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.

Combina Key | Entrepreneur & Influencer Director

The Wolves LA is a premier partnerships agency based in Los Angeles. Founded by Combina Key, they offer a comprehensive suite of services tailored to streamline brands’ partner programs, ensuring enhanced brand reach and elevated ROI. The idea behind starting The Wolves LA came from Combina Key’s deep understanding of the evolving technology and the immense potential of influencer marketing. Key noticed that many brands were struggling to effectively navigate partnerships and maximize their ROI from these collaborations. Read more>>

Ryan Taylor | Modern, New Age, Traditional Drummer

After having been exposed to the Drum in the indigenous world and witnessing first hand how it is used to gather the people, folks from all walks of life. Differences are put aside, people find their strengths in unity and the Drum pulls us all together. My goal was to create a way for people to unify through music. Read more>>

Kelsey Doletzky | Lead Photographer & President

I grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in a household that valued education and hard work. Despite my passion for photography, my parents were worried about its profitability, so I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in social work and a Master’s in Health Administration. Nevertheless, the idea of starting my photography business has always been on my mind. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of spending time with loved ones and having flexibility. Combining my love for photography with the flexibility of running my own business is the perfect fit. Read more>>

Devon Deshaun | Artist

My thought process when starting my own business was definitely a journey. As a child, I was fortunate enough to see my dad, my grandparents, and even my great grandparents own their own businesses. Since then, I’ve always wanted to follow in their footsteps. I had multiple concepts for a business I wanted to start, but never committed to any. Once I started painting in college I finally realized what I wanted to do. From there, I took the necessary steps to make it happen. Read more>>

Carolina Romero | FurRescue Fashions Owner

I wanted to do more for rescue dogs, both donating more to them but also helping fight the stigma that pitbull type dogs have, so I decided to create a small business where we hand make dog clothing and accessories focused on big chested dogs, and we donate 30% to a different rescue every month. FurRescue Fashions was born out of a desire to help change the negative stereotypes that surround bully breeds, particularly pit bull-type dogs. Our shop dog, Cielo, is believed to be a survivor of an illegal, backyard breeder situation where she was not only neglected but abused. Read more>>