Robin White drove past the same shopping center every day and thought, “I need to open a boutique in that spot.” Leaving a comfortable job after nine years is a scary leap, but every day, as she drove by, Robin had the same urge: that’s my location, I need to open a boutique. Opening a clothing boutique had long been a dream of Robin’s. As a young girl, she grew close to her grandmother as…

Andrew Oliver, owner and manager of Walls of Books, standing tall behind the counter, is soft spoken and affable. While his love of great books is immediately evident should you ask about any of his shop’s wide selection, he always gives the genuine impression that he is just as happy introducing people to the books he loves as he is reading them. His staff, who have all acquired Andrew’s demeanor, are likewise genial and knowledgable….

Since 2009, Cuckoo’s Nest Skate Shop has been the quirky epicenter of local skateboarding. Run by skaters and for skaters, Cuckoo’s Nest is the longest-running skate shop in the area, offering unique items and hosting regular events. Out of this shop, a community has emerged, one that deserves more attention. For many young people, skating is an important outlet. This sport, which the International Olympic Committee voted unanimously to include in the 2020 Summer Games…

Holidays are hectic. We’re rushing around, buying gifts, cooking, and many of us are traveling, too. Finding ways to relax during this busy season is a challenge. Brett Chastain, owner of Sweetbriar Smokeshop offers his customers a way to unwind between whatever chaos this holiday season brings. “We’re in the relaxation business,” Brett explains. “People come here at the end of a long day to enjoy premium cigars.” Since 1975 they have been frequenting this…

Since 2000, Phenix City-based American Guitar Boutique has provided musicians in the Chattahoochee Valley with the service and expertise only working musicians can provide. Owners Tim O’Brien and Mike Childree have more than eighty years of professional experience between them. Their experience in the trenches gives them the broad, real-world knowledge necessary to guide players of all skill levels, from beginners to pros, toward the right products and services. This locally owned shop, located at…

David Benefield is proud to celebrate 33 years in Midtown, at St. Elmo Shopping Center on Lakebottom Park. Customers whose wedding flower arrangements he made three decades ago now come in with their adult children, who need arrangements for their weddings. David has served generations of Columbus families, and when you visit his shop, currently bursting with festive adornments, it’s no wonder that Ann’s Porch is a local institution. David specializes in weddings, anniversaries, funerals,…

Shooter’s Valhalla, a retail gun shop located on the corner of 12th Street and 1st Avenue, actively serves the community, and exists because the community asked for it. Shooter’s grew out of Valhalla Training Academy, directed by Rob Phipps, who proudly served 22 years in the US Military’s Special Operation’s Command, 75th Ranger Regiment, with extensive instructor experience and many prestigious awards. Gene Lively, a partner in both businesses, is proud that clients, impressed with…