To quote Beyonce… “Who run the world? Girls!”
There is a woman-owned business every direction you look in Downtown Lynchburg. The women here are a driving force behind the strong and healthy business environment in our community. Celebrate Women’s History Month with us as we visit these local female retailers, fashionistas, cosmetic artists, relaxation gurus, chefs, art purveyors, and more.
WOMEN-OWNED SHOPS
Accents Flags & Gifts
1716 Main Street
Locally owned by Deborah Fears Keeling since 1990, Accents Flags & Gifts features an extensive collection of seasonal flags, collectibles, and home decor. The award-winning gift shop sells joy-inspiring pieces that are hard to find elsewhere. “No matter the season or the reason,” Accents has the perfect gifts and décor for you.
THE ART BOX
422 12th Street
Anne Novak has owned The Art Box since 1980. The Art Box has all the high-quality professional and student grade art supplies you need for the art aficionado in your life. Anne sells supplies out of her three store locations in Lynchburg, Crozet, and Charlottesville. The Art Box also hosts art classes by professional artists.
BUZZARDS ROOST
718 Commerce Street
Buzzards Roost, a charming storefront owned by Shannon Hunley, sells general antiques and collectibles of any origin from primitive to Victorian style. With a rotating inventory from estates and personal collections, Buzzards Roost is constantly adding new items, so check back often!
EMPIRE FLEET VINTAGE
512 5th Street
Lisa Jonas and Grace Horochowski, sisters and co-owners of Empire Fleet Vintage, turned their love of thrifting into a collection of hard-to-find vintage clothes, accessories, and decor that you can take home today!
ENCHANTED ANTIQUES
1204 Main Street
The motto of Enchanted Antiques “everyday poetry for the home and garden” rings true. From high-end antiques to art and porcelain, owner Mary Brockman, procures only the finest assortment of furniture and decor for your home.
ESTATES & CONSIGNMENTS
139 12th Street
Moyanne Harding, well-known local interior designer, fills her 4,000 sq. ft. warehouse with neat vintage clothes, timeless estate jewelry, and antique furniture. Enjoy this wonderland of one-of-a-kind estate finds.
FASHION PLUS
906 Main Street
Find the right wig, hair care essentials, and fashion accessories you need right on Main Street at the conveniently located beauty supplier, Fashion Plus, owned by Dalson Chi.
GRACE MARIE JEWELRY & DeSIGN
825 Main Street
Grace Marie Jewelry & Design is a family-owned jewelry store specializing in custom designs, repairs, and curated fine jewelry pieces. Elise Rose brings a legacy of craftsmanship that spans three generations and is dedicated to creating timeless, high-quality jewelry for every occasion.
The happy place boutique
520 fifth Street
The Happy Place Boutique, owned by Alex Moore, is a hippie lifestyle shop that specializes in unique artisan goods, crystals, and metaphysical items. This shop offers a peaceful and welcoming space for those seeking spiritual and holistic products.
THE HIP TULIP
1220 Main Street
Kelli Willis and her staff create exceptionally unique and vibrant bouquets for events, holidays, and those “just because” days. These talented florists design custom flower arrangements to your specifications and within your budget.
HUNNY B’S
821 Main Street
The baby and children’s boutique of your dreams exists, and it’s right here in Downtown Lynchburg! Hunny B’s offers modern baby and children’s essentials and aesthetically pleasing goods while supporting local mothers through the “Mommy Resource Center.”
LEXIE & LEE
1220 Main Street
This charming boutique has a mission to support other women-owned small businesses and artisans. Danielle Wallace and her team curate beautiful goods like handmade jewelry and intricately designed clothes to support a mindful lifestyle.
LIVE TRENDY OR DIE
1101 Church Street
This charming boutique, with its warm and friendly staff, showcases a thoughtfully curated collection of stylish feminine apparel and unique, locally crafted accessories. Every piece tells a story—you won’t find these one-of-a-kind treasures in any big-box store!
MELINDA’S
1019 Church Street
This full-service fine art, print, and photo framing shop, owned by Melinda Tennis, specializes in distinctive custom picture framing using archival quality frame and glass supplies.
MOSAIC COLLECTIVE & THREADED
1212 Main Street
Mosaic Collective is a fair trade shop that empowers the marginalized by prioritizing people over product. Jennifer Olson created the retail shop with the belief that products should be sourced ethically to ensure those who make them gain a living wage and a safe working environment.
Threaded Collective, owned by both Jennifer Olson and Victoria Cropper, is transforming the fashion industry through upcycling clothes and upholding high-quality sustainable goods.
OSHUN ORGANICS
1219 Main Street
Karrye Flowers specializes in creating body care products like soap, lotions, and scrubs from cruelty-free, plant-based ingredients. She uses sustainable packaging and natural scents that bring you a sense of peace and wellbeing.
RHODORA
1103 Church Street
Stephanie Atkinson opened Rhodora in Downtown Lynchburg in 2015 to sell “homegrown,” women-owned fashion and lifestyle products. This specialty shop inspires authentic and creative living and offers unique gifts and out-of-the-ordinary home decor.
SHAY’S UNIQUE GIFTS
1300 Commerce Street
Shay Borel’s infectious spirit and eclectic collection of gifts, accessories, jewelry, shoes, and purses invite customers to an all-around enjoyable shopping experience.
SPEARMAN ARTISANRY
919 + 1219 Main Street
Jannett Spearman specializes in fair trade jewelry, authentic alpaca scarves and sweaters, and handmade home goods from around the world. Spearman Artisanry is a global treasure trove of one-of-a-kind pieces, each with its own unique story and cultural flair.
T.C. TROTTERS
1213 Commerce Street
Lonnie Hoade, co-owner of T.C. Trotters, carries on the tradition of the famous T.C. Trotters Moose Mix with pride. The distinct and recognizable Moose Mix Bloody Mary has been a Lynchburg staple for over 30 years and has been served in fine, upscale eateries across the country.
THE WIG CENTER
1122 Main Street
Susan Horsley founded The Wig Center to fill a need for wig products and services for individuals seeking alternative hair solutions at affordable prices. With a passion for helping others feel confident and comfortable, she created a welcoming space where personalized care meets quality and affordability.
WOMEN-OWNED RESTAURANTS, BAKERIES, & COFFEE SHOPS
BARB’S DREAM HUT
1219 Main Street
Barbara Blair has been preparing delicious, southern-style meals at her restaurant located in the Lynchburg Community Market for 11 years. The all-day menu features beloved country breakfast items like pancakes and biscuit platters. Vegetarian options are also available.
BATTER BAR
1225 Main Street
Sister-owned and operated, this charming creperie by Chelsea Doebler and Nicole Howard serves a delectable menu of crepes, espresso, and pastries in the heart of Downtown Lynchburg. With a cozy atmosphere and a passion for fresh, high-quality ingredients, it’s the perfect spot to indulge in a sweet or savory treat.
BURG BURRITOS
1103 Church Street
This mouth-watering eatery, owned by Stephanie Atkinson, offers a menu of savory meat, vegetable, and vegan burrito options, along with convenient to-go meals and special date night selections. Every dish is crafted with bold flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a must-visit spot for food lovers.
CAFE MONTE BELLO
828 Main StREET
Driven by a passion for specialty coffee and a heart for hospitality, Bailey Robinson founded Cafe Monte Bello to bring that vision to life. With a deep appreciation for customers and the local community, the café is dedicated to serving exceptional products while creating a warm and welcoming space where everyone feels valued and appreciated.
COUNTRY COOKING by Irene
1219 Main Street
Country Cooking By Irene, owned and operated by Irene Rixey, is serving up all the southern favorites! Irene has been at the Lynchburg Community Market for 20 years and still delights guests with a menu of homestyle American eats like meatloaf, salmon cakes, and blueberry cobbler.
FIREFLY GROVE Confectionery
1219 Main Street
Indulge in handcrafted artisan marshmallows, sweet treats, and gourmet chocolates at this dreamy confectionary, co-owned by Brooke Pilley. Visit in person at the Lynchburg Community Market or order your favorites online for a delicious treat anytime!
HILL CITY DONUTS
500 5th Street
Emeline Green believes Hill City wouldn’t be the same without cake donuts, and her charming donut shop delivers just that. Enjoy six rotating flavors or indulge in a "fancy ring" donut, perfectly paired with a warm beverage for the ultimate treat.
HOLY HEAVEN COOKIE CO
1219 Main Street
Enjoy jumbo-stuffed cookies and cookie cakes, available for delivery or local pickup at the Lynchburg Community Market. Melissa Dekerlegand’s irresistible treats are the perfect way to sweeten any event or brighten your day!
MAPLE LEAF TEA ROOM
1215 Commerce Street
Cheryl Carter’s Maple Leaf Tea Room will open this spring on Commerce Street– the perfect season for afternoon tea and dainty lunches in an elegantly decorated space.
Mother natures soul food vegan
616 FIFTH Street
Mother Nature's Soul Food Vegan, co-owned by Lawanda Waller, offers a delicious full vegan menu that is dairy-free, alpha-gal friendly, and provides gluten-free options upon request. You can enjoy new menu items like plantains, fried pickles, fried mushrooms, and vegan ribs.
MRS JOY’S ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS TREATS
1008 Commerce Street
Award-winning and nationally recognized, this bakery is owned by the equally fabulous Tarsha Joyner. Mrs. Joy’s is known for scratch-made, high-quality bakery items in store and tailor-made baked goods for events.
PHILIPPINE DELIGHT
1219 Main Street
Owner Anabelle Goff serves authentic Filipino cuisine with friendly customer service that makes every meal a memorable experience. Each dish is crafted with traditional flavors and heartfelt hospitality, bringing a taste of the Philippines to every plate.
THE LOVING CO
901 Jefferson Street
Victoria Thomas and her three daughters, Taylor, Ceana, and Ashley Loving, own and operate this cozy coffee shop and retail space, offering delicious menu items and locally-made products. Guests can enjoy live music performances and special Insomnia Nights, making it a vibrant gathering place for the community.
WOMEN-OWNED EXPERIENCES
RIVERVIEWS ARTSPACE
901 Jefferson Street
Riverviews Artspace is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art exhibits, multi-disciplinary programs, and events that highlight the talented artists of Lynchburg and beyond. Under the leadership of Executive Director Tracey Langseth, the space brings the vibrant arts scene to life, offering a dynamic creative experience for all.
SUNDOG ART STUDIOS
815 Main Street
Jennifer Gilley’s artistic talent shines through in her high-demand, professional tattoo services and carefully curated art pieces for Sundog Art Studios. Each piece she creates is a true reflection of her passion for art and dedication to her craft, making her studio a sought-after destination for custom designs.
WICK & POUR CANDLE BAR
205 9th Street
Chantel West-White opened Wick & Pour Candle Bar in the Krise Building, offering visitors a unique candle-making experience where "fragrance meets artistry." At this premier candle bar and retail shop, you can create your own beautifully crafted candles to take home.
WOMEN-OWNED SERVICES
INTERIORS BY MOYANNE
107 13th Street
Moyanne Harding provides upscale staging and interior design for both residential and commercial spaces using tasteful home decor, furniture, and art. Her designs are thoughtfully curated to enhance each space, creating an inviting and stylish atmosphere that reflects the client’s vision.
STEELCUT FLOWER CO.
507 Harrison StREET
Steelcut Flower Co. is a wedding and event floral design studio run by Lynchburg natives, Mary Ellen LaFreniere and Bryanna Smith. The Lynchburg studio provides full service floral design for weddings and events in Charlottesville, Richmond, D.C., and Lynchburg.
STUDIO 701
701 5th Street, Unit A
Studio 701 is a photography studio available for hourly rental by photographers. In addition to providing a well-equipped space, Studio 701 hosts events, classes, and workshops, and offers direct booking with the photographers who run the studio.
WOMEN-OWNED Self-Care
BLOOM STUDIO
811 Main Street
Salem Hicks, owner of Bloom Studio, invites you to visit her luxury salon and embrace your individuality through a personalized pampering experience. With a focus on quality service and attention to detail, Bloom Studio creates a welcoming space where you can unwind and leave feeling refreshed and confident.
Cuts of grace
1101 Main Street
Jessie Thomas, owner of Cuts of Grace, is dedicated to creating great haircuts and great hair days for everyone. With a passion for style and precision, Jessie ensures each client leaves feeling confident and refreshed.
DIRECTOR’S CUT BARBER SHOP
915 Main Street
Director's Cut Barbershop is a uniquely styled barbershop that caters to clients of all ages. Beyond providing quality grooming services, the shop actively mentors aspiring high-school barbers, fostering skill development and community engagement.
ELEKTRIC AVE SALON
901 Jefferson Street
Elektra Walraven’s Elektric Ave Salon, located inside the Riverviews Artspace building, specializes in curl cutting, artistic hair painting, bridal services, and more. Enjoy detailed consultations and customized hair care tailored to your needs.
FROSTFIRE SAUNA AND COLD PLUNGE
1337 Main Street
Sam Foster brings detox, renewal, and relaxation to Downtown Lynchburg in her sauna and cold plunge haven. Frostfire Sauna and Cold Plunge offers 1-hour or 2-hour sessions via drop-in or by appointment. The business also hosts stretching, strengthening, and relaxation classes.
THE HAVEN
1000 Jefferson Street Suite 1b-1
The Haven, a holistic hair spa owned by Whitney Smith and Barbie Bowersox, features all-natural haircolor options, scalp treatments, aromatherapy, reflective listening, a variety of hair treatments, and authentic connection in a low-tox environment.
La Femme Permanent Cosmetics + Esthetics
1200 Main Street
La Femme, owned by Netty Carey, offers permanent cosmetic solutions, esthetic treatments, and medi-spa services. From facials to Botox, La Femme provides everything you need to enhance your natural glow!
MOJO HAIR BAR
1330 Main Street
Visit Mojo Hair Bar, the premier beauty salon in Downtown Lynchburg, owned by Grace Boyd. Specializing in hair color, precision cuts, and blowouts, Mojo Hair Bar offers expert services to help you look and feel your best. Whether you're after a fresh style or a quick touch-up, their skilled team is ready to deliver outstanding results.
NAIL Bar on Main
1330 Main Street
Lyric Monroe and her team of skilled nail technicians expertly blend attention to detail with artistic talent. Customers flock to Nail Bar on Main for exceptional nail care in a tranquil, inviting atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a classic manicure or a creative design, the team provides personalized services to ensure a flawless experience.
RELAX MASSAGE
1107 Church Street
Take a mini-vacation in Downtown Lynchburg at Michelle Harvey’s Relax Massage. Pampering and relaxation services like massages, manicures, and pedicures can be found in this cozy, appointment-only salon.
THE DIAMOND ROOM
920 Commerce Street
Tiarra Diamond Harris and her team of six highly-skilled women help customers indulge in a luxury salon experience where flawless makeup looks are created and lifelong friendships bloom.
ZOLA’S BEAUTY
1000 Jefferson Street
Zola’s Beauty, owned by Imani West, is the go-to salon in Downtown Lynchburg for facials, nail care, waxing, and self-care bundles. With a focus on relaxation and rejuvenation, Zola’s Beauty offers a serene environment where clients can unwind and refresh. The salon’s expert team is dedicated to providing top-notch services tailored to each individual’s needs.
WOMEN-OWNED Venues
Atelier Studio
506 Madison street
Atelier Studio & Gathering Space is a versatile venue in Lynchburg, Virginia, offering hourly rentals for photoshoots, meetings, small events, and workshops. The space features multiple colored backdrops, tables, chairs, free coffee, and continually updated decor to create a welcoming environment for the community.
CITY VIEW VENUES
828 Main Street
Located in the Bank of the James, City View is a wedding and event venue overlooking historic Downtown Lynchburg. Owner, Calah Ferris, has created two luxurious event venue options to choose from– the outdoor terrace on the 8th floor with breathtaking views or the 20th floor venue that towers above the city.
TRESCA ON 8TH
724 Commerce Street
Tresca on 8th is the ideal venue for any wedding or event. With its location in the historic cityscape, beautiful riverfront views, spacious bridal suites, loft-style cocktail space, and award-winning ballroom, patrons are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Each of these strong women plays a vital role in shaping the Downtown Lynchburg experience we all cherish. Without their contributions, so much would be missing. Happy Women's History Month! We celebrate you today and every day.
