| Laurie’s dream of starting a photography and graphic design business took a major step forward when she visited the Orange County SCORE Chapter and met SCORE Counselor Joe DiStanislao, a former marketing executive. “Meeting with Joe that day was one of the most wonderful encounters I’ve made in this endeavor to meet my dream. Talking to someone who had been successful and who knew what it took to make a business thrive gave me confidence that I still draw on today.”
Following her first visit to SCORE, Laurie attended a number of SCORE workshops and returned to meet with Joe several times to discuss start-up plans, marketing, selling and pricing. "Joe helps me stay focused on the important things and encourages me to get to the next level. He really pushes me to succeed," says Laurie.
Today, Laurie’s business—LaurieL Photography—is busy and thriving. The skilled photographer and graphic designer has found a niche in photographing pregnant women and has a number of unique products, including DVD slideshows, customized photography coffee table books, holiday cards and note cards.
As her business grows, Laurie knows that when she needs future help she can contact SCORE Counselor Joe DiStanislao and other counselors at the Orange County SCORE Chapter. “SCORE is a wonderful. I can’t say enough good things about the organization. I am privileged to have such a wonderful group of people who not only stand behind me, but who also guide me on this endeavor.”
Update: Laurie now lives in the Greater Portland Oregon Metropolitan Area and has a regular clientele. She has expanded her business to include Maternity and Newborn photography and photographs children upon request. Laurie still works out of her home and has grown her business to over $100,000 in yearly profits. Laurie continues to do frequent business in Orange County as well as keeping up with her SCORE counselor. She says, “I still stay in touch with my counselor, Joe DiStanislao, who continues to be the most wonderful, caring, and concerned about my success person I have ever met.”
Brought to you by SCORE, America's small business mentors, at www.score.org.
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