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Kickoff events create buzz for Detroit Auto Show

Posted at 9:18 AM, Jan 11, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-11 09:18:53-05

As in years past, 2016’s North American International Auto Show kicked off in grand fashion with The Gallery Saturday night - a nearly $7 million collection of the most luxurious automobiles on the market displayed together at the MGM Grand Ballroom. The official kick-off event allowed guests to stroll among the sleek and shiny vehicles from brands such as Aston Martin, Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Rolls Royce, and more.

This year, automakers will feature more than 40 global vehicle debuts inside Cobo Center, and over the next two days, journalists from more than 60 different countries will cover those first looks.

On Sunday evening, General Motors looked to impress U.S. consumers at Buick’s unveiling of its sporty concept car, the Avista, which Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global Buick Sales, Service and Marketing said "embodies the dynamic soul of Buick."

It's not just the automakers looking to make a big splash - local businesses are also eager to reap some of the windfall from the huge crowds in town.

Vallery Hyduk, a former TV executive, and Keasha Rigsby, of TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress fame,  are opening up an upscale bridal boutique right on Jefferson Avenue. They planned their soft opening to coincide with auto show.

"The vision was really to bring elegance and fashion to Detroit through Keasha Rigsby coming here,” said Hyduk.

"You can say yes to the dress, but I  have said yes to Detroit,” Rigsby said.

Beautiful Bridal at 2921 E. Jefferson Ave. officially opens on Feb. 4.

You could call it clever marketing, because while the cars will be the center of attention, the Motor City will be working hard to play a charming host.

Press preview of the NAIAS officially begins Monday. The show opens to the public Jan. 16.

You can follow all the updates on social media, WXYZ.com, and on Action News throughout the day.