Every overnight success we’ve seen has been years in the making. And those overnight successes are rarely because of an amazing idea or a stroke of luck. We asked some of our favorite folks from the community about what characteristics are at the heart of their success story?

Jhanel Monet | Loctician, MUA & Beautyprene

The most important factor behind the success of my brand is support. I strongly believe in the power of support and relationships. People are more likely to book with someone based on a referral/word of mouth. For instance, my clients will be in the grocery store and someone will stop and ask, “who does your hair? I love it, it’s so neat.” To have my work appreciated by others and translate into a new client relationship is the best feeling, absolutely top tier. Support can go a long way in this industry, may lead you to your next opportunity. Read more>>

Gemma Moodie | Master cosmetologist and loctician

The most important factor behind my success is the ability to keep learning. In this industry there is always a new skill to learn, a more effective way of doing services and keeping up with trends. Its super important to stay grounded and humble. Too many stylists nowadays don’t show enough respect to those who came before them and created a lane for the creatives that follow. Read more>>

Cara Jackson | Creative & Stylist

Jesus. I would be or could accomplish NOTHING with out The Lord. I piece of knowledge or spark of creativity comes from him. He is the center of my business and any success that comes from it. Read more>>

Dr, Cryshaunda Rorie | Agency Director

The most important factor behind the success of my brand is that we cater to minority kids who have interest in the entertainment business. It can be very daunting to parents to understand the process of how to get their kids noticed and we serve as the bridge for that. Our parents learn as their kids learn so that no one has an opportunity to be scammed or used for their talents. Our company serves as a safe space so that kids can learn in a conducive environment to the levels they are on for their needs. Read more>>

Porscha Johnson | Human Design Centered Financial Strategist | Reiki Practitioner | Freelance Project Manager

The most important factor behind the success of my brand lies in our unwavering commitment to leading with curiosity, vulnerability, and building authentic relationships with our clients. Curiosity drives us to constantly explore and understand the unique needs and desires of our clients. Read more>>

Connie Johnson | Home and Business Scenting Enthusiast

The most important factor behind our business is that we keep our customers at the top. We prioritize them on the same scale as our financials. Here at Rooftop, we love what we do! In business we’ve had more ups than downs and, that’s what keeps us going! We enjoy sharing our love for one of the most prominent senses (Our sense of smell). Read more>>

Deuel Hill | Senior Pastor and Technology Specialist

Well, this is a very good question, When it comes to the success of House of Light Ministries, it can all be attributed to God and obedience to His Word, statues, and display of His integrity. When I decided to give my life over to the Lord, it was just that…a total submission to His will and direction for my life and ministry. Read more>>

Angela Cole | Fashion design/ Hat millinery

My passion is making ladies happy and feeling totally special. I am a self- taught milliner, and my hat designs are original and one of a kind in the world.
I always try to be honest and make good designs my customers happy.
Good results from each customer spread the business mouth to mouth and grow fast. Read more>>

Eric Marable Jr. | Creative Director/Project Coordinator/Artist

The most important factor is our Authenticity. Whenever we walk into a room, whether it be teachers, principals, administrators, or corporate sponsors, we come as ourselves. Our mission since I and my brother Jahman left college has been to provide better days for our people. We want to give our community a new philosophy that brings acceptance, healing, and joy. Read more>>

Vanessa Ozinger | Actor & Film Maker

I think consistency is the most important factor. Everybody can work hard once or be lucky once but success won’t last unless you keep working for it consistently. And I won’t lie, when I started out, I did work hard but not on a constant level. I auditioned when I had the time, I wrote my own material if I had a slow weekend and so on. But that was not enough. Read more>>

Loneia Powell | Teacher and Entrepreneur

The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is influence. I love to influence other women, especially moms! I want to encourage them to follow their dreams and put themselves first. Women putting other people before them is a natural instinct and I am here to remind other women that it’s ok to chase your dreams! So influencing other women through my platform is the most important factor behind my success. Read more>>

Esther Austin | Multi Award Winning Entrepreneur, International Talk Show Host, CEO

The most important factor behind my success/the success of my brand is being authentic to myself and building a level of integrity not just about the brand, but also about who I was being, building the brand. My brand is a representation of who I am and the building blocks of anything, for me personally, are about being authentic, having integrity and speaking ones truth. Read more>>

Lisa Craft | Short term vacation rental host

First and foremost, I prayed through it and the Lord opened the door to begin this journey. My passions are to create and please. Within that framework, the most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand are my guests/clients. The passion I have to create ‘Hallmark’ moments for them is the reason they provide me with 5 star service feedback. Read more>>

Rasaq Lawal | Afrodance and Mindfulness Facilitator

I believe that never giving up is a big key but more importantly, turning my passion/life’s calling into a career path has led me to be successful in my own right. I think that the wisdom of being able to do what you love so that you never work a day in your life has really resonated with me from the first time I heard it.. I believe it’s important that people do what they love and what is in their hearts as opposed to chasing money, success, or anything else. Read more>>