Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ekaterina Vachino, Founder of Ekaterina Vachino Photography, located in Freehold, NJ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a photographer, and I specialize in maternity and newborn portraiture. My job is to help women feel confident during this particular time in their lives. I understand that the transition into motherhood can be overwhelming, and I strive to make the photography experience enjoyable and relaxed.
My goal is to capture the joy and wonder of this particular time and to create heirloom-quality products that will help my clients preserve these memories for years to come. I offer many product options, from paper prints to albums and wall art. My clients are typically mothers-to-be or new mothers who want to capture this particular time. Every woman deserves to feel beautiful and confident during this fantastic time, and I am honored to be able to help them preserve these memories for a lifetime.
Tell us about yourself
I'm a mother to a handsome 3-year-old son and a wife to a supportive husband. I always dreamed of being my boss and having a successful business. It was hard to leave the stability of a 9–5 job. But I knew I wanted more. I wanted to spend my life working where there was room for growth and creativity.
Leaping into entrepreneurship has been one of the best decisions ever. It's not always easy, but it's so worth it. Knowing that I'm building something for my family that will have lasting results is exceptionally fulfilling. My husband has been my biggest cheerleader throughout this journey, and I couldn't have done it without him.
My son motivates me every day. Every morning, I wake up and see his smiling face. It fills me with so much happiness and inspiration that I can't help but put all my effort into my business. It's not just about making money for me anymore, but about providing a better life for him and setting an example. He is my why.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Photography has always been a passion of mine, and starting my own photography business was a dream come true. It's been hard work, but seeing my business grow and thrive is my proudest accomplishment.
I love capturing special moments for my clients and helping them preserve those memories for a lifetime. But running a business can be challenging, and there have been challenges. One of the biggest challenges is balancing motherhood and running a business.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Finding the right balance between work and personal life is one of the hardest things. For me, that means managing my time wisely and making sure that I'm present and available for my family when needed. It's not always easy, but it's something that I'm constantly working on.
I want to ensure that I'm doing what's best for my family and my business. Photography is essential to who I am, and I'll continue to work hard to find the right balance between work and personal life.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
There are vital things to remember if you want to start, run, and grow a successful business today.
- First, it's essential to have a clear vision for your business. What are your goals and objectives? What does your company stand for? Once you have a strong sense of your business's identity, it will be easier to develop the right strategy to achieve your desired results.
- Second, always keep your customers in mind. What do they need and want? How can you better serve them? When making decisions, always consider what's best for your customers.
- Third, don't be afraid to take risks and make mistakes. You often have to step out of your comfort zone and try new things to succeed. By being open to new opportunities and willing to experiment, you'll be more likely to find the path to success.
By following these three tips, you'll be well on your way to building a successful business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://ekaterinavachinophotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EkaterinaVPhoto
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ekaterinavachinophotography/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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