Earning that first dollar is incredibly special and a moment many never forget. We asked some very talented creatives from the community to tell us the story of the first dollar they earned from their creative works.

Laura Benson

I’m a preacher’s kid from a small Midwestern town, where opportunities to perform were few and far between. I went on to graduate from Wayne State College in Nebraska, studying Exercise Science/Wellness and Music—an unlikely but heartfelt combination. At WSC, I sang in the college choir and Madrigal group, always holding onto the dream of a bigger stage. Read more>>

Isis Christopher

The first time I earned money from my creative work was in 2019, and I can still remember the mix of excitement and disbelief I felt. The client was Yeroc Art by Corey C. White, and the event was The Connoisseur: Eat, Drink, and Paint.
When Corey approached me to be a part of it, I was both thrilled and a little nervous. I’d admired his work and the energy he brought to his events, so being included felt like stepping into a bigger creative world. Read more>>

Layonne Holmes

As much as I always loved to sing, I didn’t pursue it until I was college-age when my Mom started taking me on recording sessions with her. My Mom Delores Holmes was a pro singer while I was growing up, having been a backup singer for the Bruce Springsteen Band. My first recording session was accompanying her to record for E Street organist Danny Federici at his home. I do remember that very personal studio vibe that feels different at every studio, staring at all the things on the walls and shelves, learning how to stand in front of the mic and wear the headphones. I was blessed to have the comfort of singing with her, we knew each other’s voices well. At the end of the session he wrote me a check and Mom said, “Congratulations, you’re a pro now”. Hopefully I did well that day, I’ll always remember it for sure. Read more>>