FACES of Culpeper, 2024 Edition

REATLOR Crossroads Realty Advisors Philip & Kelly Thornton Philip and Kelly Thornton are very pleased to announce their official launch of Crossroads Realty Advisors, in partnership with Long & Foster Real Estate.

After over a decade of operating one the largest firms in the Culpeper market, they decided to refocus their energy and leverage their over 40 years of local real estate expertise to create a new highly personalized client-focused experience.

“We felt like it was time to mix things up and follow our own vision of what the future real estate company should look like,” Kelly said.

“In a time when many real estate companies are moving to the cloud or minimizing their physical footprint, we saw an opportunity to create something truly unique,” added Philip. “We are steadfast in our belief that having local, accessible expertise in a convenient brick and mortar location is critical.”

And after several years of planning, they are thrilled to launch Crossroads Realty Advisors, a forward-thinking, client-driven real estate company on Main Street in downtown Culpeper. “We considered operating solely under our own banner, but ultimately chose to affiliate with Long & Foster Real Estate via a joint venture for several reasons,” Kelly said.

Philip joined in, “Long & Foster is not a franchisor, but a wholly owned subsidiary of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway. They have local leadership, provide an awesome array of technology and are one of the largest companies in the mid-Atlantic. It’s a tremendous amount of firepower to leverage in our business, and we couldn’t be more excited to be able to offer this at the local level. With our experience and track record and the Long & Foster tools/ support, we’re able to offer an amazing client-centered experience from start to settlement.”

Kelly added, “We are here when you need us and are one of the few companies that are truly 100% full-service…we can assist on multiple fronts, whether it’s residential, commercial, estates, equestrian/farms, and/or land.”

Kelly and Philip also own a local property management company, Paragon Property Management, for all of your property management needs.

The Thorntons are undoubtedly committed to Culpeper and not just on the real estate front. These longtime Culpeper residents are both very active in their local real estate association, having both served on the board and as Presidents, and will be serving at the state level in 2024 with Virginia Realtors.

They continue their longtime commitment as major investors in RPAC, which promotes and protects the rights of property owners.

Additionally, they serve on numerous local community boards.

“We love our community and are always looking for ways to support it – whether that be local youth groups, community events, small businesses, fundraisers, etc.,” Philip said.

Kelly and Philip enjoy all that the Greater Piedmont region has to offer, whether that be hiking, exploring wineries, kayaking, etc. They also continue on with their local beekeeping endeavor (now that’s a lot of housing to provide!) and finding fun ways to grow and enjoy the family farmette.

“We invite you to reach out to us and/or check out our website, and see for yourself, what happens when a passion for real estate and serving our clients meet ... It’s why the Crossroads Realty Advisors experience was built!” said Kelly. Philip added, “Connecting People and Property is our tagline, but it’s more than that for us ... it’s a guiding value.”

506 S. Main Street, Culpeper, VA • Philip 540.222.9155 • Kelly 540.718.5763 • www.yourlocalREpros.com 2

WINERY

Mountain Run Winery David Foster and Family At the “ripe old age of 35,” David Foster was ready to begin the second family-friendly setting at a reasonable price.” Just six years after opening, chapter of his life.

Mountain Run Winery’s 2021 Petit Verdot was named to the 2023 Virginia Leaving behind Northern Virginia and a decade’s worth of work in National Governor’s Case, making it one of the top 12 wines in the Governor’s Security, highlighted by a two-year deployment to Iraq as well as an adjunct Cup competition, which is considered to be one of the most stringent professor position at George Mason University, Foster purchased farmland wine competitions in the country. Foster now makes beer on premise in among the rolling hills of western Culpeper County. A few thousand hand- addition to his nearly 20 wines, meads and hard ciders. planted grape vines later, he was ready to reinvent himself as a vintner.

Most importantly, Mountain Run Winery is a family affair. Foster’s parents, It wasn’t as much a reinvention as a revelation – an escape to a more pastoral life that afforded him the opportunity to live in harmony with nature’s seasons rather than Federal budget cycles.

John and Carol Foster, both work in the tasting room every weekend, and his two daughters, Evelyn, 5, and Margot, 3, can be found on the winery’s playground or running through its many forest trails.

Foster and his wife, Kayti Schumann-Foster, fell in love with the 36-acre farm on Mountain Run Lake Road, which had been a thriving hay, corn and soybean farm since the 1890s. The house, rustic outbuildings, groves of trees and rock outcroppings made the ideal setting for their winery. Their open-air 1950s corn crib tasting room offers filtered light, soft breezes and views of farmland, grapevines and forest to create a relaxing and authentic experience for visitors. A 1902 stable was perfect for weddings and private events, and Winter tastings occur in a climate-controlled loft in their pole barn and in their newly built Greenlee Tavern, named for their ancestor Jane Greenlee who was born in Culpeper in 1737. His property is also used by more than 1,000 Live Action Role Players (LARPers) and Medieval armored combat reenactors who camp there each season and make use of the network of forest trails.

Family also means community in Foster’s eyes. He opens his doors to a variety of local and statewide groups for events and activities and supports many charities and nonprofits, The winery’s best-known event is Culpeperpalooza, an annual Spring music festival which has raised over $22,000 in two years for performing arts and music education in Culpeper. He and his family can be found supporting some of Culpeper’s signature charity events, including the Free Clinic’s Oysterfest, SAFE’s Mardi Gras, the Museum of Culpeper History’s Al Fresco dinner and more.

His commitment to the Culpeper community earned him the Chamber of Commerce’s 2022 Small Business of the Year award.

The Culpeper LOVE sign outside his corn crib tasting room reflects so much of Foster’s own love for the area, for the community, and for the A successful winery is more than just excellent wine in a relaxing venue. families who come to enjoy Mountain Run Winery. This second chapter Foster said. “My goal was to offer some of the best Virginia wines in a of his life, he said, is the best so far.

10753 Mountain Run Lake Rd, Culpeper, VA • 703.638.5559 • www.mountainrunwinery.com 3

INDEX

2024

02 Crossroads Realty Advisors 03 Mountain Run Winery 05 Culpeper Technical Education Center 06 Oma’s Creative Corner

A LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

07 Steak N’ Cheese Please!

Welcome!

08 Culpeper Chamber of Commerce

The 5th edition of FACES of Culpeper is here!

09 Brick City Grille

We hope you enjoy reading FACES from cover to cover, learning about the businesses and organizations that make our community unique!

10 HVAC Precision Experts

Inside you will find informative articles about businesses in and around Culpeper that are filled with captivating information you will only find inside the new 2024 FACES of Culpeper magazine.

11 Croft Communications 12 Oak View National Bank 13 Thompson Auto Repair 14 Uncle Elder’s BBQ 15 Ventura Hair Studio

Meet the people who run the businesses - these are the faces that work hard to bring you the unique goods and services that makes this community the destination it is.

16 Botanical Dwellings

FACES continues to be popular every year and we find that the community enjoys seeing new and familiar faces they enjoy doing business with.

19 Bees & Trees Farm

17 Fulton Found 18 Romano Outdoors 20 Found & Sons

Let these featured businesses know you appreciate what they do and tell them you saw them in FACES.

21 CFC Farm & Home Center

This edition is 32 glossy pages – a magazine that people enjoy reading and sharing with their friends and family.

23 Able Heating & Air

In addition to the printed copy, you can also see FACES of Culpeper online at our website, culpepertimes.com/faces.

25 Kid Central

If you want your face seen and have a business let us know if you would like to also be featured next year in the 2025 magazine.

27 El Agave

It’s not too early to reserve your page. You can reach us at (540) 812-2282 for more information.

22 Embrace Home Loans 24 Eye Care of Virginia 26 UVA Community Credit Union 28 Wagner Hearing of Culpeper 29 Endless Creations Flowers and Gifts 30 Wysteria Culpeper

Tom Spargur, Publisher/Sales Director

31 Woodhouse Spa

PROJECT WRITERS Fran Cecere Lori Payne JAY FORD

MARIA BASILEO

JENNIFER MARGERUM

AUDRA DICKEY

WILLIAM OAKS

Graphic Designer

Editor

Marketing Specialist

Marketing Specialist

Photographer

Rebecca Melson

FACES of Culpeper is a free annual publication of the Culpeper Times. Copyright © 2024 by the Culpeper Times. All Rights Reserved.

Information in this magazine is as correct as possible at press time but is subject to change. Reproduction of any photographs, illustrations or written material without prior consent from the publisher is prohibited.

Culpeper Times, 206 S. Main St., Suite 301, Culpeper, VA 22701 • 540.812.2282 • faces@culpepertimes.com

TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Culpeper Technical Education Center Jodi Stone, Randi Lutz & Patty Singleton Dedication to launching skilled high school scholars into productive careers drives Culpeper Career and Technical Education personnel Randi RichardsLutz, Shaun Summerscales, Patty Singleton and Jodi Stone.

automotive sectors, among others, to acquire the most up to date, industrystandard equipment possible so they could train students on what is used in today’s workplace.

Together, their passion not only fuels CTEC, but guides students in Culpeper schools as young as 6th grade toward successful 21st Century careers.

As an electricity, HVAC-R or carpentry student, students spend the first weeks of class learning equipment safety. They complete their programs not only with experience and National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) certifications but also with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10 certification, a plus future employers consider when hiring.

The professional education opportunities available to students are far reaching and varied, according to Richards-Lutz. Not only in nursing and culinary fields, which existed before the 2021-2022 school year opening of CTEC, but now in automotive, carpentry, cosmetology, cyber security, drafting, plumbing, EMT, HVAC-R refrigeration and more.

Richards-Lutz, a high school tech student herself, discovered a love of education, leading her from high school teacher to assistant principal and finally to the Director of Culpeper’s career and technical education (CTE) department. She enjoys working with all students, but especially high schoolers because of the excitement they bring.

“I love being able to make a difference, giving students something concrete to use in their lives.”

Principal of CTEC Summerscales echoed that sentiment. This, he said, is what education is all about: students leaving high school with not only a diploma but with licenses and industry certificates which equip them either immediately for the workplace or for ongoing higher education.

“The passion and pride our CTEC students exhibit are impressive and fun to watch,” he said.

CTEC Administrative Assistant Stone said she is excited to support the hopes and dreams of a new generation as she wished this type of education was around when her boys were in high school.

When the center was built, they made sure to consult with fire and rescue and

As CTE’s Administrative Assistant, Singleton is impressed with the sense of community involved in Culpeper’s career and technical program. She said 51 CTE teachers county-wide follow students from 6th grade through graduation with recurrent counseling and guidance toward career prospects.

For example, in 6th grade students may take class in Family and Consumer Science, then later Nutrition and Wellness. If from those classes they discover a passion for cooking, in 10th and 11th grades, they may enroll in Culinary Arts classes at CTEC. After graduation, they can pursue careers as chefs, caterers, restaurant managers or owners.

The journey for each field of study is clearly marked out for students in every CTE offering with lists of typical career pathways, dual enrollment opportunities, job outlooks and even salary expectations to help students make their decisions.

Summerscales explained that CTE in Culpeper wouldn’t function without the tremendous support from community program partners such as the Chamber of Commerce, local government and the community college system. Many businesses and nonprofits provide financial assistance and/or give of their time as teachers or guest speakers during the year.

All four CTE administrators are grateful for a community that shares the same passion they do in preparing not just good citizens but productive members of the community.

17441 Frank Turnage Dr, Culpeper, VA • 540.423.6504 • www.culpepertec.org 5

CUSTOM GIFTS

Oma’s Creative Corner Gisela & Terry Carper It began as a fun hobby shared between Gizi/Oma and her 8-yearold granddaughter Jordan, selling Paparazzi jewelry online from their basement, taking photos and listing pieces until the area they were using became too small.

First, calculating taxes by hand on paper forms, then teaching herself how to use computer tax software. Then expanding from personal taxes to business taxes. As each new client presented her with new situations, she learned those as well.

At 19-years-old, her daughter left North Carolina for the excitement of the Washington D.C. area to pursue a career in hospitality. Gizi/Oma moved The dream burgeoned into Oma’s Creative Corner, “Oma” translating to the family to Woodbridge, and Frelance Accounting followed her there. grandma in German, the country where Gizi/Oma was born.

Several years later, an online love story brought a new “employee” into Oma’s Creative Corner was designed not just to continue grandma and the business. Gizi/Oma met Terry on a dating site –he was a warehouse granddaughter’s jewelry ventures, but to give a creative outlet for their Shipping and Receiving at Corning where he retired 2019–. Even after a crafting and continue selling one-of-a-kind handmade items. Items include botched first date, the two found they were perfect for each other. t-shirts, mugs and hand towels made by MS Apply, 3-D print and engraving In six months, they purchased a house together in Culpeper, and a year

by Mike Littlejohn, woodworking, sewing, crochet items, jewelry and more. later, in 2011, were married.

Gizi/Oma has always loved crafting. She always says I got a regular job Gizi/Oma showed Terry how to help her with the accounting, which he did what is Accounting/Taxes for over 25 plus years. The possibilities of a on weekends until he retired two years ago. Now, he helps her full-time. shop inspired her. She could make t-shirts, she could make mugs, she could make personalized items for parties and baby showers and love to The businesses became even more a family affair when Gizi/Oma teach children crafts she has so many ideas look for classes on the web encouraged her son, Mike, to investigate a 3-D printer to create crafts for she always has them on Saturday or Sunday schedule your appointment Oma’s, who had been searching for a hobby to occupy his time.

She’d seen the array of creative opportunities a 3-D printer could afford. the kids would love it.

Once he put the machine together for her, he was hooked. He creates The location they found was an old smoke shop, but Gizi/Oma saw its everything from small figurines to elaborate vases and large castles from potential. Where once there were trash bins in an alley and a dingy, plain plastics, resins and metals. Mike also creates unique laser cut letters and exterior, there is now bench seating, seasonal decorations, and colorful burned wood crafts. murals on the wall, inviting you to explore the whimsy within.

Both Oma’s and Frelance Accounting are as down to earth and personable The shop also became the perfect location for Gizi/Oma at-home accounting as Carper herself. Oma’s offers unique handmade and oftentimes business, Frelance Accounting, which began in 1994 while she was working personalized treasures, and Frelance takes terminology such as revenue, for a metal manufacturer in North Carolina as a bookkeeper. When co- assets and liabilities and gives them practical application to clients’ dayworkers asked if she would do their taxes, Gizi/Oma told them she had to-day operations. Both incorporate the joy Gizi/Oma finds in creating never done that type of work before, but she could learn. And learn she did. and relating to people.

“Maybe we’ll find a store,” Gizi/Oma told her granddaughter.

105 N Main St, Culpeper, VA • 540.321.4133 • www.omascreativecorner.com 6

SANDWICH SHOP

Steak N’ Cheese Please! Meaghan Helme I​ t took only a few months of working a desk job to convince Meaghan Helme that sitting still was not for her.

Obtaining the best ingredients sometimes means switching vendors or adjusting menu options.

Years of hustle and bustle in the food industry with her family had ingrained themselves in her DNA. So, when her dad presented her with the opportunity to open a new restaurant in Culpeper, she jumped at the chance.

​Steak N’ Cheese Please menu offerings include not only custom steak and cheese sandwiches but also fries, chips, salads, wraps, cold subs and signature chicken, pastrami or beef sandwiches.

Steak N’ Cheese Please was launched in February 2023, and she hasn’t looked back.

W ​ hile the restaurant looks like a corporate franchise – crisp colorful signage, gleaming walls and simple seating – it’s truly local and family owned, and already involved in the community.

“​ I love the fast pace, and I love interacting with people,” Meaghan said. “There’s always something to do. You get to know many people on a first name basis.”

Meaghan’s father, Pat White, thought he’d retired from all that, having owned and operated several Domino’s Pizza and Jersey Mike’s franchises during Meaghan’s childhood. But he and his daughter couldn’t resist brainstorming a unique family restaurant of their own, one which would serve steak and cheese subs restaurant patrons could customize for themselves. ​“You run it,” Pat told his daughter, “and I’ll help you get it open.”

Meaghan was no stranger to running a restaurant. She’d worked in and managed restaurant franchises herself for 15 years. It wasn’t much of a stretch to go from running one to owning one and creating one from scratch was even more fun.

Menu items were conjured up while sitting on the couch or at the family dinner table, based on their combined experience as to what sandwiches were most popular and what sandwiches they’d love to eat themselves.

Taste and popularity were not the only factors. Value for cost was important to Meaghan as well. Each Steak N’ Cheese Please sandwich contains 1/3 of a pound of meat and the highest quality ingredients. ​“When you own a restaurant, you have to be picky about what you serve,” she said.

Steak N’ Cheese Please hosts Spirit Nights to raise funds for schools and organizations, feeds baseball and other local sports teams, and offers discounted menu items to Culpeper Christian School students.

Meaghan and her husband have enjoyed living in the community for four years and her family tree dates back five generations in Culpeper. Her husband paints cars and their 9-year-old daughter attends an elementary school here in Culpeper. Working for herself, even though it may involve long hours at times, allows Meaghan the flexibility to be with her family.

She wants Steak N’ Cheese Please to project a welcoming family atmosphere.

Her desire is to bring people together to enjoy good food and friendly service.

Whether you’re from Culpeper, Texas, Florida or Philadelphia, you can feel at home eating a steak and cheese sandwich that you customized with fresh quality ingredients to remind you of home.

So far, the excitement and newness haven’t worn off, and Meaghan said it probably never will. The fast pace, hard work and customer relationships fuel Meaghan’s commitment.

For Meaghan, it’s a commitment from the heart and far superior to sitting at a desk.

15139 Montanus Dr, Culpeper, VA • 540.812.4352 • www.steakncheeseplease.com 7

COMMUNITY

Culpeper Chamber of Commerce YoVonne, Sarah & Amy As the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce entered its 109th year in 2023, three ladies moved seamlessly into new administrative roles, allowing the Chamber to continue providing vital services to Culpeper businesses several more years into the future.

Langland hopes to introduce a “Tip of the Month” section into the Chamber’s monthly newsletter, which would expound on each of the opportunities available to members, from helping with grand openings and ribbon cuttings to new member orientations, workshops, mentorships, leadshare groups, community guides and networking.

President/CEO Amy Frazier, Events Coordinator Sarah Langland and Office Administrator YoVonne Letsome bring continuity and stability Letsome shared Langland’s passion to educate business owners as to with teamwork and experience from former Chamber positions all while what the Chamber can do for them. Originally from New York, Letsome bringing fresh vision and varied talents to their offices. said she learned so much about what a Chamber actually does when “The three of us make an awesome team,” Frazier said. she began working prior to the pandemic. She remembered speaking Frazier, who stepped into the lead role in February 2023, was the former with one member when he called to change his address. She quickly events coordinator. Her presence was already recognized and trusted realized he wasn’t aware of what resources were available to him. among Chamber members, and she stepped into the position with a “He was excited to know there was so much more to the Chamber than deep understanding of the Chamber’s mission and goals. just paying membership dues every year,” Letsome said.

Her vision for the Chamber, she said, is for it to be an all-encompassing All three ladies love watching businesses connect through Chamber resource the business community needs to prosper. activities and events.

“Our goal is to be a one-stop shop,” Frazier said. “We may not have all At a recent grand opening, Letsome explained how satisfying it was the answers, but we will find them out for you!”

Langland moved to the area in 2015 and started her own business – an to watch realtors connecting with builders, connecting with mortgage operation that helped other small businesses with administrative tasks. lenders, connecting with other installers and craftsmen.

The connections she made with fellow business owners naturally got Businesses referring other businesses, networking with other businesses, her involved with other Chamber members and Chamber events. building community and camaraderie makes all of their hard work for

In May 2023, it was second nature for her to fill the role of events the Chamber worthwhile. coordinator left vacant by Frazier’s move to president. Langland’s heart “We are united in our goal to make Culpeper the best place to work, live is to promote Chamber benefits and increase awareness to businesses and play,” Frazier said. of the tremendous resources available to them as members.

“Business owners utilize maybe only 10% of the benefits available to The three leaders have a strong commitment to continue the growth of them in the Chamber,” Langland explained. “I want to help them find the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce to be the business community’s best resource. different ways to fully utilize their membership.”

629 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA • 540.825.8628 • culpeperchamber.com 8

GRILL Brick City Grille Jan Cartwright Food and cooking have always been a part of Jan Cartwright’s life, even if her dream of owning a restaurant took 30 years to come true. When she opened Brick City Grille in February 2023, it was built around precious memories of family and food.

“When you cook it and serve it and customers really like it and are appreciative, it’s a great feeling,” she said. “That’s what I get out of it – their satisfaction.”

Brick City’s specialties are whole chicken wings, homemade crab and “Every Sunday growing up we’d attend church with my grandparents then shrimp dip, thick deli sandwiches on Texas Toast, Po Boy sandwiches and thin-cut steak fries. The seafood is freshly sourced. Crab cakes, catfish come home to cook dinner and to bake,” Cartwright said. nuggets and gator bites are customer favorites. All sauces and dressings Her mother’s delicious pork chops, green beans, various casseroles and are homemade, and produce is purchased locally. There are juicy burgers all types of good and tasty food, are among her fondest memories. and fresh salads as well as chicken dishes. And even pork chops, like Cartright’s mother used to make.

Cartwright’s career path after high school and college, however, took her into healthcare, from medical assistant to phlebotomist, from her home Cartwright’s biggest goal for Brick City, besides serving fantastic food, is state of Indiana to Tennessee, Maryland and finally to Virginia. The dream to create a friendly, welcoming atmosphere where customers are greeted with a smile and want to come back again and again. An environment of cooking for people sat on the back burner. “kind of like Cheers” where you can feel loved and part of the family. She A chance meeting with cook Quania Norris, known as “Q”, sparked the never wants anyone to feel left out or unwanted. dream back to life again. She met Q, a cook for much of his life, while at “I want this to be a place where you can let your hair down — even if you Love’s Kitchen in Culpeper. have short hair!” she laughed.

“One time, Q was doing his job,” Cartright said when “he needed a helping The restaurant welcomes live bands on weekends and hosts events almost hand, and, without thinking, I just jumped in and started making meatballs.” every evening, from their very popular and unique “hermit crab racing”

The two worked several catering events together and found they meshed on Thursdays, to Karaoke and open mike on Wednesdays, to football on the big screen on Sundays and Monday nights. Kids are always welcome well as a team. in a family-friendly atmosphere.

“I always wanted a sports bar; he always wanted to cook.”

Cartright’s motto is that first impressions are lasting impressions. While Together, they took the plunge and opened Brick City Grille on East healthcare may have been her first path – and a path she continues today Street in Culpeper, where, even though Cartwright kept her “day job” as – creating a place for good food, fun and friendly customer service in Brick a phlebotomist, she finds cooking and serving relaxing in the evenings City Grille is her happy place, home away from home, where both she herself and patrons from all walks of life can feel comfortable. and on weekends.

201 S East St, Culpeper, VA • 540.317.5116 • brickcitygrille.com 9

HVAC

HVAC Precision Experts Chris Rounds After 13 years of working for other heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) companies, Chris Rounds knew he could do it better.

He’d seen the industry become more commission-based, more stressful and less and less focused on customer needs. It was almost a no-brainer to branch out on his own to provide better quality service and honest, more personal customer care.

Rounds started HVAC Precision Experts in October 2022.

“It’s the best decision I’ve ever made,” he said. “I love the flexibility of being in the field and taking care of customers.”

Out of high school in Fauquier County, Rounds explored HVAC industry opportunities through trade schools and apprenticeships and found he enjoyed it. The work was varied. Every day a new situation. Every day meeting, working for and developing relationships with new people.

Over the years, however, the challenges of working for larger corporations wore on Rounds. Though he was asked for by name by many of the company’s customers, Rounds felt he was limited in how he could serve them and what he could offer them.

His younger brother, Danny, also worked in HVAC for a large company, eight of those years as their lead installer. The two talked about being able to work together and be their own bosses.

Rounds took the plunge and stepped out, with his brother’s help, to service customers on their own as HVAC Precision Experts.

“Between the two of us, there’s no better know-how in the industry,” he said. “Most companies don’t have that knowledge, quality experience and service from the get-go.”

Rounds immediately established a web presence and hired a marketing

company to raise awareness for the business. Word of mouth, excellent customer service and quality work soon established HVAC Precision Experts as one of the top HVAC servicers in the region. Their customer base extends from Culpeper and surrounding counties to Fredericksburg and Northern Virginia.

The freedom to determine his own schedule has enabled Rounds to spend more time with his family than he could before. He married in 2014, and in 2015, he and his wife built a home in the Jeffersonton area. Today, three girls and one boy keep the two of them busy.

With HVAC being seasonal as it is, Rounds said you must go with the flow and enjoy the downtime when it comes. Busy seasons can be extremely busy and oftentimes require upwards of 12-hour days. Clients with emergency heating or cooling issues can trust that Rounds will be there 24/7.

“In this business you definitely need to be willing to work hard,” he said.

That hard work pays off in a good reputation and the recommendations of satisfied clients. HVAC Precision Experts is licensed and insured, and Rounds’ Masters License allows the company to pull permits and get everything done “the right way.”

HVAC Precision Experts provides everything from AC unit and furnace replacements, ductwork replacement, and heat pump installation, to installing smart thermostats, ductless air conditioning units, and zoning systems, as well as the maintenance and servicing of those systems and equipment, all at reasonable rates in a timely fashion.

Rounds hopes to continue his company’s success well into the future, as he and his brother work hard to keep customers’ trust. Their commitment to honest, reliable, personable care assures customers they are receiving the best service possible.

Culpeper, VA • 540.787.3082 • www.hvacprecisionexperts.com 10

TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

BEFORE

AFTER

Croft Communications John Croft Hard work and service were impressed upon John Croft through the out on his own starting Croft Communications in 2000. example of his father.

Armed with a full spectrum of knowledge, he started Croft Communications From childhood, Croft watched as his dad served the community as a to provide more prompt, personalized service to customers than the Lutheran Minister and Deacon, as a self-employed home improvement large corporations could give. One of his first jobs was for Washington contractor, and even as a dedicated caretaker to his wife, Croft’s mom, International Square, clearing out 77 telephone closets, ripping out all the old wires and old equipment while still maintaining uninterrupted who has Alzheimer’s disease. phone service to the companies. It was long difficult work, but in the It was no surprise that Croft followed in his father’s footsteps at a young end a happy customer made it worthwhile. age, delivering newspapers and cleaning decks. At age 17, Croft bought a truck and operated his own moving and hauling business, and at 18, In 2003, Croft restructured his company to focus on residential clients and small to medium businesses. Local clients have included Jefferson he served in the Maryland Army National Guard.

Homebuilders, the Arlington Catholic Archdiocese, which includes IT for its Today, Croft serves “many bosses” as owner and founder of Croft churches and Catholic schools, Battlefield Auto Group, Coleman Lumber, Communications, providing IT infrastructure solutions that are personalized local data centers, Continental TEVES and the Inn at Little Washington. to every customer’s needs.

With his own company, Croft can concentrate more on building customer “Every customer is the boss,” Croft explains. “It’s my job to create solutions relationships and providing quality customer service. for them based on their needs and their budget. There are no cookieCroft’s hard work and service extend beyond his company to volunteering cutter solutions.” in the community. He has been an active member in the Culpeper Solutions may involve streamlining the client’s technology infrastructure Chamber of Commerce and the Culpeper Ruritan Club. He freely offers into one online system or finding ways for the client to access the Internet his time as the audio/visual tech at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church. He also at their location when traditional routes have failed. It may be installing volunteers as the IT person for Christ In Action, a faith-based disaster CCTV security systems, running fiber optics for central data centers, or relief organization based in Elkwood, Va. As president of the Culpeper cabling and/or retrofitting office space or warehouses.

Rec Club for six years, Croft spent hours working with the volunteer Over 30 years of experience in the telecommunications field has given board. He and the other board members took the non-profit from the Croft the know-how to tailor these services to any situation. In 1994, red into the black by the end of their term.

Croft began in the industry through other contracting companies in the “Service is in my heart,” Croft said. “It’s the key word for me.” A philosophy Telecom world that worked for Sprint, Bell and Verizon. Then Croft went that makes his father proud.

Culpeper, VA • 540.829.8552 • www.croftcom.com 11

BANK

Oak View National Bank Justin McFarland & Amanda Lane If Justin McFarland and Amanda Lane don’t know you, chances are they know someone who does.

It’s the nature of working for an independent community bank like Oak View National Bank, which is committed to providing personalized, friendly financial services.

McFarland, Senior Vice President, said his children can’t stand going places with him – he’s often stopped and talked to by most everyone he meets.

He considers that the best part of his job at Oak View – the people, the community – a bank that prides itself on knowing every customer.

It also helps that he grew up in Culpeper.

“That’s the reward of coming back to work where you’re from,” he said. “That feeling of community, of giving back to the place that helped raise you.”

As a youngster, McFarland said he was the child mom and dad could go to when they needed to borrow $20; a kid with a love affair with saving money and spending it wisely. It seemed a no-brainer to work at a bank right out of college, but after a while the loss of local control in each of the banks he worked for weighed on him. He left in July 2010 to pursue a unique opportunity with Oak View National Bank, in a one-man loan office as he searched for a Culpeper branch location.

Oak View National Bank’s board of directors wanted to create a strong community bank and started raising capital in 2009, and has since opened two more branches in Warrenton and Culpeper and boasts well over $500 million in assets today.

Lane said her venture into banking was a “happy accident” encouraged by her grandfather when she graduated high school.

“Banking chooses you,” she laughed. “You don’t choose banking!”

She, too, worked for a local bank as a part-time teller during college and rose in the ranks to become its branch manager. She joined Oak View in 2021 as Assistant Vice President and Culpeper Bank Manager.

McFarland and Lane don’t just work in Culpeper, they live here, raise their families here and volunteer in the community. McFarland coaches little league soccer, vice chairs the Culpeper Economic Development Authority, is on the finance committee of the Culpeper Country Club, and is part of the Lions Club.

Lane loves helping with the 4-H livestock sale, getting to know the kids as they put forth their presentations and perhaps even open accounts at Oak View to save their profits.

The bank itself also reflects McFarland’s and Lane’s values in community involvement. It supports organizations such as the Piedmont Soap Box Derby, Culpeper Chamber of Commerce, Culpeper Renaissance, and America First, the non-profit that organizes Wreaths Across America.

Lane said Oak View National Bank offers great financial products to nonprofits and the community with free business accounts and competitive interest rates for loans, backed by high levels of customer service. Loan decisions are made locally by folks who know and understand you.

Even after celebrating 10 years in Culpeper and earning a five-star Bauer Financial rating, Oak View maintains the “small” and family-oriented environment McFarland and Lane enjoy.

“Our customers and coworkers are the best,” Lane said.

450 James Madison Hwy, Culpeper, VA • 540.825.2570 • www.oakviewbank.com 12

AUTO REPAIR

Thompson Auto Repair Donny Thompson It may be their innovative digital inspections, their five-star rating, or the fact they were voted 2022 Entrepreneur of the Year by the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce. But more likely Thompson Auto Repair has experienced significant growth this year because owner Donny Thompson treats every customer with honesty and respect.

Thompson is dedicated to caring for each customer as a friend, whether they come in for an inspection or an engine overhaul.

“I treat everyones car as though it’s mine, and my money to repair the vehicle,” he said.

Convenience and transparency are at the forefront of any work done on those vehicles at Thompson Auto Repair. Thompson’s is one of the few shops in the state of Virginia offering digital bumper to bumper inspection reports.

Digital Bumper to bumper inspections offer customers the ability to see with their own eyes the condition of their vehicle. Each customer receives a detailed inspection report from Thompson via text or email, including photos and videos of the areas that may need fixing while their vehicle is still in the shop. The report includes tests that have been run, a diagnosis and recommendations for repair. Thus, when customers are deciding what steps to take for repairs, they’re making an informed choice.

He offers honest advice to guide customers into making whatever decision is right for their circumstances.

Donny explains the priorities of the repairs that need to be addressed now, and what possibly can wait to be repaired so the expense isn’t so overwhelming all at once.

Another helpful service customers love is Thompson’s free pre-purchase inspections.

Customers or not, before they invest in a new vehicle, folks may bring those vehicles to him for a reassuring check-over.

“People deserve to know if they’re getting a real deal or if there’s room to negotiate,” Thompson said.

Quality has always been number one for Thompson, and he stands by the shop’s workmanship so steadfastly that all maintenance and repairs performed on vehicles come with a two-year or 24,000 mile warranty for parts and labor.

His technicians are all ASE certified, and the shop itself is certified as a NAPA Auto Care Center, which carries its own nationwide warranty.

Thompson has seen a significant increase in business from last year. They have added more technicians to help them complete work in a timely manner.

“I appreciate our customers,” he said. “I couldn’t do it without them.”

The increase in business means expansion to accommodate more.

Thompson has purchased property on which to build a bigger facility with plans for it to be operational within the next two or three years. They have already hired an additional service writer, who helps immensely. Thompson said he even “talked his mother out of retirement” to join him. The additional personnel increase their capabilities for returning phone calls and responding quickly to customer needs.

“We look out for the best interest of our customers,” he said. “We want you to return as a satisfied lifetime customer.”

15051 Jats Drive, Brandy Station, VA • 540.317.0078 • thompsonautorepair.com 13

BBQ

Uncle Elder’s BBQ Elder Fuentes Visitors to Uncle Elders BBQ on East Culpeper Street are likely to be greeted with a smile from owner Elder Fuentes.

Word about the quality of the food has increased the number of patrons from Maryland, and Washington D.C.

Fuentes has been cooking barbecue for over 15 years. Everything When visitors ask for information about local restaurants, Uncle Elders he serves is homemade as his goal has remained to serve the best BBQ is the number one suggestion given to visitors. food possible. Paired with the friendly service, great prices and clean They’ve even won “Best Catering Restaurant and Best BBQ” for nine environment, a meal at Uncle Elders BBQ will sure to knock your socks off. years in a row.

Fuentes and his staff strive for excellence in their service to customers Elder expressed his thanks for the community for the overwhelming who come in for lunch or support since his opening. dinner. Some of their most popular dishes include ribs, brisket, pulled With weekends being the bustiest, it is strongly recommended to reserve pork and pulled chicken sandwiches with corn bread. a table before arrival.

Guests have a choice between 14 delicious homemade sides with the Every year as the business grows, Fuentes gives back to the community most popular side being mac and cheese. Patrons have their own favorite by donating to churches, schools, police associations and by catering side dishes, but they all agree that every one of the sides are delicious. at some of the events.

When Fuentes began barbecuing, he received positive encouragement Curious eaters can view their menu online for dine-in or takeout orders. from his friends and family. His goal was to have his own restaurant. In Fuentes enjoys most when guests dine-in because he loves to meet 2014, he found the perfect location to potentially start his own barbecue customers and build personal connections that will last a lifetime. restaurant.

Uncle Elders BBQ is open six days a week, starting at 11 a.m.

For almost 10 years, Fuentes has remained passionate about giving his customers an enjoyable experience every time they eat his food. They can cater parties with as many as 500 people. They work with He employs workers with extensive cooking experience, but he likes to the customer to meet their needs for events as small as a birthday, a retirement party or weddings. cook the BBQ himself.

129 E Culpeper St, Culpeper, VA • 540.317.5718 • UncleEldersBBQ.com 14

HAIR STUDIO

Ventura Hair Studio Jenny Ventura Jenny Ventura’s inspiration came from learning to do her own hair back She spent the next 11 years refining her craft working on the management when “everybody had bad hair” and only mousse, gel, and hairspray were team for a specialty salon and was able to travel to hair shows, learn from celebrity hairdressers, build her skills and increase her knowledge. In the available to do anything about it. back of her mind, all these formulated into a desire for a salon of her own.

Her understanding of frustrations customers can experience when explaining how they want their hair treated has fueled her commitment That opportunity came when the specialty salon closed. Ventura asked to make Ventura Hair Studio a place where folks can come for not only herself, “Where do I go from here?” specialized, up to date and knowledgeable hair care, but a place where they can connect with a stylist who can achieve the best look and goals for their unique hair type.

She wanted to open her own place, but it wasn’t until a year later when a phone call provided the perfect space. She could envision her potential clientele: families who escaped crowded metropolitan areas for Culpeper’s Ventura’s journey began when she moved to Culpeper as a high school small-town charm yet longed for big-city salon techniques they’d become accustomed to. With a desire to create that environment, Ventura Hair student and enrolled in cosmetology school in 2004. Back then the school Studio opened in January 2023. was in the “back of a building” on Main Street, but the program was rigorous and helped her achieve her board license. And a love for the craft. While the studio offers specialty expertise, Ventura didn’t want that to be its sole focus. She wanted to create a place where customers would Stepping into the industry as a newly-licensed hairdresser during that feel comfortable, with no judgment. She wanted customers to build time was a different culture than today – it wasn’t common for established relationships with a stylist who understood their hair type — coarse, stylists to take newbies under their wing and help guide them. Still, Ventura curly, straight or thin — to together reach their personal hair goals. made her way through the ranks of a national hair salon chain until she became assistant manager. In 2007, she was chosen to help open a second Also important to Ventura was offering healthier hair product choices for customers. Her studio uses only green products with no ammonia or branch of the salon, and spent five more years working there. other harsh ingredients to pamper and protect hair as much as possible Her mindset changed when she became a mom. The busy, assembly-line during treatments. Ventura chose Eufora as her color line because it sells atmosphere of the corporate salon no longer appealed to her. plant-based color formulations that are environmentally friendly.

“I looked at the world differently,” she said. “I wanted the slower pace While hair care has come a long way from gel, mousse and hairspray, and flexibility of working for a smaller salon and the ability to focus on Ventura still loves serving her clients with the best in products and services for their unique hair care needs. creative techniques.”

121 E Culpeper St, Culpeper, VA • 540.522.1169 • vagaro.com/venturahairstudio 15

HOME DECOR

Botanical Dwellings Tabatha & Eric Fulton At first glance, you might think it’s just a plant store. With the visual invitation Tabatha and Eric started out together in a 600-square-foot apartment, of their living wall that decorates their building off South Main Street, or which they filled with over 70 plants. For Tabatha, figuring out how to the rich assortment of vegetation that can be seen through the window, assist people in their own spaces had a healing effect. you may not have imagined what all lies inside Botanical Dwellings’ doors.

“I have always been drawn to botanicals,” she said. “I love making things Along with the selection of botanicals to choose from, you can also engage pretty, and I think that plants do an incredible job in assisting with that. in an exclusive selection of handcrafted leather bags, pampering toiletries, They can make people happy.” jewelry, quality furniture and both masculine and feminine items that can Along with offering fresh re-creations of space, the Fulton’s are zealous breathe new life into any space. The Triumph Thruxton motorcycle located about engaging the community and giving back. In 2023, they hosted in the back might strike up a good conversation too. over 22 workshops/events, all of which had some sort of kickback for Tabatha and Eric Fulton opened the doors to Botanical Dwellings in March the community. Included in these was their annual plant swap – a 2021. Tabatha, having a passion for botanicals and the art of design, fundraiser they hold each year that directly benefits Services to Abused wanted to merge these talents and offer her expertise to anyone, with any Families, Inc. (SAFE). space. With the expansive variety of plants to choose from, Tabatha and her team work personally and diligently with each customer to discuss “You can participate by bringing a plant to swap, or you can just buy a ticket to support while hanging out and having fun. The plant swap is a what can work and what may not. great way for us to incorporate the plant community into a fundraising “We make sure to find the right botanical fit for you and your lifestyle. I event for a good cause.” don’t think that everyone understands what light in their space works,” Tabatha said. “We sometimes tend to get what we think is pretty instead Botanical Dwellings has been growing in the right direction since their of what functions, so we end up murdering our plants. But, there are start, and with the online store accepting a broader audience, they hope to serve people across the states with the eclectic selection that they offer. options for all skill levels!”

This is not the Fulton’s first rodeo. The storefront is accompanied by their Airbnb located on the backside of the building and managed through their property rental business, Let’s Go and Stay; the Fulton’s first business that opened in October 2018.

In fact, the store’s success and balance of masculine and feminine items has led the couple to recently opening their fourth business, Fulton Found – a curated masculine boutique located right in the heart of downtown Culpeper.

404 S. Main Street, Culpeper, VA • 703.594.9733 • botanicaldwellings.com 16

BOUTIQUE Fulton Found Eric & Tabatha Fulton While designing botanical spaces for people is a unique treasure for the sort of a sustainability factor is what we are both most excited about,” community, so is having a place that specializes in providing more masculine Tabatha said. goods; an atmosphere where the rugged spirit can explore, look around Fulton Found’s concept was born in the back room of their other downtown and bask in an element hand-picked for them. retail business, Botanical Dwellings, where Eric stored his Triumph Bonneville Welcome to Fulton Found! Tabatha and Eric Fulton have successfully created motorcycle and offered a a fine line of masculine gifts included around it. an original and first of its kind to the area, masculine lifestyle boutique.

The masculine element was so well received by men and women, that the Located right in the heart of Downtown Culpeper, the business officially Fulton’s knew the idea was something that would be beneficial and maybe opened its doors in October 2023, just days after the couple choreographed even needed within the community. and executed their own wedding.

Their new storefront now showcases Eric’s eclectic collection of motorcycles, The name Fulton Found came from the couple celebrating the fact that they including a Triumph Bonneville, Suzuki Café Racer and the rare M V Agusta! were becoming the “Fultons” as well as the enduring process of curating each individual item and ensuring its quality. They carefully “found” each Aside from simply being a cool place to shop, the Fulton’s anticipate featuring piece that they put on the shelves, ensuring that they lean heavily into other local businesses within the storefront. They plan on hosting local wineries, distilleries and custom motorcycle builders that will provide the sourcing from responsible, sustainably sound businesses. community with a broader look into the craftsmanship available in the area.

Now, you can find richly colored flannels, handcrafted leather bags, Japanese The store has been intentionally designed with these events in mind, and Nata Hatchets and unique chess sets amongst many items in the Fulton who wouldn’t enjoy a nice local bourbon tasting while shopping downtown? selection. Not to mention the handsome solid wood furniture that is not only unique, but tried and proven for its durability, comfort and easy-going “We want to be a community space! There are a lot of motorcycle enthusiasts price point. that come in who don’t know anyone else that rides in Culpeper, so this You can also look forward to more hand-crafted quality motorcycle gear presence is needed here. A lot of the guys that come in just want to be gracing the shelves in the coming year, as they are constantly looking for here. They look around at everything, touch stuff, and get to enjoy being in a different element that is more tailored to them,” Eric said. new and sustainable items.

“Just having a place where folks can come and get better-quality men’s So, if you haven’t already, come in and stay awhile yourself. They’re providing clothing, that they know is going to wash and wear well while having some everything you need to transition seamlessly from urban to adventure.

205 E Davis St, Culpeper, VA • 540.717.6642 • fultonfound.com 17

OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT

Romano Outdoors Paul Romano Bow hunting was big in Paul Romano’s family. As early as 10-years-old, to chat or just to sit on the couch watching hunting programs on the he remembers outings with his father and uncles in the woods each fall, wall-mounted TV. growing up near Poughkeepsie, New York.

“Like a ‘Cheers’ environment,” Romano said. “I’d rather build a lifelong Bow hunting was widespread, but finding a shop that could set up a client than make a quick buck.” bow or repair bows was few and far between. Out of necessity, Romano The biggest draw of Romano Outdoors, besides just being local, Romano learned to do it, but as a hobby. said, is that he is certified to work on any bow, any make, any model. With Now, Romano put his hobby into a newly opened archery shop, Romano realistic pricing within a reasonable timeframe. Bows don’t just come out Outdoors LLC, open every Monday through Saturday. of the box ready to go. They need to be customized to the client’s size, Romano has always had a passion for encouraging others in the sport arm length and eye, something Romano can do that bigger chains and and making sure he and fellow hunters and archers alike have the best box stores can’t. equipment. When he married and moved from New York to Pennsylvania, His knowledge comes not only from years of experience, but from his Romano set up a shop in his basement to fix bows and buy and sell working in his early 20’s in an archery shop on Long Island whose owner them, with a dream toward opening a brick-and-mortar archery store. mentored him in “everything I know.”

That dream wouldn’t become reality until he, his wife, Devon Romano, and their 9-year-old twins moved to Culpeper for his job in Arlington and Romano enjoys passing on that knowledge as his mentor did. He supports the local 4-H Archery Club by helping the youth set up their bows at established themselves in the community. baseline cost.

Last year, his wife partnered with two friends to open a handmade craft store, Lily Rose and Company. Romano thought it was time to bring his “I love to keep them in the sport, whether target archery or hunting,” he said. dream to reality, too.

Archery lessons are available at Romano Outdoors by appointment to Romano Outdoors opened in May 2023, providing archery supplies, sales teach both young and old how to shoot correctly and use proper form.

Romano hopes someday to partner with the schools to bring back archery and repairs. as part of their sports programs.

Coming from a place where everyone wanted money out of you, he was determined to create a friendly, no-pressure environment where area Passing on the same love of bow hunting and archery that his family passed hunters and target shooters could come with their families for advice, down to him continues to be the inspiration behind Romano Outdoors.

1202 S Main St A, Culpeper, VA • 540.812.2011• facebook.com/RomanoOutdoors 18

FARM

Bees & Trees Farm Teresa & Jeff Gregson Ten years ago, Teresa and Jeff Gregson transformed themselves from Richmond lobbyists into Culpeper farmers. While that seems a rather unlikely leap, both professions have a lot to do with people, and the Gregsons are all about people.

Bees and Trees Farm in Elkwood has welcomed thousands of visitors to its property since opening in 2013. In fact, in 2023, their farm was the most visited on the annual Culpeper Farm Tour. Those visitors fall in love with the farm just as the Gregsons did when they first saw it online. The two were only looking for a weekend retreat away from the city, and this place looked perfect.

But it was a Christmas tree farm.

“We were lobbyists,” Teresa Gregson said. “What did we know about Christmas tree farming?”

Former owners, Joe and Jocelyn Lampert, graciously offered to return that first Christmas and help sell the trees they’d planted. After that first year the Gregsons were hooked.

“Everyone is happy at Christmas,” Teresa Gregson said. “It was a great time.”

Their “weekend retreat” became their full-time residence.

The Christmas tree season and related events on the farm has only grown since, with a fire pit for roasting s’mores and Newfoundland dogs from the Colonial Newfoundland Club transporting cut Christmas trees for customers on little carts.

From trees the Gregsons expanded to bees. Beekeeping was something that always fascinated Gregson. She took both online and local classes and met Gates and Valerie Bierhuizen who now help with their hives at the farm — because with bees “it takes a village.”

They extracted 350 pounds of raw honey in 2023. Visitors love to watch bee

demonstrations and taste honey straight from their hives.

With honey and Christmas trees to sell, the pair applied for an ABC license and initially opened a seasonal store in what was the garage of their home, and has now been enclosed and is open year-round. They sell mainly local products; jams, jellies, butters, barbeque sauces, Son Of A Bear hard cider from Rapidan, local wines, coffee from Orange County Roasters and True Honey Teas from Lorton. To ensure satisfied customers, they offer samples of almost every canned product they sell, so no one goes home disappointed with their purchases.

In 2019, they built an addition to their home for her mother. Unfortunately, she passed away as the footers were being poured. The two switched gears and decided to turn the suite into an Airbnb.

The farm was such a peaceful retreat for them, they anticipated others might share that feeling. In 2023, The Garden View Suite was booked every weekend from June to December and has earned Super Host status eight quarters in a row from Airbnb for offering excellent accommodations and service.

In 2024, they plan to host weddings on the property. The beautiful mountain views and landscaped gazebo present the perfect setting for tying the knot.

Electricity and site work has now been completed. Of course, the Garden View Suite enriches the package with a private couple’s getaway, including hot tub, saltwater pool and outdoor fireplace.

No farm would be complete without animals, and Bees and Trees have those, too. Two mini donkeys, four goats, a flock of chickens, dogs and a cat named Olive. Guests are encouraged to wander down to the barn to visit.

Whatever their ventures, it’s all about the people for the Gregsons — whether The Farm Store, the Airbnb, the events, the weddings or the Christmas trees.

“It’s really not work,” Jeff Gregson said, “when you enjoy what you’re doing.”

18028 Carrico Mills Rd, Elkwood, VA • 540.423.9020 • beesandtrees.biz 19

FUNERAL HOME

Found and Sons Julie, Scott & Jennifer Found Helping families through difficult times is second nature to Scott Found and his niece, Julie Found, of Found and Sons Funeral Home. Like any other family, theirs has suffered loss as well, and with over 30 years of experience in the business, they know how to respond with kindness, caring and expertise when a loved one passes away.

“We see people on some of their worst days,” Scott Found said, co-founder and licensed funeral director. “If we can put them on a positive path, we’ve done our job.”

Scott Found grew up in Nokesville and became interested in the business when his 16-year-old brother, Sam, began working for a funeral home. Of course, he wanted to do what his older brother did, Scott remembered.

Their father, a pilot, encouraged their interest and supported them through their purchase of their own funeral home in Culpeper, where Sam and his wife, Katie, also a funeral director, lived in the rooms above and started their family. Julie, the oldest of their two daughters, and now a funeral director in her own right, grew up around caskets, hearses and flower arrangements.

Her mom tells a story of discovering Julie as a toddler asleep in one of the caskets while she worked.

Young Scott and Sam “broke the mold” of funeral directors, often stereotyped as old men with black top hats. The two called themselves “regular people” — who just happen to be funeral directors. The first family to engage their services sat down with Scott and asked him, “Where’s your dad?” When they built a more modern facility in 1991, the two renamed the business Found and Sons in their dad’s honor.

Their time in Northern Virginia convinced them they wanted a more personal, family experience, not the urban “conveyor belt” model they’d experienced.

Though both graduated from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science, they were local boys at heart.

When Julie was 17, she naturally gravitated toward joining her parents in the business though they encouraged her to first explore other fields. Julie graduated from VCU with a bachelor’s in business management when the unexpected death of her father in 2011 cemented that decision to join the family business.

Being on the “other side of the table,” the one making arrangements, motivated her even more to help others navigate the ins and outs of funeral planning. She graduated from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science like her father and uncle and came on board in 2015.

Found and Sons is still a local, family-owned and operated facility. It’s committed to treating grieving families well and honoring their loved ones at the highest level. Decisions are made personally, not up the corporate ladder.

“There’s always someone here to answer the phones,” Julie said.

That commitment to quality includes keeping up with the latest in technology and capacity. Before COVID, Found and Sons had already implemented live-streamed services and so seamlessly carried on in the face of gathering restrictions. They provide free viewings to say goodbye to loved ones who choose cremation. Scott Found’s goal is to create a peaceful, intimate setting for celebrations of life.

In short, grieving families will always be treated like family by the Founds when they choose Found and Sons to handle final arrangements. And that’s how Scott and Julie Found always want it to be.

850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA • 540.825.3530 • foundandsons.com 20

AGRICULTURE SUPPLIES

CFC Farm & Home Center Tiffany Patton Whether you farm over 100 acres, keep a few goats or chickens, or just love houseplants and farm décor, chances are Assistant Manager at CFC Farm & Home Center Tiffany Patton in Culpeper can help.

Patton is well-versed in everything CFC offers — from clothing and boots to wood stoves, pet and garden supplies, to livestock feed, fertilizer, farm equipment and equine/livestock consultation services.

“You don’t have to be a farmer to shop here,” Patton said.

She loves that as part of CFC, she supports those who make a livelihood in the agricultural community.

Patton’s love of farming and rural life didn’t come from her upbringing. Although her grandparents owned a farm in North Carolina, her parents didn’t continue in the vocation. She was raised in the Culpeper area, and wasn’t until 7th grade when she joined Future Farmers of America that the wide world of small animals, large animals, cattle working, meat identification, dairy, crop planting and more unfolded before her that she discovered a passion for it all.

She even made many close friendships that continue to this day.

Patton became reporter, then vice president of the local FFA chapter. One of her mentors was current CFC Assistant General Manager Katie Reames who taught ag classes at the time. Patton came to work herself at CFC in 2017, first as a cashier, then moving up to assistant manager in 2021.

Patton’s future husband joined the company’s on-site fertilizer plant operation in 2019. The two were married on a customer’s farm in Unionville and today own and care for 40 chickens, two heifers, two cats and a fish of their own.

Patton mirrors CFC’s commitment to agriculture and youth through her volunteer efforts with both FFA and 4-H. She has taught Cloverbuds and

assists the Culpeper Beef Club. She volunteers at the annual 4-H farm show, and she and her husband sponsor prizes.

Because she understands the needs of those who participate in farm shows, Patton expanded CFC’s selection of showing supplies. Of course, the store also provides the feed – and advice – needed to raise their animals. Patton is there for them every step of the way.

“I love getting to serve people and building those relationships with the community,” she said. “It’s more than just selling parts and services; it’s making recommendations to producers to make their activities more profitable.”

For those who don’t raise animals or grow crops, CFC offers an abundance of products for home, lawn care, flower and vegetable gardens, pets and homesteading needs.

Patton expanded CFC’s clothing line to include brands her family and her customers love and recommend. CFC carries canning supplies, dehydrators and freeze-drying equipment. There are fall bulbs, spring seeds, bagged soils, pest control items, equestrian supplies — even bee swarms, laying hens, chicks and fish to stock ponds.

Patton has her finger to the pulse of demand for the latest products and technology.

Her joy is getting to know CFC’s customers and their specific applications of the store’s products and services and she encourages that passion in all her employees.

“When you walk into the center, whether you are a farmer or not, I want you to feel welcomed by knowledgeable, friendly people who can offer whatever help you may need,” Patton said.

15172 Brandy Rd, Culpeper, VA • 540.825.2200 • cfcfarmhome.com

​ 21

HOME LOANS

Embrace Home Loans Christina Swift Producing Sales Manager of the local branch of Embrace Home Loans Christina Swift has been helping families in our local community purchase, build, and refinance their homes for more than 13 of her over 20 year career in mortgage lending.

“Sometimes the people that are most deserving of owning a home have hurdles to get there or are intimidated by the process,” she explained. “Or worse, have been ignored or treated badly by other lenders. These are the families I’m most excited to help.”

Her mother, who recently retired from an over 40 year career in the same field, had a strong influence on Swift’s career path from the time she was very young. After studying finance in college, Swift started her career with SunTrust as a loan processor and then loan officer, and has continued to grow in her profession ever since.

“Once you’ve bought your first home, it becomes easier and less intimidating to buy the next one and next one, and create a real estate portfolio which can help with retirement or to leave for your children.”

“I understand that purchasing a home is one of the biggest decisions a person or family will ever make, and I take it very seriously,” she said. “I own real estate and believe in it.”

Swift’s goal is to grow her team at Embrace Home Loans, and offer the wonderful support she has received to other loan professionals in our community. Embrace offers great support and benefits for employees, and they offer all the major loan programs for homebuyers as well as some “inhouse” niche programs not found anywhere else.

“Real estate is one of the proven means of creating generational wealth for “Many people want to live in Culpeper because of our proximity to families, and you don’t need much money to get started. I’m very passionate Northern Virginia and D.C., but we have more affordable housing and many employment opportunities.” about helping my clients reach their goals with home ownership.”

Swift’s passion for her clients shows with the many five-star reviews on The Amtrak train service is also a great convenience, as well as the beautiful various websites, and through the trust that so many families and business Blue Ridge Mountains, the local wineries and breweries and the friendly neighbors. partners have given her by sending referrals.

Embrace Home Loans now offers a grant program to help lower-income Christina has been married to Tom Stewart since 2011, who is also in the mortgage business. They have three children. When asked to name her most and first time homebuyers. proud accomplishment to date, she says without hesitation, “my children.”

Swift has quickly become well-versed in this new grant program and has already helped several families who may not have been able to achieve Swift shares her love of sports with her children and volunteers to coach the dream of home ownership without these funds, which can assist with her son’s soccer team. She also volunteers and supports many local organizations, like the local SAFE house and the Free Clinic. closing costs and down payment.

767 Madison Rd., Suite 108, Culpeper, VA • 540.718.7669 • embracehomeloans.com/location/virginia/culpeper 22

HEATING & AIR Able Heating & Air Catie & Greg Venable If there’s one word that sums up Able Heating & Air, that word would be “family.” Co-owners Catie and Greg Venable consider both customers and employees alike as part of their family.

“It’s a close-knit environment here,” Greg said. “Good work ethic, lots of training. We develop personal long-term relationships with customers and coworkers, get to know them well.”

The Able family came about through growth in their own family with the birth of their third son. Both Venables worked in the HVAC industry, Greg as a commercial HVAC subcontractor and Catie in administration and customer service for different companies. With a third child, daycare became too expensive. Greg longed for a residential HVAC business of his own. Catie’s background made her the perfect candidate for managing the administrative side, which she could do from home.

Company name? Their last name seemed a challenge for some to pronounce so they opted to use only the last four letters — able!

Able Heating & Air became official in 2011, starting in their basement and garage. Neither expected it to grow as rapidly as it did. In 2016, they moved Davis Street and, in 2022, expanded into their current Ira Hoffman Lane location.

“We just prayed about the direction to take,” Catie said, “and went along for the ride.”

The two met in Culpeper during the construction of Floyd T. Binns where Greg worked for a company installing the HVAC and Catie worked for the architectural firm in charge of building the school.

From the beginning, Greg and Catie’s goal was to make Able customers and

coworkers feel at home and comfortable – not just through honest quality workmanship, but through open communication. Their technicians are trained to, “go to the door, introduce themselves, explain what they’re there to do, make a friend, and wow them with their service.”

Able Heating & Air goes out of its way to ensure customers know exactly what services they are receiving and take the time to educate consumers on their systems and repairs so they can make informed decisions.

Greg said his company thinks “outside the box” when it comes to providing the best solution to a customer’s heating and cooling needs. Able Heating & Air takes the time to analyze each homeowner’s unique situation, determining what systems work well together and installing the most up to date and energyefficient products in line with current government regulations.

Able Heating & Air offers a range of HVAC services including new installations, system repair and maintenance, indoor air quality options, ventilation, and service and install standard water heaters and tankless water heaters. They install Trane, RunTru, Navien, and Mitsubishi, and service all brands.

Training employees in latest industry upgrades and in leadership plays a vital role in the company. The Venables provide in-house apprenticeships and onthe-job weekly training licensed through the state of Virginia, helping many employees attain their journeyman’s licenses.

“We love broadening their horizons and changing their mindset about working in the trades,” said Greg. “There are so many opportunities in the HVAC industry.”

Greg himself holds a master tradesman license in HVAC and Gas Fitters. He said he was helped along the way by those who took him under their wing.

Both he and Catie feel blessed to pay that feeling of family forward to others.

16033 Ira Hoffman Ln, Culpeper, VA • 540.718.7556 • www.ableheatingair.com 23

EYE CARE

Eye Care of Virginia Dr. Miles Press “We strive for excellence in eye care!”

King George locations of Eye Care of Virginia, becoming a pillar of eye care within the community.

This has always been the motto of Optometrist Dr. Miles Press, who has A regular day for Press may include going the extra mile to ensure the successfully helped people attain 20/20 vision for over 50 years. woman with an ulcerated cornea, who has come to him for help, gets Perfecting the art and understanding of healthy vision has been a the best treatment possible by assessing the situation and personally lifelong passion for Press, and his path to achieving this has been an ensuring she will be seen in a timely manner with the referring doctor. exceptional one. At the age of 16, Press started working for a contact lens manufacturing company, setting the tone for his education and future. He looks deeper than at first sight, and has many times been able to give Highly recommended from his employer, he joined the New England a second opinion that correctly diagnoses unique issues.

“When we look at people’s eyes, we can determine what kinds of problems College of Optometry in Boston, Massachusetts, graduating in 1971. they are having,” he said. “Especially if they have diabetes, glaucoma or “Just coming out of school, I immediately wanted to help people, help them high blood pressure.” to see and solve their problems,” he recalled. “I soon after got thrown into the Airforce. At that time, you were drafted, or you went in. So, I went in “A lot of things that happen in the back of the eye can be happening in the rest of your body.” and picked where I wanted to be.”

Press joined the Airforce as an Optometrist and Captain, working in the Flight Surgeon’s office and overseeing upward of 10,000 dependents and Generals. He spent two years in service dedicated to those who flew the gunships and jets to Vietnam. Press then joined the International Guard in the Sandston facility until the program was shut down.

Press eventually left the Guard to assist civilians and continue his pursuit of excellence in eye care, going so far as developing his own FDA approved tinted contact lens in 1980.

Press utilizes modern technology and its findings to present a more holistic approach to eye care in relation to the whole body. With the recent addition of the S3 BioPhotonic scanner, antioxidant status in the skin can be measured. If your findings are low, Press offers high absorption mega vitamins from NU Skin that provide the body with optimal nutrition, essentially aiding in the overall health of one’s being.

If you are looking for eye care that comes with years of cultivated knowledge and a unique passion for vision, Press may be the right fit for you.

With a genuine dedication for serving this community he has watched many Press’s passion for helping people and offering healthy sight landed him of his patients grow up, and came to serve entire families. His excellence in three separate mission trips to Peru from 2009 to 2011. Shortly after, in has earned him the Best of the Best in Eye Care from 2016-2019 and July 2013, Press partnered with Walmart and opened the Culpeper and 2021-2022.

801 James Madison Hwy, Culpeper, VA • 540.825.3937 • eyecareofvirginia.com 24

DAY CARE Kid Central Angelea Starks Her mother called her “Job” for her unending patience. Her co-workers call her joyful and a friend. But Angelea Starks’ favorite title is “Miss Angie” – the name she’s called by the preschool and school-age children in her care at Kid Central.

lost her husband, a sister, dad, brother, and nephew. She also cared for her mom during her final days of dementia

“These are my babies,” she said. “They learn from me; I learn from them.

That’s my greatest joy.”

The kids are never “in trouble” with Miss Angie. She doesn’t believe in “time outs.” Whenever there are issues, Starks addresses them with patience, wisdom, and conversation.

All this hasn’t dampened her spirit and indeed has fueled her commitment to loving and caring for everyone around her.

Kid Central provides care for over 200 before and after-school students, as well as numerous preschoolers, both at their headquarters at the Galbreath When a little boy was acting out in line one day, Starks discovered it was Marshall Building in Culpeper and at the county’s six elementary schools because another child had been stepping purposely on his feet. She brought this child to him and all three talked it over. and two middle schools.

Starks currently serves as staffing coordinator for the organization and is The other child apologized, and all was good. a team leader at Emerald Hill Elementary. She plans lessons, activities, The fun doesn’t end when the school year ends. Kid Central students may snacks and homework help for the children, developing precious personal participate in summer programs, and more than 200 do. Starks said the relationships with them as they learn, not only academics and arts, but students go on field trips, swim once a week, do fitness and craft activities, how to work through conflict, handle emotions and communicate their and go to water parks, depending on the age group. Older students may take part in 4-H cooking competitions, stop by the cosmetology school, concerns. or even visit Quantico Marine base.

“You have to have that love for them, but you also need to stand firm,” Starks said, a quality she looks for when interviewing new staff. “Children Starks loves that the staff at Kid Central work so well as a team and go will push you to the limit, something fierce and try your patience, but they “above and beyond” to provide a safe, loving environment for the children.

The organization offers community events such as Children’s Day at are only wanting your love, help and concern.” the park where there are face painting and games for all children. On Her love of children was kindled first in Annandale, Va., where she drove a Halloween, Starks drives a bus to each school to pass out candy and daycare bus for three years. Then an opportunity arose to love on babies participates in Trunk or Treat at Bragg’s Corner. and toddlers while working for Minnieland in Manassas.

“Love and nurturing” are all those kids need, according to Starks, and love Tragedy in her family has given her a greater appreciation for life. She and nurturing are what they get from “Miss Angie,” one of their favorite and her first husband lost two children shortly after birth, and Starks has people at Kid Central.

1401 Old Fredericksburg Rd, Culpeper, VA • 540.829.2124 • kidcentralculpeper.com

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CREDIT UNION UVA Community Credit Union Jackie Bowles Jackie Bowles, the Branch Manager of UVA Community Credit Union’s Culpeper branch, brings 34 years of experience in the financial services industry. Jackie’s career began at the age of 16, thanks to the mentorship of Steve Southard, a retired community banker, and Culpeper County Treasurer. His guidance and support ignited her career in banking. While Portia Jenkins, another influential figure in Jackie’s career, has instilled the values of understanding and compassion.

medical care, fire and rescue, law enforcement, or the military in affording homes in the communities they serve.

William T. Butler III (Tripp), a Senior Commercial Loan Officer for UVA Community Credit Union, boasts a career in the financial services industry that started in 1994. Throughout his journey, he has learned from various mentors, also with Steve Southard in Culpeper being one of the most significant influences. Tripp’s passion lies in helping businesses effectively Today, Jackie is dedicated to serving her community’s best interests by manage their finances, offering tailored solutions that include streamlined offering a range of financial products. She provides members with savings, deposit systems, a variety of credit options, treasury services, and more. certificate and money market accounts, credit cards, auto and personal UVA Community Credit Union is deeply committed to developing customized, loans, and much more. As a not-for-profit institution, UVA Community Credit beneficial services for its members. One such offering is the Elevate Small Union, prioritizes people over profit and works diligently to strengthen the Business Banking Program, which caters to the unique needs of small financial wellness of its members and the communities it serves. businesses — a vital element in the economic success of the community.

Paul Klinger, a Mortgage Loan Originator for UVA Community Credit Together, this trio works to bolster the financial well-being of their members.

Union, is a Virginia native with two decades in the service industry. His They deliver exceptional customer service, nurturing long-term relationships, service extends to the Warrenton, Culpeper, and Orange communities. and provide genuine value to their members. Their collective experience Beyond his professional responsibilities, Paul believes in giving back to his allows them to serve their members and give back through active involvement community, actively volunteering for various organizations, including the on community boards, committees, clubs, organizations, and charities.

Greater Piedmont Realtors, where he also serves on the Board of Trustees.

Financial wellness is a deeply personal journey, and there is no one-sizePaul, along with his team of processing and underwriting professionals, fits-all approach at UVA Community Credit Union. They meet each member goes above and beyond to guide members through the lending process, where they are in their unique financial path welcoming all in a judgmentmaking the dream of home ownership a reality. UVA Community Credit free environment. Resources such as knowledge and financial tools are Union offers a diverse range of mortgage options, including the Hometown shared freely with the intent of empowering the community to take control Heroes Mortgages program, designed to assist heroes working in education, of their financial lives.

633 Meadowbrook Shopping Center, Culpeper, VA • 888.887.9136 • uvacreditunion.org Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS#302946. Membership required.

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MEXICAN RESTAURANT El Agave Jose Luis Villasenor Each time El Agave Manager Jose Luis Villasenor and wife, Carmen, start to a store and bought them a huge load of fresh fruits. The team sold a new business, their extended family helps with the construction plans everything and met their fundraising goal. and the work involved with opening the facility.

The restaurant has a dining area that fills up most days. They have several El Agave has been in business for 25 years, and in January 2022, they groups that hold meetings there. Jose is happy to accommodate their purchased and completely remodeled a stand-alone building in Dominion dining experience. El Agave only requires reservations on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.

Square in Culpeper.

At the front of the restaurant, there is a large outdoor dining area, which is used weather permitting. They have a liquor license and a small bar where they sell their specialty Margaritas and other drinks. The dining area walls are decorated with pictures showing the beauty of Mexico, including several authentic Sombreros.

There are many ways to enjoy your favorite meal. El Agave is associated with DoorDash so your food can be delivered to your home. A customer can also call in a food order, order online and pick up in person.

They said they never turn down a donation to other worthy organizations.

One of the donations they supported was to the local Culpeper Warriors wrestling team.

They strive to serve meals that their patrons want and learn more about what can be changed.

Many of their nieces and nephews have worked in the El Agave restaurants.

The older generation work with their children to teach them the family Their menu is full of authentic delight such as burritos, chimichangas, business. enchiladas and so much more.

Jose and Carmen have a son who worked with them for years and then Jose originated from Degollado, Jalisco, Mexico. In the 80s, most of his started Force Mechanical, LLC, a heating and cooling corporation, which family moved to California. Over two decades ago, they relocated to Virginia. services all of Virginia. They have one grandchild and one more on the way.

Over time, the family opened restaurants in Warrenton, Marshall, Bealeton, With some feedback, they realized customers wanted vegan meals, so Bristow and Culpeper. they introduced meals to accommodate them. The chips that are given Jose and Carmen are very generous when giving back to the community. to each table are true corn chips and are gluten-free.

Their business hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and The team needed fresh fruit to sell at their concession stands. Jose went Sunday 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

701 Dominion Square Shopping Center, Culpeper, VA • 540.317.5284 • elagavemexrestaurant.com 27

HEARING AIDS

Wagner Hearing Aid of Culpeper Freda White If not for the motivation and encouragement of a colleague – and a chance encounter by a mailbox – Freda White may not have become a hearing instrument specialist and the owner of Wagner Hearing Aid of Culpeper, which has granted the gift of hearing to so many patients.

“I was passionate about what I did, but often my hands were tied as far as helping people as I wanted to,” she said.

In late 2019, another mailbox conversation presented White with a proposition from Wagner: “Would you like to purchase my Culpeper location?”

White, a biology major, worked as a UVA medical research technician before staying home to raise her four children. When she reentered the White contacted her old Mary Washington University roommate, Teresa workforce, she taught high school biology until she realized it wasn’t her Lough, a business major. They put their heads together and formed a “cup of tea.” partnership. Lough shadowed Wagner’s operation from January 2020. After A simple job as front office help for an audiologist finally revealed to White a delay caused by COVID, the transfer finally occurred in August 2020, her calling. She fell in love with the patients and with the work. Her boss, when they opened five days a week to serve Culpeper clients full time.

Dr. Donna Mallory, with 25 years of experience in the field, fanned the Wagner Hearing Aid is independently owned, giving White and Lough flame of interest and encouraged her to pursue her license. the freedom to customize care for every patient. They are not limited to “She was a tough teacher, but she taught me a lot,” White said. “Everything one proprietary brand of hearing equipment but can determine the best I know today, I attribute it to her.” fit for patients among any brand. White offers hearing aid trial periods Her new-found career sent her to hearing-aid centers in Charlottesville to clients and aids those who might not be able to afford their services. and Fredericksburg until a desire to be closer to family brought her back Hearing tests and equipment repair are performed in-house, in a cozy, to Culpeper. White settled at a local branch of Hearing Life across the personal setting. street from Wagner Hearing Aid, then operated and owned by Bruce Wagner, son of its founder. Wagner operated several private offices in the region, so the Culpeper location was only open one day a week.

Through a chance meeting with him at the offices’ shared mailboxes, they developed a professional relationship. After a while, she planted a thought in his mind – “if you ever need someone…”

Witnessing her own father’s struggle with hearing loss and the isolation it brought inspires White not to let this happen to anyone else. She has watched patients experiencing that same isolation and separation bloom and prosper when they can once again hear clearly.

“Many happy tears have been shared with patients in my office,” White said.

Their happiness makes White grateful for the circumstances leading her White was disillusioned with the corporate hearing aid world, the to her profession and to Wagner Hearing Aid. impersonal conglomerate where your “all” was never good enough and “We truly care about the community and about every patient,” she said. the bottom line was profit.

767 Madison Rd #110, Culpeper, VA • 540.825.6770 • helpuhearculpeper.com 28

FLORIST Endless Creations Flowers and Gifts Chris & Steve Cone “Everyone has their own story, and they sometimes want to convey it in flowers,” said owner Steve Cone. “At Endless Creations, we like to take what they are asking for and translate that into a beautiful bouquet or maybe a unique gift or fruit basket.”

Through current economic shifts, Endless Creations has remained steady and sustained; thriving by providing top notch service, superior floral products, and a unique gift selection that you won’t find elsewhere in Culpeper.

Steve and his wife, Christina, have been working together for over 37 years “People often tell us that we have the freshest flowers in town. When a at cultivating Endless Creations in a variety of capacities. customer comes back to you to get roses three weeks later and says, ‘I What started as a small business selling high-end holiday centerpieces want to get some more. I still have the ones that you gave me, but I want and fresh floral arrangements at various craft shows, is now stepping into to get another dozen.’ then you know that you are doing your job.” its 10th year as a brick-and-mortar storefront that is committed to serving Along with offering exquisite bridal bouquet designs, Endless Creations also serves as the only storefront in Culpeper that offers tuxedo and suit and growing with the community.

“It is a fulfilling business, working with people. We see individuals on the rentals. As brides decide on their wedding florals, the groom can get fitted happiest day of their lives. It could be the birth of a child or a wedding. right in the store; pick up and drop off without the hassle of traveling out We also see them on their worst days. We get both sides of the spectrum, of town.

and it’s a real honor to get to work with people and grow their trust in you.” While the Cone’s receive joy in helping their customers, they also have a Chris and Steve Cone have had steady growth since opening an actual heart for helping those in need. Their Food for Flowers program, where storefront on Sunset Lane in 2014. By 2015, they needed more space, a donation of five cans or five boxes of food will allow you to buy a $5 and purchased Randy’s Flowers off of Evans St, where they stayed until bouquet, has evolved into a continuous collection site for the Culpeper 2020. While relocating in the midst of the pandemic may have seemed Food Closet! challenging, they made the move to their current location in the Southgate If you don’t need flowers, feel free to give a straight donation and the Shopping Center. proceeds will go directly to St. Stephens Episcopal church for the food “We did well at providing a means for people to reach out to one another, closet program. never actually shutting our doors... When people couldn’t go visit their loved ones, they could call and have flowers delivered.”

So, come on in! Have your story brought to life with the endless creations that are waiting to unfold!

261 Southgate Shopping Center, Culpeper, VA • 540.825.4440 • ecflowersandgifts.com 29

THRIFT STORE Wysteria Culpeper (formerly Giddy Up Resale) Audrey & Tanya Darline Do you love the feeling of going downtown to shop, perusing through local boutiques and finding those little treasures that you can’t get anywhere else? Do you also ever wish the prices were a little thriftier? Many of us do, and now, with the recent opening of Giddy-Up Culpeper you can have the best of both worlds!

Giddy Up Culpeper offers a unique array of clothing and items that are truly rare finds; the diamonds in the rough that we look for. With a diverse line spanning from designer jeans, handbags from Coach, Anthropology & Spartina, an elaborate pet section to a plethora of quality children’s clothing -- this store has it all!

The business was originally started by the family matriarch, Tanya Darline, in Bandera, Texas.

Tanya and her mother first sparked the dream of opening a boutique thrift shop, only to receive the news that her mother had been diagnosed with gallbladder cancer shortly after. Sadly, her mother’s life was abruptly taken.

Tanya chose to honor that dream, opening the original Giddy Up Resale in Bandera.

“I just kept on with what we had decided we were going to do, and we have been doing it for over six years now.”

Daughter Audrey, along with her husband and their six children, decided to put down permanent roots in Culpeper. Audrey, having a natural passion and eye for shopping and finding unique items of value, wanted to bring the family and their business closer to home. Tanya and Audrey made this a reality with the grand opening of Giddy Up Culpeper in September 2023.

“I wanted to bring something special to Culpeper. Being that we are a heavy

girl family (with 15 grandchildren in total, 14 of which are girls) comes a lot of shopping. Especially the jeans! We have a ton of sizes. You will find a wide range of things in this store.”

Customers often come in looking for specific things. Audrey sometimes even takes on the role of a personal shopper, having retrieved many items ranging from boots to Hello Kitty.

Each item placed has been hand collected from all over, always with the consideration of, would I wear that? Is this a quality item? Would I dress my kid in that?

Some special items have been coined “Cinderella” because many people will try them on, but only and the right person will fit them; like the green juicy couture jumpsuit that was envied by many, or the rhinestone embellished Madden NYC combat boots that lie in waiting.

“My goal is to support everyone in Culpeper and give them a good deal. Being a mom of six, I know the struggles that parents will go through,” Audrey said.

With consistent standards of quality, the family ensures that they market to everyone by providing a wide range of items and prices to choose from.

They also offer bundle deal discounts, which have been a great support to those with young kids.

“What I often see moms do is put down something that they wanted to make sure they can get items for their kids. We usually give them a good discount so moms can get something too,” Audrey said.

This is a family business. It is the family’s hope that the tradition will continue, from Tanya all the way down to her grandchildren Meena, Siva and Gwendolyn.

233 E. Davis Street, Suite 200, Culpeper, VA • 443.518.9365 30

SPA Woodhouse Spa Colleen Quintana & Walt Kuhn January 1, 2020, Colleen Quintana and Walt Kuhn, a married couple, broke ground on their small business venture in Gainesville now known as Woodhouse Spa - Gainesville. The 7,000 square foot building consists of 14 Treatment Rooms, one Main Relaxation Room, two Private Suites, and his and her lounges making for a very welcoming, relaxing, and calming space. The build out included installing an UV Light Air Filtration system that provides filtered air throughout.

visiting. Athletes from all levels and individuals from young to old visit.

Spa parties from bridal parties to birthdays to just because are offered onsite. Spa parties have the option of all day packages to include custom catering to a simple glass of champagne. To arrange a Spa party contact the party’s department at parties@gainesville.woodhousespas.com.

Along with providing their guests with treatments, an onsite Boutique is great for gift giving as each purchase is wrapped and placed in Woodhouse Colleen and Walt’s philosophy is “You have to do what you love.” Woodhouse Spa gift bag. The Boutique offers unique products from items that give Spa - Gainesville employs about 27 team members and treats all team back to farm animals, to planting a tree for each item sold, and supports members and guests as family. There is no age restriction on those who artisans from around the United States by carrying their products. can receive a service however younger guests do require an adult consent.

Gift cards are available for purchase in any dollar amount all which make Guests who come to the Spa for the first time may already know gift giving easy, affordable, and something that everyone will love. what services they desire as they have already visited their website woodhousegainesville.com where location specific services, pictures, Colleen and Walt have always volunteered and supported their local videos, and a blog waits for discovery. Many guests have a goal they want community and this continued when the doors of Woodhouse Spa to reach, and the highly skilled Licensed Massage Therapists and Master Gainesville opened. The Spa supports the Willing Warriors Retreat in Estheticians discuss treatment options. The Spa Concierge is an intricate Haymarket where Military members and their families who visit the retreat part of the team ensuring that each guest that walks through the door have the benefit of spending time at the spa for relaxation and self-care. receives a five-star experience from the small details of the personalized They also work with several schools and not for profits in and around touches to luxurious experience. A clawfoot bathtub and active halotherapy the community. salt chamber are onsite as treatment options as well.

Woodhouse Spa - Gainesville is open daily and offers tours to all that Upon arriving each guest changes into a comfy spa robe, reflexology stop by. Colleen and Walt reside in Haymarket and have two sons, one sandals and are provided a locker for their personal belongings while daughter, and two dogs.

8114 Stonewall Shops Square, Gainesville, VA • 571.570.4717 • woodhousegainesville.com 31

VISIT OUR STORES ON PAGES 16 & 17!