Often we don’t have to reinvent the wheel to learn something new – we can just ask experts in the field who can draw on their experience to enlighten us. Below, we’ve shared insights insiders from various industries have shared with us.

Jennasis Savage | Business Owner, Film-Producer, Writer

I’d say one thing about my industry that outsiders tend to overlook or not understand is the amount of actual brain power, drive, passion and commitment to yourself and your dream that it takes to “make it” in this career path. Many people ask “what does a producer do?”, and going beyond that, many people have no idea what anyone really does on a film set. They think they understand what it takes to be a director, what it takes to be a cinematographer or an actress, but most people have no idea the history behind this craft. A large majority of people who like to speak on the craft have never actually participated in it. I often feel like people are so blinded by the “glitz” and “glam” of how this world is portrayed, which makes it difficult for them to understand the trials and tribulations that many people in this industry go through, especially on a financial level. Read more>> 

Christie Harper | Fashion Designer

In the fashion design industry, as a small business owner of a company of one, we wear multiple hats. We are the design department, the sourcing department, the sewing department, the marketing department, the finance department, and the continuing education department. All of which needs attention to the smallest of details. In addition, there is the reality of trying to maintain an appropriate work/life balance, especially with family involved. On top of that, many of us in the industry who are pursuing fashion design full time, still hold down full-time jobs in the event that sales slow down for a variety of reasons. Read more>>

Stephanie Counts | Birth Photographer & Doula

I don’t think that many people know that my niche of photography exists. I certainly didn’t when I had my kids even just 10 years ago. Now, many of my clients compare their desire to document the birth of their children to the same excitement they had when booking their wedding photographer. I’ve even heard of birth photography as that love story continued. Read more>>

Stranger Company | Rock ‘n’ Roll Band

There are many ways to succeed or ‘make it’ in the music industry. Some artists search for a record deal, others strive for the chance to be a touring act with an entertainment label and many musicians seek popularity through social media platforms. All of these artists would agree that ‘success in the music industry’ amounts to the artist’s ability to create the music that matters most to them and their followers. Creative freedom is the foundation of every successful artist’s story. Read more>>