Local Business Spotlight

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Lucius E. and Elsie C. Burch, Jr. Library is proud to present the Local Business Spotlight program, a year-long initiative dedicated to showcasing and supporting the diverse small businesses that contribute to the vibrancy of our community.

This program connects local entrepreneurs with library patrons, establishing the library as a hub for knowledge sharing and community engagement. Businesses can share their stories, showcase their offerings, and build meaningful connections. Whether established or just starting out, the Local Business Spotlight Program offers a valuable platform for visibility and growth.

Current Spotlights

November 2025: Canela Bites

Founded by Fernanda Gutierrez, Canela Bites is a beloved local bakery celebrated for its artisanal, Latin-inspired pastries and beautifully handcrafted sugar cookies. A Food Chemistry Engineer with a lifelong passion for baking, Fernanda infuses every creation with artistry, flavor, and heart.

After relocating to the United States for her husband’s job, Fernanda found herself missing the comforting flavors of authentic Mexican desserts and bread; a sentiment shared by many of her friends. What began as a simple gesture of baking cookies for a baby shower soon blossomed into something bigger. These creative explorations led to her first custom cookie set and the birth of Canela Bites.

Since then, Fernanda has been an active presence in the Collierville community, sharing her passion for baking at local fairs, farmers markets, and community events. Through Canela Bites, she continues to bring people together with her beautifully crafted and delicious creations.

As part of her Spotlight Month at the Library, Fernanda will join us for two programs: cookie decorating class on Saturday, November 15, at the library. Participants will enjoy a fun, hands-on session learning decorating techniques, creative tips, and festive designs, just in time for the holiday season!

Cookie Decorating Class
Saturday, November 15, 1:30 p.m. | Registration required
A fun, hands-on session learning decorating techniques, creative tips, and festive designs, just in time for the holiday season!

Holiday Market Appearance
Sunday, November 23, 1 to 5 p.m.

Follow Canela Bites online to explore their sweet creations and stay up to date with the latest offerings:

Instagram: @canela.bites
Facebook: Canela Bites

October 2025: POPPZ

Known for their imaginative flavors, handcrafted popcorn, and strong community spirit, POPPZ has quickly become a local favorite for families, students, and snack lovers.

Founded by Jennifer Purney, POPPZ began with a spark of inspiration three years ago. While her then 14-year-old homeschooled son was studying U.S. regions, he became fascinated with the vibrant soda shop culture of the Western states. As he shared his excitement, Jennifer realized there was nothing quite like that here in the South. That simple moment planted the seed for what would become POPPZ, a distinctly Southern twist on the classic soda shop.

More than a snack shop, POPPZ is a community-driven business. They provide first jobs for local teens, support schools, and give back through partnerships with St. Jude, the Humane Society, and more. Their location in Carriage Crossing reflects a mission to help revitalize the area and create a fun, welcoming destination.

Learn more about POPPZ at poppzdrinks.com.

As part of their Spotlight Month, POPPZ will host a special family-friendly event at the library:

POPPZ Original Potion School
Saturday, October 25, 10:30 a.m.
Get ready to don your mad scientist hat and mix up your own fizzy potion in this hands-on activity for ages 6 to 12 and their families! Register on the Events Calendar.

How the Program Works

The Local Business Spotlight Series Program is planned as a twelve-month initiative, featuring a different local business each month. Businesses will be selected based on their community impact, innovation, and unique offerings. Through this program, the Library continues its role as a hub of knowledge and resources for the community.

Featured businesses will be showcased through:

Business Profile: An article or interview on the library’s website and social media platforms, allowing the business owner to share their story, mission, and values with a wider audience.
Community Events: Workshops hosted by the featured business, where patrons can engage directly with business owners, learn new skills, and gain insights into what makes these businesses thrive.

How to Apply

If you're a local business owner interested in being featured in the Local Business Spotlight Series Program, we encourage you to apply! However, please note that not all submissions will be accepted, as the program is limited to 12 businesses over the course of a year.

Application Process:

Submit an application – Fill out the application form at the library or online at this link.
Selection Process – Applications will be reviewed based on business impact, creativity, and alignment with community interests.

We look forward to celebrating and supporting the incredible businesses that make our community thrive!

Endorsements: The Lucius E. and Elsie C. Burch Jr. Library participates in cooperative programs with other organizations, educational institutions, businesses, and individuals. Library sponsorship of a program does not constitute an endorsement of the content of the program, views expressed at the program, or the program presenter, performer, or their business.

Past Spotlights

2025 Business Spotlights

June 2025: Music Box Collierville

Founded by Yelena and Alex Ovando, Music Box is more than a music school, it's a dynamic community hub where students are encouraged to experience music as a language to be heard, read, written, and shared.

With instruction in piano, guitar, voice, drums, ukulele, music production, and technology, Music Box offers private lessons, group classes, performance workshops, and free community events tailored to all ages and skill levels.

July 2025: MidSouth Okinawan Karate

Locally owned and operated, MidSouth Okinawan Karate is led by Sensei Wendy Cohen, a 5th Degree Black Belt with over 35 years of experience in traditional Okinawan Goju Ryu Karate. A Certified Senior Instructor in the Seibukai system and a 3rd Degree Black Belt in the Ryukonkai Weapons system, Sensei Wendy brings deep knowledge, discipline, and a passion for empowering others through martial arts.

MidSouth Okinawan Karate offers personalized training for adults, including group classes, onsite personal instruction, and self-defense seminars, all designed to help students develop physical and mental strength. As part of our spotlight, MidSouth Okinawan Karate hosted special programs at the Library throughout the month of July.

August 2025: Inquisitive Mind Tutoring

Founded by Inaara Panjwani, Inquisitive Mind Tutoring (IMT) has quickly become a cornerstone in Collierville’s educational community, offering personalized academic support for students in grades K to 12. With both in-person and virtual tutoring options, IMT is known for its student-first approach. Their dedicated team of tutors provides tailored instruction to meet each learner’s individual needs. As part of our spotlight, MidSouth Okinawan Karate will also be hosting special programs at the Library during the month of August.

September 2025: Smash Studios Photography

Smash Studios Photography, owned and operated by Collierville native Ashley Isbell, is more than just a business, it’s a lifelong passion. What began as a high school hobby, funded by babysitting money and fueled by an entry-level DSLR, has grown into a full-time photography career capturing life’s most meaningful moments.

Ashleyhas built Smash Studios Photography into a thriving local business known for storytelling through the lens. From weddings across the Mid-South to newborn, senior, family, branding, and headshot sessions, Ashley captures each moment with heart, artistry, and intention.