E-Newsletter

Made in Fairfax Network helps “small production” manufacturers get connected

Who says we don’t make anything in Northern Virginia? Just in Fairfax County are dozens of small manufacturers making a variety of products including custom furniture, baked goods, personal care products, jewelry — and of course beer and wine. In fact, the county is home to more than 150 small manufacturers. To help them grow, and to encourage more entrepreneurial activity, Fairfax County has created a Made in Fairfax directory to connect local small-production manufacturers to networking groups, marketing opportunities and potential customers. The directory is also a great resource for ordering unique locally made gifts.

Published by the Fairfax County Department of Planning and Development‘s Community Revitalization Section, the directory is a one-stop shop for maker businesses and the people who want to support them.

The new directory is the latest in a series of actions to support small-scale makers through the Made in Fairfax initiative. It was started in 2019 after a study revealed how the county could help support small independent businesses, potentially fill vacant space and create unique places with a local vibe.

Since the study, the county has developed the Made in Fairfax Network to connect small manufacturers; hosted multiple events and created a logo for makers to promote their county made products; and updated the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance to be more welcoming of makers.

“Fairfax County has a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, which is exemplified by the many small production companies that are listed in the ‘Made in Fairfax’ directory,” said Victor Hoskins, president and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority. “I commend the county for publishing this directory to help support these small independent businesses.”

The new directory provides a new way for makers to raise their visibility during the COVID-19 pandemic. The makers listed in the directory represent the rich diversity of cultures and people who call Fairfax County home, such as 344 Frost, an artisan stained glass and ceramics company in Fairfax; Semicolon Craft and Forgeworks, a hand-forged blacksmith-goods business in Reston; Ana’s Twist, homemade gluten-free and vegan foods manufacturer in Lorton; 3D Herndon, a 3D printing business; and Thulisa Naturals, bath and body products manufacturer in the Falls Church area.

Photographs courtesy of the Community Revitalization Section of the Fairfax County Department of Planning and Development

The Made in Fairfax Directory provides an opportunity for residents and supporters to connect directly with Fairfax County makers. Please note that listing in this directory is not an endorsement of businesses or products, and is provided for informational purposes only. Eligible small-scale production businesses located in Fairfax County can apply for a listing through this form.


Where to get a Thanksgiving feast to go

Many popular Fairfax County restaurants are offering great menus for the Thanksgiving holiday, including full carryout to go. Below is a sampling of restaurants in Fairfax County that will not lead you astray for this year’s Thanksgiving dinner, according to Visit Fairfax. Click here to find out more about each restaurant’s Thanksgiving menu. Note that many of these restaurants have closing dates posted for ordering a meal.

  • Chef Michael Schlow of Altra Strada, Merrifield
  • Barrel & Bushel, Tysons
  • Caboose Brewing Company, Vienna
  • Clyde’s, Reston
  • Founding Farmers, Tysons and Reston
  • JINYA Ramen Bar, Reston and Merrifield
  • Kalypso’s Sports Tavern, Reston
  • L’Auberge Chez Francois, Great Falls
  • Lebanese Taverna, Tysons
  • Makers Union Pub for the People, Reston
  • Mount Vernon Inn, Mount Vernon
  • Not Your Average Joe’s, Reston
  • Open Road Grill, Falls Church
  • Sheesh Grill, Chantilly and Merrifield
  • Social Burger, Vienna
  • Trummer’s Restaurant, Clifton

Browse here to find more options. Bon appetit!

Want to burn some pre-Thanksgiving steam at a Turkey Trot or other seasonal festivities? See Visit Fairfax’s events calendar for ideas on getting out of the house safely. There are also many family-friendly attractions you can add to your list for when the whole family is together. And since the day after Thanksgiving officially kicks off the holiday shopping season and is also the popular day to spend outside, Visit Fairfax has posted options for shopping and hiking in the county, too.

Click here to find out more.


Small Business Saturday set for November 28

Small businesses need our help more than ever this year because of the disruption caused by the pandemic. Mark your calendar! This year’s Small Business Saturday falls on November 28. Organized by American Express, the annual event highlights small businesses across the U.S. to encourage communities to Shop Small all holiday season long. Find local businesses by visiting the Shop Small Map.

Click here to find out more .

November 19, 2020