Some of you might already know that the Saturday following Thanksgiving and Black Friday, but it’s never been a more important time to support our local businesses than now. Between the stresses of the pandemic and shipping delays, small businesses are the perfect way to treat those in your life (or yourself!) and give back to the community. Often times you don’t even have to look further than your own neighborhood to find a real gem, so we asked some of our team members what their favorite neighborhood stores, cafes, and personal care spots were. Check out some of our favorites below!
FOOD & DRINK:
Morelli’s
What they do: Ice Cream Shop
Why we love them: “They are always our go-to for a sweet treat and have the best flavors!” (Sarah, Senior Account Executive)
Arepa Mia
What they do: Venezuelan food including arepas, cachapas, empanadas, and more!
Why we love them: “The food is soooo fresh, authentic and it’s gluten free!” (Courtney, Senior Account Director)
Lost Druid Brewery
What they do: Brewery & Food
Why we love them: “Lovely outside area, great beer and seltzer options, and the food is yummy!”(Courtney, Senior Account Director)
The Corner Cup
What they do: Coffee Shop
Why we love them: You are always greeted with a smile and sense of community while they pour your favorite morning brew. You have a gallery wall of local artists’ work to admire while waiting for your order, and if your there on the weekend chances are there will be a vendor selling something local in the parking lot. (Darcie, Jr. Solutions Architect)
Henri’s Bakery
What they do: Bakery, deli, cakes and catering
Why we love them: Favorite bakery in Atlanta and the BEST place to get Petit Fours and cookies. A staple in Atlanta since way before I moved here (apparently since 1929). I’ve been going to them for over 15 years with particularly fond memories with their Buckhead location next to my son’s daycare where I’d get a coffee and bakery item after every drop-off. (Roxana, President)
Big Softie
What they do: Soft-serve Ice Cream
Why we love them: The MOST delicious ice cream made with local Georgia dairy. Toppings and waffle cones are all made in-house by the amazing baking team at sister company Little Tart Bakeshop. (Kimmy, Senior Copywriter)
Pea Ridge
What they do: Restaurant and Bar
Why we love them: This neighborhood spot has a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for meeting friends for happy hour. There menu changes with the seasons, so you know your plate will be made with the freshest ingredients. (Darcie, Jr. Solutions Architect)
Hell Yeah Gluten Free
What they do: Gluten Free Bakery
Why we love them: You would never know that everything at this bakery is gluten free, even the fluffy biscuits and flaky pastries. They also have plenty of vegan options to keep everybody enjoying amazing treats. Plus the amazingly creative flavors and adorable brand just make this place an absolute gem. (Kimmy, Senior Copywriter)
STORES:
The Beehive
What they do: Local artists collective of handmade jewelry, clothing and housewares
Why we love them: My favorite place to go for gifts. Everything is one-of-a-kind made by local artists. Not only are you supporting a local business, it’s also supporting a full community. Plus they make every shopper feel extra special and gift wrap your purchases beautifully. (Roxana, President)
Modern Mystic Shop
What they do: Metaphysical gifts & goodies
Why we love them: First, I absolutely love walking into this store. Right, when walking in, you feel relaxed, calm, and centered. They have a great assortment of crystals at different price points and as well as self-care tools. (Meghan, Account Supervisor)
Range Boutique
What they do: Great casual clothes with a chic Southern California vibe (think fancy casual)
Why we love them: They ALWAYS have something new in and their clothes fit my style to a T. Their service is impeccable with styling suggestions that make me look and feel effortlessly cool. (Roxana, President)
Decatur Estates and Wayback Antiques
What they do: Antique Store
Why we love them: As someone who loves the thrill of the hunt, it’s easy to spend hours looking through their antique treasures. (Darcie, Jr. Solutions Architect)
SELF CARE:
Health Unlimited
What they do: Health food, supplements, herbs, crystals, books, gifts
Why we love them: Health Unlimited is an amazing resource for everything alternative health. Their staff is so amazingly helpful, and it’s my go-to spot for loose-leaf herbs and really unique gifts. Plus it’s been around since 1968, and not many Atlanta stores can say that! (Kimmy, Senior Copywriter)
Salon Five Nails
What they do: Best manicures and pedicures place in town
Why we love them: If you asked me what the first thing I did when I came out of lockdown, I came here and got a mani/pedi! This is where I come for a self-care treat every two weeks. Not only do my nails look great, but the staff is delightful — many of them working here for years. (Roxana, President)
Melanie Bell Hair
What they do: All things hair
Why we love them: I am known for my hair and Melanie has been the person responsible for every compliment I’ve ever gotten. There isn’t a better colorist in Atlanta. (Roxana, President)
Training Room
What they do: Functional fitness gym, right off the Beltline
Why we love them: Great community and great workout programming. Added plus is that the owner, Amber, is constantly investing in the gym with new equipment, new features and new options. Never the same-ole, same-ole, Training Room keeps me coming back week after week, month after month because I know I’m going to walk out feeling better than when I walked in. (Roxana, President)
JUST FOR FUN:
PCM Skyline Park (by Slater Hospitality)
What they do: A mini carnival experience on the rooftop of Ponce City Market
Why we love them: Still one of the coolest spots in Atlanta and the owners are passionate about making the experience fresh and fun for locals and tourists alike. (Roxana, President)
