Graduating from university is, of course, an exciting time, but, lest we forget, the weeks and months that follow can also be a very daunting period for many people.
Simona Boycheva found herself feeling this way soon after her graduation. “I remember hearing all of my classmates talking about how they had already started applying for jobs with major companies. What worried me however was that I could not imagine myself going to the same place Monday to Friday, 9am 'til 5pm, every day, every week, every month. I wanted to do something with a meaning, something with a purpose to me and, most importantly, something that I loved and would enjoy doing day to day.”
Simona, who today owns the Essex and London East franchise of Photography for Little People, had always dreamed that someday she would be able to run her own business, but had thought that she would need at least five-to-ten years with a 'big firm' before being able to realise her dream. That scenario turned out not to be the case.
“Finding Photography for Little People was amazing,” Simona continues. “Today I am able to run my own business and do something that I'm passionate about. It is very important for me to do what I love. I had always wanted to run my own business and Photography for Little People allowed me to accomplish this sooner than I thought it would be possible. I’ve never been more confident in my decision. The best thing about joining Photography for Little People is that it truly feels like being part of a family!”
Photography for Little People was founded by mother and daughter team, Jan Massey and Melanie Kemp, with the main focus within the company being family; be it the franchise owner’s family or the families of its clients.
“When I found Photography for Little People I instantly fell in love with the products and the fact that it was a family business,” Simona adds. “To be honest, once I had found them I didn’t look for anyone else. It just felt right for me. There is nothing that brings me greater joy than to see my work displayed on the walls of my clients.”Melanie and Jan were delighted when Simona made the decision to join the Photography for Little People franchise. "At the age of 23, Simona showed all the drive and determination she would need to make her business a success,” Jan says.
Making the decision to join Photography for Little People was a big step for Simona. She was obviously very excited but at the same time a little anxious. Her family was very supportive of her decision, which made it even more exciting and less fearful.
Although Simona’s talent as a photographer is clearly helping her build her business, the fact that the franchise owners offer a service that is second to none has helped her grow.
“The ongoing support I receive from Photography for Little People is excellent,” Simona explains. “It is important for me to know that I am not alone. I love the fact that when I am not sure how to handle a certain situation, or need help with anything, I can just pick up the phone and call my mentor for advice.”
“I think Photography for Little People is a perfect fit to someone passionate about working with children and creating something special that will be treasured forever,” Melanie states. “It is an amazing feeling knowing that you have created those memories for your clients and that your passion drives you daily. Age should not effect your decision to consider joining Photography for Little People.”
“It is very exciting when all your hard work pays off,” Simona concludes. “Being able to see how far I’ve come over the last year and all the progress I have made in growing my franchise only encourages me to work closer with the franchisors to grow my business to its full potential.
“Besides doing what I love, I very much appreciate the flexibility the franchise offers. I knew I could never settle for a 9-5 job. I like to know I can manage my own hours to fit around my family and lifestyle. Now I can proudly say this is one of the best decisions I have ever made!”