It takes a lot more than an idea to build a business, but there can’t be a business without the idea. So we asked folks who’ve built wonderful businesses to tell us about how they came up with the idea in the first place.

Haeleigh Royall | Actor & Co-Founder of Cinematography for Actors

The initial spark for the business came during a casual conversation while roller skating.
My co-founder, Inde, and I were discussing the challenges actors face on set and how greater technical knowledge could empower them to collaborate more effectively with cinematographers, directors, and the rest of the crew. This led us to envision a platform that would offer specialized education focused on bridging this gap—giving actors the confidence to engage with the filmmaking process more holistically. Read more>>

Tracey Boateng | CEO & Founder

My inherent fashion sense, passion for beauty, and drive for innovation led to the creation of Daringly Posh. Inspired by the idea that nails should be viewed as both accessories and extensions of one’s outfit, I aimed to develop a fashion-forward press-on nail brand. Read more>>

Misti Morgenstern | Founder | Event Staffing Expert

Starting in the wedding photography business, I expanded my services to include photo booths and ushers as part of my wedding packages. With a background in high-end bartending, I had extensive hospitality experience, and I noticed that the staff at weddings often lacked reliability and proper qualifications. Read more>>

Susie Chang

Jason and I graduated together in 2011 from CSULB’s Interior Design program. It was a tough job market and once Jason found out he didn’t get hired from the Architecture firm he dreamed of working at, he decided to start this company. CSULB has an impacted Interior Design program and it’s a tough program to get admitted to. There were countless sleepless nights at school while only taking our pre-requisite classes. Not to mention- a lot more all-nighters in the studio once we actually got in. This studio class is small, only about 20-25 students that will graduate from the program each year. We spent so much time together, that we became a family. Read more>>

Dianne Miles

I realized when working for a big brand waxing chain I saw how the individuals coming in for the services were looked at by the company as numbers rather than individuals. Because of this I had many experiences with customers where they expressed displeasure from cold encounters with other waxers who pushed products and never got to know them or how they were feeling during the service. After my own experiences from getting waxed after high school and paying the high prices for an uncomfortable and rushed 15 minute wax, I wanted to be able to give people a more detailed and comfortable experience. Being able to give them a more personalized time and experience ensures people feel seen and happy to return by adding waxing into their monthly budget and self-care routine. Read more>>

Maria Fernanda

The name Candelitas came from the Spanish language, where “-ita” means cute, making it a Spanglish creation that translates to ‘cute candle.’ I first started making candles as a Christmas gift idea when I was a broke college student. My family and friends were so happy with their gifts. One particular friend liked my candles so much they insisted I sell them. This encouragement motivated me to continue my candle-making journey. Over time, I began experimenting with mixing my own scents, which sparked my creativity and passion even further. Eventually, I realized that to fully bring my vision to fruition, I needed help. So, I hired a small team to help me promote my brand and rebrand our designs. Today, Candelitas stands as a testament to the support of loved ones and the pursuit of a dream. Read more>>

Arianna Shimits, MA, CMPC

After spending a little under a decade as a professional ballet dancer and many years before that as a pre-professional dancer, I was inspired to develop a business focused on helping performing artists and athletes perform their best. During my dance career, I experienced firsthand the immense mental and emotional challenges that come with striving for peak performance. Performance psychology was something I was introduced to later in my dance career, and it had a significant impact on both my dance career and personal wellness. This revelation motivated me to help others who might be struggling with the mental side of performance. Read more>>