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August 12, 2024
KAUKAUNA – The owner of a downtown Kaukauna business said she is fulfilling her mission to provide a unique, functional space for photographers and community members alike.
Kimmy Bowman opened The Space on Second as a dual-purpose venue – a rental studio for photographers, videographers and content creators, as well as an intimate event space for baby or bridal showers, small parties, business meetings or workshops.
Bowman – who is also co-owner of KLEM Studios in Green Bay – said owning a studio has always been in the back of her mind.
Making a change
After a short-lived career in human resources, Bowman said she realized she needed to make a change.
“I was doing photography on the side for a while, and I enjoyed the creative outlet of it,” she said. “Connecting with people was special to me. I had an inkling I’d like to have a studio space for photographers to rent because of the communal and connective aspect of it and to be more ingrained in the community.”
When she heard the owner of the business who previously occupied the space (Wi Creative Studio) was thinking of selling, Bowman said she reached out for more information.
“I took a tour, and I fell in love right away,” she said. “It had so much untapped potential. I immediately felt inspired, so I decided to figure it all out as I was going.”
A scant two months later, Bowman said the space was hers.
“I’ve always been wildly passionate about creating meaningful connections and fostering creativity that thrives on community over competition, which is what drew me into the space the moment I walked in,” she said. “The energy and potential in this studio is truly magical.”
A peek inside
Bowman said The Space on Second – nestled in downtown Kaukauna on, you guessed it, Second Street (127 E. Second St. to be exact) – is comprised of two areas – a 900-square-foot open space featuring northeast-facing windows providing diffused natural light all day; and a 200-square-foot “getting ready” room in the back, complete with a kitchen.
“The space can comfortably fit 30 people seated at tables and about 40-50 people standing for events,” she said.
Bowman said lighting equipment, props and working backdrops are also available for use by renters.
Jordan DeMenter – owner of Precious Pearl Photography, focusing heavily on weddings – said she is a frequent renter at The Space on Second.
“I love being there throughout the day and capturing everything couples can look back on,” she said. “From the little details to the big – it all matters.”
DeMenter said she rented studio time in the space before Bowman took over but had followed Bowman’s work as a professional photographer and appreciated her style.
“When Kimmy took over The Space on Second, she added a lot more props, fun ideas and fun workshops to better photographers in the area,” she said. “I personally would never rent another studio other than The Space on Second because Kimmy makes it stand out – the possibilities are endless, and she’s always adding more.”
Flexible offerings
Weekday bookings – Monday through Thursday – Bowman said, begin at $45 per hour, with weekend rates – Friday through Sunday – beginning at $55 per hour.
Tables and chairs are available for rent as well, and the fee includes setup and takedown. Bowman said bookings are taken online, and each renter receives a personalized welcome from her, along with an access code for a lock box to enter the space.
Bowman said she also offers discounts for frequent users who sign up for the Creative Club and plan to use the space for six-plus hours per month.
Available in three- and six-month membership tiers, she said The Space on Second’s Creative Club allows renters to receive 50% off hourly rentals and 10% off event tickets.
As word of mouth and social media marketing efforts have spread, Bowman said business is increasing.
The studio – which recently celebrated its first year of operation – she said, is especially popular during inclement weather and the winter months.
Bowman said The Space on Second is perfect for any time a controlled environment is desired.
“It’s a nice option, especially for babies and kids,” she said.
Bowman said she has been pleasantly surprised to receive such a warm welcome in the community.
“Everyone has been receptive and welcoming, especially the renters since I’ve taken over,” she said. “I was a little nervous to manage that transition, but a lot of the renters were welcoming and excited – I was not expecting that. The community that rents here is awesome.”
For more information on The Space on Second, visit thespaceonsecond.com.
