In honor of Black History Month, we would like to celebrate some of the wonderful entrepreneurs and businesses that have a role in making #DTMac so great.
Ambitious Graphics: Wayne Woodard and Andreau Adside
Located at 584 Poplar Street, Ambitious Graphics offers custom designs to meet your specific needs, whatever they may be. They can transform shirts, hoodies, hats, jeans, and other fabric items into quality products for any occasion. Wayne and Andreau have sought ways to help transform the lives of others through their business as they look for opportunities to mentor young entrepreneurs. They also donate to the Middle Georgia Food Bank for every shirt purchased. Be on the lookout for information about their upcoming fashion show!
Ampersand Guild: Daniel Montoute
If you are looking for a place that prioritizes expression and appreciating the work of others, then Ampersand Guild is for you. This creative space was established by Daniel Montoute and provides a comfortable and consistent place for creators to interact, learn from each other, share experiences, and grow. For the opportunity to learn from and to be inspired by other creators, go by 382 Cherry Street and take in the beautiful art of Ampersand Guild.
Blow Lounge: Andrena Simmons
Have you been by Macon’s newest hookah lounge yet? Blow Lounge was founded by Andrena Simmons and is located downtown at 586 Poplar Street. With catering services, venue booking opportunities, hookah, and drinks, Andrena has made Blow Lounge the ultimate downtown destination.
Daphne’s 525: Aprill and Denis Maxwell
Daphne’s 525 is a family-owned clothing boutique and monogram store “Where Fashion Begins” and “Where Possibilities are Endless.” With the latest fashions at affordable prices, Aprill’s goal is to make sure customers feel their best in what they are wearing. On February 22nd, they are having a fashion show benefiting The Fuller Center For Housing of Macon at the historic Library Ballroom. Want to learn more? Check them out online!
Dot’s Forget Me Knots: Dot Ridley
A Macon local, Dot Ridley has been the owner of the boutique Dot’s Forget Me Knots for over fifteen years. With unique and stylish clothing for women, Dot’s Forget Me Knots is located at 623 Cherry Street. Almost fifteen years ago, she decided to relocate her boutique to this location to have a part in the downtown revitalization that was occurring. Since relocating her boutique, Ridley rehabbed her building and now rents out the apartments above her store thanks to financing provided by NewTown Macon’s Real Estate Loan Fund. So, whether you’re looking for a cool boutique or a neat downtown apartment, this is the place to go.
Felicia’s Cake Factory: Felicia Howard
Felicia began baking delicious cakes for her children back in 2011 and, over time, this hobby turned into a thriving business. Felicia’s Cake Factory was founded in 2014 and specializes in custom cakes and wedding cakes, and they also offer cupcakes, cookies, cake pops, and more. At Felicia’s Cake Factory, they never compromise on taste or looks, and customers get the best of both. Do your taste buds a favor and go to Felicia’s Cake Factory at 365 Third Street Macon.
Grant’s Lounge: Ed Grant and Cheryl JLouder
Grant’s Lounge has been in the heart of downtown Macon for over four decades and is the Original Home of Southern Rock. The Allman Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Wet Willie are a few of the musicians spending their earliest days making a name for themselves at Grant’s Lounge. With frequent musicians and events, Grant’s remains a place for the whole community to come together and enjoy great music and a great time. Join Grant’s Lounge as they celebrate their 48th anniversary March 1-3, 2019!
Lady D’s Fashion: Diane Jackson
Looking to boost your confidence and express yourself in a unique and perfectly fitting outfit? Lady D’s Fashion is the place for you. Diane Jackson can help make your apparel dreams come true, and she takes the time to understand these dreams through consultations. Consultations are through appointment only “because every person deserves their own time,” and Diane pours time into making sure every outfit is unique and high-quality. Be sure to follow Lady D’s Fashion on social media and attend their Grand Opening on May 25!
Total Health Chiropractic and Wellness Center: Anissa Jones
Dr. Anissa Jones is a trailblazing serial entrepreneur who has been influencing the Macon community since 1998. In 1998, Dr. Anissa became the first black chiropractor in middle Georgia and was the only chiropractor of color in the downtown area for almost twenty years. At Total Health Chiropractic and Wellness Center, Dr. Anissa is committed to providing chiropractic solutions and addressing patients’ unique needs while improving overall health. In addition to this largely successful practice, Dr. Anissa is also the owner of three other businesses downtown (including Pink Chief Boutique and Pink Confetti Rentals) while also serving as the Commissioner for District One Macon Water Authority and she’s on the Main Street Macon Board.
Otis Redding Foundation: Zelma Redding, Karla Redding Andrews and Justin Andrews
The Otis Redding Foundation has enjoyed its current location at 339 Cotton Avenue for over fifteen years, and this location is especially meaningful as Otis Redding had businesses in this area during his lifetime. Zelma Redding founded the foundation in 2007 in her husband’s honor. Mrs. Redding’s daughter, Karla Redding Andrews, and her grandson, Justin Andrews, continue to carry out the Otis Redding Foundation’s mission to empower, enrich, and motivate all young people through programs involving music, writing and instrumentation through a variety of programs. The Otis Redding Center for Creative Arts offers private lessons, workshops, and holds rehearsals for the DREAM Choir. Other programs include the Otis Music Camp at Mercer University and Camp DREAM which influences the lives of middle school students. To volunteer or to learn more about how your students can learn from the Foundation, head over to their website! Go by the Foundation at 339 Cotton Avenue to have the chance to purchase special Otis Redding merchandise that can only be purchased in store!
