We had the good fortune of connecting with Manny Reyna and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Manny, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
How to know whether to keep going or to give up?
When I was asked if I would like to contribute our story, I was surprised. Surprised, because it has been about 15 years, and a slow process. I reflected upon my experience of building a photography business, searching for the answer to “How do you know when to keep going or give up?” That is a question that needs to be answered by each person. After many years I’ve found this wisdom true; Jesus Christ is our source and provider everything else is a resource.
I have been photographing Quince’s and Weddings on a part-time basis for many years. I was introduced to the Quince and Wedding industry by way of ‘Mariachi Mexico ’85’, represented and managed by my father, Manuel Reyna.
In 2007, my wife Cindy and I founded MX Celebrations, LLC without a clear path on what to do. Doing it part-time gave us a chance to learn the business. In 2015, because of our focus with photography, MX Celebrations, LLC dba MXC Photography was born.
In 2022, because of COVID, we decided to diversify and offer services for Real Estate, Family, Graduations, Head Shots, Social Media and “Just Cuz We Look Good In Pictures!”.
As of April 2022, we have focused full-time on our Photography and Video business. We are still learning everyday. It is imperative to do at least one thing daily that is moving your business forward. Learning from others and teaching others is also important. Making connections with other business leaders is also a great way to grow your business.
There were times I felt like quitting. But, whenever these thoughts entered my mind, something would happen. God would come through with a new customer, or a repeat customer would contract us.
Additionally, losing loved ones puts things in a different perspective. Life is too short to wonder “what if”.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m really excited to be learning more about photography. I am currently taking a Joel Grimes course that teaches equipment, lighting techniques, and photoshop. Daily, we need to learn something new about our craft. I am a student of photography.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely take them to The Woodlands and stop by Grimaldi’s Coal Brick-Oven Pizzeria. I love the ambience and the Pizza is awesome!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are a lot of people that have showed support or taught me along the way. We are not alone in our journey. First of all credit goes to God, my wife, our children, parents and siblings and extended family.
Professionally there are a lot of people to recognize. Perez Photography & Video, Benny Canela Photography, Couch Adventures Photography, Dimensions by Dan. Inc, Freddys Art Photography, BNI “99-Elite”
Website: www.mxcphotography.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr_mxcphotography
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mxcelebrationshouston
Image Credits
Photos Shoot by MX Celebrations, LLC dba MXC Photography