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.

Sallynn Duran | Realtor

Really caring about my community building wealth through real estate. Encouraging first time generation home buyers to see the importance of home ownership. Having a passion for teaching about credit and financial freedom. Read more>>

Samantha Smith + Traci Bushur (for reconfirmation, Smith + Bushur) | , Co-Founders

There are so many amazing marketing agencies and creators in this space, but what we attribute a lot of the success of On Brand to is the friendship and trust that we have in each other and the way we extend that to our clients. We always say that working with us is more than an exchange of services. It is a partnership, a collaboration, a friendship. We truly try to treat every person we work with how we would want someone to treat us or our brand, and we genuinely care about their success and I think (and hope) that our clients feel that. Read more>>  

Rachel Curran | Owner & Lead Baker

Odd Bird Baking Co. has always been about thinking, living and creating outside-the-box. As a pastry chef, I have always been intrigued and inspired by unusual ingredients and using ingredients in unexpected ways. Every pastry, cake, or pie that we make is our own recipe – they are often inspired by other bakeries or other creations, but we create or adapt every recipe to be sure it fits with our signature style. I try to always think about natural color in the pastries, bleached white pastries are so boring to me and I push myself creatively to dig deeper and find ways to surprise people.  Read more>>

Francesca Chiamulera | Owner of The Oasis Retreats & Travel Photographer

Authenticity over everything, healing happens when the masks fall down and we can be witnessed in our most raw and authentic truth. To be met with unconditional love and grace in our vulnerability is the biggest lesson i have learned in this industry after opening a healing women’s retreat company 4 years ago. Read more>>

Hind Haidar | Salon owner and hairstylist

To me the definition of success is to live a good life that is aligned with your values. I could make a million dollars a year but if I didn’t like myself for how I made it, I would not feel successful. I am proud to have created a business that is aligned with my values of social justice, where I have strived to make my salon accessible to all genders, ages and abilities and pay my team a living wage. It is aligned with my value in healthy living, because all our products and building materials are as low toxin as possible. And with my value of sustainability, because we recycle 95% of all our waste and reduce waste through energy efficient appliances and fixtures. Read more>>

Rachel Elery | Co-Founder of Vitruvion and CEO of R.Elery Coaching, Occupational Therapist

I believe the most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is truly being and living it. “Walking the talk”, as I say. What I mean by that is, humans talk a lot about what they want and what they know. But when it comes to taking action, this is where how much we know and how much we want something really get put to the test. It doesn’t really matter how much we know or how much we want something if we aren’t willing to work for it or do anything about it. I have put the effort into my life, my health, my athletic ventures, and my career — not perfectly, but consistently over time. Read more>>

Matt Clark | EDM Producer, DJ

I think the most important factor behind my music is that I’m interested in doing my own thing, and not necessarily following the trends that roll through. It’s an interesting challenge to incorporate aspects of new styles, but I think it’s also important to remind true to my sound! Read more>>

Michele “Bella” Milo | Womens Jiu Jitsu club founder and coach

The most important factors behind the success of She Devil Jiu Jitsu are trust, community, and empowerment. Trust in each other and in the process fosters a supportive environment where members feel safe and encouraged. Our strong sense of community ensures that everyone feels welcome and valued, which is crucial in a traditionally male-dominated sport. Empowerment is at the core of what we do; we strive to build confidence and strength in women, both on and off the mat. Read more>>

Karen Oberthaler | Veterinary Oncologist & Owner of Treeline Veterinary Cancer Care

Treeline Veterinary Cancer Care is a completely unique type of veterinary facility. We are the first boutique medical oncology center for pets. We focus on providing cutting-edge medical care to pets, while also creating a comfortable, welcoming, and compassionate environment for their families. We are focused only on animal cancer, which allows us to be truly present for the families we treat. Treeline Vet feels different than any other veterinary specialty center from the moment people reach out to us. Finding out your beloved dog or cat has cancer can be devastating. We understand that from the beginning and express empathy from the first phone call or email. Read more>>

Savannah & Greg Herr | Colorado Elopement Photographers

On the client experience side of things, we do everything we can to ensure that we answer all questions they may have and some that they may not have even thought of asking. From the moment a client contacts us, we aim to remove any stress and concern about planning their event. The fact is, as an elopement photographer, most of our couples have never attended an elopement, let alone planned one so it’s our job to be as supportive and helpful as possible. Elopements are supposed to be fun and stress free and we pride ourselves in making that the case for our couples. Read more>>