Our city is home to so many incredible businesses and so we asked the founders how they came up with the ideas for their businesses and have shared their responses below.

Angela Isacksen | Gift Concierge & Stylist

I was in the styling business for over 10 years, styling kids’ birthday parties as well as families for professional photo sessions. While l absolutely loved working with families on these special events, I began to notice the need for another form of styling service. I have always enjoyed presenting gifts in beautiful and unique ways. It was a holiday party I hosted that truly inspired me to pivot and take the plunge to start a new business. Read more>>

LaToya Chapman | Educator, Mixologist, & Mobile Bartender

I started mixing cocktails for fun. I didn’t think to take it more seriously until my husband made the suggestion to start selling cocktails. The bar and liquor business runs on both sides of my family; from juke joint owners, to bootleggers and bar owners. I figured it would be nice to keep the tradition going and turn JarPOURium into a family legacy. JarPOURium is more than just mobile bartending and mixing drinks. It serves as the catalyst for the Black community to be introduced to fine, rare liquors that aren’t typically marketed to us. I wanted JarPOURium to be a service focused on exclusivity and posh amenities. Read more>>

Jake Warrilow | Graphic Designer

I formed Gold Step Design on the basis of designing for bands and brands that I love. I have blended my passions, music, design, food, travel, beer and more into one collective. Read more>>