Gilbert mom Shelly Ivy started Ivy Studios Photography while working full-time. She grew the business to the point that she was able to quit her job — and add her husband to the team — just before the birth of their first child.
How did you get into photography?
In high school, my freshman year, I took a photography class and that was kind of the start of it, I guess. Then I got my degree in photojournalism … that and writing and all that fun stuff. I interned at the Tribune in college and then went straight to work at the Republic.
You’re mainly a wedding photographer?
Actually, lately we’ve been focusing more on family portraits and high school senior portraits. Weddings are obviously still the biggest thing and probably always will be but the portraits are getting to be pretty big.
Since you’ve been shooting mostly weddings, how are you rounding up portrait business?
We’ve been getting really creative. The night after “New Moon” came out we put flyers on cars at a bunch of movie theaters and we got a few calls from that.
What is the best part of your job?
I guess getting to look forward to working! Every day is a new opportunity and challenge that keeps me on my toes and keeps me creative! Plus, I love getting to work with people on some of the happiest days of their lives! Weddings, baby arrivals, etc.
When did you start your business?
I kind of started it while working at the paper. I was an editor for a long time so I learned a lot about editing, image production, color balancing and all that stuff. I started my business in 2004 and my husband started working with me in 2006.
How do you like working with your husband?
You would think it would be rough but it’s awesome. There is really good chemistry when we’re shooting and we bring out a lot of creativity in each other. We know each other’s moves and what the other needs to cover.
I think it’s awesome. We’re both so, so, so lucky to be able to be at home with the kids almost all the time. Then when we go to work they get to be with family and friends. I will work late into the night so I can spend half the day with the kids.
That does sound awesome.
Yeah, except that I never get breaks. I’d love to just get to sit on the couch for a bit after they go to bed but no, I get to go sit in the office until one o’ clock. Lately I’ve been working more during the day so I can actually relax in the evening.
What business advice would you pass on to a new mompreneur?
Pay taxes from the beginning. Come at it like a real business .. cross your Ts and dot your Is. Start out right keeping track of everything. Otherwise it can come back to bite you.
And love what you do. Anyone with a true passion for something can create a business. No matter the business, you really are selling your personality so you have to love what you do and share your passion.
