We had the good fortune of connecting with Grace Perry and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Grace, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
COVID-19 for me was a deep reflection into myself. I was working as a bartender in Marblehead, Massachusetts when the news broke that the virus was here and we were going into lockdown. I went from busy days and nights of waiting tables and pouring cocktails to stocking up on toilet paper and groceries like it was an apocalypse. I was without work and fortunately, given the free time to reflect on my life. I realized that my bartending job was like a poison to me. It had attacked and destroyed my creative motivation, energy and freedom to express myself. Yes, I was making money. But was I truly happy? I found myself in need of a creative outlet so I picked up my camera. I started to photograph portraits of myself and my sisters. I created a mini studio in the confines of my apartment. My portrait project grew as I played around with textures and light. Quarantining was both a blessing and a curse. COVID in a way, gave me the confidence to become a photographer full time. I started to not only photograph portraits, but I offered video production and social media management services to friends and family. My business quickly grew as word of mouth spread and I networked with others online and in person. The idea for my business came out of a financial and creative need. COVID was the driving force of reflection for my business. I am grateful to be safe, healthy and able to pursue my dreams within my business Grace Perry Productions, LLC.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As an artist and creative, my medium is visual arts. I thrive with a camera in my hands, taking photographs and videos. I work with individuals and small businesses to create content that inspires audiences, tells a story and improves business. In addition to visual media, I offer services for website design, branding and monthly social media management. I am most proud of my work with small businesses. What sets me apart from others is my work ethic, dedication and creative ideas. It hasn’t always been easy. The challenge for me has been moving to Denver, Colorado and networking in a new state. I have learned that the best way for me to put myself out there is to meet with others face to face. When I meet face to face with others, my personality and work ethic shines through. I want the world to know that owning a small business can be one of the most rewarding experiences that this life can offer. I think fear holds us back from pursuing careers that scare us and owning your own business is scary! I have learned that in order to succeed, I have to celebrate my fear. Truly believing in myself and my work and persevering has allowed me to be successful.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting Denver, I would take her to the River Arts North District. We’d start at The Source Hotel rooftop to grab lunch and a beverage while enjoying views of the city. We’d hop on a scooter to head on a DIY street art tour and shop local galleries. I would love to show her the Larimer Lounge for live music and Il Posto for some yum Italian food. I enjoy exploring the River Arts North District because it’s the heart of an artistic community where creativity ignites.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family deserves a huge shout out in recognition of my story. My mother, Laurel, father, Michael, step-dad Tom and boyfriend, Colby were all huge driving forces in my confidence and ability to find success. They were the shoulder I needed to cry on, the voice telling me to keep going and the love I needed for support. I am so grateful to all of my friends and family who not only believed in me, but hired me for creative projects and believed in my ability to succeed.
Website: https://www.gperryproductions.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gperryproductions/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grace-perry-productions
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gperryproductions
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEfQuLgQHU1bi204NOF4N7g
Image Credits
All images are copyright to Grace Perry Productions LLC