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Hidden Gems: Local Businesses & Creatives You Should Know

Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. We’re proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series.  Check out some of our latest local gem features below.

Nameica Turk-Craig

I like to say I’m a country girl with a city girl’s grind. I grew up in Snow Hill, Alabama, a small town in Wilcox County—the poorest county in the state at the time. A place where many great people doing great things in this world came from. Despite the challenges of growing up there, I am incredibly proud of my roots. My hometown shaped me, but I always knew my future wasn’t confined to its borders. Read More>>

Tyler Schofer

With the line of work I do, word of mouth is extremely important in gaining traction for new clientele. Fortunately I have developed a reputation of professionalism and creating a fun learning environment for my clients. The road was not easy, and hours are very long some days, however the stress of finding clients has subsided for now. Every day is a new challenge. Being able to balance scheduling and teaching can take up much of my time. When I am not on the court, I am responding to clients and scheduling future lessons. Weekends are my time I have designated for myself, but many hours are still dedicated to filling in slots for the coming week. Read More>>

Antonio Ferreira

My family and I immigrated to USA back in 2011, we lived in South Florida for approximately 8 years where we built our own business. Our own business wasn’t working anymore and that’s when we felt the need of a career change. Read More>>

Lanicia Wilson

After some time as a chef, I transitioned into management with Nando’s Peri-Peri. I loved my time there, feeling connected to the culture, art, people, and food. Following my tenure at Nando’s, I relocated to Atlanta and was contacted by a recruiter for King of Pops while working at Corner Bakery. I remembered my first visit to Ponce and enjoying a Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade, not realizing it would come full circle and lead to my role at King of Pops. Read More>>

Tyress Cunningham

I got a job and began to invest in myself. I got my business Mirror Affect going it’s a car wash. I invested in publishing my books I wrote in prison with the book publishing company AHTRAE PUBLISHING. LLC. We are currently working on our 3rd project. We have my first book Conflict of Intere$t and My second book No Hope on Amazon and other online stores. I am still working at my job going on 5 years now and running the business for about 4 years now. Right now I’m currently working on an audio book project for my second book No Hope and it’s going to be really good. Read More>>

Brittani Hebron

I fell in love with making ppl look and feel good watching my Mother create styles for her clients in South Jersey. She taught be how to braid at the age of 5 on a mannequin head. I felt like an artist doing creative designs on someone head. lol It’s such a passion for me because even working in the medical field, I always went back to doing hair. Now I’m a full time lead stylist at a salon located in Smyrna, Ga. Come see me at Whiplash salon and boutique 🙂 Read More>>

Mackenzie Bui

I currently work as the processing manager for the Food Science Department at The University of Georgia. I help students and faculty with a lot of their classes and research. I do a plethora of work around building and it is a very satisfying and enjoyable career. I recently submitted a new product into the IFT competition and won first prize. It is an instant coffee that utilizes egg as a non-dairy creamer and also contributes to 10% of your daily protein intake. Read More>>

Emily Bright

I went off to college at Syracuse University for creative advertising, which was not something I really thought much about until my first internship in 2019. I started off as a journalism student at the S.I. Newhouse School for Public Communications, and through circumstance and chance I got an editorial internship at Adweek, an advertising and marketing trade publication, after my freshman year. That summer changed everything for me – I explored the intersection of creative advertising and journalism, and I completely fell in love. After that summer (and lots of Mad Men episodes later), I changed my major to advertising and never looked back. Read More>>

Alexis Johnson

After mastering my tools and techniques, In 2020 I was inspired to start Lush Financial Services. Lush Financial Services is an independent financial consulting company dedicated to helping minorities gain control of their finances through financial coaching and credit literacy. I have helped thousands of people reach their financial goals by improving their credit profiles. No matter what day of the week, you can find me somewhere dedicated to helping others build generational wealth. My life mission is to turn winning in real life into a lifestyle and each day my little progress adds up to BIG results. Read More>>

Julian Jackson

Our breakthrough moments have been a mix of creativity and calculated risks. Whether working with local businesses like Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks or partnering with the largest financial literally company EYL, each project has allowed us to expand our impact and refine our expertise. The result? A portfolio of work that speaks to the diversity and richness of the communities we serve. Read More>>

Andrew Salop

The podcast is sponsored by PrizePicks and has allowed me to collaborate with networks like Bleav, BBALLBREAKDOWN, and Knicks Fan TV. I’ve also appeared on platforms like SNY TV and Power 105.1, expanding my reach beyond just basketball to cover a wide variety of topics, blending sports, culture, and personal stories. Through Combo’s Court, I’ve built a unique space for thoughtful conversations that connect with both athletes and fans alike Read More>>

Neon Vvolf (Wolf)

My professional career is couched in Marketing and Public Relations within the Fashion, Sports and Lifestyle industries. With an extensive background in events I have been able to position myself as a “unlock” for those seeking to leverage events to draw notoriety, sales and publicity. I am a firm believer in relationship building and I pride myself on being a connector and executor. I am able to map out the creative through to execution. Long gone are the days when one discipline was enough to set one apart, in today’s ever evolving market it is the individual who wears the mantel of “hybrid” that is set apart from the pack. Read More>>

Mwt Het Heru Baktiba

I was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, and my journey into spirituality has been nothing short of transformative. I was initiated into the Nu Auset Temple by my godmother, Shta Mwt Ur Djheuty Ari Tchet Dua, to whom I offer boundless gratitude and praise. I would not be the woman I am today, if it wasn’t for her wisdom, guidance and devotion. Duau (Thank you so much) During this initiation, I received the name Bakenre, meaning “servant of God.” Working with the Ntru has been an incredible honor, completely transforming my life. Read More>>

Zoey Banell

My journey as a ballet dancer has opened countless doors, allowing me to perform on stages I once dreamed of and shaping me into the artist I am today. Now, as both a Director and Ballet Instructor for numerous studios and productions, I am honored to give back to the performing arts community. Sharing my passion and knowledge with others is not just my role but my purpose. Read More>>

Peachtree Fc

In our 3 seasons, we’ve been promoted to the top division of our league, finished 4th last season, and we are currently one of the top two sides in Division 1 with a second team in their inaugural season currently in 3rd place. While on the field excellence is important to us, we strive to be the best off the field as well. From photography to videography to team events to custom team wear, we want to be the most recognizable amateur soccer side in the metro Atlanta area. Read More>>

Emani Maverick

I like to call it self-mastery. I engage in the arts diversity including but not limited to: dancing , singing,writing,painting,modeling,and acting. For me the goal is routine and shameless dedication and so the thing I am most of proud of is my growth. I believe most people enjoy only diving into one aspect of their personality before introducing other aspects of their being! I believe what sets me apart is my inclusivity of all dynamics and radical acceptance of all parts of me . I am choosing to not submit only to one avenue on my journey! I am open to all that I am meant to receive. Read More>>

David King

I created First in Restoration in 2024 but my experience is far reaching. I have an extensive background in construction dating as far back as 2017. I have owned a sister company, which I rebranded as Honeydew Homes in 2020 which helps homeowners with interior design, remodels and renovations. I previously worked with a restoration company and gained experience in mitigation, reconstruction and insurance claims. This experience put me on the right track to create First In Restoration. Read More>>

Leigh Larie

It’s fascinating how early entrepreneurial instincts can emerge! Looking back, I’ve always had that hustler spirit. I mean, who starts a coffee stand at 10 years old instead of a lemonade stand? But that’s exactly what I did! I’d be up before dawn, setting up shop on a busy corner in my neighborhood, selling cups of coffee for a dollar and selling out every single time. That experience really ingrained in me the importance of thinking outside the box and finding creative solutions. Read More>>

Keosha Shealey

no, it has not been a smooth road sometimes I would go months without making anything.. having an idea of what I want to make but don’t always have the drive to do it because life happens I’m always on the go with my kids.. then some times it not having the right people in your corner to get you going or having like-minded mines that can give you the knowledge and keep you motivated Read More>>

Sarah Knott

I loved pursuing art in an academic environment, but I could not continue attending classes and be able to safely visit my father during his treatment. I considered trying to take my classes online, but learning to sculpt or carve prints without the proper tools or an instructor with me to help demonstrate was not feasible. I can’t say the decision to leave art school behind in favor of being able to see my father was difficult– family has always been my priority, but I was sad to see the door of higher education close for me for the time being. Read More>>

Veronica McGee

My husband joined me a few months ago offering Sound Therapy sessions as music has always been his passion. Our practice is growing and we are reaching a tremendous number of people and that makes us happy. We offer Integrative Nutrition counseling services for weight-loss, sleep issues, digestive issues and blood sugar management together with a few workbooks that can be purchased and applied on their own. In conclusion, I am very grateful for my past and all the lessons and all the “lemonade” I created with them. Health On! Read More>>

Mesita Partridge

In 2015, I decided to take a leap of faith and launch Events by Mesita. I wanted to bring my expertise and vision to a more personal level, working closely with clients to bring their dreams to life. Over the years, I’ve grown my business from small social gatherings to high-profile events, including weddings, corporate functions, and even celebrity clients. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m so proud of what we’ve accomplished. Read More>>

Shondricia Bulaba

Not at all! You may love something from afar, but once you get up close and knee-deep in the gritty, gritty, you start to see things you never knew, and that love may fade. Since high school, I realized I was passionate about radio, but it certainly hasn’t been an easy industry to break into or anything I thought it was. It’s a job at the end of the day so the dynamics of any job are there in regards to the everyday menewsha. However, learning about all the things that happen in the background of radio and working at a station changed my perspective. Radio was a lot more liberating in college and a lot more freedom, specifically with the music I could play and actually having a personality. Read More>>

Emetrius Meechie Hunter

All I know is, I got an overwhelming response and the rest is history. From there during the pandemic I launched my shirt line called “Miracle Me” being a survivor of cancer and renal kidney disease, I figured what’s better way to get my testimony across and people be inspired as well. I had so many people to respond it was overwhelming. I was living in Bronx, NY at the time and then relocated to Atlanta, GA in 2020 for my previous employer. I am a native of California born in Sacramento and spent most of my youth there and then relocated to the Bay Area. Read More>>

Joey Jaworski

A few people that have successfully helped me grow, not only as a person but as a leader and a friend are my closest group of friends, Nathaniel, Sean, and Christopher. They have not only been a sounding board for me, but have also been a source of joy, laughter, and escape. They remind me to take time for myself and help me to enjoy the small things in life, even if that means a constant barrage of cat memes throughout the day! Read More>>

Kenosha Cameron

When I entered high school I choose the pathway of media and journalism, where I fell in love with the art of cinematography and met some of tmy best friends. I have put on and helped create many photoshoot ideas and short films. In 11th grade I along with my group, won 3 awards at the Dekalb county Film festival. Now I own my own business Vivid Glam Studios where I help brands and people bring their idea to life, I also include editorial makeup and hair has a service. Read More>>

Cayla McDaniel

Now in present day I can look at a picture of a style that my client wants and I am able to replicate it. I also educate my clients on the importance of healthy hair and using healthy products to nurture their hair growth through their loc journey. I added a twist to my service becoming a traveling loctician in Atlanta and its surrounding areas. My clients get their personal stylist to come to them and give them A CayWay experience. In starting this business I also have learned more about how to market , customer service/ satisfaction, and business management. My clients have posted their testimonials on my different social media platforms to show their appreciation. I love what I do and I’m excited to see what 2025 will bring to The CayWay. Read More>>

Lauren Lesley

I was a rule follower and did my best to please my parents and teachers, but the times that I do remember getting into trouble were for using household surfaces as an alternative when I had depleted the stack, most notably a colored pencil duck on the baseboard of my sister’s room, a pink tic tac toe board on my bedroom carpet, and the infamous permanent marker scribbles my aunt’s computer keyboard (for which I still feel apologetic). For as long as I can remember, drawing was a need, and my obsession with making and processing quickly became central to my identity. I spent hours drawing every day, often fixated on specific subjects, such as rats and celebrities. Read More>>

Bhavana

In the long run I would like to empower Women to be more confident in their skin and to take care of their mental and emotional well-being in this fast paced life where we are expected to juggle multiple responsibilities . At the end of the day accepting your true self and your roots helps you stand out and makes you unique Read More>>

Mikeila Janae

My passion for music blossomed as I immersed myself in neo-soul, aiming to create feel-good, soulful tracks that resonate deeply with others. I’ve performed in venues across Stockton and the Bay Area, like Oakland, Berkeley, and San Francisco, sharing my artistry with diverse audiences. And now here I am showcasing my art in Atlanta. Overtime I have released songs like Bad mood and I’m so Pissed, which reflect themes of personal growth, heartbreak, and empowerment. Read More>>

Sam Aranson

Sam has an incredibly inspiring fiancé, Lauda Lacayo Rodriguez, who helped to hone his dreams into the creation of Summit Academy Adventures. She is truly his muse. Lauda’s inspiration is also from her opening and operating Bella Vie Organizing Solutions and Concierge Services, the top notch personal organizing company in and around Atlanta. Her bravery and confidence is an example to Sam everyday. Read More>>

Gia Williams-Martin

I was starting to become noticed by my beginner talent, work ethic and natural energy. My life hasn’t been the same since. Almost a year later, I am a dance teacher who brings in sold out classes, a performer, a dance assistant, and I’ve been in some music videos as well. In fact, the first dance video I did, both of the amazing women I danced with are now the women who have employed me onto their team. I always say ‘Yes I chose to dance, but dance chose me.’ Read More>>

Jaisha

I wanted to create a space where 20-somethings could talk about life in their twenties—the ups, the downs, and everything in between. I grabbed my laptop, typed out every idea I had, and gave myself something I’d been waiting on from everyone else: a “yes.” That’s how The Twenty ‘Til Podcast™ came to life—a platform for sharing honest stories, solid advice, and relatable reflections that resonate with the journey of your 20s. Read More>>

Lenita Washington

As a business owner, especially one focused on a niche market like “Fabulously Fine Over 50 I need to gain a deep understanding of the unique preference and needs of my targeting audience can be difficult, requiring ongoing research and engagement. The demands of running a business can lead to challenges in maintain a healthy work-life balance, impacting personal well-being and relationship Read More>>

Meagan Taylor

After serving families in the postpartum period myself, I began expanding by building a team of other postpartum doulas in the Atlanta area. We are now a team of 10+ postpartum doulas and newborn care specialists providing both daytime and overnight postpartum support in the metro Atlanta area. I recently stepped back from providing care myself, as I welcomed my own baby girl into the world, and now run the agency from home. Read More>>

Shameka `Jones

Building Champagne Problems has been a rewarding journey, but it certainly wasn’t without its challenges. One of the significant hurdles we faced was working with vendors. Unfortunately, not all vendors delivered the exceptional quality we expected or met the deadlines required to keep our project on track. This forced us to make quick adjustments and find reliable partners who shared our commitment to excellence. Read More>>

Selena Spaight

Well, I’ve been modeling for about 9 to 10 years now. My journey began at 14, working with a small wedding and prom shop in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. That was my first real opportunity to step into the world of modeling, and it gave me a glimpse of what this career could be. From the start, I made it a priority to understand the industry—both the pros and cons. I studied it and knew early on to avoid the pitfalls, stay true to myself, and not let the wrong influences steer me off course. Read More>>

Jihan Bradford

Lavender Hill Bed & Breakfast offers the perfect blend of proximity and tranquility, located just one mile from the bustling University of Georgia campus yet nestled in a serene, rural setting that evokes the charm of the French countryside. Despite our closeness to the vibrant UGA scene, the inn is beautifully tucked away, providing a peaceful retreat amidst lush landscapes. Overlooking Riverbend Farms and the picturesque UGA Golf Course, our guests can enjoy a tranquil escape while being conveniently close to the heart of campus activities. Read More>>

Slade Bone

My modeling journey began in high school, long before I ever set foot on a runway/ behind a photographer’s camera. I’ve always been passionate about photography, and taking pictures of myself & with hometown best friends became a creative outlet. I would post my photos on Instagram, not thinking much of it, until Amiya Siler, a former classmate and an upperclassman, reached out to me. Amiya had graduated a year before me and was the president of a modeling club called “Infinite Appeal” at Georgia State University. Even though I wasn’t a student there, she saw potential in me and invited me to join the club after I graduated in 2020. Read More>>

Linda Carter

Likes about my city often include its vibrant culture, diverse food scene, public transportation, recreational facilities, and sense of community. Dislikes can include issues like traffic congestion, high cost of living, pollution, and overcrowding. Each city’s unique characteristics influence these perspectives, leading to a personalized experience for its residents and visitors. Read More>>

Gabrielle Ma

Then, I would start to get emails reaching out with partnership ideas. Slowly but surely, a career built on social media started to seem more like a reality rather than just a dream. Recently, I gained 1.2 million views on a TikTok I made on a local business based in Athens, Georgia. I realized that I have hit my first milestone and took action to combine my accomplishment with what I am studying in school. That led to the start of @eatsnatl, my multimedia company focusing on good eats in Atlanta. @eatsnatl values in bringing people together by sharing the word of where to find good food. Read More>>

Sadie Burbank

In 2019 I returned to my hometown of Atlanta and decided what the heck – I could try this on my own! I remember so many friends, family or people I just met asking me for advice: Where should I hang this? What do you think of this color? Any space that I enter I am constantly thinking of ways to shift the layout or change textures to create a fresh perspective and relax the mind. I truly enjoy collaborating with my clients, making the design process more affordable, and ultimately making people smile. Read More>>

Keyda Austin

I have always had a penchant for looking put together. My mother (Velinda Marie-the namesake Linda Rie within my platform is an ode to her) allowed me to have creative reign with my image and style identity from a young age. My grandmother states that she is the genetic influence. She is a graceful matriarch and a diva in her own right. My brother taught me how to pair my clothes, to make it appear as if I had more outfits than I actually did, hence modern-day restyling. I am convinced that the majority of creatively stylish individuals in their own lane, have some sort of influence traced back to family or childhood. Read More>>

Chiquita Mcshan

My journey started as a kid. I was a teen who dealt with hormonal acne. I always went into pharmacies or general stores picking up skincare products. I would experiment with products to help reduce acne symptoms and pass along the information to my family and friends. That secretly started my passion for skin. On a girls night event, my closest friend at the time, was prepping for the night and began doing her own makeup. I was inspired and asked her to help me my apply makeup as I had never worn it before. That one night opened an entire play field and I slowly began building my makeup kit and career. Read More>>

Alysia Leyva

Motherhood and pregnancy have always been important to me as a mother of two. I’ve always been a community advocate, and I was hurt to see such a vast gap in maternal mortality in the minority community. So many women are dying during or after childbirth, and it’s not talked about enough. I want people to start having this conversation to facilitate change indeed. My purpose and mission is to help create birth equality AND train other birth workers. I hope to help change the world with love, knowledge, support, and advocacy. Read More>>

Afumbom Okosun

Born in the “black mecca” of the world, Atlanta, Georgia, to a Cameroonian nursing student, and Nigerian pharmacist, my intersectional, diasporic journey and archiving seemed to be predestined much prior to my earthly arrival. My name is Afumbom Okosun, and I am the founder of Sophistichet, a social design, B-corp, that has over a decade of public-private partnerships and past performance in the nonprofit sector in The American South, with clients across the country. Using socio-emotional learning tools, we have designed, piloted and managed over $673K in grant programming over the past decade working with leadership communities in Huntsville (AL), Chattanooga (TN), and Riverdale (GA) to name a few. Read More>>

Kenya Sparks

I officially started in 2020. I had so much “free time” and wanted to try doing my nails at home. At the time, I only wanted to make press-on nails. I did not think it would become a full-time passion. After making numerous sets for myself, family and friends, it became very therapeutic for me. I would use social media to find nail inspiration and I always came across the most perfect manicures—I was obsessed! Once I went back into the office, my job at the time, gave out additional stipends to all of the staff to be used for whatever we wanted. I took the additional funds and decided to apply for a cosmetology program nearby and started immediately. I really felt it was meant to be, as the program was the exact amount I had received. Read More>>

Seth Van Den Bergh

Seth van den Bergh’s journey to becoming an interior designer is one of resilience, reinvention, and passion for creativity. What began as a pursuit of a biology degree took an unexpected turn during an internship at Walt Disney World. While on the phone with his mother, reflecting on his struggles despite years of excelling in honors and AP science courses, she suggested turning his focus toward the creative arts. Her advice led Seth to explore interior design, earning a degree at Marymount University in Virginia and further honing his skills as a Clinton Scholar at the American University of Dubai. Read More>>

Astro

One mom, three kids. One son, two daughters. As the only son I strive to make mom proud, but trying to please someone while trying to find yourself is difficult. In my experience you’ll only find yourself and push away the people you tried to please. In 7th grade I was expelled from Shiloh middle school for changing my grades. I wasn’t a stupid kid. I was only failing ELA/Reading and that was one of the main courses you had to pass, I was two points shy of passing. I explained this to my teacher Ms. Smith and put in the effort for her to bump up my grade but nothing changed. Honestly I couldn’t care less about school, only reason I showed up was to keep mom happy. So I had to handle the problem myself, I made a plan to sneak out of lunch and back to the classroom to handle the matter, I knew a close friend who was failing a couple classes and I just couldn’t leave him hanging.  Read More>>

Javonta Johnson

My name is Javonta Johnson, and I’m a 25-year-old tattoo artist with over four years of experience bringing art to life through ink. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth every step. I started my career as an electrician, a path that taught me discipline and hard work, but deep down, I knew my true passion lay elsewhere. Life threw its share of challenges my way, but I refused to give up. Read More>>

Keona Mcmorris

A few factors inspired the creation of Recovery by Nurse Beauty. I’ve been a registered nurse for 11 years, spending most of my career in emergency and trauma care. While rewarding, it eventually led to burnout, which prompted me to explore other ways to use my nursing skills beyond the bedside. Read More>>

Nilmar Atencio

I am Nilmar Atencio, I was born in Venezuela, I graduated as a journalist, I studied cooking and then I studied nutrition coaching. I lived for 10 years in Miami where I worked as a Pastry chef. I worked in hotels and fine dining restaurants such as Bazaar by José Andrés. Read More>>

 

Deonna Simon

In mid 2009, our family faced financial difficulties following the sudden passing of my grandmother. As a result, we began extending the duration between appointments to three months. One day, my father asked if I would be open to braiding my sister’s hair using leftover braiding hair from previous appointments. Without hesitation, I agreed. I felt calm and confident, since I would braid my braid dolls’ hair for fun, unaware that this small act would set the stage for something much bigger. With my father’s help, my sister’s hair turned out well, and soon after, he suggested I try braiding my own hair. The process was surprisingly easy and natural for me. Read More>>

Lewis Ashe

I was familiar with the other guys from around the Milledgeville scene, and had previously spoken to Erik about possibly auditioning for their band. Erik, Mason, and Chris ended up playing in a band together called “Andalusia”, which was a popular Georgia College jam band. Since I had spoken to Erik before, I went ahead and reached out and asked if Andalusia would be interested in playing the Mercer Barrister’s Ball. Once that got the ball rolling, and since I really needed a band, I asked Erik if he and Mason would like to perform Mercer’s Bearstock and then Bearfoot’s official after party. We were going to play two pretty big shows back to back, and get paid well for it, so these guys were interested. After the first rehearsal, we knew that there was something special about the sounds we were creating. It was a raw energy unlike anything that I had felt before.  Read More>>

 

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