Mama Coo’s, an upscale resale and vintage boutique featuring imported and handmade items, celebrates its Grand Opening in Detroit’s Corktown August 12. Owner Lana Rodriguez’ items have been sold at the Detroit Institute of Arts, the SundayStreet Market at Eastern Market and at many pop-ups around Metro Detroit. Her brick-and-mortar location in the former Trumbull Market building features an eclectic selection of clothing, distinctive handmade art pieces, jewelry and small home furnishings.

Mama Coo’s specializes in vintage ethnic pieces from South America all the way to Africa. The shop also features Rodriguez’ own handmade pieces, as well as products from other local artists and makers. A long-time community activist, Rodriguez sponsors community events and holds an annual Prom Dress Drive and Giveaway event every spring.

Rodriguez’ personal story is as diverse as her wares. She grew up in Southwest Detroit, attending Western and Belleville high schools. After graduation, she served as an intelligence specialist in the Navy, where she was stationed on a nuclear carrier outside Seattle. After the military, she received a degree in art history and political science from the University of Michigan and worked for social justice organizations while developing her business. She received guidance from numerous entrepreneurial support programs, including TechTown’s Retail Boot Camp and SWOT City, along the way. She is a recent recipient of a Motor City Match grant.

“Mama Coo’s Boutique is a true reflection of my passion for my culture and for the community, a place where I want everyone to feel comfortable shopping,” Rodriguez says. “I like to say I went through the Detroit small business public education system. I started in BUILD Institute, then went through TechTown and graduated from Motor City Match High! My success to date, and in the future, is a win for all the organizations, advisers and people who helped me through this journey.”

“Mama Coo’s Boutique is a true Detroit entrepreneurship success story,” says Regina Ann Campbell, TechTown’s managing director for place-based entrepreneurship. “Lana’s one-of-a-kind merchandise and her community commitment will make her shop an amazing asset to the neighborhood.”

Mama Coo’s is located at 1701 Trumbull Avenue, Suite C in Detroit. Rodriguez’ neighbors in the renovated building include The Bearded Lady barber shop (now open), as well as a market and a wellness center (coming soon).