Downtown Freeport Stories

Downtown Freeport is the place where small businesses and entrepreneurs take root. Rediscover Your Downtown and the fantastic business owners who strive to provide the best products and services to our community.

4 E. Stephenson St.

“The Langley Co. began with me, Mady, making jewelry for a fundraiser, and it grew into a brick-and-mortar store that has been located downtown Freeport for 3.5 years now! While we continue to make all of our jewelry in-house, we have brought in other locally handmade businesses (soaps and candles) and filled it with other fun things like clothing, devotionals, greeting cards, and more! I love being downtown Freeport because I was born here and have lived here my whole life, so it’s been the most fun to reconnect or connect with you for the first time in person as you browse our shop! We are open Mondays-Fridays 10 am-6 pm and Saturdays 10 am-4 pm. Hope to see you soon! 😊”

– Mady Clark

7 E. Main Street

“Why downtown? It’s the atmosphere. It’s great to be among the great history and architecture here in downtown. You don’t find it anywhere else in the city.

We are a custom shop. Everything in our store is done by us. These designs are created by us and the production is done by us. We do custom orders for customers, as well.”

– Mark Mannino

123 E. Stephenson St.

“When I first started dreaming about opening my own business, I kept hearing this small but steady voice whisper, ‘downtown.’ It felt like a calling — not just to a location, but to a deeper purpose: to be part of the heart of our community. Being in downtown Freeport has allowed our brand to grow as a positive movement, creating a destination where people can experience beauty inside and out. It’s hopeful, it’s exciting, and it’s just the beginning. We’re proud to be part of the energy and growth that’s happening here.

Something many people may not realize is how much personal intention and heart go into every decision we make. From our focus on five-star customer service to our belief in beauty that starts from within, everything we do is rooted in honesty, education, and care. I’m not just passionate about beauty — I’m passionate about helping people feel seen, heard, and valued. Our business isn’t just about services; it’s about creating an experience where connection and community thrive.”

– Ashley Jackson

119 E. Stephenson St.

“Owning a business in Downtown Freeport places us in the heart of a walkable community with historic charm and a strong sense of local pride. The community and Partnership hosts events and markets that draw consistent foot traffic, creating relationships within the community.

A unique aspect about me as a business owner- the passion I bring to every part of the business. I’m not focused on profit; I’m committed to building genuine relationships with customers, supporting other local businesses, and being involved in the community.”

– Casey Rettenmeier

20 E. Stephenson St.

“Rite-way provides service during and after the sale. We listen to our customers and search to provide the merchandise they are looking for. We sell at discounted prices and offer free delivery and haul away of their old items.

Historic Downtown Freeport has over 180 businesses which makes it the largest shopping area in much of northwest Illinois. With a variety of businesses available and beautiful buildings, many more than 100 years old, it is a wonderful place to shop and visit.”

– Cal Wescott

101 W. Main St.

“I love being part of downtown Freeport because it’s a place where small businesses are woven into the fabric of the community, and every storefront tells a story.

I built my business around creating a welcoming space where people can explore healing, magic, and self-growth. Most people don’t realize how deeply personal and community-driven our mission really is.”

– Janelle Nelson

114 S. Chicago Ave.

My family’s history brought me here, but the community and it’s potential is what keeps me. Mort’s is not just a downtown restaurant – we’re proud to welcome people downtown Freeport and give them so many great reasons to keep coming back.

– Mike Marten

19 E. Stephenson St.

“I love having our family business located in Downtown Freeport because of the unique character that our downtown offers – with a mix of locally owned retail businesses, restaurants, and local cultural events. I have always viewed our downtown as the heart of our great city. We invite you to stop in and view our beautiful showroom, featuring our wonderful collection of fine jewelry brands, custom design service and in-house repair department. Downtown Freeport has been our home for over 80 years. I can’t think of a better place to help our valued clients celebrate their life’s most special occasions.”

– Alexa Fontana Talbert

100 E. Douglas St.

“It is really special to be downtown Freeport inside the Freeport Public Library because we get a range of opportunities to nourish and strengthen the incredible bonds that already exist, catalyze new connections, and operate in a setting that is ripe with the opportunity to learn, grow, and discover in a multitude of ways.

Full Circle Cafe & Collective is unique to Freeport because of how we source our food: as locally and organically as possible. Mix in our flavorful passion to share inspiration and knowledge surrounding local food, and top it off with not using single-use cups or straws; Full Circle Cafe & Collective brings to Freeport a new and unique cafe experience.”

– Kate Frautschy & Amera Striegel

120 S. Chicago Ave.

Being part of downtown Freeport with my beauty shop, Radiance, is more than just a business decision—it’s a piece of my heart. I am a local, born and raised in Freeport, and there is something truly special about the character of these historic buildings and the charm that fills every street.

I love how our downtown comes alive with energy during the many events we host throughout the year. I’m proud to be part of a place that values connection, creativity, and local pride.

Radiance isn’t just a beauty shop—it’s a reflection of everything I love about this town. Next time you’re downtown we invite you into our Lounge. We are a one-stop shop for all your beauty and skincare needs!

– Michelle Harrison

205 N. Adams St.

16 S. Chicago Ave.

Downtown Freeport is important to me because it’s full of rich history and character. The culture and diversity make it a vibrant and welcoming place. I love Freeport and take pride in seeing our downtown thrive. With over 20 years of experience, I’m thrilled to be part of this vibrant community and ready to transform your look. Let’s make every haircut an exciting experience!

– Jaime Rivas

16 N. Chicago Ave.

I am excited and honored to add another dimension to Freeport’s growing art community.
While many artists prefer to work within the confines of their studio, I enjoy the opportunity to bring artwork into the public’s view where they can witness the entire creative journey.

– Tina Cannova

223 S. Chicago Ave.

When Integrity Financial Services began searching for a larger office space, we were drawn to a unique building in the heart of downtown. That search led us to renovate a section of a historic industrial warehouse—an ambitious project that now houses our office, eight other businesses, and a boutique event venue. We call this space The Exchange.
“We chose this location because we believe downtown is vital to the fabric of our community. By investing in its revitalization, we’re proud to play a role in helping it reach its full potential.

– Rocky & Erik Zuberbuhler

18 S. Chicago Ave.

Having my business in downtown Freeport is important to me because I have a lot of memories here as a kid and I want to help create new memories for the next generation. A lot of people don’t know that I’ve coached fighters at the highest levels around the world but I’m committed to building something special right here, where it can truly make a difference.

– Mitch Britt

123 N. Galena Ave.

NextHome First Class is a nationally recognized real estate franchise with deep local roots — proudly owned and operated right here in our community. Our team brings together marketing, consulting, coaching, and sales to deliver a seamless real estate experience. We don’t just work here — we invest, support, and give back to the place we call home.

Proudly rooted in downtown Freeport — where community, connection, and opportunity thrive. Find us at the corner of Business 20 and Route 75, right in the heart of it all.

Connecting people, property, and possibility.

– Kimberly Taylor

327 W. Exchange St.

The purpose of Hughes Recruiting & Consulting is to help companies and people fulfill their purpose through workforce solutions including recruitment and HR consulting. We are proud to have helped over 500 companies and 15,000 people in their employment and hiring journeys. Being in downtown Freeport makes us easily accessible to job seekers, and we appreciate the access to stores and restaurants for ourselves!

– Vanessa Hughes

18 S. Chicago Ave.

– Mitch Britt

107 W. Main St.

Freeport Martial Arts is a community dedicated to building strong relationships inside and outside our academy and helping each other become the best versions of ourselves through a variety of martial arts and fitness classes.

Freeport Martial Arts is a veteran-owned business and an approved training facility for the We Defy Foundation, which helps combat veterans coping with military-connected disabilities. I grew up in Freeport, graduated from Freeport High School in 2003, and founded Freeport Martial Arts in 2022 to create a positive, safe space for kids, teens, and adults in the greater Freeport area to train and grow together. I am also the only International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Certified Black Belt in Stephenson County.

Downtown Freeport is where the action is, and Freeport Martial Arts wants to be visible and accessible to all Freeport residents, especially kids and teens looking for a fun and challenging way to spend their time and energy.

– John Garvens

18 S. Chicago Ave.

– Mitch Britt

18 S. Chicago Ave.

– Mitch Britt

Key Industries

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Construction, Plumbing, Heating, & Service

Private Label Food Manufacturing

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