Ara Howrani didn’t exactly plan to end up as the owner of
Howrani Studios even though he took over the family business. His dad set up the commercial photography studio in the New Center area in the 1960s and Ara took over a few years ago after his dad fell ill.
Today the 27-year-old with a bachelor's degree in communications from Michigan State University runs the
business that employs one person and three independent contractors. He also manages the lofts above the studio on East Grand Boulevard, and a few others in the city.
Why did you decide to set up shop in Detroit?I'm continuing the studio and management of eight lofts at my father's (Ameen Howrani) two buildings -- this one on Grand Boulevard and an Eastern Market building
What are some of the advantages to doing business here?Not oversaturated with talent ... yet. For me, I have the legacy behind me ... so I was all set up.
What do you see in Detroit that other people who live outside the city don't?Beauty in diversity; and exploration of cultures, history, and neighborhoods.
What advice would you give to someone who was thinking about opening a business in the Motor City?Understand your customers very well; and have parties to get exposure.
If you could change one thing about Detroit, what would it be?More street lights and cops everywhere, so I could walk from Greektown to MGM, the Ren Cen to Cobo, or New Center to Wayne State in the shortest route -- in light and cop's presence like in "Boringham" or "Royal Yoke." Safety first, we need to make visitors and new dwellers feel more comfortable in these hot spots ... we got them IN the city ... now just make them feel comfortable. Oh wait.... is my answer supposed to be regarding business? If so, nothing! We have great working relationships here in Detroit, as loyal and cut-throat as we should be. Matt Cullen might walk over to say hello to me when I'm on a job, or I might have to beg a producer of the National Summit for a reply. Perfect mix here in our small-pond -- Detroit!
Source: Ara Howrani, owner of Howrani Studios
Writer: Jon Zemke
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