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.
Cassandra Osborne-Zilm
Keeping a jewelry business going takes more than creativity—it takes grit, flexibility, and leaning on others. My husband has been a supportive force from the start. Trends change, life shifts, and the path isn’t always clear. Through every challenge—whether it was starting from scratch, navigating motherhood, or learning entirely new skills—my goal has remained clear: to create something authentic, to express myself through art, and to keep showing up, even when the path wasn’t easy. Read more>>
JohnPaul Freeman
I started writing lyrics when I was 13—just a kid with a sharp mind, a curious spirit, and something real to say. I’ve always been introspective, driven, and wired with a deep need to grow. Back then, I was also training to become a boxer—disciplined, focused, and constantly pushing my limits. But life hit me hard. On my 19th birthday, I was shot in the eye with a metal BB. The injury left me with permanent damage and a piece of metal still lodged in my eye. My boxing dreams ended that day, but I didn’t lose the fighter in me. Read more>>
Andy Yagecic
For six years, after my son was born, we were in constant motion, searching for a balance of prosperity, family, and happiness. We moved from Charlotte to Oklahoma, then to Slovakia, then to Denver, then to Charleston, and finally to Mount Pleasant. Moving to Europe with ten suitcases and two kids was tough. These weren’t easy moves. They weren’t cheap. And in many ways, they didn’t bring what we were searching for. Read more>>
Chelsea England
As a completely self-taught photographer, one of my biggest challenges was navigating the business side of my work. I felt confident in my ability to shoot and edit, but building and managing a successful business required a lot of research, trial and error, and learning from experienced photographers in my community! It’s been a rewarding journey of growth and development. I’m so thankful to those who helped me along the way. Read more>>
Stephanie Sullivan
I went on to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in music performance, which laid a strong technical and artistic foundation. Professionally, I’ve had the opportunity to perform with several symphonies and in pit orchestras for theaters and Broadway tours, as well as performing with and recording for country and rock bands, gaining experience across a wide range of musical styles and settings. I also spent five years as an adjunct professor of violin and viola at a private college, which allowed me to share my knowledge and passion with the next generation of musicians. All of these experiences have shaped me into a well-rounded and open-minded performer with a deep love for both the classical tradition and the vibrant, community-driven spirit of folk, pop, and rock music. Read more>>
Rochelle Williamson Eaddy
I’m praying 
to make this an safe haven for women around the world. My Vision is for every Queen to know they are a Queen even if there are obstacles or disappointments and bad choices they can rise and be the person that they were ment to be or the person that changes their family history. I worked in a middle school in NY for over 30 years and I know I will spend the rest of my life counseling young ladies and older women. This is my Calling and I accept it. Read more>>
Khadijah Abrams
My journey to creating Made Worthy Journal Notebooks started from a pretty personal place. After a tough breakup in 2015, I was feeling lost and struggling with my self-worth. Journaling became my escape—my space to reflect, heal, and start believing in myself again. One day, I had this lightbulb moment: why not create journals that could help others do the same? So, I started thinking about how I could use journals to empower people and remind them of their worth. Read more>>
Emma Ecklin
Then, during college, I lost my mom — and with her, a sense of direction. The grief cracked something open in me (as it does for anyone…), and I was left searching for anything that could help me feel grounded again. That’s when I found running. At first, a way to cope with the pandemic. Not for medals or miles — but to move through the emotions both stubborn grief and isolation gave me. Read more>>
Taylor Walker
I have been making handmade jewelry off and on since I was about 12 years old. I would go to craft shows with my grandmother in Mississippi and sell my jewelry there. I stopped for a while when life got busy in college. I graduated from Ole Miss in 2021 and then graduated nursing school with my BSN in 2022. I work full-time as an inpatient float pool RN in Charleston, and I just recently picked back up making jewelry. Read more>>
Christina Carroll
Out of cosmetology school, I worked with the best in the hair industry in Greenville, SC, Wilson of Wilson on Washington Salon, who molded and mentored me into the stylist I am today. What he taught me I pass on to my assistants to this day. A few years later, the idea popped into my head that it would be cool to have my own salon. I always felt like I would own my own salon, but I knew it would be decades later as I had a lot to learn. In 2014 Renew Salon was created. We celebrate our 11th year as a Salon this month. Read more>>
Jackson Nichols
Either way, I can’t help but feel like it was meant to be, if I didn’t already have one I would’ve just abandoned that idea all together. I fell in love with the analog process and as I did more and more research, I discovered a subculture I didn’t realize existed. It was around this time that I started working on season 4 of ‘The Righteous Gemstones’ for HBO. I met so many amazing people and built great relationships. After the show wrapped, I found my way in to shooting stills for short films some of my friends and colleagues were making. I discovered that by combining both my love for filmmaking and photography, that’s where I find the most enjoyment. Now I work at a local film developing lab and try to shoot as much as I can in my spare time. Read more>>
George McManus
This sparked my interest in music at a young age. After buying my first DJ controller in high school, I taught myself the basics and DJ’d for a few friends before graduating. I then attended the College of Charleston, where I DJ’d at college parties and local bars. Since graduating in 2021, I have remained in Charleston and have earned residencies at the best local dance clubs. I have enjoyed bringing a unique sound to the Lowcountry. My Chicago and London influences play a big role in my sound and the type of performance I strive to present. Read more>>
Sydney Wigington
I own and run Simply Sydney. I blog and share lifestyle, home, and garden content on my instagram platform. I also recently launched my own website and online farm store, www.simplysydneyw.com. There I blog about lifestyle, home, and gardening. It also has small store of curated items for home and garden. Read more>>
Cheyenne Willis Kozaily
That’s why once I was on the other side, it was apparent that my experience was not unique. If you are anything like me, you root for the underdog: those who have added gates to the success that seems to come so easily to others. I am the creative, introverted type. I never imagined I’d be able to translate my creativity into being a successful CEO, let alone put myself out there on YouTube. Read more>>
Brandon Simmons
I also started playing solo acoustic gigs around the greater Charleston area. Recently, I started another project called “Brandon and the Boys”. I act as the frontman/singer/guitarist, and we play covers, as well as my own personal original music. Currently, I still perform full time as a solo acoustic act, play the drums for Token Mary, lead Brandon and the Boys, and write/record original music, which you can find on all platforms under my full name “Brandon Lamar Simmons”. Between all of these projects, you can find me at any local bar, pub, brewery, wedding, or event. Music always has been, and will forever be an obsession of mine. I’ll never stop. Listen out! Read more>>
Takiea Dawkins
I started my candle business in 2020 during the COVID-19 shutdown. I’ve always had a love for candles and dreamed of creating something of my own. After experiencing frequent headaches from chemically-made candles, I began making all-natural alternatives. Read more>>
Allison Mills White
Yes and no. When I started my business, I was a new mom in grad school. I quickly became overwhelmed, and had to choose which path my life would take. I was so in love with photographing weddings. It felt like my heart was on fire and I became alive behind my camera. I couldn’t give that up. So, I’m a grad school dropout, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I get to photograph the best and most vulnerable days of people’s lives, and it’s an honor I wouldn’t trade for the world. It’s still hard to be a wife, mom, and run a business, but I show up authentically as myself and do the best I can. Read more>>
Robert Araujo
We pooled our savings and invested in equipment (with a lot of fear and nerves): a trailer, a commercial lawn mower (which cost us $8,000), weed eaters, blowers, hedge trimmers, and sprayers—everything we needed to get started. We were nervous, but committed. That mentor gave us our first client, and we did everything we could to achieve excellent results. It took us a whole day, but the client was very happy and even gave us a tip. That $40 was the biggest profit of our lives, not because of the money, but because it was ours. Read more>>
Faith Rowley
There were seasons early on when I was wearing every hat — photographing, editing, emailing, marketing — all while trying to find my voice and build something that felt true. At times, the pressure to follow trends or shape my work around what the industry expected was loud. But the deeper challenge — and also the most important one — has been staying anchored in what I know to be true. Creating from a place of conviction, not comparison. Letting my work be a reflection of what matters most, rather than what the world says it should be. Read more>>
Ed And Ysante McDowell
The people began to fall in love with it and started asking for more. They found out that the seasoning was also being used as a rub which led Ed to becoming the first to create a seasoning and rub in one jar. They went into their first store in September 2015 and grew to multiple stores and customers in and out of the USA. They also grew into a college and university campus and restaurants. We got to where we are by our faith in God. We believed in what the Lord had put into Ed’s hands and the drive his wife had to see his vision come to pass. Ed and Ysante took several classes in entrepreneurship and leadership years after starting the business to enhance their wisdom and knowledge of running a business. Read more>>
Lanna Brasure
I’m not done yet, there is still so much I want to do and positive impact I want to make. But all of it is coming together to work together. The culinary arts so I can cook and eat healthy food and to share those tips and recipes with others, the pastry arts so I can bake as a form of a love language and give to those in my life, the psychology around our brains and why we doubt ourselves, and why we must push through, the business for all of the goals I have, the computer programming and boot camp so I can have this job where I get the luxury of not being stressed after work allowing me to work on my dreams instead of escaping through Netflix or a nightlife, the writing for me to express myself and to help others, all while coaching others and myself through it all. Read more>>
Kristie Spino
In 2018, we inherited American Eagle Locksmith from my step father. During covid we doubled as a business in volume and decided to expand a combination of Christie’s Lighting and Silver Fox Gallery and Interiors to Greenville as Christie’s Lighting & Design. Over the years we have been successful in building a great team of interior designers, lighting consultants and managerial staff. Our success lies in our core values and the quality and customer care that we extend to our clients. Read more>>
Madison Thompson
Photographing your love is more to me than a job. It is a ministry of serving you through the love of Jesus in one of the most beautiful, transitional, and exciting times in your life. My photos are timeless, wholesome, pure, and each one tells a different story that is unfeigned and authentic. I want you to feel something when you see your gallery each time you navigate to it. It is such a JOY to be able to give you tangible images of your love. But not only do I approach your images with care, but your experience. The experience that I give is one that I want you to remember and cherish for as long as you live. I’m here to be your best friend in this season; I can’t wait to cheer you on with love and service! Read more>>
Patch Whisky
Its a daily grind. I dont think the road has or ever will be smooth. All the things that come with being a full time Visual Artist was not in the “guide book”. I Have to wear all the hats. Making the art is just a portion of what I have to do to keep the machine moving forward. The technology keeps advancing, trends are changing, social media evolving… It’s a lot. But it has to be done. I feel like I am always having to learn new programs and ways to do things. Read more>>
House-Wives Kai And Lo
Coincidentally, the entertainment director happened to walk in during our session. Impressed by our chemistry and sound, he suggested we perform a B2B set at the event we were hosting. The event was a huge success, and the positive feedback we received inspired us to officially form a duo. Read more>>
Ashley Epperson
As a new company, I definitely still have much to learn. However, I have been blown away by the response from performers and families alike. The performers have been so excited and supportive, sharing the opportunity with their friends and helping me prepare for events. I am looking forward to continuing to market to families and connecting with other similar companies across the country to learn more about how they operate and achieve success! Read more>>
Mary Grace Griffin
My first game was a high school football game at Hanahan. I had the bottom of the barrel camera to start out. Then I went to a Citadel football game and realized, wow I can really see myself doing this as a career. From there, I began investing in better equipment and dedicating myself to learning. I will never forget the excitement of buying my first lens. I texted Brian to share the news and he said “keep that excitement and you’ll go far.” That piece of advice has stayed with me ever since. Every step I take in this journey big or small is driven by that same passion to keep moving forward. Read more>>
Firdausiyus
There was a message that stayed with me forever. Before my father passed away, he once told me, “Wherever you go, keep remember that you’ll never forget your roots, never forget your culture.” Those words became more than a memory—they became a mission. That message sparked a fire in me: to bring Indonesian culture to the world through art. Guided by the Javanese philosophy “Hamemayu Hayuning Bawono”—which means “Enhance the beauty and harmonize the world”— reconnecting to the roots where I came from and where it’s all begin.. It’s about being a human who humanizes others. And for me, creating art is a part of that calling. Read more>>
Dr. Manal Munir
In the beginning, I really struggled to adapt to the demands of medical life. Balancing my studies with everything else felt overwhelming, and there were several moments when I seriously considered giving up. I even reached a point where my mom told me it was okay if I didn’t want to continue. But over time, things began to fall into place. I learned how to manage better, grew within the field, and developed strong communication skills with my peers. During my internship, I became confident in my diagnostic abilities and earned recognition for my dedication and work ethic. Looking back, I’m genuinely proud of how far I’ve come. Read more>>
Justin Williams
My wife and I always loved traveling, supporting local businesses, and growing a community around us. We started a blog in 2021 that featured information to help people plan trips and gave them great information on local places to eat and businesses to support. From there, the blog expanded to wedding planning advice then to lifestyle advice and then to baby-related advice. Now we focus on more family-related content. We also try to expand our knowledge of Greenville as we’ve only been here for 3 years. In the last few years, we transitioned away from blogging and now focus more on social media to keep up with the trends. We love turning our hobby into something that people can find useful. Read more>>
Rozabre Grant
In 2024, I took a leap of faith and rebranded into my own independent business, Sweet Rose Waxing Co. I wanted to create a space that truly felt like home for both clients and staff — professional yet personal, elevated yet welcoming. We focus not only on high-quality waxing and skincare services but also on building lasting relationships with our community. Read more>>
Salvador Carire
Hello, I’m Pepe Carire. I learned to Tattoo while I was stationed with the U.S. Coast Guard in Puerto Rico as a Helicopter Rescue Swimmer in 1998-99. I continued tattooing part time the entire time while still on active duty with the Coast Guard. Once I retired after 21 years of service, I continued tattooing full time and started attending tattoo conventions. I can honestly say I’ve had two dream jobs in my life! Now I’m living the dream! Read more>>
Carissa Scott
One thing I’ve learned in my almost 10 years is that the road is rarely linear. I used to think it was always uphill! Oh how crazy of me. I think in just realizing things will always ebb and flow makes the journey easier. Things I’ve struggled with are imposter syndrome, slower seasons and the craziness of October – but in the same week, I’ve booked my dream wedding location and work with a new amazing planner. There’s a season for everything – some months, I may need to rest more and work less, others I’m full steam ahead and that’s what keeps it exciting. Read more>>
Tony Malizia
Carolina Charcuterie Company officially launched on October 1, 2020 — right in the middle of the pandemic. Like many others, I lost my job during COVID. And after spending some time doing nothing but sipping margaritas by the pool (no regrets there), one particularly “spirited” afternoon led to making a charcuterie board just for fun. Turns out, that board sparked something more than just a snack — it sparked the idea for an entirely new business. The charcuterie craze was just starting to catch fire, and I decided to jump in. Read more>>
Nicole Russell-Schlesinger
My fascination with art goes back as far as I can remember. My childhood spent with a crayon or a paintbrush in my hand. Playing with Play-Doh and clay for hours at the kitchen table. My mother recognized my talent and signed me up to audition for Rollings School of the Arts, which I attended for 5 years. I continued my practice through high school and college but never with the idea that I could actually become a working artist. After graduating from the University of South Carolina, I began teaching elementary school – always infusing art into my lessons and even starting an Art Club amongst the students. Read more>>
Jamie Sanderson
When it came to the table in its green basket with fries, I snapped a photo. I later shared it on my personal Facebook profile just to mark the occasion. I only had Facebook, and nothing dedicated to showcasing restaurants. Well, the next day I woke up and saw that photo had 80+ reactions, all positive. I went back to show the owner and he got emotional. It meant the world to him. After that his family and mine built a great friendship. One day, he messaged me to say he was going in a different direction in his life and the restaurant would be closing. He said he was going to name that burger after me for the final service. He named another burger after my wife Adrianne, too. Read more>>
