Best Places to Work Remotely (and Drink Coffee) in Virginia Beach

If you’re looking for the best coffee shops in Virginia Beach to get work done, you’re in the right place. As a local business owner who works remotely, I’ve checked out just about every café in town (and the surrounding cities). Whether you need strong Wi-Fi, plenty of seating, or just a good spot to focus, these are the places I actually return to for emails, meetings, or a change of scenery from my home office.

Coffee Shop Etiquette Tip: If you’re setting up to work, pay attention to the vibe. Small spots or restaurant-style cafés with limited tables might not be the best place to camp down. Grab a table, sip your coffee, and be mindful of others, everyone deserves a cozy spot to enjoy their brew!

Best Coffee Shops for Working Remotely in Virginia Beach

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Operation Brew

📍General Booth

One of the spots I find myself going back to again and again. Operation Brew consistently delivers great coffee and drinks, and while it’s almost always buzzing, there’s plenty of comfortable seating that makes it easy to settle in and get some work done. The only down side is the wifi can be spotty, so I sometimes use my personal hotspot.

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Colattao Coffee House

📍Independence

Cozy, warm, and full of interesting details, Colattao is known for beautiful latte art and a loyal following. It’s the kind of place you go when you want to feel inspired, but headsup, its popularity can make seating a little competitive. Exciting news: a second Virginia Beach location is opening soon!

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Cafe Genevieve

📍Kempsville

Tucked inside a historic house in Kempsville, this charming café isn’t huge, but it’s cozy. Perfect for a quiet work session or relaxing with a latte and a macaron.

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2D Cafe

📍VB Oceanfront

A unique stop that feels more like an experience than just a coffee run. Known for its Turkish coffee and globally inspired offerings, the two-dimensional design makes it one of the most visually unique cafés in Virginia Beach. Great for a short work session or a creative reset when you want something different.

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Three Ships Coffee

📍Hilltop & Vibe Creative District

Great coffee with a relaxed, homey feel. Ideal for lighter workdays, creative thinking, or catching up on emails.

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American Brew

📍Shore Drive

A solid spot to settle in with your laptop and get some work done. After a work session, don’t miss the chance to walk over to Brock Environmental Center. It’s a great spot to enjoy trails, water views, and fresh air when you need a break from screens.

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Black Rifle Coffee

📍Virginia Beach Boulevard

A more masculine, laid-back vibe with plenty of comfortable seating to settle in. Perfect for long work sessions or catching up with friends over a strong cup of coffee.

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Pinup Coffee (inside Farmhouse Brewery)

📍Kempsville

This cute spot inside Farm House Brewery has great seating both indoors and outdoors. Perfect for a relaxed work session, coffee break, or just enjoying a change of scenery while sipping your favorite brew.

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Astraea Coffee

📍Princess Anne

Lots of seating options and cozy nooks, indoors and outdoors. Housed in a charming old Virginia Beach home near the VB Court House, it has homey vibes perfect for working or relaxing. Grab a coffee here before heading to the TCC Joint-Use Library for a longer stretch of focused work.

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VLOVE Coffee

📍VB Oceanfront

Lots of windows and natural light make this a bright, uplifting spot. Delicious coffee and food, a beautiful minimalist aesthetic, and plenty of people-watching opportunities. Bonus: it’s just a short walk to the beach! 

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Roast Rider Coffee

📍Hilltop

Spacious and right in the heart of Hilltop, this local favorite has been serving great coffee for over a decade. Perfect for settling in and getting work done.

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Daybreak Coffee

📍VB Oceanfront

Even though it’s a small, I had to add this one. Daybreak Coffee is a chill spot with great energy for creative work. Seating is limited, but if you can snag a seat, it’s a lovely place to settle in for a bit and get inspired. Bonus: it’s just a stone’s throw from the beach, perfect for a quick nature break.

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Best Quiet Spots to Work (with Coffee Nearby)

Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library

📍Virginia Beach Boulevard

A hidden gem for remote work in Virginia Beach. Quiet, comfortable, and perfect when you really need to concentrate. They have public computers, printers, and scanners, plus meeting and study rooms. Free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets make it easy to power up your laptop. Pair your work session with a coffee run - grab a drink from Town Center Cold Pressed on your way!

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TCC / City of Virginia Beach Joint-Use Library

📍Princess Anne

Another excellent spot for heads-down work. Calm, spacious, and perfect for long stretches of productivity. Tons of great seating, free Wi-Fi, public computers, printers, and scanners, plus meeting and study rooms. Grab a coffee from Astraea Coffee before heading over!

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Gather VB

📍Town Center

A bright, modern workspace with great coffee and a view overlooking Town Center. Ideal if you want a more structured workday without sacrificing atmosphere. Plenty of room to spread out, take meetings, and feel productive while still enjoying the coffee shop vibe.

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Virginia Beach has no shortage of great places to work remotely if you know where to look. Whether you want quiet focus, strong Wi-Fi, or just a really good cup of coffee, these local spots make remote work a little more enjoyable.

If you’re searching “best coffee shops near me to work” or “remote work coffee shops in Virginia Beach,” start with this list and see which one becomes your new go-to.

Happy working (and sipping).

Cheers,

EBC

Brand Identity Reveal: Sweetness by Lil

Meet Sweetness by Lil, a cozy pop-up bakery serving up wholesome baked goods made with simple, nourishing ingredients. Behind the scenes is Lily, a woman-owned business owner who bakes while balancing college and popping back home for local events.

For this brand, we leaned into a look that feels handmade, warm, and elevated. I created a feminine logo suite with three variations, playful brand marks, and the sweetest little slogan: “have a sweet day, Lil.” The color palette is airy and modern, paired with soft, friendly fonts that feel welcoming without losing that polished touch.

I also designed a few packaging labels so her protein balls, muffins, and cookies feel just as special on the outside as they are on the inside. The full moodboard pulls everything together, from colors and type to packaging mockups that feel cozy, intentional, and true to the brand.

Lily is the daughter of Nicole from The Wandering Petal, one of my longtime clients, and it’s clear that entrepreneurship runs in the family. Getting to support the next generation of a creative, small business–loving household feels pretty full circle. These are a few photos from her pop-up at The Wandering Petal this Fall right after her rebrand.

Interested in branding or web design? Let’s work together. Contact me here to start the conversation!

2025 COASTAL VIRGINIA HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

FEATURING SMALL BUSINESSES AND MAKERS

Happy Holidays!

I loved curating this annual Coastal Virginia Holiday Gift Guide, packed with tasty treats, thoughtful gifts, and experiences you’ll remember forever. I hope this little passion project of mine is a helpful resource for you. Happy shopping!

STOCKING STUFFERS

FLORAL RING DISH

from Sue Bee Pottery

For the friend who has everything — or for you, because let’s be honest, you’ll want to keep it.

ABSTRACTED LINED JOURNAL

from Monellisa

A beautifully illustrated notebook for the writer, dreamer, or list-maker in your life. Each one features Monellisa’s original artwork printed on recycled bright white stock and includes 120 lined pages. Perfect for capturing ideas, notes, or daily reflections.

ALL NATURAL SHOWER STEAMERS

from Wow Just Wow Candle Co

The perfect gift for anyone who deserves a little “me time”. Each steamer transforms an ordinary shower into a spa moment — no tub required.

PROPER HOLD TALLOW POMADE

from Manna & Myrrh

Tough choice picking just one favorite from their lineup — everything’s that good! This all-natural pomade offers firm yet flexible hold without the grease, blending grass-fed tallow, beeswax, and jojoba oil for healthy, styled hair.

PERFUME OIL GLASS ROLLER

from Beach Bee Candle Co.

A little luxury you can carry with you. These perfume oils are crafted with jojoba, grape seed, and sunflower oils, plus premium essential oils — gentle on all skin types and free from toxins. Roll on your wrists and neck for a subtle, all-day scent you’ll love. 

CUSTOM BESPOKE SILHOUETTE PORTRAIT

from Ashlimarierose

A one-of-a-kind piece of art made just for you, or someone special. Perfect as a Christmas tree ornament, a family wall gallery addition, or a sweet little accent for any space. Each Silhouette Mini is handmade with care by Ashlimarierose.

THE DOGWOOD EARRINGS

from Eastwood Terrace

A charming nod to the classic Southern Dogwood! Simple, sweet, and endlessly versatile, these 18K gold-plated bud earrings make for a stylish gift she’ll love.

CRÊPE & COFFEE SHOP GIFT CARD

from Café Dâvina

One of my absolute favorite spots! Located inside The Pinner House, a boutique B&B in Historic Downtown Suffolk. When the place is this good, a gift card isn’t boring or basic.

CUSTOM PORTRAIT ORNAMENT

from J. Bordi Art

Give a memorable gift with a hand-painted, custom portrait ornament by J. Bordi Art. Simply send Jessica a photo of people, pets, or places, and she’ll create a beautiful, bespoke keepsake on wood. A thoughtful and unique treasure that loved ones will cherish year after year.

PUMPKIN + PAPAYA ESSENTIAL FACE MASK

from Veg Out Organics

Give your skin a little love! This mask blends pumpkin and papaya enzymes, sweet almond oil, and kaolin clay to deeply cleanse, refresh, and leave your skin glowing. Perfect for a little self-care.

FESTIVE PINE HOLIDAY CANDLE

from Pretty Palm Candle Co.

Hand-poured, all-natural, and oh-so cozy! With over 60 hours of clean burn time and a warm, festive scent, this candle makes any space feel like the holidays. This candle has to be one of my all-time favorites.

TASTY TREATS & DRINKS

Joan & Janē Mixers

from Joan & Janē

For tough days and toasted nights, Joan & Janē small-batch mixers are made with no refined sugar and real ingredients. Perfect for cocktail lovers, mocktail enthusiasts, and anyone who loves a little sparkle in their glass.

BLOOD ORANGE CBD-INFUSED SELTZER

from The Tenacious Seed

Skip the basic beverages and sip something a little more fun. Refreshing, fizzy, and infused with CBD—perfect for gifting…or keeping all to yourself!

HOT SAUCE & SPICES

from VA Goods

For the foodie in your life! Locally-made, bold, and full of flavor. Mention Emily Benson at their Selden Market shop for 3 hot sauces for $21 or 10% off spices.

MACARONS

from House of Marmalade

These aren’t your everyday cookies. Handcrafted macarons, bespoke cakes, and pastries that are almost too pretty to eat (but you’ll want to anyway). Bonus: they have delicious gluten-free options, too! Stop by their Chesapeake shop or order select goodies online.

LOCALLY ROASTED COFFEE

from Daybreak Coffee

Start someone’s morning (or your own!) with a cup of locally roasted goodness. Smooth, bright, and full of flavor…perfect for drip, espresso, or sipping by the window on a cozy morning. Roasted right here in Virginia Beach.

CANDIED ALMONDS - MOCHA & BEANS

from Lexi.Berlin

A festive twist on a classic treat. Whole almonds and real espresso beans are coated in rich chocolate espresso and handmade in small batches with local Mello Beans espresso. Sweet, crunchy, and a unique stocking stuffer or host gift. Check out Lexi’s shop for gluten-free, sugar-free, vegan, and keto goodies.

CHAI INFUSED HONEY

from Edgewoord Apiaries & Farm

Chai latte vibes meet golden honey perfection! Drizzle on toast, yogurt, ice cream, or warm stewed apples for a cozy, flavorful treat. Sweet, local, and oh-so-delicious.

VODKA

from Beach Vodka

Raise a glass to local flavor! Beach Vodka brings a fresh, coastal twist to every sip, perfect for holiday cocktails or gifting to your favorite cocktail lover.

UNAMI BOMB BEEF JERKY

from Black Garlic Shire Co

Sweet, savory, and packed with a kick. This handcrafted beef jerky is a tasty stocking stuffer (or snack for yourself!). Made with only the freshest ingredients.

LOOSE LEAF TEA

from KēWi Teas by Soul Stir

Beautifully crafted loose-leaf teas made with premium leaves, organic herbs, real fruit, and pure spices. A thoughtful gift for any tea lover.

ORGANIC CRAFT SYRUPS

from Sweet Bird

My favorite flavor so far? Bourbon Vanilla Bean! These seasonal organic syrups are made locally in Virginia Beach and elevate any coffee beverage or holiday treat.

DEHYDRATED FISH FOR PETS

from Tidal Pet Treats

Made with 100% wild-caught drum from Virginia’s coast, these simple, nutrient-packed treats are a tasty and healthy snack your pet will love.

UNIQUE FINDS

CUBIST CROSSBODY HANDBAG

from Shop Directive

Handmade in Virginia by a woman-owned brand, this vintage-inspired bag features rounded corners and versatile style. You can wear it as a crossbody, fanny pack, or shoulder bag. Perfect for carrying your essentials in style!

COZY POINTELLE LONG SLEEVE

from Scottie Swim

Made from the softest 100% cotton, this cozy long sleeve is made for lounging at home or layering for a casual, effortless look. A stylish new brand making waves in the area.

FRAG - ARCHIVAL PRINT

from Jonathan Aumen/Split Rock Art & Design

Perfect for art lovers or anyone looking to add a unique, conversation-starting piece to their collection. Make sure to check out the listing for the meaning behind the art. Use code ‘holiday30’ for 30% off! 

VEGETABLE TANNED LEATHER BELTS WITH SOLID BRASS HARDWARE

from Werther Leather Co

Handmade in Norfolk, VA by Derek, these vegetable-tanned leather belts are built to last. Customize your belt with your choice of leather and solid brass buckle for a timeless, one-of-a-kind accessory.

CYANOTYPE PRINTED GOODS

from Selah Revival

Who needs off-the-rack when you can have one-of-a-kind? Selah Revival creates custom cyanotype-printed pieces…think denim, jackets, and linens, each transformed into wearable (or livable) art. Every piece is 100% unique and infused with light, creativity, and intention.

HANDMADE CHRISTMAS MUG

from Koh Art Ceramics

Handmade with love by Koh Art Ceramics, this Christmas mug adds a little extra holiday cheer to your morning coffee (or cocoa). I look forward to using my coveted mug every year!

AK COWGIRL LEATHER WALLET

from Firebird Studios

For cowgirls, this hand-dyed, laser-engraved leather wallet is all about style and attitude. Minimalist but full of personality, it comes with a button-stud closure and measures 5”x4”. Firebird Studios also makes a cowboy version if you’re shopping for him!

WEIGHTLESS EARRINGS

from Jessica C Folck

Inspired by Tim Skirven’s print ‘Weightless’ at Va MOCA, these earrings are handcrafted by Jessica C Folck. Sterling silver with a hammered texture and dark patina finish—art you can wear!

HEIRLOOM INITIAL NECKLACE

from Of Great Value

The perfect little gift! Of Great Value’s Heirloom Initial Necklace features their new Heirloom Font on a Dune oval pendant. Choose your initial or one for someone you love for a modern take on a classic keepsake.

CUSTOM PET PORTRAIT

from Bee Jay Fine Art

Give your furry friend the spotlight they deserve! Send Brittany a photo, and she’ll create a custom scratchboard portrait that’s as unique as your pet.

CHRISTMAS PARTY BAG

from Fancy Society

Get your holiday sparkle on! Perfect for parties, festive nights out, or just feeling merry, this playful bag keeps your essentials close and your style on point. Cute, fun, and totally giftable.

HAND-SEWN & QUILTED LAPTOP BAGS

from Ohana Bags by Sue

Hand-sewn and quilted, these bags and sleeves are crafted with love and attention to detail. Durable fabrics and thoughtful linings make them as functional as they are stylish. Everyone loves a bag!

COASTAL COMFORT GIFT BOX

from Banks & Beach

This curated gift box is the perfect elevated, yet cozy, gift. It includes a reed diffuser, locally made oyster candle, and a 100% cotton flour-sack hand towel printed with a Coastal Watercolor Map. Packed in a wooden box, topped with a handwritten note, and wrapped in soft green fringe chiffon ribbon, it’s a gift that feels as special as the person receiving it.

‘SALT KEEPER’ HAND-CARVED LINOCUT PRINT

from The Osprey Wing

This hand-carved print features Osprey, Menhaden, and Widgeon grass woven together to honor the life and movement of the Chesapeake Bay. Each piece is printed by hand on archival paper and shipped once the ink is dry. Be sure to explore the rest of the shop!

Experiences

PONY TOUR

from Cowboy Cruise Company

See the legendary wild Chincoteague Ponies up close on this unforgettable tour through their North and South grazing pastures. Learn about their history, care, and the famous annual Pony Swim. Make sure to check out their other tours, too!

SOURDOUGH BREAD CLASS

from She Bakes VB

Learn the art of sourdough from start to finish in this hands-on class! You’ll receive a step-by-step guide, essential tools, and access to a private Facebook group for ongoing support and community. Everything you need to kick off your sourdough journey with confidence.

SCENIC AIR TOUR

from Coastal Seaplanes

Step aboard a Coastal Seaplanes tour and take to the skies above the Chesapeake Bay. Lift off from the water at Legasea Marine in Yorktown and glide over shorelines, rivers, marshlands, and historic coastal towns. Every flight is a front-row seat to the unmatched beauty of Virginia’s coast.

MEDSPA FACE & BODY SERVICES

from Emily Anne Esthetics

Treat someone to rejuvenating services at Emily Anne Esthetics. From Morpheus8 and IPL Laser to microneedling and laser hair removal, their treatments enhance natural beauty and leave skin glowing. A gift card is the ultimate way to pamper!

WOODWORKING CLASS

from O’Connor Woodworking

Give the gift of hands-on creativity! Learn woodturning, joinery, and more, and support a studio that also offers free classes for Veterans and their families through Armed Services Arts Partnership (ASAP).

SEWING CLASS

from The Striped Tomato

Perfect for beginners and confident sewists alike, these small-group sewing classes (max 6 students!) offer hands-on guidance in a relaxed, unintimidating space. Choose from Make & Take workshops or beginner-friendly intro sessions—all supplies and machines included. Located in Sandbridge and open to ages 12+. A cozy, creative gift for anyone who loves learning something new.

COOKING CLASS

from Foodies Local Market

Spend an evening in the kitchen with Michelin-trained Chef Patrick McBrayer, learning preparation skills and cooking techniques. Once the hard work is done, sit back and enjoy your meal in the dining room, served by Chef. Classes include Date Night, Appetizers, Little Chef, Meal Prep, and more!

PERMANENT JEWELRY

from Dainty & Dazzled

Take your mom, sister, or bestie to Dainty & Dazzled for a memory that lasts! Shop timeless, custom-welded permanent jewelry or ready-to-wear pieces. Book your spot at their Virginia Beach studio today.

LEARN TO KNIT WORKSHOP

from The Yarn Club

Cozy up with a new hobby! Join Jeannie at The Yarn Club to learn the basics of knitting and make your very own scarf. Perfect for ages 12+ and an in-person experience you can do with a friend.

POTTERY CLASS

from VB Pottery Studio

Give the gift of creativity with a pottery class at VB Pottery Studio! Angie offers private, semi-private, and group lessons in both hand-building and wheel-throwing. Perfect for beginners or those looking to improve their skills. Treat someone special to a fun, hands-on experience they’ll never forget.

Be sure to check out my local shopping directory!

Cheers,

Emily

Is Anxiety Actually Running My Business?

5 Anxiety Red Flags to Watch & How to Reclaim Control

It’s the classic “chicken or the egg” situation: did the anxiety come with running a business, or was it always there, fueling your success? As women business owners, we’re no strangers to pressure. If you’re like many of us, you probably have a history of being an overachiever.  That part of you is what helped launch your business, but now you’re wondering if you can be ambitious without being anxious. Here are some warning signs to look out for and tips for reclaiming control over your anxiety:

Anxiety Red Flags

Anxiety is sneaky. As an overachiever, you are accustomed to performing - even well - under enormous amounts of pressure. Anxiety has fueled you and disguised itself as perfectionism, productivity, or a relentless drive to do more. You don’t question your anxiety as it's been seen as an asset and yes, some level of anxiety is adaptive and even necessary for survival. But your goal as a business owner isn’t just to survive—it’s to thrive. Here are some signs anxiety might be in charge:

• Struggling to “clock out”: Your work email is connected to your personal phone and you find yourself constantly checking notifications no matter the time.

• Failing to delegate: You’re wearing all the hats in your business and haven’t outsourced - even though you need to.

• Personalizing rejection: Every “no” feels personal and like an overall negative reflection of your business as a whole.

• Imposter syndrome: You question whether or not you belong in rooms you’ve earned your way into.

• Wearing the hustle as a badge: You praise yourself for being a “boss babe” who “hustles” and “grinds” all the time.

Reclaiming Control Over Anxiety:

1. Re-visit your business’s core values and mission statement - when you lead from your “why”, decisions become easier and more aligned.

2. Set boundaries like a boss - successful business owners protect their time, energy, emotional space and finances. They know that nurturing their personal lives makes them better leaders. That email? It can wait.

3. Shift your mindset - every “no” is clearing space for a more aligned “yes.”

4. Practice self-care - focus on the essentials like eating nutritious food, staying hydrated, moving your body, and breathing deeply. These small habits regulate your nervous system and boost clarity.

5. Talk to someone - whether it’s a trusted fellow entrepreneur or a therapist, having a space to process the emotional weight of business ownership can help you feel less alone and much more in control.

You’ve probably heard the in-flight safety announcement: Put your oxygen mask on before helping others. You must put your oxygen mask on before you tend to your business too. In fact, nurturing yourself and your personal relationships first will make you a better business owner. A great business owner is one who doesn’t let anxiety steer the ship.

As a woman business owner myself, I’ve experienced every red flag on this list. I’ve also used these same tools to create a more grounded approach to my business leadership and I wholeheartedly believe you can too!

Cheers,

Rachel Policay, LMFT

Chesapeake Bay Counseling, PLLC

https://chesapeakebaycounselingpllc.com/

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About the Guest Author

I'm Rachel Policay, an online licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) located in Virginia, but more importantly, I am a recovering people pleaser and former 'good girl'. I understand all the reasons that bring you into therapy because they are the same reasons I pursued therapy myself. Our practice specializes in working with women who wear many hats - and in all stages of life. If this resonates with you, go to our website to schedule your free 15 minute video consultation to ensure we'll be a great fit. 

Building Trust & Simplicity: Lake Michigan Contractors Website Launch

When a client trusts your expertise, the creative process just clicks. That was the case with the new website for Lake Michigan Contractors—a full-service marine and general contracting company based in Chesapeake, Virginia.

From the very first conversation, it was clear they wanted a website that was simple, professional, and easy to navigate. They cared about clarity and functionality—but also wanted a clean brand identity that felt strong and reliable.

What We Did:

• Website Design: Designed in Squarespace for ease of use and a modern layout.

• Branding: I created the color palette and font pairing to compliment their existing logo and reflect their down-to-earth, hardworking values.

• Copywriting: My go-to collaborator, Stelly Marketing, handled the copy and brought clarity to their message.

One thing that stood out early on was that meeting deadlines and following through were especially important to them. They needed someone who would do what they said they were going to do—on time and with care. That’s something I take seriously in every project, and it meant a lot to be able to deliver on that promise for them.

Lake Michigan Contractors trusted the process and let me lead the creative direction. It was a smooth build, and the final site feels solid, approachable, and is easy to update.

Why It Works:

• Showcases their project experience with a clean and visual past projects page

• Highlights job opportunities with a strong careers section that helps them attract quality team members

• Clear navigation for potential clients looking for services

• Branded visuals that create a cohesive, professional first impression

• Straightforward copy that communicates who they are and why they’re a trustworthy choice

Projects like this are a reminder that websites don’t need to be complicated to be effective—they just need to be thoughtful, functional, and built with the end user in mind.

Looking for a custom website that works for you?

If your website is still sitting on your to-do list—or it doesn’t quite do what you need it to—I’d love to help.

Let’s take it off your plate and build something that works for you.

Learn more here or email me to get started!

Timeless Design, Tailored for Real Life: The Home by Hahn Brand

Custom Website Design & Branding by Emily Benson Consulting | Copywriting by Stelly Marketing

Some projects just feel effortless in the best way—this was one of them.

I recently had the joy of creating the full branding and website for Home by Hahn, a Philadelphia-based interior design studio run by Kelsey Hahn. Her style is approachable, warm, and timeless—with the kind of modern functionality that makes everyday family life feel just a little more beautiful.

From the beginning, my goal was to create a brand identity that felt just like her work: elevated but never out of reach and personal without being overly trendy.

A Brand That Feels Like Home

Kelsey gave me creative freedom (which is always a gift!) and trusted me to bring her vision to life. She knew she wanted something simple and timeless, with just the right amount of personality—and I think we nailed it.

The logo we landed on is one of my favorites to date: it’s clean, a little unexpected, and pairs perfectly with the color palette of cream, blush, lime, dusty pink, and charcoal gray. It’s soft, stylish, and subtly bold—just like Kelsey.

A Website That Supports, Not Overwhelms

Kelsey didn’t want a big, over-the-top website—she wanted something simple and elegant that would clearly share her services, portfolio, and client experience. The site we built does exactly that. It’s intentionally clean, uncluttered, and easy to navigate, with thoughtful copy written by Stelly Marketing.

One of the things I love most about this project is how useful the website feels. It works in a way that’s going to support her business and make it easier for potential clients to connect with her.

The Magic of Thoughtful Design

Kelsey’s interiors are the kind you want to step into and stay awhile. They’re filled with beautiful textures, practical layouts, and intentional touches—and I wanted the brand and site to reflect that same magic.

It was such a fun collaboration, and I’m so proud of how everything came together.

You can check out the full project at homebyhahn.com.

Need a Custom Website That Works for You?

If your website is still sitting on your to-do list—or it doesn’t quite do what you need it to—I’d love to help.

Let’s take it off your plate and build something that works for you.

Learn more here or email me to get started!

A Brand + Website Glow-Up for Wanderful Boxes

Feminine, minimal, and a little artsy—in the best way.

One thing about Sara? She’s got a heart of gold and an eye for detail—so we made sure the site reflects both.

I recently had the joy of designing a brand-new website for Wanderful Boxes, a curated gifting business based in Phoenix, Arizona. Sara already had an existing logo, but she trusted me to build out a full brand identity from there—including her brand color palette, fonts, and the overall website design.

The result was a site that feels feminine, minimal, and artsy—just like the thoughtful gift boxes she creates.

Old Website

New Website

Stelly Marketing handled the copywriting (as always, Stephanie nailed it!).

Fun fact: Sara was one of my very first clients when I started Emily Benson Consulting over 7 years ago, and it’s always a treat to get to work with her again. She also happens to be the genius behind many of the gift boxes I send to my own clients (yep—those boxes with my logo tag on them? All from Wanderful Boxes).

Visit the new site at wanderfulboxes.com—and if your website is due for a refresh, I’d love to help.

Client Spotlight: House of Marmalade

Custom Website Design by Emily Benson Consulting | Branding by JW Design Company | Copywriting by Stelly Marketing

At Emily Benson Consulting, I believe good design solves problems—even the ones you didn’t know you had. That’s why every website I build starts with one big question:

How can this site actually support your business—not just represent it?

That’s exactly what guided the design process for Heather at House of Marmalade, a charming small business offering hand-crafted, made-to-order baked goods in the 757 area. While she knew she wanted to elevate her digital presence, Heather gave me full creative freedom with the build—and I loved bringing her brand to life online.

A Custom Fit for a Custom Business

Heather had a few key goals for her site:

• Customers needed to be able to order online.

• Different products required different lead times.

• She needed to be able to block out certain pickup dates when she was unavailable.

• Some customers wanted the flexibility to order in advance.

These features aren’t standard in the website platform, but I was able to find and integrate a third-party solution that checked every box. The result is a smooth, user-friendly ordering experience—for both Heather and her customers.

Because when you’re running a small business, little details like this aren’t so little. They can be the difference between staying buried in logistics and finally catching your breath.

The End Result

Thanks to the beautiful branding by JW Design Company and thoughtful copywriting from Stelly Marketing, we created a site that’s clean, elevated, and true to the heart of House of Marmalade. The site is as functional as it is beautiful, giving Heather the tools she needs to keep growing her business with confidence.

Here’s what she had to say about the project:

“Working with Emily Benson Consulting was the best decision for my business. She is highly knowledgeable and was a joy to work with. Emily made a beautiful website that truly highlights my business, and I couldn’t be more thrilled with how it turned out. I didn’t really have a vision of what I wanted, but I gave Emily complete creative freedom, and wow, did she deliver! She took my logo design and branding colors and created something magical; I can’t stop looking at it! When we reviewed the website’s first draft, it was PERFECT, no notes! So, if you’re in the market for a new website, look no further; Emily will take great care of you and your business.”
— Heather, House of Marmalade

Need a Website That Works for You?

If your website is still sitting on your to-do list—or it doesn’t quite do what you need it to—I’d love to help.

Let’s take it off your plate and build something that works for you.

Learn more here or email me to get started!

Behind the Scenes: The New RSG Weddings & Events Website

There’s nothing quite like a wedding website project to make your heart skip a beat—and working with RSG Weddings & Events was no exception. Their team came to me with an existing site but were ready for something more elevated, elegant, and true to their brand. The vision was classic sophistication with a modern edge—just like the epic celebrations they bring to life.

RSG is known for flawless coordination, seamless logistics, and unforgettable “we just got married!” moments—and they needed a digital space that reflected that same energy and excellence.

Step 1: Collaborating with a Dream Team

The foundation for this refresh was already in motion: branding (including logos, fonts, and colors) by JW Design Company, and a solid creative team ready to bring it all together. I created the website outline and structure based on RSG’s goals and client journey, and then teamed up with Stephanie from Stelly Marketing to craft copy that felt both elevated and down-to-earth—just like RSG’s signature style.

Step 2: Elegant, User-Friendly Design

From the start, we aimed to create a site that felt both polished and approachable. I focused on highlighting their gorgeous event photography and weaving in subtle modern touches that complement the timeless aesthetic of their brand. Think: white space, intentional layout, and just the right amount of sparkle.

Behind the scenes, I made sure the site was easy to navigate and update—giving the RSG team tools and training so they feel empowered to make smaller edits or add new content as their business grows.

3. Launch

Once the site was ready to go live, we made sure everything was set up for a smooth handoff. I provided training so the RSG team could feel confident making future updates themselves—whether it’s adding a gallery, tweaking text, or announcing new services.

To make promotion extra easy, I also created a set of social media graphics they could use to share their shiny new site with the world. It’s always my goal to empower clients to not just have a beautiful site, but to use it with ease.

“Emily is a joy to work with! She is super knowledgable and answered all of my questions as well as listened to my concerns. She gave me the tools & knowledge to make smaller edits & additions (if neceesary). My team and I are IN LOVE with our new website and can’t wait to work with Emily in the future!”

— Shaw, RSG Weddings & Events

Looking to bring your brand or website to life? Let’s connect! You can learn more about my services and reach out to me here.

Cheers,
EBC

Fruitive: A Fresh Look for a 100% Plant-Based Café

Working with Fruitive on their recent branding refresh and website update was a treat! With locations in Virginia Beach and Washington, DC, Fruitive is more than just a café—it’s a community centered around health, sustainability, and joy through food.

Here’s a peek into the process.

Step 1: A Vibrant Branding Refresh

Fruitive already had a strong mission, identity, and a well-recognized logo with established fonts. What they needed were brand colors that not only represented their values but also looked great on a website. Building on their existing palette of green, black, and white, I introduced complementary shades of green and blue. These greens symbolize growth, health, and renewal, while the blues evoke trust, calm, and healing. Together, this refreshed palette perfectly reflects Fruitive’s vibrant, organic, and quality-driven ethos while enhancing their digital presence.

Step 2: Capturing the Colors and Flavors of Fruitive’s Menu

Great photography is essential for any website—especially for a café like Fruitive. Beautiful photos not only highlight the vibrant colors and textures of the food but also help convey the quality and care that goes into each dish. I had fun capturing (most of) the photos featured on the website.

Step 3: A Seamless Website Experience

The goal for the website was simple: create a digital space that’s as inviting and easy to navigate as their café experience while clearly communicating their mission and offerings. The site connects to Fruitive’s online ordering platform, making it easy for customers to browse the menu and place their orders. Whether visitors are exploring Fruitive’s story, checking out the menu, or finding a location, the website was designed to be user-friendly, vibrant, and functional.

Step 4: Launching the New Look

After optimizing the site for mobile and ensuring every detail was just right, Fruitive’s refreshed website was ready to go live, perfectly reflecting their mission and values.

Home Page Preview:

“We’ve hired Emily for many projects over the years, and her work is consistently outstanding. Most recently, she updated our website, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. From the very beginning, Emily clearly outlined the project details and scope, ensuring we knew exactly what to expect. She followed through with precision and delivered exactly what was promised. The site looks fantastic and functions seamlessly. Emily’s professionalism, clarity, and dedication make her a pleasure to work with. She is the first person we turn to for many projects and will continue to be in the future.”

— Gregg R., CEO

Stop By and Treat Yourself!

If you haven’t visited Fruitive yet, this is your sign to check it out. I personally love their Sweet Berry Waffles (gluten-free!), PB no J Bowl, and Chai Lattes—they’re absolutely delicious.

Looking to bring your brand or website to life? Let’s connect! You can learn more about my services and reach out to me here.

Cheers,
EBC