Did you know? Did you know? As of 2025, Kentucky is home to 393,860 small businesses. We want to celebrate all the businesses that make LEX 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 and Today’s Best coverage.

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

Editor's picks

girlsgirlsgirls Burritos | Food + Beverage
"The team I work with daily is wildly creative and is the heart and soul of our extremely unique and authentic restaurant experience we offer to our customers here." — Founder + Operator Sara Wood

girlsgirlsgirls Burritos serves creative burritos, bowls, and margaritas alongside a full bar and regular live music + events in a laid-back, dog-friendly patio setting.

Proof Fitness | Health + Wellness
"A lot of people come here to escape work or whatever situation they’re in. Everyone’s going through something different every day." — West Main Manager Jordan Anderson

Whether you’re looking for group fitness classes like spin + TRX, or you want to move at your own pace on the treadmills, ellipticals, and weight machines, there’s no shortage of options at Proof Fitness.

Local LEX Market | Shopping
"It's truly amazing watching others succeed underneath you, and having a space for everyone is the best." — Owner Merritt Monroy

Home to more than 75 local businesses, this shared retail space opened in 2021 to help small business owners grow together. Shoppers can find something at every price point, and the store hosts block parties from April through October.

The studio has created murals for businesses and schools + can do custom home murals. | Photo by @sugarmaplephoto via Studio Mel Designs

Arts

Midway Art Studios | 100 E. Main St. (second floor)
"I joined the studio in Feb 2026 in order to have a dedicated space to share my art with the public. I also have a space to create and love spending time with this group of like-minded individuals! The space has a welcoming and creative energy." — Studio Artist Tessa Habash

This art studio is open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. to view art and chat with the artists. Make sure to check out the free community coffee bar.

Studio Mel Designs | 309 N. Ashland Ave.
"We believe murals matter because they live in everyday spaces and can completely transform how a place feels." — Co-owner Lynsay Christensen

Owned by twin sisters Lynsay Christensen + Hayley Harris, Studio Mel has painted more than 42 murals across Kentucky. If you're not in the market for a mural, we recommend shopping their colorful wall art.

The owners recommend checking out the jewelry case and clothing section of Emporium. | Photo via Emporium

Retail

Emporium | 193 Kentucky Ave.
"We saw a need for upscale consignment of decor, art , furniture, jewelry, and more. Buying pre-loved items is an economical and sustainable option for all shopping needs." — Owner Anne Helmers

Shop antique and vintage decor, jewelry, furniture, and more at this local store that opened in 2021. You can also explore the online catalog.

Kentucky for Kentucky | 1315 Winchester Rd., Ste. 321
"In 2012, we were tasked (by ourselves) to develop a new brand for Kentucky, something that got people excited and better reflected our unique style. Our goals? Increase tourism, attract new business, foster pride, diminish stereotypes, and distinguish the Commonwealth of Kentucky from any other place on the planet." — Owner Toni Cannon

If you're searching for Kentucky gear, look no further. Head to this store to take a selfie with the Cocaine Bear, pick up a "Kentucky kicks ass" hat, and grab a "y'all" sweatshirt.

North Lime is sublime. | Photo by @igetamped

Food + Beverage

Poppy’s Flower Bar | 210 Old Mt. Tabor Rd.

“In an attempt to create margin and spend more time with my daughter, I mixed my love of flowers with cocktails and Poppy’s Flower Bar was born. My main goal in opening Poppy’s was to create a space that fosters genuine community where everyone feels welcome, and it has exceeded even my wildest dreams.” — Owner Shelby White

Who doesn’t want to make their own bouquet? The spot is also all ages friendly, with mocktails on offer in addition to marvelous craft cocktails.

North Lime Coffee & Donuts | Greyline Station

“A quarter score and some years ago (roughly the year 2012), beyond the rolling hills of bluegrass, the galloping steeds on the grassy plains, there came together three adventurers in a noble quest to perfect the most holy union of coffee and donuts.” — Owner Chante Austin

Its trademark square donuts come in a wild and wide variety of vegan and non-vegan options and the March Donut Madness competition every year is a hot competition. We also love the iconic logo from John Lackey of Homegrown Press.

Personal Services

Jason Zavala Architecture | 717 Hambrick Ave.

“I believe good architecture should feel personal, reflect its surroundings, and improve the way people live and work every day. By blending modern design ideas with Kentucky’s architectural traditions, I create spaces that are both timeless and practical.” — Owner Jason Zavala

A drool-worthy portfolio of mainly residential projects and well-defined aesthetic values.

Perspectives Paint + Design Center | 352 Longview Plaza

“Experienced knowledgeable employees are key to our customer service. Walk through our large showroom and see how we can help you add color to your space.” — Owner Mary Taylor

In Southland Shopping Center, this family-owned biz has been around for more than 40 years.

Nonprofit + personal services

Kentucky Equine Adoption Center | 1713 Catnip Hill Rd., Nicholasville

“...started in 2008 when the economy tanked. We were worried that horses would be left at gas stations, or worse. We rescue and adopt all breeds of equines. To date we have found forever homes for more than 3,000 equines.” — Executive director Carrie Wood

The horses at KEAC will steal your heart and you can take a tour to meet them.

Critter Sitters of Lexington | 332 Hampton Crt.

“We provide in-home pet sitting for numerous house pets, and dog walking services. We walk dogs for customers who work long hours and for longer trips when travel requires pet care.” — Owner Samantha Moses

Caring for local pets since 2005, we love how much info they give potential clients.

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