We had the good fortune of connecting with Karina Torres and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Karina, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve always had a desire to start my own business, but I didn’t know exactly what. Sweet Moments Photobooths started when my sister-in-law was planning her wedding and we wanted to gift her something special. I thought a Photobooth would be perfect, and I decided to do research on it. The idea to start my own booth suddenly grew. I was already managing my partners swimming pool business, but I wanted to start something that I could pass along to my daughters and teach them about entrepreneurship. I had a conversation with my daughters, and they were delighted with the business idea. The joy of seeing our clients happy and enjoying their guests have so much fun with the photobooth is a blessing to us. We are passionate about what we do and enjoy each event.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started in the Multifamily industry in 2005 as a leasing agent. I continued the career, and I became a Property Manager for a community property in 2016. A Property Manager has many responsibilities, not only are you managing someone’s multimillion dollar asset but the homes of people. Many problems arise, from apartment leaks, community crime, tenant issues and as a manager you have to learn how to find a solution quickly. Managing taught me how to switch hats efficiently and this prepared me to now run my own business. I now own several booths and have multiple weekly events. And just like being a Property Manager, problems occur at an event, and we have to think quickly to resolve them.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If a friend was visiting from out of town the first place, I would take them would be local eateries. Houston is known for diversity, and we have a lot of restaurants that can take you back to your roots. For breakfast, there is a cute place in South East Houston name Magdas. After breakfast, I would take them for a walk nearby to Discovery Green. They have many events and sculptures my guest can see. For lunch, a must spot is Maderas. This is a fresh modern Mexican restaurant. Their enmoladas are so delicious. I would also take them to our museums and Memorial Park.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My friend from High School C/O 2002 Rocio Jaramillo, she was God’s sent and encouraged me to pursue the business idea I had in mind. She too is an entrepreneur and owner of Prolific Insurance company.
Website: sweetmomentsphotobooths.business.site
Instagram: sweetmoments_photobooths
Linkedin: sweetmomentsphotobooths
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sweetmomentsphotobooths
Image Credits
The Brand Creative Photography