​Scott’s Design Photography, based in South Carolina, offers a wide range of photography services from portraits to event photography. The company’s owner, Lo Scott, tells us what prompted him to bring the Photography and Model Meet Up to Columbia, SC.

​Jeff Amberg was gracious enough to extend his spacious and eclectic photography studio as the venue for the event.  Jeff launched his photography career in 1980 as a photojournalist. He imparted a great deal of photography knowledge during the meet up and commanded everyone’s full attention during his impromptu lesson on posing techniques.  

​Several photography stations were set up throughout the studio with a variety of props. Models arrived with their choice of wardrobe. The creative energy could be felt throughout the venue. I’ve attended a number of events similar in nature, but what set this meet up apart is that participants showed a genuine interest in learning and were enthusiastic about sharing tips with one another. Half-way through the event, Lo gathered all attendees and they discussed their experiences during the first half of the day and everyone brainstormed ideas that could be put to use during the remaining photoshoots of the day.  It was very evident that Lo intended for the event to be, not only a networking event, but a learning experience for all involved.

We all know that a great shot is a team effort. The models who participated in the Meet Up came ready to give it all for the camera. We spoke to a few of them...

We would like to extend a huge thanks to Scott's Design Photography and Jeff Amberg Photography for allowing us to cover this great event. Be sure to connect with both photography companies and stay tuned for future events. Congratulations to Scott's Design Photography for putting on a wonderful meet up!

Check out more interviews from the event on YouTube. Enjoy a few of the behind the scenes photos that we were able to capture...

​It’s an exciting time for budding entrepreneurs! A great number of business owners are wearing multiple hats as they juggle the responsibilities of working full-time and running a business. Now, more than ever, women are taking major steps toward becoming their own bosses. For many, full-time entrepreneurship is the ultimate goal. Penelope Simon, owner of Penelope’s Kids Stop, was able to say goodbye to the 9 to 5 grind in January 2019 when she retired from her job at Blue Cross Blue Shield and became the full-time proprietor of her mobile children’s apparel boutique, Penelope’s Kids Stop. Read on to learn more about this inspiring business owner and the evolution of Penelope’s Kids Stop. 

TC: Tell us a little about yourself.
PS: I am Penelope Simon, the mother of 3 grown daughters. I have been married for 29 years.  I reside in Lamar, SC.  In January of this year, I retired from my job at BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield) to operate my business full time.

TC: How did you decide on starting a business in the fashion apparel industry?
PS: I initially started selling hair bundles after hearing the opportunity advertised on the radio. My hair business did okay, but I felt that I needed to add something else. I added hair bows and then children’s clothing. I opened my mobile children’s boutique about 4 years ago. I am the sole owner of my business, but my husband and youngest daughter make a great support team. 
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TC: What is the shopping experience like at Penelope’s Kids Stop?
PS: I sell clothing and accessories for boys and girls sizes 0-20. I offer a variety of items in addition to clothing, including hair bows, book bags, hats, gloves, and jewelry. I am always adding new inventory for customers to choose from. Customers can order from my website at penelopeskidsstopllc.com or by calling (843)687-5241 to shop in person. You can also find me vending at community events, so stay tuned to my social media pages for these announcements. 

TC: What has been your greatest accomplishment so far?
PS: My greatest accomplishment has been retiring from my full-time job and gaining the opportunity to operate my business full-time. Being a mobile store did take away the fear of sitting in a store, waiting for customers to come in, but it still takes money to reach customers who are interested in buying from you.
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TC: What is your advice to someone who is genuinely interested in starting a business similar to yours?
PS: I would tell them to prepare my making a list of items that they want to sell, get quotes on everything, and prepare a budget. Do not expect everything to happen overnight. 

​It’s always exciting to share stories of women who are making power moves, whether it be in their corporate careers or as business owners. During a time in which there are many boutique options for adults, Penelope has carved her own lane as a mobile boutique catering to the fashion needs of our little ones. Congratulations to Penelope for taking the steps toward becoming her own boss! Friends, be sure to check out the boutique online or contact Penelope’s Kids Stop to schedule a visit with the mobile boutique. 
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Visit Penelope's Kids Stop online at PenelopesKidsStopLLC.com 
​Follow Penelope's Kids Stop on Facebook

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