With the Tuesday Q&A series, CatMax Photography introduces you to exceptional entrepreneurs who have gone through the CatMax Personal Branding Experience.
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on Jessica Lewis, a visionary entrepreneur and the CEO of Shipping Living, a trailblazing green construction firm. Established in 2018 with the ambitious goal to "Save our community, Save our planet," Shipping Living specializes in creating sustainable spaces designed to stand the test of time. The company's core values revolve around the reduction of carbon footprint and costs for clients and future generations, serving as a reflection of Jessica's unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship.
In this post, we explore Jessica Lewis's journey, learning how she designs sustainable living spaces while encouraging others to consider both the environmental impact and aesthetic potential of their living environments. the details of her Personal Branding Experience, and more.
Jessica Lewis, entrepreneur and CEO of Shipping Living
Photo Credit: CatMax Photography
Can you share a bit about how you got into building homes using shipping containers? What inspired this unique approach?
We got into shipping containers because we saw the versatile uses of the product. Containers can be used for residential, agricultural, and commercial. Just like when we were kids playing with legos, we do the same with the shipping container, we can stack them, place them side by side, and twist abs turn them, something that isn't as easy using stick and brick
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced while building homes out of shipping containers, and how have you overcome them?
Our biggest challenge was entering the market as a female, minority owned green construction business. Simply, this is not common and we were not initially accepted. However, once our peers understood how skillful we were, they accepted us with no more issues.
How does your approach to building these homes reflect current trends in sustainability and eco-friendly living?
Well, mainly in the realm of the reuse space, the use of shipping containers is underutilized in the space and lends to use of many options for the end user. There are other materials we use that are commonly used in the not so green space such as marble, quartz, and the like. The shipping container is the only out of the ordinary material. Everything else we use is common in the sustainable and non sustainable space.
Photo Credit: CatMax Photography
Could you describe the design aesthetic you aim for in your shipping container homes?
We strive for edgy and modern. Container use can be fun so we encourage uniqueness from our clients.
How important is the role of visual representation in marketing your container homes?
Well, people typically can understand something they cannot see. Visual depiction not only tells a story but also brings the end user’s ideas to life. We commonly use 3d and video representations.
How do you plan to use the images from your recent branding session to attract or engage your target audience?
We will be using them for daily content and editorial style uses.
Jessica has integrated images from her recent branding session with CatMax Photography into her social media and editorial content. These eye-catching images not only spruce up her online presence but also help communicate the innovative and eco-friendly nature of Shipping Living's projects.
What message do you hope the images convey about your brand and the homes you create?
That I'm a human behind all of the construction. Nothing makes me more humble when people see me as a celebrity, but beyond that, I am a human.
In what ways do you think professional photography impacts the perception of your business in the real estate and development industry?
Professional photography helps you look more professional and helps you polish your brand. It's necessary for people to respect your craft.
What advice would you give to someone planning a branding photo shoot?
Do it! It's a pet peeve of mind that a lot of people use selfies for professional photos.
How do you measure the success of your marketing efforts, particularly with visual content like photographs?
We usually look at our metrics. Was the photo receiving more impressions versus other types of content?
What are the next big steps for your business?
We are opening our first manufacturing plant in the next 60 days, and we will be launching our 1060-unit real estate development project.
Finally, can you share a fun fact about yourself?
I'm a foodie and avid traveler. I always desire to experience new cultures and learn from others, and for me, it comes from traveling to new countries and eating local goods.
Stay up to date with Jessica Lewis on Instagram at @shippingliving.
