Deciding to start a business is an unusual decision. It’s often considered irrational and yet for many it’s the best decision they’ve ever made. So we asked folks to think back to when they were starting their businesses and to tell us about their decision making process.

Rosa Murillo | Artist & Jeweler

The hardest step was to start. Even though that I’ve been doing this for several years, it took a leap of faith when my husband was “right sized” at his corporate job and we both decided to jump into the opportunity of making jewelry full time – I would dedicate 100% of my time to create, while my husband would manage all the aspects of the business and our family logistics – I’ve discovered that my husband can cook very well! In retrospect, I wish we had done this a long time ago, it’s been difficult at times and we don’t have everything figured out, but we have allowed ourselves to make mistakes on the go – many of them! – however, it is incredibly rewarding to wake up in the morning and be excited about your work, the creativity we will pour in every piece we create is energizing, working in what I truly love keeps me moving forward. Read more>>

Dr. Brittney Sanders | Founder of Top Tier Wellness & Beauty, and Top Tier Wellness & Beauty Academy

I’m Dr. Brittney Sanders, I‘ve been in nursing since I was 19, I started off as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant), then LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) then a RN (Registered Nurse). Now I’m a Board Certified Doctoral prepared Nurse Practitioner with 11 years of health care experience. I wanted to close the gap for women like me to get procedures done and I wanted them to have a safe place to get procedures done, and leave a legacy for my family, where I’m happy and doing something that I love and help people build their confidence. I’m the founder of Top Tier Wellness & Beauty, a Med Spa that serves as Michigan’s go to for Botox and lip filler enhancements. Read more>>

Brooke Rozmenoski | Functional Nutritionist and Personal Trainer

I wanted to change the narrative on how I was seeing women treat their body, themselves, motherhood… all of it. I was watching too many women struggle and be told to eat less and just exercise more only to feel more frustrated and like their body was broken when really its because the information being given to them didnt take into account what they were truly needing. Our business aims to not only let women be heard but truly support them in getting what they want and how they desire to feel in their skin by supporting them in what they truly need, especially in a world where the information is overwhelming. Read more>>

Cheryl Kaletka | Executive Director & Founder of Fellinlove Farm

My name is Cheryl Kaletka and I am the Founder of Fellinlove Farm. As a former teacher (5 years) and education professor (19 years), a parent of young adults with unique needs (oldest daughter with seizure disorder and youngest daughter with Down syndrome/repaired severe heart defects) and a caregiver to
aging parents (recently passed away from dementia), I considered every component of the farm to directly reflect intentional design. Fellinlove Farm was designed and developed to socially, physically, recreationally, mentally, emotionally, aesthetically benefit our guests in our community who may live with similar concerns. Read more>>

Doreen Hunter | Professional interior designer

Despite facing multiple rejections from job interviews in my desired field of interior design, I refused to give up. Rather than waiting for opportunities to come my way, I took charge and created them for myself. Today, after three decades of hard work, I am proud to be a successful business owner, having started as a sole proprietor and then incorporated. Our secret to long-term success lies in our unwavering commitment to networking, participating in trade shows and conferences, and volunteering within the industry. My recent appointment as the chapter president of the Michigan American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), the largest professional organization for interior designers, is a testament to our commitment to excellence. Read more>>

Dorothea Foster | Licensed, Professional Counselor of a Group Private Practice

My my thought process behind starting my group private practice was my commitment and passion for helping others address some of the challenging times that impact their lives. I wanted to target individuals, families, and couples that struggle with mental health issues. In a holistic approach. I wanted to draw from my personal and professional experiences, create a safe space, and also advance mental health awareness in the community Read more>>

Lisa Hurt | Candle Artisan

I knew that I wanted to start a business and name it after my deceased mother. At the time, I did not know what type of business I wanted to pursue. I had so many ideas like selling hair bundles, teaching online classes, starting a food business, and an online clothing boutique. When I researched candle making, I immediately knew that would be the ideal business for me. Read more>>

Blight Hernandez | Artist-Fashion Designer

I wanted to make my Conscious Art wearable, so the first Tshirt design was born. I didn’t want to be just any other Brand that slaps their logo, or some meaningless image onto clothes. I wanted it to reflect everyone from all walks of life. Provocative designs that highlight Duality. Something that hits the soul to those walking down the spiritual path. Calling on those who may be feeling lost or found. Something that can bring common ground and raise higher consciousness in all of us. Read more>>

C. CASH | Visionary Architect

Ever since a small child I’ve conducted and managed businesses. From selling candy, bartering erasers, pencils and trading cards in elementary age, knew I always wanted ownership, Didn’t know exactly how cooperate business worked, but I was sure it was for me. Little did I know, I was already running a business, and have spearheaded or been involved in creating/opening/scaling companies ever since. It’s a passion for me, and just makes sense numbers wise. With this brand it was a no brainer, we studied the market and saw a lane where we could add value. Now we’re ready to teach our community proven business techniques. Read more>>

Eric Troy | Founder & CEO, Eficionado, LLC

I was motivated to start my own business once I realized that my gift for connecting people and speaking could be maximized by launching Eficionado. The mantra for Eficionado is “A Better You! Your Best You! ” Throughout my professional career in corporate America and the global sports industry, I strived to present my Best work and to learn from those who are smarter than me. I have a saying, that if you are the smartest one in your group, time to get a new group. We are all measured at the end of the day to present our best ideas and strategies that will assist your company, client, and team in reaching their goals and making a profit. Read more>>