Small Business Archives - Potomac Local News

Published January 9, 2026 at 1:00PM

Stafford County’s first-ever Shop Small Stafford campaign brought out hundreds of residents to support local businesses on Small Business Saturday, November 29, 2025. The initiative, organized by the county’s Economic Development Department, combined digital engagement, live events, and local promotions to boost awareness and foot traffic for small businesses across the area.

Fifty local businesses joined the effort, offering in-person and online shopping opportunities as well as participating in a pop-up Shop Small Market at Long Family Markets. Using a centralized Digital Passport system, 320 shoppers checked in at local stores throughout the day, generating 319 estimated transactions and nearly $35,000 in gross receipts. County officials say about $23,775 of that stayed in the local economy.

Manassas

New Manassas mural highlights local landmarks, celebrates community connection

By Potomac Local News

Published November 28, 2025 at 3:53PM

A new mural inside District Hemp Botanicals in Old Town Manassas aims to do more than decorate—it’s designed to guide and inspire. Unveiled during a community gathering on November 21, the “Old Town Manassas Map Mural” highlights the city’s downtown area and encourages both locals and visitors to explore its small businesses and cultural spots.

Barbara Biddle, founder of District Hemp Botanicals, commissioned the mural to mark her store’s 8th anniversary. Located at 9417 Main Street, the artwork reflects the store’s mission of fostering wellness and community. “Our hope is that the mural will help transform a walk in Manassas into an experience,” Biddle said during the event, which included remarks from Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger and representatives from the Prince William Chamber of Commerce.

Stafford

Stafford Promotes Shop Small Saturday With Digital Passport and Gift Card Prizes

By Potomac Local News

Published November 26, 2025 at 10:59AM

“Are you ready? Cause we are getting excited!” Go Stafford VA announced. “Small Business Saturday is November 29!”

“Your Shop Small Stafford Digital Passport unlocks exclusive local deals and enters you to win up to $1,000 in gift cards to a participating Shop Small Stafford business,” the organization stated. “Don’t wait — get your Shop Small Stafford Digital Passport now.”

Fredericksburg

The Barking Barley to Open in Fredericksburg, Honoring a Beloved Dog and Community Spirit

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 13, 2025 at 9:00AM

“Well folks, it’s half a decade in the making. Two and a half years of planning, permitting and construction. And countless late nights. But we’re nearly there,” The Barking Barley announced. “The Barking Barley is my gift to downtown FXBG and to Riley. It’s my love letter to a city that made Riley and I feel like we belonged.”

“Fredericksburg is a dog town, Fredericksburg is home, and Fredericksburg is The Barking Barley,” the post continued. “Unfortunately we lost Riley before she could see her dog park completed. But she lives on in our logo design! So give her a smile whenever you see it. She’ll be watching over all her dog friends at the park.”

Stafford

Ribbon cut for new MyEyeDoctor at Embrey Mill in Stafford County

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 6, 2025 at 3:00PM

A new MyEyeDoctor office is now open at Embrey Mill Town Center, adding to the growing list of businesses locating in one of Stafford County’s busiest developments.

Community members joined local officials and MyEyeDoctor staff on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the opening. The event featured remarks from Dr. Andrew Chan, the new office’s optometrist, who said the location is a perfect fit for his growing practice and his family.

Stafford

Stafford County Encourages Local Businesses to Join ‘Shop Small Stafford’ Campaign

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 1, 2025 at 10:19AM

“Stafford County small businesses — this is your moment!” Stafford County Economic Development announced. “Join the Shop Small Stafford movement this Small Business Saturday, November 29th, and make this holiday season your most successful yet.”

“Whether you’re a storefront, mobile, or online business, participating in Shop Small Stafford will give you free countywide exposure, feature your business in the Shop Small Stafford Digital Passport, and help you increase holiday sales,” the post continued.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg EDA backs new workshop series to boost small businesses

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 22, 2025 at 11:30AM

The Fredericksburg Economic Development Authority voted Monday to fund a new series of workshops and networking events aimed at helping local small businesses grow, collaborate, and strengthen the city’s entrepreneurial community.

The EDA approved $5,000 to launch the initiative, which will include two quarterly programs — a Business Strategy and Skills Series and a Business Core Networking Series. Both are designed to give Fredericksburg business owners a space to learn practical skills, share ideas, and connect with one another.

Manassas

Manassas Olive Oil Company Marks 10 Years with Ribbon Cutting, Special Weekend Celebration

By Uriah Kiser

Published July 14, 2025 at 1:15PM

Representatives from the community and Historic Manassas, Inc. join Manassas Olive Oil Company for a ribbon cutting on Friday, July 11, 2025, to celebrate the store’s 10th anniversary in Historic Downtown Manassas. [Photo courtesy of Historic Manassas, Inc.]

The event, held at 4 p.m. on July 11, 2025, welcomed customers, community members, and local officials to the shop at 9406 Grant Avenue. Attendees were treated to celebratory snacks, including cheese and crackers, brownies, and other goodies as part of a weekend-long event honoring the store’s decade of business.

In addition to the in-store festivities, the shop offered a 10% discount on all products from Friday through Sunday, both in-store and online. The automatic discount gave longtime fans and new customers a chance to stock up on a wide selection of fresh olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars sourced from around the world.

Prince William

Need Help With Permits or Fire Safety? Prince William County Now Offers Virtual Appointments

By Uriah Kiser

Published July 3, 2025 at 8:00AM

PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. – Prince William County is making it easier for local business owners, contractors, and developers to connect with experts—without leaving the job site or office.

On June 30, 2025, the Department of Development Services and the Fire Marshal’s Office launched a new Virtual Appointment Scheduling System. The system allows users to schedule meetings online, 24/7, and speak directly with county staff via Microsoft Teams at a time that works for them.

Prince William

Occoquan Bids Farewell to Events Director Julie Little, Welcomes New Art Gallery to Town

By Uriah Kiser

Published July 1, 2025 at 7:30AM

Laura D. Jones (center) cuts the ribbon at the grand opening of Laura D Jones Fine Art in Occoquan on June 29, 2025, joined by town leaders and community members. The new gallery, located at 125 Mill St, Suite #10, features original artwork and a riverfront studio space for art classes.

OCCOQUAN, Va. – The Town of Occoquan is celebrating both a heartfelt farewell and an exciting new beginning.

Julie Little, who has served as the town’s Events Director for the past eight years, is retiring. Town officials praised Little for her unwavering passion, dedication, and creativity, which helped grow beloved traditions like the Craft Festivals and bring new energy to Occoquan’s calendar of events.