There are so many factors that can play a role in determining our results, performance and ultimately our success, but some factors matter more than others. We asked folks what they felt was the most important factor driving their success.

Sylvester Agbahiwe | Photographer & Pharmacist

I am extremely proud of what I’ve built here at S.O.A. Digital Imaging, however I will never make the mistake in thinking that I did this all on my own, it has always been a collaborative effort. Over the years I have networked and built great relationships with several high level company executives, various families, event planners, local social media influencers, fashion bloggers as well as other creatives not only here in Houston but all over the US. These relationships have been able to help me grow this company to where it is today however, the relationship that has been the most influential is my relationship at home with my wife. Whenever I am out of town working, shooting here in Houston or just working late at night editing, she is always picking up where I have left off. Read more>>

Genie Mack | Artist

Being successful as an artist takes a tremendous amount of discipline to create, create, create, on weekends, on late nights, on Christmas Eve until you start seeing the financial steadiness. I wanted to follow a dream but needed to produce something that would pay my mortgage. We are living in a time where social media makes your artwork available for people all over the world to see. The outreach is huge- I had to take advantage of that to and I am so thankful for a loyal following of people who want to spend their hard earned money on my creations. I am proud of how far I’ve come as an artist and it motivates me on days when I feel drained or stuck. I’ve refined my style, I’m being discovered, and I’m reaching new clients. I’ve been able to contribute to some amazing charities and organizations. I have to keep going! Read more>>

Maria Becerra | Event Stylist, Designer & Creator

I truly believe that one of the most important factors behind my success has been good ethics. All clients inquiries begin with a questionnaire that they need to fill out in order for me to fully understand what kind of event they need. I like to stablish a friendly vibe with all my potential clients and in a matter of a few minutes I know exactly how I can be of service to them. I like to make them feel welcomed and that their event is important to me as it is for them. I like to allow enough time to get to know every client, this allows me to better serve them and make their vision a reality. If I feel I can refer one of my trusted vendors, I am happy to share that information with them. I truly believe that there is enough room for all of us in this industry and we all are each others support. Read more>>

Brandi Paris | Wedding Planner

When I hear the word “success” in regards to my business, I think about my clients and their willingness to trust me and my team. My clients believe in Next Chapter Weddings, because we are genuine and wholeheartedly invested in the success of their wedding day. We are fueled by their love stories and are honored to be a part of bringing their wedding vision to life. Potential Clients can see this through the way we carry ourselves across social media and even more so when they finally meet us in person! My team is experienced and we genuinely love what we do. Our clients are satisfied with our performance leading up to and on their wedding days, because our passion, communication and eye for details meets, if not exceeds, their expectations. Read more>>

Lo Gross | Podcaster & Marketing Specialist

I think the most important factor is faith. Faith in God and faith in myself. During the ups and downs of my journey I am constantly reminded of all the moments where things worked out to advance my business. I think of all the new knowledge and skills I have obtained and applied to grow myself and my brand. It’s faith that keeps pushing me to evolve and grow. It gives me a sense of fearlessness as I pursue my dreams. Read more>>