Chappaqua Small Business Spotlight: Pretty Pictures Marketing + Photography

Every local business has a story worth sharing with the community. And that’s the belief behind this exciting series — to shine the spotlight on all our favorite local businesses, and to learn a little about the ones we may not know that well.

Business: Pretty Pictures Marketing + Photography

Owners: Jessica Paschkes
Website: www.prettypicturesmarketing.com
Address: Chappaqua, NY

How did you come up with the name?

It just sounded like the perfect name. Who doesn’t love a pretty picture? To me when you look at a photo it needs to capture the personality of a person or the essence of a business. This is what we are really all about.

Why start a business in this town?

Since moving to town nearly 6 years ago, I have been actively involved in the community, running or participating in committees at Roaring Brook School and Birchwood Swim and Tennis. I love the community, and the best part of my business is meeting people from all around town.

Briefly, what business are you in?

I am a photographer. While there are a lot of talented photography businesses in the area, I think my background in television production, makeup/styling and marketing adds a unique element. My expertise goes beyond family photos and extends to helping local professionals with: social media messaging and commercial photography, website development, head shots, and professional make-up. I strive to help my clients accelerate their business in any way I can.

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

I’ve had to grow the business organically through word of mouth no advertising, and its taken time and patience for that to make a material impact, so I am thankful that clients continue to count on me and help to grow my business by recommending Pretty Pictures Marketing to friends and through Facebook. Business has been building steadily, and I am thrilled to say this summer I invested proceeds back into the company by creating a home photo studio which has already been very useful.

What’s been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

Recently I was especially touched when a client came up to me at a party to tell me I took the best photo of her husband ever! And just this week a client told me a day after posting her new LinkenIn headshot she had a new job prospect come up. It makes me so happy to hear when I’ve helped others feel happy too!

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

I continue volunteering at Birchwood and was responsible for the creation of the club’s new website design. I’m always willing to donate photo sessions to auction for local charities it’s a great way to give back.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email wendy.mitchell@patch.com.