We asked some of the city’s rising stars to reflect on what made a difference in their journey.  We asked them to tell us about what they think the most important factor has been behind their success.

Kiana Zhou | Festival lifestyle influencer

Being yourself- being genuine has always been a big part of who I am in real life as well as on social platforms. People who have followed me have become my friends, some who are now my best friends, and some who I haven’t met yet in real life but I’m hoping to meet soon. I think people like that I’m real and relatable. Read more>>

Leyna Doran | Artistic Director

Success is subjective; we define it based on cultural, familial, and societal ideals. As a child, my dream wasn’t to be in a position of leadership for an artistic nonprofit. So, personally, I don’t look at my current situation as “success” – as in I achieved my long-held dream – rather, I see it as a gift. A special opportunity that came when I least expected it. When I look over my life and my career, from where I was to where I am now, I see how little decisions and moments paved the way for the next thing. Read more>>

Rachel Richards | Bestselling Author & Real Estate Investor

The most important factor behind the success of my brand was twofold: 1. Solving a problem in a unique way. I’m a former financial advisor and I love helping people with money and investing. I geek out about this stuff! My family and friends used to come to me for financial advice, which I loved, and I also thought to myself, “I wonder why they don’t read books, listen to podcasts, and learn about this stuff, on their own?” And then I realized something: Read more>>

Jane Jones | Contemporary Floral Artist

I am an artist who is a Denver native. I love living here and consider myself really lucky to have been born in the place where I belong. In my first trip through college, I studied Biology and Chemistry thinking that I would work in medicine. I had probably decided that that wasn’t my path before graduation, but I finished the degrees anyway. I learned to have a deep respect for living systems, microscopic to ecological. I loved the elegance and balance of them and how well they are made to correct themselves. After creating a couple of creative businesses, I decided in my 30’s that I truly wanted to be a painter, so I went to art school. Read more>>

Kimberly Timmons-Beutner | Principal & Creative Director

The main reason for our success is because KTI is diversified covering all aspects of Interior Design. Because of our 3 studios (Hospitality, Interior Merchandising and Luxury Residential) we have been able to weather the ups and downs of the economy over the years. Our three studios work independently, but share ideas, expertise and resources which strengthens the company as a whole. Additionally, our commitment to always delivering an extraordinary client experience has played a role as we have many repeat clients and referrals. Read more>>