Meet Elle Caldwell | Co-Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elle Caldwell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elle, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of community and connection, especially in areas like Hiram Clarke and Southwest Houston. Recognizing a gap in accessible, affordable, and inclusive event spaces, my business partner and I launched JM Studios Inc in 2020. Our goal was to foster a sense of belonging by providing a venue where local residents could safely gather, celebrate, reconnect, celebrate milestones, host meetings, and build relationships.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What Sets Me Apart

What truly sets me apart is my strong foundation in business and finance, combined with hands-on experience in commercial remodels. I come from a family of financial experts, and I’ve built on that legacy by earning a degree in accounting and entrepreneurship from the University of Houston’s Bauer School of Business. My formal education gave me the tools to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, but it’s my lived experiences—especially as a Black millennial woman in business—that have shaped my perspective.

I understand what it means to create something from the ground up, balancing my vision with the realities of budgets, permits, and contractor management. My ability to build strong relationships with vendors and contractors has been a cornerstone of my success, enabling me to bring my vision for JM Studios Inc to life while remaining true to my values of inclusivity and affordability.

How I Got to Where I Am Today

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy. While college provided a strong academic foundation, it didn’t fully prepare me for the hands-on challenges of running a business. Working with city permitting offices, managing contractors, and overseeing remodels were all learning curves that required adaptability and resilience. Over the years, I’ve completed several commercial remodels, each teaching me invaluable lessons about communication, planning, and the importance of quality partnerships.

I’ve also had to embrace discipline and structure, learning to plan quarters and months in advance to stay ahead of deadlines and avoid overextending myself. Balancing my business with my personal life requires constant organization and prioritization, but it’s a skill I’ve honed through experience.

Overcoming Challenges and Lessons Learned

Owning a business has been anything but easy, and there were moments when sticking to a traditional 9-to-5 job seemed more appealing. However, my passion for community and my commitment to creating something meaningful kept me going.

Some of the biggest lessons I’ve learned include:
    •    The Importance of Relationships: Having trusted, quality vendors and contractors can make or break a project. Investing in these relationships has saved me time, money, and stress.
    •    Adaptability Is Key: Entrepreneurship means constantly pivoting and problem-solving, especially when unexpected challenges arise.
    •    Planning Ahead Prevents Burnout: Mapping out goals and timelines has helped me stay on track without becoming overwhelmed.

What I Want the World to Know About JM Studios Inc and My Story

JM Studios Inc is more than just an event space—it’s a labor of love built on passion, dedication, and a desire to give back to the community. I want people to know that starting and sustaining a business requires grit and sacrifice, but it’s also deeply rewarding.

As a Black millennial woman entrepreneur, I take pride in showing others that success is possible, even in industries where we’re often underrepresented. My story is one of resilience, preparation, and vision, and I hope it inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter how big they may seem.

JM Studios Inc reflects my belief that every community deserves access to beautiful, affordable spaces to gather, celebrate, and connect. I’m committed to maintaining that vision and continuing to grow the business while honoring the values it was built on.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend comes to visit me in Houston, I always want to showcase the city’s vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and exciting attractions. Dining is a huge part of the Houston experience, and some of my top restaurant recommendations include Taste of Texas for its legendary steaks, Graces for its upscale comfort food, Pappas Burgers for their gourmet classics, and Pappadeaux for fresh seafood. Gringos is another go-to spot for flavorful Tex-Mex. And no trip would be complete without dessert from La’Dough Sweets in Spring, where their handcrafted cookies, made with love and tradition, never disappoint. I’d also remind her to pack an extra bag—shopping in the Galleria area is always on the agenda.

Houston is home to one of the best arts and theater districts in the world, so visiting the Museum of Fine Arts and catching a show in the theater district is an absolute must. The city’s cultural scene is unmatched, offering everything from classic performances to contemporary exhibits that highlight Houston’s rich artistic diversity.

I always recommend planning a visit during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo season. The rodeo is a signature Houston experience with its lively atmosphere, thrilling events, carnival rides, and, of course, classic Texan fare from countless food stalls. The concerts are another highlight, featuring big-name artists that keep the energy going well into the night. It’s truly one of the most exciting times to visit the city.

For a more laid-back experience, we’d spend a day unwinding at the luxurious Post Oak Hotel spa. The serene setting makes it the perfect place to relax and recharge, especially with poolside dining that adds a touch of indulgence.

Outdoor adventures are also a must, and one of my favorite spots is the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center. Walking the scenic trails surrounded by natural beauty offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Afterward, lunch at Sam’s Boat is always a treat, thanks to its lively atmosphere and delicious seafood. As the sun sets, Midtown comes alive, and we’d dive into Houston’s vibrant nightlife, enjoying live music and the high-energy ambiance of local bars.

To wrap up the week, we’d spend a day exploring downtown Houston, starting with a visit to the Marriott Marquis. Their Texas-shaped lazy river pool is iconic and the perfect spot for some fun in the sun. We’d also stop by Discovery Green, where there’s always something happening, from art installations to local events. If our visit happened to coincide with a game night, catching the Astros at Minute Maid Park or the Rockets at the Toyota Center would be the perfect way to end an unforgettable week in Houston.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Definitely my business partner Jennifer Herron, we are a team and without her JM Studios Inc would not be here. Our event planners that we regular collaborate with are invaluable, they bring together the visions of our clients and make dreams come true.

Website: https://www.jmstudiosinc.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmstudiosinc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmstudiosinc

Image Credits
Tenique Guillory
Shenettra Reed
Tisha Bryant