Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Nosal.
Hi Christina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The Collective officially opened on October 1, 2025, after an unexpected opportunity changed the course of my business journey. I had been a vendor in the previous store when the former owner approached me about taking over the space. I saw the potential to create something special for our community and jumped in with both feet.
As a serial entrepreneur, I’ve always believed that the best opportunities come from taking calculated risks and putting your whole heart into what you do. That’s exactly how The Collective was born.
Today, The Collective is home to more than 20 local artisans, makers, and small businesses. We’ve expanded far beyond a traditional retail store by creating a space where people can shop local, discover unique handcrafted goods, explore our interactive Plant Bar, browse antiques and vintage treasures, and visit our indoor farmers market every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Many of the talented artisans featured in the store are people I’ve met over the years while participating in farmers markets. It’s incredibly rewarding to now provide them with a permanent place to showcase their work and connect with the community.
While The Collective may have started with an idea, it has become what it is because of the amazing people who help bring that vision to life. I’m incredibly grateful for my team of wonderful women who help keep everything running smoothly.
I’d especially like to recognize Mews, who has been an invaluable creative partner. She has an incredible eye for design and is always brainstorming new ideas with me. Together, we constantly step back and look at the store through the eyes of our customers and our community. Our goal has always been to create more than just a place to shop—we want The Collective to be a warm, welcoming, and inspiring destination where everyone feels at home.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I believe that’s what makes the journey meaningful. Taking over an existing business meant I had to quickly learn how to manage a retail storefront while building an entirely new brand and vision. There were long days, difficult decisions, and plenty of moments where I questioned if I was doing enough.
One of the biggest challenges has been balancing the needs of so many local artisans while continuing to grow the business in a way that benefits everyone. I want every vendor to succeed, and that often means constantly looking for new ideas, events, and ways to bring people through our doors.
Like any small business owner, I’ve also faced the realities of rising costs, slower seasons, and the uncertainty that comes with entrepreneurship. You learn very quickly that success doesn’t happen overnight—it comes from showing up every day, adapting when things don’t go as planned, and never losing sight of your purpose.
Through every challenge, I’ve been reminded that community is at the heart of what we do. The support from our customers, our vendors, and my incredible team has made every obstacle worth overcoming. Each challenge has helped shape The Collective into the welcoming, community-focused space it is today.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I wear many hats as an entrepreneur, but today my primary focus is The Collective—a community marketplace that brings together more than 20 local artisans, makers, and small businesses under one roof. In addition to offering antiques, vintage finds, gifts, a Plant Bar, and an indoor farmers market every Saturday, my passion is creating opportunities for other entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.
What I’m most proud of isn’t simply opening a store—it’s building a space where local makers can thrive and where our community can discover the incredible talent that exists right here in Mid-Michigan. Watching a vendor make their first big sale, gain confidence, or turn their hobby into a successful business is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
I think what sets me apart is that I don’t see other small businesses as competition—I see them as partners. I believe that when we support one another, our entire community benefits. Every decision I make is centered around creating an experience that is welcoming, inspiring, and always evolving. Whether it’s introducing a new event, adding another artisan, or finding fresh ways to bring people downtown, my goal is to make The Collective a destination that people are excited to visit again and again.
At the end of the day, I hope people leave feeling like they’ve discovered something special—not just unique products, but a community that truly believes in shopping local and lifting each other up.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I believe the most important quality behind my success is the willingness to take action. I’ve never been afraid to pursue an opportunity, even when it feels uncertain. If I have an idea that I believe will benefit my business or my community, I’m willing to put in the work to make it happen.
Just as important is being adaptable. Small business ownership requires you to constantly learn, adjust, and evolve. Not every idea works exactly as planned, but every challenge is an opportunity to improve. I believe success comes from listening—to customers, to my vendors, and to my team—and using that feedback to continue growing.
Above all, I genuinely care about people. The Collective was never meant to be just another retail store. It was built to create opportunities for local artisans, encourage people to shop small, and provide a welcoming place where our community can gather. When your purpose is bigger than yourself, it gives you the motivation to keep moving forward, even on the hardest days.
“Success isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about showing up every day with passion, learning as you go, and creating something that makes a positive difference in the lives of others.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: the_collective216
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580254630895
