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.
Cameron Martinez
We work predominantly with non-profits, providing affordable video content such as commercials, instructional videos, testimonials, etc. In addition, I produced and directed two short films that are in post-production with intentions of a film festival run next year. I also booked a role in Hip Pocket Theatre’s production of Big Love that ran through the month of September. After being here for the last four years, I’ve finally discovered an incredible film and theatre community where the art is the passion. In New York, it can feel like the hustle is the passion, and it’s easy to lose track of why you’re doing anything. But here, I have grown more confident in what I want to say, how to say it, and who I want to say it with. Read More>>
Ebony Brown
In 2016-2017, I was stationed in South Korea, away from family and friends. Despite the isolation, I found solace in the country’s vibrant fashion scene. The way people layered clothes was captivating, and I fell in love with the styles I saw in store windows. Growing up, I was often told I dressed “weird,” but in Korea, I finally felt a sense of belonging. My grandmother’s passing during that time was a turning point. I realized I didn’t want to live a life without purpose or passion. So, I decided to leave the military and pursue my dream of working in fashion. I bought a sewing machine and began teaching myself to sew, marking the start of an incredible journey. Read More>>
Carolina Yáñez
My artistic journey began with photography, and I really focused on that during COVID. Learning my own film development and going out to shoot practically every single day. But now, I’ve really grown as an artist and started working with other mediums to express my history, struggles, and beliefs. My artistic practice is really informed by my political circles. I’ve taken many roles working in progressive organizations and what I advocate for, appears in my work now: subjects like immigration, reproductive justice, feminism, and environmentalism. Read More>>
Heather Pettit
In my fitness coaching, I’ve faced struggles connecting with women who have been let down by the fitness industry before. It’s hard to rebuild trust for someone who’s been hurt or disillusioned, but I see it as an opportunity to show them a new way of approaching their health and well-being. In my fitness coaching, I’ve faced struggles connecting with women who have been let down by the fitness industry before. It’s hard to rebuild trust for someone who’s been hurt or disillusioned, but I see it as an opportunity to show them a new way of approaching their health and well-being. Read More>>
Asia Blackman
The rebrand was definitely not a smooth road but when you want something bad enough, you don’t stop! You push through every obstacle until the finish line. I did a lot of things for the first time- like designing my logo, designing a website, curating a newsletter and heavily marketing an idea to the world hoping they see my vision. That’s scary and I wanted to quit many times but God was definitely on my side keeping me going while putting together the brand and the launch of Fleurish. Read More>>
Yimin Chung, Joseph Lee, And Christy Park
Christy: My story started with classical dance training in ballet, jazz, and tap during childhood. In high school, I discovered my passion for K-pop, teaching myself choreography and sharing covers online. Over time, I expanded into hip-hop, contemporary, and other styles, which helped me grow as a versatile dancer. Joining KDNT has allowed me to combine my love for dance and teaching, inspiring others to embrace their creativity and passion for K-pop. Read More>>
Justin Chatman
It was just a spoken thought when I was with my friends, and it wasn’t until a few years after college that we began our creative journey. My college friends and I had all moved on to nine-to-five jobs, but the creative spark within me turned into a wildfire instead of just a spark. By day, I worked my regular job; by night, I was performing on stages, writing scripts, writing and releasing music, and entertaining. It’s a true joy to see I was able to evoke an emotion in someone to take a break from life – that’s my true passion. After a few years, I wondered how I could expand this passion on a larger scale. So, I tried to think of ways I can achieve this goal. Read More>>
Laurette Mesure
Deal with trend pressure.Stay up to date with the latest fashions while encouraging customers to find their own style, not just follow trends. Read More>>
Jen Moya
I truly believe changing my environment has helped me get to where I am today. Not only do I cut hair, but strive to have intellectual conversations that can bring healthy changes or keep us open minded in our perspective of viewing our purpose in life. Helping people with their outside appearance and confidence is what most people think a barbers job is, not knowing that the deepest conversations happen at the barbershop with the highs and lows of life. Being able to provide a safe environment for my clients is key. Leaving my clients with not only a great haircut and a smile on their face but something to think about for the week, being able to inspire or just provide a great experience is always the goal. Read More>>
Laurel Simmons
I then realized how much I love portraits! I spent 2023 learning about composition, editing, and every aspect of my DSLR, doing a lot of free sessions and having my sister model for me. At the beginning of this year I started working extra hard to show my work and get myself out there, becoming a photographer’s assistant and setting up a booth at multiple events. I’ve met so many beautiful people this year and have been blessed with countless experiences, and I’m so excited for what’s in store for me in 2025! Read More>>
Ursula Nunez
Today, Steven and I have established a local food system in our backyard, just minutes from downtown Fort Worth. Through MYG, we transform discarded produce into nutrient-rich compost that nourishes our organic garden spaces. Produce is harvested and sold at our farm stand, and The Mindful Market, in East Fort Worth. Excess produce is supported by grants from Texas Health Resources and distributed to local food pantries. To further our mission, Steven and I also lead plant-based cooking demonstrations, working to empower our community to embrace healthy, sustainable food choices. Read More>>
Tosha Moore
Being a single mom at 17 taught me resilience and perseverance, qualities that have carried me through life. In 2003, I founded Azarel Outreach Inc., a nonprofit that gives back to my East Texas community. We provide quality care, essential supplies, and financial assistance for housing to disabled individuals, while helping single parents become self-sufficient through mentorship, budgeting, and entrepreneurship. Read More>>
Erica Berkebile
One aspect of my business that sets me apart is my commitment to client appreciation. For instance, this past July, I rented a movie theater to host a private premiere of Twisters for my clients, complete with door prizes and raffles. Each year, I host a series of signature events, including an ice cream social at a local shop to celebrate the start of summer and a gratitude gathering in November where attendees receive a Thanksgiving pie or a bottle of wine. Read More>>
Eric Christen
The creative fields are rarely smooth roads unless you bump into a millionaire like Phillip Stark did in Paris. The covid scam derailed my potential career while I was living in Berlin, Germany. This has been the biggest obstacle of the 21st century for many. Other obstacles were the mediocrity and complete lack of vision of the publishing industry. The fact that I have lived in several different countries and never been money driven – I am concept driven – has often pushed me into teaching at universities and high schools – which bore me to death.
Alexander Alvarado
Now that I am a master educator Barber and cosmetologist the biggest reward has been seen my student succeed become someone that they’ve always wanted to be find themselves and become blessings to the world. I thank God and I would not change it for the world and I just hope to continue Blessing all my students with my talent love knowledge and watch them flourish. I know that they came from and represent RBBI. Read More>>
Courtney Johnson
This is the power of being part of a community. Together, we lift each other up. Each monthly donation, no matter the size, builds a foundation of hope and nourishment for families when they need it most. We live in a subscription economy, but it’s not something people naturally gravitate towards when it comes to supporting the nonprofits they care about. We’re hopeful to change the narrative for the entire sector. Read More>>
Maria Dryden
During this time COVID would change the world and as a result of the lockdowns, specifically in the city of Los Angels and the toll it was taking on my family, we decided to relocate to Dallas through the company my husband works for and it was the right move. It’s hard to believe we have been living in Dallas for almost 4 years. The city has been welcoming and a blessing for our family, faith and my path as an agent. Joining Allie Beth Allman & Associates has afforded me the same caliber of service for my clients. There has been tremendous growth in my business thanks to a few remarkable Allie Beth Allman agents, our CEO and my incredible clients who continue to give me opportunities beyond my wildest dreams! I’m looking forward to continuing to thrive in 2025! Read More>>
Sundas Shahid
Before diving into photography, I had a corporate career in finance, which gave me invaluable skills in business management, organization, and a strong work ethic. But despite the stability, I found myself longing for a more creative and fulfilling path. After spending years working on photography part-time, I decided to take the plunge and leave my corporate job behind to pursue my dream full-time. Read More>>
Jairibeth Higuera
It was not an easy road. First, the project went over budget. There were people who tried to advise me and they were not professional enough or did not have the experience required for this project. The city permits took longer than expected, but we were still able to achieve the goal, to carry out this project. Read More>>
Rick A. Pena
During a gold glove fight, my opponent knocked me down late in the round. It was a flash knockdown. I didn’t realize it, but I ended up with my gloves on the canvas, the crowd went wild!!! I got up, the refs in my face yelling, giving me an 8 count. At this point I’m supplicating with the ref for him to let me go back out and finish the fight on my feet. He allowed me. As soon as he gives me the green light, I blazed out of that corner, and knocked my opponent out to win the fight that night!!! Read More>>
Mark Newman
After leaving Ralph Lauren, I had the opportunity to work as Senior Designer in two leading Bay Area design firms, then launched Mark Newman Design in San Francsico in 2005. We quickly earned a reputation as one of the city’s premier boutique design firms, and enjoyed recognition in publications like California Homes, 7×7 magazine, Traditional Home, California Home, San Francisco Chronicle, and Period Art & Design, as well as designing a room in the 34th annual San Francisco Designer Showcase. Read More>>
Stephanie Massegee
And that’s been the real theme of the past 6 months – taking challenges and turning them into wins or opportunities for growth. And in order to do that, we’ve really leaned on our village – whether that’s our incredible staff or the partners (from our coffee roaster, repair techs, or other downtown merchants) we’ve made or other businesses in the community. Read More>>
Kaylee Meyer
I went to university to study oil painting and was also a yoga instructor during that time. I have always been an advocate for mental health and wellness. Eventually, I experienced burnout in my art practice and found myself drawn to the philosophy and psychology behind creativity. I took a course to become a life coach and specialized in working with creatives for two years, helping over 20 clients one-on-one and building a following of over 20,000 across two platforms. Read More>>
Stephen Russell
During the day I spend my time as a salesman of gourmet kitchen knives all around Texas, this is a popup roadshow, where I am delivering a well informed demonstration of how the knives perform and all the unique benefits of having them in the kitchen. Read More>>
Amy Norwood
So, I spent the next two weeks on the internet teaching myself how to make them. I did not take chocolate chip cookies to the party, but I took homemade sugar cookies that I decorated with homemade royal icing. The farm theme cookies were a hit at the party and my love for making decorated sugar cookies had begun! From there, I received more orders for decorated cookies, it snowballed, and Amy Carol Cookies began. Eight and half years later, I am still baking and making decorated sugar cookies. My small business is what it is today, first and foremost because of my faith in God, and the support of family, friends and community. Read More>>
Kayode Adegoke’
Kayode Adegoke is a dynamic professional with a diverse background spanning real estate, technology, and investment. Based in Dallas-Fort Worth, Kayode’s real estate journey began as a passive investor managing his own properties in Illinois, where he gained firsthand experience in property management and market strategy. Over time, his success as an investor propelled him into a full-time real estate career. Today, as a licensed Realtor with eXp Realty LLC, he expertly guides clients through property transactions, with a proven track record of closing multi-million deals and delivering exceptional results for buyers and sellers alike. Read More>>
Micki Theartist
hat is the works of a perfect artist And just being able to say that I’m going to do it procrastination these are the works of becoming the greatest artist I’m not saying of all time no lol i’m just saying to be able to know that you’re good and you’re great and everything that you do so yes it was a lot of hard work. It was a lot of effort. I had to do everything on my own still do sometimes and being able to perform a show travel style myself it was a lot so it had me doing some step backs, but I came back pretty strong every time so that’s how I knew that that was something I wanted to do so the struggles are real and it’s progress. Read More>>
April Cook
To that promise, I didn’t sell my first home until my second year in real estate, but god made it easy. My client came with a 820 credit score and 125k down payment. Because of my belief and consistency I DID IT!! I want to encourage others not just Realtors that if you keep God first , believe in yourself, have a little discipline, and stay consistent, There is no limit to the things you can achieve. Be intentional about who you surround yourself with and always bet on YOU. Read More>>
Arias Websterberry
Over the years, I’ve expanded my expertise to include CRM systems, funnel building, and automation with Ignite Funnels. Now, I’m focused on helping businesses and entrepreneurs not just survive but thrive by simplifying complex processes, driving measurable results, and empowering them to stand out in competitive markets. My passion is creating strategies that are as innovative as they are effective, all while guiding others to achieve their biggest goals. Read More>>
Lauren Videau
My entrepreneurial spirit led me to try my hand at various ventures, from selling clothes to food, but it wasn’t until I entered the tax industry that I found my true calling. Helping others navigate their finances while leveraging my love for numbers was a perfect match for me. Read More>>
Yoahana Lagunas
The market got very saturated during that time so we put it on hold for a little bit. In October of 2023, we decided to give it another try with just our treats. I noticed that cookies were popular, so I decided to add some in. Even though I had never baked a cookie in my life, it turned out well. At our first few markets, our cookies stole the show every time, and we scrapped treats altogether, and The Cookie Factory was born! So far, we have grown so much that we have had to buy industrial equipment, and our goal is to move into our food trailer next year. Read More>>
Jacob Ostermann
I got into photography in 2015 after learning about VSCO. I got super inspired and wanted to take photos that looked as good as the ones I was seeing on the app, so I started shooting consistently on my phone and eventually a DSLR. As I got more into it, I learned everything I could about using a camera, photography history, and famous photographers. I naturally gravitated toward street and documentary photography, especially the work of William Eggleston, Joel Meyerowitz, Martin Parr, and Daniel Arnold. Parr and Arnold’s work hit me hard and pushed me to take things to the next level—they’re a big reason I’m where I am today. Read More>>
Karlyn “KMo” Morrison
To date we have had some major collaborations with Good Molecules, Estée Lauder and our biggest one which was Netflix: Strong Black Lead. We also are big on building relationships within the community. We have partnered with Dallas Weekly, Toast for Charity, Pink Lucy and our favorite Dallas Greek Socialites just to name a few. Read More>>
Brenda Solis
My husband and I both share the same passions, such as photography. He has been so supportive throughout my art journey. He helps me behind and in front of the camera. Which has made creating social media content possible. .We enjoy creating content together and capturing our family lives. We have a great teamwork going, along with our kids, It has brough us closer as a family and also a great way to capture memories. Read More>>
Emily Baum
From a young age, I knew I wanted to work in the medical field, but I wasn’t sure exactly how. In my freshman year of college, I took an introductory nutrition course, and it was love at first lesson. Learning about food, metabolism, and how the body works was fascinating to me, and that’s when I decided to pursue dietetics. During my studies, we briefly covered eating disorders (just one day in one class, actually), and that’s when a light bulb went off – I knew I wanted to specialize in this area. Read More>>
Lindsay Scarlatelli
A few friends in college used to jokingly call me “paparazzi” because I’d carry a small digital camera everywhere (pre iPhone and terrific cell phone camera capabilities). I didn’t fully realize it then, but capturing moments, big or small, was always something I enjoyed. Fast forward, I could finally afford to purchase my first professional camera, a Canon 6D Mark ii, in the fall of 2018 when I moved to Dallas. Read more>>
Nicholas Shane
It has been a lot of trial and error and so much has changed in the past 10 years but I’m excited with what I’m capable of doing now and what’s to come! I’ll be doing more of custom either 1 of 1 drops or small drops of 12 made pieces from cut and sew to make it even more personable. Im also thankful for all the other aspiring brands and channels that are out and how they are transparent with their process cause it shows we all have at some point came across the same problems etc. just gotta take it one day at a time and learn from our mistakes. Read More>>
Anibal Anazgo
I am deeply grateful to this country that welcomed me with open arms, where I was fortunate to find the love of my life and build my family. Although I am not the only one, I do consider myself different: in Dallas, I stand out for my level of customer service that has not been seen before, along with my impeccable professionalism, a charisma that turns each visit into an unforgettable experience. My passion is not only to beautify, but also to connect and provide confidence to those who pass through my chair. Read More>>
Maggie Hall
I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember, but was inspired by my dad who was a charcoal artist as well as my sophomore year art teacher, Mr. White, to focus on creating a career with my abilities! I started Kinda Cool Art Shop in 2019 in my friend’s apartment, I had an idea to turn some sketches into stickers and we’ve grown ever since. Read More>>
