For over five decades, Upndown has been a Wyandotte small business staple, growing, changing and evolving to meet the needs of the community it has served for more than 51 years.
The shop planted its roots on Biddle in the 1970s and has been there ever since, providing custom framing services, a carefully curated selection of unique gifts, greeting cards and much more.
For owner Jenny Senior, Upndown has been a labor of love that has come full circle. She bought the store five years ago when the previous owner retired, and actually worked there herself when she was in middle school and college.
Being familiar with the ins and outs of Upndown, as well as being a Wyandotte native and current resident, Senior was well equipped to lean into the shop’s strengths and carry it forward.
She explained that while custom framing has always been the crux of the business, some of the store’s offerings have changed throughout the years, depending on the market.
“The store started off with other things like plants and furniture, and we’ve always had a great selection of greeting cards, but I definitely brought back in more gifts when I took over,” Senior said.
While unique greeting cards for any and every occasion have remained a consistent highlight at the store, Senior has made it her mission to provide a selection of gifts that can’t be found elsewhere with an emphasis on handmade or locally made items.
Finding a one-of-a-kind gift is easy at Upndown, and makes holiday shopping a breeze.
“I don’t tend to buy things you can buy online or somewhere else,” she said. “Even if somebody has it down the street, I’m not going to sell it.”
When she took over the store, Senior saw an opportunity to expand Upndown’s role in Wyandotte’s art community, transforming one of the upstairs rooms into a gallery and showcasing local artists in themed exhibits.
Now, the shop hosts two main art shows each year – a Fall-o-ween show in October through November and a mermaid-themed show each March for International Mermaid Day.
“Last year we had a real mermaid and authors come out. Any excuse for a party for sure,” laughed Senior.
Beyond its own events throughout the year, Upndown plays an active role in Wyandotte’s business community.
Senior is one of the seven organizers of Wyandotte’s Shop the Dotte, a collaborative group of small business owners working together to promote local growth, strengthen community connections and create a vibrant experience for visitors and residents alike.
The shop participates in popular events like Small Business Saturday and the Midnight Madness holiday sale.
With its art shows and exhibits, community events, custom framing and unique treasures for sale, Upndown is an integral thread in the fabric of Wyandotte’s community.
Visit the store in person at 3205 Biddle Avenue, call (734) 283-3900 or visit the Upndown Wyandotte Facebook page for more information.
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