Today we’d like to introduce you to Christine Banglay
Hi Christine, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
It all started with a dream and a desire for change. After dedicating 15 years to nursing, I found myself yearning for a creative outlet beyond the daily grind of the medical field. In February 2023, I took a leap of faith and started my own photo booth business as a side hustle. Little Lemon Shots was born. It was a bold move, but I knew I wanted to bring joy and memorable experiences to people through photography.
At first, it was just me, a booth, and a handful of props, hustling to cater to every event I could find. From weddings to private parties and quinceañeras, I poured my heart into each occasion. My focus gradually shifted towards corporate events, where I found a niche that allowed me to combine professionalism with fun.
As word spread about the quality and uniqueness of our photo booth services, demand skyrocketed. I quickly realized I couldn’t do it all alone, so I expanded my team and now proudly work alongside few talented individuals who share my passion. Together, we’ve grown our offerings to include multiple booths: the DSLR open-air photo booth, selfie booth, vintage booth, roaming booth, and even a 360 photo booth.
Today, we mostly provide service here in San Antonio, the Hill Country, and the Austin area, but can actually travel anywhere here in Texas if our client needs us. From humble beginnings as a solo venture, we’ve transformed into a thriving woman-owned business. Every booking is a testament to the hustle, determination, and love we put into our work, and I couldn’t be prouder of how far we’ve come!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Overall, the journey has been quite smooth, filled with exciting milestones and rewarding experiences. However, like any venture, it hasn’t been without its challenges. One significant struggle has been navigating a saturated market. With so many photo booth companies vying for attention, it became clear that we needed to distinguish ourselves to thrive.
To stand out, we focused on providing unparalleled quality and an exceptional experience for our clients. This meant investing in top-notch equipment, creating unique booth options, and prioritizing customer service. We knew that our reputation would be built on the satisfaction of our clients, so we dedicated ourselves to going above and beyond at every event.
While the competition is fierce, our commitment to excellence and the personal touch we bring to each occasion have allowed us to carve out our niche. Emphasizing quality over quantity has been essential in establishing our brand and ensuring our growth in this vibrant industry. Ultimately, it’s the passion for what we do and the joy we bring to our clients that makes every hurdle worth it!
We’ve been impressed with Little Lemon Shots, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Little Lemon Shots is all about transforming ordinary events into extraordinary experiences. We specialize in a diverse range of photo booth options, including a DSLR open-air photo booth, a selfie booth, a vintage booth, a roaming photo booth, and an exciting 360 photo booth. This variety allows us to cater to a wide array of events, from small backyard parties, weddings and quinceañeras to corporate gatherings, ensuring that we can meet our clients’ unique needs.
What sets us apart from others in the industry is our unwavering commitment to quality and the unparalleled experience we offer. We pride ourselves on providing a personalized experience, taking the time to understand each client’s vision and making it a reality. Our strong emphasis on creating a fun and engaging atmosphere ensures that guests leave with not just photos, but also lasting memories.
As a woman-owned business, we are particularly proud of the team we’ve built. From a solo venture to a thriving team, each member brings their own creativity and passion to the table. We believe that our collaborative spirit and dedication to excellence contribute significantly to the positive experiences we create for our clients.
We want our readers to know that when they choose us, they’re investing in a service that goes beyond simply taking photos. We aim to capture the essence of their celebrations, infusing every event with joy and laughter. Our goal is to provide a seamless, high-quality experience that leaves a lasting impression. With us, clients can expect professionalism, creativity, and a genuine passion for making their events truly special. Let us help you turn your next event into an unforgettable celebration!
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Finding a mentor and building a network can be daunting, especially when you’re starting out. I remember feeling quite awkward in the beginning, but my determination to grow my business pushed me to step outside my comfort zone. When I was starting my photo booth venture, I would often attend networking events right after finishing a shift at the hospital. It was exhausting at times, but I knew that these connections were crucial for my business’s growth.
One key piece of advice I can offer is to approach networking with the mindset of building genuine relationships. Rather than just trying to sell your services, focus on getting to know people and understanding their needs. I found that the more authentic I was in my interactions, the more meaningful connections I made. This not only helped me find potential mentors but also created a support system of fellow entrepreneurs who shared similar experiences and challenges.
Attending various networking events allowed me to learn from others and gather insights that proved invaluable for my business. I made it a point to follow up with those I met, whether through social media or emails, to maintain those connections. Over time, these relationships blossomed into collaborations and referrals that significantly contributed to my business growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://littlelemonshots.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/littlelemonshots
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/littlelemonshots
