Black Love & Business: Stef-N-Ty

Stef-N-Ty Boutique

9425 John R St, Detroit MI

CREATIVITY

COMMUNITY

PRIDE

HISTORY…

…are all the feels when entering Stef-N-Ty. I initially visited the showroom a few weeks ago with a friend who purchased a one-of-a-kind hat, crafted by the wife of the husband and wife team (owners), Stephanie. We were greeted by Ty (husband and co owner) with such warmth and care as soon as we entered (very important to me).

The showroom is on the main level and there are numerous “funky hats” featured and have to be restocked often due to the high demand. They also feature creations by other local makers. This showroom is open to share with a local maker or retailer to “pop up” once or twice a month. This month, Motor City Thrifter is there.

Stef-N-Ty is a destination and there is no other place like it. Located on “John R. Row” (John R) in Detroit’s historic North End, their location and other street level shops are part of the area’s revitalization. Though they have been in business since the early 1990s and have been influential in many other places, Detroit is where magic happens (my strong opinion).

On the top level of the store, this couple has created their own manufacturing hub. The manufacturing hub is where Stephanie does what she does (designs and crafts couture hats that can be seen on the likes of Erykah Badu and of course Detroit celebrities). They actually employ local sewers to assist with the insistent order requests and stock.

Necktie Choker by Mason Tone

My second time visiting, I played dress up a bit. One of my favorite pieces in the store is a handcrafted neck tie accessory that is worn like a choker. I got an opportunity to really study the aesthetic and culture of the store. I realized that the whole place is a work of art. The palette is right up my alley. Neutral, with pops of color. Yes. Then there are Ty’s Painted Poles displayed as decor (they are for sale) on one wall.

Let’s talk about branding, too, for a second. This couple has Stef-N-Ty mugs, jewelry and their own comic books in the show room. Oh. Love Never Looked So Good. This is their memoir about their life, love and business ventures. I could go on and on, BUT you should experience this all for yourself! Take your time to take it all in too.

Thank you Tyrone and Stephanie Dickey for providing a community for creatives and people who need to stretch their imagination. Thank you for representing for Black Love and Black Business. We see you.

My beautiful husband with Ty Dickey (these two clicked like nobody’s business) and a snippet of the store’s coffee bar.