We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Marsh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
When I began my business more than two decades ago I was a young mother with two children. Many times I thought about giving in and giving up. I often had to convince myself to get up and keep moving forward. It wasn’t easy to balance raising children and growing a business. I am so grateful that I did not give in to the pressures. Often the chaos was short-lived. School would begin or the holidays would pass and I would find a window of opportunity to focus on growing my business. As my young children grew and their needs changed, again I would find more time. As they became adults and had their own lives and responsibilities I was glad I had seen my way through the challenges. Now I have much more freedom to concentrate on all aspects of my business. I have renewed passion for my work and it brings me a great deal of satisfaction and joy.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When I picked up photography I never imagined it would become my life. I started my professional life in a completely unrelated field. I had no experience but I did have a love for the art. I soon discovered that you must develop the craft not just have a passion. I also soon found that to operate a successful business you must know how to keep it profitable. It has been a long and consuming journey. I learned quickly that I needed something to set me apart. I decided to stay on the cutting edge of advancements and continually hone my techniques. I found the combination of skill and great customer service was my forte so I set my mind on those principles. It became my mission to give my clients the best of what I could give whether it was a keepsake memory or a small part of myself.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love Charlotte and the surrounding areas of the city. If I had an opportunity to share the best of Charlotte with a friend I would begin with one of the amazing restaurants in uptown. The menu at Sea Level is amazing and it is a must. No trip to Charlotte would be complete without a cocktail at STIR. But we wouldn’t have to settle for trying one great restaurant if we could take in Charlotte Restaurant Week and enjoy the Queen’s Feast. There are so many wonderful neighborhoods and places to visit in Charlotte. I would include a trip to the Mint Museum for certain and a Panther’s game if we were lucky. Then top off our super fun weekend with a trip to my new favorite spot, Supperland.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Indeed, we don’t make it through our journeys alone. I am grateful to my family especially my husband and children for being supportive and encouraging. Their love and patience empowered me to start a business and develop my craft. It has been a gift. Through the years, my children have been exceptionally patient with me as I studied and practiced. My husband has been a great support too. He has worked alongside me to build my business. I knew the children were in good hands when I had to travel for work or teach a workshop. His contributions have been invaluable and I am forever grateful to him.

Website: http://www.PhotoplayNC.com

Instagram: @photoplay_weddingphotography

Image Credits
Photoplay Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSouthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.