We like to put a lot of emphasis on shopping local and buying products made in Michigan here at Grand Rapids Magazine. That said, it’s good to acknowledge that national retail chains provide income for local salespeople, managers, cleaning and security crew who, in turn, earn money that they can spend at locally owned shops and restaurants. Plus, there’s a touch of convenience (not to mention nostalgia) that comes along with heading to a spot with so many options under one roof.
It’s also important to note that some shops at your local mall were started by people in the community.
Dorothy & Tony’s Gourmet Popcorn Shop offers unique treats, from the uniquely flavored cotton candy to classic glass-bottled sodas. The business started by making and selling its special recipe kettle corn at farmers markets in Michigan and Arizona. Kyle Behm – whose grandmother and grandfather are Dorothy & Tony – opened the first shop on Plainfield in 2010 and expanded to the Downtown Market in 2013. In 2021, the company made its foray into the Woodland Mall, where it’s a standout among the usual clothing stores and other national chains.
“Whether you’re looking for a gift to help your mom or mother figure relax, searching for a sentimental piece to spell out how much you care, or seeking a way to spend quality time together, Woodland Mall’s variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment has something for everyone,” said Mikia Ross, interim senior marketing director for Woodland Mall.
Ross suggests the gift of quality time with some “fun and funky snacks” from Dorothy & Tony’s, as well as some gift ideas from these Woodland Mall retailers:
Bath & Body Works: Make every day spa day with some new items from Bath & Body’s Wellness Shop. With scents and products designed to help with sleep, focus, stress relief and more, you’ll be sure to find a product that is exactly what your mom or mother figure needs.
Hallmark: Want to give something homemade, but having trouble getting in touch with your crafty side? Head over to Hallmark and grab a handprint wood sign kit, a perfect way to give mom or grandma something (semi) handmade.
JCPenney: Summer will soon be underway in Michigan. Help the lake-loving mom or mother figure prep for beach season with cover-ups, beach bags, hats, shades, and more at JCPenney.
Offline by Aerie: Offline by Aerie has a variety of must-have exercise accessories including fanny packs, scrunchies and caps, perfect for the woman-on-the-go or workout queen.
Rose & Remington: Whether she’s your best friend, the bravest woman you know or a big dreamer, tell her with a chic morse code necklace from Rose & Remington. The store has a variety of words available so you can send the perfect message, without even saying a word.
“Spend more time celebrating the wonderful women in your life and less time stressing about gifts by finding everything you need in one spot,” Ross said. And if you can’t make up your mind? Many of the mall’s shops and restaurants offer gift cards.
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