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.
Joseph Dreher
I was an architect for twenty years until the recession in 2008. After experiencing a depression of my own as a result, I was forced to refocus on what was important and thanks to my family especially my son Alex, I rediscovered my passion for art , specifically public art. Read More>>
Madison Lucas
Eventually I worked my way up open mics and put out my first solo album in 2011. Around 2019 I formed an indie rock band based in Charlotte called Modern Moxie with my husband and bass player Harry Kollm. We’ve released three albums to date and have been so fortunate to open for huge bands like Echo & the Bunnymen, The Dollyrots, Sarah Shook & the Disarmers and The Aces. It’s been a slow build to get where we are but we’re so proud of how far we’ve come with our music. We just booked our first national level festival in Charlotte (Lovin’ Life Fest) and we could not be more excited. We’ve had more success as an independent band than I ever thought was possible and we hope to keep growing every year. Read More>>
Robert Maniscalco
Robert Maniscalco has been a professional creative his entire adult life. Born in 1959 in Detroit, he has lived in New York, New Orleans and currently in Charleston. His commission portraits and fine art are part of over a thousand collections throughout North America. In Detroit he hosted Artbeat on PBS and founded the Maniscalco Gallery. As a fine artist, he likes to work in multiple series. Perhaps his most enduring series is that of a commission portrait artist, immortalizing Supreme Court Justices as well as children and families. Read More>>
Maggie Johnson
In my journey as a therapist, I’ve had the privilege of helping hundreds of individuals, families, and couples navigate a wide range of issues—from counseling victims of s*x trafficking to alleviating anxiety in high-functioning individuals, and everything in between. My goal has always been—and will always be—to help individuals discover joy and fulfillment in their lives. The journey of becoming fully lincesed and owning my practice has been long, but I feel a lot of pride for sticking to the plan and persevering, even when things got difficult or frustrating. I now can clearly see that this was meant to be for me because I thrive on being independent and creative. Read More>>
Cristina Schultz
Financially we started and built the business with our initial investment. Never having to add any additional funds. Starting out with just 2 of the 5 rooms filled with tables and equipment. We filled the rooms with new furnishings and all of the best Esthetics equipment and tables until all 5 are now fully equipped. Read More>>
Gian Hernandez
We started as a proud family-run business in Charleston, SC. We rely on each other strengths to serve our clients in the beautiful communities around Charleston. We have been in business less than a year and we’ve create such a wonderful community with fellow homeowners. Read More>>
Wendy Gant
I competed and and won in area pageants which advanced me in my interview skills as well as my onstage presence, and helped me advance in the corporate world. A few years went by and I longed for the pageant world again, by then I was married. So I decided to compete for the title of Mrs. West Virginia America 1998, and I won! I travelled all over the state and nation representing West Virginia! I loved the eye opening experience of how the pageant world operates and competing at the national level on live television in Las Vegas at the MGM Grande really is a story that I will be able to tell to my grandchildren! Read More>>
Athena Jones
I can honestly say I have been very fortunite to have a realtivly smooth journey as a business owner thus far. I’ve only had issues with two dogs who did not love having a realtive stranger come into their home. Even still we were able to take care of the necessities, food, water, and potty breaks. After the first oen occured I started reaching out to trainers and shelters in the area who have guided me futher on how to handle these situations better and continue to keep the pets safety and needs as the primary focus of all my pet services. Read More>>
Jeremy Patterson
I have taught languages and cultures (English, French, Japanese, and Spanish) for over 25 years, mostly at the university level. During that time, I have come up against the common myths that some people just can’t learn a language or that it’s too hard. I have also observed that people have gone about it all the wrong way – or that we language teachers have been teaching the wrong way. So we have created Culture+ as a company that specializes, first, in language coaching. We work with individual clients to understand their goals (how proficient do they really want to get) and then designed individualized plans to help get them there. They don’t just learn the language – they learn that they can, in fact, learn other languages! Read More>>
Kris Ward
This practice morphed over time into a ritual that alchemized my deepest aches into something fiercely nourishing, liberating, and soul-remembering. It literally brought me back from the almost-dead, and back home to myself. I knew there were other women like me—exhausted from contorting themselves into the box society prescribed for their goodness and worthiness—women who needed a space where they could strip off the armor, drop into their bodies, and reclaim their fire and raw power. So when a studio space finally came available after years of searching and deliberating, I trusted my gut and went for it! Read More>>
Torreah “cookie” Washington
The exhibit has traveled through the South Carolina State Museum’s Traveling Exhibition Program and is wildly popular. My art quilts have been featured in Quiltfolk Magazine Issue #14, in three documentary films about African American Art Quilters. “The Wayshowers”, which I shared executive producer credit on, with Susan Scott Hester, and the film “Skin Quilt” by Lauren Cross, as well as the 2020’s “Gratitude”, a short film by Gavin Shelon, and I am becoming a frequent podcast guest. My quilts are vibrant story quilts she weaves to share the history of her people. Read More>>
Jessie Fletcher
The first time I stuck the needle through the leather, I fell in love with leatherwork. I would stay up late every night after the kids were asleep and work on my craft on weekends. After a year or so of learning the craft, I started doing festivals and street shows. And I started praying. Praying for God to make a way for me to do this full time and for the opportunity to spend more time with my family on our little farm. I knew the Lord had shown me my gift and I and I was ready to do whatever it took for me to see it to fruition. After 2 very hard years, the Lord saw me through it and now I get to live my dream everyday. Read More>>
H’elena Pleasant
Then came the biggest gut punch: I launched my business, feeling excited and ready to go…and crickets. No immediate bookings. Flood of inquiries but no one was actually booking. Just me, refreshing my inbox and wondering if I made a huge mistake. It was discouraging, to say the least. But instead of giving up, I kept pushing – fine tuning my marketing, networking, and reminding myself why I started in the first place. Read More>>
Nick Stewart
I started working in residential construction with my father-in-law’s construction business in Florence, SC in 2012. I worked with him for about 8 years and then decided to move back to Greenville and start my own construction business. I took the residential builders test and received my license in 2021. I have been getting work mostly by word of mouth. Read More>>
Amanda And Andrew Burnell
We would definitely not say it was a smooth road, like any business there were plenty of hills to climb. Finding the right team to be with us on this journey took some time and adjustments. It was absolutely a learning experience with lots of trial and error. Having friends in the same boat as us was a huge help to curve some pitfalls and have support and encouragement from our community. Read More>>
Nicole McCarthy
I went into business with a man I had just met online, why not move 14 hours away from home with no jobs, no family support, no friends, to go start a business in an area we had never heard of. It was a whirlwind to say the least, but the best risk I have ever taken ,and the biggest divine redirection I have ever experienced! Fast forward to today, and Cory and I are now celebrating 4 years together, 4 years of Pro Shine, and 1 year married. We have 3 vehicles in our fleet, 2 pups and 9 people wearing Pro Shine t-shirts helping our community that we now call home. Read More>>
Ry
I started attending conventions with a best friend soon after and created an Instagram page to connect with more people in the community. I’ve met more friends and like-minded creatives than I could’ve imagined! I gained interest in learning and cultivating new skills- sewing, modeling, make-up, wig-styling, and more. Looking back at older cosplays creates such a sense of nostalgia and pride, I really enjoy being able to see the improvement that way. Read More>>
Kisha Mills
My business started in 2018. I was selling fragrance body oils with a friend and I really enjoyed the selling process and meeting people. I ventured out on my own, and started selling oils for myself. I saw a video on YouTube on how to make a simple body butter. I gave it a try and I liked the product that I made for myself. The thought came to mind if anyone would buy them. I started making them to sell in 2019. At this time the body Butters did not have a name. They only had the fragrance on the label. Read More>>
John Dabrowski
My wife and I got married in 2008 on Delray Beach in Florida. Shortly thereafter we moved to Pawleys Island, South Carolina for a job opportunity. We fell in love with this town, and the community, and in 2020 I was able to open Local, Eat, Drink, Celebrate in The Hammock Shoppes! The building is a part of the history of Pawleys Island, and we feel very grateful to now be a part of the history. Read More>>
Jeremy Phillips
If I couldn’t buy paintings I loved, but I could try to make them on my own! I had my first show in Camden Town, London and have never stopped making new work. I came back to Asheville in 2008 and began showing work locally the next year. For me painting is a way of life, where the current work and new ideas are always on my mind and leading to further explorations. I’ve developed several different bodies of work, digging in to different ideas with many permutations and variations. I like to see where a painting idea can go and how far. Read More>>
Pascale Sexton
I paint vibrant acrylic abstract landscapes and since I love working with clay I add buildings in clay tiles on them. It is not something I have seen anywhere before and I remember thinking this was the weirdest mixed media idea ever! To be able to express myself more effectively I started to make those little flat clay figurines that I called “The Little Flat People”. They are an expression of us, humans, in our most inner playful and childlike sense! Read More>>
Xiomara Sosa
A Mental Health Cooperative which provides an alternative business practice model for private practice clinicians. In addition, I am the founder, owner, CEO, and clinical director of my private practice, Summerville Women’s Mental Health Services, which provides multicultural counseling, therapy, and clinical supervision services for all women: cisgender, transgender, intersex, non-binary, and woman/feminine identified. I am the creator, host, and executive producer of Studio Talk Podcast: Real Conversations About Mental Health, a podcast about mental health. Read More>>
Tiffany Gable
In the beginning, I set up my sessions in my kitchen, then shortly thereafter moved into my spare bedroom. I quickly outgrew that and began renting a space while I saved up for my own studio space. After about a year of saving, my husband and I were able to purchase my studio building, which is located on our property. It has been the biggest blessing having my own private building here at my home! Read More>>
Cole Collins
I love the process of a song going from a simple melody to a great big symphony. In earlier days, I spent countless sleepless nights working on my music. I would sometimes tell friends I couldn’t hang out because I was too busy working on music. I chose not to go to college and instead went straight to working wherever I could. In 2019, I was approached by a local artist who wanted to have me produce his EP. The conclusion of that EP marks the time that I started taking on more independent music production work. Read More>>
Jennifer Martin
So I decided to make Art as my living. That’s when my Art business “Tie Dye Pie” began. I create hippie/trippy art on canvas, wooden pieces, vintage jewelry boxes, on purses and other surfaces. I have an Art booth that we take to all kinds of amazing festivals and craft fairs. We travel around in my big tie dye van that has art all over her. I named my van “Bertha”. Now when we go to festivals people know us by Bertha! Its so much fun! Last year was the biggest year for us. We did 45 Art shows and festivals all over South Carolina. I had 4 major Art pieces in a gallery. We just keep growing and moving forward! Read More>>
Niki Kay
At 26, I embarked on a life-changing adventure, traveling halfway across the world on a 32-hour journey to Bali. This trip sparked a profound personal transformation, awakening a spiritual connection to myself and the world. What started as a single journey evolved into a passion for global exploration. Over the next few years, I traveled extensively, immersing myself in diverse cultures and continuously deepening my understanding of both the world and myself. Read More>>
Jenkins Peeler
I started pumping out videos talking about the character and the upcoming film and slowly became pretty close friends with the director, Angel Manuel Soto, and the main actor, Xolo Mariduena. When the film finally premiered I was invited to the “blue” carpet in LA to be the first to see the film. Ever since then I have continued to grow in so many ways: a community of people, invites to Netflix, AppleTV, and Warner Bros events, and even signed with an agency (Genii). It all started with a nerdy little kid who just wanted to find people who were interested in the things he was. I can wait to see where else this takes me. Read More>>
Angela Neto
Long story short, after a few more times of Gastao expressing his desire to start an agency, telling me his business plan, and his expectation that we would succeed because we could service clients in not only english but portuguese and spanish, the idea grew on me and I gave in. His passion for the industry inspired me, and I knew that, together, we could create something meaningful. I said, “Ok, lets do it, I trust you.” Read More>>
Shameka Huff
With a heart full of determination and a deep desire to celebrate her life by giving back, she founded United for Baby. What started as a small effort to help a few families quickly grew into a powerful movement of love, support, and community. People came together, generosity spread, and soon, United for Baby became a place where families could find hope, relief, and the reassurance that someone cared. Read More>>
Maja Edwards
It wasn’t until I got pregnant with my first baby three years ago that I finally quit my full-time job and opened the doors of Maja Interiors. It took a lot of courage to do this, a lot. But I have always existed as an individual who takes risks over tapping in one place pondering if “the timing is right” to do something. Read More>>
Shaquela Brown
The road hasn’t been smooth, and there have definitely been some challenges along the way. One of the biggest struggles I’ve faced is marketing and standing out in such a saturated beauty industry. With so many businesses and brands out there, it can be difficult to carve out a unique space and attract attention. The competition is fierce, and finding ways to effectively market my business and reach my ideal audience has required constant creativity and persistence. Read More>>
Beth Nettles
It has been anything but smooth. When I first had the idea for KreweCar, I could already envision how it would revolutionize the travel experience for parents. Having struggled with the challenges of flying with kids, dealing with rented car seats that were often dirty or unsafe, I felt there had to be a better solution. Read More>>
Rebekah Faith Appleton
It’s also difficult maintaining being an artist, and attending school. I’m currently a Junior in High School, so I want to keep things in balance – I want to maintain good grades, but I also want to play music, so some days I realize that I’ve focused too much on school to where I haven’t incorporated enough time into my music. I look forward to being able to put forth pretty much all of my time, to work hard at what I love to do, and summer break gives me a taste as to what that could feel and be like. Read More>>
Lauren Harrah
Once I graduated, I took a detour. Health and science were always an interest of mine. I ended up graduating from Coastal Carolina University with honors and worked as a nutritionist, a personal trainer, fitness instructor, and eventually a Disease Intervention Specialist. I enjoyed all things health related but never strayed too far from my passion for photography. Once I had my son, I wanted to capture all of the moments of his childhood. I wanted to have beautiful images to look back on when he was grown. Eventually, after two more kiddos, I decided I wanted to take my photography full time. I wanted to love my job but also have a flexible schedule to be there for my family. Read More>>
Melissa Nobles
We are most proud of providing our brides and grooms with a beautiful space, a wonderful experience and helping them feel like family. Read More>>
Millie Bennett
Now, in college, I take both art and writing classes, diving deeper into color theory and prose to shape my art and writing. Some of my favorite classes, however, have been concerning the history of art. The intent – love, belief, betrayal – that is viewable hundreds, or even thousands, of years later, is more profound than I have ever been able to put into words. Though whatever I create is unlikely to last for eons, I strive to share the art that fuels me with others now. Read More>>
Courtney Fountain
It has been a learning experience and still is! Fashion trends are always changing, sales can be slow, and of course I’ve had my share of bad buys/investments. Typically though I can at least get my money back on what I paid for an item, but there have been a handful of incidents where I lost money on a buy. Read More>>
Susan Beckham Zurenda
As almost any fiction author will tell you, the act of writing stories and novels has lots of challenges. As much a I enjoy the creative process of writing, I can become very frustrated if a character isn’t speaking to me or I’m having trouble building tension in the plot. Or even if the right word or image won’t come to me. As author Dorothy Parker is said to have put it, “I love having written” most of all. The process of obtaining an agent and securing a publisher can be difficult. Then, once the book is published, the marketing process is a tremendous undertaking. All said, though, it’s all worth it. Read More>>
Ludie Sexton
My journey with Warden Comics officially began in 2020, fueled by a lifelong passion for storytelling and a desire to create something truly unique in the comic book industry. However, my path started even earlier in 2017, when I began working as an independent writer, collaborating with talented artists and creatives whenever I could find time after work or on weekends. A pivotal moment came when I had the incredibly fortunate opportunity to meet my now friend and mentor, Tadd Galusha. He not only helped me refine my craft but also gave me invaluable insight into how the comic book industry operates. That knowledge ultimately led me to establish my own publishing company. Read More>>
Anthony Ludovici Debrigida
I met my wife while working at the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key – and after opening up a pizzeria for someone else in the Keys , we decided to move to Conway , South Carolina to try and give it a go at opening our own pizzeria . My wife is from New Jersey but graduated from Coastal Carolina University & lived here for a few years after she graduated . She had a lot of good friends here and I really liked the area when I came to visit , so we decided to make the move here last year . Read More>>
Jim Leone
Jim Leone’s journey in the restaurant industry began in 1987 when he opened the original Leone’s Italian Restaurant in New Jersey. A former firefighter, Jim balanced his service to the community with his passion for food, running multiple successful restaurants, pizzerias, and bagel shops over the years. After relocating to South Carolina and opening Leone’s Italian Deli, the overwhelming response from the community inspired the Leone Family to take the next step—bringing a full-service Italian dining experience to Conway. Read More>>
Ashley Cooper
In 2020, I gave birth to my mission: Killing the Silence in the Black Community. I knew I never wanted another family to experience what mine did and feel like they lacked the words to express their grief. I wanted to sound the alarm, that in the Black community where faith is deeply rooted, we must also recognize that God does not want us to suppress our emotions. It is time to process them. Our emotions are not a sin, and therapy is not just for the “ill” it is for everyone. Read More>>
Jaime And Dan Goulet
That same week we settled, we filed for our LLC and we are now proudly Sit Stay Goulet LLC. It’s now been a year that we have been operating and we have 109 clients on our roster that we care for. Dan is now working our business as his sole career and couldn’t be happier. As for myself, I’ve faced my now third endometriosis surgery just 8 weeks ago in December of 2024. I am busier than ever working our business and still working for the gym as well. Dan and I are convinced that 2025 will be a year of health and growth for us. We cannot wait to see where our business takes us! Read More>>
Ericka Bungert
But we didn’t stop there. We wanted to create something entirely our own. That’s when we developed Flavored Sno, a completely unique product that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Unlike sno cream, which has a creamy, airy texture, Flavored Sno is closer to shaved ice—but with a twist. Instead of pouring syrup on top like traditional shaved ice, we infuse the flavor directly into the ice before shaving it. This means every bite is packed with flavor from the inside out, creating a refreshing and delicious experience that’s truly one of a kind. Read More>>
Lana Brewster
As word spread, my small business grew. By 2023, I was booking small weddings, maternity shoots, and family portraits regularly. It wasn’t just about the money anymore; it was about creating something meaningful for myself and my children. Photography gave me financial freedom, but more importantly, it showed my kids that hard work and passion could change our lives. Read More>>
Stacia McNeil-Dawson
Awendaw Sanitation Services is a locally-owned and operated business headquartered in Awendaw, South Carolina — a rural community within Charleston County. Although there are two garbage dump locations within driving distance of Awendaw, residents did not have access to a garbage collection service. For years, residents had to load garbage in their personal vehicles, or for elderly residents, wait for a neighbor to assist with taking their garbage to one of those the dump sites. Read More>>
Mansa Npf
I began my journey with a deep-seated passion for education and empowerment, particularly focusing on Generation Alpha. Recognizing the critical need for foundational knowledge in nutrition, mental health, and financial literacy, I founded the Youniverse Foundation. Our mission is to equip young minds with essential life skills, fostering healthy, balanced, and financially empowered futures. Read More>>
Maggie Buchanan
I quickly moved from temp receptionist to full time loan officer assistant. I continued to grow. I moved into processing, then into underwriting for years. I worked for a bank, a broker and a lender in the years to follow. My ladder-climbing in operations landed me as Assistant VP at Citibank at the age of 28. I was the youngest and one of the few women in leadership. The wonderful people who worked on my team were all at least 10 years my senior and I was approving their timecards and putting them on improvement plans. It was an interesting dynamic, but I learned so much about people, leading by listening, etc. Read More>>
Justin Lowder
Starting a company at a young age came with challenges, from establishing credibility to managing resources, but I stayed committed to my vision. I launched Navis, an AI K-pop singer, as my company’s first artist and have been working on expanding Eclipse Nexus ever since. Now, I’m focused on growing my brand, scouting talent, and turning Eclipse Nexus into a recognized name in the industry. Read More>>
Liv Kolman
While my craft is not much different from other press on nail artists, what helps me stand out is my ability to be vulnerable. Consumers are tired of lifeless corporate brands, so I am not going to be that. If I have a platform, I want to people to relate to who they’re following. It’s okay for them to know I make mistakes, that I fail, and that I’m stressed. I have found that if people like artists as a person they will trust you more and support you unconditionally. Read More>>
Lakesha Quarles
Now, as the Program Director for a Medical Assisting program and a doctoral candidate in Healthcare Administration, I am dedicated to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals while also researching and addressing disparities in childbirth. My journey has been about merging education, advocacy, and hands-on care to create meaningful change in maternal health and healthcare education. Read More>>
Erin Pacitti
I learned the ropes of all things marketing in this role–how to craft compelling messaging on both sensitive and silly subjects, how to get the word out about events, how to raise money through creative endeavors, and more–and I was given a lot of responsibility. I also learned I was best suited for a role wearing multiple hats. My time at the aquarium shaped how I approach client work today and gave me an incredible foundation for my career. Read More>>
Cody Callarman
After serving as a Marine Sergeant with an infantry deployment in 2010, Callarman earned his BA in Finance from National University and is now pursuing his MBA. His journey into the hemp industry was deeply personal—he witnessed cannabis transform the lives of his mother, who found relief from partial paralysis and opioid dependence, and fellow veterans who used it to manage their injuries and mental health challenges. These experiences ignited his passion to lead the charge for cannabis advocacy in South Carolina. Read More>>
Rinnie Culberson
Today, as a professional esthetician, I take pride in offering customized treatments that not only enhance my clients’ natural beauty but also empower them to feel their best. From facials to lash extensions, every service I provide is backed by the knowledge and passion that started me on this path. I’m incredibly grateful to be in a field where I can make a difference in people’s lives every day, and I’m excited to continue growing and evolving alongside my clients. Read More>>
Melyssa Lynch
Beyond the classroom, I pursue painting as a personal endeavor, where I love to capture moments and tell stories through my art. Whether it’s the delicate interplay of light and shadow or the emotions tied to a fleeting moment, I strive to create pieces that resonate deeply. Through teaching, creating, and sharing, art remains a central part of my identity, connecting me to others and offering endless opportunities for discovery and expression. Read More>>
Silvia Belviso Blair
My name is Silvia Belviso, and I am an artist originally from Bari, in the Puglia region of southern Italy. My passion for art has been with me since childhood, leading me to attend art school, where I received a classical education that laid the foundation for my artistic journey. After graduating, I had the incredible opportunity to study under the Italian maestro Giuseppe “Peppino” Signorile. For a decade, I immersed myself in his studio, perfecting my craft and learning techniques rooted in the traditions of the Renaissance. Read More>>
Molly Schulting
I initially pursued a degree in education, but during my student teaching experience, I quickly realized how challenging the profession was. Huge props to all teachers—especially my amazing husband—because I knew it wasn’t the right fit for me. While figuring out my next step, I revisited the idea of chiropractic and toured Palmer Chiropractic College. It was there, after receiving my first adjustment, that I knew I had found my calling. I loved that chiropractic care not only focused on healing but also on educating people about their health, helping them function optimally from the inside out. Read More>>
Lashonda Crosby
It has not been a smooth road at all, some were not comfortable with the changing of ownership. Many were not willing to see the vision that my husband and I wanted for the *NEW* WGCD. It was very challenging to find individuals who were willing to do the “heavy lifting” to see the ultimate success of the Radio Station. We experienced vandalism of our building, not so favorable rumors being spread and even some individuals refusing to advertise with us. It was very disheartening, however, we thoroughly and whole-heartedly appreciate those businesses and individuals that support us unconditionally. Read More>>
Lilia Sciarretti
Fast forward almost 6 years later and I was right. They say follow your gut, so I did. Something has always been telling me to make this my career and I truly don’t know where I would be without it. It’s a part of my DNA. It makes me who I am. When people ask me about me, it’s the first thing I mention: “I’m a documentarian.” Now photography has always been my first love, until I was introduced to video. Then it quickly became a tie for first. It touches a part of my soul I didn’t even know was there. Read More>>
Jacob Qualls
I have no advice on finding a mentor, but on networking, find events that you enjoy going to, and stand out on your first impression. Read More>>
Jayden Carroll
I was always into all the arts and finally had to pick one if I was going to graduate high school on time, so I quit theater and orchestra to do AP art. I was undoubtedly in the hardest season of life yet. In the span of a few months, I struggled over personal relationships, experienced the unexpected death of my cousin, was in a car accident and suffered a traumatic brain injury, and then sustained an injury to my dominant hand being told I may never be able to use it the same way again. I wanted to quit- but in my frustration, picked up a paintbrush and began teaching myself to paint left-handed. Read More>>
Courtney Floyd
One of the challenges I face in my handcrafted candle business is sourcing material. I originally used glass vessels but the supply chain challenges brought on by the pandemic encouraged me to find an alternative vessel. I currently make each vessel by hand using concrete and molds and while it’s very time consuming, I love creating a unique product. Of course, inflation has also resulted in increased costs for wax, oils, and shipping but I’m grateful to have my amazing customers that understand the costs of operating. Read More>>
Missy Johnson
Born in Ft Lauderdale, raised in Ohio due to my Dad’s job but my family origins are all Southern on my Mother’s side so I grew up spending time with family in South Carolina and Florida. I would spend a few weeks every Summer with my Aunt and Uncle who lived in Miami Florida but had a house in the Florida Keys. I definitely get my love of all things beach, coast, ocean from my Uncle Bill and my Dad Ed. They shared their mutual love of the outdoors with me from snorkeling, hiking and boating to visiting local aquariums and learning everything I could about the oceans and its creatures. Read More>>
Allen Crosby
I started working on political campaigns in the Charlotte NC area. Through the process, I became increasingly interested in transportation policy, particularly that of rail-based transportation. During a congressional campaign I was running I advocated a strong position for passenger rail., It was not well received. As a result. started the Southeastern Passenger Rail Initiative (SEPRI) with a clear mission: to advocate for and advance the development of passenger rail across the Southeast and to change hearts and minds. Read More>>
Tami Otto
While attending college for a second time, I was also working a full time job.. Fast forward a couple years later, I graduated from college with a degree in business and entrepreneurship and the restaurant that I was working at closed as the owners wanted to retire, so then I was able to focus more on my business, promote and rebrand my business so I can be more successful in the industry . Because of the hard work and dedication, and with the help of my daughter & son in law, Korine & Colby, my dear friend & assistant, Misty, and my wonderful fiance, Cody, we now are able to offer a variety of services to fit every Events needs, and we service multiple states! Read More>>
Jessica Saultz
DINO BARS, from the Functional Food Company, was born from Jessica and Ian Saultz’s passion for healthy living. Raised in Germany, Jessica’s upbringing on fresh produce inspired her. When their son Liam couldn’t tolerate refined sugars, they sought sugar-free options, sparking the idea for DINO BARS. After relocating to the US with their two children, Jessica’s homemade snacks became a hit. Now, produced in Charleston, South Carolina, DINO BARS offer nutritious snacks for kids nationwide, with Aiden joining their family along the way. Read More>>
Zachary Schwehr
Absolutely not! Having not opened up our own business like this before there has been a lot of learning required. I’ve had to work out all of the data involved in properly researching and analyzing our proposed location, as well as working to ensure our estimated numbers are within the realm of reason for our line of business. There have been hiccups and redirects all along the way but we are excited to have progressed to where we are at, really just needing to be able to lock down the location and get estimates for the renovation work to bring our vision to life before we can move forward with the SBA loan process. Read More>>
Lexi Rackley
The only struggle I’ve seemed to face is making sure our magic makers are available for events. The summer is a very popular time for our characters but we love it all. I’ve been very blessed to not have too many struggles on this journey but I’ve also received a lot of support which,I believe, has been the main reason this journey has been easy. Read More>>
Kimberly Blackwell
In 2024, I took the leap and opened The Pendleton Candy Company. With hard work, love, and support from my family, we quickly became recognized as the Best Candy Shop in South Carolina and Best in the Southern States by Southern Living Magazine. It’s been an incredible journey to not only grow a successful business but also to bring joy to our community and show my daughters that anything is possible. Read More>>
Jess Blaszczak
Wow. Beginning is rough. Well. What feels like a lifetime ago, I was a writer. I started my career as a copywriter for a large comic book distributor in Baltimore. I went on to write curriculum for underprivileged schools. From there, I became a freelance writer, covering everything from SEO articles, to magazine interviews to Astrology. (I’m a Gemini. How about you?)
It’s funny where life leads you. After my husband and I moved from Baltimore to Washington DC, l continued writing. I also enjoyed creating art. I joined a bunch of art markets selling handmade crafts I made at home. After a couple of months, an opportunity to organize art markets pooped up. I was hired and from there, I found my niche. I became fully entranced with the art scene in DC. There is so much talent and beauty all around us. Read More>>
Erin Godbey
As our event has grown, finding the right location has been tricky. When we started Indie Craft Parade, we hosted the festival in downtown Greenville at the Huguenot Mill, a restored textile mill. The venue was beautiful, but our event outgrew it within the first year. Without another viable option, we continued hosting the event there for 8 years. Eventually, we moved the festival to Furman University, where the festival was held for several years in their lovely facilities. In 2024, a new restored mill venue became available at Judson Mill, and that location has become the new home for Indie Craft Parade. Read More>>
Elaine Deakyne
Connecting with the organization helped me get the courage to find a group of moms in the community to connect with, and about a year after finding the organization for support – I began working for the organization as a coordinator for the annual Moms’ Run event. I did that for several years, joined the board of directors for a couple years and then became the Executive Director in 2018. This career path was not something I planned, but it has become my hearts work, and I am so honored to be able to help new moms in the community. To not feel alone, and to help them understand that even when it feels like the absolute worst, it will get better. With help and support – every new mom can experience the joy in motherhood. Read More>>
