We asked some of the city’s rising stars to reflect on what made a difference in their journey. We asked them to tell us about what they think the most important factor has been behind their success.

Elise Dransfield | Graphic Designer & Lettering Artist

Support. I have been really lucky to have a lot of support from friends and family throughout my life who encouraged my artistic ways and helped push me to go after what I wanted. I overthink and second-guess things a lot. The encouragement and support helped me be able to fully sink into who I was and figure out what I wanted. Without the support I have been given, I think I would have discouraged myself from a lot of things throughout my life that have been impactful to who I am, and who my brand is today. Read more>>

Monique Smith | Content Creator & Influencer

My success always comes down to my own mindset. In order to keep pursuing my goals for my brand, I had to think of what I was continually telling myself internally. I had to constantly push myself every step of the way and believe that I can conquer anything. Others around you will doubt you’re capabilities but if your mindset is strong, you can surpass any disbelief. By shifting my mind, I was able to let go of negative thoughts and disapprovals of others. I was able to persevere and strive for greatness. Always remember you have the power to define your own success. Read more>>

Ushma Desai | Wedding Planner

My love for all things that sparkle and zest for creativity are the driving force behind executing the event of your dreams and turning it into complete reality. Being born and raised in India, cultivated deep values and traditions within me, but I grew a deeper appreciation for its rich culture & heritage after I moved to the United States in 2005. After successfully completing my bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Columbus State University, I started pursuing my career in the Hospitality Industry. Read more>>

Michael D. Jablonski | Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre, Brenau University, Professional Director/Choreographer

As a professional musical theatre artist, your work ethic is where your brand begins. I have always followed one major mantra that I believe helped to elevate my career on a consistent basis, that was to continuously be impeccable to my word. That sounds very simple but your word is not just spoken, your word is how you walk through life. This simple mantra can help to maintain a level of positivity in your work. Read more>>

Brandon Jordan | Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper

One of the main important factors behind my success is offering superior customer service, being attentive to my clients and their needs, and ensuring the client is satisfied with their services. As a stylist, we are responsible to ensure our clients look their best for all of their special events and celebrations. I also serve as motivational coaches to my clients because when you look good, it helps to bring out the best image of yourself. Read more>>

Damon Young | Shadow Puppet Performer and Theater-maker

What we have always focused on is making these puppet shows for everyone: from very young kids to parents and grandparents. Storytelling is for everyone. We also want our comedy to be kind: so when people laugh, it’s a togetherness kind of thing. We want people to feel good about laughing. I hope that the responsibility and caring that we have as parents come through in the show: so you feel good bringing kids and laughing yourself. Read more>>

Brice Broughton | Entrepreneur ,actor, model, app developer, musician

I would honestly say just sticking to guts and personal vision that I had in mind. Secondly I would say if it wasn’t for my best friend Christopher Schmidt my Vice President of HoodieGang, I would not be where Im at today! You can go inch by yourself but you can go to infinity and beyond with a team,Finding someone you can trust is hard, finding a best friend that can also be your business partner cam damn near be impossible. So I’m truly blessed. Chris is like another version of me and I’m another version him to be like completely honest with you. Read more>>

Tameka Richardson | Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Friend, and Business Owner

Before reading this question I thought success looked like daily sales, followers, and fast growing bank account now don’t get me wrong I’m asking God and claiming all of that (lol), But I was talking to my daughter’s about this question and I told them I didn’t know how to answer this because I hadn’t reached all those things I first spoke about. And that’s when they reminded me that everything leading up to this moment has been a form of success from writing out the plan, getting the LLC, and launching the website. So for me, believing in myself and my products and putting myself out there right now is the most important factor behind my success now and in the future. Read more>>

Lake sea Palmer | Licensed Braider

My passion is what makes me successful. I turned my passion into my career. I thrive off the excitement of what I can do next. Coming from the small town I’m from “Nashville Ga, (yes there is an Nashville Ga lol) people don’t expect you to do much or to thrive in any way. When I had my first son I promised him as a newborn that he would not have to grow up in a town with no possibility of expanding his dreams and capabilities . Not saying you can succeed in my town but the possibilities of growing is better in a bigger city with more opportunities. I knew I had to work hard to leave Georgia and get my brand established in South Carolina and even though I took a break when I moved from GA to SC. Read more>>