Many books on startups and business talk about how there are right and wrong reasons for starting a business. So, we asked a handful of successful founders about their reasons and the thought-process behind starting their business.

Alanda Scott

I started this business to create a safe, welcoming space where every client could feel seen, cared for, and confident—especially when receiving something as personal as laser hair removal. I recognized a major gap in the industry for inclusive, professional treatments that serve all skin tones, genders, and sexual orientations. Go Bare was born out of the desire to fill that gap with a brand rooted in results, trust, and genuine community. Read More>>

Constance McDerby

Bringing a multi-day, multi-faceted culinary and wine event to the 4th largest city in America that didn’t have one at the time in 2002. Blazing a new trail to showcase the culinary diversity of Houston who wasn’t known for our culinary expertise at the time. There wasn’t a template of how to do this type of event series. We launched that for the Houston metro, establishing the largest, most comprehensive culinary and wine event from New Orleans to Aspen, and we’re still Crushing It after all these years! Read More>>

Deborah Rank

Eryn Elliott and Debbie Rank have been friends (and enjoying cocktails together) for 20+ years. Seven years ago they decided to open a small custom denim business as a “side hustle” and an excuse to spend more time together. What they didnt expect was the overwhelming reception they would receive from the Houston market. Two Tequila Sisters has been a well known merchant with two area stores in Houston. The learning curve for running a busy small business has been steep (undoubtedly the result of having no business plan for years) but honestly, sometimes less thinking and more doing is the best business plan. Read More>>

Melissa Ashlin & Meghan Lutschg

We have always had a deep love for plants and gardening, a passion we inherited from our mothers. One day, while out for a walk, we couldn’t help but notice how many front porch pots sat neglected- empty or with plastic plants. Having just finished sprucing up our own spring pots, we had a thought: why not bring that same joy to others? We had a business meeting with our moms, and decided to give it a go! Read More>>