The Mom Behind The Hollow Box Studio and Creative Space

 

Our inspiring mom feature is the cool and hip Louise Anne Manuel-Portillo, mom of a 26 month old baby boy named Joaquin Louis.

She is the main photographer and owner of The Hollow Box Studio and Creative Space. She has been offering photography services and events venue rental since 2015. She is an advocate of babywearing, breastfeeding and cloth diapering.

What inspired you to start your own business?
I started out as a photographer after finishing high school. My clients were mostly individuals who were commissioning me to photograph them and/or their loved ones for personal use. Then after I shifted from pre-med to AB Photography, I started getting more and more photography jobs. I had a difficulty looking for studios that fit my requirements so I wanted to build one. After I got married and gave birth, I wasn't able to shoot as much and then I decided to open The Hollow Box for other photographers who needed to rent. Some guests saw the potential of my space as an events venue so I decided, why not? I gave it a shot and now I am proud to say that we are getting a stable amount of bookings per month.


Here are some testimonials from her customers:

What’s the best part of being a mompreneur?
Being a mompreneur has given me a different sense of pride and accomplishment. Being a mother and raising a child is of course still my primary responsibility, but running my humble business has satisfied my personal career goals. I used to be an employee for quite some time post-partum, and I must say that although mompreneurship has given me time freedom, it also pushed me to exert twice the effort. How come? It is running your business while looking after your child. It is responding to clients and your child at the same time. No, you don't have the luxury of an 8-5 job away from your parenting responsibilities. You will learn to do them both. At the same time.
 
What is the biggest challenge you faced as a mompreneur?
My biggest challenge would be facing my child with a smile whenever I have a difficult client. The events industry is highly taxing, and there are really days where you feel exhausted and angry, and you will struggle to have fun with your child. Your worlds are merged and you're working while you're mothering.

How do you balance work and family time?
Scheduling! I schedule meetings, ocular visits and business errands, at Wak's most convenient time. I decided to not accommodate calls because being yaya-less, I'm looking after him almost 24/7. I don't want my customer service to suffer either. Through texts, emails and facebook messages, I can better record and respond to all queries promptly and accurately. I think it's just a matter of developing a system, utilizing your strengths and weaknesses, and being firm and efficient with your business practices.

How do you see yourself in the future?
I see myself as a parent who is able to provide her child the best possible things in life.

Any tips for moms thinking of starting a business?
Think and plan and think and plan before you start your business. It is a lot of responsibility. You have to love your business and your industry, because when you are faced with the nastiest problems, these are what would keep you running. Your love. Your passion. Hype and eagerness will burn out, but love for what you are doing will keep you fueled.

What's your advise/message to new moms?
Focus on your family and yourself first. There are days when you will feel unproductive but it is okay. Kids will grow up reaaaaally fast. Do not forget to love yourself too. Your newborn is not a burden but a companion for your new adventures.

Should you wish to know more about the Hollow Box Studio and Creative Space, check out http://www.thehollowboxstudio.com/.


Studio Address
18 Ma. Asuncion Spirig Street, BF Resort Village, Las Pinas City 1740
* Occulars are strictly by appointment only.

Contact Details
Mobile: +639271506895
Email: thehollowboxstudio@gmail.com

Facebook.com
/thehollowboxstudio