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.
Miaschanycia Wiggins
I am a storyteller, poet, and creative visionary who understands the pain of being misunderstood and the resilience required to rise above dysfunction. From designing doll clothes at age 4 to writing 30-page short stories by age 6, creativity has always been my outlet and lifeline. As a proud graduate of the prestigious Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas’s Arts District, I discovered my gift for writing and love for music early on, which propelled me to pursue a life in entertainment. Read More>>
Tamara Goins-dorsey
Her love for celebrating meaningful moments led her to become a wedding officiant, where she creates personalized ceremonies that honor each couple’s unique story. Through Approvari Notary and Wedding Officiant Services in Mansfield, TX, Tamara combines her expertise, cultural depth, and heartfelt dedication to serve clients across the DFW area with professionalism and care. Read More>>
Frankie Vaughn
Coming from a long line of entrepreneurs, leaders, and creatives, this path feels deeply ingrained in my DNA. Letting go of fear and fully committing to my vision has been a transformative experience. I’ve faced challenges—loss, weight gain, and moments of doubt—but those obstacles have only made me stronger. Read More>>
Christy Brown
I converted my garage into a fully operational candle factory to keep up with demand, which also allowed me to experiment with new ideas. While the candle market is competitive, I focused on standing out with unique designs, sassy scent names, and quality products. Vendor events remain one of my favorite ways to meet customers, and the holiday season is always a busy and exciting time for Texas Sassy Candles. Read More>>
Quentin Jordan Jr
This inquiry sparked an epiphany, inspiring me to pursue a career as a personal trainer and empower others in achieving their goals. Presently, in 2025, I have amassed a sizable online client base, who have demonstrated notable progress in their fitness journeys. I have maintained a highly involved approach, prioritizing their health, happiness, and consistency. My newly established long-term objective is to establish a public gym in the Dallas area. Read More>>
Samantha Kristoferson
Samantha Kristoferson has traveled a path filled with challenges, growth, and transformation. It hasn’t been a smooth road, but the obstacles have been instrumental in shaping her journey and offerings. One significant struggle has been learning to navigate her relationship with money while staying true to her spiritual calling. Letting go of a stable home and possessions after 11 years was another emotional hurdle, testing her ability to trust in the unfolding of life and her inner guidance. Read More>>
Dan Wooldridge
Before the pandemic, we toured Texas and made many new friends. Since then we’ve put out another record and played all around Texas. Life’s good and even though we are a relatively small band we continue to push forward with writing and performing whenever we can. Since 2022 we’ve joined forces with Ian Rodriguez who’s a guitar prodigy and has pushed the boundaries of our writing and playing, encouraging and pushing us towards more dynamic and progressive music. We’re excited for what the future holds and even with ups and downs we continue to try and remain friends while having fun with our craft. Read More>>
Lauren Walker
Separating from my former company and rebranding as Flower House was one of the most challenging but rewarding decisions I’ve ever made. Stepping into a new identity and trusting myself to build something that felt true and honest to me. The process was emotional but taking that leap gave me the chance to redefine my brand, focus on my ideal clients, and fully embrace the fine art style I love. Read More>>
Leslie Maldonado
I fell in love with the idea and after some research, I realized we didn’t have something like that here in Dallas and that’s where my initial idea came from. Read More>>
Jasmine Jackson-lewis
I specialize in providing personalized clothing styling services for women, empowering my clients to achieve infinite confidence and timeless elegance through tailored styling and shopping solutions, available both in-person and online, whether driven by professional aspirations, enhanced first impressions, or a desire to project polished sophistication, I will expertly guide you through your transformative journey. Read More>>
Binod Panta
As I progressed, I had opportunities to manage multi-city and multi-store jewelry businesses. This was a pivotal experience, allowing me to sharpen my skills in customer service, relationship building, and the intricacies of running a successful operation. I also immersed myself in the details of sourcing diamonds and gold jewelry, attending trade shows, and understanding market trends. Every experience, no matter how challenging, contributed to the knowledge and confidence I have today. Read More>>
Onifade R E Colbert Iii
I started my bakery when I was just 6 years old. At the time, it was really about me raising the funds to go to Africa, having fun in the kitchen and sharing treats with my family and friends. My mom has always been my rock and cofounder, and she taught me one of the most important lessons early on: “Keep your feelings out of your business.” That advice has helped me make clear decisions while staying passionate about what I do. Read More>>
Samantha Almaguer
Anyone Interested in our surprise room decoration services or wanting to follow our journey? Follow us on social media @suitenightsbyss. For influencers or businesses looking to collaborate, feel free to reach out – we’d love to discuss potential opportunities!” Read More>>
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>>
Kumiko Griffin
I was born and raised in Japan, where I met my husband and moved to his hometown of Chicago. We then relocated to Dallas-Fort Worth and have two sons and two dogs. I have been making handmade jewelry for over ten years and have been a vendor at numerous indoor and outdoor arts and crafts fairs. I was lucky to find a welcoming place for artists to meet and sell their artwork in the Deep Ellum area of Dallas. My creations are original and inspired by my experiences in the world and the diverse people I’ve met. I select the stones for my work; each creation is unique and handmade. The colors represent the essence of my life and the beauty found in nature. Read more>>
