Autobooth
“Having an experienced advisor review our business plan, financials, and strategy, and give honest feedback on what worked and what needed to change, made a huge difference. It gave us confidence that we were doing things the right way and not skipping important steps. That was the most valuable part for us.”
Profile
Autobooth is a mobile photo booth business housed in a red vintage Ford Falcon van, lovingly restored and thoughtfully designed for events of all kinds. The van serves as both a functional photo booth and a visual feature at weddings, corporate events, community gatherings, and other special events.
In addition to providing photo services, the van acts as a natural meeting point where guests can gather, interact, and capture moments together. The design reflects the owners’ creativity, attention to detail, and years of experience in the event industry, creating a setup that draws people in and encourages connection while helping guests capture memorable moments.
Autobooth serves clients across the Bay Area and offers different service packages that include on-site support, printed photo strips, and digital sharing options. Additional customization, including branded elements and event-specific design details, allows the business to serve both private clients and corporate partners. It provides a unique way to enhance events and create lasting memories for guests.
Challenge
When Felice and Hannah came to the SBDC, they needed support evaluating the feasibility of their business concept and determining whether their original venue-based idea was financially realistic. They were seeking guidance on startup costs, funding strategy, business model viability, and how to structure a concept that aligned with their available resources.
As their concept evolved into a mobile photo booth business, they needed assistance translating the idea into a practical business plan with realistic financial projections, startup budgets, and revenue assumptions.
They also needed support in identifying appropriate financing options and navigating the loan process to secure the funding required to purchase and outfit the vehicle.
Beyond startup financing, they faced the additional challenge of setting up the business properly, including legal structure, banking, insurance, and go-to-market planning.
Game Plan
When the clients first came to the SBDC, they were pursuing a larger venue-based concept. Paul reviewed their business plan, startup projections, and funding strategy and helped them recognize that while the idea had potential, it required a level of investment and risk that was not realistic for their current stage. This helped the clients reassess the concept and ultimately pivot back to their original mobile photo booth idea.
From there, Paul worked closely with them to develop and refine their business plan for the photo booth business, including a detailed review of startup budgets, revenue streams, execution strategy, and two-year financial projections. His review helped ensure their assumptions were realistic and their business model was financially sound.
Paul also helped the clients evaluate funding options, compare loan products, calculate loan amounts and payments, and prepare their Working Solutions microloan application. After approval, he reviewed the loan terms, collateral requirements, and final documents with them before signing.
In addition, Paul advised them on business setup and early go-to-market planning, helping ensure the business was properly structured and prepared for launch.
“Paul also guided us through the loan process and helped us understand every step along the way. The whole experience felt smooth and straightforward. The support of the SBDC played a critical role in helping us launch the business.”
Felice Faison And Hannah Lichtenstein, OWNERs, Autobooth
Results
- Started business
- 2 full-time people (owners)
- Had a successful first private event and confirmed as a vendor for the upcoming May Madness Car Show & Parade in San Rafael
- $31,000 loan from Working Solutions
- $15,000 owner investment
