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.
Rashidah Jones
I started undergrad at Clark Atlanta University, majoring in Mass Communications with a concentration in Radio/Television/Film because I loved storytelling, music, and connecting with people through media. Working in radio was my dream. Growing up on Long Island, I was obsessed with tuning in to Angie Martinez and Wendy Williams—I genuinely thought my future would be behind the mic. But I soon discovered a passion for project management, promotions, and strategy—the work that happens behind the scenes to bring powerful stories and messages to life. Read more>>
Suzanne Sam
After high school, I pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design at the American University of Sharjah (AUS), one of the best universities for design in the MENA region. This program laid the foundation not just for interior design, but for a broader understanding of architectural thinking. It was here that I first understood what design truly meant: that every meaningful design begins with an analysis of the urban context, followed by a deep dive into concept development and most critically, user needs. I learned that designing with empathy and insight into human behavior is the true starting point of any successful project. Read more>>
Morgan Gore
Eleven years ago I realized photography was something I was very interested in, dabbling around outside and with close friends to test the waters. It didn’t take long before I realized photography was something I was truly passionate about. My love for photography grew more and more over a couple years, I then took the leap for it to become my full time career. Now, eight years later my love for it still burns strong, still growing and learning and determined to continue. Every session big or small brings me such a joy. Capturing all of the moments in so many peoples life is truly such a blessing. Read more>>
DeWayne & LaToya Griffin
LaToya and I have been married for 21 years and are proud parents of three children. A pillar to our marriage is the once a year annual planning we do in December/January timeframe. During this planning we reflect on the year that has past and discuss and write down our goals for the upcoming year. We also spend time discussing our lifetime dreams whether that be an individual bucket list item or things we hope to achieve together as a couple or family. We loosely discussed in one of these planning sessions a dream for us to open a coffee shop. Read more>>
Sydney Jones
Movement became my way of expressing what I didn’t yet have the words to say. Even before I could dance “well,” I was always moving around, sometimes awkwardly, sometimes fearlessly. I jokingly say I had two left feet,but the truth is, dance gave me a sense of rhythm where life didn’t always feel steady. Watching artists like Debbie Allen, Gene Anthony Ray, the Fly Girls from In Living Color, Fatima Robinson, Michael Jackson, and others lit a fire in me. They weren’t just entertaining, they were making their presences known, telling stories, and creating a legacy of power that will inspire generations after them. That planted a seed in me. Read more>>
Zae Brewer
I was born during a snowstorm on Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, Nebraska, while the War on Terror was raging. At the time, my mother was serving in the Air Force, and my father was a Navy veteran. Not long after I was born, my mom was deployed to the Middle East. I was too young to remember it but knowing I could have lost her to a war that history now sees as wasteful has always stuck with me as a reminder that who we choose to serve us has consequences. My family moved to Georgia in 2008, when I was five, and I am proud to be a Georgian. Read more>>
Nabeel Mohammed
My journey into game development started when I was around 12 or 13 years old. I stumbled across Titanfall 2, and it completely blew me away, the fast-paced gameplay, the immersive world-building, and especially the emotional connection between the characters and the player. That was the moment I realized video games could be more than just entertainment, they could be powerful storytelling tools. It planted a seed in me that’s only grown since. Read more>>
Solise White
My professional journey started with building spaces that centered Black joy, community, and empowerment. I Co-founded A Concrete Rose Bookbar, a wine and literary space designed to celebrate Black culture unapologetically. Alongside that, I founded Soul Kharisma Dance Fitness, which began as a fun step aerobics class and evolved into something much deeper, a movement for healing, self-expression, and emotional release. Read more>>
Ellakate
I have been singing and making up songs for as long as I can remember. When I was little, I would constantly sing in the backseat of the car and make my brothers listen for hours to silly songs I made up. Music has always been part of me. As I got a little bit older, I discovered the magic of storytelling through songwriting. As a generally shy person offstage, songwriting became my language and a way to process emotions too complicated for everyday conversation. Read more>>
Samridhi Jain
For the most part, it’s been a fairly smooth road, but looking back, the pandemic definitely changed the course of my plans. I had initially planned to come to the U.S. for my undergraduate studies right after high school, but with the country in lockdown and borders closed, that wasn’t possible. Singapore, on the other hand, was still open, so I made the decision to pursue a diploma at LASALLE College of the Arts. Read more>>
Daniel Haynes
I’m Daniel C. Haynes—a Guyanese writer, journalist, and educator living in Queens, New York with my cat, Suki. I was born in Georgetown, Guyana, and raised by two mothers who nurtured my creativity from an early age. I laugh now thinking about how it all began—with wordless picture books I’d narrate aloud, inventing stories out of silence. More than two decades later, that instinct to observe and imagine has never left me. Read more>>
Neal Reddy
It gave me an outlet for my creativity. Eventually, I found myself lucky enough to be a part of reality show called Queer Eye. That is the moment everything changed. The show gave me the reset I needed and the confidence to dream again. I had always wanted to be a writer and actor. But I lived a safe, fear-based life. I was talking to my Mom the morning after we finished Queer Eye. She knew I had always dreamt of something bigger, but she also knew about how scared I was to try. I remember her telling me, “Whatever it is. Whatever you want to do. Now is the time. Just go for it baby.” And so I did. Read more>>
Neti Hamilton
I was already selling my cuttings and vegetables on Facebook marketplace. I had a plant Instagram, participated in the local food system, and was volunteering with different environmental public health organizations and community gardens in the area. So, when we broke up, I wanted something of my own. Being apart of these organizations was wonderful, but I wanted to create something of my own. Then in 2021, Ezra’s Emerald was born. Read more>>
Olubajo Sonubi
I’ve also collaborated with incredibly talented friends on various projects around town, like Kapil Gandhi and Theroun Patterson. One of my favorite collaborations was a 48-hour film festival project called FAWN that actually won the year we competed! And, I’ve been able to create my own projects with my incredible film partner, the talented Adetinpo Thomas, who is not only an amazing actor but an award-winning producer. Two of our most notable collaborations are the award winning short films CLEAN SLATE and THE EARTH WILL NOT SWALLOW US (which was written by Desola Thomas, an awarding winning filmmaker herself and younger sister to Adetinpo) Read more>>
Maria Yaveta
My creative journey has always been shaped by curiosity. I tried everything—ballet, swimming, martial arts, badminton—but it wasn’t until 8th grade that I truly found my voice in the arts. With the help and support of my parents, sister, and especially my 8th grade art teacher, I began to explore more deeply. I started experimenting with painting, pastel work, crafts, relief printmaking, and especially digital art. I would spend entire days drawing on my iPad, layering self-portraits, building collages from photos, and trying out new techniques. That constant experimentation slowly led me to graphic design, where everything clicked. Read more>>
Jacqueline Benjamin
The hardest part has been trusting myself enough to bet on me. Entrepreneurship is beautiful, but it’s also humbling. There are moments of doubt, dry seasons, and days where I miss the ease of blending into a team instead of carrying the weight of the whole vision. But there’s also freedom. And impact. And the deep, undeniable knowing that I’m building something that reflects who I am—and who I’m becoming. Read more>>
Nidhi Masih
Since then, I’ve had the honor of photographing over 200 weddings, collaborating with incredible couples across the country, and building a business that reflects both my heart and my craft. I took a short pause during a transformative season of my life — getting married, having a baby — but it only deepened my perspective on time, memory, and legacy. Now, I’m stepping back into my business with even more clarity and vision, ready to elevate every story I get to tell through my lens. I’ve rebranded recently to Photos By Nidhi. I’m looking forward to creating and beautiful imagery. Read more>>
Jennifer Kirkland
I became somewhat of a resource to makers since I was visiting multiple markets each weekend. I was able to share feedback regarding foot traffic, sales, most popular products, demographics, organization, etc. at each event based on the conversations I was having with the vendors. Because I wasn’t able to visit all the markets, after all there are so many in and around Atlanta every weekend, I decided it would be best to create a Facebook group where everyone could share their own experiences with one another. I also allowed organizers and handmade brick-and-mortars (in Georgia) to join the group so the makers would have access to more opportunities in the area and vice versa. Read more>>
Collin Sykes
Decided I wanted to start making my own music during COVID. I taught myself through youtube tutorials and connected with producer groups. Started making lofi hip-hop beats and as my music making abilities grew, so did my musical confidence. I started learning how to make Dubstep and started self releasing my own music in 2023. As I became more serious in developing my sound and skillset, I released my first 10 track full-length album called ‘Genesis’ in 2024. I played my first out of state show with DEF in Miami and that started my trend of performing live. I continued paying live shows across different states as well as my first festival Hulaween in Oct of 2024. I am playing my first summer festivals Sound Haven and Deep Tropics this year! Read more>>
Joanne Louis
As I walked alongside these organizations, I noticed something else: so many of the passionate, dedicated leaders I worked with were quietly longing to feel more confident, grounded, and whole—not just in their careers, but in every part of their lives. They wanted to lead with authenticity, live with purpose, and bring their full selves into the light. That insight inspired the evolution of my work, expanding our mission to include one-on-one coaching for professionals and entrepreneurs who are ready to break through internal blocks, reconnect with their truth, and step fully into the life and leadership they’re meant for. Read more>>
Jill Newcomb-Campanelli PT, CLT, CAPP-OB
Determined to ensure women still had access to care, I launched WellWomanPT online. I began offering virtual childbirth education and prenatal and postpartum exercise classes to help minimize injuries, reduce fear, and promote safe healing. As my business grew, I opened an in-person clinic right in my home, expanding beyond the birthing population to serve all women. Later, I moved into a dedicated office in Cumming, where I now care for women ages 18 to 64. Read more>>
LaToya Murray-Johnson
I’ve always had a fascination for birth and the reproductive process for women. I used to study it as a teenager. As God would have it, I began supporting my family and friends as the “pregnancy 411” person. During a La maze Childbirth class I found out what a doula was and knew without a shadow of a doubt it was my calling. That was in 2009, and the rest is history! Read more>>
Xavier Hailey
At the core of my practice is a commitment to service, clarity, and impact. I don’t just draft documents—I help entrepreneurs protect their vision and turn bold ideas into lasting legacies. Now based in Atlanta and serving clients nationwide, I’m focused on equipping creators and business owners with the legal foundation to thrive—because every great idea deserves the chance to flourish. Read more>>
Mitchell Anderson
Now, with all the new vendors and restaurants, and the apparent need by the landlord to monetize the parking during Piedmont Park Festivals, there is almost no parking available for my customers. MetroFresh relies on “regulars” to survive. On those weekends when there is zero room for in and out parking, we lose business. It’s a real challenge to a legacy business with our overhead, labor, energy and material costs rising every year when the business is negatively affected by physical challenges like parking that are beyond our control. Read more>>
Audry Portillo
Breaking into the creative industry came with its own set of challenges. I had to figure out most of it on my own—from understanding how to build my brand to navigating the business side of things. Along the way, I faced the pressure of proving myself in spaces where I didn’t always see people who looked like me or came from where I come from. Financial stress, limited resources, and imposter syndrome showed up early on. But I always told myself it had to work out—because I didn’t come this far or work this hard for it not to. Not seeing it through was never an option. I knew something was going to happen for me—because I was determined to make it happen, one way or another. Read more>>
John Winston
In 2011, I found myself at a crossroads that would forever change my life. Charged with murder and facing a staggering 105 years in prison, I entered jail with a heavy heart, no Identity and a clouded mind. It was during those first few days, in a place where hope seemed dim, that I picked up a Bible and began to read. I had yet to know God for myself, but in that moment of desperation, I surrendered my life to Jesus. Read more>>
Rob Nisby
Then end of March this year I was fired from my corporate job. I spent a month of intentional reflecting, reading my bible, talking with God and after a 56 hour fast he made everything clear for me. 24 hours later Calisthenics and Conversation was born and we’re still writing that story today. There’s more things I could share but all the challenges I’ve faced from childhood to know have molded me into Coach Rob- a healer, listener, mental health advocate, community builder, and however many more titles people want to add. Read more>>
Miguel Romero
step by step I decide to open my own floor business company. at the beginning was so difficult nobody give me a chance to do my work people were afraid to give me a work because they said you can damage my floor. however i start doing and the more I did more people call me at the point that i was not able to go sleep just barely 3 or 4 hours in my work truck my wife support me on every stage of this. by the time she was taking care of the babies I was doing floor for living. but i cold not believe what was happening my phone ring a lot people asking about floor. after 7 years I have not stop doing and today we are open a supply store and training development for concrete coating and polish. Read more>>
Shequita Matier Banks
So no, it has not always been a smooth ride. However, what the enemy used for evil, God turned it around for my good and His glory every single time. Without the storm, I would have no story, and without the test, I would have no testimony–and it is my story and my testimony that glorifies my Father in Heaven. I can confidently say that everything I have been through (the good, the bad, the ugly, and everything in between) has molded me into who I am today, and who I am becoming. Read more>>
Jen Galas
I began to realize there was a missing piece in Athens trivia so began Shih Tzu Not Trivia (named after my Shih Tzu, Jed), the only female-owned (and hosted!) full service trivia company in Athens. Over the last year, we have expanded into as many as seven locations each week (depending on the seasons) and operate in three counties (Clarke, Oconee and Walton) in Georgia. The games change each day of the week and the questions are written by myself. Read more>>
Montavius Walton
Through gigs and jobs here and there ups and downs, there was a day where I lost my friend Ryan to gun violence he lost his life in the same field and position I was in from that day I told my self I wouldn’t do anything else for his dreams and mine I would reach the top and achieve my goal for the both of us! So from that day I became deadly serious about being the best and making amazing work to get where I want to be no matter how hard it would be or how long it would take, then video after video drop the community started to notice more and more to where now I have Beyond Motion and we’re never looking back Read more>>
Pauline Flores
My turning point came when I chose sobriety in 2017. That choice changed everything. It led me to discover my passion for fitness, healing, and helping others. I joined the military, worked in healthcare, and eventually became a certified life coach. Today, I lead G.E.S. (Good Energy Squad), a movement and podcast dedicated to spreading positivity, authenticity, and transformation. Read more>>
Justin Hall
I’ve been a professional dog trainer for over 16 years. I spent 13 of those years as an owner operator of a large training business that was a franchise. I did not like the direction the franchise was heading and I wanted to deliver a more personal and custom training experience to my clients. So I made the difficult decision to walk away from a very successful business, to create my own vision. Right Tree Dog Training is just getting started and I can’t wait to help even dogs and their families all over the Metro Atlanta area Read more>>
Ashley Agurto
In addition to the Walking Teams, there are Play Group Teams that oversee play time between different dogs and Enrichment Teams that specialize in one-on-one time with dogs to work on training skills and mental and physical agility tasks. Over $200,000 has been raised since 2021 to create state of the art play yards at the shelter and to cover special medical needs & surgery that a rural county budget cannot afford to do. Ellijay Paws also pays for heart worm treatment for any dog that arrives at the shelter heart worm positive. Thanks to the constant exercise, socialization & human interaction that these shelter dogs receive, they are some of the most adoptable dogs around! Read more>>
Kesha Rainey
Technology doesn’t slow down either. What worked yesterday might be irrelevant tomorrow, so I have to keep investing, learning, and reimagining how we move forward. It takes a lot of resilience and a lot of faith to stay grounded while being ready to pivot at any moment. And sometimes, that pressure to always be “on” delays bigger strategic moves—because the risk feels heavier when so much is already on your shoulders. But I’ve learned to move with it, not fear it. Because progress doesn’t wait for perfect conditions. Read more>>
Danielle Taylor
Over a decade ago, I moved into the corporate event planning space while working with Associated Planners of Georgia. That’s where I really learned the structure, strategy, and logistics behind pulling off conferences, galas, and brand events across Atlanta. At the same time, I was also planning and coordinating events for friends and family, while gaining my formal education through New York Institute of Art and Design. Read more>>
Abraham
It has not been a smooth struggle as it takes time to build a business. We have been very lucky with our clientele, using our services and referring us to their friends and family. We love to hear stories where our journey has helped them sell their home for a lot more and make money off of their investment, as well as make their home comfortable for their lifestyle and their living. All within affordable, Budgeted, and timely fashion Read more>>
Jordan Benston
One of the things that I love to say I specialize in is the results. My clients come to me with their visions, their dreams, their budgets and I bring them to life. That vision can be an editorial photo shoot and video shoot a documentary, branded content, event recap coverage you name it I have a thing to do it. The project that I am most proud of was my company’s first project on a streaming platform and that is a documentary called Hip Hop & The White House that can be found on Hulu. What sets me apart from others is not only do I prioritize the content, but I make sure to prioritize what type of people I hire and I like to prioritize people that look like me. Read more>>
Kaletta Lynch
Under her leadership and in one year, she and her team created the citywide equity plan, developed and implemented the language access plan/policy, secured $300,000 for language access initiatives, and secured $160,000 grant funding in support of refugee resettlement efforts. They also managed the city’s 1st Racial Equity in Policing Commission and the Human Rights Commission, codified the Convention to Eliminate Discrimination Against Women, and transitioned the Accessibility Disability Advisory Committee to an official Board with powers to vote for recommendations of new ordinances and policies for the Mayor’s consideration. Read more>>
Ginger LaRue
I served as a Resident Assistant in the college dorms and was recognized for my ability to navigate and resolve conflicts among residents, which was my first spark of interest in Alternate Dispute Resolution and mediation. After graduation, I worked as an operations manager for a landscape company, and then as a golf course assistant superintendent, where I had first hand insight and immersion in Spanish language and culture, becoming fluent by building upon early education. I used these skills in horticulture and Spanish during my work as an Agricultural Extension Agent to grow a network of landscape professionals. Read more>>
Tejas Chavan
hat began as a humble start with just two kids and a dream has now blossomed into a vibrant community of over 55 students—children and adults alike—across Cumming and Suwanee. Rezonance Music Academy was born out of a deep passion for music, teaching, and a strong desire to help others connect with their inner artist. Read more>>
Hannah Murphy
I was DEFINITELY snuck into bars I shouldn’t have been in. As fun as it looked on the outside, it was also chaotic and took its toll. My songwriting was the only way I truly channeled all that chaos. Everything got addressed; my feelings about loneliness, lack of control, addiction, poverty, issues with my parents, regular ole’ boy drama–nothing was off limits. And I clung to that feeling of release. Performing those songs was something else, but the palpable relief I felt from simply getting the words out of me probably saved my life. Read more>>
Joy Ssebikindu
Initially drawn to the structure and advocacy of law, my early career path reflected a desire to stand in the gap for those most in need. But everything changed when I began volunteering in juvenile detention centers. I struggled to believe that change wasn’t possible for these young individuals. So many of them hadn’t even had the chance to explore other options. It was there, in those quiet, vulnerable spaces, that I recognized my true calling: not just to advocate from the outside, but to sit beside people in their pain, their hopes, and their process — holding space for transformation to take root. Read more>>
Whitney Jackson
In this industry you will get so many no’s before you get that one YES and you must stay focused and constantly push yourself to your goals. To push past the negativity and insecurities I had to accept myself for who I am; curves and all! As an artist we are molded into some other image and we forget who we are as a person. I knew in my heart I had the same technique, performance quality, and knowledge as anyone else. Once I stepped foot on that stage I knew I could captivate an audience. As a dancer it is my job to tell a story with my body, it’s how I communicate to the audience. Read more>>
Akirra Hill
Sewing has always been a passion of mines since 12 years old. I used to sketch clothes in middle school and completed a full scrapbook. But I started sewing in 2020, during the COVID pandemic. I actually started with face masks & begin taking orders due to the stores selling out at the time. It became something I loved doing and I taught myself other sewing techniques. Read more>>
Monique Russell
When I was about 12 years old, my oldest sister had a nervous breakdown. At that time, I did not know exactly what was happening but. I knew I wanted to fix it. My parents were not excited about the idea of a therapist in the family as it was not popular at the time but I moved forward with it anyway. So here we are! Helping folks move toward healing and wellness is my groove. Read more>>
Harry Mckee
I’ve been an entrepreneur for 20 years. I left a highly successful career in music to start this company. I’ve won multiple Grammies, sold 160M records, and worked with many of the top artists like Rihanna, Lil Durk, Rod Wave, & Muni Long. So starting from scratch is never easy. I’ve found the consumer products business to be completely different from music, with content marketing being the only similarity. So, my number one struggle has simply been learning an entirely new business. An example being manufacturing. Our first manufacturer shipped us over 2 tons of bad products that we had to dispose of. However the cost of those products was on us not the manufacturer. So, we’ve had a lot of tough lessons along the way. Read more>>
Mia Kasahara
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but those challenges have only strengthened my resolve. Early in my acting journey, I faced the significant hurdle of limited roles for people who looked like me, which made it difficult to even secure auditions. This led to a period where I stepped back, genuinely believing that a career in acting wasn’t feasible. Additionally, personal circumstances at home restricted my ability to be in Los Angeles, which was a crucial hub for opportunities at the time. Read more>>
David Rivas
After persevering and graduating during the onset of the pandemic, I’ve been training my craft, working in various film production studios environments and most recently at a post house, developing my eye and technical capabilities. I’ve worked on LED volumes, created 3D worlds using Unreal Engine and Blender, written/directed a short film taking viewers back to Ancient Rome, and trained as a visual effects artist/compositor for commercial and small feature pipelines. Now, I’m focused on writing my first feature script, with my voice finally breaking free. Read more>>
Kenny Supremee
My name is Kenny Supremee or (whoISkennySupremee??) I am a visual artist & personality.. I was born in Albany, Ga but relocated to ATL after highschool to pursue my creative interests.. I have always had a love for art & music.. I literally have been creating in some form as long as I can remember .. I am inspired by everyday life, going outside living and watching things live.. At the end of my journey.. I just want to be remembered for telling dope stories and inspiring a new level thought & creativity Read more>>
TaNay Peters
Trained in Reiki, Tantra, yoga, pilates and intuitive divination, I blend ancestral wisdom with modern healing psychology to curate immersive experiences that feel sacred, cinematic, and transformative. My flagship Sacred Luxury Mobile Healing Experience delivers ancestral ritual , intuitive readings, and energy work directly to the homes and hotel suites of artists, CEOs, and creators. This is ritual for those who are ready to return to themselves at the highest level or experience sacred rest and luxury self care. Read more>>
Alexis Faith
I am a Beauty Service Provider. I specialize in Hair and Eyebrow Tint services for any race. Meaning it doesn’t matter who you are I can provide a professional service for you. I also continue to still manage My Man business as his Executive Manger. I’m basically the VP of his business. I organize all his meetings, show performances, and clothing brand inventory and sales. I am most proud of the consistency and commitment to apply myself to each business and still see support and a positive outcome from doing this same work every day. Read more>>
Dephyne
Annapolis-born, Alabama-bred with an impeccably savage work ethic coming out of North Philly, I bring a unique feel to not just Hip Hop, but the World of music with over 100 songs on soundcloud alone. I released “Outta My Body” on all platforms under my own distribution for the first time in 2016, it is a timeless classic now trending in Atlanta . I’m a multifaceted writer, lyricist, producer and engineer, but my talents extend well outside of the recording studio. Read more>>
Portia Cue
That demo opened doors to agent and management representation. In voiceover, you can work with multiple agents across different regions which allows us o expand our reach. Through representation, I’ve had the privilege of working with brands like Bath & Body Works, Crate & Barrel, Disney, Publix, Grammarly, Oakley, LinkedIn, Tyler Perry Studios, and Jacksonville University, among others. Read more>>
Nick Gebhardt
As I climbed the corporate, advertising ladder – from intern to junior to senior to creative director – I would often provide younger creatives with much more than simply notes on an ad. Ultimately, I would find myself in conversations with people where their own careers, relationships and/or family issues were the topic. I noticed that somehow these conversations grew richer, fuller, and more helpful when some form of movement was incorporated into this “pick-your-brain” session also known as free advice. Read more>>
Clarence Grant Jr.
There were seasons of doubt, moments where I felt unseen or unheard, and times when I wondered if the message was even resonating. Balancing the demands of husband, career, church, and family while trying to build something meaningful, often stretched me thin. Add to that the internal pressure of being strong for everyone else while navigating my own storms; financial stress, health challenges, and personal losses; it’s been a very humbling journey. Read more>>
Alantria Dixon
My story really begins when my family moved to South Fulton when I was five years old. Growing up there shaped everything about who I am today. I was blessed to attend the International Studies Magnet program at Riverwood High School, which opened my eyes to different cultures and ways of thinking. Those early experiences, along with opportunities like Girl Scouts, cheerleading, and INROADS, helped me become the well-rounded person I am today. Read more>>
Daniela Valdes
After high school, I started a photography degree at The Art Institute of Atlanta. I had some amazing teachers there, like Taylor Bareford and Linda Green. I learned everything from portraiture to product photography, and I realized I truly loved all of it. While I was in school, I also started doing freelance work. At first, it was just close friends who took a chance on me, but slowly it grew—friends of friends became regular clients, and word started to spread. I had a lot of support from my family too, which made a big difference. Read more>>
Kira Scott
My culinary journey began over 13 years ago when I graduated from culinary school, eager to absorb everything I could about food and global cuisine. I had a deep passion for understanding food beyond technique, its culture, its connection, and its ability to bring people together. That passion led me to travel extensively, staging in kitchens around the world. I wasn’t just chasing recipes; I was immersing myself in food philosophies, ingredients, and traditions. Read more>>
Tushauna George
Frothy Coffee Experience is a mobile coffee bar that serves handcrafted lattes, cold brews, and signature drinks at events of all kinds. We’re known for our memorable pop-ups at brand activations, private engagements, and corporate functions. But more than coffee, we specialize in creating warm, joyful moments that make guests feel genuinely special and celebrated. Each event features a custom designed coffee menu tailored to its unique vibe, adding a personal touch that guests remember long after the last sip. Read more>>
Chandler Allen
Our weddings are typically a mix of elegant, upscale and laid back, with garden-style being our favorite floral design style. I joined the EGF team in 2021 and have learned from the best! It is truly a dream job! In 2023, I moved home to Georgia with my husband, and we launched the Georgia branch of Earl Grey Floral. We are based in Athens, but we’ve designed all over the southeast for the past two years. I have loved returning to and flowering a place that feels like home and bringing a little bit of Texas with me! Read more>>
Ebony Ferrell
I learned a lot from working at Master Cutz & Styles and I’m forever grateful. In 2021 I opened my very own salon Heavenly Designs By Ebony Hair Salon located on 2151 West Broad Street in Athens, GA. No it wasn’t easy and I ran into many obstacles and wanted to give up but I kept going and never gave up. I started in the salon as the only stylist, now I have a Barber Jamarree Blackmon, Stylist Necholas Johnson, and a Braider Jarvik Zellers and I’m thankful for them. Read more>>
Julia Umoren
Composure is a story of two passions coming together. My passion for hair started when I was just 9 years old. I began my cosmetology career while still in high school, and over the years, I’ve had the privilege of changing lives and educating other professionals. In 2008, I earned my educator license. I’ve always been drawn to the instant gratification that extensions and non-surgical hair replacement provide—it’s deeply fulfilling to see the transformation right away. Read more>>
Chef Jamar Griddine
What I am known for is my grandma’s peach cobbler, bread pudding , soul food, Italian, keto, vegetarian and more. Why eat Good, when you can eat great. What I am most proud of is that God blessed me to break general curses in my family and I plan on passing this down to my kids and Queen one day whoever they are, I will be ready. What set me apart from others is that not only can I cook but I can entertain the guest while cooking. I sing and dance. Read more>>
