Exploring Local Genesee County Businesses: Looking Through a New Lens

Embracing Change

Stepping away from a 13-year career within the last year to spend more time with my family and work on my own business has been many things. Rewarding. Exhilarating. Terrifying. Awesome. It has also taken me places I never would have guessed. In the last few months, I've had some truly spectacular experiences at local businesses in Linden, MI (our hometown) and Grand Blanc, MI (where our son goes to school). I wanted to share them with the community because I'm sure there are many like me that didn't know about these spots before, and I'd love to give them the recognition they deserve!

Small Town Charm in Linden

Chris (4) and CJ (3) and I (I'll never tell) have gotten into the habit of taking a walk into downtown Linden a few times a week. It's taught them responsibility - sticking to the sidewalk near the "big road" (Linden Rd.) - and we've met tons of lovely people. The kids adore visiting the "waterfalls!" by the Mill Pond. One day last month as we were heading home, we passed The Wylde Child Edit shop and a sparkly blue dress in the window caught CJ's eye. The ladies were so accommodating that they opened up for us even though they weren't technically open! They had the most precious variety of clothes, shoes, and accessories for little ones (newborn - 2ish).

Earlier this week during one of our walks, I remembered seeing something about a coffee shop in Linden on Facebook. After some quick googling, we found our way into Bridge Street Brewtique (in the same building as Beloved Books). The very kind owner, Heather, made me the day's special (omg, was it amazing!) and gave two very happy toddlers animal cookies. We also learned that they had shops and event space downstairs.

Spectacular Service in Grand Blanc

Because our son attends preschool in Grand Blanc, I've had quite a few meetings there in recent months. I've been into the Starbucks on Hill Rd. & Fenton Rd. two times recently. The first time, the service was so outstanding I thought it was a fluke. After the second visit, I realized it wasn't. The team is high energy, so wonderful, and greets everyone by name. They've got something really special going on there, and I look forward to future visits!

I also had my first stop into Cupcakes & Kisses this week to pick up some cookies as gifts. The owner, Toni, waited on me. She spoke personally to everyone who came in and still somehow managed to chat with me for a few minutes. The scents in their building alone are worth the visit, and it was adorable!

With the exception of my college years, I've lived in Genesee County since age 8 (first Flushing, then Grand Blanc, and now Linden). Enjoying these businesses has made me appreciate the area anew and made me excited to get out and see what else I've been missing!