From Passion to Pour: How Two Georgia Women Are Reshaping Wine Culture with Marble Wines

Atlanta Wire Staff on April 30, 2025

By: Alyssa Wright

In an industry often dominated by tradition and exclusivity, Marble Wines stands out with a refreshingly different approach. Co-founders Latoya S. Jordan and Brianna Shelko are building a wine brand that puts consumers first, creating products designed for enjoyment rather than expert approval.

“Unlike many wineries that create wines to impress critics or sommeliers, we built our brand by directly engaging with our target consumers—primarily women who enjoy wine but feel intimidated by the industry’s sometimes haughty atmosphere,” explains Shelko, who brings award-winning social media marketing expertise to the partnership.

The Atlanta-based company operates as a private label, partnering with talented winemakers to create blends specifically for their core market. “In an industry where complexity and exclusivity are often celebrated, we’ve deliberately crafted blends approachable and palatable to everyday wine lovers,” says Jordan, who entered the wine space after working with a client in the industry and forming valuable connections.

Their consumer-centered philosophy shapes everything from taste profiles to packaging. “We’ve focused on making our wines visually inviting through our packaging and in taste profile—creating an experience that welcomes people into the world of wine rather than keeping them at a distance,” Jordan notes.

From Passion to Pour: How Two Georgia Women Are Reshaping Wine Culture with Marble Wines

Photo Courtesy: Marble Wines / Latoya S. Jordan and Brianna Shelko

While Marble Wines maintains nationwide distribution through direct-to-consumer online sales, they recently expanded their physical retail presence by entering the Brooklyn, NY market in March. “We’re currently available in two boutique wine shops in Bedford-Stuyvesant, which has been an exciting development for our brand,” Jordan shares.

Despite this growth, their hearts remain in Georgia. “As Georgia girls, our primary focus is establishing distribution in our home state. We’re actively working to navigate distribution here, which, as many in the industry know, can be challenging,” says Shelko. “Our immediate goal is to secure placement in local Georgia retail stores and restaurants, making our wines more accessible to customers who support us through our online channel.”

Breaking into the wine industry hasn’t been without obstacles, particularly as newcomers in a field historically lacking diversity. “Securing meetings with distributors, who serve as gatekeepers between us and retailers, has been particularly challenging,” Jordan admits. “When faced with distribution barriers, we first built a direct-to-consumer model, establishing a strong online presence and forming genuine connections with our customers.”

This necessity became their strength. “We’ve built a community around Marble Wines that feels personal and authentic precisely because we had to find alternative market paths,” Jordan continues. “The distribution challenge reinforced our consumer-focused philosophy. We doubled down on listening directly to our customers and developing products they genuinely wanted.”

Exciting developments are on the horizon for Marble Wines. The company is currently developing a sparkling wine for their second blend. “While we sourced grapes from California for our inaugural blend, we’re exploring partnerships with local Georgia vineyards for this sparkling offering,” Shelko reveals. “This connection to our home state is meaningful to us as Georgia girls and entrepreneurs.”

The new sparkling wine will maintain the refreshing, fruit-forward profile their customers appreciate. “We’re developing something celebratory yet approachable—perfect for both special occasions and everyday enjoyment,” adds Jordan.

What makes Marble Wine distinctive in today’s crowded marketplace? “Our commitment to approachability without compromising quality,” Shelko states proudly. “When you pick up one of our bottles, you’re getting a thoughtfully crafted wine that is fruit-forward and refreshing, with balanced flavor profiles that don’t overwhelm the palate.”

Looking ahead five years, the founders envision a lasting impact both locally and industry-wide. “We aspire to be contributors who have participated and added value to the vibrant wine culture in Georgia in a meaningful way—celebrating our region’s growing viticultural potential and creating economic opportunities for local grape growers and hospitality partners,” says Jordan.

Shelko adds that their vision extends beyond sales figures: “Within the broader industry, we’re working to build a culture of inclusivity and innovation. As a brand, we’d like to be remembered for dismantling unnecessary barriers and proving that consumer preferences matter just as much as traditional industry standards.”

For Jordan and Shelko, success is measured in connections formed rather than just bottles sold. “We’re not just selling wine; we’re creating spaces—both physical and virtual—where people can come together, share experiences, and feel a sense of belonging through our products,” Jordan reflects. “Every bottle of Marble Wine represents an invitation to connect.”

Marble Wines products are available for purchase online at marblewines.com and in select retail locations in Brooklyn, NY. Georgia distribution coming soon.

Published by Jeremy S.

Supporting Everyday Movement with Yoli Flex

Atlanta Wire Staff on April 30, 2025

For many people, movement is a constant part of life. Whether walking to work, carrying groceries, playing sports, or simply chasing after kids, the body is always in motion. Over time, these movements—big and small—can place strain on the joints. It may not happen overnight, but stiffness, soreness, and limited flexibility often appear when least expected.

This is where Yoli Flex may offer support. Formulated to assist the body’s natural ability to move comfortably, Yoli Flex contains a blend of ingredients that support joint function and mobility, helping individuals stay active in their daily routines.

Why Joint Health Matters

Joints allow the body to bend, twist, reach, and stretch. They absorb pressure with every step, lift, and turn. Over time—whether due to regular activity, aging, or other factors—joint tissues may experience natural wear over time, which can affect comfort and mobility.

For those with active lifestyles or individuals looking to maintain mobility as they age, joint care becomes a thoughtful, long-term investment. Supporting joint health through a combination of proper nutrition, regular movement, and consistent supplement use may help promote overall resilience and comfort.

Yoli Flex was developed with this proactive approach in mind. Rather than focusing solely on joint discomfort once it appears, it is designed to support joint strength and flexibility as part of a consistent, daily wellness routine.

Supporting Everyday Movement with Yoli Flex

Photo Courtesy: Yoli

The Formulation Behind Yoli Flex

Yoli Flex combines two proprietary blends—LIMBER-C™ and MOBILIFLEX™—into one supplement designed to support joint, cartilage, and connective tissue health.

The LIMBER-C™ Blend includes:

Type II Collagen (chicken): supports natural cartilage structure
Glucosamine and Chondroitin: commonly used to support flexibility and cushioning
N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine: contributes to joint lubrication
Hyaluronic Acid: helps with shock absorption
Bamboo Extract: a natural source of silica, which contributes to tissue support

The MOBILIFLEX™ Blend includes:

Bromelain and Ginger Root Extract: traditionally used for their calming properties
Boswellia Serrata: a plant extract historically used to support joint comfort
L-Leucine: an amino acid associated with tissue repair
Rutin, Hesperidin, and Citrus Bioflavonoids: antioxidants that support circulation and connective tissue
Trypsin and Apple Polyphenols: included for general recovery support
Devil’s Claw Root Extract: a traditional herb used in flexibility support

Together, these ingredients form a well-rounded formula created to support daily mobility, post-activity recovery, and long-term joint health.

Designed for Active Living

Yoli Flex may be a helpful option for individuals who:

Exercise regularly
Spend long hours on their feet
Are wanting to support healthy joint function as they stay active
Want to maintain an active lifestyle with fewer mobility interruptions

Whether it’s an athlete in training, a parent constantly on the go, or someone managing the natural effects of aging, Yoli Flex offers nutritional support for everyday movement.

Daily Use and Simplicity

Yoli Flex is taken as two capsules per day, offering a straightforward addition to most daily routines. There’s no need to adjust meals or plan around a complicated schedule—just consistency and patience.

Like most supplements, effects may not be immediate. Joint health typically requires ongoing attention, and regular use may support the body’s ability to stay mobile over time.

Photo Courtesy: Yoli

What Sets Yoli Flex Apart

Unlike formulas that focus on a single ingredient, Yoli Flex brings together a variety of nutrients, minerals, and plant-based compounds—each included for its potential role in supporting joint health, from cartilage function to post-movement recovery.

Its dual-blend design is intended to address multiple aspects of joint care, including structure, flexibility, resilience, and overall comfort. This multi-faceted approach may make it a suitable option for individuals with varying activity levels and diverse wellness goals, offering support tailored to everyday movement and long-term joint maintenance.

Supporting What the Body Does Best

Yoli Flex was created for individuals who want to keep moving—whether that means bending, lifting, stretching, or simply staying active throughout the day. With a carefully selected blend of ingredients and a focus on long-term wellness, this joint support supplement is designed to offer gentle, ongoing support for mobility without disrupting daily routines.

Whether someone is just beginning to notice occasional stiffness or is taking a more proactive approach to joint care, Yoli Flex may provide beneficial support in helping individuals stay comfortable and capable during everyday movements and activities.

Disclaimer: The statements made in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Claims regarding specific outcomes or results may vary depending on individual circumstances. All statements related to earning potential, financial results, or health benefits should not be interpreted as guarantees. Always consult with a healthcare provider or financial expert before making any changes to your wellness or investment plans.

Published by Jeremy S.

Retirement Planning: Why Millennials Should Start Saving Early

Atlanta Wire Staff 2 on April 30, 2025

Although retirement may seem a distant goal for millennials, planning for it early is one of the most important financial decisions one can make. Many people in their twenties or thirties are focused on short-term financial goals, such as paying off student loans, buying a home, or traveling. However, delaying retirement savings can lead to significant disadvantages later in life. The earlier millennials start saving, the better prepared they will be for retirement, ensuring financial stability and security in their later years. This article explores why retirement planning should begin now, the types of accounts available, and the benefits of long-term saving.

The Importance of Starting Early

Retirement might feel like a far-off event, but the truth is, time is one of the most powerful assets when it comes to saving for retirement. The longer an individual delays starting their retirement savings, the less time their money has to grow. According to financial experts, retirement savings should ideally begin as soon as one enters the workforce. This is because early contributions can provide the benefits of compound interest, which significantly enhances the growth of savings over time.

While the pressures of paying bills, managing debt, and saving for other financial goals may seem overwhelming, the reality is that early retirement planning allows millennials to benefit from the magic of time. With fewer years ahead of them to build their savings, millennials who wait too long to start could find themselves facing a difficult financial situation as retirement nears. By establishing good savings habits now, they will have a greater chance of enjoying a comfortable, stress-free retirement.

Understanding Retirement Accounts: 401(k)s and IRAs

There are several types of retirement accounts available, but two of the most common are 401(k)s and IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts). Each of these accounts offers different tax benefits, and understanding how they work is crucial for making informed retirement planning decisions.

401(k)

A 401(k) is an employer-sponsored retirement savings plan. Many employers offer a matching contribution, meaning they will contribute a certain amount to your retirement account based on how much you contribute. For instance, an employer may match 50% of your contribution up to a certain percentage of your salary. This “free money” makes a 401(k) an essential retirement account for many employees. Furthermore, the contributions to a 401(k) are typically made on a pre-tax basis, meaning the money you contribute reduces your taxable income for the year.

However, 401(k) plans come with limitations. For instance, there are annual contribution limits set by the IRS, and you may be penalized for withdrawing funds before the age of 59½, except in certain circumstances.

IRA (Individual Retirement Account)

An IRA is a personal retirement account that can be opened through a bank, credit union, or other financial institution. Unlike a 401(k), IRAs are not employer-sponsored, so anyone with earned income can open one. There are two main types of IRAs: Traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs.

Traditional IRA: Contributions to a Traditional IRA are typically tax-deductible in the year they are made, and the funds grow tax-deferred until withdrawal during retirement. However, withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income.
Roth IRA: Roth IRAs, on the other hand, do not offer upfront tax deductions. However, the funds grow tax-free, and qualified withdrawals in retirement are also tax-free. Roth IRAs have income limits, meaning high earners may not qualify to contribute directly to them.

The benefit of an IRA is that it provides more flexibility than a 401(k), with greater control over how the funds are invested. Additionally, if you leave a job, you can take your IRA with you, unlike a 401(k) that may be tied to a particular employer.

The Power of Compound Interest and Long-Term Saving

One of the main reasons why starting retirement savings early is so important is the power of compound interest. Compound interest refers to the process in which the interest earned on an investment is reinvested to earn more interest. Over time, compound interest can significantly increase the value of an investment.

For example, if a millennial begins contributing to their retirement account at age 25, they have the potential to benefit from decades of compound growth. In contrast, someone who begins saving for retirement at 35 may miss out on ten years of potential growth. The earlier an individual starts, the less they need to contribute each month to reach their retirement goals.

To illustrate this, consider the example of two people: Person A starts saving $200 a month at age 25, while Person B starts saving the same amount at age 35. Even though Person B contributes for a longer period, Person A will likely accumulate more savings by retirement age because their money had more time to grow with compound interest.

Strategies for Millennials to Prioritize Retirement Saving

While it may seem daunting to start saving for retirement, there are several strategies millennials can employ to make the process more manageable:

Start Small and Increase Contributions Gradually: It’s not necessary to make large contributions at the start. Even small contributions, such as $50 or $100 a month, can add up over time. Once you’ve gotten into the habit of saving, try to increase your contributions gradually.
Take Advantage of Employer Contributions: If your employer offers a 401(k) match, try to contribute enough to take full advantage of this benefit. It’s essentially free money that can significantly boost your retirement savings.
Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic contributions to your retirement account so that you don’t have to think about it. Automating your savings ensures that you consistently contribute to your retirement without the temptation to spend the money elsewhere.
Maximize Tax Benefits: Take full advantage of tax-deferred growth by contributing to tax-advantaged accounts like a 401(k) or IRA. If eligible, consider a Roth IRA for tax-free withdrawals in retirement.
Revisit Your Retirement Plan Regularly: Life circumstances and financial goals change over time, so it’s important to revisit your retirement plan periodically to ensure you’re on track and adjust your contributions if necessary.

Even though retirement may seem like a distant concern for millennials, the earlier you start saving, the better prepared you will be for the future. By understanding the different types of retirement accounts available, taking advantage of employer contributions, and harnessing the power of compound interest, millennials can ensure a comfortable retirement. Starting now, even with small contributions, can lead to significant financial security in the long term.

Lessons from Japanese Culture for a Better Life

Atlanta Wire Staff 2 on April 30, 2025

Japanese culture offers a wealth of timeless wisdom that can be applied to enrich our lives, making them more meaningful and balanced. Through centuries of philosophy, art, and tradition, Japan has developed concepts that encourage mindfulness, resilience, and an appreciation for the fleeting nature of existence. These principles can be incredibly valuable in today’s fast-paced world, offering guidance on how to embrace imperfections, cherish experiences, and accept life as it is. Here, we explore four core ideas from Japanese culture that can help individuals live a better, more fulfilling life.

Wabi-Sabi: Finding Beauty in Imperfection

Wabi-Sabi is a concept that finds beauty in the impermanence and imperfection of life. It encourages us to appreciate the natural cycle of growth, decay, and change. In a world that often emphasizes perfection, both in physical appearances and in achievements, Wabi-Sabi offers an alternative approach—one that celebrates the beauty of things that are incomplete, weathered, or flawed.

Whether it’s a chipped piece of pottery, a weathered wooden beam, or the inevitable marks left by time on our bodies, Wabi-Sabi teaches us that there is grace and dignity in imperfection. By embracing the natural aging process, both in objects and people, we can develop a deeper appreciation for life’s fleeting moments and the unique stories that each imperfection tells. This acceptance of imperfection not only reduces the pressure to be flawless but also invites us to see beauty in the ordinary and the transient aspects of life.

Ichigo Ichie: The Value of Once-in-a-Lifetime Moments

Ichigo Ichie translates roughly to “one time, one meeting” and speaks to the idea that every encounter, every moment in life, is unique and will never come again. This principle encourages us to savor the present and approach life’s interactions with mindfulness and appreciation. Whether it’s a conversation with a friend, a quiet moment of reflection, or an opportunity to witness nature’s beauty, each of these experiences is fleeting, and once gone, it can never be replicated.

By living in the moment and treating each experience as precious and irreplaceable, we cultivate a deeper connection with the people and things around us. The concept of Ichigo Ichie reminds us to value not just the milestones of life, but the everyday interactions that make our journeys worthwhile. In an era dominated by distractions and multitasking, embracing Ichigo Ichie allows us to slow down and truly appreciate the here and now.

Shikata ga nai: Accepting What Cannot Be Helped

Shikata ga nai, often translated as “it cannot be helped,” is a concept rooted in the Japanese attitude toward resilience and acceptance. It refers to the ability to accept that some things in life are beyond our control and must be faced with patience, grace, and humility. While this mindset does not encourage passivity or resignation, it reminds us that resistance to the inevitable can lead to unnecessary suffering. Instead, we should focus on what can be controlled and let go of what we cannot change.

Whether facing personal challenges, societal difficulties, or natural events that we cannot alter, Shikata ga nai offers wisdom in learning to adapt and move forward. By accepting certain limitations, we free ourselves from frustration and create space for inner peace and emotional resilience. This principle also encourages us to focus our energy on things we can influence, cultivating a sense of agency within the confines of reality.

Kintsugi: Embracing Scars and Life’s Cracks

Kintsugi is the art of repairing broken pottery with gold or silver lacquer, turning the cracks into a beautiful part of the object’s history rather than concealing them. This practice carries a powerful metaphor for how we view our own scars, both physical and emotional. Rather than hiding our flaws or past wounds, Kintsugi encourages us to see them as integral parts of who we are—worthy of recognition and appreciation.

In life, we all experience hardships, failures, and moments of brokenness. Kintsugi teaches us that these cracks, far from being something to be ashamed of, can be a source of strength and beauty. They are the stories that make us who we are and, when viewed through the lens of resilience and growth, can turn our most challenging experiences into something precious. Embracing our flaws and the lessons they bring allows us to grow in ways that are not possible if we only focus on perfection.

Applying Japanese Wisdom to Modern Life

Incorporating Japanese cultural concepts like Wabi-Sabi, Ichigo Ichie, Shikata ga nai, and Kintsugi into our modern lives offers numerous benefits. These principles encourage us to slow down, appreciate life’s fleeting moments, accept our imperfections, and find beauty in our challenges. As modern life becomes increasingly fast-paced and goal-oriented, these ideas provide a reminder that there is more to life than achievements and perfection.

To apply these teachings in daily life, we can begin by practicing mindfulness in our interactions with others, embracing life’s imperfections, and focusing on the present rather than the future. We can cultivate patience when faced with situations we cannot change and find ways to transform our struggles into sources of strength. By incorporating these timeless lessons, we enrich our lives with greater peace, fulfillment, and connection to the world around us.

Japanese cultural wisdom offers powerful lessons for living a more balanced, meaningful life. Wabi-Sabi, Ichigo Ichie, Shikata ga nai, and Kintsugi invite us to embrace the imperfections, fleeting moments, and challenges that shape our existence. By applying these principles, we can develop a more mindful approach to life, appreciating both the beauty of the present and the lessons learned from the past. In doing so, we can create a life that is not just lived, but truly appreciated for all its richness and depth.

Durran Gholston Sr.: Rewriting Baltimore’s Story Through Business and Community

Atlanta Wire Staff on April 30, 2025

The Unconventional Path of a Modern Leader

In the heart of Baltimore, where boarded-up storefronts stand alongside thriving businesses, Durran Gholston Sr. is crafting a new narrative. His journey defies conventional labels – neither purely entrepreneur nor traditional activist, but something more vital: a community architect who understands that lasting change requires both economic power and grassroots connection.

Gholston’s philosophy – “Transforming challenges into opportunities for greatness” – manifests in everything from his business investments to his neighborhood initiatives. With a portfolio approaching seven figures, he represents a new breed of leader proving that financial success and social impact can be mutually reinforcing rather than competing priorities.

Economic Empowerment as Community Foundation

Gholston’s business approach reflects his deep understanding of Baltimore’s unique ecosystem. “As a businessman, I understand every challenge is an opportunity,” he notes, a perspective that informs his strategic support for local enterprises often overlooked by traditional investors. His investments go beyond capital infusion, incorporating mentorship and infrastructure building to create sustainable growth.

What sets his model apart is its focus on economic circulation, ensuring that business success directly benefits the communities where it originates. From supporting minority-owned startups to creating job training pipelines, Gholston’s initiatives demonstrate how targeted business development can become a powerful tool for neighborhood revitalization.

The People’s Champion in Practice

The moniker “the People’s champion” isn’t mere rhetoric for Gholston – it’s a daily commitment. His statement, “I already moved the men, the women, and the children. They look to me to lead and advocate for them,” speaks to the organic leadership role he’s cultivated through consistent presence and action.

Unlike outside saviors parachuting in with solutions, Gholston’s approach is rooted in lived experience and genuine relationship-building. His community work succeeds because it emerges from intimate knowledge of neighborhood dynamics and real conversations with residents about their needs and aspirations.

A Model for Equitable Growth

As Gholston expands his efforts through strategic partnerships with local organizations, his work offers valuable lessons for urban revitalization. His dual focus on business development and community empowerment presents a replicable framework for creating economic opportunities that lift entire neighborhoods.

The true measure of Gholston’s impact may ultimately be seen in the changed trajectories of individuals he’s influenced – the entrepreneur who launched a successful business, the young person who found career direction, the community that regained belief in its potential. In a city working to redefine itself, Gholston represents the kind of homegrown leadership that creates lasting transformation.

Durran Gholston Sr.: Rewriting Baltimore's Story Through Business and Community

Photo Courtesy: A. Jackson / Durran Gholston Sr.

Building Bridges Across Baltimore

Gholston’s work extends beyond traditional boundaries, connecting disparate parts of Baltimore’s economic landscape. He frequently serves as a mediator between established business networks and underserved communities, creating dialogue where division once existed. This bridge-building role is particularly crucial in a city where economic opportunities have historically been unevenly distributed.

His approach combines pragmatism with vision, recognizing immediate needs while working toward systemic change. Whether negotiating partnerships between corporations and community groups or advising policymakers on inclusive economic strategies, Gholston brings an on-the-ground perspective often missing from high-level discussions.

The Ripple Effect of Authentic Leadership

Perhaps most significantly, Gholston’s leadership style inspires others to take ownership of their communities. By demonstrating what’s possible through determination and strategic thinking, he creates a ripple effect of empowerment. Younger leaders emerging in Baltimore often cite his example as proof that success and service need not be separate paths.

As Baltimore continues its complex journey toward equitable growth, Durran Gholston Sr. stands as both a symbol and catalyst of what’s possible when business acumen meets community commitment. His story suggests that sustainable urban renewal comes not from outside interventions, but from nurturing and amplifying the potential that already exists within a city’s neighborhoods.

To engage with Durran Gholston Sr.’s initiatives or learn about upcoming community projects, follow his work through local Baltimore partnerships and development programs.

Published by Jeremy S.