GRAND OPENINGS: Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More; Acupuncture and Herbal Solutions

Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More, a locally owned, high-technology garment-decorating franchise, has opened at 7266 55th Ave. E. in the Twelve Oaks shopping center at State Route 70 and Interstate 75, near Tara.

The franchise operation that enables customers to design their own apparel is owned and operated by Matt and Mary Baehr, who returned to Bradenton to run the new local business after discovering the Big Frog brand in a business magazine. The Baehrs hope to be a resource for local schools, sports teams, businesses and charitable organizations.

“Our main objective is to build lasting relationships through exceptional service, value and imagination,” Matt Baehr said.

Although the retail space has only been open a short time, Big Frog has been providing its products for a few months, including the uniforms for the Palmetto Little League.

Big Frog's design technology and Direct to Garment printing bonds ink to the fabric’s molecules, allowing products to be washed in hot or cold water and with color-safe bleaching without risking damage, cracking or peeling of the image.

Since opening its first franchised location in 2009, Big Frog has grown to more than 70 locations in 24 states and seven locations in development. 941-251-1200; bradenton@bigfrog.com; http://www.bigfrog.com/bradenton/.

Acupuncture and Herbal Solutions, the first acupuncture business in Ellenton, is a well-established business in Bradenton owned by acupuncture physician Dr. Dominique Vonador.

Acupuncture and Herbal Solutions is inside Discount Med Direct’s Ellenton store at 7018 U.S. Highway 301 N.

Vonador is certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. She graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in biology and then studied acupuncture. Drvonador.com; 479-2937.