The 7th Annual Detroit Doll Show was held on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, at the Detroit DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton. The show is the largest of its kind in the Midwest, and brought out people from all over the country.
The annual event is a Black doll show that included doll artists from around the globe. The event had a family element to it and included a game room, face painting, a doll look-alike contest, hands on workshops, arts and crafts, door prizes and much more. There was also a panel discussion titled “Re-Define your BEaUty” that included several local personalities including Ettaflyy Espy, co-founder of Naturally Flyy Detroit and co-owner of Sweet Potato Sensations restaurant; Carole Gist, first Black Miss USA; AJ Williams, editor of City.Life.Style at the Michigan Chronicle; Yvelette Stines, author and journalist; and Candian artist Cee Robinson, actress, activist and doll artist.
In addition to the show’s family fun element, there were dozens of vendors in attendance that made the show a success. Munson Steed, author, CEO Steed Media and publisher of rolling out, was on site selling and signing his well sought after children’s books, including bestseller Little Professor Skye Favorite Things, the Little Professor Skye Coloring Book, the Little Professor Skye Sleep, Sleep, Dream, Dream bedtime story book, and his Atom Smart Coloring Book. As a special invited guest, Steed was excited to be a part of such a wonderful and inspirational event. He holds a special place in his heart for helping young Black girls to see the genius in themselves, as the central character of his Little Professor Skye series and related products is his goddaughter Skye. “It’s important for little Black girls to see themselves as leaders, scientists and in other extraordinary ways that exhibit their individual genius, which is on display in every Little Professor Skye book,” Steed stated.
Other authors, doll makers, clothing vendors and more were on site as well, adding to the overall enjoyment of the event. There was something for everyone in the family at this year’s show.
Sandra Epps, founder of the show, strives to empower and inspire all women and children, especially females of color. The mission of the show is to celebrate history, culture, beauty and self-love with dolls of color. She does this year after year by increasing the representation of women of color and including them in her show. She encourages them to “…love the skin you’re in.” The show is also known for being the largest of its kind in the Midwest because it caters to African-American children, women and collectors with an emphasis on honoring Black heritage.
Click here to find out more about the show or visit DetroitDollShow.Blogspot.com
