Ryan Criswell, the creative force behind Cute Story Events, invites us into their world of event planning. Starting their career at the front desk of a Hilton hotel, Ryan honed their organizational skills that would later help them navigate planning large events. Their career pivoted during South by Southwest, where Ryan's involvement in coordinating over 450 volunteers amplified their desire to plan large events. This experience was further enriched during the pandemic when Ryan collaborated with a production agency to pioneer virtual and hybrid events nationwide.

Van Ethan Levy (they/elle) is a dually Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor dedicated to creating accessible mental health resources. With a focus on trans and non binary identities, disability justice, and harm reduction, they’ve developed a range of community resource tools, including the interactive book Exploring My Identity(ies), a documentary called Do Something: Trans & Non Binary Identities, and the No More GateKeeping app. They also organize the annual Do Something: Identity(ies) conference.

This year we attended the Big Queer Cookout during Sacramento Pride, where we had the opportunity to connect directly with our community. This event was extra special because we partnered with Brit Spencer, the founder of Safe Space Photo, who also happens to be one of our wonderful service providers on Famm.

Lee Turner and Leslie Hensley are the Co-Founders of HENSLEE, a boutique HR group known for its unique people-first approach.

Andrew Dort is the Founder of Pride Lending LLC, the first mortgage company in the United States founded with a mission to serve the LGBTQ+ community.

Martin Gratton, the founder of Skin & Tones, shared his journey of developing high-quality tattoo aftercare products, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence, diversity, and self-care in both his business and the tattoo industry.

Jannah Bachrouche is the Founder of HERC HR, a Queer and Arab-owned holistic Human Resources and People Ops consulting and fractional services company. HERC HR specializes in helping companies of all sizes address challenges related to employee retention, engagement, growth, communication, and inclusivity.

Nik Sallie is the Founder of Tastemakers Legal, a boutique trademark law firm dedicated to empowering innovative small businesses, particularly those from underrepresented communities, through trademark ownership.

Kathy Rivera is the founder of a transformative healing and wellness practice that combines trauma-informed energy medicine and therapeutic yoga. A first-generation Salvadoran American, Kathy brings a rich background in healthcare and a deep commitment to creating inclusive spaces for queer people of color.

Kayani Turner is the Founder of KfiT Whole Body Wellness, a virtual coaching program designed to offer a judgment-free, supportive environment tailored specifically for POC and Queer individuals.

Dalia Kinsey is the Founder of Kinsey Wellness & Communications LLC, an organization dedicated to fostering health equity and inclusive care. Launched from a profound personal journey and professional expertise as a Registered Dietitian, Dalia's mission is to challenge and transform how wellness and nutrition are approached, especially within marginalized communities.

Explorer Cold Brew is a premium coffee brand specializing in craft-brewed cold brew concentrates, offering a range of caffeine levels and flavors to suit every coffee lover's taste.

Victoria D. Stubbs, LICSW, LCSW-C, RMT, is the founder of Inner Truth Psychotherapy & Wellness, a private practice that focuses on therapy and wellness services. Discover her journey and insights in this interview with an inspiring LGBTQ+ founder.

Gay Pride Apparel, founded by Sergio Aragon and Jesus Gutierrez, is a vibrant and mission-driven brand offering an extensive collection of pride gear. From t-shirts and hoodies to flags and blankets, Gay Pride Apparel is dedicated to celebrating authenticity and pride every day of the year.

Mitchell Haley and Michael Darnell are the innovative minds behind Magical Keys Vacations, an agency that turns travel planning into a personalized and enchanting experience. Born from their own magical moments and a desire to create memorable vacations for others, their venture began in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The duo leveraged their backgrounds in art and their passion for Disney to create a travel service that stands out in a dynamic marketplace.

Crystal Whiteaker, the Founder and CEO of Crystal Lily Creative, is on a mission to foster inclusivity and authenticity in brand representation. With a strong emphasis on social impact, Crystal Lily Creative partners with brands and leaders, helping them create genuinely inclusive environments.

Jackfir, founded by Charlie, is a pioneering men's skincare brand dedicated to clean, toxin-free products, created from a personal journey of health and environmental awareness.

NiK Kacy, the groundbreaking founder of NiK Kacy Footwear, champions gender inclusivity in the fashion world, while also pioneering Equality Fashion Week to celebrate and uplift the LGBTQ+ community through fashion.

Einar Escoto, the Founder of Mindsei, offers a unique approach to spiritual growth and personal development through intuitive coaching, hypnotherapy, and reiki practices.