We reached out to some of our favorite entrepreneurs and asked them to think back and tell us about how they decided to start a business. Check out their responses below.

Jessica Mahr | Salon Owner

Before I even started Cosmetology school, I knew that my main goal would be to own my own salon. I had been behind the chair for a little over 10 years before I made the decision to open J Studio. It was at the height of the pandemic when I decided the time had come for me to branch out on my own and opening a small business during that time was nothing short of terrifying, During the summer of 2020, I really sat down and weighed out the pros and cons. I have always had two, sometimes 3 jobs ever since I could remember and I missed out on a lot of time with my friends and family. Read more>>

Tracy Burnett | Founder & Owner, Mishi Lifestyle

I started Mishi Lifestyle more from a feeling rather than a thought process…which came later. I had traveled extensively for my previous work and made intentional decisions to visit areas that had high concentrations of independent small businesses that included art galleries, home decor and clothing as well as restaurants. In doing this, I spoke to business owners about how and why they started their own businesses and gained a significant amount of inspiration while working in the corporate world. However in March of 2020, my work and travel came to an end with COVID-19’s impact. I felt presented with an opportunity to do something completely different. Read more>>

David Spasic | Business Owner & Artist

The business grew out of friendship. We were just a some college friends living together after art school trying to find ways to make rent and be creative. Initially, Superelectric Pinball Parlor was just one of a few different jobs we each worked to get by. Thankfully, over time the success of the business let us shed our side jobs and develop new ones within our own company. Read more>>

Jasline Rosario | Makeup Artist, Entrepreneur, Beauty Influencer

There were a few things that influenced me to start my business! As many young girls do, I always loved playing dress up in my mom and sister’s makeup, from stealing their mascara, lipsticks and eyeshadows to taking pictures. As I started to grow up, I continued using makeup but for a different reason at that point, I wanted to draw less attention to my Eczema. I have had Eczema all over my face/body since I was born and really wanted to show other girls that you aren’t defined by your flaws or “skin issues”! Read more>>