A little taste of Michigan Great Lakes Marketplace and Artisan Village

Great Lakes Marketplace and Artisan Village is a quaint little market in historic Downtown Holly. And when you visit, one thing is sure: you won’t find anything “Made in China.” “Everything sold here is Michigan-made,” boasts proprietor John LaCroix, who has owned the market since 2011. Great Lakes Marketplace offers a wide variety of Michigan foods, including produce, meats, dairy, snacks and desserts. Some of the Michigan food makers represented are William’s Cheese, Yooper Pickled Products, Cream Caramels of Goodrich, Ann Arbor Tortilla Co.,and Cherry Republic, to name just a few!

The Artisan Village is also a showplace for 20 Michigan artists to display their work. Flying off the shelves are very popular granite cheese boards. “They sell like hotcakes,” John laughed. Also on display are bird houses, clothing by Michigan Outfitter, copper sculptures, glass bead work by Ann Marie Frances, Christmas ornaments, candles and other unique gifts. “Every artist here has a story,” says John, “and each artist is unique.” Also on display is something near and dear to John’s heart – a collection of books written by his father, John LaCroix. “He is the reason I started this store,” John explained. John has written several books, including his popular children’s series, Thimbledon.

While you wander through the Village and peruse the artwork offered for purchase, you can enjoy a hot cup of coffee, latte or cocoa and a fresh pastry from the coffee shop, or a Guernsey ice cream cone. In the deli you will find a selection of sandwiches and a homemade soup of the day. The market is gearing up for the holiday season, getting ready to create their popular gift baskets of Michigan-made goodies. “We can ship our products anywhere in the world,” says the owner. Last year they sold over 300 baskets filled with artwork, candles, mittens and a variety of foods, and the gift baskets can also be customized.

This unique shop is open seven days a week. “Stop by during the Dickens Festival to warm up and do a little Christmas shopping,” invites John. “You will love the selection and you will find the values exceptional. We’ll greet you with smile – just the way it used to be.” ♦

Photography by Mike Naddeo

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