Starting and growing a business is hard, but often deciding to start the business in the first place is even harder. We asked some successful entrepreneurs from around the community to open up to us about how they thought about starting a business.

Alexandria Nicole | Marketing Expert & National Community Network Founder

When I founded Alexandria Nicole Consulting Ltd. and the Elevate Your Growth community, my thought process was driven by a clear vision and personal passion. I identified a significant gap in the market where businesses and individuals were struggling with effective marketing strategies and lead generation. Having experienced these challenges firsthand, I was motivated to create a platform that offered tailored consulting services to address these specific needs. My personal journey and deep-seated passion for helping others succeed in business fueled my desire to share my expertise and empower others. Read more>>

Michelle Hart | Family & Boudoir Photographer

 

As the product of parents who were entrepreneurs at various points in their lives, being my own boss was something I always considered. I didn’t always want to be a photographer. When I was 5, I wanted to be a veterinarian. As I grew, I wanted to be an author, then a massage therapist, and then an interior designer. It honestly wasn’t until I got my first job as a green screen and event photographer, that I considered it as a possible career avenue. I had always loved chasing my friends around with throw away cameras and recorders since childhood, but at that point in my life, there was something extra special about being able to help others see themselves in a positive, beautiful “lens” through my photography. They say do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life. While I don’t agree that it doesn’t still feel like work, I do absolutely love this work, and I’m so thankful to past Michelle for going for it. Read more>>

Erin Rockenhaus | Educational program, camps, workshops

Stepping out of the classroom and into the world of business is a big leap! However, I made the leap because I had a treasure to share– a unique approach to STEM education. So, I created camps, workshops, and teaching resources called Circular STEM and offered them to the local community. I knew I would need local partners, and was blessed to find Sue Watts and the SC Botanical Garden leaders as well as Celeste Elliot and the Collaboration Station. They were both looking to innovate and start something new, so we got the ball rolling. A year later, I am still launching new programming, reaching new populations and age groups, and learning every day. My goal is to offer something valuable to local kids and families, and from there to extend and publish for a wider audience. Read more>>

NaTasha Riling | Photographer

You know starting a business can be scary cause you really don’t know how it’s going to turn out. If your heart is telling you to do it but your mind is telling you something else. I have been there follow your heart and all your dreams will come true. At first, it won’t be easy. You will have your ups and downs, but you continue to fight continue to show this is what you want. Never give up. Read more>>