News Summary
Brandon and Valrico are embracing a wave of new businesses and services aimed at enhancing community engagement. Notable additions include North Star Consulting for academic support, Giddings Law Group recognized for client satisfaction, Graze Craze for gourmet charcuterie, Magnolia Soap and Bath’s handmade products, Pink’s Windows for home maintenance, and Lucky Lauren Charters for outdoor adventures. Additionally, ACT for Community Change is promoting an initiative to aid homeowners in need of new HVAC systems, contributing to the overall vibrancy of the communities.
Brandon and Valrico Welcome New Businesses and Services, Fostering Community Growth
Brandon and Valrico are witnessing a surge in new businesses and services aimed at enhancing community engagement and support. Among them is North Star Consulting, which recently opened its doors offering personalized academic and career consulting for both students and adults.
Founded by Christina Sanchez Bonner, M.Ed., North Star Consulting has over 15 years of experience in the education field. Located at 1721 S. Kings Ave., Brandon, this consultancy aims to guide clients in discovering their ideal career paths through a nonjudgmental approach. Services include academic advising, college admissions assistance, educational funding support, as well as resume writing, cover letter creation, and interview preparation. Interested clients can reach out at 813-315-5214 or visit the website www.northstarconsultings.com.
The legal landscape of the area has also improved with the American Institute of Legal Counsel recognizing Brian M. Giddings, Esq., founder of Giddings Law Group, for client satisfaction in personal injury cases for the year 2025. Giddings Law Group, located at 519 E. Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. B, Brandon, offers services based on independent criteria like client feedback and reputation in the community. This newly recognized firm can be contacted at 813-830-8284 or through https://giddingslawgroup.com/.
The culinary scene also has fresh options, with Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards & Boxes launching at 1076 E. Brandon Blvd., Ste. 101. The grand opening included a ribbon-cutting ceremony with local chambers of commerce on May 16. Specializing in handcrafted charcuterie boards and boxes, Graze Craze provides gourmet meats, cheeses, house-made hummus, jams, and fresh produce. The company aims to foster connections through charcuterie while supporting local causes. Further details are available at www.grazecraze.com/brandon-fl or by calling 813-692-9230.
Over in Valrico, Magnolia Soap and Bath Company has opened at 3432 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce. This company offers a range of handcrafted, plant-based bath and body products, including soaps, bath bombs, and body butters. Notably, Magnolia Soap and Bath Company also organizes events where guests can create custom products to celebrate special occasions, such as birthdays. To learn more, visit www.mymagnoliasoap.com/lithia.
For those in need of home maintenance services, Pink’s Windows, owned by Maria Hart, has launched in East Tampa Bay. Providing services like window cleaning, gutter cleaning, power washing, and chemical-free soft washing, Pink’s Windows prioritizes respect for clients’ properties and their time. Residents can inquire at 813-640-0892 or on their website https://pinkswindows.com/east-tampa-bay.
Outdoor enthusiasts can experience fishing adventures with Lucky Lauren Charters, operated by Captain Carl Snodgrass. This charter service offers a comprehensive fishing experience in Tampa Bay with all equipment provided. Customers need only to bring their food and drinks. Legal fish caught during trips will be cleaned for clients to take home. More information and booking options are available at www.fishingchartersruskin.com.
Additionally, ACT for Community Change is promoting the Feel The Love 2025 initiative this year to aid homeowners in need of new HVAC systems. Nomination submissions for this program are currently open, with a deadline of August 31. In the previous year, five local residents received new HVAC units through this effort. More details can be found at www.feelthelove.com.
The opening of these new businesses not only provides residents with enhanced services and products but also contributes to the overall vibrancy of the Brandon and Valrico communities, fostering significant growth for years to come.
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