Deciding to start a business is an unusual decision. It’s often considered irrational and yet for many it’s the best decision they’ve ever made. So we asked folks to think back to when they were starting their businesses and to tell us about their decision making process.

Jayson Forrest

Entrepreneurship has always been a part of me. I started selling candy out of my backpack in the 6th grade with a small loan from my mom—that was my first taste of business. As I grew older, that same hustle evolved into a deeper passion for building something of my own. When I made the decision to start a business as an adult, I knew it would take resilience. Read More>>

Valentina Calderon

I started my business because I wanted to create something that would have deeply helped me five years ago, something more than just image consulting. I longed for a mentor, a real woman I could relate to. Someone with a similar body type, someone who had walked through the same challenges I was facing: insecurities, self-doubt, and the pressure to fit in. Read More>>

Nick Meneses

Honestly, it all started with my background in commercial and private aviation — an industry that taught me a lot about precision, high standards, and how to deliver exceptional service. But at my core, I’ve always been an entrepreneur. I’ve had a passion for bringing brands to life and building something meaningful from scratch. Read More>>

Daphne Martino

Starting our own business really felt like the natural next step for both of us. Interior design has always been something we loved and naturally gravitated toward — we’ve each been designing, decorating, and helping friends and family with their homes for years. It’s always been part passion, part side project. Read More>>

Ernesto Gonzalez

Sensations was born from the idea of creating an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression. Local to Miami, Sensations hopes to bring an awe inspiring and breath taking audio visual productions from raves, to weddings to private events. Illuminating and bringing to life any event to ensure a sensational experience. Read More>>

Anna Uskova

When I started my business, the field of makeup artistry in Ukraine was just beginning to develop (it was 10 years ago) .
I had just graduated from a university of trade and economics with a specialization in hotel and restaurant management. I knew I didn’t want to work in that profession—it wasn’t my calling, nor something I enjoyed. Read More>>

Jennifer Cortiella

Starting Cortiella Photography came from a deep desire to create something that felt truly personal and meaningful—not just for me, but for the people I serve. I’ve always been drawn to storytelling and connection, and photography became the way I could offer that to others. I wanted to create a space where couples could feel fully themselves in front of the camera and know their story would be captured with honesty, emotion, and care. Read More>>

Melissa

I’ve always been drawn to being my own boss, as I find it eliminates the “stress” of trying to achieve work life balance. While I run a successful law firm, I always find myself conjuring up new business ideas. I enjoy brainstorming. Most ideas I unfortunately don’t have the time to develop, however CADiLab PIlates was special. Read More>>

Cedia Dallas

Starting ‘N Good Company came from a genuine desire to create more inclusion and community in Miami. The three of us were born and raised here, and as we got older, we noticed a lack of intentional social spaces for like-minded women. We didn’t just want to create another group centered around nightlife—we wanted something deeper. Read More>>

Yaqoob Sheikh

The idea for Ace Photobooth Rentals came from a combination of passion, opportunity, and a desire to build something of my own. I’ve always loved seeing people capture joyful moments, and I noticed how much excitement a photobooth brings to events—whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or corporate gathering. It’s more than just taking pictures; it’s about creating lasting memories. Read More>>

Sarah Akiba

It started with nurture and a feeling. I’m from the fashion capital of the world, Paris France, and come from a family of luxury art, antiques, and fine jewelry – ergo a background built on style and culture. The feeling came from being a Creative. Read More>>

Will Halvey

I started out a few years ago formally teaching yoga, mostly to small groups and one on one sessions. Prior to that, I was always sharing my yoga practice at the gym with fiends/family, whether on trips, out at the park or in my beautiful backyard. Growing small and organically, has given me the confidence to expand to larger studios and to the greater community where I live. Read More>>

Natia Ramishvili

The thought process behind starting NR Active was rooted in a deep belief that wellness is not a luxury—it’s our power. After nearly two decades in corporate leadership, I realized that true success and confidence start from within. I wanted to create more than just activewear; I wanted to build a movement that empowers women to feel their best — in their bodies, in their minds, and in their lives. Read More>>