Today we’d like to introduce you to Katty Strite.
Katty, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Honestly, I come from pretty humble beginnings. I have memories of a grown up as a shy kid in the rough part of town with less than ideal parents. I laugh because where my story starts in no way indicates where I am today.
If you were to search for me on Google, you would find:
I have produced and written for feature films.
I have helped in the production of feature songs recorded in Nashville and worked with top-tier studio musicians. These experiences have given me familiarity and special insight into this competitive industry.
At the age of 16, I started my own Children’s Entertainment Company. I developed a unique concept that piqued the interest of companies such as HIT Entertainment (Barney, Thomas the Train, Bob the Builder, etc.), DNA Studios (Jimmy Neutron), and Nickelodeon.
I have traveled to the jungles of Thailand where I learned the art of Muay Thai, to snacking on meat and cheese in the Alps of Switzerland, and I’ve even hitch-hiked on a sweaty bus to the City of Fatima in Portugal.
I feel it is the combination all these seemingly random experiences that led me to create Katty Was Here. KWH was originally just taking some photos for friends, then a graphic design job here and there, then it exploded into a full-blown design, branding, and consulting company. I am so lucky because I have the opportunity to interact with the world at its most basic human element. Due to my teens being deeply rooted in the entrepreneurial universe, I possess the unique ability to understand how to work with various types of people. This skill allows me to bring my clients’ ideas to life and provide all they have envisioned.
Throughout the spectrum of the industries I mentioned above, one main reoccurring theme I have found is, no one can ever pay someone enough to care. I really enjoy taking someone’s vision and bringing it to life.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
“Smooth road.“ Ha!
You know. I’ve been in this business since I was a wee lil’ lass, and I have had plenty of time to make a TON of mistakes. The major lessons I have come to realize:
“Easy in, easy out.” If money comes in fast and easy, it will go right out the door twice as fast! Be sure to put your money back into your business. Always focus on building a solid foundation and nurturing relationships worth keeping. Over time you have something that will be consistent and last you forever.
In other news: avoid sh*tty people, don’t work for free, focus on YOU, surround yourself with like-minded people, set schedules (even your workouts), have GOALS, don’t live above your means, and TRAVEL.
Most importantly, live in positivity, and it will always come back to you. You might not see it immediately, but doing business with integrity and honor will always take care of you in the end.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Katty Was Here – what should we know?
It took a good while to figure out what exactly I do, and a friend of mine coined this term for me. I call myself a “Business Stylist.”
I’m am so much more than your average graphic designer, photographer, or videographer. What makes me unique is that I have been in your shoes.
This perspective gives me the ability to understand every facet of your feelings as a business owner/entrepreneur. I help you with the big questions. Where do you start? How do we improve? Where do we want to go? We take the concept from your head to market: logo, strategy, copywriting, print work, photography, website, promotion… all while keeping aligned with everyone’s favorite word a “BUDGET.”
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
I’ve had a LOT of people want to “mommy” or “daddy” me, but what usually came out of that was them trying to mold me into something they needed, rather than nurturing the best parts of me and letting me become the best version of myself.
The entertainment and media industries are notorious for using and abusing people. The most important lesson I have learned is know your value and to stand by it, unequivocally.
As far as networking goes, find people who “speak” your language, and maintain healthy boundaries. The word, “No, “ doesn’t make you a terrible person. We can’t give from an empty cup. Another gem is understanding that sadly, not all people you look up to are necessarily “good” people. It is important be your own person, in order to find what makes you, YOU and most of all HAPPY.
Hmmm, the only person who has ever done all of the above for me is my partner, Jessica Miramontes. She is my favorite sounding board and constantly says really smart things even if I don’t always want to hear them. Her favorite quote is, “ I’m not everyone’s flavor, and that’s ok.” She has been writing a blog lately, and I highly encourage you to read more here or even shoot her a message/comment: www.JessicaMiramontes.com
Contact Info:
- Website: www.KattyWasHere.com
- Email: info@KattyWasHere.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/kattystrite
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/kattystrite
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/kattystrite
Image Credit:
Katty Strite
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