Best Corner Store Success Story

Benjamin “Bigmouthben” Graham battled drug addiction, mental illness and homelessness for almost two decades before getting his life back on track. Once he did, Graham dedicated himself to his art (a style of rap known as “hope-hop”) and, with the help of his wife Tanya Graham, opened the BIGMOUTHBEN CONVENIENCE STORE on Auburn Avenue. The shop, located three blocks from where he used to sleep under a bridge, not only sells groceries and souvenirs but also serves as a resource for Atlantans in need, providing free water, clothes and a helping hand. So by shopping with the Grahams, you not only support a worthy local business — you help support the community at large. 370 Auburn Ave., Suite A. 404-331-3973. www.bigmouthbenstores.com. less...

When Young Blood Boutique owners Kelly Teasley and Maggie White announced last winter that they were putting their longtime Poncey-Highland art shop up for sale, Atlantans let out a collective, “NOOOOOOOOO!” For 15 years, Young Blood had supported local artists with a shop and gallery space and nurtured a fresh generation of talent. But before you could say “Regretsy,” local ladies Rebecca Hanna, Jessie White, and Erica Jamison stepped up to purchase the business and continue its DIY mission. (White and Teasley retain ownership of the gallery portion in name.) The new owners cleared out the store, gave it a modern face-lift with crisp white paint and dark wood accents, and streamlined the inventory. Where T-shirts and onesies once resided now hang suspended wood racks of prints by Methane Studios and Brainstorm. Local vendors Vouched Books and Dust-to-Digital records both have racks of curated goodies. Practically the entire left wall is adorned with jewelry by Erica Weiner, Sanctuary, Seaworthy, Crafts and Love, and more. There are sumptuous Neva Opet bags, rustic handmade frames by the Atlanta-based Blackrabbet, and yes, there’s still gallery space. Jamison moved her MINT Gallery into the back of the building for regular exhibits. It’s never fun to say goodbye to an old friend. Thankfully, Young Blood’s spirit lives on in this fresh reinvention. less...

Walgreens, CVS, hell, even Target. These are all fine places to fill a prescription. But even if it’s the last thing on your mind when you’re waiting in agony for your heartburn medication to be divvied out, there’s something to be said for atmosphere, personalized service - and history. More old-school general store than generic pharmacy, Little Five Points Pharmacy has served eclectic Inman Park and the surrounding neighborhoods since 1981. While you’re getting a prescription filled for that rowdy gastroenteritis, browse through the wall of DVDs and shelves of other quirky natural health items to take your mind off your bowel troubles. Or, if you’re not big on popping pills, take a more holistic route to wellness: One of its primary pharmacists is also a certified herbalist and massage therapist. less...