Your Guide to 20 Maine Small Businesses Focused on Community and Inclusivity
MK Kitchen - Gorham, Maine
Maine is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming coastal towns, and vibrant local culture—much of which is shaped by its thriving small-business community. From cozy bookstores to innovative wellness studios, Maine small businesses are the heart of the state's economy and play a vital role in fostering a sense of connection and belonging among residents and visitors alike. These enterprises are more than just places to shop; they represent a commitment to health, inclusivity, and community well-being.
In honor of National Small Business Day, we are shining a spotlight on some of the incredible Maine small businesses that align with our mission of promoting wellness and inclusivity for all bodies. Whether you're looking for holistic healthcare options like acupuncture and pelvic floor therapy, exploring a plus-size thrift store that celebrates body diversity, or enjoying nourishing meals at local restaurants, these businesses contribute to the state's rich tapestry of wellness-focused offerings.
Supporting these local gems not only boosts the economy but also reinforces the values of accessibility, diversity, and sustainable living. From a small community bookstore promoting mental wellness through literature to a honey shop that emphasizes sustainable beekeeping practices, each of these businesses contributes uniquely to the wellness landscape of Maine.
Additionally, the state's wellness community includes initiatives such as community gardens, yoga studios fostering mindfulness, and pottery shops that encourage creative expression and self-care. These businesses help make wellness accessible to everyone, reinforcing the idea that well-being comes in many forms—whether it's through nourishing food, movement, or creative pursuits.
By choosing to support Maine small businesses, you're not just investing in high-quality, locally crafted products and services; you're also contributing to a community-driven movement that values inclusivity, sustainability, and overall wellness. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring the beauty of Maine, these small businesses offer opportunities to engage with the community, support local entrepreneurs, and embrace a lifestyle centered around holistic well-being.
20 Maine Small Businesses — Focused on Sustainability, Inclusivity, and Community
Located in the heart of Portland, Hustle and Flow is a boutique fitness studio that offers a variety of classes. From high-energy dance cardio and strength training to more meditative practices like yoga, the studio has something for everyone. With a welcoming and supportive environment, Hustle and Flow Studio is a great place to try out.
Artemis Plus-Size Resale is a consignment shop located in South Portland that specializes in clothing and accessories for plus-size women. They offer a curated selection of gently used items in a range of styles and sizes, making fashion accessible for all.
Maine Mother + Company, located in Brunswick, offers classes and services for expectant and new mothers. Their services include a variety of therapeutic modalities and childbirth education, making it a one-stop shop for all your motherhood needs. Find Amanda there on Mondays and Fridays!
Cultivating Community is a Portland-based nonprofit organization that works to promote sustainable agriculture and community development in Maine. They offer a variety of programs and services, including community gardens, youth education, and a food hub that connects local farmers with consumers. By supporting Cultivating Community, you're not just supporting a business but also contributing to a sustainable future.
Print is a charming little bookstore located in Portland. They specialize in carefully curated books and unique gifts. The store is cozy and inviting, with shelves full of books that are arranged in a way that makes you want to spend hours browsing. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, always happy to help you find the perfect book or gift.
6. Root to Rise Physical Therapy Studio — A Path to Empowerment and Healing
Root to Rise is a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy studio in the Portland area. This type of physical therapy focuses on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, which can be helpful for a variety of conditions, including urinary incontinence, digestive concerns, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. During therapy, a trained physical therapist will work with you to identify areas of weakness in your pelvic floor muscles and develop a personalized exercise program to help you improve your strength and control.
The Messy Cookie is a unique bakery based in Portland, Maine, that offers beautifully designed, custom-decorated cookies for various occasions, along with their Friday gourmet cookie shop hours. They specialize in personalized logo cookies, themed event treats, and creative workshops that bring people together through the art of cookie decorating. Their services cater to corporate events, weddings, birthdays, and more, adding a delicious and artistic touch to celebrations. Whether you're looking for a fun team-building experience or a memorable gift, The Messy Cookie blends creativity with flavor to make every occasion special.
For more details, visit The Messy Cookie.
Near & Native creates handmade candles using all-natural ingredients. Their candles are made with a blend of coconut wax and essential oils, giving them a clean and natural scent. Their candles come in a range of scents, from lavender and lemongrass to sandalwood and cedarwood. Near & Native's candles can be found in shops throughout Maine, as well as online.
Fork Food Lab in Portland is a shared kitchen and food business incubator that provides a space for small food businesses to create and sell their products. They also host community events and classes on food and cooking, making it a great place to connect with like-minded individuals.
Greener Postures is a yoga studio located in South Portland and Falmouth. (A special mention to CV Wellbeing dietitian Janet Steady, who teaches at the South Portland location!) At Greener Postures, students can enjoy a variety of yoga classes, including vinyasa, hot yoga, restorative, and yin. The studio also offers specialized workshops and events, such as beginner workshops and meditation classes. Whether you are new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, Greener Postures offers a unique and inspiring experience that combines connection to your body with mindfulness.
Sarah Madeira Day is an artist based in Portland who creates beautiful and unique art pieces. Her work is inspired by the natural beauty of the state, with a focus on the ocean and the changing seasons. Her art can be found in galleries and shops throughout Maine, and she also has an online store where you can purchase her pieces.
Liz’s Kitchen is a Maine-based meal prep service that brings wholesome, homemade meals to your table with convenience and care. Specializing in fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Liz offers a rotating menu of delicious dishes, from comforting classics to nutrient-dense options catering to various dietary needs. Whether you're a busy professional, a family looking for healthy meal solutions, or someone seeking nourishing food without the hassle, Liz’s Kitchen delivers with flavor and heart.
For more information, visit Liz’s Kitchen.
The Honey Exchange in Portland sells various honey and beeswax products, beekeeping supplies, and educational resources. They also offer workshops and classes, making it a perfect place to learn more about the art of beekeeping and sustainability.
Cee & She Pottery creates beautiful, handmade ceramics. Located in Portland, their pieces are made with care and attention to detail, with each piece being unique. They offer a range of products, from mugs and bowls to vases and planters.
Body Positive Dance Fitness is a Maine-based movement studio that fosters a welcoming, judgment-free space for people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities. With a focus on inclusivity, self-expression, and fun, their classes promote joyful movement through a variety of dance and fitness styles. Whether you're looking to boost confidence, connect with others, or simply move in a supportive environment, Body Positive Dance Fitness encourages you to embrace movement on your own terms.
For more information, visit Body Positive Dance Fitness.
Scratch Baking Company in South Portland uses locally sourced ingredients to create a variety of breads, pastries, and desserts. They also offer classes and workshops on baking and pastry-making.
Six Branches Family Acupuncture offers acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, and gua sha to promote healing and well-being in Portland. The center is dedicated to providing personalized care to each patient, using the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine to address a wide range of conditions, including pain, anxiety, depression, and digestive disorders.
Blanche & Mimi is a boutique home decor store located in Portland's Old Port. This charming shop features an array of unique and stylish home decor items, from vintage-inspired furniture to eclectic home accents.
MK Kitchen is a restaurant located in Gorham that offers a diverse and exciting menu catering to different palates. From appetizers to entrees to desserts, MK Kitchen serves everything with an artistic flair and an eye for detail. Some of the popular dishes at MK Kitchen include lobster cones, handmade ravioli, panko-crusted local haddock, and duck confit.
Erin Flett is a textile designer based in Gorham. She creates beautiful, hand-printed textiles that are both stylish and functional. Her designs are inspired by the natural beauty of Maine, with bold colors and patterns that are sure to make a statement in any home.
As we celebrate these small businesses, we recognize their contribution to Maine's health, well-being, and community. At CV Wellbeing, we're committed to supporting local enterprises and integrating their offerings into our holistic approach to health. If you’re seeking nutritional guidance that incorporates local, sustainable practices, our team of dietitians is here to assist. Contact us to explore how you can support local businesses while nurturing your health and wellbeing.
Written by Alison Swiggard, MS, RDN, LD, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at CV Wellbeing
510 Main Street, Suite 103, Gorham, ME 04038
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