Hope you’re all doing well! In addition to sharing resources and local small business updates amidst these uncertain times, we’re hoping we can still bring you some feel-good stories and chats to lift your spirits and be a respite from all of the news.
This week we’re chatting with Hannah Hutter! You’ll likely recognize her as the photographer behind Hannah Rosie Photography (we featured her work in this Just Married story last year!). She shares a bit about how she’s coping with social distancing, some of the favorite spots she can’t wait to re-visit once we’re back to business as usual, and a pretty sweet (pun intended) idea she’d like in Glens Falls in the future.
Tell us about yourself!
Hello, hello! I’m Hannah, but those closest to me call me Han. I own Hannah Rosie Photography (formerly Simply 23 Photography). I’m a wedding photographer and I also specialize in branding photography for small business owners, brands and bloggers through the signature service I offer, 518 Insta-Brand. I’m the biggest hopeful romantic you’ll ever meet. I just love “love” and I always feel so lucky to cross paths with so many unique love stories and couples in love. In addition to being a full-time photographer, I am a content creator alongside one of my best friends through a venture we began last year called “Those Upstate Girls” (@ThoseUpstateGirls on Instagram). I’m also a dog mom to the most handsome golden retriever, Daks. Simply put, I just love life and am so blessed to be able to do what I love for a living.
On Life in Glens Falls
I wasn’t born here (I was born on Long Island), but I grew up in the area and am a graduate of South Glens Falls High School. I have always loved downtown Glens Falls and watching the city evolve and transform into what it is today has been such a privilege. There’s just something about the small-town vibe of this city that I absolutely adore. The fact that Glens Falls is not only home to, but is also so central to some of the most popular wedding venues in the capital region, played a huge part in why I chose to establish my business here. Honestly I couldn’t imagine life anywhere else now.
Hands down my favorite thing about Glens Falls is how much the community celebrates small business and female entrepreneurship. I can guarantee you will not find another community of women owned businesses that work together and support each other like the ones in this area. Sometimes I just pinch myself because being surrounded by so many uplifting, inspiring women feels like a dream. I’m so lucky to know so many of these girls on both a business and personal level too.
On Social Distancing
I’ve really just been using this time to rejuvenate and get things done that I wouldn't typically have time for on a day to day basis. I am also utilizing the takeout and delivery services by so many local restaurants. It’s so convenient and it feels great to support local, especially during this time. I’m someone who is almost always on the go, so slowing down but knowing the rest of the world has too is kind of nice. Don't get me wrong though, I’m totally ready to get back to life as normal whenever that may be.
A Perfect Glens Falls Day (…post-social distancing)
I’m a huge coffee person and one of my favorites just so happens to be the sweet vanilla iced coffee from Juicin’ Jar, it’s absolutely delish! One of the highlights of my week is always seeing my girl Baileigh of Makeup by Baileigh for my weekly lash appointment. Just stepping foot into Studio Elements brightens my day, the place itself and the ladies that work there just radiate good vibes and it’s one of my favorite spots to sit back and get pampered. The 518 Beauty Room is my go-to spot for a facial and Minky Mink is always my saving grace when I’m looking for chic attire to wear for an upcoming wedding. I love Whisper Boutique for an everyday cute and comfy outfit too! I swear downtown Glens Falls has some of the best spots around for dinner and drinks. Morgan and Co, Craft on 9 and Downtown Social are all great options for either a date night or a girls night out.
On The Past
I’ve been a dancer since I was 2 years old. Growing up I danced at The Bolton Dance Academy. One of my best memories would be performing during Christmas time at Hometown Holidays and The Festival of Trees at The Queensbury Hotel. There’s always been something so magical about that time of year and helping people get into the Christmas spirit while performing at these events was just so special and something I will never forget.
On The Future
I think it would be so cool to have some sort of upscale pâtisserie or confectionery downtown! Somewhere you can go after dinner to satisfy your sweet tooth and enjoy in a sophisticated setting.
I’m just really excited to see what the future holds for Glens Falls! I know it’s very up and coming and in the next 5-10 years it will be an even better place to live than it is right now. The best is yet to come for sure.
