change of plans


Wow. What a week. Since I last wrote I have experienced pure elation celebrating the new studio and today, the disappointment of letting it go.

Without getting into too much detail, let me explain. On Monday J and I went over to pick up the keys from the landlord. A pleasant conversation quickly and unexpectedly turned into a heated confrontation. It was as if a switch was flipped when I asked a few questions or didn't know something that he, repeatedly, told me was basic knowledge in commercial real estate. I, obviously, have never done this before and was completely confused, not to mention scared, by his manic behavior (At one point he stormed out of the studio, muttering under his breath that he wasn't sure if he wanted to do business with me anymore. And then stood outside the storefront window laughing with his business assistant. He came back in a few minutes later and said that we had obviously gotten off on the wrong foot, that he wants a tenant who doesn't give him any hassle, and that he would dissolve my lease without penalty. WHA?). I was shocked. And tearing-up. It definitely wasn't how I imagined the key exchange to go!

Afterwards we both had a sinking, icky feeling in our stomachs that wasn't going away, especially after talking to some of this guy's other tenants (they have nightmare stories! Lawsuits! Fist fights!). It's a beautiful space and the rent is fantastic for the area, but is it worth the stress of having a landlord with a short fuse?

It was a very difficult decision! Ultimately, I went with my gut feeling and decided it's not worth it. I turned the keys back over to them today and accepted the offer to dissolve the lease without penalty. I am disappointed, but also somewhat relieved- I really feel as tho I dodged a bullet with this guy. Starting this exciting chapter in my life with such bad energy in that space was a toxic situation. The right studio space is out there, I know it.

I'll be sure to keep you posted.


  1. I'm sure you must be disappointed but it seems that people who don't pay attention to their gut usually end up regretting it. There is something out there for you and you will find it! Good luck.

  2. Anonymous7:18 PM

    Hi Emilie,

    As disappointing as it may be, I'm convinced you made the right choice. I have run into people like that and it is torture you do not need. His bad energy would suck the life out of you.

    A friend mentioned that he is known to be a very difficult person.

    Something even better will come your way. You will be dazzled by your good fortune and grateful you found out in time!!!

    From: A Mom who appreciates the outstanding photo shoot you did for my daughter's wedding in 2006. :-)

  3. whaaattt???? i'm sure you are disappointed, but you should feel lucky that you found out what the situation would be be before you got in too deep. i'm sure something better will come along. landlords...i have had SO MANY bad experiences, it just makes me shudder thinking about it. everything happens for a reason.

  4. Emily3:22 PM

    Renting a house from a crazy landlord is bad enough (hello, Amherst). I am so glad that you've decided to wait. It just wouldn't have been right in those circumstances. You've built up too great of a business to have to deal with junk like that!


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