We recently connected with Paige Drysdale and have shared our conversation below.

Paige , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your business sooner or later

I could go back and start my business sooner, I absolutely would—though only if I had the mindset I have today. The lessons I’ve learned and the growth I’ve experienced have really shaped the direction I want my business to take. With the knowledge I have now, I can already see ways I could’ve made things smoother and maybe even accelerated my success, but that’s the all apart of the journey.

If I could go back, one of the first things I’d do is give myself a more confidence boost in my craft. Self-doubt can be such a dream-killer, and I’ve learned that it really does hold you back if you let it. You can’t worry about other people’s judgments or compare yourself to anyone else. Your work is uniquely yours—embrace it and love it for what it is.

Another thing I would’ve focused more on from the start is organizing my work and building out a solid brand foundation. Having a folder full of visual branding elements—fonts, colors, logos—would’ve made creating marketing materials so much smoother and more consistent from the get-go.

And finally, I wish I’d been a bit more aggressive with my professional networking. I’ve always been a believe in networking and have always implemented it into my professional and personal life, but looking back, I see how connecting with people in industries I hadn’t considered could have helped take my business even further. There are so many opportunities when you step outside your bubble and connect with others who offer a fresh perspective.

Of course, there are a lot of things I wish I could’ve done differently at the start of my journey, but honestly, it’s all in divine timing. The timing and challenges have come together in a way that I’m excited to keep building on. I can’t wait to see how these lessons continue to shape my business moving forward.

Paige , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

For starters; Hi there! I’m Paige Drysdale. My creative journey started when I was in high school, involved in photography, vocal lessons, dance, and traveling to Phoenix on weekends for model/actor training (I was also involved in many sports and other hobbies). I decided to take it further with a focus on Film in college, and since then, I’ve expanded my skills to include Broadcast Journalism, Event Management, Digital Marketing, and even Yoga. Over the years, I’ve gained my professional experience in a variety of areas, such as photography, creative marketing, brand content development, model coaching, social media management, casting, and more.

I’ve had the chance to explore many facets of creative marketing, allowing me to develop strategies that help businesses elevate their brand and connect with their audience. By combining content creation, photography, networking, and marketing, I’ve been able to assist brands in strengthening their online presence and creating meaningful connections within their communities.

Personal branding is just as important today, especially with online platforms offering endless opportunities to market yourself professionally. That’s a big part of my work—whether it’s helping businesses refine their brand identity or assisting individuals with their personal marketing strategies.

My services include photography, creative marketing strategies, and social media management. I also organize curated events that provide a space for networking, content creation, and a touch of luxury.

With my diverse background, I bring a fresh and well-rounded perspective to every project. I’m excited to help businesses grow their brand and make an impact both online and in their local communities. Whether you’re looking to enhance your business or develop your personal brand, I’m here to offer my expertise.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

This is something I try to stay on top of, though I know I could work on it even more. I have so many new ideas to foster a sense of client and business loyalty, but I also want to make sure it comes from a genuine, heartfelt place. Keeping a loyal connection with clients benefits you both financially and creatively. It’s not just about repeat business—it’s about the support your craft gets as you continue to develop.

When a client comes back for your services again and again, it’s a huge compliment. It shows they trust your work and appreciate what you do. That kind of repeat business not only boosts your confidence but also affirms that you’re on the right track with how you run your business.

One simple but effective way to keep clients coming back is through follow-ups. Checking in after a shoot to see how it went, asking if they have any upcoming events or projects where your services might be needed—it’s a great way to stay on their radar. We all get those annoying cold calls, but they actually serve a purpose. Many times, people forget or get busy. It’s not personal; life just gets in the way. A thoughtful follow-up helps remind your clients of the great work you did and keeps you top of mind.

Another way to build client loyalty is by creating a trusting, comfortable space. No matter what your profession is, clients should always feel at ease in the environment you provide. For photographers, this is especially important since you’re working with someone’s image and self-perception. If a client doesn’t feel comfortable or safe with you, they may hesitate to come back, even if your work is fantastic. A welcoming atmosphere where clients can shine is key to building lasting relationships.

Finally, showing thoughtfulness goes a long way in fostering loyalty. Whether it’s through a social media post, a holiday card, or a simple check-in email, letting your clients know you remember them and appreciate their business makes a big impact. It’s a small gesture that reminds them you’re not just a service provider—you’re someone who values their connection and looks forward to working together again in the future.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

For me, the best way to gain new clients has been through networking at events where my services might be needed. You’d be surprised where those connections can happen! Surrounding yourself with professionals and entrepreneurs who can contribute to your work is an excellent way to get your business out there. One key to making it happen is simply being you—displaying your passion and skills in everything you do. As a business owner, everywhere you go is an opportunity to subtly showcase your work. Of course, it’s important to take breaks and step away from “work talk” sometimes, but don’t be afraid to weave in your business and passions when the moment feels right.

Another great method I use is participating in online groups and communities. I engage in spaces where people might be looking for services like mine, whether it’s photography, creative marketing, or social media management. These groups offer a great opportunity for networking virtually, allowing me to expand my reach and connect with potential clients from all over.

By being active in both in-person and online communities, I’ve found that marketing my services in the right places can lead to more opportunities and help me grow my client base.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paige_drysdale/
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/paigedrysdalephotography/

Image Credits

Models: Elijah, Ray, Moon, Dani, Amanda, Henley, Maggie, Jess, Likhi
MUA/Hair: Renee, Raelyn
BTS Photographer: JC