Zoning: An essential first step
From the moment your tires crunch onto that gravel driveway—your kiddo singing loudly in the backseat—you can almost hear the gentle cluck of hens greeting you home. You both are already imagining rows of apple trees heavy with fruit, while you're picturing Saturday mornings at the bustling farmers market just down the road. But before you start naming chickens or sketching orchard layouts, there's one important stop on your journey: decoding the wonderful, sometimes quirky world of small-town zoning.
It can be intimidating but you will find friends and experienced locals along the way. So take your time and learn the lingo—because turning your countryside dreams into reality is easier (and more fun!) when you know the ropes.
How Fast Is It? In Southport, NC
How Fast Is It? Exploring Broadband and Cellular Coverage in Southport, NC
Tucked away on the picturesque coast of North Carolina, Southport is a charming small town that has become an unexpected haven for digital nomads, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. While its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural beauty are undeniable draws, what truly sets Southport apart is its robust internet infrastructure. In this post, we'll delve into the world of broadband and cellular coverage in Southport, highlighting how strong connectivity is transforming this quaint town into a vibrant hub for remote professionals.
How Small Towns Can Attract Remote Workers and Digital Nomads
We’ve all heard the chatter: “Everyone’s heading back to the office!” Yet, the reality is that remote and hybrid work—especially for small-business owners and global collaborators—is still thriving. There’s a wonderful opportunity here for small towns to roll out the welcome mat for these new kinds of professionals, especially those who crave the slower pace and friendly vibe that only a small community can offer. If you’re an entrepreneurial spirit on the lookout for a new place to set down roots, or a local official imagining a more vibrant downtown, read on.
A girlfriends weekend in Thomasville
We love planning a great girls weekend, so we decided that a series of itineraries for girls weekends was in order! Sometimes the girls want to get away and play tennis, go horseback riding or spend time on their shared craft. For the first in our series, we escape to the small south Georgia town of Thomasville. This small town has so much going for it - we will likely be returning with new itineraries.
How fast is it? In Fernandina Beach?
When it comes to speed, Fernandina Beach is making waves! The average download speed hovers around an impressive 3,508 Mbps, which puts it ahead of both state (3,170 Mbps) and national averages (2,565 Mbps). If you’re looking for the fastest available speeds in town, Xfinity offers a jaw-dropping 10 Gbps plan – perfect for those who need to download large files or stream high-definition content without a hitch.
Discover the Rich Maritime Heritage of Southport, NC
In the charming coastal town of Southport, North Carolina, lies a treasure of maritime history: the NC Maritime Museum at Southport. This museum is not just a collection of artifacts; it's a gateway to understanding the pivotal role the Lower Cape Fear region has played in shaping the maritime culture of the United States. It's a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and the sea.
It is steeplechase season!
Spring brings so many exciting ways to spend our school breaks and long weekends but we find the thrill of the steeplechase to be a frontrunner! Here are three that you can attend - all near small towns that you can enjoy when you are not caught up in the fun a the tailgate or the race!
A New Catalyst for Women in Business kicks off in Staunton
Walk through downtown, and you’ll find thriving storefronts, creative studios, and bustling cafés—often run by dedicated women we have come to call “Main Street Mavens.” We are finding them in so many of our small towns. An energy and passion that ignites the possibilities that may have sat a little quiet - but not any more. Now, these innovators have a new community hub to elevate their voices and expand their dreams: Valley Women Collab.
The Value of the Village: How Small Towns Model Connection
A friend and colleague and I were talking about how much we see our society disconnected and how so many are seeking community and connection. Knowing my passion about how I see this connection still ingrained in so many of our small towns, he shared an intriguing piece in The Atlantic titled “The Anti-Social Century,” published January 8, 2025.[1] The article paints a picture of society increasingly retreating into personal bubbles, choosing digital communities over the in-person kind. It’s a provoking read and echoes much of what we see in communities across the world while technology keeps us superficially connected, it can also isolate us from genuine neighborly bonds.
Small-Town Spirit and Big Ideas: Meet Staunton’s Megan Burrows of Burrow & Vine
Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton, Virginia, has a way of surprising people. For entrepreneur Megan Burrows, Staunton became the perfect backdrop for her business, Burrow & Vine, and the launchpad for a thriving community of women in small business. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Megan about what brought her here, how her shop came to be, and why she agrees with us at MoxieTowns that small-town Main Streets are brimming with potential.
Bookclubs | a dynamic startup in Camden
Bookclubs is transforming the way book clubs connect and thrive. This innovative platform is a group organizing tool that makes it simple to create, manage, or join a book club. With over a million members worldwide, Bookclubs helps readers come together through polling, scheduling, messaging, book tracking, and more—all in one convenient app.
Are they ALL small towns?
America: A Nation of Small Towns Rediscovered
It seems the heart of America has always been beating strongest in its small towns. From the rolling hills of Appalachia to the sun-drenched streets of Florida’s coastal hamlets, small towns have long been the quiet backbone of this country. But in recent years, they’ve become something more—a destination for growth, innovation, and a new way of life. Technology, for all of its frustrations and impact, is allowing people of all ages and stages to forge new lives in our small towns.
Carolina Cup in Camden: The Heartbeat of Steeplechase Tradition
Camden, South Carolina has long been a beacon for equestrian enthusiasts, and no event captures the town’s spirit quite like the Carolina Cup. This storied race isn’t just about watching thoroughbreds thunder around a track; it’s about soaking in a slice of history, community pride, and serious Southern hospitality—all woven into the exhilarating sport of steeplechase.
Beaufort, NC: A Coastal Village Where Tradition Meets Opportunity
Set on North Carolina's picturesque Crystal Coast, Beaufort is a story waiting to be discovered. Beaufort embodies the charm of coastal living. But beyond its postcard-worthy beauty lies a dynamic community shaped by a mix of retirees, working professionals, and families.
New Bern: A peak into the population
New Bern represents a blend of historic charm, economic activity, and a diverse population. With a population of 32,226 and a modest growth rate of 0.47% from 2020 to 2024, the area is steadily evolving while retaining its small-town appeal.
From Canvas to Cotton: The Armiriki Story
Nafplio, with its rich history and stunning seaside views, provides the perfect backdrop for Armiriki's creative venture. This isn't your typical tourist town, and Armiriki isn't your typical souvenir shop. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets after a delicious meal, you might stumble upon their store - a beacon of artistic expression amidst the traditional architecture. It is like a working gallery – actually, it IS a working gallery.
MoxieTowns: How it started
Like many of you, I’m an idealist—ridiculously visual and experiential. My surroundings matter. They always have. It should come as no surprise that I began my career as a landscape architect and planner. Studying places, materials, people, and their relationships was something I did in my sleep. I lived and breathed design, pouring myself into creating spaces that felt intentional, places where people could truly connect with their environment.
A New Wave of Opportunity on Front Street
Seasonal towns like Beaufort, NC, are often synonymous with seasonal crowds, charming waterfronts, and bustling summer months. But what happens when the tourists leave? We get super excited when we see these towns are turning to co-working spaces to attract year-round residents, diversify their economies, and meet the needs of a growing remote workforce. Beaufort’s newest co-working hub, The Vault, is a shining example of how these spaces can transform a community.
The “third place” in a small town
In every vibrant community—whether it’s a lively city, a cozy suburb, or a quiet rural town—there’s a unique concept called the “third place.” Coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg, “third places” are social spaces beyond home and work (or home and school for younger people). These welcoming gathering spots are where community bonds are formed, woven together through conversations, shared celebrations, and everyday experiences. Whether indoors or outdoors, these spaces are hubs of connection, buzzing with life and open to all. Think of coffee shops filled with morning chatter, central greenspaces where children play, or pubs alive with friendly evening exchanges. In these third places, everyone is on equal ground, creating the heart of a community—a vibrant quilt of belonging and shared joy.
Did you ever dream about being a small town innkeeper?
Have you ever dreamed of running your own event venue in a charming small town? Nestled in the picturesque city of Staunton, Virginia, Batten Green is a newly refurbished property ready for you to step in and create unforgettable experiences. This turn-key event venue is already thriving, with weddings booked and guests eager to experience its historic charm. Located right off Interstate 81, Batten Green offers a strategic and accessible location, making it an ideal spot for weddings, celebrations, and intimate gatherings. With its rich history, modern amenities, and established client base, Batten Green is poised to become a beloved destination for events in the heart of Staunton.