Hometown Holidays: Lakewood

The twinkle lights on Detroit Avenue, the familiar faces behind the counters 

and the hum of conversation and cheer—they’re all part of what makes Lakewood feel like home.

This season, our Hometown Holidays feature celebrates the small businesses that bring warmth and wonder to our community. When you shop local, you’re investing in more than gifts—you’re investing in friendships, creativity, and the heart of Lakewood itself. Let’s keep our holidays close to home.

Within a century home nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, Centering Space was founded in 2003 as a peaceful place for people of all faiths to find their center.

First Federal Lakewood

Since 1935, First Federal Lakewood has been deeply rooted in the communities it serves, asking not just how to bank better but how to help people live better. As Ohio’s largest depositor-owned community bank, it reinvests in local neighborhoods, supporting small businesses, families and the dream of homeownership.

One way it’s doing that today is through the new Ohio Homebuyer Plus Savings Account, a high-interest account designed to help Ohio residents save faster for a home. Backed by the state of Ohio, it offers up to 6.17% APY*, making it one of the most competitive savings options available.

“With the goal of making homeownership in Ohio a realistic dream, this account helps people grow their savings faster so they can buy a home quicker,” says First Federal Lakewood Branch Manager Joe Gilbert. “It’s more than just a smart financial strategy, it’s part of our mission to help people build lives in the communities they love.”

Account Highlights:

• $500 to open the account with a maximum contribution of $100,000
• Funds must be used toward the down payment or closing costs of a home purchased in Ohio within        five years
• Account holders must be 18 years of age or older

Joe adds that First Federal Lakewood simplifies the home buying process with dedicated Mortgage Loan Originators at every branch, guiding customers from pre-approval to closing.

“When you bank with us, your money stays local, supporting your neighbors, your community, and your future,” he says. “We’re not just a bank. We’re a partner in helping you put down roots.”

For more information about the Ohio Homebuyer Plus Savings Account or to open an account, visit any First Federal Lakewood branch or their website at FFL.bank/save.

*Accurate as of 11/05/2025, interest rates and Annual Percentage Yield (APY) are subject to change without notice. Fees could reduce earnings.Accounts are subject to application approval by State of Ohio.

First Federal Lakewood Branch Manager Joe Gilbert

FunktiniLand

Just in time for making your home guest-ready and gearing up for gatherings with the cutest hostess gifts ever, the darling boutique/gift shop/gallery/artists’ collective FunktiniLand has stocked its space with holiday treasures representing more than 60 Ohio artists.

Owned, operated and lovingly curated by the mother-daughter duo of artists Beth Keenan and Jo Rawley, who traveled the country going to art shows before setting up shop in Lakewood circa 2022, the colorful store features a kaleidoscope of artwork, from ceramics to glassware, tea towels, locally authored books, painted martini glasses, mugs, jewelry, woodwork, charcuterie sets, wall art and whimsically designed cards.

“Any given day is like visiting a local art show,” says Beth. “You can find things from a $3 sticker to a large-scale painting for $1,500.”

Since it’s next to Nature’s Oasis, people love to buy a festive wine bag or charcuterie board here, then pop next door for wine or gourmet food for the perfect hostess gift.

As artists themselves, Beth and Jo love to chat with shoppers about the artists they support with every purchase.

“We range from established artists to people who may have never sold before,” says Beth. “We appreciate that without anyone to purchase our art, our voices cannot be heard.”

The locally authored books are big sellers as conversational gifts. She says one of the most popular is, What’s the Deal with Dead Man’s Curve? And Other Really Good Questions About Cleveland, by beloved author Jim Sweeney.

“Our art evokes joy and supports local artists, which is uplifting,” says Beth. “We want to give people a little piece of fun, love and genuine happiness.”

FunktiniLand is located at 15613 Detroit Avenue, Suite B, in Lakewood. Call 216-280-1394 or visit Funktini.com for more information. It was voted Best Gift Shop and Boutique by Cleveland Scene.

Just in time for making your home guest-ready and gearing up for gatherings with the cutest hostess gifts ever, the darling boutique/gift shop/gallery/artists’ collective FunktiniLand has stocked its space with holiday treasures representing more than 60 Ohio artists.

The Garden Gallery

Lea Michelle has been expressing herself through art since childhood. When asked in kindergarten what she wanted to be when she grew up, she drew a girl painting at an easel—a vision that has now come full circle with the opening of The Garden Gallery in Lakewood.

“This studio is a culmination of all that I’ve experienced and achieved in my life,” Lea Michelle says. “My hope is to build a community where people of all ages can gather and express themselves through art, conversation and camaraderie.”

Her journey to this moment has been as creative as it has been courageous. A University of Iowa graduate with a degree in communications and journalism, she began her career in sales and marketing in Chicago, where she discovered a passion for entrepreneurship. Later, in Denver, she founded a Disney princess-themed children’s entertainment company that combined music, art and imagination.

After moving to Cleveland, Lea Michelle faced personal challenges that led her to rediscover her faith and her purpose. Now nearly five years sober, she has turned her experiences into inspiration, writing a devotional (Finding Christ Through Social Media), a children’s book (Fearless Noah), and a novel (Squall), which explores resilience and healing.

At The Garden Gallery, visitors will find more than art on display. The space reflects Lea Michelle’s belief that creativity, nature and faith can nurture the soul. Visitors can browse and shop a charming selection of plants and thrifted treasures—perfect for thoughtful holiday gifts.

The Garden Gallery is located in Studio #2520 in the historic Screw Factory building at 13000 Athens Avenue in Lakewood. For more information call 440-773-3972 or visit TheGardenGallery.biz for hours and building details. 

When asked in kindergarten what she wanted to be when she grew up, Lea Michelle drew a girl painting at an easel—a vision that has now come full circle with the opening of The Garden Gallery in Lakewood.

Home for the Holidays: A Pop-Up Boutique

There’s something special about stepping into Home for the Holidays—the scent, the conversations and laughter and the excitement of hundreds of handcrafted gifts waiting to be discovered.

Ten years ago, while sitting at the stoplight on the corner of Belle and Detroit, Maureen Koopman spotted a “For Lease” sign that changed everything.

“As a maker myself, I knew how tough it was to pack up your work and travel to shows,” she says. “I thought, what if there was a space that did the selling for you — a place that felt like home for makers and shoppers alike?”

By the next day, she had the keys, and Home for the Holidays: A Pop-Up Boutique was born.

Now celebrating its 10th season, the shop has become a love letter to local makers and the community that supports them. Featuring more than 40 artists, makers, and small-batch foodies from Cleveland and beyond, each item is hand-selected for its creativity, story, and heart.

Shoppers will find everything from $5 stocking stuffers to $400 framed artwork, plus handcrafted kitchen goods, skincare products, jewelry, whimsical décor, gluten-free and other treats and thoughtful gifts for kids and pets alike. Pick up a complimentary map of Lakewood’s best locally owned shops and restaurants when you visit—and make a day of shopping small this season.

Home for the Holidays A Pop-Up Boutique is located at 15701 Madison Avenue, in Lakewood. Hours are Tuesday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.to 4 p.m., through Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Follow along on Instagram @homefortheholidayslakewood for more information.

Small Business Saturday Soirée!

Celebrate Saturday, November 29, at Home for the Holidays: A Pop-Up Boutique. Enjoy naughty and nice cider, refreshments and a raffle giveaway.

There’s something special about stepping into Home for the Holidays—the scent, the conversations and laughter and the excitement of hundreds of handcrafted gifts waiting to be discovered.

Real Estate Agent Troy Bratz, Keller Williams Elevate

The first thing Troy Bratz will tell you when you meet him is he’s not in the business of selling homes.

“Oftentimes real estate agents function in a purely transactional way. That’s not how I work,” says the Keller Williams agent. “I want people to find a home that perfectly fits their lives. I want them to find a community where they feel comfortable walking down the street and connecting with their neighbors and enjoying an authentic sense of belonging.”

That appreciation for community is something that carries through in everything he does. Troy and his family call Lakewood their hometown and this is where he’s been heavily involved with the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, sponsoring events at the Beck Center for the Arts, or serving as the vice-president of the Lakewood Community Recreation and Education Commission or simply as walking his girls to and from school and dance classes daily.

With 23 years of experience operating within the real estate industry as a HUD inspector, developer of affordable housing and sales, Troy is uniquely qualified to value homes and do whatever is needed to position them for the fastest, most lucrative sale.

“I have created a plethora of connections in the inspection and construction industries and can overcome challenges when it comes to getting a home ready to sell,” he says. “I enjoy helping my clients envision ways to make the home they have more livable rather than selling…and the same for my buyers to help them create the home that will serve them for years to come, for instance, adding a bathroom to a first floor, or an elevator for someone who wants to age in place.”

The extra care has made a difference. All of Troy’s listings in 2025 have sold faster than that community’s average days on market with average of more than 5% above the list price. Troy has been annually recognized as one of Cleveland’s Top Realtors by Cleveland Magazine and numerous other publications.

“I have been able to successfully make the home selling and buying process as seamless and worry-free as possible for everyone involved,” he says.

Troy Bratz of Keller Williams Elevate is based in Strongsville and helps clients buy and sell homes in Lakewood and all throughout Northeast Ohio. Contact him at 216-702-2196 (cell) or visit TroyBratz.KW.com to see how he can help make your real estate vision a reality.

Troy Bratz, Keller Williams Elevate

Leona's Custom Hats

Three years ago, Brad and Shay Fishbaugh had hats custom made for themselves and loved the hats so much they wanted to bring the art of high-end customizable hats to Cleveland. Leona’s Custom Hats opened in August.

“Clients tell us our boutique is more of an experience than a shop,” says Brad, who is grandson to namesake Leona. “In addition to hats, fitted for size, style and brim widths, complete with accessories like feathers, pins, charms, bands and laser engraving, we also offer leather goods, purses and belts, permanent jewelry, metal stamping, custom engraving and a variety of curated gift items.”

Crafted from luxurious Australian wool cashmere and beaver, the unisex hat styles range from western and southwestern to urban and there are many color selections to pick from. After Brad measures and shapes the hat, shoppers can walk out of the shop with one that day.

The five-star reviews say it all. Here’s one example:

“Such an amazing experience,” says Steve Wyndham, who had a porkpie hat made. “I’ve been a hat guy for years, but this is my first custom hat. I knew what I wanted, and Brad created it. Strongly recommend Leona’s Custom Hats and Brad is a true craftsman!”

The authentic vibe at the store is so fun, clients began asking Shay and Brad if they could host their parties and events there. Of course, they said yes, and there have already been lots of gatherings here.

“We live in Lakewood and feel there’s no place like this city when it comes to welcoming locally owned businesses,” he adds. “We love working with others in the community.”

Leona’s Custom Hats is located at 15210 Madison Avenue in Lakewood. Stop in the store or visit them on Instagram or Facebook. Call 440-865-6683 for more information. Gift certificates are available on Instagram.

Shay and Brad Fishbaugh, Leona's Custom Hats

Mishi Lifestyle

“Noun: A person who is fun-loving, carefree, never boring and sweet to everyone close” —Urban Dictionary

Tracy Burnett opened Mishi Lifestyle four years ago as the embodiment of this playful definition.

Her thoughtfully crafted shop suits anyone who adores their home. You’ll find a host of furniture and home decor items that embrace natural materials and organic design principles from local and Ohio makers, as well as custom-made candles, body products and more.

“We’re more like a department store than a shop, with room vignettes that make shopping relatable and fun,” says Tracy. “We favor unique, sustainable pieces that foster a community of talent and craftsmanship.”

For winter, they’ve brought in loads of cozy blankets and pillows, entertainment-forward pieces like charcuterie boards, barware and tableware, and, of course, luxuriously scented candles.

A few of the trendiest items she reports sell out quickly: elegant, Christmas tree-shaped taper candles in green or ivory dipped in gold; Geometry Kitchen Towels in bold designs, perfect for hostess gifts or self-gifting; and Christmas-scented candles from Roosevelt Candle, a heady mix of cinnamon, clove, fir and orange peel.

In addition to cultivating a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, Tracy and her creative staff help clients style their homes or businesses.

Mishi Lifestyle is located at 15602 Detroit Avenue in Lakewood. Call 216-304-3832 or visit MishiLifestyle.com for more information. The shop has been a Best of the West Finalist the past three years and was voted “Best Place to Furnish Your Home” by Cleveland Scene Magazine.

Special Events!

Unleash your inner diva on Saturday, November 15, at the pop-up “red i” jewelry coming to Mishi Lifestyle. On Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, don’t miss sitting sessions with Jennifer Christine Photography. Fifteen-minute sessions will run from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Register at MishiLifestyle.com.

Tracy Burnett opened Mishi Lifestyle four years ago as the embodiment of this playful definition.

Events Calendar

Small Business Saturday Soiree

November 29, 2025

10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Home for the Holidays Pop-Up Boutique

Naughty and Nice Cider plus a raffle basket valued at over $1000. Feel good shopping supporting over 40 local artists, makers and small-batch foodies with a little something for everyone on your holiday list. 

The SpongeBob Musical

Dec. 5, 2025–Jan. 4, 2026

Beck Center for the Arts

17801 Detroit Ave., Lakewood

Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2:30 p.m. Sundays.

Winner of the 2018 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Musical. Yes, that SpongeBob. And yes, a musical. Who lives in a pineapple under the sea and became the hottest star on Broadway? SpongeBob! Dive into this story as the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home. SpongeBob and his friends come together to save their undersea world. The power of optimism really can save the day. Sure to make a splash with family and friends of all ages.

Light Up Lakewood

Dec. 6, 2025

4–8 p.m.

Detroit Avenue between Arthur and Marlowe

This free, family-friendly event in downtown Lakewood features a holiday parade, lighting ceremony, beer garden, holiday train, live music, ice carvings, hot chocolate, food trucks, children’s games and more.

Photos with Krampus

Dec. 6, 2025

1–6 p.m.

Oktober’s

12611 Madison Ave., Lakewood

Bring your family, pets and some tips for our amazing Krampus! Donations are also being collected for winter charitable drives, including new socks, hats, gloves, feminine products and gently used coats. Stop in for a spell, meet your favorite neighborhood witches and snap a free selfie with everyone’s favorite German holiday demon.

Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl

Dec. 13, 2025

Starts at 1 p.m.

Various locations throughout Lakewood

Join in a festive bar crawl around Lakewood in your ugliest holiday sweater.

Reindeer Run

Dec. 13, 2025

9 a.m.

Lakewood Park

1010 Parkside Drive, Lakewood

Join Santa, Dasher and the whole crew for the 26th Annual Reindeer Run 5K, Merry Mile and Dasher Dash.

8th Annual Holiday Market at the Screw Factory

• Dec. 19, 2025: 6–10 p.m.
• Dec. 20, 2025: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Dec. 21, 2025: 10 a.m.to 3 p.m.

Screw Factory Artists’ Studios

13000 Athens Ave., Lakewood

The market features resident, guest and visiting artists at the Screw Factory Artists’ Studios.