When you think of entrepreneurial spirit you do not have to look very far in Snohomish for beautiful examples of inspiring women who have taken on the risk of business ownership and community involvement. As you read their short answers of overcoming obstacles we hope you will be insured by their resilience, perseverance and vision - who knows, it may inspire you to take the risk.
Nicole Schuler
Co-owner
Cascade Concrete Coatings, LLC
What was the most difficult thing you had to overcome in starting your business?
One of the biggest challenges I faced early on was stepping into an industry that’s often male-dominated and carving out a space for myself as a female business owner. Earning trust, proving expertise, and building credibility took time, especially in the trades. On top of that, launching a business comes with all the usual hurdles—wearing every hat, figuring out operations, and learning how to scale responsibly. But that initial uphill climb taught me how capable and resourceful I could be.
What rewards have you seen because of overcoming that difficulty?
The rewards have been incredible watching our customer base grow, receiving amazing feedback, and seeing our work make a real impact in people’s lives and businesses is deeply fulfilling. But beyond the visible success, the most meaningful reward has been the confidence I’ve gained. I’ve built something from the ground up, and now I get to inspire others—especially women—to pursue paths that may not always look traditional. Every project we complete is a reminder of how far we’ve come.
Melinda Burkhead, MFA
Art Center Director
Burkhead Art Center
What was the most difficult thing you had to overcome in starting your business?
The most difficult thing I had to overcome was transitioning from being a creator and teacher to also being a business owner. While I had years of experience teaching art and running a previous art center, opening Burkhead Art Center meant stepping into a new role that involved not only creating art but managing all the logistics of running a business — everything from financial planning to marketing and building community partnerships.
What rewards have you seen because of overcoming that difficulty?
First and foremost, overcoming the challenges has allowed me to see the impact that Burkhead Art Center has had on the local artistic community. Watching artists discover their unique voices and embrace their creativity in a supportive environment has been deeply fulfilling. Additionally, I’ve gained a greater sense of personal growth and resilience as a business owner. Most rewarding of all is the connection I’ve built with the artists and students I work with — seeing them succeed and knowing that my space has played a role in that journey is incredibly gratifying.
Jessica Trouillaud
Owner & Designer
Opaline Interiors
What was the most difficult thing you had to overcome in starting your business?
The most difficult hurdle I faced when I was starting Opaline, was overcoming my own self-doubt. Launching a venture requires a significant financial investment, which led me to ask myself countless questions before I felt confident enough to take the leap. There was also the reality that owning a store means needing to make sure someone is at the store, which most likely would mean weekends and holidays spent away from my family. Although I felt equipped with the necessary skills, I couldn't shake the worry that my efforts wouldn't pay off, that the business might not succeed, and that the sacrifices, especially time away from my small children, would be too great.
What rewards have you seen because of overcoming that difficulty?
Looking back almost a year later, I can confidently say that those doubts, while natural, have proven to be unfounded. I'm fortunate to have an amazing team by my side, the store is thriving, and I haven't had to compromise precious time with my family. Proving to myself that I could prevail through those self-doubts, has given me the confidence to trust myself.
Dawn Taylor
Photographer
Dawning Memories
What was the most difficult thing you had to overcome in starting your business?
Recognizing that every professional has areas where they can grow and the ones who succeed are the ones who work hard and remain humble. Putting in the work to learn was rewarding. But seeing the long road ahead, all those who were so far more advanced forced me to accept where I was. Then I had to put in the effort to develop my skills, experiment with new ideas to stretch and grow myself.
What rewards have you seen because of overcoming that difficulty?
My business has grown every year since committing to this adventure. I have been grateful to earn the referrals of so many clients. Additionally, annual event coordinators are calling year over year for my services, which have become a tradition. Clients are excited to share their photos in both print and on social media. It is so rewarding to see your work show up on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram - not to mention getting the various publications my photos have reached.
Kiana Richards
Marketing & Social Media
Snohomish Golf Course
What was the most difficult thing you had to overcome in starting your business?
The golf industry is heavily male dominated, which made me hesitant when I first started getting involved with my husband’s business, handling their social media and marketing. I wasn’t sure how people would react, so I kept a low profile, not wanting anyone to know it was me behind the scenes. But over time, golfers began approaching my husband, complimenting the fresh, improved marketing. Slowly, word got out that I was the one behind it all. Their positive feedback gave me the confidence to finally embrace my role and share that it was my work.
What rewards have you seen because of overcoming that difficulty?
When I’m at the golf course now, I see more women golfing than ever before, and it’s such an amazing sight. It gives me hope that one day, my daughters will be out there too, enjoying the game. I also look forward to seeing the course’s ladies club continue to grow, creating an even stronger and more supportive community for women in golf.