Every overnight success we’ve seen has been years in the making. And those overnight successes are rarely because of an amazing idea or a stroke of luck. We asked some of our favorite folks from the community about what characteristics are at the heart of their success story?

Laila Alchaar | Brand, Event, and Family Photographer

I run my business around the motto “if you build it, they will come.” I think it’s so important to provide an accurate vision of your brand to the world so you can speak to your ideal client. Dream clients don’t just show up, you have to speak their language. When I started, I said yes to anyone because I just wanted to keep shooting, but now, especially in my move to Arizona I’m being honest with folks when our visions don’t match. I’m looking for lifelong relationships. Read more>>

Autumn & Brandon Ball | Owners and Head Coaches

Our success completely relies on the success of our athletes. With endurance coaching, we are asking our athletes to trust us and our process so that they can reach their start line well-trained and ready for their distance goal. When they cross the finish line, especially for the first time, it is such an incredible feeling. Most folks want to share that with everyone. That is how SWET grows! Read more>>

Petra Krebbs | Business Consultant & Strengths Strategist ™

The most important factor behind any success is the people. Motivational Speaker, Jim Rohn has said “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” We are influenced by the people we spend time with, but also the people we serve. My journey has been shaped by the people I have met along the way. In my personal and professional journey I have learned to spend intentional time with other people who seek to become the best version of themselves. I look for others who choose hope, who find a way forward and who believe in keeping a positive mindset. Read more>>

Alexander Virgili | Networker and project manager

The short answer is: passion. I’ve always been passionate about creating something for the community that could gather people together and be an umbrella under which we could operate. From what was just an hobby, I’ve undertaken many steps in this direction investing in my own abilities for public relations, organizational management and emotional intelligence. Read more>>

Domenica Groulx | Store Owner

The most important factor behind the success of my store is the people in our community selling their gently-used kids’ stuff to us. This is how we get 90% of our inventory and we appreciate all of our customers selling to us. We differ from consignment stores because we buy their items for cash on the spot and assume all of the the risks to re-sell their items. That being said, we have a thorough sorting process that allows us to buy the best items and offer excellent products of various brands and current styles. Read more>>

Mateja Vrckovic | Lifestyle Photographer

Being open to new people and acquaintances and constantly learning by following the advice of the best in the profession. Also, I approach each client individually, listening to them carefully and making their wishes my priority. Furthermore, always looking for innovation and trends in photography and being in the loop with new technology. Ultimately, the most crucial act was communicating my values and lifestyle and attracting clients with similar goals in business and life. Read more>>

Jonathan Wang | Senior Creative Director

At ESW, we believe that the most important factor behind our success is the people. We are driven to meet the goals of our clients, we respect and are also inspired by each other, and we’re a family who have a desire to do our best for each other. The relationships with our team are built on trust and mutual respect, and we believe that this is the KEY to our success. We’re proud of our team and the work that we do, and we’ll continue to work hard to build strong relationships with our employees. Read more>>