We reached out to some of our favorite entrepreneurs and asked them to think back and tell us about how they decided to start a business. Check out their responses below.

Jimmy Flair | Owner Rare Flair Records & Entertainment

It was more of a reaction. Working a 9-5 is all good but in that process I learned ways to start a business. Music was my first choice and that turned into product and merchandise sales. Read more>>

Kimberly Lavon | Founder, Inventor, Creative Director

When I started my business, my thought process revolved around solving a problem that I, and many others, had experienced—keeping sketchbooks secure without damaging them. As an artist and designer, I knew the frustration of notebooks and sketchbooks becoming disorganized or damaged without proper closure, especially for books that didn’t come with built-in elastic bands like Moleskine journals. This inspired me to create Pad Tie, a practical, creative solution for a niche need. Read more>>

Silvia Schaeffer | Architect & Interior Designer

As a trained architect, when I moved to the U.S., I quickly noticed that architecture and design were quite different from what I had learned and practiced in Brazil. This contrast inspired me to bring elements of my own culture and experiences from my travels into the design space here. I saw a unique opportunity to merge these influences and realized there was a market for it, both among Americans and international clients. This motivated me to start my own business. Today, I focus on interior design, blending global perspectives with local tastes. Read more>>

Melayne Clark | Hair & Makeup Artist

Growing up, I’ve always had a passion for creativity, constantly wanting to have a paintbrush in hand. Growing up in a family that valued creativity, we often spent afternoons doing fun, creative activities together. As I got older, I became really interested in makeup. I would spend hours in my room watching YouTube tutorials, trying to master different looks. Before long, I started painting my face and sharing my own makeup tutorials with friends. Read more>>

B’nathaniel Orlu | Singer & Digital Creator

I pursued an artistic career because I love music. Music allows me to express my emotions and creativity through song. Most importantly, it helps me connect with people who may be feeling the same things but can’t find the words to express it. In those moments of silence, music speaks for them, allowing them to truly feel something. Read more>>

Brandon Lepage | Flute Professor and Performer

When I was trying to decide what direction to go as high school came to a close, the decision to pursue an artistic career was one that felt both natural and intentional. Having been involved in the performing arts for my entire life (coming from a family of musicians), I knew how important It was to me on a social and emotional level, and I wanted to make sure that I was able to stay connected to that as much as possible. I saw and still do see a career in the creative arts as a way to (hopefully) positively impact those around me and to connect members of the community together who might not otherwise participate in things with each other. Read more>>