Did you know? The Lakeland area is home to 76,000+ small businesses. We want to celebrate all the businesses that make Swan City so special.

In honor of our many movers and shakers, we’re asking readers to nominate small businesses they love so we can share them with the whole audience.

We’ll be here to share a new batch of small businesses every month, so bookmark this page to come back for more, especially if you’ve enjoyed our Small Business Week coverage.

Editor’s note: Some quotes may have been edited for clarity and brevity.

An orange vintage trailer is converted into a plant shop named "The Pot Shop," surrounded by potted cacti and succulents. — Find a new plant or plan a terrarium-building date night at Austin's Backyard Garden. | Photo by @deswarren

Editor Connor's picks

Dixieland Relics | 949 S. Florida Ave.
"[Guests] should experience creating their own terrarium, visit the unique vendors we have in our back building, and check out our new clothing section." — Owner Austin Hayes

This shop is a picker's paradise, packed with vintage goods and blooming plants. Shop indoors for home pieces and clothing you won't find anywhere else, then venture outside for garden goodies.

Take Heart | 248 N. Kentucky Ave.
"Fair trade means it’s made mainly by artisans in the Third World — you sit down directly with an artisan group and come up with a fair wage. The trade is giving them a fair sum of money for what you’re getting in return in a safe environment." — Owner Delta Ryan

Visit this downtown store to find jewelry, home decor, and gifts made with fair trade practices in more than 40 countries. Bonus: Proceeds from the store cover expenses, so most donations to the Take Heart nonprofit go directly to those in need.

Sambrazil Market and Bakery | 2020 S. Combee Rd.

"[We specialize] in Brazilian food, hard-to-find products, and an authentic taste of Brazil." — Owner Tatiaia Beasley

When Beasley and her family couldn't find the products they loved in Lakeland, they opened their own market to serve other Brazilians. Stock up on groceries here, or order whichever dessert is going viral from the bakery.

An open cardboard box contains eight thick, square Detroit-style pizza slices with various gourmet toppings. — Mix and match pizza flavors at By the Chef — our favorite is the OG with mozzarella, fresh basil, and house-made tomato sauce. | Photo by LALtoday

By the Chef Pizza | 1212 S. Florida Ave.
"We have a very tightly curated menu. We don't do build-your-own here. Everything we do is supposed to be a curated culinary experience, and then we add to that." — Owner Peter Garces

Whether you're feeling a focaccia pizza or need a New York-style slice, this is the place for a premium pie. Chef Peter Garces treats his craft as part science, part art form, so you'll only find the highest quality ingredients on the menu.

JJ's Fusion Khaana | Locations vary

"While our cuisine is inspired by bold flavors with an Indian touch, our vision extends well beyond the plate — cultivating meaningful connections, celebrating diversity, and delivering lasting value to the community we serve." — Owner Mina Cai

Look for this biz popping up at locations all over town, from Catapult to First Fridays. JJ's recommends ordering the weekly deluxe combo to try a little bit of everything, and I recommend never skipping the masala fries if they're on the menu.

Jesse Carl Vinyl | 304 N. Kentucky Ave.

"I started this business because, after eight months or so as a pop-up at the Lakeland Farmers Market, I realized the need Lakeland had for an independent record shop. Not just one that would provide the same old, dust-covered, cheap items, but real finds—a wide selection that was curated well." — Owner Jessi Zilka

My farmers market trips aren't complete without a stop in this downtown record store to see what catches my eye. Don't miss annual events like Record Store Day and the Lakeland Record Fair if you're hunting for a rare edition or new release.

Lakeland's small businesses come in all shapes + sizes, from storefronts to ice cream trucks. | Photo by Peg Leg Ice Cream

Food + drink

Peg Leg Ice Cream | Locations vary

"Peg Leg Ice Cream Truck was inspired by the joy and excitement I remember feeling when the ice cream truck came through my neighborhood as a child. It was more than just ice cream. It was an experience and core childhood memory. I realized my daughter, and the Lakeland community as a whole, was not really getting that same experience, and I wanted to bring it back." — Owner Beki Wilson

Don't know what to order when you see this ice cream truck rolling up? Wilson recommends ordering whatever was your favorite as a child — you can never go wrong with nostalgia.

SUN KAVA | 5711 S. Florida Ave.
"I’m a born and raised Polk County local, and proud every day to have built such an awe-inspiring community here, for all who might be vulnerable or just a little odd, as a young woman in her 20s. We do Open Mic Nights, 'Bob Ross'-inspired paint events, literally everything imaginable. This is only the beginning!" — Owner Brittany Davis

Looking for community? This could be the place to find your people. SUN KAVA is open daily until 6 a.m. with a craft food menu, kava shells, and acai bowls. Pro tip: Follow the biz on Instagram for daily discounts and events.

Lakeland BBQ Company | Locations vary
"We started this business from our love of BBQ competitions and a passion for great barbecue, family, and serving our local community with food that brings people together. What makes us unique is our commitment to doing things the right way, every time. From our storefronts to our many catering events, our heart is in every plate we serve." — Owner Melissa Sanchez Vann

Cater your next event with succulent barbecue, hand-dipped ice cream, or a charcuterie grazing table. Need something a little smaller? The dine-in locations in Polk City + Frostproof are worth a visit — Sanchez Vann recommends the Couch Potato topped with slow-smoked meat.

A small gray coffee trailer with a feather sign listing menu items like coffee and lemonade. — When you see this trailer pull up, you know you're in for a treat. | Photo by Sunrise Espresso

Sunrise Espresso | Locations vary

"I wanted to create something fun and unique that both adults and kids could enjoy, all wrapped up in a beachy Florida vibe. We built our trailer ourselves from the ground up to bring that vision to life." — Owner Amber Rich

Find beach-themed beverages on wheels at this roving coffee truck. Adults should try the Beach Blonde breve, and kids will love the Shark Bait refresher.

SoFresh | 4756 S. Florida Ave.

"At SoFresh, every meal is made-to-order with real ingredients that nourish your body and fuel your day. It’s not just better for you — it tastes better too." — Owner Abd Qoran

Keep things light with build-your-own bowls, wraps, salads, and smoothies. Pro tip: Download the SoFresh app for $5 a future purchase. Avo coconut smoothies on you?

An exterior view of Mitchell's Coffee Shop in Lakeland, FL — Mitchell's has been serving Lakeland since 1998. | Photo by @theblizzardofboz

Mitchell's Coffee House | 235 N. Kentucky Ave.

"Each morning, Mitchell’s is filled with an eclectic mix of local residents, business people, college students, and out-of-towners all enjoying the cozy atmosphere and friendly service." — Owner Saundra Biddinger

Where would our town be without Lakeland's longest-running coffee shop? Come here for an I Dream of Jeannie latte in the morning and each month's new lunch special.

The Flamingo Bean Co. | 1318 W. Daughtery Rd.

"We started our business out of a desire to have specialty-grade coffee and a relaxing environment to enjoy it in. It is important and unique to us as lifelong north Lakeland residents that a locally owned coffee business exists for north Lakeland residents." — Owner Wendy Huckery

Head to this all-pink cafe for a growler of cold brew, a breakfast pastry, and a specialty coffee made with beans roasted in-house. Wendy recommends a Flamingo Kiss latte made with strawberry, white chocolate, and espresso, topped with strawberry cold foam.

Vegetation | 1439 E. Gary Rd.

"Vegetation is a plant-based kitchen making nutritious, whole foods from scratch while limiting the use of processed ingredients. We change our menu often to keep healthy eating fresh and fun, and love to serve you beautiful food you’ll feel good enjoying." — Owner Rima Schillinger

The menu at this vegan cafe changes every week, but you can bet it will always be delicious. Pop in for a latte and the cookie of the week, take a grab-and-go meal home, or stay a while for dinner.

The lounge seating space at Kitty Cat Lounge — It's all local here, from Ethos Coffee to snacks by Meraki Bakehouse to the art on the walls by local artists. | Photo by LALtoday

Kitty Cat Lounge | 946 E. Orange St.

"If someone visits with the intention of adopting a kitty or coming to relax and get some quality therapy without having to use an insurance card, everyone leaves feeling better than when they came in." — Owner Cindy Skop

Part coffee shop, part cat adoption center, this place is all heart. Order a specialty coffee and a locally baked treat, then hang out in the cafe or head into the cat lounge to meet the adoptable pets.

Mucho Boba | Locations vary

"My menu is always new for every event! People love to get a surprise drink of my choice! They end up shopping and sipping on something yummy." — Owner Stefanie Hernandez

Sip a vegan tea that's free of major allergens but big on flavor, then shop for vintage clothing at this biz's boba pop-ups.

Healing Glow Juices | Locations vary

"What started as a passion for natural wellness became a deeper mission to help people feel better, live healthier, and reconnect with their bodies in a more intentional way." — Owner Gloria Lee

When you find this biz at a market or pop-up event, ask for a sample of the natural cold-pressed juice. Then, pick your favorites and add a wellness shot to create a refreshing bundle.

Ethos Coffee Roasters | 132 Lake Beulah Dr.

"Our Ethos is to make an impact through coffee. We believe better prices for better coffees are the most sustainable way to lift farmers out of poverty and create a better future for all of us." — Owner Lisbeth Pacheco

Feel good about how you fill your cup when you buy coffee beans from this local roaster. Our favorite blend is the White Swan, which is sweet, nutty, and fruity.

Find Amethyst Bliss at local markets with products from businesses like Rafa Natural. | Photo by @amethystblissgifts

Retail

Amethyst Bliss Gifts | Online
"I believe gifting should be easy, not stressful, and I give customers a simple way to give gifts that are locally made with love and purpose. Every product is handmade by me or another local maker, and I love that I get the opportunity to support and work with other small businesses." — Owner Jessica Machala

Find this biz online or at a local market to put together a box filled with heartfelt, handmade gifts for a loved one. Boxes can include soaking salts, candles, eye pillows, and more, and there are themes for every type of celebration.

Wellspring Gardens | Online
"Ice Cream Banana, Barbie Pink Guava, Longevity Spinach. These are some of the plants that made Wellspring Gardens famous. The company is known all over the nation for being a premier destination for buying tropical plants online. But locals may be unaware that the business is based in Lakeland, FL. Its greenhouse and fulfillment center aren’t open to the public, but this online retailer is quietly bringing in revenue to the Lakeland economy." — Owner Donovan Baltich

Spruce up your garden with edible and ornamental plants shipped from this Lakeland nursery. Your first order includes a free promo plant, but Baltich says you'll keep coming back for weekly free plant drops. Plus, Wellspring Gardens ranked No. 1 on Greenhouse Management’s list of 2025 Best Places to Work in Horticulture.

Heritage Harvest Market | 8950 N. Campbell Rd.

"As a small business owner myself, I know how important it is to have opportunities to connect with the community. That's why Heritage Harvest Market is dedicated to supporting handmade, homemade, and homegrown businesses while giving local entrepreneurs a place to share their passions and grow." — Owner Amber Rich

Every month, the market gets a new theme, from pumpkins in fall to flowers in spring. It's located at the Kathleen Area Historical Society's Heritage Park, so you also get a dose of history when you shop.

The storefront window of Old South Country Market features a decorative sign, menu board, and a closed sign by the door. — Find products from your favorite local businesses on the shelves at Old South Country Market. | Photo via Old South Country Market

Old South Country Market | 107 W. Badcock Blvd., Mulberry

"We believe food has the power to heal, which is why we carefully curate high-quality meats, local produce, and thoughtfully sourced provisions. Supporting local isn’t just a value — it’s our mission because thriving local farmers are the key to a healthier, more resilient community." — Owner Addiz Rosenthal

This market recently moved from south Lakeland to downtown Mulberry, but don't fret — it will only add a few minutes of drive time to find your favorite meats, dry goods, and body care items.

Bungalow Boutique & Gifts | 1026 S. Florida Ave.

"Take a look around and find something that speaks to you. Don't be afraid to go outside your box and discover something that truly works for you. Our clothing is special and made for real women." — Owner Christine Boring

Clothing, shoes, accessories, gifts — this cozy boutique inside a former bungalow home has it all.

Jamie Jay Handmade | Locations vary

"We make and sell wearable art clothing and jewelry. Our work includes rocks and crystals from around the world as well as upcycled graphic tees with crocheted accents. Every piece is made by hand in our South Lakeland studio with bright colors and unique designs." — Owner Jamie Jackson

Look for this biz popping up at local markets, and try on its creations to feel the difference.

Rafa Natural beach-themed skincare products arranged on sand alongside a straw hat, seashells, and starfish. — We love Rafa Natural's soaps, scrubs, and lotions. | Photo by Rafa Natural

Rafa Natural | 244 N. Kentucky Ave.

"I was actually a customer of Rafa Natural long before becoming the owner. I fell in love with the products and the experience the brand created. When the opportunity came up to purchase the business about 10 years ago, I jumped on it. I always joke that I loved everything so much, I just bought it all." — Owner Kimberly Hancock

This biz handcrafts all of its own bath and body products with plant-based ingredients. Sniff your way through the store to find your favorite scent in lotions, soaps, candles, and much more.

Whimsy & Stars Paperie | Online

"Each piece is thoughtfully crafted to spark creativity, encourage moments of calm, and add a touch of whimsy to daily life." — Owner Mabelle Ramirez-Ortiz

Send a heartfelt card or relax with a locally designed coloring book from this studio. Bonus: LALtoday readers can use code WHIMSY10 at checkout for 10% off.

Battlebrush Games | 5060 Lunn Rd.

"We are unique in that we offer dedicated youth leagues for all of our events, and children are welcome to come build, paint, and play. We offer all the tools and teach free classes on how to get started, and we are structured to teach everyone and share the love of these hobbies, not just buy something and take it home to figure it out on your own." — Owner Blake Howard

Need a new third space? The owners of this shop have your back. Learn to play Warhammer and Warmachine at weekly gaming events and make friends during painting classes.

Three young women smile on a downtown sidewalk wearing colorful, professional dresses and blazers. — This nonprofit provides professional clothing, confidence-building education, and mentorship for young women. | Photo by Top Buttons

Top Buttons | 236 N. Kentucky Ave.

"Today, the boutiques exist as a safe space for women of all backgrounds to shop or participate in our programs. Our boutique presentation brings dignity to the shopping experience for all and provides access to quality clothing at a fraction of the cost." — Owner Genelle Kelly

This nonprofit's goal is to build young women's self-worth through mentorship and clothing. Your donations and purchases at the thrift boutique help fund its mission and support its empowerment programs.

Scout & Tag | 244 N. Kentucky Ave.

"I started Scout & Tag because I wanted to create a place where people could find beautiful home decor and meaningful gifts that aren't found everywhere else. Every product in our store is thoughtfully curated to inspire, celebrate, and help people connect with the ones they love." — Owner Nikki Whitlock

This store never seems to end, making it the perfect place to search nooks + crannies for a piece of Lakeland-inspired home decor or the perfect gift for any occasion.

Exterior storefront of Looking Good clothing store with large windows displaying formal wear and clothing mannequins. — This shop has more than 1,000 suits in stock. | Photo by Vishal Shahdadpuri

Looking Good Fashions | 702 E. Memorial Blvd.

"My family started in 1996, saw a niche that had a void, and filled it with passion for the men that like to dress and be fashion-forward." — Owner Vishal Shahdadpuri

Whether you're preparing for a wedding, school dance, or just need to refresh your closet, start here for a wide selection of men's wear and a selection of women's fashions.

Consignment Garden | 4311 S. Florida Ave.

"We had a vision of how we would run a consignment store. We inspect and steam all clothing. We offer great items at great prices in a great atmosphere." — Owner Sherri McNeill

All items in this shop are kept in stock for 60 days, and the prices get lower the longer they stay on the racks. Will you grab your favorite piece or roll the dice and come back for it later?

Health + wellness

Lotus Therapy | 255 N. Kentucky Ave., Ste. 203
"What makes our practice unique is the intentional, relationship-centered care we offer, creating a space that feels both emotionally safe and thoughtfully supportive." — Owner Crystin Grants

Individuals and couples can find meaningful counseling at this boutique therapy practice. Book a free consultation to experience the personalized care in a calm, supportive environment.

Stillpoint Sound Healing | 811 S. Missouri Ave.

"This business is important because it offers trauma-informed, whole-person support that helps people feel regulated, present, and empowered in their bodies." — Owner Naomi Pareja

Formerly known as The Joyful Shaman, this biz combines licensed massage therapy with sound therapy + energy work. Book a solo appointment, or look for retreats and group gatherings.

Amy Under the Oak | Locations vary

"Just relax and let go. Let the experience invite you deeper into your own inner wisdom and vibration." — Owner Amy Mason

Those are Amy's tips for enjoying sound bath meditations and hypnosis. Book with a group, solo, or as a couple, or visit a local event to find peace of mind.

Atala Counseling | 905 S. Missouri Ave.

"This work is deeply important to us because we believe strong communities are built through meaningful human connection. Our mission is to empower people to be strong, steady, and resilient, and our vision is to dismantle barriers to a healthier Lakeland, one connection at a time." — Owner Araceli Gauna-Scattolini

Each part of this counseling office has been specially chosen with both patients and mental health professionals in mind, from the art on the walls to the calming scents to the patient privacy policies.

Strong Souls | 105 W. Badcock Blvd., Mulberry

"[New visitors] have to take a spin on a pole! We always have beginner-friendly moves and love to show everyone the thrill of their first spin and show them that their body can do hard things." — Owner Nicole Ash

Fitness meets pole dancing at this empowering studio. Beginners can join a four-week intro course to learn the foundations, no experience required.

IPOC's Urban Dog classes take pups out on the town to learn focus with different distractions. | Photo by Imperial Polk Obedience Club

Personal + home services

Imperial Polk Obedience Club | 3611 Century Blvd.
"This business was started by a group of Polk County people to share their love of dogs and the bond that is created by obedience training." — Owner Susan Washburn

Experience that bond with your furry family member with year-round dog training classes at this club, which started in 1964. If your pet turns out to be really obedient, try competition and sports training.

Help(her) | Locations vary
"I want women to be reminded that they have skills to offer, even if their availability may be limited. It's about showing up, creating opportunities, and making life feel a little lighter for others. Help(her)s are highly-qualified women who are stay-at-home mothers, freelancers, or just want to pick up a side hustle in order to complete short-term projects and cross off to-do lists." — Owner Teresa O'Brien

Whether you're doing a full closet clean-out or need an extra hand around your business, Help(her) can get you plugged in with a local expert. If you need more regular assistance, memberships bring the rate down to $18 per hour.

Evolution Barbershop | 1531 S. Combee Rd.

"We wanted to create a place where every client feels welcomed, respected, and leaves looking and feeling their best. To us, a haircut is more than a service — it’s about confidence, self-expression, and building lasting relationships with our community." — Owner Eric Torres

Clients of all ages will leave feeling good after a fresh cut. You're sure to notice the attention to detail both in both your haircut and the shop.

Vyral Nails | Downtown Lakeland

"I started this as a hobby and interest in nail art that wasn’t as common. From then, I have learned and loved everything about the nails. Not just the art, but the health of the nails and the cuticles are a priority. My nail art is fun and long or short, we can always add a little art to your life!" — Owner Victoria Figueroa

Go for minimal, medium, or maximum nail art when you book with this licensed nail tech who specializes in Gel X designs.

Fresh Coat Painters of Lakeland | Locations vary

"We aren't just here to slap on a coat of paint. We’re here to provide a professional experience where the customer feels supported from the first quote to the final walk-through." — Owner Seph Duggan

No need to visit a showroom to plan your next painting project. This company will come to you for a free on-site consultation so you can see how colors + finishes will look in your own space from the comfort of home.

Branch Water of Central Florida | 4225 Frontage Rd. N.

"We specialize in being extremely technical about water problems and solutions all while working with our customers to get the best solution at the most affordable price." — Owner Mike Kanaby

Need a water softener or a filtration system for your home? This biz does it all, from free water testing to installation and maintenance.

A palm tree in a landscaped yard outside of a house surrounded by trees. — Call in the experts to help with your renovations. | Photo via 3B Land Management

3B Land Management | Haines City

"We help homeowners, businesses, developers, and landowners transform and maintain their properties with reliable equipment, quality workmanship, and attention to detail." — Owner Taylor Willis

Sometimes you just need to start from the ground up. That's where this family-owned business's land-clearing, site-preparation, and property-improvement services come into play.

Carilly | Lakeland

"Carilly was born from my own experience as a mother who understands both the joy of raising children and the challenge of finding someone you trust to care for them." — Owner Callie Miller

Find a babysitter, tutor, pet sitter, or household help with this local service. Each sitter is personally recruited and vetted, so you know it's someone you can trust. Memberships are also available for frequent users.

One Way Air | 122 E. Main St.

"I dedicated a decade of my life to learning the ins and outs of the AC industry and what it entails to run a great company that customers can not only trust to do right by them, but that doesn’t have to break the bank in the process." — Owner Chevie Publicover

In Florida, A/C in your home is a non-negotiable. Fortunately, this air conditioning company offers 24/7 emergency service.

Taylormade Floral & Event Design | Lakeland

"I have had a passion and love for all things weddings along with flowers, so I combined the two to create Taylormade Floral & Events. I choose to remain small to give our couples an experience they deserve." — Owner Heather Taylor

Bring your wedding + event dreams to life with the help of this business. Offerings range from bouquets to ceremony and reception decorations.

Infinite Matterz | 502 E. Main St.

"I started this business because it allows me to spend more time with my family, but also, it allows me to be creative. I'm a big car fanatic, so I love to be a part of people's projects." — Owner Michael Adkins

Adkins started out powder coating cups, but now he's giving cars a whole new look. Bring him your car parts + tools for a fresh coat or a custom design.

RSC Vacations | Lakeland

"I started the business because I love to travel and see the world. The world is huge, and I want others to experience and learn about different cultures and ways of life." — Owner Ryan Colpean

This boutique travel agency specializes in trips "for the grownup version of you." Reach out for help planning a getaway to Europe or Asia, an adults-only group trip, or a corporate retreat.

A large group of professional women smile together for a group selfie during a business networking event. — This group sets out to be "where connections are real, support is strong, and success is shared." | Photo by Polk County Women Mean Business

Marketing + business services

Polk County Women Mean Business | Lakeland

"We are the premier networking community for the professional women of Polk County. We have three buckets to our business: the community, the indoor market we host at COhatch, and our free boutique for women." — Owner Jessica Robinson

Professionals from Lakeland and beyond are invited to connect with each other at biweekly meetings on Thursdays, and everyone can check out what members are up to during monthly markets at COhatch.

Stroll Eaglebrooke | Lakeland

"Stroll is proud to be the nation’s leader in neighborhood publications, serving more than 500 upscale communities… and counting." — Owner Bianca McKinney

When you flip through this magazine, expect plenty of feel-good stories about the residents of the Eaglebrooke community in south Lakeland.

helloCreate Content Studio | Lakeland

"I started helloCreate because I saw how overwhelming social media felt for business owners, and I knew it didn’t have to be that way. I care about helping people show up without the stress." — Owner Karlie Holliday

Feeling overwhelmed by your social media profiles? This studio can help create impactful content in your voice so you can get back to running your business.

Cropper Commercial Consultancy | Lakeland

"Friends, family, and church friends all needed help with their businesses, and knew I had the skills to help. I realized that my approach was tried and tested and could help so many smaller organizations. It was systems, processes, and experience they couldn’t dream of." — Owner Jason Cropper

If your small business could use a leg up, you can get one hour of free advice from this local consultant who's worked with bizzes like Sambrazil Market.

Always Greener Digital | Lakeland

"As a former educator and small business owner of a handmade jewelry business, I know firsthand how much time and brain power it takes to run a business, run social media accounts, create digital materials, and run a successful Shopify store. I help take these tasks off the plate of other small business owners." — Owner Krista Greene

The grass really is greener when you work with this service to sell your products on Shopify.

Psst — If you’d like to see a small business included in LALtoday, make sure to submit it here.