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.
Lacey Watts
Since launching Savor & Shine in the summer of 2024, one of the biggest challenges Lacey has faced is navigating the ever-evolving world of Instagram. As a new brand, building a presence in such a fast-paced digital space has been both exciting and occasionally overwhelming. From shifting algorithms to staying current with trends and best practices, the learning curve has been steep. But like any great host, Lacey is committed to showing up with heart and intention—adapting, experimenting, and staying authentic in the process, all while continuing to grow a community that values warmth, good food, and meaningful connection. Read more>>
Kaia Brooks
I’ve learned that success isn’t about completely changing things, but rather about understanding what went wrong, learning from it, and growing each day. Development is closely tied to growth, as every experience teaches us something new. Athletic training, in my definition, isn’t just about physical conditioning—it’s about understanding body movements, why they matter, and how to improve them. (Fun fact: I earned a degree in Kinesiology!) Read more>>
Ali Kaheh
Once I was able to back to school, I thought I should just give it a shot. I immediately applied for upper level art courses, which was way outside my comfort zone. This class ended up really pushing me, and actually made me fall even more in love with photography. I really wanted the freedom to explore this medium, and thankfully I could do that here. I started playing with self-portraits, lighting and editing techniques. By the end of the year, I realized that this is what I wanted to do Read more>>
Sebastien Ibeagha
My journey started when I was young. I was born in Warri, Nigeria and soccer is the national sport. It’s the sport every kid wants to play and become a professional. So from a young age that’s all I wanted to do and I moved to the US when I was 9 which opened a lot of doors for in terms of academies that I could play with while in middle and high school. From there I was able to get a scholarship to Duke University, played all 4 years, then started my professional career in Denmark. I went on to play in Iceland before coming back to the US in 2016 and played for Houston, San Antonio, New York, and Los Angeles FC before coming back to Texas and playing for FC Dallas. Read more>>
Do Not Resuscitate Podcast
It all started on a couch. We’re two best friends who could never stop laughing and joking around, always finding ourselves in the middle of the most random, hilarious conversations. For the longest time, we’d say, “We need to start a podcast,” every time things got a little too chaotic or funny. Eventually, we decided to stop talking about it and actually do it—so we took the leap. Now, here we are, sharing our unfiltered thoughts, wild stories, and everyday chaos with anyone who wants to listen, on that same couch. Read more>>
Dominique Crayton
As I continued to watch from home, I rededicated my life to Christ. Though I grew up in church and my grandmother laid a strong spiritual foundation for me — even making me memorize the books of the Bible forward and backward — I had drifted away. Her favorite scripture was Romans 3:23: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” That verse stuck with me through everything. Even when I felt unworthy, I realized God’s love never left. He welcomed me back with open arms. Read more>>
Luke Asper
Nowadays, Asper Studios does its own thing, focusing on commercial and corporate projects, while my personal brand as Luke Asper highlights my work as a cinematographer, director, and creative partner. I love focusing on storytelling that’s cinematic and meaningful—projects that push me creatively and keep me growing. Honestly, the best part is that my journey isn’t over; I’m constantly exploring new ideas and staying passionate about what I do. Read more>>
Alexandria Yang
The inspiration behind the name selection came from flashes of me running around doing errands on the weekend and throwing on whatever I could find quickly and trying my best to style it so that I would still feel cute! I kept that feeling in mind when I started this business and wanted to offer clothes with an elevated casual style for other boss babes just like me! I wanted to have a online shop that had go-to pieces that could make anyone feel effortlessly cute! When it was time to come up with the name, I ended up using my dog’s nickname, Wessie (actual name is Wes) because he was the first thing that came to mind when I was brainstorming words that exuded the image of being effortlessly cute. That’s really it, it’s not any deeper than that. Read more>>
Andrew Griffith
As far as drumming goes, I was always particularly drawn to the sounds of percussion instruments and various rhythms. I used to sit on the kitchen floor and use wooden spoons to play on the various sized coffee containers that my mother had in the cabinet. Eventually my parents bought me a couple of toy drums that I quickly wore out. Around the time I was about 7 or 8 they bought me a real snare drum and little suspended cymbal with some small drumsticks. From that point I tried to play along with records, particularly jazz records. Duke Ellington was one of my favorites. Read more>>
Kendall Brookshire
Oh gosh, I think if someone tells you they didn’t struggle, their lying to you. Being a creative isn’t always the most supported industry in the world and its also one of the most cut throat industries even though it doesn’t have to be. Theres of course been moments over the last 8 years I have questioned if i’m good enough, or could truly make a living off doing what I love, but perseverance, and here we are. Very grateful for that. Read more>>
Dalyn Tam
My first real painting happened in 8th grade in Mrs. Burns’ class—a blue teddy bear on a bold orange background. That moment lit a spark, but it wasn’t until 2013, during a rough chapter of life, that I truly leaned into painting. I spent what little money I had on paint and canvas and just started. I wasn’t good at it—not by any technical standard—but that wasn’t the point. Painting became a way to process emotions I didn’t have the words for. It felt messy and necessary—more like waking up than breathing, but still vital. Read more>>
Elan Sueret
I went from losing everything to mastering the intricacies of credit, rebuilding my wealth, and positioning myself for the long game. My comeback wasn’t just about restoring my real estate portfolio, it was about building credit and structure the right way.2020 was my “aha” moment. I saw too many people trapped by poor credit and improper business structure, missing out on funding, opportunities, and wealth building. That’s when I pivoted into what I do now: brokering capital for business owners, setting up entities, and teaching the information most folks are never taught. Read more>>
Royce Colley
I flipped a few houses my first year until I decided that I wanted to build. I didn’t make much on my first build project but I learned the process. Since then, I’ve built over 100 houses. I began teaching people how to develop real estate in 2023 when I founded The Gentleman Builder. Since it’s inception, TGB has graduated over 300 builders, some of whom are building $58M worth of real estate in DFW right now. We are the only mentorship for new construction approved by the Texas Real Estate Commission. Read more>>
James Taylor
I always loved taking photos but was never very good at it. I originally thought that was because I needed a better camera, which I think is something a lot of photographers go through. I bought my first detachable lens DSLR from Best Buy and there was no turning back. Ironically, it was NOT the camera that made me bad, that was ALL me. Now I’ve been doing it almost 15 years and I’m so happy to still enjoy it. Adding videography the last few years has really re-awakened my creative passion, I’ve enjoyed it so much alongside my normal photography. I’m still not very good, but at least I’m learning from the years of being bad! Read more>>
Carlos Sanchez
My name is Carlos Sanchez, I’m a fashion Model I been in the industry for 3 in half years first time ever modeling was for the leaknyc in New York, got First Runner up at the Sovereign of the World pageant 2023 here in Dallas, I model for Dallas,New York & LA Fashion Week also was invited for the show/podcast Entre Amigas in Houston Tx, I’m a published model on GMARO magazine StyleCruzemagazine, Latinos Tx, Dallas magazine & got Dallas model of the 2024 by the Dallas magazine I’m a professional dancer and Makeup artist as well people don’t really know me for that because I got concentrated in the modeling area, fashion and modeling is not just that but an opportunity to help other and leave a message that not matter what difficulties you have everything is posible. Read more>>
Alex Freeman
Fast-forward a few years and a few thousand tattoos later, and Southbound Tattoo was born in Waxahachie. What started as a humble shop with a love for bold lines and clean tattoos has grown into something much more—a community hub, a creative force, and a place where tradition and artistry meet on our terms. Read more>>
Tifani Torres
Getting certified in chiropractic was the turning point for me. I found an appreciation for the body’s ability to heal itself and regulate its nervous system. Once I was tuned into triggering the body to heal, I fully dove in. Over time, I began to integrate other modalities to assist in motion, healing, and pain relief. This led to my current practice, Back in Motion Veterinary Services, where I focus on mobility and performance. We see primarily orthopedic and neurologic cases, as well as many healthy animals. My goal for every animal is to be as active as they choose to be. Read more>>
India Curley
It has been a smooth road getting to where I am. With lots of prayer to God, the scripture says in Proverbs 3:5 to 5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. With God things have gone the way it should have and I am truly thankful. Read more>>
Danielle McKinnis
The Cajun cuisines and staples such as crawfish just didn’t taste like what we were used to. Knowing that the DFW area has a lot of people here that have also migrated from Louisiana we know we were not the only ones who were looking for some good “Louisiana” food! We purchased our food trailer a little before the pandemic. Once the pandemic hit we were hesitant to get started with everything going on, as businesses began closing and not allowing dine in. In March 2020 school districts also began to close their doors. Since I am also a teacher I now had a little extra time to get Spicytails up and running. So in March 2020 we officially started Spicytails. Read more>>
Myloh Remora
Its something that comes with the territory to be honest. The reality of it is that ego and arrogance play such a big part role in this game.I understand that people want me to go home and learn from my actions but I’m not gonna allow myself to act like I had ill intentions with anyone in this music.Since the very jump,my whole goal has been to help other artists in their journey,it’s a passion I’ve held with me from the very beginning and to see that hasn’t been appreciated just broke my heart in a million pieces.Again, we are all flawed so the only thing I can truly say is of course I’m not perfect but the lack of respect from certain peers is outrageous Read more>>
Diane Prothro Judy Miller
The buildings are landmarked at the local, state and federal levels – Cultural Landmark of the City of Fort Worth, Texas Historic Landmark and National Register of Historic Places – and qualify for the state’s tax credit program. Members pay less than $50 per month in dues and have access to programming in the arts, literature, history, science, fine arts and other areas of personal and professional development. The club is currently running a membership drive to help cover the maintenance and operating costs for the buildings. The club has mounting maintenance needs it can’t meet under its current operating budget and investment earnings, putting it on the Endangered Places list. Read more>>
Valerie Arroyo
Even now, I don’t lead because I have it all figured out. I lead from a place of surrender. From the deep knowing of what it feels like to be gifted but stuck. Called but questioning. Seen by others but not sure how to see yourself. That’s why I created Promise PusHER Academy—to walk women through the exact framework God walked me through when I left my six-figure corporate career to step fully into purpose with no blueprint, just a promise. Read more>>
Liselle
NYC-born, globally inspired, I’m a traveling influencer sharing stories from my adventures abroad and the beauty I find along the way. From colorful streets in Porto, Spain to serene coastlines in Greece, my journey is rooted in culture, creativity, and connection. By day, I work with children with autism—an experience that inspires my passion for empathy and growth. Through my plant business, @brooklynplantclub, I host community events and workshops that bring people together to learn about plant care, connect with nature, and grow something beautiful. Read more>>
Karen Avelar
Ever since i was a little girl, i’ve always had a passion for nails, whether i would get them done professionally or do them myself.I even made nail polish holder out of a shoe box when i was in 5th grade for invention day. As the years went by, i would buy different nail things and nail polish until i had a small collection and i would try to do them on myself and my family,I chose not to go to college because i didn’t have interest in anything else.I knew what i wanted to do, so as soon as i graduated high school, i went to ITS cosmetology school to get my Manicurist license in 2022.After all the hard work i put into this, now i have my own nail business with my dream pink nail room and amazing returning clients that i have created bonds and friendships with. Read more>>
Copper Dallas
Seven years ago, my partner and I founded Body lounge Park cities. It was started as a wellness & medspa clinic. Our mission and focus was helping people move, look and feel better. As the years have gone one, we have grown. With this growth came the birth of Laser Lounge Dallas. Body Lounge has become a boutique Whole Body Wellness & Medical Aesthetics Clinic in the Park Cities of Dallas. We decided to define the Aesthetic Lasers and Massage therapy as its own entity thus came the birth of “Laser Lounge Dallas’, our new sister clinic- as of March 2025. Read more>>
Emily Lomas
Will people like the cake? Will they like the designs? Will I stand out? Many industries (including the cake industry) seem to be oversaturated but in reality not every cake is for everyone. There’s a specific group of people I tailor my cakes for and it’s not your everyday person. My cakes include florals, intricate vintage designs and are more of centerpieces. I understand that not everyone is needing that for their event, but those that are seem to really like their purchase. As I continue to grow I am seeing more obstacles that may cross my path, but like everything else I will carve my way through it and continue to create cake art. Read more>>
Kendall Dungan
I posted a story of my cookies on Instagram, and the response was overwhelming. One of my best friends told me I had to make them for him. He came over, took one bite, and literally laughed because he didn’t believe I had made them—he thought they were that good. He said, “Kendall, you could sell these.” I thought he was crazy—until I brought some to work the next day and within 15 minutes, they were gone. A coworker came up to me and said, “I will pay you to make these for me.” Read more>>
Omotola Maradesa
It wasn’t some grand business plan or calculated move. It was just me, trying to reconnect with what made me feel alive. At the time, I had just started dating my now-husband. As we got to know each other, he quickly realized something about me: I loved helping people bring their celebrations to life. I had been that friend—the one who always stepped up to plan the birthday party, the baby shower, the surprise engagement. One day, in a simple but powerful moment, I told him I had always dreamed of starting something in events—maybe rentals, maybe planning, maybe both. His response? “Then let’s make it happen.” Read more>>
Britteny Garibay
We didn’t have a lot of money so everything but the foundation we did ourselves. My neighbor would watch me work on the house all the time and asked me what I was doing. I told her I planned on flipping and selling it. She had seen the house before and thought I was crazy. About a year later when all the designing and decorating was done I invited her over to see. When she stepped inside she was stunned and said I should ask for more than what I was thinking. I loved working on the house and received such good feedback from everyone who saw it I thought maybe I could start my own interior design business. With no training or team I decided to go for it. Read more>>
Traycie Loving
As I transitioned out of the military, I became increasingly aware of the growing need for specialized interior design services tailored to veterans facing physical and psychological challenges. Approximately 40% of military veterans live with an identified disability. As a veteran myself, I deeply understand the unique struggles wounded service members face in adjusting to civilian home life. It’s essential that their living environments minimize physical and psychological strain, and instead provide comfort, support, and foster positive emotional energy. Read more>>
Jessica Russell
Later, I transitioned into a group practice, where I worked on a DBT team for several years, especially as the hospital setting became harder to sustain after COVID due to safety and staffing issues. That experience helped me hone my skills and also showed me what I would eventually want- and not want- when it came to building a practice of my own. I’m really grateful for the people and lessons from that time. Read more>>
Dee Walton
As a kid, I remember going to the flea markets with my mom who had a catering business and had a food truck before food trucks became a thing. I remember watching her trying to sell her food to clients and trying to be her own boss and I didn’t realize it until I was an adult. Now I realize the impression she had on me and how seeing her attempt to start and have her own business was inspiring. She didn’t not have the resources she needed at the time to really succeed but going to those markets and events with her were always fun and memorable. As kids, we got to run around, play and eat. Read more>>
