Today we’d like to introduce you to Norma & Todd Monroe.
Hi Norma & Todd, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My husband Todd & I were fully restoring our 1978 VW bus. We purchased it for camping trips with our kids however once we realized how beautiful the bus would look after restoration, we scratched that out. I began researching into ideas of how we could share the love of VWs with others and through research, we decided on converting Cali-Made into a photo bus. The restoration took about two years and was completed in 2020. Once she was home, we started our business and began the process of providing a unique Photo Booth experience inside a VW bus. We are always learning, growing and trying to build a brand that’s unique.
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?
Our biggest hurdle and struggle was starting a business during the pandemic in 2020. We started right before everything began shutting down. It was hard to get business or booked for events because they weren’t happening. However, during this time, we educated ourselves on ways to enhance and build our business through marketing and networking as much as possible within the city. We reached out to local businesses to get our name out.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We are parents to four little ones. Currently, I’m a stay at home mom & Todd works full time as owner/manager of a scrap metal company. Professionally I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker on maternity leave. Cali-Made Photo Bus was born from Todd’s background in business and my background in customer service and people-person. We wanted to provide a unique service that was nostalgic to most but also fun and entertaining. Everywhere we go, people open up about their stories of either owning a VW bus or knowing someone who did. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people from all walks of life. Todd and I are born & raised in Los Angeles and we take pride in our city and those we serve. Our photo bus is a vibe and we provide an experience for all to remember.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
We are both born & raised in Los Angeles. Todd attended Catholic school all his life and was close to his siblings. He was a track & field runner for Bosco Tech.
I was an athlete who played soccer & volleyball for Manual Arts HS. I attended public school all my life and was raised in South Central Los Angeles. I stayed out of trouble and enjoyed hanging out with my friends whenever possible.
Pricing:
- Sparkle package 3 hours $1,400
- Sun-Kissed 4 hrs (3 Photo Booth +1 hr idle time) $1,600
- Daydream 5 hrs (4 Photo Booth +1 hr idle time) $1,800
Contact Info:
- Email: Info@calimadephotobus.com
- Website: www.calimadephotobus.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CZ7Eh1OJvCM/?utm_medium=copy_link
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/114200217038694/posts/481693666956012/?d=n
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCl0Ii8TaPsq6K4oj_Q2lpRA
- Other: https://pin.it/5iTXFMU
Image Credits
Divine Lights Photography Sweetblossom photography Jvvphotography
