Author: director
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LOOK SALON
More Info: LOOK SALONHours Today: By appointment only
A Holistic Haven for Hair, Skin, and Soul
Located in The Heart of Quincy, Look Hair and Skin Wellness is more than just a salon and place for beauty treatments—it’s a sanctuary where education, wellness, and self-care come together. Owned and passionately operated by Heather Byrd, Look stands out not only for its comprehensive hair and skin services, but also for its commitment to empowering clients with holistic knowledge and practices they can take home.
Where Beauty Meets Education
At Look, every service is rooted in education. Heather and her dedicated team specialize in guiding clients toward a deeper understanding of how to care for their hair and skin—not as isolated parts, but as interconnected elements of overall health. From full hair care to esthetics and full-body waxing, every experience at Look is designed to enhance both outer beauty and inner well-being.
“We educate clients on how to care for their hair and skin as a whole body function,” Heather explains. “We want you to get great results not only while you’re in the salon, but also when you’re at home.”
This philosophy is supported by the salon’s use of clean, science-based products, hand-selected for their effectiveness and safety. The focus is on sustainable beauty that works with your body, not against it.
“Soak in everything you can, always be open to learning and fresh ideas.”
—Heather Byrd, LOOK OwnerA Vision Inspired by Love
Heather’s journey to build Look into what it is today was deeply inspired by her husband, Jason. His unwavering belief in her mission and his encouragement helped her take the leap to expand her vision.
“Jason saw how much I cared about educating clients in ways people haven’t been shown before,” Heather shares. “He led me physically and spiritually, encouraging me to walk proudly into this next chapter.”
That deep-rooted support, paired with Heather’s passion, has shaped Look into a space where people don’t just feel pampered—they feel seen, respected, and understood.
Core Values that Shine Through
At the center of everything Look Hair and Skin Wellness does is a single, powerful value: respect. Respect for clients, past and present. Respect for coworkers and their unique gifts. Respect for self, the business, and the surrounding community.
Kindness, love, and honesty are the heartbeat of the salon. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a loyal regular, you’ll feel the warmth and intention that goes into every interaction.
Their motto? “Where there is a will, there is a way.” It’s a philosophy that resonates in every corner of the salon, where teamwork and positivity make anything possible.
Growth, Recognition, and a Bright Future
2024 was a big year for Look—and 2025 is already off to an incredible start. The salon was recently named a “Highly Recommended 2025 Winner”, an award recognizing exceptional reviews and outstanding performance. This honor solidifies what clients already know: Look Salon is in a league of its own.
In addition, Heather and her team recently expanded the salon, adding two more rooms to enhance the guest experience. These new spaces offer even more room for relaxation, one-on-one education, and the calm, rejuvenating atmosphere that Look is known for.
Heather’s Advice to Fellow Dreamers
When asked what advice she would give to aspiring entrepreneurs or beauty professionals, Heather shares a powerful message:
“Soak in everything you can, always be open to learning and fresh ideas. The light will show you the way if you listen and look for it.”
With this mindset, it’s no surprise Look Hair and Skin Wellness continues to evolve and inspire.
A Community Cornerstone
Being part of the vibrant downtown district is something Heather doesn’t take for granted. She’s excited to be a part of its continued growth and believes strongly in supporting and uplifting the surrounding community.
Look, Hair and Skin Wellness
Heather Byrd, Owner
634 Maine Street
lookhairandskinwellness.com217-440-9825
Mon-Thurs 9-7
Sat 9-3Instagram, Facebook, TIC TOC
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Mane Therapie Salon & Spa
More Info: Mane Therapie Salon & SpaHours Today: By appointment only
In this Heart of Quincy Business Spotlight we highlight Mane Therapie Salon & Spa. Owned and operated by Kris Mason, Mane Therapie Salon & Spa is a green circle salon that provides full haircare, skincare, facial waxing, brow tinting and lamination, lash lift and tints services using the cleanest and safest products and methods.
“I always wanted to do hair, but ended up in the nursing field for seven years first. I loved it but wanted to do hair and take care of people. 29 years later, here I am,” stated Mason. Kris first started with a friend’s salon for a year and then went into a suite with several stylists. “It was all a learning curve,” she stated. First, I had to learn what being an independent stylist on my own was like.” Kris worked part-time at a restaurant for nine years to supplement her income while she was building clientele. She bought her building, 838 Hampshire Street, in 2009. Two stylists and a nail tech rented booth spaces from her.
Kris has seen her share of ups and downs. In 2012, she purchased the building at 834 Hampshire and did major renovations. “Once completed, I had 9 booth renters–until the storm of 2015.” That storm leveled her spa (834) and damaged her salon (838). The 834 building was demolished and 838 was remodeled into the salon/spa/small boutique-style business it is today.
Kris attributes her success to having hired a business coach. “I wanted to build something that I could be proud of, help others, myself, and my business.” Growing a culture that was healthy in all aspects was important. She switched to an employee commission/hourly salon and spa and has never looked back.
Above/far right photo: Emily Goellner, stylist & Kris Mason, Mane Therapie Salon & Spa Owner
838 Hampshire Street • 217-221-8988 • manetherapiesalonandspa.com
HOURS
Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday 9am-7pm, Wednesday Noon-8pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-3pmCORE VALUES
Integrity, Health Conscious, EducationIf you would like your District business featured in our Heart of Quincy series, please fill out the form. Be sure to send 4-5 photos of your business, your logo, etc.
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REV. RAVEN & THE CHAIN SMOKIN’ ALTAR BOYS TO PERFORM AT 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT ON AUGUST 8
More Info: REV. RAVEN & THE CHAIN SMOKIN’ ALTAR BOYS TO PERFORM AT 2025 BLUES IN THE DISTRICT CONCERT ON AUGUST 8Hours Today: By appointment only
Blues In The District, a beloved tradition in Quincy, IL, draws music lovers together to celebrate the soulful, emotional, and electrifying sounds of the Blues. Rev. Raven & the Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys will take the stage at 5:30pm on Friday, August 8 in Washington Park. The Reverend has opened for a variety of acts including B.B King, Gatemouth Brown, Pinetop Perkins, Lonnie Brooks, Lefty Dizz, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Jeff Healy, and numerous others at festivals.
“This fifth concert in the Blues In The District series brings Reverend Raven and the Chain Smokin’g’ Altar Boys– a traditional Blues band with a lot of passion for the genre and performing,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “Concert goers can expect a great night of music. They play original songs with nods to Slim Harpo, Little Walter, Jimmy Rogers, Billy Boy Arnold, Junior Wells and the three Kings.” In addition to Blessing Health System in partnership with Quincy Children’s Museum children’s activities, families will enjoy food from two local establishments—JKW BBQ and Big Bro’s BBQ. TCBY will be in the park with frozen yogurt treats as well.
“Started in 1998, 2025 marks the 28th series of Blues In The District,” stated Executive Director Brianna Rivera. “This year’s line up is once again top notch. We look forward to seeing everyone enjoy this beloved tradition. We invite everyone to bring food and drinks, lawn chairs and friends for a great time in Washington Park.” The District reminds attendees that tents and glass containers are not allowed.
Blues In The District takes place the second and fourth Friday of June, July, and August. The final performers of the 2025 Blues In The District lineup will be Lil’ Ed and The Blues Imperials on August 22. For more information about food vendors, and entertainment for children visit thedistrictquincy.com.
“We couldn’t host these concerts without our sponsors,” stated Rivera. “The sponsors for this concert include: See Quincy, State Street Bank, and Steinkamp Hauling. A very special thanks goes out to our merch sponsor, Expressions by Christine; our stay sponsor, The Atrium; and our media sponsor, Townsquare Media.” Blues In The District, along with band merchandise, will be available in The District’s red tent near the stage.
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RIVER ROOTS
More Info: RIVER ROOTSHours Today: By appointment only
A Quincy Classic with Deep Local Roots
River Roots sits on Maine Street like a time capsule with a pulse—part headshop, part local art gallery, part community living room. The kind of place you walk into “just to look around” and end up staying a while because it feels good to be there. Owned by Amy Phelps, River Roots has become a Quincy staple for people who appreciate old-school culture, handmade creativity, and a shop that’s clearly built with love.
“We’re an original old school headshop,” Amy says, and she means that in the best way. River Roots specializes in glass art, especially pieces made by artists from Quincy and other Mississippi River towns. It isn’t mass-produced, cookie-cutter inventory. It’s local work with personality—pieces that carry a little bit of the region in them.
Amy started River Roots with her heart more than a business plan. She was looking ahead to retirement and wanted to spend that next chapter doing something that genuinely made her happy. “I wanted something to do that I love leading into my retirement,” she explains. But it wasn’t just about her—it was about Quincy too. “Quincy needed a cool hippy store,” she says, so she built one.
Her vision has always been rooted in people. “Personal relationship with customers,” Amy says, is what guides her decisions, along with “trying to fill my store with locally made products.” That commitment has shaped River Roots into something bigger than a storefront. “In 7 years we’ve gained 79 artists,” she says proudly, “whether they’re from Quincy or another Mississippi River town.”
“Quincy needed a cool hippy store”
Amy Phelps, Owner/River RootsThe shop’s reputation has traveled far beyond the river towns. River Roots was named Head Shop of the Month in a national industry magazine—an honor that still makes Amy grin. “It was also the 420 edition,” she adds, a perfect little cherry on top for a business that’s always stayed true to its culture.
If Amy has one piece of advice for someone dreaming of opening their own place, she doesn’t sugarcoat it: “Location is key!” River Roots is living proof of what can happen when the right business meets the right community—built on local art, loyal customers, and a vibe that keeps Quincy coming back.
River Roots Smoke Shop
Amy Phelps, owner
703 Maine St
Quincy IL 62301
(217) 214-BONG
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Save the Date for The District’s Annual Feast in The Heart of Quincy
More Info: Save the Date for The District’s Annual Feast in The Heart of QuincyHours Today: By appointment only
Save the Date: Feast in the Heart of Quincy
Sunday, September 14 | 4:30 – 7:30 PM
Hampshire Street | Between 6th & 7th
Near Platt Daddy BBQ & Thyme SquareJoin us for an unforgettable evening as we transform Hampshire Street into a beautiful open-air dining room, seating 200 guests at one long, communal table in the heart of Quincy’s historic downtown.
Feast is more than just a meal – it’s a true farm-to-table celebration of our region’s rich agricultural roots and the talented chefs who bring it all to life. Every course is crafted using the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients – many from the Quincy Farmers Market – showcasing the best of our local farms, producers, and restaurants.
Guests are invited to arrive after 4:30 PM to mingle, sip, and enjoy a relaxed hour of fellowship before dinner begins. At 5:30 PM, we’ll all gather at the table for a stunning, multi-course, family-style meal featuring 5 to 6 chef-curated dishes designed to highlight the flavors of the season.
Tickets will go on sale soon.
$200 per pair (sold in pairs only due to seating arrangements)
Proceeds benefit The District and the Quincy Farmers Market, helping support our local food systems and vibrant downtown community.Please note: Due to the nature and complexity of the event, meal substitutions are not available.
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Shandi’s: A Sweet Addition to Downtown
More Info: Shandi’s: A Sweet Addition to DowntownHours Today: By appointment only
Starting as a mobile trailer in 2023 and opening her 6th Street location in August 2025, Shandi Long’s popularity has grown quickly over the last couple of years. Shandi’s is a dessert shop offering a wide variety of dessert options, including ice cream, sundaes, seasonal extreme shakes, coffee, and flavors of hot cocoa and lemon shake-ups.
“Take the jump! You only live once. I’m glad I did.”
–Shandi LongHer business is family-run and operated. Shandi shares, “We are super kid- and family-friendly. We love the interaction with everyone and their faces when they experience the Extreme Shakes.” What started as a weekend hobby has rapidly changed into what it is today. At this point in running her business, one of Shandi’s biggest achievements has been being featured on TikTok food critic, GrazingGuse’s page, which has over 40,000 followers. When asked “what would you say to others who are considering becoming an entrepreneur”, Shandi stated:
“Take the jump! You only live once. I’m glad I did.”
– Shandi LongShandi’s
104 N 6th Street
Wed-Thurs: 11am – 8pm
Fri-Sat: 11am – 9pm
Sun: Noon – 5pm -
Shop Local Saturday Returns May 10
More Info: Shop Local Saturday Returns May 10Hours Today: By appointment only
The District invites everyone to make this Mother’s Day extra special by shopping locally during its Shop Local Saturday: Mom Edition on May 10, 9am-4pm. Gather your friends and enjoy a day filled with exclusive deals, unique gifts, and fun shopping experiences at participating businesses throughout The District. Whether looking for fashion, books, home decor, or unique finds, The District’s local shops are offering special discounts just in time for Mother’s Day. It’s the perfect opportunity to find a meaningful gift.
“A highlight of this year’s event is the Build-A-Bouquet for Mom activity, which adds an extra layer of fun to your shopping experience,” stated The District Executive Director Brianna Rivera. Eleven local businesses will be participating in this one-of-a-kind event, where shoppers will have the chance to choose from a variety of fresh flowers available in each store. By visiting each participating business, shoppers will be able to gather beautiful blooms and create a personalized bouquet to present to their mom, someone they care about, or even keep for themselves. “With a limited number of flowers available, we encourage everyone to stop by early to ensure they get the best selection,” stated Rivera.
The 19 District businesses participating in this year’s Shop Local Saturday: Mom Edition include the following shops.
SHOP LOCAL + BUILD-A-BOUQUET PARTICIPANTS
Luxe Stogie Co.
10% off purchases $100 or more!District Designs
Free cotton handmade tote bag*
(*with purchase of $20 or more, while supplies last)Loyd’s Gifts & Collectibles
BTG SPECIAL: 10% off*
(*with race bib)Sweet Apricot
20% off JewelryThe WearHouse
Spring Sip & ShopUdry Jewelry
20% off JewelryMike’s Jewelry & Loan
25% off* all used items
15% off* all new items
(*in-store/with cash.
Credit card purchases = half the special)SHAKER HILL
10% off StorewideDeja Vu – TBA
644 Maine Boutique – TBA
Domestics, Etc. – TBA
2nd Chance Furniture – TBA
SHOP LOCAL PARTICIPANTS
(not participating in the Build-A-Bouquet event)Silhouette Shoppe
BTG Drawing – FREE Sports BraQuincy Tea Co.
Mother’s Day Gift Basket SpecialQ-Town Kicks – TBA
Enchanted Books – TBA
The Engraved Hive – TBA
HSQAC Museum
Square Music Co.Mark your calendars and come experience a day of shopping, community, and celebration in The District. Support local businesses and create lasting memories this Mother’s Day. For more information on participating stores and event details, visit TheDistrictQuincy.com or follow us on social media @thedistrictquincy on Facebook and Instagram.
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SHOP LOCAL SATURDAY RETURNS WITH THE DISTRICT’S MOM EDITION MAY 9
More Info: SHOP LOCAL SATURDAY RETURNS WITH THE DISTRICT’S MOM EDITION MAY 9Hours Today: By appointment only
The District invites everyone to make this Mother’s Day extra special by shopping locally during its Shop Local Saturday: Mom Edition on May 9, 9am-4pm. Gather your friends and enjoy a day filled with exclusive deals, unique gifts, and fun shopping experiences at participating businesses throughout The District. Whether looking for fashion, books, home decor, or unique finds, The District’s local shops are offering special discounts just in time for Mother’s Day. It’s the perfect opportunity to find a meaningful gift.
“A highlight of this event is the Build-A-Bouquet for Mom promotion, which adds an extra layer of fun to the shopping experience,” stated The District Executive Director Brianna Rivera. Local businesses will be participating in this one-of-a-kind event, where shoppers will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of fresh flowers available in each participating store. By visiting each participating business, shoppers will be able to gather beautiful blooms and create a personalized bouquet to present to their mom, someone they care about, or even keep for themselves. “With a limited number of flowers available, we encourage everyone to shop early to ensure they get the best selection,” stated Rivera.
Businesses include:
Udry Jewelry 535 Maine The History Museum on the Square 332 Maine The Art Gallery on 6th 127 N. 6th Sweet Apricot 129 N. 6th 644 Maine Boutique 644 Maine What’s the Niche? 522 S. 8th Domestics Etc. 119 N. 6th Shandi’s 104 N. 6th District Designs 117 N. 4th Loyd’s Gifts & Collectibles 504 Hampshire Shaker Hill 638 Maine Enchanted Books 532 Maine Mark your calendars and come experience a day of shopping, community, and celebration in The District. A complete list of participating Shop Local Saturday MOM Edition and businesses participating in the Build-A-Bouquet for Mom promotion can be found at TheDistrictQuincy.com. Support local businesses and create lasting memories this Mother’s Day. For more information, visit TheDistrictQuincy.com or follow us on social media @thedistrictquincy on Facebook and Instagram.
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Spring Bloom Market
More Info: Spring Bloom MarketHours Today: By appointment only
QUINCY, IL – Jump into spring with The District’s Spring Bloom Market on Saturday, March 22,10am-4pm and Sunday, March 23 from 11am-3pm. This multi-vendor event will be held at The Corinthian, 415 Hampshire Street and will feature more than 20 vendors. Each booth will have spring inspiration, with ome decor, clothing, and more being featured.
Food and drinks available for purchase between 11 am to 2 pm both days.
ADMISSION
Adults: $2 per person
Children 12 & under: Free
VIP Sip & Shop: $5
Limited to 50. This special package includes admission to both days of the Market, a (1) drink ticket, and red District shopping bag with vendor and downtown shop give aways, available at the door. The District has thrown in some $25 gift certificates to a few lucky VIP shoppers as well! While supplies last.For information about vendor booths, please contact our Spring Bloom Market Vendor Manager Joy Berhorst at domesticsetc@sbcglobal.net.
Additionally, make sure to visit the Winter Farmers Market on Saturday at Quincy Axe Company, 625 Maine 9:00am – 1:00pm. Make a day of it in The District!
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St. Pat’s Pub Crawl Returns March 14
More Info: St. Pat’s Pub Crawl Returns March 14Hours Today: By appointment only
Get your tickets now: bit.ly/2026PCTicketsGrab your green and join us Saturday, March 14 | 3:17–9 PM for one epic night in The District.
Hop on the bus (or walk) and crawl your way through participating bars. Buses will run continuously throughout the evening on a looped route, making it easy to keep the party going.
Participating stops include:
The Scoreboard The Ratskeller Quincy Brewing Company The Pour Haus On The Rail Joker’s Lounge Little D Sports Club Wine Gal Meets Whiskey Guy Parker’s Pub Fuzzy Bubbler Chicks on the River Tickets include:
• Event lanyard with food & drink discounts
• On/off bus access all night
• Koozie + party swag
• Entry into our Most Spirited Individual & Couple contest Get your tickets now: bit.ly/2026PCTickets Physical tickets must be picked up at The District office in March (details sent after purchase). Buses run until 9 PM, with return trips as needed.Like, share, mark “Interested,” and grab your ticket—more details coming in the event discussion.
Must be 21+ to participate.
Get your tickets now: 
The Ratskeller 
Tickets include:
Physical tickets must be picked up at The District office in March (details sent after purchase).
Buses run until 9 PM, with return trips as needed.