When it comes to supporting local business, Chantae Reynolds, owner of JK WoodWorked Creations, LLC, is no stranger. Raised in East Winston-Salem, Reynolds met her husband, Justin, in high school. The couple joined Mixxer Community Makerspace and began exploring — and sharing — new local spots with their circle.
“We would just post, like, ‘Hey, we ate in this place, or we went to this event,’ and people were like, ‘How did y’all find out about these places?’” Reynolds said.
Although Justin was originally from Detroit, Reynolds said he embraced Winston-Salem wholeheartedly.
“He knew Winston better than me,” she said. “He always volunteered [at Mixxer Community Makerspace] during the summer to help the kids.”
Justin died on May 1, 2025, leaving a significant mark on the community.
“When he passed away, it was amazing to see how Winston came out and showed up for my family and me,” Reynolds said. “People were reaching out, asking, ‘what other ways can we help?’”
Along with other local partners, Mixxer started a summer camp scholarship for youth, honoring Justin’s legacy. Reynolds also started a Cash Mob, a monthly event where locals support small businesses in his memory.
“Local places have a family, and it’s a story behind them. I try to make sure the owner is there when we do the Cash Mob so they can tell their story and share it,” she said.
Currently, Reynolds plans to host one event each month, with the next scheduled for Saturday, March 28. Participants are asked to register in advance and spend $5-$20 at a surprise business location. If you can’t attend, you can shop from a local business once a week and tag @jkwoodworkedcreationsllc to show your support.
