There are so many factors that affect how our lives turn out, but one of the most interesting is how our backgrounds give us unique strengths and perspectives that affect who we are as adults. We asked rising stars from the community to tell us about their background and upbringing and how they feel it’s impacted who they are today.

I’m from Southern California but grew up around horses. My Dad being a progressional team roper and stuntman made for an interesting childhood. Most of my upbringing consisted of old cowboy ways with a California twist. My Dads advice sounded like the stereotypical cowboy. Read more>>

Alison Smith | Cake Artist

The simple answer to this question is that I’m from Franklin, TN. But, I’ve never really been a simple, short-winded kind of gal, and I think it’s important to mention the other places in Tennessee that made me who I am and will always hold little pieces of my heart. Read more>>

Zoe Johnson | Violinist – Original Artist & Private Teacher

I am a born and bred Tennessean from Memphis. I believe there is a special blessing to be raised in the U.S. South. There is a sense of community, class and culture that southerners are immersed within these states that stands apart from the other regions of the country. Memphis, in particular, is a city of rich history.  Read more>>