The Richmond Region has always been shaped by people who see the potential for something more and make it happen. Today, that spirit lives in the artists, makers, entrepreneurs and independent businesses creating what’s next across the region.
Meet the local makers behind the products you discovered, explore their stories and see what makes the Richmond Region Always Revolutionary.
The makers of the Richmond Region represent a direct line connecting the region’s revolutionary past to the spirit that continues to shape the region now. These are the people who speak up, stand up for one another, challenge convention, and continuously create new ideas and experiences.
We’re proud of our local craftsmen and are so glad you stopped by to check out and choose from a sampling of the unique products that are helping to elevate the Richmond Region every day
Maker: Laura Marr
Product: Custom illustrated tote bag
Portfolio: Laura Marr Illustration Studio
Laura Marr | Laura Marr Illustration Studio: Artist Laura Marr creates custom-illustrated gifts and products inspired by a sense of place.
“What makes the Richmond Region ‘Revolutionary’ to you?” While Richmond’s past is intertwined with history (yes, for more than being the seat of the original revolutionary cry, “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death”), I believe Richmond is revolutionary because it is constantly evolving and reinventing itself. You’ll find surprises around every corner; world-class restaurants, museums, galleries, cultural festivals, lyrical architecture, concert venues, and more; all within earshot of the roar of our famous river’s rapids. With our vibrant arts district and a welcoming, forward-looking community, Richmond is a city that becomes more unique every day.
Maker: Heather Long
Product: Lip Conditioner
Website: Naked Goat Soap Co.
Heather Long | Naked Goat Soap Co.: Heather Long crafts goat-milk skincare, body care and fragrances at Hanover-based Naked Goat Soap Co.
“What makes the Richmond Region ‘Revolutionary’ to you?” To me, what makes the Richmond Region revolutionary is its creative independence. There is an incredible community of makers, artists, entrepreneurs, and small businesses here who are willing to take an idea, build something of their own, and do things differently. Just as important is the community that supports them. Richmond gives independent businesses room to experiment, evolve, and create something distinctive—and that spirit has been an important part of growing Naked Goat.
Maker: Bethany Frazier
Product: Room Spray + Facial Serum
Website: Maven Made
Bethany Frazier | Maven Made: Bethany Frazier founded Richmond-based Maven Made, creating handcrafted, plant-based skincare and wellness products.
“What makes the Richmond Region ‘Revolutionary’ to you?”: Richmond is a place where people move to feel at home. As a small business owner, I feel incredibly seen and supported here. As a queer person, I feel safe here. As a parent, I feel community here.
Makers: Peanut Kempe + Ann Kamps Taliaferro
Product: Cheese Straws
Website: 3 Sisters Cheese Straws
Peanut Kempe + Ann Kamps Taliaferro | 3 Sisters Cheese Straws: Richmond-based 3 Sisters Cheese Straws puts a handcrafted local spin on the classic Southern snack.
What makes the Richmond Region ‘Revolutionary’ to you?”: Richmond is where history and modernity meet. A new baseball stadium, storefronts and housing set the backdrop for homes and buildings dating back to the early 1900s. Richmond is a big little city – walkable with everything else in reach. Neighborhood coffee shops double as work from home offices, while Washington, DC, the beach and the mountains are within a 2-hour drive. Richmond is where two working moms can leave the corporate world and grow a small food business.
Makers: Mongrel + Rostov’s Coffee & Tea
Product: Mongrel Blend Coffee
Websites: Mongrel | Rostov’s Coffee & Tea
Mongrel + Rostov’s Coffee & Tea: Richmond businesses Mongrel and Rostov’s Coffee & Tea partner to create the locally roasted Mongrel Blend.
A meeting here can be more than meeting rooms and hotel blocks. Our team connects planners with the local people, businesses and experiences that give the Richmond Region its character, helping turn an idea for your event into something attendees can experience, remember and take home with them.