It’s hard to believe that a new year is already upon us and 2014 is a mere memory! Oh, but the memories that were made and what an amazing year it was for RMP!
Today happens to be the 2 year anniversary of me opening my ‘doors’ FULL TIME as a photographer. On this day, 2 years ago I was handing in my badge, laptop and iPhone to my corporate career of 15 years and taking a leap of faith on Renee Marie Photography and where it might take me. What an amazing journey thus far…and the best is still yet to come!
In reflecting on 2014 I’m in awe of the leaps and bounds that my business grew! I started the year with the hopes of accomplishing a few key milestones…I wanted to grow my core client base (family/children) by 20%, increase profits by the same, introduce a larger variety of print products to my menu (and actually sell them) and the BIG GOAL was to move a portion of my business into wedding photography! I’m so insanely proud to say that I not only accomplished all of my goals but over exceeded on each. I’m most proud of the new clients that I have gained while retaining my faithful base of ‘regular’ clients who continue to honor me by choosing me over and over again and now referring their own friends and family!
It’s particularly exciting to have RMP Bridal fully integrated and a part of my photography journey! I have loved working with my brides and grooms and not just capturing their special days but also making amazing friendships along the way! In addition to Bay Area work in the bridal industry I had the unique opportunity to be hired and flown all the way to North Shore Oahu, HI to photograph an intimate ceremony in tropical paradise! Pinch me, I mist be dreaming!
I streamlined processes to work more efficient and also speed up turnaround times on gallery deliveries. I’ll be doing more of the same in the months to come.
I’m still working on my goal list for 2015 but it includes much of the same as last year in terms of continuing to grow my business while also focusing on MY CLIENTS and their needs. Without all of you there really is no RMP and you will always remain at the forefront of my priorities and plans. I have some longer term visions that will include ’employees’ both to help with the administrative side of the business and eventually an associate to join me in the field shooting (YAY)!
I thank everyone for following me along the way, sticking around and being a part of what has been the hardest but most rewarding ‘job’ I’ve had to date (and if you worked with me in Silicone Valley, that is saying a lot)! I’m enthusiastic and optimistic about what the next 12 months have in store for ALL of us and cannot wait to see you in front of the lens in 2015.
Happy New Year!
Renee Marie