We recently connected with Courtney Malott and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Courtney, thanks for joining us today. Do you take vacations? How do you keep things going – any advice for entrepreneurs who feel like they can’t step away from their business for a short vacation?
The few years I have owned my business I’ve learned that you definitely have to take time for yourself in order to grow better. We all need our moments to destress and relax, so I try to take at least two bigger trips or even staycations a year. My busy season is during most of the summer and fall so I try to plan my time off in the spring, when I have tiny bit more personal time.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Photography has always been a part of my life, I grew up watching my dad run his own studio and photography business so seeing it as a young girl just fascinated me. I loved the creative process and learning the industry. I got my very first DSLR camera when I graduated high school and from then on it was something I always did as a hobby and for family and friends. When the pandemic hit and I got stuck in quarantine I used my time to learn about Lightroom and Photoshop and started using my camera in manual mode. Once I had to go back to my full time job, I knew I needed a change in pace in my everyday life. I started advertising my work and created a business name for myself. I chose White Rose Photography as my name because the white rose symbolizes a new start and and fresh beginning and that’s exactly what I did with my life. I quickly learned that I had a love for photographing weddings and elopements, I fell in love with connecting with couples and getting to know their story, and helping coordinate and plan a timeline so that everything runs smoothly. I feel clients get so much more than just photos when they book with me, I am more than happy to sit down and go over timelines with you and whatever you may need, you’ll be getting someone who cares how the day is executed so that we are able to get the best possible photos.
I’ve created packages that come with everything you’ll need for a full day of wedding photography, that all come with a USB keepsake and a store for all your printing and album needs.
I also fell in love with boudoir photography. There’s no better feeling than making people feel good about their selves and their bodies again.
I’ve learned so much growing this business and know I’ll continue to grow, photography is something I know I’ll always be passionate about and it’s so much more than just a job to me.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
I believe the most rewarding thing is being able to see your vision come to life, and getting to see the end product. There’s so much work and thought that goes into each process so seeing everything put together is such an amazing feeling.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
I have found that referrals have been a huge part in my business, and constantly posting to my social media and sharing my photography in some Facebook groups for weddings specifically. I’m so grateful for all the referrals that have helped my business grow. The past few months I’ve also started on a service that’s called The Knot and Wedding Wire so couples are able to connect with all kinds of wedding vendors in one place, I’ve met some amazing couples through there.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.whiterosephotos.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiterosephotography1997/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whiterosephotos3
- Other: White Rose Photography on The Knot and Wedding Wire
Image Credits
Photo 5: Host + Planner: @Charla Dee Photos Venue: @Venue3Two Coordinator: @Fa’Ness Whitley Florals: @Florals By Alaina MUA: @Paige Wright Gowns: @Bianka Bridal Solo Bride: @KD Smith Photo 6: Host + Planner: @charladeephotos Venue: @venue3two MUA: @jesscarae_ Gowns: @timeless_bridal_boutique Tux + Shoes: @dunhilltuxedos Couple: @Adrienne Mosley Photo 7: Model: Jerica Hair: Beauty By Sun and Sea Makeup: Arcane Beauty Photo 8: Model: Sam Hair: Beauty By Sun and Sea Makeup: Arcane Beauty