Meet Michelle Guerrero of Chateau Meow Meow in Long Beach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Guerrero.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Michelle. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My entire life, I have felt very connected and compassionate toward animals. I originally wanted to be a veterinarian and now realize we should all give more deference to our childhood dreams and aspirations. Ultimately, I ended up in the fashion industry, but that’s not stopping me from working with animals. I do love my day job, but fostering my passions on the side has given me so much. Photography has always been a passion of mine and when I purchased my first DSLR, it opened a new world up to me.

A little over a year ago, my friend found out her cat Stella was very ill. Fearing her cat might pass away, she asked me to take nice photos for her to cherish, so we did – stitches and all. On a sunny afternoon, I went to my friend’s house and took photos of the sweet kitty for hours. My friend was so grateful and suggested that I try pet photography as a side business. On my drive home I thought of the name: Chateau Meow Meow, a spin on the upscale hotel, Chateau Marmont in LA. Since that time, I’ve had the opportunity to shoot a number of pets whose owners find me by word of mouth. I’m a small operation considering I have a full-time job, but I do it for enjoyment. It’s my way of spending more time with animals, perfecting my photography skills, and giving clients precious souvenirs that last a lifetime. I feel that I capture their personalities; I like to incorporate action shots, I welcome outfit changes, and make sure the animal is comfortable in the space we’re using. Guardian participation (as pet wrangler) is encouraged, but not necessary. I have my tricks!

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I was going to launch this project about a year ago, but I had some major life changes and put it on hold. In my opinion, opening a business is daunting, especially when you can only fit it in on weekends. I try not to put too much pressure on myself and keep in mind that I’m doing it because I love animals.

Please tell us about Chateau Meow Meow.
Chateau Meow Meow is a pet photography service specializing in pet portraits such as close-ups, action shots, lifestyle, pet & guardian, and some nap times too if we get lucky. What’s cuter than a sleeping animal? I like to incorporate color into my shots using fabric and texture, lace, trims, and natural lighting.

I’m most proud of the photobooks that I design for clients. Those make people so happy!

I think what sets Chateau Meow Meow apart from other pet photography businesses is the price point – I want it to be affordable for clients. I think the inclusion of a variety of fabrics and color as backgrounds also make the photos more complex and interesting.

If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I would’ve launched my business sooner. I’m a perfectionist, so I want my ideas to be fully realized before I share them with anyone. This often ends up in procrastination!

Pricing:

• Basic photoshoots start at $180 per pet; prints and other products additional cost.
• Photoshoot + Photobook starts at $300.

Contact Info:

• Website: chateaumeowmeow.com
• Phone: (562) 270-2383
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: chateaumeowmeow

Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.