For nine years, Mimi Fritz, President and CEO of the Grand Rapids Downtown Market, worked as the director of the city of Holland Principal Shopping District. Included in that role was the creation, management and marketing of many seasonal events and programs, among them organizing the annual Kerstmarkt, an outdoor, European-style market with holiday items, delicious food and artisan demonstrations.

Our lives wouldn't be what they are without the stellar local establishments found around every corner of West Michigan, from the newly founded to the well-established and everything in between. Those local staples are what the West Michigan Woman Readers' Choice Awards are all about.

Many women know just how debilitating a migraine attack can be. Aside from the pain, they make functioning in our day to day lives feel close to impossible. And did you know women are much more susceptible to this delightful type of headache?

Looking for something different to do this holiday season and beyond? There are plenty of options in greater West Michigan that may not be on your radar. Here, we've gathered some lesser-known attractions for you to explore—from galleries to performance venues to shops.