Today we’d like to introduce you to Krystal Williams.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Krystal. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ll start off with my studies in a digital media program that consisted of a combination of video editing and graphics. Most are not aware that I initially wanted to pursue a career in video editing but it was almost as if the graphic design aspect had me in a chokehold. So I ran with it. This program exposed me to many facets of the creative world, one being photography. I immediately became fascinated with being behind the lens capturing still images. It was there in this class that I developed the idea to learn as much as I possibly could to venture out and do my own freelance thing eventually. I graduated in May of 2015 and soon landed a job in advertising. It was a major learning curve for me. It shaped my knowledge of marketing, client relationships, consistency in branding, target audiences, etc. I recall having a conversation with a coworker about planning her wedding and searching for a photographer. This conversation led to me sharing with her my photography aspirations. Soon after, I learned about a photography workshop that a local photographer was facilitating throughout a six week span. I took this as a sign and made the investment. I was the youngest and the only African American in attendance.
Upon completion, I confidently felt that it was time for me to leap. I came up with my business name and started to promote myself. I offered photo sessions at a minimal cost to build my portfolio. It was tricky because you have to balance second guessing yourself, your excitement, and not receiving the exact response or support that you’re looking for. It was important for me not to allow the uncertainty to discourage me from moving forward. So I kept going. Before I knew it, that same coworker allowed me to be a second shooter for her engagement session and her wedding where I was able to work side by side with two experienced photographers. Photography was my focus but I knew at some point that I wanted to incorporate the graphics and branding aspects. I designed flyers here and there for local events, then one day, a friend of mine reached out to me about designing a logo for a brick and motor shoe boutique. This design was shared on social media and was the start of my overflow. The start of my overall vision of a photography and graphics business coming to fruition. It’s amazing how things align without us even knowing what it’s leading to.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Smooth road? Not the least! Almost came to the end of the road a few times. As with any business, there have been challenges that I’ve encountered that I now view as tests of how bad I truly want the success and what I’m willing to sacrifice. Juggling motherhood as a single parent, maintaining on a personal level, from losing a full-time job and being out of work for three months to a new beginning with a new a job in a new city, was definitely a struggle. I went from struggling to receive support and questioning my vision to having to find ways to handle the overflow.
Please tell us about your business.
7312 Kreatives specializes in graphic assets for the new business owner. The seasoned entrepreneur or the more personal request for non-business related affairs. We offer graphic services which include but are not limited to logos, digital flyers, business cards, banners, etc. We also specialize in photography ranging from weddings. events, product photography, graduations, family sessions, and more! If I had to choose, I would say that my business is most know for the logo design service that I offer. The response that I receive from bookings, referrals from friends/clients and overall support is extremely gratifying. Integrity and creativity are two key factors that set my business apart from others. Whether it’s assisting another business owner with branding or collaborating to bring a photographic vision to life my goal is 1.) To ensure that I’m providing an experience 2.) To mirror and exceed the clients expectations and deliver eye catching visuals.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
It is important for me to remain in a constant state of learning to challenge and enhance myself and to also continue elevating my business; learning new techniques and educating myself on new technology. With the feedback that I receive I am planning to add some new services and packages to the current list. Rebranding and investing are number 1 for me this year so be on the lookout for some new things from 7312! As far as any big changes, I’m looking forward to expanding in the future. My vision is to eventually house all of my ideas inside of a creative sanctuary a studio. A space where I have the luxury to create graphically and photographically without limitations. A place that other creatives like myself can utilize to express their creative genius as well. I also want to offer internships for those just beginning their creative journeys but are needing an opportunity and a little guidance.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 2294492949
- Email: 7312kreativeconcepts@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/7312_kreatives
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/7312Kreatives
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