StudioStudio
“I HAVE BEEN LONGING for a space like this in Ann Arbor for as long as I have been a photographer,” says Abby Rosenbaum, co-owner of StudioStudio, a flexible creative venue in Ann Arbor.
Launched in the midst of the pandemic, “our timing was not ideal,” says Rosenbaum, who has been a photographer for more than 15 years. “To launch a co-shared creative space that really focuses on gathering was pretty scary to do in 2020, but it’s been awesome. There are months that we are booked literally every single day.”
With bright white walls, factory windows that flood the space with light, cool concrete floors, a roll-up garage door, and an inspiring industrial feel, the possibilities are abounding.
“I just really saw a need for a space like this for creatives. My partner, Lisa Sauve, who is an architect, and I had been talking about this for years. When this space became available, we just decided to go for it,” Rosenbaum says.
Divided into three areas, the studio boasts a 1,000 square-foot main space, an approximately 400 square-foot space originally intended as a co-working lounge prior to the pandemic, and lastly a chic yet entirely functional kitchenette — complete with a high-shine black Smeg refrigerator.
“We do a lot of photo shoots, we’ve hosted pop-up markets, art shows, and small weddings,” Rosenbaum says. Brides have also booked the space just to do their hair and makeup for their wedding day. For couples planning micro weddings, the space allows for any vision to come to fruition. There are sawhorse tables, lots of chairs, and plenty of gorgeous props and furniture that can be used by anyone who rents the studio, whether it’s an event or a photo shoot.
This past October, StudioStudio even hosted pop-up elopements. In collaboration with the annual Reincarnate, a botanical gallery that sees more than 20 florists come together in an immersive floral exhibition, the event turned StudioStudio into a “floral wonderland.” It was a stunning setting for elopements.
“The space has opened up a whole new world. There is just so much talent in this area. It’s really amazing,” Rosenbaum says. “Just getting to see all the different people who come through and see the space through their eyes and everyone’s different vision and how photographers utilize the sets. It’s really been awesome.”
For more information, visit studiostudioa2.com.
Detroit Social: Box Collective
This past November, RA+AR Design Co., a full-service, inclusive event curation company founded by Ryan Abney of Ryan Abney Event Design and Amanda Rose of ArcDesign Studios, launched an innovative new event experience — Detroit Social: Box Collective. Sourcing products from local women-owned businesses, Detroit Social: Box Collective offers an expertly curated box containing everything you need for a stylish in-home celebration. The boxes are typically related to an upcoming holiday, but you’ll also discover date night boxes, self-care boxes, wedding party boxes, and slumber party boxes. “These boxes are an exciting and unique way to host,” Abney says. “We’re giving you not only the tools and products, but also the guide and instructions for a safe setup and celebration.”
For more information, visit raardesignco.com.
Lily Forbes
Brides and bridesmaids rejoice, we’ve found the most luxurious robe for wedding morning prep at Detroit-based Lily Forbes. Offered in a variety of elegant materials and in rich, beautiful shades, this stunning addition will surely be used far after your big day. The brand works with fair trade, handwoven silk, recycled silk, remnant silk, and handwoven, naturally dyed cotton. The robes are either made with a fair-trade women’s production house in Delhi or in Detroit by founder Lily Forbes Shafroth.
For more information, visit lilyforbes.co.
Louloudi Skincare
Launched in December 2020, Detroit-based Louloudi Skincare features plant-based, sustainable skincare that is determined to help you fight against premature signs of aging. Their latest Eurybia collection is a four-step treatment powered by marine botanicals and superfoods to help deliver healthy, supple skin with a natural glow. Made with chlorella, spirulina, giant sea kelp, and red algae, this collection is “the secret to looking radiant on your big day,” says owner CanDace Johnson. “Achieving an all-natural wedding glow starts months before the ceremony. A consistent skincare regimen can deliver greater results over time, which not only keeps you looking your best, but it also gives your makeup artist the perfect palette for flawless coverage. We suggest using Louloudi Skincare for at least a month before picture time so that your skin looks radiant, dewy, and fresh.”
For more information, visit louloudiskincare.com.
Alpha-Lit Detroit
The first of its kind in Michigan, Alpha-Lit Detroit is the go-to place for customizable marquee lights. With more than 80 locations throughout the country, Alpha-Lit recently began serving the Detroit and Ann Arbor areas thanks to Stefanie Smith, Alpha-Lit Detroit owner. “Our marquee letters are perfect for every type of wedding event — showers, bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and receptions,” Smith says. “They make a bold statement, are completely customizable, and they serve as the perfect backdrop for social media posts.”
For more information, visit alphalitdetroit.com.
Bailarose
This fall, designer and former professional dancer Natalie Paul is launching Bailarose, a metro Detroit-based brand featuring one-of-a-kind hair accessories and necklaces. The collection, inspired by ballerinas, is “crafted by hand using sustainable fashion practices.” The designer incorporates vintage materials for a look that mixes “the nostalgic with the new.” Expect drama, elegance and stunning craftsmanship — from statement headbands trimmed in beads and pearls to vintage crystal hairpins, hand-dyed silk velvet bows, and romantic necklaces that drape effortlessly down the back.
For more information, visit instagram.com/houseofbailarose.
Blue London Studios
Blue London Studios, founded by sisters Chelsey Paksi and Jenn Nash, is transforming the art of gifting. Offering custom gifts for just about any occasion or celebration, brides and grooms will particularly love their offerings for wedding parties, hotel welcome bags, and bachelor and bachelorette parties. The duo prides itself on offering gifts sourced from other customer-driven small businesses. “We strive to make it easier and more enjoyable for couples and their families to create meaningful gifts,” Paksi says. “Ultimately, our goal is to help relieve the stress gifting can often bring to allow them to focus on the wedding and other events leading up.”
For more information, visit bluelondonstudios.com.
