The first step to starting a business is deciding to start a business. They say the first step is the hardest and in our experience this is especially true when it comes to starting a business. Getting over the mental roadblocks can be tough, often harder to overcome than the challenges you’ll face once you actually start the business. Fellow entrepreneurs share their thoughts below.

Tina Morrison | Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser & Realtor

This was over 20 years ago. I was working a full-time job and taking care of my daughter who had chronic illnesses. I was having a really hard time. I needed to be able to pay my bills and be there to take care of my child. My husband at the time was working at a mortgage company. He talked to an appraiser that had come into the office one day that told him that he was looking to open up an appraisal company. My husband suggested to me that night that I should look into it. I did some online research. Read more>>

Charlynda Scales | Founder

The idea for Mutt’s Sauce was born from a deep connection to my family and our legacy. My grandfather, nicknamed “Mutt,” created a unique, all-purpose sauce recipe that was a staple at our family gatherings. Before he passed away, he left the recipe to me, hoping I would one day share it with the world. Starting Mutt’s Sauce was about honoring his legacy, uniting people through flavor, and building something that brings our family’s story to life. It’s not just a business—it’s a way to carry forward a piece of him and bring joy to others in the process. Read more>>

Ashley Meenach | Stylist and makeup artist

When I started my business, I realized there was a bit of a hole in the beauty market. We had all of these great stylists and artists in the area, but for a busy women, the idea of getting ready for a special event or marketing video and having to go to different places for makeup, hair, and wardrobe, was overwhelming. I started Boundless Beauty with the idea that I would help women feel their best, while also offering convenience. So now, you can get makeup, hairstyling and wardrobe all in one place! And by renting your wardrobe, you are saving money, and space in your closet! Read more>>

Bee Sue | Tattooer

I never really looked at tattooing as starting my own business. I just wanted to tattoo and in doing so, the business side came with it. Technically I’m an independent contractor and work at someone else’s shop, but that still puts me in the “self employed” bubble since I make my own hours, prices, and choose which project to take on. I’m very thankful to work at a shop that’s so laid back and let’s me have near complete control, not all of them are like that. Read more>>