The Spirit of Small Business Saturday
If you were anywhere near Bristol this past Saturday, November 29, 2025, you didn’t just see a market; you felt a movement. The energy wasn’t that frantic, elbow-throwing chaos of Black Friday. No, this was something warmer, friendlier, and distinctly Appalachian. It was Small Business Saturday in Bristol, and the community showed up in droves.
For those who don’t know, Small Business Saturday is the nationwide antidote to the big-box madness. It’s a day dedicated to supporting the neighbors who run the shops, craft the goods, and keep our local economy humming.
“It’s a day nationwide that we promote shopping at small, locally owned businesses… to counteract the effects of Black Friday and boost the local economy,” explained Emily Champagne, Marketing Director for Believe in Bristol, the organization that champions our downtown district.
This year’s Makers Market was a masterclass in logistics and local pride, organized by Jennifer Kelly, the Events Manager at the historic Bristol Train Station. But the genius of the event was the layout. By anchoring the market at the Train Station on one end and the Sessions Hotel on the other, organizers effectively turned the entirety of State Street into a vibrant holiday promenade.
The Starting Line: The Bristol Train Station
My Small Business Saturday began at the magnificent Bristol Train Station in Virginia. The historic hall was buzzing with activity, overseen by Jennifer and her team, including support staff Elizabeth Biggerstaff (and we can’t forget Emily’s Mom’s dog, Waylon, providing moral support).
Inside, the talent was overwhelming. I chatted with Dawn Hoguston, a teacher of 32 years who creates high-end-looking nature-inspired pieces and jewelry. “This is my therapy,” she told me regarding her art. I was also touched by the story of Kimberly Vickers, who crafts rustic hand towels to support herself, proving that resilience is just as beautiful as her crochet work.
Keeping things lively was Eve Johnston (@EveJohnstonCreations), who showed off her “Kimi-kome” fabric ornaments. She creates intricate patterns by tucking fabric into grooves on the ornaments, and she promised she’d even make custom gear for Alabama fans despite being deep in Tennessee territory.
The atmosphere here was electric and whimsical. Heather was weaving “Fairy Hair”—sparkling tinsel—into the locks of delighted kids (and adults), while Breanne Johnson and her boyfriend Bailey McNeil showcased a fun mix of stickers and crocheted items.
The Walk: State Street Comes Alive for Small Business Saturday
Leaving the Train Station, I headed west toward the Sessions Hotel. This is where the magic of the “sandwich” concept really shone. State Street—the literal line between Virginia and Tennessee—was absolutely bustling. Sightseers, tourists, and locals were weaving in and out of shops, bags in hand, soaking up the atmosphere.
The first thing that hits you is the smell. The smoky, savory aroma wafting from Delta Blues had a line forming out the door, while across the way, the legendary Burger Bar was packed with diners enjoying a classic meal where Hank Williams once stood.
As I walked, the retail therapy was in full swing. The windows at Misty Mountain Designs drew people in with their unique gifts, while the fashion-forward crowd ducked into the eclectic Bristol Boo-Tique for the latest trends.
It wasn’t just about gifts; it was about looking sharp for the holidays. Gentlemen were getting fitted at Wm. King Clothiers, a staple of downtown style, while Blakely-Mitchell was assisting customers to find the perfect seasonal outfit.
The Artisan Fair’s artistic vibe spilled right onto the street. HollerHouse was humming with creative energy, offering that distinct, artsy local flavor that defines Bristol.
Dining and Downtown Destinations
By midday, the restaurants were hopping. Shanghai Restaurant had a steady stream of locals getting their favorites, and the patio energy at 620 State was infectious. I passed The Corner, where folks were refueling with coffee and treats, and Stateline Bar & Grille, which was roaring with laughter and the clinking of glasses as friends toasted the holiday season.
The Finish: The Sessions Hotel
After soaking in the State Street scene, I arrived at The Sessions Hotel. The contrast between the historic Train Station and this sleek, music-centric boutique hotel was perfect, and the vendors here were equally impressive.
One of the first people I met here was Katrina Gregoire of Odyssey Boutique. If you’ve ever eaten at the nearby restaurant Union 41, you might recognize her materials. Katrina and her mother take discarded oyster shells from the restaurant and transform them into stunning decoupage ornaments and wine bottles. “We noticed we had all these extra oyster shells and wanted to find a use for them,” Katrina said. It’s upcycling at its finest.
I also caught up with Sydney Peltier and Keith Quinn. Sydney, a downtown psychotherapist by day, was busy welding claspless permanent jewelry—bracelets that stay on forever. “Hopefully, helping people be happy. Just different ways,” she said of her dual careers. Keith, who runs Fizzy Wigz Promotions, was on hand to help and showcased the town’s collaborative spirit.
A Community Win
As I walked back, watching the sun dip lower over the sign marking the border between two great states, it was clear that Believe in Bristol and the Train Station organizers didn’t just host a market; they created a connection.
From the handcrafted treasures at the Train Station, past the bustling tables at 620 State, and the racks at Wm. King, down to the oyster creations at The Sessions, the day was a triumph. Bristol proved once again that when you shop small, you win big.
