At Little Luxuries, it is always so exciting to support local Mackinac artists - especially when they also happen to work at Little Luxuries!
If you’ve stopped in to the shop this season, you’ve probably met Dottie. She is usually at the door to greet you with a smile and a kind word - she’s usually complimenting shoppers outfits or accessories and always ready to help you find what you are looking for! Dottie has worked for Little Luxuries for the past two summers, as she splits her time between living on Mackinac Island and also in Midland, Michigan.
Dottie also happens to be a talented artist who makes handmade bears and horses for Little Luxuries. We have watched them fly off the shelves this summer.
She started making stuffed animals for her son Alexander when he was a baby. He’s now 35! When her daughter, Taylor Ann was born, she continued to make her a stuffed animal and gave it to her each Christmas Eve with her Christmas pajamas - a tradition that dates back to when Dottie was a child!
In addition to bears, she has now started making beautiful horses in honor of Mackinac Island!
Dottie said that when she sees a bear sold, it’s humbling to see her work being so well loved! It seems like children and adults alike love them! She loves seeing the smiles that are brought to everyone’s faces when they purchase their bear or horse.
The best selling bears this season have been the Oatmeal + Cinnamon Bears. Another top request has been the Purple and Light Lavender Bears - they pair well with remembering Mackinac Island during lilac season!
Dottie says that she truly enjoys making each bear and horse. It is so fun to have a creative outlet as each toy she makes is unique.
Because they are so unique in nature, we haven’t put them on the website, however, if you would ever like to purchase one, just message us or give us a call and we would be happy to help you purchase the perfect handmade bear!
Are there any horses left? So sweet.