We had the good fortune of connecting with Maya Widell Arguez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maya, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I love the creativity and discipline that owning your own business can bring. Although ambition can come from many walks of life, there’s something really special about seeing your work directly turn into your own success, and that is exactly what happens with owning a company. There’s always more to learn and experiment with, which just makes the day-to-day so much more exciting!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
In the Fall of 2023, I opened Makai Creative Studios, a photography and content studio with the client experience in mind. My goal is to create a space that is inviting, private, and allows for endless creativity. The studio has five spaces that can all be rented at an hourly rate to take photos, create content, shoot videos, or host events. It can truly be whatever you need it to be!

Regarding challenges, there is a fine line between wanting everything to be perfect when opening a business and realizing that your budget is limited. And that is something I struggled with. Sometimes, you need to make things as close to perfect as you can and then continue to work and improve the business as you go. However, I think one thing that made my decision-making easier was differentiating what choices would “money-making” choices were and what choices/expenses would be nice but wouldn’t bring in additional income.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a bit biased because I live in The Woodlands. But I love walking along the waterway, visiting Old Town Spring and Downtown Tomball, and shopping in Houston. And if there is a cute bookstore or coffee shop, you can probably find me there!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe so many people so much credit for my success and desire to open a company. If I had to choose one book that truly inspired me to take charge of my life after graduating, I would give all the credit to Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg. I remember reading this book during my senior year at Baylor University, and I felt inspired to go out and create the life, job, and success I wanted. On top of that, I think that one of the most important aspects of running a business is having a support system in place that understands and encourages you, so I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for my family and friends who have always encouraged my wild ideas!

Website: makaicreativestudios.com

Instagram: @makaicreativestudios https://www.instagram.com/makaicreativestudios/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maya-arguez/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makaicreativestudios

Image Credits
Photos By Priscy Photos Ni Mary Jo Ellen Renee Photography

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