Owner Derrick Hayes welcomes Columbia to its new location. | Photo by COLAtoday
To celebrate Small Business Week, our team garnered information about local businesses, and out of the ~80 businesses that participated, four of them opened this year. Today, we’re highlighting the new businesses on the block.
2025 businesses
Rest & Replenish Bodywork | Opened in February, Rest & Replenish Bodywork is owned + operated by Jazmine Jones, who blends clinical expertise with intentional touch to restore balance and enhance overall well-being. For Small Business Week (May 4-10), enjoy $10 off gift cards of $75 or more, and $20 off gift cards of $150 or more.
Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks | Owned by a Philadelphia native, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks opened in March in Five Points, bringing authentic Philly cheesesteaks to Columbia. City Editor David tried the Big Dave’s Way cheesesteak — the signature 18-inch sandwich stacked with three cheeses, onions, peppers, and mushrooms on an Amoroso roll. Pro tip — the owner says to try the cheesesteak eggrolls.
Historic Horseshoe History Tour | Thursday, May 8 | Times vary | USC | Free | University archivist Elizabeth West shares the history of Carolina and its traditions.
The Runout Duo- Live Music | 6 p.m. | Steel Hands Brewing, Cayce | Free | Kick off your weekend with live music and brews at Steel Hands.
Saturday, May 10
Main Street Jazz Festival | Saturday, May 10-Sunday, May 11 | Times vary | The Main Street District | Free | ColaJazz presents an exciting weekend celebrating all things jazz.
SC Video Game & Pokémon Exchange | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. | The Marketplace Vendor Mall, West Columbia | Free | Shop from vendors from all over SC that have everything from Pokémon, toys, plush, trading cards, video games, and more.
SC Philharmonic presents Andy and Friends | 7-9 p.m. | Satterlee Hall at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral | $40 | Join celebrated pianist Andy Armstrong during this new chamber series.
Celebrate 23 years of impact with Women in Philanthropy
Presented by United Way of the Midlands
All ticket proceeds will benefit causes that support women and children. | Photo provided by United Way of the Midlands
For two decades, Women in Philanthropy (WIP) has been empowering women and children across the Midlands — raising funds, rallying volunteers, and driving real change in the community.
On Thursday, May 22, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., you’re invited to celebrate WIP’s legacy at POP: Power of Purpose, held at Senate’s End. Enjoy live music from Shejay T.O., great company, and show your support for a meaningful cause.
Born in Ridgeway, Sergio Hudson has become a big name in the fashion industry + dressed over a dozen celebrities at this year’s “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” themed Met Gala, including Stevie Wonder. Hudson had an exhibition at the Columbia Museum of Art in 2024 called “Sergio Hudson: Focused on the Fit.” Read more about it. (The Post and Courier)
Number
The preliminary numbers are in.$3.7 million — that’s the amount Central Carolina Community Foundation raised during this year’s Midlands Gives Day. This year’s donations spanned 580 local nonprofits, thanks to 17,000+ donations.
Development
West Columbia’s city council approved ~$200,000 for repairing the West Columbia Riverwalk after Hurricane Helene’s flooding washed out portions of the path and caused safety concerns. The city hopes to utilize FEMA funds for the project, avoiding taxpayer dollars. (WLTX)
Sports
Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish will compete against the Clemson Tigers for 12 years, beginning in 2027. The two college football teams agreed to a home-and-home schedule, and Clemson has a 5-3 advantage — for now.(AP News)
Plan Ahead
Want to get a head start on planning your Fourth of July? Fireworks with the Phil, presented by Prisma Health — a patriotic concert featuring the SC Philharmonic + a fireworks finale — returns to Segra Park on Tuesday,July 2. Tickets go on sale today at 10 a.m. and start at $10.
Listen
Brandon Miller’s sophomore season was cut short. Does he have hope for a season three? Go beyond the scoreboard and behind the scenes of the Charlotte Hornetswith Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
Stat
$8,000+. That’s how much you could spend if your dog breaks a bone in a car crash, fall, or collision — from wound treatment and x-rays to emergency surgery and aftercare. Luckily,this pet insurance plan could reimburse you up to 90% of that cost.*
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Feature your biz in our 2025 Parents’ Gift Guide
Put your business in front of thousands of daily readers. | Graphic by 6AM City
This month, we launched our 2025 Parents’ Gift Guide to showcase gifts that say I appreciate you to parents, grandparents, neighbors, mentors, and life-long friends.
While we’ve already filled all our slots ahead of Mother’s Day, we’ve opened up a few more for Father’s Day.
Whether your business offers a neat product, one-of-a-kind gift, or unique service that could be enjoyed by a father figure — we want to feature it. Secure your spot by Friday, May 23.
It’s easy to support small businesses across the globe when you shop unique + one-of-a-kind products on Etsy. One of our favorite things to browse is Etsy’s selection of custom artwork. These are five of our favorites:
I say it all the time, but we love a local collab — and these two businesses happen to be some of my favorites. Sakhar Jams is not only being sold at Sour and Salt Bakery but will soon be offered as part of the menu. How fitting for Small Business Week? Stay tuned.
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