Every overnight success we’ve seen has been years in the making. And those overnight successes are rarely because of an amazing idea or a stroke of luck. We asked some of our favorite folks from the community about what characteristics are at the heart of their success story?

Michael Reinmiller | Photographer and Videographer

All of my experiences over 20 years have made me a better photographer—I’m so much better than I was 10, 15 years ago. With that came learning how to interact and collaborate with people. I’m able to have a conversation with just about anyone and I’m not afraid to reach out and remind people that I’m around and available. My brand is really about me and my relationships with so many happy customers. Photography and videography is more of a performance art than you might think. Being able to connect with people right away makes this happen. Read more>>

Clint Schwabedissen | Celebrity Video Director: Working With Dave Chappelle, Khalid, and More

One the most important factors to my success is not being afraid to fail or take risks. Ultimately, that factor allowed me to be able to work with clients like Dave Chappelle. It was years ago, and I was part of a group called Black with No Cream (BWNC). In this group, they posted that a well-known video producer needed a videographer. Read more>>

CONNIE COSTA | Holistic Life Coach, International Speaker, Published Writer & Sicily Travel Host

The most important factor behind my success is my commitment to my clients, passion for serving, and constant learning to bring the best to my clients. I am obsessed with discovering the most excellent success tools and teaching them to my clients. I love what I do and am one of the best at what I do. I say that confidently because I see my clients’ transformational results. I am passionate about this work; I want to ensure my clients get the life and career they dream of. Read more>>

Chris Fulcher | Creative Director & Photographer

The most important factor I have found throughout the years is keeping my art unique and consistent. Consistency is something I’ve struggled with since the beginning… I’m my own worst enemy sometimes and especially when I first started, I would never want to post 80% of my work because I wasn’t fully happy with it. I would constantly compare myself to other creators, and If I felt like something wasn’t as good as theirs I wouldn’t even advertise my work. Read more>>

Dee Smith | Author & Entrepreneur

The most important factor behind my success is being able to be my authentic self. I am my brand and I talk about the importance of authenticity in my book, The Luxe Life. Since high school I have always enjoyed wearing and buying fashion and as a boutique owner, connecting with my clients over a rare vintage piece, boutique, or designer item energizes me! Curating items for my business enables me to share who I am and find out more about my customers’ interests and lifestyles, while meeting their personal shopping needs. Read more>>

Andriana Garbiso | Actor, Stunt Woman and Screenwriter

Self-Assuredness is the root strength behind my personal success. Everything I’ve experienced in life, has prepared me for a career in film. At various times throughout our lives, we have all had the opportunity to be the hero, play a victim or stand at the sidelines as the audiance. Some will call on faith for the power to guide them, others will flail trying to discover who they are and how others see them, but the rarest breed are stunts of life, reciprocating opportunities while blazing an unwaivering path. Read more>>