Meet the faces behind the businesses you love! November is filled with holiday markets & ways to support local entrepreneurs & the community.
- Charlsie Pecoraro
- 10 minutes ago
- 6 min read
Gratitude, Giving, & Growing Together as a Local Community!
November reminds us what really matters — community, connection, and the people who pour their hearts into making our towns thrive. As holiday markets open and neighbors gather to shop local, we’re spotlighting a few incredible business owners who represent the best of what “Meet da Boss” stands for: purpose, passion, and people helping people.
At the heart of Humble Hope Candle Co. is visionary founder Seanna Mongan — a woman whose passion for community and justice has created a movement as much as a marketplace. Drawing on years of community outreach, Seanna dreamed up a space where creativity and compassion could work hand in hand.
Through the Cottage, she highlights local artisans, supports sustainable practices, and provides job opportunities for those who often get overlooked. Her mission is simple but powerful: to build bridges through small acts of hope. Whether through a candle, a conversation, or a connection, Seanna’s heart for others fills every corner of Humble Hope — a place that truly feels like a hug the moment you walk in.
Support this local visionary, by purchasing her candles & other products online at (www.humblehopecandleco.com), at her retail location in Central, 1260 Dauphin Street, Mobile, numerous Greer's Market locations, and Greenhouse in Biloxi.
Please note: Humble Hope Candle Co will be at this year's Christmas Jubilee in Mobile, November 14-16th at the Mobile Convention Center.
Fall is the busiest time of year for boss partner, Jessica Zoltek, a licensed insurance agent specializing in Medicare Supplemental plans. She is carving out time to give back to a local in need.
Gifts for Granny — A Community Drive with Heart
This season, Meet da Boss is proud to support Jessica Zoltek’s “Gifts for Granny” drive — a grassroots effort to help an elderly local grandmother and her granddaughter who lost everything in a fire. With no insurance and limited resources, this family needs it all — from cookware to clothing to beds and blankets. Jessica’s campaign is a call to action for neighbors, businesses, and churches to come together and give back. It’s proof that generosity is alive and well in our community — and that one person’s compassion can ignite a wave of kindness.
If you have anything you would like to donate, please contact Jessica at 251-751-5434 or me at 251-545-0481. I challenge you to look around your cozy home and imagine losing everything. Please take a few minutes and gather some things you no longer need. We'll make sure they are delivered to the family. Much appreciation for anything you can do.
For Medicare supplemental plan reviews, schedule time with Jessica by calling her at 251- 751-5434. Annual enrollment ends December 7th.
Redbar Espresso & Market — Dr. Mike Bucknell
When Dr. Mike Bucknell isn’t adjusting spines, he’s brewing up big ideas. His Redbar Espresso & Market has become a staple gathering place for locals who crave great coffee and genuine connection. This fall, Dr. Mike is taking things a step further with the addition of an on-site coffee bean roaster — bringing even more freshness, flavor, and local pride to every cup. Guess what? You will be able to purchase your favorite local roast to brew at home! Redbar isn’t just about excellent coffee and delicious food; it’s about community, conversation, and commitment to doing things right here at home.
Redbar Espresso is located at 7681 Old Shell Road in West Mobile.
Please note: Booking now for holiday parties!
Local Happenings: November Events That Bring Our Community Together
November is packed with opportunities to connect, celebrate, and give back. From cozy holiday markets and charity drives to live music, art walks, and family-friendly festivals, our area comes alive this time of year. It’s the season for supporting local makers, discovering new small businesses, and soaking in the spirit of community that makes our hometown so special. Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts, sipping local coffee, or volunteering to make a difference, there’s something happening for everyone — and every dollar spent locally helps our neighbors thrive.
Junior League of Mobile Christmas Jubilee - November 14-16, tickets available online or at the door. The Gulf Coast’s greatest holiday market features a variety of merchants from around the country under one roof for three exciting days of shopping! Mobile Convention Center, click here to purchase tickets.
30th Annual Christmas in Lights at Belligrath Gardens - November 21st - January 6th. This is a don't miss holiday tradition. Click here for more information. Please note: there are many holiday events happening throughout the next few months at Belligrath. Be sure to explore their calendar for more information.
Mobile International Festival: A celebration of global culture with food, music, and exhibits at the Grounds on November 22. Click here for ticket information.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze: A festive performance at the Saenger Theater on November 23. As the original cirque holiday theatrical event, this annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around awe-inspiring contemporary circus arts. Guests will be on the edge of their seats as a cast of holiday characters come to life, captivating audiences while defying gravity. Broadway World exclaims, “Lose yourself for 90 minutes and go back to those wonderful dreams you had as a kid.” Click here for more information.
LODA ARTWALK - Friday, November 14, 6-9PM downtown Mobile. Celebrating National Writing Day!
Fall Recipes: Southern Comfort for the Thanksgiving Table
When the air turns crisp and kitchens start to smell like home, you know it’s time for Thanksgiving in the South. 🍂 From golden roasted turkey and cornbread dressing to garden-fresh veggies and indulgent desserts, these are the flavors that bring families together and keep traditions alive.This season, we’re celebrating the recipes that warm the soul — the ones passed down through generations, made with love, and served with gratitude. So pull up a chair, pour a mug of fresh coffee, and watch a few of our favorite Southern videos perfect for your holiday table.
🦃 Roasted Turkey: A Beginner’s Guide to the Perfect Bird
If the thought of roasting a whole turkey feels intimidating, take a breath — it’s easier than you think. The secret is all in the prep and patience. Click here to watch my easy to follow video and let's cook together.
🥘 Southern Cornbread Dressing: The Soul of Thanksgiving
No Southern Thanksgiving table is complete without a pan of golden, savory cornbread dressing. Forget the boxed mix — this is comfort food from scratch. Start with day-old cornbread, you'll find a recipe for that on my channel. Click here to cook this classic with me.
🍠 Three-Ingredient Sweet Potatoes: Simple, Sweet, and Southern
Some recipes prove that less really is more — and this is one of them. All you need are sweet potatoes, butter, and a touch of brown sugar. Let's cook this one together...click here to watch.
🥖 Annie Rolls: Fluffy, Buttery, and “To Die For”
Some recipes carry more than flavor — they carry memories. That’s certainly true of Annie Rolls, my mother’s legendary yeast rolls. Named for Annie, the cook at a kids’ camp who shared the recipe with her decades ago, these rolls have been passed down and perfected over the years. Soft, fluffy, and buttery with just the right golden top, they’re the kind of bread you can’t stop at one. Serve them hot from the oven with butter melting on top, and you’ll understand why they’ve earned their reputation as “to die for good.” Click here to learn how to bake them!
🍂 Finish the Feast with Something Sweet - my dessert playlist!
No Thanksgiving table is complete without dessert, and we’ve got you covered. From rich pound cakes and classic pecan pies to indulgent peanut butter cookies, our dessert playlist is full of treats to satisfy every sweet tooth. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these recipes are the perfect ending to a day full of gratitude, flavor, and Southern comfort. Click here to explore 66 options and keep the holiday magic going: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCrWZCuxHFt5PdwxnsoeVSm8KXbbAtBWf&si=NwnVV5z2YIlacyuP
Don't forget to set your clocks back on Saturday night before you go to bed!
Get Out, Get Connected, and Meet da' Boss
As you plan your November outings, take a moment to look beyond the booths, tables, and storefronts — every local business has a story worth hearing. These are the faces fueling our economy, uplifting our community, and keeping our hometown heartbeat strong. When you shop local, you’re not just making a purchase — you’re making an impact. Before you head out, visit meetdaboss.com to connect with the entrepreneurs behind the businesses you love and discover new local gems ready to welcome you this season.
Have a wonderful November - Charlsie