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Conversations with the Inspiring Kaytlin Annan

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaytlin Annan.

Kaytlin, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a 22-year-old, soon to be a graduate, a student at Colorado State University. I am getting my degree is Organization and Innovation Management (a Business Degree). I started my first company at 18 years old, K. Michelle Photography. This company was started in site to capitalize on my opportunity to gain income from my passion. Our slogan is “capturing the moments that last a lifetime”, and that’s what I plan to continue doing. I will be starting my second company in January of 2020, following my graduation. I am still in the planning stages, such as finishing the business plan and building my team, so, not much can be said about that, but I look forward to keeping you posted!

Has it been a smooth road?
I would not say that it has been a smooth road, but definitely a road worth traveling. From a very young age, I knew that my education was important, but something that has never a passion of mine. That being said, I have taken off a semester, gone out of state, and gone back and forth on my degree. Now, being near the end of the road, I can say that it will be well worth it, I just needed to find something to connect with. What I found easiest to connect with was the fellow students, professors, family members, and friends that share the same vision as you. That would be my biggest piece of advice to anyone in the business world. Surround yourself with people that share your same visions and goals. When you have people surrounding you that encourage, motivate, and help guide you down your path, you will then see that the little stuff doesn’t matter, just keep your eye on the prize. As a woman in business, specifically, would be a bit more direct. People treat the way that you allow them to treat you. While being a 22-year-old woman in business, there are times that doubts are thrown my way for no tangible reason. Whether those reasons are age, experience, sex, or financial, I ensure that I am treated with respect and that my voice is heard. Respect is earned, not given, so be sure to remember who you are, how you deserve to be treated, and that your voice might just change the world. Don’t lose your vision.

Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I work full time as a bartender, I am a full-time student, I own a photography company, I’m starting another company when I graduate, and I have joined the multi-billion dollar company, Rodan and Fields, as a side hustle. When I Get asked “what I do” it is a very long, drawn out answer. To simplify, I’m mostly known for being an opportunist. If I see an opportunity that I can capitalize on, I do it. I talk to the right people, grow my resources, learn and listen. I don’t plan on stopping any time soon. If I am not growing as an entrepreneur or a woman, I feel as if I am lost. I am proud of where my first company has grown, and where I see it going. I appreciate that I have been able to grow so many wonderful relationships through photography, and also in my life of business. I feel that work ethic, and understanding that I can always learn and grow, is what sets me apart, and will set any woman apart in the business world.

Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
Finding a mentor is one of the most important things in succeeding in business. I’m blessed to have my life mentor and business mentor all wrapped up in one. Stacy Sullivan, a businesswoman of Florida, is a family friend that I have looked up to since a very young age. She and her husband run multiple companies and have a “power couple” feel about them. She is someone that has helped guide me through business decisions, always has advice, and is always ready to cheer me on. Even on my days, I know I am okay because she is just a phone call away. I would recommend finding someone that sparks motivation inside. It doesn’t matter if it is a professor, family friend, family member, or someone that you idol on social media. Just be sure to reach out and let them know what they do for you, and that you would be honored to have them as a staple in your life. Don’t hold back, or feel self-conscious about asking questions. No question is too small or too big, especially when being asked by the possible mentee.

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