Starting a business is a commitment and requires dedication, resources and sacrifice. We asked some of the rising stars in our community how they thought through the idea of starting their own businesses.

Aleta Neal | Photographer

I have always been the historian for my family and friends, taking pictures and keeping records for everyone. During COVID, I decided to make it an official business and help other families. Since then, I’ve been perfecting my craft and made a focus on Maternity & Newborn Photography, trying to find ways to reach Moms who are pregnant with either their first or even fifth baby. I strive to make each maternity session feel different and I love returning clients where I can really show them the difference each pregnancy can bring. I have curated a “Client Closet” full of beautiful gowns and wraps that my clients can use during their sessions without the stress of finding an outfit, and I’ve teamed up with expert makeup artists to have on site if needed! Read more>>

Diane And Wayne Libman | GenX UGC Creators

Starting a business is driven by inspiration or desperation and can be a little scary because there are risks and things we need to manage. We have to think about what we need to get started, the learning curve and be ready to change our plan if things don’t go as expected.. The excitement comes from wanting to do something together that is fun and not considered a chore. It helps having a clear idea of what you want to achieve, and believing that what you create will be successful. We saw an opportunity where we could contribute to this space.. Building a business means we get to make our own choices and decide how to spend our time. Read more>>

Noah Johnson | Co-owner & Cellist

Huijeong and I had been playing weddings together for about a decade, though we had always been working for different companies and wedding bands. We developed a genuine love for performing at wedding ceremonies and came away from each wedding with an idea or two for how to improve the next performance. We brought these suggestions to the wedding bands that we worked for, but eventually realized that what we really wanted to do was work for ourselves. That’s basically it! We had years of experience working together in the industry and decided that we wanted to start our own business. Read more>>

Carla Byrd | Certified Hair Loss specialist, Certified Health & Wellbeing Coach, Master Cosmetologist

I was 21 years old when I decided to go into business for myself.
I had previously worked in environments that were rife with office politics, or lacked creativity or the freedom I needed to grow and thrive. After much thought and planning I decided to take the leap and open my own salon and I haven’t yet looked back. It happened to be one of the best decisions I have made for myself. Opening my own business allowed me the ability to create the environment that was most conducive for myself, the clients and the salon overall. I have always believed that a pleasant customer experience is a key component to customer satisfaction. Although opening my own salon meant that I would be taking a risk it also meant that if I were to fail or succeed it would all be up to me. Read more>>

Jorden Little | Photographer

I wanted to showcase others in a light that makes them feel loved and beautiful while capturing their authentic selves. Read more>>

Autumn Wood | Event Planner & Coordinator

After working in the events industry for many years and gaining experience in all aspects—planning, design, catering, logistics, etc.—I realized there was a gap in the market for a comprehensive, all-in-one solution. I saw an opportunity to create a one-stop shop where clients could find everything they needed for a successful event in one place. My goal was to simplify the process, reduce stress for clients, and deliver exceptional results every time. Read more>>

Pauly Shore Atl | Content Creator & Digital Chef

To be completely transparent and honest, it was those around me who encouraged me to start my own business. Read more>>

Joshua Steez | Artist & Designer

The idea of starting my own business was born from the realization that my creativity is too boundless to be confined. Over the years, family and friends often reminded me of the potential they saw in me, and after navigating different jobs throughout college, it became clear—I wasn’t made to follow someone else’s path. I longed for the freedom to design my own life, to wake up each day and shape my world on my terms. The call to create, to lead, and to forge something uniquely my own became impossible to ignore. Read more>>

Warlene Rene | Fashion designer & Stylist

I use to work for a bridal salon for 15 years, while I was financially stable doing that work, I realized I could do the same for myself and pay myself more money. I also wanted more control over the styling orocess with my clients. Under an establishment there are always formalities that can be inconvenient to a crestive person. Read more>>

Jametrial Baldwin | Photographer and Loctician

The thought process behind starting my own business was, “ What can I do, that even if I do not get paid, I’d still enjoy?” It took me 6 years of trial and error, consistency, determination, and patience with myself to get that answer. It was not until I submitted my life to God and joined and start serving at “THE” Hub Southwest, that I rekindled my love for photography. It has been a blessing ever since to build my relationship with the lense, along with other gifts that were brought back to life. Matthew 6:33 Read more>>

Noah Austin | Photographer

As a first responder, I’ve seen how quickly life can change and how important it is to cherish the moments we have. That perspective inspired me to start a business where I could help people preserve their most meaningful memories. It was about creating something that connects people to the joy, love, and resilience in their stories. Something that they could hold onto forever. Read more>>

Colt Chambers | Entertainment Producer & Venue Owner

When I started The Alley Stage, the process was incredibly unplanned and spontaneous. The building became available unexpectedly, and within a week, I found myself signing the lease with no clear vision of what I was going to do with the space. However, I’ve always dreamed of having my own venue where I could artistically program and have full creative control, so it felt like the right opportunity at the right time. Read more>>

John Thompson | NEON VVOLF (PRONOUNCED NEON WOLF) FOUNDER

NEON VVOLF (pronounced NEON WOLF) was created to fill the void of a safe and inclusive space within the Swinger’s Community for black singles and couples that are either curious or currently engaged in the lifestyle. Read more>>

Lawrence Carter | Entrepreneur

I guess I just thought about the people that needed exposure but couldn’t get it because of their finances or because of the political nature of the industry in Atlanta. I wanted to help those artists, or models or whatever. Read more>>

Carlos Parker | Seafood Restaurant & Bar

I started my own business because I love seafood. I wanted to share my passion for seafood with others. I know the feeling when the customer takes that first bite of my food. It’s a great feeling, and I’m glad I can provide that experience for my customers. Read more>>

Andrew Salop | Broadcaster/Media Personality

Started my business after a ten year career playing basketball overseas and wanted my own talk show! I thought the podcast route would be best and I never turned back. Read more>>

Alvin Steele | The President of SuperTech Refrigeration

I come from a background that many might find difficult to imagine. My early life was a struggle against poverty, where meals often consisted of little more than water and wonder bread. I witnessed firsthand the fight for survival, watching individuals—men, women, and children—plead for help and search for food and work. It was heartbreaking to see them turned away while others, in luxurious cars and designer suits, laughed or judged their plight. Read more>>

Nakia Creel | Writer, Author and Publisher

When I first started writing I just wanted to tell great stories, when it was time to do my second book I realized I wanted to learn the process of publishing a book from start to finish, as well as help other artist find their footing in their personal journey. There is so much raw talent and so many people that thrive on taking advantage of individuals that are unfamiliar with the entire writing process. Read more>>

Cameron Blake | Special Effects Makeup Artist & Fabricator

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset, enjoying both the creative and technical aspects of running a business. After graduating from a Modern FX makeup school, I began my career as a special effects makeup artist. Initially, I thought I would focus solely on offering freelance services to filmmakers. However, after working with a variety of indie productions, I saw a common challenge: many had limited budgets and couldn’t afford professional makeup artists. Read more>>

Chavonne White | Wine Enthusiast & Personal Development Coach

My thought process behind starting Mahogany + Merlot was driven by my love for wine and the desire to share that passion with others. I wanted to create a space where people could connect, learn, and experience wine in a fun, engaging way. Over time, I learned the difference between simply drinking wine and truly tasting it, and I wanted to provide others with that same educational and sensory experience. My goal is to teach my community about wines beyond the mass-produced options and create a memorable, enriching experience for all. Read more>>

Jacoby Ponder | Chef|Culinary Director

When I decided to start my own personal chef business, it wasn’t just about cooking—it was about creating something meaningful and personal. After years of working in high-pressure environments, from my time in the military to leading in civilian kitchens, I realized that food is more than just a necessity; it’s an experience, a connection, and a way to bring people together. I wanted to bring that connection directly to people’s homes, tailored to their unique tastes and needs. Read more>>

Dillan Tschudy | HVAC & Mechanical Contractor

I was working full time for a contractor out of Atlanta Ga. I was fine working for a company. Beginning year 2022 we as a part of the church began a 21 day fast and prayer. In middle of January during my prayer I felt in my spirit the Lord telling me to start business, I did not consider myself a “businessman”. However middle of 2022 I began preparing for what the Lord laid on my heart. Read more>>

David Axe | writer and filmmaker

I’ve got lots of businesses. I’m a self-employed writer. I make small movies under the banner of a couple of production companies. I’m also building a “kino” — a tiny movie theater. Creating a business, or several, was never the goal. My goals are creative. The businesses are just part of that infrastructure for doing creative work. Read more>>