Meet Rayvon Griffin | Photographer & Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rayvon Griffin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rayvon, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Personally, giving up was never an option for me. Entrepreneurship has always been a dream of mine, even when I didn’t know how I was going to do it. The thing about dreams is that the world is always going to test you to see if you really and truly want it bad enough. I learned to be careful for what you wish for because you don’t always know what you’ll have to give up to get there. Though my journey has had many peaks and valleys, I can truly say that I am thankful that I never gave up.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Rayvon Creates has been a business wearing many hats but recently I made the decision to only offer photography and makeup services. Though it was a difficult choice it was one of the best decisions I could have made. Since Covid-19 has changed our way of doing business for the foreseeable future having a photographer who can also do makeup has been beneficial for my clients. Not only does it limit how many people they have to come in contact with, the exclusivity of having a clean and cozy home studio to themselves is an added bonus.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Jacksonville is one of those cities where it is huge land wise but can be difficult to find exciting things to do. As a self proclaimed foodie I always try to find a good place to eat and just have a chill time. For daytime entertainment I would have say some must hit local spots are the Jacksonville Zoo, Sk8 City Fun Zone, and Big Talbot island boneyard beach. For a night on the town I would suggest going to the 5 points area. Hoptinger Bier Garden & Sausage House and Birdies are my go to’s. With food spots I have different spots for different moods but my go to spots are Jazzy’s Restaurant & Lounge, Safe Harbor seafood, Cowford’s chop house, Island Tropics Restaurant, and The Potter’s House soul food bistro.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have been blessed to have a village of family and friends who have continued to support me on my journey. My Mom and Dad without a doubt being my biggest supporters. Without their wisdom and encouragement I wouldn’t be the businesswoman I am today. In addition to my parents I have to give a major shoutout to my home team the Nu Chi chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity. Joining AKPsi during my time at the University of Central Florida was a turnkey moment for both my personal and professional development. It was through the Dr. William G. Callarman scholarship that I was able to purchase my company’s LLC registration my final semester of college. Last but not least my amazing friend and photography mentor Carissa of Diamondeyez photography. After sliding in her DMs Carissa graciously took me under her wing and has always offered a listening ear and word of advice. She’s gone above and beyond with her referrals and even donating props, her presence in my life will always be appreciated.

Website: https://www.rayvoncreates.com/

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