We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful SHELLY MULLIN. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with SHELLY below.

SHELLY, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?

Coming up with the idea for my business was pretty simple. I decided I wanted to focus on my talents and help others while combining my three passions in this life, graphic/web design, photography and dogs. Having served in the Marines and holding numerous corporate jobs over the years, money became less important and the desire to help others took precedence. Waking up and doing what you love everyday should be something everyone gets to do. I was determined to make that a reality and did. For me, you can’t associate money with the level of happiness and purpose I get to feel every day. I always had a feeling I would succeed mostly because of my work ethic and that I firmly believed when you pour your heart and soul into what you love, the money will follow. I certainly wasn’t expecting Covid to hit during the same time I decided to leave my corporate job and start my own business, but I persevered and thankfully excelled during this big life choice and transition.

SHELLY, 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?

A former Marine, I grew up in Philadelphia and traveled the world at age 17. I knew I wanted to live on the west coast during my travels in the military and the Marine Corps made that possible. Eventually I moved to San Diego California and called it home. I obtained my associates degree in Graphic Design through the military and have always been drawn to creating websites and assisting with design needs for others. Whether its logo design, or web design, I enjoy giving a “face” to a new business and helping define their brand, goals and dreams. My love for dogs started when I was young and my connection with them is a very special one. Eventually I began a small dog sitting business which has exploded and evolved into dog walking as well as drop in care where I visit the homes of others to check on their furbabies. Photography has always been a passion of mine as well. I think there is something so special about being able to freeze a second in time and deliver or share that memory with others. Not everyone sees an image or capture the same way and I enjoy editing and sharing my version of it. Currently my photography is displayed at Ramona Workspace (a gallery located here in my hometown of Ramona). While I love landscape photography, I book shoots for all types of subject matter to include real estate photography, portraiture, pet photography and more. Knowing my passions and deciding to combine them into one business is ultimately responsible for my success, in addition to some really amazing clientele!

What sets me apart from others is that I use all my passions to effectively market my business and deliver a unique experience intertwining all three facets of the business. Customer service is everything to me along with helping others in the process.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The goal/mission driving my creative journey always remains the same, HELP OTHERS. Use my talents to make a difference in the lives of others whether it is through design, photography or dogs. For so long I remained fixated on this “American Dream,” a big house, fancy car, etc. What I didn’t realize is it’s NOT ABOUT MONEY. Sure we need it to pay bills and make the world go round, but what really matters in the end is KINDNESS. What did you do for someone today? Did you make them smile? Did you deliver great service? Did you help them begin their dreams or put a smile on their pet’s face? Did you share a photograph with them that made them ponder life more deeply or give them a memory they can treasure forever. These are the things that inspire me and generate immense happiness in my life.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

When it comes to social media marketing I think each business is unique and therefore their strategy should be too. For me, I’m a natural sharer. I love sharing moments, experiences along with my travels and camping trips with my dogs. My secret sauce so to speak or advice for those starting out, share from your heart and you can never go wrong. Your content will attract the right people and relativity comes with authenticity. Be yourself, and stay true to who you are and what you’d like to share with the world. Don’t try to fit in the box ;)

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shellzdpd.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shellz_dezign_photography_dogs
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/shellzdpd
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellymullin/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MULCHY08