How did you come up with your business concept? What inspired you to start your own business?
I have been a Registered Dental Assistant my whole career and I have educated my patients for years on oral health and the effects of teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is expensive and the dentist office is a scary place for many people. I saw a need to offer affordable professional teeth whitening in a private setting. After a year or so in my new business, I decided to offer mobile services as well.
What’s your background? Could you tell us how each of these disciplines emerge in your work?
My background is 30 years of working in the dental field. It takes a special person to understand how nervous people can be in a dental setting. I offer compassion and non judgment to my clients. People have so many misconceptions about teeth whitening and the correct products to use.
What led you to take your work from an idea to pursuing it as a business?
Honestly, I had been wanting to do something else career wise. The pandemic definitely helped my exit. I saw a need to offer this service in a non intimidation setting . Whether it is in my studio or the comfort of my clients home or office.
What’s your favorite thing about your workspace?
My office is very warm and inviting. My client's feedback has been wonderful. Many clients take a nap or just have “me” time while having their teeth whitened. Also, I am located on the Denton square, which I love.
Do you have a personal and/or professional motto or mantra that you call upon during tough times? What is it and what does it mean to you? Own your stuff! What I mean by this is to own your decisions and choices. I live my life by this and have even before I started a business. No regret, if I don’t like a choice I made, I learn from it and grow.
Heather Walker from Brite Smiles By Heather at the Denton Pitch Competition and Entrepreneur Expo
How do you pick back up on moving your business forward when perhaps feeling uninspired?
I focus on all the positive results and feedback from my clients. Exercise is also a fantastic reset button for me. My husband is my biggest cheerleader and helps keep me focused and moving forward.
What have you gained so far from being a part of the AccelerateHER cohort?
So much! So many thought provoking ideas. There have been moments where I have said to myself, “how have I never thought about this”. I love that I was able to be a part of this program and It has given me positive reinforcement in decisions I have made and will make.
Heather Walker from Brite Smiles by Heather won second place in the Denton Pitch Competition.
Name a woman or gender expansive individual, past or present, whom you admire or look up to. Why?
Michelle Obama! I love her story and I love her compassion for humanity. She is a woman of her word. She is a self made woman and has worked hard for education and position in life. She is a classic example of learning and evolving everyday.