Meet Forge’s New Community Manager: Grace Lockett

Meet Forge’s New Community Manager: Grace Lockett

 

 

 

Meet Grace Lockett! Grace grew up in Birmingham and graduated from Ole Miss with a degree in Hospitality Management and a minor in Business. After she graduated, Grace worked in campus ministry for 3 years with Campus Outreach in Oxford, MS.

 

She moved back to Birmingham when her daughter, Hallie, was born to be closer to family. Grace is excited about this new opportunity to work at Forge and she is looking forward to learning and growing in this next step of her career!

 

What do you do at Forge?

“I am the new community manager! I will be helping members with whatever they need to make this space the best place for them to work. From making coffee, to onboarding members, booking the different spaces we offer, giving tours, helping when members have questions and a lot more. I am excited to learn and grow in this role and build connections with so many different people in various fields of business.”

What brought you to Forge?

“I connected with Kim, the CEO and Founder of Forge. After meeting with her and hearing about the mission, values and culture of Forge, it seemed like a great opportunity and amazing place to work!”

What are you looking forward to about working at Forge?

“I am excited to meet new people, build connections and learn about all the different things that people are passionate about.”

What do you do when you are not working at Forge?

 

“I love spending time with my friends and family, going out to eat and being with my 10 month old baby girl!”

If you could choose to do anything for the day, what would you choose to do?

“Go to the beach!”

What is your favorite thing about Birmingham?

“I grew up in Birmingham and am so excited to be back! It is such a great city with amazing people. It is so fun to see all the new things and changes since I left in 2016 but also appreciate the things that have been around as long as I can remember.”
Meet Forge Member Shuff Mauldin

Meet Forge Member Shuff Mauldin

 

Tell us about what you do! 

“Single family rental properties, Airbnb rentals, mobile home parks, self storage, Triple Net rentals, apartments, and insurance”

 

What is your favorite part about your job?

“Helping others win financially”

What made you decide to join Forge?

“It’s a great space for creative thinking and focus work”

What are your favorite tech tools to get your job done or keep your life organized?

“Google Drive, ChatGPT, UpWork, StorEDGE, and the State Farm mobile app”

Is there a product you cannot live without?

What is the last show you binge-watched?

“Does NFL Red Zone count?”

What is your ideal weekend in Birmingham?

“Breakfast at Hero with my wife and 1 year old, Railroad Park, the Market at Pepper Place, a local hike, and then a concert at one of our great venues.”
Celebrating Black History Month with 9 Forge Members

Celebrating Black History Month with 9 Forge Members

In Black History Month Forge is honored to shine a spotlight on the narratives and contributions of our black-owned business members. Within the walls of our coworking space, entrepreneurs create stories of resilience, innovation, and success.

 

In celebration of diversity and entrepreneurship, join us and discover the dynamic businesses that call Forge home. In February, we are not just reflecting on history; we are amplifying the voices and stories that shape the present and future. Welcome to a celebration of black excellence, a tribute to these small business owners crafting their own history within our community.

 

Kimberly West of Kimberly West Agency

 

Kimberly West Agency is a boutique public relations firm specializing in image consulting, crisis management, media relations, social media planning, and special events planning. Some industries they serve include Small Businesses, Healthcare, Nonprofit, and Technology. The key ingredient that sets their firm apart is the ability to infuse style and flair into most campaigns.

How has being a Forge member impacted Kimberly’s business?

“Being a member of Forge has impacted my business due to several benefits and collaborations. As the Founder, it has allowed me to collaborate and network with other members. In addition, our agency has experienced growth by attending the Forge-hosted events and of course, the opportunity to be fully productive through the different types of workspace.”

Can you share any specific success stories, achievements, or milestones your business has reached?

“Our agency has received excellent reviews. One of the most recent achievements has been recognition by the Birmingham Business Journal as Who’s Who In Diversity and Inclusion for 2023. Additional success stories include making a community impact while serving on nonprofit boards.”

 

Have you faced any challenges in your business journey, and how did you overcome them?

“Absolutely! Being a business owner does not have a straight path. A few of the challenges our agency has overcome include securing funding, navigating changes during the pandemic, and maintaining strong customer relationships.”

 

Follow Kimberly West Agency on Facebook and Instagram.

 

Jarvis Escott of First Impressions Marketing Group

 

First Impressions Marketing Group, LLC is a Birmingham, Alabama media & marketing company that specializes in promotions, event planning, market research, and consulting. The company, founded in 2007 by President Jarvis Escott, has provided marketing services to over 100,000 events and businesses locally, regionally, and nationally. We own and manage What’s Happening Birmingham website, app, email newsletter and podcast. Our mission is to provide and deliver high quality marketing services that leave a great first and lasting impression.
Can you share any specific success stories, achievements, or milestones your business has reached?
“My biggest milestone and achievement in the past year (2023) was achieving a year long sponsor for my What’s Happening Birmingham. This was a great accomplishment and blessing from God!”
How has being a member of Forge impacted your business?
“Being a member of Forge has made a wonderful impact on my business. It has allowed me to be flexible with having a virtual and centralized office to meet clients and record some of my podcast episodes.”
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
“Never give up and always be thinking of new ways to generate revenue sources for your business.”

Magan Battle of Battle Realty & Company

 

 

Battle Realty & Company helps their clients in buying, selling, or investing in property. They offer personalized consultations. At Battle Realty & Company, the mission is to redefine the landscape of real estate. They aim to empower individuals to achieve their dreams of homeownership, while setting new standards for service excellence and community impact. With a focus on inclusivity, innovation, and integrity, they strive to create a nurturing environment where every client and agent feels supported, valued, and inspired to make their real estate aspirations a reality.

Can you share any specific success stories, achievements, or milestones your business has reached?

“As a realtor, I accumulated over one million in volume in less than 30 days. Holding a degree in Business Administration, I am also a member of the National Association of Realtors as well as the National Association of Real Estate Brokers. In 2018, I was named Birmingham’s rising star of real estate by the Birmingham Business Journal. I was named Top 5 Single Agent at Keller Williams Vestavia in 2022, as well as the Birmingham Boss Award in 2022. I also received my brokers license in 2023 and started my own Real estate brokerage this year in 2024.”

Have you faced any challenges in your business journey, and how did you overcome them?

“One of the challenges I encountered was balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with personal responsibilities, and self-care. To overcome this, I prioritized self-care practices, set boundaries, and learned to delegate tasks effectively. I also cultivated a support system of friends, family, and fellow entrepreneurs who provided encouragement and perspective during challenging times.”

 

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

“When you feel called to pursue a new path or challenge, take action and move forward with confidence, trusting in your abilities and the guidance you receive. Use your knowledge, skills, and experiences to serve others and make a positive impact in their lives. Seek to add value and contribute to the success and well-being of those around you. Remember to stay humble and grateful for the opportunities and blessings that come your way.”

 

Terrell Oliver of Life Insurance and Retirement Planning

 

 

Terrell Oliver helps people protect their family’s legacy by passing down generational wealth through the power of life insurance and retirement planning.

 

Have you faced any challenges in your business journey, and how did you overcome them?

“When our office closed down in Homewood, I was challenged to either work from home or find an office space. I looked over a few options, but Forge was my best because of the environment and the opportunity to get out of my comfort zone (especially being at home) to network with all kinds of people.”

 

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

“My advice would be to never give up. Find your purpose and your passion and run with it. Have faith but also put the work in behind the faith.”

 

Dreson Russell of Project EMS

 

 

Project EMS dreams of a future where educational resources and opportunities are available to every student, regardless of their background. Their mission is to empower and uplift students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, guiding them towards academic success.

Project EMS achieves this through dedicated tutoring, offering scholarships and assistance in finding them, engaging students in career-oriented activities, providing mentorship, and facilitating interactive experiences in STEAMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics, and Medicine). By doing so, they strive to level the educational playing field, ensuring every student has the chance to reach their full potential.

 

How has being a member of Forge impacted your business?

 

“More than the tangible benefits, it’s the spirit of Forge that has left a lasting mark on us. Kim, in particular, has been a cornerstone of our experience. Her personal commitment and the welcoming atmosphere she nurtures at Forge have deeply enriched our journey. We’re not just renting a space; we’re part of a community that celebrates success, encourages innovation, and supports one another through challenges. Our gratitude for Forge and Kim runs deep. This isn’t just a place where our business resides; it’s where our mission finds support, encouragement, and camaraderie.”

 

 

Have you faced any challenges in your business journey, and how did you overcome them?

 

“An early and critical lesson was recognizing that the issues we aimed to tackle were previously unsupported. If the community had rallied around these issues beforehand, the need for our organization might not have been as pressing. This realization pushed us to think outside the box in terms of garnering support not just for our mission, but for our supporters as well.

We learned that fostering support isn’t just about seeking donations or sponsorships; it’s about engaging with our community in a way that encourages active participation, be it through volunteering or other forms of involvement. By doing so, we’ve found innovative paths to not only sustain our mission but to enrich and empower our supporters to contribute in meaningful ways.”

 

K’la Inman of Getting Started Acting/Modeling Workshops

 

 

Getting Started Acting/Modeling Workshops helps parents learn how to get their kids in the acting and modeling business while getting paid and avoiding scams. She offers a DIY course, and a done for you VIP program where her team works to help kids land modeling contracts.

 

How has being a member of Forge impacted your business?

“Forge has allowed me to have a quiet place to work, while not feeling so alone! I have literally increased my revenue by 23% since joining. I’m usually the last to leave and the only one here on Sundays!”

 

Can you share any specific success stories, achievements, or milestones your business has reached?

“I have grown to over 7,000 clients in 42 states and 3 countries. We are officially a 7-figure business as of 2022. My clients have booked jobs for Nike, Target, Disney, Sesame Street, Macy’s and more. I also have a ton of celebrity clients that come to me for their kids.”

 

 

Have you faced any challenges in your business journey, and how did you overcome them?

“I have overcome a myriad of challenges, but one of the hardest was actually the rapid growth I experienced in 2021. Having to make quick hires and even quicker fires was difficult for me, and made me evolve into the leader I am today.”

 

Follow K’la on Instagram!

 

Debra Nelson of Elevate Communications

 

 

Elevate Communications is a professional development and communication services company that provides customized training, coaching and consulting in leadership and organizational development, diversity, equity and inclusion, and program and performance management. Our mission is to help individuals and organizations achieve their highest aspirations.

 

How has being a member of Forge impacted your business?

“Forge incubates like-minded individuals who want to grow, network, and thrive in an supportive business environment. The Forge team is always helpful and professional, and the facility is immaculate. It is a great place from which to execute our business operations.”

 

 

Can you share any specific success stories, achievements, or milestones your business has reached?

“Elevate continues to expand our footprint to serve clients throughout the U.S. and in diverse industries that include finance, automotive, banking, higher education and energy. Also, our professional and philanthropic interests are complementary, enabling the company to establish the Elevate Endowed Scholarship at the University of Alabama to support the higher education aspirations of financially-challenged young women who do not have mothers.”

 

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

“It is important to discover your passion, educate yourself, and take the necessary steps to fulfill your dreams. There is room for everyone in the ecosystem. While the entrepreneurial space can be challenging, it is an effort worth pursuing. Keep going, don’t stop. If you can dream it, you can do it.”

 

Valyncia Johnson of Images Management

 

In 2024, Valyncia M. Johnson became one of the few black female certified NFL agents, which underscores her commitment to guide athletes through the intricacies of the brand development, business management, and contract negotiations to ensure their image and careers are safeguarded.

In 2019, Valyncia took her passion and expertise to new heights by launching Images Management, a boutique PR and Management Firm, focusing on ideation, representation, and negotiation. This entrepreneurial venture reflects her dedication to deliver personalized services and impactful solutions to brands that desire to command their paths, culminate change, and leave a legacy of impact.

 

Have you faced any challenges in your business journey, and how did you overcome them?

“I faced challenges in business such as learning how to scale, have more lean processes, and identifying how I would like my business to evolve from a consulting to agency. I overcame these challenges by leaning on my network, doing research, and being clear on where I want to take my life and business.”
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
“Stay true to your being/brand. Those who want to work with you will come. Do the work when no one is watching, and you will be rewarded in the most appropriate time on the stage you never imagined. Do the hard things first.”

KaLyn Williams of All Eyes On You Branding

 

All Eyes On You Branding’s done-for-you marketing systems are proven to generate leads and allow their clients more freedom through automated content. Done-with-you strategy sessions serve as accountability calls to build confidence in business owners aiming to expand their audience online.

All Eyes On You Branding has a social mission to empower minority owned businesses with networking opportunities and learning resources. They have collaborated with the leaders of these companies to assist them with navigating through the unique barriers that exist. KaLyn is dedicated to educating underserved organizations. They are commit to providing affordable agency fees and marketing strategies that reduce expenses while increasing profit. All Eyes On You Branding has been able to support over 300 minority owned businesses since 2016.

 

How has being a member of Forge impacted your business?
“In order to develop myself as an entrepreneur and marketeer in the job market, I knew I needed to create a network in Birmingham. I wanted to meet new friends and potentially business partners because I recently moved to Birmingham from Memphis,TN and I am open to work. Forge helped me achieve my main business goal in 2022 which was to grow my Facebook Community @Mind Your Business.”
Can you share any specific success stories, achievements, or milestones your business has reached?
“We recently helped a local restaurant gain over 12.k followers on social media within 11 months. We helped them increase their profit margins and front-of-the house processes tremendously. This translated to improved customer service and Google reviews.”

As Black History Month draws to a close, we reflect on the narratives and achievements of our black entrepreneurs at Forge. Beyond this dedicated month of celebration, we remain committed to fostering an environment where every member’s journey is recognized, celebrated, and elevated.

 

Forge is more than a workspace; it’s a community of collective stories. We extend our gratitude to the black entrepreneurs who grace our community and continue to inspire us daily. Here’s to forging ahead, together!

 

 

A Review of 2023 at Forge

A Review of 2023 at Forge

As we say goodbye to an exceptional year, it’s time to reflect on the milestones, connections, and moments that defined Forge in 2023. This past year has been a journey of growth, collaboration, and community at our coworking space. From the buzz of events that brought professionals together to the vibrant energy of our expanding membership, every day at Forge has been a testament to the thriving spirit of innovation and connection.

 

Join us as we highlight the events that left an impact- the growing number of members who call Forge home and the multitude of meeting rooms that buzzed with creativity and collaboration throughout 2023. Let’s celebrate the successes and set the stage for 2024.

 

We sent out a survey to Forge members to learn more about their experience at Forge in 2023. Here is some insightful information we learned from that survey!

 

 

Location, location, location! Forge is in the heart of downtown inside the historic Pizitz building. The Pizitz Food Hall offers plenty of lunch and dinner options for our members which is one big perk to our location!

 

 

Escaping the isolation of working from home and joining Forge provides entrepreneurs and remote workers a community they desperately need!

 

From startups growing to established businesses reaching new heights, the collaborative environment at Forge is proving to be the catalyst for success. This statistic is a testament to the power of community, innovation, and the opportunities that unfold at Forge!

 

 

Forge stands proud as 100% of our members affirm that their productivity has soared since joining our coworking community- a testament to the power of an environment designed for success.

 

 

A resounding 100% of Forge members attest to the power of networking within our community! Forge members say they’ve gained invaluable business connections since joining.

 

In 2023 Forge served…

92 Total Coworking Members

28 Private Office Members

 

 

2023 Booking Hours:

Meeting Room Hours: 1,526

Event hours: 250

 

Penthouse Conference Room

 

Forge hosted over 30 events in 2023!

Over 1,090 tickets were reserved for these events!

 

Founder’s Friday with Jamie and Tez of Athetik

 

Founder’s Friday with Delphine Carter of Boulo Solutions

Forge’s Monthly Events:

Free Friday, Lunch & Learns, Founder’s Friday & Connect Networking Breakfast

 

A Lunch & Learn with KaLyn Williams

 

Forge also hosted numerous events specifically for our members- anything from happy hours to breakfasts, New Member Lunches, holiday themed parties and much more!

 

Holiday Mix-er Event at Christmas, we learned how to make two holiday cocktails!

 

Spirit Week filled with fun dress up days

 

From the excitement of events that illuminated our shared spaces to the hum of productivity resonating in every corner, each day at Forge has been a canvas painted with the vibrancy of connection and growth. As we step into the promising pages of the new year, we carry with us the triumphs of 2023.

 

To every member, attendee, and participant who contributed to the Forge narrative, thank you for making 2023 a year to remember. Here’s to the shared stories, the possibilities and the boundless horizons that await in 2024. Happy New Year, and let’s continue to forge success together!

4 December Delights at Forge

4 December Delights at Forge

As the winter chill embraces our community at Forge, December arrives with a flourish of festivities. Get ready to unwrap a month filled with events that celebrate the spirit of the season.

 

#1: Holiday Mix-er Event on December 6

 

Jingle, Mingle and Mix! Join us for a holiday workshop and learn how to make two tasty holiday cocktails with Diego Lopez from The Louis Bar– one of these cocktails will be an espresso martini with Honest Coffee.

 

This event is free for Forge members and open to the public- $20 for nonmembers. Forge Members can use the code ForgeMember when registering on Eventbrite. Join us to get into the holiday spirit! RSVP here.

 

 

 

#2: 10 Days of Giveaways on Forge’s Instagram

 

Every year Forge collaborates with local businesses to post giveaways leading up to Christmas! Check out our sponsors for this year: Unos Tacos, The Louis, Asthetik, x4 Fitness, Cala Coffee, House Plant Collective, Sidewalk Film Center and Cinema, Thirstea, Ashley Mac’s Kitchen. Be sure to pay attention to Forge’s Instagram posts December 4-15 for a chance to win some awesome prizes.

 

 

10 Days of Giveaways

#3: Community Giveback Supporting STREAM Innovations

Forge is partnering with STREAM Innovations in the month of December. Over the years, STREAM Innovations has hosted Lego Build Challenges and given away Lego sets to foster imagination and creativity for young innovators across Birmingham. We have identified a number of students that have never played with Legos or didn’t have access to Legos at home.
Community GIveback
We need your help this holiday season by donating new and used Legos to STREAM Innovations to inspire the next generation of engineers, artists, and creatives. STREAM plans to use your Lego donations in 2024 for STREAM Lego giveaways and STREAM programming across Birmingham.

#4: Forge’s Holiday Sale

 

Unwrap the gift of productivity this holiday season! Enjoy 50% off your first two months with Forge’s Coworking Membership. Elevate your workdays with 24/7 access, exclusive events, and more. It’s the season of savings and success!

 

 

From the clinking of glasses at our Holiday Mixer to the anticipation of our ’10 Days of Giveaways’ showcasing local businesses on Instagram, and the warmth of our community giveback event collecting Legos for STREAM Innovations, December at Forge will be full of connections, celebrations, and acts of kindness.

 

Join us as we usher in the most wonderful time of the year within the walls of our shared workspace. Let the festivities begin!