FIAFOTO: Capturing Views and Grounding Creativity

Episode Title: FIAFOTO: Capturing Views and Grounding Creativity

Hosted by: Michelle Marotzke, Kandiyohi County Economic Development and Elevate Community Business Academy

Guest: Fernando Alvarado, Owner of FIAFOTO

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, Michelle Marotzke sits down with Fernando Alvarado, a Spring 2023 graduate of the Elevate Community Business Academy and owner of FIAFOTO. Fernando shares his journey from retiring at age 62 to starting a creative business rooted in his passions: photography and art.

FIATFOTO—short for Fun, Interesting, and Awesome Photo—focuses on capturing cherished vistas and personal perspectives around homes, ensuring clients have lasting memories of places they love. Fernando also explores his artistic side through unique rock wrapping, driftwood sculptures, and other nature-inspired pieces, blending his love for art and the outdoors.

Learn how Fernando transitioned from a corporate career into small business ownership, the impact of the Elevate program on his entrepreneurial journey, and how his art creates meaningful connections and conversations.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

FIATFOTO’s Mission:

• Capturing meaningful views of clients' homes, such as sunsets or favorite spots, to preserve memories that endure even after moving to a new location.
• Offering a personalized photography experience that reflects each homeowner’s unique story.

Artistic Ventures:

• Fernando combines driftwood, rocks, and other natural materials to create one-of-a-kind sculptures.
• His goal is to ground viewers, connect them to nature, and inspire imagination and relaxation through his art.

Elevate Community Business Academy Experience:

• The program provided Fernando with a supportive network of peers, refreshed business knowledge, and tools to successfully launch his business.
• Collaboration with other students helped him refine his approach and build confidence in his artistic pursuits.

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Time management remains a challenge as Fernando balances volunteer work and his creative business.
• Future opportunities include collaborating with interior designers, expanding his art into retail spaces like North Shore galleries, and partnering with décor shops.

Upcoming Events:

• Fernando’s artwork will be showcased at Rick’s Cycling and Sports in Willmar during mid-November. Keep an eye on his Facebook page for specific dates and updates.

Connect with Fernando:

• Business Name: FIATOTO
• Services: Personalized home photography and nature-inspired art pieces
• Social Media: Follow FIATOTO on Facebook for event updates, art sales, and new projects

Special Thanks To:

• Rick’s Cycling and Sports for hosting Fernando’s art pop-ups.
• The Elevate Community Business Academy, a program supported by Southwest Initiative Foundation and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).

About Elevate:
The Elevate Community Business Academy is designed to help aspiring and current entrepreneurs develop the skills they need to succeed. With a curriculum from Rising Tide Capital, Elevate offers practical tools, resources, and a supportive network for business growth.

Listen Now:
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about creativity, community, and turning passion into a business!

Elevate Program: To learn more about or participate in the Elevate Program please head to elevatesba.com!

SWIF: To learn more about or support the Southwest Initiative Foundation please head to https://swifoundation.org!