Hardwork? Luck? Good habits? What would you say is behind your success? We’ve shared some thoughtful responses below.

Paul Schmidlkofer | Hair Stylist/ Owner of Alchemy Salon

Alchemy Salon is built on the four pillars of positivity, integrity, hard-working, & enhancing beauty. We believe attitudes are contagious and our attitudes are worth catching. Read more>>

Nadia Hare | Proprietor

For us, the most important factor behind our success is keeping it simple and staying relatively local. We use chalkboards for our draft list, and we have a club for regulars where you get your own handmade mug. We don’t have a bunch of TV’s, you’re more likely to see someone reading a book at The Forge. Business wise, we don’t carry debt and keep overhead low Read more>>

Blackthorne Tattoo | Tattoo Shop

It’s all about the cosmic alignment of the farmers almanac and moon phases.

But in reality this shop was an independent vision we both shared that came to life in this collective idea. We share a similar art focused background, industry ethics, and passion for bringing a clients tattoo dreams to fruition. Read more>>

Karen Schumacher | Speaker, Author, Coach, Trainer

The essence of my success can be concentrated into three foundational pillars that have profoundly influenced my journey.

First and foremost, it’s the invaluable power of relationships and reputation. Instead of relying on conventional marketing tactics, I prioritize the cultivation of authentic connections and the nurturing of trust with my clients and partners. This commitment has forged a robust network where my reputation for excellence precedes me. In fact, about 80% of my new business arises from referrals, a testament to the trust and confidence others place in my abilities. Read more>>

Jenny Mears | Owner, Teacher

The key factor behind my success is genuine love and unwavering commitment to our brand. It’s this passion that creates a positive environment and fosters empowerment among our community. Our dedication to authenticity and excellence ensures every experience with us is meaningful and impactful.ful to our clients. Read more>>

Tanja Leonard | Executive Director and Mentor

The way we structure our program is the most important factor. Middle and high school students are accepted based on their application. Completing the application process gets these students thinking. Then we have 6 weeks of workshops where mentors help the designers work through the materials and fit issues, and provide encouragement. While the program is a competition and each designer works on their own garment, the designers are very supportive of each other during the workshops. Not only do the students learn about design and fit of garments, they research their trash materials’ impact on the environment. We also bring in a therapist to talk to them about how to manage their stress, and do separate workshop on stage presence. Read more>>

Jean Gordon | Visit Arvada, Director

I believe the most important factor to my success in the role of Director of Visit Arvada is the ability to be collaborative. This community is full of organizations led by unique and innovative individuals. Getting to know each of them and the value they bring to “my lane” (promoting this community as a tourist destination) has been very fruitful. Because of the collaboration and the partnerships developed, I hope that I have been able to shine a brighter light on a variety of reasons that Arvada is a must-see, must-visit community in the metro Denver area. Read more>>

Wendy Stevens | Stainless handbag designer and maker

Two things.

The first is the importance of passion for what you are doing/making. That passion can see you through so many of the challenges of creating an entrepreneurial enterprise. Read more>>

Sammy Lynn Norman | RV Renovator & Ceramic Lighting Designer

I was raised in a conservative family who wanted me to take the safe path in life. They wanted me to graduate from college, take a full time job, settle down and marry, and focus on a career that guaranteed financial stability. That obviously wasn’t for me. I believe my success in my creative endeavors came from me not allowing others to sway my decisions in my life choices. I always followed my heart which led me to things that I was naturally drawn to and good at. I always allowed myself to embrace change in the most uncomfortable way, but more importantly I had the bravery to push through all of the awkward phases in the creative process. Once that was over, after years of dedication, you finally see the results. Not just in your work, but in yourself too. Read more>>