Where you grew up and your background can often have surprising effects on our lives and careers. We’ve asked folks from the community to tell us about how their background has affected them.

Stacie Paris | Fine Art Photographer

I was born and raised in the Dallas area. As a child, I was very creative and loved anything to do with the arts. I would always have rolls of film from my little pink camera for my parents to have developed. There were constant messes from my projects and paintings everywhere you looked. I also enjoyed spending time with my grandmother. We would spend the summer looking at old photo albums, drinking coffee, cooking, sewing, gardening, and watching the hummingbirds. Grams grew up poor and neglected but she accomplished amazing things. Read more>>

Melissa Harris | Portrait Photographer

I enjoyed anything and everything art related and of course loved taking pictures of my family and friends on those Kodak film disposable cameras *WOW, I feel old lol!* My mom used to create photo albums all of the time and my heart was so happy when she helped me create my own. Photography is such an important and special part of my life and I gain the utmost satisfaction when working with my clients so that I can create memories that they can cherish as well. Read more>>

Saru Nemkul |  Owner glamorous eyebrows and skin

Originally I am from Nepal. My father Rameshwor Nemkul always been my inspiration and motivation. He is one of the successful industrialist businessman in Nepal. He have couple of textiles now. Growing up we didnt have much but I have always seen my father working hard and making things happen. I saw him from struggling makin thigs happen and becaming the employer of hundred of workers today. He is very hardworking person and I always admire him and proud to be his daughter. He is first person who influenced me to take risk, work hard and always be humble. I have always learned hard work beat talent mentality from him. Read more>>

Geetha Rao | Artist

I am originally from India, but have travelled all over the world. My childhood was spent in Iran and the Middle East. After a few years back in India, marriage brought me to the United States. I have now lived here longer than in any other country. My husband and I also love to travel and I use those trips to inspire me to create impressionistic abstract pieces. Read more>>