Nallayer Studios is Making the South Sound Look Great

[5/24/22] Listen to the latest episode of Making It in the South Sound to hear Chamber Board Chair AJ Gordon interview local photographer, videographer, and small business owner Reyallan Thompson talk about his business journey to success in the South Sound.

Reyallan's journey to being a successful small business owner in Pierce County actually started thousands of miles away in the Philippines, where he was born. He moved to Washington with his family at a young age and attended Franklin Pierce School District. Following that, he graduated from Clover Park Technical College. Now, he's a business leader in a diverse community of creatives making their mark on the South Sound. 

Photo credit: Nallayer Studios

Reyallan knew for a long time that he wanted to own his own business. However, he tested out many different ideas before finding his passion. He landed on photography—specifically focused on weddings—but that was only half the battle. He credits hard work and having a strong community of supporters as what made his success possible. 

He also participated in the Pierce County Business Accelerator, a program of Pierce County's Economic Development Department administered by the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce. He states that the program helped him meet a community of like-minded individuals, access resources, and find opportunities. 

Photo credit: Nallayer Studios

"I want to create opportunities in Pierce County for students who are like myself."

Looking to the future, Reyallan is passionate about helping other young creatives in the South Sound. He wants to reach other college graduates like himself who face the challenge of knowing how to use their degree, and show them how to apply that to find their passion and success as entrepreneurs. He strongly recommends the Pierce County Business Accelerator as a pathway for individuals to make their business dreams a reality.

View more of Reyallan's photography work at nallayerstudios.com.

Listen to previous episodes of Making It in the South Sound and subscribe to the podcast. 

Interested in being a guest on a future episode of Making It in the South Sound? Learn more here.