Cover photo by Mauricio Cordiero
© Best Version Media
Publisher
Content
Coordinator Catherine Hardman
Contributing
Photographer Mauricio Cordeiro
Contact: Carmella Antonino
Phone: 412-475-0133
Email: cantonino@bestversionmedia.com
TELL US YOUR IDEAS
He o Friends -
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the golden hues of fall surround us, November gently reminds us to pause, reflect, and give thanks. It’s a season of gathering—around tables, around fireplaces, and most importantly, around one another.
This month, our hearts (and bellies!) turn toward the comforting flavors of the season—roasted vegetables, warm spices, and of course, time-honored family recipes. Food is more than sustenance this time of year; it’s connection, culture, and love passed down from one generation to the next.
Have feedback, ideas, classifieds, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to cantonino@bestversionmedia.com. You may also submit your thoughts, ideas and photos to: bestversionmedia.com/magazines/viennaliving
CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINES
Content is due by the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Fairfax County Non-Emergency
Police/Fire/Animal Control
703-691-2131
We are thrilled to feature the Thobani family this month— new owners of the ACE Hardware in Vienna. Their journey and commitment to community reflect the spirit of small business and remind us how vital it is to support local. Whether it's hardware for holiday projects or just a friendly face behind the counter, their presence brings new energy to town. Be sure to stop by and welcome them!
As always, we encourage you to support the advertisers who make this publication possible. Their ongoing dedication helps us share stories like the Thobanis' and keep our community informed and inspired.
And during this season of abundance, let’s not forget those who are facing food insecurity. Please consider donating to or volunteering with one of the many nonprofits doing critical work in our area. Every meal shared, every hand extended, makes a difference.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful, peaceful, and gratitude-filled Thanksgiving.
Wolftrap Fire Station #42
Fairfax County Fire and Rescue
703-757-7910
703-691-2131
Fairfax County VA Park Authority Rec Centers 703-324-8680
Fairfax County Parks Department 703-321-7080
Vienna Community Center/Parks and Recs 703-255-6360
Fairfax County Public Schools Main Number 571-423-3000
“Thanksgiving is a time of togetherness and gratitude. May our tables be full, our hearts fuller, and our community the fullest of all.” tables be full, our hearts
Warmly,
Designer Frances Barra
Carmella Antonino
© Best Version Media
RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES
Vienna, Virginia 22182
Vienna,
$1,100,000 1440 Crowell Rd
5 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,200 SqFt AGF 2.01 Acres
$1,100,000 1704 Clovelly Ct
6vBeds 3/1 Baths 2,256 SqFt AGF 0.33 Acres
$1,510,000 9702 Cymbal Dr
4 Beds 3/1 Baths 3,416 SqFt AGF 0.53 Acres
$1,350,000 2005 Adams Hill Rd
5 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,450 SqFt AGF 0.66 Acres
$800,000 2146 Woodford Rd
4 Beds 3 Baths 1,558 SqFt AGF 0.24 Acres
$675,000 1710 Tyvale Ct
4 Beds 3/1 Baths 1,680 SqFt AGF 0.04 Acres
$1,150,000 1776 Brentridge St
3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,598 SqFt AGF 0.07 Acres
$1,350,000 10405 Trumpeter Ct
5 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,756 SqFt AGF 0.51 Acres
$781,000 8133 Larkin Ln
4 Beds 3 Baths 2,227 SqFt AGF 0.04 Acres
$1,130,000 9513 Scarab St
5 Beds 3/0 Baths 1,673 SqFt AGF 0.24 Acres
$1,951,000 8818 Jarrett Valley Dr
5 Beds 4/1 Baths 3,768 SqFt AGF 0.25 Acres
$1,900,000 1536 Windstone Dr
5 Beds 5/0 Baths 3,900 SqFt AGF 5.00 Acres
$1,450,000 1416 Wolftrap Run Rd
4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,540 SqFt AGF 0.35 Acres
$882,000
2036 Gallows Tree Ct
3 Beds 2/2 Baths 1,925 SqFt AGF 0.04 Acres
© Best Version Media
VIENNAACE HARDWARE Welcome New Neighbor!
WRITTEN BY CATHERINE
HARDMAN
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MAURICIO CORDIERO & THOBANI FAMILY
Vienna finally has a local hardware store once again! Since the closing of Stalcup in 2012, the community has felt the absence of a family-owned hardware shop. That void has now been filled by ACE Hardware, located at 264 Cedar Lane Southeast. The store is owned by Aekta and Faizal Thobani, and true to the ACE name, they’ve assembled a customerfocused team that is knowledgeable, courteous, and always ready with a smile.
Aekta shared, “The idea came from wanting to create something meaningful and lasting for our community — a place where people could find not just tools and supplies, but also friendly advice and genuine service. Ace Hardware’s values of being ‘the helpful place’ aligned perfectly with our own. We wanted to build a business that feels personal, local, and neighborly — the kind of store where people know your name and you can count on getting the right help every time you walk in.”
SO WHY VIENNA?
“Vienna has such a strong sense of community — it’s family-oriented, supportive, and proud of its local businesses,” Aekta explained. “We felt that ACE Hardware would be a perfect fit because Vienna values small-town warmth with big-town energy. We wanted to serve
our neighbors and contribute to the town’s growth. Plus, Vienna’s residents truly care about their homes and neighborhoods — and we want to be their go-to resource for all the projects that help keep this town looking so great.”
Aekta actively researches product trends and attends trade shows to o er inventory
We wanted to build a business that feels personal, local, and neighborly - the kind of store where people know your name and you can count on getting the right help every time you walk in.
not commonly found in big-box stores, tailoring the shopping experience to local needs.
MEET THE THOBANIS:
A Family Committed to Community
Aekta and Faizal met by chance while out and about in Washington, D.C.
“He and I have the exact same life goals. We’ve always been aligned both personally and professionally, and that shared vision
has helped us succeed — even as a married couple working together. It’s not always easy, but I think we’re doing a pretty good job because we share the same end game.”
Aekta holds a bachelor’s degree in Foods, Nutrition, and Exercise from Virginia Tech and a Doctorate in Chiropractic. She practiced chiropractic care for 10 years before taking a break after the birth of her second son.
“I do miss practicing, but having that time with my children — being present for their milestones and everyday moments — was a priceless experience.”
The Thobanis have three children: Ayaan (11), Armaan (8), and their youngest, Inaara (3). The boys are active in sports, including basketball, football, and soccer. Ayaan plays travel basketball after four years of travel soccer, and Armaan plays both football and basketball. The kids also enjoy chess and video games.
When she’s not at the store, Aekta enjoys reading and spending time with friends and family.
“These days, I don’t have much time for myself because I’m in the store a lot. But I prioritize spending time with my children— that’s what matters most right now.”
WHY NORTHERN VIRGINIA FEELS LIKE HOME
The Thobanis live in the Chesterbrook Woods neighborhood of McLean, where they’ve been for the past eight years.
© Best Version Media
Before that, they lived in Rosslyn.
“We needed more space and a good school district. We found the perfect home in a cul-de-sac in McLean—ideal for raising our family.”
Their children attend local schools and have thrived academically and socially. The family loves being part of the Vienna and McLean communities.
“We’re proud to be part of this area. It’s welcoming, family-friendly, and active. We love the balance between suburban comfort and the vibrancy of nearby Tysons Corner and D.C. There’s a real sense of pride here, visible through the local businesses, beautiful parks, and community events.”
The Thobanis are also looking forward to giving back.
“We’ve had the privilege of connecting with so many wonderful local business owners who we now call neighbors. Our customers feel like family, and we’re passionate about helping them—whether it’s through home improvement advice or supporting local events.”
Making
Memories — Near and Far
When it comes to fun, the Thobani family
loves exploring everything Vienna has to o er.
“Our kids love attending local festivals— ViVa! Vienna!, Oktoberfest, and the Halloween Parade on Maple Avenue are always big hits. From carnival rides to local treats and live music, these events are a family favorite.”
Last summer, they took a memorable trip to Bali and Singapore.
“Bali was amazing. The kids loved the beaches, swimming, building sandcastles, and visiting the temples like Tanah Lot. They were fascinated by the traditional Balinese dances and art. In Ubud, they had a blast at the Monkey Forest and even got to hold baby turtles and snakes — and had owls sit on their arms!”
AEKTA’S MESSAGE TO THE
COMMUNITY
“I’m proud to be the owner of ACE Hardware of Vienna — your neighborhood hardware store. As a fellow member of the Vienna and McLean community, I want to personally thank you for supporting local businesses like ours.
At ACE, we’re more than just tools and paint — we’re your neighbors, your weekend project helpers, and your go-to team for anything from home repairs to backyard upgrades. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, we’re here to o er helpful service, quality products, and a friendly smile every time you walk through our doors.
We’re also looking to become more involved in local events, volunteer e orts,
© Best Version Media
Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at bestversionmedia.com/magazines/viennaliving and click on "submit content". and community initiatives. If there’s a local cause, school event, or nonprofit we can support, please reach out — we’d love to be part of it.”
e Business Minute
BY ERIKA BAEZ-GRIMES
Wow can you believe we are already exiting Q3: Here are a few Considerations for Business Owners as we look ahead.
It’s no secret that the close of the third quarter is more than just another date on the calendar — it’s a critical checkpoint. Whether you’re preparing for an exit, or simply want to strengthen your business, the decisions you make now can shape your success in Q4 and beyond.
Here’s the good news: There is nine months of financial data available that tells a story. Now is the time to read it closely. Are your revenues meeting expectations? Are margins holding steady or slipping? Are there seasonal patterns you can prepare for? By analyzing your year-to-date results, you can make strategic adjustments in Q4 to hit your targets or, at the very least, put your business on stronger footing heading into the new year. Ignoring the story your numbers are telling is like driving blind into 2026. Think of Q4 as your final chance to “polish the apple” before closing out the books. A business that looks stronger on paper at year-end is typically more attractive to lenders, investors, and acquirers.
But -The year-to-date reality check is not just financial, it’s also operational!
A business that runs only when the owner is in the building is less valuable. If you want your company to be attractive, you need to prove it can run without you. That means training your team, delegating key tasks, and documenting processes so operations are not dependent on a single person. This also benefits you now — it frees up your time to focus on growth, strategy, or simply reclaiming a bit of work-life balance. Reducing Owner Dependency is a long- and short-term win for your business!
If you’re interested in discussing “Where you are now, or future plans for the business” please contact: Erika Baez-Grimes Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional Founder, The BPH Group, LLC www.TheBPHgroup.com 804.750.3008
Warmestregards,
11/2
Churchill Starring David Payne
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons Time: 1:00 PM . Cost: start at $48 www.capitalonehall.com
11/2
Elements:
Showcasing the Diverse Dances of India and beyond Presented by Rhythmaya Dance
Capital One Hall – The Vault
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons Time: 4-6:00 PM
Cost: start at $47 www.capitalonehall.com
11/5 – 6
Jim Brickman
Wolf Trap, The Barns 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 8:00 PM . Cost: start at $60 www.wolftrap.org
11/7/25 – 1/4/26
Meadowlark’s Winter Walk of Lights
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Ct, Vienna Times: vary . Cost: varies https://www.novaparks.com/events/ winter-walk-of-lights
11/7
The Barr Brothers
Let It Hiss Tour, Land of Talk 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 8:00 PM
Cost: start at $48.50 www.wolftrap.org
11/7
Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas: In Concert
Live to Film with The Fairfax Symphony
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons Time: 7:30 PM . Cost:TBD www.capitalonehall.com
11/7
Tay Tay Dance Party
Capital One Hall – The Vault
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons Time: 8:00 PM
© Best Version Media
Cost: start at $29 www.capitalonehall.com
11/8
North Mississippi Allstars Still Shakin’ Tour
1635 Trap Road, Vienna
Time: 8:00 PM . Cost: start at $60 www.wolftrap.org
11/9
Patriotic Landscapes: 250 Years of “We the People”
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Time: 7:00 PM . Cost: start at $11 www.capitalonehall.com
11/9
One Singular Sensation: The Music of Marvin Hamlish
Capital One Hall – The Vault
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Time: 4:00 PM . Cost: start at $11 www.capitalonehall.com
11/13
A Drag Queen Christmas Hosted by Nina West
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Time: 7:30 PM
Cost: start at $47.00 www.capitalonehall.com
11/15
Get Healthy Vienna!
VBA Expo 2025
Vienna Community Center
120 Cherry St. SE
Time: 10-2 PM . Cost: Free www.viennabusiness.org
11/15
Dusty Slay: The Night Shift Tour
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Time: 7:00 PM
Cost: start at $54.00 www.capitalonehall.com
11/15
Rt. 123 Comedy Ft. Winston Hodges
Capital One Hall – The Vault
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons Time: 8:30 PM
Cost: start at $21.00 www.capitalonehall.com
11/15
Wellness Wonderland
VBA Health Expo 2025
Vienna Community Center
120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna
Time: 10:00 AM – 2 PM
Cost: Free www.viennabusiness.org
11/15
2025 Bourbon and Bubbles 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 7:00 PM
Cost: Sponsorships begin at $3,500. Individual Tickets will Be available in October www.wolftrap.org
11/16
Viola Celebration Beethoven, Vaughan Williams, Mozart Chamber Music Society Of Lincoln Center 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 7:30 PM
Cost: start at $55.50 www.wolftrap.org
11/20
Natalie Merchant with Eric Della Penna Autumn Acoustic Tour 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 6:30 PM
Cost: start at $92.00 SOLD OUT www.wolftrap.org
11/21 – 22
C.J. Chenier and Marcia Ball
With the Red Hot Louisiana Band
1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 8:00 PM . Cost: start at 70.50 11/22 is SOLD OUT www.wolftrap.org
11/23
Once Upon a One More Time Featuring the music of Britney Spears
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Doors Time: 5:00 PM
Cost: start at $26.00 www.capitalonehall.com
11/29
The Nutcracker: Ravel Dance Company presents The Nutcracker
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons Time: 2:00 PM
Cost: start at $60.00 www.capitalonehall.com
11/30
Nutcracker!
Magical Christmas Ballet
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons Time: 2:00 PM
Cost: start at $39.00 www.capitalonehall.com
12/1
Church Street Stroll
Starts at Freeman Store and Museum
131 Church St NE, Vienna Time: 6-8:30 PM . Cost: Free www.viennava.gov/Events
12/1
The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons Door Time: 6:00 PM
Cost: start at $66.00 www.capitalonehall.com
12/2
Gil Shaham, violin Akira Eguchi, piano 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 7:30 PM . Cost: $71.50 www.wolftrap.org
12/4
Mark O’Connor’s An Appalachian Christmas featuring Maggie O’Connor Wolf Trap, The Barns 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 7:30 PM . Cost: $60 SOLD OUT www.wolftrap.org
12/5-6
Johnnyswim
The Johnnyswim Christmas Show 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Wolf Trap, The Barns Time: 8:00 PM . Cost: $60 www.wolftrap.org
12/6
Quarterly Recycling Day
Northside Property Yard
600 Mill St NE, Vienna Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Cost: Free www.viennava/gov/Events
12/6
Donuts with Santa Vienna Community Center 120 Cherry St SE, Vienna Time: 9-10:20 AM & 10-11:20 AM (registration required)
Cost: $5 (children 12 Months and under admitted free) www.viennava.gov/Events
© Best Version Media
12/6
Vienna Theatre Company Presents: It’s a Wonderful Life
Vienna Community Center
120 Cherry St SE, Vienna Time: 4:00 PM
Cost: $5.00 Children, $10.00 Adults, $8.00 Seniors www.viennava.gov/Events
12/6 – 7
Centre Company presents The Nutcracker
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Times:12/6, 2:00PM; 5:00 PM/ 12/7, 1:00
Cost: start at $46.00 www.capitalonehall.com
12/7
Holiday Celebration with theVCO Brass
Capital One Hall – The Vault
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 3:00 PM
Cost: start at $11.00 www.capitalonehall.com
12/8
Allman Betts Family Revival
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 7:00 PM
Cost: start at $66.00 www.capitalonehall.com
12/12
Kill Lincoln with American Television & Thirteen Towers
Capital One Hall – The Vault
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 7:00 PM . Cost:$30.55 www.capitalonehall.com
At the time this magazine went to print, all event details were accurate to the best of our knowledge, but please check event websites or call ahead for the most current information.
12/13
Virginia Handbell Ensemble: Your Favorite Things
Capital One Hall – The Vault
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 6:30 PM . Cost: $27.10 www.capitalonehall.com
12/14
Songs of the Season: A Holiday Celebration
Capital One Hall – The Vault
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 3:00 PM
Cost: start at $11.00 www.capitalonehall.com
12/14
Journey to the West: A Night of Myths
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 6:00 PM
Cost: start at $27.10 www.capitalonehall.com
12/16
Old Crow Medicine Show’s Holiday Hootenanny
Featuring Browyn Keith Hynes
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 6:00 PM
Cost: start at $27.10 www.capitalonehall.com
12/17
It Must Be Christmas –An Acoustic Evening with Chris Young with MaRynn Taylor
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 6:30 PM
Cost: start at $83 www.capitalonehall.com
12/20
An Inconceivable Evening with Cary Elwes: The Princess Bride
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 6:30 PM
Cost: start at $54 www.capitalonehall.com
12/21
Natalie Grant and Danny Gokey: Celebrate Christmas Tour
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Time: 6:30 PM
Cost: start at $54 www.capitalonehall.com
12/26-28
Miracle on 34th Street, The Musical
Capital One Hall – Main Theater
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons
Door Times: vary . Cost: varies www.capitalonehall.com
© Best Version Media
SMALLBUSINESSAND ENTREPRENEURSHIPCOUNCIL: Protecting Small Business, Promoting Entrepreneurship
WRITTEN BY CATHERINE HARDMAN // PHOTOS PROVIDED BY KAREN KERRIGAN
The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council) is a 501c(4) advocacy, research and education organization dedicated to protecting small business and promoting entrepreneurship. Their network of supporters, including entrepreneurs and small business owners, state and local business organizations, corporate partners and associations work with SBE Council to strengthen the environment for robust entrepreneurship, investment, innovation and small business growth.
SBE Council educates policymakers, business leaders and the public about key policies that enable business start-up and growth. Through advocacy, research, media outreach, and education, SBE Council members and sta convey the importance of entrepreneurship to job creation, opportunity, economic growth and U.S. competitiveness. Since their founding in 1994, SBE Council has helped to strengthen the ecosystem for small business and entrepreneurial success in the U.S. and across the world.
SBE Council is viewed as one of the most powerful and e ective organizations dedicated to protecting small business and promoting entrepreneurship.
Business Dialog, the U.S. Treasury’s Taxpayer Advisory Panel, and the National Advisory Committee for Labor Provisions of U.S. Free Trade Agreements. She is a collaborative and well-respected individual within the business and think-tank community who has led numerous coalitions and initiatives with diverse partners and organizations. She has also served on NAWBO’s Advisory Council, Verizon’s Consumer Advisory Board, and the Domenici-Rivlin Debt Reduction Task Force, among other advisory roles over the course of her career.
Meet Karen Kerrigan, President & CEO “The hardest working woman in show business,” The Hill
For nearly thirty years Karen Kerrigan’s leadership, advocacy and training work has helped foster U.S. entrepreneurship and global business growth. She is president & CEO of the Council and is the group’s chief advocate for its members. In January 2024, Kerrigan received certification as a Health and Wellness Coach. Karen is a long-time Vienna area resident. She has resided in the Vienna-Oakton area for more than thirty years, and her three adult children experienced the many community, educational and sports opportunities that Vienna is known for.
Ms. Kerrigan also serves on the board (and chairs the Health, Wellness and Fitness Committee) of the Vienna Business Association (VBA), and the Bayh-Dole Coalition. Karen is the committee leader of the VBA Wellness Wonderland: Get Healthy Vienna Expo 2025, which will be held at the Vienna Community Center on November 15th, 2025. Get Healthy Vienna! Expo 2025 is dedicated to enhancing the health, wellness and fitness of our community by connecting and promoting the businesses and organizations providing services, solutions and resources that positively transform the health and lives of residents in our community.
Karen has been appointed to numerous federal advisory boards including the National Women’s Business Council, the U.S.-Iraq
She has written hundreds of Op-Eds and newspaper columns and regularly appears on national television and talk radio programs. Kerrigan regularly appears on national networks to provide analysis and commentary on the latest economic data, what’s driving the markets, and the outlook for the economy, entrepreneurship and small business growth.
Karen uses numerous forms of media to give advice, trends in business, and many subjects: tv, radio, podcasts, print/ platform interviews on key issues. The article link is featured in BizTech Magazine and interviews four AI small business experts (including Karen) to discuss how to innovate in a rapidly changing environment – How Small Businesses Can Capitalize on Their Artificial Intelligence Opportunities | BizTech Magazine This Forbes article is about recent issues, and the focus is on 30 years doing what she does: Karen Kerrigan On Advocating for Small Business Owners For 30 Years
Small business owners are taking charge of their future through strategic investments in technology – especially AI – and they want an environment that supports investment and innovation
Small businesses are leaning heavily into innovative technologies to drive growth, productivity and competitiveness, according to new survey results released today by the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council (SBE Council). The Small Business Technology Use Survey 2025, conducted by TechnoMetrica for SBE Council, reveals that small business owners and their employees are enthusiastic adopters and users
© Best Version Media
of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, social media and technology platforms, and e-payments systems. Moreover, small business owners embrace the benefits of pro-innovation policies to supercharge the momentum behind U.S. global leadership in AI and tech innovation.
“Small business owners are taking charge of their future through strategic investments in technology – especially AI – and they want an environment that supports investment and innovation,” said SBE Council President & CEO Karen Kerrigan.
Findings Overview
USE OF SMALL BUSINESS AI
• A vast majority of small business owners (82%) view winning the global AI race as critical to America’s economic future.
• Over half (58%) of small businesses surveyed currently use AI tools or solutions, and nearly all users find them essential for competitiveness.
Most small businesses have begun using AI in the past two years, with the typical business reporting one year of experience.
• The average small business uses about two AI tools. Annual spending on AI tools averages around $1,000 per business, with most expecting to increase AI investment in 2025.
• The most common AI applications include content creation, marketing automation, customer support, and cybersecurity.
• Employee support for AI usage/integration is strong, with 81% describing workplace engagement with AI as positive.
• Businesses are reinvesting AI-driven savings into enhancing customer service, exploring new growth opportunities, improving their workforce, and upgrading their equipment.
EXPRESS CHECKOUT USAGE AND OUTLOOK
• A majority of small businesses (53%) now use express checkout to process online payments, while 44% do not, and a
more than 30% of total sales, with a median sales share of 28.8%.
• Optimism is strong heading into 2025–77% of users expect express checkout sales to grow.
SMALL BUSINESS ADVERTISING TRENDS
• Word-of-mouth and social media are the dominant advertising channels for small businesses, followed byemail marketing, paid online ads, and content marketing.
• O line methods, such as direct mail, text marketing, and outdoor ads, remain in use, while traditionalmedia, including newspapers, TV, and radio, have limited traction.
• Social media marketing is rated as the most e ective channel for return on investment, with word-of-mouth a close second.
• Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube are the top platforms for branding and revenue generation, withTikTok, LinkedIn, Amazon, and X (formerly Twitter) also playing notable roles.
• Social media and e-commerce platforms drive a significant portion of revenue, with a median of 23.5% of sales attributed to them, and one in five small businesses deriving over half of their sales from these channels.
SMALL BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT WITH AMAZON
• 26% of small businesses currently sell on Amazon, while the majority do not. The median share of sales from Amazon for sellers is 23%. Most Amazon sellers diversify their sales channels by also utilizing social media platforms, company websites, other marketplaces such as Etsy and eBay, as well as in-person events or brick-and-mortar stores.
• The typical profit margin for Amazon sellers is around 28.5%, with most earning moderate returns and a minority reporting either very low or very high margins.
• Nearly half of the surveyed sellers report that their profit margins on Amazon are better than on other platforms, and 41% say they are about the same.
Grandma Didee's
GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE
By Grace Schulte
Ilove the holiday season for two main reasons. Gathering with family is one of them, and I have no shame saying that the food is the other.
At my Grandma Didee’s house, green bean casserole is a holiday dinner staple. If you haven’t had it and are looking for a new recipe to try out, look no further!
Ingredients
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 can chopped water chestnuts
• 4 cups French-cut green beans (bonus points if you use homecanned green beans!)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
Directions
1. Mix all of the ingredients except the crispy fried onions.
2. Place the mix into a glass baking dishand spray lightly with a cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.
4. After 30 minutes, sprinkle 1 cup of crispy fried onions on top. Return to the oven and bake for 5-10 minutes or until the onions are golden brown on top.
5. Remove from the oven and prepare to serve!
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