Innovative News For May 2026

Michelle Smith
Apr 30
8 min read

Welcome to the Innovation Spot, a flexible coworking solution less than a mile from Downtown Woodstock! This month's newsletter highlights some new members, announcements for upcoming events, updates on exciting happenings this month, and more!

Upcoming Events at The Innovation Spot:

Friday, May 1 - Sure Connexions. Sure Connexions has moved to Fridays! Sure Connexions is an interactive faith-based networking organization that meets at 12:00 PM online through Zoom, and in-person with lunch at The Innovation Spot.

Event is free but reserve your spot HERE

Thursday, May 21 -International Tea Day. We'll have teas from around the globe and a few complimentary tea snacks for everyone to enjoy.

Stop by the Coffee & Tea Bar in the main building for a cuppa and a snack!

Monday, May 25 - Memorial Day. Today and every day, we are thankful for those who have served and given their "last full measure of devotion" for the freedom we get to enjoy.

Always thank a veteran and remember the fallen.

Welcome to the Inspiration Blog! We will occassionally have an article on our website that we want to share with you in our newsletter. In this section, you'll find an excerpt of the article along with a link to our website to finish reading it. We hope to provide helpful business practices and ideas, information about coworking and shared spaces, event planning advice, and many other useful topics!

To Sit or To Stand; That Is the Question

Standing desks might seem a bit trendy today, but they actually come from a long history of use. Artists and architects alike are known for their use of easels and drafting tables, both being forms of a standing desk. In fact, even though it doesn’t seem to be recorded in the annals of history anywhere, many still believe that Leonardo Da Vinci...read more here

Member Spotlight: Michelle Whiting [Realty ONE Group Edge]

Hi, I’m Michelle Whiting — REALTOR®, Associate Broker, and Director of Agent Success with Realty ONE Group Edge in Woodstock, Georgia. Realty ONE Group is a global real estate brand with more than 450 offices across nearly 30 countries, built on a bold approach to doing business differently.

Licensed since 2004, I’ve built my career around a genuine passion for real estate and an even deeper passion for people. I believe buying or selling a home isn’t just a transaction — it’s one of life’s biggest decisions, and it deserves thoughtful guidance, clear communication, and a steady hand every step of the way.

In addition to serving my clients, I’m deeply invested in helping other agents grow and succeed. Through coaching, collaboration, and the signature “Coolture” at Realty ONE Group, I work alongside agents to build strong, sustainable businesses rooted in relationships and results.

I’m known for my attention to detail, calm presence in high-pressure moments, and commitment to doing what’s right — not just what’s easy. Because at the end of the day, real estate isn’t just about closing deals… it’s about opening doors, building trust, and creating experiences people actually feel good about.

And honestly...That’s the part that never gets old.

If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just need a trusted resource to guide you — here in Metro Atlanta or anywhere across the country — I’d love to connect and help you take the next step with confidence.

And if you’re an agent looking for a different kind of brokerage experience — one that truly invests in your growth and surrounds you with the right people — I’m always happy to share what makes Realty ONE Group Edge so special.

Contact Info:

Michelle Whiting

770-655-1123

mwhiting@rogedge.com

Saturdays April 18-December 19 Farm. Fresh. Market.

Find locally grown produce, jams & jellies, honey, locally raised meats, seafood from the Georgia coast, fresh baked bread and pastries, bath and beauty products, and much more.

Every Saturday 8:30 to noon

at Market Street and Reformation Brewery’s Backyard in Downtown Woodstock

Vendor's List and Vendor Info HERE

May 1-24 Mamma Mia!

DISCOVER…FAMILY

On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they had last visited decades ago. ABBA’s greatest hits, including “Dancing Queen,” “The Winner Takes It All,” “Money, Money, Money,” and “Take a Chance on Me,” are all featured in this feel-good celebration of love, family and friendship.

MAMMA MIA is a heart-warming party for everyone, so slip into your beach clothes, grab a cocktail and come along as we DISCOVER FAMILY!

WHY SEE THIS SHOW?

If you’ve ever wanted to know what a great big hug – followed by the most spectacular dance party imaginable would be like to experience as an audience member – then this is the show for you.

WHO IS THIS SHOW FOR?

Who is this show for? What a question! It’s MAMMA MIA! This show is for everyone!

Click HERE to see showtimes and to purchase tickets!

Wednesday, May 6 Fresh Start Morning.

Fueling the Vision: Finding Capital for Your Business with Ian Gloer at Homegrown | Educational Program

More information HERE.

Every Thursday, May 7-28 Woodstock Business Club.

Why Local Professionals Choose Woodstock Business Club

Attending our weekly networking meetings at the Woodstock Business Club is an investment in your professional growth and business success. Here are just a few reasons why our members keep coming back:

* Diverse Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals from all over North Georgia, representing a wide array of industries.

* Educational Insights: Gain valuable knowledge from our speakers and discussions on a variety of business topics.

* Community Support: Be part of a supportive community that encourages collaboration and mutual growth.

* Visibility for Your Business: Utilize our platform to showcase your business, whether through sponsored breakfasts or as a speaker.

* Personal and Professional Development: Engage in meaningful conversations that challenge and inspire you to reach new heights.

For more information or to join, click HERE

Thursday, May 7 Good Morning Cherokee Breakfast.

Location & Time:

Cherokee County Conference Center

1130 Bluffs Parkway, Canton

6:30 - 7:30 AM: Registration & Pre-Event Networking

7:00 AM: Ballroom Opens & Buffet Breakfast Available

7:30 AM: Buffet Closes & Program Begins

8:30 AM - 9:00 AM: Post-Event Networking

Hear from co-sponsor businesses regarding their products and services!

Cost:

If you do not have a standing reservation, pricing is as follows:

Chamber Member Advance Registration: $22

Chamber Member Registration: $30

Future Member Registration: $40

If you do not have a GMC standing reservation, you must register by 3 PM on the Tuesday prior to the event to receive a printed name tag and advance pricing. After the 3 PM advance registration deadline, you may register at the price below or pay at the event!

Chamber Member attendees may donate up to two door prizes per company.

Be sure to include your business card on the give away items!

Tuesday, May 19 Business After Hours.

Location & Time:

The Arbor at Bridgemill

700 Freedom Blvd., Canton

4:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Cost for 2026 Business After Hours:

If you do not have a standing reservation, pricing is as follows:

Chamber Member Advance Registration: $10

Chamber Member Registration: $15

Future Member Registration: $25

If you do not have a BAH standing reservation, you must register by 3 PM on the Monday prior to the event to receive a printed name tag and advance pricing. After the 3 PM advance registration deadline, you may register at the price in the link below or pay at the event!

Thursday, May 21 Downtown Woodstock Family Fun Night.

Fun-Filled Summer Thursdays

The Family Fun Night series returns for its fourth season of themed night goodness throughout Summer 2026. This event series takes place on the third Thursday of the month – May through August – from 5pm to 9pm. Activities take place throughout Downtown Woodstock, culminating in a movie on the Woodstock Arts Event Green.

We will kick off the 2026 series with fun from a galaxy far far away…. Calling all Jedi to join us for an exciting night celebrating all things Star Wars at Family Fun Night! The featured movie will be “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” on the Woodstock Arts Event Green.

5:00 - 9:00 pm

More information HERE

Thursday, May 28 Cherokee Chamber Power Hour.

Join us for an hour of fast paced networking with fellow business leaders as well as the Chamber Board Chair, Debra Williams, and Chamber President & CEO, Pam Carnes!

Before the hour ends, you will have the opportunity to share about your business or organization for all to hear! You don’t want to miss this event as we are turning up the power on Power Hour with PowerPoints!

Your name will be entered into a drawing for each Power Hour you attend this year.

One lucky winner will be chosen in December who will receive a PowerPass --

free attendance (non-transferable) to every Power Hour in 2027!

Don't forget to bring promotional items from your business for the share table!

Location:

Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce

3605 Marietta Hwy

Canton, GA 30114

10:00 - 11:00 am

Cost: Chamber Member: $5; Future Members: $10

Advance registration by 12 PM on 5/20 is appreciated but not required; onsite registration is available.

Click HERE to register!

Thursday, May 28 City of Woodstock Walking Tours: Names of Woodstock Past.

This new walking tour will explore the history of Woodstock, Georgia, by featuring several historic buildings and houses with close connections to historic families who have played a major role in shaping the city’s story.

Participants will meet at the Woodstock Visitors Center and depart on their walking journey from there; comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tours begin at 6pm and run every half hour until 7:30pm. Each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.

Tickets are $5 each

This engaging walking tour will explore the historical origins of the names of various roads, parks and downtown landmarks. Learn more about the interesting history of Woodstock by learning The Names of Woodstock Past.

For tickets click HERE.

Friday, May 29 Morning INfluence by IN WDSTK.

Morning Influence is a networking event which includes breakfast and a brief presentation that focuses on updates given by Greater Woodstock on important issues or services offered that affect the community as a whole.

BRING A GUEST and you will be instantly entered in our raffle to win some great prizes and giveaways!

Location:

The Chambers at City Center

8534 Main Street

8:00 am - 9:00 am

Event registration is required.

Welcome to our newest members of the Innovation Spot team!

Mark Roberts

Apex Health & Wealth

Chase Scroggins

Outshine Painting

Tom McWethy

Cris Chiles

The Echelon Group

We L♥VE Reviews!

We appreciate you and your partnership with The Innovation Spot! Leaving positive reviews on Google really helps small businesses more than you know. Every review helps, and we thank you in advance.

Click Here to Leave Us a Review!

💡 We want to come beside you in a newness of LIFE for your business!

The Innovation Spot partners with some great local businesses!

See more information below...

It'll Buff Detailing offers a variety of services that will transform your vehicle. They have three fully functioning bays utilized to offer services such as paint correction, ceramic coating, and full vehicle details.

Visit their website by clicking HERE or call 714.714.1325.

You can also visit their new shop location at

195 Stockwood DriveWoodstock, GA 30188

We are thrilled to provide virtual assistant services through MD Virtual Assist. Are you in need of an extra hand with a variety of tasks such as social media marketing, calendar scheduling, and email campaigns? If it's on your to-do list but not a good use of your time, leave it to Mandy! She can provide dedicated support to executives, professionals, and entrepreneurs.

Check Out: www.mdvirtualassist.com