Making an additional prop for photos has turned into a second business for a Jamestown photographer.
Michelle Clark started her business, SmileMAC Photography, two years ago. Mrs. Clark said photography is a passion she has had for many years. However, in preparing photo sessions for little girls, Mrs. Clark has found a second passion - making tutus.
''I needed more props for little girls when I'm taking photos and I decided to make a tutu,'' she said. ''After taking a few photos of people's children in a tutu, I started receiving requests from people who wanted to buy them.''
Article Photos
A photo of Lyric Hamrick taken by Michelle Clark, owner of SmileMAC Photography. Mrs. Clark also made the tutu in the photo, which is a new business she started called Tutu Creations.
Submitted photo
The several requests Mrs. Clark received turned into a second business which is called Tutu Creations. In just a short period of time, Mrs. Clark has made more than 20 tutus and has 13 orders for more dresses.
The tutus come in several designs like a one strap, a white bunny, one to fit a new born baby and regular model. Mrs. Clark said it takes anywhere from 45 minutes to five hours to make the dress - depending on the design.
''It is relaxing to make them. It lets me think about things,'' she said. ''I'm starting to teach my 8-year-old daughter (Kassandra) how to make them now. We have a good time.''
The price of the tutus range from $10 to $35 and people can also order a matching headband as well.
''Photography has always been my passion, but now it is also exciting to see the photos with the children wearing my tutus,'' she said. ''I enjoy seeing something I created on other people.''
The new business has grown to where people are now requesting Mrs. Clark to make her tutus into a bridesmaid dress.
She said this is one idea on how to expand her new business.
''I still have ideas brewing about different designs and where to go with the business,'' she said. ''They're affordable, the quality is excellent. Word-of-mouth has been great. I've been getting tons of calls and tons of orders.''
For more information on Mrs. Clark's businesses, call 397-7003 or visit SmileMac Photography and Tutu Creations on Facebook.