Highlights from the Arts!

Nov 27, 2024

Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Atlanta

Small Business Saturday, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is all about showing love to local businesses that keep Atlanta’s unique culture thriving. Supporting small businesses not only strengthens the community and local economy but also helps preserve the creativity, diversity, and individuality that make Atlanta such a vibrant city. This year, dive into the world of Atlanta's small businesses in the art and entertainment scene by exploring these five must-visit spots, each of these a favorite of ours.

1. Mend Coffee & Goods

Where: 3655 Roswell Rd NESuite 106, Atlanta, Georgia 30342

Learn More At: https://mendcoffee.com

Why We Love It: They are an accessibility-first coffee shop and mission-driven marketplace. They are inspired by and inclusive of creating an accessible enviornment, plus have an elcletic mix of unqiue and tasteful flavors as well as responsibly sourced gifts, home goods, books, and more!

2. Candy Paints

Where: Visit them online.

Learn More At: https://candyxpaints.com/

Why We Love It: Candy Prints creates non-toxic, cruelty-free & vegan nail polish in nostalgic colors that are uniquely named with Atlanta flare like Westside Mermaid, Peachtree Sand, Decatur Dunes, Piedmont Oasis and Gresham Park

3. For Keeps Books

Where: 171 Auburn Ave, Atlanta, GA

Learn More At: https://www.forkeepsbooks.com/

Why We Love It: This unique book store features rare and classic books by Black authors, including some signed by the artists! Not only is there merchandise also available online, they have a ton of unique merch to join and help support their community.

4. Big Daddy Biscuits

Where: Atlanta, GA

Learn More At: https://www.bigdaddybiscuits.com/

Why We Love It: You and your dogs will feel good about these healthy dog treats that are all natural and organic Dog Biscuits. They are handmade with love in Atlanta, Georgia with fresh ingredients that are locally and sustainably farmed. Find them LIVE at local markets like Saturdays at Atlanta Farmer's Markets!

5. Southern Pie Company

Where: 302 Broad St SE, Gainesville, GA 30501

Learn More At: https://www.southernbakedpie.com

Why We Love It: Their Southern charm will give you an all-butter pie dough that melts in your mouth! Founded in Gainesville, Georgia in 2012, Southern Baked Pie Company was launched by University of Georgia graduate and creative entrepreneur, Amanda Wilbanks using family recipes. Amanda and her team of bakers create gourmet sweet and savory pies for all of life’s special occasions and celebrations. Check out MULTIPLE locations!

Why Shopping Local Matters

When you shop at small businesses, especially those rooted in the arts, you’re supporting Atlanta’s cultural fabric. Local entrepreneurs and artists bring creativity and authenticity to their work, providing products and experiences you won’t find in big-box stores. Your support helps keep these businesses thriving, fosters a sense of community, and makes a direct impact on the local economy. Plus, shopping local keeps Atlanta’s neighborhoods lively, diverse, and inspiring for generations to come.

Ready to explore more? Check out more local holiday events and businesses on Livin’in Atlanta and make Small Business Saturday a part of your holiday tradition!

At Livin’in, we celebrate the boundless power of inspiration and self-expression. My own journey began in the theatre, where I fell in love with storytelling through stage production, lighting, and costume design. Music in all its forms was my constant companion. Combined with my background in computer science, I saw the potential to merge technology with the arts to foster dynamic, art-infused lifestyles.

Livin’in is an experiment in lifetime enrichment and accessibility to the arts. It’s a bridge between the world of theatre—so often hidden from the broader public—and the vibrant tapestry of fashion, art, film, and music that surrounds us. Theatre has this unmatched ability to weave together design, composition and storytelling, and I’ve always been drawn to its capacity to create worlds that reflect on the human experience.

Our mission is to bring these creative worlds to life for everyone, blending live experiences with real-time community participation. Livin’in transforms the arts into a culture of connected humans, where innovation and expression thrive.

We are building a platform that invites everyone to experience the arts in a way that enriches life and connects you to a community that shares your passions. Together, we can build a world where expression is limitless, and the arts are accessible to all.

-Shawna

Livin'in is honored and proud to be a member of  these great organizations.