Whether you’re shopping for newlyweds, parents, bridesmaids, groomsmen, or out-of-town guests exploring Dexter for the first time, Courageous Books is an indie bookstore well worth a visit.
Wedding Shopping in Downtown Dexter: Courageous Books
A Cozy Indie Bookstore for Thoughtful, Heartfelt Gifts
Whether you’re planning a tiny wedding in our 1834 farmhouse or hosting an intimate celebration in our 1837 barn, chances are you’ll want a few meaningful gifts to mark the occasion. Luckily, just down the road from our award-winning Michigan wedding venue sits one of Dexter’s newest treasures: Courageous Books, a community-centered independent bookstore overflowing with heart, imagination, and the kind of stories that stay with you long after the celebration ends.
Opened in September 2025, Courageous Books was founded on a simple but powerful mission: to make the world a better place through connection, caring, and our shared love of reading. It’s the sort of place where you can lose track of an afternoon browsing shelves, chatting with booksellers, and discovering unexpected gems. And with its lovingly curated collection of fiction, children’s books, fantasy, horror, nonfiction, and manga — plus writing supplies and literary-inspired gifts — this shop is perfect for finding presents that feel personal.
Whether you’re shopping for newlyweds, parents, bridesmaids, groomsmen, or out-of-town guests exploring Dexter for the first time, Courageous Books is an indie bookstore well worth a visit.
A Place Built on Connection, Creativity & Community
Courageous Books is the kind of shop that thrives on relationships. As a proud member of the American Booksellers Association, the store sources an eclectic mix of titles designed to spark joy, curiosity, and conversation. They welcome recommendations from the community and are always happy to order anything they don’t have on the shelf.
The space itself is warm and inviting, filled with small surprises: beautifully displayed staff picks, cozy reading nooks, and gifts for writers, artists, and avid readers. Whether your loved ones devour bestsellers or cherish niche genres, Courageous Books has something for every storytelling style.
Wedding Gift Ideas from Courageous Books
Here are a few giftable ideas to help you celebrate your favorite people:
For the Newlyweds
- A beautifully bound journal for recording marriage milestones
- A pair of novels set in places they dream of visiting
- A “new home” book bundle featuring inspiring nonfiction, comforting classics, or local Michigan authors
For Parents of the Couple
- Coffee table books on gardening, architecture, or travel
- Thoughtful essays or poetry collections
- A meaningful memoir paired with a handwritten note
For the Wedding Party
- Personalized reading lists (ask the booksellers!)
- Literary-themed candles, tote bags, or bookmarks
- A curated “self-care through stories” bundle
For Out-of-Town Guests
- Books by Michigan authors
- Local history titles to help them explore the area
- A small notebook or sketchbook to commemorate their trip
Browsing List
A few can’t-miss selections at Courageous Books:
- Staff Pick Fiction (ask for what’s new!)
- Children’s picture books for families celebrating with you
- Fantasy and manga favorites
- Michigan authors and local-interest titles
- Writing journals, art supplies, and literary gift items
And you know Chef Kieron has recommendations for cookbooks, too!
Courageous Books
8063 Main Street, Dexter
(734) 253-2178
Ready to write your own love story in Michigan? At Cornman Farms, we pour love and intention into every detail of your tiny wedding, elopement, or intimate event. Contact us to start planning your day.