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Tyler and Natalie of Beardsgaard Barbers

Meet Tyler and Natalie of Beardsgaard Barbers

There are some businesses that simply offer a service, and then there are places that build an entire world. Beardsgaard Barbers is proudly the latter. 

Owned by Natalie and Tyler Anderson, Beardsgaard’s story begins with a leap of faith, a shared love of the service industry, and a belief that even in the suburbs, there’s always room for something a little different. After years of working side by side (and Tyler eventually joining Natalie in the barbering world), the duo opened their own shop in 2014 with a goal to create something that felt true to who they were.

From the beginning, Beardsgaard set out to be more than a barbershop. It’s a beard-focused, unapologetically queer and nerdy space where individuality is celebrated and community comes first. And while some wondered if that vision might be “too specific,” Natalie and Tyler knew better because the community they built showed up, and kept showing up. 

Over the years, Beardsgaard has grown alongside the people who walk through its doors. What started as a two-person operation has evolved into a vibrant, ever-expanding collective of barbers, creatives, and loyal clients who have shaped the shop into what it is today.

Beardsgaard Barbers is a reminder that small businesses don’t have to fit a mold to thrive, in fact, sometimes the more unique, the better. 

Gerrit Husar of Farmdog Flowers

Gerrit Husar of Farmdog Flowers

What started as a small idea six years ago has grown into something truly special. For Gerrit Husar, owner of Farmdog Flowers that growth is rooted in creativity, connection, and a deep appreciation for the community that helped bring his vision to life.

A pivotal chapter in that journey came in 2021, when Farmdog Flowers joined the Batavia Boardwalk Shops. That season gave Gerrit the opportunity to connect directly with customers, introduce his work to the community, and begin shaping the future of his business in a physical space.

Since then, Farmdog Flowers has continued to grow, now rooted in a permanent storefront in Batavia. The shop offers retail flowers and local delivery, along with wedding and event floral services, hands-on workshops, and a thoughtfully curated selection of gifts and home décor. It’s a space designed to inspire, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply bringing a little beauty into your everyday life.

Gerrit now runs Farmdog Flowers alongside an incredible team, creating floral designs that feel both intentional and artful. From everyday arrangements to full-scale wedding florals, each piece reflects a thoughtful approach and a genuine love for the craft.

At its core, Farmdog Flowers is about more than flowers, it’s about celebrating life’s moments, big and small, and creating something memorable for each person who walks through the door.

Gzime Sadiku of WindMill Grille & Pizzeria

Bea and Gzime of WindMill Grille & Pizzeria

Five years ago Betime “Bea” Elezi and Gzime Sadiku, owners of WindMill Grille & Pizzeria, turned a moment of uncertainty into a welcoming culinary destination in Downtown Batavia. When everything came to a halt in 2020, they leaned into what they knew best, family and tradition, and opened a restaurant rooted in both. Inspired by their Macedonian heritage and the small-town spirit of the community they now call home, WindMill Grille & Pizzeria is a place where guests are invited to walk in as friends and leave as family.

At the heart of WindMill Grille is a menu that blends modern American and Italian influences with the warmth of home cooking. Guests will find fresh, homemade bread made from their grandmother’s cherished recipe, dishes inspired by memories of helping their mom in the kitchen, and flavors that feel familiar yet elevated. Whether it’s Sunday brunch, everyday dining, catering a gathering, or hosting events for any occasion, WindMill Grille serves up fresh ingredients and genuine hospitality.

WindMill Grille & Pizzeria continues to bring people together one memorable meal at a time. They plan to crafting connection over great food in the heart of Downtown Batavia for many years to come!


Frank, Diane and Oliver, owners of Sturdy Shelter Brewing

Frank, Diane & Oliver of Sturdy Shelter Brewing

Frank and Diane Mercadante, together with their good friend and partner Oliver Bulley and a dedicated team, are the people behind Sturdy Shelter Brewing. Family-oriented at heart, Frank and Diane are parents to six and grandparents to thirteen, with a lifelong commitment to community building—particularly through youth ministry and teaching.

Frank began home-brewing at the age of 40 as a hobby, crafting complex and interesting beers to share with friends and family at gatherings. In 2018, they met fellow brewer Oliver Bulley, and what began as a friendship soon became the foundation for Sturdy Shelter Brewing.

Oliver’s spirit of service and background in hospitality, combined with the team’s shared passion for community, helped bring the vision to life: a welcoming space where people can come together, feel at home, and enjoy expertly crafted beer—a true sturdy shelter.

The taproom opened in 2022 as an independent community craft brewery, rooted in personal service and a commitment to quality. The name Sturdy Shelter comes from the verse, “A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; whoever finds one, finds a treasure.” Frank, Diane and Oliver hope that when you visit Sturdy Shelter Brewing, you'll find a warm and welcoming place that feels like home. 

Kelly of Desmond Brown

Meet Kelly Desmond, owner of Desmond Brown. In 2009, Kelly made her very first pillow as a birthday gift for a friend. That one pillow quickly turned into two, and before she knew it, she was creating again and again. 

With her background in retail and interior design, it felt natural to build a full line of handcrafted pillows, home décor, and gifts. Today, Desmond Brown is known for handmade and curated products that are colorful, durable, nostalgic, and fun. Kelly loves knowing her pillows become part of her customers’ stories, from new homes and weddings to everyday moments that make a house feel like home.

Kelly’s small business journey took a big step forward in 2020 when she became part of the inaugural class of the Batavia Boardwalk Shops. From there, Desmond Brown found a permanent home inside the Wilson Street Mercantile, where Kelly continues to share her creations with shoppers. This winter, the Mercantile celebrates its fifth year in Downtown Batavia, a milestone Kelly is proud to be part of.

As her business has grown, so has her product line. In recent years, Kelly has expanded beyond pillows to include smaller items like bookmarks, coffee mugs, Christmas ornaments, and other home décor pieces. She also has a wholesale business that supplies over 450 bookstores and boutiques around the world with her handmade goods.  Each item is thoughtfully designed and made with the same care and creativity that started it all.

Chad Gravenites, Owner of The GOAT Burger + Cocktail Bar

Chad of The GOAT Burger + Cocktail Bar

Meet Chad, owner of The GOAT Burger + Cocktail Bar

In just a few short years, The GOAT has become one of downtown Batavia’s most popular and beloved restaurants. Under Chad Gravenites’ direction, The GOAT blends gourmet comfort food and creative cocktails with a relaxed, welcoming vibe.

Chad built The GOAT to be something more than just a burger bar. It’s become a gathering spot: a place for date nights, hanging with friends, catching a game, or grabbing great food after a long day. Planning a night out? Grab a delicious bite or a handcrafted cocktail at The GOAT before heading over to the Comedy Vault—it’s the perfect way to kick off an evening of laughs.

Beginning in January, The GOAT is launching a refreshed lineup of burgers, creative sammies, inventive appetizers, vegan options, and more. The next time you’re strolling through downtown Batavia or looking for a post-shopping bite, stop by The GOAT. Try something off the new menu, and see why locals keep coming back.

Haylie B's Bakery

Haylie of Haylie B's Bakery

Haylie B’s is known for its small-batch, scratch-made treats that make every occasion a little sweeter. Specializing in custom cakes and cupcakes, Haylie brings creativity and care to every dessert she makes.

What began as a simple hobby quickly turned into a full-fledged passion. A proud self-taught baker and cake decorator, Haylie didn’t attend culinary school but instead built her business through dedication, experimentation, and love for the craft. After spending time working in a few commercial bakeries, Haylie honed her skills in both decorating and kitchen management—learning from her peers and growing as a baker along the way.

As a 2020 Boardwalk Shops alum, she looks back fondly on that first season—when uncertainty during the pandemic was met with overwhelming community support. That experience helped shape her business and remains a reminder of how strong and supportive Batavia can be.


Now, nearly four and a half years into running her own shop, Haylie continues to find joy in the creative freedom her work allows. Originally from Yorkville and now a proud Batavia resident, Haylie loves being part of a close-knit community that truly shows up for its small businesses.

Bridget Johnson the owner of Red Hive Market

Bridget and Tom of Red Hive Market

Behind the doors of Red Hive Market, you’ll find a vibrant mix of vintage treasures, up-cycled furniture, and unique home accessories—all thoughtfully curated to spark creativity and community connection. But what makes this downtown Batavia gem truly special is the story behind it.

Owners Bridget Johnson (a former social worker) and Tom Freeman (a retired fire chief) first began Red Hive Market as a home-based venture. What started with garage sales and driveway pop-ups quickly grew into something much bigger.

The turning point came during a simple breakfast outing in downtown Batavia. Tom spotted a For Rent sign at 6 W. Wilson Street and encouraged Bridget to take the leap and turn her dream into a brick-and-mortar reality.

From the beginning, Red Hive Market’s vision has been about more than just retail. Bridget and Tom wanted to create a space where many talents could come together under one roof. Their mission: to build community, collaborate with local nonprofits, and provide opportunities for artisans to shine.

When the pandemic hit, Red Hive Market not only survived but thrived—thanks to the incredible support of the Batavia community. And in 2022, they expanded next door to 4 W. Wilson Street, connecting the two storefronts to showcase even more talented makers and curators.

Today, Red Hive Market is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., welcoming shoppers to discover one-of-a-kind finds and connect with the people who make them. Stay connected with Red Hive Market on FacebookInstagram, and their website for the latest arrivals, artisan features, and community events.

Grace Schultz, Owner of Seapeak Style

Grace of Seapeak Style

Seapeak Style was built on a dream that started in a college apartment with a simple idea: graphic tees can be more than just clothes, they can hold memories.

Owner Grace Schultz began printing designs by hand while studying marketing and entrepreneurship, driven by a love for creating pieces that made people feel connected, nostalgic, and joyful. What started as a small side project grew into market pop-ups, then a season in the Batavia Boardwalk Shops program, and eventually into a full storefront in downtown Batavia inside the Wilson Street Mercantile.

From the very beginning, Grace’s goal has been clear: to create a space where people can find pieces that spark happiness and tell their story. Seapeak Style is not just about what you wear, it is about the feeling you carry with you when you put it on.

Every detail in the shop reflects that mission. Bright pink walls, playful displays, and interactive touches make the store feel less like traditional retail and more like a place to make memories. Whether you are walking in for the first time or stopping by as a regular, the purpose remains the same: to spread joy through design, community, and creativity.

Nick and Frank owners of Tabletop Game Shop

Nick and Frank of Tabletop Game Shop

Tabletop Game Shop is a community-oriented gaming chain started in 2017 by Nick and Frank—two best friends who shared a love of games and wanted to change what it means to be a gamer across the country by providing a revolutionary experience.

They’re veteran-owned, customer service experts, who believe that tabletop gaming is for anyone and everyone. They’re family-oriented and strive to bring people together under all TGS roofs- Tinley Park, Oswego, and Batavia. 

Their high standards are redefining conventional expectations of hobbies in their space. They carry Trading Cards, Board Games, Dungeons & Dragons, pop culture collectibles, and offer a free gaming space for use. 

Kelly Vida owner of Zen Loft Collective

Kelly of Zen Loft Collective

Meet Kelly Vida of Zen Loft Collective

Kelly is a passionate advocate for women’s health, specializing in pre and postnatal fitness, perimenopause, and fertility.

Her journey began in 2022 when, pregnant with her daughter, Kelly discovered her deep passion for supporting women through fitness and wellness during pregnancy. She continued teaching throughout her second pregnancy and experienced the empowering strength of an unmedicated birth with her son. This transformative experience fueled her belief that every woman deserves the birth of her dreams, and that yoga and fitness are powerful tools in achieving that.

In 2024, Kelly opened Zen Loft Collective in Batavia, expanding her offerings to include support for women navigating perimenopause. She is dedicated to empowering women through one of life’s biggest transitions, and as she explored the profound impact of hormone health on menopause, she naturally extended her expertise to fertility. With a deep commitment to helping women conceive, Kelly combines her personal experience as a mother of two with her professional knowledge to offer compassionate and holistic guidance.

Kelly’s mission is to support women at every stage of their reproductive and hormonal journey, ensuring they feel strong, informed, and empowered. Through her work, she hopes to help women not only achieve their wellness goals but also experience the transformative power of embracing their health throughout every phase of life.

Jo and Jay of New Moon Vegan stand outside of their vegan bakery on Batavia Avenue in Batavia Illinois

Jo & Jay of New Moon Vegan

Meet Jo Colagiacomi and Jay Weichun, owners of New Moon Vegan!

New Moon Vegan is a community-centered bakery and café that serves sweet and savory plant-based treats, with a focus on supporting local farms and makers. The bakery is run by married couple Jo and Jay, inspired by the Italian-American pastries of their youth in Staten Island, NY. 

New Moon is becoming a well-known destination in the greater Chicago region- while plenty of frequent visitors are vegan or allergic to dairy/eggs, many customers are simply fans of their delightful pastries. In fact, New Moon Vegan was recently selected for the Illinois Office of Tourism’s Illinois Made program, which celebrates the diversity of small businesses across the state, and supports them by encouraging travel to all regions of Illinois. 

Jo has always loved baking, since helping make cookies and cakes in her Nana’s kitchen as a child. Jo and Jay worked for over a decade in universities, and when the time came to pivot careers in 2020, they both knew it was time to fulfill Jo’s longtime dream of starting a bakery. Many of the bakery’s components are made in-house- from their house-made seitan and butter to the almond milk in their butter! Come on in and see what seasonal specialties are in their pastry case.

Jon With of Gammon Coach House stands behind the bar in his restaurant in Batavia Illinois

John of Gammon Coach House

Meet Jon With, the owner of Gammon Coach House, located in a charming former carriage house dating back to 1886. After a brief closure to complete necessary repairs on the 140-year-old structure, Jon reopened the doors with a refreshed menu. The new offerings highlight classic smash burgers and a thoughtfully curated selection of beers to suit every palate. By streamlining the menu, the team has elevated the quality of ingredients, resulting in truly exceptional food.

At Gammon Coach House, the ambiance strikes a perfect balance between historic charm and casual comfort. It’s a place where patrons feel instantly welcomed—where the staff might know your name, and there’s never a rush to leave. Whether you're seated at the intimate wooden bar or nestled at a cozy table, the atmosphere encourages guests to linger and relax. It’s easy to see why many consider it the town’s communal “living room.”

The unique character shines through in its preserved wooden interior, the visible hayloft trap door, and the cozy scale of the original carriage house. One of its most beloved features is the outdoor patio, which stands out for being dog-friendly—a welcome perk for pet owners. It’s not unusual to see dogs lounging by the table, complete with bandanas and water bowls, as their owners enjoy a beer or a glass of wine. This thoughtful touch adds to the warm, community-oriented spirit of the place.

Gammon Coach House is where friendships are fostered, milestones are celebrated, and everyone feels at home.

Brittany Sabatino of Arlo Hendrix in her store front in Wilsons Street Mercantile.

Brittany of Arlo.Hendrix

Meet Brittany Sabatino, Owner of Arlo.Hendrix

Arlo.Hendrix is a kids and baby boutique offering a thoughtfully selected collection of clothing, books, toys, and accessories. From newborns to size 10, their focus is on providing comfort, safety, and style.

As a mom herself, Brittany began Arlo Hendrix after discovering the hidden toxins in popular kids' brands. Her son’s sensitive skin prompted her to seek safer alternatives without compromising affordability.

Brittany’s passion for quality stems from family traditions. With roots in sewing taught by Brittany’s Grandma and inspired by her mother’s 20 plus years in the children's boutique scene, Arlo.Hendrix Kids is a blend of generational love. They prioritize soft, chemical-free fabrics, featuring a variety of materials like organic cotton and bamboo to ensure your little ones stay cozy and cute.

Step into Arlo.Hendrix Kids, where every purchase tells a story of family and style. When cozy meets cute, and the magic of childhood unfolds in every delightful piece we offer. Located at 222 E Wilson, Inside the Wilson Street Mercantile

Lucy of 63rd Street Apothecary

Lucy of 63rd Street Apothecary

Meet Lucy Martinez of 63rd St Apothecary

Lucy’s journey began in the kitchen, learning from her mother—an incredible cook who could turn simple ingredients into something extraordinary. By age 10, she was cooking full meals, experimenting with flavors, and constantly modifying recipes. Little did she know, this same passion for mixing and creating would lead her to crafting natural soaps, lotions, and herbal remedies.

For years, Lucy has been on a self-healing journey, becoming a Reiki Healer and Shaman Apprentice. Her fascination with herbal remedies led her to create tinctures and salves, replacing over-the-counter solutions with natural alternatives. She loved the idea of making skincare products free from harsh chemicals, using organic ingredients tailored to nourish the skin. Soon, she was sharing her creations, and people were amazed at the results—healthier, softer skin with just a small amount of her handcrafted products.

Every item Lucy creates is made with love, intention, and infused with Reiki and Shamanic energy to bring peace and harmony. She uses ethically sourced, organic ingredients, with most products being vegan. From hand soaps and body lotions to sugar scrubs and body washes, her collection offers something for everyone—including those with sensitive skin. Her fragrances are free from phthalates, parabens, and carcinogens, ensuring a clean, safe experience.

Beyond skincare, Lucy also crafts organic soy, coconut, and beeswax candles that burn cleanly and fill any space with lasting fragrance. For those who love a hands-on experience, she offers candle-making sessions to create custom scents.

Come in, explore, and experience the difference! Smell the fragrances, try the lotions—you’ll feel the love and intention behind every product. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift or a treat for yourself, you’ll find something special at 63rd Street Apothecary.

John of Pal Joey's Restaurant

Meet John Hamel of Pal Joey’s Restaurant!

Providing a welcoming gathering place for the Batavia community has been a priority at Pal Joey’s since it opened on North River Street in 2012.  Welcoming everyone, from casual diners of family and friends to large group celebrations, is what they do best.

Serving Italian American food in a family-friendly casual environment, while offering happy hour and daily drink specials, Pal Joey’s has been considered a top fan favorite in the Chicago area since they originally opened in 1973. Not surprisingly, the most popular menu item is the pizza! The crust is an old family Italian bread recipe offered in several different types including pan, thin, super thin, stuffed, cauliflower, and gluten-free. The menu features salads, sandwiches, pastas and more. Catering is also available.

Giving back to Batavia and the surrounding communities is very important to John and the whole team at Pal Joey’s. “We proudly support, and have never said no to any person, school, church, sports team or club, charitable organization, or family. It’s the right thing to do. Your support of us allows us to support the community. We look forward to serving you!”

Scott of Daddio's Diner

Meet Scott of Daddio's Diner!

When you’re looking for a neighbor spot that serves up old-school comfort food with some retro charm and a deep sense of community and care, look no further than Daddio’s Diner (134 W Wilson St.) The diner began as a lifelong dream of owners Scott and Terry Beltran. Their goal was to fuse together their passions for food and community, oldies music and nostalgic decor, and a place for family and friends to gather and create memories. For over 18 years, they have been making that dream a reality in the heart of downtown Batavia.

Daddio’s is the place where locals have their favorite spot at the counter, where kid’s eyes widen playing I-Spy as they await their “record-sized” pancakes. It’s a place where anyone, no questions asked, can redeem free food with a “cup of kindness” ticket from the community board, generously supported by our community for years as part of our “Pay It Forward” program. The walls read “ I am Everyday People,” a lyric from the famous song by Sly and the Family Stone, which also serves as the motto that fuels the energy of the diner. Daddio’s Diner is a place for everyone, to enjoy soul-warming food alongside the people they love.

In addition to offering breakfast (all day), lunch, and dinner from the regular menu, Daddio’s also features weekend specials that center around the holidays, retro music, cult classic films, or beloved community events. Stop in and see why Daddio’s has been a cornerstone of the community for over 18 years.

Paula of Paula's Couture Consignment

Meet Paula of Paula's Couture Consignment!

Paula Mueller opened Paula’s Couture Consignment in November of 2018, carrying clothes size 0 to 3X. Seeing a niche needed in downtown Batavia for affordable fashion she took a chance on herself and her abilities to find that one of kind piece that will keep you returning to see what is in the store.

Paula has fun live fashion shows on Facebook every Wednesday at 7Pm. She also is a great resource for styling and will schedule to come to your home for closet cleaning and styling help. Paula’s passion for fashion has been since childhood and she has been styling and doing fashion shows for others for the last 10 years.

Paula’s is a relaxed environment where everyone is comfortable to come check out the inventory! The store also carries Uplifter Stickers and handmade jewelry by Believe_n_design for one of a kind pieces that will bring together any look. Stop by to see what works for you Wednesdays through Saturdays 10-6 and Sundays from 12-4.

Steve of Kiss the Sky

Kiss The Sky became a reality in 1996, after having been a dream for about 30 years or so, when the independent retail compact disc and vinyl record store opened up in the Windmill Shopping Center located on Randall Road in Batavia.

For the first 10 years on Randall Road, Kiss The Sky became a home to music lovers of all shapes and sizes, and belonging to ages and genres of all kinds. The store was unique in the Chicagoland area in that it featured a built in professional sound stage, which the store still features in its current home of the past 12 years in Downtown Batavia, and now includes a sound system that many live music venues would love to have themselves.

Over the years, more than 2,500 full band or solo artist performances have taken place on the Are You Experienced Stage of Kiss The Sky.

The Kiss has grown, shrunk and grown and has remained a key component in the world of the Independent Record Store. There are approximately 2,000 indie stores currently operating in the US today and less than 75% of them have been around for longer than 25 years. Kiss the Sky has been in operation for nearly 28 years now.

Steve, the owner, was born in Salzburg, Austria and, because of being an Army Brat for the first 15 years of his life, has lived in Frankfurt and Munich, Germany, and Arizona, Virginia, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota and Illinois. The Fox River Valley of Illinois is his favorite living spot on the planet and will undoubtedly remain so until the game is over.

Since he was four years old and watched Elvis' first appearance on the Ed Sullivan show with his Mom, to seeing his favorite band The Kinks for the first time when he was 12, to seeing Hendrix and Cream in 1968, and continuing to attend music concerts and festivals all over the US and parts of Europe, his life's focus has been family first and music second. And what he's always done to put food on the table and to keep a roof above the family's head has been a close third.

Music is love ... Steve loves music ... Kiss The Sky is music!

Missy of Peaks and Valleys Perinatal Counseling

Peaks and Valleys Perinatal Counseling and provides trauma-informed therapy tailored to the perinatal period, which includes trying to conceive, pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenthood. The practice opened in 2021, and soon found its home in the historic Newton House at 11 N Batavia Avenue, which offers a comforting and serene environment for clients as they face the unique challenges of this transformative time. 

The practice is led by Missy Hem, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified Perinatal Mental Health specialist, who brings both professional expertise and personal experience to her work. As a mother who has lived through postpartum depression and anxiety, Missy understands firsthand the “high highs and low lows” of the perinatal period. Missy also lives in Batavia with her daughter Vaughn and husband Virak, which deepens her connection to the community she serves. Her background in mental health and birth work ensures that clients receive compassionate care that prioritizes their mental well-being, guiding them toward a place of restoration and confidence throughout their journey. Peaks and Valleys is dedicated to addressing both individual and environmental factors that impact mental health, ensuring a holistic approach to care.

Missi of The Tea Tree

With over 20 years in the wellness industry and a deep-rooted love for tea from her Irish roots, owner Missi Hartman, has always been passionate about quality living. In 2016, she founded The Tea Tree in Downtown Batavia to make healthy, clean living accessible and worry-free. Their shop offers a delightful selection of loose leaf teas, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, spices, essential oils, accessories, and locally made treasures. Whether you're eager to learn new recipes, find a peaceful spot to relax, or discover the perfect gift, The Tea Tree is your go-to destination. 

Megan & Stacey of Thrown Threads

Thrown Threads is a Dirty Clay Co. and Earth Knots collaboration who got their start in Batavia during the 2022 and 2023 Batavia Boardwalk Shop seasons! Now located at 125 S Batavia Ave, (just 2 doors down from New Moon Vegan!), Megan and Stacey sell a collection of handmade goods including pottery, macrame, weavings, stained glass, and looseleaf teas. 

Megan and Stacey's true passion is sharing their craft with the community via their workshops and classes! They offer a wide range of workshops from wheel throwing date nights to macrame ladies nights! You can check out their upcoming workshops at the links below or stop in to say hi while you shop handmade retail and gifts. 

Macrame & Weaving Workshops: www.earthknots.com Pottery Workshops: www.dirtyclayco.com

Retail Hours: Thursday & Friday 12-6, Saturday 10-4, Sunday 11-4

Maria & Joette of MoJo Handbags Et-Cetera

MoJo is a bespoke sewing shoppe that offers handmade purses, pouches, wallets, accessories and so much more. Maria (Mo) and Joette (Jo) are the mother/daughter duo behind it all.

They started sewing in 2010 and began selling their items at local markets and shows. In 2021, they opened their first dedicated space at the Batavia Boardwalk Shops! It was an amazing experience within a very supportive community that allowed them to open a permanent brick and mortar location in the heart of downtown Batavia.

MoJo is located at 2 E. Wilson St with their fellow Boardwalk Shop alum, Pretty Pages. Stop in and see what they can create and personalize for you!

Cheryl Cryer- CryBaby Wellness/Urban Apothecary & Fat Sam's for Pets

Meet Cheryl "CryBaby" Cryer from CryBaby Wellness/Urban Apothecary, a woman-owned formulator, maker, and wellness space located on First St. in Downtown Batavia.

Uniquely local with a national reach, they make premium, small-batch natural wellness products to help with pain, sleep, stress and so much more including their pet-care brand (and pet shop) right next door, Fat Sam's for Pets.

Cheryl started her companies in 2017 after a self-guided, doctor-approved journey prioritizing natural healing over pharmaceuticals. A formulator, educator, and maker, you can find her bulk and finished products at select small shops, wellness providers, and by specialty foodservice professionals across the US. Cheryl has an MBA from University of St Francis (2004) and recently earned a certification in medicinal plants from Cornell University (2022).

Shop their small-batch natural wellness products at 102 and 104 First St or online at urbanapothecarey.shop

Mary Marconi Popiel - Special Occasions on the Avenue

At Special Occasions, they believe that shopping for your dream dress online is not the same as in store. They believe you should touch, feel, and see the endless possibilities as you search for your dream dress. A knowledgeable stylist is there to guide you.

In store, you will find each season’s most sought after styles and must-have dresses. They will complete your look with all of the details that make the ordinary more extraordinary.

Visit them for a shopping experience you will never forget. They don't just sell dresses, they sell dreams!

Alithea Dacanay, MD – you+ Medical Aesthetics

you+ Medical Aesthetics is the first physician-led med spa in Downtown Batavia. They provide personalized non-surgical and cosmetic face, body and skin treatment plans. We also provide customized, comprehensive, evidence-based weight loss treatment.

Their goal is to make medical aesthetics more approachable and inclusive by providing top-tier care for patients of all ages, ethnicities, and genders.

They create comprehensive treatment plans that focus on the pillars of facial rejuvenation so you look amazing no matter your age.

They want patients to leave the clinic feeling confident (and recognizable!) knowing that medical aesthetics is as much about health prevention and maintenance as it is about how you look and feel!

Melissa Monno- Sidecar Supper Club

Enjoy a cozy environment and delicious food and drinks for all at Sidecar Supper Club. The kitchen prepares everything from scratch: grinding burger meat, smoking bacon varieties, inventing signature homemade tater tots. As a music venue: during the winter, guests gather around the 'fire' for an intimate acoustic listening experience and during the summer months the Beer Garden features the best regional bands and talent for a party under the stars, every weekend. They contribute free family-friendly entertainment on Batavia's River Street Woonerf two nights a week: Team Trivia Thursdays and Bluegrass Sundays. During these nights, you might even catch owner Melissa serving on roller skates. It's a fun place to meet your neighbors and hang out with friends, new and familiar. You'll feel right at home on your first visit. 

Joy & Leah- Limestone Coffee & Tea

Limestone Coffee & Tea is a charming coffee shop located in the heart of historic downtown Batavia. Limestone's owners, Joy and Leah, are great friends who became business partners and coffee shop owners in 2018! They have a fantastic team of baristas who carefully handcraft each drink ordered. Limestone is known for its small-town community feel and inclusive, welcoming environment. Follow their active social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram @LimestoneCoffeeAndTea.

Craig Foltos- Foltos Tonsorial Parlor

A staple of Downtown Batavia's landscape, Foltos' was founded over seventy years ago, by his father, Joe Foltos. The shop retains the ambiance of yesteryear and is a favorite stop of local residents.

Visit Craig and his great team of stylists and feel like you've stepped back to a time when shop keepers had time for a joke and a chat with their customers.

An advocate for our downtown community, Craig is currently selling "Peace on Earth" mugs- with a portion of the proceeds going directly to the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry. A perfect gift for the holidays!

Rimi - Healing Arts Metaphysical Center

While the roots of Healing Arts have been passed down through the generations, Rodrigo and Gina opened the official business doors to Healing Arts Metaphysical Center in Batavia in 2013. With well established gifts from his mother, combined with the wisdom of his life’s journey, Rodrigo and the Healing Arts family have dedicated their path to sharing this wisdom with others. To support everyone on their healing journey, they strive to bring harmony and balance to the mind, body and soul. Visit them at 4 E Wilson St. and https://healingartsmetaphysical.com.

James Joseph

The Book Shop located at 15 N. River Street opened in 2018. It is founded on the beauty of story and education. What was once considered a silly idea has become a much loved communal space for book lovers of every generation. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/thebookshopbatavia/.

Sydney Fink

Coast Hair Salon opened in 2014 when Sydney Fink felt a calling to create a team based work environment that empowers independent stylists. The name Coast Hair Salon developed as Sydney found herself traveling to style clients from coast to coast. Sydney holds 21 years of experience in the beauty industry. Her work has been seen on notable television shows, print ads and major red carpet events. In 2018, Sydney fell in love with a charming historic storefront located at 115 S Batavia Ave in Batavia, IL. With a little hard work and determination the storefront quickly became the proud home of Coast Hair Salon.

The stylists at Coast specialize in the finest quality hair color, cut & hair extensions, providing the best services to our local community and travelers from all over the country. You will also find a selection of certified clean & cruelty free high end hair care products along with a moral obligation to reduce the chemical overload within the salon experience.

Silvia Sanchez and Juliana Cancelo

Bocaditos Cafe opened its doors in 2019 with the aim to make all of Batavia (and beyond) crave empanadas. Bocaditos relocated in 2021 to the Newton House, thanks to the support of a community that fell in love with the Argentine recipes. Bocaditos Cafe offers indoor and outdoor seating, carryout and delivery, and can be rented out for private parties. Offerings include the infamous empanadas, along with sandwiches, salads, desserts, curated wines and beers, and handmade artisan gifts.

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