Business Leader: ‘Only doing something you love are you ever fulfilled’

Limerick man Mike Mulcahy has turned his passion into a full-time company concept – and now he is hoping to expand it further

Tell us a little about Photo Treasures

I came across the concept of Photo Treasures while I was living in London. I was always of the belief that what originates in Britain will eventually make its way back to Ireland. I produce memorable personalised paperweights. Working with two sizes of crystal glass, round and oval, I ask customers to email me a quality photo of what they’d like encased. It’s then downsized. printed onto ultra-violet light protected photographic paper, customised, cut and encased in the back of glass with felt added to complete the unit. The finished product comes in a gift box with a stand.

What are your specialties?

To date, pets and memorials are my bestsellers. I have in the past year produced paperweights for Pery Square business college, Thomas Street framing, Rooney auctioneers, Birchwater Education and Da Vincis to name just a few.

What does your role entail?

Everything from advertising, seeking out new markets, and expanding the range, to delivering this all to my customer.

Where were you born and raised?

I was born and raised in St Joseph’s Place in Limerick where I live once again today. I had lived in Harrow, North West London, for 15 happy years.

What is your educational background?

I am educated to leaving certificate standard from Sexton Street CBS in the city. As of late, I have completed a start your own business course with the Ireland Smart Ageing Exchange in O’Connell Street, for individuals over 50 with a new business idea. This was in conjunction with the Bank of Ireland. On top of this, I have also attended a number of seminars organised by the Limerick Enterprise Office and the Paul Partnership.

How did you get to where you are today?

I spent most of my working life as a furniture sales consultant both here in Limerick and in London for mostly middle-market retail stores.

What made you want to go into business alone?

I have always enjoyed selling and engaging with customers, but I felt I had more to offer in doing something for myself that I love. It’s only by doing something you love will you ever feel fulfilled and happy.

What are your goals for the next 12 months?

I plan to get my crystal glass into souvenir and religious shops, as well as advertising in local press, Facebook, Instagram, Etsy and www.rip.ie. I’d also like to set up an e-commerce web site.

In business and life, who do you admire?

Richard Branson comes to mind. He is dynamic, a visionary, has a can-do attitude to life, and counts his blessings.

Are you guided by any particular motto?

‘In all adversity lies the seed to greater success’. A wise man or woman will learn more from their failings than their successes.

Away from work, what are your pastimes and hobbies?

I am a member of Limerick Climbing Club and enjoy reading mostly personal development books. One I would recommend is ‘Maximum Achievement’ by Bryan Tracey. I also volunteer at the free dinner service in Limerick on Sundays.

For more information on Photo Treasures, telephone 085-1557552, email phototreasures1@gmail.com, or visit Photo Treasures on Facebook.