Since launching my own photography business, I haven’t done much marketing. So I knew I had to start getting out there and meeting new people. But I wasn’t sure where to start. This is where I’m lucky to have a strategist for a husband. Jordan decided it would be a good idea to offer free commercial photography for a few local business owners – and then write a blog about it.
It was such a good idea :). Besides learning a lot, the whole experience really boosted my confidence. I was able to build some trust in the community and practice some shots I had never taken before. One of the companies we met with was super supportive. The owner, Sean Turner, ended up using a lot of the commercial photography I took for his promos. He even partnered with us on a print media campaign.
So I thought I’d start off this spotlight series with his company, AZCA Signs and Wraps.
The Small Operation That Does a Lot of Printing.
Sean Turner has over 20 Years of Professional Graphic Design, Web Design, Printing and Sign Experience. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in graphic design and also in Marketing from California State University – where he sat on the dean’s list for two years. Sean even won the Entrepreneur of The Year from the Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2010.
When I stopped in, he had a lot going for him and was actually in need of some commercial photography. AZCA was working on multiple projects across the country with clients that ranged from smaller businesses to large corporations. The future of Sean’s company is a bright one.
How Did AZCA Get Its Start?
The well-planned service made its debut in 1999 in Southern California. After noticing less competition and lower housing costs in Arizona, Sean decided to move his business there in 2005. It’s been thriving in the same area ever since. Even the location he chose was ready for expansion.
The company is now made up of 6 employees that include the owner. He is definitely a full timer. But AZCA Signs & Wraps doesn’t just provide outstanding printing service to the community. Sean has also served on many boards and is currently a member of many organizations such as: YMCA Campaign Committee Board, PORA, Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Tips Sean Had for Other Commercial Businesses.
He takes pride in what he’s building. “We are a debt free company (and) we have always purchased used equipment and paid cash. If we don’t have the money, we don’t buy it – which is a good rule to live by,” he said during the interview. You could tell he really understood the business side of things.
When asked for advice that every CEO should live by, Sean had this to say. “Never get a bad review and never ever let a customer leave upset. Always fix and resolve the problem, even if it cost you money. A disappointed customer will tell 100 people. Good customers will maybe tell 1-4 people.”
My Takeaways From the Experience.
Outside of video, commercial photography is probably the best way to showcase the quality and professionalism of a company like AZCA. It’s not your typical office space. The layout, equipment, experience and the people all bring something to the picture.
(Update 5/4/22:) Last year, the rights to AZCA were sold and the name has since been changed. If you live in the Memphis area, and this intrigues you, feel free to reach out! Since we’re new to North Mississippi and all, it’d be great to meet some new people
