The T&D Blog

Arika Gray is a Fredericksburg, Virginia–based Marketing Outreach Specialist at Topside Federal Credit Union, known for her community-driven approach to communications and engagement. With over four years of experience in communications, she plays a key role in connecting Topside FCU with the communities it serves—ensuring that outreach efforts are not only informative, but meaningful and accessible. Her work focuses on amplifying the credit union’s mission, increasing awaren

Christina Driskill is the founder of Open Horizon Journeys, a Fredericksburg, Virginia–based travel advisor specializing in thoughtfully designed travel experiences. With a background in education and leadership, she approaches travel differently—focusing not just on where her clients go, but on how their trips are designed from beginning to end. She works with individuals, couples, and groups to make confident decisions, protect their time and investment, and create travel e

Are you raking in cash, but feel strapped at the end of the month? You’re not alone. If revenue is growing but cash feels tight, there’s nothing wrong with your business. You just don’t have a clear picture of where your money is going. I'm Heath Holladay, owner of Red Pine CPA, and I genuinely enjoy helping business owners gain financial clarity to unlock growth and make confident decisions about their next move. If you're wondering whether to hire, what to price, or if you'

Alayna Stiffler, a creative marketing partner and independent business owner with Mia Bella’s Candles, helps businesses elevate their advertising with strategies that convert. Through her brand, she has mastered high-impact advertising concepts, scroll-stopping visuals, relationship-driven marketing that turns attention into repeat sales. Alayna works with small businesses and organizations to simplify their message, strengthen their branding, and create campaigns that attra

Tisha Johnson is a dynamic entrepreneur, community leader, and motivational speaker known for turning vision into impact. As the CEO and Executive Chef of Orleans Bistro in Fredericksburg, Virginia, Tisha has built more than a restaurant — she has created a community hub where food, culture, and connection come together. Her passion for hospitality expanded with the launch of Orleans After Dark Cigar Lounge, where she made history as the first African American woman to open a

Zoraida Sherald Zoraida Sherald is a passionate wellness advocate and lifelong entrepreneur with a mission to help families create healthier, toxin-free homes. An entrepreneur since 1991, she has dedicated her career to working from home and empowering others to do the same. As a Marketing Executive with Melaleuca since 2021, she empowers others to make informed choices about the products they use every day and also helps families create additional income through Melaleuca.

Viviana Herbas, Owner of JTTW Driving Academy Viviana Herbas founder of JTTW Driving Academy formerly SSJI Driving School, LLC has a strong passion for helping individuals gain the knowledge and confidence needed to become safe drivers. With prior experience working with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), she developed a deep understanding of the licensing process and what it truly takes for students to succeed behind the wheel. Since establishing JTTW Driving A

Melissa Constantino Premium General Contractor is a trusted choice for homeowners in the Stafford and surrounding Northern Virginia area who want reliable, high-quality exterior remodeling. Since 2021, our team focuses on workmanship, clear communication, and delivering projects that improve both the appearance and durability of your home. We provide professional service from the first consultation to the final walkthrough. We specialize in a wide range of exterior servic

Elizabeth Brown, Cruise Planners Travel Advisor I’m a planner by nature. It’s how I’m wired. As the wife of an Army veteran and a mom of three, life has always been full, busy, and sometimes beautifully chaotic. Add in two dogs and four cats, and you can imagine there’s never a dull moment at our house. Through it all, I’ve learned how important it is to step away together and create memories that don’t revolve around schedules, sports practices, or to-do lists. That’s where

I Support the Girls - Fredericksburg collects and distributes essential items, including bras, underwear, and menstrual hygiene products, allowing women and folx experiencing homelessness, impoverishment, or distress to stand tall with dignity. I Support the Girls - Fredericksburg became a nonprofit affiliate in August 2022 with our first donation drive and we are currently the only affiliate in Virginia. ISTG-FXBG is completely volunteer and donation based and provides

Lorena G. Guerrero, Owner LG Business Consulting, LLC Lorena Guerrero is an accomplished business consultant with an MBA in International Business and more than 25 years of proven success across diverse industries. Her professional journey includes distinguished military leadership, impactful federal service, and strategic roles in the private sector, giving her a unique blend of discipline, adaptability, and business acumen. Throughout her career, she has specialized in stra

Jenny Books, NMLS #476624 Jenny is a mortgage loan officer where she helps families anywhere in VA buy, build or refinance their homes with confidence and clarity. She thrives on the relationship aspect of her business and loves meeting new people and helping them with one of the biggest decisions/investments they will likely make in life. Her goal is to be your homebuying partner and to walk with you through your entire homebuying journey no matter whether it’s a short journ

Stephanie Spreeman Stephanie Spreeman is the founder and driving force behind Drum Party , a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the restorative power of rhythm to support wellness, resilience, and connection across diverse communities. Grounded in the belief that “healing begins with a beat,” Stephanie has spent years developing immersive, percussion-based programs that help youth, seniors, veterans, and individuals facing neurological and emotional cha

Keisha M. Green She’s a hard-working, fierce, woman-in-tech, but first… She’s a mom of two young men, one fur baby named Arlo, and a carrier of about a thousand big dreams for small businesses across America. With a Bachelor’s in Computer Networking, a Master’s in Business, and a certification in Life Coaching, she blends tech smarts with real-world strategy, and a whole lot of heart. She doesn’t just understand AI. She understands the people trying to figure it out! As the o

Kelly Woods Vaughn At the heart of Colonial Beach’s revival and charm is passionate small-business owner Kelly Woods Vaughn , the driving force behind the beloved Riverview Inn . With a vision rooted in community, creativity, and hospitality, Kelly has transformed the historic inn into one of the town’s most inviting and memorable places to stay. Kelly took on the Riverview Inn with a goal beyond simply offering lodging — she wanted to create an experience. She thoughtfull

Germa and Jim bring a lifetime of global travel experience and cultural curiosity to Global Journeys by Us. Germa, originally from the Netherlands, and Jim, a Virginia native, first met in 1981 while Jim was serving on active duty in the United States Marine Corps and stationed in Sofia, Bulgaria. From the very beginning, travel became a defining part of their shared journey. ​ As a family of six, they have explored the world together, logging countless miles across continent

Bethanyt Sullivan Bethany, who grew up in a military family, has spent the majority of her working years as an executive assistant or office manager, not as it was her calling, rather, it was the best way to provide for her children and pay her bills. A single parent cannot always choose to follow their dreams when life provides unanticipated dead ends and brick walls. In 2010, she walked into her true calling and had the privilege of working at a presidential site and then s

Darlene Brickhouse With over 40 years of hands on experience, I am a skilled and passionate professional seamstress specializing in expert alterations, bridal wear, custom draperies, cushions, bedding, and decorative pillows. Known for meticulous attention to detail and quality craftmanship, I take pride in creating beautifully finished pieces tailored to each client's needs. Sewing is not just my profession, it's my lifelong passion, and every project reflects my dedication

Kathy Donald Elevate Designs & Events was created from a love of bringing people together and making everyday moments feel special. Based in the Fredericksburg/Stafford area, the business focuses on event planning, design, and décor that feels thoughtful, personal, and easy to enjoy. Every celebration begins with listening and understanding what matters most to the client, then building an event that reflects their vision and story. Known for creating welcoming spaces and mem

Deb Newman and Tisha Johnson, Founders of Networking with Tisha and Deb Turning Vision Into Visibility Petite Taway Inc is more than a web design and marketing company—it’s a strategic partner for small businesses ready to grow with intention. With over 15 years of experience in web design, branding, and online marketing, Deborah Newman has built a reputation for creating custom, high-performing websites that truly reflect each client’s vision. What sets Petite Taway apart is