Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Gregory.
Mike, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
OMG! MGEXPERIENCE actually started with an iPhone 7+ out of all things. Just randomly taking pictures and playing with filters. Seeing the expressions on my friend’s face, I knew this was something I can get into. It just so happen I enrolled in a photography class where my instructor “Mr. Williams” really helped me better my craft and understanding the importance of not just taking pictures but making memories that last forever. Then I took a step ahead and bought my own camera, backdrops, stands, and lights. Business just boomed once I started to promote now I’m in the process of getting my masters and enhancing my business.
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?
When I first started, my pictures were so horrible, I thought they were the best thing since ice cream but growth has shown me how far I’ve really come. But after three years in business during the summer of 2019, I went blind. I couldn’t stop going to the bathroom, I was always extremely thirsty I called my bestfriend “Raven Stephens” and asked her to take me to the hospital, scared out of my mind… business was booming, I hired three staff members, and now I’m going blind. So we arrive at the hospital, I was immediately rushed to the back now as a regular person, your sugar is supposed to be around 100; however, my sugar was 598. That’s when I was diagnosed as a diabetic. The doctors told me if I didn’t come that day, I would’ve gone into a diabetic coma and probably never would’ve woken up.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the MGEXPERIENCE story. Tell us more about your work.
MGEXPERIENCE, which is now renamed “TEDDY J MEDIA,” was founded in 2016 on the slogan ” where quality and professionalism is guaranteed” We specialize in Photography, videography, graphics, and social media rebrand. We are mostly known for not being a normal business, everyone is from different backgrounds, which brings a diversity that ultimately leaves an impact on clients, such as; people get saved during photoshoots, we might pay someone’s bills, give advice… it’s our main passion not just be a company but a brand that changes lives.
Eventually, MGEXPERIENCE became the parent company of “Precious Mentees” precious mentees is a mentor group headed by myself, with over 18 girls and seven guys my mentor program was created so I can help those who are; lost, broken, needed love and support, and ultimately just to be for others what I needed for myself. In addition, Precious Mentees paid for college tuition, groceries, books, and insurance for those who lack financial security.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Luck is what keeps us afloat! I was lucky to have my sight back and now getting ready to celebrate one year of being diabetic free. As a man of faith, prayer will always be at the forefront of my business and life! It’s luck that I just so happen to already have a household name where I started my business, my mom always told me your actions would speak first and your name follows. I’m just blessed that my actions and name was and still is in good standing with others.
Contact Info:
- Email: mgexperience22@yahoo.com
- Other: https://photos.app.goo.gl/K4HueRdzEgch3tuw5
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
