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.

Merrick Henry

I started my journey in graphic design driven by a deep passion for art and communication, which led me to pursue formal education in the field. After gaining experience through various roles at renowned companies like Hallmark, Target, and the NFL, I refined my skills and developed a strong design philosophy. My experience in the industry inspired me to give back through education, leading me to teach at prestigious institutions such as SCAD and the Kansas City Art Institute. Currently, I am proud to be the head of the graphic design department at Park University, where I mentor aspiring designers while running my own studio, Studio Graphics 8, focused on creating impactful visuals that resonate with clients and audiences alike. Read more>>

Bethany Jelinek

Pursuing a career in opera is an experience that is individual to each performer. There is no set path to success and the goal post is constantly moving. I am grateful that my path has been relatively smooth and I am determined to take no opportunity for granted. A unique part of this career is that we are constantly auditioning for the next job, so we don’t experience job security in a traditional sense. Something that I have learned is vital to success in this field is an unwavering belief in yourself and your abilities. You must have something to say as an artist and intrinsic motivation to communicate it. Read more>>

Gayle Faulkner

I consider myself to be primarily self-taught. I didn’t take art classes in school and one day I literally pulled the idea out of the air that “I want to be and artist”. I took a few workshops, but my real education came when I was spending hours painting in my cold dark basement. I knew that I not only had to learn the technicalities of my craft, but I also needed to find my voice. I still feel that it is important for every creative to learn to be in touch with the deepest part of their soul and be willing to put themselves out there to express that vulnerability. It’s also important to continue that journey so that growth and fresh passion is always a part of the process. Read more>>

Laura Wolf

Throughout my twenties, I struggled deeply, often choosing partners who mirrored my pain — chaotic relationships with emotionally unavailable men battling addiction. In my early thirties, I met my son’s father, who had five years of sobriety when we began dating. But after our son was born, he began relapsing. I was terrified. I remember asking myself, “How am I going to raise a child with someone who’s actively using?” Read more>>

Angela Lindvall

My name is Angela Lindvall, and I grew up right here in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. At 17, I was given a life-changing opportunity to model in New York City. As a small-town tomboy with dirt under my nails and zero clue what the fashion industry even was, the chance to see the world beyond Missouri was thrilling—and I went for it. What followed was a whirlwind career that took me around the globe. I walked for nearly every major fashion house—Chanel, Prada, Versace, Louis Vuitton, Calvin Klein—and appeared on the covers of Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar. Read more>>

Jamie Duncan

We are a womens boutique offering womens clothing, accessories and gifts. We offer on trend clothing with effortless syle. Customers come to us because its a warm and inviting environment to shop. We have a lot of regulars, and many I have befriended. We share stories and pictures of our families (and dogs, ha). Not everyone loves to shop, and thats where we excel. We love helping customers find the perfect outfit that makes them look good and feel good. We listen to our customers and try to make it a fun shopping experience. Read more>>

Jack Holly

I Grew up in a small town in Kansas where I was primarily raised by grandparents. I worked in the church my grandparents led services at, I didnt have cable or internet until I was about 15ish, and I really loved older movies and comic books. Much of what I explore in my work is inspired by the 1930s-1990s films I grew up watching. The lost Boys, Vertigo, Vincent Price movies, and The Twilight Zone were all staples of my upbringing that I pull from today. the lessons in comic books and the graphic nature of them also finds its way into my art. There’s an epic sense of courage and societal critique in graphic novels, The Invisibles is probably my favorite. Read more>>

Jessica

I grew up surrounded by creativity. My mom is an artist, and she introduced me to art at a very young age. Whether it was painting, drawing or just making things with our hands, creativity was a part of everyday life. I was raised in Southern California where the skate and surf culture had a huge influence on me. It still does. That blend of expression and laid-back style made a lasting impact on how I see the world and approach design. Read more>>

Sam Kulikov

Starting a business, in any industry, comes with a fair share of challenges. Launching two simultaneously is a whole different ballgame. When we launched Social Apex, we faced the initial hurdle of building credibility in a rapidly evolving digital marketing landscape right after college. The agency had to adapt quickly during COVID-19, which led us to pivot and explore new opportunities in the gaming space. Read more>>

Jennifer Smith

I had worked for a family on business for 20 years. When we decided to sell that back in 2021 I was excited to pursue a new career. That excitement turned into discouragement, I couldn’t seem to find a job that would make me happy. I went through multiple interviews, multiple times and ended up taking any job. I really could that would help me pay my bills. Of course some I thought I would enjoy some. I knew that I wouldn’t. Ultimately none of them worked out. I found myself feeling super stressed and down. And then I decided in November 2024 to go into business for myself. I launched my online health and fitness company and have never been happier! I wish I would’ve done this a lot sooner. I think God had to get me to a point where I was so uncomfortable in these other positions in order to get me to take that leap of faith and do something for myself Read more>>

Dr Brad Woodle DC, CCPS, FASA, CSCS

The energy behind the dream was contagious. I began to build a team, growing from just one doctor and two staff members into what is now eight locations across Kansas City with a team of 22 elite doctors. One of the most special parts of this journey was inspiring my wife, Christina—then a radiologic technologist at CenterPoint Hospital and a professor at Avila University—to follow her own path and become a Doctor of Chiropractic. The excitement didn’t stop there. A few years later, my youngest brother Drew was also inspired to go back to school and become a chiropractor himself. Read more>>

Andrea Rainey

And they always come back the next day because if they don’t step up and do right by these patients who will? I feel it’s important to give a nod to the healthcare workers in the area by making sure my doors will be open at a time that fits their early morning shift obligations. And don’t think I’m forgetting the night shift, I could never! The bakery case full of fresh pastries will be waiting for them when they get off shift. Being close to several area hospitals was also important in choosing the location for the bakery, and Crossroads seemed perfect with its proximity to Children’s Mercy and University Health-Truman as well as its vibrant art and restaurant scene. Read more>>

Montel Caruthers

I figured if we could have a hand in designing our own lives and our own things, we would control more of our lives, our upward trajectory, and create our own systems of community advancement one product or service at a time. As a person of faith, my worldview is shaped by belief in a God who celebrates local and often overlooked expressions of humanity as valuable and worth preserving and celebrating. Excess success and recognition aren’t goals of mine. Impact that matters is important to me. Read more>>

CARA & CHRISTINA BROONER & TAYLOR

Now, we also sell our products wholesale and do several pop-ups each year, where we love connecting with our client-base. Our products have shifted from clay and wood beads to gold-filled materials and colorful gemstones and we love being in that space and offering something unique. We search far and wide for high-quality materials and know we’re providing exceptional products to our customers. Read more>>

Diane Johnson RVT

As we went through growing pains and our reputation became known, opportunities presented themselves for our group to grow. Our current facility was the old Smileys golf course clubhouse that was at 83rd and Quivira. We took our life savings to buy that building and in the winter months of ’89-’90 my husband cold chiseled screws off the building, marked the sheets with a crayon and hauled them home day after day so it could be re-erected later. We hauled water, worked without A/C and minimal heat in the winter to keep costs down. Our volunteers pitched in where they could and together we worked as a team to accomplish so many things over the years. Read more>>

Hannah Parker

Through that journey, I also decided to obtain my certification as an ICF trauma-informed coach to better serve my clientele and work with local businesses to ensure they offer the safest services possible. So many doors have opened up for me because of this opportunity. I have practiced Reiki in some of the most beautiful places, like Mexico and Arizona, working alongside Megan’s Yoga tribe on retreat. I have had the opportunity to be a part of so many different people’s healing journeys, and that is what fills up my cup: seeing others heal, as I know how life-changing it can be. Read more>>

Marie Mawby

I personally specialize in lifting up our youth. I’ve worked with children ranging in ages from 12 weeks to 24 years old. I’ve sang on stages holding other people’s children, helped at risk youth find careers, and led a high school dance team to some first place trophies. Read more>>

Kellen Arrington-Walker

Throughout this journey I have focused on making sure my children understand the benefits of being healthy, teaching them about gardening, understanding their body ( learning about the organs and how they work). I have continued to grow and gain many amazing customers along the way. Last July I asked the Creator could I get shown a sign that this is my true journey that I am supposed to be on. Two months later at my great aunts birthday party, my cousin pointed out that my great grandmother was into herbalism and would always be outside picking herbs. I knew then, this was my purpose and grateful I am continuing to grow within this journey. Read more>>

Brandi Allen

But wedding after wedding, I realized that there is no one way. Every wedding photographer is different, and will photograph a wedding based on how they see it, and how they convey it. Over time I’ve reflected on what life has presented me: love and loss, happiness and surrealness, motherhood and witnessing childhood as an adult. As each day goes by, I continuously learn from my reflections and use it towards the way I observe the subjects I’m photographing. I never want to stop growing in my photography. Read more>>

April Newby

There is something to be said about the sacred and delicate art of holding space. The ability to be fully present…really with someone, to be a safe space, to be a witness for what needs to come up and out, is such an honor. I am constantly amazed by the bravery of the clients that choose to work with me. As they journey through the depths of themselves and peel back the layers of limited beliefs, old programs and discover their power to self heal, I am reminded of what it means to be human…our capacity for compassion…of how beautiful we are. Read more>>

Kiana Hubbard

I don’t think anyone can ever say they’ve had a completely smooth journey while trying to reach their goals. As I’ve made my way through life trying to sell my art, the biggest issue is finding those new potential clients. My friends and family are some of my absolute biggest supporters and are where a lot of my pieces end up. I would not be as far as I am without them and my husband supporting me every step of the way. Especially when I decide I want to try a new artsy hobby. Read more>>

Jasmine Henderson

I feel like I find most if not almost my identity in Christ, I am not perfect by any means but when it comes to decisions I make, I think about how this will better myself and the others around me. I feel like I’m not just specialized in one area but starting the hair business this is just one of those areas I am skilled in. I’m proud that I have been able to start up a few new businesses this past year. I feel that my ability to stay determined and love everyone no matter what is, be able to recognize myself as a true daughter in Christ what sets me apart. Read more>>

Lindsey Frencken

Over the years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the support of my family and friends, which has been invaluable in building my business. I own a photography studio based in Knob Noster, Missouri, where I photograph a wide range of portraits. I’ve also had the honor of capturing over 250 weddings throughout my career. What I love most about this work is the people—I get to meet new faces every day and document some of the most meaningful moments in their lives. It’s a privilege I never take for granted. Read more>>

Dr Crystal Davis

It hasn’t always been a smooth road. In the beginning, I wrestled with self-doubt. I knew I had the knowledge and skills that organizations needed—but I questioned whether I had enough education, credentials, or experience to teach others how to lead authentically. Impostor syndrome is real, especially for women of color stepping into leadership and entrepreneurship. On top of that, there was limited access to capital and very little mentorship. I had to figure out a lot on my own. Read more>>

Morgan Gover

I wanted to know everything they were doing and why. Our family friend suggested I should go to aesthetics school because of the excitement I showed at every appointment. That was 19 years ago and in a different country! Sadly in 2019 I lost my older sister to suicide. It change how I viewed the treatment room, instead of it being just a facial make it a safe place for people to freely speak about their mental health. I’m extremely grateful that my clients feel comfortable with to speak freely about mental health. Read more>>

Shanna Laws

I am a personal finance enthusiast and a champion for women’s financial independence. I created Exploring Financial Freedom in 2024 to help women navigate the world of personal finance with confidence and clarity. My mission is to empower women to build wealth in a sustainable, guilt-free way, so they can live a life that aligns with their values. Read more>>

Chi Thomas

Last year we hosted our first DAWG DAYZ event. It was a packed spring Saturday that featured some really cool vintage curators, brand owners, and performances from some of KC’s best talent. It was an experience I’m forever grateful for, getting to be in our own space to connect with our peers and supporters- as well as our signature drink ‘The Purebred’. Upcoming in September (2025) @In The Lowest Ferns, we will be putting on one of our biggest presentations yet. The first ever Atelier Studios Fashion show, followed by a performance by one of UNDADAWGZ’s finest- Xayy, also featuring curation from Exodus Visual. This will also serve as the debut of the newest Atelier Studios chapter, SANTA MARIA. Read more>>

Catherine Oliveira

My passion for the trades isn’t something I picked up later in life, it’s woven into who I am. I grew up watching my dad run his own appliance repair business, and from a young age, I learned what real work looked like. Early mornings. Late nights. Tough jobs that didn’t come with shortcuts. We always joke about the fact that my father went to work the day I was born. I can count on one hand the number of days I have seen him stay home from work; he was and is that diligent. Read more>>

Christian Anderaos

While pursuing my career as a player, I realized I also had a calling to teach and inspire the next generation. That’s how Playmaker Soccer Academy was born. I wanted to create a space where kids could not only learn the fundamentals of soccer, but also develop character, confidence, and a love for movement. Our mission is to deliver quality youth soccer coaching that develops players’ skills and character, achieving success beyond the game — helping young athletes grow into strong, disciplined, and empowered individuals. Read more>>

Patrick Pribyl

As I was working as a performer in undergrad, I found that my true calling was in directing and arts education. I now serve as the Theater Director at Providence School of the Arts, a small Christian school in Kansas City where I teach students from pre-K through 10th grade, and I serve as the assistant Theater Director and manager of the Rose Theater at .my Alma Mater, Rockhurst. I also am on the board of l Courtyard Shakespeare, a company that focuses on education and bringing area high school, college and professional actors together in July to collaborate on a Shakespearean show every year. Last year I had the great honor of directing Romeo and Juliet with the incomparable Mackie Bailey and this summer I have the unbelievable opportunity to direct Macbeth with one of my best friends, Hersh Ellis Read more>>

Maegan Spencer

I have always had an eye for design and love home decor! Purchasing this store has been a dream come true. God was in all the details….I wasn’t sure about making the leap but, I trusted in him as he always directs my path. It’s something I’m passionate about and I just want this place to flourish and to have my customers come in and feel peaceful, love all the unique finds, and just all around be fulfilled. We do specialty events here too. Bible studies, worship nights, date nights, classes. I even have a prayer wall that is so special. Read more>>

Denny Eddy

I started in 2017 as a way to raise money for a company called Nest step Kansas city a paralysis recovery center in Overland park. As I stated doing shows it grew from 1 to 6 shows a year. We kept on getting request from other companies to do shows at there locations and we just grew from there. Read more>>

Alexis Alcala

Back in 2021, I got engaged to my now-husband, Jeff, and we planned our entire wedding in just 10 months. During that time, I completely fell in love with the wedding world—the amazing vendors I got to meet, the creativity behind the design elements, and all the personal touches that made the day feel uniquely us. It really opened my eyes to how special and meaningful this industry can be. Read more>>

Kyle Baxter

We Started in 2017 with a hobby saw mill and slowly grew our capabilities and machinery based off customer requests and wanting to provide higher quality products. We became licensed with Kansas State University in late 2023 and started making metal signs, then added a couple high production lasers. this allowed higher quality and the ability to mark many different items. We know offer production saw mill services, large format flattening and finishing for wood products, as well as the ability to laser mark any kind of material. We have a full line of Kansas State products as well as Kansas and regional themed items. We also offer custom items from business promotional items to one of a kind customs. Read more>>

Russ (SmoreKC) Hill

First and foremost, I’m a lifelong music lover and enthusiast. I played tuba in my high school marching band, and my closest friends were the theater and band kids. After school, we’d hang out and talk about the bands we were getting into — everything from Metallica and The Offspring to Korn, Pantera, ICP, and Eminem. It was all over the place, and I loved every bit of it. I also played guitar and was fascinated by big, heavy riffs. Read more>>

Erin Galba

Inclusion Connections was founded in 2013 by our Executive Director, Debbie Horn. When Debbie’s son Matthew, who has Down Syndrome, was about to graduate high school, she realized there were few opportunities available for him to socialize, continue learning, or prepare for employment. To help meet these needs for young adults like Matthew, Debbie started Inclusion Connections. Read more>>

Project Restart

The four founders of Project Restart are two pairs of sisters. We wanted to create a safe space for dancers of varying dance experience levels to come together and feel comfortable and welcomed. Our name stems from a dream of ours to collaborate with other dancers outside our group, and to treat each performance “project” as a “restart”. We do not hold auditions, but rather add members that are friends of current members in hopes of continuing to foster a loving, familial environment. Read more>>

Jessica Puhr

Another struggle that I have had to learn is that I do not have to be everyone’s photographer, but I can be the best version of myself for those who want to work with me. When I come to a session, my goal is to make my clients feel comfortable in front of the camera and to have them walk away feeling beautiful and confident. I love to build a relationship with my clients and because of that, I have clients that have come back to work with me year after year. Read more>>