Having to overcome unexpected problems is a hallmark of entrepreneurship. Almost every business owner, artist, maker, and creative we know has had to deal with countless unexpected problems that arise in the journey and so we asked some brilliant folks from the community to share their stories of the unexpected problems they’ve faced along the way.

Michelle Pokopac

If you told me back in High School I’d have to deal with a buttload of unethical and inequitable practices and behaviors as an actor, on top of all the other obstacles that come with maintaining it as a career, I probably would have felt defeated from the start. But it probably wouldn’t have stopped me from doing it. I know in my heart of hearts that I wouldn’t be happier doing anything else, and I’m proud to say that that is still true. It’s not something that’s going to be “fixed”, but moreso a change in environment, where a new norm is created. Read more>>

Lauren Maines

The events of the last two years have required most businesses to pivot. It was no different for “What’s Wine Is Yours”. Prior to the pandemic, my business was focused on wine appreciation by creating unforgettable and unique tasting events. Wine is a vessel for bringing people together. It unites us on a level that is greater than we can possibly fathom. When people are gathered with wine, memories are made. It might be the aromas and flavors in the glass, the fellowship around us, or the occasion for which the bottle was opened that create priceless memories. Read more>>

Kelly Balmaceda

The most challenging and somewhat unexpected problem I’ve encountered in my career has been having to move every 2-3 years for my spouse’s career and starting over in a completely new city and community/cultural environment. “Traditional” vocal performance careers generally follow a golden path; undergrad degree, summer programs, master’s degree, young artist programs, countless auditions, and hopefully lots of work! Read more>>

Izza Khalid

With being an interior designer there always comes lots of challenges. Throughout the design process you come across issues that challenge your creativity. This type of work truly makes you think outside of the box. There have been many times during the building process that builders do not communicate things properly and this causes issues to arise. This challenges me to figure out a solution quickly to make everything work out. Read more>>

Tara Kelley-Cruz

In the early days of my art practice, I found myself getting stuck in my paintings a lot. I would reach a certain point in the process of making a painting, and then would not be able to move forward or resolve the piece because of fear of losing what was already good about the work. I had a mountain of unresolved work and felt like a failure. This became debilitating and it was a challenge that threatened to end my hope of continuing as an artist. Read more>>

Chris Monette Appleton

Choosing a life as an artist can be challenging. It’s important to remind yourself occasionally why you do it. It is not exactly a moneymaker and your work is often not understood or appreciated. Finding a place to work and a venue for sharing it – is not always possible. For me, it is about the process. I am happiest when making art. That sounds simple but it’s what keeps me going as the unsold pieces stack up in my studio, garage and storage space. Not to mention hanging on the walls of my home and the walls of the homes everyone in my family and friends. Read more>>

Reyne Hirsch

Opening a new retail business of any kind during COVID is not a challenge most people would tackle. Granted, when we set out on this journey, COVID was not a word anyone knew. In December 2020, we got the keys to our new art gallery space, however we were still in need of an occupancy permit to open our doors to the public. As COVID hit, delays continued. From inspections to permits. It caused a 6 month delay in us being able to open shop. Read more>>

Lashelle Scott

The most unexpected issue that I have faced was my cancer diagnosis on February 13, 2021. I had experienced other health problems in the past, but nothing can prepare you for the “C” word. I was attending a virtual ceremony for the swearing in of a new judge when I received the phone call from my doctor giving me my initial cancer diagnosis. Nothing can prepare you for this life-altering news. Numb is the best word I can use to describe how I felt. I have never experienced a longer 24 hours than those following the initial diagnosis. Shock. Numbness. Denial. Then finally realization settled in. Read more>>