howell — Howell photographer Kelly Harper said she wants Collective Howell, her new “collaborative studio” and event space, to be versatile.
When Harper isn’t photographing clients in her more than 1,000-square-foot studio space at 214 S. Michigan Avenue in downtown Howell, others can rent it by the hour or day.
She said the space was designed with other photographers and content creators in mind. She calls the mostly open, neutral-colored space a “blank canvas” where photographers, YouTubers, podcasters, branding creatives, and more can work.
This space includes a backdrop, sofa, rug, fireplace, and kitchenette, and also has plenty of room for a table and chairs.
Harper rents out the space for events of up to 50 people, and can use purchased tables and chairs.
She will host a grand opening with live music, appetizers, bar and table decorations on Wednesday, Nov. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Collective Howell will host a pop-up market during Downtown Howell’s Small Business Saturday celebration on Nov. 25. Harper expects his six vendors to carry items such as clothing, artisan woodwork and permanent jewelry.
She will also be partnering with Sarah’s Sweet Cookies and Santa and Mrs. Claus for December giveaways and events. The winning family will receive a special cookie decorating class with Santa and Mrs. Claus on Saturday, December 2nd. Walk-in photo ops with Santa will take place on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Harper, who also works as a controller for CHI Aviation at Spencer J. Hardy Airport in Livingston County, fell in love with photography and started her own business, Harper Photography, several years ago.
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One day, while waiting in traffic for a train to pass, she saw a storefront that used to house a tool shed. She said her husband, Jody, supports her dreams.
“I always dreamed of having my own space,” she said. “Since you won’t be using it (all the time), why not share it with others?”
— Contact reporter Jennifer Eberbach at jeberbach@livingstondaily.com.