Daily Inspiration: Meet Michelle Mclean

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Mclean

Hi Michelle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have worked in a 9-5 job since I was 13 years old. It started off as an automotive dealership parts inventory manager in a co-op opportunity with my high school.

I was unable to finish my college degree right after high school so I had to finish it in order for my company to justify my salary and for breaking the woman barrier in the Automotive Industry. I obtained my associates degree with a concentration in Business Management in 2005 and gave myself a graduation present, I started a company named after my daughter, of A Bit of Bella Photography and Keepsakes.

I started that business in 2006 while still working my 9-5 job as Quality Manager of 22 facilities and being the co-chair of my daughter’s PTL. Unfortunately my chronic illness put me on disability in 2009.

This business was doubling and I decided to add a second shooter. Weddings became way too difficult for me physically anymore and my second shooter had to leave for a new job. I slowed down by 2013 only taking on small weddings, parties, senior sessions and families.

Covid had hit, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to have a double mastectomy. Continuing photography had to be on the back burner. I had also became a member of The Boss Ladies Referral Crew in 2018 to continue learning and have some of the most talented ladies in the Michigan area teaching and collaborating. This is a great community for women entrepreneurs.

In 2022 I got married and started my own Blog- The MLM Blog. I self taught my way through many things and creating a website was no different. I launched in April of 2022. The blogging market became saturated so I had to think of what could I offer others to help them.

I have taken all the tools from my past experiences and businesses to create packages as a Creative Collaborator which is much like your private public relations person. I am currently writing my autobiography that will launch mid 2025.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I struggled with my health and guilt from taking my time away from my daughter. I am a thriver and survivor of 3 different cancers and always learning new ways to deal with the pain I have from my Myotonic Dystrophy. I have also realized a no to something now doesn’t mean a no to something in the future.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am known mostly for my photography but now I use my different talents to help other entrepreneurs get new content like recorded interviews to go beyond the surface and show the real person. I use my photo skills for new profile or content photos and my business management skills to create several options such as a bake off with a nutritional expert and an outfit poll while working with a fashion consultant. I always try to bring out fun and light hearted moments to make the experience fun to make and fun to watch for their customers to see a different side of them.

What matters most to you?
Supporting small and local businesses because these are the real people in the communities you live in. I love to help them by celebrating launches, anniversary and letting as many people as possible get to know them and help with new businesses. I love to see others succeed.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativecollaborator24