Mantua – A new shop opened its doors recently in Mantua, though the occupants are no stranger to the village. Five Five Media Company, Holly and Matt Michelson’s photography and videography business has been in operation since 2011, so while this isn’t a new business, it’s definitely a new location, at 4690 East Prospect Street.
Five Five has also carved a niche with an ability to tell compelling stories with photos and film — something that brides and wedding-goers have come to value and trust. They’ve grown organically along with their wedding clients, adding infant and family sessions. Five Five has grown with their clients, by providing comprehensive photos, videos, and collateral for their businesses as well.
Holly Michelson shared, “I’m a storyteller and to do it effectively, I need to make my subjects feel comfortable.” In the years she spent photographing couples from their engagement photos to their special day, she explained, “It’s that connection that helps me dig deep into their story.” She continued, “We can do a better job by knowing who they are and what’s important to them. It’s not about us, it’s about sharing their story.”
As the only vendor with the couple the entire day, we saw an unmet need and added videography to better serve them. Later, Five Five added design services in order to help couples cohesively communicate their story of this major life event. Over time, as couples became families and began businesses, Five Five’s business expanded organically to incorporate infant and family photography sessions, business photos and videos, logo design, online media, and corporate literature. Clients appreciate the cost and time savings of having one team document their story, to streamline the process. The end result ensures they’re provided a cohesive message as their final ‘masterpiece’.
As businesses pivoted amid Covid challenges, Five Five expanded their capabilities to include social media content development and management and rebranding to better serve their clients. This move was made possible by a partnership Michelson forged with Leah Alderman. Alderman, whose background in corporate HR makes her adept at creating systems and structure and tracking the meticulous details to keep projects running smoothly. Michelson focuses on the creative side, using her photography, videography, editing and content creation skills. This unique blend of skills has helped their business thrive, booking three times the work of the previous year in spite of the pandemic.
The pair worked through 2020 to renovate their new office space, creating a welcoming space for their clients who have become friends. Michelson explained about the time before their partnership. “I had my own little rowboat, and the water started getting choppy as more and more clients climbed aboard,” Michelson explained. “Now we each take an oar,” she explained. With Alderman providing a check and balance for Michelson’s creativity and Michelson providing the same to Alderman’s business side, “we’re making headway as we row together in the same direction.”
The increased business has prompted the company to take on a third photographer (in addition to Michelson’s husband Matthew, who also lends his services in this role). They’ve added a graphic designer to their team as well. And in this challenging business environment, the team is busier than ever.
Alderman explained, “In a time of uncertainty, it’s the feeling of comfort that makes us stand out. When they enter, we want our clients to feel a welcome embrace.” It’s something that resonates in a year where we can’t physically do so,” she added.
Whether documenting major life events or in communicating your company’s mission, “every moment is part of your story,” Michelson explained. That’s why she and Alderman work tirelessly to craft and communicate your message. It’s not surprising that the company’s mission conveys that same desire to, “Imagine your story as a masterpiece.”
In addition, Five Five will continue mural projects around the village. You may recall that Michelson made an impact last year when she took on two mural projects (the first w/local artist Amanda Wascovich) near R44 Butcher & Baker and later, near R44 Coffee. Be on the lookout for more murals to be added in various locations throughout the Village in the coming (warmer) months.
For more information on the services they offer, visit fivefivemediaco.com online, on social media, or in person at the studio at 4690 East Prospect Street in Mantua, or give them a call at (440) 223-2473.
