Insights From Women-Owned Small Businesses
Insights From Women-Owned Small Businesses
In honor of Black Women’s History Month, we are highlighting some of the many women-owned businesses we have had the pleasure of working with! We were grateful to reconnect with these talented, passionate women to highlight their work.
Denise Batiste Photography
Specializing in weddings, portraits and other events, Denise Batiste is the photographer to beat. With over 20 years of experience, her passion speaks for itself.
“I love my job,” Batiste states. “I love the variety, I love the interesting people I get to meet and the venues I’ve been to.”
Initially studying chemical engineering at the University of Rochester, Batiste quickly realized her passions lay elsewhere. She switched paths and went on to pursue an MBA in Marketing. After securing a career in sales and technical marketing, her company downsized, leaving Batiste with downtime to take additional courses, including one in photography. She worked on a few photography projects with a fellow classmate before venturing into her own photography career.
Reflecting on her interest in photography since getting her first camera at seven years old, Batiste explains “It’s almost genetic. My dad always documented us at Halloween, our Christmas celebrations, Easter Sunday, so in my mind, it’s important to document the special moments in your life.”
When asked about her unique approach to photography, Batiste’s attention to detail sets her apart. “I know a lot of photographers do what I call ‘microwave photography,’ where the person walks across the stage, they take the picture, they print it out, and boom, they’re done,” she explains. “I do not do that because I want to make sure people look their best; I want to take the time to do the little things.”
Whereas other photographers view events as strictly a means to make a profit, Batiste enjoys the opportunity to immerse herself in the event. “If I’m driving back from a wedding in Buffalo, I have that adrenaline until I get back in the car and get on the road. The whole time I’m there, I’m upbeat and happy, I really enjoy what I’m doing. I’m not the photographer that’s sitting there looking at the watch.”
She further adds, “You never know the significance of photos, how they’ll be treasured or what they’ll be used for, so I try to do my best with every photo I deliver.”
As a woman in the business, Batiste admits to some initial hesitations. “You have a little bit of imposter syndrome when you’re thinking, am I really worth this much money? How can I ever ask for this much money? Nobody will pay me this amount…but then you understand the industry, your local market, what your value is, your experience, and what you have to offer compared to other photographers,” she explains.
“Sometimes I have to bid against other photographers, but at least I’m in the room and I’m among the ones that are asked to do that,” Batiste states. On the other hand, Batiste is grateful to be a woman in photography because “[women] pay more attention to detail” about things that clients may be insecure about in photos.
“I may not be the lowest price, but I will give you the best service. I will exceed your expectations and you will be overly pleased with the images I deliver; it’s in me to do the best that I can so that client is oversatisfied.” - Denise Batiste Photography
Be sure to keep Denise Batiste Photography in mind for any upcoming events or celebrations!
Bklyn enROC
Natalie Bruno-Crews, owner of Bklyn enROC, which is a venue and decor service, offers everything you could need for your next event! The 2200 square foot venue is located in the heart of Rochester, NY at 301 Central Avenue and features a stunning customizable lounge area and main dining area that clients can rent out to host various events.
Bruno-Crews also offers a decor service for those who are looking for something a little different. “Sometimes people will come to the space and then realize that it’s not big enough for them, so then we’ll take the events to them,” she explains.
When reflecting on her passion for events, Bruno-Crews says she has a “natural eye for organization…people bring me their inspirations, and I show them how we should place things so that their vision can come to life.”
With a background in healthcare, Bruno-Crews found herself searching for something more during the Covid-19 pandemic. From a young age, she has always been creative, even helping family and friends with decor prior to starting her business.
Discussing the switch from healthcare to decor and venue services, Bruno-Crews explains “It was like night and day, but it was therapeutic for me…I got to celebrate with [clients] and then come back refreshed so I could deal with [patients] that needed my help in a different way.”
Though Bruno-Crews has a natural talent for decor, she initially felt hesitant about the business aspect of founding Bklyn enROC. “Success comes in the journey, nothing is going to just happen overnight,” she explains. “People aren’t going to know you, you’re going to have to earn their respect, their trust, and that hit me so hard.”
To those interested in owning a business, Bruno-Crews suggests women stand their ground and get all their paperwork in order. As she struggled with the legalities of starting a business, it is important that women are cautious about contracts and other necessities to avoid being taken advantage of.
“This was a dream come true,” says Bruno-Crews. “I want to create on my own, and I want to also inspire young women to know that their dream is possible. As long as you keep pursuing and you’re consistent in whatever you’re doing, you are going to be successful.”
Make sure to check out Bklyn enROC through their website and follow along on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram for giveaway opportunities and more information!