Hook & Eye

Hook & Eye

Allison Kendzorski’s journey as a seamstress has led her to become the proprietor of Hook & Eye, located on 9 Mile in Downtown Ferndale. Specializing in bridal wear, Allison’s passion for gowns and dresses is matched by her dedication to understanding her diverse clientele, ensuring each gown tells a unique story.

Outside of the bustling wedding season, Hook & Eye welcomes appointments for all types of alteration needs. Additionally, for those captivated by vintage charm, the shop invites exploration during store hours, boasting a curated selection of timeless dresses and locally-crafted jewelry.

Not Sorry Goods

Not Sorry Goods

At Not Sorry Goods, in downtown Ferndale, co-founders Dy-Min Johnson and Jess Minnick turn pre-loved garments found at thrift stores into bold statements, promoting authenticity and eco-consciousness. Their journey from kickboxing buddies to entrepreneurs embodies the brand’s ethos: Never apologize for being yourself! The shop also features upcycled garments from local Detroit-area artists. Be sure to check them out on Facebook and Instagram so you keep in the loop for when they host their next shopping in-store event! 

Culantro Peruvian Eatery

Culantro Peruvian Eatery

Betty Shuell and Alvaro Herrera are co-owners of Culantro, a Peruvian restaurant in downtown Ferndale. The mother-son team spoke about their passion for Peruvian cuisine and their desire to make every meal a celebrati on. Culantro offers a range of traditional dishes like ceviche (served with a little less heat than it would have in Peru), pollo a la brasa, empanadas and more. And don’t forget dessert. Among the choices are a light and fluffy passion fruit mousse and flan, a creamy custard dessert. Shuell would also love for people to check out Culantro’s new location on Main Street in Ann Arbor, which opened just two months ago.

Modern Natural Baby

Modern Natural Baby

What started as an online-only retailer for cloth diapers when their first son was born is now Michigan’s largest baby store. And while Emily and John Murray no longer sell cloth diapers, their Modern Natural Baby store in downtown Ferndale has everything you could possibly need for infants through age 5. Customers can use a personalized checklist for setting up the nursery as well as a baby registry and gift wrapping services. Modern Natural Baby carries everything from cribs, gliders, strollers and nursery décor to toys, clothing, car seats, books and the largest selection of Jellycats. With safety as the #1 priority for Modern Natural Baby, any car seat purchased through the store will be installed by a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician. And sports fans, Modern Natural Baby even carries Detroit Lions swag for the whole family. www.modernnaturalbaby.com.

Valentine Distilling Co.

Valentine Distilling Co.

Rifino Valentine, founder and owner of Valentine Distilling Co. in downtown Ferndale, shared his passion for small-batch, handcrafted spirits, which he’s been making and selling for 20 years. The spirits are distilled in a 20,000-square-foot facility in Ferndale, and the nearby lounge crafts and sells cocktails made with it. You may know Valentine for its vodka, but it also makes bourbon, rye whisky and gin. Book a tour of the distillery, enjoy a cocktail in the lounge or sign up for a cocktail class to get in on the fun.

Coeur

Coeur

Jordan Smith, owner and chef for Coeur restaurant in downtown Ferndale, described his vision for upscale food served in a casual setting. The French-inspired restaurant opened late summer and is in full swing, offering meals like black cod with seasonal vegetables, as well as five-course dinners, a sommelier-selected wine list and a full bar. Reserve your spot for an upcoming wine class and tasting, held monthly on Sunday afternoons, or just reserve your table for dinner or brunch online.