Where We've Been, Where We Are, Where We're Going

After a long absence from the virtual world, I figured it was time that I should fill everybody in on what's going on. First off, I want to start this letter with the message that - THINGS ARE GREAT! Usually, when one comes across a blog and finds an open letter to readers that starts sounding retrospective and emotional, the immediate assumption is that things aren't good. Avoid that mindset. Things ARE good, just very busy.

Where We've Been

On January 12, 2007, Towner Jones Photography opened its doors. Rosemary and I weren't looking to start a photography business, but God decided we needed to - so he dropped a wedding shoot in our lap (literally, we had 45 minutes notice) and the business began. (FYI - in hindsight, after almost five years and 50+ weddings behind us, don't do a wedding shoot with only 45 minutes notice) We've enjoyed a tremendous amount of growth that has taken us all over the country, and the best part of all, into the lives of dozens of clients and friends.

This past summer, we began exploring the option to partner with another company. The plan was to combine the businesses to reduce overhead, share our resources, and broaden our common vision. For all intents and purposes, we went on sabbatical to start planning that new business around June. 

After a great deal of prayer and other consideration, around September we realized that wasn't the path God had in store for us, and more importantly - we needed to change direction.

Where We Are

One of the most important realizations that came out of this past summer's activities was that Towner Jones Photography never had formulated the structured plan with which most successful businesses start. It is certainly a testament to the blessings that we've been given, but in fact, we had really just been along for the ride. We had enjoyed success but didn't have a detailed vision for where we wanted to take TJP over the next five or ten years and beyond.That needed to change.

Now for the explanation of the current hiatus.

After we decided not to partner up, we got fired up about reinvigorating Towner Jones Photography with the creative sparks that had started to surface over the summer. To do so, we decided to continue to serve our customers but maintain a low profile while directing our energies into completely overhauling EVERYTHING. Much of what is being done has been happening behind the scenes but we've been developing an exciting 5-year plan, streamlining our processes, upgrading our client offerings, developing new marketing avenues, and taking Towner Jones Photography to places it hasn't been before - we're talking exciting stuff.

Where We're Going

We are so excited about what the future has in store for our little company. Rose and I absolutely love working together and serving our clients. It brings about a true passion in both of us, and from what our clients tell us - it shows. We're also excited about sharing with you all that we've got up our sleeves, but that will have to wait... just a little bit longer.

Towner Jones is coming up on a huge milestone of small businesses - our FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARY!! On January 12, 2012, we'll celebrate with you our grand reopening. (no we're not actually closed right now, but 'grand reopening' sounds exciting doesn't it!) Whether it's in cyberspace or face to face, we look forward to sharing this milestone and many more years with all of you.

Thank you and God Bless,

Rob and Rose Jones