Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. We’re proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series. Check out some of our latest local gem features below.
Inara Dance Co
Our paths crossed on a college dance team, where we bonded over a shared passion for dance and our creative visions. The years we spent on that team alongside the blood, sweat, and tears truly cemented our friendship. After graduating, dancing had burnt us out. When were ready to come back into it, we were faced with a stark reality: the opportunities to keep dancing at that level, in our styles simply weren’t there. Additionally, there wasn’t a community that spoke to our experiences. Read More>>
Magdalena Bonnelly
In January 2002, I started my education towards an associate’s degree at Richland College, majoring in Travel, Exposition, and Meetings Management. After graduating from Richland College, I continued my education at UNT in Denton. When I was presented with an exciting opportunity to join a hotel sales job in Grapevine, TX, I switched to online education and finished my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees online. Read More>>
Kristina King Carroll
In 2014, following a year of debilitating illness, I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease and various autoimmune conditions. It wasn’t until encountering my first integrative/holistic practitioner—a true angel—that my perspective shifted. At the time, I served as the Senior Manager at Urban Decay Cosmetics/L’Oreal, relishing in my career and lifestyle, oblivious to the toll it took on my health amidst late nights, fashion weeks, and weekly travels. Read More>>
Julio Garcia
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. From the start, I faced challenges that shaped me in ways I didn’t expect. Growing up, my family dealt with a lot of financial stress and personal conflicts. As a teenager, I had to take on responsibilities beyond my years, juggling school, multiple jobs, and the constant pressure to help keep our family afloat. Losing my father temporarily due to deportation and then working long hours to support my family taught me resilience, but it also took a toll. Read More>>
Chadwick Burnaw
I started hosting Caribbean music parties back in 2015 during college. At some point I started hosting brunches too. When the pandemic hit I decided to pivot to outdoor events in the form of food markets. That quickly became the Sazon Latin Food Festival. I quickly started testing out the concept in other cities to see if there was a market for it, following the same process as when I started. I found that the answer was yes and now we operate in 8 cities across 3 states. Read More>>
Gabrielle Thomas
Definitely not! Getting my real estate license was the easy part —the real challenge was actually being a realtor. Networking, finding clients, learning to market myself—the list goes on, and none of it is easy. My first month with my license, I landed a buyer client and felt like I was on top of the world. But after getting the offer accepted, my client backed out, which hit me hard. Combined with the pressure to provide and some personal challenges, it really tested my spirits. I needed steady income, so I returned to work as a substitute teacher. Read More>>
Jokeeta Marzett
My name is Jokeeta Marzett, and at 32 years old, I’ve found my passion in real estate—specifically flipping homes. I’m also a licensed realtor, which allows me to be fully hands-on from start to finish in each project. My journey began alongside my husband, an air traffic controller and military veteran. We’ve been married for eight years and share three wonderful children, Haven (8), Maxen (5), and Zaden (3). Our story is one of resilience, faith, and transformation, rooted in faith and family and fueled by a desire to make a lasting impact. Read More>>
La Shawn Johnson
Before this path with Sires Crown, I spent over 25 years in managerial roles, at a Fortune 500 telecommunications company, where I worked as a Certified Project Management Professional and Transformation Lead. I mentored so many employees and taught courses in project management. In 2017, I even launched an independent travel agency, Masters Degree Travel. My journey is fueled by a deep love for learning, service, and entrepreneurship. I hold a Doctorate in Business Administration, an MBA, and several professional certifications. I’m also a longtime member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and believe in the power of community, service, and sisterhood. Read More>>
Jimbo Pernetti
This need for accessible, high-quality training came into focus when I attended a Washing Nationals workout with about 250 high school juniors and seniors. I was speaking with a national scout and cross-checker who observed, ‘Out of all the kids on this field, maybe two could play for a college program, and maybe one could play for us.’ When I asked why, he replied, ‘They don’t pass the eye test’. Just by looking at them, I can tell they don’t have the physicality to compete on a college or professional field.’ Read More>>
Jennifer Coleman
There was a time when I didn’t always make the best decisions, and those choices led me down a difficult path. Finding employment became a challenge because of my past, and it often felt like I was starting from scratch every time I applied for a job. It was frustrating and humbling to be in a position where doors weren’t easily opening, and I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. Read More>>
Michelle Winick
Feeling inspired, educated and excited – I started my own prenatal yoga company called “Sun Rabbit Yoga.” The focus is on pregnant parents and preparation for an easy labor and childbirth through the physical movement of yoga and utilizing the breath with meditation. My goal was to make expectant parents feel empowered and give them the resources that I wish I had before my childbirth. Read More>>
Aubriana Logsdon
For weeks of this I learned so much, and knew I needed to make this my career. As soon as I got back to Texas I looked into schools for manicuring & got my education in GrandPraire tx 2021. Knowing I was completely new here, during this transition period, I made a name for myself making silly, as well as educational nail content. My content has changed a lot since then but to this day majority of my clients find me through instagram & TikTok. This was extremely important for me and my growth since I wasn’t from here & couldn’t rely on friends & family for clientele. Read More>>
The Resale Shop
Like every retail business, we have had our ups and downs. But the “ups” definitely outweigh the “downs.” We are always blown away by the generosity of our supporters who donate such quality items, as well as our volunteers who work so hard. Some of our volunteers have been with us since the doors opened in 2003, which is incredible! We have customers who also have been coming to our store since its inception, and we are so thankful for their continued trust and support. Read More>>
Shamika Williams
No it has not been a smooth road, it’s been a lot of up and downs financially due to I am a single mother of two and trying to balance a successful business and 9 to 5 work while being a full time parent. I am grateful for the struggles because nothing comes easy. Once I am able to work my business full time it will be a smoother road and pure joy. Read More>>
Deacon Ryan Sales
We may be lucky enough to appreciate it at the time, or it might be one of those inspired moments where it is only through hindsight that we realize God was calling us and that even though that call seemed to make absolutely no sense, He wants what is best for us. Even though there was so many reasons why it shouldn’t have happened, I was offered the job! The moral of the story: be careful what you do on a whim, as it may end up being the best decision of your life! Read More>>
Karla Callaway
We are comprised of women from all over the Metroplex including Canton, Denton, Fort Worth, Grandbury, Midlothian and everywhere in between. Another part of our mission is to sing for our communities. We have been a part of many amazing performance audiences all around the DFW area. Performing provides a sense of pride and satisfaction to our women and audiences a like. Read More>>
Sallye Clark
Upon graduation, I dedicated myself to completing the 3,000 internship hours required to become a fully licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I divided my time equally between Eating Recovery Center (ERC) and a Christian private practice in the area. At ERC, I served as the Intensive Outpatient Therapist for the child/adolescent unit, where my passion for supporting individuals struggling with eating disorders and other severe mental health challenges truly flourished. After my time at ERC, I transitioned to a private practice, continuing to work on the child/adolescent team. To further enhance my expertise, I earned my Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) certification, staying current with the latest evidence-based treatments. Read More>>
Emily & Olivia Henderson & Boyd
We are both Texas transplants and grew up in small towns prior to finding our way to the DFW area. Individually we were already avid readers and active members of the book community before finding each other. When we finally connected and realized we shared similar dreams, the idea for Always Booked came to life naturally. Read More>>
Jess Ringgenberg
This led to an intense period of personal growth and self-discovery. It was a journey that forced me to confront who I was outside of work, in motherhood, and all the expectations I’d internalized. I invested in myself, studying neuroscience and positive psychology, and eventually became an accredited coach. That training transformed me – it allowed me to truly understand what mattered, and how to navigate the realities of working motherhood. My purpose professionally has evolved. Read More>>
Andrea Mayard
AndreaClaireFit represents my most cherished venture. It is my second brick-and-mortar establishment and the first business I have built entirely on my own, without external financial assistance or guidance. This endeavor is fueled by my vision for what our local community deserves in a personal training studio: a space that embodies empowerment, privacy, accountability, and cleanliness. Here, clients can feel safe to be vulnerable, allowing genuine transformation to unfold. Read More>>
Frances Lopez
During this difficult period, I faced not only physical pain but also the emotional struggle of losing my sense of purpose. It was a humbling experience, but as I lay in recovery, I began reflecting on how I could reclaim control of my life. Soap making, which had been a hobby for many years, became my creative and emotional outlet. It allowed me to focus on healing, both mentally and physically, by crafting something pure and intentional with my own hands. Read More>>
Alante Hamlett
I was born in Seattle but spent most of my life growing up in Arizona, where I went to church, school, and made close friends. Arizona shaped my early years, but later, when we moved to El Paso, Texas, I started seeing a bigger picture of what life could offer. I attended one of the largest schools in the area, and it opened my eyes to resources and opportunities I hadn’t seen before. But things took an unexpected turn when I faced challenges that led me down a different path in school. That period was a wake-up call — it forced me to reflect on who I was and who I wanted to become. Read More>>
Torchà Berryhill
It hasn’t been the smoothest road, it’s been TONS of bumps, stepping stones, and lessons learned to get to where I am today. Most of the struggles have come from selling myself short, self doubt, and not sticking to the processes and procedures I’ve created for myself and my business. Read More>>
Amy Vaughan
I have lived in Dallas for over 12 years and was born in Japan on a US Army Base and while there I had a Japanese caregiver that named me Amiko (pronounced Ay-me-koh) as the traditional pronunciation is (Ah-me-koh), but my father wanted to be sensitive to the traditional name for Japanese girls, as Amiko means “precious little girl” in their culture and instead opted for the sound of the name that combined Amy with Amiko. After 2 years in Japan, my family moved to Washington DC, as my father was assigned to the Pentagon for his remaining two years of service. After he completed 4 years as a military intelligence officer, we moved back to Minnesota where my parents born and raised. Read More>>
Deericsha Wyrick
When the doctor came to do his rounds he told me I was a miracle because not only did they have to sacrifice some of my arteries the surgery took longer than expected because of the location. He told me that my life was truly a testimony and I knew then my life was destined for much more. Weeks went by and it was still one piece missing from the puzzle , was I going have to start chemotherapy or not? The physicians called me and told me the tumor was non cancerous. Joy filled my heart but fire filled my spirit I knew it was time to live to my fullest potential. Read More>>
Alesha Trimble
Wanting to help fill that gap for people, I added certified Wellness Coach to my resume. I take on clients both in-person and virtually, helping them to identify where they are stuck or unfulfilled in their lives. From there, we work to find strategies to accomplish their both short and long-term goals. I have found coaching to be incredibly effective for those going through major life changes such as becoming a new parent, marriage, empty nesting, and menopause in particular. Read More>>
Corey Breedlove
I love the classics. I feel like music and art have struggled to find an identity in this modern age. I love the old songs from the 1940s, every time I hear nat king cole or frank sinatra, it transports me to a beautiful place. I’d love to be a messenger for that type of music. To take people on a journey to a golden age of creativity and culture. Read More>>
Kevin Cloutier
We have done some pretty amazing things. We have rented out Alcatraz Island, and run a private “Escape from Alcatraz” event with teams actually shackled together, running through the prison. We have designed scavenger hunts and “Amazing Race” type events that have taken people on speedboats, trains, and even helicopters. And if you are a Hollywood fan, you will love our “Make Your Own Movie’ event, where groups get to spend the day on the backlot of a major studio actually making their own short films. Read More>>
Dameir Garrett
My mental health journey has been a big part of shaping who I am. I’ve dealt with depression and borderline personality disorder, which brought their own battles but also gave me a deeper understanding of resilience and self-awareness. Growing up, I was constantly moving and was often the new kid, so I had to prove myself in each new place. That experience helped me build strength but also set me apart I was never one to follow the crowd. Instead, I chose to be the “devil’s advocate” in a way, always leading rather than following, and pushing others to think differently. Read More>>
Tammy Weatherhead
When you have a “regular” job and start at a new company there is someone there to show you the ropes. Social media you literally have millions of creators to learn from yet no one to guide you. I did a lot of research and studying and it was a lot of trial and error. Read More>>
Maggy Doherty
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, even during my journey to becoming a dietitian. While in nutrition graduate school at the University of Illinois at Chicago, I dabbled in various side hustles- from managing social media for a coffee shop to writing restaurant food reviews and even publishing my own cookbook. When I landed my first job as a dietitian at Parkland Hospital, I kept freelancing, providing some outpatient nutrition counseling and creating RD exam prep materials on the side. Read More>>
Jacob Tello
I don’t think starting a small business will ever be an easy journey. For me, it’s been challenging trying to balance my personal life, school, and completing orders after a long day. I have also had several occasions with potential customers not understanding the prices, the amount of labor, and the strain it causes on my wrist and neck in order to create something by hand. Which in turn leads to them turning down their order. I am also aware that life will find more challenges for me as I get older, however, if I want to reach my goals I have to try my best to push past these obstacles. Read More>>
Erin Willis
Becoming a chef isn’t easy and there are those that think that they can be called a chef when they haven’t the experience nor the training. It’s a “life’s work” and we (chefs) are constantly learning, training, engaging, staying up to date, getting certified, getting reviewed, being judged, overworked, underpaid and always tired. However, for those have a a true passion for food, we do it every day knowing that not every customer can be satisfied. Read More>>
Karolina Aguilar
Boxcook started with a simple idea: creating memorable picnic setups. In the beginning, like many entrepreneurs, there was a natural fear of taking the first step. But I always tell others who want to start something new—focus on yourself, be the best version of yourself, and do it with passion and faith. With the help of God, and guided by the belief that success comes with hard work and love for what you do, Boxcook has grown into something much more. Read More>>
Jane Provoncha
I started my business, Jane Provoncha Art, about 18 months ago, totally by chance! I had recently moved to Dallas with my husband and kids, and was inspired by the contemporary art I saw mixed with traditional interiors- there was more color and personality than what I’d seen in people’s homes elsewhere in the country. Read More>>
Kenisha Pitts
My marketing journey begun 7 yrs ago with an entry into hospitality marketing. I market marriott hotels both select, full service and luxury. Read More>>
Michele Penman
After I graduated, I was given the opportunity to work with an agency that does VIP events. I have worked numerous VIP events including BET awards, The Oscars, The Grammy`s and the Superbowl. In 2022, I transferred from SoFi Stadium, followed my dream and moved to Texas and AT&T Stadium. In 2023, I left AT&T stadium, restarted my business in Texas, and acquired 2 clients. In addition to my clients, I am also a vendor at various craft fairs across the DFW metroplex. Read More>>
Leonardo Gonzalez
The ones I hold in a special place in my heart aren’t the ones with my best filmmaking, lighting, editing, coolest effect, etc. It was the ones that like that first video make me feel exactly the same as I felt when I pressed record in that moment of creating. After graduating I began expanding my skills and started working for businesses like nightclubs, restaurants, marathon events, charity events, concerts, football games, etc. While also maintaining my creative expression by being a part of 3 short films, documentaries, and more music videos. Read More>>
Jessy Jose
Another major struggle was navigating social media. While I knew there were people out there who needed help with saree draping, getting my services noticed wasn’t easy. Building a presence on platforms like Instagram and Facebook took time, especially when trying to stand out in a sea of content. I had to learn how to showcase my skills, engage with the right audience, and build a following from scratch. Reaching the right people who truly needed assistance with draping or were planning big events like weddings took patience and consistent effort. Read More>>
Emelia Nwokobia
The journey of SlayedLocks began out of a deep love for beauty and a passion for helping others. I spent 17 years working in healthcare, specifically in Oncology clinics, where I witnessed firsthand the emotional toll that hair loss could have on patients undergoing various cancer treatments. During that time, I developed a deep understanding of Oncology and the impact that losing one’s hair can have on self-identity and confidence. I found myself not only providing medical support to patients but also guiding them through the emotional journey of coping with the changes in their appearance. Read More>>
Raul Garcia
Before we knew it, COVID-19 happened. The world shut down, people lost their jobs, and the need out in the streets increased exponentially. As we prayed about how to best serve the communities closest to us during this time of uncertainty, we decided that we wanted to go door-to-door and love people with gift bags. We filled up bags with food and essential items and went into our neighborhoods to share the Gospel and His love with the community. Little did we know the Lord was preparing us for a year of transition. Read More>>
Sarah McEntire
The shirts are designed with the wearer in mind and not only comfortable but are functional. I have dreamed of a clothing line before I even realized. My dad told me at about three years old, I would dress barbie dolls up and put on a fashion show for my dad and stepmother, then give reasons on why they were wearing certain outfits and how to accessorize them. Having my own fashion line was always in the back of my mind, after college my mother and I looked into buying a western store that had closed down in North Carolina, where I’m from. Having a clothing line combines two of my favorite things, fashion and the Western industry. Read More>>
Phazione McClurge
So we wanted to turn talks that we were already having were there was no camera and bring and share those conversations to the world especially the DFW Area. We both are very ambitious and driven on and off the field and want to give people and insight to our journeys in football and in business. So they can grow and learn with us to as we build and expand our current companies and interview high performing individuals both athletes, real estate moguls, and motivational speakers. Read More>>
Dr. Shirley Clark
Yet, despite these dark beginnings, as I grew older, there was an inner strength that allowed me not to give up. So, I persevered through a difficult childhood where survival was my primary focus. My educational years seemed bleak—I even flunked my first semester of 12th-grade English, which nearly prevented me from graduating. But despite receiving my diploma, I carried the weight of a secret—I struggled with literacy and could not write a complete sentence. For over 20 years, I kept this hidden. But at 35, determined to overcome my limitations, I entered an English lab to learn what a comma and semicolon were. Read More>>
Dr. Tangela Stoot
So, as of last year I have been in the best place of my life mentally. I lost something’s along the way, I was betrayed and lied on by people, but God was right there. I wrote and published my first book Rejected by Man but, Accepted by God this year, I received my honorary doctorate in divinity this year and received many awards. I am also the pastor of The Healing Place International and a business owner of a nonprofit, Healing Empowerment Center and Global Healing Development Center, LLC. I am here today because of God. Read More>>
Aleisha Gravit
After playing for a few months, I wanted more, so I decided to pursue teaching and went through the Oh My Mahjong teacher program and here we are! Mahjong is a tile-based game that was developed in the 19th century in China and has spread throughout the world since the early 20th century. In addition to it being a very strategic and beautiful game, there have been numerous neurological studies that show that playing Mahjong for 12 weeks can improve the executive functions in those with mild cognitive impairment. It is also a strong fundraising outlet that is associated with the Alzheimer’s Association. I call it the brain game. Read More>>
Paloma Orozco
My journey has been anything but easy, filled with invaluable learning experiences for which I’m incredibly grateful. After completing my trainings, landing a nurse injector position didn’t happen right away. It took six months before I secured my first job in the field. During that time, I had two jobs and worked in the ICU while trying to build clientele. Juggling motherhood and trying to find a balance in the midst of it all was quite the challenge and required me to prioritize and master time management. Though it wasn’t easy, that period gave me the knowledge, resilience, and experience I needed to eventually open my own medical spa practice. Read More>>
