Here in the ATL Airport District, inclusivity and diversity aren't just buzzwords, they're some of the most prominent and important features of our neighborhoods. Nationally, Pride Month is celebrated each June to commemorate a major turning point in the advancement of LGBTQ+ civil rights in America, and every October we observe LGBT History Month, a time dedicated to teach history and honor significant figures, plus celebrate National Coming Out Day (October 11).
Locally, the ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau knows that the queer community here is a vital part of our make-up, and we work to promote local businesses across our website, social media, PR efforts, advertising and more. Andria Towne, our Chief Marketing Officer, said in a recent Instagram post, "We know that safe space creates investment, it create business, it creates economic development. So, it's important for us to have this conversation all year long." Below is a small sampling of the LGBTQIA+ businesses in the District that have made a big impact:
2000 A.D. Inc., Concepts in Floral Art
💐 3538 S Fulton Ave, Hapeville, GA 30354
This stunning, curated floral gift shop is housed in a beautiful 1870s home within walking distance of downtown Hapeville. The couple that runs the store, Al Dellinger and Tim Thomas, has developed a fan base, making 2000 A.D. more than just a store, it's a destination. Their patrons are people who come to the shop from all over Atlanta, and beyond, for a purpose and with a plan to purchase. Al, a member of the prestigious American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD), is the founder and principal designer who believes in not just selling flowers but also "emotions and memories." Tim uses his background in visual merchandising to curate artful collections, research vendors, and select an indulgent array of pampering essentials: candles, handmade soaps, bath salts, plus unique antiques and homewares. They can whip up an inspired arrangement for any occasion - birthdays, date night, anniversaries, weddings, holidays, or just because! With the addition of their garden pergola, the whole shop is a cozy, transformational space where you can feel all the love that Al and Tim put into it.
Folk Art
🍳 637 N Central Ave, Hapeville, GA 30354
The popular all-day breakfast joint opened its third location in Hapeville in 2024. Owner Rhoda Hill has almost 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry, and she and her partner, MC, who manages each location, wanted to create "a place where anyone could relax and feel at home." It's easy to see from their Instagram page, which posts the photos and stories of their beloved (and well-fed) customers, that they have certainly succeeded in that mission. Folk Art is known for its incredibly robust breakfast menu, craft coffee and cocktails, delicious seasonal options, a wide variety of vegetarian dishes, and impossible to resist desserts - there's truly something for everyone. Not satisfied with serving the community with food alone, they also decorate the walls of the brick interior with original work by local artists and create colorful window art for customers and passersby to enjoy. Special events often include live music on the front patio, LGBTQ+ Mixers, and monthly Bingo After Dark, featuring live music and comedy by local Drag Queens, Olive and Agatha!
Happy Impulse Rebel Art & Queer Shop
👕 (MOSTLY) ONLINE RETAILER
Independent artists and lovebirds, Roberta and Cheryl, own and operate this curated online shop to celebrate the queer community through handmade pieces. Like many couples, these opposites attracted. Roberta is the chaotic, neuro-spicy artist, and Cheryl is the organized manager of said chaos. This marriage comes together to create "Art with Attitude," healthy doses of madness and sanity handcrafted in their home studio. The small business was launched in "the hellscape of the 2020 pandemic" and has been running ever since with unapologetic courage and kindness. Happy Impulse's variety of goods includes apparel, prints, stickers and more, all with something to say. Their t-shirts are unisex fit, "reflecting our belief that gender is a social construct" and come in XS-3XL to accommodate any body type. Grab some merch from their online store, catch them at a pop-up, or follow their socials to find out what makes them defiant by nature, and inclusive on purpose.
Floral Art, Folk Art, and Rebel Art (we love a theme) - the District is proud to promote all of these queer, creative spaces. Check out our website for even more local LQBTQ+ businesses, and be sure to let us know where you go in the #ATLDistrict - share your pics here!
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