Every neighborhood in Houston has its own vibe, style, culture and history, but what consistently amazes us is not what differentiates the various neighborhoods but rather what they all have in common. From the Fourth Ward to Sugar Land (and everywhere in between) we’ve been blown away by how many creative and talented people call Houston home. Check out some of the inspiring stories we’ve discovered throughout the city.
Lucy Lenoir
I wouldn’t be the resilient person I am today without all of the experiences I’ve been through, even the bad ones. So I fully appreciate the experience of all of life, and use that deep understanding of emotions within myself to help others. I talk to my clients like they are family, so nobody ever has to feel ignored, alone, or anxious when visiting me in my studio. I’ve used all of this pain and confusion to create something really beautiful for people, and I am so happy to be sort of a unique therapy session for others. Read more>>
Jimmeka Malone
My love for photography started at a young age. I have always been the person to capture moments for my family that they can look back on. I got where I am today with clients who trust me to capture those special moments. Read more>>
DJ Smoov
I was getting booked strictly for karaoke shows, while building up my equipment around town. 2018, I decided to expand my business into not just karaoke, but cultivating my show by incorporating my musical knowledge with a unique party experience. I focused on building my clientele, updating my marketing, and getting into other avenues, such as, weddings, and private corporate events. I was recognized by the Down For The Underground Awards as DJ Of The Year, twice and was recently awarded the Queen Of The Turntables for 2024. My passion is music, whether it’s a live band, karaoke, DJing different genres, or simply just driving listening to Pandora. I believe healing is in music regardless of the genre. Read more>>
Everret Maxine
Her 20-year relationship, which consisted of 10 years of marriage, would come to an end with the finalizing of her divorce on November 5th, 2018. Despite her losses, she followed through with her goal to return to Texas Southern University to finish her degree in math/science education in the Fall of 2018, which she completed in November 2020. She also holds an AAS in Environmental, Health, and Safety for TSTC 2017 and an MS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas Tech University. She currently pursuing an MA in Counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary. Read more>>
Dione Orozco
With 10 years of experience in tattooing, my journey has now brought me to Houston, where I work at Houston Heights Tattoo—my new home. Here, I have the privilege of working alongside an amazing team and tattooing clients who trust me to bring their ideas to life. I specialize in colorful, neo-traditional pieces because they allow me to play with vibrant details and create designs full of energy and personality. Read more>>
Sindy Kelsick
Building trust and attracting clients in a competitive market has been a rewarding journey, though not without its challenges. Establishing a reputation for reliability and delivering exceptional service has been essential in differentiating Hello, Sign Here from competitors. Effective time management and organizational skills have been crucial in managing scheduling and travel logistics, ensuring timely service for our clients. Additionally, staying updated with state laws and regulations governing notarial acts has required ongoing education and attention to detail, maintaining compliance and upholding the integrity of our services. Read more>>
Steve Huynh
My journey started in the healthcare field as a paramedic, and I was also studying to become a nurse. During my studies, I began helping out with breakdowns and sometimes even set-ups for a floral and decor company on weekends. I quickly fell in love with the industry, and over time, I was presented with the opportunity to work in it full-time. I spent 13 years honing my skills and gaining experience, and with the support of my partner, I decided to take the leap and start my own company—Thistle & Grace Design. Read more>>
Katie Creeggan-Ríos
Katie Creeggan-Ríos has been with HCAS for four years, serving first as General Manager and taking the role of Executive Director in early 2024. She is a native Houstonian and worked professionally as a Stage Manager for ten years before transitioning into the world of arts and community engagement through film. She received her B.F.A. in Stage Management from the University of Houston School of Theatre & Dance, and her M.A. in Arts Leadership from the University of Houston College of the Arts. She is also a proud member of the Actors’ Equity Association. Read More>>
Sola Allyson
My music is inspirational, spiritual, transformational. I sing predominantly in Yorùbá, my native language. Those who understand the language testify to the change and awakening that happens with them through my music and hose who do not understand are communicated to in a language that the physical ears might be deaf to but understood by the soul. Read more>>
Kristin Schuster
In 2018 I launched Inflection Architecture aftermoving into the home I designed for my own family. On a basic level, the design process involves helping people make a million little decisions that will add up in big ways to influence the course of their lives. I realized there are clients I wouldn’t be able to serve if I chose to stay with the old firm. Good architecture improves lives, and I named the firm to keep that principle first and foremost. Read more>>
Arielle Green
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve faced a ton of obstacles, mostly financial ones. Being the first in my family to pursue entrepreneurship, I didn’t have many people to turn to for advice. But I’ve always been eager to seek knowledge and apply what I learn to my own journey. Building from the ground up has been challenging, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. Every setback has taught me resilience, and every win—big or small—reminds me why I chose this path. Read more>>
Nikki Allure
With plans to expand across Texas, our next locations will be in Dallas and Austin. I’m committed to maintaining an intimate and cozy setting, ensuring our clients feel secure and at ease. Ample parking and a relaxed ambiance will make Le Decorum Studio the go-to destination for content creators. Read more>>
Renferd Joseph
My next move took me to Austin, TX, where I served as band director at Decker Middle School before being promoted to campus administrator at Manor Middle School. After leading successfully as a campus administrator, I was then selected as the inaugural Director of Fine Arts for Manor ISD, I led my department to state and national recognition, advocating for a $44 million bond to improve equipment and enhance student programs. I grew each of the programs in the department, making fine arts one of the top performers in the central Texas market. Read more>>
Dose Stylez
Have I had a smooth journey? I wish my answer was yes but it would be a lie. The truth is…I had it rough. I didn’t know my place in a culture where practising your skill was being identified as good or wack, as a kid stepping into this journey it was very cut throat. Even finding my style was difficult. Trial and error was the game and I had to commit if I wanted to get results. Read more>>
Mary Johnson
Mary Johnson was born in Harlem, New York and at age three began a lifelong journey in the power of dance. Her passion for dance was born! Mary’s dance blossomed as she was taught and influenced by Ruby Magby, Ruth Williams, Alvin Ailey, and Steps on Broadway, in addition to being trained professionally with Frank Hatchett of Broadway Dance Center. Read more>>
Sylvia Escontrias
May 2, 2017 at 9:46 am
I would like to know how to be considered for Houston most inspiring stories. I would love my story to be featured – I am a breast Cancer survivor just recently an d I was just named WEC’s Busniess professional of 2017!!!!!!
Cori Aston
June 1, 2017 at 2:39 pm
Thank you for sharing my story and my art. As an artist we normally sit in the background… and create. We help create the visions, the mood boards and then execute those visions in our minds eye onto the human canvas.
It’s a never ending journey of the next creation. So, thank you, voyage magazine, for considering me one of Houston’s inspiring stories.
Suzanne Bearnth
June 5, 2017 at 11:58 am
Congratulations Cori! The story is extremely awesome and well deserving!
Kristen Grandi
June 15, 2017 at 2:45 pm
We are so grateful for you guys featuring Junk Hippy!
We’ll see you July 8 in Rosenberg!
Peace & lots of love,
Kristen Grandi
Memory Mill Productions
July 6, 2017 at 6:20 pm
Thank you very much for featuring The Memory Mill Productions in Houston’s most inspiring stories!
We can’t wait to shoot more weddings, document more stories and capture moments that will be cherished forever.
Catherine | Fit Armadillo
July 28, 2017 at 4:53 pm
Such an honor to share more about my company! Thanks for the feature.
Dawn Appling, EA
August 18, 2017 at 3:33 am
Thank you so much for featuring ProTouch Finance. I am humbled, and really appreciate you taking the time to give me the opportunity to tell the story of our humble beginnings.
Love and blessings <3
Maria Simon, JustSnickerdoodles
October 18, 2017 at 12:53 pm
I am so overjoyed at this amazing opportunity to be featured! Thank you guys so much for shining a light on my little mobile company!
Jo Trizila
November 17, 2017 at 9:48 pm
Would love to know how to be in contact with you. We have a great story to tell.
Through the end of the year, Solis Mammography – the nation’s largest independent provider of breast screening services – presents its “Help Us Help Houston” campaign through its seven locations across the greater Houston region. From now through the end of the year, patients who schedule and complete their annual screening mammogram at Solis Mammography, will also give the gift of restoration and recovery.
For every mammogram appointment scheduled and completed at any Solis Mammography center in the Houston area between Oct. 23 and Dec. 31, $10 will be donated to the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund by Solis Mammography and its partners in the effort, HCA Healthcare Gulf Coast Division and Hologic. To signal their participation in the campaign, all patients need to do is use the code “Harvey” when they check-in for their appointment.
The Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund was established by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. The fund is administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation. Because of the immense need in and around Houston, this fund is dedicated to relieving gaps that are not met by other local and federal efforts for those affected by Hurricane Harvey.
Diana Lombard
December 13, 2017 at 6:01 pm
Thank you so much for featuring Diana Lombard Interiors! It was an honor to be included in these stories and share information about my business!
Maria and Ruth
December 15, 2017 at 2:30 am
Thank you so much for including boballoons in your most inspiring stories!! It was an honor to share our story and information on our yard balloon business. We love celebrating birthdays!!
Tanya Ivory Mayes
January 21, 2018 at 9:06 pm
Thank you for featuring The Ivory Collection in Houston’s most inspiring stories! I am honored and inspired by the other stories as well. Great magazine!
Juan
June 27, 2018 at 7:29 pm
Thank you for featuring Blue Elm Photography as Houston’s most inspiring stories! It is truly an honor to be a part of such an outstanding community. Thank you!
L&B Limited Company
August 8, 2018 at 2:29 pm
Thank you for featuring two photos of homes from L&B Limited Co. We’re thrilled to be highlighted among other local talents. Being a part of our community is important to us and we love seeing all these rising stars in Houston!
Gusto Graphic Tees
January 3, 2019 at 3:31 pm
Thank you so much for this opportunity to tell our story along with so many other amazing people/companies. We truly appreciate you and what you do to promote small businesses!
Carrie
March 22, 2019 at 11:57 am
Thank you so much for featuring my blog & Instagram site, @carriebesthetics. I truly appreciate the opportunity & I love what you guys are doing!
Krystal
April 19, 2019 at 6:21 pm
Thank you so much for the feature! Really meant a lot.
Krystal S. LIttle
@krystalslittle
@yessshair
Sarah Britton
November 29, 2019 at 5:40 pm
We are so honored to be featured in this amazing series. Thank you!
Rima Dawood
December 19, 2019 at 12:35 am
It is amazing and awesome to read my own story and feel the excitement again as if I live every moment right now!
Thank you so much Voyage Houston!
Agnes Belle
January 12, 2020 at 9:45 pm
Thank you for featuring Agnes Belle in Vintage Park as one of Houston’s most inspiring stories. We appreciate it!!
Emily
March 2, 2020 at 4:27 pm
Thank you for taking the time to reach out and offer a feature. I really appreciate it!
Emily Cole
https://www.emilycoleofficial
Determined Solutions
March 27, 2020 at 2:12 pm
This is awesome! And this is what we need more of right now. Local businesses supporting locals. We’re going to have to come together to make it through these trying times, but no doubt, Houston will bounce back stronger than ever!