Clarkston’s downtown retail is on the upswing.
And the unique variety of stores featured at Tierra’s Emporium are helping bring back the excitement downtown Clarkston once had.
For some time, a greater part of Main Street has been its business offices. But Tierra Fine Jewelers owner and building proprietor Buck Kopietz said retail is growing.
“We want to bring back the color and unusual to Clarkston — the flair that Clarkston had in the late 70s.”
Tierra’s Emporium is doing just that featuring Tierra Fine Jewelers, Lily & Ivy, Pretty Papers, Mary Caldwell Photography, and Gourmet Chuckwagon all under one roof.
“It’s worth the trip for people to come in,” Kopietz said, of the assortment of shops.
A closer look at each store, reveals Tierra’s Fine Jewelers has been a staple in the community for 29 years. They offer custom jewelry and are a primary source for diamonds, colored gemstones and pearls, Kopietz said.
“We’re one of the nicest jewelry stores in southeast Michigan. You’ll find things you can’t see in other jewelry stores, and things you can see in other jewelry stores. We also offer jewelry and watch repair.”
Lily & Ivy, owned by mother and daughter team Susan Andre and Elizabeth Andre Stotz, have continued to grow since they relocated to Clarkston from Ortonville in May 2002. They offer themed gift baskets for individuals or corporate events, a variety of gift items, party favors, a line of “Michigan” products, and other “unusualties.”
They’ve also expanded to include Pretty Papers, a sub-business featuring a variety of unique stationary.
At Mary Caldwell Photography, don’t expect the typical studio portrait. Caldwell has a one-of-a-kind, artsy flair to her award-winning work. She is available by appointment and offers on-location photography. Stop by Tierra’s Emporium to view Caldwell’s “gallery” wall.
The most recent addition to Tierra’s Emporium is the Chuckwagon Gourmet. Brad and Eva Kemmer moved into the building in December and are serving up homemade and Amish recipes of canned goods, breads, candy and more.
Upon completion of construction to a new kitchen in the next few weeks, the Kemmers plan to sell Amish cheeses, meats, gourmet sandwiches and side dishes as well. They’ll also have donuts, bagels and coffee for breakfast and will open at 7 a.m. The Gourmet Chuckwagon, though primarily carry out, will also have limited seating inside.
Kopietz noted specifically Tierra’s Emporium offers much in regards to the wedding market — Caldwell specializes in wedding photography; Lily & Ivy offers wedding gifts, gift baskets and party favors for bridal showers; Pretty Papers features wedding stationary; Gourmet Chuckwagon can coordinate your wedding cake; and, of course, there’s Tierra’s Fine Jewelers.
Tierra’s has a large selection of engagement, wedding and attendant jewelry; and features a unique line of Christian Bernard engagement watches, a great gift for a bride to present to her groom. The back of the watch opens to showcase a laser-engraved photograph and personal message.
Kopietz and the team at Tierra’s Emporium invite to visit them, you won’t be disappointed.
Tierra’s Emporium is located at 64 S. Main St. in Clarkston. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Evenings by appointment. Call (248) 625-2511 for more information.