The first step to starting a business is deciding to start a business. They say the first step is the hardest and in our experience this is especially true when it comes to starting a business. Getting over the mental roadblocks can be tough, often harder to overcome than the challenges you’ll face once you actually start the business. Fellow entrepreneurs share their thoughts below.

Alexandra Billette | Salon Owner & Stylist

Opening my salon allowed me to take control of several key aspects of my career that were important to me. I loved the idea of hand-picking my team, Starting with great business partners. Building a positive and supportive work environment was a top priority, and selecting stylists who shared our vision of a healthy work-life balance was crucial. Read more>>

Bree Byle | Photographer & Graphic Designer

I worked in the book publishing industry for many years, on both the publishing and retail sides. I also grew up in the book word: both my mom and grandfather are/were writers and worked in the local publishing world. Read more>>

Chris Thompson | CEO & Producer

The thought process behind starting my own business came from the obstacles and barrier’s that were put in my way, sparking my drive and determination to make the kind of music that makes me happy while opening doors for other artists, giving them the freedom to express themselves as they please as well. Read more>>

Keonna Rutley | Owner / Creator

Candle making started as a hobby in 2020 during the stay at home order. I love candles, so I needed a hobby that I could use. I made some as gifts to start out. I was talking to a friend of mine and said maybe I should turn this into a business. She instantly sent me $100 and said go for it. I knew that I want the candles to be simple and bring warmth to a space. Read more>>

Kali Gautam

Starting my own business was deeply personal for me. It wasn’t just about creating a career, but building a legacy. I’ve always believed in the power of beauty to transform confidence, and after years of experience, I knew I needed a space that reflected my vision and heart. As a mother of three, I wanted to show my kids the value of pursuing your dreams, even when it’s hard. Moving from Nepal to the U.S., I faced many challenges, but I learned that growth often comes from stepping into the unknown. My business is a reflection of my journey, resilience, and love for what I do. It’s more than a job—it’s a piece of me that I get to share with each client. Read more>>

Claire and Oliver Oden

Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today. You can include as little or as much detail as you’d like. I began my photography journey in high school, stepping into a dimly lit classroom filled with students who appeared uninterested in the art, simply seeking to add an extra credit class to their schedules. My teacher, an intense perfectionist, had high expectations and was relentless in her critiques. I remember feeling the sting of her words, often leaving the classroom in tears after she pointed out every little flaw in my photography work. Read more>>

Mathangi Vinoth

Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by the process of running a business—the risks, challenges, and rewards have always excited me. While I love the thrill, I also understand the immense pressure and responsibility that come with being an entrepreneur. However, the freedom that comes with owning your own business—the ability to make decisions that align with your values, manage your time, and control your financial destiny—makes it all worthwhile. As an entrepreneur, you can choose the kind of work you take on and set boundaries that fit your vision and goals. Read more>>

Emily Loewer

I’ve worked in all different types of shops in the past, and felt ready to create a space that not only provided the creative environment I craved as an artist but also a calm and intimate experience for the client as well. My business partner Abby and I have cultivated a space that allows clients to feel welcome and confident in their self expression and autonomy. Read more>>