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.
Courtney Hatfield
My journey in hospitality began in the early 2000s while I was attending the University of Central Florida where my college job quickly became a career calling. I was drawn to the energy of hotels: the constant movement, the diversity of people and the chance to make someone’s day better. Read more>>
Rene Hernandez
I started posting my photography on Instagram just for fun — sharing creative shots . A few of my posts unexpectedly went viral, reaching thousands of people overnight. That moment completely changed everything, turning what began as a simple hobby into a full-time photography business and launching my journey as a professional creative. Read more>>
Ariel Griglin
I’m the daughter of an entrepreneurial feminist, and I started working in salons at 13. I quickly rose through the beauty industry—becoming an educator for a respected brand, creating editorial work alongside top professionals, and earning national recognition. But my path had begun long before that. In middle school, I witnessed my parents face life-threatening diagnoses with completely different responses. Read more>>
Marissa Apraez
I have always been into aesthetics and my looks have always been important to me and as a woman if we look good we feel good. So in 2020 I finally decided to have lipo. I am by the way very transparent and honest about my procedures. It turned out to be a botched surgery. It was very a traumatic experience for me. Read more>>
Steven Chin
Started out as a professional fighter, then a private military contractor, then law enforcement, now a business owner of a training company that provides various forms of defensive tactics training to law enforcement, military and other security professionals. The company have grown alot over the last few years working on some big projects. Read more>>
Yanet Garcia-Brito
BKB Medical Center was founded with a simple mission to provide compassionate, patient-centered care supported by advanced medical expertise and innovation. What began as a small, community-based clinic has grown into a multidisciplinary medical center offering comprehensive services across primary care, specialty medicine, and clinical research. From the outset, our primary focus has been on quality, accessibility, and personalized care. Read more>>
Dragana Stojanovic
After finishing my Masters in Interior Architecture from FIU, I started working full time for Michael Wolk Design in Miami, which got me exposed to all aspects of Architecture and interior design. I got a chance to work on some of the most prestigious commercial projects in Florida, as well as super high-end residential ones. Read more>>
Dezerae Johnson
I’m Dezerae Lanae, a licensed medical esthetician and laser technician who’s spent the last three years building results driven, luxury skincare services. I have experience doing custom facials and trained in advanced modalities including microneedling, dermaplaning, all grades of chemical peels, hydrodermabrasion treatments, LED therapy, laser hair removal and electrolysis. Read more>>
Valentyna Nesterova
I was depressed for 6 months, went through a bad divorced with 3 kids after 29 years; decided to open my business, borrow money from my best friend while my ex husband took all the money from our bank account, quit my job and opened my own physical therapy office within two years open another similar office and working towards opening my 3 rd location Read more>>
Beth Meirav
You could say entrepreneurship is in my DNA. I come from a family of business owners, so building something from the ground up has always felt natural — almost inevitable. But more than that, I’ve always been drawn to service. Read more>>
Vanessa Ramirez
My story begins in Hialeah, as a Cuban-American kid in the 90s, surrounded by a culture that’s vibrant and deeply expressive. That environment fostered a need in me to create. What started as a personal creative outlet under the name ‘Love Babs’ has organically evolved into ‘Love Babs Makes’, a dedicated platform for my artistic pursuits. My journey as a creator is fundamentally about translation. Read more>>
Mr. CEO
Mr. CEO Confidence-Elegance-Original® is an online store specializing in the latest men elegant fashion tuxedos for weddings, special events as well as the business suit that is bound to illuminate a room with Confidence, Elegance and Originality. Mr. Read more>>
Aixa Oliveras
Hello! I’m Aixa Oliveras, a Puerto Rican figurative artist living in Cutler Bay. My passion for art began when I was in my early teens. At the time, I thought I was going to be a pediatrician. Looking back, I see now that it was because I held a fascination with the human figure. Read more>>
Dionne Young
Baking has always been a part of who I am. My dad’s side of the family are all bakers, so you could say it’s in my DNA. For me, baking isn’t just about making desserts — it’s something that truly calms me and brings me joy. Read more>>
Miriam Klein
I find that most people that become therapists do so due to life challanges that they encountered in there life. That was the the case with me and what eventually led me to embark on my journey as a licensed clinical social worker. Read more>>
Nirline Williams
“Fashion is more than style; it’s a reflection of faith, strength, and purpose.” – Nirline Williams Every great brand begins with a story — and mine was stitched together by love, faith, and legacy. My journey into fashion began long before QueenLine Fashions came to life. Read more>>
Rebecca Holljes Samantha Viski-Hanka
We’re sisters and co-founders of Samantha Sara Interiors—a boutique residential design studio based in Coconut Grove serving the South Florida community and beyond. Our journey began organically: Samantha was drawn to interior design from a young age, spending weekends exploring design showrooms and antique stores with our mom. Read more>>
Tamer Altillawi
I was born and raised in Jordan and moved to Miami when I was 19 years old. I worked many different jobs, but one of them was in a Cuban cafeteria, cooking Cuban food. I’ve always loved being in the kitchen. Read more>>
Yuilma Frias
Originally from Margarita Island, Venezuela, moved the Miami eight years ago to reinvent myself moving from over 30 years of experience in real state to start from scratch went to beauty school and so far have completed four difference licenses including massage therapist, full specialist, CNA, medical assistant and phlebotomy. Read more>>
Mirinka Bendova
Mirinka, the makeup artist and founder of Permanent Make-Up by Mirinka in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has been providing professional services for more than 25 years. She stepped into the medical world by completing procedures previously done by plastic surgeons, enhancing facial features and camouflaging patients’ scars with permanent makeup. Read more>>
Darenda Darnell
My love for flowers began at an early age. Growing up in my Grandmother’s flower shop, I learned every aspect of the business through the years. In 2000 I purchased that very shop located at 240 S. Krome Avenue and rebranded it as Designs by Darenda Flowers & Events. This year will mark the shop’s 25th year in business as President and Lead Designer. Read more>>
Scot DiStefano
It is a 62 year long story… hard to know where to start. I’ve been practicing architecture my entire adult life, with my first job in an architect’s office when I was 18. My intention was to go to art school but I was pushed away from that by my father who would have liked me to study engineering. Read more>>
Christal Gines
I started my interior design business in 2022. I had been a hairstylist for over 17 years, but in 2021 I became pregnant with my daughter and had to go on bed rest. During that time, my best friend bought a house and asked me to help her design a media wall, choose colors and finishes for her kitchen, and furnish the entire home. Read more>>
Tyler Henri
In the world of high luxury, where precision, craftsmanship, and status converge, there existed a subtle void—an overlooked detail in the lifestyle of the world’s elite. This is where the story of T HENRI begins—a brand born not from necessity, but from an unrelenting pursuit of perfection. Read more>>
Mia Morris
I’ve been a hairstylist since 2012, and my journey has taken me across four different states — each time rebuilding my business from the ground up. Along the way, I discovered that what I love most about doing hair isn’t just the artistry itself, but the people. Every guest in my chair brings a story, a spark, and a connection that inspires me daily. Read more>>
Nigel Sarrag
I found my way into photography somewhat organically. My work has encompassed stills, aerials, portraits, and motion — and over time I realised it’s less about the tool (camera, drone, lens) and more about people, moments, light, and perspective. On my website, I describe my offering as “Professional portraits, headshots and aerials in Boca Raton, FL. Read more>>
Andrei Subochev
I was born in Russia into a very creative family and have been passionate about painting since childhood. I was selected for an internship at The Educational Center “Sirius”, under the supervision of the Sergey Andriaka Academy of Watercolor and Fine Arts. Read more>>
Rosangel Perez
One of my greatest challenges came when I moved to the United States at 13 years old. I didn’t speak any English, and my family couldn’t afford private piano lessons. I was very fortunate to earn a scholarship to the University of Miami’s Pre-College Program, where I studied with the illustrious Dr. Rosalina Sackstein. That opportunity allowed me to continue my musical journey, but as is commonly the case for scholarship students, I couldn’t afford to fail. Read more>>
Stephi Wald
I began to explore what it really means to feel fulfilled – not just successful on the outside, but connected and alive on the inside. Then I discovered breathwork – and everything shifted. It helped my mind slow down, release confusion, and reconnect with a deep inner trust. I felt like myself again – grounded, joyful, and authentic. Read more>>
Kolby Kleiman
After completing my army service in the IDF I was offered a position in California where I gained experience in all aspects of construction. After 3 years I started my company back in my home city of Aventura. 6 years later we are a 5 star white glove company offering home owners exceptional service in all aspects of home remodeling ranging from design to build Read more>>
Scott Eddy
After 10 years in investment banking, I moved overseas and lived in Europe and Asia for 17 years. While living in Bangkok, I started the first digital agency in Asia, we were the ‘go-to’ agency when the region was really establishing itself as a destination, and it remained the biggest one in the region for 5 years. Read more>>
Fitz-Gerald Cushnie
Over the years, I became increasingly aware of how many people were struggling – burdened by life, feeling unseen or unsafe to express themselves truthfully, even with those closest to them. I saw the growing need for spaces rooted in love, acceptance, and non‑judgment. And because I naturally hold others in a peaceful, healing energy of Divine presence, I realized that this offering wasn’t something I had to create – it was something I already was. Read more>>
Mark Limosani
I don’t come from a family that has a scientific background, my mom has finance foundation and my father is an entrepreneur in the clothing industry. I have come to realize that dentistry is really all about blending science, art, and a genuine ability to change someone’s life by relieving pain or restoring confidence. Read more>>
Abby Laughlin
I’ve always been drawn to places with character — mid-century motels, old Florida storefronts, and the kind of design that tells a story about how people once lived and vacationed. My background is in real estate and neighborhood redevelopment, so I’ve spent years restoring and reimagining spaces. Read more>>
Alexandra Rey
Art has always been my way of making sense of the world. I started drawing and painting as a child, and over time it became not just something I did, but who I am. Although I studied Fashion Design, my true calling was always art. Read more>>
Jennifer Sylvian, DDS, MPH, FALSC, DASBA
My journey into pediatric dentistry has always been guided by compassion, curiosity, and a deep desire to help children thrive beyond their smiles. From the very beginning, I knew I wanted to work with children, but as I grew in my career, I realized that true oral health is about so much more than teeth. Read more>>
Kimberly Valdes
Hi there! I’m Kim, the founder and heart behind KBella Crafts. It’s truly a pleasure to meet you. KBella Crafts is a one-woman, faith-filled small business based in Miami, Florida specializing in handcrafted Christian wood art. This journey began after the heartbreaking loss of our dear family friend Andrea. She was only 18 when her life was tragically taken in a senseless act of violence. Read more>>
Marina Chaparro
My journey with food and health began long before Nutrichicos. I grew up on the U.S.–Mexico border, surrounded by tortillas, laughter, and long family meals. At sixteen, I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, a moment that changed everything. Instead of seeing food as the enemy, I learned how powerful it could be. Read more>>
Oscar Bernal Marta Peralta
As a dynamic wife-and-husband team, Marta and Oscar combine strategic insight and business acumen in perfect harmony — a partnership that has become the driving force behind B&P’s success. What began as a project fueled by their shared experience and global vision has evolved into a firm recognized for its ability to build business bridges and foster sustainable alliances across multiple sectors, with an extensive client portfolio spanning three continents. Read more>>
Liza Samuel, LCSW
More than that, going private pay meant going against cultural norms in mental health, the idea that a diagnosis is necessary, that the therapist holds all the power, and that certain topics are too risky to touch. I don’t believe in coercive therapy. Healing doesn’t happen through control; it happens through relationship, respect, and choice. My clients are the experts on their own lives. My role is to walk beside them, not lead from above. Read more>>
Renea L Moss
When you come that close to losing it all, you stop hiding. You stop silencing yourself. You stop living in pieces. I am Renea L. Moss, aka Rai Renea, the artist, and Mama Moss, the educator and mentor. For years, I kept those roles separate, afraid to let them collide. But surviving that near-death experience forced me to embrace the truth: all of me belongs in the room. Bold. Messy. Creative. Entrepreneurial. Nurturing. Rebellious. Read more>>
beverly diane
Ever since I was a little girl – even as far back as elementary school – I was always the one who was asked to create something, whether it be the title for a science experiment, a teacher’s bulletin board, or the cover of a book report. As I got older, I continued to do such tasks on a more advanced level – and many others – as well as seamlessly coordinate every friend’s birthday party, youth group function, fundraiser, and the list goes on. I even started writing candlelighting poems for Bar and Bat Mitzvahs in middle school. It just came naturally to me, and I loved it. Read more>>
Hilary Akman
As a mental health therapist licensed in Florida and New Jersey, my path into counseling began with a deep desire to understand people. Growing up, I witnessed the emotional impact of anxiety, depression, and communication breakdowns within my own family. I often took on the role of confidante and helper—while not always healthy—showed me just how much I cared about helping others. Read more>>
Juan del Hierro
I first walked into Unity on the Bay in 2002. I was in my early twenties and felt guided to explore spiritual community. I had been raised in a more traditional religion that no longer fit who I was becoming. I also felt somewhat lost in the struggles of everyday life. Read more>>
Marisa Perera
As a young child, I used to tell my parents I wanted to be a therapist… not because I knew what therapy was, but because I imagined sitting in cozy rooms with couches and soft chairs and talking with others. Somehow, that playful moment turned out to be prophetic. Read more>>
PENNY FRASER
I’m Penny Fraser, an award-winning portrait photographer, artist, attorney, and empowerment coach based in South Florida. My work centers on helping women rediscover confidence, purpose, and legacy through art, photography, and storytelling. I create bespoke portrait experiences and fine art commissions for people of all ages who want to celebrate who they are at every stage of life. Read more>>
Manuel Uquillas
We are a Hispanic couple passionate about sharing the beauty and culture of Miami. My name is Manuel, and I’m originally from Guayaquil, Ecuador. My wife, Keren Morales, is from Havana, Cuba. We both have been in the tourism industry for over seven years, and interestingly, that’s how we met. Read more>>
John Falco
My first memories started in Larry & Penny Thompson trailer park. After that we moved all around SW Miami…followed by a few high school years in North Carolina before returning back to Kendall. Then the Air Force took me around the world a bit before, again, returning to sunny South Florida. Read more>>
Brian Hetrich
Hello! My name is Brian Hetrich and I am the director of sales, marketing and distribution at Vero Beach Spirulina. Together with my partner Joe Embres we grow and distribute the ‘Superfood of the Future.’ At our 10-acre farm we been delivering the highest quality Spirulina across the nation for over twelve years. Read more>>
Janel Kuhl
Grove Gallery & Interiors is a family business, we opened in 1986 founded by my parents Frank and Sheila Kuhl. It started as a picture framing business and grew into a interior design center from there. I joined the business in 2008 with a background in hospital and hotel design. Read more>>
Sara Medioni
I start an art school in paris then continue in Nice (south in france). After graduate I worked as a merchandising for habitat a luxurious home shop at monte carlo (monaco). Then left for New York few years to see the Art flow and vibes they have there. Read more>>
Ana Joli
From Global Finance to Conscious Fashion: The Reinvention of Ana Joli For Ana Joli, creativity and strategy have always gone hand in hand. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Joli’s journey began in Latin America but quickly became global. Read more>>
Michelle Dempsey-Multack
Born and raised in NY, Michelle started her formal studies at American University (major in Journalism) and graduated from Hofstra University with a degree in Journalism/Communications. She later earned a double master’s degree in Education from Adelphi University and worked as a special education teacher in New York before Moving to Miami in late 2012. Michelle’s personal life has deeply informed her professional focus. Read more>>
Dr. Yazmine Marimon
Everything began with Dostoyevsky. I was studying Language & Arts in Havana when I first picked up Crime and Punishment. I became a student drawn to a story. but Something deeper happened as I turned those pages. I found myself completely absorbed in the psychology of his characters, the way he peeled back layers of the human mind to reveal our deepest contradictions, our desires, our suffering. Read more>>
Natalie Robinson Bruner
I started my career in organizational research, studying how teams learn, change, and perform under pressure. After leading corporate training initiatives in high‑growth environments, I kept seeing the same pattern: engaging workshops, minimal on‑the‑job behavior change. That frustration became the spark for GladED. We translate peer‑reviewed insights into practical playbooks and learning experiences, then measure what matters—behavior change and business outcomes. Read more>>
Liz Seligman
My name is Liz Seligman, and I am the founder and event producer of Island Life Events, an event planning company specializing in weddings and corporate events. I launched Island Life Events in 2013 in the Florida Keys, hence the name, and over the years we expanded into Miami and Destination, experiencing tremendous growth along the way. Read more>>
