We’re kicking off Small Biz Week the RVA way — by highlighting how eager our local entrepreneurs are to support each other. Meet 10 local businesses shaping the scene, and hear their recommendations for other small-biz brands you should check out.
Meet the makers
Bev’s Ice Cream, 2911 W. Cary St. | Opened 1998
“A colorful ice cream shop in Carytown dedicated to small-batch, homemade classic ice cream.”
Gelati Celesti Ice Cream, Locations vary | Opened 1984
“As a proud local business in RVA, Gelati Celesti is deeply connected to the city’s vibrant culture, strong sense of community, and appreciation for handcrafted treats. We cherish the support of our neighbors, partnerships with local businesses, and the opportunity to bring joy to our hometown — one scoop at a time.”
The Kitchen on Wellington, 2600 Nine Mile Rd. | Opened 2021
“We are a full service cheese and charcuterie company that crafts thoughtfully curated charcuterie boards and boxes that are designed for a variety of entertaining experiences.”
The Lit Bae Bookshop, Locations vary | Opened 2024
“I run a pop-up bookshop and am able to share the joy of reading across the DMV. I also specialize in blind-date book offerings.”
Rituals Salon & Spa, 11400 W. Huguenot Rd., Ste. 110 | Opened 2006
“At Rituals, we want the best part of your day to begin here — having someone who can take care of you, knowing your needs, building relationships, and looking forward to your return are how we bond with our guests.”
Solidago Studios, Online-based | Opened 2022
“A small + local women-owned floral preservationist. Turning wedding bouquets, memorial arrangements, + other cherished blooms into art.”
Susan M. Gardner LCSW LLC, 313 E. Broad St., Ste.125 | Opened 2021
“I provide psychotherapy to adults through a secure telehealth platform. My work focuses on mood disorders, life transitions, and learning to empower your natural strengths.”
Vogue Flowers, 1114 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd. | Opened 1985
“We’re a Greek family-owned flower market with delivery and wholesale.”
The Wild Heart, 105 S. Addison St. | Opened 2019
“A women’s clothing and lifestyle boutique specializing in vintage, new + handmade goods with a focus on sustainability and handcrafted goods. Women-owned, supporting other women-owned brands as well as local makers.”
World of Mirth, 3005 W. Cary St. | Opened 1993
“Award-winning toy store for kids of all ages. Locally and woman-owned since 1993.”
Have you ever gone on a blind date with a book before? Trust the process. | Photo provided by The Lit Bae Bookshop
Pass the mic. What other small businesses in RVA should everyone know about?
Bev’s Ice Cream: “One of my favorite date night spots is Level Sushi on Broad Street. The owner is so kind, and they have a great selection of food and drinks!”
Gelati Celesti Ice Cream: “We <3 Stella’s + Flour Garden Bakery!”
The Kitchen on Wellington: “Doggy Adventures — a dog-sitting and dog-adventure company. The owner truly has a heart for the dogs she cares for. She invests so much time and effort into planning outings and activities for the dogs. She is thoughtful and intentional in all she does for the dogs in her care.”
The Lit Bae Bookshop: “Insomnia Book Company is another pop-up bookshop specializing in Black literature, both fiction and non-fiction.”
Rituals Salon & Spa: “Sassy Bee, like us, shows support for the community. They have supported women with cancer by partnering with us to provide makeovers. They are always looking for new ways to show up for their community.”
Solidago Studios: "[Olivia Wilson] @olivemajor or @rivercityflowerexchange — Olivia makes b***** cakes and River City Flower Exchange is an amazing co-op where you can support local flower farmers!”
Susan M. Gardner LCSW LLC: “Alive to Grow Therapy — a therapeutic space to support healthy and meaningful relationships for couples with a focus on sexual health. They also have a unique skill set to support cancer survivors and their relationship to intimacy.”
Vogue Flowers: “McCormack’s Whiskey Grills — largest whiskey collection and nicest owner ever.”
The Wild Heart: “Na Nin, Addison Vintage, Rosewood Clothing Co., Dear Neighbor, Lamplighter Coffee Shop, and Boketto Wellness.”
World of Mirth: “Dinner Party — everything you need to throw the best dinner party, big or small.”
