When people talk about strong communities, part of that foundation is place-based “Living, working, shopping, and playing.” The idea that your life is walkable. Your child’s teacher is the woman who lives down the street. You know the teenager at the local market by name because you shop there every week. You visit your neighbor’s store for gift shopping. The ability to build relationships within your community strengthens ties and commitments to be at peace with one another, care for one another, look out for each other, and invest both personally and professionally.
Supporting local small businesses is such a powerful way to support and build a strong community. In Folwell, one such neighborhood gem, standing proud on the corner of 37th and Fremont is The Dream Shop. Home to more than 25 vendors, mostly women and people of color, it is an incubator of ideas, a gathering space for connection, and home to hundreds of beautiful handmade gifts.
One of my favorite activities is being able to walk to The Dream Shop for holiday shopping or to attend one of the many events that are hosted there, like Open Mic Night. In the span of those few blocks, I almost always run into a neighbor that I get to say hello to, watch kids playing at Folwell Park, and then use my money to support artists and makers.
Markella Smith, the owner of The Dream Shop, had a dream of opening a business in her Northside neighborhood. As a single mother and artist herself, she wanted to provide a way to consistently support and highlight artists, creatives and makers, while also creating local job opportunities. To help others see their dream come true is one of her very own. She has curated a space that is full of light, positivity and high vibration. It is a space that ignites imagination and creativity making you feel warm and cozy as soon as you make it through her doors.
Beyond the front of house where the shop is located, Markella is fiercely dedicated to providing a wide variety of events that she hosts in the community space. She regularly partners with Joseph Barb of Drunken Monkeee on events. If you have attended any of their Open Mic Nights, then you know what a treat you are in for!
When you are looking for those special gifts either for a holiday that you celebrate, birthdays, anniversaries, or simply to restock your own candles, incense, notebooks, jewelry, etc., I highly encourage you to go and check out The Dream Shop. With new products being constantly restocked, it feels so good to know that your money is going directly to support local artists and entrepreneurs.
The Dream Shop always has a full schedule of events. To keep up with their happenings and join in, make sure to check out their FB Page @TheDreamShopMpls or go to their website TheDreamShopMpls.com Emails can also be sent to TheDreamShopMpls@gmail.com The space is also available to rent for your own event along with tables and chairs.
Want to get gifts for holiday shopping? Come visit The Dream Shop!
Regular Business Hours: Thursday, 1-6 p.m.; Friday, 1-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Sunday, 11a.m.-4 p.m. Holiday Store Hours will likely expand a bit in December.
Come check out the Special December Events: Thursday Dec. 7, 6-10 p.m. is Open Mic Night; Sunday, Dec. 10, noon- 4 p.m. is the Fair Trade Holiday Market; Friday, Dec. 15, 6-10 p.m. is Afro Beatz Night; and Thursday, Dec. 21 from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. is our 3rd Annual Community Day; with Arts & Crafts from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and more special surprises coming!