There are so many exciting things happening right now. I can’t wait to share everything with you. This feels like the biggest news I have put on the blog to date. We purchased a studio today! That’s right JCMO, I have put down some roots and I am here to stay. Nick and I privately began this search at the beginning of last year. I started renting a studio downtown. The idea of paying someone else’s mortgage makes me queasy. I am not a good tenant; it is a waste of money in my opinion. However, I am an excellent property owner.

The step of renting a commercial space for a year was needed to make sure this is what we wanted to do. Growing up in the largest real estate brokerage in South Central Missouri and having a very popular and successful father has taught me a lot about investing. I am so blessed to have amazing parents to teach us about personal finances, building wealth, and running a small business. Nick and I are very thankful for everything they have taught us, we wouldn’t be able to afford this opportunity without the knowledge they have shared.

We began the search for this property just like our other investments. We wanted something that would work for my business, yet be a lifetime investment for us personally. I know photographers normally struggle with the decision to run the business out of their home or have a commercial space. Last year was my first full year in Jefferson City, and my business saw exponential growth for operating out of a commercial space. Having this space has allowed me to offer my clients so much more than previously working out of my home. I knew eventually purchasing a studio would be the way to go. I didn’t think this opportunity would come so soon! It has been hard work and we have had to make several sacrifices along the way. Today, it all feels worth it.

The first consideration for this property was that it had to be in Downtown Jefferson City. I know there are other areas that are more popular, but I am an old soul and love the character of historic homes and buildings. I am not a fan of new construction.  On the other hand, Nick’s motto is “old house old problems”. We compromised on this one ;) The other consideration was that it had to have plenty of natural light, space for a viewing room, and shooting space.  Since it is a historic home it has ceiling to floor windows. They make me drool; I wish they were in our home. It has gorgeous hardwood floors and the old refinished solid wood baseboards and doors. This commercial building used to be a home so it has several room options for shooting. I am super excited to be able to open a full studio for glamour/boudoir portraits!

Since the building is an old home, we have several projects we will be working on. The exterior will be getting a little makeover this spring. We are concentrating on getting the interior completed first. I will be posting pictures of our progress along the way! I am nervous and excited about this new adventure! We are about 5 blocks from the Capital. Special thanks to each of you who have enabled me to live out my dream every day. XOXO