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.
Amber Olumese
For years, people encouraged me to start a makeup business, but self-doubt and life circumstances always held me back. Then, early in 2024, something changed. A friend unexpectedly asked me to do her makeup for an event we were both attending. I was surprised because, even though I knew I was good at makeup, I didn’t think I was as skilled as others believed. But I agreed. Pressed for time, I completed her makeup in just 45 minutes, and to my surprise, it turned out flawless. Seeing her light up with confidence was an incredibly rewarding moment. That was when I knew I had the talent and potential to pursue makeup seriously. Read More>>
Alicha Ann
My fascination with facials led me to pursue a path that would ultimately transform my life. At that time, I was stuck in a job I hated —great pay, but it drained my spirit. I decided to go back for my GED, but despite my efforts, I struggled with math. Life got chaotic, and I found myself in a dark place, feeling lost and lacking confidence. My body dysmorphic disorder worsened, and some days, I couldn’t even get out of bed. I began to question everything about my life and my purpose. Read More>>
Samantha Cook
Starting my company, Smokin’ Sam’s, has been both rewarding and challenging. Some aspects, like developing my unique dry rubs and selling at farmers’ markets, came naturally. However, about six months in, I faced one of my biggest obstacles—our home flooded. I lost all my product and suddenly had no place to live, let alone run a business. It was a devastating moment, but it also forced me to make a pivotal decision. Read More>>
Ben Hogg
I started producing while I was in college. I had a friend who used to sample anything and everything and once he showed me how to do it, it was like God or the universe or something busted through the door, grabbed me by the shoulders, shaking me, saying, THIS IS IT! I had found the one thing that would I would obsess about day in and day out. After that, school (and really everything else) became secondary. Read More>>
Inara Sachwani
Owning my photography studio, Thoughts and Days, is a reflection of that journey. It’s been a space for me to explore my creativity, embrace the childlike wonder within, and bring that vision to life. This studio isn’t just mine; it was created to offer other visionaries the same opportunity—to explore their ideas, push their boundaries, and create something meaningful. Read More>>
Miczjhane Nelson
I’m a SCAD graduate with a BFA in Fashion Marketing and Management, and my love for fashion has always been a driving force in my life. MING HAUSE started during the pandemic and has taken on many forms. It began as a streetwear brand, with my parents and brothers helping me fulfill tons of orders right from our living room. Since moving to Texas, it has evolved into something that feels even more aligned—customized, 1-of-1 denim pieces and hair services. Through every shift, my passion for fashion, creativity, and self-expression has remained at the core of what I do. Read More>>
Jonathan Earthgazer
Earthgazer was founded in 2017 by Jonathan, guitarist and composer, with the vision of blending nu metal, deathcore, and metalcore with ambient and cinematic elements. The journey began with the release of the Skyocean EP, featuring Dylan Fitzgerald on vocals, Jesse Palmer on bass, and Mark Lynam on drums. After a year of shows and promoting the EP, creative differences led to Dylan’s departure, and Mark left to focus on college. Read More>>
Shauntel Bailey
This connection to scent became my sanctuary as I pursued a rigorous Master’s in Aviation. Through sleepless nights juggling coursework, campus leadership, and professional organizations, fragrance became my refuge. In the stillness of night, warm notes of patchouli and creamy sandalwood soothed me calm after the busy days. In the hustle of morning, sweet florals and zesty scents geve me renewed energy. What began as a nostalgic indulgence became a daily ritual—a mantra of self-care, self-love, and self-healing. Read More>>
Estefany Costa
What started as a passion for perfecting competition spray tan soon expanded into a love for the industry as a whole. I began offering mobile spray tanning services, not only to athletes but also to individuals looking for a natural glow. Over the years, I dedicated myself to learning everything I could about safe tanning practices, including customizing results using the Fitzpatrick scale ( Classifies skin types (I-VI) by UV sensitivity, guiding safe, natural spray tans and skincare.) and tailoring services to meet the unique needs of my clients. Read More>>
Joseph Robertson
I first got into sports card collecting as a kid living in Korea in the late 1980s, focusing on baseball and basketball cards. The 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card was the ultimate chase when I started. I collected until 1994 before stepping away from the hobby. In 2009, a YouTube video reignited my passion—I saw someone opening a Topps Five Star Football box for $500, which immediately caught my interest. That moment inspired me to reenter the hobby, eventually turning my passion into a business. Over time, I grew that business into what it is today, with four card shops across the DFW area. Read More>>
Angela Johnson
As I walked through my healing journey, I felt called to help others who had experienced similar pain. I poured my experiences into my book, He Sees You, to remind others that no matter how unseen or unworthy they feel, God sees them and has a purpose for their lives. My journey led me to become a trauma expert, speaker, and advocate for healing. I now empower women to break free from shame and step into their true identity. Read More>>
Kesha Austin
After refining my vision, I launched Bomb Plus Vintage in 2019. However, I set the business aside for a year (in 2020) due to fear and uncertainty. During that time, I struggled with anxiety as an active drinker and faced a cancer diagnosis, all while Covid was at its peak. In 2021, I focused on recovery and regaining my strength after overcoming cancer. I then embarked on a Christ-led fast that motivated me to revive my business in 2022. Since then, Bomb Plus Vintage has been thriving and flourishing! Additionally, in 2023, the Lord freed me from alcohol, further deepening my commitment to fulfilling His purpose for my life. Read More>>
Ijeoma Obodoefuna
Micastylz began eight years ago in my home country, driven by my passion for bold and timeless fashion. After migrating to the United States, I took a break to adjust and settle into a new environment. This year, I decided to reignite that passion and relaunch Micastylz, blending my original vision with fresh, digital styling concepts. It’s been a journey of resilience, creativity, and growth, and I’m excited to see how far we’ve come and where we’re headed next. Read More>>
Deborah Morris
Our young family moved to Garland in 1985, but soon after settling into our modest home in Northlake Estates, we were shocked to learn that the lush greenbelt directly behind our neighborhood was about to be bulldozed. As a fledgling nonfiction writer, I knew how to do research–and quickly discovered that the wooded acreage recently donated to the city for use as parkland had been quietly “repurposed” to build a 6-lane divided highway less than 10′ behind our fences. Read More>>
Stefani Robinson
Wanting to be a hairstylist instead of a receptionist – it was challenging being in that environment and not getting to do what I wanted but it paid off tremendously. Instilling foundational knowledge about how salons should and shouldn’t be run. I watched how top stylists made six figures and I learned the art of being a good employee and hairstylist. This made school easier as I was older and familiar with the industry. I’d say the hardest part was assisting in multiple states and figuring out where I excelled and where I needed to work harder. Hairstylists are moody and when I was younger, I didn’t have the thickest skin. Read More>>
Jd Hearn
However, when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the entertainment industry, I embraced the opportunity to pivot into real estate—a field that had always been close to my heart. Inspired by my mother, a successful real estate professional and entrepreneur who was both my hero and mentor before her passing in August, I was determined to honor her legacy by forging my own path in the industry. Read More>>
Courtney Godbolt
I never would have dreamt that my job would later permanently marry two of my passions childcare and Faith. After 10 years of managing corporate daycares I was no longer able to accommodate my growing family, their busy schedules not to mention unable to afford care for two schoolage children and a newborn. With a giant leap of faith and push from my mother Apostle Lisa Tarpley Tucker I opened my childcare home. Here we are 10 years later operating as The Wynn Academy with 3 locations in the city to provide families with quality yet affordably childcare. Read More>>
Lauren Ramsey, Md Mba
In 2022, I lost a friend and medical school classmate to breast cancer. My friend was an orthopedic surgeon, a specialty with significant occupational radiation exposure, which is a known risk factor for breast cancer. After this, I began to research cancer rates in healthcare workers exposed to radiation. The facts were alarming, with female orthopedic surgeons having 3x higher rates of breast cancer. One major factor is that the current standard protective apron does not adequately protect the breast from radiation. Read More>>
Chris Krave
Over the years, we’ve hosted live broadcast events across the country, gaining recognition along the way. In 2018, we were nominated for Up And Coming Rock Radio Station and Best Independent at the Rock Radio Convention and Awards in Las Vegas. We’ve also been among the first stations to play many of today’s charting hard rock artists and have premiered hundreds of world-exclusive tracks. We are always on the hunt for fresh talent, constantly searching for the next big name in hard rock and metal to introduce to our listeners. Read More>>
Katherine Blanton
I’ve always been a people person. Growing up on the West Coast, I struggled a bit with social anxiety, and it wasn’t until I moved to Texas to attend TCU that I felt my true personality emerge. Meeting the people here was a game-changer for me. That’s what made me want to stay here. The energy, the warmth—it was contagious, and it gave me the confidence to really embrace who I was. When I graduated, I first tried marketing, but something didn’t feel right. I knew deep down that real estate was where I belonged. Read More>>
Darryl L. Rivers
After 6 1/2 years I relocated to Arizona and continued my public service journey. Gaining experience as a Detective, a Lead Special Agent with The Office of The Attorney General, a Police Sergeant, and Hostage Negotiator during my tenure. While making an arrest of a violent armed robbery suspect I was injured and forced into a medical retirement in 2014. I felt as if my dream was transformed into a nightmare. That nightmare feeling was dispelled quickly as I leaned on my faith. From the years of 2004 to 2017 I pastored faith based ministries, appeared on Christian television for a year and hosted my own faith based radio program in Phoenix Arizona. Read More>>
Wendi Irlbeck
Wendi A.Irlbeck grew up in Grand Meadow, Minnesota. Wendi has been into health and fitness since she was 11 YO keeping a food journal. She quickly learned the connection between the food she was eating and how she was feeling when it came to academics and athletics. Wendi played softball, ran cross country and st helps athletes, coaches and families with nutrition. She also relates to and encourages clients by sharing personal stories and her faith. Read More>>
Vik Mall
Like any growing company, we’ve faced challenges along the way. Finding and retaining top-tier talent has been a priority, as we believe a strong core team is essential to delivering the highest level of service. Navigating staffing in a competitive market, ensuring we bring in the best of the best, and maintaining a company culture that aligns with our values have all been part of our journey. Additionally, we have encountered resistance from non-local businesses that prioritized their own interests over the well-being of the community, attempting to disrupt our growth and limit opportunities for local entrepreneurs. However, we remained committed to our vision, ensuring that our expansion benefits both property owners and the communities we serve. Read More>>
Carlease Austin
Not just a means of reaching a destination. If that makes sense. I mean from my abuser getting shot and paralyzed when I was 17, to me fleeing to Alabama, still trying to get away from him EVEN after. In 2002, after I had my son, I contracted a staph infection after having a c-section, that had me hours away from dying, which lead me to have a hysterectomy. To then, years later having a heart attack when my son was 3 years old, which lead to me having open heart surgery! Smooth roads? Yeah no! lol! Read More>>
Brooke Garwood
It hasn’t been a particularly bumpy road, but I’m still grateful for the challenges I’ve faced along the way. Learning how to wear multiple hats as a business owner was a big adjustment—balancing creativity with managing clients, running a business, and staying organized. Imposter syndrome has been a recurring challenge, especially early on, when I’d question whether I was “good enough” to take on certain projects. Read More>>
Allison Wallace
Another challenge has been adapting to the unexpected. Weddings are unpredictable—weather changes, vendor mishaps, last-minute timeline adjustments—but my job is to stay calm, find solutions, and make sure my couples never feel that stress. Over time, I’ve learned that flexibility is everything, and no two weddings are ever the same. Read More>>
Isabel Calvert
Eventually, I became Head of Merchandising and Product Development at Jean Dousset, where I worked in the luxury jewelry space. There, I was heavily involved in operations, including website building, marketing, and understanding how to position high-end products for an elite clientele. This experience gave me a 360-degree perspective on what it takes to successfully run a fine jewelry brand. Read More>>
Armani Chin-Cooper
Rapping was never on the list to do until I played around with freestyles and beats off of YouTube. It was at first all for fun, but as my closest friends and family heard the songs I made, they told me that I have potential to take it all the way up with my music. I had a friend from college that is a rapper, and I would ask about how to get started with different equipment and softwares. With research on YouTube, I gain the confidence to take my music seriously and started playing around with flows and my voice to make a name for myself. Read More>>
Lauren Thompson
After college, I found myself in a corporate cycle—overworked, underpaid, and undervalued. I knew deep down that I wanted something of my own, something that no one could take from me. While working at a local hotel, I spent hours brainstorming names for my business, and that’s when Visually Different was born—a brand that reflects both my artistic vision and my individuality. Read More>>
Rashida Jackson
The logistics didn’t sound like something I was interested in owning but planning vacations was an option. About a year later, in 2021, my sister asked me to help plan her vacation and she said it went really smoothly and really appreciated my help and I thought that maybe something I would be able to do. Around the same time Margy, my Disney college program friend, reaches out to me and ask if I was still interested in possibly planning vacations professionally. I told her I would think about it and see if I can drum up some interest and I would get back to her. Read More>>
Sabin Sanchez
With a friend running a mobile bartending service and DJ friends set up to play music, we turned it into more than just a meal—it was an experience, especially during the COVID shutdown when gathering options were limited. In 2022, we took a leap of faith and invested in ourselves, securing our first official location in Downtown Dallas. Since then, we’ve continued to grow, serving all things birria—from tacos and burritos to quesadillas, ramen, and more! Read More>>
Elizabeth Danielle Hatcher
What sets me apart from others is a hard question, there are so many talented people in my profession who I admire so much. I guess what sets me apart is that I genuinely love documenting peoples milestones in life. It brings me such joy to see the excitement my clients have when they receive their galleries. There isn’t much that makes me happier. Read More>>
Matthew Daniels
In 2018, I wrestled with anxiety disorder. My mind was wrapped up in a circle of revolving issues that I couldn’t seem to break free from, which started to take a toll on my physical health. Matt struggled with the very real challenge of providing for a young, growing family on one income and being there for me during times where I thought I would not make it mentally. But I thank God for his grace-he not only saw me through, but completely set me free from every mental and emotional issue I faced. Read More>>
Justin Hoard
Umm… no haha. I mean but i think with anything you love it’s never easy. Creating comes easy. I got blessed with a lot of talent, imagination and appreciation for the arts that it’s helped a lot of good things flow out. But i mean you struggle. Music biz aint easy and it has a lot of hurdles. Self doubt, suspicions, laziness, discipline practices, distractions, money…. but with all that you know.. I love it! And its what i’m here to do so you roll with it. And i’ve learned you go through some things like that to prepare you for the better thing. Success comes with a lot of responsibility and it’s easy to blow it if you’re not prepared. Read More>>
Laura Silvas
In a leap of faith, I started offering in home consultations under my business “Latching With Laura” in September of 2024. I was still growing my circle of friends in the area and knew there were still so many resources in DFW that I didn’t know about. Fortunately, my calendar filled and I’ve been blessed to help babies and families in this area. There’s not a single day that I don’t look forward to my consults. It is a true honor and privilege to be welcomed into the homes of families deep in the pits of postpartum. Read More>>
Adam Wardlaw & David Myers
Overall we have been blown away by the support we received in our first quarter of operations. We knew we had a wonderful product but like any new business, were not expecting such a fast start. At each vendor event we continued to reach new customers and received great feedback on our seasoning blends. Online sales were also surprising, within the first few months we had shipped orders to nearly every state in the country as well as orders being shipped out to Canada and abroad. Read More>>
Audrey Given
Beyond content, I see my platform as a space to encourage people to enjoy life, experiment with style, and not take things too seriously. Whether it’s a fit check, a travel recap, or just a fun moment with friends, I want my content to feel like an invitation to be present, have fun, and express yourself. That’s the energy that got me to where I am today, and it’s what keeps me excited for what’s next. Read More>>
Nick Bagley
Biggest struggle was building a name as trainer in a space where people want to see a large number of transformations before they begin to trust you with their journey to stage. Moving from a commercial gym to completely independent where it was all on my back, with only a few months until my son was born was incredibly stressful, but it pushed me to build something quickly that most struggle for years to accomplish Read More>>
601and Park
I created 601ANDPARK 2020, I came up with the platform so that artist would be able to get discovered or be able to build a connection with another upcoming underground artist. The reason I came up with the name 601ANDPARK is because I’m from Mississippi that’s where the 601 part came from & park because once you come on the show you need to park so you can sit down & tell the guest about you on your upcoming path. Within 30 days of starting the platform we gain over 123k views & 1,000 authentic followers from all around. Read More>>
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>>
