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.
Aaliyah Parks
Like any other entrepreneur I have had to learn from my mistakes, step out on faith and navigate territories that I am unfamiliar with. I was raised by hard-working and dedicated parents who have businesses of their own all while raising me and my brothers so I knew I was destined to create a business of my own. Even though parties and celebrating have been consistent throughout my life, being able to turn that into a business wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be, but as long as you continue to move forward, succeeding is the only option.. Read more>>
Jenifer Clark
First month into market season, both my home oven and fridge died, and I needed those for my cottage business. A bad car accident mid season and several disabling diagnoses which explains the heat intolerance and passing out, but I didn’t give up. Used baking as a form of physical therapy. Read more>>
Renee Hall
Growing up in Brooklyn, N.Y. I have always done hair. It was my destiny to become an entrepreneur and own my own salon. At the age of 18 is when it became serious. I started charging cloenta more money and turned my mother’s basement into a salon Read more>>
Morgan Hall
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Finding quality gold and gemstone suppliers was a challenge, especially as a newcomer in the industry. And then of course everything that comes with being a solopreneur. Suddenly you’ve thrusted yourself into this world where you’re now a photographer, marketer, content creator, web designer, accountant, customer service agent, etc. There are always so many things to do that it can be difficult to determine where to spend your time because there are only so many hours in a day. Read more>>
Oluwafemi Olu-talabi
I don’t rely on a specific set of tools or a designated space to do my job. My greatest asset is my knowledge, carried with me wherever I go, used daily to bring clarity and hope to my patients. In some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives, I aim to provide them with understanding, reassurance, and a path forward. Every patient encounter is an opportunity to listen, educate, and advocate, ensuring they feel seen and heard in a healthcare system that can often feel overwhelming Read more>>
Robert Herring Iii
I get to leave people’s residences & businesses better, to give this spaces more identity, & I’m finally ready to began imparting what knowledge I can on whatever team congeals under Herring + Handy’s corp umbrella. Like anything – it’s peaks & valleys, getting your wings in the fall – learning all the day to day minutia of running a business, generating leads, managing inventory, protecting your revenue stream, while staying committed to the communities & bigger causes you serve & represent. Read more>>
Katie Orton
The local coffee shop in my hometown had couches, a piano, and a big old wooden counter to sit at and chat with the baristas. I found this third space as a 17 year old, spent so much time at the bar that they offered me a job, and knew immediately that I wouldn’t tire of the coffee industry. For 12 years I have sought out bustling barista jobs where I get to meet the neighborhood and learn my customer’s stories – whether it’s your job, your interests, or your day so far. The Atlanta queer community has supported me endlessly in my personal life and my barista work, and my partner, Olsen, dedicated their time and creative talent to opening Waxing Coffee with me – a pop up coffee business aimed at connecting friends and neighbors. Read more>>
Anna Usher
In addition to my spray tanning business, I own an online clothing boutique called August Moon, which I originally started in 2018. However, when I found out I was expecting my second daughter (yes, I had Irish twins — two kids within a year!), I paused the boutique to focus on my growing family. In 2025, I decided it was time to relaunch August Moon, and I’m excited to be back in the fashion space. With years of experience in the wholesale fashion industry, including working at the Atlanta Apparel Mart and in NYC, I felt that relaunching August Moon was the perfect next step. Read more>>
Ja’quan Riggins
Amid my college journey, I faced some of the darkest moments of my life. I hit rock bottom, watching everything I had worked for begin to fall apart. But through that pain, I found a deeper understanding of myself. I realized that struggle wasn’t meant to break me—it was meant to shape me. That realization became the driving force behind Fueled By Pain, a movement dedicated to transforming pain into power. Read more>>
Dr. Del Anderson
DR. ANDERSON: Since I was about seven years old, I’ve been passionate about animals and the profound impact they have on our lives. Science and math were always my favorite subjects, and my family instilled in me a love for designing and building projects. Ultimately, it was this combination of a passion for animals, scientific curiosity, and hands-on problem-solving that led me to pursue a career in veterinary medicine and, eventually, open my own practice. Read more>>
Saikou Tidiane Toure
I was on a stable path working my career job and playing Basketball; but in 2020 I suffered an injury from a motorcycle accident which put playing the sport on hold. Dealing with the setback was mentally draining as I moved away from my family and home country to make a career from Basketball. Read more>>
Jaala Hudson
No, it wasn’t a smooth road at all. When I was first launching my brand, I handled everything myself—logos, website, graphics—because hiring help wasn’t in my budget. I’ve always had an optimistic mindset, so I believed I could figure it all out. I spent days building my website, and just when I was almost done, all my progress got erased. I cried, cried, and cried again, and had a full meltdown. I was devastated because I had set a specific launch date and now had to push it back. But after pulling myself together, I redid the entire site—even better than before. Read more>>
Melanie White
Her second pivotal moment came when she read You, Inc. by Burke Hedges. The book redefined her approach to work—every job was a contract, a stepping stone to something greater. Armed with this mindset, she built a career that was anything but traditional. She didn’t wait for promotions; she created them. When jobs no longer served her growth, she moved on, always learning, always adapting. Read more>>
Don Jehiel
It has not been a smooth road at all. The biggest challenges were covering my necessities and progressing my personal life while pursuing everything career wise. I’ve gone through so many jobs, bought a house, multiple cars, and a serious/long-term relationship all while managing to grow from a stylist to a fashion creative and from a roller skater to a performer that’s done a variety of bookings. I’ve been out of work for multiple months at a time, dealt with depression, faced medical scares for myself and my mother, and had to grow further into myself, getting past my own mental hurdles towards myself and getting over what others may or have said to and about me. Read more>>
Alex Jante
Personally, I’m drawn to thrillers, horror, and fantasy—genres rich with potential for world-building, layered storytelling, and characters who evolve beyond tropes. But at the time, much of what I saw in LGBT-focused productions leaned heavily on drama and, well, let’s just say a lot of s*x scenes that didn’t always serve the story. I wanted something different: gripping narratives, immersive worlds, and character-driven arcs that resonated. Read more>>
Jb Stephens
As I got older, my interests changed and I developed a passion for science fiction stories, which was mostly spawned by my love of Jules Verne. Cinematically, I leaned towards Star Wars and Star Trek, but it was the writings of Verne that captured my imagination. I admired the level of world building that all of these stories were rooted in, but I was never one to engage in fan-fiction. I wanted my own world that I could manipulate without being at the mercy of someone else’s lore. Read more>>
Heather Molden
I studied nursing while at Tuskegee, and for the 4 years I was there I battled with myself about changing my major to something less practical like fashion and design, communications, or majors alike. I even considered potentially transferring schools to better my education in those fields. I finally decided that despite there are so many things I want to do, and know that I can do because through Christ, I can do all things (Philippians 4:13). I completed my nursing program and began working as a nurse. I allow my professional career as a nurse to fund my other passions. I am now Heather Molden, BSN, RN, fashion content creator, and aspiring fashion designer/ blog owner. Read more>>
Lenise Leknes
No, the road to developing my culinary agribusiness has included potholes, road closures, and detours, but that’s life. What I know is true is staying focused on Jesus throughout the journey, shining His light so that the work I do impacts my customers for the better. I’m also a strong advocate of collaboration and cultivating local partnerships that uplift fellow creatives. That means taking the time to have courageous conversations with family, friends, and strangers to learn new skills, figure out collective strengths/weaknesses, and create boundaries that elevate my work. Read more>>
Tyla Sims
My story began growing always getting my hair done no matter the salon or kitchen, The women in my family just don’t play about their hair! I fell in love with the transformation process and seeing how self esteem is connected. I love not only feeling but seeing people go from their hair a mess to this beautiful peace of art. As I grew older I was the family hairstylist and became the calming president of the cosmetology club in high school. It’s a passion that fueled me and that fire is still inside of me today. My parents supported me through it all from my mom allowing me to do her hair for years to my dad teaching me how to cut men’s hair at an early age on top of guiding me through cosmetology school. Read more>>
Aniyah Allen
Moving from Michigan to Georgia and starting over came with its own set of challenges. I had to rebuild my network, find new opportunities, and establish myself in a new environment. Adjusting to a different music scene while balancing school and my passion for singing wasn’t always easy. There were moments of uncertainty, where finding the right community and opportunities took time. However, through persistence, faith, and dedication, I found my place. Read more>>
Marlissa Mubarik
I am an Atlanta stylist specializing in braids, wig installs, ponytails, quick weaves, and locs. With a reputation for my braids and weaves. I take pride in transitioning to college while also continuing to successfully grow my clientele in a new environment. What sets me apart from others is my dedication to my craft; I strive to provide an experience for my clients. I put love and effort into every service, as I believe in creating quality results rather than treating my business as a get-rich-quick scheme. Read more>>
Tamara Taylor
I took another leap of faith and went full time as a business owner with 1 client. As you can see, I am a risk taker. I have been to bottom before so that really doesn’t scare me anymore. My faith in God is why I take big risk like that. I started making phone calls after phone calls to solicit my business and I was told no so many times that I was being blocked. Funny story is those that blocked me and told me no because we were not a big company are clients today and have been clients for 4 years now!! ALL GOD! Read more>>
Nj
When I was 19 I fell in love with songwriting and I put out my first original song in December of 2019. I was writing to beats that different producers would make for years, and now I write everything on guitar by myself. It completely changed my approach to writing, honesty and vulnerability are what truly inspire me. My debut album is coming out in April and I think people will be shocked to hear how different and mature this sounds compared to some of my older releases. I want people to feel like they’re reading my journal and relate to what I’ve experienced. My dream is for my music to reach as many people as it can, and make real connections through performing and sharing my stories. Read more>>
Tijuana Ponder
I am the proud owner of Exclusive Extravagant Events. This business actually started out as a hobby, decorating and planning events for families and friends. I realized that I actually enjoyed seeing the smiles on everyone’s face and seeing my vision or their vision come to life. I prayed on it and I took a chance. From there EEE was born. Read more>>
Makayla Young
Since a very young age I have always enjoyed beauty. I often would watch makeup tutorials & practice on my family members. After I finished Highschool I decided to go to Estheican school where I attended Paul Mitchell The School Esani & absolutely fell in love with the industry! During school I learned how to wax, do facials and back treatments. When I finished school I decided to work at a lash company and took others classes to get more certifications under my belt such as (Brazilian waxing and body contouring) Read more>>
Nicholas Koutsodontis
My name is Nicholas Koutsodontis, but within the music industry, I’m widely known as “Chiko.” I co-founded Hits Only Music Ent., LLC. alongside my brother and business partner, Reazy Renegade. Our journey began in 2009 when we started working under DJ Khaled’s We The Best imprint. During that time, we were also closely involved with the YMCMB crew, immersing ourselves in the culture at a young age and working tirelessly to build our names in the industry. I was co-managing a production group called The Renegades alongside DJ Khaled, with Reazy Renegade as a key member. Read more>>
Tahjae Anglin
Throughout that time I’ve made a couple decent beats, I wasn’t as good but I was uplifted by the people who supported me, my family and friends. With teaching myself everything I just kept making beats and practicing my craft. After a few months has past I had gotten recognition from one of my favorite artiste “Valiant” which I came through a mutual friend “Moji Diplomat’. Even though I didn’t land a placement that gave me a lot of encouragement to continue and to become better because I knew I had a place in the industry. Read more>>
Kat Blair
It takes a lot of discipline and determination to rebuild your clientele everywhere you go. Sometimes it can take longer than expected for clients to come and I’ve had to make that money stretch until my next client. Sometimes you have to take free clients just so you can get content and put your name out there. Sometimes your content doesn’t get as many views as I’d like. Thankfully, I’m booked and busy now! I’ve grown my IG to almost 20k organically and I’m proud of that. I’m grateful for the journey though; I wouldn’t change anything. Read more>>
Brittany And Brianna Brown
This past summer, they took on one of their biggest challenges yet—participating in the Bicycle Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) as members of the BRAG Dream Team. Over the course of seven days, they pedaled an astonishing 450 miles from Atlanta to Savannah, enduring grueling hills, long distances, and unpredictable weather. Their perseverance was put to the ultimate test on Day 5, when they completed a century ride (100 miles in one day)—a feat that many seasoned cyclists aspire to but never accomplish. Read more>>
Devin Lovett
I started my artistic pursuits as a hobby. I had a very scary run in with heart health and my doctor told me I was a bit too stressed so I sought out art as a stress reliever. But then I got addicted to the world of artistic expression, art history, etcetera. Because I’m not formally trained I think I ran into a few accessibility roadblocks, but my focus was always on the artistic process and I think that focus and development is what’s pushed me and what people recognize when they see my work. Read more>>
Kierra Ages
From sourcing the finest raw hair to creating signature wigs that deliver salon quality results, every part of this brand was built with intention and excellence. Over time, I expanded my offerings, introduced custom wig and coloring services, and now, I’m building out the digital educational side of Superior Selection to help aspiring wig entrepreneurs and everyday consumers gain the knowledge and skills to confidently navigate the world of wigs. Read more>>
Naelyn Colette
As a young child, after I lost my family, I moved between different families and facilities before finally being adopted into a challenging home environment, all leaving deep scars. As a teenager, I experienced the trauma of being attacked, an event that shaped my understanding of safety and resilience. Then later in my teens, I faced the heartache of feeling compelled to give up my firstborn for adoption. In my young adulthood, I went through the struggles of a divorce and navigated the challenges of coming out of the closet and embracing my true self, all while raising two beautiful children. All of my experiences, while painful, were pivotal; they taught me how to heal, find my voice, and stand in my authenticity. Read more>>
Thresia Wiguna
Beyond my career, I am an avid world traveler with an insatiable love for food, and Japan holds a special place in my heart. Exploring new destinations isn’t just about sightseeing for me—it’s about immersing myself in local flavors, traditions, and the people who make every meal special. From the bustling ramen shops of Tokyo to the serene kaiseki meals in Kyoto, Japan’s dedication to craftsmanship and culinary artistry never ceases to inspire me. Whether I’m savoring fresh sushi at a hidden omakase spot or enjoying a simple bowl of udon at a local eatery, I believe food is the best way to connect with people and cultures. Nothing brings me more joy than sharing incredible meals with locals and bringing those inspirations back to my own kitchen and work. Read more>>
Virnalisa Soares
I am a certified Health Coach and an Essential Oil Specialist with over 15 years of experience making Whipped Body Buttercreams. I initially created these products for my family and close friends. My journey began when my son developed sensitivities to certain skin products, and two people very dear to me were diagnosed with breast cancer. After their radiation treatments, I crafted a special blend of body butter to help restore their skin. The results were remarkable; their skin looked so beautiful that you could hardly see the scars from their surgeries. Read more>>
Tee Blount
Fast forward eleven years after the death of my mom, I had moved from Baltimore to Atlanta, GA. I was seemingly healthy and a working single mom to my thirteen-year-old son. I was experiencing chest pains and shortness of breath. I had experienced these systems for days, but dismissed them as stress and a lack of exercise. Eventually, I went to the ER and things quickly unfolded from there. I found myself undergoing a variety of tests, including a nuclear stress test and the results of those tests, coupled with my family history resulted in me having a procedure called a cardiac catheterization. Read more>>
Karinna Fischer
I have never fit into a certain mold and hair was my way of truly expressing my creativity. I struggled with finding my place while working in a salon. I had a difficult time fitting in and felt very limited in the art I could create. The environment was very repetitive and lacked the opportunity for growth past a certain point. I had moments throughout my career where drive was diminishing, and I feared the risk of going on my own. Overcoming that fear was a heavy obstacle, but I cannot express how grateful I am for the day that I decided to do it. Read more>>
Naab
Growing up in Ghana and Canada, I always loved to create, dance, and listen to music. Some of my favorite childhood memories are of family gatherings where I would entertain everyone with my amazing dance moves. Seeing the joy on people’s faces whenever I danced or sang brought me happiness. At the time, I didn’t realize I would eventually pursue music, but it felt natural to express myself through my talent. Read more>>
Nicole Ward
During this time, I realized that while information about trucking was available, it was scattered and difficult to access—especially for women of color who face significant barriers to entry. Recognizing this gap, In 2022 my mom and I founded the African American Women Trucking Association (AAWTA) to create a centralized hub of resources, mentorship, and services designed to empower and support our community. Read more>>
Jarrett Kirby
I really got started by getting into music while I was in high school. I found such a passion for performing, that it continued into college, where I joined the campus activities board. I spent the entirety of my college career actively engaged in student leadership and activities, and traveled the region for conferences. Read more>>
Neisha Aireal
One of the biggest moments for me was going viral last year with a hair video using a trending sound about Black women’s hair. While I received a lot of love, I also saw countless jokes about my eyes. At first, it was overwhelming—I felt everything from excitement to frustration. But within the negativity, there was so much support. People were reaching out to tell me how much they admired my confidence, and that’s when I knew I had to keep going. God placed me on this path for a reason—not just to educate and entertain, but to inspire and advocate for the low-vision community. Read more>>
Jay Carter
But I didn’t see enough people in my community talking about this, so I made it my mission to educate others. I wrote AirbnBOOKED! to share my journey in the short-term rental space, and I’ve since coached entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals on how to tap into global opportunities. Currently, I am accepting more invitations to speak at conferences, universities, and summits about entrepreneurship, imposter syndrome, and building a business that isn’t limited by borders. As well as Autism support initiatives for students and parents as I am a Mother of a 9-year-old level 2 Autistic girle. Read more>>
Nandi Cotton
And I’ve found that this is the reality for a lot of creatives, especially if you aren’t funded or not quite making enough to quit your full time. Not to mention life doesn’t stop for you while you’re getting it together. When I first started modeling, I was out of work for a year and relied heavily on my family and friends for housing. I’m still so grateful that they let me use their spaces to record product reviews, co-lead wellness workshops, and do professional photo shoots when I couldn’t afford to rent studio space. My village has been very essential to my creative development. Read more>>
Kaiara Charles
In school, I could feel that it was exactly where I belonged. In school, my instructor took interest in another classmate and I, and properly mentored us. Gave us all the tools we needed for the professional esthi world. There were a few bumps in the road so I didn’t graduate until June 2023, which was also the same year my contract with the Air Force was up. I still didn’t have the drive I needed and doubt filled my mind. I would take clients here and there, mostly for lashes because that was the demand but I still wasn’t fulfilled. Long story short, I faced adversity and overcame it and I’m now stepping into what is meant for me. I’m now a full-time wax technician and specialize in facials, brow artistry and makeup. Read more>>
Danielle Hubbard
My journey in television production began with the creation and production of Nick’s House, a fun and engaging show about a group of ambitious kids who run their own businesses. I created the show with the help of my 10-year-old son who originally came up with the overall concept. You can watch the pilot episode on MotherHubbard.TV. Read more>>
Worldwide Lau
At this time my name is buzzing in my city everywhere I go people know me and shout my name. I didn’t let anything stop me from achieving my goals and kept pushing through every obstacle that got in my way. Now I’m touring over seas in London , I have a book out about my story , I have plenty of good music on major platforms , I’ve been on tv. I started my own label and publishing company. I’m living in Atlanta now still working 10+ years later. I have a story and I know I can’t tell it all here but that’s just a little for now Read more>>
Jacqueline Ruiz
I had a fascination with all things beauty in movies, shows, magazines, etc., whether it was the makeup, hair, nails, clothes – I loved it all. I’m originally from Miami, FL, & I come from a Dominican family. If you come from a Hispanic background you know how big we are on appearances & looking well put together, at all times. So I’ve always been taught that how you present yourself is very important. Expressing yourself through those things, which for me started with makeup, it’s a way to show who we are & gives us that sense of self, & that sense of confidence to carry ourselves in a more uplifted manner. Read more>>
Divya Sarin
Aram Asadzadeh is the Executive Assistant of Operations and Marketing at TheCoderSchool in Georgia. With a background in digital media and marketing, he is passionate about using technology to inspire innovation. Aram supports a team focused on shaping the future by helping young minds become tech leaders, blending creativity with strategic marketing to engage and inspire the next generation of innovators. Read more>>
Tatyanna Freeman
But even though I had found my creative outlets, there were still barriers. I experienced workplace harassment, abuse, and bullying and was often misunderstood because of my neurodivergence. It was tough, and there were moments I felt like giving up. But instead of letting those experiences defeat me, I used them as fuel. I refused to let others define my worth. I pushed forward because I knew that my voice, my perspective, and my work were important. Read more>>
Amber Thomas
All roads come with obstacles so I wouldn’t say it’s been completely smooth. Some of the struggles I’ve personally faced have been workplace politics, imposter syndrome, and sometimes simply just having a lack of knowledge or expertise in certain areas, but I’ve committed myself to focusing on my strengths instead of the struggles. Becoming a master at problem solving and understanding the importance of utilizing all available resources has helped me to withstand many storms within corporate America. Read more>>
Timothy Blake
Hey guys, yes so first off I’m Lil Makaveli, better known stylistically as “Lil Mak”, and I got my start in music actually in middle school! Believe it or not, I was the first-chair Oboe player in my school’s concert band where I learned music theory, structure and melody under Dave Szumlanski; an extremely talented musician. This experience really grounded my love and passion for music of all genres; one of my band mates and I maintain a close friendship to this day and have worked on several music projects together. Read more>>
Odeth (odette) Edwards
While trying to find my niche in education (I knew working in the K-12 space was not for me), I looked at online tutoring platforms. My first client was a young couple with a “Covid Baby,” whom they thought was significantly impacted by the disruption in the regular school system. I started working with her in May 2022 and had remarkable success. It took the mom of my then 3-year-old client to open my eyes to the possibility of a business because I never envisioned being an edupreneur. Today, we are a two-member team working with eight families and thirteen children. Read more>>
Antonio Halfacre
As my success in trucking grew, I decided to diversify into real estate. The property market fascinated me, and I saw potential for long-term growth. Over the years, I’ve built a diverse portfolio, focusing on both commercial and residential properties. Real estate has been another pillar of my success, and it’s been an incredible journey seeing the value of investments increase over time. Read more>>
Ariel Jordan
What I initially saw as an isolated experience quickly revealed itself as part of a troubling pattern: an increasing number of young women of color face misdiagnosis and lack access to proper care and resources. I often found myself asking, “How many other young women are going through this same experience?” So many health issues affecting women of color are overlooked, and I knew I had to do something. Read more>>
Simone Jones
Although I’m generally known for making jewelry, my specialty is creating photo jewelry in the form of bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings & anklets. Honestly, I’m most proud of my progress in my craft. When I look back at my sold pieces it amazes me at how far I’ve come. I believe what sets me apart is 1 my customer service & 2 my products. Most of my clientele is of families who have lost a loved one(s.) Those are very delicate conversations to have and I don’t want to cause any further grief. Most of the time my clients confide in me during those moments & it’s my honor to listen, offer words of encouragement & make sure they’re satisfied. Also, my ability to provide many different styles is something I take pride in. Read more>>
Jerrell Hogan
From a Kid, Raised by a single mother, who has a heart of honor & Gold made me into the man I am today! Hard work & dedication is in me not on me! My Mom took care of me & my siblings with an addition of her niece! Working 3 jobs was something that stuck with me! And I knew when I got of age, I had to step up in a major way! Life would have taken a turn if my Athletic career happened, but life was lifing it was time to get in my bag of God’s gifts he gave me and use them! And now today, I am a Chef Read more>>
Jason Patao
Jason’s journey into the world of fashion is rooted in decades of experience surrounded by artistic visionaries. A retired Los Angeles firefighter, he also worked in fire safety management within the film and music industry, where he had a front-row seat to culture-shaping icons like Boyz II Men, Rihanna, Eminem, and Jay-Z. Over time, he developed a personal aesthetic that seamlessly blends avant-garde and sophistication—one that is both timeless and cutting-edge. Read more>>
Precious Unique (mahogany) Ware
During Covid, I decided to take a risk and move from the Bay Area to Los Angeles embarking on the expansion of my vision. The journey of an artist is a long transformational one that I enjoy in every moment.Through my voice and knowledge, I not only moves hearts with music but also empowers individuals to take control of their health, proving that true impact comes from both art and awareness. Read more>>
Samantha Jax
The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but that’s part of being a business owner. When you step into entrepreneurship, you commit to embracing the good, the bad, and the ugly challenges that come with it. I wouldn’t trade any of my experiences for the world because every obstacle has shaped me into the entrepreneur I am today. Those lessons and hardships have strengthened my resilience and contributed to the continued success of my businesses. Read more>>
Augusta Wilson
I also strive to have these pieces be like no one else’s— art is expression, not decor. When you invest in my art you are investing in a piece that embodies how you want to feel everyday, your own original style and personality. You won’t walk into your neighbor’s house and see anything like it— even if they too have one of my pieces! Each painting is special and original. Read more>>
Madelynn Pierce
My journey into social media management started quite organically in 2019. I worked for a small business during college in Dahlonega, GA running their social media and creating content. After moving home due to COVID in 2020 I realized my passion for small businesses and perused opening 2 boutiques with my family, including a bridal shop. While working in the bridal industry, I noticed many small businesses struggling to maintain consistent, engaging social media presences despite having amazing products and services. Read more>>
Brian Rio
Although Aria’s not human, it analyzes the user’s mix, optimizes the world-class analog signal chain based on the user’s direction, and even allows them to fine-tune their master by precisely adjusting the physical knobs on the gear using robotic arms. At the core of its identity is the mission to provide premium mastering services at an accessible price while never compromising quality. Today, Aria serves a diverse community ranging from audio hobbyists to some of the world’s most renowned mixing engineers. Read more>>
Darius Smith
I feel like starting your own brand is a big challenge and a lot of ups and downs comes with it, A lot of sacrifices and long nights , I’ve also had drops where I thought was going to sell out but didn’t do as well as I thought but I’ve also have had drops where I’ve sold out the first day. So to the individual that thinking about starting a clothing brand business it’s not as good as we make it look but I can say it’s worth the try just don’t give it when things not goin so we’ll Read more>>
Shelly Mcwilliams
For most of my young adult and adult life, I’ve worked in customer service with a short time working in childcare, but I never really felt like I fit into the traditional 9-5 mold. I’ve always craved something different-something that allowed me to express myself in a way that felt true to who I am. That desire for something more led me to travel overseas, even spending three months living in Mozambique, Africa, which opened my eyes to the world in ways I never expected. Read more>>
Erik Guerrero
it has its ups and downs. i would say being a creative and real life situations can be challenging. there was time where i would just couch surf just cause i would want the best content for myself. there was time where i was just try to survive to really put my work out there just so someone could really see it . i would say the most struggling thing would be the mental and financial part. but one thing i always say to myself , its all going to pay off in the future. Read more>>
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>>
