Mak Mak Thai Cuisine – A Dream Served One Dish at a Time

There’s something magical about the way food can take us home. A single bite can carry us across oceans, back in time, and into the heart of a memory—where a mother stirs a bubbling pot and the smell alone fills the room with love. At Mak Mak Thai Cuisine, that magic lives in every dish. Here in Bountiful, you don’t just eat, you’re transported.

For Osmond Seangsuwan, food and family have always been inseparable. His mother, Nadda, opened Bangkok Aloha Market and Deli in 1992 with one simple hope: to share her Thai heritage with her community. Her kitchen wasn’t just a business—it was a gathering place. A place where strangers became family and where every dish told a story.

That legacy didn’t end there. Years later, inspired by his mother’s passion and her belief in food as a bridge between cultures, Osmond teamed up with Lynzie Johnson to create something new: Mak Mak Thai Cuisine, a fast-casual restaurant rooted in tradition but designed for modern life. Warm, welcoming, and filled with vibrant flavors, Mak Mak is where people come to slow down and savor something real.

But Mak Mak didn’t happen overnight. It began as a dream that seemed too far out of reach—a whisper of “what if?” met with long hours, uncertainty, and the steep climb that comes with starting from scratch. Osmond and Lynzie poured everything into the vision, building not just a restaurant, but a reflection of their heritage, their grit, and their hope for something meaningful.

And the community showed up.

From day one, the people of Bountiful embraced Mak Mak, not just for its food but for the heart behind it. That connection fuels everything they do. The team’s favorite compliments aren’t about spice levels or presentation. They’re the heartfelt comments from Thai customers who say, “This reminds me of my mom’s cooking.” For a moment, they’re back home—miles and memories melting away with each bite.

That’s the power of Mak Mak. It’s not just a place to eat—it’s a place to remember, to connect, and to belong.

Beyond the kitchen, Osmond, Nadda, and Lynzie make it a point to stay rooted in their community. They support local sports events, sponsor Bountiful Handcart Days, and show up for city celebrations, always with the belief that food and culture should be shared openly and generously.

Outside the building, a bold mural reads “Tomorrow I’ll Be Famous.” It’s a promise. A message to every dreamer who walks through the door: your dreams are valid, and they are possible. Just like Mak Mak.

In under a year, Mak Mak Thai Cuisine has become a place where culture, community, and comfort come together in every dish. A place that reminds us that food can do more than fill a stomach. It can fill a soul.

So come hungry. Come curious. Come ready to be inspired.

At Mak Mak, every meal tells a story—and every story begins with a dream.

Dr. Scott Thompson places tiny incisions in the thinning areas of the patient’s scalp, visualizing the precise pattern needed to achieve the most natural result. For years, his patient has watched their hair gradually thin, each new photo and reflection a reminder of something they felt powerless to stop. After trying various over-the-counter solutions with little success, the patient finally decided it was time for something lasting, something that would help them feel like themselves again. For this patient, the decision to pursue hair restoration reclaimed their sense of identity and confidence.

Dr. Thompson and his team approached the treatment with the same care and precision they bring to every procedure: developing a personalized plan, performing the restoration with expert technique, and offering consistent support throughout recovery. As natural growth returned, so did the patient’s self-esteem. What was once a daily source of insecurity became a reflection of progress and renewed self-image. At Utah Facial Plastics, it’s not just about restoring hair, it’s about helping people change the way they see themselves.

Dr. Thompson, a facial plastic surgeon at Utah Facial Plastics, didn’t follow the most conventional path into medicine. With early passions for both music and science, two seemingly opposite fields, he initially felt torn between a creative career and clinical care. It wasn’t until his medical residency that he discovered facial plastic surgery, a specialty that perfectly combined both worlds. Here, he found the opportunity to apply his surgical skill and artistic sensibility side by side, working closely with patients to visualize and create results that not only heal but transform.

That dedication to helping patients feel like the most authentic version of themselves is what drives Dr. Thompson and the entire Utah Facial Plastics team. After leaving a previous practice, Dr. Thompson founded Utah Facial Plastics to build a space where innovation, artistry, and compassionate care could thrive. The practice doesn’t believe in a one-size-fits-all version of beauty; instead, they focus on each patient’s individual goals. Their empathy and commitment to truly listening leaves a lasting impact. 

While many patients arrive with clear hopes for what treatment can do, the team ensures full transparency from the beginning. They make a point to over-communicate details and potential limitations before any procedure. This openness builds trust and comfort, not only in the care being provided but in the team itself. At the core of Utah Facial Plastics are the values of safety, compassion, results, integrity, professionalism, and teamwork. Clear and honest communication between patients and staff is what makes it all possible.

Whether a patient is seeking a med-spa service or complex reconstructive surgery, they can expect the highest level of respect and medical expertise at Utah Facial Plastics. Every staff member upholds this patient-centered philosophy: all the doctors, aesthetic injectors, laser specialists, estheticians, and support team members. That kind of inclusive, collaborative environment ensures every patient receives attentive, expert care, no matter the treatment type.

At Utah Facial Plastics, it’s not just about outward transformation—it’s about helping people change the way they see themselves. The goal isn’t simply to perform procedures; it’s to restore confidence, foster healing, and help individuals feel like the most authentic version of themselves. That balance of medical expertise and empathetic care is what truly sets them apart.

This fall, Utah Facial Plastics is opening a new location in Heber—and the team couldn’t be more excited about the expansion. They look forward to bringing their signature level of care to Wasatch County and helping even more people feel confident in their own skin.

When Rickie picks up Rene for her weekly beauty appointment, she listens to Rene’s stories, just like she did decades ago. The tradition began when Rickie was about ten years old, shortly after her family’s business, Cameo College of Essential Beauty, moved to a new location. The move disrupted the routines of her mom’s beloved “shampoo set ladies,” whose bus line no longer reached the school. So Rickie and her mom stepped in, driving them to their standing appointments and back home afterward. One by one, the women would climb into the car wearing bright prints and big smiles, ready to chat. Most of them are gone now, but Rene remains—and Rickie has lovingly maintained their old routine. These days, Rickie and her team take turns picking Rene up, and they all love it. The time together has become something each employee looks forward to.

For Rickie, what began as a simple childhood carpool turned into something more: the beginning of a lifelong journey in the beauty industry, one that would shape Rickie’s future in ways she had never imagined.

Those early mornings left a lasting impression. Rickie saw, even at a young age, how powerful a beauty service could be—the way someone’s face lit up after a new haircut or color and the confidence that followed. That spark never left her. Today, Rickie Farmer is a third-generation co-owner of Cameo College of Essential Beauty, the very place where those childhood memories were made. Having witnessed the impact of beauty and self-care firsthand, she’s made it her mission to share that experience with as many people as possible across the Salt Lake area.

After working behind the chair for two decades, Rickie understands how essential the beauty industry truly is. For some, a beauty service is a time to relax and confide in someone they’ve come to see as a friend. For others, it’s preparation for a big event or a much-needed confidence boost. Whatever brings a client in, Rickie and her colleagues do more than just help someone look their best—they provide connection and emotional support. They don’t just hold a vision for a client’s haircut or color, they hold their stories, their emotions, and their trust. The team at Cameo College takes great care with that responsibility.

After 17 years in the industry, Rickie realized her greatest impact wouldn’t come solely from working behind the chair, but from guiding the next generation. Stepping into a teaching and mentorship role at Cameo College allowed her to give back—to help students discover their strengths, follow their passions, and achieve proper licensure. She works closely with each student to ensure they’re not just technically skilled but deeply connected to the heart of this work.

Helping others be the best version of themselves has become Rickie’s mission, and it’s a belief she passes on to every future beauty professional she mentors. She lives by the motto “Always leave people better than you found them.” Beauty professionals are more than service providers—they are listeners, visionaries, and artists who help clients feel seen, heard, and valued. At Cameo College, a client feels that spirit of care and compassion the moment they walk through the door, and long after they leave.

That same spirit shines through in the success stories that walk out of the school’s doors. One recent graduate had spent years as a wife and mother while facing the unimaginable challenge of being completely unhoused. Determined to change her circumstances, she pursued a new path in esthetics with the goal of building generational wealth for her family and uplifting others in the industry. Within a year of graduating, she opened a beautiful salon in downtown Salt Lake City—and filled the stations with fellow Cameo grads, offering them the same chance to grow.

From childhood car rides filled with laughter and gossip to leading one of Utah’s most respected beauty institutions, Rickie’s journey has come full circle. Her story—and the stories of those she teaches—are proof that beauty is more than skin deep. It’s creates connection, empowerment, and opportunities for others to thrive.

Laurel Herbert was just 17 when she began designing wedding gowns. While most teenagers were focused on school dances or summer jobs, Laurel was sketching silhouettes, selecting fabrics, and stitching dresses with the kind of quiet determination that only comes from doing something you truly love. Even then, it was clear she was not just learning a craft. She was building something much bigger.

That passion followed her into adulthood, where she spent years working from home, altering hundreds of gowns for brides all over Utah. Her basement became a revolving door of lace, satin, and sentimental stories. Brides came looking for expert alterations and often left with something more: a dress that honored the past while being completely transformed for the future. Laurel became known not just for her skill but for her ability to breathe new life into heirloom gowns, turning old family dresses into meaningful modern pieces.

Eventually, the business outgrew the basement. She needed more room, and she found it in the historic Old Draper School. As construction crews and interior designers worked on the space, they casually referred to it as “the bride room.” The nickname stuck, and it turned out to be the perfect fit. When the boutique officially opened its doors in 2017, the name stayed with it.

At first, The Bride Room focused solely on alterations. Brides traveled from across the state for Laurel’s detailed craftsmanship and eye for design. But as the boutique found its rhythm, Laurel’s vision expanded. She started searching for bridal designers whose work aligned with her love for authenticity, elegance, and individuality. One by one, she brought in gowns that felt different and special. These were gowns with character, personality, and presence.

Over time, The Bride Room became more than a place to alter a dress. It became a place to find “the dress.” The boutique has evolved into a thoughtfully curated space where brides can browse a handpicked collection of gowns in an environment that feels relaxed, inviting, and entirely their own. The shop’s vintage-inspired charm, paired with its warm and personal approach, make it stand out in the bridal world.

Everything inside the boutique is designed with intention. From the way appointments are scheduled to the layout of the space, every detail serves a purpose: to make brides feel confident, beautiful, and celebrated for exactly who they are. It is not about trends or expectations. It is about helping each bride find the gown that feels like hers.

The journey behind The Bride Room is as meaningful as the gowns hanging on its racks. Laurel’s connection to bridal fashion runs deep. She designed her own wedding gown when she married her high school sweetheart, Chet, in 1990. What started as a personal dream has grown into a business rooted in heart, creativity, and a love for celebrating life’s most memorable moments.

These days, Laurel splits her time between the boutique and her family. She travels to find new designers and bring back unique pieces for her brides, but her favorite place to be is with her grandchildren in Florida. With nine children, four daughters-in-law, and five grandchildren, her family continues to anchor her. That spirit of care and connection is woven into everything she does.

The Bride Room the result of years of work, love, and vision. For the brides who walk through its doors, it offers more than a dress. It offers a memory, a moment, and an experience that celebrates who they are and the story they are about to begin.

Imagine Hank and Meg Mitchem—a made-up couple with a very real problem. When they purchased their 100-year-old home in Salt Lake’s Sugarhouse neighborhood, it felt like a dream come true. The original wood floors, cozy fireplace, and tree-lined street gave it the warmth and character they’d hoped for. But as the seasons changed, the dream began to show its cracks—literally. The historic windows, while beautiful, let in more than just sunlight. Drafts, noise, and rising energy bills quickly made it clear that something wasn’t right.

Although the Mitchems constantly adjusted the thermostat, the house never stayed warm in the winter or cool in the summer. Some rooms were drafty, others stuffy, and temperatures shifted from one corner to the next. After months of trying to make it work, it became obvious: the original single-pane windows, though full of charm, were no longer functional.

Hesitant to modernize their historic home, the Mitchems researched options that would blend style and performance. That’s when they discovered Advanced Window Products. Founded in 1986 and owned by Salt Lake City natives, Advanced Window Products had built its reputation not just on quality windows but on giving back to the community through organizations like Make-A-Wish Utah and Habitat for Humanity. Hank and Meg felt confident they had found a company that cared.

From the first consultation, they were impressed. The Advanced Window Products team arrived promptly, measured each window with precision, and clearly explained the process. There was no pressure—only guidance tailored to their needs. They appreciated how the team truly listened and helped them select windows that would improve energy efficiency without compromising the home’s timeless character.

The Mitchems chose custom-built, energy-efficient vinyl windows with double-pane, argon-filled glass and a triple Low E coating—designed to handle Utah’s dramatic climate shifts. Locally manufactured and measured down to the nearest eighth of an inch, the windows fit perfectly and provided immediate results. Their utility bills dropped noticeably, and the home’s comfort improved from the first season.

Beyond the practical benefits, the new windows gave their Craftsman home a subtle yet stunning facelift. They chose black frames with contoured interior grids, preserving the architectural integrity while adding a modern touch. The transformation was striking, and neighbors immediately took notice.

Another big reason they chose Advanced Window Products was the peace of mind that came with a lifetime warranty. Because Advanced Window Products handles everything in-house—from manufacturing to installation to service—the Mitchems knew they had reliable, long-term support. Even accidental glass breakage was covered, and the warranty is transferable, adding extra value if they ever choose to sell.

Cost was a concern at first, but Advanced Window Products‘ flexible financing options made the project possible without dipping into savings. They began seeing energy savings immediately, making the investment feel even smarter.

While Hank and Meg’s story is imagined, the challenges they faced—and the solutions they found—are real for many Utah homeowners. Advanced Window Products has helped countless families across Salt Lake and beyond improve their comfort, efficiency, and home value. Their commitment to craftsmanship, local manufacturing, and lifetime support makes them a trusted choice for anyone ready to invest in their home’s future.

The sound of laughter and excited shouts filled the yard as James watched his two granddaughters race around the tree. “Come on, Grandpa!” one of them called. “We bet we can run faster than you!” the other added, grinning. James smiled, stood up from his red Adirondack chair, and slowly made his way down the stairs. Though it was only 9 a.m., the morning breeze felt warm against the sweat forming on his forehead. The air was heavy, and he could feel his energy slipping. By the time he reached the bottom of the steps, his granddaughters were already at his side, tugging at him, urging him to “Chase us, chase us!”

A wave of guilt crept in. He was only 55—not old by any means—but he knew his health wasn’t where it should be. The extra weight he couldn’t seem to lose had started to slow him down. Looking at the two bright faces filled with excitement and youth, James knew he needed to do something—he wanted to be more present in their lives, and for years to come.

While there are many reasons people consider weight loss treatments, the most powerful is often the desire to improve overall health and wellbeing. That’s what motivated the owners of Utah Trim Clinic to open their doors and provide personalized, whole-body care. Weight loss isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey, and often it’s not sustainable without the right support. At Utah Trim Clinic, every customer receives a tailored treatment plan designed to work for their body, their lifestyle, and their goals.

Utah Trim Clinic offers doctor-prescribed medication that’s customized to meet each person’s unique hormonal needs. This individualized approach produces more effective results and allows for long-term success. They also use advanced tools like a 3D body scanner that tracks changes in specific areas—providing a more accurate and encouraging picture of progress than numbers on a scale alone. In addition, the clinic offers non-invasive body sculpting treatments designed to tighten skin, reduce fat, and build muscle. These treatments help clients not only lose weight but also feel confident and look great—whether they’re getting ready for a vacation or simply want to feel better in their own skin.

But the services themselves are only part of what makes Utah Trim Clinic stand out. The team at Utah Trim Clinic treats it as a privilege to support each customer, getting to know their personal stories and their reasons for walking through the door—whether it’s to improve their confidence, increase their longevity, or simply feel better day to day.

Utah Trim Clinic’s commitment to wellbeing also extends beyond their walls. The owners believe health and wellness should be more accessible throughout the community. That’s why they regularly offer free treatments and services at local events—giving more people the chance to explore their options and take the first step toward better health.

Health and wellness aren’t just about appearance. They’re about how we live—how we move, how we connect, and how we show up for the people who matter most. Health affects every corner of life. Do you avoid certain events out of insecurity, or find yourself unable to keep up with your kids or grandkids? The entire team at Utah Trim Clinic understands that deeply. Every one of them has seen firsthand the difference better health can make, and they’re honored to help others experience it.

Just like James, many people find themselves wanting to do more, be more, and live more fully. That life isn’t out of reach. With the right support and care, you can keep up with what matters most.

The 2025 Best of SLC Nominees Are Here!
Claim Your Spot Today

Exciting news, Salt Lake City! The nominations are in, and we’ve carefully vetted an impressive 11,363 businesses across 315 categories for the 2025 Best of SLC Awards. If your business made the list—congratulations! Your nomination is a reflection of strong community support through nominations and positive reviews.

Now, it’s time to take the next step: Claim your nomination!

Why Claim Your Best of SLC Nomination?

Claiming your nomination isn’t just a formality—it’s a powerful marketing opportunity. Here’s why it matters:

✅ Boost Your Visibility – Get access to free promotional graphics to announce your nomination on social media and marketing materials.
✅ Ensure Accuracy – Update your business name, location(s), or contact details to ensure everything is correct before voting starts.
✅ Show Your Engagement – Businesses that claim their nomination stand out to voters, increasing credibility and trust.

How Claiming Your Nomination Benefits You

Claiming your Best of SLC nomination is a win-win for both you and the competition process:

🔹 Accurate Listings – Help us ensure your business information is correct before we publish the official nominees.
🔹 Fair Competition – Engaged businesses help keep categories competitive. Categories with fewer claimed nominations may be merged or removed.
🔹 Higher Chances of Winning – In the event of a tie, claimed businesses are prioritized!

We Respect Your Privacy

Your information is safe with us. We never share personal details with third parties unless you specifically request it. Email updates are opt-in only, ensuring you only receive important notifications about the Best of SLC Awards.

Claim Your Nomination & Get Ready to Shine!

Don’t miss this chance to showcase your business in Salt Lake City’s premier awards program. Claim your nomination today and take the first step toward earning the recognition your business deserves!

Stay tuned—voting kicks off February 18, 2025!

Key Dates & What’s Next

The 2025 Best of SLC Awards season is in full swing, and the excitement is building! With thousands of nominations submitted, it’s clear that the Salt Lake City community is eager to recognize the best local businesses. Now that the nomination period has officially closed, it’s time to gear up for the next phase—voting!

What Happened During Nominations?

From small businesses to well-known favorites, the nomination phase brought an incredible response from the community. Your nominations, shares, and engagement played a huge role in ensuring that the best of Salt Lake City gets the recognition they deserve.

What’s Next?

Our team is now hard at work reviewing each nomination to confirm that businesses are listed in the correct categories and locations. This process ensures that every nominee meets the qualifications and is accurately represented before voting begins.

When determining the finalists, we take into account business size and number of locations. For single-location businesses, votes and reviews are tallied to calculate a final score. For multi-location businesses, we average the votes and reviews across all locations to ensure fair competition.

The official list of nominees will be announced in early February, just before voting kicks off!

Mark Your Calendar!

🗳 Voting Period: February 18 – March 6, 2025
🏆 Awards Ceremony: April 15 & 16, 2025

Thank You for Your Support!

The Best of SLC Awards wouldn’t be possible without the enthusiasm of our incredible community. Your nominations and votes help shine a spotlight on the outstanding businesses that make Salt Lake City an amazing place to live, work, and play.

Stay tuned for updates, and get ready to vote for your favorites starting February 18!

When Dr. Vineka Heeramun first decided to pursue a degree in medicine, she knew she wanted to focus on mental health. Driven by a deep passion for addressing the stigma surrounding mental health, she aimed to provide comprehensive care to a wide range of patients. Dr. Heeramun received her medical degree in 2005, choosing to specialize in both internal medicine and psychiatry. She pursued residency training at Southern Illinois University and is dually board-certified in both specialties. This unique combination allows her to understand her patients holistically, treating them as whole individuals rather than just a set of symptoms.

Initially working in inpatient psychiatry, Dr. Heeramun witnessed multiple patient relapses leading to frequent hospitalizations. This inspired her to establish Joyful Horizon Psychiatry, a clinic focused on providing continuous, effective outpatient care. Here, she offers medication management alongside a holistic approach to mental health.  Their mission is to offer hope and healing to those who need it most, ensuring they receive the compassionate and innovative care they deserve.

The clinic is also at the forefront of psychiatric treatment, integrating cutting-edge therapies such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and ketamine therapy to better serve patients with treatment-resistant conditions.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is primarily used for patients with major depressive disorder who have not responded to other treatments. TMS has shown remarkable results, helping patients regain their mental clarity and emotional stability without the side effects commonly associated with medications.

Ketamine therapy involves the administration of low doses of ketamine, a well-known anesthetic, to treat severe depression and other mood disorders. This therapy has been a game-changer for many patients, offering rapid relief from depressive symptoms. By targeting neurotransmitter systems in the brain, ketamine can quickly alleviate depression, making it a vital tool for those in crisis.

Despite advancements in understanding mental health, the stigma surrounding it remains pervasive. Many people individuals still hesitate to seek help due to fear of judgment or misunderstanding. Dr. Heeramun is dedicated to breaking down these barriers, educating the community, and advocating for mental health awareness. She believes that if she fosters a supportive and open environment, more people will feel empowered to seek the help they need.

Dr. Heeramun finds immense joy in witnessing the transformative journeys of her patients. She regularly sees patients transition from being profoundly depressed and apathetic to being full of life, functioning well in society, and finding joy in their daily lives. Seeing someone’s life change before her eyes is incredibly rewarding.

However, there are challenges associated with cutting-edge treatments. While many procedures do not require prior insurance authorization, treatments like TMS and ketamine do. Navigating the complexities of insurance approvals can be a hassle and often delays patient care. Nevertheless, Joyful Horizon Psychiatry accepts insurance to provide care to a broader range of patients, especially in Utah, where many people rely on their health insurance. Despite the complexities and varying criteria of different insurance companies, the clinic has streamlined its processes and achieved a 99% success rate with prior authorizations. This efficiency ensures that patients receive life-changing treatments without unnecessary delays.

At Joyful Horizon Psychiatry, patients are never just a number; team members strive to make patients feel welcomed and valued. Unlike larger corporate clinics where patients may feel rushed, they ensure that each patient has enough time to be heard and understood. While insurance often dictates appointment durations, they do their best to be efficient yet compassionate, actively listening and holding space for each patient’s unique experiences. They create a safe and supportive environment, offering empathy and resources to help patients understand their conditions and treatment options. Their smaller clinic size allows them to maintain a personal touch and commitment to each patient’s well-being, setting them apart from the competition.

Through her dedication, innovation, and compassionate care, Dr. Vineka Heeramun has made a profound impact on the lives of her patients. Her work with TMS and ketamine therapy continues to bring hope and healing to those in need, breaking down barriers and transforming lives one patient at a time.