The Roundtable :: Catherine Guidry

What a week it’s been! I’m getting ready for a big wedding this Saturday, the last of our three week stretch. I’ll be back to more regular blogging soon, but I did want to share with you a new post in The Roundtable series. I’m thrilled to feature another one of my inspirations from my own interview, Catherine Guidry. Her passion is contagious and I simply love being around her. Kind of a great quality for a wedding photographer to have! 😉 Also, her work is incredible and she continues to blow me away by how much she has grown over her career. You’ve seen her work on our new collection product shots, my headshots and our new series of monthly desktops! 

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START?

 Hmm…it’s hard to say EXACTLY when this dream of a career “started” for me. But I suppose there are two defining moments for me.

*The first was while I was working for Legacy Park. I was (OF COURSE) playing on facebook when I came across my very first ‘inspirational wedding gallery’ as I like to call it. The wedding was shot by Dawn Earles and it seriously made my head spin, heart beat fast, and spirits soar. It was that moment when I was like, “Shut the front door I cannot believe this is wedding photography!” I had already worked for two traditional photographers previously, but THIS was the type of work I saw myself doing.

*The second was while I was in undergraduate school studying architecture. I found myself spending way too many nights crying, sleeping late because I couldn’t bear the thought of working another extra minute more than I had too on my projects, and dreading the work in general. I was taking the portfolio design and I can STILL hear Ursula’s words as she quickly and nonchalantly flipped through my portfolio. She sort of tossed it on the table, turned it to me and said, “What are you?”

I had no idea what to say. What was I?  She then followed with something along the lines of:  “Are you a designer who wants to be an architect, an architecture student who wants to be a photographer, or someone who just doesn’t know WHAT they want? Because I’m confused as to what I’m looking at.” She was right. I wasn’t sure…and in that moment she pushed me to begin clarifying: What DID I want?! I went on to pursue my MArch, continuing to photograph weddings, and immediately went fulltime  when I finished graduate school.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF THE DAY YOU STARTED YOUR BUSINESS?

1) Be Ready. This won’t be easy. You will cry….but it will be worth it.
2) Buy Quickbooks. Sorry, but excel just won’t cut it. Put in the time to learn it because it’ll keep you on track.
3) Shootq. Shootq. Shootq. Seriously: best. investment.ever. I’m not sure how I survived without it.
4) Stand up for what you believe in, take time for yourself, and always put your best foot forward.
5) Find the courage to be yourself.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING AN ENTREPRENEUR?

Although my lack of a regimented schedule drives me (and those around me) absolutely crazy…I like the lack of rhythm. I set my schedule, I work when I want…until I want, as long as I get the work done. I’ve learned what works for me and it doesn’t have to necessarily conform to what the “world” wants. I’m not someone who enjoys being up at 6AM. So I don’t. I sleep late and I work late. 

LEAST FAVORITE THING?

I suppose this is a common trend for entrepreneurs but my business is my baby. And sometimes, I find myself having a hard time setting it aside for other aspects of life: ie: my relationships, my friendships, and my family. It’s been difficult but I’ve made HUGE strides and I’m proud of that. I work everyday to create that balance and I think I’ve started to find that place!

WHAT ARE YOUR THREE FAVORITE PHONE APPS?

1. Instagram – Are you kidding me? It’s like a photographer’s dream for quick pics and entertainment. lol..I’m officially addicted.
2. Facebook – It’s a nice time killer. I’m definitely not the most patient person in the world, so it keeps me occupied while I’m waiting.
3. Email – Am I totally boring? Look at this list. I wanted to sound cool and list some really interesting applications, but nope..I’ve officially listed my email app as one of my three faves. 

ANY BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS?
The Rules – Don’t share this book with your men, ladies…but it changed my life when it came to dating.

Boundaries – I’ve struggled with this my entire life. And this book was recommended to me in a stressful time. I’m happy that I have learned to be ok with saying no and with accepting it as well.

I will Teach You to Be Rich – Ramit Sethi is a genius and has really helped me with my finances. He has a “no excuses approach” to getting things done and taking control of your life.

WHAT DOES YOUR DESK LOOK LIKE ON A NORMAL DAY?

To my immediate left is another screen, always with reality tv on while I’m editing. On the rest of my desk are TWO, no THREE, no FOUR empty glasses; a collection of bracelets that I take off when typing, an empty diet barq’s can, and lots of notes, pens, and scattered mail. I hate to say it … but my desk is unfortunately, a mess.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE PROUDEST MOMENT OF YOUR CAREER SO FAR?

I suppose my proudest moment(s) have been when I’ve met personal challenges. I know this is very vague but what I mean is that my clients are all VERY different. I definitely do not have cookie cutter couples, and I pride myself on having the ability to work with lots of different people. So I suppose my proudest moments are when I can look back and know that I created beautiful and memorable images that highlight who they are.

WHO ARE THREE WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS THAT INSPIRE YOU?
Valerie Metrejean – For her consistent flow of ideas, commitment to Christ, and dedication to her family/husband.
Hannah Trahan – For her “get – it – done” attitude and generosity. She’s a loyal friend, vendor, and is excellent with people.
Kaylynn Marie – It seems as though we’re always on the same page.  She’s strongwilled, determined, and stays true to her vision.