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.
Elvia Chavez
Most of the hardships I faced was from the very beginning coming to the Untied States from a very young age not even know who I was as a person yet let alone a whole different country with a whole different language. The beginning was rough for me but what I would say was my biggest challenge would be the passing of my son at the end of 2023. Which still is very hard for me not having him here with us, it was only ever just me and my kids so losing him really push us back but I was bless to start to overcome that pain, still overcoming but starting this company was for us and I know will still be doing it for my son Jose Manuel Nieto Jr. Read more>>
Jennifer Mair
One day, while running on a treadmill, I felt hopeless and thought, “there has to be more to life than this.” I knew I wasn’t alone because others around me either felt hopeless or wanted control of their health and wellness. Shortly after this moment, God led me to become a certified group fitness instructor but use it as a tool for the Gospel. My passion is to let others know they have been set free from the lies and bondage of our fitness culture. Read more>>
Santonia Sherman
At the time, stepping into this industry was both exciting and terrifying, but I’m so grateful I pushed past the fear. Today, I primarily work in Greenville, South Carolina, but my journey has taken me far beyond that. I’ve worked in Charleston, where I attended the Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology in Goose Creek to study aesthetics. Charleston was a turning point in my career, thanks to the incredible community of women in the industry who continuously motivated and inspired me. Many of them became mentors and lifelong friends. Read more>>
John Johnson
I began as a collector of Action Figures, Shoes, and video games. Eventually, I transformed my hobby and passion into a side business by selling online and at local flea markets. The business model proved so successful that I quit my job and started doing it full-time. In order to scale up my wife and brother both quit their full-time jobs and we opened a retail store. Now, we specialize in the buying selling, and trading of shoes, vintage clothing, retro video games, and toys. Read more>>
Hunter McRae Lawrence
The news work environment became a bit too depressing for my optimistic personality, and as newspapers began to decline I bought my own camera equipment and a plane ticket to California with the money I had saved up from my side work as a wedding photographer. I took a solo journey by train from San Francisco to Vancouver to be there with my camera during the Olympics (making lots of stops along the way). After some soul searching, I journeyed by train back across the country with my camera to start a wedding and portrait photography business in Charleston. Read more>>
Lauren Dembeck
Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to launch Brims on the Bluff, a luxury hat boutique that uniquely doubles as the only hat bar in Bluffton. This innovative establishment not only showcases a curated selection of high-quality hats but also offers customers a personalized shopping experience, allowing them to try on various styles and receive expert advice. Through her ventures, Lauren has successfully combined her hospitality expertise with a love for fashion, transforming Bluffton’s accessory scene and creating a welcoming space for both locals and visitors alike. Read more>>
Sondra Smith
Like many people experience, my current business passion, Marshview Mercentile, came in to my life while I was seeking my “what’s next” after retirement. I worked in healthcare for 36 years, beginning my career as a physical therapist and after obtaining further schooling, moving into healthcare strategy and planning for a large hospital corporation. During the last four years, I worked in Asheville, North Carolina, and I always knew I would return to the Lowcountry after I retired. Read more>>
Jordan Brimacomb
We are the newest Tween Boutique in Bluffton, SC – your go-to destination for curated styles made just for you! From trendy looks to unique pieces, we’ve got sizes 6 through 18 to fit every fashion-forward tween! At our boutique, we hold monthly events designed to bring the community together and provide a safe space for girls to express themselves. Read more>>
Nikki Allmann
My sister and her husband were both in the Air Force, and they saw something in me that I didn’t. My sister—who had taken on more of a parental role because my mom worked constantly—was always tough on me, but she believed in me. She and my brother-in-law told me I had more to offer and encouraged me to join the military. I hesitated, but I trusted them, so in April 2001, I enlisted as an air traffic controller. Read more>>
Libby Diament
After 15 years in business, I can tell you that small business retail always has ups and downs. With rising costs recently, we are working hard to find products that customers can love without breaking the bank. Small business is hard work and not for the faint of heart. I always tell younger entrepreneurs that because, as the owner you wear so many hats and you will face hardships. Another challenge has been working to grow the online business without a large budget for advertising. Social media is important with that, however it’s easy to get lost on todays platforms. Persevering during the difficult times can pay off in the long run, but it can be stressful. It’s important to save for a rainy day during prosperous times! Read more>>
Inga Carey
It seemed like at every turn we hit roadblocks that would delay us; the process of finding a location, starting construction, getting proper documentation, zoning issues, and so many more. I had the strength and perseverance to keep going because my mom taught me to think of them as little hoops you have to jump through. Since we opened it’s been a tough learning curve as this is my first business, but I’ve got great support from my staff who love the cafe just as much as I do. Read more>>
Taylor Everhart
I started Deliciosa Desserts in 2022! We are located in the Myrtle beach area and have been running my business for three years now. We specialize in thick gourmet cookies with a lot of delicious flavors! Some of our best selling flavors are our Banana pudding cookie, S’moreo cookie and Blueberry waffle cookie! Read more>>
Antoine Parker
I’m originally from Columbia, SC, where I graduated from Ridge View High School. From there, I attended Catawba College in Salisbury, NC. After a few years in college, I made the decision to join the United States Air Force. That experience was transformative and it instilled in me the core values I still live by today: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. Those principles have become the foundation of everything I do, both personally and professionally. Read more>>
Misty Sisk
Additionally, understanding consumer preferences in an ever-evolving market landscape proves to be a difficult obstacle. The rise of eco-conscious buying habits has also pushed us to rethink our sourcing and production processes to align with sustainable practices which can sometimes complicate our supply chain. Furthermore, effectively reaching and engaging our target audience amid the noise of digital marketing poses an ongoing challenge. Yet, each obstacle presents an opportunity for growth and innovation, guiding us towards a clearer understanding of our brand identity in the competitive candle industry. Read more>>
Linda Nichols
People were constantly asking to buy my creations so over time my hobby evolved into a small business. I formally branded in 2020 as Made on Maidstone, a creative spin on the street where I live. Over the next few years, I added other coastal themed jewelry, accessories and home decor to my shop and eventually introduced clay earrings to my product lineup. I keep those aligned with my coastal theme by including designs such as coral, sand dollars and sea life. Read more>>
Eric White
Through effective education, motivation, and accountability, I empower clients to reach new levels in their health and fitness journey. I’m known for my clients’ transformations, but what truly sets me apart is my ability to connect with them and make complex information relatable. I believe that the more relatable the information, the easier it is for individuals to understand and apply it. Starting a fitness journey can be challenging, and I want to make it as convenient as possible for my clients. Read more>>
Sophia Edens
I launched thecontentfoodcritic.com in January 2022, shortly before graduating from Coastal Carolina University with a degree in English. My education, combined with a lifelong love of food and writing, shaped the way I approach restaurant reviews—not just as a critic, but as a storyteller. While affordability means something different to everyone, I believe dining out shouldn’t be a luxury reserved for a few. My goal is to guide my audience through the most appetizing meals that match their affordability, ensuring that great food is within reach for all. Read more>>
Katie Brash
I had a long period of creating work focused on historical relics and statues- and when you work yourself into a specific focus like that it’s hard to make new work or try new mediums without people asking questions. Working large-scale, especially on paper, is also a challenge. Paper is vulnerable and can be difficult to display. There is a lot of resistance- people want you to work on canvas with paint, or work smaller so that the art is more durable and accessible to them. I’m learning that you have to be persistent and confident in your output, and trust that your audience will find you. Read more>>
Byron Walker
I always knew that I was going to be a writer. At the early age of 5 years old, I was able to write my first song, and since then, I have written numerous songs. Over 2,000 songs I have written and counting. At the age of 11, I was able to write my very first book entitled: Encouraging Our Youth of Tomorrow By Starting Off Today. I am now singing and ministering all across the world and helping those who I come into contact with. I always know that what I do has nothing to do with me or about me but for those who I come into contact with. I do what I do for them! Read more>>
Jenna Hudson
After 15 years in business at our flagship Myrtle Beach location, we took an exciting next step—moving our Garden Center and Landscape Design office to our newly purchased farm in Loris. This location, just a short drive from our service areas, has been the perfect place to expand and grow. We’re thrilled to continue doing what we love, creating beautiful outdoor spaces, and sharing our passion for plants and landscaping with our community. Read more>>
Tara Girch
In 1999, MarTar Swim School started its journey by renting pool spaces from various locations such as other people’s pools, hotel pools, and backyard pools. The dream of having a dedicated swim school seemed distant, but the passion for teaching swimming kept Marty and Tara going. It wasn’t until 2010 that MarTar Swim School finally opened its own brick-and-mortar location, a significant milestone for the team. Read more>>
Nicole Neales
I’m a self-taught seamstress with 28 years of experience, creating stylish, functional accessories from my studio in Greer, SC. Over the years, my evolving tastes have led me to embrace sustainable, eco-friendly materials. I discovered cork fabric over 10 years ago, and it quickly became the heart of my business, which originally focused on handcrafted clothing. The cork I use is harvested in Spain from the Quercus Suber tree, which regenerates every 9-12 years, ensuring a sustainable supply for up to 200 years. Read more>>
Mark Anthony
When the pandemic hit I retired from Chiropractic and moved to Hilton Head Island where I once again picked up my guitar and started singing at local bars and restaurants on the island. Now I play at the frosty frog bar and grill every Thursday, Royal Dunes every Wednesday, Robbers Row bar and grill. on Fridays. I also play at top dog tavern and the tiki hut regularly. My favorite gig are weddings and private parties. I currently know by heart almost 200 songs. I use a loop pedal in which I play drums and bass to back up my guitar which gives me a full band sound. My website is markanthonyhhi.com. Read more>>
Amber Pritchard
I ended up moving to Charleston, South Carolina, where I was going to be a police officer down here, I went through the whole entire hiring process, and I got offered the job. I asked God if that was his plan for me if this is what he wanted me to do something else that he wanted me to do I picked up acting and I started taking acting classes. I am an actress, but I still feel like that wasn’t my calling so I kept praying a year later I found myself writing a podcast, telling my story to help other women and men. I’ve gotten over 222 messages from people who have thanked me and shared their story with me. I believe I’m doing what God wanted me to do. Read more>>
Josh Wendt
As with anything in life there are ups and downs. I look at the journey as a road. The road is the greatest teacher there is. It will pick you up and bring you down. This journey has had challenges and there will be challenges in the future. That being said, when adversity hits you have two choices. You can run away from adversity or run towards it. I choose to run towards adversity because every time I do I learn something about myself as a human being. I believe the greatest leaders are the individuals who solve the most problems. There are three words that have gotten me to where I am today. Those words are; Just Keep Grinding. Read more>>
Van Patterson
Van Patterson has been detailing and restoring cars for over 15 years. He began detailing cars in college to make some extra money and it grew from there into a profession and now a business. Van opened Palmetto Suns Detailing in Charleston, SC with two business partner friends with the goal of opening the premier car detailing shop in the the city, serving top-level clients, and using a digital and technology-focused back end to dominate the car service space in the region. Since opening the business has grown steadily and is now the go-to shop in the city for both people wanting to maintain their cars, dealerships, and businesses with fleets. Read more>>
D’Auviyon Johnson
I passed and was able to sign up to take my online comprehension part of my license. I signed up to take the first available test and passed as well. I was now looking to upgrade all of the materials since school and look for work. I was offered a job upon passing my exams, so I started working in a salon suite right away. That was in 2022. It is now 2025, I have an LLC for my business Nailz By Slim. I have been in business for 2.5 years. I love the clientele I have gained, I have a passion for the art of nails as a whole, and I have grown personally. This has been an amazing journey so far and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next! Read more>>
Imani Peterkin
My journey into entrepreneurship started out of necessity and passion. I launched what was originally called Peterkin Consulting & Co. as a way to provide virtual assistance and business operations support to entrepreneurs and small businesses. As a mom, I needed flexibility—something that traditional jobs just didn’t offer. I knew there were other moms and business owners out there struggling to balance it all, and I wanted to create a solution that helped them reclaim their time while running efficient, thriving businesses. Read more>>
Logan Miller
That passion never faded. But when I graduated from college and found myself staring at a job market that didn’t quite spark excitement, I turned inward to what had always made me feel alive—design. I started small, creating vision boards, snapping photos of my home, and sharing ideas online. Slowly, what started as a creative outlet turned into something much bigger. With each project, my style evolved, my confidence grew, and my following expanded. Today, I get to do what I love every day—curating beautiful, functional spaces that feel like home. Read more>>
