Thinking through whether to start a business – whether to take the risk, whether to go out on your own – isn’t easy. So we asked some entrepreneurs we admire to tell us about how they thought through the process of starting a business.

Benny Hubbard | Founder of BENNYXBLACK

I wanted something that represented my home state of Mississippi. Growing up I didn’t have many options to choose from that I thought represented Mississippi well. With my brand, I came up with a symbol that would show the beauty of Mississippi, by infusing the M, along with our state flower. I wanted a symbol that everyone in Mississippi could wear. Read more>>

Ronson Smith | Owner & Graphic Designer

The thought came to me in college. Graphic design had been a hobby of mine since I took a class in digital media in high school. I was a part of several organizations at the University of Houston, and something that always got brought up at meetings was how to get the word out about our events to more students. Read more>>

Shianne Woods | Chandler and Design Manager

I was missing creativity in my life. I had been searching for years for a way to be able to supplement my income and be artistic again. Then one day it occurred to me, you love candles. Why not make your own and share them with others? Read more>>

Marisa Gomez Johnathan Torres | Entrepreneur

After visiting Amsterdam in Fall 2019, we felt inspired to recreate a store for Houstonians to get the Amsterdam experience. Our goal was to create a safe space where clients could enjoy a smoke while learning about the benefits of cannabis. Read more>>

Dina Pedersen | Educator

The reason I wanted to start my own business is because I want to make a DIFFERENCE. I have always been a passionate teacher. My heart fills with joy when a student is thriving in the classroom or in life. After 25+ years of classroom instruction, I decided to retire from a very successful career. Read more>>

Brent L Smith | Creative Director/Choreographer

My first thought was this is something I have to do because I was exhausted and stressed teaching within the school system. So I needed my company to become full time. Read more>>

Amanda Quinn | Licensed Cosmetologist & Salon Owner

When starting up The Royal Look I new I wanted my business to feel the way I feel, Peaceful. I wanted to make sure that ever single person that stepped foot into my salon felt calm, peaceful, and safe. I wanted to also have a bit of a fancy salon which is why downtown was the perfect location for me. Read more>>