Local Highlighter Series

We are so thrilled to be able to connect with some of the brightest and most inspiring entrepreneurs and creatives from across the city and beyond and this series in particular gives us the honor of introducing these folks to you in a unique way – we go beyond the story of how they got to where they are today by asking them to reflect on a variety of deeper questions that we hope will help you better connect with them, their stories and their brands. Ultimately, our hope is that more of us will spend more of our money with independent artists, creatives and small businesses and we think getting to know one another at a deeper level is step one.

Ashely LeSha

I’am learning the most in my relationship with God right now. I’ am actively doing bible study lately, praying throughout my day (more), and journaling to him. I have noticed a big difference in my everyday life, business/career, and more. My advice would be for everyone to develop a close relationship with God, because through him ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE. Read More>>

Zach Weaver

Right now, I’m learning the most from my daughter, Adeline. Becoming a parent changes the way you look at everything, especially weddings. When I think about storytelling, it’s not really for me, and honestly, it’s not even just for the couple. It’s for their kids. It’s for the generations that will look back at these photos and films and see where their family’s story began. Read More>>

Cathy Cardenas

Thats easy! My mom. She was always my biggest cheerleader and support system. She always new I had the potential to do great things in my life. She believed in me when others didn’t. I would be where I am today without her. I sadly lost her last year but make it NY goal to continue you making her proud. Read More>>

Amy Phillips

I rely on my business partner, Fairlight Hubbard’s, ideas because our trust in each other runs deep, built through years of hard work, shared vision, and mutual respect. We’ve grown our company side by side, navigating challenges and celebrating wins together, which has created a foundation where our collaboration feels natural and dependable. Read More>>

Amy Hoskins

For decades now, because of my mental and physical disabilities, I’ve been working on reducing repeat patterns or loops of thought, feelings, or behaviors. It’s not a perfect practice by any means, but I think the concept of mindfulness helps me in every moment, where I can come back to a graceful, peaceful center for a little while. I’m also an informal Buddhist. Read More>>

Callie Weaks

Every day I can photograph is a good day. A lot of people can pick up a camera, seek validation for a press pass or some recognition for holding the camera. I work with a lot of people who just need to feel something; Maybe it’s a session for pain, a confidence boost, to be seen how others see them. Read More>>

Gil Costello

I do have a job that I enjoy and deeply am passionate about. I acknowledge that often, and try to remind myself that this is a job that I used to dream about having. It’s important to not take that for granted. Some days have their challenges, and not every success is long lasting. Read More>>

Clara O’Donnell

Absolutely—I tap dance to work every time my books are full! There’s something magical about knowing not only are my bills covered, but I also get to spend the day doing what I love. Helping people feel beautiful, expressing myself creatively, and connecting with clients on a deeper level—it all fuels me. Read More>>

Hannah Amidon

I had a total tap dance day recently. I have been wanting to publish a book, ‘It’s A Punny World’. My first mock book was when I graduated high school. It took 9 years to FINALLY do the thing! I had sent letters to publishers and heard mostly nothing, some rejection letters. Read More>>

Juliana Lewis

I took a break with my business for a little over one year, and during that year, I received countless of messages asking when I was going to the at the next bridal expos. During that time, my customers missed the in-person interaction and trying on the headpieces/jewelry. Read More>>

Kelly Weaver

Our dedication. No is never the answer to a customer. We always figure out a way to make it happen. We know that good service will lead to happy customers. Read More>>

Jenn McWhorter

If I retired tomorrow, I’d imagine my customers would miss both the convenience and quality that our meals brig to their lives. While there are plenty of meal prep services out there, I like to think what sets us apart is our commitment to offering a highly customized, premium product that’s tailored to their needs. Read More>>

Justin Brickler

I think bonds between people often break when there’s a lack of presence. When communication fades, trust erodes or shared moments get replaced by distractions. We start to miss the small things that keep us connected. I believe intentionality can restore those bonds, if a person chooses that path. You have to be fully present, create space for vulnerability and try to reach anyone. Read More>>

Nicole Morehead

Experiencing the same things bonds people, which is why you become so close to the people you work with the shared life experiences. So in the same way you can create bonds with people through sharing new life experiences with them. People drift apart as they grow and change and walk different paths but the string that ties you together is still there. Read More>>

Kendra Story

Grudges. If you’re holding a grudge against someone, forgive them. It doesn’t mean you have to keep that person in your life, but refusing to forgive only hurts you in the long run. It is necessary in order to heal. Read More>>

Jessi & Jared Fredeen

Probably authenticity. It’s become a rare commodity these days, especially with the rise of social media. People feel like they need to put forward a different face or a different sort of posture than they would in real life, to the point that they sometimes lose themselves in their personas. Read More>>

Carla Pierson

That’s an insightful question. I think many business owners and entrepreneurs are secretly struggling with the fear of not taking a huge, risky leap of faith. The media often glorifies the stories of ‘overnight success’ and big risks. Read More>>

Jill Sublett

I feel a lot of people are struggling with ways to cope with everything going on in the world right now. I am pretty open about my thoughts, struggles and fears. Read More>>

Julia Sellers

I think many women are silently struggling with the pressure to “have it all together.” Behind polished social media profiles and professional achievements, there’s often a quiet battle with self-doubt, burnout, loneliness, the need to ‘level-up’ or the fear of not being enough. At WINGS, we recognize that success doesn’t always feel as strong as it looks. Read More>>

Christina Kelly

If we could see into the minds of people, we’d witness a mess that most would never admit. The façades we wear are convincing. We mask our brokenness with casual conversation, designer clothes, positions, and titles—getting involved in high-status circles just to cover how empty and hurting we really are inside. We live in a world where an electronic box dictates our life and worth. Read More>>

Dale Shack

Something I truly believe most people struggle with is a sense of identity that comes from a community. As independent as some of us are (like myself) we all crave to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. Read More>>

Kiely Connell

People who don’t know me sometimes think that I’m just super moody and mysterious all the time. The people who know me best can tell you that I’m very goofy and silly which tends to balance well with my fascination with the macabre. Read More>>

Michael Saleta

“Right now, a normal day for me kicks off between 6 and 6:30 a.m. with feeding and wrangling our three rescue cats, which is basically like running a small, furry breakfast club, plus the outdoor cat, Samantha, who stops by for her morning meal. Read More>>

Riley Rhinehart

Right now, a normal day for me starts early usually with checking calls, voicemails, and messages from customers who may have had overnight wildlife issues. From there, I plan out my day based on scheduled inspections, trap checks, or removal jobs. A big part of my routine is making sure traps are set properly and checking on any active jobs in progress. Read More>>

Janee Richardson

I’m a busy a person! I work in corporate America, Dance studio Owner. Marketing and Booking point of contact for Showtime Studios and Writing multiple new scripts for upcoming shows and movies. My day consist of All of those tasks in 24 Hour span Read More>>