When the holiday shopping madness settles down, there’s one more day that deserves your attention. Small Business Monday isn’t just another marketing gimmick. It’s your chance to support the people who make Midlothian more than just another Richmond suburb.
Why Your Money Matters More Than You Think
Here’s something worth knowing: Virginia is home to more than 850,000 small businesses that employ roughly 1.5 million people. That’s 99.6% of all businesses in the state. When you buy that coffee from a local shop instead of a chain, or pick up a gift from a boutique instead of clicking “add to cart” on a massive website, you’re doing more than just making a purchase.
About 76% of small business owners volunteer their time for local causes, and 90% donate money to community groups, schools, and charities. That pottery class at the community center? That new playground equipment at the school? There’s a good chance local businesses helped make it happen. Every dollar you spend at a small business generates about three times more economic benefit for your community compared to shopping at chains.
Local Shops Worth Your Time
Cottage Lane
This home decor shop in Sycamore Square Shopping Center is the kind of place that makes you want to redecorate your entire house. They carry Scout Bags, Jelly Cat plush toys, and C-Ville Chocolates. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, it’s where cozy meets chic.
The Freckled Frog
Located at 13433 Midlothian Turnpike, this family-owned shop sells Amish-made outdoor furniture that comes with a 20-year warranty. They also stock gifts, home decor, and garden flags. The owners, Cindy and Michael Morrissette, offer discounts to teachers, firefighters, and county employees because they believe in giving back. They’re open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and Sundays from noon to 5 PM.
7 Brew Coffee
With three locations across Midlothian, this drive-through coffee spot has become a local favorite. They serve coffee, energy drinks, smoothies, and teas with genuinely friendly service. Open from 5:30 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and until 11 PM on weekends, it’s perfect for early birds and night owls alike.
Art & Coffee by the Art Factory
This isn’t just a coffee shop. It’s a cafe, art studio, and party space rolled into one at 4810 Market Square Lane in Brandermill. They serve locally roasted coffee from Guide Roasting Company and milk from Richlands Dairy Farm. There’s even a play space for kids under 5. Open Monday through Friday, 7 AM to 6 PM, and weekends from 8 AM to 6 PM.
Gift Ideas You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Looking for presents that actually mean something? Skip the generic gift cards and try these:
For the homebody: Cottage Lane’s Scout Bags make perfect everyday totes, and their home decor items add personality to any space.
For outdoor lovers: The Freckled Frog’s poly furniture is eco-friendly, made from recycled materials, and never needs painting or staining. It’s built to last decades.
For the coffee enthusiast: Grab a bag of Artistic Brew beans from Art & Coffee. It’s a light roast with fruity and floral notes, created exclusively for them by Guide Roasting Company.
For kids (or the young at heart): Jelly Cat plush toys from Cottage Lane are ridiculously soft and come in every animal imaginable.
Shopping Local Isn’t Complicated
You don’t need to make grand gestures. Grab your morning coffee from a local cafe instead of a chain. Pick up a birthday gift from a boutique instead of scrolling through endless online options. Meet a friend at a locally-owned restaurant.
The Midlothian Business Alliance works to make the area the best place to live, work, and play. They bring together business professionals and community leaders to support growth. When you shop local, you’re joining that effort.
Small businesses in Virginia employed 1.5 million people in 2021, and that number continues to grow. Between 1996 and 2020, small business employment in the state grew by 26.3%, beating the national average. These aren’t just statistics. They’re jobs for your neighbors, funding for local schools, and support for community programs.
Make It a Habit
Small Business Monday works best when it’s not just one day a year. The shops listed here are open year-round, ready to help you find what you need while keeping your money in the community. Next time you need something, check if a local business has it first. You might be surprised at what you find right in your own backyard.
Your purchases matter. The businesses you support shape the kind of community Midlothian becomes. Choose wisely.
Sources: yelp.com, cottage-lane-online.square.site, 7brew.com, artfactoryva.com, The Freckled Frog Faceboook Page
Header Image Source: Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
