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.

Sadie Simmons | Photographer and Videographer

The name of my business is definitely a non-traditional one and I wanted it that way! I wanted to go with something that fit my brands aesthetic of a western film feel, and since I focus heavily on a nostalgic feeling within my work, I incorporated something that was nostalgic to me and my family! The name came from an old inside family joke where I used to make a toy horse pretend to smoke cause he was a “bad boy”, so we called him Smokin’ Horse and he would always get into all kind of hijinks that would make my siblings laugh. Once I coined the name of my business I decided I wanted to cover both photography and videography since I have my degree in both, so ‘Media’ was added on and here we are! Smokin’ Horse Media was born. I wanted to offer a service that created a warm, nostalgic, and film feel to my clients and with my love of weddings it just made sense that I combine them all together! Doing weddings, couples, family, and commercial photography/film all started from a silly little joke with my family and my passion for creating! Read more>>

Darin Triplett | Artist

The idea for my business emerged from a deep longing for a space where creativity could flourish without constraints—a place where art could be celebrated in its purest form. I envisioned an environment where liberty and elegance coexisted, where individuals could express themselves freely, explore new ideas, and immerse themselves in transformative experiences. This longing to break free from traditional boundaries drove me to create something more than just a typical art studio or event venue. Read more>>

Abigail Wynn | Dog Boarder

In a traditional sense, I would say success is how profitable and popular a business is. However, I think the ultimate definition of success is much bigger than that. It is the freedom to do what you love and earn a living from it. I am lucky enough to do what I love everyday by taking care of dogs. It fulfills me. I believe to find success, is to find your purpose. Read more>>

Michelle Gruben | Owner/Founder, Grove and Grotto

Oooh, that’s a meaty question. It’s something every entrepreneur has to ask themselves when they’re first getting started—or if not at the beginning, then at some point of crisis down the road. I don’t have an easy answer to the question of when to give up. I’m tempted to say, of course, that it depends on the person and the circumstances—but that’s a cop-out, so I’ll try to go a little deeper. Read more>>

Jessica L. Purvis | Children’s Book Author & Small Business Owner

Habits that help me succeed are telling someone I trust my plans and allowing them to hold me accountable. I told my husband that I wanted to finish writing my children’s book and get it published. Not only did he hold me accountable and check in with my progress, but he put me in communication with different people I could speak with for help. Read more>>

Poca Nova | Music Artist

Faith Read more>>

Kristen Washington | Democratic Candidate for Texas House District 2

Happiness, for me, is deeply rooted in the moments I spend with my family and loved ones. These are the people who provide me with unwavering emotional support and joy, often in ways they might not even realize. The simple, genuine connections we share bring me immense happiness and remind me of the importance of love and togetherness. Read more>>

Paige Bennett | Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner & Content Creator

I am happiest when I make time to do the things that I love. This includes completing pilates classes, spending time with friends, going on daily walks, cuddling with my dogs, attending church service, and talking with my parents! Read more>>

Shalon Morrow | Post op and Body Contouring Expert

My work life has changed significantly over time. Running a business while making time for family and handling various other responsibilities has transformed our lives. I’ve learned the importance of not overworking myself. Now, I prioritize taking my own self-care days and set aside a day just to sit and reflect. Read more>>