Meet Michael Jenkins | CEO and Chief Design Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Jenkins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michael, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
I come from a creative family with two brothers—one older, one younger. When we were kids, our dad was one of the first people in our neighborhood to buy a computer. That opened the door to a world of possibilities. Using early, very basic design software—and even a CD full of clip art—we started creating flyers, business cards, and invitations for people in our community. It was our first taste of entrepreneurship and design.

As we got older, life took us in different directions. I went to Morehouse, my younger brother joined the military, and my older brother got married. After graduating, I joined the Peace Corps and served in South Africa. A few years later, both my younger brother and I ended up back in Atlanta and decided to revisit the business—but this time with a more professional vision.

We invested in industry-standard design software, taught ourselves web design, and started actively pitching our services to small businesses throughout the city. At first, we balanced it with full-time jobs, but our passion and persistence paid off. Eventually, we both left our jobs and opened a full-time print shop and design studio.

Over time, my brother left to pursue other entrepreneurial interests, and I continued to grow the company. That’s how Graphics in Atlanta was born—and how it’s evolved into the creative services firm it is today.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Graphics in Atlanta is a full-service creative agency specializing in graphic and web design, print services, video editing, and AI-generated art. We proudly serve a diverse range of clients—from small businesses and nonprofits to large corporations and churches. Our mission is simple: to elevate brands and bring our clients’ visions to life through thoughtful, high-quality creative solutions. We’ve built our reputation on being a one-stop shop for all things creative—including professional printing, which has allowed us to become a trusted creative partner across industries.

Getting here hasn’t been easy. It took a great deal of hard work, faith, and persistence. I left a stable career as a corporate fundraiser at a major foundation to pursue this dream full-time. Stepping away from the security of a paycheck and into entrepreneurship required courage, discipline, and sacrifice. This business has been largely self-funded, and there were times when I had to invest my own savings and sacrifice personal time to keep things moving forward.

But the effort has been worth it. What excites me most is seeing how far we’ve come—especially knowing that our growth has been driven almost entirely by referrals and word of mouth. That’s a testament to the quality of our work and the relationships we’ve built. We may not do a lot of marketing at the moment, we show up, deliver, and let the work speak for itself.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of integrity. Always do what you say you’re going to do. And when challenges arise—as they inevitably will—own them, fix them, and make sure the client walks away satisfied. That’s the standard we hold ourselves to, and it’s what continues to set Graphics in Atlanta apart.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
As an Atlanta native, I *love* showing people around my city. There’s so much culture, creativity, and flavor here—literally and figuratively. I’m a big foodie, especially when it comes to breakfast and brunch, so we’d definitely hit up some of my favorites like *Twisted Soul*, *Bomb Biscuit*, and *Homegrown*. For quick bites, I’d take them to one of the city’s amazing food halls like *Politan Row* or *Chattahoochee Food Works*—so many options, and always a good vibe.

Now I’ve got a serious sweet tooth, so dessert is a must. I’m talking cake and pie at *Café Intermezzo*—it’s one of my go-to spots to wind down and treat yourself.

I also love art and creativity in all forms, so we’d spend some time at the *High Museum* or *MODA (Museum of Design Atlanta)*. If the timing’s right, we’d catch a concert at *City Winery* or maybe outdoors at *Mable House*. Music is such a big part of my life, and sharing that with friends is always a highlight.

On Sunday, I’d invite them to *House of Hope Atlanta* with me. Worship there is powerful, and Pastor E. Dewey Smith always brings a word that inspires and challenges you.

And finally, if we just wanted to kick back and enjoy the city at a slower pace, we’d head to *Piedmont Park*. Whether it’s walking, talking, or just soaking in the sunshine, it’s one of those places that reminds you why Atlanta is so special.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would be nowhere without my tribe. My journey has been deeply shaped by the unwavering support of my family, my incredible friends, and my fraternity brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I’m also grateful to my Morehouse College family, my home church—New Springfield Baptist Church where I was raised and pushed into leadership positions —and my current ministry, House of Hope Atlanta. Their encouragement has carried me through every stage of my personal and professional growth.

I’m especially thankful to all of my clients, many of whom believed in me early on and continue to support my work.

And lastly, I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to two of my greatest champions, both of whom have passed on: my lifetime mentor, Larry Epps, and my mother—my biggest cheerleader and the person who always believed in me without hesitation. Their love and belief in me still fuel everything I do.

Website: https://www.graphicsinatlanta.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/graphicsinatl

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcjenkins

Twitter: https://x.com/graphicsinatl

Facebook: https://facebook.com/Graphicsinatlanta