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.

Tiffany Kroeger Suzanne Canon | Co-Founders

When we decided to start our own business, it stemmed from a shared passion for fashion and the desire to create something uniquely ours. We each began our journey with separate online boutiques on Poshmark, which is where we first crossed paths. It didn’t take long for us to realize that we had not only similar styles but also complementary skills and a shared vision for what a boutique experience could be. Our friendship blossomed, and we quickly became besties. We both felt there was something special about joining forces, so in 2016, we took the leap and founded Infinity Raine. Our goal was to build a brand that reflects our love for fashion, our commitment to quality, and our desire to connect with our customers in a meaningful way. Read more>>

Dave Lincoln | Jazz Guitarist

I had been employed by many of DFW’s top bandleaders going back to the late 1970’s and was considered one of “the guys” in DFW on guitar when it came to covering a variety of guitar styles: Rock, Country, Blues, Jazz, and R&B. These bandleaders slowly started to retire. I ventured out on my own, embarking on a solo career playing jazz guitar, largely out of necessity. It was a natural evolution of job opportunities drying up just as my inner sensibilities were yearning for a new and different focus for my music. I believed that I could follow my heart,
and some level of success would follow. I’m humbled and amazed by how well it has worked out, as is probably best exemplified through numerous Member’s Night performances I’ve done at the Dallas Arboretum. Read more>>

Danielle Olorunnisomo, Mba | Accountant and Business Consultant

I realized I was tired of dedicating my time and energy to building someone else’s dream. Over the years, I learned the importance of self-belief and hard work, often seeing my contributions fuel someone else’s success. This inspired me to start my own business, where I could focus on the unique needs of small business owners by offering customized services and education. My goal has always been to create a boutique-style business that allows me to provide truly personalized service. I believe that personal connection is the foundation of any successful business relationship. Read more>>

Amaris Espinoza | Entrepreneur, DJ & Creative

My thought process behind starting my own business was very rapid and something that I picked up quickly. It all happened very naturally. What started off as a hobby and passion for music seamlessly turned into a thriving DJ business. I began to play at my family backyard parties and then playing from vendor markets, to quinceañeras, weddings and women conferences. It all started in 2022, when my parents bought me my first DJ board for Christmas. It all seamlessly transitioned from a passion to a profession and its been very exciting and rewarding. Read more>>

James Larabee | Owner and co-founder of Iolite Studioz

Starting our voice acting journey in 2011, we discovered there was a need for resources and education that were required to allow actors to pursue their dreams. Also, it helped provide an opportunity to get away from the corporate world that was consuming a lot of our time. With over a decade of acting and voice acting experience, it was great to be our own boss. Read more>>