Ideas aren’t everything, execution matters greatly, but starting often requires an idea and so we asked folks to think back and tell us the story of how they came up with the idea for their businesses. We’ve highlighted some of our favorite stories below.

Kristen Mikayla | Artistic Director I AM the Brand

“I Am the Brand” was something God gave me when I was 16. From a young age, I knew I wanted to have my own business in the arts, specifically dance. Over the years, I prayed for clarity and confirmation about this name and what He wanted me to do with it. Through friends’ dreams, random people mentioning it around me, and my time with God, I felt a strong call to pursue “I Am.” Read more>>

Claire Hong | Food Influencer

I love food, just like any other person, but the difference was I wanted to share where I went, what I tried, how much I liked it, etc. After contemplating many days, even weeks, I finally decided to start the Instagram account and focus on food. I want to share my experience, as well as see what other people with the same passion as me experience. Read more>>

Octavia Samuels | Founder & Social Responsibility Strategist

Status PlāSpace was born out of a need for connection during the pandemic and took off after winning the StartUp Fayette Pitch Competition. I sought to merge my passion for event planning and elevated experiences with opportunities to support local small businesses and causes. Read more>>