Editor's Note: This story is the latest in an occasional series on young leaders and entrepreneurs trying to make a difference in Texarkana.
TEXARKANA, Texas -- Molly Kendrick is a force to be reckoned with -- both in and out of the studio and arena.
Whether capturing precious moments as a professional photographer or competing as an equestrian, Kendrick gives all of herself in all aspects of her life.
As owner of Golden Hour photography studio downtown, Kendrick is accustomed to sharing significant aspects of people's lives, both with and without a camera. So it made perfect sense to her that the studio should be shared with other photographers in the area.
"Bringing a shared studio to Texarkana is a dream I have had for years. When I stumbled into this gem of a building, I knew I had found the space I'd been manifesting. It started out as something that I was looking into for myself as an independent photographer, but when I saw how beautiful the space was, I just knew it had to be shared with other creatives," she said.
Golden Hour rents out seven rooms and access to a large hallway. The approximately 1,600-square-foot studio provides plenty of elements to capture perfect shots, with original hardwood floors, 12-foot ceilings throughout, large floor-to-ceiling cathedral style windows, ample natural lighting and exposed, weathered brick walls. All the professional equipment a photographer could need for portraits is also available.
After pursuing professional photography from 2015 to 2017, Kendrick knew she needed the freedom and autonomy that the job enabled her to have.
"I was inspired to get into photography when I was finishing up college. I knew I wanted to be my own boss and loved the freedom of running my own photography business," she said.
That flexibility is mirrored in how she runs her business, providing opportunities for any photographer to capture what they have in mind, whether it be family portraits, boudoir or lifestyle photography.
One unique moment Kendrick was able to share with a couple was a "very sweet marriage proposal."
"The groom had come in and wanted to do the cutest surprise proposal," she said. "He came to see the space a couple of times and we discussed options that would be best. Then I worked with another vendor he hired to have 'Marry Me' spelled out in huge letters! It was the sweetest thing. All the family was in on it as well. So they were all waiting when she got there."
Kendrick intends to establish workshops at her studio to help other photographers improve technique and run successful businesses.
She is also an equestrian and has served as vice president of the Texarkana Boots and Saddle Club. She is in her second year as a member of the Texarkana-based Red Dirt Riders equestrian drill team.
"We travel and perform at regional rodeos. I also started barrel racing and pole bending this year," Kendrick said.
Recently, she was hired to begin training as a yoga teacher for Texarkana Yoga, and when she isn't photographing, riding horses or doing yoga, she is working a full-time job at White Sign Company doing marketing and sales.
For Kendrick, following her passions wasn't enough. She needed to dedicate her life to succeeding in those interests she pursued.
"I think it is really important for anyone striving for success to understand that the journey is not linear. There are lots of failures that come with being successful," she said.
Initially, Kendrick felt overwhelmed by the amount of work it would take to establish Golden Hour.
"It definitely takes a toll on you running a business, because you are the one doing every single position. People think being a business owner means you are raking in the money, but it's a lot of expenses up front and a lot of work to set up," she said.
Despite all the hard work and diligence being a business owner requires, Kendrick emphasizes that all the hours she's invested have allowed her more freedom in other aspects of her life. And she's successfully created a career that she finds fulfilling.
"It's kind of like watching your kid grow up while you do your best to make sure they have everything they need. I would own 100 businesses if I could."
(For more information, visit goldenhourtxk.com.)
Molly Kendrick, owner of Golden Hour photography studio in downtown Texarkana, Texas, said her drive doesn't end with photography but extends to horse riding and competitions, too. (Submitted photo by Brian Jones)