ATL’s Most Inspiring Stories

The heart of our mission is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our communities. In the recent weeks, we’ve had the privilege to connect with some incredible artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with the incredible group below. Check out our favorite stories from across the Voyage family.

Carlotta Taylor

Navigating the foster care system presented its own set of obstacles. Frequent relocations disrupted any sense of stability, making it challenging to form lasting connections. Each move not only severed burgeoning friendships but also hindered academic progress, as adapting to new curricula and environments became a recurring struggle. The lack of consistent support systems often left me feeling isolated and misunderstood. Read more>>

Reinette Arnold

Since launching my consulting firm, I’ve had the opportunity to work nationally and internationally with various clients to provide clinical and management consulting services. In addition, I have launched several other businesses coining myself as a multi-prenuer, that allows me to expand my entrepreneurship goals as I explore other business ventures of interest. These ventures guide me towards a greater sense of self-actualization as I engage in purposeful work in alignment with my mission and values. Read more>>

Tatiana Smith

From a young age, God blessed me with a passion for doing hair. I loved experimenting with different styles and techniques, which eventually led me to explore the art of wig construction. However, my journey didn’t stop there—God also placed a deep love for education in my heart. I pursued a degree in Early Childhood Education, taking on dual majors, and after graduating, I began working in a charter school setting while also hosting wig construction classes on the side. Read more>>

Michelle Shaw

In my work, I have found that the parents I consult with often have children similar to at least one of my children. I have worked with parents of high-achieving students, and my experience with my own high-achieving children has enabled me to help them guide their children to their full potential. But it has been even more rewarding to be able to work with parents whose children are struggling in the ways some of my children did. I’m genuinely grateful for the difficulties I faced, because they taught me what I need to know to help other parents learn to be patient with their neurodivergent learners, access helpful resources and connect with experts, and develop strategies to meet their kids where they are. Read more>>

William Downs

My goal in life is to carve out a small slice of the Art history pie as a Black American Artist. After teaching drawing in the institutions I was invited to teach drawing at some amazing workshops across the country…I am currently teaching experimental drawing workshops at various esteemed arts and crafts centers across the country, including Arrowmont, Anderson Ranch, Shankrage, and the Hambidge Arts Center-Creative Arts. It is a privilege to share my knowledge and passion for drawing with eager participants and help foster creativity through these workshops. Read more>>

Ashely Sutton

I’m a native Atlantan, born in the heart of the city but raised on the South Side. After graduating high school, I attended Spelman College in Atlanta. My senior year was particularly challenging when my father passed away unexpectedly. I definitely was a daddy’s girl, and losing him was a profound blow. His passing was a wake-up call for me, making me realize the importance of health and the need for a lifestyle change. I didn’t want his legacy to be one of loss; instead, I wanted to honor him by taking charge of my own health. Read more>>

Emily Koh

The path of a musician is never a straightforward one. Unlike more traditional careers, there is no predefined route to follow—each musician must carve out their own journey. While there may be role models to look up to, success in music is a delicate balance of dedication, timing, and a touch of serendipity. The road is filled with countless crossroads, each leading to new and unexpected possibilities. This unpredictability, though daunting to some, is what makes the journey so exhilarating. Read more>>

Sara Kathryne Isbell

My husband, Brett, is also a Registered Nurse which allowed us to sync up our work schedules and travel the world as much as possible in our early 20’s! I soaked up inspiration everywhere we went and possessed a deep admiration for the architecture and culture of each destination. I sketched out all of my “art ideas” on anything from hotel notepads to plane napkins, and translated those ideas into paintings when I got home. After being asked by a family member to commission my first abstract piece, I knew I had found my true passion! Read more>>

Brittany G.

I started my first business at 15 alongside my sister, hosting house shows for touring bands right in our parents’ living room. That experience sparked our love for events, leading us to open our own venue and expand into event planning, rentals, and décor services. Over the years, that passion for creativity and connection evolved into a full-fledged career. Today, I run a boutique creative agency specializing in social media and creative services for entertainment industry professionals. I’m also a partner and talent manager in my family’s talent management company and the founder of a thriving women’s social community. Read more>>

Abbie Bythewood

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a part of some unforgettable celebrations — from flower girl, to standing next to my best friends on their wedding days as their maid of honor, to creating weekend trip itineraries, hosting family holidays, showers, birthdays and every occasion in between. After years of festivities, I’ve learned that hosting doesn’t have to be stressful— it should be fun, personal and filled with memories that last a lifetime. Read more>>

Katie Pfister

This industry is never easy! But thankful to get to do what we love day in and day out! From COVID, price increase of goods, build out of a new space, staffing, all while growing our family and having 3 little boys at home(all of which who have learned good work ethic ;)) there is a new struggle every day. Were thnakful for a community who loves us well and supports us and a staff that works hard to help make this dream a reality! Read more>>

Max Kallos

After graduating from the UGA Terry College of Business I went to work for a small software development company. I worked directly under the CEO and CFO helping in literally ALL facets of the business. It was a tremendous learning experience. I decided my strengths were in helping people. In 2003 I left the firm and went into mortgage sales after receiving some great advice from my best friends wife. With the help of a great mentor, Mike Malloy, I got off to a strong start was was awarded a national “rookie of the year” award. Read more>>

Landon Bonner & David Pittman

Upon graduating, Landon accepted a Division II football scholarship at the University of Charleston, WV, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Business, followed by an MBA. During college, he traveled the country visiting family and exploring coffee shops in cities like Chicago and New York, gaining insight into the industry’s diverse offerings. Whenever he returned home, he frequented Atlanta staples like Octane Coffee and Land of a Thousand Hills, further deepening his appreciation for specialty coffee. Read more>>

Roxy Moure

I started in miami florida, assisting a wedding photographer with their Photo Booth. That eventually escalated into me second shooting weddings and then i realized i’d rather trade in long wedding days for long tour days haha so i started documenting concerts and touring with artists. Read more>>

Mersedeh Motahari

For over ten years, I worked as a fashion designer in my homeland and established my own brand, M E R S E D E H COLLECTION. In a short time, I gained popularity and success, even having the opportunity to export my designs internationally. Through relentless hard work, I built my own business and loyal clientele. However, due to certain difficulties and limitations in my country, I was forced to stop working despite my deep passion for fashion. Eventually, I made the life-changing decision to move to America completely. Read more>>

Willi Millions

Combining both my business and passion, I created COOL WRLD COLLECTIVE; a premiere collaborative commUnity for creatives, artist and influencers. Specializing in innovative advertising campaigns for hyperlocal and global brands; we utilize creative media, our content gallery space and cool products, to Influence culture & directly touch consumers. Read more>>

Fabiola Pierre

Now, I continue expanding my expertise through various ventures, including nationwide event staffing and full-service event coordinator . I also run Thrifts by Dexterity Faby, where I use my love for thrifting to help others find budget-friendly gems. Whether I’m managing events, curating talent, bartending, or working on creative collaborations, I thrive on bringing ideas to life and making meaningful connections. Read more>>

Ulrike Stewart

The transition was not as easy as I thought it would be. Going from standing behind the chair to having to memorize 18+ pages of dialogue was definitely a challenge. I had to train for years in scene studies, improv, audition techniques, and learning how to fully dive into different characters—emotionally and mentally. It’s about drawing from your own life experiences or being open to others’ experiences. It’s not easy and takes a toll both emotionally and mentally. On top of that, I was also opening a new restaurant with my husband and business partners while balancing my marriage and kids. A blessing itself but that venture was also new. Passion is essential in this journey, as there will be times when you question whether it’s all worth it during the tough moments. Read more>>

Asia Williams

At the end of 2023, I was ready to build my own brokerage firm. With my administrative team, we set our plan into motion. I opened my brokerage firm in December 2023, and by January 2024, the doors were open. Some incredible Realtors joined me right away, and we hit the ground running. In addition to my brokerage work, I was also a radio host for my talk show segment, “The Real in Real Estate,” which grew over time. Now, I host the R’ in Real Estate podcast, where I share insights about real estate and discuss current events happening in the world. Read more>>

Brejai Ball

I started baking when I was 9 years old and I have been baking ever since. I started selling cupcakes in middle school and then continued in high school. My senior year I went to Grayson Technical High School for Culinary Arts and that’s when I started my business Moo Moo’s Delights. After graduating I went to college at Le Cordon Bleu to get my Associates in Baking and Pastries. Read more>>

Teremis Boykin

I was happy to say she made a full recovery and was sitting right by me at the premiere of the movie. I also lost two of my closest family last year. Their death was very hard for me to deal with being that they were the two men that I would go to and tell my dreams to and how I planned on making it to the top of the industry one day just for them not to be here when I start my ascend. Then with my kids trying to be everything they need me to be and do the things I need to for upcoming projects something conflict with schedules. I am chancing my dreams to inspire them to never give up on their dream no matter how old they get. Read more>>

Natalie Gillis

Balancing entrepreneurship while being a student has definitely been challenging, especially in the early stages of building my brand. As a creative, my mind is always running with new ideas, which can make it difficult to focus on school when I’m so passionate about what I’m creating. However, this journey has taught me how to manage my time effectively and prioritize what truly matters to me. Read more>>

Janelle Sy’mone

It’s not just me thinking of the person who spent their time, and their money to watch what’s happening on that stage, but It’s everyone included in the process from the band, to the dancers, to the creative directions and stylists. Each effort put forth makes me proud. And what sets me apart? I personally don’t think I’m apart from any other black or queer or cis or trans artist of color looking to express themselves. This is community, so I don’t believe anything separated me from the whole. But I will say that my unique expression in my movements, my song choice,my vocal style—all of it makes me representative of my gift within the big picture of all of the other creatives and artist that add to the same picture. Read more>>

Chelsea Mitchell

I proceeded with caution because I didn’t want to feel triggered return to alcohol. These products are not for everyone, but I was just too curious. I bought a bottle of NA Prosecco, white-zin, and whiskey to start and it snowballed from there. I created an IG account specifically for my drinks and became active in various FB groups. I found a community of like-minded, caring, creative, people and I soaked up all the information I could. The constant inspiration had me in the kitchen creating syrups, shrubs, and growing ingredients to incorporate. I scoured countless cocktail books and explored more markets for unique ingredients. Read more>>

Chase Beard-Turner

After months of planning, sourcing from incredible makers, and pouring my heart into every detail, Forget Me Nots officially opened its doors on March 8, 2025, in Historic Downtown Douglasville. During our sneak peek period, the resounding phrase we heard was, “It’s a vibe.” From the inviting couch and the music selection to the carefully chosen scents, people felt the energy and warmth the moment they stepped inside. Our goal isn’t just to offer products—it’s to create a space where people feel seen and inspired. Forget Me Nots isn’t just about shopping; it’s about embracing culture and connection. Read more>>

Alexander Moomey

Lair infuses the original idea and brings it to the streets. the crowds focus tends to be towards street-wear, so that opened the doors to many more possibilities. The Lair logo is graffiti inspired to tie back to its roots, the people of the streets, and redefines it for all to wear. I simply got the inspiration from Thrasher, Thrasher started as a skate brand, and now is worn by just about anyone. Read more>>

Naim Kishun

I started my entrepreneurship when I was just a teen. I was always naturally gifted with a lot of talents such as sports & exercise, math, music, and motivating others. I used everything that came to me easily as a source of income. I’m not at the last page of my book meaning I still have a long way to go but I am blessed to be able to pay bills and live off the work that I put in everyday. Read more>>

Tesha Harpe

With a career in the banking industry that spans over two decades, I’ve cultivated extensive experience and expertise since 2002. Originally from Richmond, Virginia, I relocated to Atlanta in 2006, where I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of financial institutions, including banks, credit unions, and mortgage brokerages. My journey has provided me with invaluable insights into the financial landscape, allowing me to develop a deep understanding of the needs of both clients and the industry. Read more>>

GeekStar Jay

I wouldn’t call myself a rapper because i can rap sing or mumble and make a song sound good. I’m an artist i want to have music that everybody can listen to not just rap and not just r&b. I like my music to have touches of different vibes throughout the song so that there’s something that will catch a different listeners ear everytime. Read more>>

Pimthip (Gib) T. Freud

I struggled to find reliable, skilled professionals who would actually follow through. Developers who disappeared mid-project, marketers who sold services without results, agencies that treated me like just another number. I wasted time, money, and energy—trying to piece together a team to grow my business but constantly getting let down. And honestly, that’s the frustration a lot of our clients come to us with today. They’ve been burned before. They’ve worked with freelancers or agencies who failed to deliver, leaving them with broken websites, incomplete branding, or ad campaigns that go nowhere. Read more>>

DTC Production

Since its inception, DTC Production has been dedicated to creating high-quality films that entertain, inspire, and educate audiences worldwide. The company continues to push the boundaries of storytelling, leveraging the founders’ diverse talents and shared passion for the craft. Today, DTC Production is recognized for its innovative approach to filmmaking, its commitment to excellence, and its role in amplifying unique voices in the industry. Read more>>

Olabimpe Olaoye

Before there was BlinksbyBimp, there was Bimp’s Boutique (2020) which was an online boutique that sold various different accessories such as jewelry, purses, sandals and lashes. After about a year and a half, I won a giveaway from my now mentor and asked her how she began lashing. As it turns out, we had a similar start with the online boutique. Next thing I know, I signed up for my lash class and have been lashing ever since! Read more>>

Kameron Bolton

The journey as a multidimensional creative is never linear. I’ve moved through so many creative spaces graphic design, photography, videography, film sets, clothing business, poetry, guitar/music, YouTube.. all before the age of 18. Not because I was searching for a title, but because I was searching for the truest way to express what’s inside me. Every medium, every project, every late night spent creating has been another step toward understanding who I truly am and separating myself from the limits the world tries to place on me. Read more>>

Kaice Burnett

I’m Kaice (known as Kaice Alea online) originally from Baltimore, Maryland. I started my YouTube channel when I was 16, back in high school, when I began my natural hair journey. I was transitioning from a perm to natural hair and just wanted to document the process, not realizing at the time that I was stepping into a movement. I truly feel like the natural hair YouTubers of that era laid the foundation for what we now know as influencer culture—we built communities around shared experiences, long before brand deals and algorithms dictated content. Read more>>

Trinity (CYNDEREAPER) Hall-Baker

From then out I had a Nintendo Gameboy Advanced, PlayStation 2, Xbox 360, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSI, and of course my beloved PlayStation 5. That was the start of something great, even though I didn’t realize it at the time. I’ve always had a big imagination, and the stories in video games captivated me. The first game I ever fell in love with was Kingdom Hearts 2. My brother and I used to go to GameStop a lot, usually the one in Union City, and he convinced me to get KH2. At first, I was skeptical, but as soon as I heard the menu theme (Dearly Beloved), I was hooked. It’s still one of my top games today. Read more>>

Bella Dontine

At 15, I began competitive dancing, paying for my dance lessons, singing lessons, and guitar and piano lessons with the money I earned from working. By 17, I had performed at Walt Disney World and Planet Hollywood in New York City, and I had taken dance classes with Broadway performers and at Steps on Broadway. I’ve performed all over the East Coast. Read more>>

Keren Barrios

Beyond the legal realm, she enjoys trying new recipes, reading, exploring interior design, discovering new restaurants, and cherishing moments with her family. In November 2013, Keren founded Barrios Virguez Attorneys, starting with just one office and a single phone. The firm quickly outgrew its initial space, prompting a move to a second location in 2017, which also became insufficient as the firm expanded. By 2021, the firm found its current home and has since grown to a team of 40 employees, earning recognition as one of the fastest-growing law firms in Georgia. Keren’s unwavering focus remains on continued growth and providing the best possible service to her clients. Read more>>

Maria LeMoine

Believe it or not, my passion for makeup started when I was around seven years old. My single mom would come home from work exhausted, and as a way to spend time together, we would play “salon.” I would do her makeup and hair, and what started as a fun game quickly became something more. As I grew older, I continued doing her makeup, and one day, I realized it wasn’t just play—it was my true LOVE. Read more>>

Nalini Kataria

Running a dental practice comes with its challenges—balancing patient care, business operations, and innovation—but it has been incredibly rewarding. Over time, I realized that dentistry isn’t just about treating teeth; it’s about creating an experience. That’s what led to my decision to rebrand as SmileinStyle—we’re in the middle of construction as I share this story! I wanted to bring a fresh, welcoming energy to dentistry, where every patient feels at home. So, we’re introducing “The Friends Experience” to dentistry. Our Friends-themed rooms, gourmet coffee, and humor sprinkled throughout the decor will add a playful touch, making visits more engaging and less intimidating. At SmileinStyle, we combine high-quality care with a warm, inviting atmosphere because I truly believe that a great smile starts with a great experience. Read more>>

Gary Moore

Gary Moore, a well-known entrepreneur and business owner in Atlanta, built his success by recognizing opportunities and strategically expanding his services. His journey began in the early 2000s with a tax office, where he quickly noticed a trend—once people received their tax refunds, many were looking to purchase vehicles. Seizing the opportunity, he started selling cars right outside his office, a decision that soon led to the launch of a full-scale dealership as demand skyrocketed Read more>>

Christopher Bartelski

I’ve always had a creative streak. Music was my first love—I started playing violin at three, switched to viola, and eventually found my way into singing and songwriting. I even chased a music career for a while, coming close to a production deal, but life had other plans. Photography came naturally to me as well. I loved capturing moments, the in-between expressions, the real stuff that makes a memory last. That led me to wedding photography, where I found joy in telling love stories through my lens. Read more>>

Tracy Gantlin-Monroy, MDiv, LPC

What I mean here is truly, your gift will make room for you. There were challenges. The greatest struggle was taking that leap from a contract position with more security than starting a brand new private practice without a single client. Not to mention, faced by the status of “recently separated, on the nonstop train to divorce.” I ended up in private practice due to my inability to tolerate injustice at a community mental health agency that employed me as a contracted, community mental health clinician. My demand for justice, in an unjust situation, created the need to be true to thine own self and pivot. Read more>>

Olympia Kent

Since graduating, Olympia has established herself as a sought-after professional makeup artist, securing a position with BVFW (botque Fashion Week) and making her mark in film and television. She has worked as a Makeup Artist and Department Head on more than 15 independent films, earning 22 credits and cementing her status as the “Tubi Queen.” Her expertise has been recognized in major publications, including a cover feature in In The City Magazine and a spotlight in Sheen Magazine. Read more>>

Lauda Rodriguez Lacayo

After relocating to Atlanta with her daughter, Lauda recognized a deeper calling to assist people and families. This realization inspired her to create Bella Vie Organizing Solutions and Concierge Services. For Lauda, organizing transcends mere decluttering; it’s about guiding clients through life transitions and aligning their spaces with their aspirations and needs.. Her empathetic approach ensures that she taps into each client’s desires, may it be individuals, families, companies, or full communities, fostering environments that reflect their true selves. Read more>>

Maureen And Katie

Best friends, Maureen Sullivan and Katie Carr co-founded a non profit 501c3 called Everyday Art. After Katie, an abstract oil painter, suffered a traumatic near death experience in January of 2024, resulting in the loss of her left leg above the knee, Maureen shared with Katie she had an idea where Katie could always have a place to do her art. From there, Everyday Art was born. Read more>>

Ryan Brady

I also wanted to offer services/treatments that were heavily research-backed; services that I wholeheartedly believed in and had experience with. That’s when I found Pause. I was actually already familiar with Pause having worked in the wellness space, so when I saw that they had opened up to franchising literally that month, I knew it was fate. The brand checked off all the boxes and I could not be more thrilled to finally be where I am today. Read more>>

Brooke Dunbar

I started my career in Real Estate with a passion to provide World Class Service to my clients in every area of real estate. I am detailed oriented and dedicated to meeting the needs of the clients that I serve. Even though I have a wealth of knowledge in the real estate industry, I am consistently discovering new ways to advance my skill set as a realtor and business leader. My strengths are: Honesty, Reliability, Decisiveness, and Loyalty. I give 100% of myself to my clients from start to finish! My number one priority is to get you to your end GOAL!! SEE YOU AT CLOSING!! Read more>>

David Parrish

Left me kinda learning to run a business on my own but I’ve always thrived under pressure and am getting there. We are going on our 7th year and I haven’t ranked it yet so even with all the bumps in the road I think we are doing ok. I really couldn’t have done it without the support of all of our clients and many of the artist I’ve had work with me over the years. Specially I have to give a huge thanks to one of my best friends who worked with me Emily Madden. She’s been with me from the start and we have grown together as artist and just bloomed into an incredible friendship and truthfully the shop wouldn’t be here without her. Read more>>

Molly Wilkins

Oh gosh! So many to name. I started out my full time job big girl career at Enterprise Rent-a-Car, and even though I had not mentioned it my former boss Tracy Darrington is to this day STILL someone I look up to. She was someone I did not trust at first but she earned my trust and taught me how to be the kind of person that others could trust as well. I have always carried those lessons with me. Read more>>

Don Trunk

I can send him songs i produced and he will go straight to the booth to record them the same day. Sometimes you not ready for the blessings you truly deserve, you gotta earn them so don’t expect anything to magically happen for you just cause you meet somebody for the first time. It took me years to build a relationship with Dru Hill and if it wasn’t for Nokio, my brother L and my Brother Jay Funk seeing a spark in me back then, i would have never got a chance to work with Dru Hill and my beat cd would still be crushed on the side of the road. Read more>>

Tiara Sims

My name is Tiara, better known as Tiny. I am a 30 year old entrepreneur by day and the mother to my four year-old son 24/7.

My interest in becoming a make up artist started with me, trying to mask my insecurities to make myself feel more beautiful. With quite a bit of practice and lots of trial and error , I began to notice that my techniques and application processes were improving and it gave me more confidence not only in building myself esteem, but potentially doing makeup as a hobby. Read More>>