When Zachary Guy and Claire Edwards met in 2020, they bonded over craft beer. Now they're bringing that passion back to Stafford with Laudenbach Brewing, proving that sometimes the best love stories are brewed, not written. From a snow-covered Vermont proposal gone sideways to building a community gathering spot in the heart of Stafford, the Guy family is tapping into something special and their story is as refreshing as their beer.

Discover Stafford's Small Business Saturday digital passport: win up to $2,000 in prizes while supporting local businesses and boosting community economic growth.

Forget crowded restaurants. Under the Stars Farm in Gloucester is serving up multi-course dinners inside glowing geodesic domes under a canopy of stars. With cozy blankets, twinkling lights, and views of lavender fields stretching into the winter night, this intimate igloo experience is turning cold evenings into unforgettable moments. Reservations are limited and word is spreading fast about this hidden gem just down the road.

On November 22nd, something new is happening in Fredericksburg. The Gratitude Market is uniting over 60 local vendors and non-profits in a massive celebration of community wellness, featuring metaphysical wares, spiritual services, and healing resources. Thanks to gold sponsor D Hyde Metaphysical, more than 20 non-profits get free vendor space at this first-of-its-kind event. With live music, bubble tea, and everything from tarot readers to wellness organizations under one roof, this free rain-or-shine gathering (12pm-5pm at 7100 Steckler Way) is bringing the community together in a whole new way.

Located at 722 Caroline Street in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg, Benny Vitali's is serving up authentic pizza and Italian favorites seven days a week. Open until 11pm most nights (midnight on weekends), this local spot is becoming a go-to destination for locals and visitors looking for quality food in a prime downtown location. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for dinner, Benny Vitali's is keeping Caroline Street delicious.

James and Catie Wine had no restaurant experience when they started their food truck, but Smashed Life is becoming a brick-and-mortar reality. Opening at Maltese Brewing Company's Bowman Center by Christmas, their famous bacon cheeseburgers, addictive house-made "smanch" sauce, and community-focused approach have turned a side hustle into Fredericksburg's newest restaurant success story.