Name: Mark Madere
Company Name: SpectraLight Photography & Design
Web Site Address: www.spectralight.com
Member Since: 1990
What was your “Ah Ha” moment that prompted the launch of your home business?
When I was getting so much wedding and portrait business from my co-workers while employed as a medical/public relations photographer at Fairview Hospital – I knew I couldn’t do both jobs well without burning out.
Best thing you have done for your home business?
I installed my business phone line in my basement office so I wouldn’t hear it when I was done for the day. That way I could enjoy my time off without constantly answering my business line. Also, only my immediate family knows my cell number. I’m not so important that clients should be able to reach me at all times of the day or night. That’s only for doctors who save lives. I save my sanity.
What is something that is truly unique about how you run your business and care for clients?
I enjoy spending time with my clients – getting to know them personally and almost becoming a part of their families. I know my clients feel good about the relationships we share because many come back again-and-again for their photography needs. What is especially gratifying is being asked to photograph the weddings of children whose parents’ weddings I photographed years earlier.
What is your secret to striking work/life balance?
Years ago, when my children were very young, my wife took my Day-Timer and marked off Wednesday evening for “Family Night.” No client appointments were allowed and our family did something fun like go to the park, Lake Erie, bowling, the movies - you get “the picture.” It turned out to be such a great way to get away from my business and enjoy my kids that I added Friday evenings for family time.
What is your biggest challenge in running a home business?
Knowing where to put my advertising dollars. There are just way too many places to toss our hard-earned dollars. Just being in all the different phone directories can blow an ad budget. Like the saying goes, “I know that half my advertising works… the problem is, I don’t know which half!”
What advice would you have for those looking to start a home business?
Research the business you’re thinking of starting. Go to trade shows on your area of interest and talk to EVERYONE – the vendors as well as the entrepreneurs in attendance. If you’re at a show that’s at least two hours from your home base – many entrepreneurs will share their secrets of success if they know you’re not their direct competition. Attend the COSE Small Business Conference if the fall and network at the COSE Home Business Network events. Establish a free profile on LinkedIn.com and learn how to use the amazing networking resources available through that website. Finally, read “The Successful Home Business Guide” by Cleveland’s own Will Limkemann. I just read it and give a strong endorsement to the information presented. Will covers everything an aspiring entrepreneur should be aware of before quitting his day job.
The best thing you’ve ever done for yourself?
Marry my bride of 28 years. She has been my “sounding board” for new ideas for my studio and offers a unique perspective in problem solving. As a bonus, she’s one helluva good cook!
Project you’re really proud of?
The Dara Hosta – Olmsted Spirit 5K Run. As the founding sponsor since 1998, we have raised over $87,500.00 for college scholarships for Olmsted Falls High School seniors. The race has grown significantly over the years with $25,500.00 awarded in 2008 alone.
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