Help Us Save Sonny & Co. — A Small Business with a Big Heart

After an incredible high — including a surprise visit and interview by Jason Carr, reaching over 10,000 followers, and landing the cover of a local magazine — things suddenly took a hard turn for Sam and her small business, Sonny & Co.

Without warning, a neighbor reported her to the township in what appears to be a personal attempt to shut her down. There was no nuisance complaint, no disruption — just what seems to be a pattern of targeting her business, as this isn’t the first time this has happened.

Thankfully, the White Lake Township team has been nothing short of amazing, working closely with Sam to find a solution that allows her to continue operating respectfully within the community and in compliance with local ordinances. The goal is for her to continue doing what she loves — without constantly looking over her shoulder.

The two main issues are:

1. Zoning – The property is zoned agricultural, not commercial, which limits how often she can host barn sales (currently once per month).

2. Fire Code Compliance – The barn is not currently up to code per the fire department’s regulations. Sam is working diligently with both the township and fire department to make the necessary upgrades.

In addition to the physical improvements required to bring the space into compliance, Sam is also facing unexpected and costly legal fees as she navigates the permit process and protects her right to operate.

Unfortunately, all of this is hitting at a time when sales have slowed significantly — making it extremely difficult to cover the immediate costs of compliance and legal assistance.

If you know Sam, you know she would never ask for help herself — so I offered to step in and do this for her.

Sam has always been the first to give:

• Hosting supply drives for national disasters

• Donating to St. Jude and local animal rescues

• Adopting families in need at Christmas

• Keeping a “take what you need, leave what you can” bin on her porch in the winter for anyone who needs it

• Supporting countless small makers and businesses

Right now, she needs us.

If you’re able to donate, it will go directly toward the legal, safety, and code compliance expenses needed to keep Sonny & Co. open and thriving.

To avoid platform fees, you can Venmo her directly at

@samantha-cucuro

(please put “donation” in the memo)

If a donation isn’t possible, a share means the world.

And if you know any licensed contractors willing to help with code compliance work, please reach out to Sam directly.

Sam has also shared that once this is behind her and she’s able to get back on her feet, she fully intends to pay it forward by matching the donations she receives and giving back to another business or organization in need.

Let’s rally behind someone who always shows up for others.

Let’s save this small business. ♥️