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.
Matt Yigit
Matt’s journey to launching Tiles Workshop is deeply rooted in his Turkish heritage. Born and raised in Turkey, he was surrounded by the beauty of mosaic art from an early age. Learning the craft in his homeland, mosaic-making was always his passion. However, his career initially took him in a different direction—software engineering. He spent years designing complex systems and solving problems in the tech world. But his love for craftsmanship and creativity eventually led him back to his artistic roots. Read more>>
Ashley Donaldson
The idea sparked from a personal moment of disappointment—waiting for friends who stood me up while I sat alone on my couch. In that moment of vulnerability, I knew I needed to cultivate something beautiful from it. I shared my vision on Meetup, hesitating at first. A week later, with the help of an amazing friend who offered to design a logo, my idea blossomed from a handful of women to an incredible community of over 2,000 ladies who meet and connect throughout Dallas, creating lasting friendships and support. Read more>>
Paxton Pojar-weatherly
I always had my own sense of style. I can remember countless days and nights of playing dress up, imagining outfits in my head, making sure everything matched and went together. Growing up in the 2000s subjected me to fashion in general, but also as a career (which I wouldn’t realize until almost graduating high school). There are a few things Raven Baxter, Jenna Rink, Betty Suarez, Sharpay Evans, London Tipton, and more, have in common — Not only did they work in fashion/had their own unique sense of style, and DREAM closets (*wink), but they were always the outlier. They always stood out not only when it came to their style, but also in personality and heart for others. They were always grounded in it too. Read more>>
Jessica Rikhlyuk
My story is one of resilience, ambition, and creativity. I was born to immigrant parents who left the Soviet Union, Ukraine specifically even though it was not a country when they left, in search of a better life in America. Watching their relentless work ethic showed me that no matter what happens in life I have to keep going. Their determination shaped who I am today, instilling in me the mindset that challenges are just stepping stones to growth. Read more>>
Rachel Lynn
I’ve spent countless hours talking with clients about their symptoms and pain, helping them find ways to manage it. I’ve explained the benefits of IV vitamins and hydration before or after surgery, only to have their surgeons discourage it. While I would never advise against another medical professional’s recommendations, I want people to understand that multiple treatment options exist—ones that can help address underlying symptoms before they escalate to the point of needing surgery. Read more>>
Rodney Lyles
One of the most significant hurdles we faced was establishing reliable partnerships and support systems. There were days when we wondered if we’d be able to sustain the programs we had started. Many nights were spent brainstorming, reaching out to potential donors, and organizing community events, all while making sure we could provide for the kids who needed it most. But in those moments of doubt, we always leaned into our faith. We trusted that God would provide the resources, the people, and the means to move forward—and He did, time and time again! Read more>>
Rebekah Stepanian
We started weekly classes in August with seven students and now some of those classes have reached full capacity! I am thrilled that people want to call Dance By Design their home! In the last six months our full-time students have participated in the Dance Effect Intensive, the Fort Worth Dance Festival, the Dance Revolution Showcase and Convention, the NextGen Dance Awards and GuiDance Dance Competition to name a few. We are opening up 8-week Spring classes on Tuesday afternoon/evenings for beginner students between the ages of 3 and 12 and looking forward to hosting our first end-of-year recital in May. Read more>>
Claudia Revilla
What started as a simple hobby quickly turned into a passion and, eventually, a business. Over time, more people discovered my work through word of mouth and social media, which led me to create Xmas by Clau. At first, I decorated just a few trees per season, but with dedication, effort, and a deep love for what I do, I have built a thriving business. Today, I have the privilege of decorating dozens of Christmas trees each season, bringing joy and warmth to homes and businesses. Read more>>
Natasha Crain
I started my career as a teacher, pouring my heart into my students and striving to create an engaging, rigorous, and supportive learning environment. That passion led me to leadership roles—first as an instructional leader in the Curriculum and Instruction department, then as an assistant principal, principal, and now an assistant superintendent. Along the way, I earned my doctorate in Learning and Organizational Change, which deepened my understanding of how to create sustainable, transformative change in schools and districts. Read more>>
Moon
I’m an island girl with western roots that found myself moving to Dallas, Texas coming out of a very dark time in life. Healing from a very toxic relationship, exiting a draining party stage, no money to my name, broken relationship and recovering from heart break from my immediate family and friends. I tried all forms of healing and growing up so fast due to an incarcerated father and deceased mother. I moved to Dallas after “mysteriously” surviving my overdose that doctors could not medically explain. Read more>>
Brenda Munden
The most challenging part was navigating the confusing world of insurance issues. I was fortunate that God placed incredible people in my path—a wonderful nurse navigator from the radiology team and, by a twist of fate, Dr. Garner, an oncological surgeon who not only helped me sort through the insurance maze but also encouraged me to apply for a state plan specific to Breast and Cervical cancer. I never imagined I’d qualify, but thank the Lord, I did. Read more>>
Darla King
I love spending time with family, friends, meeting new people and exploring locations to create something that captures that moment in time. I have spent years working in the non-profit world as a vice president and director of a food pantry in Rowlett. These past 12 years have taught me that we all have a story and we can capture our story through photographs. We can offer our passion and talent to others so that we can help to tell that story. I love helping other non-profit organizations at events or fundraisers so they can share their journey and story with others. Read more>>
Kidd Kashmen
As my studio grew and management career grew I continued to grow the blog. I began to grow a lot more connections as major artist, record labels and celebrities commented and shared many post from TexxposedTv. I also made many viral videos on YouTube a Instagram as well as the viral series “The War In Dallas”. We are still working, still growing and looking to expand into more areas of media. We have great relationships with most of the blogs in Texas and also is a partner of 97.9 the beat. Read more>>
Amber Gist
But like many, I reached a crossroads where I wanted more—more flexibility, more financial security, and more impact beyond the four walls of a school. That’s when I discovered the notary industry. I started my notary business as a side hustle, but I quickly realized the enormous potential in loan signings, apostille services, estate planning documents, and more. Within a short time, I was able to build a thriving business that not only replaced but exceeded my former income. Read more>>
Jared Lindsay
I shoot some music. Take freelance assignments to cover everything from events (The Arts Goggle), to corporate events, to birthday parties. Read more>>
Katie Ann Burgess
It is a great way to see what Howdy Darlin offers and a chance to create whatever you like. All the beads are displayed and customers can pick and choose and make the items completely their own. I have a handful of customers that shop with me specifically for birthday gifts or any occasion needing a gift. I have a handful that shop with me because they collect pens and cup charms and love the new themes that are released. I meet so many new people when I attend events and I love the relationships that have blossomed through this connection. Read more>>
Kitirne Mills
Honestly, no, it hasn’t been a smooth journey—but I appreciate where I am and where I’m growing. One of the biggest challenges I faced was realizing that I started my company backwards. I knew I wanted to blend my own seasonings, put them in bottles, and sell them, but I didn’t have a solid plan in place. What made it even more difficult was that I couldn’t find the right bottles for my products until a year later. Read more>>
Jamiya Reese
However, as I acquired all these tools, I noticed there was still a need for me to cultivate the element of safety in order for individuals to truly see change. If we think about it, a gardener can have all the tools in their belt, but it doesn’t matter if the important environmental elements are missing! From there Growtopia was born. A therapeutic safe place that meets you where you are with quality service and no judgement. A safe space where you can grow into the version of yourself that you aspire to be. Are you feeling like a cactus stranded in the desert? We got you, we can help you grow! Do you feel like a wildflower in the middle of a storm? Don’t worry, we can help you grow too! Read more>>
Payton Meadows
After graduating from college in 2021, I attended ICON Collective Music School (online program) based in Los Angeles. This school taught me a lot of skills and insight on how to function as a professional in the music industry. Since 2024, I have released 3 singles and performed locally here in Dallas. My dream is to perform on bigger stages at festivals and travel the world. I want to experience new places, share music with an audience/fans, and build a fun and respectable community around my brand. Being able to make music as a profession is what I believe my purpose is. Read more>>
Lady B Smoove
BSmoove’s Creations was created as the merch shop for myself, Lady B Smoove around August 2020, smack dab in the middle of the Covid Pandemic. Just like other performing artist gigging was a no-go and therefore, I needed a way for extra money to come in. My wife is a pastry chef, as well as event decorator and had previously purchased a printer and Cricut machine. Needing to create a new stream of income and to always have merch available at my future shows, I came up with BSmoove’s Creations. So being the nerd that I am I began to research and train myself on how to use the machines. I dove deep into Youtube and Instagram videos and then purchased my Heat Press and the best printer on the market for shirt prints. Read more>>
Nicole Estrella
My journey has definitely not been smooth. While growing up, my family struggled financially. College was not a topic of discussion. But I knew at an early age from my experiences that I was the only person who could carve my own path. I was determined to pursue higher education, so I enrolled in community college. From there, I enrolled in the University of Illinois at Chicago and received my Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. All the experiences I have learned from helped me grow into a better person to this day! Read more>>
Tiyonna Watkins
You know how they say, “When you get tired, you’ll change things”? Well, I got tired. Tired of the disappointment, the betrayal, and the feeling of being unappreciated. I knew real boundaries especially as I got older needed to be set in stone. The kind that no longer wavered at sweet words or empty promises. So, I walked away from what no longer served me, even when it hurt. And in doing so, my self-journey truly began. I started to reclaim myself, love myself more, celebrate my victories big or small and, most importantly, give myself grace. Because, at the end of the day, there’s no blueprint or instruction manual for navigating life, parenting, or healing. Read more>>
Ginnie Potts
Growing up, I always had dogs, but I never realized there was an entire profession dedicated to grooming and styling them. As both an animal lover and an artist, I was drawn to the creative aspect of grooming. The idea of transforming a dog’s appearance while ensuring their comfort and well-being intrigued me. Read more>>
Olivia Melville Gigi Morel
Post grad, Gigi and Olivia moved to Dallas, Texas where their friendship flourished. They discovered two things that brought them together – extra dirty martinis and a crippling shopping addiction. Soon, texts to each other were flooded with outfit pics and inspo. That’s when they decided to make their hobby and passion into something real – MEL + MORE BOUTIQUE. Read more>>
Soulful Lady Gang
SLG is a powerhouse dance team with our diverse backgrounds, each lady brings a special touch and elements that make for an explosive performance on any platform. We have a lot of flava’ fueled with passion and energy that we want to share and showcase through dance. Our goal is to see the team’s name, Soulful Lady Gang, on the big stages and billboards, under the bright lights across the world. Read more>>
Amanda Hearne
It changed my life. It saved my life. Once I was able to return to helping others, I moved on after becoming a fully licensed therapist and worked for a group practice that solely offered EMDR therapy. As a therapist, and as a client, I can speak from both experiences that this therapy SAVES LIVES. Eventually I started my own practice, Live & Align: The EMDR Healing Practice where I plan to continue helping others who have or continue to still struggle with PTSD, Acute Stress Disorder, Anxiety, and any kind of self-worth trauma. I am so lucky to do what I love every day. Read more>>
Kashawn Willis
I started my culinary journey in Richmond Virginia at 16 at a Little Caesars. I really followed in my grandmothers(my mom’s mom) as she was a chef at a country club for years and would sell plates every Friday. My late aunt was the baker in the family and my mom provided me and sister creative and homemade “from scratch” dinners our entire childhood. I was in the kitchen at an early age always watching how they cooked and as I got older would experiment with different ingredients and started making meals for my family. Was not very good in all honesty but my passion for food not failed me no matter how many times my dishes might have. Read more>>
Kristen Cipriano
For 30 years, it was not a smooth road because I still was doubting my abilities and potential for success. But the last year has been surprisingly smooth. Anytime I encounter an obstacle, I just ask myself: what beliefs would help me get around this obstacle easier? What beliefs would help me skip this struggle and get to the good stuff faster? If this could be easier and more natural for me, what would I believe? And it works every time. Read more>>
Sarah & Karma Hinnawi & Alsaga
What makes us special? We focus on the experience, not just the craft. Whether it’s a birthday party or another event, we bring the fun to you! As a mobile business, we set up an amazing activity table that keeps kids busy and engaged, so parents can relax while their little ones create something they’ll be proud of. Read more>>
Jeremy Denson
Several years later, we introduced our American-made soft cooler line, which made us the only cooler company in America producing both their hard and soft coolers here in the US. We expanded our categories to include premium, stainless steel drinkware in 2016 and haven’t looked back since. We continue to add new products, expand our offerings and serve our network of customers including consumers, corporations, dealers and the promotional product space. The latter of which has been one of our fasted growing channels, because we are able to add customer’s logos to all of our products. Read more>>
Teliya Scott
Along the way there have been many struggles in building the business. Covid shut down had basically stalled me for the first year. Having to take client out of the house for 2 years after because i simply could not afford to get a suite and just had a second baby girl. There was no choice but to keep my career during the day and take clients at the salon during the night. Read more>>
Te’ja Foy
I began my fitness journey in 2019, unsatisfied with my physique after 9 years as a track and field athlete. After failed attempts at trying influencer workout programs and random gym workouts from TikTok, I decided to take my fitness journey seriously and became a certified personal trainer through NASM in 2020. Once I was certified, I began creating and testing my own workout programs while learning more about muscle growth and how a woman’s menstrual cycle can affect her workouts. With this knowledge, I’ve trained myself and other woman to build the body of their dreams through sustainable workouts, wellness regimes and meal ideas + recipes. Read more>>
Jenifer Mendez
As a mom of two, I understand how quickly time passes, and this drives my approach to capturing the beauty of motherhood. With over six years of experience, I offer a portrait experience that goes beyond just photos—it’s about empowering women and preserving life’s most cherished moments. Read more>>
Angie Perez Gallardo
I found my passion in photography as a teen and started my own photography business in April of 2022, I have been an entrepreneur since 2019, opening multiple small businesses. I also work as an activations technician for Univision Radio. I have been able to run a business and have a job in the Media Industry. I stayed consistent and focused on reaching my goals, I am at the place where I am, thanks to my support system which is my family and my partner. Having a strong mindset and not giving up has helped me along my journey. Read more>>
DuBose DeSelva
I’m known for having my feminine characters with their winged eyeliner and relaxed eyes I’d say I’d been drawing like that since I was five. I loved reading fashion magazines and watching old films and cartoons so I think it just stuck with me my whole life. There’s an anthropomorphic quality to what I create. I have my own design called “things with faces” and it’s exactly that. A heart, a sun, a playing card. Anything really. Read more>>
Esther Caulcrick
Financially, investing in high-quality wigs, lace adhesives, tools, and styling products was a challenge. I had to make sacrifices, sometimes prioritizing my craft over other expenses to ensure I had the right materials to improve. Another major struggle was building confidence and attracting clients. At first, I doubted my skills and felt nervous working on others. It took time, practice, and a lot of trial and error before I became comfortable offering my services. There were also moments when I faced difficult clients or had to deal with last-minute cancellations, which made it tough to stay motivated. Read more>>
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>>
