Since 2010, Small Business Saturday has been observed on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. In contrast to Black Friday and Cyber Monday — which cater to big box retailers and e-commerce sites — Small Business Saturday encourages supporting local brick-and-mortar stores.
By highlighting small businesses, Small Business Saturday fosters a sense of community and allows the individuality of the small businesses throughout our communities and state to shine. With how many amazing shops there are across the state, highlighting just one is not an easy task however, in celebration of the day, the Michigan Senate Democrats want to give a shoutout to just some great examples of small businesses across Michigan.
Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks
Schuler Books’ first location opened in 1982 — since then, they’ve expanded to Ann Arbor, Okemos and West Bloomfield while still feeling and operating like a small bookstore.
“An independent bookstore with a great selection of gifts for anyone on your list! Plus, you can grab a coffee and read to your heart’s content. What more can you ask for?” — Sen. Brinks
Schuler Books is located at 2660 28th Street SE in Grand Rapids (photo courtesy of Schuler Books).
Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet
Populace was founded in 2010 by Andrew Heppner after working in Los Angeles and offers both in-person and online shopping experiences.
“Populace is my happy space. They have a Zen kind of vibe that’s contagious and they’re big community supporters. Whether it’s for coffee or a treat, to meet a friend or get some work done, my day is always better after spending time there.” — Sen. McDonald Rivet
Populace Coffee is located at 810 Saginaw Street in Bay City (photo courtesy of Sen. McDonald Rivet).
Senator Mary Cavanagh
Rosa opened in 2022 and shares its name with co-owner Charity Dean’s great-grandmother.
“Rosa Detroit is an outstanding Black, women-owned small business coffee shop in the heart of the Grandmont Rosedale community that has become a place to gather and make friends. Rosa fosters an aesthetic that honors the spirit and commitment of family, creating the feeling of being at your grandmother’s house and welcoming you like family.” — Sen. Cavanagh
Rosa is located at 19180 Grand River Avenue, Detroit (photo courtesy of Sen. Cavanagh).
Senator Veronica Klinefelt
Andary’s Grill & Deli was opened by Peter Andary and his wife Kelly in 1995. Peter had started working at Kay’s Kitchen in 1976 and the pair bought the space in 1994.
“It’s the perfect place to grab a meal and a piece of pie and they have the best customer service.” — Sen. Klinefelt
Andary’s Grill & Deli is located at 23447 Gratiot Avenue in Eastpointe (photo courtesy of Sen. Klinefelt).
Senator John Cherry
Almar Orchards is a fifth generation, family owned and operated orchard. After selling apples out of his garage and the Flint City Market, Albert Koan Jr. opened a small store in 1955 that would become the Almar farm store.
“Visiting Almar Orchard in Flushing with my family is an absolute joy for me. What I love most is Almar’s dedication to sustainable agriculture. From expansive apple and pear orchards to pasture-raised pigs and chickens, pollinator meadow, farm store and playground, Almar is a great place for quality family time.” — Sen. Cherry
Almar Orchards is located at 1431 Duffield Road in Flushing. Pictured is Sen. Cherry’s daughter Diana (photo courtesy of Sen. Cherry).
Senator Kevin Hertel
The Pink House Tea Room opened in 2020 by owner Jessica Colombo. She had always loved to bake and opened her first store in 1994 selling scones. Today their products can be found in over 65 locations.
“The Pink House Tea Room in New Baltimore is a must-visit spot if you are ever in Senate District 12. Having a beautiful view of Lake St. Clair, this historical site is also home to the tastiest selection of scones.” — Sen. Hertel
The Pink House Tea Room is located at 36341 Front Street in New Baltimore (photo courtesy of Sen. Hertel).
Senator Jeremy Moss
The Yaktown Don’t Back Down brand was born in 2018. Their mission is to inspire people from Pontiac and around the world.
“Yaktown Don’t Back Down isn’t just about clothing; it’s a movement! Their commitment to creativity and community is something we should all get behind, as we continue to invest in small business growth. This Small Business Saturday, join me and show your #PontiacPride!” — Sen. Moss
Yaktown Don’t Back Down is located at 18 E Lawrence Street in Pontiac (photo courtesy of Sen. Moss).
Read more from the Michigan Senate Democrats at SenateDems.com/press.