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.

Anthony Marini | Chef and Owner

I was living near Philadelphia. Right before Covid started, I was slated to buy a restaurant in which I was the Chef. I was to sign the papers on a Tuesday and Covid hit on the previous Friday. I quickly backpedaled which led me to first consulting for a restaurant group in Atlanta where the owner was a friend to Charleston after visiting several times. My background is in fine dining, but I saw the building (then a Poke restaurant) and took over the lease deciding on sandwiches. It was risk but I figured it would only last 2 years. Read more>>

Shanay Pringle | Host of The Pink Elephant by Shanay Podcast

Women are dying to say what they really think and feel as they journey through life. But because of societal standards, norms, and maybe even family values, we’ve somehow learned to say what “everyone” wants to hear instead of expressing our true thoughts and emotions. The Pink Elephant by Shanay is more than just a podcast—it’s a safe space where women can feel seen, heard, and understood. Read more>>

Nancy Davis | Artist and Gallery Owner

 

Keeping my head down, not comparing myself to other artists, and being myself. We’ve all heard it said, “Do one thing, and do it the very best you can.” If I had to do just one kind of art, I’d be miserable. I’ve made bottle lights, then lighted glass panels, then abstract wall art using alcohol ink. Then I jumped into making custom tumblers. Then I learned how impressionistic painting with acrylics. Somewhere along the way, I began making designer box purses. People have come to expect something new and different from me instead of a specific artistic style. Read more>>

Kate Dieringer | Objects Conservator

I am originally from Northwest Indiana. I grew up in a very family centric environment, and both of my parents always encouraged my sister and I to do our best in school and life, but also enjoy what we are learning and doing. I always gravitated more to the arts than anything else. Photography, sculpture, and ceramics were my go-tos. I did have some hiccups right after high school and made the choice to wait on college.  Read more>>

Layla Saleeby | Woodworker & Furniture Maker

Having creative outlets that challenge me, push me to learn, and allow me to experiment is central in my life, and woodworking happened to be a perfect fit. There’s lots of other crafts I could’ve gotten into (for a short time, I was into jewelry and metalworking), but I think that the mix of art and practicality is what made woodworking really click with me. Read more>>

Hoodsie | Vocalist and producer

It’s all that felt right. I don’t mind doing a 9-5 as long as it’s something I enjoy, but at the end of the day I absolutely love music and everything that comes along with it. Nothing feels better than finally completing that song you’ve been working on for months and months and actually getting to showcase it to the world, whether that be through streaming or preforming it live. Read more>>

Haley Holzworth | Founder & Jewelry Designer

I started my business at 15 years old, so I like to say my business has grown up with me. While I was living under my parents’ roof, school was always the priority, and my business was just a side hustle for extra spending money. However, after graduating college, the dynamics shifted—I needed to sell jewelry to pay my bills, and I mistakenly equated working all the time with making more money. Read more>>