Welcome to our Ypsilanti “In the Spotlight” series! We’re highlighting community members of all interests and experiences, and sharing their top reasons and tips for living in Ypsilanti.  

In this month’s feature, we’re showcasing Holli Andrews, a passionate new business owner helping create a lively local scene. Recently, Holli announced her new Depot Town shop, Depot Town Cats and Dogs is opening in April. Here’s what Holli had to say about the new shop and why she has made Ypsi her home.

What should we know about you and your business?

I am a former Main Street nonprofit director who has helped small business owners shape thriving downtowns and vibrant local economies from Maine to Michigan since 2008. I've met the most amazing people along the way -- working on community-driven projects and celebrating mom and pop shops with unique local events over the last 16 years.

And now, I am right over the moon to join the amazing cache of cool small businesses in Ypsi with a new brick and mortar pet supplies shop, Depot Town Cats and Dogs!

Why pet supplies? I have had the great fortune to rescue 3 beloved dogs over my lifetime. In Maine, I became a forever home for a husky malamute named Natty and a little old guy named Arlo from the shelter. I adored them both until they "crossed the Rainbow Bridge" for endless treats and bones. These days, I'm joined by another rescue dog, Levi (6 years old and currently just loving life in Michigan). He is my furry biz partner and inspiration for the DTCAD.

With this new independent pet supplies store, I hope to deepen my community connections with my fellow Ypsi small biz owners/employees and cool neighbors (humans and pets) in Depot Town. This shop and social hub will be fun, welcoming, and lively — a warm addition to the local scene of pets and people who live in and visit Ypsi.

Opening this April. Sneak peek inside — the white fixtures may look familiar! Beautifully repurposed from Unicorn Feed & Supply, now fully online & planning pop-ups around Ypsi.

Why is Ypsi home?

There is something for everybody here! This place brings out the friendly, creative and inspired sides of people. Folks work hard together and take pride in this small Metro Detroit city. We have fun together, too -- and our weirdness and wonderfulness is quite often captured by the community of artists who live and work here. Ypsi reminds me of a few of the great places I've called home -- from Boulder, Colorado and Santa Cruz, California, to Portland, Maine and Framingham, Massachusetts. I feel so lucky to have found myself here.

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

It's a lovely thing to be part of this great place. We have a pretty robust range of quality nightlife here and food -- ethnic, cultural, traditional offerings. It's easy to find modern and wholesome eateries with food that comes from the heart. Music with a magically engaged audience can be experienced from Downtown and Eastern Michigan University to Depot Town and all the way to the outskirts. We have theatre and coffee and cocktails, museums and puppets, amazing events and more. Just come and visit -- or better yet, stay! Without a doubt, there's always something going on and welcoming people to meet.

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