Growing up with a sister who's a fashion photographer and a mother who’s also talented with the camera, Georgia McNab has always had a passion for modelling and being photographed.
Then, after a trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake two years ago when she attended a selfie studio with friends, she gained inspiration to put together something similar in Cambridge.
That’s how Dawn Daze Studios on Dickson Street was born.
“This is Waterloo region’s first selfie studio,” McNab said.
“It’s a photography studio you can rent out for your friends and family. I fell in love with the concept and the idea. It was so much fun. Even being in our 30s, it was still a blast. The idea kept nagging at me and I took the plunge for myself.”
McNab has quite the entrepreneurial spirit as she opened another business in Galt just over a year ago that also showcases her creative flare.
Off the Block is a custom hat store she set up in the old Ray Electric building on Park Hill Road. Running both businesses has been a bit crazy, McNab says, but she loves having two different creative outlets.
The studio will feature three different installations that will be changed twice a year. Around Christmas time it’ll be set up with a Santa-style theme, perfect for holiday greeting cards.
McNab says she’s already received inquiries from people to rent out the space, with the largest group so far being for 22.
Her target demographic spans from teenagers and families to businesses and bachelorette parties.
“Why wouldn't you want to get your friends and family together to take some memorable photos?” she said.
“I've received inquiries about businesses that want to rent the space and bring their team together to connect.”
McNab says the surrounding business community has been very welcoming to her. It’s something she appreciates and believes makes opening a new business easier.
“It’s been nice, everyone's been pleasant so far and respectful,” she said.
“The BIA is great, they've helped me along the way. People are welcoming and businesses on the street have been great.”
With renovations nearly complete, a grand opening is scheduled for Sept. 9 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. with drinks, food and music.
McNab is looking forward to welcoming the community and hopes people take advantage of the opportunity to create new memories.
“I’m drawn to the community aspect,” she said.
“I’m hoping people will have a lot of laughter, good memories and photos to look back on.”
Bookings can be done online. Once booked, customers will receive a code for the door to let themselves in.
Visit dawndazestudios.ca for more information.
