It takes a lot more than an idea to build a business, but there can’t be a business without the idea. So we asked folks who’ve built wonderful businesses to tell us about how they came up with the idea in the first place.

Ray Ferrier | Adult Hockey Ambassador

The idea for my business actually stemmed from a personal passion that unexpectedly became a pivotal part of my life. At 35, I ventured into the world of ice hockey at the invitation of a friend, and from the moment I stepped onto the rink, I was captivated. What began as a recreational activity soon evolved into something much more profound. Read more>>

Jessica Williams | Charcuterie Specialist, Caterer and Food Stylist

I come from a family of great Italian cooks, especially my mom & grandmother, who have spent a lifetime in food service, and it shows in all of the little details that helps us make your experience special and unique. I started working in the food industry at 15 years old. Learning as much as I could and then I started teaching myself and did until COVID, when I decided to open my own business. I had the knowledge about cheese and meat & continue to gain more. This has given me not only a professional insight into making peoples food dreams come true, but a personal taste which lets me guide customers to the best possible pairings. Read more>>

Lear Mason | Some Days Are Darker

Some Days Are Darker was began as a method of finding my way back to myself after a period in my life where I was completely lost. My music, my career, and my sense of self were all kind of misaligned and skewed by a lot of negative experiences. The early songs were intentionally bleak. So much so that those around me, including my friends who were working on it with me were like, “are you sure you want it this bleak?” The answer was always yes. Read more>>

Janet Cabral | Owner of the Little Plant Market

One day we’re were on our way home from a small family trip and we stopped at a plant shop and I of course would be that person to buy plants on vacation. I’m very passionate about plants and coffee and thought it would be a great way to spend my days, surrounded by things I love. I’ve always wanted a business and felt like it was the perfect time in our lives to try and make this dream a reality. My husband is a welder and can take my ideas and turn them into objects such as the cactus water drips and I can pick out houseplants and serve coffee to happy customers. Plants do make people happy. Read more>>