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.
Heaven Sims
I’ve always had a love for rapping so I decided to take a leap of faith and one day I decided to grab the mic at a d.j and started hyping up the crowd, From that day forward a spark was lit and like fire I spread!! Read more>>
Cepeda (p3)
I don’t know how brief I can be, honestly. But hey my name is Cepeda, I go by P3, and my story started pretty young. My ultimate goal was always to be an actor, and that just evolved into all types of career paths for me. For a brief time, I was a clothing designer, stylist, music manager, social media consultant, a fake influencer and now, I’m a practicing realtor and up incoming actor. I left everything else behind and stuck with the two that mean the most to me personally. Read more>>
Felicia Momon
I joined a small successful business, where I became COO. This role allowed me to learn a lot about small business and the difference dynamic leadership could make. Inspired by this, I founded Out of the Box Remedies LLC. My goal was to provide solopreneurs and small business owners with a flexible, comprehensive solution for their back-office needs. We became a one-stop shop, adapting to the varying demands of our clients. Read more>>
Alicia Allerdice
I never realized becoming a photographer also meant I would have to learn about website development and how Goggle works in order to be successful. However, in order to be seen on Google this was something else I would need to learn. So, I put in a lot of time, energy, and effort to learn and implement SEO strategies on my website. The reward is then ranking higher on Google so more people know you exist. I believe there will always be struggles and they are a natural part of running any small business, but it is how we handle them that determines our future success. With each obstacle I overcome, it makes the reward that much sweeter. Read more>>
Gabby Lowery
Don’t get me wrong, I am so grateful for the creatives I’ve been able to connect with in Atlanta, especially since I’m a Charlotte native. Every creative I’ve met has been nothing less than just dope individuals, connecting me to opportunities and giving me tools, resources and knowledge to elevate my work. However, I have a big dream for my work and I know that it requires all the exposure I can get and truthfully one of the best ways to have that exposure is through media. Read more>>
Jules Grand
The road was not smooth at all and it’s still a challenge. As a new Atlanta transplant- not only was I still getting to know the city, I was getting to know the clientele and the fashion world at the same time. As a woman in a male dominated industry: I must be 10 steps ahead of everyone, including my colleagues and competition. The entertainment world is constantly changing- if you do not build relationships, you will not last. Read more>>
Hasani Pettiford
Danielle and I met at a pivotal moment in my life, just as I had embraced my purpose as a professional speaker. She attended one of my events after being invited by a friend and was so inspired by what she saw and heard that she decided to sow a seed into my ministry, aspiring to do similar work herself. This initial connection led to me mentoring her, and over a few months, our relationship blossomed. After a year and a half of dating, we knew marriage was the obvious next step. Read more>>
Joe Salome
We chose an especially difficult path with the cannabis industry. Everything from our business licensing to leases and even banking has been a struggle, but once we find a reliable partner, we stick with them. People hear The Georgia Hemp Company or even hemp or cannabis in general, and there is such a stigma- even today when there need not be. We spend more time educating and helping people than anything. If people looked into all that is out there about cannabinoids and their therapeutic benefits, the road for our business and those like us would be much smoother. Read more>>
Alvelyn Sanders-swafford
We feel so honored that interest in the film continues today. It truly warms our heart when people tell us they are learning about this story for the first time. People are still profoundly impacted by the film and inspired by the courage of the women in the documentary. That makes the three-year journey to get the film completed worth it. The documentary can now be streamed on pbs.org. We are forever grateful to God for the entire film project and to longtime colleagues and friends, crew members, and so many people who shared their time, gifts, and expertise to bring the film to life, especially Crawford Media in Atlanta, the post-production house. In 2022, the film was entered into the U.S. Congressional Record. Read more>>
Kobi And Ester Shamba
Today, Gratitwood is a thriving business, but more importantly, it’s a brand that stands for excellence and personal connection. Our team has grown, our projects have become more intricate, and we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in custom woodworking. But no matter how much we grow, our core mission remains the same—creating beautiful, functional pieces that bring joy to our clients. Read more>>
Taylor Worsley
What makes me one of a kind chef? I make sure every client feels special and important. I am a personal traveling chef that specializes in handmade desserts that will make you reminisce of your childhood. I have so many accomplishments that I am very proud of. To start it off people that I never met recognize me from my social media pages and I had the opportunity to compete in Dessert Wars competition. I place 2nd and 3rd place for judges choice. I made it to the national in the heart of ATL. Where I had the opportunity to compete agains over 50 other amazing talent bakers and franchises. Read more>>
Jo Kyle
A name that I had come up with during my senior year of college. However, after about a year of doing artist markets, I felt that it didn’t exactly fit the vibes that I was going for. I wanted the name to be more of a brand for my art, so I came up with Strawberry Disco, a combination of two things that I love. Changing my business name and creating the brand has been the best decision I could have made. Customers remember the name when they visit me at markets and it brings them as much joy as it has brought me. I’ve continued participating in artist markets and growing my social media following since 2021. Read more>>
Jermaine Campbell
For now, I’m taking a break year from school to figure out what direction I want to take with my life. But outside of school and work, I am a creative. It’s hard to give myself a true title because there are a lot of things that I enjoy doing. I have a deep passion for photography, videography and editing, fashion, modeling (when the opportunity arises), music, and especially traveling. These are the outlets where most of my ideas come to life. Read more>>
William Steele
Everyone should know I couldn’t do this without my wife and our awesome team!! My wife is really the G.O.A.T she runs the entire gym and let me just be a trainer !! What sets us apart is our energy and vibes !! I’m proud of my team the most because without them this wouldn’t work .. I need everyone to sign up with QFC Quality Fitness Club we offer group classes , spin cycle classes, Pilates , yoga , boxing anything you need we have it!! Including sports recovery !! Read more>>
Eliane Rocha
I stayed for 3 years, in that time my clientele began to grow and my daughter also started to work with me doing eyelash extensions. eventually we decided to move again to a bigger and more visible space where we are now in this very cozy and beautiful space located at 2230 Roswell Rd. suite #100, Marietta, Georgia. Our mission is to bring out the best in people while providing them with the best experience possible while helping people feel beautiful all year long. Read more>>
Sami Tabbaa
After graduating law school, instead pursuing a career in law, I directed my career more towards the healthcare and insurance industries and worked as a business consultant for the world’s top insurance brokerage firm, Mercer, an affiliate of Marsh and McLennan Companies. Although I enjoyed my time there, I realized my knowledge and skillset was better served providing justice and helping those wrongly injured by others’ reckless behavior. Read more>>
Michelle Montique
While moving forward I decided to expand the brand and brought more lipgloss colors in and introduced 5 new Matte Lipstick kits that included lipliners, separates Matte lipsticks along with other new branded Lipglosses and then to top it off with 12 different Lip-oils/Lipplumpers that give your lips a sweet smell, along with hydration to your lips, and a little plumpness to your lips. These are some of the top products right now and all products are Vegan and Lashes can be worn up to 10-15 times if taken care of properly. Read more>>
Lecasshius Stargell
I began by throwing parties with Richkidz and getting to know local talent. At the time, DC Young Fly was an up-and-coming artist in Atlanta before his comedic career took off. I was booking legends like Trouble, Joe Gutta (Joe Gifted), Teezy Dolla, Yung LA, Young Thug, Johnny Cinco, and many others. These artists had their neighborhoods on lock, and the parties I hosted were consistently packed, often with over 400 people in attendance. It was at these events that I learned the true power of a crowd—seeing firsthand how a good record could bring people together and “break” a song by getting everyone in sync with it. Read more>>
Dyamond Strickland
My journey into entrepreneurship was driven by a deep desire to make my mark in fashion while honoring my late mother, who was my biggest cheerleader. Every piece in the DYME Collection is a reflection of impeccable craftsmanship, love, resilience, and ambition—values that define both me and my brand. Read more>>
Kelvin Durant
I immediately felt encouraged and opened A New You Counseling Center, LLC on January 14 , 2019. I have since added numerous credentials to my services as I am also a Licensed Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor and a Board Certified Hypnotherapist. Diversifying my portfolio, I also formed A New You Speaks, LLC in which I provide speaking engagements nationally and locally as it pertains to mental health services. Currently South Carolina is my home location but I also have a Satellite location in Atlanta Georgia, travel nationally for celebrity and executive clients, as well as offer virtual services providing mental health counseling and speaking engagements. Read more>>
Jordan Phillips
Over the past two years, I’ve dedicated countless hours in the studio and on YouTube refining my craft. Understanding that opportunities must be earned, I’ve leveraged my portfolio and networking skills to access spaces I once only imagined. With the support of my peers, family, and fellow creatives, I’m steadily making my mark in the industry—not by chasing followers, but by focusing on quality and a relentless drive to create. Read more>>
Dah’ Aysia Johnson
Later that year, I decided to go to cosmetology school to get my license. While there, I fell in love with not just lashes and brows but also hair, hair removal, and beauty overall. Despite personal struggles, I stayed focused. My talent stood out so much that my instructor at Empire Beauty School, Ms. Owens, invited me back twice after graduation to do lash and brow demonstrations for students—a moment that truly validated my hard work. Read more>>
Seth Watson
After years of research, planning, and refining our vision, we opened Distillery of Modern Art in Atlanta, GA. From the beginning, the goal was to blend the world of fine spirits with the world of contemporary art, from our bottle designs to the experience inside our space. Every aspect of our distillery is intentionally crafted—whether it’s the spirits we produce, the local artists we feature, or the community-driven events we host. Read more>>
Mallah Windom
We help build the body naturally by extending nutrient-dense offerings like Moringa, Black Seed, Sea Moss and Himalayan Salt. We seek to provide relief, balance and healing through the use of our products like Healing Butter, Emu Oil, Resins, Semi-precious Gemstones and Journals. While we recognize diet, exercise, sleep and mental health as pillars of wellness, we offer the perspective that hydration, work-life balance, forgiveness, meditation and journaling can be effective ways to deliberately lean into wholeness. Read more>>
Doug Turnbull
For almost all of my career, things have happened for me quickly. Starting literally at the top – on morning drive on WSB Radio – is a far easier haul than most people have in broadcast media. That happened by the hand of God, not by any raw talent. My work ethic is what kept me there. The talent only came after osmosis of some of the best people in the country at the job. Read more>>
Scott Woodard
To be honest, it has been a smooth road. I feel very grateful that I have been able to pursue my dreams. My family has been an incredibly supportive unit for me. They have made it possible for me to follow my studies to competitions in Georgia (my very first was in MACON!) and to St. Petersburg, Russia. I was fortunate there to be immersed in the Musin School of thought in conducting and it has expanded my vision and passion for conducting more than I could have ever thought possible. Studying and conducting in such a storied place has opened many doors for me! Read more>>
Nausheen Amir
I decorated on her theme colors. Everyone appreciated my cake so much that it gave me a boost of confidence and I took more interest in making cakes and learning about it took some more classes from the out of town bakers that came in from different states and that’s how my journey started. But I love to see the start and where I am now. My mom always saw it in me and always pushed me to do something about the gift I have and alhamdulilah it’s my parents duas and god’s will that I am where I am and what I am able to do. Read more>>
Christina Poitier
I started my beauty industry journey in 2015 when I attended Aveda Institute of Atlanta. It was a career shift from the nearly a decade of working within the veterinary field. I went to cosmetology school to become a makeup artist, but I realized it would be more marketable for me to learn haircare as well. Read more>>
Bae
I would make covers of songs and put them on youtube. They were very bad to me but somehow my sister would see them and she was very encouraging. Read more>>
Abi King
I’ll start from the beginning! I grew up in Atlanta, visiting the High Museum and seeing art throughout the city. I always loved drawing as a kid but didn’t have much confidence in it. It wasn’t until my junior year of high school that I realized I could really draw. I would get so incredibly bored in class that my margins filled up with doodles, and by the end of the year, I had unintentionally created a portfolio. Read more>>
Akyla Aiken Jordan Gastion
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth ride. As college students living in different states, promoting our camps in Atlanta has been a challenge. Like any emerging organization, we’ve faced obstacles such as limited promotion and lack of community awareness. Additionally, as 21-year-old women balancing personal growth with building this organization, navigating both can be complex and challenging. Read more>>
Paula Sima
Smooth?!? HELL NO!! Paula’s journey has been marked by significant challenges that have shaped her path. As an immigrant, she has often grappled with feelings of isolation and questions about her identity and belonging. Navigating life in different countries, away from her family, has intensified these struggles, leading to moments of self-doubt and contemplation about her place in the world. Read more>>
Kelley Bowen
I don’t think any creative or entrepreneurial journey is truly smooth — it’s more of a winding road with unexpected detours. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that clarity comes from action. Early in my career, I felt like I had to have everything figured out before making a move, but I’ve realized that momentum builds by doing — testing ideas, refining, and evolving along the way. Another challenge has been learning to balance creative work with business strategy. It’s easy to get lost in the creative process, but as a business owner, you have to constantly zoom out and make sure the work is aligning with your goals and your core values. Through it all, I’ve found that the best opportunities come from building relationships, staying curious, and being open to change. Read more>>
Lilian Le
I grew up in an immigrant household and my mom was single mom of two. My mom was raised in extreme poverty in Vietnam post Vietnam war. She came over to America with her brothers in the 90s and worked in salons since then. Although she struggled with English, she was able to successfully start up a nail salon on her own. I’ve always looked up to my mom and wanted to support her back in my own way. Read more>>
Nyla Turman
Photography brings me joy because it allows me to put smiles on my clients’ faces, boost their confidence, and help them step out of their shells to shine. As of 2025, I’ve grown my clientele, received numerous referrals, made new friends, and collaborated with talented photographers across Atlanta. I am excited to continue capturing beautiful moments and telling stories through my lens. Read more>>
Brianna Geter
As my success grew, so did my desire to help other artists do the same. That’s when I created my Mastery Program—A comprehensive course designed to teach makeup artists and service providers how to scale their businesses, retain clients, and position themselves as in-demand professionals. Seeing my students transform their careers and gain financial stability has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Read more>>
Alisha Uppal
I had known since I was 13 years old that I wanted to help people. I have always loved learning about the human mind – why we make the decisions we do, how our experiences shape us, how imbalances in our brain chemistry sometimes cause so much distress. I remember a friend struggling with depression in high school, and it really brought home how much someone could be suffering on the inside. I realized I wanted to create a safe space to help people to work through their struggles. I also saw how my friend struggled with shame and isolation, feeling like she couldn’t ask for help. I decided I wanted to be a part of the change, working to destigmatize mental health challenges and provide a non-judgemental space for people to be able to seek help. Read more>>
Gavin Harden
I specialize in acting and writing, which is what I would like to think that I am known for. I am currently developing my skills with editing. I am extremely proud of the movie that I created on Fawesome Story Time With Devon. The thing that sets me apart from others would be that I am not afraid to fail. I will try different things that I creatively think is good. Read more>>
Macarthur Spencer
From the start I knew what comes with the music business.The risk I always say I took was Investing my own Money.Plus me Depending on MY last to take me Somewhere.But I had the Faith to Keep Goin and Standing strong on my Beliefs.Traveling state to state city to city was a big risk after having Car trouble and having a show and trying to get there yes that the risk I took Read more>>
Sherrod Willis
SO SOME OF THE STRUGGLES OR HERTILES I FACED WAS DEFINITELY BACKLASH FROM DOING ADULT SO I WOULD SUBMIT FOR PROJECTS AND INSTANTLY GET A “NO”. ALSO IT WASN’T ANY HELP IN THE RELATIONSHIP DEPARTMENT EITHER GUYS JUST PLAYED ME OR USED ME FOR WHAT THEY SAW I WAS WORTH AND THAT DEFINITELY HURT WHICH CAUSED ME TOGO INTO DEPRESSION UMUNG OTHER THINGS Read more>>
Samantha, Lauren & Emilie
In the moment it felt a lot better to hide from that as opposed to trying to figure out what was going on. This feeling took me a long time to understand, but once I could put it into words I was able to use a combination of my art and our story to create a book for kids or family members like us to simplify what was going on. I published a children’s book called My Mommy Has Cancer But She’s Still My Mommy a few years ago, and that has become my outlet for helping others grasp the changes that are happening and have a sense of calm in all the chaos that is cancer. Read more>>
Jennifer Estill
Photography has always been my way of seeing the world—finding beauty in the details and turning moments into memories. I discovered my love for photography during a trip to Machu Picchu, where I found myself captivated by the art of travel photography. What started as a creative passion quickly grew into something much bigger, leading me on a journey I never expected. Read more>>
Evanne Vernon
Evanne Vernon , aka Micah is a Belizean American international singer and songwriter. Micah has been performing since the age of 4 years old and attended fine arts school in Chicago where we was able to develop and hone her skills as a performer. Micah was signed to her first recording contract at the age of 18 years old. Micah has since toured in Jamaica , Mexico ,Guatemala , Belize and various venues around United States. Read more>>
Nick Freddy
Over time we handpicked some of our best buds to fill our roster and when we were ready, we hit the stage as a band for the first time in mid 2023 with Dropout Kings. Today, we are all now moving forward and writing together as a team, which is very exciting. This year we have many exciting shows coming up and are stoked to explore new opportunities as we travel and grow. We are proud to show off the product of our hard work and chemistry which has elevated everyone involved in the project to new heights. Also, come to a show. If you haven’t seen us live, you are missing out on one hell of a party! Read more>>
Demontae Mosley
I am very flexible when it comes to creativity. I have a background in drawing, making music and editing videos, I don’t really have a specialty at the moment, I like being fluid. I’m known for being nice, caring, and supportive. Also playing rocket league on YouTube & TikTok. My stubbornness and willingness to not give up even when my back is against the wall is my greatest strength. Also being there for people, especially when they feel they have no one. Read more>>
Jordan Moody
My Son Died, Doing The Time To Help My Depression I Turnt To Music. So I Started Making Music 8 Months Ago Long Journey. Over Time I Learned How To Turn It To A Business, 6ix Moody Became A Name&Brand. Read more>>
Dimitri Crippen
When I moved to GA in 2020 I met an amazing woman who would eventually become my wife for almost 3 years now name Da’ja who motivated and pushed me to grow the thought into an actual business. Over the years we’ve made board designs, sold skateboard decks, shirts, went to pop up events, and hosted our first “release jam” at Old Forth Ward skatepark in July 2023. I am forever grateful for her and every part she has played making my dream come true. Read more>>
Laz Tenreiro
M there was no authentic Cuban food in Atlanta . The kind that I was used to eating at grandmas table so I decided to open my own Cuban restaurant without any previous restaurant experience and here I am 13 years later Read more>>
Emanuel Lynch
If I say it has been a smooth ride, I would be absolutely lying to you. There are so many challenges I can think of! We would be here all day if I named every single one. I will say that this journey has its ups and downs. You just have to stay focused and know that you are unstoppable. You can do anything you put your mind to, especially if you keep God first. Read more>>
Katrina Reeves
I am a highly experienced, professional DJ that specializes in events and clubs. I’m known for my passionate and vibrant personality that compliments my style of DJing. I’m most proud of my resilience and recovery from any personal and technical challenges I have faced in my 6+ years. My energy in the DJ booth is what sets me apart from others, I genuinely love and care about what I do and it shows. Read more>>
Vanessa Angel
For as long as I could remember soccer or as it was known in my house “futbol” was a big part of my life. Every weekend the television in my living room was a place were my family convened to watch our favorite teams. Whether it was trying keep up with my brothers knowledge of the Champions League or La Liga Española to watch FC Barcelona, or to listen to my dad talk about how Chivas was the best team in Liga MX, there was always talk about soccer. Read more>>
Leslie Narváez
When it came time for her own wedding, Leslie experienced the unique emotions of being a bride. That day she reaffirmed her commitment to accompanying women on one of the most important days of their lives. Along with her husband, renowned wedding photographer Esteban Meneses, Leslie creates indelible memories, fusing her art with the love stories they capture as a team. Read more>>
NaTasha Wilborn
“The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but I’ve learned to embrace them as part of the process. In the beginning, there was a lot of trial and error—figuring out techniques, learning new skills, and understanding what worked best for me. YouTube became my go-to teacher, and each mistake taught me something valuable. Over time, as I practiced and gained confidence, things started to click, and the process felt smoother. While the road wasn’t entirely bump-free, those early challenges shaped me and gave me the tools to grow. Looking back, I’m grateful for every learning moment and every “PUSH” from my family because they’ve helped me get to where I am today.” Read more>>
Danielle Duberry
I started my journey in the beauty industry at 18, assisting my best friend, who’s also a makeup artist. I’d tag along to her gigs, helping with simple tasks like cleaning brushes, packing up equipment, and carrying her things. But what really caught my attention was how she could transform people—not just their appearance, but their confidence—and make them so happy in the process. I knew I wanted to do the same. Read more>>
Sheila Michelle Foye
But what I’ve learned is that resilience is everything. Every setback was a setup for a greater comeback. I refused to let struggles define me—instead, I used them as fuel to grow, evolve, and help others do the same. My journey is proof that you can face challenges head-on and still come out winning. Read More>>
Ethan Drakes
During this time, I also had to make a major life change. I moved off-campus and secured a house for all of us to live together. It became our base of operations—where we strategized, planned, and bonded over the challenges and wins. I even had to make trips to New York and New Jersey to oversee the construction of the truck, balancing the stress of logistics and creativity while making sure everything came together just right. Read More>>
