‘J’ month love for Mom & Pops
Updated: Jan 9, 2022
Nothing has helped me appreciate the hustle, bustle, passion, and service of a small business like becoming a small business owner. I find myself being way more intentional about shopping local these days. Compassion is leading me more often to the locally owned and operated, because I know so many sacrifices and leaps of faith were made somewhere in the history of that small business.
I‘m fortunate to have opened my storefront in time to catch the holiday season. Timing, for me, was about as good as I imagine it gets. As we’re wrapping up the first week in January, as expected, things have slowed down. I recently spoke to a boutique owner who gave me a comforting heads up. She said, “Don’t let the ‘J’ months fool you. Every month that starts with a ‘J’ is slow in retail. Push through the ‘J’ months, and you will be just fine.” Thankfully, I am prepared for a slower month. So, I’ve been looking for ways to support small businesses during this ‘J’ month.
These are a few local businesses that I support often, or recently supported for the first time and loved. Stop by if you want to show some ‘J’ month love. And feel free to share your favorite local businesses with me!
Moka’s Coffee House
1204 Shelton Beach Road
Saraland, AL
I’ve been here many times, and actually discovered my new favorite drink last night. I got a frapp coffee made with blended Reeses Pieces and chocolate. It was seriously the best tasting thing that I’ve had all week. Besides drinks, they serve pastries, bagels, and paninis. I often see college students there studying or hanging out. It’s a nice place to have a small group meeting. Me and 5 friends stayed for an hour or so last night. It’s quaint and my type of vibe. I’ll be back for sure.
A Little Bird Boutique
37 Shell Street
Saraland, AL
This place is one of my faves. Its one of my go-to places when I want a new cute top, dress, or sweater. It’s one of the only places that I find something I love 99% of the times I visit.
Small Town Girls
35-A Shelton Beach Road
Saraland, AL
I‘ve posted this outfit so many times, and you’re about to get it one more time. I got this tweed jacket/short set from Small Town Girls. It’s such a lovely boutique, owned by a mother & daughter. I wish you could see the outfit better, but this is the only picture I took that night. You see it’s cute though!
Southern Sweet Delights
311 Shelton Beach Rd
Saraland, AL
This yummy bakery is in the same shopping center as my boutique. I asked for something with peanut butter, and was recommended to try this cupcake. It had a peanut butter filling and I enjoyed every bite. And, the gooey bar cake turned out to be my favorite. Just the right amount of sweetness! Heads up, this place sells out (understandably). I’m told Tuesday mornings are the best time to get their most popular cookies and goodies. Totally worth swinging by!
Barbquing With My Honey
Location #1 - 1880 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL
Location #2 - 2617 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL
They got the slogan right, for sure. #LoveAtFirstBite The food is delicious. They have a commercial featuring Hall of Famer, Robert Brazile, who says their ribs are worthy of HOF status. I will not argue with that! I’ve had their ribs, twice baked potatoes, burgers, wings, banana pudding, and more. Everything is delicious every time. Stop by for lunch or dinner. Location #1 (Airport Blvd) is more of a pickup spot. The restaurant on Dauphin Street is a beautiful sit-down facility with TV’s at each booth.
Bay City Grill
5675 Hwy 43
Satsuma, AL
I became a repeat customer of this place during COVID lockdown. I ordered pickups then and have been a fan ever since. They have great burgers and salads. I enjoy their wings too. You can check out their menu online here: www.baycitygrillsatsuma.com
Southern Charming Boutique
311 Shelton Beach Road
Suite F
Saraland, AL
This is one of my go-to places when I’m looking for a gift for a fashionista. They are located a few doors down from my boutique, so its super convenient for me. I really like their dainty jewelry. I‘ve found the prettiest necklaces and bracelets here. I wish I had pictures, but I gave them as gifts. You can stop by, or check them out online here: https://southern-charming-boutique.myshopify.com
Beads By Ashlee, LLC
In store at my boutique (Danielle Renée Beauty, Bath, & Skin Care | 311 Shelton Beach Rd., Suite D, Saraland, AL)
These are the prettiest handmade beaded bracelets. The owner, Ashlee, has a website (see above) where you can place orders for bracelets, custom waist beads, and coffee mugs. A select few of her best-sellers are offered inside my boutique. They make great gifts! Customers often comment on the quality and weight of her beads. If you need a quick gift, stop by! Or browse her website to find the perfect stack or mug.
BizzyBee Creative Creations, LLC
This company is really great at balloon displays, party events, and yard signs. They did my grand opening balloon display. They also have a cool video gaming truck that is a HIT for birthday parties and group events. Click the link under their name above to contact them!
Ladybugs Children’s Boutique
This is an online boutique that offers the most adorable children’s clothing and accessories. (See website link above). The owner is currently re-branding to add more classic, contemporary styles. She’s also expanding her Mommy section to include more women’s clothing! Definitely excited about that! I’ve purchased some of her items for moms, and am definitely looking forward to her expansion and rebranding.
Queens Nutrition
2423 Schillinger Rd S.
Mobile, AL
I love a good protein shake / energy tea combo. One thing that sets this place apart for me: protein donuts. I absolutely love a doughnut that I don’t have to feel guilty about. I visit this place whenever I’m in the West Mobile area.
Spartan Nutrition
620 Hwy 43
Saraland, AL
This is the place that introduced me to protein shakes and energy tea combos. I live close to this location, and stop by regularly. Love it here. I have a thing for the blueberry cheesecake. 🫐
There are lots more small businesses I plan to support in the coming days. Honeybun bakery in Satsuma is on my “lunch wish list”. I hear it’s awesome and haven’t had a chance to catch it yet. I hope this inspires you to visit a local small biz! Feel free to share some of your faves with me so I can try them out!
Finally, Thank You to every customer who has stopped by this month and since I opened. I’m so honored that you’ve welcomed me into the community with open arms.
With love,
Danielle daniellereneebeauty@gmail.com
Facebook & Instagram - @daniellereneebeaute
311 Shelton Beach Rd.
Suite D
Saraland, AL