We asked the community what factors they felt were responsible for their success and we’ve highlighted some of those responses below.

AJ DeDiego | Dessert Business Owner

I feel like everyone has their own definition of success since we all have our own goals and aspirations. Something I’ve noticed about a lot of different people with big goals is that they’re open minded, goal oriented, and organized. On top of that, they’re continuously trying their hardest to reach their goals and set new ones. Success is all about your mindset, and you have to have to right attitude about it. So, I think the most important factor behind the success of my brand is my attitude and work ethic. Without a strong work ethic and good positive attitude, it’s very difficult to get going and grow. Read more>>

Don Jones | Entrepreneur, Pianist & Accompanist

We are not driven by the desire to bring in inordinate amounts of money or pay ourselves salaries not commensurate with other arts organizations. The three of us who founded AIMT have other jobs that we rely on to pay our bills. Once you remove financial gain from the bigger picture, it is easy to focus on JUST the art form and how we can advance musical theatre. Need a super niche class for advanced musical theatre performers? No problem. Read more>>

Amber Kendrick | Makeup Artist & Content Creator

While skill is extremely important in any field, I think my positive attitude and kindness push me ahead. I love having a good time and lifting spirits, which shows in the results! You can be super talented at what you do, but with a bad attitude, others won’t want to work with you. Read more>>

Ashley Cocchi-Miller | Owner, Instructor & Educator

What sets Intentional Minds apart is that we equip participants with the skillset needed to act or react purposely and mindfully through several programs of learning. Our goal is to give kids (and adults) tools they can apply in their lives. Our wellness classes allow access to a broad array of tools to regulate emotions, including meditation techniques and breathing exercises. Read more>>

Monesha Hayes | Beautician

The most important factor behind my brand is to Make Other’s feel beautiful. Hair is my Passion and to me it is an Art. I keep my Services Affordable because i feel as though everyone that wears my style’s are a walking reflection of me. My brand is based on Hair whether we are Extending it , Curling it , Braiding it or placing it in a Ponytail you are Walking fashion. Read more>>

Kandie Marie | Author, poet, and entrepreneur

The most important factor is my team! As an author my publishing team keeps me going, for the KANDIEY Shoppe my brand ambassadors and vixens especially my head office really keep me together and always finding ways for us and myself to elevate. Honorary mention to my someone special who keeps me on my toes and has been a muse and so supportive. Read more>>

Jarard McLeod | Expediting Transportation Consultant

Dependability, honesty and resourcefulness. I’m a firm believer in “ doing good business promotes good business”. This is something I say all the time. As of today, we have helped over 120 businesses startup and begin in the transportation industry. Read more>>

Cortney Hendrix | Licensed Esthetician

To never give up no matter how hard it gets. To keep pushing through it even when you can’t see it. Always be consistent in what you love to do. Knowing that practice makes perfect. Also take personal responsibility for the good things in your life because this is a form of optimism, self-belief, and will give you the positive energy you need to keep moving forward. The more personal, permanent, and pervasive your explanations for your success, the better. Read more>>

Ashley Marie | Photographer Owner of Ashley Marie Photography MKE

The Most important factor behind my success, is my clients… The people that keep coming back to me because of me , they support me, they refer me and they make my businesses what it is today. Thank you so much to my Family and Friends for making this happen it really is a dream come true. Read more>>

Devonte Whitmore | Fashion Designer & Event Curator

I believe the most important factor is to be that person for my family to leave a business behind that we can call ours. No matter what my son, younger sisters, etc know that this business or businesses is for us. Also, to show the world and people period you don’t have to settle, you don’t have to be at a job that you not happy at all your life. You can literally find a way to make a career out of something you love doing. Read more>>

LaDarrius Hutcherson | Social Media Influencer

The most important factor to the success of my brand has been authenticity and having a genuine spirit that my audience can relate to. I refer to my audience as my “cousins” because I wanted to create a familiarity with them- a family like atmosphere and that is just what I have done! Read more>>

Nia Dennis | Wardrobe Stylist

Prayer and Faith. Sometimes you can have a bunch of ideas, but you don’t have the power of God to put them into place for success! When you go to him first and let your plans fill abundantly. Nobody can stop your grind! Read more>>

Mike Kelleher | Physician Assistant/Cosmetic Provider/Entrepreneur

The most important factor to my success is twofold. Remaining passionate about my craft and being true to myself. Read more>>

Dondre Maestro | Music Artist

Jesus is the most important factor behind the success of my brand. There’s been times I was about to do something on my own concerning my career, and God stopped me from making those mistakes. He always shows me how to be innovative and constantly grow instead of losing focus. Read more>>

Afiya Joy | Bridal Gown Designer

First let me say, I absolutely love what I do, but lets be honest… Not a lot of people talk about the sacrifice that is required to do what you love. The late nights, the countless dollars spent, the missed opportunities, the days you want to quit. I believe the true love and passion for curating Art has been the driving force for my tenure in this business. I grew up with a Grandmother who quilted by hand, friends & family who allowed me to experiment with my creativity. Read more>>