“I get here at two in the morning, start baking, and by five, there’s already a line. But every day, I feel grateful. I see the same smiling faces, and they make me smile, too.” Brenda Le’s joy behind the counter at Fresh Donuts & Deli is unmistakable.

“We want to be a positive influence on people. We are open to sharing our story with all kinds of groups because if someone is stuck, maybe it will inspire them to change. That is what we live for now,” shared Robyn, co-owner of an unusually named motorcycle shop; the name came to Robyn one day and she simply blurted it out, “Sims Motorcycle Monkeys.” It was “unique, quirky and cute,” Matthew admitted, as she used to jokingly call her husband and their dog “my little monkeys.” But the moment she said it aloud, Matthew looked at her and nodded. That was it. After six months of thinking through name after name, they had landed on the one that felt right.

“We’re named after Kings Peak - the tallest mountain in Utah. It’s a fitting name because this journey has been all about reaching new heights.” Garland Ledbetter leans back, reflecting on the growth of Kings Peak Coffee Roasters. From opening their first shop in 2018 to a second location opened at the end of 2024, Kings Peak has become a beloved part of Salt Lake City’s coffee scene.

"My entire family is all about food. It's what our family revolves around." Manoli Katsanevas, owner of the eponymous Manoli’s as well as the less formal Paréa, was born and raised in the world of food. When he turned eighteen, he knew that he wanted to pursue a career in this field. Today, he has woven his Greek heritage into the culinary fabric of Salt Lake City, creating dining experiences that celebrate family, tradition, and exceptional cuisine.

“When we took over in January 2020, it was a bit of a risk,” Kara Leigh admits. “But almost five years in, we’re still excited to wake up every day and do what we do. This is a unique, magical life, and we’re grateful to be able to share it with our guests.”

“Our goal was to create something where we would want to work together,” Chris and Tricia Malstrom, the dynamic duo behind Malstrom Salon, stated. There is no doubt that they have succeeded in creating a haven for their clients, blending artistry and dedication. Their journey together began as teenagers when they met on the back steps of Jordan High School in the late 1980s. Their bond, forged in those early years, has only grown stronger over the decades, both personally and professionally.