Lovely Lilac Lane ~ Mackinac Island, Michigan
Photo I took last summer!
Lilacs on Mackinac Island are a draw for many visitors. Each year, the Lilac Festival is a 10 day celebration, the first and largest summer event on the island. The island is home to all 23 lilac species, 400+ varieties, and thousands of individual lilac plants.
During the past two centuries, lilacs have flourished on the island. Though the plants aren’t native to Mackinac, they find good growing conditions in the island’s shallow, well-drained soil with a high pH level due to the underlying limestone. Adequate rainfall and a good hardening each winter have strengthened Mackinac’s lilacs to the point that they are the largest in the country – with some stems larger than two feet across at the base.
We like to make a trip to Mackinac Island each year or so, to see the sights and enjoy the shopping, food, and nature.
A couple summers ago when I was pregnant, we visited the island. We had walked around the island several times before, but this time I was 8 months pregnant and I was getting b-i-g. It was a sweltering hot sunny day, and I was feeling a bit swollen after eating some of the best poutine fries for lunch. So we took our first horesdrawn carriage ride around the island to learn the history and facts of the area. (I have since taken these tours two more times, since it’s just a nice leisurely way to see the touristy highlights, and it’s child/family friendly!) They take you for a joyous, relaxing ride through the large natural forest, and stop at points of interest such as Arch Rock and Fort Mackinac.
Summer 2016 standing by Arch Rock, Mackinac Island
On this particular tour, they pointed out the oldest Lilac bushes on the island. Some Mackinac Island lilac trees are original Victorian plantings, dated at almost 200 years old and were brought to the island during the Colonial era. The tour guide told us about where the best street for Lilac viewing (and floral sniffing) pleasures is, but I don’t remember the proper name of the street - all I remember is the nickname for it: “Lovely Lilac Lane.” I immediately started to imagine what a nail polish color with that name would look like, to commemorate the large and wonderful lilacs of Mackinac Island.
I have since taken a bottle of my “Lovely Lilac Lane” nail polish onto the island to take photos of it with the oldest Lilac plants. They weren’t in bloom and were retired for the season, but wearing this color can give you all the gorgeous Lilac vibes any time of the year!
Look how amazing that ‘trunk’ of that Lilac bush is!!
Here are some additional items in my shop that are inspired by Lovely Lilacs and Mackinac Island!
Lilac Luna: this candle brings lilacs in full bloom into your home for when those lovely blossoms have retired for the year and you still need your lilac fix.
Just Keep Pedaling ~ an upbeat and respectful medium mauve pink creme nail polish with a slight frosted shimmer. This nail polish is inspired by the spirit of perseverance and determination, and the idea of never giving up, no matter how tough the journey gets.
The color is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a formal event or a casual hangout. The creme finish is smooth and even, giving you a professional look. This nail polish is made with high-quality toxin-free and vegan ingredients and is long-lasting and chip-resistant, ensuring that your nails will look great for days to come.
Mackinac Island ~ a sheer pink nail polish that captures the essence of the historical and beautiful Mackinac Island. This polish is perfect for those who want to add a natural touch of color to their nails without going too bold, while also showing their love for one of the most beautiful places in the Midwest.
Mackinac Island is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and charming Victorian-era architecture. The island is home to several state parks and historical sites, including Fort Mackinac, which dates back to the 18th century. The island is also known for its picturesque views, including the iconic Arch Rock and the famous Grand Hotel.
The sheer pink shade of Mackinac Island is delicate and feminine. The polish formula is long-lasting and easy to apply, making it a great choice for both professional and at-home manicures.
Mackinac Island by Northern Nail Polish is the perfect way to bring a piece of the island's beauty with you wherever you go. Show your love for Mackinac Island and its rich history by sporting this beautiful nail polish.
Read our blog posts about this charming island:
Shimmering peach sheer nail polish that is inspired by Arch Rock, on Mackinac Island.
Arch Rock is one of the natural wonders of the Midwest and one of the most popular tourist attractions on Mackinac Island. It is a magnificent rock formation that stands at 146 feet above the water and is 50 feet wide.
As you approach the rock formation, the sight of it will take your breath away. The grandeur of the rock towering above the water, the way it has been carved by the forces of nature, and the way it contrasts with the blue of the lake and the sky, create a sense of wonder and amazement for all ages to enjoy while they visit the island.
(It was a little hard to navigate while waddling around pregnant, but fortunately there are horse carriage tours that bring you right to the top!)
Matte drying clear nail polish that can be worn over any color to dull it’s shine and create a completely matte look.
NEW Coming Summer 2020:
Soon you’ll be able to buy your own bottles of Northern Nail Polish while visiting the island, at Little Luxuries of Mackinac Island.
Have you ever been to the island? What are your favorite attractions and things to do on Mackinac Island? Tell us in the comments below!
