The April 2024 edition of our sister publication South Sound Business is the Women Who Lead issue. The fourth feature is below; read the previous one here.
Angela Kelly, founder of Kelly Design and Photography, loves to help companies shine. As a business owner and true artistic polymath, she now enjoys the freedom to choose her hours, workplace, and projects — but developing that flexibility took time.
In 2018, Kelly was working in a print shop, a restaurant, and as a freelance graphic designer. She knew she wanted a career in design and photography but didn’t know how to break into the industry or find a full-time position.
That all changed when Kelly landed her first major freelance project with Rainier Valley Hemp Co. She developed assets for the business that included a promotional video, photo shoot, packaging design, and Pacific Northwest-inspired branded merch. The project put her on the map.
“When that came my way, I began thinking that I should start taking this more seriously,” she told South Sound Business.
After the positive reception to her work with Rainier Valley Hemp, Kelly decided to take a leap of faith. Knowing she’d need to dedicate more time to the launch of her business, she left her other two jobs, and with them, the security of a consistent paycheck.
“Starting your own business can feel like a risky roller coaster,” Kelly said. “When you cut off other dependable sources of income, you have to tackle obstacles as they arise and stay flexible.”
Despite the financial uncertainty inherent in entrepreneurship, Kelly remained steadfast in her dream of owning a company. In early 2019, she finally received her business license for Kelly Design and Photography.
Since then, she has helped multiple Olympia-based, women-owned businesses increase sales and develop their brand. Notable clients include the Fog & Fern Coffee House; Artväna, an acrylic painting club for adults; and Sucreabeille, an organic perfumery. She also has worked as an outside consultant with the city of Olympia’s marketing team.
Kelly’s future endeavors include growing her client base and expanding into a brick-and-mortar studio.
“I want to build a team of five to 10 other social-media experts, photographers, videographers, and graphic designers, and create an environment where they can pursue their professional goals and continue developing their craft,” she said.
Kelly believes that curiosity and a “better together” mindset are essential to producing high-quality, impactful assets.
“In school, you have this social aspect to learning. You’re surrounded by peers and can bounce ideas off each other,” she said. “I want to bring that collaboration into the professional space and develop opportunities to keep (my team) at the top of their game.”
For young entrepreneurs, Kelly encourages staying true to oneself. “When you’re starting out, focus on the things that make you uniquely you rather than transforming into your mind’s version of a ‘business owner,’” she said. “Don’t be afraid to let your weird show.”
Q&A
What did you want to be when you were a kid?
A pilot. At 17, I even managed to take one solo flight from Olympia to Kelso.
How do you unplug?
Quality time with friends
What book are you reading?
I’m almost through a book of old Japanese folk tales. I enjoy fiction that teaches me something about culture, art, or history.
What/who motivates you?
I’m really motivated by “the grand reveal.” That moment of unveiling the logo, packaging design, or image I’ve been laboring over, and seeing my client’s reaction (not to brag, but I’ve pulled a happy tear or two).
