Max and Sharon McDonald opened their first brick and mortar vintage store in Ypsilanti four months ago and have been pleased with their success.
"[We] have seen a steady pace since we opened up, and we’ve had a good influx of new customers for the holiday fest on Saturdays," Max McDonald said.
Find and Shine has become a popular spot, especially during local events. The McDonalds served hot cocoa to visitors during weekend festivities, further strengthening their connection with the Ypsilanti community. Customers are invited to explore an eclectic collection of vintage clothing, collectibles, posters, records, knick-knacks, and much more. The shop’s atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a unique shopping experience.
“We try to have an eclectic vibe,” McDonald said. “We buy what we like.”
The store’s charm is evident in every corner, from the carefully curated items on display to the ambiance created by music, fun lighting, and candles. This thoughtful design has helped create a warm, welcoming environment where customers feel at ease and encouraged to browse at their own pace.
“I feel like we really fit into the Ypsi community. We love the small-town feel,” McDonald said.
While Find and Shine may be a recent addition to Ypsilanti’s downtown area, the McDonalds have been pursuing their passion for vintage and antique treasures for almost a decade. Over the years, they’ve honed their expertise at vintage and antique flea markets and events, developing a keen eye for what resonates with their customers. Their passion for curating unique finds has remained the cornerstone of their business.
In addition to their brick-and-mortar store, the McDonalds plan to continue attending larger flea markets during the summer and maintain a booth at the Town Peddler Antique Mall in Livonia. Their longstanding presence in the vintage world has helped them build a loyal following and extensive knowledge of the industry, which they bring to their shop every day.
Looking ahead, the McDonalds are focused on growing Find and Shine into a sustainable, full-time business. Currently, both of them work other jobs throughout the week, which means the store is only open from Thursday through the weekend. If they were to have a steady stream of income at their shop, they would be able to expand their hours and offer even more opportunities for the community to shop and connect with their unique offerings.
Find and Shine's dedication to curating a unique and enjoyable shopping experience has not only drawn in steady foot traffic but also helped form strong connections with customers during local events.
With their years of experience in vintage markets and their aspirations for growth, the McDonalds are well on their way to making Find and Shine a full-time success. As they continue to balance their passion with their everyday commitments, their dream of running a thriving business is within reach, and the Ypsilanti community is sure to benefit from their continued presence and dedication.
For those interested in learning more about Find and Shine or keeping up with the latest vintage finds, be sure to visit their social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, where they regularly share updates, promotions, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of their vintage treasures.
