An Experience Curated Just for You - Stephanie Tostowaryk
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephanie Tostowaryk, founder of Toastography Boutique Boudoir, located in Edmonton, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Toastography is a portrait photography business. Our customers are people looking for an empowering experience to boost their self-esteem and gain confidence in front of a camera. Many of our clients are artistic-minded and love our fantasy packages for bringing to life unique commissioned themes that speak to their souls. Women-owned and works with several other local entrepreneurs and LGBTQ+ safe services for all body types. We help people celebrate their authenticity and see themselves through the eyes of other people to gain a beautiful new perspective.
Tell us about yourself
I have been a photographer since the first time I picked up a camera. After years of interest, my parent's bought me my first professional camera at around 15 years old and encouraged my desire to complete a bachelor of arts in photographic technology. After I finished school, I spent years discovering what aligned with my journey and nothing stuck like boudoir portraiture. I love creating a warm environment that encourages people to be comfortable being themselves. Authenticity has always been the most important thing in my life, so celebrating genuine love in others makes every day feel meaningful. The community that it has created not only supports others, but it supports me every day too. We keep each other accountable to continue the journey of self-love.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
More than anything, knowing I successfully started a business through a worldwide pandemic. I spent many years working part-time as a photographer, but in 2020 I lit a fire in my belly and laid the foundation to do this job full-time. It has inspired so many people in my life to feel like they can do anything too! One day that accomplishment will grow to help others start their own businesses. Doing work that resonates with our soul makes the world a better place.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
After much time in customer service working for larger companies, I always wanted the control to do customer service my way, and I really looked forward to being able to go above and beyond to help others. But what I did not expect was when you are a one-man team, you also feel personally responsible for any problems that could arise. We always want to achieve perfection, and it's just not possible or realistic - problems happen. It's hard not to take them home every day when it's YOUR business. The lows feel so much lower, along with the highs feeling much higher.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Community is important - whether it's other people who own businesses in your industry or even another industry, it is helpful to lean on one another and help each other. Having people who understand the struggle and the success not only keeps us motivated but also keeps us accountable to grow.
- Failures are an opportunity - The most successful people I know take their failures and use them to learn how to do better. Some days you might feel like giving up when days are tough, but every failure shows us how we can do better next time, and that's the true key to success.
- Don't be afraid to be yourself - In many ways running a business has rules and expectations that are keys to success, but there are always little ways you can break the mold and let your personality shine. It will help set you apart from other businesses and find clients that are looking for exactly what you have to offer.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.toastography.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/toastographyboutique
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toastography_boutiqueboudoir/
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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