#IAmAlchemy: Erin Wetzel | Co-Owner of Orleans + Winder
Meet the woman behind Orleans + Winder, Erin Wetzel. We met a few years ago at her Detroit showroom. I was completely blown away by her gorgeous space, an exquisite haven of European vetements, curated artwork, and indulge-worthy accoutrements. I’m now fortunate to call her my friend. She is a beautiful and generous human.
NAME AND VOCATION:
My name is Erin Wetzel and I am co-owner of Orleans + Winder.
SHARE YOUR STORY:
I have always had a deep love of good design, particularly in the fashion realm. I love and deeply respect the arts. I studied theater at The University of Michigan and loved every minute of it. Theater gives you a solid base for working with whatever comes at you, and I cherish what I learned. I was always drawn to the old theater, such as Commedia dell’arte, Shakespeare, the Renaissance. Alas, there aren’t a great many opportunities for stage work nowadays. Fast forward to my move to Detroit 8 years ago. I started to think about melding all of the things that I love and appreciate into a concept store. My partner and I opened Orleans + Winder to create a platform for those artisans who were creating beautiful, timeless fashion and object either by hand or small batch production. Sustainability is important to me, as is the preservation of old methods and techniques as it relates to production.
ONE WORD THAT DESCRIBES YOUR STYLE:
Individualistic
YOUR GOTO OUTFIT:
Black Forme d’Expression Trouser Pant, Black Marc le Bihan Crew Neck sweater, Black Guidi Ankle boots.
BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED:
Self discipline begins with the mastery of your thoughts. You can do anything you set your mind to.
THREE THINGS YOU ARE MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT:
Exquisite Design, Sustainability, my Family
NAME ONE THING YOU WOULD TELL YOUR 18 YEAR OLD SELF:
No one is judging you, and if they are, who cares?
IF YOU HAD TO CHOOSE A SONG THAT DESCRIBES YOU, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
“Time of the Season” the Zombies
NAME ONE THING YOU WON’T LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT:
Sunglasses
FLATS OR HEELS:
Flats nowadays! Particularly boots.
GUILTY PLEASURE:
True Crime TV and a great Malbec.
GREATEST LIFE EXPERIENCE TO DATE:
Skiing the French Alps. It was mind-blowingly beautiful.
PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT TO DATE:
Opening and growing Orleans + Winder from a concept to a physical space.
IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANYONE ALIVE OR DEAD, WHO WOULD IT BE AND WHY?
My Grandma Wetzel is the first person who comes to mind. She passed away when I was a teenager, but she was the coolest lady. I always felt loved and supported by her. I would love to have her presence in my life still.
SHARE WITH US WHAT YOU LOVE ABOUT ALCHEMY:
I love its founder! I love the exquisite fabrics and minimalistic vibe. I love, love the v-neck tanks - they are a staple in my closet!
LOCATION: 1410 Gratiot Ave, Suite 102, Detroit, MI 48207
PHONE: (313) 409-6343
2 comments
The best place to shop in Detroit and most of all she is the best and most delightful person to shop with
I would pick the same person who I would have dinner with. Grandma was an amazing strong, positive, caring, women. Just like you. So proud of you. You have Grandma Spirit with you as well as another young lady I know. Alyssa Wetzel.