It takes a lot more than an idea to build a business, but there can’t be a business without the idea. So we asked folks who’ve built wonderful businesses to tell us about how they came up with the idea in the first place.

Kristin Bouvier | Owner & General Manager of Hey Mikey’s Ice Cream

My father-in-law started this business over 10 years now. He had just retired from a construction job and was looking to find a new hobby that brought him and others joy. He started experimenting with ice cream in their garage, then really got serious and went to an ice cream university where he learned from experts. When they moved to Galveston, they decided to open their first store front. In 2020, my husband and I became the new owners of Hey Mikey’s Ice Cream when his parents decided to officially retire. I have a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and had been a teacher for 3 years when I made the shift to working full time for Hey Mikey’s. This was definitely one of those things I could have never seen coming my way but has opened a door of creativity and passion that I love. Read more>>

Ahsaki & Dennis Chachere | Founders of LaChacher Music Group

About LaChachere Music Group. In the autumn of 2022, LaChachere was founded with a clear purpose in mind by Dennis and Ahsaki Chachere. Their goal was to bring about a positive transformation within the country music industry by infusing authenticity, respect, and cultural integrity. At the heart of their vision is nurturing artists who can share compelling stories, encourage creativity, and make positive contributions to their communities, the nation, and the global stage. LaChachere firmly believes in the transformative power of music to unite and heal communities, spreading joy and fostering connections among diverse populations. The music created by LaChachere today is laying the groundwork for future generations, shaping the landscape of the country music industry and paving the way for emerging leaders. Read more>>

Sarah & Robie Pentecostes |

We both love and enjoy food and travel so much. We try different and unique spots around town and on our travels. So we figured, why not make a page where we can share all the places that we enjoy and maybe, some other people like us might enjoy it too. Read more>>

Saba Ahmad | Food Blogger & science teacher

I’m a teacher by profession and also a food blogger. I’m good at teaching but I also like cooking and hosting. I once heard someone say “do something you are good at” this kind of stayed with me for a while as I was looking for a side hustle. So instead of coming up with something new I decided to polish my skills and share my experience with the audiences as well. Mainly I share south Asian recipes but I love middle eastern, Mexican and Italian cuisine. Read more>>

Victoria LoMonaco | Hand Poke Tattoo Artist

As a tattoo artist that specializes in the unconventional, I knew I wanted to create a studio that was different from the norm. Often times when walking into a tattoo studio you can feel very overwhelmed. Getting a tattoo is already nerve wracking no matter how much you enjoy it and no matter how many times you have received. I love good ole walk in studios where the music is blasting and the energy is so high you can’t help but smile and laugh. However, as a hand poke tattoo artist, the energy is so different that it can sometimes feel like too much when in a busy studio. And that is how I came up with the idea of my private studio here in Houston. I wanted to create a peaceful spa like experience for my clients to receive their tattoo. I wanted a place where they can feel safe, comfortable, and well taken care of. There has been a lot of focus shifted towards the “experience” of getting a tattoo that goes beyond just the art. I am proud to be a part of this shift. I knew a place like this in Houston needed to exist and I am so proud of my little sanctuary that I created. Read more>>