Through our work we have been constantly amazed at the incredible things people in every neighborhood are working on. What’s even more exciting is that they all have different stories, backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses. That there isn’t a single formula for success means that everyone can take their unique set of strengths and characteristics and turn it into a success story. We recently reached out to some folks we admire and asked them what characteristics they feel are responsible for their success.

Edwina Curtis Alarcon | Fine Artist & Graphic Designer

Holding myself accountable has been my recipe for success. If I promise something; I do my absolute best to deliver. When you work for someone else there is always a possibility to be able to blame someone else. When it’s just me, there’s only myself to hold accountable. So I gladly do just that. Read more>>

Tracey Joy McLaughlin | Artist & Small Business Owner

Always bringing new and fresh ideas to my artwork. I am constantly changing and evolving as an artist. I’m always experimenting with new mediums and surfaces to paint on as well as new techniques to bring my art to the next level. I think it is also important to always be pushing out new things, keeping customers interested and changing things up to keep it interesting and fresh. Read more>>

Dawn Estrada | Founder & Owner

For the past 2.5 years that I have had Cake Jars while social media has been an excellent tool for us, word of mouth is golden. Whenever we attend markets, pop ups and festivals our customers would always mention that someone had told them about us and they had to come try it for themselves or someone had brought the jars to them, loved it and they have to have more. Read more>>

Haley Thompson | Professional Photographer

The success of my brand is centered around my love for people. Giving my clients a wonderful, memorable, & fun experience during their session is something I strive to perfect. Read more>>

Shay Olivarria | Permaculturist

My ability to bring people together. After hosting seed exchanges for three years with local non-profit, Golden Valley Events,, last year I decided to add a mesquite pancake breakfast to the seed exchange. It went really well. I asked Permaculture Golden Valley for volunteers and I asked Sew Inclined to sew reusable bags for the event. Read more>>

Imani Hardy | Entrepreneur: Lash Tech, Brow Creator, Hair-stylist, Clothing Designer, Currently in school for my BSN Major Nursing

The most important factor behind my success / brand “Lamour Du Reve” are my kids. My kids are my motivation and my WHY. They make me want to get up everyday and put my best foot forward. I’m obsessed with creating generational wealth. Read more>>