Today we’d like to introduce you to Shakira Martin.
Shakira, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always loved taking pictures. When I was a kid, I carried a camera to all events. It was a hot pink camera that used the 110 film. January 2018, I started researching photo booths because I wanted to start a business. I decided on a mirror booth and purchased my equipment fall 2018. I decided to name the photo booth company PURPLE GEMINI, it’s been a great conversation starter. Everybody seems to love purple and everybody has a Gemini story. Purple isn’t just my favorite color, it’s my mother’s birthstone color.
Now that I have this photo booth it’s important to get the word out. I’ve been going to my fair share of networking events and meeting so many wonderful people. I have been blessed to work closely with a few great business owners on this entrepreneurship journey.
Purple Gemini’s main attraction is a 4-foot tall interactive mirror booth. The “magic mirror” takes the photo and prints it out on the spot. Currently, guests can receive a 2×6 or 4×6 photo print as well as a digital copy via email/text.
I really enjoy being part of the big day (weddings, birthdays, graduations, etc.). Purple Gemini comes out to help entertain the guests and create wonderful memories for everyone in attendance.
I’m most proud of making all of my clients and their guests happy during my first year. I’ve heard there are a lot of photo booths out there. They all don’t have me. I seriously enjoy what I do. I enjoy being able to be myself while I’m working events. There’s no script when I’m out there, I want to make a positive connection with as many people as I can. There’s a 90% chance of smiles & laughter when you come across me.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There are challenges that come with everything you do in life. The biggest obstacle is getting and closing solid leads. Purple Gemini is just over one year in business. I look forward to having more repeat clients and getting referrals. People are more comfortable booking with someone they’ve actually seen in action or getting referred by someone they trust. I love hearing from guests that experienced the photo booth at a friend/relative’s event.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mother, JoHelen Porter, is always my biggest cheerleader. Lillian Polk has been an assistant, cheerleader, and more. Demi Green (Sunshiny Days In Home Care) and Brandon and Naima Townsend (Luxury Goods Co.) have been great business mentors.
Pricing:
- $250 per hour with a 2 hour minimum
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pgmirror.com/
- Phone: 8329535723
- Email: 1purplegemini@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/1purplegemini?igshid=1qwwras6qi9kq
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1purplegemini/
- Other: https://www.google.com/search?q=Purple+Gemini&oq=Purple+Gemini&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i61j69i60j69i65l2.6397j0j4&client=ms-android-verizon&sourceid=chrome-mobile
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