Women-Owned and Organized in Ashland

Changing Reins co-owner Anne Heflin inside her store in Downtown Ashland

From innovative entrepreneurs to compassionate caregivers, women-owned and operated organizations are forging new tracks in Downtown Ashland. This Women’s History Month, explore the women-led enterprises behind Ashland’s vibrant town center.

Allied Instructional Services
Ashland’s education management company provides schools and government agencies with the professional staff and programs needed to support the growth, development, and life skills of individuals with special needs.

Allstate Insurance
Meet Ellen Ess - a guardian angel of insurance in Ashland since 2014. Ellen's not just about protecting what you have today; she's your guide to preparing for a prosperous tomorrow. Ellen makes it her mission to help clients understand how insurance can be used as the cornerstone of financial well-being.

Artistic Fusion Hair Company
Step into Artistic Fusion Hair Company, where style meets sustainability in the heart of Ashland. Stylist Jane Baker is on a mission to weave magic into every strand, serving up eco-friendly salon experiences that'll leave you feeling like royalty.

Ashland Dance Academy
Dance in the heart of downtown Ashland. From ballet to hip hop, Ashland Dance Academy students are often featured as guest performers at local events and charitable ventures.

Ashland Haunted History Tours
Explore spectral secrets with Ashland Haunted History Tours, where every shadow has a story to tell. Led by ghostly guides, these spine-tingling strolls through downtown Ashland reveal the town's macabre past and spirited present.

Ashland Museum
Step into living history at the Ashland Museum, where the past whispers its tales to eager ears. From artifacts to anecdotes, they're the keepers of Ashland's cultural legacy, preserving the threads that weave the town's rich tapestry.

Ashland Pot Pie Company
Rachel and Sarah serve up more than just comfort food at Ashland Pot Pie Company; they're dishing out love, one savory pie at a time. Their homemade creations are like culinary time machines, transporting taste buds to a simpler, more delicious era.

Ashland Tattoo Company
Ink your story at Ashland Tattoo Company, where art meets authenticity in every design. With a crew of talented artists, they're not just tattooing; they're etching memories and marking milestones skin-deep in Ashland.

Ashland Theatre
At Ashland Theatre, they're curating experiences that transcend the silver screen. As a hub of cultural exploration, they're rewriting the script on American movie house traditions, one reel at a time.

Ban Thai Restaurant
Owner and chef Sura Mollary serves up handcrafted dishes from her home country, Thailand.

Bell Book and Candle
Discover literary treasures at Bell Book and Candle, where every page is an Ashland treasure waiting to be read. From dog-eared classics to hidden gems, this bookstore is a local sanctuary for bookworms and bibliophiles alike.

Caring Hands & Kneads
Unlock the healing power of touch at Caring Hands & Kneads, where relaxation reigns supreme. With skilled hands and compassionate hearts, they're massaging muscles, nurturing spirits, and soothing souls.

Center of the Yarniverse
Knit, purl, and create at the Center of the Yarniverse, where every stitch spins a tale of creativity and connection. From yarn to yearning, they're the thread that binds Ashland's crafting community, weaving dreams into reality, one skein at a time.

Changing Reins
Saddle up for adventure at Changing Reins, where equestrian elegance meets secondhand style. Their gently used items bridge the past and present, offering riders a chance to reinvent themselves, both in and out of the saddle.

Commonwealth Litigation Support Services
Pamela G. Bishop has over thirty years of experience providing litigation support in Federal Court throughout the country. Today, she focuses her efforts in Ashland, specializing in criminal cases.

Everhart Eye Associates
With decades of experience, Dr. Suzanne Everhart’s visionary work as a physician and surgeon is shaping the way we see Ashland, one patient at a time. The capable and experienced staff dedicates themselves to exceptional patient service from eye exams to surgical procedures.

Group Home Management Support Services, LLC
From life skills to community connections, Group Home Management Support Services is empowering individuals to build brighter futures, brick by brick.

Hanover Arts and Activities Center
For over 50 years, the Hanover Arts and Activities Center has been the beating heart of Ashland's cultural landscape. From concerts to classes, they're the pulse of the community, inspiring creativity and connection in every beat.

Hanover County Black Heritage Society
Illuminate the past with the Hanover County Black Heritage Society, where history comes alive in shades of courage and resilience. They've used their archives to gather information to honor citizen legacies and celebrate the diverse tapestry of Ashland's heritage.

Heavenly Clips Pet Grooming Salon
Pamper your furry friends at Heavenly Clips Pet Grooming Salon, where grooming is a heavenly experience. Grooming goes beyond appearances and crosses into holistic health worth barking about.

Henry Clay Inn
Stay overnight within the charming, warm, and hospitable historic Henry Clay Inn. Inspired by the splendor of predecessors, the interior hosts 13 guest rooms, picturesque parlors and a view of downtown from the balcony.

Homemades by Suzanne
Savor the flavor of tradition at Homemades by Suzanne, where every bite is a taste of home. From catered events to bakery delights, they're a culinary cornerstone of the community, serving up memories with every morsel.

Institute of Advanced Medical Esthetics
Elevate your beauty game with the Institute of Advanced Medical Esthetics. Aspiring estheticians get the education, strategies, tactics, and connections to redefine beauty standards with every treatment.

Jake's Place Restaurant
Indulge in southern comfort at Jake's Place Restaurant, where every bite is sizzling with love and legacy. From smoked barbecue to secret sauces, they're serving Southern Comfortable to the whole community.

Jessica Robertson Photographic Artistry
Capture life's moments with Jessica Robertson Photographic Artistry. Jessica's reputation for quality and consistency stems from her commitment to a set of core values that are reflected in her imagery: Timeless, Creative, Memorable, Unique, and Storytelling.

Knot Just Hair
They're not only styling hair; they're a full-service operation in the center of the Center of the Universe! From facial waxing to complete care for your crown, Knot Just Hair has all the tools for cutting couture creations.

McArdle & Associates
McArdle & Associates is a multi-line independent insurance agency established in 1992. The agency staff has a combined 45 years of insurance experience, providing personal and business insurance guidance for clients.

Piano Works Studios
Strike a chord at Piano Works Studios, where Mrs. Jodie McDowell-Brill brings over 30 years of experience to every student. Instructors foster creativity and deploy discipline to accelerate advanced musical abilities.

RED VEIN Escape
With mind-bending puzzles, captivating storylines, and intricately designed sets, RED VEIN Escape is your ultimate destination for thrill and excitement! Multi-themed escape games and immersive storytelling make every visit an adventure. 

RefunkIt
Discover RefunkIt’s carefully curated handcrafted items by artisans from Virginia and beyond. These funky finds can only be found in the Center of the Universe.

Root Modern Dentistry
Root Modern Dentistry’s innovative approach to oral health is giving Ashland a lot to smile about. Led by Dr. Chriska Mustafa, the dedicated team is committed to excellence and patient-centric care. 

Salon Valentino
Elevate your style with Stephanie Valentino at Salon Valentino. From classic cuts to avant-garde trends, Stephanie crafts hairstyles that reflect your unique identity and inner confidence.

Stepping Stone Chiropractic
Dr. Tara Bath at Stepping Stone Chiropractic is your partner in holistic wellness. Through personalized care and a whole-person approach, Dr. Bath alleviates pain and restores balance, empowering patients to thrive in every aspect of their lives.

The Shop at 112
Treasures await at every turn when you step into a world of vintage charm at The Shop at 112. Open Saturdays only, this posh antique haven is a sanctuary for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Thrill of the Hunt
Unleash your sense of adventure at Thrill of the Hunt! You don’t have to hunt long for your new favorite piece in their expansive showroom. Their passion for breathing new life into vintage treasures transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary daily downtown.

Tinder Guest House
Experience a piece of history at Tinder Guest House. Originally a pharmacy business built in 1898, this four-room suite offers a blend of heritage charm and contemporary luxury, inviting guests to unwind and create lasting memories.

Tiny Tim's Trains & Toys
Delight in the wonder of childhood at Tiny Tim’s Trains & Toys, a haven for the young and young-at-heart. From model trains to family games, the unique toy store sparks joy for ages 0 to 99!

Wagner Jewellers
Journey into the world of bespoke elegance at Wagner Jewellers. Craftsmanship meets creativity under the trained hands of registered British Goldsmiths specializing in custom designs. Their custom jewelry designs reflect a timeless story of reinvention and beauty.

Your Path Counseling Center
Find your path to healing and empowerment at Your Path Counseling Center. Offering counseling services for adults and children, as well as professional support, they guide individuals on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

Yogatown of Ashland
Discover the transformative power of yoga at Yogatown of Ashland, where every practice is a celebration of self-expression and inclusivity. Experienced instructors invite you to embrace your authentic self and find solace in movement inside a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Ashland Seeks Entrance Artist

The Town of Ashland, Virginia is seeking qualifications from artists/artist teams for a new large-scale public artwork to welcome residents and visitors to the western entrance of Downtown Ashland at the intersection of US Route 1 and England Street.

“We are not seeking a typical gateway piece, but something creative and dynamic that reflects Ashland's welcoming, quaint, and unique culture,” said Martha J. Miller, Community Engagement Manager for the Town of Ashland.

Located in Hanover County just 20 miles north of Richmond, Ashland boasts a rich railroad history and growing outdoor recreation amenities, especially among cyclists with several existing cycling routes coursing through Town and as the northern terminus of the 43-mile long Fall Line Trail.

“As the first major project being stewarded by our relatively new Public Art Commission, we are hopeful that the visibility of this project and its creative possibilities will attract the attention of highly skilled and innovative artists not just locally, but across the Commonwealth and the region,” Miller said.

The future artwork site is highly visible as it serves as the primary entrance to Ashland’s Downtown, is proximal to Interstate 95 and US Route 1, and as such, will be viewed by travelers when entering and leaving Ashland.

Ideal works of art would create an arch or archway effect to welcome visitors and perhaps tell Ashland’s story or history, strengthen community pride, evoke feelings of inspiration or joy, encourage fun and play or outdoor recreation, cultivate community dialogue, foster reflection, promote unity and connectedness or instill a sense of home and place.

“This project is being made possible by American Rescue Plan Act funding, but also by the flexibility of two adjacent property owners, Wawa and Tobacco Hut, and their commitment to being good community partners,” said Miller.

Miller added, “This is more than just a creative placemaking effort for us. It’s about continuing to foster a sense of pride in community and creating a visual beacon that will draw more folks into our downtown to support our small business community.”

RFQ Highlights

• Application Deadline: Monday, March 25th, 2024 at 11:59pm Eastern

• Budget: $60,000

• Honorarium for up to 3 finalists: $1,500 each

• Eligibility: Open to all artists/artist teams with legal status to work in the United States without preference to racial/ethnic origins, gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or disability.
  The full RFQ and application are available here. 

Unveiling Untold Stories: Black & White Experiences in Ashland/ Hanover

“Untold Stories: Black & White Experiences Growing Up in Ashland/Hanover" promises an afternoon of insight, reflection, and cultural celebration. On Sunday, February 25, 2024, from 4-6 PM at Patrick Henry High School, Ashland and Hanover will explore the rich tapestry of our local history, illuminating narratives that span generations and resonate with timeless significance.

Untold Stories, now in its tenth year, has become a cornerstone of Ashland's cultural calendar, drawing residents from across the region to participate in an engaging oral history format. Against the backdrop of the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, attendees will hear firsthand accounts from local residents on topics ranging from race and community to segregation and education.

Under the skilled moderation of Anthony Keitt, a panel of six local residents will share their personal narratives, followed by wrap-up speaker Dr. John Kinney and a rousing gospel choir performance. Each portion of the program offers insight into the complexities of Ashland’s and Hanover County's historical landscape.

The event's thematic focus on education invites participants to explore the pivotal role of learning in shaping individual experiences and community dynamics. From the challenges of segregated schooling to the triumphs of educational resilience, Untold Stories invites audiences aged 13 and older to engage with narratives that resonate across generations.

Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the proceedings, the Community Gospel Chorus, under the direction of Tyler Spurlock, will deliver a joyful performance that underscores the enduring power of music as a unifying force.

Since its inception in 2014, Untold Stories has been a collaborative endeavor, made possible through the partnership of the Downtown Ashland Association, Ashland Museum, Hanover County Black Heritage Society, and Hanover Arts and Activities Center. Together, these organizations have nurtured a space for dialogue, reflection, and community connection.

The event's free and open-door policy ensures that everyone, from middle schoolers to adults, can participate in this transformative experience. For those unable to attend in person, DVD recordings of previous Untold Stories programs are available for purchase at the Ashland Museum.

Join us on February 25th in the Patrick Henry High School auditorium to illuminate the hidden chapters of our shared history and forge new connections that transcend the boundaries of time and tradition.

Let’s Do Business: Entrepreneurship Initiatives Coming to Downtown Ashland in 2024.

Start the new year like a boss. Starting February 2024, Downtown Ashland Association will spearhead programs to foster economic development and small business growth in our historic train town.

Whether you're an established company or just embarking on your business journey, Downtown Ashland Association will offer programs to propel you toward your next milestone. The Startup Business Accelerator caters to new ventures, while the Online Marketing Technical Assistance program is designed to support existing businesses. Applications for both initiatives are currently open!

Ever wonder how you could knock the socks off investors on Shark Tank? Center Street Pitch Competition is a unique opportunity to find out. Businesses are invited to compete in 2024 for the chance to win one of four prizes worth more than $20,000.

For those familiar with local experience, here's your chance to share your expertise and contribute to the development of the "Doing Business in Hanover Handbook." Your insights can inform the future of companies in our region.

Everyone is invited to participate in Business Innovation Workshops April through July, specially crafted for existing business owners to enhance their skills and knowledge. These workshops cover essential issues such as marketing, funding and investment, and workforce recruitment.

Get ready to kick off 2024 like a boss! Stay updated on the latest Ashland entrepreneurship initiatives, application details, and opportunities:  Visit www.AshlandVirginia.com/2024. 

Valentine’s Day Delights in Downtown Ashland

Downtown Ashland is your destination for an adoring Valentine’s day. Stroll through picturesque locally owned shops with your Beloved and find heart-stopping treasures around every corner. Make your Valentine feel like the center of your universe in Downtown Ashland. Keep reading for our complete sweetheart’s shopping guide.

Ashland Feed Store

At Ashland Feed Store, not only will you find garden supplies, animal feed, and lawn care equipment, but also snuggly sweatshirts, perfect for cuddling with your sweetheart.

Ashland Meat Company at Cross Brothers

Indulge in locally sourced provisions and farm-to-table delights at Ashland Meat Company at Cross Brothers. With custom meats and gourmet foods, they've got your Valentine's Day feast covered.

The Caboose Market & Cafe

Next stop, The Caboose Market & Cafe! Nestled along the railroad tracks, this cozy spot offers an array of beverages, specialty cheeses, and a fresh seasonal menu perfect for a romantic rendezvous.

Caravati’s Architectural Salvage

For those with a taste for unique finds, visit Caravati’s Architectural Salvage, where history meets modern charm. Discover treasures for your home renovation projects or find a special piece to gift your Beloved.

Center of the Yarniverse

Calling all crafters! Center of the Yarniverse awaits with colorful yarns, patterns, and accessories to knit your way into your Valentine's heart.

Changing Reins

Saddle up for romance at Changing Reins, where you'll find high-end equestrian gear and vintage treasures sure to put some giddyup in your Valentine’s Day.

Fin & Feather Pet Center

Furry friends deserve love too! Swing by Fin & Feather Pet Center for a wide selection of pet supplies, small animals, and adorable gifts to pamper your beloved pets.

Hickory Creek Antiques

Antique lovers rejoice at Hickory Creek Antiques, where Metro Richmond's largest collection of vintage treasures awaits to add a touch of nostalgia to your Valentine's Day celebrations.

Refunkit

Feeling funky? Refunkit offers handcrafted art and gifts that are as unique as your love story. Explore their curated collection for the perfect Valentine's Day surprise.

Thrill of the Hunt

Discover Thrill of the Hunt, where stylish furniture, vintage finds, and unique gifts await to enchant your Valentine's Day celebrations.

Tiny Tim’s Toys & Trains

All aboard at Tiny Tim’s Toys & Trains! Find fun for all ages with model trains, learning toys, and family games that will make this Valentine's Day unforgettable.

The Shop at 112

For a touch of posh elegance, visit The Shop at 112 on Saturdays, where antiques and collectibles await to add a touch of sophistication to your Valentine's Day gifting.

Wagner Jewellers

Finally, seal your love with a sparkle from Wagner Jewellers, where custom-designed jewelry will turn your love into timeless treasures. With visible goldsmith workbenches, your Valentine's Day dreams are just a sparkle away.