Sekure Customer Spotlight – Marquess Gallery, Missouri

Though Don Marquess has been a fine art photographer for more than 25 years, when he went off to college at the University of Missouri and St. Louis University, photography didn't even factor into his career plans-he studied music. "I was going to be one of the world's greatest French hornists," he says with a laugh. But thanks to friends who were involved in photography, Marquess caught the photo bug himself, and soon began developing art photographs. After completing his studies at St. Louis University and working at Missouri Brick & Supply Co., which his father founded in 1960, he studied photography in a continuing education program and developed his color-intensive style in fine art.

Can you tell us a little bit about your life before starting at Marquess Gallery?

When my photographs were chosen to be in a very new photography process by “evercolor” to be in a  collection called “moments in time” and I was one of only 10 photographers in the country, I felt it was time to open my gallery.

What led you to your current profession? What made you embark in the art industry?

My love of color and pattern, I was very fortunate to have the proper equipment and an ability to compose photographs. I was first in all my photography classes.

What are some of the obstacles that you have faced throughout the years?

Building a customer base after closing my physical gallery at St-Louis Union Station.

What are some of your proudest moments?

I have been fortunate to have many. Photographing Mack McGwire's 6th home run in baseball (the only photographer permitted to do so), my participation with Hall of Fame Broadcaster. My photo hanging in Mike Matheny's office, and being chosen by USA Today as a “Top Holiday Gift” for my notecards and prints.

Have you changed the way you run your business? What is the biggest lesson you have learned?

With “art” photography, it is most important for people to see them. Driving buyers to the website is a major challenge.

Running a business has many advantages, but trying to do everything yourself must be challenging. How has Sekure impacted your business? Is there something about our relationship that stands out to you?

From all indications Sekure will give a forward push to our endeavors.

The payment industry is constantly evolving. Has Sekure been able to help you along this process?

Sekure has assisted us in becoming PCI compliant, and we greatly anticipate very positive results.

What advice would you give to business owners today wanting to start off on their own?

Be sure to have sufficient funding for promotion as well as production.

If you had to choose another career path, what would it be?

A writer of great American novels.

If you'd like to discover Don Marquess's work, you can visit the website here.