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.

Alyssa Donato

My name is Alyssa, and I’m an astrologer, doula, and herbalist passionate about supporting individuals during transformative life moments. Through my brand, A Ceremony of Birth, I weave together ancient wisdom, modern tools, and deep care to guide people through birth, postpartum, and the rhythms of life. At its core I love supporting people through what we call threshold moments. Where one version of yourself is dying and the other has yet to be born. Read More>>

Amani Finesse

Hi, I’m Amani Finesse, and I’m the founder of Golden Coast Dough, a focaccia business rooted in the heart of San Diego. Before starting this journey, I ran a candle business called Yo Soy Finesse, where I made hand-poured coconut soy candles. However, after becoming a mom, I decided to transition into something that allowed me more flexibility and fit my new lifestyle. That’s when Golden Coast Dough was born in 2024! Read More>>

Amy Gray

I’m a photographer in San Diego, where I love to make enduring memories through capturing families, graduates, proposals, and elopements on the beach! Although I happily shoot sessions other locations like Balboa Park and in an East County field that I love, the beach is my specialty. My favorite images feature big sky and water reflections of my subjects . . . walking, running, twirling, or just taking in the beautiful sunset. Read More>>

Andrew Cortez

Hi, I’m Andrew Cortez, artist, instructor, maybe human. I’m a visual arts instructor at Orange County School of the Arts and teach workshops at Catalyst studio in Westminster, CA, and occasionally a guest demonstrator for art clubs. My subject matter is portraiture, landscape and figurative works, using charcoal, gouache or oil. I participate in plein air events, art shows and art walks where I sell my work, more specifically, mini landscape gouache paintings. I’m currently working on a body of work for gallery representation. Read More>>

Bob Hudson

During my last appearance, I shared the story behind my online photo gallery. I’m excited to announce that I’ve expanded my business portfolio with a new venture: an AI-driven shopping platform called Association Shops International (ASI).

ASI is designed specifically for associations and clubs that want to integrate a branded shopping portal into their websites. The portal is fully customizable, allowing organizations to feature their logos, curated content, and preferred product categories. Read More>>

Chrisotpher Canole

My 10th year as the charity cosplayer Dude Vader in 2024 surpassed all my goals; including 361 media stories worldwide, adding 90 charity appearances as I approach 1,,000 events by the time this article appears, being selected as an Ambassador for The Parkinson’s Foundation, and most of all fundraising for dozens of charities at their 5K walks. Read More>>

Cory Clarke

Hi, I started out working for a commercial kitchen hood cleaning company. I saved money and procured a loan and eventually bought the hood cleaning company from the owner, who was looking to retire. I grew the business over the next 15 years and expected to keep growing the business as a commercial hood cleaner. Read More>>

Dara Simic

We are Srdjan and Dara Simic, owners of Studio Simic. Srdjan is an industrial designer and engineer and Dara is an interior designer. We work on separate projects but collaborate when each other’s specialized skills are needed. What sets us apart is our ability to bring on each other’s talents to various projects and our mom and pop approach to working with clients. We keep our overhead low and those savings get past on to our clients. We have a design process that leaves very little room for error and we make the process fun for our clients by leading them through in a very personal and organized way. Highlights of our journey so far have been being at the right place at the right time to meet the person who would successfully collaborate with us. Read More>>

Evelyn Gonzalez

Hello, I am Evelyn Gonzalez, a Multimedia artist and small business owner from San Diego. Over the past several years I have been able to build a brand around my digital artwork and even opened an art shop, where I sell stationary, stickers, and prints of my artwork. I create artwork inspired by anime, cartoons, and sweets. I have a huge love of food, which has heavily inspired my three-dimensional artwork, as I sell food-themed phone cases in my art shop. My brand has a huge emphasis on childhood nostalgia, as I’m not only an artist but I’m also a toy collector. This has allowed me to branch out my artistic skills past the computer screen as I’ve picked up Garage kit-making and toy customization. Read More>>

Haydee Yanez

I’m Haydee Yanez, a proud native Cora from Tepic, Nayarit, and I grew up in the colorful, dynamic border town of Tijuana, México. My creative journey began with a simple idea during my college years at Universidad Iberoamericana – MexiconsArt. What started as a small thesis project (a coloring book for kindergartners!) has blossomed into a lifelong mission to celebrate the rich tapestry of Mexican icons, stories, and traditions through design. Read More>>

Jacob Graham

My name is Jacob Graham, but most people just call me Jake. I’m a photographer based in Southern California, running Jacob Graham Photography, where I specialize in capturing meaningful stories through portraits, weddings, and family sessions. Over the past year, my work has taken me on some exciting journeys—from intimate maternity sessions on the beaches of Hawaii to photographing landscapes and cityscapes throughout France, Belgium, and Italy. Read More>>

Jacob Williams

As a PGA Associate and the founder of Golf Upgrades LLC in San Diego, CA, I specialize in personalized golf coaching that caters to each player’s unique strengths and goals. My philosophy blends time-tested techniques with innovative tools such as swing analysis and biomechanics, ensuring that every golfer I work with has the opportunity to elevate their game in a fun and engaging way. Read More>>

Jaz Graf

I investigate ideas of legacy by way of materials and thru embodied practice. This manifests as artworks, experiential research, collaborative projects, and educational outreach.

I trained as a printmaker, which led me to be critical of the types of paper I use. Increasingly, I make my own paper from natural and local materials. Paper, especially handmade, is not merely a substrate, but functions as being both subject and object in my art. I am fascinated by the material capacities of handmade paper to record time and ecologies, tracing a dialogue between nature and civilizations. Read More>>

Jeff Lavin

I’m Jeff Lavin, a high-performance business coach, private equity professional, and founder of the Free Range Human Community. My work revolves around empowering individuals and businesses to unlock their potential and achieve extraordinary results. Whether it’s through strategic capital raises, scaling ventures while ensuring 100% equity retention, or inspiring others to embrace the Adventurepreneur lifestyle, my mission is to lead by example. Read More>>

Jodi Cilley

Teaching and filmmaking has been a passion turned career of mine for the past 20 years. In 2012 I started the Film Consortium San Diego as way to support our local film community and provide out of the classroom opportunities for the many students in my film classes who did not have access to real-life hands-on experience on film sets. The Film Consortium was met with thunderous applause from the community, and it has continued to grow and evolve ever since. What started as a monthly networking event evolved into a series of events and servies that support San Diego’s independent film community including San Diego Film Week, San Diego Film Awards and Film Summit. Read More>>

Jp Amistoso

Hi, I’m JP Amistoso, founder and owner of Ganbatte Fitness in Los Angeles. For over 15 years, Ganbatte has been more than just a gym, it’s a community. A place where people come together to support, challenge, and uplift one another. A home for those who believe in showing up for each other, and striving to be just a little bit better every day by doing their best. Read More>>

Julia Haney Montanez

My name is Julia Haney Montanez. I started my career in 2009 when, on a whim—and during the peak of the U.S. recession—I left NYC for Paris, where I discovered design at Les Arts Décoratifs museum. At the time, many of my creative friends had moved to Los Angeles, so I followed one in particular, knowing he’d be a solid support if things got tough. In LA, I dove into interiors, working for a Danish design showroom—my first real design education—while studying part-time at UCLA. Read More>>

Kat Dukes

My name is Kat Dukes, owner of Steel Honey. I’m a stick and poke tattoo artist located in Oceanside. I’m completely self-taught and have been tattooing for five years. Most of my clients describe the machine-free experience as less intense and more tolerable than traditional tattoos. Overall, the process is gentler on skin and heals faster. My style is inspired by nature and the wild west; you’ll see my Instagram profile is awash with desert scenes and an array of animals. I also adore creating pet portraits and memorial pieces for those who have lost their beloved companions. Read More>>

Katie Wagner

I spent 15 years as a TV and radio journalist before starting an agency in 2010. KWSM is a full-service digital marketing agency that specializes in lead generation. We use brand journalism to position our clients as market leaders, so they get in front of a wider audience, build warmer connections, and convert more leads. Our services include Websites & SEO, content creation, videography and digital advertising. Read More>>

Kat Knecht

I am a Wardrobe Stylist based in Oceanside serving the San Diego area. My passion is helping people rediscover their style and wardrobe. I moved from the east coast in 2021 and have been lucky to style and help so many people over the last three plus years. One of my highlights on my journey since moving here was styling a campaign for the FDA down in the heart of San Diego at Balboa Park Read More>>

Kelsey Aida

I’m Kelsey Aida Shugarts (formerly Roualdes), Bestselling Author, Energetic Alignment Expert, and Co-host of The High Vibin’ It Podcast. I help ambitious women to manifest their highest desires and love themselves deeply through that process. I’m most known for my down-to-earth manifestation and self-love teachings. Read More>>

Kenzie Lacy

Hi, my name is Kenzie Lacy, I am a licensed nail technician, fashion lover, and avid reader. From a young age, I was always the girl who had her nails painted with different designs and had a huge polish collection. After getting my Bachelor’s degree I decided to go to beauty school to pursue my passion of doing nails. I started Nails by Kenzie A in October 2023 inspired by my childhood love for nails and wanting to express my creativity. I make custom hand painted and reusable press on nails for everyday wear, special occasion, and seasonal inspired art. My brand is all about having fun and expressing yourself using your nails as an extension of your personality and style. Read More>>

Kim Crawford

Hello I am Dr Kim Crawford, a certified clinical hypnotherapist with an honorary PhD in esoteric studies. The majority of my efforts are based on the laws of creation, our vibrational relationship with the Universe, and helping others cultivate peace of mind.

With over 25 years of experiential living focused on cultivating a better rapport with our subconscious minds it has become possible to formulate highly effective hypnotherapy scripts allowing my clients to implement real & lasting change into their lives. Currently in the works are two short books aimed at helping people become more vibrationally conscious and grasping the concept that no two of us are alike. Both are slated for release in late Spring, 2025. Read More>>

Lindsay Curtis

At A SMART MOVE, we specialize in providing full-service moving solutions designed to make one of life’s most stressful experiences—moving—completely seamless and worry-free. Our mission is simple: to “Calm the Chaos of Moving” by offering reliable, efficient, and personalized moving services that work around our clients’ busy schedules. From packing and transportation to storage solutions, we handle every detail with care and professionalism, ensuring a stress-free transition from start to finish. Read More>>

Pili Aguado

I studied Fine Arts at university, specialising in graphic techniques and years later I started working as a professional illustrator. I live in a village in the Basque Country, surrounded by mountains. I try to make my work coherent with my values and ideas and I would like it to be understood as such. I love travelling and getting to know new places and different cultures. My study partner is a cat who loves to sleep on my drawings. Read More>>

Qiurui Du

So, for anyone new to my world, I’m Qiurui Du. I’m an artist, and I mainly paint with acrylic paints. I love using bright colors and creating paintings that feel a bit dreamy and magical. I’m interested in exploring what it means to be human, especially as a woman today.

I think what makes my art different is that it’s kind of a mashup! I was born in China but studied art in the US, so my work has some East meets West vibe. Also, I’m super passionate about helping other artists, especially young Asian creatives. That’s why I started the E.E Art Group – it’s all about supporting each other and making cool things happen. Read More>>

Robyn Scherer

I’m not only a photographer but also a Mom to three and have been with my better half for 30+ beautiful and fun filled years! We travel as much as we can, boogie board when the ocean isn’t too cold and run just about every morning. Read More>>

Savannah Rose Visser

First and for most grew up in the San Diego dance scene – tap, hip hop, jazz, ballet, you name it!
After that, I ventured to SCAD in Savannah, GA (ya I know lol) for my first degree. I came back to San Diego quickly after (as I had already gotten together with my now boyfriend of 8 years, who was also raised in SD).
I started my freelance design business 1 year later and then we started our apparel & skateboard business 3 years later (2021). Read More>>

Steven Picanza

For those who don’t know me, I’m Steven Picanza, a branding and marketing strategist with a passion for helping businesses and individuals transform ambitious ideas into brands that people believe in. Over the years, I’ve worked with everyone from startups and small businesses to purpose-driven organizations and global enterprises, focusing on creating strategies that resonate with audiences and drive meaningful impact. Read More>>

Susan Osborn

I am a local artist working in the South Bay area of San Diego. I work in many mediums including painting with fabric, collage and acrylic. I am also known for my oil pastel work and also assemblage of found objects. I guess you can say I am multi tasked in my art practice. Read More>>

T.c. De Witt

My name is T.C. De Witt, and I am a writer & director. Professionally, I have written, ghostwritten, and punched-up over 700 screenplays and novels, which sounds like an exaggeration but is not. I’ve worked very hard to make a life in writing, and I’ve been very lucky to succeed in so many ways. Read More>>

Thomas W Schaller

I am a multi award-winning professional artist/author based in New York City. And I work in the medium of transparent watercolor . My work is an amalgam of classical representational art and visionary, imagination-based work using ideas of real or fictional urban landscapes to narrate genuine human experience Read More>>

Zara Murphy

Since we last spoke I actually rebranded my business and changed my name! Call me Zara 

I’m the creative force behind Groovy Palettes Art & Design, based here in sunny San Diego. I’m a visual artist with a deep passion for creating vibrant, eclectic art that not only adds beauty to spaces but also brings people together in meaningful ways. My work is all about spreading joy, empowerment, and a touch of magic wherever it goes. Read More>>

Alex Malo

few of My Business motivators that I consider in the decision process for a new Idea are:

The Product or Solution.
The Emotional Motivation
The Economic Motivation
The End Goal, what Do I want to achieve and How to get there. Read More>>

LaKenya Kopf

I could be the poster child for risk aversion. For me, risk is tied to trust and acceptance. In order to take a risk, you must trust the information you have to make the best decision and be willing to accept the outcome – come what may. Read More>>

Josie Anderson

For most of my life, I played it safe. I followed the rules, stayed in my comfort zone, and did what was expected of me. But what I didn’t realize was that this very mindset—my resistance to taking risks—was quietly holding me back.

It all came to a head during what I can only describe as an early mid-life crisis. I found myself stuck in a loop that left me emotionally drained: wake up, go to work, come home, cook dinner, clean the house, go to bed, repeat. My weekends revolved around my kids’ soccer games—something I genuinely cherish—but the routine, the monotony, had begun to chip away at my mental health. Read More>>

Alana Gillis

The most important factor behind the success of my brand has been the community I’ve found and built along the way. From day one, I’ve been lucky to connect with so many inspiring female small business owners who have become not just peers, but mentors and friends. We’ve been able to share advice, tips, and encouragement through every high and low—and that kind of support has been truly invaluable. In the world of small business, I genuinely believe there’s room for everyone to succeed, and reaching out to connect with others has only opened more doors and made the process feel a lot less lonely. If you’re starting out, don’t be afraid to ask questions, share what you know, and build those relationships—you never know how much you can learn from someone who’s right there in the thick of it with you. Read More>>

Josh King

What makes me happy is knowing that I’m truly making a difference in my student’s lives, and the people who follow me on social media. As a teacher, and teacher influencer, I kind of get the best of both worlds. I’m like the Hannah Montana of teachers. As a Kindergarten teacher I get to encourage kids daily, motivate them to want to learn, and keep them engaged in fun and silly ways. As a teacher influencer, I enjoy getting to act like my students and find new ways to relate to other teachers, make them laugh, and connect with the educator community. This makes me happy and brings me joy. Read More>>