Lonnie Atkinson

Lonnie Atkinson, having graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design, initially pursued a career in sales before discovering a passion for health-focused restaurants. This shift was influenced by his experiences in New York and California, where he observed a growing demand for healthy dining options. Atkinson honed his culinary skills by creating flavorful yet healthy menu items, spending years in product research and development. In 2015, he co-founded Village Juice Co., initially offering cold-pressed juices and almond milks at local farmer’s markets. His efforts culminated in the opening of the first Village Juice brick-and-mortar location in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where he continues to serve as Creative Director, developing creative beverage options and promoting healthy lifestyles.