With a multidimensional business plan that would make any entrepreneur envious, Jenny Taylor has not only become one of the most sought after photographers in the Midwest and West Coast but she is also looking to single handedly change people’s stigma about boudoir photography. In doing so, Jenny focuses on highlighting each person’s unique personality and individual beauty rather than trying to create images that mirror society’s unrealistic views of “what’s sexy.” For Jenny, it’s all about celebrating women and helping them feel great in their own skin. Read our interview with the lovely Jenny below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
I was tired of working with/for people who were complacent and didn’t push themselves to go above and beyond. I wanted to create a business and brand that was the “gold standard” and surround myself with people who were as dedicated and passionate as I am.
Tell us about your business.
Jenny Taylor Boudoir Photography is an all-female boudoir photography with studios in Chicago, IL and Beverly Hills, CA. The thing that really makes us unique is that we focus on creating unforgettable experiences that leave women feeling empowered, beautiful and sexy in their own skin. We have an all-female staff that includes professional make-up artists, hair stylists and wardrobe consultants, all of whom are on site for each shoot. A photoshoot with Jenny Taylor Boudoir Photography really is a 360° experience.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
Yes! Anyone who texts their e-mail address to us (630.605.0990) before the end of the year will be entered to win a Jenny Taylor Boudoir Photography gift certificate.
List awards/certifications/accomplishments.
I’m very proud to have been featured as a boudoir photography expert by a number of media outlets including Cosmopolitan Magazine, BRIDES Magazine, the Chicago Tribune & Refinery 29.
Where is your business based?
Chicago, IL and Beverly Hills, CA.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
I bought a camera! [laughing] When I first decided to start JTBP, I spent $1,000 on a high quality professional camera – that is the only personal money I’ve ever had to invest in the company. I didn’t take a salary for the first two years JTBP was open. Instead, I put every dime of revenue back into the brand, which is a strategy that really paid off in the long run.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
Because the type of work we do is so personal, client testimonials and word of mouth have been very important for us. Social media has been huge and PR has also been helpful. Editorial articles in magazines like Cosmopolitan and BRIDES as well as various TV segments have helped get our name out there.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
As a creative person with an entrepreneurial spirit, I constantly have new ideas popping into my head. It can be hard to narrow down which ideas to act on and which to tuck away to revisit a later time.
How did you overcome these challenges?
Connecting with my professional mentors is the best way for me to stay focused and continue moving forward. Asking for advice or for the opinion of someone whose success you admire is one of the most important things an entrepreneur can do.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
Truthfully, motivation has never been an issue for me. It’s all about staying positive, which is something I actively focus on doing every day. The first thing I do when I wake up in the morning is say two things I’m grateful for – that really helps set the tone for my day.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
The experience we create and images we produce for our clients are very unique – what we do really can’t be replicated by any other photography company.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
The fastest way to scale your business is by investing in your clients and educating your team.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Don’t be afraid to go after your dreams!
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @JennyTaylorBoudoirs
Facebook Jenny Taylor Boudoir Photography
Twitter @JennysBoudoirs
Website www.jennytaylorboudoirs.com
Hashtags #jennytaylorboudoirs #jennytaylorboudoirphotography #chicagoboudoirphotography #bestboudoir #beverlyhillsboudoirphotography
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
“The Untethered Soul” by Michael A. Singer.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
We recently announced our expansion to the West Coast and our new Beverly Hills, CA studio will open in January 2017 so my biggest goal right now is establishing ourselves in that market. Over the next few months my focus will be on connecting with that community and generating a strong client base for that studio.
In general, my main objective is to develop Jenny Taylor Boudoir Photography as a national brand. I plan to open studios in Nashville, TN and Miami, FL within the next year or two.