Through our work we have been constantly amazed at the incredible things people in every neighborhood are working on. What’s even more exciting is that they all have different stories, backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses. That there isn’t a single formula for success means that everyone can take their unique set of strengths and characteristics and turn it into a success story. We recently reached out to some folks we admire and asked them what characteristics they feel are responsible for their success.

Dawn Sommers | small business owner and school teacher

I believe the most important factor behind the success of Dog Gone Delicious Dog Treats is. my dedication to making my small business strong. I gradually increased from small farmers markets( getting my feet wet) to larger shows and more shows. When it brave too much, I had to leave a summer job I had for 21 years so I could continue my full time job and still successfully make my business thrive. I continued during that time to make little upgrades like professionally looking bags, a logo, and a professional website. Read more>>

Vanessa Canaveral | Photographer

Always remembering my why. My why has always been to create memories for people that they can look back on for generations to come. I imagine my clients 10-20 years from now seating together with family and looking at the photos I captured for them, having conversations about thah specific time in their lives. Read more>>

Davina Kaonohi | CEO & Co-Founder, Element Apothec

The single most important factor behind the success of Element Apothec is our people. Our people (co-founders, consultants and advisors) are truly what sets us apart from our competitors. We are passionate, knowledgeable and we truly care about making a difference. We share the same values and hold ourselves and each other accountable to do the best we can everyday. Our people are behind our products and every decision we make to ensure we are building a company based on trustworthy qualities and providing the best products we can for our customers. Read more>>

Alex Sheft John Farrace | Architects

Architecture, at the scale we operate, tends to be very intimate in both a literal sense – we’re working on people’s private residences & boutique businesses – but also in the relationship we have with clients. Sometimes our residential projects can take upwards of several years and you end up spending a lot of time with clients, their partners, their kids – and ultimately you want to make sure anyone you spend that much time with is enjoyable to be around and someone you consider a friend by the end of it. Read more>>

Katlin McFee | Producer and Booker of Hideout Comedy (Boston, MA), Founder of Yuck Fest (Indianapolis, IN)

Quality. Making sure every show I produce is as good as possible. This is why my events have so many returning attendees and a great reputation in local publications and by word of mouth. Read more>>

Yingka Chou | Planner & Designer

It’s hard to say that there is one factor that has solely contributed to the success of Master Plans Events. I would say that there are two factors continually reveal themselves as the most important reason for our success. The first factor is having systems in place that allow us to provide consistent high quality service. Our processes ensure that everything from the fine details to the broad elements are considered. Read more>>

Kimmie Price | Entrepreneur & Strategiest

Short Answer: Embracing my humanity, resting, and accepting that I wont get to do everything my mind thinks up. I made a vow/mantra to myself that I would never forfeit my family, my friends, rest, and life enjoyment for the sake of a successful business. Long Answer: As a young entrepreneur I often feel the pressure of the 
“grind never stops” and “you can sleep when you die” culture. Read more>>

Romas Ušakovas | Cinematographer

I always put my best effort into work with great attention to detail. When prepping for a shoot I always like to do careful planning and research, coming up with creative and stylish visual solutions, but I am always open to improvisations on set. I believe that the key to successful filmmaking is collaboration and communication. Sharing ideas and working in a team is the best way of achieving great results while having a great time on set. Read more>>

Novian Cherry | Artist & Creator

I think the most important factor behind my success is that I am big on connecting with my audience on a personal level despite having a large platform. In the entertainment world you don’t typically see big creators showing genuine love and support to their fan bases on a daily basis. I strive to show love every chance I get wether thats simply encouraging someone or liking their videos. I live by the saying “it costs $0.00 to show love”. I think this mentality has taken my brand to another level by being humble and down to earth. People in these positions tend to believe that they are superior when really we all put on shoes the same. Read more>>