OK – so one of the best things about living in Downtown Detroit is the opportunity to walk to all of these cool things happening on the River Walk. So, how mad am I (at myself) that I missed River Days and the fireworks???? What a dummy! Oh well, I did do some really neat stuff over the last week though…
Last Wednesday I was invited by a friend to the Detroit Wine Society "Wine Down Wednesday" event at The Whitney (across from the Museum of Contemporary Art). I've been meaning to check out that restaurant – especially since I heard they were under new management and lots of changes were happening. The restaurant is in this beautiful old house on Woodward Ave. Unfortunately it rained, so the event wasn't held outside in the garden and patio area, but it did give me a chance to check out the stunning architecture of the old house. All kinds of different wines were sampled and the chefs cooked up some tasty food. On the way out I peeked at the garden area – so incredibly hot! They're now doing parties out there with DJs, so guess who will be back to check that out????
On Friday night I went to the Model D (my favorite Detroit web site) Birthday Party and Speaker event at The Max (Max Fisher Music Center) – also on Woodward Ave. Unfortunately, I got there too late to hear the speakers, but I did mingle a bit at the party. Plus, I got the lowdown on the history of the Max by this awesome old guy working the door. He's been there forever (quite possible a true statement)! Like so many other gems in Detroit it was on the verge of becoming history at one point. Some influential donors stepped up and today it's a thriving cultural center in the city. In fact, in the upcoming months, there are going to be so many great opportunities to soak up some of that culture with the phenomenal lineup that's been booked.
After leaving the party I followed a friend over to the Riverfront Harbor (right in front of Riverfront Condos Downtown). Some of his friends have a boat docked there and were gracious enough to let me crash their intimate gathering. I couldn't believe after a hard day of work I was able to end up back near my home in Downtown Detroit, relaxing on a beautiful boat, sipping cocktails, enjoying the view of Windsor and making new friends. It's not how I thought I would end my day, but it was a much needed few hours of chill time. I never know what I'm going to get into in Detroit. Every day I'm presented with new options and every day is an adventure!
Speaking of adventure's I recently had my first big retail adventure in Downtown Detroit at Studio Couture on Woodward Ave. First, I'm starting to be convinced that Woodward ends just past the New Center Area. Now that we have a great little gourmet market, restaurants and bars, pharmacies, a spa and enough retail to satisfy me until more come, what else do I need????? Anyway, getting back to Studio Couture… I walked in there to "look around" and I walked out with four little dresses and the cutest House of Dereon top. For those of you that aren't up on the latest fashion, that's Beyonce's upscale line of clothing. Nino (the owner) was THE BEST! If you that hate mall shopping and generic chain stores, you would love this place. He picks out the hottest stuff. At first I didn't realize there was a whole big area for women because the men have the whole front of the store. But, once I got to the back I wanted everything!!!! The thing is I've realized how important it is to support these Detroit businesses. That doesn't mean I'm going to drop my cash in a place that's a rip-off or that doesn't have anything I need or want. BUT, in the case of Studio Couture or any of the other really top quality places, I really want to spend my money there. They have what I like and I want them to keep their doors open. I also want others to see that you really can have a thriving business in Downtown Detroit so they'll take a chance and open up as well.
Before I end my blog this week I just have to get back to the River Days. I hate that I missed it, but I had to go out of town. Last year was my first year in Detroit and I had so much fun watching the fireworks over the river. Plus, every happening at Hart Plaza or on the river that I've been to has been worth the time. Summer is so short in Detroit and I want to soak in all the festival action I can get. Fortunately there are plenty happening here. This is a new week (funny how they keep coming!) and although I missed the last big Detroit event, I will be Jazzin' on Jefferson this weekend (6/28) – hope to see you there!!!
-Heather
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