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.

Taylor and Denzel Stroman | Luxury Houzz Party Owners

I have always had a creative spirit and I love to add that extra “flare” to any event! Seeing my vision or ideas come to light and the reaction we get once we have completed a set up for an event never ceases to make me smile. Read more>>

Travis Boyd | Minister/ Welder

I am from Greenville, SC. My background was extremely rough but it taught me how to survive and handle the pressures of life. What I went through then has made me stronger today. I truly believe that without a test I would not have a testimony. Without some misery, I would not have a ministry. I am more ambitious, more motivated now because of everything I have endured. Read more>>

Tameka Simmons | Mother, Caregiver, Advocate, Non-Profit Founder

Through Evely’s Eyes is dedicated to making a significant social impact by supporting families with children who have rare medical conditions. Our mission is to empower these families through advocacy, community engagement, and specialized programs. One of our key initiatives is the ImmUnity Play Circle, which provides inclusive play opportunities for immunocompromised children. This program not only offers a safe space for children to socialize and play but also fosters a sense of community among families facing similar health challenges. Read more>>

Hailey, Maddie Covell, Hilliard | Honey Haus Co-Founders

We’re big on helping out the freelance and creative community by 1. Not gatekeeping and 2. Bringing people together on projects that feel 100% aligned with them, and gives them a chance to work with and meet other creatives. Long term, we want to be a resource for the freelance community by hosting events, community gatherings, and other chances to network with people in similar (or totally different!) circles. We’re all about connection. On the flip side, we help businesses who are passionate about their brands, products, or services get seen. Read more>> 

Chelsey Ferris | Owner & Pastry Chef of The Sugar Crumble

The Sugar Crumble, a bakery based in Charleston, South Carolina, has carved a unique niche for itself in the local community by specializing in the creation of meticulously decorated with icing and hand painted, custom-made cookies. IIn addition to creating custom orders, open and private classes are hosted to teach others or just for fun. The bakery also funds a small non-profit called ‘Bags of Love’ that provides foster children with brand new duffle bags. I take immense pride in the strong network of relationships that have been built over the years, fostering sustainable connections with businesses, non-profits, and other clients. Read more>>

Kelsey Myers | Creator of Six-Forty Swimwear

Growing up, “can’t” was the four-letter word we weren’t allowed to say in our home. Even to this day, the word leaves a bitter taste in my mouth. I remember as a kid being in the backyard shooting hoops with my dad and I said “I can’t make one” in frustration, and he must’ve made me shoot free throws about 40 times until I made a few – just to prove it to myself that I could. I stuck to other sports that required less hand-eye coordination but that was always a good lesson for me in not giving up. Read more>>

Kat Beanland | Business Coach & Inspirational Speaker

One of the pivotal decisions that significantly contributed to my success, aside from choosing to start a business, was the profound act of finding, defining, and fulfilling my purpose. In my college years, I read the book The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. This book jump started in me a desire to not just have a deeper relationship with God but to also discover what God wants from me, what God has placed in me to fulfill. Some would call it destiny, but I call it the divine will of God for my life. Read more>> 

Jessica Merithew | Photographer & CEO

I just do it! I always say that it’s absolutely worth trying something new like a big move, a new business, etc. If it doesn’t work, you can always go back to what you were doing before. Often though, it works out and you’ve found yourself a happier life. For me, risk is necessary to live a fulfilling life. I have created a beautiful life for myself by taking (mostly) calculated risks, and continuing to do so feeds my soul, both in business and in my personal life. Sure, starting a business is a huge risk, however it doesn’t end there. Read more>>

Thea Bloch-Neal | Business owner, art & design

Risk taking is so hard, but I think to be a successful entrepreneur you have to feel comfortable stepping into that. Risk is where you often find success and it when you can be your most creative. I think of business risk in two parts: low risk and high risk. Low risk maybe be something like going out to a networking event by yourself. High risk is making a strategy or design pivot that feels risky. Learn when to try both of these and as you do it more, you’ll learn how to trust your gut or feel more comfortable adjusting as you try new things. Read more>>