MILFORD, Mich. – Finding the perfect one-of-a-kind gift for someone special can be a daunting task, so instead of tackling the crowds at a mall or a big box store this holiday season, try shopping locally in southwest Oakland County’s downtown hot spot: Milford.
“Milford is a wonderful and affordable downtown destination, perfect for those who wish to buy local this holiday season,” said Ann Barnette, executive director of the Milford Downtown Development Authority. “Instead of waiting for hours in lines at big box stores, visitors can easily stroll Main Street to find great items at our Michigan-owned shops and award-winning restaurants.”
The village of Milford makes it easy and convenient to celebrate the holidays in style with gift ideas perfect for any budget. To save on cash, visitors can pick up a complimentary Milford Downtown Development Authority Holiday Shopping Card at participating downtown Milford businesses or online at www.meetmeinmilford.com. This card, available between Thanksgiving and Christmas, grants customers exclusive deals and promotional offerings for a variety of downtown Milford restaurants and retailers.
For great gift ideas, please see the examples that follow:
For the Shoe Aficionado: For Feet’s Sake
Who doesn’t enjoy a great pair of shoes? For Feet’s Sake carries a wide selection of name-brand shoes. This winter, warm up to the plush sheepskin lining inside Merrell's Primo Chill Slide shoe – the season’s must-have.
For Unique Gifts: Nana’s Niche & Corner
Named for the owner’s late grandmother, Nana’s Niche & Corner has everything from candles, home décor, Vera Bradley purses, and fashionable luggage to exclusive Michigan-made gifts. Your wallet will be happy, too – there’s a great range of prices to fit all budgets.
For the Home: Your Nesting Place
This shop is reminiscent of HGTV’s Design on a Dime with its wonderfully eclectic and one-of-a-kind pieces, perfect for adorning the home. Additionally, give the gift of design to a new homeowner – design services run the gamut from choosing paint colors or upholstery to complete room design.
For the Kitchen: Acorn Farm
For the chef in your life, check out Milford’s newest retailer, Acorn Farm, for a great selection of gourmet goods and kitchen gadgets. A shopper’s favorite is the made-to-order Samantha Grace aprons. These are customized by color/pattern and can be embroidered with that special person’s name, too.
For the Artist: Main Street Art
Stop into Main Street Art for custom framing, artist materials and the gift-worthy collection of original art created by local, regional and national artists. A holiday favorite includes beautiful hand-blown glass ornaments from local Milford artists, Twin Studios.
For the Fashionista:
Let the Clothing Cove serve you in style by dressing you from head to toe! With a wide variety of fashions, accessories and the widest selection of Brighton accessories in the state, Clothing Cove is sure to help you knock out several gifts! Extra services include onsite alterations and complimentary gift wrapping. Additionally, cake is always available because you can’t shop on an empty stomach!
For the Pizzazz: Rottermond Jewelers
Impress someone with some bling this season! Rottermond Jewelers is a local family owned and operated fine jewelry store located in the heart of downtown. The store is known for its exclusive Hearts on Fire® collection, which touts the world’s most perfectly cut diamond. Come in for a wide selection of luxurious items, including custom-made jewelry, priced for all budgets.
For Fido: Just Dogs! Gourmet
This unique treat shop will surely get Fido’s stocking filled quickly. Adorable, holiday-themed treats are available for a variety of price points.
Christmas Open House – December 4
Another holiday element to be celebrated in Milford will be the annual Christmas Open House. Get into the spirit of the season when you are magically transported in time to a Dickensian-feeling celebration, complete with Father Christmas himself.
The event, which will be held Thursday, Dec. 4 from 5:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. will include live reindeer, children’s photos with Father Christmas, horse-drawn carriage rides, local musicians and complimentary hot chocolate and cider. Additionally, retailers will be open until 9 p.m. and will be offering special discounts to customers.
Getting To Milford
The Village of Milford is a 2.5 square mile area nestled in southwest Oakland County and is easily accessed from both I-96 and M-59.
For more information about visiting Milford, please visit www.meetmeinmilford.com.
(Editor’s note: Ann Barnette, executive director of the Milford Downtown Development Authority is available for interviews. Additionally, merchandise is available to photograph. Please contact Lauren Weber at weber@franco.com.)
About the Milford Downtown Development Authority
Established by ordinance in 1982, the Milford Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is a commercial district revitalization organization dedicated to building an attractive environment in which people can shop, live and play. To learn more about downtown Milford, visit www.meetmeinmilford.com.
