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.
Helen
Life is a Journey, not a race! Together, with God in the center of our marriage, family and all we do, putting Love 1st we can overcome anything! Never giving up! Everyone with goals and dreams will have struggles along the way, but focusing on those goals and dreams with the faith that God is leading us every step of the way is what we choose to get us to where we were created to be! Read more>>
Stephanie Houseal
I became interested in photography in high school when film was the only option and prints were developed in the dark room. My interest spanned through college and beyond where I continued studying and learning as much as I could. I’ve always been drawn to photographing people, so portraiture was a natural choice for me. Along the way I discovered newborn photography and decided that I wanted to open a business focusing on newborns and families. Creating lasting memories during the fleeting early years of family life is something that I absolutely love. As I became a mother myself, my love for my work deepened. Read more>>
Patsy Balacchi
When I think back to where it all started, I always remember a childhood moment at my grandfather’s house, playing in the spacious backyard filled with lush fruit trees and the quiet comfort of nature. That tender feeling of serenity has guided me through life, and I strive to replicate that sense of ease in my environment and continue to inspire my work. Balance is what I aim to achieve in both my work and personal life. I enjoy bringing beauty, order, and harmony into every project, whether it’s Feng Shui, brand, or web design. Read more>>
Anggie Pedraza-Watson
I was born in Venezuela to a 17-year-old mom who had left Peru, following the love of her life. My parents were together until I was about seven, and then my mom and I moved back to Peru. A few years later when I was 15 years old my mom remarried and we moved to Tampa, Florida leaving Peru and now migrating to a new country . Unfortunately, her marriage became abusive, and as immigrants, our legal status became something her spouse used against us. After a particularly serious incident, the police got involved, and my mom and I moved out on our own. Thanks to VAWA, which protects victims of domestic violence, we were able to fix our immigration status and start over. Read more>>
Cesar Gonzalez
One fine day, a person at work who I didn’t have much friendship with realized my situation and talked to me about massages. I heard it in disbelief but I didn’t care, When he ran into me again, he told me that he had made me an appointment at a massage school, I thanked him for the gesture and when I got home I told my wife about it.I arrived at the appointment out of commitment and the director told me about the programs and the satisfaction of helping people. Read more>>
Cash Arbury
It started small. My neighbors’ kids raced dirt bikes, which shortly became my first consistent client. About a year later, I bought my first real camera body and lens, and in 2021, I landed a contract role with Woodlands Online, working professionally while still in 8th grade. I covered football games under the lights and fell headfirst into sports photography, and through that connection, was given the opportunity to shoot the Trump rally. I was only 15, standing there with my camera alongside Fox News, ABC, and other national reporters: A surreal moment that showed me how far a lens could take me. Read more>>
Troy Esprit
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with athletes from all walks of life, helping them develop discipline, resilience, and the mindset needed to succeed both on and off the field. As my career evolved, I found myself drawn to the pivotal moment in an athlete’s life, the opportunity to compete at the next level. That passion led me to focus on Pro 7 Sports Recruiting, where I could bridge the gap between high school athletes and college programs. Read more>>
Czarina` Azzam
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the influence of spiritual leaders, the love and encouragement of my family, the presence of close friendships, and the wisdom of mentors who guided me. My community has been a source of strength, reminding me of the power of connection and compassion. My own meditation practice also grounds me, helping me show up fully for my clients and bring a sense of calm and clarity into the work I do. Read more>>
Rachel Williamson
I had the awesome opportunity to work inside Texas Iron Republic off 1488 and learned so much within that environment. That was the start of having 2 locations. Later, I was asked if I would consider the Tomball area at Leader Fitness, which i happily took. I am currently still at Leader Fitness and my office at 1488 has moved to Hardin Store Rd. in Magnolia. I’m still growing, still learning and every day working on what I can improve. But I can look back and I am proud of myself and be excited for the years to come. Read more>>
Rachel Garrison
Filing for divorce was both devastating and clarifying. I realized I couldn’t salvage a marriage with a man intent on being with other women — and I couldn’t stay “for the kids.” I loved them too much to let them grow up thinking that love looked like betrayal, silence, and what Henry Thoreau called “quiet desperation.” Because that isn’t love. That’s survival. And I was done just surviving. I was done circling on the hamster wheel — doing what everyone else is doing and thinking that I was failing in life. Read more>>
Kelli Nwuli
Today, The Skin Clinic is home to multiple advanced practice providers, recognized as a top 1% account by volume nationwide, and serves more than 4,000 clients—while still holding true to its foundation of personalized care and individual connections as the cornerstone of every visit. Read more>>
Summer Kluge
I grew up in the Cypress area and graduated from Cy-Fair High School in 2019. At 18, I earned my cosmetology operator’s license, which set the foundation for my career in beauty. My journey has been a mix of creative and business experiences—managing restaurants, working in salons, and later earning my degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management from Sam Houston State University. Read more>>
Lexis DeWitt
That passion eventually inspired me to launch BLKSPACE, a wellness platform dedicated to creating safe, inclusive spaces for the Black community—spaces “for us, by us.” Our mission is to foster unity, empower without gatekeeping, and connect people with resources in wellness, financial literacy, and mental health. My vision is to build a one-stop hub where we can support each other holistically, cultivate generational wellness, and work toward financial freedom as a community. Read more>>
Shelby Mounts
My Navy journey was always changing, and the experiences were truly incredible. I jumped out of airplanes and helicopters, served as an engineer on a couple ships, became a pilot and flew helicopters, served in Afghanistan with Army Special Forces, worked in the Pentagon twice, and even spent a year at Shell Oil as a Secretary of Defense Fellow. The Navy paid for my education, taught me invaluable lessons about people and leadership, and gave me more opportunities than I could ever have imagined. Read more>>
Quiosha Albert
The struggles in the hair industry have definitely called struggles when Covid hit it kept me confined away from the shop but I was able to use this time rebrand and get more education. Also in 2016 I suffered a physical disability with my back I suffered with sciatica and slowed me down behind the chair but I got back healthy and started doing what I love. Read more>>
Wilma Fisher
As an independently owned retailer, since opening, our product lines have been thoughtfully curated with hundreds of vendors, both locally & nationally in order to provide our customers with the best possible shopping experience. The inception of Cutter’s Canyon has been a wild & adventurous endeavor met with much trepidation at times for success. But, what began many years ago was built on a strong foundation of absolute faith & dedication. In that regard, I’ve managed to surpass the emotional state of new beginnings & thus thrive as a tenured merchant offering all things Texas to the many locals & visitors to Old Town Spring. It’s truly been a blessing and joy to serve our community for 22 years. Read more>>
Michael Holt
One of the biggest struggles I had to face was being homeless during six months of building my career. Due to a series of foolish mistakes I made I found myself living in a Super Eight motel for six months. In hindsight, I was blessed to have the resources and support I did to be able sustain a motel lifestyle for six months. I am currently a homeowner in the Clear Lake area near Nasa. Read more>>
Avery Salvatori Munson
About a year and a half into working at the venue, I became the head bartender! I loved my job. I got to watch couples get married, meet new people, and be part of so many special moments. One night, the coordinator had a family emergency and turned to me. She said that since I had worked at the venue the longest, I would need to make sure the rest of the night ran smoothly. I was shocked—but she was right. I had watched so many weddings that I knew exactly how they flowed. That night was how I “coordinated” my first wedding. And I think it’s safe to say I fell in love with it right away. Read more>>
Dr. Tabydrick Scott
Houston, Texas born and raised! I am a chef of my own catering business Everythang Kajun & Co., we are preparing to do our grand opening soon! I’m an author I’ve published 2 books, which can be found on Amazon.com/ titled Power of the Mind 21 Days of Affirmations for Men and The Art of Living Again “Journey to Self.” I’m also a proud Pastor/Apostle of Chosen Place Fellowship Church, here in Houston Texas Northeast Side alongside my wife Overseer Charnelle Scott! We will be celebrating 2 years as a church this coming September! Read more>>
Joumana Azzam
I earned my bachelor’s degree in sociology and began my career in the corporate world, where I worked in Human Resources. Feeling unfilled, I did some soul-searching and eventually found my way into social work. After moving to Houston from Michigan, I earned my master’s degree in social work from Baylor University and spent the following years working as a LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) in diverse settings, from hospitals to academic institutions. My Lebanese American heritage, with its strong emphasis on community and hospitality, has deeply shaped my perspective, fostering openness, curiosity, and respect for everyone’s unique journey. Read more>>
Xavier Everette
The road has and is not smooth but its joyful. Learning from simple mistakes whether that be timing, focus or even ensuring your exposure captures the moment correctly. From gain to loosing clients, it all takes time, dedication, and even more patience. Seeing your clients reactions to your work makes it all worth it. Having appropriate gear was an initial struggle, but I made it work with what I had. Read more>>
David Huguely
I started cutting athletes like eric gordon, youtube influencers, comedians like dessi banks and more! My journey as barber was not an instant success but i stayed down and believed in myself when everyone else doubted me. I went from $30 house calls to getting $70-$100 a cut in the shop and charging $200 for house calls. Im proud of where i am today because 90% of the people i was in barber school with doesnt even cut hair anymore. That right there should tell people how hard it really is to make a living in this feild. Read more>>
Meg Allen
No substantial challenges. I didn’t have much luck attempting to put bands together before Zenjii. A halt on performing in 2020 like all musicians, then an injury and subsequent surgery that kept me out of performing for almost a year, I’ve been lucky enough to perform most of my life otherwise, in some capacity. The times in my life I wasn’t on stage I was recording or learning new instruments or techniques. Read more>>
Chinelo Okoye
I faced challenges getting patients to understand the Direct Primary Care model, how it works, how it is different from a concierge primary care model, and how it is still an excellent option even for patients with good insurance. I also faced challenges in getting some people to understand where their healthcare dollars are going annually and how the Direct Primary Care model can save them a lot of money in healthcare expenses. Read more>>
Brandon Anderchuk
I have been married to my beautiful wife, Erin, for almost 14 years, and together we have four amazing children—three of whom are adopted. Because of our own family’s story, working with youth who are aging out of foster care is deeply personal and meaningful to me. At Hope’s Path, I am honored to lead an organization that provides a place of healing, support, and empowerment for young men as they prepare for independent adulthood. Read more>>
Jerry Ta
In 2021, I attended a Tony Robbins health retreat, and that became the catalyst for everything. I was introduced to therapies I had never seriously considered before—colon hydrotherapy, sauna, PEMF, juicing—and once I started implementing them consistently, things changed fast. My digestion improved. My weight dropped. My energy came back. I started doing monthly juice cleanses paired with colonics, and I now use the sauna every other day. These small but powerful habits gave me back control of my health. Read more>>
Dr. Elyssa
I attended Abilene Christian University, where I studied biology and was involved in several on-campus organizations focused on service and volunteer work. I also went on medical mission trips that deepened my calling to serve through healthcare. From there, I earned my Doctor of Chiropractic at Texas Chiropractic College, where I served as my class Ethics Officer, Public Relations for SACA, and Internal Vice President of the International Fellowship of TCC. During school, I discovered a passion for pediatrics, prenatal, and women’s health, and I have continued to further my education in those areas. I also obtained my Webster Certification to better serve and care for expecting mothers. Read more>>
Jess Jenkins
As a professional organizer, I organize any space in your home, including kitchens, bathrooms, closets, garages, attics, playrooms, and much more. We also help you declutter, and we will take away any donations at the end of a session, something we thought about so our clients don’t have to worry about it sitting in their homes until they find time to take it to Goodwill. We want to take as much stress and anxiety out of it. Read more>>
Darlene P. Campos
The privilege to replicate that feeling is such an honor. As for being proud of something, I have won some awards for my work, but my proudest moment as an author happened earlier this year. I went through an absolutely horrible rejection back in the spring and I was barely functioning because I was so hurt. I’ve had lots of rejections, but sometimes I get very personal ones that take time to heal from. Anyway, a high school student from Houston ISD contacted me through my website and asked for permission to make a presentation on a short story I wrote a few years ago. I was so touched, and of course, I said yes! My young readers always make me smile. Read more>>
Tika Hales
So I transformed my living room into a shop and used the little bit of money I had to start marketing and going door to door. I made business connections and many businesses gave me a chance. Houston was very hospitable, people even offered to hand out my cards for me. I grew over time offering more and more products and made a couple of moves as the business grew. I didn’t start off with all the big trucks or warehouses, but I started with integrity and follow through. There are tons of competitors here but I had previous knowledge base, sales experience, and customer service experience. Read more>>
Lisseth London
Alongside this, I am also an entrepreneur and founder of my own consulting business, where I specialize in helping leaders, executive administrators, and frontline workers understand and implement trauma-informed frameworks in their organizations. I teach people how to assess themselves, how to inform others and create awareness, how to apply practical strategies, how to empower their teams, and how to build resilient work environments using my AIAER method (Assess, Inform, Apply, Empower, Resilience). Read more>>
Chelsea West
What Are You Eating was born during a pivotal moment in my life—while I was applying for the Nutritional Therapy Practitioner program at the Nutritional Therapy Association back in 2022. That year, the school was offering a full-ride scholarship, and to be considered, applicants had to submit a video explaining why they wanted to become a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner. Read more>>
Brandan Vazquez
A turning point came when I made a last-minute decision to take an abnormal psychology class. That class gave me language for my own struggles and opened my eyes to what was happening inside me. It also helped me realize that maybe I could become the therapist I wish I’d had during those years. At the time, I didn’t see many, if any, Black men in the mental health field, and I knew representation mattered. Read more>>
Rachel Massengale
Once I got pregnant with my first child, I decided to take a step back. I was worried I wasn’t going to be able to balance it all. After a 2 year break and having my second child, I decided I was ready to jump back in. I asked my mom if she was okay with me taking over completely and of course she was. She, my dad and my husband have been so supportive and so excited that I’ve decided to pursue something I truly love. After working full time, trying to raise 2 kids and run a small business, I decided to quit my full time job. My last day was Valentine’s Day of 2025. I’ve been a full time cookie/cake mama since and it’s been such a blessing. I’m not a risk taker, so perusing this business full time was super scary for me, but I’m so glad I did it! Read more>>
Julius Belton
My daughter wanted to get involved in track when she was in the 3rd grade. Since I was at the track with her, I became an assistant Coach with Track Houston Track Club. After about 14 years with them, I decided to start the Katy Express Track in 2016 with about 22 kids, and it has grown to about 150 kids. I have been coaching for over 20 years. I specialize in distance and mid-distance training, especially Cross Country and Steeplechase. I am a USATF Level 1 Certified coach. I believe that education comes first and, as such, is responsible for over 40 athletes continuing to study, train and compete at the college level. Read more>>
Agnes Usoro
The aim was to help others look and feel their absolute best despite life’s challenges. I recognized that as my loved ones embarked upon their cancer journeys, a key priority for them, in addition to their cancer healing and recovery, was their wellness, aesthetics, self-esteem, and mental well-being, as cancer therapy can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s skin health, hair health, gut health, functional capacity, and psyche. Everyone, despite life’s challenges, wants to look and feel their best. At River Oaks Galleria (ROG) Medspa, the priority is self-care. The company aims to be an all-inclusive center for regenerative health, wellness, and aesthetic services that helps the community to live their respective lives to the fullest. Read more>>
Alex De Los Angeles
There’s been great times and incredibly rough times. To start, music itself is tough to place extrinsic value on, especially if anyone can stream your stuff for free. You have to be prepared to lose some when taking some of the risks, whether it’s traveling to another city, investing in equipment, or parking somewhere sketchy (been broken into a couple times). That’s always been the gambit for most. I’m thankful that playing shows has brought my music more recent support. Read more>>
Jorge Silguero
Fast forward to 2022, that itch came back. I was staying in Huntsville, TX, working back breaking jobs digging holes, to risking my life at such a young age, and then it hit me, it’s time and I knew I wanted to start off a journey I’ve been looking forward to for decades. I was a nervous wreck but pulling through the nervousness and excitement I finally created my first feature, “THE PILL”. From there the rest is history, ideas kept flowing new and old and the passion only continues to grow stronger each production day! Read more>>
Maria Perdomo-Torres
In late 2019, I took the leap to open my own private practice, and I haven’t looked back since. Today, I focus on supporting high-achieving women who often feel like they have to hold everything together for everyone else. Many of my clients are deeply caring and successful, yet privately carry stress, self-doubt, or emotional exhaustion. My goal is to provide a space where they can lay that weight down, reconnect with themselves, and find resilience and balance. Read more>>
Lauren Turney
Lauren Turney Photography is all about capturing life’s most meaningful moments in a way that feels natural, timeless, and true to you. I specialize in weddings, portraits, and headshots – whether that’s documenting the joy of a wedding day, celebrating milestones, or helping someone feel confident in front of the camera. My style is clean, bright, and true-to-color, so the images you get will still feel just as beautiful years from now as they do today. Read more>>
Erika Waldorf
When DSLRs came along that could shoot both photos and video, I started making short films with my kids, nieces, and nephews—who quickly learned to brace themselves whenever I said, “I have an idea.” My husband doesn’t even flinch anymore when he hears those words—he just knows to roll with it. Every project has been another chance to grow, learn, and connect with other creatives who love the same things. I’ve been lucky to make some pretty fun projects with friends and family, and now I’m stepping into directing my first feature this year. That’s a whole new adventure, and I couldn’t be more excited. Read more>>
Anthony Sanchez
Through Illuminating Solutions, Anthony has worked to bridge the gap between music, social media, and business. His platform has showcased some of Texas’ biggest Hispanic rappers—artists like Mexican OT, DeeBaby, and RNB Foe Mob. As a host and MC, he has partnered with N8 Entertainment to put on some of the state’s most talked-about concerts and events, becoming a central figure in Houston’s buzzing music and influencer culture. Read more>>
Clarissa Roman
I’m the youngest of nine in my family and one of two that was actually born in Texas. The rest of my brothers and sisters were born in New York. I have five older brothers and three older sisters. My mom and dad came from New York before I was born. My dad owns his own construction company here in town and I’ve been blessed to have the support of my family in doing what I want to do with my life. Plenty of people abandon their dreams if they don’t have the support, so I know how lucky I am to have a family that encourages me to do what I want to do with my life. Read more>>
Jakaylon White
However, once I graduated, I realized something important my true success would come from combining my business knowledge with my passion for helping others. That’s when I decided to start my own tax business. This allowed me to not only assist clients with their tax and bookkeeping needs, but also teach aspiring entrepreneurs how to create effective business plans and operate a successful business Read more>>
Stephanie Ramirez-Williamson
In 2009, while still serving as a CFO, I founded Assured Bookkeeping Plus in Reno, Nevada. What began as a side venture has grown into a full-time, trademarked firm with offices in Nevada, Florida, and Texas, now serving clients nationwide. We specialize in partnering with small to mid-sized businesses, particularly in construction, trades, retail, and e-commerce—who are ready to grow but may lack the time, systems, or support to do so effectively. Read more>>
Eliyahu Shmuel Ben Yah
In 2014, I founded the Eliyahu Shmuel Ben Yah School of the Prophet and now lead both physical and virtual congregations under THE WAY, R.I.O.T. (Righteous Invasion of Torah). I’ve received recognition from political leaders in New York and Delaware, and serve as a certified chaplain in both New York and Houston, Texas. My previous service as a Texas Correctional Officer adds another layer to my understanding of redemption and discipline. Read more>>
Viet Tran
I looked around and there were indeed a few “sim centers” around the country, but all of them were just about sim racing. I wanted Velocity to be much more than that, I wanted Velocity to be a spot where any car or racing enthusiast would enjoy spending time at even if they’re not driving. Most importantly, I wanted Velocity to be approachable and fun for everyone. In a male dominated sport, I wanted Velocity to be warm and welcoming for women, children, and adults who might have never been exposed to motorsports. Read more>>
Jesse Brown
As I got older, life pulled me in different directions, and I stopped drawing for a while. It wasn’t until college that I picked it back up, chasing dreams of making art for games, comics, and books. Then came a shift, sparked by the tragedies of Eric Garner, Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, and others. I was tired of the constant stream of negative images of Black people. I wanted my art to tell a different story, one of beauty, power, and possibility. Read more>>
Whoiskevinagain
I’m from Brownsville, Texas- the tip of Texas. (Shoutout the 956) For as long as I can remember I’ve been making videos, but it wasn’t until late high school that my focus became music videos and commercials. It took me two years of trying, offering free shoots and going door to door to businesses, before I even got a “yes” (at the time, i’d say the city wasn’t as open minded I guess? It’s definitely grown a lot though!) Read more>>
