Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lydia Summerlee, founder of Lydia Ivy Photography, located in Guelph, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a wedding photographer based in Guelph, Ontario, who focuses on documenting authentic human connections. Looking to celebrate all types of love!
Tell us about yourself
I was originally slated to be an academic! After over a decade in academia, I decided I wanted to use the skills I had gained to be a part of an organization that worked in rural communities around the world, more specifically South East Asia, India, and South America. I was lucky enough to see some incredibly remote corners of the world and meet the most amazing human beings ever. I've included some of my favourite moments of my work travels! Having always grown up with a camera, it stayed close to me while I traveled. I captured some images that will stay will me for the rest of my life. If you want to see more of my pictures during my time abroad, I'd love to share them with you! One moment that sticks out vividly in my mind is this poster on the wall of an HIV clinic in rural India - SMILE A LOT. IT COSTS NOTHING. I make it a point to smile at EVERYONE I see, no matter what kind of day I am having.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Knowing that I am creating memories for people that will last lifetimes - I tell couples that I want them to wake up the day after the wedding, in one year's time, in 5 years' time, and see the photos and FEEL something.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I am currently single after being in a relationship for over a decade! It's a really difficult emotional journey to be navigating my life while being part of the happiest moment of others' lives.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- BE YOURSELF - know your worth and what you what to give to this world.
- TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF - giving out this kind of energy requires you to have it in spades yourself! Take care of yourself so that you can give to others.
- ALIGN WITH OTHERS - learn from others people who are successful in your industry, connect with them, don't be afraid to ask them questions.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It's ok to fail - in fact, it is a good thing to fail - learn from it and use that to be a better version of yourself.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.lydiaivy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lydiaivyphotography/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lydiaivyphotography/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.