Nashvillians are so good at supporting local that WalletHub named Music City one of the best cities in the US to start a business.
In honor of our many movers and shakers, we’re asking readers to nominate small businesses they love so we can share them with the whole audience.
We’ll be here to share a new batch of small businesses every month, so bookmark this page to come back for more, especially if you’ve enjoyed our Small Business Week and Today’s Best coverage.
Editor Dylan’s pick
Nashville Glasshaüs | Glass blowing studio + cafe
This glassblowing studio in Berry Hill hosts live demonstrations and classes for those interested in learning the craft. The space is also home to the glass-focused Maxwell Gallery and recently added Metta Cafe, an Ashland City small business now operating its second location here with a menu of coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.
Food and beverage
Rayon City Cafe | 224 Bridgeway Ave.
- Mid-century modern decor sets the tone at this cafe serving espresso drinks, drip coffee, matcha, and hot teas. On the food side, you can choose from pastries and breakfast bagels.
Travel + leisure
Nashville Songwriter Experience | 1022 Acklen Ave.
“I started the Nashville Songwriter Experience because I truly believe everyone has a story worth telling and the ability to turn it into music. Songwriting can feel intimidating or reserved for professionals, but I’ve seen how powerful it is when people are simply given the space and guidance to create.” — Owner Jessica Giordano
- The Nashville Songwriter Experience is centered around storytelling through music, offering interactive songwriting sessions, custom songs, and coaching. The core songwriting experience is designed for groups of all kinds, from bachelorette parties and birthdays to team-building experiences and corporate events.
Check out Mourning Brew’s Art Ghoul-lery while you’re at the Shoppes on Fatherland. | Photo via Mourning Brew
Retail
The Shoppes on Fatherland, Fatherland Street
“We really have something for everyone [at The Shoppes on Fatherland], and as many businesses first start with a retail location, it’s important to give everyone a boost.” — Mourning Brew owner Jenny Reader
- The Shoppes on Fatherland is an East Nashville hub of small businesses, with a mix of food and retail spots like Daydream Records, Guerilla Bizkits, Gift Horse, Mourning Brew, and many more.
Powder City Candy & Gifts | 1202 Donelson Ave.
- Nostalgic sweets, specialty chocolates, and lollipops fill the shelves of this Old Hickory Village candy shop, along with a variety of greeting cards, small gifts, and flowers.
Duckbill Bookshop | 1206 Donelson Ave.
- This one-room bookshop is the definition of cozy, with shelves packed floor to ceiling with fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books. You’ll want to bookmark the event calendar for author talks, book clubs, and story times.
Personal services
Pyramid Pest Control
“I wanted to create the company culture I always wanted to work for and also the customer service experience that I desire in the marketplace. We aim to provide incredible customer service and effective pest control.” — Owner Paul Dent
- Founded in 2019, this local pest control company focuses on keeping homes and businesses ahead of common pests, from ants, spiders, and roaches to rodents, mosquitoes, and termites. Pyramid Pest Control serves Nashville, Murfreesboro, and Smyrna.
Home Run Pet Care
“I started Home Run Pet Care to raise the standard in the industry and give pet parents reliable, worry-free service they can truly count on. We’re fully licensed and insured, all employees are trained and certified pet care professionals, and we back every visit with a no-cancel guarantee.” — Owner Marge Wild
- Home Run Pet Care is a locally owned Nashville dog walking and pet sitting company that has been serving the community since 2010. The biz offers in-home pet sitting, dog walking, and enrichment-based outings. Bonus: Sponsor a Walk It Forward outing and give a shelter dog a much-needed break from the kennel.
