Hidden Gems: Local Businesses & Creatives You Should Know

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.

Hollis Thomas

Pastor Hollis is recognized for his ability to present the truth of God’s Word in a way that is both practical and culturally relevant, reaching individuals across various ages, races, and backgrounds. His passion lies in growing a new generation of believers through innovative methods that engage and equip people to live out God’s calling on their lives. One City Church, under his leadership, has become a place of radical transformation, discipleship, and empowerment. Read more>>

Becca Bowen

I always say if you want to be in the music industry you better be ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions! This business is hard but when it works out it’s so rewarding! My journey has been tough to say the least. I spent a lot of time trying to prove myself in the industry. All that I have accomplished did not come easy. I held on to my faith and trusted that God would see me through and he has. I’m a dreamer and that keeps me pushing toward my goals! Read more>>

Josh Skelton

After managing a VINTGE SPORTS CAR COMPANEY learning the office and management side of the companies I sought to finish my business degree. After a retirment of the President of the companey. & a compeditor leaving Nashville; the business clientell went the way of the compeditors. After not aquiring the LIONS SHARE I immediately started Drive and began to deliver the transparent top quality repairs that I saw the enthesuiest deserve. www.joshdrivevintage.com is a boutique brokering & repair companey. Drive even has experanced departments for your photographey and movie car needs. Read more>>

Keniece Walker

I started working with Robert Higgins doing social media for his lounge Minerva and included all of Nashville in my productions, from photographers to models to graphic designers, to influencers, etc. From there I continued expanding my network and clientele in Nashville while still working in Memphis and Atlanta occasionally. Now I run the marketing and social media for over 6 companies in Nashville. I have expanded my brand to event curation as well, my last event I curated was for Coco Jones which was an amazing opportunity. I look forward to expanding my brand more and climbing up the creative ladder. Read more>>

Dominique Hatcher

Some people may not know this, but I’ve struggled with substance issues along the way, going to treatment and rehab facilities at least seven times. I have to thank God because I’ve truly had so many chances, and He and my family have always been there during those times. I also always felt a strange sense of duality—like I’d be going through an abysmal time in life, but hey, I just booked a gig. Then another. Then another. Read more>>

Carlos Galindo

In 2018, I relocated to Tennessee for a new job opportunity and decided to take my DJ business to the next level. I officially launched Bob Marlos Mobile DJ Services in Middle Tennessee, focusing on weddings and private events. My mission is to help couples achieve their perfect entertainment experience, curating every detail to match their vision for their big day. My ultimate goal is to become one of the premier wedding DJ vendors in Middle Tennessee, known for creating unforgettable moments and bringing every celebration to life through music. Read more>>

Hunter Clark

The largest challenges I’ve faced have been an unstable economy, when things are good and people are spending money, it’s great; when they aren’t, it’s hard. With good asset management, I’ve weathered the storm at the macro. The challenges on the micro and day to day can be hard, days are long and businesses are expensive to run but one foot in front of the other is my philosophy. Read more>>

Audrey Crockett

I started my career in TV news in Peoria, Illinois, working as a reporter, producer, anchor, and fill-in weather anchor. For five years, I thrived in the fast-paced newsroom environment, believing that my future would always be in television. However, as time went on, I began to question what was next for me. I wanted to find a career that would allow me to make a greater impact on the world while also providing a better work-life balance that would be more conducive to having a family. Read more>>

Kenzie Williams

There have been times when stress, responsibilities, and even self-doubt made it easy to put my well-being on the back burner. Whether it was neglecting proper rest, skipping meals, or pushing through exhaustion, I had to learn the hard way that taking care of myself isn’t optional—it’s essential. Over time, I’ve realized that I can’t pour from an empty cup. Making my health a priority, both physically and mentally, has been a journey of learning balance, setting boundaries, and embracing self-care without guilt. It’s not always easy, but I know that when I take care of me, I show up stronger in every other aspect of my life. Read more>>

Gail Cook

“I embarked on my hairstylist career at the age of 18, starting out in my mom’s kitchen while still in high school. After graduating, I immediately enrolled in the Barbering and Hairstyling program at Bishop State Community College. A few months after starting school I discovered that I was pregnant and I had to sit out a year and a half until I had my first daughter but, I did go back and finish and received my license. Read more>>

Rich Stone

My name is Rich Stone, and I’m a veteran of the specialty coffee industry who broke away from the larger corporate world to create something more meaningful. I believe that you don’t need to sacrifice values to build a successful business. Whether big or small, it’s possible to thrive while ensuring every link in the supply chain—from farm to cup—receives fair compensation and a chance to lead a good, dignified life. Read more>>

Katie James

Unfortunately, while I love where I grew up, there wasn’t many performing opportunities outside of choir and band. So you could say that I started honing in on my love for music since I was 5, but I think my real journey/progress started when I moved to Nashville. I came down to Nashville for school and ended up falling in love with performing around town! I started playing 2-5 shows every week and just writing as many songs as I could. Since then I’ve begun to release music and have continued to play and meet new people around town! Read more>>

Ryan Holding

With dark green walls, wood wainscoting, and crystal chandeliers, every detail was designed to invite calm and inspire connection. Today, Passage isn’t just a lounge; it’s the perfect hangout. For many, that means sitting with a group of friends they met here, sharing laughs, enjoying our drinks for hours, and even throwing in a few card games to keep the good vibes flowing. I always say that a typical bar is where you go to meet friends in a room full of strangers, but you go to Passage to meet stranger that become a room full of friends. Although we’ve been opened only 7 months, we already received 2nd place in “Best of Nashville” “Best New Business”. This was an incredible honor, and we are so excited to see where we go from here. Read more>>

Jasmine Dominique

Shortly after I graduated from High School my mother died unexpectedly. At the ager of 38, she had a brain aneurysm that would ultimately be the cause of her demise. For many years, both my mother and father struggled with drug addiction. The battle with drugs would eventually cause my father’s demise. As a result, I was led to the field of psychology. I was curious and because of my history with trauma, I wanted to provide a safe space for others to address their own. Read more>>

Grace Goodman

Since graduating, I’ve had the opportunity to tour with Odie Leigh – we’ve opened for Shakey Graves and recently wrapped up a three-month headlining tour across the U.S. and Canada. Over the past year, I’ve performed at festivals like Treefort Music Fest, Shaky Knees, Kilby Block Party, Calgary Folk Festival, Hinterland, and Outside Lands. I’ve also stepped in for other artists, playing for Oston on tour with Knox, and I stay busy recording and gigging around Nashville. I’ve learned that being a musician is about more than just playing your instrument. It’s all about adaptability, collaboration, and saying yes to opportunities that push you forward. Read more>>

Kalani Smith

I started as a videographer, specializing in weddings, but found myself working as a legislative assistant at the Tennessee State Capitol. It didn’t take long to realize the 9-to-5 wasn’t for me. I gave up everything, moved into my car, and went all in on creating content, diving headfirst into the world of paranormal investigation. I spent weeks at a time streaming from some of the most haunted locations in America, building a massive audience drawn to my raw, unfiltered ghost-hunting adventures. Read more>>

Nathan Stafford

My photography business is all about capturing unique moments and telling compelling stories through the lens. I specialize in event photography, portrait sessions, and custom photo shoots that reflect each client’s individual style and vision. Whether it’s a personal session, a corporate event, or a music-inspired shoot, I take the time to understand my clients’ needs and deliver photos that truly capture the essence of the moment. Read more>>

Reginald Alexander

It’s been far from a smooth ride! There have been plenty of ups and downs—equipment getting stolen, hard drives crashing, and life throwing curveballs. The road to where I am now has definitely not been easy, but I’m incredibly grateful for every part of the journey and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. There have been moments when I’ve wanted to walk away from photography, to just set my camera down for good, but the artist in me can’t help but create. No matter what, I always find my way back to the lens. Read more>>

Amanda Raymon

On August 5th after a long struggle with infertility, my husband and I welcomed our daughter Ryla Joy into the world. I am now experienced and almost certified as a pre and post-natal exercise specialist. I stepped back from Orangetheory for now, but you can find Ryla and I training clients in The Body Shop (which Is based off my farm in West Nashville). Fitness has completely changed my life and given me an undeniable sense of purpose, as well as an opportunity to help others change theirs. My joy comes from motivating and teaching people how to become their best selves. In the not so distant future I plan to host health and fitness retreats on our farm in Nashville, but for now I am solely focusing on my clients’ success and being Ryla’s mom <3 Read more>>

Carly Ornelas

I have been in the industry for about 13 years. I started alongside a physician who I was working with in the ER when I initially got certified in aesthetics. I started Speakeasy Aesthetics 8 years ago with my husband. Our first practice is in Mission Viejo, CA. We opened our 2nd practice in Murfreesboro TN after moving to Tennessee 3 years ago. Today we have been voted the best med spa in Rutherford county 2 years in a row and I have recently been named one of the Top 100 injectors in the United States and Top 25 top injector in both California & Tennessee. Read more>>

Quan Nguyen

Coming from a culture where meals are meant to be shared, we wanted to bring that same warmth to our community. We opened WokBros with one simple goal: to feed everyone. No one should have to wonder where their next meal is coming from, and no one should eat alone when food is meant to bring people together. Read more>>

Kaylin Roberson

A company reached out to me when I was a freshman in high school because they had heard about my story and wanted me to share it with other kids ranging from elementary school to 12th grade. It was called the “Teen Nation Tour” and their goal was to put an end to the bullying epidemic that infects a lot of our youth through the power of music and storytelling. This was the first time I experienced playing live shows and just as much as some kids needed to hear my story, I needed to share it for my own healing. Read more>>

Jason Tartick

Jason earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration while serving as the captain of the NCAA Division III Geneseo Men’s Soccer Team, then went on to earn an MBA in Accounting and Finance at the University of Rochester, Simon School of Business. After graduating, he spent nearly a decade in the banking industry at KeyBank, holding roles in strategy, underwriting, and lending. While at the bank, he executed over $200 million in lending transactions. In his last position, Jason served as Vice President and Senior Middle Market Banker, working with companies generating over $100 million in revenue to optimize their financial strategies for growth. Read more>>

Esmeralda Berenice Wences

Later, leaving my country due to insecurity, where moving from Mexico to the United States wasn’t part of my plans, but we had to do it. It was a shock for me—the change in culture, language, and life. Leaving my parents to seek safety for my family (husband and children). Read more>>

Joshua Lubben

Maybe it’s a smooth road for some bands, but it’s been a wild ride for us so far. some of the greatest struggles have been curating and maintaining an engaged audience online (streaming platforms and socials). While we’ve had steady success at live shows, we’ve had a harder time getting those numbers to translate into streams, followers, etc. Thankfully, we’ve seen steady growth over the last couple years though it’s always accompanied by dedicated hard work. Read more>>

Devin P. Grimes

I began wearing my camera as a part of my everyday outfit, which led to the question, “Are you a photographer?” My first photoshoot, I charged a guy who was an artist, $35. In 2017, I gained a mentor by the name of Rasheed Walker who is the CEO of Nashville PRO-AM. My work with Walker sparked my sports photography career. He hired as an intern and I was able to photograph the Dallas Cowboys for the 2016-17 season. Read more>>

Gracie Fincher

Moving to a new state & a new college when you’re only 19 & 20 is isolating. For the first year of our marriage, and even into our second year, we didn’t see much of each other (juggling working and classes) and we never felt like we were giving River & Rail the time it deserved. Our music sat underneath a pile of schoolwork, ministry jobs, paying the bills and trying to sleep somewhere in between. Looking back on it now we can see the ways that our hard work on the front end is paying off, and we’re so grateful for leaders in our lives that pushed us to take our time in learning before needing to put things into practice, but it was hard to be patient in those days. Read more>>

Izabel Hershey

In addition, some of the local business owners aren’t exactly friendly, and they tend to use their influence and popularity to shut down opportunities. I had never experienced such a cut-throat environment until I began to host my first vendor event. It got me down at first, but I know that so many local vendors I can truly call my friends and have endlessly supported me from day one! Read more>>

Gunnar Koleznar

My career has come with its share of challenges, but each one has taught me something valuable. They’ve shown me the importance of patience, resilience, and constantly pushing my limits. When you first start out, it’s all about learning. You’re going to make mistakes. I guess my main take away from what I’ve learned so far is two main things that I constantly am learning everyday. First Is having patience, Learning patience has been one of my biggest lessons—both in my craft and in life. And the second one is always keep learning, no matter how much you think you know you can always take something away from what you’re doing and learn something new. Read more>>

Jen Thompson

When I turned 37, I decided it was time to take my writing a bit more seriously. I started a new blog, titled Truly Yours, Jen. I wanted my blog to be vulnerable and real and heartfelt. I wanted it to feel comforting, like reading a letter from a friend. I declared on my 37th Birthday that by the time I was 40, I would be a published writer – in some capacity. It was time for this dream that had been in my heart for so long to become. a reality. Read more>>

Brother Dusty

I grew up in Kokomo, Indiana from a family of Baptist preachers and church musicians. After graduating I became a high school, middle school and private school drum instructor. As I gained more experience I began to question the world around me before walking away from my religious upbringing and the public school system and moving to Nashville, I spent the following years exploring several forms of spirituality, philosophy and foreign cultures. Since starting my new life I have played in over 40 bands as a freelance artist before finally dropping everything and going solo. Read more>>

Katie Cole

I was raised in a really musical family so it was a constant presence for both me and my sister. It was very common to play music loudly and sing along to the stereo or television. I’m quite certain my childhood friends thought we were nuts hahaha. But that was something we all loved. For other families it was sports and activities. For us, it was listening to music, seeing musicals and then eventually… live performance. Read more>>

Leah And Lisa Selvig

We moved into a much larger warehouse that we built out, we now open twice a month to the public and each event offers something new. We want to be a resource for the community to shop unique, design-forward curated products at an affordable price! We love bringing in local artisans to highlight the beauty of artists and small businesses right here in our neighborhood! We brought in Lisa’s husband and Leah’s dad to join the family business as our Operations Director so we are truly are a family business and grateful to see where Invision started to where it is today. Read more>>

Vicki Helgesen

I was advised by my mentor to start a mentoring program for the Women’s prison in Nashville over 20 years ago. I asked a simple question of why the women were coming back to prison and Helen’s observation was…these women don’t have good godly friends. What started as a simple solution to mentor a few women turned into a state initiative. Currently over 1000 women have been touch by this question. The walk has been enlightening and fun! Read more>>

Sungdoo Yun

One day, I visited Nashville and instantly fell in love with the city. However, I felt that the area lacked some diversity in its food scene. That’s why I decided to move here to introduce Korean/Asian cuisines to people who may not have had the chance to experience them. Fortunately, many people have embraced Korean food, and for that, I am truly grateful. Read more>>

Koliano T. Jonez

The journey to succeed was never a smooth ride I’ve watched so many give up on their dreams give up on themselves.. I’ve witnessed the most talented ppl make bad decisions based on emotion or situations they were in… I knew from the beginning you gotta have tough skin in order to navigate through … I never was raised to be a follower only a leader I’ve succeeded where so many have failed and ppl always ask me what makes me different from the rest and my reply is being the best me I can be… while everyone else is trying to be somebody else my advice bet on yourself! Be you… I would rather ppl hate me for being me rather than love me for being something I’m not. Read more>>

Gee Slab

I specializes in storytelling through music, blending personal experiences with broader themes of resilience, ambition, and authenticity. Known for my distinctive voice and lyrical depth, he brings a unique perspective to Southern hip-hop, setting himself apart with a sound that bridges classic influences wit Read more>>

Erica Gentry

I named it Resiliency Therapy because I wanted to help clients know that true healing does not take place until one fully processes traumas that are holding them back. Currently, resilience is not viewed as badge of honor within the black community because of the exhaustion surrounding the need to always be strong. I understand that, but I believe wholeheartedly there’s beauty in resilience when once fully commits to healing their minds and traumas to live life anew. No matter what life has done to oppress, count you out, abuse you, etc you can heal with the right therapist. Read more>>

Jonté Mayon

After a 2 year run, I took one more cruise contract. When I got back this time, I was given the same position in the Memphis Club. It was just as well, I had already fallen in love with Memphis… and one of it’s musicians. I got married and had a beautiful little boy. I’ve found joy, peace, fulfillment and unconditional love in my journey. Going through it was tough but so much music has come from it all. I’m proud of my past. I learned from it all. I know that I wouldn’t be who I am or have the joy I have without the trials. Best part is, I’m still growing, still learning, still exploring this beautiful language called music. Read more>>

Anna Cohen

I am an event planner. I specialize in weddings. Our motto is Making your day special and most of all stress free. I achieve that by working with several vendors to make your day remarkable without stressing out the bride. We come together to make it amazing. I have several people that work with me so we are able to get it done in a few hours versus five or six hours. Read more>>

Sohomski

I’ve been musical ever since I can remember, and my parents were always supportive of my journey into the musical arts. Time and time again, no matter where I was in life, I would find myself coming back to music. I’ve experimented with multiple styles and studied under some pretty fantastic mentors, and I finally started my career after graduating from college. I’m now a full-time musician, performing at open-mics and creating content to send my tunes out into the world. I aim to express myself to the best of my ability, and I think I’m doing a pretty good job. Read more>>

Loretta Pena

It actually has been a smooth road. I feel guilty saying that but it has. The only struggles I had and still have are not being able to give the attention to the other artists that I follow on Instagram. I feel extremely grateful for their support and kindness. It truly bothers me that I don’t have enough time in the day to look at all of their posts. As far as struggles with my art journey, I really did not have obstacles and challenges because I never thought to create art to make money. I started this journey to create art to save my sanity. Read more>>

Robert Myers

I’ve been playing bluegrass music since I was 12 years old and really started taking it seriously in the past 5 years. I’ve played in a duo with my brother, who was a big inspiration to me growing up. More recently, I’ve played in many different bluegrass bands and even written a lot of my own music. I go to school at Morehead State university in Kentucky and am a bachelor’s of traditional music student. Read more>>

Dalton Guy

Fast forward to fall of 2021, I took on a part-time position as a florist here in Nashville, marking the beginning of my journey in the wedding industry. Over the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of growing in this business, gaining invaluable experience, and developing a deep passion for my work. Alongside my career, I am incredibly fortunate to share my life with an amazing partner, two playful golden retrievers who never fail to keep me on my toes, and a heart that is fully dedicated to my faith in Jesus Christ. Read more>>

Lauren Drees

Being invited into clients’ homes is an immense honor—an intimate setting that allows clients to birth autonomously in the way they choose, distant from the red tape of an institution. Home birth is where I truly belong as a midwife. The last eight years have been full of immense joy and a lot of growing pains! I have gone from being a solo midwife for the first four years to now leading a team of five Certified Nurse-Midwives, a Family Nurse Practitioner, six RN birth assistants, and two administrative support team members. Read more>>

Justin Allman

As our passion grew, we expanded into clothes and Jordans as well. Eventually, my partner and I had way too many items crammed into our one-bedroom apartments. One day, we decided to sell our collection at the Flea Market since no one there was fully catering to our style and interests. We started doing this in 2015/16, connecting with individuals throughout the city. Finally, on December 8, 2018, we decided to open our storefront in East Nashville inside Gold Club Electric Tattoo—and we called it Music City Vintage. Read more>>

Autumn Discala

As an established life coach, it’s my mission to walk alongside other women facing similar feelings and challenges. Even if I myself have never walked through postpartum, I am familiar with the associated feelings and have walked with many friends and relatives through such circumstances – as well as clients! My heart is to help these women reconnect with their true selves and their Creator, guiding them through the process of healing, spiritual renewal, and growth. Together, we’ll uncover the deep peace, purpose, and joy that God has waiting for them, no matter what season they’re in. Read more>>

Jt Hillier

I love being an independent artist, it allows me the creative freedom to express myself. From a business standpoint, I love the creative control that comes with being an entrepreneur. It’s not for everyone but it’s been very rewarding to me, personally. I enjoy doing my own creative marketing, social media and content without any major complications. That, and I’ve always loved booking my own shows. It’s just another means of evaluating myself and my working strategies in a tangible way. Read more>>

David Ryan Wynne

Often in music we have jam sessions and being ready in the moment is key to enjoying music on a personal level. On a professional level that is a whole planned out deal and a different story all together. As a music professional, I often have to remind myself not to forget to enjoy the journey. Learning that yes the finished product is important and the finish line is the goal, but just simply remembering as much work as creating music can be and especially if you do it right, it is acceptable to enjoy the process. Read more>>

Ray Remington

The road never seemed smooth. When you pursue what you love, everything seems to be thrown at you at one time. I’ve experienced terrible producers who overcharged me for recording my music, I’ve experienced entitled industry people who threaten to blacklist you if you reject their ideas or record deals. I’ve experienced money problems, Marriage Problems. Anything that makes a good Country song I could probably list. Read more>>

Dom West

Years later, at my lowest point, I came to a painful realization: true peace and purpose could never be found in external distractions or fleeting pleasures. The only path to healing lay within—through faith, forgiveness, and a deep reckoning with my past. It was then that I turned to the teachings of Jesus Christ, and in doing so, I recommitted myself to using my music not for self-indulgence, but to uplift and inspire others. My journey had come full circle, and the lessons learned along the way now serve as the foundation for everything I create. Read more>>

Kimberly Adams

Kimberly Adams is a dynamic fashion entrepreneur and visionary with a rich background in both creativity and business acumen. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design and a Master’s in Business Administration, she has seamlessly blended her artistic flair with strategic expertise. Kimberly’s career is a tapestry of diverse roles, from costume designing and freelance fashion styling to steering global programs at a Fortune 100 company. Read more>>