L.V. Harkness
Meg Jewett | 859-225-7474 | LVHarkness.com | 531 W. Short St.
Located downtown on West Short Street, L.V. Harkness offers fine gifts, tabletop couture, bridal registry, interior design, fine jewelry, home accessories, custom invitations, trophies and corporate gifts, as well as a growing baby department. Their knowledgeable staff has traveled the world and is focused on personal service. Owner Meg Jewett attended The Masters School in New York, Vassar College, and University of Cincinnati Law School. Meg was inspired by her great-grandfather’s legacy to bring the finest things to Lexington. She said, “After sailing the world on his yacht Wachiva, my great-grandfather, Lamon Vanderburg Harkness, bought a farm in Lexington for Standardbred breeding. This farm has been in my family since 1892 and three out of four sisters now live there.” Meg supports a variety of charitable organizations, including the Kentucky Equine Humane Center, the Headley-Whitney Museum, the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation and Rotary Club. Meg also co-founded The Meadows School in Las Vegas in 1984, a not for profit, Co-Ed, country day school, pre-k through grade 12. When asked about her proudest accomplishment, she said, “My son, Harky, who lives in LA and is the proud father of my precious 18 month old grandson.”
The LUXE For the Home
Mary Anne Simmons | 859-983-4663 | TheLUXEinLEX.com | 193 Kentucky Avenue
In addition to owning The LUXE, which specializes in all things for the home, Mary Anne Simmons also owns Premier Designing Details (a staging and merchandising company) and is Principal Broker for Premier Home Services Group (EXP Realty, International). This gives her unique insights into staging techniques that help homes sell with tremendous success. Mary Anne decided she wanted to showcase her staging company, so she opened The LUXE for the Home. This lead to selling and consigning antiques, fine furnishings and accessories, as well as the establishment of a design center for remodeling and rehab projects, complete with a design team.
Howard & Miller Clothiers
Jeff Miller | 859-259-3926 | 400 Old Vine Street, Suite 102 | HowardandMiller.com
Howard & Miller has been Lexington’s premier shopping destination for high-quality men’s clothing for over 30 years. Locally and family owned, this store has a deep-rooted history in Lexington. Its founders, Harold Howard and Cliff Miller, had years of experience catering to men’s clothing needs before establishing Howard & Miller in 1984. Today, Cliff’s son, Jeff, proudly continues his father’s tradition in overseeing a business dedicated to serving men’s fashion needs and providing professional wardrobe advice. With something to appeal to a wide variety of clientele and an in-store tailor, Howard & Miller Clothiers is a local treasure.
Puccini’s
Jay Harris | PuccinisSmilingTeeth.com
Chevy Chase 269-0404 | Brighton Place 264-0505 | Boston Road 223-1588
Amy and Jay Harris opened their first Puccini’s Smiling teeth restaurant in the Chevy Chase neighborhood in 2004. Since that time they opened stores at Dylan Place off of Boston Road and most recently at Brighton Shops located at Liberty Road and Man O’ War. The casual Italian restaurant is family friendly and provides a variety of freshly prepared pizza, pasta, sandwiches and salads. A large portion of the menu is available gluten free. Puccini’s also offers low carb entrees such as the Baked Roman Holiday as well as the Chicken Torino. Beer and wine is also available. They offer dine in, carry out, and delivery as well as party rooms at the Brighton and Chevy Chase locations. Jay and Amy along with their children (Annie, a sixth grader at Beaumont Middle School, Jack, a seventh grader at Lexington Christian Academy, and Zach, a recent graduate of Youngstown State University) are proud to call Lexington their home. Because of that, they are very committed to providing fundraising opportunities for a variety of organizations. To view the full menu or inquire about fundraising go to Puccinissmilingteeth.com. They hope that you come out and enjoy a Smiling Teeth experience.
Gratz Park Inn
Zedtta Wellman | 859-231-1777 | GratzParkInn.com | 120 W. Second St.
“I love what I do. Hospitality is a great job – meeting new people every day and working with a superb community,” said Gratz Park Inn manager Zedtta Wellman. A native of Ashland Kentucky, Zedtta loves showing off our beautiful city and giving guests at The Gratz Park Inn a fantastic experience. “We’re truly a hidden jewel in horse country. We’re nestled in a historic area and surrounded by wonderful homes and businesses. We have served governors, Supreme Court Judges, authors, comedians, basketball stars, senators, sports broadcasters, actors, and a few HGTV designers. Our doors are always open to all guests.” Zedtta also enjoys lending a hand in the community. One of her favorite fundraisers is Freedom Fest. “Every year they raise money for Woodford Humane Society. We get to decorate a stall in a barn for businesses to purchase and entertain their clients in. It’s a great cause, you meet wonderful people and you build lasting relationships.” When she’s not working, Zedtta spends time with her family and attends Southland Christian Church. “Family is the most important part of my life. It’s a blessing seeing my children become wonderful adults and to watch my grandchildren grow.”
Signature Club of Lansdowne
Ron Turner, Ashley Turner Frazier, Troy Turner
859-277-6600 | SignatureClub.org | 3256 Lansdowne Drive
The Signature Club is a premier country club and events facility located in the heart of Lexington. Owners Ron and Troy Turner have devoted their careers to building community relationships in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. The Signature Club offers a state-of-the-art pool with water slide, a fitness center and The Cellar restaurant. The facilities also include extra-curricular activities such as basketball, tennis, volleyball and fitness classes. The Grand Ballroom provides an exquisite facility to host weddings, corporate events and charitable events.
The legacy of the Lansdowne Club began in 1958 and now stands as Lexington’s oldest membership club. The concept began with the developers of the Lansdowne subdivision, C. B. McEachin and J. W. Davis, Jr., whose vision was to draw potential homeowners by promoting the club benefits. In 1999, the club was purchased by Bill Varney and remained under his ownership for the next six years. At the end of this time, the buildings were in great need of repair and it looked as if the club would have to close. Through the devotion of its members, the club was able to operate while searching for owners who would love the club as much as they did. In 2005, the Turners purchased the club for renovation. Ultimately, renovations would not meet their expectations. They put their hearts, souls and billfolds into tearing the structure down and building a new state of the art facility. They were driven by their desire to save the historic club and make a significant contribution to the community.
Both Ron and Troy were born and raised in Lexington, and love that it has the feel of a small town community. They are blessed to have a large, close family all in Lexington, and say they are “unique in that we are not just family, but business partners and friends with a strong belief in working, playing and praying together.” The family frequently vacations in Destin, Florida, and enjoys boating on Lake Cumberland.
When it comes to community involvement, The Turners proudly support a variety of local non-profit organizations such as The Salvation Army, The Foster Care Council, The American Diabetes Association, Her Knight, The Christian Appalachia Project, Surgery on Sunday, and many others. They attend Southland Christian Church.
“Our greatest accomplishment is seen in the character of our next generation. Getting to see our kids and grandkids involved in the church and making a difference in the Lexington community has made us very proud and greatly blessed.” The Turners place God at the forefront of everything.
Rose & Lime
Southern Chic Boutique
Kathryn Bütte | 859-317-9550 | 535 South Upper Street @ Center Court | RoseandLime.com
“Lexington has such a diverse group of people that give the city southern charm with international influences,” owner Kathryn Bütte explained. “You can’t get any better than Lexington’s sports atmosphere and no one is a stranger if they’re wearing blue!” As a recent UK grad, she knew firsthand what the campus area lacked: a trendy, high-quality, affordable place to shop.
Kathryn started the business just two months out of college at the age of 22. Originally an online boutique, Rose & Lime now is a storefront with gifts, bath products and apparel, including Greek life, UK and plus size offerings!
Azzurro Dream Travel
Mario & Courtney Mazzocchi| 513-646-8217 | AzzurroDreamTravel.com
Owners Mario and Courtney Mazzocchi met in Sorrento, Italy in 2009 and were married within six months. Mario had worked in the European tour industry for 14 years for large companies and said that he saw the quality of the tours diminish even as prices soared. Their shared passion for travel sparked their imaginations. “We talked about it and knew we could do better,” Lexington native Courtney explained. “We are experienced in the business and we know without a doubt that we can make each trip memorable for our guests in a way that large companies cannot. We keep it personal.”
Arthur Murray Dance Studio
Hunter Lisle | 859-278-7711 | LexingtonArthurMurray.com | 1801 Alexandria Dr. Suite 132
When Arthur Murray Dance Studio opened their doors 15 years ago, the city welcomed them with open arms and their mission of “Changing lives, one step at a time!” became a reality. The studio offers classes in all types of dance – Social, Ballroom, Latin, and even Competitive Dancing. The staff is highly certified under the Arthur Murray Organization (which just celebrated 102 years!) Owner Hunter Lisle grew up in Lexington, where he attended Sayre School followed by several degrees at the University of Kentucky, but he always loved dancing. He said, “My family has always been very supportive of all my creative endeavors from doing magic at a young age, to dancing, teaching, competing, judging, and participating in all aspects of the dance industry.” Starting a business was always his dream because he hoped to teach people more than he could do himself. One of his favorite aspects of the business is enriching people’s lives through dancing and helping them to find joy and happiness. “As a single person - when you take dance lessons, you get to meet new people, and as a couple, you get to spend quality time together. That that is so rare in today’s world!”
Steepleton
Gunnar Graven | 859-721-5675 | steepleton.com | 2601 Regency Road
In 1910, Clyde and Claude Steepleton envisioned a demand for quality-built billiard tables. They set out to sell the best on the market. Today, the company is the second-oldest retailer of billiard tables in the United States. The 10,000 square foot showroom on Regency Road opened this year. Vice President, Gunnar Graven is excited that the new store allows customers to see their exciting selection firsthand.
Steepleton also offers the very best in indoor and outdoor entertainment for families. They carry the best brands, including Woodplay swing sets, Goalrilla basketball goals, Jacuzzi hot tubs, Big Green Egg smokers, Yeti coolers and Springfree trampolines. Steepleton also offers installation and maintenance of all their products.
Bank of the Bluegrass & Trust Co.
Bill Allen | 859-233-4500 | BankoftheBluegrass.com
101 E High Street | 215 Southland Drive
Bank of the Bluegrass & Trust Co. originally started as an appliance business, offering financing so families could afford to purchase larger appliances. The original branch is located in The Jett Building, which was constructed in 1820.
The business shifted away from appliances, but retained its focus on people. “Our core philosophy revolves around helping families and local businesses surrounding Lexington prosper,” said Bill Allen, President. Bank of the Bluegrass received its commercial charter in 1972, but they continue to put clients first. “We are a full service bank with a community heart, offering clients a high-touch experience.”
ExecuTrain
Crinda Francke | 859-271-0296 | ExecuTrainKY.com | 230 Lexington Green Circle Suite 110
ExecuTrain offers training and development for business owners to increase the skill level and productivity of their employees. Over the past 10 years, they have adopted a more customized learning model. Co-owner Crinda Francke said, “We work with companies to find the most effective way to provide the training they need. One size does not fit all.” She and her husband Ken take pride in doing a great job for their local clients and being a part of the business community. “We work hard to ensure that a local client feels confident when choosing us over a larger national firm.” Coming from a family that owned their own businesses, Crinda believes it must be in her blood. “On some days, you scratch your head and say ‘What was I thinking?’ but more often, it’s a rewarding adventure.
I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Crinda and her team approach every opportunity as a long-term relationship, which results in trust-based partnerships. “The entire company has a “can-do” attitude,” she said. “You won’t hear anyone say ‘We can’t do that’ but rather, ‘How can we make this work for them?’ In our 22 years of business, we have rarely said no to an opportunity.”
Pretty in Pink
Donna Carroll and Maria Bohanan | 859-873-7465 | 175 North Main Street, Versailles
Donna Carroll and Maria Bohanan, co-owners of Pretty in Pink, were friends who shared a dream of opening a shop filled with beautiful things and wonderful people. Through their combined energy and determination – plus plenty of encouragement from family and friends – they made that dream a reality. They hope to have another location on the beach in 20 years!
Maria and Donna love their shop filled with gifts, accessories and home goods. Their staff welcomes everyone who walks in the pink door. “Shopping at cute little stores like ours may not change the world, but it may just make your day!“ says Donna.
Norwalk Furniture by K&T Interiors
859-263-0322 | NorwalkLexington.com | 2200 War Admiral Way
Owners Kellie Clarke and Tawana Palmer are both local girls. They grew up in surrounding counties and have always loved Lexington. For them, it just made sense to open their store in Lexington, which they feel is the heart of Central Kentucky. They are excited to celebrating their store’s 10-year anniversary soon!
“We had the goal of a fine design store that offers quality products at fair pricing,” Kellie explained. Their store is a one-stop-shop with designers, quality products, custom upholstery and great accessories. “We run our store with a family atmosphere. We are small, and we are local,” Tawana said.
Freakin’ Unbelievable Burgers and Street Craves
Dr. Greg White | 859-554-5514 | FreakinBurgers.com | StreetCraves.com | 395 SouthLimestone
Meet the two newest additions to Lexington’s restaurant scene. Freakin’ Unbelievable Burgers and Street Craves are two fast casual restaurants under one roof. Co-owners Dr. Greg White (of White, Greer and Maggard Orthodontics) and Brent Skaggs first met in 1983 while working at Max & Erma’s. “After more than twenty years in the restaurant business, we finally landed on a restaurant concept that we feel is worthy of Lexington’s food scene and the town I have called home for more than thirty years,” said Greg. Freakin’ Unbelievable Burgers offers gourmet and veggie burgers, 40+ toppings, and craft beer, while Street Craves specializes in artisan street tacos and chopped salads. “(The concept) begins with the food and drinks and works outward,” Greg explained. “We use fresh ingredients and house-made infused simple syrups. Our craft beers are purchased primarily from local breweries. Our tacos feature house baked tortillas, slow roasted brisket and pork. The burgers hold up to their name with 100% Certified Angus Beef. With 45 toppings, guests can choose a different burger every day. And our chopped salads are made fresh in full view so that guests can experience the farm to table goodness with their eyes before they taste.”
Carol Lynn Originals & Events
Ruth Babcock. Callie Babcock. Carol Mitchell | 859-253-0545
CarolLynnEvents.com | 645 E.Main
Ruth Mappin purchased Carol Lynn Originals & Events in 1954 when she realized her daughter, Carol Mitchell, had a creative flare for floral design. In 1986, Carol’s daughter, Ruth Mitchell Babcock officially joined the family business. Together, they continue the legacy of bringing beautiful and unique creations to the Lexington area. The shop has now been a part of their family for 61 years and four generations, as Ruth’s daughter Callie is now a part of the team, too.
The family has had the privilege of decorating The White House for Christmas and various parties, as well as Inaugurals for Governors of the State of Kentucky. No matter who their customers may be, they seek to provide gorgeous flowers and fabulous customer service.
Red State BBQ
David Carroll | 859-233-7898 | RedStateBBQ.com | 4020 Georgetown Road
Owner, David Carroll and crew keep it simple and good at Red State BBQ, serving up brisket, ribs, chicken, sausage and pork. A quintessential roadside BBQ joint, they offer up dishes made fresh daily, served in a homespun atmosphere just off US 25. In addition to their signature barbeque and sides, they also offer local beers, Ale-8-One and Sav’s Chill ice cream, making it truly local. They also provide catering, have a food truck and are working to open a second location this Fall in Lexington.
Privé Med Spa
Becky McDonald & Brandice Harrison | 859-523-5893 | PriveMedicalSpa.com | 3363 Tates Creek Rd. (Lansdowne Shoppes)
Privé Med Spa opened their doors in November 2011, and since then, they have provided their clients with the latest medical aesthetic procedures. Executive Director, Becky McDonald, says she’s always had the entrepreneurial spirit, but she’d never found the right business – until she met Brandice Harrison. Brandice, a Physician Assistant, worked in Emergency Medicine for seven years and knew it was time for a change. She’d been in aesthetics for a while when she and her husband, Dr. Scott Harrison, Privé’s Medical Director, met Becky. They had never dreamed of owning their own business, but since then, they haven’t looked back. They both feel that enhancing their location was their best business decision. They completely remodeled the space in the Lansdowne shopping center to create an inviting, serene environment for their patients. Something a lot of people may not know about their business is that they chose the name Privé because it means “private” in French. “The biggest compliment is when a friend looks at you and says ‘your skin looks great’ or ‘you look so rested’,” they explained. “You don’t always have to disclose your skincare secrets.”
house
Dwayne Anderson, j. stuart hurt, Jeremy Rice | 859-523-3933 | housebyjsd.com | 250 Walton Avenue
"For Dwayne, Stuart and Jeremy, a successful business is constantly evolving and changing. “We are always listening to customers and paying attention to trends, but we don’t rely on any one thing to drive our decisions,” said Stuart. The three men started working together at the same company years ago, but when that opportunity came to an end, they took a leap of faith and opened House, a boutique offering a wide variety of goods, from ladies’ accessories, earrings, wraps, and scarves, to custom silk arrangements, lamps, artwork, and accent furniture at various price points. “We wanted to bring a genre of retail that Lexington didn’t have. We are a very transitional store. We can incorporate any style from traditional to contemporary. Many of our customers say we have an ‘easy look,’” Stuart explained. The gentlemen of House lend their styling talents to a variety of charitable events, such as Susan G. Komen Lexington and the American Cancer Society. They have worked with the Lexington School for many years on their annual gala and have hosted a shopping night for St. Peter Claver for the past 2 years. When asked about something people may not know, Stuart said, “Almost every day at 3:30, we have a popsicle break!”
Milward Funeral Directors
Rob & Bob Milward | 859-252-3411 | Three convenient locations - Downtown, Man O’ War, and Southland Drive | MilwardFuneral.com
Lexington’s oldest business is celebrating its 190th year anniversary. Founded in 1825 – the same year that saw Henry Clay become Secretary of State – Milward was already 40 years old when the University of Kentucky began its first classes. Through six generations, the Milward family has provided solace and support for countless Central Kentucky families.
In 1825, carpenter Joseph Milward began crafting caskets to supplement his income from his cabinet and furniture business. At the time, Lexington’s population was just over 5,500. When he retired in 1865, his son transitioned the business into a full-time funeral directing business. The stunning three-story Milward location on North Broadway was built in 1905 and cemented Milward’s place as a landmark institution in Central Kentucky.
Throughout its history, Milward has been deeply involved with the Lexington community. The Milward family and the Milward Funeral Directors staff are dedicated to volunteering their time, talent and resources to making the community a better place to live. “We are very community oriented,” said Robert E. (Bob) Milward, president of Milward Funeral Directors.
The Broadway location hosts Gallery Hop events throughout the year, allowing the public to visit one of Lexington’s beautiful historic buildings while enjoying local artists’ work. “The art community has been very appreciative and generous in its support,” explained Bob. “It’s just another way we give back to the community, and we’re always excited to find another way to do that.”
Milward hosts an annual Holiday Hope program each November. This special program helps people who have experienced a loss cope during the holidays and throughout the year. Drawing on some of the philosophies discussed during their free monthly grief support groups, Holiday Hope provides healing when it is often needed most. Their skilled, trained staff offers insight, experience and advice. Said Bob, “Last year, we brought in Dr. Alan Wolfelt from Colorado, a nationally known author, educator, and grief counselor, which allowed us to offer free CEU credits for caregivers and professionals.”
In addition, Milward Funeral Directors served as a member of the original Lexington Chamber of Commerce. They are actively involved with the Bluegrass Military Affairs Coalition, a non-partisan civilian organization aimed at promoting the awareness of our military by educating the public about the Armed Forces while supporting military members and their families. Milward also helped establish the Blue Grass Community Foundation and Hospice of the Bluegrass.
Milward Funeral Directors
The Celebration Center of Lexington, located on Trent Boulevard, is a beautiful, strikingly appointed, comfortable place like none other in the region. A spacious reception room beams with natural light. With a fireplace, baby grand piano and outdoor patio, it’s a modern, multi-purpose facility. “We’ve hosted all sorts of events there,” said Rob Milward, the firm’s vice president. “Funerals, visitations, reunions of different types, one-act plays, mitzvahs, fundraisers, a dinner dance… the space really accommodates a multitude of different uses.”
Milward has the most funeral home locations in Lexington. In addition to the North Broadway location and The Celebration Center of Lexington, they also have a location on Southland Drive. Milward is the only multi-location funeral service provider in Lexington that owns and operates a private crematory. This offers people the peace of mind that all of the details of the process will be overseen completely and professionally by members of the Milward staff.
Milward specializes in advance funeral planning. This service allows families to arrange all the necessary and difficult decisions prior to death. Many have trusted their plans with Milward Funeral Directors, allowing them to rest easy knowing that the details will be handled with care and attention to detail.
What many may not know is that Milward offers funerary services for pets. When a pet dies, there can be overwhelming feelings of pain and loss. Milward Funeral Directors offer the same quality of unique and personalized attention to families upon the loss of a pet. They offer customized cremation and burial services through their Family Pet Loss Center.
Among the many awards that Milward Funeral Directors has received, one of the most fulfilling for the staff was bestowed this past May. Mayor Jim Gray pronounced May 2015 as Milward Month in Lexington in recognition of Milward’s founding in May of 1825. They recently won the Legacy category for Commerce Lexington’s 2015 Salute to Small Business Awards, as well.
In recognition of their consistent display of professional and ethical excellence, Milward became one of nine funeral homes inducted into the National Funeral Directors Association Hall of Excellence in 2013. “We are very proud to have been recognized by the National Funeral Directors Association as one of the top 1 percent of funeral homes in the United States,” Bob added. “We are the only one in Lexington and one of only five in Kentucky that has been inducted into the NFDA Hall of Excellence.”
As the 37th oldest continuously running business in the United States, Milward Funeral Directors has been an essential part of the history of Lexington, enduring through 38 U.S. presidents, eight wars, and three depressions. The Milward family and the staff are excited to see what the future holds for Central Kentucky. Through it all, they will be there to offer their support.
Cotton Patch
Isobel Chewning | 859-269-8839 | CottonPatchofKY.com | 3367 Tates Creek Rd. (Lansdowne Shoppes)
Isobel Chewning has always been proud to call Lexington home. She moved here in 1963, when she was two years old. Isobel says that retail is in her blood. Her mother is from the Pirie family of Carson Pirie Scott & Co. department stores, and her family founded the flagship store in Downtown Chicago. When she was a teenager, her mother sent her to visit an aunt who was living in Paris, France. She took Isobel to a Christian Dior haute couture runway show, and it sparked her interest in the fashion industry. She and her husband Victor have been married almost 31 years. Their son Will is a musician in a local band, and their daughter Martha is bringing her youthful vision and technological abilities to the Cotton Patch. Emma, the family’s Welsh Corgi, enjoys exploring the store’s waste baskets. When asked about her favorite aspect of owning a local business Isobel said, “Our customers! We value the relationships we build with them, and strive to make them our number one priority. I never dreamed of owning my own boutique. The fact we are in business 30 years later still feels like a dream!”
Bryant’s Rent-All
Gail & Terry Bryant | 859-252-0408 | bryantsrentall.com | 701 Red Mile Road
“If we don’t have it, we’ll help you find it! That’s our motto,” said Terry L. Bryant, President of Bryant’s Rent-All. Since 1953, they have served Central Kentucky’s special events and equipment needs with a smile. Now in their third generation, the Bryants hope to continue their tradition of dedicated service. In the early 1960’s, Vernon Bryant opted of the United franchise and began operating as an independent rental store, changing the name to Bryant’s Rent-All. After 11 years, Bryant’s Rent-All moved to a new location at 875 South Broadway. Terry Bryant, Vernon’s son, started the second generation of the family business in 1973. Vernon retired in 1982 and handed the reins to Terry, who placed a greater focus on party and event rental, while still maintaining the construction, lawn, and garden inventory. That turned out to be a very successful decision. Scott Bryant, Terry’s son, joined the business in 1991 and is now the manager of tents and event rental. Bryant’s Rent-All is constantly growing to meet their customers’ needs, whether it be weddings and events, construction and tools, games, or tents. When asked what motivates him to run a local business, Terry said, “We just have a lot of fun.”
Sallee Horse Vans
Nicole Pieratt | 859-255-9406 | SalleeHorseTransport.com | 2053 Buck Lane
Nicole Pieratt, a Lexington native, has been at the helm of Sallee Horse Vans for almost 10 years. She has over 20 years of experience in the horse industry. All the while, Nicole gained the knowledge to the transport of Kentucky’s most prized possessions with the upmost care.
For over fifty years, Sallee Horse Vans has built a reputation for blue ribbon customer service and satisfaction. They have a fleet of industry leading, up-to-date vans which they build and service themselves. This ensures absolute safety of the horses and peace of mind for customers. “Whether a Triple Crown race winner, or a family steed who taught your children about caring for others, we know that the horses we carry represent hopes and dreams, friendships and fortunes,” Nicole explained.
Sallee’s entire staff is passionate about the equine industry and is well versed in caring for horses throughout transport. “We all understand and care about the industry and, most importantly, the well-being of your horses,” said Nicole.
Sallee Horse Vans is headquartered in Lexington with additional operations in Ocala, Florida and Elmont, New York. This puts them close to the heart of America’s equine industry, in which they have become an important part.
The Weekly Juicery
Elizabeth Beal & Kimmye Bohannon | 859-368-8000 | theweeklyjuicery.com | 436 Old Vine Street
The Weekly Juicery is a unique business bringing the benefits of cold-pressed juices, super-food smoothies, shots, juice cleanses, and raw vegan foods to Lexington. As Kentucky’s first cold pressed juice bar, they’ve been teaching people about the power of drinking vegetables and using food as medicine since 2012. Co-owner Kimmye Bohannon said, “Our process produces a dense, nutrient-rich, alive juice that has healing power. We’ve converted many customers into faithful vegetable drinkers in the last three years.” The juices aren’t heated or treated with any additives to extend the shelf life, and contain only the highest quality produce that’s local and certified organic whenever possible. “We’re all about education,” said Kimmye. “We want to elevate every customer to the next level of healthy living, whatever that may be.” Since she was a child, Kimmye has always wanted to be a shop owner. She started numerous “businesses” selling crafts she’d made. Today, she is proud of The Weekly Juicery’s ongoing success. “When I first started making juice, I convinced my friends to try it. I remember being shocked when we got a customer that wasn’t a friend. This year we’ll make over 100,000 bottles of juice. That amazes me for sure.”
Strong Shop Fitness
Josh & Kasi Sato | 859-219-9473 | StrongShopFitness.com | 176 Bellerive Blvd. Nicholasville
One thing Josh and Kasi Sato appreciate is the community they have found through their business. “When we opened our studio almost 4 years ago, we had no idea that the people we would meet would become such a big part of our family,” said Kasi. “Since we are a boutique fitness studio and not a membership gym, we know everyone by name.” Over 3,000 square feet of the studio is devoted to personal training. “Our trainers are well educated with multiple degrees and certifications,” said Kasi. Approximately another 3,000 square feet is dedicated to group fitness classes. “Shred Sessions are high intensity workouts that can be modified to fit clients of all ages and ability levels. We are also excited to announce our new Strong Barre classes beginning this month!” These classes will incorporate yoga, Pilates, barre, cardio, and will be smaller in size to give each client more one on one instruction. Both Josh and Kasi’s passion for fitness stem from athletics. Kasi played golf at the University of Texas, while Josh played football at Georgetown College. “We love what we do and are so blessed to live in an amazing community with such great people!” said Kasi.
Violets Gifts
Julie Carlisle and Kim Duffy | 859-281-1100 | violetsgifts.com | 1060 ChinoeRoad, Suite 120
Julie Carlisle and Kim Duffy met at EKU, where they were both members of Alpha Delta Pi sorority. They reconnected a few years back at Lexington Tennis Club. They decided to take their partnership from the courts to the Chinoe Center, a location they both agreed needed a fun boutique. “Since we met as sorority sisters, we named our store Violets after our sorority flower. It represents ‘gift’ and ‘sweet messages’. It was perfect for our gift store”, Julie explained.
With Kim’s experience in retail and Julie’s experience in marketing, they made a great match! “We love everything about it! The buying, the selling, the merchandising, and most importantly, the customers.” says Julie.
Southern Drawl Creations
Amanda & Jason Hall | 502.316.3966 | Found at your local Vendor Fairs
“Our business was really a fluke,” owners Jason and Amanda Hall joked. They etched glasses for their Kentucky themed wedding and gave them as gifts to their bridal party. “We had a few extra and thought maybe some people would purchase as Christmas gifts,” Amanda explained. They posted them on social media and they turned out to be a big hit. Many of their hand-etched glass products feature Kentucky themes, but they also do custom work, including monograms, logos and keepsakes. Jason said, “We love getting to go out into our community and meet people that share our love for Kentucky.”
My Favorite Things
Tom Ulshafer | 859-264-0923 | mftky.com | 2721 Old Rosebud Road (Hamburg)
My Favorite Things specializes in furniture, gifts and design for any room in your home. It began as a gift and home décor store in Hazard, Kentucky. Founded with the goal of blending the atmosphere of a small, family-owned shop with the elegance and great selection of large department stores, and the uniqueness of a New York boutique, My Favorite Things was the perfect choice for all gift-buying & home décor needs. In February 2005, the Hazard store was relocated to the Hamburg area of Lexington. In 2008, My Favorite Things introduced a new retail concept to the central Kentucky area - the Cobblestone Shoppes. This “shop within a shop” gift area now includes All Things Kentucky, Stork’s Landing, Oasis Bath & Body, Gourmet Café, and the Flower Shoppe. Around the same time, they also began offering high quality furniture such as Drexel Heritage and Maitland Smith as well as custom interior design service. When asked about his favorite aspect of the business, Tom Ulshafer, President of Retail Operations said, “Our customers! Over the past decade we have developed many relationships that have grown into significant friendships. Between a unique product selection and our in home design services, we truly are a collection of our customers’ ‘favorite things’”.
Jerome Beauty Boutique
Alice Honchell | 859-269-5753 | Jerome4u.com | 153 Patchen Dr. Suite 61
Beauty & fashions have been Alice’s business for over 53 years. Since 1962, Jerome has had 10 locations throughout Central KY and even a store in San Diego, CA called “J.Lexington”. At the store in CA, Alice learned how highly regarded Lexington was nationwide for fashion, The Derby, and of course UK Basketball. It is Alice’s joy to help everyone coming in to Jerome to leave looking and feeling better, whether it’s with a new hairstyle, makeup or skin care, electrolysis or laser hair reduction, wigs and mastectomy prostheses, or fashions and accessories for any occasion. Alice says, “We’re still going strong thanks to our loyal customers and great staff.”
The Press Juice Bar & Cafe
Matt Papania,Tyler Hughes, Mike Asay | 859-317-8915 | thepressjuicebar.com | 191 Kentucky Avenue
While on a business trip, Matt Papania and partners Tyler Hughes and Mike Asay passed a juice bar with a great modern look. They tried the juice, and loved the energy it gave them. They came home and started juicing, enjoying all the benefits and knew right away they had to open a juice bar all their own to share the experience with others.
Opening on August 10th, The Press offers cold press juice, fresh smoothies and salads made daily, all made from quality ingredients. They will also feature gluten-free baked goods, chia puddings, Booster shots, complimentary spa detox waters – and more! The Press is Kentucky Proud certified and they support the local producers.
Bella Rose
Betty Spain | 859-255-2565 | BellaRoseStyle.com | 126 West Maxwell Street
Betty Spain, owner of award winning women’s boutique Bella Rose, has been outfitting Kentucky women for 35 years. The store prides itself on offering “big city fashion with small town charm” and offers looks exclusively from Milly, Shoshanna, JSS, Teri Jon, Nicole Miller, Sara Campbell and Edward Achour Paris. When asked what drives her to run a successful local business, Betty said, “I am passionate about cheering up women and assisting them to look and feel their best every day - especially for those big life events such as first dates, galas, anniversaries and mother of the bride/groom.” Betty says that Bella Rose has something for all the women in your life; daughter, mother, grandmother, wife, sister & friends. Betty attributes much of the store’s success to her wonderful staff, “We have fun at Bella Rose!” Betty is the proud mother of daughter Haley, son Mason & bonus son Jason. She and her husband, Robert are blessed with seven rowdy grandsons! Betty has always been involved in the local community. She has been recognized as “Women of the Year” for the Leukemia Lymphoma Association and won NAWBO’s Winner Circle award. She is also involved with many organizations in the bluegrass such as The Chrysalis House, The Lexington Philharmonic, KET, UK Heart Guild, and Susan G Komen to name a few. Betty invites you to pop in, stay a while and play dress up!
Catering by Donna
Donna Potter | 859-269-0978 | DonnaPotterCatering.com | 1054 W High Street
Catering by Donna is a local business owned by Donna Potter and her husband Lanny Heavener, now retired. Originally from Whitesburg, Donna moved to Lexington to study Early Childhood Education at the University of Kentucky. While teaching in the Head Start program, she spent her summers working at The Upstart Crow. She helped the owner with side catering jobs and quickly discovered she loved the work. She founded her business 36 years ago, and is proud to say that several employees have been with her for decades. Having come up through the ranks herself, Donna recognizes the importance of loyalty. “If you don’t take care of your employees, you don’t have anything. In this business, turnover is high, but I have people who have been with me for 25-30 years.” To Donna, experience is more important than formal training. “I’ve taken classes at the Culinary Academy in San Francisco and private schools, but don’t have a chef’s degree. I have my Kentucky heritage. All the women in my family were great cooks, and I was exposed to fresh, high quality food all my life. Farm to table is not a trend for us—it’s what we’ve always done.”
Bluegrass AutoBody
Wes Lancaster and LeAnne Brooks | 1040 West High St 859.255.4040 | 309 Ruccio Way 859.219.8080 | bluegrassautobody.com
Brother and sister Wes Lancaster and LeAnne Brooks are third-generation operators at Bluegrass AutoBody. Their grandfather started the business in 1965. After 50 years, their business has a bright future ahead.
The company purchased their High Street shop in 1971, which has grown to approximately 20,000 sq. ft. In the summer of 2003, Bluegrass AutoBody opened their second location on Ruccio Way. Both shops are equipped with the highest quality equipment, parts and materials.
Despite the nature of their work–from painting vehicles to repairing – both locations are still incredibly comfortable for customers who visit. All vehicles are stored inside, out of the elements, ensuring total security and protection.
Bluegrass AutoBody’s highly skilled team has undergone extensive training to ensure stunning work. Their technicians are I-CAR certified and use only the recommended collision repair techniques.
Wes and LeAnne see their team of 23 employees as family. In addition to providing their staff with matching fund IRAs, they hold Bible study groups at each shop every other week, which are open to both employees and the public.
Bluegrass AutoBody has prospered through 50 years of Lexington’s history by offering customers great service, speedy turnaround and a friendly, welcoming approach.
Bluegrass Hospitality Group
Brian McCarty and Bruce Drake | 859-335-6500 | BluegrassHospitality.com | Lansdowne, Hamburg, Palomar
Brian McCarty and Bruce Drake met at L&N Seafood. Inspired to bring great steak to Lexington, they took a risk and opened Malone’s in Lansdowne in 1998. Their risk certainly paid off! Now, Bluegrass Hospitality Group spans some of Lexington’s most iconic eateries; Malone’s, Malone’s Banquets, Sal’s, Harry’s, Aqua Sushi Bar, Drake’s, OBC Kitchen, and Meats bbq mkt – coming soon to Lansdowne.
Brian and his wife have three daughters; Bruce and his wife have three sons. The two stay busy with family and their passion for hospitality and great food. They remain committed to growing, learning and staying motivated, while serving what they consider the best part of Lexington: the people.
The Diamond Den and More
Lisa Jane Clifton, Sally Smith, Karen Khourie, Dave Ely | 859.523.7503 | 3090 Helmsdale Place, Suite 220
Owner Sally Smith believes that their growth and success relies on the components of their business adding up to the whole, making it a unique treasure of the Bluegrass. As a Kentucky Crafted Retailer, they offer jewelry, journals and photography created by local artisans, all in addition to their impressive fine gold, diamond, gemstone and estate jewelry selection. A GIA Gemologist does on-site repairs and appraisals. In addition to all that, they have a beauty consultant on staff. Three of Sally’s daughters work with her in various capacities, making Diamond Den a truly local, family owned and operated business.
Indigo
Shawna Connors | 859-259-3333 | 333 East Short Street, Suite 310 | IndigoSalonandWellness.com
Indigo Salon and Wellness was born out of the hard work of owner Shawna Connors and her family. Her husband, who is in construction, helped her day and night to build the space. Her daughter, Devan, is now an active manager and esthetician. “It was our dream to be able to work side by side.” Shawna said.
They furnished the salon with upcycled elements to match their Downtown renovated space. “Watching downtown grow has been especially exciting, and we love being a small part of it.” Shawna said. As the only Comfort Zone Spa in the region, they offer elite skin care alongside hair, nail, waxing and massage services.
Sarah’s Corner Cafe BBQ
LD & Ralph Egbert | 859-309-1220 | sarahscornercafebbq.com | 720 Henry Clay Blvd
Sarah’s BBQ, owned by LD and Ralph Egbert, opened in May 2009. Ralph and LD have been married for 37 years and have enjoyed the adventure of opening a restaurant together. You can’t miss Sarah’s big red sign and large smoker on the corner of Liberty Road and Henry Clay Boulevard. Sarah’s serves western Kentucky style barbecue that is smoked right in the parking lot.
The restaurant is 4100 square feet and can seat up to 100 people. In addition to delicious barbecue, Sarah’s offers dollar drafts, free shuffle board and air hockey, 70 inch TVs, and friendly service! They also cater many events for social and business functions.
Conrhod Zonio Photography
Light Life Love | Leslee & Conrhod Zonio 859.299.6550 | ConrhodZonio.com | LightLifeLovePhotography.com
“We get to be an integral part of stopping time, capturing history and allowing the amazing people that we get to work with to leave a legacy behind,” owner Conrhod, a graduate of Asbury and UK, explained. As a photographer, Conrhod loves to connect with people. His focus is on capturing weddings. “Our client’s wedding day is one of the most important days in our lives. We are humbled to hear that the gravity of our expression is constantly felt.”
For Conrhod, the business rose out of his passion for photography. As demand increased for his work, his wife, Leslee, took on the role of family/lifestyle photographer with Light Life Love. She works with associate photographers to shoot family portrait sessions, engagement shoots and even weddings. “We love it when our clients know how beautiful they are, and they are so comfortable in their own skin around us to let us fully capture who they are,” Leslee said.
While school brought Conrhod to Lexington and marriage brought Leslee, they now love calling Central Kentucky home with their two daughters. “What has kept us here is the emerging grassroots culture of restaurants, small businesses and cultural arts activities. It is a wonderful place to raise a family,” Leslee explained.
