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Rising Stars: Meet Cynthia Tran of Houston

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Tran

Hi Cynthia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started my journey right after high school with a cosmetology license, diving straight into the beauty industry. It felt like a natural fit for me, but what really made it special was the connections I built with my clients. Those relationships—and the trust they created—are what shaped my path as an entrepreneur.

That love for connection inspired me to launch Goldie Zap Gals, a brand specializing in permanent jewelry. These pieces aren’t just accessories; they carry meaning—whether it’s a sentimental reminder of a loved one or a symbol of a special memory.

More recently, my niece introduced me to the idea of the viral Dubai chocolate bar. It got me thinking: how could we take something so simple and give it a unique twist? My partner and I got to work, using our Vietnamese-American background to create over 25 bold flavors in just a few months, with a goal to hit 100.

For me, everything I do comes back to connection—whether it’s through beauty, jewelry, or chocolate. It’s about making people feel good and creating moments that is unforgettable/ last.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s just life. Every day comes with its own challenges, and it’s really about how I decide to face them. I remind myself to take it one day at a time—not just in business, but in life overall. I like to plan ahead, but not too far, because life is so unpredictable. You can’t control the future, so I try not to stress about it too much.

As an entrepreneur, there have definitely been struggles. I’ve had a hard time retaining customers or dealing with reviews where people weren’t satisfied. It used to get to me, but now I see it differently. I’ve learned that it’s okay—you can’t make everyone happy. Instead, I focus on what I can learn from the feedback and how I can do better. For me, it’s all about finding a way to turn the negatives into positives.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I wear many hats in my work life. I’m a part-time lash artist, the co-founder of Goldie Zap Gals specializing in permanent jewelry, and also the co-founder of Endless Umami Sweets, where we craft gourmet chocolates inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate bar.

People often know me as a go-getter—I’m someone who doesn’t sit still. My mind is always moving, looking for opportunities to create things that bring joy to my clients. I’m most proud of how far I’ve come and the balance I’ve been able to achieve between my work and being present for my two children. Growing up, I saw my parents work tirelessly to provide, and I told myself I’d do the same—but with the flexibility to attend every event and moment that matters to my kids without needing permission or struggling to find time off.

What truly sets me apart in all my businesses is me—my personality and how I connect with people. When my clients visit, I want them to feel that 1:1 connection and experience exceptional customer service. It’s more than just the product or service they’re paying for; it’s about building a genuine connection and creating a vibe that makes them feel valued and cared for.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
What matters most to me is my mental wellness and health. These two things are my top priorities because I know I can’t function at my best without them. Taking care of my happiness and health allows me to manage both my family and my businesses effectively. When I prioritize myself, everything else—family, work, and life—falls into place.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Endless Umami Sweets (chocooate bars)
Jewelry photos are from goldie zap gals (jewelry photos)

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