Artistic Vision Leads to Thriving Downtown Business

With a background in ceramics and a creative gene in her family, Lori Dow has always enjoyed designing beautiful art. After raising a family, she wanted to do something on her own.

“My children were no longer in school and I was looking for something to do,” Dow said. “For many years, my interest was in pottery and ceramics. I had taken many classes and became certified in many techniques and my husband said, 'what about a paint-your-own-pottery studio?'”

At the time, she knew the owner of in downtown Northville, Linda Langston. She decided to talk to her about opening a studio of her own. That conversation lead to a life changing decision.

“She informed me that her studio was for sale, but there was another offer pending. She said she’d call me if it fell through. Luckily, it did. So I purchased it from her,” Dow said. “It was an easy transition because Linda had done such a wonderful job starting it up. She really helped me learn the retail side of the business.”

Dow has owned The Bee’s Knees for about eight years now and the business has been in downtown Northville for 13. The unique pottery studio invites customers to choose a piece of ceramic. Paint and supplies are provided along with instructional help if needed.

“It is an experience where you can create a memory moment. I don’t know too many places you can do that,” Dow said. “You can come in and have a quiet time with your family or your friends. It’s cheaper than therapy and is a creative release at the same time.”

Marlena Kieling has been working at The Bee’s Knees for just over a year. She enjoys the relaxed atmosphere and creative energy that surrounds her when working.

“My favorite part is when people come to pick up their finished pieces. They see them and their faces just light up and are so excited,” Kieling said. “Just knowing that when they came in, they were thinking 'I’m not an artist, I can’t do this.' Then they come away with something amazing. It’s incredible.”

Jennifer Deane enjoys coming to The Bee’s Knees as often as she can. Not only does she get to enjoy her hand painted ceramics in her home or give as gifts, but finds it to be a therapeutic process as well.

“I really love spending time at The Bee’s Knees,” Dean said. “They’re always so nice and helpful. I would definitely recommend them to anyone considering going there."

Dow appreciates the customers like Deane who come to her studio, especially the young children. Their excitement is not only a joy, but they spread fun smiles to others as well.

“Quite often, I often hear parents thanking their children for bringing them here. Then we see the parents back here, maybe on a ladies night or by themselves, without their children,” Dow said. “They find out quite often through their children what a nice little gem we have here.”