We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

Kati Astraeir

Since I was very young, one of my favorite things to do was to leap into the unknown with full trust. At the age of three, I would play with an old tape recorder and microphone, recording spontaneous songs in the present moment. I remember vividly the sensation of my consciousness expanding through that creative process. Read More>>

Angelia Malbrew

For me, risk has been a constant companion in both my life and my career. But I don’t look at risk the way most people do. I see it as an invitation—an opportunity to bet on myself, even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.

The truth is, my entire career has been built on risks. Walking away from a comfortable career to pursue photography full-time was a major risk. And now, evolving my brand into a more exclusive, luxury experience—and even expanding into consulting—is another level of risk that required faith, courage, and clarity. Read More>>

Shia Marie

Without a doubt, I first give all gratitude to God. My journey in this life has not been an easy one. I must say an important factor behind where I am today all started with the decision my now deceased mother made. I grew up in a household filled with domestic violence. At a young age, 6, I lived in survival mode. The most important factor behind my “success” or where I am today, all stims from the decision my mother made to have my 4 siblings and I go live with my aunt and uncle, across the country, permanently. Read More>>

Anne Curry

As a young mom, I was earning $5 an hour cleaning houses and teaching preschool while my husband worked in the nonprofit world. We got married young, knowing that his calling likely meant we’d never earn enough to own a home. When we got married, we had a candid conversation with each other where we just said, “With our career paths and income, we have to be ok with never owning a home.” As I had my own kids though, I would always have a wondering thought of how I was ever going to afford to put them through college. Read More>>

Amanda Olivera

Starting my own business was never part of the plan. Honestly, I didn’t think it was even a possibility for someone like me. Growing up, I believed success meant getting a good education, landing a stable career, and eventually retiring. And I did all of that—well, except for retiring—but something still felt off. I had checked all the boxes, yet I felt unfulfilled. Lost, even. Read More>>

Dave Bentley

I think the one thing that is probably overlooked when it comes to photography, is how much time, effort and expense goes into running a photography business. I think the one comment is always “it’s just pushing a button” or “you’re just taking a few photos”, but that doesn’t consider all the time spent on editing, location scouting, continuing education, traveling to/from the session etc. Read More>>