Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Jones.
Amber, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Simply put, I found myself stuck in what seemed to be a never-ending chapter of boredom and complacency. I needed a fulfilling hobby. Quite possibly one which could result in additional earnings? Even better. I was overflowing with ideas to the point I would run myself dry without having lifted a finger. Finally, I had a heart to heart with my older brother, who had just recently walked away from his well-established career in Los Angeles and relocated to Atlanta to begin his now thriving photography business. He challenged me to come up with a business name, mission, and logo within 48 hours. I was so excited that someone had finally pushed me over the edge and into another realm of possibilities.
I have always been known to be the creative/artsy gal in my circle of friends, so that was always my niche. Several years prior, I plunged into the event planning world and completed my CSEP (Certified Special Events Professional), where I learned tons about behind the scenes logistics and details that go into planning events, tradeshows, weddings, conferences and more. I thoroughly enjoyed the finished results, however, the stress and anxiety that came along with full-scale planning was a “no” for me dawg.
With the timer still winding down on my 48-hour deadline, I continued brainstorming and conjuring up business ideas. Some were dull and some were more than ridiculous. I knew I loved the hustle and bustle of events and creating, but maybe on a lesser scale than before. So, after going back and forth between the voices in my head, I chose to take a more analytical approach and thought to myself, what’s something that people can never get enough of? Pictures.
I modeled my business of photo backdrops and event rentals around people’s constant thrill to want to capture moments through photos and that was all she wrote!
Has it been a smooth road?
I have certainly faced challenges, but overall nothing too unbearable. Finding reliable help has been my biggest gripe thus far, but that’s something just about any business will likely experience. I’ve been blessed enough to have a solid support system of family, especially my mother (who used to have her very own balloons and baskets shop), as well as close friends to jump in when necessary.
On a more personal note, I caused myself internal conflict by being overly critical and meticulous, like down to the way I would sign thank you notes. Like… why?! Just crazy! I was so conscientious and eager to unfold my monster vision with lemonade stand resources, so I had to scale back a bit and learn to pace myself, which is something I have yet to perfect.
Also, the burnout factor is real. Starting out it’s unlikely that you will be in a financial position to walk away from your 9-5 (at least in my case), so working Monday – Sunday can be tough. Even when there aren’t events scheduled, I’m still researching and strategizing my next idea. Knowing when it’s time to step back and breathe is always a challenge, but it’s a must.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Elegant Elements is a boutique event rental company, which is best known for providing floral and foliage photo backdrops. The personal attention and care that we offer clients are absolutely what separates us from other companies. I read something a few years ago that resonated with me and I have since applied this mantra and it’s more than effective: The purpose of a business is to create a customer that creates a customer. By providing clients with a hospitable and intimate experience, you leave a lasting impression for all the right reasons. Once you begin to get referrals, such as pleasant reactions, and feedback, nothing compares. The post-event calls and messages from clients expressing their sincerest gratitude is what I find to be the most fulfilling aspect of operating my company.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Atlanta is probably one of the best cities for any kind of business concept. The range of possibilities and opportunities here are endless. If anyone says otherwise, they’re a big-time hater. I genuinely believe there are a customer and market for everyone. I also believe I haven’t adopted a sense of competitive paranoia because I know what I have is special and unique, just as the others in my field. I have even referred prospective clients to other vendors without them knowing. It’s so easy to become intimidated with all the opposition in Atlanta, but just think if you were to place the same cooking ingredients in front of two people you will still get contrasting results. If someone were to take your idea, they can never replicate your execution. We all have something different to offer.
I have a collective of good people in my life who excel in their crafts and we all happen to be at different stages of entrepreneurship, and we learn with and for one another. Why go through challenges and make mistakes that someone has already made for you? We use each other in the name of growth and success. If you have a solid network and are open to consistently making new connections, you can do no wrong in Atlanta. My advice is to remain true to yourself and your vision.
Contact Info:
- Website: ElegantElementsATL.com
- Phone: (678) 925-4749
- Email: ElegantElementsATL@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/elegantelementsatl?igshid=1t0vyw7jq7vj7
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elegantelementsatl/
Image Credit:
Brian Jones Photography (personal headshots), HeadshotsByBrian.com, IG: @BrianJonesPhotography
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