FAQ

About French Mitten

Q: Where did the name “French Mitten” originate?
A: Our headline says it best: Celebrating French language, art, culture, and culinaria - with love from a French corner of Michigan. This website is about my love for the French language and culture that exist within France and outside of it. I am also fond of Michigan, where I grew up. The shape of the state of Michigan resembles a mitten, and Michiganders refer to it as “the mitten (state)”.

About Michelle Bien - Owner of French Mitten

Q: Are you American or French?
A: I am American with French ancestry. I was born in Michigan, and some of my ancestors came from France and many other regions in Europe. I have always felt an affinity with the French language and culture, so my primary focus has been learning about all-things-French - including my French roots.

Q: How did you learn French?
A: I grew up in a home where I had some exposure to other languages: My mother was proficient in German and my father spoke some French. In middle school, I had the opportunity to sign up for my first French class. I loved it and continued to take French through high school and into college. Now I run the French Language and Culture Group of Traverse City.

Buying From Us

Q: Why buy from you?
A: Everything you see here was put together by me – a real person driven by an inner calling to make an honest attempt to provide something useful, beautiful, and unique to the world.

Q: Where are your products made?
A: The art is made in Michigan. The French-themed products are made in France or the United States, unless otherwise specified in the product description.

Q: When will your products be available for purchase?
A: Plans for a store and what we offer are still in the works. I will send out a newsletter when the store is open for business!