There are so many factors that can play a role in determining our results, performance and ultimately our success, but some factors matter more than others. We asked folks what they felt was the most important factor driving their success.

Nataly Parson | Mosaic Artist

Creating my own art style. After about a year of trying different materials and playing with several mosaic types, I focused on 2 very UNIQUE styles in which I decided to master my skills at: – Optical illusion mosaics. – Tempered glass mosaics (made from old shower doors, storm doors or glass shelves). Read more>>

Rebecca Bonner | Portrait and Branding Photographer

I have a deep love for the human spirit. From the very first interaction, I make it a priority to take the time to get to know my clients personally, even if it’s just for a few minutes before the session. I listen attentively to their desires, expectations, and vision for their photography session. By understanding their unique needs, I can tailor my approach and provide them with the results they desire. I really strive to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere during the photo sessions, allowing genuine emotions and connections to shine through in the photographs.  Read more>>

Alex Gulsby | Founder / Brand Director

People. 100%. SLASH was founded in 2021 under a single premise—nothing can replace human creativity. A lot of interesting things have happened between then and now. – COVID drove more humans than ever into freelance and independent roles. – AI became a coworker. – Companies started looking toward specialty shops for work once reserved for big agencies. Read more>>

Brandon Guilliams | Jeweler, Small Business Owner

Learn from your customers. They ask for the craziest things! We take the time to make products just for them. Then we use those ideas to sell to still more customers. It takes a while but if you make this a practice, you get a whole catalog that people actually like. Read more>>

Jessica Bystricky | Owner | Makeup Artist

Having a growth mindset by reframing mistakes as an opportunity for learning and growth has helped me to be successful. To be successful in the beauty industry, it’s important to continuously keep up with new trends and to never stop learning. Along the way, I celebrated my successes and built a collection of positive feedback that served as a constant reminder of my abilities. With time, patience and practice, my confidence in the beauty industry continued to grow. Read more>>

Phyllis Cahill | Jewelry Designer

I’ve been self-employed for many years, so when I switched to making jewelry it was a natural decision. Also, the full-time employment options for jewelers are limited. If you’re hired as a bench jeweler, you spend most of your time repairing jewelry, resizing rings and reproducing someone else’s designs. I wanted the creative challenge of making my own designs. Read more>>

mike maddden | guitar string jewelry artist

Customers are attracted to the uniqueness of the jewelry and the quality of craftsmanship that goes into each one of a kind piece. Because the jewelry is made from repurposed guitar strings, it tends to attract musically inclined, environmentally conscious buyers, who appreciate the importance of recycling and repurposing materials for the wellbeing of our Planet. Read more>>