Urbana is home to a wide variety of several independent small businesses. Small businesses are considered the heart and soul in our community. 

From cafes to charming boutiques, they bring unique value to our area. As the holiday season approaches, here are three small businesses that should be on your list this year:

Pumpernickel + Rye

Pumpernickel + Rye is a new school, modern style deli that specializes in breakfast and lunch. They offer everything from bagels and sandwiches, to soups and salads, and smoothies and coffee. 

Popular among students, Pumpernickel + Rye is a go-to spot for breakfast. Claire Truszkowski, class of 2026, is a fan of their avocado toast. She appreciates how “the food is always fresh,” a quality that keeps her coming back. 

In addition to delicious food, owners Megan Hook and Amy Nesbit commit themselves to making “real food made with love.” They opened their doors in November of 2019. Since then, it has been a learning experience for the both of them. 

Being locals from Urbana, they wanted to bring something that hadn’t already existed in the area. 

What sets Pumpernickel + Rye apart is their support for other local small businesses while being a small business itself. Alongside their own products, they also support a lot of other local butchers, farmers, bakers, and other different artisans. 

Their love for Urbana and the Frederick community has motivated Hook and Nesbit to keep going. “Frederick as a whole is a really close knit community compared to other places that I’ve lived. Urbana has a really strong sense of community and I’m proud to be a part of it” 

With a focus on quality, community, and local partnerships, Pumpernickel + Rye has become a destination for students and residents alike. Hook and Nesbit’s dedication to offering real, flavorful food shines through in every dish. 

Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee on the go or sitting down to enjoy a freshly made sandwich, Pumpernickel + Rye is sure to remain a staple in Urbana for years to come.

Sweet Babe’s Creamery

Although the temperatures are dropping, it’s never too cold for ice cream! Sweet Babe’s is a beloved place here in Urbana.

The shop has become a local favorite for its inviting atmosphere and delicious, high-quality ice cream. Known for its handcrafted soft serve, Sweet Babe’s offers a rotating selection of seasonal treats that keep things interesting year-round. 

In addition to its signature ice cream, Sweet Babe’s also offers ice cream cakes and pies, perfect for any occasion. There’s always a treat to enjoy at Sweet Babe’s no matter the season.

The name “Sweet Babe” was an endearing name owner Debbie Duncan’s parents used to call one another, which is what sparked inspiration for the name of her business. 

Running an ice cream shop has always been something Duncan has always wanted to do. Her first job was at Jimmy Cone in Damascus. She later went on to pursue a career in the medical field for over 30 years. Since then, opening the creamery “has been a lot of fun” according to Debbie. 

Being a small business in Urbana is special for Duncan as she has been living in the area since she was in the seventh grade. She is passionate about giving back to the community by doing activities for schools in Urbana. 

Some of the best parts Duncan likes about serving Urbana is the close-knit relationships she’s developed. “I like that I‘ve gotten to know a lot of people as more than just customers,” Duncan added. 

Sweet Babe’s is always the go-to for a sweet treat for UHS students. As for Kayla Dickens, class of 2026, she enjoys going to the creamery with her friends and family regularly. 

“I love to get a vanilla Sweet Babe with hot fudge and marshmallows!” says Dickens. 

The “Sweet Babe” is arguably the most popular item on the menu. It consists of either vanilla or chocolate ice cream, blended together with two toppings. Customers love this one because it allows them to get creative. 

“I think it’s our most popular because it’s our signature dish. There’s so many choices on how you can make it which makes it fun for everybody,” Duncan said. 

Next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, consider Sweet Babe’s. Its positive environment and tasty treats make it a special place where individuals can gather to enjoy not just ice cream, but a sense of community.

Creative Spaces Boutique

Creative Spaces Boutique and Design is a woman and veteran-owned boutique that aims to add creativity to the spaces in your home. 

Owned by Rachele Lowery, she proudly brings design inspiration to local homeowners. 

Owning a boutique has always been a dream of Lowery’s. “It’s definitely not easy but I think the number one thing is you have to execute. You just gotta jump in and try your best”

If you are in need of a holiday gift for someone, Creative Spaces is the place to go. Whether you’re shopping for a family member, a friend, or a little one, Creative Spaces offers a wide variety of unique and thoughtful gifts for anyone on your list. 

“I like to put gifts together so that it’s not always the same gift, and curate it for that special person,” Lowery explained. The personal touch that Rachele brings with every item keeps customers coming back.  

From home decor and personalized items to hand soaps and jewelry, you’ll find something that stands out.

Creative Spaces has become a popular spot for students, for a fun and personalized shopping experience.

Students like to come into the boutique for the “welcoming environment and friendly workers” according to Kaitlyn Fuchsman, class of 2026. 

A visit to Creative Spaces is more than just a quick trip, it’s a place that makes you feel right at home.

These local gems in Urbana, loved by students, are more than just places to shop or eat, but rather a vital part of what makes Urbana a distinctive community.