Why Supporting Local Vendors Matters Now More Than Ever
August 2025 | By Phenix City Indivisible
In places like Phenix City and Columbus, community means showing up for one another,especially when times get tough.
Local Vendors Are Our Neighbors
They’re the soap maker at the market, the coffee roasters downtown, the family with a candle stand. When we support them, we’re not just buying things, we’re keeping dreams alive.
The Big Beautiful Bill: What’s at Stake
Despite the name, the new federal legislation brings real harm:
SNAP cuts mean less food assistance.
Medicaid rollbacks threaten healthcare.
Rural support and clean energy incentives are slashed.
That means harder times for families, and even tougher ones for local businesses relying on us.
Why Shopping Local Matters
When federal support falls short, we become the safety net. Every local purchase:
Keeps money in our community
Helps a neighbor stay afloat
Builds trust and connection
How You Can Help
Shop local: Markets, pop-ups, food trucks, every dollar counts.
Spread the word: Share your favorites, leave reviews.
Speak out: Tell your reps how these cuts affect your life.
This Is About All of Us
We’ve seen this community show up before, in storms, outages, protests. Let’s do it again. Let’s keep Phenix City and Columbus strong.
Vendor Highlight
Red Ribbon Tack
✨ Spotlight: Red Ribbon Tack ✨
Tired of scrolling online for gear that doesn’t measure up? Red Ribbon Tack in Columbus is here for the riders who want only the best. From handcrafted bridles and Kingsley boots to barn supplies, gifts, and expert saddlery services, they’ve got you covered.
IWebsite: https://redribbontack.com/
👉 Whether you’re an Olympian or just starting out, Red Ribbon Tack is the local spot for equestrian luxury and everyday essentials. 🐎
Local Vendors
Simply Crystal
Elevate Your Everyday Look with Simply Crystal
Handcrafted gemstone jewelry that’s bold, beautiful, and built to shine.
At Simply Crystal, we create striking, high-quality pieces using real gemstones and unique designs. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual, our jewelry adds just the right touch of color and character.
- Eye-catching crystal designs with a rainbow accent
- Genuine gemstones, ethically sourced
- Handmade with care and attention to detail
- Great for birthdays, anniversaries, or treating yourself
Timeless, thoughtful, and effortlessly stylish, Simply Crystal is here to help you express –your personal style with confidence.
📲 Follow us @1.Simply.Crystal
🛒 Shop now: Simplycrystal.shop
Simply Crystal – Designed to shine. Made to last.
U Ignite Candle Co
Say hello to the warm glow behind U Ignite Candle Co, where handcrafted candles meet heart and soul.
Whether you’re setting the mood, giving a thoughtful gift, or simply treating yourself to something special, Rosanna Leslie has you covered with beautifully made candles that spark peace, warmth, and joy.
Custom creations
Locally owned
Made with care
Contact: 706-575-5206
Email: rosannacomar@bellsouth.net
Support small. Shop local. Light up your life with U Ignite Candle Co! 💜
Things You Need, LLC
Meet Theresa Barbour, the creative mind and skilled hands behind Things You Need, LLC, a Columbus-based business offering quality handcrafted products that are as unique as they are beautiful. Whether you’re looking for ready-made treasures or want to bring your vision to life with custom orders, Theresa’s work combines craftsmanship, style, and a personal touch you won’t find in mass-produced items.
From her charming “Très CHI-que Couture” brand to her dedication to detail, every piece is made with care and passion. Supporting Things You Need, LLC means supporting local creativity and getting something truly special in return.
📍 Location: 2407 Camille Dr., Columbus, GA 31906
📞 Phone: 706-322-9452 | Cell: 910-987-3247
📧 Email: thingsyouneedllcs@gmail.com
✨ Handcrafted with love. Made just for you.
The Volve Collective
Jewelry with Purpose
The Volve Collective is more than a jewelry brand, it’s a journey of growth, healing, and self-expression.
Founded by Amy Leigh Price, The Volve evolved from her original brand, Wired by ALP, and was born from a decade of personal transformation. What started as a creative outlet during deep loss became a mission to raise mental health awareness through sustainable, expressive design.
From vintage finds to bold new pieces, each creation celebrates resilience, beauty, and becoming.
Look good. Feel confident. Evolve.
Website: https://www.thevolveco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thevolveco
Instagram: @thevolveco
The Trendy Closet LLC
Looking for your next favorite statement piece?
Say hello to The Trendy Closet LLC, your go-to shop for all things cute and handmade!
From bold earrings to trendy pins, graphic tees to one-of-a-kind handmade items, this small business brings the perfect mix of fun, fashion, and creativity to your everyday style.
Handcrafted with love
Curated with flair
Woman-owned and locally rooted
Start shopping and show your support: https://thetrendycloset.store/shop/
Follow IG: @trendy_closet_llc
and add some sparkle to your feed and your wardrobe! 🌼💫
Sweet Creations Fake Bake & Candles
Looking for the perfect gift that’s fun, unique, and smells amazing?
These handmade candles are crafted to look like mouthwatering desserts – from cinnamon rolls to popcorn and parfaits – but don’t be fooled… they’re not edible!
Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because, Sweet Creations offers novelty fake bake gifts that will leave everyone talking.
Locally made with love
Call 706-332-2353
facebook.com/SweetCreationsFakeBake
Follow them and treat yourself or someone you love to a scent-sational surprise!
Aglow Apothecary + Healing Haven
💛 Local Spotlight: Aglow Apothecary + Healing Haven 💛
Aglow is so much more than a shop, it’s a wellness sanctuary for mind, body, and spirit. 🌿 From herbal therapy, massage, yoga, and meditation to their Tea + Treats Bar (with the largest herbal tea selection in the area), Aglow offers a little magic for everyone.
You’ll also find candles, plants, jewelry, skincare, books, art, and unique gifts from local makers, all curated with love and intention. Plus, weekly classes + events make it a true community space. ✨
Website: https://www.aglowapothecary.com/
👉 Stop by, sip some tea, and explore a haven designed to help you glow from the inside out.
Blue Canary Records
💿 Spotlight: Blue Canary Records 💿
Columbus’s only independent record store, Blue Canary Records, is a music lover’s dream. From rare finds to new releases, every bin is packed with gems waiting to be discovered. 🎶
But it’s more than a record shop, it’s a community hub! Expect live shows, album launches, and good vibes that keep the local music scene alive and thriving. Whether you’re a collector or just love the crackle of vinyl, Blue Canary is the spot to be.
Website: https://bluecanaryrecords.com/
👉 Step inside, dig through the stacks, and let the music move you.
Midland Family Medicine & Wellness
🌟 Spotlight: Midland Family Medicine & Wellness 🌟
Looking for healthcare that actually puts YOU first? Dr. Lori Kingsley and her team at Midland Family Medicine and Wellness are here to provide compassionate, personalized care without the hassle of insurance. 💙
From primary care and chronic illness recovery to mental health support, osteopathic treatments, and gender-affirming care, they’re dedicated to helping our community thrive.
Website: https://www.midlandfmandwellness.com/
👉 Affordable, flexible, and patient-centered, healthcare the way it should be.
Asteria Counseling
✨ Spotlight: Asteria Counseling ✨
Meet April Jacobs, the heart behind Asteria Counseling. With warmth, humor, and a down-to-earth style, April creates a safe space where you can feel truly heard and supported. 💫
From therapy sessions rooted in compassion to guidance that helps you embrace who you are, Asteria Counseling is here to help you heal, grow, and shine. 🌌
Website: https://www.asteriacounseling.com/
👉 If you’ve been looking for a therapist who blends expertise with genuine care, April’s your person.
German Food, Gifts and More
If you’re looking for a taste of Germany without booking a flight, German Food, Gifts, and More is your local gateway to authentic flavors, culture, and charm. With over 7.4K likes and 8.7K followers, this beloved spot has earned a loyal community of customers who keep coming back for its warm atmosphere, delicious offerings, and genuine hospitality.
From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed like family. The air is filled with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked pretzels, sizzling bratwurst, and rich, hearty dishes made from authentic recipes. Seasonal favorites like stollen, lebkuchen, and schnitzel bring a true taste of German tradition right to your plate.
But the experience doesn’t end with food, shelves are lined with unique imported gifts, kitchenware, décor, and specialty items you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re hunting for the perfect stein, a handcrafted ornament, or a treat to remind you of home, there’s something here for every occasion.
German Food, Gifts, and More isn’t just a store, it’s a place where culture comes alive. Regular events and gatherings create an atmosphere of celebration, complete with traditional dress, music, and, of course, plenty of “Prost!” moments shared among friends.
It’s more than a business, it’s a little piece of Germany in your own backyard, serving up community, connection, and unforgettable flavors.
Contact: (334) 384-9595
Hudson’s at Main Street
🍖 Local Spotlight: Hudson’s at Main Street 🍖
Looking for comfort food done right? Hudson’s at Main Street has you covered with ribs that fall off the bone, homestyle dishes, and all the flavors that keep folks coming back for more.
Website: https://www.hudsonsatmainstreet.com/
👉 Bring your appetite, grab some friends, and taste why Hudson’s is a local favorite!
Smoking Mirror Tattoo Gallery
✨ Ink. Art. Empowerment. ✨
At Smoking Mirror Tattoo Gallery, just steps from Lakebottom Park, our all-femme tattoo shop + art gallery is here to bring your vision to life — bold, whimsical, fine-line, or anything in between. 💜
🌈 Fully inclusive & wheelchair accessible
🌙 Private + low-sensory sessions available
🎨 A safe space for creativity + community
Website: https://smokingmirrortattoogallery.com/
Proudly serving Columbus, Ft. Moore, Phenix City & beyond.
United Campus Workers
✨ Spotlight: United Campus Workers (UCW-CWA) ✨
Campus workers are rising together! From faculty to staff, UCW fights for fair pay, dignity, and a voice on the job.
🚩 Wins include stopping outsourcing in Tennessee + winning grad fee waivers at CU Boulder.
🌎 Now 7,000+ members strong and growing across the South as UCW Southeast, CWA Local 3821.
Website: https://ucw-cwa.org/
👉 Because students’ learning conditions are workers’ working conditions.
Salon Chrysalis
✨ Social Media Spotlight (Casual)
Meet Jordan ✂️💜 Owner of Salon Chrysalis + licensed master cosmetologist with 8 years behind the chair. Jordan’s all about big, bold hair — think shags, mullets, wolf cuts, pixies, and vivid color transformations that turn heads. 🎨🔥
Inclusivity is at the heart of everything Jordan does. From genderless + sensory-friendly services to welcoming the LGBTQIA+ community with open arms, Salon Chrysalis is a safe space where your style AND your spirit shine. 🌈
➡️ Book with Jordan today and leave feeling more YOU than ever.
The Peach Shoppe Co
✨ Local Love Spotlight: The Peach Shoppe & Co. ✨
Meet Rachel Kelly, the creative force behind The Peach Shoppe & Co. What started back in 2016 as making vinyl decals has grown into a full storefront filled with fun, locally made t-shirts and goodies!
You’ve probably seen her at festivals and markets around Columbus, and now you can find her shop right next to the Convention & Trade Center (900 Front Ave, Suite 212).
Open Tues–Sat, 11–7.
Website: https://thepeachshoppe.com/
👉 Stop in, say hi, and shop small,every purchase helps support not just Rachel, but other local businesses too! 💕
Pat-a-Cakes Bakery
🍰✨ Spotlight on Pat-A-Cakes Bakery! ✨🍰
For nearly 20 years, this Columbus favorite has been bringing sweet dreams to life with gorgeous custom cakes, rich buttercream, and plenty of love. From weddings to birthdays (and every celebration in between), Pat-A-Cakes makes each creation unforgettable. 💕
📍 Midtown Columbus, GA
👉 Check them out: patacakes.org
#PatACakes #ColumbusGA #CustomCakes #SupportLocal #SweetCelebrations
Boudoir by Jeanita
💖 Spotlight: Boudoir by Jeanita 💖
Looking for a confidence-boosting, one-of-a-kind experience? Boudoir by Jeanita is all about celebrating you. From elegant portraits to bold, empowering sessions, Jeanita helps you embrace your beauty, strength, and individuality.
Website: https://boudoirbyjeanita.com/
👉 Whether it’s for a special occasion or just for yourself, you’ll walk away with timeless images you’ll cherish forever. 📸
Columbus Bound Bookstore
🌟 Spotlight: Columbus Bound Bookshop
Tucked into the heart of Midtown Columbus, GA, Columbus Bound Bookshop is more than just a place to buy books, it’s a home for stories, connection, and community.
Founded by Khristina Gallagher in November 2024, the shop was born from her love of independent bookstores and a desire to bring that magic back to her hometown. After two decades away, Khristina returned to Columbus determined to create a cozy, welcoming space where readers of all ages could gather, discover, and share the joy of books.
Inside, every shelf is thoughtfully curated with titles that reflect the interests and passions of the local community. From children’s picture books to the latest adult releases, each book is chosen with intention. Beyond the shelves, Columbus Bound thrives as a hub for creativity and togetherness, hosting author signings, book clubs, story times, crafting nights, and educational workshops.
The bookstore’s impact stretches beyond its walls. you’ll find them at festivals, community events, and even the beloved Adult Book Fairs at local breweries. Whether at the Annual Children’s Book Festival or a casual neighborhood gathering, Columbus Bound continues to spread its mission: to foster a love for books and build a strong, connected community.
Website: https://www.columbusbound.com/
Khristina sums it up best:
“At the heart of it all is a simple mission: to foster a love for books and build a strong, connected community. I can’t wait to see what we create together as we grow.”
📍 Visit Columbus Bound Bookshop in Midtown and be part of the story!