Hanover County is buzzing with talent, innovation, and heart—and now's your chance to celebrate the businesses that make our community shine. The Heart of Hanover Awards are here, and nominations are open now through May 4, 2025!
This is your opportunity to recognize the businesses that go above and beyond. With seven public-voted categories, your nominations help spotlight the people and places that make Hanover exceptional. And if you nominate in all seven categories, you’ll be entered to win a swag bag packed with local goodies from Hanover Economic Development. Need some inspiration? Here’s is Downtown Ashland Association’s unofficial cheat sheet, showcasing our downtown Ashland businesses and sponsors in this year’s spotlight. Because when it comes to celebrating our local heroes, there’s more than enough heart to go around.
💼 Destination Business of the Year
For the places that draw people to Hanover for unforgettable experiences.
Top Nominees:
Ashland Theatre - Classic movie theater showing films, live music, and theatrical performances.
110 Thompson – Where creativity and community collide, from social gatherings to public events.
RED VIEN Escape Room - An immersive, multi-themed escape room challenging teams to use their wits.
Ashland Museum – Bringing history to life with immersive exhibits and community storytelling.
Henry Clay Inn – A picturesque inn and event venue steeped in Ashland’s hospitality and history.
🧘♀️ Health and Wellness Business of the Year
For businesses that help us feel our best—body, mind, and soul.
Top Nominees:
Revival Spa – A tranquil oasis offering massage therapy, skincare, and holistic treatments.
Root Modern Dentistry – Modern, compassionate care for smiles that shine.
Your Path Counseling Center – Empowering personal growth with professional, caring support.
Ashland Tattoo - Providing stylish tattoos and permanent makeup.
Ashland Dance Academy - teaching tiny dancers while hosting and sponsoring cherished community events.
XtraSuite Salon Studios – A haven for wellness professionals and beauty creatives alike.
Fin & Feather Pet Center – Promoting healthy pets and happy homes since 1981.
Hanover Academy – Educating the next generation with heart and purpose.
💼 Manufacturer of the Coolest Thing Made in Hanover
From practical to playful—this category celebrates innovative local makers.
Top Nominees:
Smallwood Renovations – Creating beautiful, long-lasting exteriors one home at a time.
Renewal by Andersen – Experts in sustainable, high-quality windows and doors.
Ashland Posh Potties – Luxury restroom trailers crafted with care and style.
Shaken Not Spurred Mobile Bar – A rolling bar experience with flair and flavor.
Ashland Pot Pie Company – Locally loved pies, fresh-baked and deeply satisfying.
Sugar Fix Bakery – Whimsical, custom treats that taste as good as they look.
💛 Nonprofit of the Year
Honoring mission-driven organizations with heart and purpose.
Top Nominees:
Downtown Ashland Association - using the power of marketing, events, and economics to develop a vibrant future in downtown Ashland, Virginia.
Ashland Museum – Preserving the stories that make Ashland unique.
Hanover Arts and Activities Center - Celebrating rich history with a modern appreciation for the arts and education.
Retail Business of the Year
For the shops we return to again and again—because they’re just that good.
Top Nominees:
Ashland Feed Store – More than feed—this store supports the whole community or every species.
Classic Coffee, Tea and Books – A cozy haven for caffeine, bakes, and conversation.
Los Regios Tienda Latina - International groceries and an authentic food truck for foodies seeking out of this world feasts.
Bravo Bakeshop – A soon-to-open bakery promising European delights and local charm.
Caravati’s Architectural Salvage – Vintage finds and reclaimed treasures galore.
Center of the Yarniverse – Spinning passion into every skein.
Changing Reins – A boutique for equestrians and curious treasure-seekers.
Hickory Creek Antiques – An antique lover’s paradise with 40+ vendors.
refunkit – Handmade, heartfelt, and home to the unexpected.
Thrill of the Hunt – Eclectic décor and creative finds in every corner.
Tiny Tim’s Toys & Trains – Pure joy for kids and collectors alike.
🍽 Restaurant of the Year
Celebrating the kitchens and crews behind Hanover’s most memorable meals.
Top Nominees:
Homemades by Suzanne – A legend in local comfort food.
Ash & Olive – A bold new eatery mixing classic technique with fresh flair.
Caboose Market & Café – Seasonal menus that celebrate local flavors.
Origin Beer Lab – Craft beer and delicious dining come together here.
Andy’s Restaurant & Lounge – Come for the food, stay for the community vibe.
Ashland Meat Company at Cross Brothers – Old-school butcher meets gourmet deli.
Ban Thai – Authentic Thai cuisine that warms the soul.
Casa Herradura – A celebration of Mexican food and flavor.
Huddle Up Sports Bar – Where good food and game days go hand in hand.
Iron Horse Restaurant – Classic Southern cuisine served with a side of Ashland’s railroad charm.
Jake’s Place – Southern comfort served with a smile.
Sports Page Bar & Grill – A go-to for family dining and cheering on your team.
IL Forno Bar & Grill – Modern Italian dishes that dazzle.
SweetFrog – Self-serve frozen yogurt fun for all ages.
Café 54 Breakfast & Brunch – Morning magic with bold brews and satisfying bites.
🪠 Service Business of the Year
From the everyday essentials to the experts we rely on.
Top Nominees:
Center Street Sound Co – Providing professional sound for concerts, festivals, and everything in between.
Manning Memorial Services – Dedicated to honoring veterans and their families.
XtraSuite Salon Studios – Offering space and support for independent stylists.
Free Jambalaya - Production studio dedicated to the creation of innovative new works since 2012.
Shaken Not Spurred Mobile Bar – Top-tier service on wheels.
Smallwood Renovations – Quality craftsmanship and customer care you can count on.
Ashland Meat Company – From deli counter to catering—experts in every bite.
Railside Law Group - Providing clients with trusted assistance in criminal law, family law, and estate law.
Long & Foster Ashland - Neighborhood experts who work and live for the love of home.
Francis Plumbing & Heating - second-generation family-owned plumbing you can rely on for installation and service.
Jessica Robertson Photographic Artistry - Picture-perfect senior portraits, headshots, and family photos.
❤️ It’s Your Turn
Nominations are open through May 4, 2025, and every vote counts. The more nominations a business receives, the better their shot at making it to the final voting round. So nominate generously—your local favorites are counting on you!
🗓 Public Voting Begins: May 5, 2025
🏆 Winners Announced: June 11, 2025
📍 Nominate Now: https://go.richmond.com/heartofhanover
Need help with nominations or prefer to vote in person? Swing by the Hanover Economic Development office Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM.
Let’s show our favorite businesses the love they deserve—for all they do, every day, for Hanover County.