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.

John D | Public Relations

Here at Body Aware and XDress we absolutely love our community. We show this love by creating unique sexy men’s lingerie for our customers that they cannot get anywhere else. It turns out that many men want to be able to wear a pair of panties, or a thong, that is designed and built for a man’s body. There is no shame in desiring any of these things, and we want our community to know we fully support them. Read more>>

Lexxi Meshan | Arizona’s Female Lyricist of the Year

The most important factor behind my success, is the mantra I live by:
Never. Give. Up. I began my music career in 2011. Since then, I’ve worked literally every single day on my craft and also the business side of things, which allowed me to start my own music companies and hire or “sign” myself; resulting in me writing my own checks. I remember the first 3 to 5 years of my career, doing everything I could to get signed. Eventually I decided to learn the actual business for myself. Read more>>

Jordan Lee | Professional Photographer

The most important factor behind my success in photography is my unwavering commitment to serving my clients. I believe that every image tells a story, and my goal is to capture the unique essence of each individual and moment. By prioritizing open communication, understanding my clients’ visions, and tailoring my approach to meet their needs, I create a collaborative environment where they feel valued and heard. This dedication not only enhances the final product but also fosters lasting relationships, leading to referrals and repeat business. Ultimately, my clients’ satisfaction is at the heart of everything I do, and their stories are what drive my passion for photography. Read more>>

Gabrielle Painter-downing | Cosmetic Tattooer/ Tattooer

For me it always comes back to authenticity and self compassion. Having art as a job is such a blessing and also a big time journey through the self and self worth. It stirs up things and shows you paths you wouldn’t expect. It’s vulnerable and so to me it’s important to have compassion and stay true to myself, first. Read more>>

Leticia Zecca Ross | Senior Attorney, Zecca Ross Law Firm P.C.

I was born in Brazil in 1978 but part of a second-generation Italian immigrant family. I moved to the US in 2016, more specifically to Washington, D.C. for a Master of Laws Degree at Georgetown Law University. When I decided to get my LL.M in General Studies, focusing on international business transactions, corporate law, contract law and intellectual property, I was already an attorney licensed in Brazil, a Public Defender for 14 years, and had open my first business, a coffee shop (Btw, I love coffee! I really am a bit of a coffee snob!). Once I graduated from Georgetown University in 2018, I moved to San Diego, California and passed the California Bar Exam. Read more>> 

Allison Duquette | Psychotherapist

Who I am today came from a long journey of self-discovery and some impulsivity, however, through it all a common thread has existed. I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, not far from O’Hare airport. My mom began working for United Airlines at their headquarters in 1989, which allowed me an opportunity to travel all over the world before I graduated from high school. I moved to Arizona to attend ASU and majored in French. Read more>> 

Andrea Turnbow | Grief Educator, Coach, & Speaker

After experiencing a number of my own grief events, I started noticing two common themes that helped pull me out of the heaviest moments; community and creativity. When someone experiences grief firsthand, they often don’t know where to turn or where to find the tools needed to navigate the new life they’re heading into. This leaves them struggling in isolation while their mind is swirling with confusion, sadness, and overwhelm. Read more>>