Every month, we’re highlighting community members of all interests and experiences in our “In the Spotlight” series, and sharing top reasons and tips for living in Ypsilanti.  

In this feature, we’re shining a light on Angel Vanas, owner of the bold, fearless, and authentic Star Studio in downtown Ypsilanti. Not only is Angel a downtown business owner, but a festival organizer, Ypsi advocate, president of the Ypsilanti Enterprise Association (YEA), and all around Ypsilanti star, putting their heart into Ypsi daily. Hear from Angel who shares what makes Ypsi so special.

What should we know about you?

I’m Angel F*^%$#@ Vanas! I’m big, loud, queer, intimidating, tough as rawhide, and I take zero s&*^. I’m also very smushy, an extreme empath. Yes, I have cried at that commercial. I want superpowers and money so I can protect everyone. According to everyone who’s had one, my hugs are the best, and totally free! I am extrovert incarnate, yes I want to meet you, yes I want to know all about you, yes I want to shake your hand and give you a hug… I’m a lot. I’m pretty self-aware. I think that comes with neuro-spicy territory. I am a big ol’ gaming and fantasy sci-fi and actual science nerd.

I run Star Studio, and you can see what kind of styles we do on social media. Where we truly put our heart and soul is the safe space. Dedicated to being a radically inclusive space, we strive to make sure everyone, especially those from the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond, can feel safe to be themselves fully while we work our magic on their hair. It's not just about the look, it’s about the feels in a place where you’re truly welcomed.

I’m also on a journey to becoming the best Boss Lady ever. I don’t do business the way it’s always been done and I’m in it for the whole cake, not just the frosting. My ego doesn’t find joy in just my bottom line. I like to brag about the things I find truly impressive. I wanna tell everyone how massive my payroll is. How my crew loves to be at work. I want my crew fulfilled creatively, financially,  and everything in between. Business can be done in a healthy, sustainable way. Success is about being a positive presence, not just for the owner and the employees but to those we serve, the community we’re in, and to those who serve us. And I’m gonna show how it’s done! And then promptly brag about it, because the ego must be fed!

Why Ypsi?

Ypsi isn't just where I work; it's the core of who I am. I'm a third-generation native—really, Ypsi chose me. This community is vibrant, eclectic, and fiercely independent, and weird. Wonderfully weird. I chose to stay and build my business here because Ypsi’s spirit resonates with my own—a place where being yourself isn't just accepted; it's celebrated. Also, have you met me? I just don’t fit in most places. For me Ypsi is custom-tailored.

What advice would you give someone looking to live in Ypsi?

Embrace the unexpected. Get right with being uncomfortable. It’s good for you! Ypsi is a place of diverse cultures and contrasting flavors. Try it all! You never know where your new favorite thing or person is. Dive into community, attend local events, and don’t just live in Ypsi and drive away to go do everything. Your inner Ypsi needs feeding! Talk to people! Almost anything you’re looking for, we got it. And volunteer- Ypsi is better together. It also feeds the soul and gets you off the couch and out from behind a screen.

What is something about Ypsilanti that only a local would know?

The handle on the door at the Tap Room is super low because it was designed to cater to the population of little people who were here to work inside the wings at the bomber plant. You can’t eat at Bill’s Hotdog unless you have cash. If you want to hear all the announcements at the Fourth of July Parade, you want to be near the grandstand at Cross & Hamilton. Ice Cream Time beats Dairy Queen hands down. If you’re footing it between Depot Town and Downtown, going through Riverside Park is the easier, lovelier walk.

Good things are happening here all the time. What’s good in Ypsi?

There’s always something brewing in Ypsi! Like, literally, we have five breweries and another on the way. Whatever your choice, we got it, cuz it was made right here! This city is full of unique treasures at shops like the rockin’ A2 Vintage, Pinterest home vibes at Stone and Spoon, or the wonderfully weird Twisted Things. You would be amazed at how many Ypsi shops are woman and minority-owned!

Ypsi is home of artists and entertainers. Paint with a buzz at Tipsy Ypsi, catch family-friendly drag shows at the Tap Room, catch some standup at 734 Brewing Company, and get your hands on some rad art at Holy Bones events. Events. We got ‘em! Don’t miss the truly inclusive and oldest in the state, Ypsi Fourth of July Parade, Ypsi Pride for a burst of color and community, or the tree lighting and decorations of Ypsi for the holidays. Food? Oh you have no idea! Take the squad for a brunch at Bobcat Bonnie’s. Empanadas at Encuentro Latino, authentic heaven! Clear your sinus with Spicy AF fried chicken at Ma Lou’s. Seriously, you don’t even know; Until you do, then you can’t stop. Ypsi food is food of the gods!

What is something you are looking forward to this year in Ypsi?

I'm buzzing about the expansion of Ypsi’s summer festival lineup. More music, more art, more community engagement—these are the things that fire me up and knit us closer as a community. I’m also really excited about the evolution of our local government and social programs. There are so many of us behind the scenes working to create an Ypsi that is more equitable, accessible, and prosperous for all of us happy little Ypsi weirdos! I love it! 

How would you describe Ypsilanti in 3 words?

I can describe Ypsi in one word. Weed. Ypsi is a weed. Stick with me here...

Ypsi has been here forever, we are the second oldest city in the state. Still here. Growing where we can. Pushing through pavement cracks, reaching for our piece of the sun! Stubborn AF. Not only do we survive, we bloom! At first glance, we may not stack up to popular “flowers”. Ypsi grows a little crooked, and we have thorns, our stems are all bumpy, and our flowers are sprouting out in different directions. Even our colors don’t match. Some may say that we are ugly. Dangerous. Unworthy. Flawed. But we’re so much more than a pretty flower! Like most weeds, upon closer inspection and understanding, you’ll find that we are indeed an herb. Tough as nails, built to thrive in the harsh with little to work with. We are more useful than a decorative species. Every part, even if it looks weird! Our blooms may not be the subject of man’s poetry, but our petals can weather the storm, make medicine for the body and soul, and we come in amazing colors!

Want to learn more about living in Ypsilanti? Find more features and property listings at LiveNypsi.com.