Beautiful Belle Isle!

I remember going to Belle Isle as a child, and just having a wonderful time. Belle Isle, is an island in the Detroit river just a short swim from Canada (that's a slight exaggeration, please do not attempt)! While it is officially Belle Isle Park, the island holds an aquarium, conservatory, beaches, ponds, and beautiful scenery. Of course, my favorite part was the Belle Island Aquarium. Years later, I was saddened to hear that the building with the "fishies" and gorgeous green tile was closed down. This past weekend was my first time returning to Belle Isle since it's reopening. And I have to say it felt like walking down a fond, distant memory. The building still holds it's old charm, and an array of fun aquatic life. While I love a good aquarium, I love a good conservatory just as much! The Belle Isle Conservatory was just as dreamy as it's said to be. It was a beautiful day, and the enormous glass building stood out against the crystal blue sky. Inside, the warm tropical air and variety of exotic plants felt like I stepped into the jungle. I enjoyed the atmosphere, admiring all the different plants, and learning a bit about each type. Emily was really in her element, taking plenty of pictures along the way. Right outside the building, sat an ice cream truck where we couldn't help but grab a cone of our own! Although we didn't get the chance to explore the whole island, I hope to go back and do some kayaking, enjoy the beach, and wave "Hi" to our Canadian neighbors ;)

Eastern Market Vintage Flea!

Today we took a trip down to the Eastern Market to check out the Vintage and Antique Flea in Shed 5! Having only being my second time to the Eastern Market since the Walk Fashion Show, I was very impressed! Tables and booths lined the inside and outside of the Sheds, brimming with goods both old and new. I wanted to provide local support, and purchased a handmade mug that reads, "Good morning Detroit." I'm very happy to add it to my collection...that I totally don't have, because who needs 20 mugs? ;) Vendors with Michigan-made snacks offered tasty samples, and some of Detroit's best food trucks filled the air with tantalizing smells. Unfortunately, Emily and I couldn't find the willpower to pass up splitting a mini blueberry cheesecake :P Let's just say we did not regret it! Outside of the buildings, were tents filled with rows upon rows of beautiful flowers and plants. We also had fun admiring the surrounding street art, and of course took advantage of the photo op! The entire Eastern Market area was crowded with eager shoppers, and it was an absolutely beautiful day. My entire family agreed to make it a point to come back again! If you'd like to check out this event for your own, take a trip out on July 10th or August 14th during the hours of 10am-4pm! I promise you won't be able to pass up the mini cheesecake ;)

Photos: Myself and Emily Joanne Photography 

Fun in Ferndale!

If you're looking for a fun place filled with unique shops, healthy restaurants, chic cafés, and friendly people, try Ferndale! A very health concious, accepting, and artistic community that I love to visit every now and then! Downtown you'll find plenty of pose-worthy walls. I read an article recently saying that wall scouting is now considered a legitimate hobby! But I'll save my thoughts on that for another post ;) Anyhow, my absolute favorite shop downtown is The Boston Tea Room. They carry books on meditation and yoga, crystals, stones, incense, and anything to help you find your center. Not to mention their amazing variety of loose leaf tea! You'll also find the Rust Belt Market, home to local vendors, artists, and crafters. In the center of the market, banquets and parties can be held in a large room beautifully lit by string lights. There's also the Western Market, for all your fresh flowers, food, and produce. As for eating out, Como's Pizzeria has the best pizza around! If you're looking for a light brunch instead, the Public House has an amazing selection. The scrambled eggs and avacado toast is my personal favorite! There's also plenty of cafés, including the Catfé, where you can play with cats while enjoying your coffee! If you're looking for entertainment, the New Way Bar always has great local talent playing. Ferndale also hosts beautiful art fairs, craft shows, and Ferndale Pride, which is actually taking place today! But don't take my word for it, go check out Ferndale for yourself! And don't forget to take a wall selfie ;)