Spring City Small Business Spotlight: Courtney Hurley Photography

SPRING CITY, PA -- There’s a story lurking behind the glass pane of every shop, and there’s oftentimes an innovative individual whose entrepreneurial spirit is helping to shape the town.

Our small business series shines a light on local business owners in the community.

Business name: Courtney Hurley Photography LLC.

Owner: Courtney Schmechel

Location: Home studio in Spring City

Website: www.courtneyhurley.com

When did you go into business: 2008

How did you come up with the name?

"Pretty simple, it was was my maiden name at the time."

Why start a business here?

"I love the charming neighborhoods of Chester County and my husband and I were instantly drawn to the Phoenixville/Spring City areas when we began our house hunt. Because I work out of my home, we found the perfect property in Spring City and decided to call it home."

Briefly, what business are you in?

"My degree is a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Photography and I specialize in real estate and architectural photography as well as fine art portraits."

What’s the most difficult moment or challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

"I graduated college in 2008 which was the same timing that digital cameras became affordable and the industry was instantly swarming with photographers, so it has been a long (yet rewarding) journey to grow my business into what it has become today."

What's been your favorite moment/proudest achievement since opening?

"I love to see my images featured on the cover of Real Estate magazines, it makes me feel good about the work I do and I absolutely love when my portrait clients hang their images on their walls. We live in such a digital age where everything is on the cloud, so its nice to have the tangible memories to keep as heirlooms."

How does your business give back/get involved in the community?

"Every year in the fall I offer Mini Family Portrait sessions at the studio and I donate a portion of the proceeds to an orphanage that I used to volunteer at, Smile Africa, Uganda. I also donate several sessions throughout the year to families in need. I'm a huge believer in giving back and I am continually looking for new ways to give."

Image via Courtney Hurley Photography.

Are you a small business owner? Or do you know of a small business that deserves the spotlight? Email justin.heinze@patch.com.