We were lucky to catch up with Alysse Gafkjen recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alysse, appreciate you joining us today. Parents play a huge role in our development as youngsters and sometimes that impact follows us into adulthood and into our lives and careers. Looking back, what’s something you think you parents did right?
My parents were entrepreneurs when I was young. They started their own successful business, Gafkjen Stitch & Fix when I was a toddler. My Mom, a seamstress and my Dad repaired sewing machines. Their work ethic and way to conduct business and interact with clients were invaluable skills I still bring to every job opportunity that comes my way. Most importantly once you secure a job and new client, how to keep that client as a lifelong customer thru hard work, great communication and going beyond expectations.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I have a BFA in photography from the Columbus College of Art and Design, 09′. I own Alysse Gafkjen Studio LLC where we offer creative direction and photography services. Some of my clients include Rolling Stone, The New York Times, Billboard, Playboy and Universal Music Group. I am most proud of having a successful and growing creative business that aims to bring joy through imagery and collaboration. My background was in musical performance so my natural gravitation to photograph musicians is how I carved a niche in the photography market. I love the collaboration and creative process of gathering inspiration for each unique individual photo shoot and then bringing it to life through my lens with light.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Relationships and character. As an artist, every new person you meet is an opportunity for a collaboration to create, grow and thrive together. I strongly believe your character is everything and no matter how the job goes your character will always be remembered.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
Word of mouth. Once you create a healthy work relationship with one client, they will most likely recommend you in the near future to a colleague. This has been the most effective way for me to build my business. Also, keep in mind I started my business before instagram. So building a business the old fashion way is how it worked for me. I do realize how influential social media is and does generate work for any business owner.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alyssegafkjen.com
- Instagram: @alyssegafkjen
Image Credits
Reba McEntire, The Brothers Osborne, Lainey Wilson, Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives, CeeLo Gree, Billy F. Gibbons, The Black Keys, Billy Strings