Starting a business is a commitment and requires dedication, resources and sacrifice. We asked some of the rising stars in our community how they thought through the idea of starting their own businesses.

Ricky Wascher | Recording and Mix Engineer

I really didn’t ever think about going into the audio production business. I had a very modest home studio set up for many years and enjoyed putting demos together at home. In 2013, I recorded an album in a professional studio with my band in the early 90s, and it was released in 1994. In 2013, all of my former bandmates and I got together and decided to do a 20 year anniversary re-release. Read more>>

Jenna Pantin Bermudez | Owner

In 2020, Chaconia Candles began as a small company with a big vision: to promote mental wellness and sustainability in our community. I wanted to create something meaningful, and we quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, sustainably made candles and home fragrances that not only smelled great but also helped to promote mindfulness and relaxation. Read more>>

Caitlyn Martens | Birth Doula, Childbirth Educator, Reiki Practitioner, & Placenta Specialist

Up until 5 years ago, when I first became pregnant, I didn’t know that my current career even existed. Through learning about a friend’s experience with a doula, I started to understand the importance of what that kind of support could provide during a time that was so intimate and uncharted. I realized I had very little information on the topic of birth and my husband and I needed more guidance if we wanted to feel empowered through the process, so we hired a doula as well. Read more>>

Joel Young | Entrepreneur

in 2016, CBD was just starting to come onto the marketplace. I had previously made a career in cannabis and loved it however, my goal was to help people feel better and live better. Cannabis was more focused on “getting high” rather than promoting a healthy lifestyle. I wanted to move away from the stoner culture and move closer to the culture of health and wellness. It was a no brainer for me to move into the CBD market. Read more>>

Bryanna Smith | Sketch Club Cafe Co-Founder | CEO

The idea of Sketch Club Cafe was originally thought up by two artists that fondly have a great love for specialty coffee, social environments, and supporting local small business. SCC was founded by two black women, who more often than not were unable to feel completely comfortable or safe taking up space alone. Read more>>

Richie Evans | Recording Artist / Entrepreneur

The Thought Process Behind Starting My Own Business Was To Be A Testimony That Success Can Happen From Phoenix Arizona. Also Having The Ability To Provide Jobs And Opportunities. As Well As Leave A Legacy For My Family And Last Name Read more>>

Bettina Ishimaru | Nature Photographer

An extreme passion for a specific art form and the desire to express myself and create. Read more>>

Sanroop Singh | Photographer

I have always been passionate about photography. I started capturing moment with my phone and I really enjoyed it . I started capturing all beautiful moments in family, friends with my phone . Thats make me more passionate . So step by step i opened my business named Roop films & studios . Read more>>

Veronica Manzo | Fashion designer, model

I’ve always wanted to be independent and I think there’s nothing more rewarding than reaching a challenge on my own and seeing results Read more>>

Cordaé & Diamond | Salon Owners

We both know firsthand what it’s like to move to a new state, knowing little to no one and making a name for yourself. We created LondonAmoré to give our growing clientele an intimate & luxury experience. Our objective is to collaborate with creative & like-minded individuals who share the same core values in servicing others. Read more>>

Toya Danielle Yarbrough | Licensed Practical Nurse & Wellness Coach

Starting my own business was a decision that came from a deep desire for freedom and the opportunity to help people. I wanted to create something that would not only provide for me but also make a positive impact on others. It’s been an exciting journey so far, and I’m grateful for the chance to pursue my passions while making a difference in people’s lives. Read more>>