We asked some of the city’s hidden gems to tell us about what they feel is the most important factor behind their success.

Harman Cheema

The most important factor behind my success has been staying true to my values—transparency, long-term relationships, and doing what’s right over what’s easy Here are the 5 things which I always follow:

1️⃣ Transparency Above All
I believe in being 100% upfront—good, bad, or ugly. My clients always know exactly where we stand, and that trust is what builds lifelong relationships.

2️⃣ Long-Term Vision, Not Just Transactions
I don’t measure success by closing a deal; I measure it by how well I’ve set up my clients for wealth, stability, and growth years down the line. Read More>>

Salima Subramanian

The most important factor behind my success has been the evolution of Serenity Studio and staying true to my vision as it became clearer over time. I started almost a decade ago under a different name, but quickly realized I wanted more than just a salon—I wanted to create an experience rooted in wellness and authenticity. About three years ago, when I introduced scalp treatments and my head spa services, the brand began to take shape, and last year I added facials to expand our holistic approach.  Read More>>

Chrissy Cortez-Mathis

The most important factors behind my success is inclusivity and fun. My Yoga classes are accessible for most folks especially my Chair Yoga classes. People will tell me that they thought they would never be able to practice yoga but when they come to a Chair Yoga class, they feel successful and become aware of their bodies in a new way. It helps them disconnect from the thinking mind and come in to the sensations of the body.  Read More>>

Les Bone

I still have a long ways to go in terms of my drag career, but the success I have achieved so far is all due to the community I have around me. And I mean that in the least diplomatic way possible.

Drag takes a VILLAGE! There is SO much that goes on behind the scenes, you have to conceptualize/choreograph your numbers, create and edit your mixes (aka music!), design/sew your costumes, style your wigs, figure out and execute your makeup (ON TIME!), market yourself, and most importantly PERFORMMMM! Read More>>

Dustin Garonzik

The most important factor behind where I am today is the relationships I’ve built in the community. To be a successful DJ it has to go beyond just the sets. The art, the culture, the people, that’s what makes it matter. I’ve never chased what’s hot or locked myself into one genre, I just stay authentic and I think people connect with that. If the scene grows, I grow too, which is why I put energy into booking local talent and giving new DJs opportunities. At the end of the day it comes down to putting on a good show, moving the crowd, and being consistent. I’ve built that trust over the years by showing up, adapting to the energy in the room, and staying curious about new sounds. Read More>>

Sherry Tirado

The most important factor behind my success has been believing in myself, consistently studying & researching the Aesthetics Industry, and keeping a spirit of determination while always seeking innovative ways to grow and stand out. Read More>>

Ty

My thought process was actually pretty simple.
I’ve spent most of my career launching some of the most incredible restaurant brands, dedicating countless hours to building experiences for other people to enjoy. Creativity has always been my strong suit, and whenever I was faced with a challenge, I found a way to turn it into something successful. Read More>>