We reached out to some of our favorite entrepreneurs and asked them to think back and tell us about how they decided to start a business. Check out their responses below.

Sharon Artis

The thought process behind starting Get Lit Candle Co. really came from my love for creating experiences that bring people joy and comfort. I wanted to make products that went beyond just smelling good—I wanted each candle and scent to tell a story, to spark a memory, or even feel like a little luxury in your everyday life. Read More>>

Karli Michelle

When I decided to start my publishing coaching business, I leaned heavily on my experience as a publisher and the gaps that I saw in the market. So many writers had incredible manuscripts but were struggling to navigate the publishing and publicity side of things. For me, it was an opportunity to stand in that gap, alongside writers, while building something of my own that could make a lasting impact. Read More>>

Cameron Haynes

When I began the thought process behind PrecICEly, I wanted to focus on monetizing a skill that could serve the public in a unique way. Once I reflected on my in-store experience rolling ice cream and how much people love the treat, I took the opportunity to launch PrecICEly and add my own personal twists to the popular dessert. Read More>>

Rachael Willingham

I have been in the tax industry since I was 17 years old but never had the vision to start my own business until my marriage of 14 years failed. I was left with 5 children to raise on 37,000 a year with a senior in high school going to college the next year. I made too much money for food stamps but not enough money to live on. That first year was the hardest living paycheck to paycheck and relying on food banks for food. Read More>>

Sam Oprea

Faith & Family Legacy Focus

“My thought process behind starting my own business came from both family legacy and faith. I’m a fifth-generation woodworker — my great-grandfather had his own cabinet shop before it was taken away during communism. When my father immigrated here, he started again from scratch.  Read More>>

Erica Clark

I started this business with the belief that wellness and beauty should be inclusive. We come in all shapes and sizes and everybody deserves to feel confident, celebrated, and cared for. My goal is to create a space where aesthetic treatments and holistic wellness work hand-in-hand, not to change who you are, but to support you in becoming your healthiest, most radiant self. Read More>>

Amy Covington

Starting our own party planning and balloon display business really came from a passion for creativity and a love for making people happy through visual experiences. We’ve both always had an artistic side—whether it’s design, color coordination, or creating memorable spaces—and events felt like the perfect outlet for that creativity. Read More>>