Even if you are from the same neighborhood as someone else, you might still be coming from different places. Where you are from is a complicated question and it elicits complicated, but interesting and thought-provoking responses. We’ve shared some of those responses below.

Rev Rozell

I’m from Denton, Texas—a small town about 30 minutes north of Dallas. Ever since I was a kid, I’ve had a strong love for cars and motorcycles. I’d attend downtown car shows with my dad and spend weekends visiting motorcycle dealerships, excited just to sit on the new models. That early passion for cars and bikes laid the foundation for where I am today. Read More>>

 Darrin Reay

I’m from Sheridan Wyoming and growing up where I did let me pursue my interests at a young age. I always wanted to be out in nature exploring wild places and learning about everything around me and how it all interacts. I was surround by wild places in Wyoming and isolated enough that I developed a pioneers attitude of “I can do this because I have to attitude.” Read More>>

Abby Seals

Midwestern Roots, Lasting Values
I grew up in Gaston, Indiana—a town so small that when people ask, I usually just say I’m from nearby Muncie. Some recognize it from Parks & Recreation or its brief spotlight on Armed & Famous.

Life in a small town taught me the value of community, hard work, and building genuine relationships. These lessons didn’t just stick with me—they shaped who I am. They’ve become the foundation of how I do business: with integrity, connection, and a strong moral compass. Read More>>

Jamie Smith

I was born and raised in the Midwest—specifically Iowa and Michigan—and that small-town, family-first upbringing has shaped so much of who I am today. Growing up in a place where community and connection were at the heart of everything really instilled strong family values in me. That’s a big part of why I’m so passionate about people and why I have a natural gift for making others feel seen, valued, and comfortable. It’s something that’s carried over into my photography—capturing real, meaningful moments and creating space where people can show up as their true selves. Read More>>

Jessica McTaggart

I’m from a small, farming community on the Eastern plains of Colorado. A true, born & raised native of this beautiful state! My family went to church most Sunday mornings and spent countless evenings around the dinner table chatting about all the life things. It was commonplace for everyone in town to attend our “Friday Night Lights” in support of the singular high school serving the immediate area. I don’t recall a time, to this day, that I went to the store and didn’t run into at least one person I knew. It was hard to get away with anything because my parents would most definitely find out, ha! I learned how to rise above the tide, work for what I want, to stand & speak up for what I believe in and those I love, to stand firm in my faith, and that my word is my bond. Read More>>

Erica Thomas

I grew up in Centerville, Utah, and spent much of my early life feeling like I didn’t quite fit in. As an introvert, I was overwhelmed by how much attention was placed on sports and social status in junior high and high school. I had good friends, but most of them were extroverted and more drawn to dances and school events, while I usually preferred staying home with my family. Read More>>

Natalie Moore

Who I am today—and definitely what I do for a living—is a direct reflection of my background. Sometimes I think about how perfectly aligned my life and work are with everything I’ve been through. This business was forged through my story in every way—even in ways that feel divine. It’s been a wild journey, but I’m deeply grateful to be exactly where I am. Read More>>

Tish Gance

I am one of the few, the proud, the dwindling Denver natives. I grew up as a press rat hanging out in my grandfather’s print shop in Lakewood, right off of Balsam and Colfax, across from what used to be the Ferrari dealership. On weekends occasionally my dad would have to go in and do paperwork or help with a press job, so I’d get to tag along. If I was obnoxious enough, dad would take me across the street to put noseprints on the window and oogle the Ferraris. I cannot say for certain that this is why I grew up a gearhead, but I’m sure it played a huge part.  Read More>>

Bria Henson Valdez

I was born in Fort Worth, Texas, and raised in the Dallas metro area. After earning my degree in music in East Texas, I moved to Colorado, where I met my husband—and I’ve now called it home for the past 20 years.

Growing up in Texas, everything was big, bold, and full of personality. Celebrations were no exception. In my family, every milestone—no matter how big or small—turned into a reason to gather, decorate, and make memories. Hosting was seen as an art form and a way to showcase creativity and personal flair. Read More>>