Im originally from São Paulo, Brasil, I moved to the US about 10 years ago but only been in Traverse City for the last 2 years. I absolutely love TC and have enjoyed growing in this amazing community! My partner and I have have 2 dogs, but we also raise service dogs and volunteer throughout the community. I enjoy hiking and exploring all the beaches michigan has to offer!
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I own Contigo Dogs, a boutique pet store that offers a variety of dog and cat accessories, treats, toys and so much more. I opened my business during the pandemic but only recently (June 2023) opened my storefront at the Village Commons. I couldn’t have a better job honestly, I work with amazing clients, get to be the official treat lady for all the pups that visit us in store and I get to support so many small businesses!
Q: What is your favorite book?
The Harry Potter Series!
Q: What are some of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Little Fleet, Red Spire, Burrow, and Red Ginger.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community? What brought you to Grand Traverse County?
I’ve been in TC for the last 2 years. We were living in Ann Arbor during the pandemic and my husband got a job offer up here so we relocated.
Q: What advice would you give to people who want to visit our community?
There is so much to do year round, bring your dog (TC is super dog friendly), make sure to visit the beaches (I prefer them in the winter – they’re stunning year round).
Q: If you could choose anyone today with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you all meet?
My brother! He is deployed overseas and I haven’t seen him for a while. I would probably go to sleeping bear dunes for a hike, come back through suttons bay (grab a coffee there), walk around downtown and take him to the commons so he can finally see my store!
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
How close you are to water, coming from a country that water is everywhere all the time it’s nice to be able to live in a place that remind me of home.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
To be honest, I’m an open book I feel like you could ask me anything and I’d tell you (strangers included).
Q: Which yearly event in Grand Traverse County do you enjoy best?
Though I enjoy Cherry Festival, we are planning on having a Fall Fido Fest at the Commons this October and I hope it’s super successful so we can do it every year.
Q: What is your favorite season in Northern Michigan? And what is your favorite activity to do in that season?
June-December is my favorite season 😂 I go to the beach year round, the dogs love it especially in the winter and spring because there aren’t any people.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
3 F’s. Food, Family and Friends.
