These 15 Products From Michigan Ross Alums Make the Perfect Holiday Gifts
Looking for a unique gift? Michigan Ross alumni have you covered!
These entrepreneurs have created a delightful variety of products you won’t find anywhere else. Some have even offered exclusive discounts to the Ross community! Check it out and share this gift guide with your friends, family and fellow Ross alums to help spread the holiday cheer.
Food & Beverage | Apparel | Health & Self-Care | Home Goods & Crafts
FOOD & BEVERAGE
You’ve heard about low-grade olive oil masquerading as extra virgin––no worries about that at Stamatopolous. The company, owned by Greg Stamatopolous, BBA ‘07, produces 100 percent extra virgin olive oil, made in Greece, that’s guaranteed to be the real deal.
Sweet RiotSatisfy your sweet tooth and help save the world. The all-natural, fair trade dark chocolate company founded by Sarah Endline, BBA '94, makes social responsibility a large part of its mission. Stuff some stockings this year with these sweet treats.
Fleisher’s Craft ButcheryBetter tasting meat that’s better for its customers. This butchery co-founded by Ryan Fibiger, BBA ‘00, has several locations in New York and Connecticut. Their meat sticks make perfect stocking stuffers.
Zialena WineryLisa Mazzoni, MBA ‘04, owns and operates Zialena, a vineyard and winery run by her family for four generations. The California company offers cabernet, zinfandel, capella, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc, all of which are available for order online. Check out their holiday gift packs for a perfect gift bundle.
Sweet RevengeThe nation’s only restaurant with a cupcake, beer and wine bar was founded by Scott Marlo, MBA ‘99 in New York City, and features customized pairings of desserts and drinks. A gift card would be a great gift for someone who needs to treat themselves this holiday season.
BanzaThis food company, founded by Scott Rudolph, BBA '05 and his brother Brian, makes the comfort foods you love, love you back –– namely, pastas made out of chickpeas that offer an extra boost of protein and fiber, with fewer carbs. Warning: Photos on the website (especially the mac and cheese!) will make you so hungry you might buy some for yourself as well as your friends and family.
Idle Hands Craft AlesEnjoy Belgian-inspired craft beer in this Massachusetts brewery founded by Grace Tkach, MBA ‘03. Grace, who’s also a member of the Boston Triathlon Team, runs the brewery with her husband Chris. Their "Friends of Funky Town" membership is perfect for the beer lover on your list this year.
Motor City GasFounded by Tonya Wardena, MBA '11, Motor City Gas is a small batch micro-distillery in Royal Oak, Mich. that manufactures a constantly evolving variety of local whiskies and bourbons from grain to glass.
Kalé RestaurantNope, it’s not a kale restaurant––it’s kalé, the ultimate Japanese comfort food. Makoto Yoshino, MBA ‘05, creates an authentic, non-Americanized version of this hearty stew that is one of the most-eaten dishes in Japan. His Portland, Ore. restaurant also supplies local grocery stores in Oregon and Seattle.
APPAREL
Skicks and by Jordana
Celebrities such as Miley Cyrus have donned shoes designed by Jordana Schrager, who graduated with a minor in business in 2016. Jordana’s whimsical creations can be found two ways: by Jordana, a custom and mass produced line of footwear and fashion, and Skicks, an officially licensed collegiate sneaker line for students, alumni, and college fans everywhere. Help your family and friends show their personalities with a pair of these celebrity favorites.
SnapSuitsCustom suits for just $250 may make you raise an eyebrow in suspicion, but believe us: SnapSuits turn heads. Check out the svelte suits produced by Jake Freeman, BBA ‘13, and Nick Kuneman, BBA ‘09, for any fancy occasion.
HEALTH & SELF-CARE
Biker BarreVoted the best barre studio and second-best cycling in the city, this Washington, D.C. business owes its success to Katie Geffen, MBA ‘08, and Jane Brodsky, LSA ‘02. Give the gift of fitness to your D.C.-area family and friends in the form of an unlimited monthly pass.
SpackJamie Korn and Mariel Rice, both BBA ‘16, created mini packs to help a girl-on-the-go freshen up after a long day, long workout, or long night. A perfect gift for students or professionals who are also on the go.
Mane CrewThe customized hair care helps men tame their manes––with the added convenience of automatic delivery. A brilliant business dreamed up by Spencer Peterson, BBA '15, and two other U-M undergraduates from LSA and Engineering. Choose Handsome with Mane Crew and look your best during the holiday season.
HOME GOODS & CRAFTS
Sturgeon River PotteryBased in Petoskey, Michigan, Sturgeon River Pottery offers a selection of jewelry, pottery, Petoskey stones and homemade gifts with a Michigan flair. The business is owned by Dana Andrews, MBA ‘06. A one-of-a-kind gift for those one-of-a-kind people on your list.
Know a product or service from a Michigan Ross alum that would make a great gift but we didn’t mention? Leave a comment below and let us know!
UPDATES
Thanks to readers for suggesting even more great products from Michigan Ross Alums. Keep 'em coming!
THE DESSERT PLACE
Marisa Meddin, BBA '10, brought this historic family bakery back to life in 2015. Now, their hand-made cream-cheese brownies, a long-time favorite in Atlanta, can be delivered straight to your door – in time for the holidays, no less!
Marawatch & Company
Buying a watch from MBA '08 grad Sashi Mara's Marawatch doesn't just mean you get a fantastic, officially licensed Michigan watch. It also means you're helping Mara support Michigan programs and scholarships. A portion of the proceeds from every sale is donated to the Michigan program of your choice. Not a bad deal!
Matthew Trevor, Senior PR Specialist
mtrevor@umich.edu