Get to know Ypsilanti through the people and places making our community shine. 

Ypsilanti's local and independent shops best showcase Ypsi's one-of-a-kind vibe. From retro and nostalgic toys, to oddities and the unusual, to everyday pet essentials, visit these Ypsi businesses and meet the folks behind them.

In part three of this portrait series, local photographer Leisa Thompson, in partnership with the Ypsilanti DDA, shares an inside look at some of Ypsi’s beloved businesses.

Meet the owners at these beloved Ypsi shops:

 

This, That, & the ODDer Things

Meet Claire Broderick, owner of This, That, & the ODDer Things.woman stands inside of retail shop. She wears a black and white shirt that reads "poison" below a skull and crossbones design. Behind her in the shop are individual items placed on shelves and hanging from fixtures.Claire is full of Ypsi passion. Whether she's in the shop or planning one of Ypsilanti's major events like Rumble of the Bumble, Claire is always up to something exciting. At This, That, & the ODDer Things, you'll find the weird, whimsical, and unexpected items that make great gifts. Claire also runs her own hair salon, Sprig's Hideaway, located in a hidden space within the shop!

Shop for Oddities

Lucky Haskins Antique & Retro 

Meet Ben Hourani, owner of Lucky Haskins Antique & Retro.Man stands behind counter in an antique and retro shop. He's wearing goggles and holding a toy laser blaster. In front of him on the counter are toys and memorabilia from tv shows.Visiting Lucky Haskins is like taking a trip back in time. You might even find your favorite childhood toys or that tin lunchbox you always loved! This retro shop is full of nostalgic treasures. Ben's welcoming energy and enthusiasm for his vintage collections makes every visit a fun experience. 

Browse Retro Toys

Ypsi Art Supply

Meet Megan Foldenauer, owner of Ypsi Art Supply. woman wearing a red shirt smiles and poses for a photo. She stands inside an art shop full of supplies for sale.Megan is an active artist and medical illustrator whose work has been shared across galleries and cafes around Ypsilanti and far beyond. Ypsi Art Supply is the only independent art supply shop in the county. The shop regularly partners with local groups to uplift Ypsi's art community. Megan is intentional about what's sold in the shop, which mostly comes from Ypsilanti and Michigan creators. Pick up hard-to-find supplies and creative gifts here. 

Stock Up on Supplies

The Rocket

Meet Eli Morrissey & Paul Balcom, owners of The Rocket.Two men pose between two large giant stuffed animals. The men are each holding a novelty mug in their hands. Behind them are aisles of candy and novelty gifts.The Rocket's bright yellow storefront has become a popular downtown destination, carrying novelty gifts and sharing a healthy dose of nostalgia. Eli often keeps the shop's online community up to date with new product releases. There's always something new to show off! Whether you're seeking Ypsi-themed souvenirs, a huge selection of bulk candy, or just about anything else, check The Rocket first.

Find Supercool Gifts

Find and Shine Vintage

Meet Sharon and Max McDonald, owners of Find and Shine Vintage.Woman leans on man and they both smile as they smile and post for the camera. They sit behind a counter that is full of antique and vintage finds. Behind them on the wall, there is a light up "open" sign, and another wooden sign that reads "antiques"This husband and wife duo share a love for vintage and antique finds, which ultimately turned into opening Find and Shine Vintage, and they're doing what they love every day. Each item in the shop was hand-selected and has plenty of character. 

Go Antiquing

Depot Town Cats and Dogs

Meet Holli Andrews, owner of Depot Town Cats and Dogs.Woman wears a black sweater and is holding a grey cat in her arms. She smiles and looks at the camera. Behind her are shelves of pet food supplies and pet toys.Holly brings her love for animals to Depot Town. She cares deeply about her community and often works in unity to uplift nearby businesses. Depot Town Cats and Dogs is a top spot for getting your pets a very special treat or toy, plus home goods.  Holly even hosts pet parades for the whole family to enjoy. 

Visit the Shop


 

We'd like to thank all of the Ypsi business owners, teams, and community members who make Ypsi shine! 


Ypsilanti Portrait Series 

You just explored part two of our Ypsilanti Portrait Series coverage, in partnership with the Ypsilanti Downtown Development Authority.

View parts one & two of the series here: