Starting and growing a business is hard, but often deciding to start the business in the first place is even harder. We asked some successful entrepreneurs from around the community to open up to us about how they thought about starting a business.

David Norec | Author

For me as an author, it was all about my personal story. After my brother and sister died from complications of diabetes, through an answered prayer, God placed in my heart the idea to write this specific book to help children learn about the perils of unhealthy living and the benefits of exercise. I never envisioned starting my own business, but personal tragedy opened the door to something unexpected. Read more>>

Grace Nguyen | Portrait Photographer

I started as a sports photojournalist in 2018 and found a passion for photography in the way a photo could capture various emotions and reactions at once. People were reaching out to me after seeing my sports work to see if I could do senior and family portraits. That’s when I realized I could take what I love and turn it into a business that I would be happy running every day. Read more>>

Gladys McClendon | Co-Founder & Sr. Talent Agent

As professional dancers, the owners auditioned for a role for a Facebook commercial. They got the part and their scenes were included in the final edits of the commercial. Co-owner, Gladys McClendon, is the creative director of the Curvy Queenz of Dallas dance team, and diligently searched for an agent for her team with no success. Her friend, business partner and fellow dancer, Brittainye Wise would go on to motivate and encourage her to start her own agency, as she was already doing the work of an agent. Gladys has over 20 years experience in the entertainment industry and her dream has always been to provide opportunities to other gifted people. Premier Lighthouze was created to empower individuals to let their light shine and use their gifts in the industry. Read more>>

Ruthie Murry | Pastry Chef & Owner

It has been my dream to own and operate a bakery since childhood. Since then, my whole life’s trajectory has been aimed towards this dream. I started cooking and baking on my own in middle school and I took culinary classes in high school. I graduated from Johnson & Wales University in 2015 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Baking & Pastry Arts and Food Service Management. After meeting my husband, he encouraged me to quit my corporate desk job and pursue my dream by opening a bakery from home. After nine months of being open from home, we got the opportunity to open our brick-and-mortar store. It wasn’t really a thought process as much as it was a life’s calling. Read more>>