Catching Fireflies — Local services in Ann Arbor

OMG, this is just THE most delightful, warm, and welcoming shop EVER, right in the heart of Kerrytown. You can't help but smile, before you even enter, as they have a BUBBLE MACHINE outside the door, which makes even a sucky day seem lighter and more joyful. But once you've entered, the owner (I PRESUME it's the owner at least, as she's always there) greets you, and makes you feel like a longtime friend (without being intrusive). And the store itself - Oh WOW - it is just jam-packed with the cutest, quirkiest, funniest little items; with a huge dose of Michigan (the state, not just U of M) merchandise. It's one of those stores that you can literally spend an hour in, and still feel like you haven't even scratched the surface; and my wife and I have repeatedly found it impossible to visit without buying something. THE BEST STORE FOR GREETING CARDS!!! To give you a specific example of its quirkiness: this afternoon I scored a delightful and hilarious picture book about introversion; told through the eyes of an introvert turtle ("A Turtle's Guide to Introversion," by Ton Mak). I plan to display this in my office at my university, as many of my introvert students struggle mightily within a world that is focused on rewarding extraversion. Anyways. HERE'S WHAT YOU DO: Go to Zingerman's Deli (which is right across the street), order your lunch (which typically takes 20-30 minutes), and VISIT FIREFLIES. By the time your lunch is ready, you will have purchased several items that you then can enjoy reviewing and talking about during your delicious...

Catching Fireflies reminds me a lot of the place that used to be in this space--it's sweet, but it's nowhere I'll find myself needing to go.

Catching Fireflies is a "whimsical" gift shop, and I think that's a good description. There's quirky stuff here--tea bags for your bath (to soak in, not to drink), lots of mustache-themed goods, funky jewelry, etc. We enjoyed walking around and exploring, but didn't buy anything.

Prices seemed normal for the area--not cheap, but not insanely expensive.

If you need a gift for a kid or woman, you might check here. There's not much for men. My fiance and his brother agree with...

It’s a very small business and obviously doesn’t have enough money. It’s very expensive for the nick nacks they sell. It was 40 dollars for a small stuffed animal and a plate. Then, The lady couldn’t give change back for 100$ bill. Her excuse was that is was Easter weekend and she didn’t wanna give away all her change. She refused and she said she can only give me rolls or quarters and ones. I left with nothing. The older woman I figure run the place were rude...