Through our work we have been constantly amazed at the incredible things people in every neighborhood are working on. What’s even more exciting is that they all have different stories, backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses. That there isn’t a single formula for success means that everyone can take their unique set of strengths and characteristics and turn it into a success story. We recently reached out to some folks we admire and asked them what characteristics they feel are responsible for their success.

Mikayla West | Wedding and Travel Photographer

An important factor behind my success is the community of photographers that I have met during this journey. In the photography industry, there is a saying “community over competition” and I truly would not have any success without the community I have. Read more>>

Eduardo Atria | Artist & Producer

Building a community. There are many factors that can help the success of my brand and business (skills, talent, opportunity, luck, consistency, perseverance, etc.), but none is as important as creating a local community of people who support what I’m doing and believes in what I have to offer. Read more>>

Stephanie Ortiz | General Manager

For over 25 years, the my family has strived to keep the Mexican tradition alive by using the finest and freshest ingredients available to prepare Tequiztlan’s authentic Mexican cuisine following Abuelita’s recipes. The main factor behind our success has been staying authentic and upholding our integrity, not only with our guest, but with our community. Read more>>

Catie Buda | Nail Artist & Salon Owner

As a a veteran nail tech in the industry, I have experienced many different types of work spaces, techniques, and clientele. One of the most important factors that I implement in my every day job is quality. Providing a quality service and quality nails is a very important factor for me and my success in my business. Read more>>

Nash Fung | Keynote Speaker & Magician

Unlike most occupations where you have a successful blueprint laid out in front of you (ex. if you want to be a doctor, go to Med School; lawyer, go to law school), crafting a career as a magician does not have that luxury. The business side of show business is full of trial and error, and that’s why I attribute much of my success to one unique quality I believe we should all develop: Curiosity. Read more>>

Ricardo Esteves | Commercial Real Estate Broker & Investor

I attribute my success to a number of factors including but not limited to; incredible support – family, friends, mentors, and colleagues – , work ethic, relentless pursuit of my goals, commitment to see things through – regardless of the challenges faced along the way, and many others. Read more>>

Christine Keller | Cofounder & Plant Enthusiast

The essence behind our brand is community. The house plant community as a collective group is our number one priority. Being available and engaging the community in a meaningful matter is what it’s all about. Plants, in many ways, bring joy to people, and being able to provide a support structure is crucial for success. Read more>>

Amanda Bussett | Owner/Creator of Lush Lounge

I think the most important factor behind my success with Lush was thinking outside the box and doing something other businesses weren’t. Social Media played a huge factor for us. The entire 6 week build out we had QR codes taped to the outside of all the windows to help create curiosity about what was going on inside. Read more>>