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Story & Song Bookstore & Bistro, owned by Mark and Donna Paz Kaufman, has been named 2025 Small Business of the Year by the Nassau County Chamber of Commerce, the business announced following the Chamber’s annual awards gala this past weekend.
In a post shared on social media, the Kaufmans credited the honor to the community that has rallied around the independent bookstore, cafe, and cultural gathering space since its opening in downtown Fernandina Beach.
“We’re incredibly honored (and still in awe!) to share that Story & Song has been named Small Business of the Year for 2025,” the post read. “But without you, none of this would be possible.”
The owners thanked customers who frequent the shop to browse books, enjoy coffee, attend author events, and participate in arts programming, describing Story & Song as “a space where imagination can roam, curiosity is celebrated, and connections — big and small — are made every day.”
They also highlighted the contributions of employees and volunteers, noting that “our extraordinary crew” and volunteers help make the bookstore “such a welcoming place to be.” The Kaufmans additionally recognized the support of the Story & Song Foundation, which helps underwrite community programming hosted at the bookstore.
The post expressed appreciation to the Chamber for “supporting businesses of all sizes across our community” and for hosting a gala celebrating local enterprise and civic engagement.
Story & Song also underscored its community partnerships, including its collaboration with the Barnabas Center. The bookstore donates $10 from every copy sold of "The Amelia Island Table" cookbook to support Barnabas Center’s work assisting residents in need.
The Kaufmans concluded by congratulating Kim Sartor, who received the Chamber’s Distinguished Leadership (Nassau Graduate) recognition. Sartor serves alongside them on the board of the Amelia Island Book Festival.
“Kim’s dedication and impact make our community stronger,” the post stated, adding that they are “SO grateful to work alongside her.”
Story & Song has become a centerpiece of Fernandina Beach’s literary and arts scene, hosting readings, festivals, educational programs, and nonprofit partnerships — an approach the Chamber recognized as exemplary in naming it Small Business of the Year.
DaveLott
Congratulations Donna & Mark. I remember when y'all first opened up and you continue to provide much more than a book shop with your community events. Well done!
Thursday, January 22 Report this
Mark Tomes
The Kaufman's, and their Story & Song enterprise, really stand out as engaged and positive community members. Not only hosting wonderful music, educational, cultural, and other events, they intentionally provide a space and speakers to promote understanding and compassion for all of us, so sorely needed in these crazy times. They are truly love in action.
Thursday, January 22 Report this