isak

The Spiral Collective is a shared space between four female-owned businesses – Source Booksellers, Tulani Rose gift gallery, Textures by Nefertiti (a natural hair shop), and the Del Pryor art gallery. I’ve talked to a few of these women, and the idea that this alternative business model can be successful in Detroit is one reason why I love this city so much. I agree with Anna Clark’s Detroit blog; she says, “In tacit but strong response to the push for conventional investment in the city, the Spiral Collective represents a new and workable business model that is community-centered, on a human-scale and uniquely of the city of Detroit. It was founded with love and ingenuity, and it continues through commitment and an admirable work ethic. It is an example of citizen entrepreneurs being better together. It is the best of what the city offers.”

Good Girls Go To Paris Crepes

Photo Credit: Model D Media

OK, now I’m just biased, because their crepes are fantastic. I wanted to showcase this particular business because (1) it is owned by a native Detroiter who was originally a high-school French teacher, and (2) the experience of eating a crepe on the People Mover has probably been the coolest thing I’ve done since I moved to Detroit. I mean it, you should try it. However, act fast, because according to owner Torya Blanchard, they’ll soon be moving to a location closer to the DIA.

Bureau of Urban Living

Photo Credit: The D in Decor

Talking about Detroit pride, this little home furnishings store has all kinds of Detroit-produced items, from greeting cards made by UM alum-owned city bird to “Born in Detroit” baby clothes. Check out their article in The D in Decor for a better view. I walked in a few weeks ago to buy a postcard and saw one that had a city backdrop with the words “Enough already” printed over the picture. Thinking it was appropriate for my experience here, I walked up to the register to buy it. The owner took one look at the postcard and gave it to me for free. “It’s got a good message. Send it to someone.” What a great business.

Avalon International Breads

Photo Credit: Ashley Dinges

Need I say more? We all love Avalon, and they deserve all the recognition that they can get!

Of course, there are plenty of other small businesses out there worthy of noting, and I’m just starting to explore the city. I suggest that everyone out there support these businesses, because they’re the ones that are revitalizing Detroit! If you want to learn more about small businesses in Detroit, check out Open City. Even though it’s specifically a resource for small business owners, it’s a great way to find new locally-owned businesses to check out.

Besides stroking my ego, this video describes what I do in Rashida’s office fairly well. It talks about our wrap-around services and the free tax preparation that we do. It also shows me at my natural state in the office – typing away, hunched over a computer.

Click here and enjoy.