Every day we have a choice. We can support an up and coming podcaster, try a new family-run restaurant, join a boutique gym started by a local fitness champ or we could keep giving away our money to the handful of giants who already control so much of our commerce. Our daily decisions impact the kind world we live in; if we want a world where small businesses are growing and artists and creatives are thriving then we should support them with our time, money and attention. We’re proud to highlight inspiring creatives and entrepreneurs each week in Hidden Gems series. Check out some of our latest local gem features below.
Vivian Stephens
As a professional makeup artist and photographer I often have to navigate the ebb and flows of this demanding industry. It’s difficult to not feel like a struggling artist with big dreams, however I have even bigger challenges. Living with scleroderma has been a constant battle, affecting not just my body but my passion for beauty. I remember the nights spent crying, feeling like I was never going to break through the barriers stacked against me. Often times those barriers make me feel like I don’t have access to rooms with opportunities I’ve worked tirelessly to be in. Read more>>
Karena Poke
Seeing this success firsthand convinced me the model was replicable. That conviction led to the founding of Lettuce Live. Since then, I’ve collaborated with partners such as Aetna and Amazon to build new gardens and partnered with Dow Chemical to revitalize the Lettuce Live Community Garden in Missouri City, Texas. Each project reinforces my belief in the power of edible gardens to transform communities, promote health, and spark entrepreneurship. Read more>>
Simone Jordan
As I grew in my own loc journey, I was mesmerized by the transformation my locs went through. The way they looked, the way they made me feel, the way they grew my confidence! However, in my research, I often found stigma-based opinions about locs. People would say things like “they’re dirty”, “they’re unkempt”, “they’re ugly”. I couldn’t believe there was this stigma placed on something that I found to be so beautiful! It was then that I sought out to show the world this beauty through my lens and that’s when I birthed Knotty Xpressions. Read more>>
Ting Geng
After completing my bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin, I ventured into the world of finance. Over the next 15 years, I worked in major financial hubs like London, New York, and Hong Kong, ultimately serving as an Executive Director at Morgan Stanley in Hong Kong. During this time, I was fortunate enough to travel to 33 countries, gaining unique perspectives and experiences from different cultures around the world. These travels left a lasting impression on me, and I longed to bring some of those global inspirations back home to Houston. Read more>>
Stephen Blezinger
ABC was started in 2000 by myself and two other guys who were working together for a company that provided feeds and other products (commodities, ingredients) to the feeding industry in NE Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Oklahoma. The original company decided to close its doors in the spring of 2000 at which time the three of us started ABC Nutrition Service to maintain the existing business and continue to serve the customers we had. Read more>>
Jeremy Davis
In 2020, I channeled those challenges into purpose by writing my doctoral dissertation on workplace climate and its impact on employee retention beliefs. That research helped me understand what so many professionals struggle with: how our environments affect our ability to thrive. Navigating those difficult environments also pushed me to explore deeper levels of emotional intelligence, mindfulness, and self-awareness—tools that became essential to my personal growth and healing. Read more>>
Jose Calderon
One of the biggest struggles along the way was figuring out what I wanted to do for a living. They say they the average American college student changes their major five times. It was true for me, I had five completely different majors until my junior year when I decided I wanted to go to law school. Even in law school I was not sure what type of lawyer I wanted to be but I spent the summers interning at different law firms and figured out I really enjoyed representing individual people and personal injury law was a great fit. Read more>>
Kashanti Powell
I ended up being the first in my family to make a half of million, purchased my first 4 bedroom 3 bath home and renovated it with my own cash, attended events where millionaire and multimillionaires gather to network and expand, I fostered the love for entreprenuership in general, I was able to start giving back to those that are less fortunate than I was, and participate and meet so many inspirational leaders within and outside of my community. Read more>>
SIIILK.
I started making music at a young age, I learned how to play guitar, bass and piano as I was able to receive them or save up enough money to go to the local pawn shop and buy them. In school I was in band & choir, anything regarding music I just wanted to emerge myself in. It was a comfort, it felt like home when I didn’t feel I had one. I started in various bands playing bass, guitar or keys until one day I was introduced to a program called FL Studio, I always look at that moment as the moment that changed my life. I started making beats, instrumentals and remixes all day, every day, it became an obsession. I have since released 3 full length albums produced, mixed and mastered by me, playing shows and touring relentlessly. Read more>>
Dinda Aryaputri
I was born in Indonesia, spent my early childhood in the U.K., and moved around a bit until settling in Houston around middle school. My formative years came with a lot of transitions: navigating new languages, school systems, and cultural norms. All of these factors forced me to adapt quickly. Balancing my identity at home with the need to adapt to a new environment taught me flexibility and persistence, skills that continue to guide me today. Read more>>
Toks P
It has not been a smooth road but it has not been a dead end either. Like everything, growth is inevitable but growth comes from hard push and extreme sacrifices, there have been several bumps in the road but what yo do with the bumps is what matters, I choose to always learn once from an uncomfortable situation and intentionally avoid a repeat. Read more>>
Wendy Shuff
I quickly realized that true healing required a completely different path—one rooted in understanding the whole person, not just treating symptoms. At the time, this approach wasn’t widely accepted or understood. The idea of using food as medicine, addressing emotional and spiritual blocks, and uncovering the root causes of illness felt radical to many around me. Read more>>
Maurice Hunt
After dedicating many years to the music game, I finally came to a point at this time and age that I will share the musical and creative experience with aspiring artists, singer, songwriters and producers alike. I currently run Trackbox Studios here in Houston, TX offering recording, production, vocal coaching and artist development. I enjoy working with the youth as they are the future; Trackbox provides a brand-new experience and the space as a positive creative outlet for many from youth to the elderly who simply wants to sing a tune on their anniversary. Despite the dark & unfortunate times we are facing in the music industry, I go above and beyond to encourage aspiring creatives that there is still goodness, positivity and hope for the beautiful thing that God intended for us to enjoy — Music. Read more>>
Gladys Liu
The more I used my camera, the more fascinated I became with photography itself. I began to explore portraits and lifestyle images, and soon, I found myself wondering if I could turn this growing interest into something more. I started offering part-time photo sessions for friends and local clients, learning everything I could along the way. Read more>>
J. McKinnley
The road has been a convoluted one to say the least. I stopped trying to figure it out a long time ago though. I feel like the biggest struggle along the way is the constant one of Me vs. Me. I’m always trying to one up myself. I take pride in giving it my all every single time I put my mind to do something. That has lead to it’s own fair share of hiccups along the way. Whether it be me tweaking to the point where a 3-day project has now turned into a month or I’m up all night the day before a show because I’ve randomly come up with an amazing transition to add to the set. Read more>>
Dewellyn Howard
I would cut friends on the weekends and it would bring me so much joy.. After a year of working as a finance bro, I decided to resign and go into barbering full time. I worked in a Dominican barbershop in Williamsburg, Brooklyn where I was limited to only communicating with 3-4 barbers because the rest only spoke Spanish. Due to the housing crisis in New York, I decided to move to Houston, Texas where I reside today. I worked in a barbershop in Jersey Village with a team of young, driven individuals who helped me focus on professional development and I am forever grateful for them. I now work at Next Level Kutz in Missouri City, Texas where I have taken my career to the “next level” as an independent contractor. Read more>>
Savannah Martinez
From driving 3 hours for my first client, to getting my own chair and now having a name and a brand for myself has been a real testimony if you walk by faith and not by sight all things are possible. With the right group of people by your side you will propser and grow. I have been super blessed to work alongside and get to network with amazing people, everyone in the Rich Off Hair community, my business partner (Itzell Guillen), and to all my amazing clients who have given the opportunity whether its was once or more than once to do their hair. Read more>>
Niny Cantor
To continue developing professionally, I became certified by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) as a Level 1 coach in 2013 and Level 2 coach in 2014, both in Bogotá. These certifications gave me an even deeper understanding of gymnastics methodology, safety, and coaching techniques — which I now apply every day in our work with children. Yonathan completed a certification course in Kick Start Boys Gymnastics through the Gymnastics Association of Texas (GAT), a specialized program designed to engage boys in gymnastics. Read more>>
Dyanna Aguero
As someone with a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol, I was already committed to a healthy lifestyle. But this experience fueled a new mission: to break the generational cycle of chronic illness through clean, chemical-free eating. Helping my mom reclaim her health inspired me to help others do the same. Read more>>
Diana Cano
I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of that experience. I am now in my second year of being a face painter and it has been so fulfilling in so many ways. I recently went to my first paint jam and I learned so much! I had put off attending one because I consider myself an introvert but I was so glad I attended. Next I’ll be attending some classes so I can level up on designs and work with water proof paint because it is absolutely necessary in Houston! I can’t wait to see what this year holds for my customers and I but I am so excited. “Everyday in every way I get better and better” that is the motto moving forward. Read more>>
Prin Simmons
One of the main reasons I opened my bridal shop was to start a vintage bridal collection. I’ve always loved giving dresses a second life—and as a longtime vintage shopper, there’s nothing like the thrill of finding that one-of-a-kind piece. Sourcing is one of my favorite parts of the business, and when a bride chooses something I’ve handpicked, it feels especially meaningful. There aren’t many vintage bridal shops in Texas, so it’s been amazing to see brides travel from other cities or even states just to explore the collection. Read more>>
Sarah Thompson
As my business grew, I upgraded my camera equipment and raised my pricing to account for added costs and experience. I shot my first wedding for $100 and was so proud of how those images turned out. (Now when I look back at them I’m embarrassed, but aren’t we all embarrassed of our photos from when we were starting out?) I started second shooting and shadowing a bunch of wedding photographers and here’s where my love for weddings started. Read more>>
Audrey Amirian
“Love what you do and never work a day in your life” is my favorite quote and truly how I feel about being a REALTOR. Last year was my best year yet despite it being a down market for most and having a newborn. When I am not selling houses, You will find me chasing my toddler son, Baking cookies or homeschooling my 8 year old daughter, cuddling my farm animals (chickens, dogs, cats, and a longhorn), or hanging with my best friend (My hubby). We follow a natural lifestyle and love our little homestead. I also run a local group for other Women who follow a “crunchy/natural” lifestyle and am all about community. (It takes a village). Read more>>
Bianca Mach
In 2023, I was a district court coordinator for Fort Bend County and had 2 small kids. I started realizing that I was miserable with the politics that came with my position and I missed my babies. I came home and sat with my husband and said “I’m done with the 8-5 and I’m gonna get a food truck!” He whole heartedly was on board and immediately asked “what kinda food are you going to make??” I blurted out “Whatever the hell I want!” I was tired of restrictions, tired of coloring in the lines, and to be 100% transparent I get bored too easily, so I planned to have themed menus and new creations for every pop-up. Read more>>
Sheila Meade
It was way harder than I thought. They were tiny and didn’t necessarily sleep on que. If they were awake they were near impossible to pose because they wiggled. I wasn’t giving up though. I searched for classes on posing, editing and safety and began taking them. Over time I improved. Here I am 14 years later. I’ve even taken photo of some of my high school seniors babies. I still absolutely adore capturing these precious little beings. It’s especially exciting when I photograph the pregnant momma and anticipate the birth. Then to go on and capture their first birthday is especially fun. I truly love my job and wouldn’t trade it for anything. Read more>>
Pamela Alvarez
By this point I started to experience different energetic and holistic techniques which I love, to continue working on my well being, and soon I took a Sound Healing Session with Tibetan and Crystal Singing Bowls that blew off my mind. This is how I started my journey as a Sound Healing Practitioner. I also have been learning and studying more about Holistic Ceremonies and Circles. Read more>>
Estella Hudlin
In 2004, my mother sent my sister and me away for a summer to stay with my father, giving her a much-needed break. My father had just started to attend a church in El Campo, TX, and that is where my journey took a transformative turn. Inside those walls, I met God for the first time and discovered the essence of true, unconditional love. I learned that I no longer had to believe the lies spoken over my life or become just another statistic. Instead, I realized that I could aspire to be anything I dreamed of, regardless of how big the dream may be. Read more>>
Shaq’kai White
I didn’t know exactly where to begin until I crossed paths with Boss Lady Kaneisha. She welcomed me with open arms and became one of the catalysts pushing me forward. Alongside my producers Blaze On The Boards and Stunna On Da Beat, I’ve been able to grow and thrive. I wouldn’t be here without my team. Read more>>
Stacy Chavez
Over the years I had done bookkeeping for many businesses as one of many tasks required of my position, but those positions have always slowly transitioned away from the bookkeeping side with every promotion, which lead me to the decision to open my own bookkeeping firm so that my position would always feed my inner nerd and keep me working with the numbers and spreadsheets! (FYI one of my hobbies is making budget spreadsheets in Excel for family members! Nerd Alert!) I now have a job I love. (FYI, everyone should love their job!) Read more>>
Shaunda Busch
Another milestone in my journey was becoming both a brand ambassador and certified trainer with Bryght. This incredible opportunity allowed me to travel and educate women around the world on intimate lightening—a service that’s often overlooked but so important when it comes to self-confidence. It’s been empowering to help women embrace their bodies fully and feel confident in their skin, inside and out. Read more>>
Jonathan Roewe
I served 21 years in the US Army and retired in 2017. Following my retirement, I worked as a Senior Vice President in the corporate banking for 8 years finding talent and developing career growth. Having always been driven to serve the community in a meaningful way, I was motivated to start “First Sergeants Roofing and Home Solutions” after a personal experience with home renovation left me feeling overcharged and underwhelmed by the quality of work. So I created the company with three primary core values as the foundation; Integrity, Quality, and Reliability. Read more>>
Michael And Shanae Okpewho
Next Level Arcade Rentals was born out of a passion for fun, nostalgia, and creating unforgettable experiences. We’ve always loved the energy and excitement that arcades bring—whether it’s the thrill of a high score or the laughter shared over a classic game. But we noticed that there weren’t many options for people to enjoy that experience outside of traditional arcades. So we thought, ‘Why not bring the arcade to them?’ Read more>>
Antoinette Wright
I started my cookie journey way back in 2011. At that time, my husband was away for work quite a bit. So, I decided I needed to find a new hobby to keep myself busy. That year, I attended an Easter party and saw some of the cutest decorated sugar cookies that my friend Liz made. After we chatted about them, I knew this would be my new hobby. I spent the next few days watching online videos, reading blogs and going shopping for everything I needed to get started. By the end of the week, I made my very first set of decorated sugar cookies! I took some pictures, posted them on my Facebook page, got some really nice compliments, requests to make birthday cookies, and I guess you can say the rest is history! Read more>>
Rami Mattar
I started with BSc in Laser Engineering, in Baghdad, Iraq. Then Master of Science Degree in Laser & Optoelectronics Engineering, then another MSc in Electrical Engineering from Cardiff University, UK. This is how I entered the field. I identified a market gap when I was working for an O&G company down in Houston, TX. Early on, I realized there was a real need for removal of contaminations in pipes & tubes, an opportunity I noticed to utilize efficient laser-based solutions, and I became committed to solving that. Read more>>
