Historic Downtown Manassas is a special place, no matter where you are from, what time of year or how long you visit; its streets, shops, restaurants, its history, it is simply attractive and makes you fall in love, making many just want to stay.
We went out to ask some of the local business owners what they love about Manassas, and this is what they told us.
Patricia Kouttab, Kerbobble Toys: A Hub of Community Support
For Patricia Kouttab of Kerbobble Toys, Historic Manassas is synonymous with community.
“We love Historic Manassas for the community. We have so many regular customers who come to visit, some of them live here, some of them just come for the community and it's very supportive to the businesses”, said Patricia.
For her, the support from this tightly knit community has proven to be a lifeline for businesses like Kerbobble Toys, creating an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie that truly sets Historic Downtown Manassas apart.
Janet, Shining Sol Company: A Unique Eclecticism
According to Janet, an employee at Shining Sol Company, the charm of Historic Downtown Manassas lies in its eclectic nature.
“I actually like that it's so eclectic. Every single shop is something totally different. “We don't have a lot of repeats so you can walk from store to store and never see the same thing twice”, said Janet.
For her, the absence of duplicates ensures that every stroll through the historic streets unveils new treasures. In this town, every store is a unique experience.
Deron Blevins, Black Metal Mercantile: Where Old School Meets Community
Deron Blevins, proprietor of Black Metal Mercantile, finds comfort in the fusion of old-school values and a strong sense of community.
“I love Manassas because it's a small town, and it's a Big Town. It's a little bit of everything in one”, is what Deron said, adding that for him, greeting neighbors and building genuine connections are part of the daily routine.
For Deron, the town exudes a familial atmosphere where everyone knows each other, transforming Historic Downtown Manassas into more than just a place to shop—it's a welcoming community.
Candee Roth, Gadfly Ledgers: A Hometown Feel with a Touch of Nostalgia
Candee Roth, is the managing partner at Gadfly Ledgers, a Business Advisory and Accounting Service Office in Historic Downtown Manassas. For Candee, coming to work in the Historic Downtown is like coming to a Hallmark Production.
“To me that hometown feel defines Manassas, especially during the enchanting winter mornings. The twinkling lights, the distant sound of a passing train, I just really love that”, she told us.
For Candee, working in Historic Downtown Manassas is more than a job; it's a daily embrace of nostalgia and the simple pleasures of small-town life.
In the words of these people, Historic Downtown Manassas emerges as a place where community, uniqueness, tradition, and a touch of nostalgia converge. It's a town that not only embraces its history but also fosters a welcoming environment for all who call it home, making it a treasure trove for both residents and visitors alike.
Why do you love Manassas? Tell us. Send us a love note to herbert@historicmanassasinc.org, so we can share with others why you love this charming city.
