When the Agocha family acquired Forest Glen Deli, Beer and Wine in Silver Spring, they did more than just open a store—they stepped into a legacy.

New to the Montgomery County business community but no stranger to entrepreneurship, Juliet Agocha and her family took ownership of Forest Glen Deli in January. For over 35 years, the neighborhood shop has been a trusted place for everything from beverages and snacks to warm greetings from familiar faces. Now, under Juliet’s leadership, it’s experiencing a revitalization grounded in community service and engagement.

“This is our family legacy now,” Juliet says. “We wanted a business that serves the community—and Forest Glen Deli is exactly that. It’s more than retail. It’s a relationship.”

Juliet’s entrepreneurial roots run deep. A self-taught technologist who once spent her last rent money on a laptop so she could pursue an Oracle Database Administration certification, Juliet turned that investment into a successful career in IT. Her first break came when the World Bank hired her—despite having no formal degree at the time. She went on to found Ultimate Web Design, her own digital consulting firm offering IT services, website design, SEO, reputation management, and even customized promotional products.

“Technology will always be part of what I do,” she says. “Forest Glen Deli is an expansion—not a departure.”

Though her businesses originated in Prince George’s County, Juliet had long envisioned putting down commercial roots in Montgomery County. The transition was made seamless by the County’s support—especially during the process of transferring the store’s alcohol license. Juliet credits Montgomery County’s Department of Alcohol Beverage Services for making the experience both efficient and personal.

“They even called me to remind me about my license renewal,” she shares. “That kind of proactive, human-centered help means a lot when you’re running a business.”

In Forest Glen Deli’s new era, Juliet has opened her shelves to local entrepreneurs, offering retail space to fellow Montgomery County small business owners with ready-to-sell packaged products like snacks and baked goods.

“It’s one of my ways of building community—helping others get exposure and grow their brands,” she says.

The deli also caters to private events and parties with wholesale beverage pricing and even free delivery for larger orders. “If you’re planning a meeting or a birthday party on a budget, let us be your go-to supplier,” she says.

Juliet hopes this spotlight not only boosts awareness of the deli but connects her with more local collaborators—from small businesses to event planners to chambers and organizations looking for reliable catering and beverage vendors.

Behind her entrepreneurial hustle is a firm belief in showing up intentionally. “Know your why,” she says. “Be consistent. Show up with purpose. This journey isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon.”

And for Juliet, that journey is about more than success—it’s about leaving a legacy her children, and her community, can be proud of.