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Business Spotlight: Twin Valley Distillers

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Edgardo Zuniga, Owner & Master Distiller

Montgomery County's first distillery since prohibition

What does Twin Valley Distillers offer?

We produce a myriad of whiskeys and bourbons as unique as the Free State. We have an award-winning single cask bourbon, a blended bourbon with tastes of cherry and honey, and a single cask wheated bourbon.  We also produce flavored spirits including rums and vodkas.

What motivated the start of the business?

We wanted to create something unique by combining local grains, family traditions, and an urban setting.

What makes Twin Valley Distillers unique?

We are Montgomery County’s first distillery since prohibition, bringing the art of handcrafted spirits back to the Free State.  Our flavored spirits are truly what makes Twin Valley unique. From our Port Antonio Rums to Limoncello, and everything in between, we’re sure to have something for every occasion.

In Maryland, we experience all four seasons and here at Twin Valley we welcome each season with a new lineup of flavors to match the weather. Be it mango lemonade in the summer or eggnog in the winter, let our spirits help elevate your spirit any time of year.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Rockville is a convenient location for our production.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

We hope to be exporting our products to different states and growing our brand.

About Twin Valley Distillers

Twin Valley Distillers is the first distillery in Montgomery County, brewing whiskey, bourbon, and other liquors.

Visit Twin Valley Distillers at 1029 E. Gude Drive, Rockville, MD 20850

Learn more about Twin Valley Distillers at www.twinvalleyd.com

Follow Twin Valley Distillers on Facebook and Instagram

Business Spotlight: Downtown Brew’s

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Owners, Caleb Ramos (left) and Omaira Giraldo (middle)

Handpicked wines, craft beers, and specialty coffees.

What does Downtown Brew’s offer?

We offer a wide selection of craft beers, fine wines, and specialty coffees. We also serve Peruvian food including ceviches, causas, sandwiches, and hot plates like aji de gallina and tuna acevichada.

What motivated the start of the business?

Our passion for hospitality and bringing people together. We believe in building a community to have fun and cultivate friendship around wine, coffee, beer, and food.

What makes Downtown Brew’s unique?

We don’t sell mainstream beer. We offer a diverse selection of local and imported brews, a carefully curated selection of wines, and our Peruvian cuisine sets us apart. Empathetic service is our passion, driving us to provide exceptional experiences. Efficiency is key, as we are always looking for ways to improve. Above all, fun is our signature, drawing in visitors and creating lasting connections.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

We love Rockville and have been in the area for 16 years. Rockville has great people and great food.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

In the future, we hope to expand to multiple locations.

About Downtown Brew’s

Downtown Brew’s is a cafe offering coffee, wine, and craft beer along with Peruvian cuisine.

Visit Downtown Brew’s at 5751-E Fishers Ln, Rockville, MD 20852

Learn more about Downtown Brew’s at www.dtbrews.com

Follow Downtown Brew’s on Facebook and Instagram

Business Spotlight: MasPanadas

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Founder, Margarita Womack

"Flavor filled pockets of goodness!"

What does MasPanadas offer?

At the heart of our endeavor lies our inaugural product line: MasPanadas, where we embrace the ethos of ‘MAS’ in every aspect. There are no compromises when it comes to convenience, taste, or nutrition. From freezer to table in mere minutes, our empanadas—handheld pockets of flavor—feature impeccably sourced ingredients suitable for any kitchen. Versatile for every occasion—be it a hearty meal, a delectable appetizer, or a satisfying snack—each one is infused with the rich heritage of Latin American culinary tradition.

MasPanadas offer real food for life in the fast lane. Based on typical Hispanic street foods, MasPanadas offer the convenience and portability of fast food and the wholesomeness of a homemade meal for the whole family: a balanced bite in a pocket. This complete snack can be prepared in minutes and is ready to go with you anywhere: microwavable, no utensils needed, high in protein and fiber, and packed with veggies.

What motivated the start of the business?

It was, in a sense, an ‘accidental’ journey. As a native Colombian, I fled to the US 24 years ago when my family faced extortion by a guerrilla group. Determined to turn adversity into opportunity, I focused on my studies, earning both a PhD in science and an MBA. The true depth of separation from family and community hit me when I juggled raising two young boys, managing a newborn, and maintaining a full-time job. Desperate for support, a family friend came to our aid. To keep her with us, we embarked on a venture with a cultural twist—a modern Latin American catering company, designed not only to fulfill a business need but also to secure her visa as our chef. As our business gained traction, we discovered that empanadas were our bestsellers, uncovering a genuine opportunity in the frozen foods market.

What makes MasPanadas unique?

Authentic Latin American Flavors with a Modern Twist: MasPanadas offers traditional Latin American flavors that have been elevated with modern culinary techniques and ingredients. This blend of authenticity and innovation appeals to consumers looking for a fresh take on familiar favorites.

Focus on Nutrition and Clean Eating: MasPanadas prioritizes nutrition and clean eating by using high-quality, wholesome ingredients. Each empanada is crafted with care, ensuring that consumers can enjoy a convenient meal without sacrificing healthfulness.

Convenience without Compromise: MasPanadas delivers convenience without compromising on taste or nutrition. From freezer to table in minutes, these handheld pockets of flavor provide a quick and satisfying meal option for busy individuals and families.

Versatility for Every Occasion: Whether enjoyed as a meal, appetizer, or snack, MasPanadas are versatile enough to fit any occasion. Their portability and ease of preparation make them ideal for on-the-go consumption or entertaining guests.

Empowerment of Vulnerable Women: MasPanadas goes beyond just being a food company by actively empowering vulnerable women through employment opportunities. By hiring and supporting these individuals, MasPanadas not only enriches their lives but also contributes to the community in a meaningful way.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Opportunity. There was a kitchen space readily available with everything we needed to continue scaling once we outgrew the incubator kitchen. 

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

We hope to be the go-to empanada brand across the US!!

About MasPanadas

Latin Goodness Foods keeps you going by providing a better-for-you, clean take on convenient food options inspired in Hispanic tradition. Offering delicious, authentically Latin-inspired, modern recipes from a Colombian founder with a compelling personal story and meaningful social mission. Its first brand is MasPanadas, an elevated version of a “Hot Pocket.” This complete snack or light meal is convenient yet wholesome: microwavable, no utensils needed, high in protein and fiber, and packed with veggies. They are right for the whole family, fitting just as well with a glass of wine as with a juice box.

MasPanadas is located at 14672-B Southlawn Lane, Rockville, MD 20850

Learn more about MasPanadas at www.maspanadas.com

Follow MasPanadas on Facebook and Instagram

Business Spotlight: Nature by Trejok

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Founder, Dr. Kenia Garcia
"Where vintage charm meets contemporary elegance in a celebration of history, creativity, and sustainability."
What does Nature by Trejok offer?

We provide an experience where art, creativity, and meticulous curation come together. At our boutique, you’ll find uniquely designed, ready-to-wear collections of clothing, shoes, and accessories, each piece infused with contemporary flair and a hint of vintage charm. In addition, we curate one-of-a-kind vintage treasures, including elegant Chinas, collectible items, and home goods that inspire and captivate. Every item we offer tells a story and adds a touch of inspiration to your everyday life.

What motivated the start of the business?

As a physician trained abroad, I embarked on this entrepreneurial journey to fund my dream of obtaining a U.S. medical license. But my inspiration goes deeper—it stems from my grandmother, Josefa Trejo, whose legacy of elegance and sophistication profoundly shaped my vision. She spent many years in Europe, amassing collections from Limoges, Richard Ginori, and Royal Doulton, which became symbols of her refined taste. My store is a tribute to her influence, blending my childhood memories with her timeless style. Each of my designs carries the spirit of her grace, interwoven with my modern touch, creating a unique fusion of past and present.

What makes Nature by Trejok unique?

What sets us apart is the personal connection we build with our clients. Each piece in our collection of clothing, shoes, and accessories is one-of-a-kind, often customized to match the client’s lifestyle and personal preferences. In our on-site creative laboratory, customers can witness the craftsmanship firsthand, selecting their preferred materials, colors, and textures. We are a dynamic blend of creativity, originality, and artistic flair. Our clients consistently express awe, saying, “I’ve never seen anything like this,” upon entering our boutique. Whether they’re first-time visitors or loyal returning customers, they’re greeted by ever-evolving displays and innovative products, all reflecting their unique desires.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Our journey began in Rockville in 2019 through the Maryland Women’s Business Center’s retail incubator program, MWBC Shop Local. By the end of the program, we had forged a deep connection with the local community, which inspired us to settle in Rockville Town Square. The warm embrace of Rockville’s people and the strong sense of belonging we feel here have made this the perfect home for our business. We love Rockville, and Rockville loves us back.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

In five years, I envision our business expanding to two or three additional locations across the DMV area, and possibly beyond, into other states. We’re laying the groundwork for growth, with our eyes set on bringing our unique blend of creativity and craftsmanship to even more communities.

In shows we’ve participated in across other states, such as New York, we’ve left a lasting impression that has led to being invited to the prestigious New York Fashion Week on three occasions, showcasing our collection of upcycled shoes, accessories, and clothing. We’ve also been invited to participate in Paris and Milan, and we foresee ourselves gracing the runways of these fashion capitals sooner than expected, as soon as financial resources allow. We are working diligently to make this vision a reality in the near future, as we continue our journey to conquer the world of fashion.

About Nature by Trejok

Boutique featuring unique upscale shoes, upcycled handcrafted fashion, personalized gifts, home items, and exquisite accessories.

Visit Nature by Trejok at 130 Gibbs St, Unit B, Rockville, MD 20850

Learn more about Nature by Trejok at www.naturebytrejok.com

Follow Nature by Trejok on Facebook, and Instagram

MWBC Shop Local is a retail incubator program of the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC). Learn more at www.mwbcshoplocal.com

17 Rockville companies rank on Inc.’s annual 5000 list

Posted on by Amanda Bosland

Inc. 5000 2024: Meet the Rockville Companies Building the Future

 
Companies on the 2024 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2020 through 2023. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2020. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies–as of December 31, 2023. (Since the period under review, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2020 is $100,000; the minimum for 2023 is $2 million. Growth rates used to determine rankings were calculated to four decimal places. All honorees must pass Inc. editorial review.

Listed in order of their ranking, REDI congratulates the following Rockville companies, as well as their leaders and employees, on their continued growth:

#12: Autosled – Rockville

#34: Chaberton Energy – Rockville

#293: PWG Network Solutions – Rockville

#779: ABCD & Company – Rockville

#788: Axiom Consultants – Rockville

#969: iVenture Accounting Group – Rockville

#1138: madVR Labs – Rockville

#1974: Behavioral Framework – Rockville

#2089: Presidential Exteriors – Rockville

#2112: Silver Lining Design Group – Rockville

#2248: Z Family Law – Rockville

#3124 Pioneer Power Group – Rockville

#3192: DogiZone – Rockville

#3217: Columbia Technologies – Rockville

#3470: History Associates Incorporated – Rockville

#4479: Sky Data Vault – Rockville

#4548: fusionSpan – Rockville

 

For the full list, visit: https://www.inc.com/inc500

Business Spotlight: AFC Urgent Care Rockville

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Medical Director, Dr. Adebayo Akindele, and Director of Operations, Dr. Nadine Peart Akindele

"The right care, right now."

What services does AFC Urgent Care offer?

Urgent Care, Primary Care, Occupational Health (including pre-employment physicals, vaccinations and labs), Pre-Operation visits, Sexual health visits, On-site labs, On-site Digital X-Ray, USCIS Immigration Physicals, DOT Physicals, DOT Urine Drug Screens, Instant Urine Drug Screens, Open 8 am – 8 pm, daily, Walk-in appointments welcome.

What motivated the start of the business?

At AFC Rockville, medicine is our practice, but people are our passion. We established this clinic with a vision to provide medical care that truly reflects our values. Our goal is to deliver high-quality, evidence-based healthcare with a compassionate touch, always emphasizing the human side of medicine.

We believe that exceptional medical care goes beyond treatments and prescriptions—it involves listening, understanding, and connecting with our patients on a personal level. Our clinic is dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming environment where every individual feels valued and cared for.

What makes AFC Urgent Care unique?

We offer not just urgent care, but also serve as a full-service primary healthcare center. From routine check-ups to specialized treatments, our dedicated team is here to support your health journey every step of the way.

We’re excited to announce that we’ll soon be launching new community wellness initiatives aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and fostering a stronger, healthier community. We look forward to continuing to serve you and enhance your well-being.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

The vibrant and diverse community in Rockville has truly embraced us, and our location in King Farm Plaza has provided the perfect setting for us to become the community clinic we aspire to be. We’ve been warmly welcomed and supported by our neighbors, making it a joy to serve this incredible community.

We are especially grateful for the Rockville Chamber of Commerce, whose invaluable support and guidance have been instrumental in our journey. Their dedication to fostering local businesses has helped us thrive and connect with the community in meaningful ways.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

Hopefully with brothers and sisters! Expanding and growing to continue our mission and to serve another community that might benefit from our services.

About AFC Urgent Care Rockville

AFC Urgent Care Rockville is a community clinic located in the King Farm Village Shopping Center providing economical, convenient healthcare.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Rockville at 802 Pleasant Drive, Rockville, MD 20850

Learn more about AFC Urgent Care Rockville at www.afcurgentcare.com/rockville

Follow AFC Urgent Care Rockville on Facebook, Linkedin, and Instagram

MWBC Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, presented with Touching Lives Award 2024

Posted on by Amanda Bosland

These nominees have demonstrated outstanding involvement and commitment to touching the lives of others.

The Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC)‘s Senior Business Consultant, Karen Kalantzis, has been recognized for her compassion and dedication to serving the small business community in Frederick County.

The Touching Lives Award recognizes non-management staff that provide front line services to a Frederick County nonprofit’s clientele, or that provide administrative support that sustains the operations of the organization, and does not manage any staff members (employees). These nominees have demonstrated outstanding involvement and commitment to touching the lives of others.

Karen has served as the Senior Business Consultant for the Frederick office for three years, exemplifying MWBC’s mission of empowering small businesses and women entrepreneurs to launch and grow through her multifaceted involvement in community initiatives and programs. As a graduate of Leadership Frederick, Karen utilized this platform to develop the Creative Capital Microgrant (CCM) program, leveraging resources and partnerships to bring this initiative to fruition which provides financial microgrants to qualified businesses in creative industries to accelerate short-term returns on investment and foster ongoing growth.

Karen describes being part of the She Pitch competition as among her favorite accomplishments, helping to get the competition off the ground, and being a part of witnessing the women’s hard work and journey. Karen demonstrates her dedication to supporting female entrepreneurs at various stages of business development, contributing not only to programmatic operations, but also valuable technical assistance to participants, embodying traits of compassion, dedication, and collaboration. Fostering community cohesion through networking events, creating spaces for entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and thrive, underscores her commitment to building a supportive ecosystem where peers can learn from and inspire one another.

“Karen’s unwavering commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs reflects her dedication to advancing MWBC’s mission. With compassion, dedication, and innovative leadership, she not only transforms the lives of her clients but also inspires her peers and uplifts the entire community. Karen’s impact extends far beyond her professional role, touching hearts and making a tangible difference in the lives of those she serves. She is a true beacon of hope and inspiration, deserving of this esteemed recognition.” -Danette Nguyen, Executive Director

Read full article: https://frederickchamberinsights.com/2024/04/08/touching-lives-awards-2024/

About Maryland Women’s Business Center

Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) works with women entrepreneurs and small businesses across Maryland’s Capital Region to help them to start, sustain, and grow their businesses. Through workshops, individual counseling, facilitated peer group support, special resources, and access to capital, MWBC annually helps more than 1,500 women gain the skills, connections, and confidence necessary to navigate entrepreneurship. Learn more at https://marylandwbc.org/

Business Spotlight: Potahto

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Founder, Daphne Lee

Creative & Stylish Plant Products, Home Decor & Gifts

What products does Potahto offer?

We offer air plants, planters, cork bark wall hangings, and moss decor.

What motivated you to start your business?

Years spent navigating the corporate world had left me feeling unfulfilled, craving a deeper sense of purpose. I embarked on a journey to create something meaningful, and turned to my love for home aesthetics and plants. The path into entrepreneurship started on Etsy, a creative platform that enables testing and fine-tuning of our products. Nothing is more gratifying than to offer what brings joy while enriching the lives of our customers.

What makes Potahto unique?

Our distinctive designs, coming out with original decor ideas catering to customers seeking low-maintenance and stylish greenery options help set us apart in the natural decor market. We also have the ability to take custom requests that help address specific customer needs.

How has your experience been owning a business located in Rockville?

It has been incredible and I can’t ask for a better location. Rockville is a major economic hub, it’s business-friendly with access to resources like the MWBC Shop Local business incubator program. Being in a vibrant urban town center with residents living within walking distance, it has made our store their easy go-to when it comes to shopping for gifts or for themselves. Rockville is also a destination for many (for personal and work) from outside the city and state, hence exposing my business to a wider audience which is a real boon.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

We see our products in more plant stores and garden centers throughout the country, coast to coast. And filling our team with creative people to help further enhance our brand in spreading joy and improving the well-being of our customers through our plant and natural decor products. And building upon our workshop offerings to empower more people to get in touch with their creativity and offering fun, meaningful experiences.

About Potahto

Potahto has been dedicated to bringing the beauty of nature and plant-inspired decor products to our customers. Our mission is to offer home and plant decor items that are accessible and inclusive for everyone, and to spread joy while doing it. We craft unique natural decor items for homes and offices, bringing life to tabletops and transforming ordinary walls into stunning vertical garden displays.

Learn more about Potahto at www.potahto.com

Follow Potahto on Facebook and Instagram

Visit Potahto at MWBC Shop Local – Rockville Town Center through June 2024 at 36D Maryland Ave, Rockville, MD 20850 

MWBC Shop Local is a retail incubator program of the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC).

Two Rockville Businesses Listed in the New York Times 25 Best Restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Posted on by Amanda Bosland

"The food scene in and around the nation’s capital is vibrant these days..."

View full list of The 25 Best Restaurants in Washington, D.C., Right Now by the New York Times

In an article published on April 29, 2024, the New York Times listed the top 25 restaurants in the Washingon, D.C. area. 2 of the 25 restaurants are located in Rockville, which is no surprise as Rockville is home to many authentic and culturally diverse cuisines. See the featured Rockville restaurants below:

Z&Z Manoushe Bakery

The crust of Z&Z’s classic manoushe, covered in a forest green slick of olive oil and za’atar, is both tantalizingly chewy and thoroughly crisp, from the edge to the tip of each triangle-cut slice. If the quality and complexity brings to mind artisan pizza, you’re not alone. While the owners, Danny and Johnny Dubbaneh, are quick to point out Levantine flatbreads predate pizza, the brothers’ family-run business does operate a little like a pizzeria, with the many variations on its signature item — don’t miss the manoushe topped with tomatoes, cucumbers and toum — ordered to-go in cardboard takeout boxes. The cozy, four-table bakery is a step up from Z&Z’s farmers’ market beginnings, but it still belies the regional demand the Dubbanehs have helped to create for manoushe, with Z&Z products now available in grocery stores across the Mid Atlantic.

1111 Nelson St
Rockville, MD 20850

Pupuseria Mamá Emilia

Salvadoran food is tightly knit into the fabric of the local culture. Elsy Claros — whose mother, Emilia Cruz Lopez, ran a pupuseria in El Salvador — played a role in spreading the cuisine across the metro area, with the pupuserias she opened with her sisters. Mamá Emilia ups the ante. Ms. Claros opened the restaurant with the help of her daughter, Ericka, in 2022. There are traditional pupusas, oozing cheese, frijoles and chicharrón. But there are also pupusas with fillings that include shrimp, mint and kale. There are nearly 30 different styles, all served hot and freshly blistered, starting at breakfast, when you’d be well served ordering the signature item with eggs, in a red sauce that rivals the best enchilada gravy.

785 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852

Read the full New York Times article: https://www.nytimes.com/article/dc-best-restaurants.html

Business Spotlight: Gold City Jewelers

Posted on by Amanda Bosland
Owners, Anita and Sab Bhatia

Luxury 22 Karat Gold Jewelry. Generations of Expertise. Exceptional Service.

What services does Gold City Jewelers offer?

We are a full-service jewelry store serving the DMV for the last 29 years. We offer everything from solitaire diamonds to diamond jewelry to custom jewelry to unique 22kt gold handcrafted pieces. You’ll find everyday chains, gold and silver bullion, and children’s jewelry, as well. We also offer same-day repairs and gold buying.

What motivated you to start Gold City Jewelers?

I married into a family of jewelers from India—it has been their family business for many generations. My husband’s main business was jewelry manufacturing and diamond wholesale, so I got a first-hand look at the inner working of the jewelry industry. Once my children were old enough, I decided to start my own business selling 22kt jewelry. It started with weekend trunk shows in hotels and with the support and guidance from my husband, and 29 years later, here we are.

What makes Gold City Jewelers unique?

Our diversity, quality, and knowledge of jewelry makes us unique. We have large inventory of solitaire diamonds and engagement rings, everyday diamond pieces, and handcrafted 22kt pieces that are one-of-a-kind. Gold City really has a complete inventory of jewelry that can fit any person for any day and any occasion.

Why did you choose to run your business in Rockville?

Rockville is the largest business hub in Montgomery County. We also chose Rockville because of it’s diversity.

Where do you see your business in 5 years from now?

One of our best suits is being adaptable, and because of this, we’ll ride smoothly into all the future trends of jewelry with ease–from natural to sustainable, to styles that range from over-the-top to minimal. Jewelry is here to stay; styles will change or simply rotate, and we’re here to provide whatever the customer has in mind. My son Vikram is the face of the next generation here at Gold City, and for our business to continue to adapt, grow, and go into the next phase, his presence will continue to make an impact. He has worked at Tiffany & Co. and the Rolex Boutique-Tourneau during his time in NYC and we’re excited to see where his expertise will take us.

About Gold City Jewelers

Gold City Jewelers is a woman-owned, family-run business established in 1995. Quality comes first here, designed to be treasured through generations. Find it all, from solitaire pieces, including engagement rings and tennis necklaces, to everyday diamonds that convey a cool nonchalance. 

Learn more about Gold City Jewelers at www.goldcityjeweler.com

Follow Gold City Jewelers on Facebook and Instagram

Visit Gold City Jewelers at 451 Hungerford Dr, #107, Rockville, MD 20850