What’s the secret to a successful business? Is it skills, a business degree, or experience? For a young couple in Quezon City, it could be creativity!
Mark and Kirsten Pangilinan, both 23 years old, opened MP Diaries, a trendy self-portrait studio. The difference between their studio from other photo studios is that there’s no photographer to direct or take your pictures. You get into a stylish room with a camera and pose as the camera clicks! The results are genuine, carefree photos of you and your loved one! Plus, it’s way more affordable than photo studios.
In an interview on PNA, the couple explained their concept, “You can freely express yourself, since walang ibang tao sa shoot area, [there’s no one else in the shoot area] except you and your loved ones. You’ll capture it. No pressure from other people, no awkward moments, all genuine.”
“Self-portrait or self-shooting is also more affordable. We want people to experience na possible magkaroon ng great and quality photos na hindi butas ang bulsa pagkatapos,” Kirsten added. [We want people to experience that it’s possible to have great and quality photos without spending too much.]
This creative idea is indeed a smart move because the couple admitted that they have no professional background in photography. It only goes to show that sometimes skills override creativity when it comes to thinking up out-of-the-box business ideas. Many times, determination also overrides skills, such as in the story of the nurse who didn’t know how to cook but launched a successful tapsihan with 4 branches.
In an article on Pep, Kirsten shared that sometimes, you don’t have to be an expert to start something you’re passionate about. What’s even more important is to get started so you can learn more. “Hindi mo kailangang maging magaling bago magsimula. Magsimula ka para gumaling ka,” [You don’t have to be an expert to get started. You start so that you can get better.]
Mark’s practical advice is to make use of social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram for business. He said, “Social media marketing will be a big help for everyone who is aspiring to have a small business.”
Within three months, the couple began to see the fruits of their labour. Kirsten said, “After three months po since nag-open po kami, nakabili po kami ng kotse po, and now po yung kita po ng studio is six digits na po siya.” [After 3 months since we opened, we were able to buy a car, and is now earning 6-digit figures.]
So, don’t be discouraged if you feel like you don’t have any skills to get a business started. You can look into your passion or hobbies and turn them into a lucrative business. Good luck!
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