Mike’s Pizza & Catering does far more than its name suggests, making it a true standout in Waterford.

 

This local business runs a full from-scratch kitchen every day, offering everything from classic pizzas to subs, wraps, wings, and more—always made fresh to order.

 

Mike’s also excels with an impressive catering service, creating custom menus that range from BBQ and Mexican to Italian and Middle Eastern cuisines, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and family gatherings.

 

Beyond that, a weekly meal prep program provides residents with healthy, chef-prepared options for busy weeks, with new menus released every Sunday and fresh pickup every weekend.

 

What sets Mike’s apart is its commitment to quality and genuine community care—everything is made in-house, providing Waterford with exceptional food and personal service that bigger chains simply can’t match.

Farmington’s Farmers Market may fly under the radar compared to Eastern Market or Royal Oak, but that’s exactly what gives it unique charm.

 

Held every Saturday morning at the Walter E. Sundquist Pavilion on Grand River Avenue, this award-winning market thrives thanks to its genuine community of local makers and producers.

 

It’s far more than just produce — expect ceramics, candles, photography, woodwork, as well as fresh macarons, pies, toffee, coffee, and specialty goods. Every vendor earns a coveted spot, since the market’s roster is currently full and applications are closed due to high demand.

 

Live music and community programming turn quick errands into relaxed Saturday experiences, encouraging visitors to linger and return.

 

Set in a walkable, small-town atmosphere, the Farmington Farmers Market gives shoppers time and space to enjoy a truly local shopping destination.

Milford’s outdoor Honaker Home Scents & Crafty Day Events market returns this Saturday, May 23, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Kensington Mill Falls Events, bringing together some of the area’s most inspiring makers.

 

Comfortably Uncomfortable Crafts offers hand-drawn coloring books, quirky greeting cards, and beaded art that blend hope, humor, and relatability—a rare triple that aims to spark joy for both buyers and their friends.

 

Koda’s Home brings woodworking and quilting to life with charcuterie boards, porch signs, and handmade quilts—each piece created with intent for real homes and gathering spaces.

 

Luna’s Designs shapes local atmosphere with rustic, nature-inspired pieces—think white birch candle holders and live edge cutting boards—each celebrating the imperfect, organic character of found wood.

 

This event is free to attend. Discover the creativity and care behind each maker’s collection—right here in Milford.

Memorial Day weekend energizes Metro Detroit as markets and special events fill the calendar from Detroit to Northville, Ann Arbor, and beyond.

 

Kick things off Tuesday at Eastern Market Flower Tuesday—a relaxed, floral shopping experience perfect for gardeners seeking Michigan-grown blooms.

 

Ann Arbor Farmers Market and Northville Farmers Market offer local foods, handmade goods, and artisan finds midweek.

 

The weekend brings signature events like the Livonia Spring Art and Craft Fair and Kensington Art Fair, showcasing juried artists and crafts in lively, outdoor settings.

 

Farmers markets in Farmington, Royal Oak, Plymouth, and Birmingham provide fresh produce, flowers, and specialty foods in downtown districts.

 

Don’t miss Detroit’s Diaspora Day Fest or the Royal Oak Antiques & Collectibles Market for vibrant culture, unique finds, and a true holiday-weekend atmosphere.

 

This week, Metro Detroit neighborhoods are alive with shopping, art, music, and community spirit.

Imagine browsing a Metro Detroit market and spotting two similar candles with nearly identical prices and packaging.

 

Yet the stories behind them can be worlds apart.

 

One candle is truly handmade — carefully crafted from scratch by a local maker who pours, scents, and labels each in small batches.

 

The other may be relabeled wholesale, or simply assembled from pre-made parts, with less human touch and artistry.

 

Knowing the difference matters.

 

When you buy genuinely handmade, you’re supporting the skill, passion, and innovation of a local artisan — not just purchasing a finished object, but backing real people and their craft.

 

Your dollar stays in Metro Detroit, strengthening the community and helping vibrant markets like Eastern Market thrive.

 

Ask vendors about their process — most makers love to share their story.

 

Choosing handmade creates real, local impact every time.

Saturdays feel special when you spend them at the Honaker Home Scents & Crafty Day Events outdoor market, coming to Kensington Mill Falls Events in Milford on May 23rd from 11:00am to 5:00pm.

 

This vibrant market celebrates local artisans, offering unique handmade soaps, jewelry, 3D prints, woodworking, Scentsy products, and delicious baked goods—all created by talented neighbors.

 

Every purchase supports the Milford community, fueling creativity and passion right at the source.

 

Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind gift or just want to explore new flavors and crafts, the open-air setting promises a day of discovery you won’t find at big box stores.

 

Make plans to browse, connect, and enjoy a Saturday filled with genuine local pride at 2055 S. Milford Rd. in Milford.

Scammers targeting Metro Detroit vendors often prey on booth applicants by steering them toward unprotected payment methods.

 

You might do your research—checking Facebook, reviewing organizers’ pages, and messaging for details—yet still be at risk once payment is involved.

 

Cash, Zelle, Cash App, Venmo, and PayPal Friends & Family all lack buyer protections, giving scammers the perfect window to take off with your money.

 

Legitimate event organizers use credible payment options: credit cards, PayPal Goods & Services, Square, or Eventbrite—all provide transaction records and dispute paths.

 

If an organizer insists on cash or Zelle and refuses other methods, treat it as a major red flag.

 

Protect yourself before you pay—afterwards, recovery is nearly impossible.

 

The safest move for Detroit makers is to always use formal payment tools and walk away when asked for risky alternatives.

Eastern Market’s Flower Tuesday offers a peaceful alternative to Detroit’s bustling Saturday outdoor scene.

 

Every Tuesday in May, from 9 AM to 3 PM, local gardeners and plant lovers can explore Sheds 5 and 6 for a curated array of flowers, porch planters, and garden starts.

 

Unlike the 45,000-strong Saturday crowds, Tuesdays feature smaller crowds, easier parking, and knowledgeable vendors focused solely on botanical goods.

 

This event is ideal for home gardeners craving a less chaotic shopping experience, or anyone planning spring gatherings and wanting tailored advice from local growers.

 

Located at 2934 Russell Street, Eastern Market’s Flower Tuesday makes browsing and selection relaxed for both beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts.

 

For those who find Saturdays overwhelming, this weekly May event offers a calm, purposeful outing perfect for freshening up porches and gardens all spring.

Metro Detroit blossoms with vibrant market and festival events this May, offering locals a unique blend of art, crafts, flowers, and family fun.  

Eastern Market hosts special flower-focused Tuesdays and the region’s largest Saturday Market, drawing crowds with fresh produce, local flowers, and artisan goods at 2934 Russell Street in Detroit.  

On May 16, the Lucky Squirrel Craft & Vendor Event transforms Garden City with up to 150 vendors selling handmade and vintage treasures, while Founders Day Festival in Highland showcases a classic parade, food trucks, and a Kids Zone.  

Lake Orion’s Art & Flower Fair spans May 16–17, celebrating juried art, original crafts, and lush plants in a lively downtown setting.  

Shoppers in Northville can explore the May Makers Market at Willow Greenhouse for a serene, plant-filled boutique experience.  

Conclude the week at Eastern Market’s Flower Day on May 17, where Midwest growers gather for the city’s iconic annual floral celebration.

Some products fade into the background, but Honaker Home Scents helps Metro Detroiters make scent a signature part of their home.

 

Led by Kristy Honaker of Redford, this Scentsy consulting business connects shoppers with high-quality wax warmers and an impressive variety of fragrances designed to create lasting memories and welcoming spaces.

 

Unlike many online-only sellers, Kristy stands out by meeting customers face-to-face at Metro Detroit vendor events, building trust and personal connection alongside her growing local following.

 

Scentsy products offer a stylish and safe alternative to candles, using low-watt bulbs to deliver long-lasting, consistent fragrance with no open flame.

 

Metro Detroiters can shop Kristy’s full collection online with local pickup or shipping, or find her in person at vendor events across the region.

 

Enhancing your home’s scent is just a visit or click away.

C’est Bella LLC in Farmington Hills, Michigan was born from necessity, not business plans.

 

Founder Christina Tudor launched the brand after a stubborn psoriasis outbreak led her to create homemade remedies that transformed her own skin.

 

After two months of research and kitchen experiments, Christina cleared her symptoms without prescriptions or scarring.

 

That solution inspired her to craft a full lineup of organic skincare—soaps, sugar scrubs, body and beard balms, and refreshing body mists—all made by hand, without fillers or shortcuts.

 

C’est Bella’s beard balm broadens its appeal, making it a unique local find for men’s grooming needs as well.

 

Metro Detroit shoppers keep coming back because every product is built on Christina’s personal journey to better skin.

 

Order online or discover C’est Bella at Town Peddler in Livonia—a real local maker with genuine results.

Metro Detroit’s craft scene thrives every weekend from May to December, offering locals a robust mix of fairs and vendor markets within a short drive of the city.  

But not all events deliver the same magic.  

Locally-made goods, from candles in Ferndale kitchens to plants from Macomb greenhouses, set the best fairs apart, forging real connections between shoppers and makers.  

Quality is key: look for curated or juried events that guarantee originality and skill.  

The top spots also offer diverse vendor lineups, live music, food trucks, and family activities—transforming a standard shopping trip into a daylong experience.  

Organizers with established reputations usually ensure smooth logistics, smart layouts, and event energy that’s lively yet relaxed.  

Great locations like historic downtowns and beloved markets, plus easy navigation and ample parking, elevate these fairs into destination events that keep you coming back season after season.

Lake Orion’s Art & Flower Fair returns to downtown on May 16-17, 2026, with a vibrant showcase of creativity and local talent.

 

Organized by the Orion Art Center, this juried event features 100 booths filled with handcrafted art, unique crafts, and lush flowers and plants.

 

Every vendor is carefully reviewed, guaranteeing that all items for sale are original and made by the artist.

 

Visitors can explore live demonstrations, shop for botanical treasures, and enjoy a special kids area alongside downtown’s restaurants and shops.

 

The fair runs Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM at East Flint and North Broadway in Lake Orion.

 

Admission is free, making this event a perfect family-friendly way to support independent makers and experience the best of Lake Orion’s creative community.

Connecting with vendor references before paying any booth fee is essential for Metro Detroit makers.

 

After doing your research, reach out to vendors who have worked with the event organizer to hear real experiences.

 

Ask the organizer directly for two or three contacts—respectfully and privately—and follow up with specific questions about attendance, event organization, and whether they would pay to join again.

 

Your own network is a powerful resource. Metro Detroit’s vendor and maker community is tight-knit, so ask around in local groups to uncover valuable, unfiltered feedback.

 

If an organizer refuses to provide references or reacts defensively, consider it a red flag.

 

Legitimate organizers expect this level of due diligence.

 

Protect both your time and money—just fifteen minutes of follow-up can save you hundreds and safeguard your reputation.

 

Smart preparation keeps Metro Detroit’s creative community strong—and your booth investment safer.

Metro Detroit shoppers are rethinking gift-giving by turning away from the sameness of malls and embracing the vibrant local maker community.

 

While the mall offers variety, its gifts often feel impersonal—especially on occasions like Mother's Day.

 

Handmade gifts crafted by Metro Detroit makers tell a story and carry a personal touch no store-bought present can match.

 

The region’s tradition of artistry and craftsmanship infuses these gifts with meaning, as buyers connect directly with local artisans—many of whom share the same neighborhoods and values.

 

A custom candle, unique jewelry, or one-of-a-kind rug becomes more than an object. It’s a personal statement and a story to share.

 

This weekend, local events like Eastern Market and Royal Oak’s Mother’s Day Night Market highlight opportunities to support small businesses while giving a meaningful, memorable gift.

 

The mall will always be there—but these handmade treasures say you truly care.

Jazzy Katt Tufting in Pontiac, Michigan, is redefining custom rugs through the hands-on artistry of Kathy King and her stepdaughter Jazmine King.

 

With just one tufting gun and a passion for craft, this duo transforms customer ideas into vibrant, textured works of art that cannot be found on a store shelf.

 

Each rug is hand-tufted from scratch, featuring custom colors, unique designs, and intricate 3D carving for dramatic depth and dimension.

 

These are not just rugs—they are stories woven from community memories, nursery dreams, and personal tributes, all made with patience and love.

 

Jazzy Katt offers both shipping and local delivery across Metro Detroit, with plans for a retail space at Waterford’s Dixieland Flea Market coming soon.

 

To order, simply message them on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, and bring your creative vision to life with a piece that’s truly yours.

Metro Detroit bursts with activity this week as Mother's Day approaches, bringing lively markets and vibrant art fairs across the region.

 

Flower Tuesday at Detroit’s Eastern Market gives early shoppers a quieter option to pick up fresh flowers for mom straight from local growers.

 

Saturday sees Eastern Market transform with huge crowds, 225 vendors, and an electric atmosphere filled with produce, flowers, and Detroit-made products.

 

Art lovers can explore Art Birmingham in downtown Birmingham, where juried fine art, jewelry, and crafts draw tens of thousands to Shain Park.

 

Saturday night in Royal Oak brings a Mother's Day Night Market, offering last-minute gifts, live music, and a festive evening vibe.

 

Shelby Township hosts the Utica Antiques Market all weekend for collectors, while Canton Farmers Market kicks off its season Sunday with Michigan-grown goods and music in Preservation Park.

Metro Detroit vendors face mounting risks when signing up for local craft fairs and community markets.  

Many invest in supplies, pay expensive booth fees, and devote precious time, only to find out the event was never real or is run so poorly that they can’t recoup their costs.  

Event scams and incompetent organizing are growing threats, with some vendors losing hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year.  

Red flags include: brand-new event pages with no history, vague or inconsistent details, deleted comments from concerned vendors, and pressure for fast payment.  

The Metro Detroit vendor community remains an essential resource — asking for feedback in local Facebook groups can reveal crucial information about organizers.  

A trustworthy organizer will have photos from past events, real vendor testimonials, and a proven record across multiple seasons.  

Before paying any booth fee, take time to research. Your money and reputation are worth protecting in Detroit’s vibrant maker scene.

The Utica Antiques Market transforms the Knights of Columbus Grounds on 21 Mile Road in Shelby Township into Southeast Michigan’s largest all-antiques showcase three times each year.

 

Every May, July, and September, nearly 100 vendors from across the country gather under open skies and spacious canopies, offering an unbeatable selection of primitives, vintage furniture, jewelry, folk art, and more.

 

Serious collectors and first-time shoppers alike head to this lively outdoor event searching for unique finds that span decades.

 

Dale and Karen Niedzwiecki, owners since 2006, have kept the market’s welcoming, energetic atmosphere going strong for almost two decades.

 

Admission is $10 with free parking and on-site amenities.

 

The next market kicks off Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11541 21 Mile Road — making it a must for Metro Detroit’s antique hunters eager to uncover hidden gems.

The Mother's Day Night Market returns to Royal Oak Farmers Market on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 5 to 10 PM, offering a vibrant evening shopping experience curated just for Mother’s Day.

 

Over 80 local vendors will showcase handmade jewelry, custom clothing, bouquets, home goods, art, and unique gifts—each crafted specifically with women in mind.

 

With live music, a cash bar, and free admission, attendees can unwind in a festive, community-driven atmosphere while supporting Metro Detroit artisans and small businesses.

 

The walkable venue ensures a relaxed pace for browsing one-of-a-kind finds, whether you’re shopping for a mom, a friend, or yourself.

 

Organized by Detroit Event Planners and Melissa Brantley, the market transforms last-minute gifting into a memorable night out—and keeps dollars local.

Peteet’s Famous Cheesecakes stands as a Metro Detroit staple, founded by Patrick Peteet out of resilience and necessity after the 2008 real estate collapse.  

Originally, baking was just a family tradition for Patrick, who started making cheesecakes as a child in his Oak Park home.  

When hardships struck, he leaned into his talent and opened Peteet’s in 2010, honoring his late father and lifelong neighborhood ties.  

Each cheesecake at Peteet’s is handcrafted, made fresh daily using a unique two-layer baking process, resulting in unmatched density and creaminess.  

The bakery now boasts over 90 flavors, monthly specials, and provides desserts to more than 100 restaurants statewide.  

Peteet’s growth—even expanding to West Bloomfield—reflects Detroit’s spirit of reinvention.  

Visitors to 13835 W. 9 Mile Road are greeted with signature favorites and a heartfelt story baked into every slice.

Made in the D Reader Perk

 

Enjoy 20% off at Peteet’s Famous Cheesecakes in Oak Park, Michigan from March 1–15.

 

Peteet’s has earned its reputation as one of Metro Detroit’s top scratch bakeries.

 

Patrick Peteet found his passion during some of his toughest times.

 

After the 2008 real estate collapse turned his world upside down, Patrick faced a moment that could have defeated anyone.

 

Instead, he transformed challenge into opportunity, discovering that his real gift was baking — a talent he had quietly nurtured until then.

 

Now, Patrick’s cheesecakes delight locals and have become a celebrated treat throughout Oak Park and Metro Detroit.

Detroit’s enduring passion for cars takes center stage as the Detroit Autorama returns to Huntington Place February 27–March 1, 2026.

 

Celebrating 73 years, the event attracts over 140,000 visitors annually and showcases more than 800 custom cars, trucks, and motorcycles from across the country.

 

The Ridler Award, considered the “Nobel Prize of Hot Rodding,” anchors the weekend, drawing renowned builders like Chip Foose and Dave Kindig.

 

From the Great 8 finalists to the vibrant Autorama EXTREME selection, every display reflects Detroit’s heritage of innovation and grit.

 

Live entertainment, celebrity appearances—including local WWE legend Kevin Nash—and hands-on pinstriping turn the show floor into an interactive celebration of local culture.

 

Family history and pure automotive artistry converge where Detroit’s car culture was born.

 

Tickets start at $30, with discounts at O’Reilly Auto Parts.

 

Don’t miss this Detroit tradition—where the Motor City’s heart pounds loudest.