Funding Meets Fashion at Style Cents: Women’s Career Brunch in Ashland

Dr. Karen Totten White speaking at Women Building Bridges to Business

Funding meets fashion at Style Cents: Women’s Career Brunch, an empowering, thoughtfully curated experience designed to support women entrepreneurs in building confident, sustainable businesses—inside and out. Hosted in partnership with the Downtown Ashland Association, the brunch brings together financial strategy, personal branding, and community connection during Black History Month.

Buffet by Around the Table inside the Gathering Place

Taking place Saturday, February 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at The Gathering Place (155 Junction Drive, Ashland), Style Cents will feature holistic presentations from Dr. Karen Totten White of Emerge New Unlimited and award-winning wardrobe stylist and image consultant Anetra Byrd. Guests will enjoy a buffet brunch by Ashland’s soul food favorites, Around the Table, while engaging in meaningful dialogue, learning, and relationship-building.

“At every stage of entrepreneurship, women are balancing visibility, credibility, and financial responsibility,” said Dr. Karen Totten White, Financial Strategist and Business Growth Consultant. “Downtown Ashland Association understands how important it is to create spaces where women can grow confidently and strategically. This collaboration was inspired by a shared commitment to equipping women with real-world tools, financial clarity, and a professional presence that directly impacts business growth, leadership, and long-term success.”

Dr. Karen Totten White speaking at Women Building Bridges to Business

Dr. White’s session will focus on aligning financial decisions with business goals while strengthening confidence and leadership presence. “I want our guests to leave feeling confident, commanding, and committed,” she shared. “They’ll gain practical financial insights, mindset shifts, and style awareness that support stronger decision-making, increased income potential, and a more intentional personal brand.”

Central to the brunch is the powerful connection between money and image. “For entrepreneurs, our brand is our first impression,” Dr. White explained. “Financial literacy gives us the power to invest wisely in ourselves and our business, while fashion supports confidence, authority, and credibility. When we understand how to manage our money and present ourselves intentionally, we position ourselves for greater opportunities and sustained career growth.”

Anetra Byrd, Wardrobe Stylist, Image Consultant, and Lifestyle Architect

Joining Dr. White is Anetra Byrd, Wardrobe Stylist, Image Consultant, and Lifestyle Architect, whose work centers on authenticity, alignment, and intentional presence. “This partnership is a natural alignment of values,” Byrd said. “Ashland is a town built on authenticity, community, and intentional presence—the very principles at the core of my work.”

Byrd emphasized the importance of image in a close-knit community. “In a town like Ashland, your image is an extension of your credibility,” she said. “Whether you’re a shop owner, a professional, or a community leader, how you present yourself impacts how you’re perceived—and ultimately, how effectively you can serve and grow.”

Her presentation will guide attendees through a personalized framework for building a wardrobe that supports both professional goals and personal identity. “This isn’t just about what to wear,” Byrd explained. “It’s about creating harmony between your inner identity and your outer expression. My goal is to replace wardrobe stress with lasting clarity, so women can move through their day with confidence—whether they’re meeting clients, collaborating locally, or stepping into leadership roles.”

Both speakers highlighted the significance of hosting Style Cents during Black History Month. “Black History Month is a reminder that progress is built through knowledge, resilience, and strategic action,” said Dr. White. “The skills shared in this session—financial literacy, intentional planning, and self-presentation—help women define their futures on their own terms and build legacies for tomorrow.”

Byrd echoed that sentiment, noting the role of style in self-definition and legacy. “Style has long been a medium for claiming identity and space,” she said. “The skills we’ll cover are about curating a personal narrative with intention. In Ashland, where visibility and connection matter, how you present yourself shapes how you’re remembered and the opportunities you attract.”

Style Cents: Women’s Career Brunch invites women entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders to invest in themselves, connect with like-minded peers, and leave with actionable tools to support long-term success.

Event Details
Saturday, February 28
9:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
The Gathering Place, 155 Junction Drive, Ashland, VA
  Free registration: https://www.ashlandvirginia.com/stylecents

Ashland Teen Bootcamps Support Entrepreneurs at Every Age

Divine Assist Youth Center’s Roots & Resilience Black History Celebration

The Downtown Ashland Association continues its mission of cultivating a vibrant, entrepreneurial community with the launch of the Teen Entrepreneur Bootcamp and Pitch Competition, a multi-week program designed to empower young people ages 11 to 18 with the skills, confidence, and vision to turn ideas into action.

Hosted by Divine Assist Youth Center and Sisterly Sweets LLC in partnership with the Downtown Ashland Association, the Teen Entrepreneur Bootcamp offers hands-on workshops focused on entrepreneurship, leadership development, and confidence-building. The program culminates in a Pitch Competition where participants will present their business ideas for a chance to win a share of $2,000 in cash prizes—giving teens a real-world opportunity to practice innovation, public speaking, and strategic thinking.

Taking place February 4, 12, and 26, as well as March 5 and 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 106 S. James Street in Ashland, the bootcamp reflects the Downtown Ashland Association’s belief that entrepreneurship is not limited by age, but fueled by opportunity, mentorship, and community support.

Divine Assist Youth Center’s Roots & Resilience Black History Celebration

“Entrepreneurship is about planting seeds early and nurturing them with the right tools and encouragement,” said Coach Antonio Miller of Divine Assist Youth Center. “When young people are given space to explore their ideas, build confidence, and be taken seriously as innovators, it changes the trajectory of their future. This bootcamp shows our teens that Downtown Ashland believes in them—and that belief is powerful.”

Divine Assist Youth Center has long been a cornerstone of youth development in the community, providing community service opportunities, mentoring, tutoring, recreational programming, and leadership-focused initiatives that help young people thrive both academically and personally. Through this partnership, participants are supported not only as aspiring entrepreneurs, but as whole individuals discovering their strengths and voices.

Sisterly Sweets LLC brings its own entrepreneurial spirit to the program. Known in Downtown Ashland for its from-scratch desserts made with fresh ingredients and thoughtfully combined flavors, the locally owned bakery embodies the creativity, dedication, and passion that define small business success. By opening its doors and sharing its experience, Sisterly Sweets offers teens a tangible example of what it looks like to turn passion into profession.

For the Downtown Ashland Association, the Teen Entrepreneur Bootcamp is a natural extension of its ongoing efforts to support entrepreneurs at every stage—from aspiring teen founders to established small business owners. By investing in youth-focused programming, the organization reinforces its commitment to economic vitality, workforce development, and inclusive opportunity in the heart of Ashland.

As the Center of the Universe continues to grow, initiatives like the Teen Entrepreneur Bootcamp ensure that the next generation of leaders, innovators, and business owners are not only welcomed—but actively championed.

For more information and to register, visit https://www.ashlandvirginia.com/teen

Seize Your Space in the Center of the Universe

Vendors at Ashland Train Day in historic downtown Ashland

Entrepreneurs have been looking for the right moment to claim space, build brand awareness, and plan smarter (while saving money). Downtown Ashland Association is making it happen.

At the Downtown Ashland Association (DAA), supporting small businesses isn’t a one‑off initiative—it’s a year‑round commitment. From education and exposure to real, revenue‑generating opportunities in the heart of historic downtown Ashland, DAA is proud to offer meaningful pathways for entrepreneurs to grow, connect, and be seen.

Education First: Free Entrepreneur Workshops

Free entrepreneur workshops at 6 PM on the first Wednesday of every month

Every great business starts with knowledge—and community. That’s why DAA hosts free entrepreneur workshops at 6 PM on the first Wednesday of every month inside the Ashland Branch Library. These sessions are designed to empower local and regional entrepreneurs with practical tools, shared expertise, and connections that matter.

We believe informed entrepreneurs build stronger businesses—and stronger downtowns.

From Learning to Earning: High‑Impact Vendor Events

Education is only the beginning. DAA then helps entrepreneurs turn ideas into action by creating opportunities to vend at some of the most beloved events in the Center of the Universe.

Where Entrepreneurs Show Up—and Stand Out

Ashland Fourth Fridays (March–October) mark the rhythm of the seasons in the Center of the Universe. Hosted at Ashland Town Hall, these free, family‑friendly destination events welcome spring, celebrate summer, and awe in autumn with live concerts, picnic‑perfect vibes, and entertainment that invites people to linger downtown. From face painting and dancing to the most delicious picnic fixings Ashland has to offer, Fourth Fridays create the kind of relaxed, joyful atmosphere where vendors thrive—meeting customers who are ready to explore, shop, and support small businesses.

Ashland Train Day by Rick Kidd Photography

Ashland Train Day, now in its 22nd year, is nothing short of legendary. Known around the world, this downtown‑wide railroad extravaganza transforms Ashland into a living celebration of rail history and community pride. Model trains, touch‑a‑truck style vehicles, live entertainment, giveaways, immersive history experiences, and an entire kids’ zone—complete with On the Fly bounce houses, obstacle courses, and games—fill the streets. All the while, real trains barrel through downtown, creating unforgettable moments and unmatched foot traffic for vendors.

The Grand Illumination officially ushers in the holiday season in the Center of the Universe. Hosted at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion, this magical evening features live entertainment, traditional outdoor shopping, light‑up contests, prizes, and a breathtaking tree lighting. More than 10,000 twinkling lights outline downtown Ashland, made possible by Dominion Energy, turning the entire district into a festive marketplace where vendors connect with holiday shoppers in a truly memorable setting.

Amplification That Goes Beyond the Event

On the Fly Events on Happy Hour Vibes Networking and Recording Parties

When you partner with DAA, your reach doesn’t stop at your 10x10 space.

Vendors and sponsors are amplified through a robust mix of media that extends far beyond event day. This includes digital storytelling shared locally and around the world, print features, and radio promotion on K101.2 POP Richmond, where brands are heard across the airwaves. Sponsors are also invited to attend Happy Hour Vibes Networking and Recording Parties, creating opportunities to connect, collaborate, and hear their brand amplified in real time.

Select sponsors even see their brand light up the big screen at the historic Ashland Theatre, reinforcing visibility in one of downtown’s most iconic spaces.

It’s not just vending—it’s visibility.

One Sponsorship. A Full Year of Opportunity.

Silver Business Sponsor

$500.00

BECOME A SILVER SPONSOR

Here’s where planning gets easier—and more affordable.

Rather than filling out nine separate vendor applications, waiting for invitations, and paying individual vendor fees throughout the year, businesses can secure guaranteed placement with a Downtown Ashland Association sponsorship.

Silver Sponsorship benefits include:

• A guaranteed 10x10 vendor space at:

  • Every Ashland Fourth Fridays event (March–October)

  • Ashland Train Day

  • The Grand Illumination

• A full year of visibility and support

• Cost savings and simplified planning

• Priority access to Downtown Ashland’s most high‑traffic events

That’s an entire year of vending opportunities—without the guesswork—in the Center of the Universe.

Now Is the Time to Claim Your Space

Downtown Ashland Association sponsorships are more than a marketing opportunity—they’re an investment in your business’s growth and a partnership with a community that shows up for its entrepreneurs.

Guarantee your place today and start planning smarter:

👉 https://www.ashlandvirginia.com/sponsor

Because when small businesses thrive, downtown thrives—and there’s no better place to shine than right here in the Center of the Universe.

Breakthrough Workshop Arrives in Ashland

In a moment when burnout is widespread, motivation feels fleeting, and workplace purpose is harder to pin down than ever, two powerhouse coaching firms—Your Path Coaching & Consulting and CMdA Consulting—are bringing an innovative professional development experience to Downtown Ashland. Their upcoming workshop, Finding Fulfillment at Work in 2026, will be held on December 8 at 2 PM at the Dominion Energy Innovation Center, offering a rare opportunity for professionals to rethink how they define success in the year ahead. With only ten seats available, this session promises an intimate, high-impact environment designed for meaningful reflection and transformation.

Rather than rehashing the familiar formulas of traditional goal-setting, this workshop takes a bold step forward. Participants will explore a human-centered approach that prioritizes the deeper why and how behind their ambitions, moving beyond checklists and temporary motivation. The session introduces a framework that blends mental fitness, self-leadership, and strategic alignment into one cohesive system. Through this approach, attendees will learn to navigate imposter thoughts, protect their momentum, and build the kind of clarity and confidence needed to pursue goals sustainably.

Dorian Cunion leading the Start Up Business Accelerator with Downtown Ashland Association at Around the Table in 2024

A central part of the experience involves three synergistic models that guide participants toward lasting fulfillment. The Power6 Leader Framework sharpens self-leadership and strengthens accountability, helping individuals maintain the consistency required for progress. The Co-Active Model infuses the coaching experience with emotional insight and confidence-building practices, grounding participants in their inherent capacity for success. Finally, a Hybrid Goal Architecture weaves together the ambition of OKRs with the precision of SMART criteria, ensuring that each attendee leaves not only with a vision for 2026 but also with a realistic pathway for achieving it.

For Downtown Ashland Association, bringing this level of coaching expertise to the community is deeply intentional. “Everyone in the daily grind should feel fulfilled in their work,” says Coach Antonio Miller, Executive Director of the organization. He emphasizes how transformative hands-on coaching can be, reflecting on his own experience. “When I became Executive Director of Downtown Ashland Association, I worked one-on-one with Dorian Cunion until I was ready to run. Bringing both Dorian and Cristina to Ashland is one more way we’re helping the Center of the Universe—and beyond—find joy in their work.” The Association already offers free monthly Entrepreneur Bootcamps in the Ashland Branch Library to foster connection and collaboration among locals, but this workshop expands the organization’s commitment by providing a deeper, more individualized experience for those ready to take the next professional step.

Cristina Martinez de Andino

Guiding the workshop are two dynamic leaders known for their wisdom, warmth, and transformative impact. Cristina Martinez de Andino, CEO of CMdA Consulting and widely recognized as The Employee Activator, has spent more than 15 years helping organizations reignite morale and realign their teams. With experience supporting Fortune 500 companies through organizational change, she brings an empathetic, people-first approach to every session. Her workshops blend storytelling with practical tools, empowering participants to navigate uncertainty and turn strategy into action.

Dorian Cunion

She joins forces with Dorian Cunion, an executive coach and small business consultant whose 21-year leadership career with 7-Eleven shaped his expertise in goal clarity, strategic thinking, team dynamics, and organizational culture. Known for his ability to listen deeply and help leaders recalibrate their thinking, Dorian guides professionals toward behaviors and habits that elevate their performance. Together, Cristina and Dorian create a coaching environment that is both supportive and rigorous, challenging attendees to uncover their strengths while building the structure needed for consistent growth.

As the workshop approaches, excitement is building for what promises to be one of the most forward-thinking professional development sessions Ashland has seen. Finding Fulfillment at Work in 2026 invites participants to begin the new year with intention, resilience, and a personal blueprint that aligns their goals with their values. The session will take place on December 8 at 2:00 PM at the Dominion Energy Innovation Center, located at 201 Duncan St, Ashland, VA. Tickets are $69, with only ten available to ensure an interactive and personalized experience.

For professionals eager to step into 2026 with clarity and purpose, this workshop offers a chance to redefine success from the inside out—and to do so with guidance from two of the region’s most respected coaching experts.

Downtown Ashland Association and Ashland Branch Library Empower Entrepreneurs with Monthly Boot Camps

Downtown Ashland Association Executive Director Coach Antonio Miller speaking during the first Wednesday Entrepreneur Boot Camps in Ashland Branch Library

Local entrepreneurs are growing, connecting, and thriving through a new monthly Entrepreneur Boot Camp Series, held the first Wednesday of every month at 6 PM inside the Ashland Branch Library’s conference room.

The first boot camp, held in November, was a resounding success—bringing together business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and creative minds from across the Center of the Universe for an evening of collaboration, resource-sharing, and inspiration. Attendees networked, learned about new opportunities, and gained tools to take their ventures to the next level.

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“I learned such valuable information in a short amount of time,” Local business owner Anna Riccio of GRIT and Drift Beverage Co. shared. “The whole group was so welcoming! I truly felt like I had a ‘seat at the table.’”

The next Entrepreneur Boot Camp will be held Wednesday, December 3, featuring a holiday meet and greet designed for connection and cheer. Participants can mingle with fellow business owners, exchange ideas, and celebrate the season in true Ashland style.

“These monthly gatherings are about more than business,” said Coach Antonio Miller, Executive Director of Downtown Ashland Association. “They’re about community—because when our entrepreneurs connect, the entire town grows stronger.”

Downtown Ashland is already known as a hub for small business innovation. Main Street is lined with local shops, farm-to-fork restaurants, and vibrant public art—all powered by passionate local owners who make Ashland unique. Downtown Ashland Association also offers year-round resources, including a free online Start Up Business Accelerator, on-demand video workshops, and Happy Hour Vibes Networking and Recording Parties at K101.2 POP Richmond—a partnership that helps businesses engage 1.3 million listeners while enjoying mocktails, games, and laughter.

The Ashland Branch Library complements these opportunities by offering free access to powerful entrepreneurial tools through library card membership, including the Hoopla and Libby apps.

To explore more programs from the Pamunkey Regional Library, visit www.pamunkeylibrary.org. For questions or accessibility accommodations, email ask@pamunkeylibrary.org or call the Ashland Branch Library at (804) 798-4072.

Mark your calendars now—the first Wednesday of every month belongs to Ashland’s entrepreneurs.