Hey there,
It's finally happening. Trader Joe's just confirmed they're coming to Fredericksburg, and I know half of you are already planning your shopping lists for Cookie Butter and $2.99 wine.
But here's what I'm most excited about: we're launching Power Players, a directory and magazine celebrating every woman-owned business in the FXBG area. Get listed for free, get visible, get connected to 50,000+ people who want to support you.
Also, our local businesses took a hit from the storm closures. Let's rally behind them! Write some Google reviews by Thursday, and you could win $300 to spend at any local business you choose.
Let's dive in.
Dori
Local Pulse: FXBG Edition
Featured Event
Will You Be My Guest at Live2Lead FXBG?
I'm a sponsor for Live2Lead on February 10th at the Fredericksburg Expo and Convention Center, and I’d love for you to join me.
John Maxwell, Jesse Cole, Craig Groeschel, plus local leaders Vernon Green Jr., James Kingman, and Kirstin Purcell. One day to get unstuck, gain momentum, and connect with the best business minds in our area.
I'm offering my readers $20 off general admission. That's $79 instead of $99. Use promo code DStew at checkout. I’ll see you there!
Business Briefs
Win $300 While Supporting Storm-Affected Local Businesses
Local businesses are hurting from storm closures. While we're stuck inside, let's lift them up with Google reviews, and you could win a $300 gift card to any FXBG area business.
How to enter: Write honest Google reviews for your favorite local spots through Thursday, January 29th, screenshot them, and DM @fxbgneighbors on Instagram. Multiple reviews = multiple entries.
Follow @fxbgneighbors on Instagram to participate. Winner announced January 30th.
Mattaponi Winery's Galentine's Event Sold Out - So They Added Another Date
The first two Galentine's celebration dates at Mattaponi Winery sold out fast, so they're adding a third date on Saturday, February 15th from 11am-3pm. For $60, gather your favorite women for brunch with a waffle bar, mini quiches, mimosas, DIY floral arrangements, Galentine's Edition Bingo with gift baskets, chocolate-covered strawberries, and photo ops. Plus, you'll take home a personalized wine glass. It's the perfect way to celebrate your friendships before Valentine's Day. Call Janette at 540-287-3494 to reserve your spot before this one sells out too.
Love Running? This Valentine's Day 4-Miler Is Your Perfect Match
Whether you're single, taken, or just in a committed relationship with running, the Love the Run You're With 4-Miler on February 14th is the perfect way to spend Valentine's Day morning. The race starts at 8:30am at the Massad Family YMCA and every finisher gets a custom race mug instead of a medal. Plus, show your race bib and score free coffee or hot chocolate at Willie's Waffles after the race, and enjoy a free wine tasting at The Estate at White Hall from February 13-15. Awards for top finishers and best Valentine's-themed outfits. A portion of proceeds supports Semper Fi & America's Fund. Register before January 31st to lock in the lower rate and guarantee your t-shirt.
A. Smith Bowman's Annual Bourbon & Chocolate Pairing Returns February 7th - And This Year Comes with a Cocktail
The 5th Annual Bourbon & Chocolate Pairing at A. Smith Bowman Distillery is back on Saturday, February 7th with two sessions to choose from. Your ticket gets you an hour-long guided tasting pairing premium bourbons with handcrafted chocolates from Gearhart's Fine Chocolates, plus three bourbon tastings and a chocolate-themed cocktail. Arrive early for a complimentary distillery tour before your session (3:00pm or 6:00pm). With limited seating and this event's history of selling out, bourbon and chocolate lovers should grab tickets now at asmithbowman.com.
Your Vote Counts: FXBG Neighbors' Choice Awards Are Open Now
It's time to celebrate the businesses, people, and places that make Fredericksburg special. The inaugural FXBG Neighbors' Choice Awards voting is open now through February 11th. This is your chance to shout out your favorite local restaurant, coffee shop, trainer, realtor, contractor, or any business that's made your life better this year. No corporate picks, no paid placements. Just neighbors voting for neighbors. Head to vote.fxbgneighborsconnect.com and make your voice heard.
Fast-Growing Layne's Chicken Fingers Is Opening in Spotsylvania
A Layne's Chicken Fingers location is coming to 12100 Chewning Lane in Spotsylvania on the property formerly home to DVDs On The Run. The Texas-born fast-casual chain specializes in chicken tenders, fries, sandwiches, wraps and shakes, and is rapidly expanding across the country. Layne's doubled its restaurant count in 2025, opening 21 new locations, and plans to open 40 more in 2026 as part of their goal to reach 300 restaurants by 2030. The Spotsylvania location will be one of the newest additions to the growing franchise.
Local Flavor
Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏
Services Include:
Massage therapy (couples, deep tissue, Swedish, hot stone & more)
Facials & HydraFacials
Manicures & pedicures
Waxing & brow services
Lash lifts & tints
Acupuncture
This Month: ✨ Special on FarmHouse Fresh Organic Skincare (in-spa + online all month) ✨ Spa memberships available: the easiest way to build self-care into your routine 💌 Book your Valentine's Day couples massage now. Appointments fill fast!
Here's to glowing skin and taking better care of ourselves, one appointment at a time. Book online at collagespa.com or call the Fredericksburg location at (540) 479-6470 or the Spotsylvania location at (540)300-5401.
What’s Happening In & Around the ‘Burg
This section includes only the major events happening soon. Check event websites for the most current information.
Weather Alert: Please verify event details with venues before attending, as schedules may have changed due to weather.
Wednesday, January 28
Location: Curio Wine Bar, 209 William St. Fredericksburg VA
Description: Explores how different terroirs, traditions, and textures influence the way wine and cheese interact.
Acoustic Open Mic | 6:00PM
Location: Laudenbach Brewing, 45 Centreport Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Come on out and strum some tunes! Maria Cheryl's is serving up the grub!
Thursday, January 29
Winter Wonderland Cookie Class | 6:30PM
Location: Wine & Design, Sophia Street Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Each guest will decorate 6 cookies using 4 icing colors, plus we’ll finish everything off with edible glitter for a snowy sparkle.
Banned Book Club | 6:00PM
Location: Tales & Tails, 1010 Charles Street Fredericksburg, VA
Description: This month we are reading Perks of Being a Wallflower. We will also be voting on next month’s book club pick!
Friday, January 30
Location: Highmark Brewery, 390 Kings Highway, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Grab your friends, test your trivia skills, and compete for gift cards for the top three teams, all while supporting Special Olympics.
