Stop by Sefton Coffee Co. downtown. | Photo by RICtoday
Small Business Saturday, an initiative dedicated to celebrating and supporting small and locally-owned businesses and the impact they have in our communities, is on Saturday, Nov. 30.
The day falls between two of the biggest shopping days of the year — Black Friday and Cyber Monday — and has become an annual shopping tradition for many since it was established by American Express in 2010.
If you’re looking to join in on the festivities this year, check out some of our favorite small businesses in town — and some extra suggestions from our followers.
⭐️ Editor Robin’s shout-outs
Fountain Bookstore | Get advice from the experts and find your next read at this Shockoe Slip shop.
Sefton Coffee Co. | There seem to be several thousand wonderful local coffee shops in Richmond, but Editor Robin will highlight Sefton as a prime spot for both a specialty latte and a caring community.
Southside Contemporary Art Gallery | Check out this Manchester gallery when the “Keep it 1000” group exhibition opens Saturday, Dec. 14.
SCRAP Creative Reuse | As a dedicated crafter, Editor Robin will always recommend a trip to SCRAP for a creative boost. Bonus: The store has a holiday market on the horizon and a lineup of fun classes for December.
SCRAP just moved to a new, larger location on Brookland Park Boulevard.
Photo by RICtoday
Looking for more spots for your shopping spree? Check out these small businesses our followers love:
Pet supply shop Dog House Cat | “I love Dog House Cat on Broad Street near Tarrant’s. Only the best for my senior dog!!!!”
Artsy stores Supply and Circle Thrift | “Supply and Circle for feeding the art food chain.”
Vintage haven Modern 804 | “I always find unique gifts.”
Art collective Passion Project | “They have a very good community with very good artists!”
Want to share some more small business love? Make sure to tag your favorite local businesses in the comments of our post.
Reminder: Shopping and supporting small isn’t limited to just one day — we love letting our local businesses shine all year long in our collection of City Guides.
Asked
Asked
How much did consumers spend for Small Business Saturday at retailers and restaurants in the US in 2023?
A. $10 billion B. $15 billion C. $17 billion D. $20 billion
Bluegrass Jam | 6-8 p.m. | Twin Hickory Recreation Center, Glen Allen | Free | This jam session is open to all experience levels — get there early for a jam etiquette lesson at 5:30 p.m.
Black Friday Buy Nothing Event | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond | Free | Bring things you no longer need and get new-to-you items — everything is free.
Holiday Maker Market | Friday, Nov. 29-Saturday, Nov. 30 | Times vary | Väsen Brewing Company | Free entry | This two-day market includes a block party on Saturday with over 60 vendors.
Saturday, Nov. 30
Kendall Street Company | 7 p.m. | The National | $26 | The eclectic rock ensemble will play with Doom Flamingo and South Hill Banks for the 9th Annual Turkey Jam.
Sunday, Dec. 1
Winter Art Market | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | SCRAP Creative Reuse | Free entry | Find unique gifts for everyone on your list at this craft store market.
Surrounding Counties is closing after four years in business. The Henrico coffee shop announced that its final day of service will be Sunday, Dec. 22.
Development
Chesterfield has added four new fields to its River City Sportsplex. The $9 million addition completes the first phase of the county’s multi-year enhancement project for the facility.
Outdoors
Southside ReLeaf has been working to improve tree cover and environmental outcomes south of the river for five years. The group is planning to launch a new campaign called Cool the City in the spring. (The Richmonder)
Number
$6 million. That’s the mark a local tech company reached during its latest capital raise. Fringe, which offers a lifestyle benefits platform for employee perks, is based in Scott’s Addition. (Richmond BizSense)
Announced
Next year’s State Fair of Virginia has its theme. From Sept. 26 to Oct. 5, 2025, get ready to celebrate Real Fun, Real Virginia.
Try This
You know how awesome your business is, but do our 48,000+ readers? Visit our self-service ad portal to learn how RICtoday can help connect your business with our local audience — no long-term contract required.
Wellness
For most, playing the lottery is a chance for friendly competition, but for some, gambling can become an addiction that negatively impacts lives. If you’re looking for support, the Virginia Lottery offers a variety of problem gambling resources, including FAQs and responsible gambling tools.*
Finance
Did you know some credit cards can actually help you get out of debt faster? (Yes, it sounds peppermint-mocha nuts. But it’s true.) The secret: Find a credit card with a “0% intro APR” period for balance transfers. Here are hands down some of the best.*
A really good pickleball paddle — it’s rated 4.8 stars and is 62% off for early Black Friday. Notable features include: a larger sweet spot on the paddle + a handle with sweat-wicking ventilation for an anti-slip grip.
I found it interesting reading about the ongoing work of Abby the “barkeologist.” The chocolate lab is helping to sniff out an unmarked cemetery at Richmond National Battlefield Park in order to properly preserve and honor the space.
