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.
Tiffany “ Lola” Williams
But I knew I wanted to do more than just style hair. I wanted to impact lives. So I took the next step and earned my instructor’s license, allowing me to become an educator and launch my mentorship program, MENTOR ME & MORE. God gave me a vision to pour into others—not just creatively, but personally and professionally as well. Read more>>
Ashley Thompson
My name is Ashley Thompson, and my story is one of struggle, survival, and strength. I got married when I was just 20 years old, and by the age of 25, I was a mother of three. Life wasn’t easy. I had three little ones under five years old, and I was just trying to make a living, keep the lights on, and build something that could last. Read more>>
Roscoe Cartwright III
Soon after, I launched Paternity Testing Solutions, which has been a rollercoaster of emotions, stories, and deep personal connections. Just when I think I’ve heard it all, a new client walks in with a story that tops the last. This line of work involves raw emotions, betrayal, anxiety, heartbreak, and hope. Because of my own personal experience in this area, I know how to speak their language. I understand their silence. I know how to be present for them in a way that feels human and sincere. We don’t just give people answers; we give them peace. Read more>>
Allyson Loupe
Today, I’m fiercely passionate about advocating for pelvic health, educating communities about how pelvic floor function connects to whole-body health, and challenging the status quo in healthcare. Pelvic floor therapy isn’t about Kegels, in fact it’s so much more than just the pelvic floor and I feel grateful every day to be a voice and serve others in this space. Read more>>
Jesse Jackson IV
I am a author, designer, and photographer. In my studio practice, I pursue projects that allow me to leverage each of these creative disciplines to produce cohesive objects and experiences that are greater than the sum of their parts. Read more>>
Tiffany Sammataro
My path has been a little unconventional, but I think that’s what’s shaped how I approach work today. I started out in college studying science and went on to work as a research scientist, which taught me a lot about problem solving, attention to detail, and how to think analytically. Read more>>
Morgan Wright
I began teaching myself guitar at the age of 7. I attended my first open mic in a coffee shop in Denton, Texas at age 16 and have been performing ever since. When I was in my early 20’s for about 4 years, I traveled the United States in my Astro van with my dog, Yuki. Read more>>
Monica Najarro
Ever since I was young, I dreamed of going to college and building a meaningful career that allowed me to help and connect with others. As the first in my family to earn a graduate degree, that dream carried deep meaning. My path wasn’t straightforward. I studied dental hygiene while pursuing a graduate degree in counseling, balancing two very different worlds. Read more>>
Melanie Miller
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While we’ve spent most of our adult lives in the Dallas area, my family moved to Granbury for a few years in 2017. Read more>>
Crystal Omorogieva
I have always had a passion for beauty. I went to cosmetology school while in high school and would do students’ hair while in college. I even did my own makeup for prom. I went to Victoria Secret (who sold makeup at the time) and asked one of the ladies to show me how to do my own makeup. Read more>>
Leah Marie
Photography found me in the most unexpected way. I used to hide from the camera as a kid, but somewhere between the rise of Instagram and the creative rush of my high school years, I realized I loved being behind it. What started as documenting everyday memories with friends turned into a deeper curiosity about emotion, storytelling, and the art behind an image. Read more>>
Alyssa Caubang
I actually started the page @dtxadventures with my friend, Camila Ramos, a little over a year ago. At first, it was just something fun for us to do together. We spent a lot of time hanging out, and since I was already creating personal content on the side, we thought: Why not turn that into something more? Read more>>
Gretchen Petterway
Dr. Gretchen Gillyard Petterway, M.D. “Dr. G” Pediatrician | Speaker | Founder of All Things Dr. G® and Your Fav Pediatrician From a scared child fearing for her life to a board-certified pediatrician who now guides women and cares for children, meet Dr. Gretchen Petterway, affectionately known as Dr. G. Read more>>
Sierra Woods
I got started when my previous roommate was very overwhelmed with her DIY wedding. I have always been super organized so I stepped in, and the rest is history! That said, I wouldn’t be where I am without God’s help. Within the last year and a half, my business has grown so much that I have brought on 5 people the last 6 months alone. Read more>>
Lisa Dalton
Today, I am one of the top master teachers in the world who specialize in Michael Chekhov’s approach to peak performance in the performing arts. As an Amazon Best Selling Author, I just launched my fourth book, Acting the Michael Chekhov Way: A Playbook for Healthy, Sequential Training. My story likely starts from bored middle-child syndrome, flunking kindergarten, and getting suspended from first grade. Read more>>
Vickie Bell
I knew in middle school I would do hair for a very long. It brought me such joy to see the smiles I put on ladies faces. God laid the path for me. Read more>>
Yasser Masood
I started my professional career working for a global airline’s newly-formed social media team. Joining them just months after they established the team itself, while I was unemployed after graduating from college for more than a year. Best part was they hunted me. Read more>>
Limbert Fabian
My name is Limbert Fabian, I am a multidisciplinary creative artist and designer. As a child growing up in New York City I was always attracted to drawing and making things with my hands in a city offering all kinds of stimuli. Read more>>
Dulce Navarro
I’m Mexican born and raised, and I came to the U.S. a few years ago with big dreams and a lot of determination. My journey started with blue-collar jobs, they taught me hard work and humility. After becoming a mom, my lifestyle and priorities changed, and I started looking for new ways to make an income while still being present for my family. Read more>>
Chaniya Polk
My journey has been full of growth, faith, and purpose. I started Sassy Collection’s in 2017 with lipgloss and slowly started adding clothes. Over time, I found myself balancing it all — being a mom, business owner, dance coach, content creator and community leader — each part shaping who I am today. In 2022, my world changed when I lost my brother Codie Polk. Read more>>
Coreen Reed
My skincare journey began 15 years ago in California. As a teenager, I struggled with skin issues that made me feel insecure and hesitant to go anywhere without makeup. When I was 17, I received my first facial, and the esthetician was incredibly informative. Read more>>
Josue Martinez
In 2020, when COVID first hit, my family members and I were part of the ‘non-essential’ group of people during the height of the virus; we were unemployed, but still had bills to pay and families to provide for. During this time period, a big tornado had swept through North Dallas and a family friend’s neighbor had lost their brick mailbox. Read more>>
Karen Fry
Spirit Tours has a beautiful legacy that spans more than two decades, rooted in the idea that travel can be sacred — a path of awakening and deep connection. Read more>>
Alma Santillan
Design has always been more than just a skill for me; it’s the lens through which I understand and connect with the world. I was brought to America when I was six years old, and since then, I’ve carried the pride of being a Mexican American and a DACA recipient in my heart. Read more>>
Rebecca Townsend
I started my first business at 11 years old due to my parent’s struggling financially and an abusive home environment. I eventually became the first person in my family to graduate college. Read more>>
Reily Renfroe
I grew up in small town Bristow, Oklahoma. My parents owned a local childcare business that was my mother’s dream. I realized later that watching them own a business would give me the confidence to open my own. While I was in college at the University of Oklahoma, I found myself struggling to find the right fit for my future. Read more>>
Jojo and Wo Daniels
JoJo x Wo: The Rise of a Dynamic Duo Born in Houston, Texas, and self-taught in singing, piano, guitar, and drums, JoJo and Wo discovered their passion for music at the age of five. Armed with a deep-rooted belief that all it takes is one “Yes,” they embarked on a journey of faith and determination, taking a one-way ticket to California to chase their dreams. Read more>>
Deanna Vickery
My husband and I got married in 2009 shortly after that I took a job closer to Valley View where we were living and unfortunately after about nine months, the company folded and I decided to pursue one of my great loves animals so I was fortunate enough to apprentice at a shop in Garland and learn how to dog Groom. Read more>>
Jason Hanvey
I have always been passionate about food. As a kid, I was glued to the TV watching Julia Child. While academics were never my thing, I found my grove in culinary school in Austin, Texas. I worked at numerous restaurants eventually working as an Assistant Kitchen Manager at a Carrabba’s in Williamsburg, Virginia where my wife finished law school and we had our first child. Read more>>
Jason Uche
My journey in healthcare has always been rooted in compassion and connection. I began my career in community health, where I cared for children and families who often faced barriers to consistent, high-quality care. Those early years showed me how deeply wellness is tied to lifestyle, stress, nutrition, and environment — and how much healing happens when patients feel truly heard and understood. Read more>>
Geanie Asante
I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of people and possibility. My career started in engineering and leadership, helping organizations build systems that make life easier. A few yesrs ago, I began exploring how artificial intelligence could actually improve our lives instead of harm. That’s how Heart-Centered AI was born. It became my framework for using technology with empathy, curiosity, and compassion. Read more>>
Addison Parish
Life started just like it would for a normal child until I was three years old. I was diagnosed with Marfan’s Syndrome at that time. Shortly thereafter, I was having surgery on my eyes to correct an issue with my lenses. Since then, life has continued as a regular kid. Read more>>
Zebulan Van Pelt
I grew up on a farm outside of Dannebrog, NE, a small town with a population of about 300 people. Growing up on a farm instilled in me values that I still live by today and I have implemented those into my business as well. Hard Work, Integrity, & Timeliness to name a few of the most important ones in my opinion. Read more>>
Joe Zarraga
I’ve been a firefighter since 2009, and throughout my career, the outdoors has always been my way to reset and recharge. A few years ago I stumbled across some kayak-camping videos online, and something about the adventure — the quiet mornings on the water, the challenge of packing everything into a kayak, and the simplicity of river-life — just grabbed me. Read more>>
Elizabeth Gaines
My Journey: From Freight to Foundations – Built with Purpose I started E-Lane Freight Services with one mission in mind: to create opportunities for people in poverty-stricken areas, especially for those who needed a second chance. I knew that logistics was more than just moving freight—it was about moving people forward. Read more>>
Shalanda Ajibola
I am an entrepreneur attorney and have been managing my own law practice since 2019. Over 20 years ago, I started out as a file clerk working at the the county family court in Kansas City, Missouri. I moved up to a Legal Secretary assisting attorneys and then decided to obtain a Paralegal Certificate after already obtaining an Associate Degree. Read more>>
Rory Conner
I spent ten years in the sales and service industry, where I mastered operational efficiency, high-level organization, and complex problem-solving. These roles fulfilled my systematic and analytical side but left my creative side unexpressed. I eventually reached a plateau, realizing I was no longer growing and was ready for new challenges. I just wasn’t exactly sure what that next move would be. Read more>>
Karen Henderson
During COVID I found myself working from home with everyone else, but being in a house filled with men, no one wanted to talk. Everyone was in their own room, and I set up my desk facing the backyard so I could watch and listen to the birds. My anxiety was high and I found teas that helped settle my tummy. Read more>>
Langston Gardner
My story really starts here in Dallas, Texas. I grew up surrounded by music — gospel in church, soul and R&B in my headphones, and a constant curiosity about how songs made people feel. I started writing songs when I was around ten years old, and before long I was recording my own ideas and experimenting with production. Read more>>
Ashton Flowers
I started singing at 8 years old but was always scared to show my voice to others. I started making music in high school because a close friend convinced me to challenge myself to see if i could do it and i never stopped since. Going on almost 5 years i’ve been singing and making music. Read more>>
Shanneca Weatherall
My journey into business was birthed out of one of the hardest seasons of my life. After the sudden death of my late husband in 2009, I was left with no life insurance, a six-month-old, and a one-year-old. I lost my home, my cars, and what felt like my sense of stability. Read more>>
Catherine Langston
When I was 5 years old, my parents went through a really tough divorce and as a result, my sister and I were placed into therapy to help us process all the conflict and change that occurred. I don’t remember much about what I did or talked about in therapy, but I do remember exactly how it made me feel. Read more>>
Ali Rahman
I started my career as a financial advisor and enjoyed the connections and interactions I had with clients. It was rewarding to help people reach their financial goals, but I still felt something was missing. Wanting to help others on a deeper, more personal level, I pursued a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Read more>>
Tasia Pope
Honestly, my story didn’t start from a place of perfection it started from pain, purpose, and process. I Was Made 4 Dis wasn’t just a brand idea; it was a divine reminder during one of the lowest seasons of my life. I had to unlearn survival and relearn purpose. Read more>>
Marisa Shaw Van Zandt
I grew up in Garland, graduated from Garland High School (GHS). I am a twin who unfortunately lost my other half in 2016, way too soon and the reason why I am know as TWIN TWIN. I met my husband via a blind date and we’ve been married for 30 years (he will say 34….since the time we met lol). Read more>>
John Carstarphen
Though I was born and raised in Philadelphia Pa., I moved to Texas in the 80s wanting to make a difference in the film and television community here. Read more>>
Heesoo Yang
I took a speech class in eighth grade, and we had a video project as part of an assignment. As soon as I picked up that camera and started editing, I knew this was what I wanted to do with my life. I carried that passion into college, and through a lot of networking, I was able to find work on campus. Read more>>
Raj Asava
Our story is one of gratitude, purpose, and community. After spending over four decades in corporate leadership, my wife, Aradhana (Anna), and I felt a deep desire to give back to the country that had given us so much. When we learned about the magnitude of hunger in the United States — one of the richest nations on earth — we were moved to act. Read more>>
Victoria Hitz
The Dallas Asian Winds was founded in 2018 by our conductor and music director, Jung-Moo Lee, with the purpose of celebrating and promoting the beauty of Asian heritage, and artistry through our performances. Read more>>
Kristen and Julie Sheeley
Our Story Tullia Sage was born from a shared dream between a mother and daughter — to create a space that celebrates women, family, and community through thoughtfully curated collections. What started as an idea in a guest room quickly blossomed into a full-fledged boutique rooted in love, creativity, and connection. Read more>>
Cedric Buard
I am the founder and creator of Dallas Video Services (Dream Media, LLC), a premier video production company proudly serving the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. Known for my cinematic eye and innovative approach to visual storytelling, I currently lead a team dedicated to producing high-quality, impactful video content for brands, businesses, artists, and organizations across the region. Read more>>
Tola Casanova
I’m known as Zee but also called “Auntie” by many of my supporters. I was born in Mississippi, raised in Atlanta, and spent part of my childhood in East Memphis so my story carries that Southern culture, resilience, and talent. I come from a lineage of powerful people who understood Hoodoo as a way of life, not a trend. Read more>>
Melissa Ann Torres-Ramirez
My love for food started when I was 7 years old. I started Catering at 20 years old. I worked on a food truck 13 years and in the process bought my own Catering truck and have built my business on references and social media. Read more>>
Jess Pierson
I didn’t begin my career in real estate. For six years, I worked for Marriott, learning the heart of hospitality — how to create a sense of welcome, how to listen, and how to show up for people. But when the pandemic hit, everything shifted. I lost my sales job, and suddenly I was standing at a crossroads. Read more>>
Ella Baer
I’ve been an artist my whole life. When I was 2 or 3 years old, I would set up still lifes with my toys and draw them. I went to an art high school and later studied graphic design in college. I spent about seven years working as a designer, creating work for companies like Baltimore Water Taxi and Invisalign. Read more>>
Tony Spino
Back in 2007 a good friend and myself were having lunch and just chatting about what we thought the City of Frisco needed. So we began writing our thoughts down on a napkin, as all great ideas start here! We began discussing the concept of a new local bar. Read more>>
David Andrews
I started out boxing when I was younger in London where I’m from, also tried other martial arts, was not until I was older and wanted to get back in shape that I took it seriously, had a few fights and went from there. Read more>>
Bridgette Mitchell
My journey as a realtor started back in 2021. I always had a passion for real estate and to help others. So one day I decided I’m doing it I am going to get my license and become a realtor. In my community I felt it was very underserved when it came to homeownership and real estate. Read more>>
Erica Smith
I began my makeup journey in Dallas, Texas in February 2008, after moving from Kansas City, Missouri in April 2007. I started freelancing in makeup around November 2007 and started working full time at MAC Cosmetics at Nordstrom Dallas Galleria. I left MAC in April 2015 at noon while I was managing at the MAC store in Plano, Texas at the Willow Bend Mall. Read more>>
Yiming Zhai
After I graduated from art school, I did not know how to start my career. I felt unsure about my direction. One day I had a chance to meet Heth, the boss of LandDesign. He saw my work and decided to hire me to paint a large mural for their new office in Dallas. This project became a turning point for me. Read more>>
Amy Scottino
Emerald Bodywork Education was born out of both passion and necessity. As a Licensed Massage Therapist and Massage Therapy Instructor, I’ve always believed that continuing education should be more than just meeting requirements — it should be meaningful, inspiring, and deeply connected to the heart of our work. Read more>>
Sai Ferrera
I moved to Dubai several years ago and began my career in marketing working for an agency. It was an exciting time, I was learning the ropes of brand strategy, creative campaigns, and storytelling for clients across fashion, lifestyle, and beauty. Read more>>
Mary Elaine Benton
The Fool’s Kava House is Arlington’s first and only kava bar, conveniently located in downtown Arlington. We proudly serve high-quality kava and tonic, as well as chai, matcha, and coffee, from 11 AM to 2 AM daily. With weekly events like trivia night and karaoke, frequent drink specials, and high-speed internet, we invite you to stop by, unwind, and enjoy Arlington’s inclusive late-night hangout. Read more>>
Quiana Dixon
Throughout high school, I always did hair for myself and all my friends. I never thought about it being an actual career until I went to college in 2007. My freshman year at the University of North Texas, a young lady asked me who did my hair, I told her I did it myself and she asked if I could do her hair like mine. Read more>>
Juan Lopez
I come from a family where both my parents immigrated from Mexico and all they wanted was to give us a good education and live the American Dream. My parents taught us to about hard honest work, yet we were very humble, and God always saw us through, we always had a roof over our head and food on our table. Read more>>
Trent Hunt
I grew up playing football, and from an early age, I learned the value of teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Being part of a team taught me how to hold myself accountable, push through challenges, and help others do the same. Read more>>
Lady Tiffany Nicole
This has truly been a real journey!! There are days I feel like I am living in a movie!!!!! I started out as a radio show host in Houston, launching The Virtuous Hour Radio show on a station Gospel Radio Nation… Read more>>
Sujey Colunga
As a teenager, I discovered a passion for beauty and creativity through doing nails. I always loved the idea of using my hands to build confidence in others. Life, however, took me through different chapters — I got married, became a mother, and naturally shifted my focus. It wasn’t until my oldest daughter developed an interest in nails the spark returned. Read more>>
LABELS BAND
LABELS started back in 2020 when Twin Brothers Braden Burgan and Taylor Burgan were seniors at L.D. Bell High School. They tried out for the basketball team but weren’t cut out for that unfortunately. The day they didn’t make try-outs for the team, they came home disappointed but surprised to see in there garage was a beat up guitar and a 3 piece drum set. Read more>>
Nikki Stringfield
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I was born and raised about 30 minutes south of downtown Dallas in the small town of Red Oak, TX. I always had a passion for music, and I fell in love with playing guitar when I was 14. Read more>>
Sherri Jacob
After we had moved back to DFW in 2019 I wanted to get involved in helping women that had been rescued from trafficking. I started in on some training to be a mentor through an organization called Alive At Last. Read more>>
Joshua Bishop
I was born and raised in Oak Cliff, Dallas, Texas. Where I come from, you learn early that nothing’s handed to you. I didn’t grow up with a lot, but I always had big vision and drive. Fitness started out as an outlet, something to clear my head. Over time it became my foundation and my way of finding purpose. Read more>>
Harnek Sabharwal Sohan Kathari
The idea for SpeakSmart came from a very real struggle both of us experienced: the fear of speaking in front of others. As part of the speech and debate team, we saw how powerful confident communication could be, but also how intimidating it felt for so many people. Read more>>
Jairo Bautista
I has trained in martial arts all my life, including influence from my years serving in the military. All of my experience has cultivated in the creation and growth of 144 Academy. Read more>>
Michael Einstein
When I turned 21 ,I was determined to understand why people love wine so much and began my lifelong journey of tasting, drinking and pairing wines. I’ve had the opportunity to drink wines across Italy, France, Greece, Oregon, California and other lesser-known wine regions. This all resulted in a retirement dream to open my own wine retail store. Read more>>
Sharlenne Vasquez
I was born in Dominican Republic and then moved to New Jersey at a young age, living in a home where work ethic wasn’t optional — it was important to get ahead. I took a lot of pride in academics and helping my parents with their business. Read more>>
Vidhi Vyas-Desai
I have been working in healthcare since 2010. Helping people with just “physical” part of their health felt incomplete. Especially, when we know that a lot of orthopedic problems and metabolic issues come from poor management of our sleep, nutrition and stress. That’s what inspired me to take more holistic approach in my care and to open Vishoka Wellness. Read more>>
Silvia Isaac
MadreTierra began in the summer of 2017. I had noticed the low-quality candles flooding the market, and it inspired me to dive deep into research on how to craft candles of true quality. Once I committed to creating my own, ideas began to pour in like rain. MadreTierra was born from a deep love for candles and the sacred act of lighting one. Read more>>
DeLisa Treshelle
I started as a little girl with big dreams, but the pain from my father wounds, especially from my father’s incarceration, blurred my vision for a time. It took years of healing and rediscovering my identity in God to see clearly again. Writing became my first outlet. While attending Baton Rouge Community College, I was mentored by Professor Nero, who was mentored by Maya Angelou. Read more>>
