AUSTIN LORD/GATHER PORTRAIT STUDIO
Jen Watkins
Whether they’re working behind a desk, in the field, or on the road, trailblazing women are paving their own way in Music City. Now they’re taking a break from their busy schedules to share their success stories with us.
THE DAILY HUSTLE
The Nashville Smile Bar builds and distributes photo booths to people and brands both locally and throughout the country. We service any type of event you can think of: weddings, concerts, conferences, grand openings, birthdays, showers...everything!
EARLY ASPIRATIONS
I was immersed in the hospitality industry as a marketing director at a fast-growing Nashville restaurant group prior to starting Smile Bar. That position gave me a lot of the core insight into what goes into branding and what growing business looks like. It helped me realize my passion for the guest experience—a key component to our company culture within Smile Bar. I saw a need for a more customer service-focused photo booth business in 2016, which led to the decision to start Smile Bar. As a child, I was very shy, which might be why I occupied myself with drawing, painting, and more creative activities. I never imagined I would do something that was so people-focused as a career. But now, I can’t imagine it being any other way.
THE DEFINITION OF SUCCESS
Success for me is having the freedom to put work aside when needed, doing the activities that bring me joy and self-care, enjoying time with my family, and not feeling consumed by the weight of owning a business...finding fulfillment in both professional life and personal life.
WORK PERKS
I love that our company captures memories for so many, documenting some of the most special events in people’s lives. It’s a joyful and rewarding business getting to be part of these memorable moments. Photo booths really do bring out the fun in all of us.
THE NASHVILLE CONNECTION
I grew up in Nashville and have watched it grow and evolve into the exciting, vibrant city that it is today. Seeing the growth in entertainment and events in this city was a major inspiration for starting the company.
ADVICE TO OTHERS
There is no right path to take to have a successful career. Learn as much as you can about the things that interest you. If you have an idea for a business, do your research, play into your strengths, utilize your network of people, and come up with a plan.
Meet Jen Watkins and other women in the local community who are the best in their fields at our annual Women in Business event.
>>> PURCHASE TICKETS
The mix and mingle reception will be held on August 18 from 5-7:30 p.m., to network with our Women in Business honorees plus 300 other local business professionals. Throughout the evening, we will be doing live Q and A sessions with each woman!