Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristofer McKinney.
Hi Kristofer, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Well, I am originally from Mobile, AL and I transitioned to the Houston area shortly after graduation. Upon the completion of my degree at Southern University A&M College, I decided to take a step out on faith and make a move to Houston. I was beyond fearful, but I knew in order to take my life to the next level, I needed to be in a space with vast opportunities and around individuals that are thriving in their careers. I finally made it to Houston and began to start making my way around to a few networking events that were being held around the city. The only difference with the events I attended here were that they were so lively and the ambiance of these events were just so easygoing and natural. I enjoy having a good time, and my friends know I will do a little 1,2 at any moment! So, what caught my attention when I began to attend these events was that I noticed how people love to take pictures for branding purposes and even to just savor the moment. Who doesn’t like a nice picture with friends and colleagues with some phenomenal lighting!? When at an event, we all want to be able to capture every moment they can because these are memories that we can share forever. Pictures can speak a thousand words and this inspired me to move into starting my 360 photobooth business. This is also how the company received its name Kaptured. The slogan is “being able to capture those moments in real time, that you can share for a lifetime.” I thoroughly enjoy seeing people enjoy themselves on the booth. It is no better feeling than being able to bring others happiness and that is what makes running this company so rewarding! It comes with a few challenges, but what business does not have any? It has been a blessing to me thus far and I am excited to see where we are heading next.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been peaches and cream, and you will be faced with many challenges, but that comes along with being an entrepreneur. There are some weeks you will not have any bookings, there can be equipment malfunctions in the midst of an event, and the list goes on. However, what I have begun to do so that I am not so hard on myself is to remember that at the end of the day, things happen. As long as you continue to keep giving your clients the best service possible, and reassure them that you care about their experience, everything ends up ending on a great note. Once the event is over, reflect on the pros and cons, and then you will see how can enhance your experience for your client.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Student Finance Advisor (Career)
I currently work as a Student Finance Advisor in Higher Education. Working with students has been a rewarding experience for me because I know how it felt to be dealing with financial struggles as a college student in my undergraduate days. Being able to properly advise students on strategies to how afford their education and providing them with effective resources to help with the financial burdens of a collegiate student is what makes my day. The goal is to attend school and complete your degree, not be sent home because you cannot afford to be in class. So, I work to make sure that I can assist each student to best of my ability so that they can continue to their program and matriculate into the workforce acquiring their dream job.
Hat Brand (Side Business)
FLAVA is a luxurious lids hat company. We create fashionable unisex hats such as Fitted Caps, Trucker Hats and Snap backs with colorways that are based on a flavor. Each product is made with its own unique finish and we try to release a new product one, or two each month to keep our customers happy and wanting more! What is setting us apart from others is that when people invest their dollars into anything, that first impression is going to be a lasting impression of that product. So, we want to be able to give our customers an experience that they will not forget, but are excited to invest in again. Whether it be a limited edition hat pin, or a complementary code for a private release to our loyalty customers, when it’s all said and done, we want it to be a known fact that when you want a product from us, you are going to feel complete once you receive your item. It is not only about the quality of the hat, it’s about the service to our customers and the overall FLAVA experience.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Just if you have an idea, goal, or anything that you want to do, don’t “wait until the time is right” because you unintentionally- create a void towards to your goals because you are continuously second-guessing your ability to get things going. The best thing you can do is be willing to bet on yourself, even when you feel you do not have all of the resources. As long as you take the first step, everything will work itself out. Just be willing to work for whatever it is and soak up as much knowledge as possible so that you can use that same information to grow your business and help those around you.
Pricing:
- 360 Booth $175 per HR
Contact Info:
- Website: Kapturedexperience.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thekapturedexperience?igshid=NjZiMGI4OTY= | https://instagram.com/flava_hatco?igshid=NjZiMGI4OTY=
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kapturedexperience
Image Credits
Kristofer McKinney
