FNBO Amtrak Amtrak Guest Rewards Preferred card is offering a signup bonus of 35,000 points when you spend $2,000 within the first three billing cycles.
The no-fee card also bumped the bonus to 12,000.
Card Details
Annual fee of $99 is not waived
Complimentary Companion Coupon, One-Class Upgrade and a single-day
ClubAcela pass for access to ClubAcela, Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge or First class
Card earns at the following rates:
3 points per $1 spent with Amtrak
2 points per $1 spent on all other qualifying travel and dining purchases
1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases No foreign transaction fees
5% Amtrak Guest Rewards point rebate when you book your Amtrak redemption
Our Verdict
Not as good as the 40,000 point bonus that has been offered twice. Hopefully we see an increased offer with a dummy booking, but that hasn’t happened with this FNBO card yet.
FoundersCard, a membership community offering exclusive perks and discounts on travel, business expenses, entertainment and shopping, charges $595 per year for a standard membership. It’s marketed as a VIP pass for entrepreneurs and business executives. But to me, it felt less like a VIP pass and more like a coupon book that takes significant effort to use.
Although FoundersCard sounds like a credit card, it isn’t one. It’s a membership program that gives you elite status to certain airline and hotel brands and access to several discounts, plus business perks like members-only networking opportunities. Unlike the premium credit cards it competes with, you won’t earn a sign-up bonus or ongoing rewards with each purchase. And, notably, it doesn’t come with complimentary lounge access, a benefit travelers often use to justify the price of premium cards.
FoundersCard could be worthwhile for business owners wanting to take advantage of the business-specific benefits or loyalists of some of the participating airlines who spend upwards of $3,500 a year on flights. And if you can access membership for free (like I did) or at a discounted price, it might be a good deal. But at full price, it’s not a good value for most travelers.
What FoundersCard costs
FoundersCard has two membership levels:
Standard: $595 a year.
Elite: $995 per year.
It’s relatively easy to find promotions to test out the program before you pay. As of September 2024, you could receive a six-month free trial through the FoundersCard website. I received a free year of the Standard membership through my Clear membership.
Depending on how you sign up, you may have access to a different rate. For example, I was offered a renewal rate of $395 for the standard membership.
My experience
Once I filled out the application form for FoundersCard, I received an email stating that the membership board would look over my application and get back to me in one to three business days if I was approved. I received my approval email a little less than 24 hours later.
If you decide to accept a membership, you’ll need to provide your credit card information, but you won’t be charged until your trial period ends.
You can’t see the program’s full benefits until you’re approved. Once you are, you’re met with a dizzying amount of discounts, perks and elite status benefits. Here are some things you can expect:
Up to 16% off flights through United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, Etihad Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qantas and Qatar Airways.
Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy (Platinum status), Hilton Honors (Gold status), IHG (Gold status), Omni (Champion status), Sonesta (Gold status), Virgin Atlantic (Silver status), Hertz, Avis and Sixt.
Discounts on select hotels.
Preferred pricing at sporting events, concerts and plays.
Discounts at select retail stores, like Adidas, Mr Porter and COS.
Preferred pricing on gym memberships through Equinox, Crunch Fitness, SoulCycle and CorePower Yoga.
Preferred pricing on electronics through Dell, Apple and Lenovo.
Discounts and credits on business services, like Amazon Web Services, Google Workspace, Stripe, Square and Hubspot.
Discounts on memberships and daily passes at select coworking spaces.
Up to 15% off select phone plans through AT&T.
Some of these benefits can be extremely valuable, especially if you have expenses that match what FoundersCard offers. Others are similar to deals you might get on $0-annual-fee credit cards.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Some of FoundersCard discounts will be automatically applied to your purchase once you click through the link on FoundersCard’s website. But you may need to provide a promo code to receive a discount, which you’ll find once you click on specific benefits.
What I like
As an avid credit card user, I was pleasantly surprised to find perks through FoundersCard that are harder to find on credit cards. Here are a couple of my favorites:
Up to 16% off United Airlines flights
United Airlines is rarely my first choice of airline, but since I live near a United hub, it’s often the best option. So that potential 16% discount on flights would be significant for me. It’s important to note, though, that you’ll only get this discount once you pay for a Standard membership. The trial period I currently have doesn’t come with this offer.
If you pay full price for the Standard membership, you’d need to spend over $3,700 on United flights each year to break even, which is more than most people will spend. But even if it doesn’t cover the entire cost of a membership, it can cover a significant chunk for travelers who often fly United.
Keep in mind the math doesn’t apply to every participating airline with a discount. The discount varies by airline, so you might have to spend even more to break even if you’re a devoted Alaska Airlines flyer (which only has a 5% discount) or British Airways flyer (which only has an up to 10% discount).
Cheaper stays at smaller hotel brands
Don’t get me wrong: I love my hotel rewards. But sometimes it’s nice to stay at a boutique hotel that isn’t connected to a large hotel chain. FoundersCard gives you deep discounts at over 500 hotels, many of them smaller chains. You can often find 20% discounts, and several hotels even waive resort fees.
Up to 15% off Hyatt stays through Hyatt Leverage
FoundersCard gives you automatic Hyatt Leverage, a program designed for small businesses that gives participants up to 15% off qualifying stays. Anyone can sign up for Hyatt Leverage, but if you (or your employees) don’t stay at least 50 nights per year, you could get removed from the program. With FoundersCard, there’s no such requirement. Because of Hyatt’s small footprint, I don’t stay at the brand often. But a 15% discount definitely makes me seek out Hyatt hotels when it’s available.
What I don’t like
Airport lounge access isn’t free
FoundersCard will get you into No1, Plaza Premium and The Club lounges for up to 20% cheaper than the general public pays. That’s not nothing. But considering the price of a membership that touts its premium travel benefits, I’d expect to sip cocktails in a free airport lounge.
Many credit cards — some with significantly lower annual fees — get you into airport lounges at no additional cost. For example, the $395-annual-fee Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with access to Capital One lounges, Priority Pass lounges and Plaza Premium lounges. Even the United℠ Explorer Card, which has an annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $95, comes with two free day passes to United Clubs.
Low levels of elite status
FoundersCard offers automatic elite status for several hotels and rental car companies. This is a nice perk, but many hotel credit cards also offer an equivalent or higher level of elite status for a much lower price. For example: My $99-annual-fee IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card gives me Platinum Elite status for IHG. FoundersCard only comes with Gold.
Lack of transparency
FoundersCard doesn’t provide any meaningful information to prospective members. Sure, it’s relatively easy to get a free trial, but it would be nice to know what you’re signing up for — before you have to provide your credit card information.
Even with my free membership, I can’t view key information that would influence my decision to renew my membership or upgrade to the Elite level. Up to 16% off United flights is a major perk. But I can’t see what the “up to” entails without paying. If I could guarantee 16% off all United flights, it would definitely influence my decision to renew my membership. But what if this rate only applies to certain routes or certain classes? The actual benefit could be much less valuable than I’d hope for.
Inconsistent entertainment discounts
FoundersCard sometimes offers event tickets at a discounted rate. While a great perk, it wouldn’t be a selling point for me.
In September 2024, I looked at tickets to a Texas Rangers baseball game, several broadway shows and a Taylor Swift concert. The Rangers tickets were roughly half the price through FoundersCard. The Broadway shows were the same price or even more than booking through Broadway.com. And Taylor Swift tickets were selling for a whopping $2,000 more than you could book on SeatGeek.
For people who can justify the cost of FoundersCard, potential savings on entertainment is a nice addition. But for the price, I’d expect more guaranteed savings on this spending.
Calculating your potential value is complicated
Unlike many premium credit cards, FoundersCard doesn’t come with statement credits to help you cover the cost of the annual fee. You could luck out and score a great deal on a hotel room or a couple of first class flights to cover the annual fee. But if not, you’ll likely need to add up small, individual savings throughout the year and hope the value outweighs the cost.
Even the $695 annual fee on The Platinum Card® from American Express is easier for me to justify (see rates and fees). The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with complimentary lounge access, which gets me into Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges and Plaza Premium lounges, and it offers the same level of Hilton elite status (enrollment required). Terms apply.
On top of that, it’s easy to calculate the value of the other benefits. I recoup $640 each year with expenses I’m already going to make by taking advantage of three main statement credits:
$200 airline incidentals fee credit.
$200 Uber credit.
$240 entertainment credit.
Terms apply.
That leaves just $55 to make up throughout the year — significantly less than the $395 (or $995) I’d need to justify with FoundersCard.
Is FoundersCard worth it?
If you can find a free trial, it’s worth opening an account to try out the benefits. Business owners will probably get the most use out of the membership, but most travelers would probably be better off applying for a credit card with rewards and perks that match their lifestyle.
To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page.
The most notable change: Beginning in January 2025, you’ll be able to earn elite-qualifying miles (or EQMs, which allow you to earn elite status with Alaska) when you redeem your Mileage Plan miles for flights, even on partner airlines. Currently, most airlines don’t allow you to earn elite miles on award flights, and only Delta lets you earn elite miles on partner award flights (though the cost to use miles on partner flights is usually prohibitive).
This a huge boon for Alaska Airline loyalists — especially because the requirements to qualify for each status tier in the Alaska Mileage Plan remain unchanged, even with more ways to qualify for elite status.
What’s new in 2025
These are the most noteworthy Alaska Mileage Plan changes that will take effect in January 2025:
EQMs on award flights and partner airlines: All award flights booked using Mileage Plan miles on Alaska and partner airlines will now count towards elite status and earn EQMs based on distance flown. You’ll earn one EQM for each mile flown.
EQM bonuses through other partners: Earn 1,000 EQMs for every 3,000 miles earned through the Mileage Plan shopping and dining portals and through non-airline partners like Bilt and Lyft. Previously, you could earn bonus miles through these partners, but not EQMs.
New milestone rewards: Earn selectable milestone rewards, such as bonus miles and lounge access, after eclipsing each of the following EQM thresholds in a calendar year: 10,000; 30,000; 55,000; 85,000; 150,000; 200,000; and 250,000 EQMs. Previously, you’d have to qualify for a new level of elite status (starting at 20,000 EQMs) to get such rewards.
Lower mileage rates for booking partners directly: This was the one negative change in Alaska’s news, but it affects a smaller group of flyers. Mileage earnings rates will now be lower if you book travel through a partner airline’s website and credit your flight to Mileage Plan, but will remain generally unchanged if you book with a partner directly through Alaska Airlines.
New milestone rewards
As of January 2025, Mileage Plan members can earn the following milestone rewards:
10,000 EQMs – choose one of the following:
750 bonus miles.
Pre-order a complimentary meal for your flight.
One (1) complimentary Wi-Fi pass.
Try MVP status for a trip.
Earn double miles with non-air partners.
Upgrade your next Avis rental.
30,000 EQMs – choose one of the following:
2,500 bonus miles.
$25 off a future Alaska flight.
Four (4) Wi-Fi passes.
Try MVP Gold status for a trip.
$100 off an Alaska Lounge membership.
55,000 EQMs – choose two of the following:
5,000 bonus miles.
10,000 miles off an Extras redemption.
Gift MVP for a trip.
One (1) complimentary Lounge day pass.
Two (2) upgrade certificates.
85,000 EQMs – choose two of the following:
15,000 bonus miles.
25,000 miles off an Extras redemption.
Two (2) complimentary Lounge day passes.
Two (2) upgrade certificates.
Gift MVP Gold status for a trip.
Nominate someone for MVP status.
10,000 elite-qualifying miles rolled over.
150,000 EQMs – choose two of the following:
15,000 bonus miles.
25,000 off an Extras redemption.
Two (2) complimentary Lounge passes.
Two (2) upgrade certificates.
10,000 elite-qualifying miles rolled over.
200,000 EQMs – choose two of the following:
15,000 bonus miles.
25,000 off an Extras redemption.
Two (2) complimentary Lounge passes.
Two (2) upgrade certificates.
10,000 elite-qualifying miles rolled over.
250,000 EQMs – choose two of the following:
15,000 bonus miles.
25,000 off an Extras redemption.
Two (2) complimentary Lounge passes.
Two (2) upgrade certificates.
10,000 elite-qualifying miles rolled over.
The best airline rewards program gets better (for most people)
This addition of benefits without requiring more EQMs to qualify for each loyalty tier has the Alaska Mileage Plan flying in rarefied air, especially when compared to the loyalty program devaluations we’ve grown accustomed to.
One exception will be for people who fly frequently on partner airlines and credit their flights to Mileage Plan. To get the most airline miles and EQMs on partner airlines, you’ll now have to book those flights directly through Alaska Airlines, which may be more expensive or potentially not available.
Yes, a business loan may impact your personal credit score. If you run a sole proprietorship or partnership, or if you personally guarantee the business account in any capacity, your personal credit score may be affected.
Read on to learn the different ways in which a business loan can affect your credit scores, and what you can do to keep business financing separate from your personal finances.
Key Points
• A business loan can affect your personal credit if you personally guarantee the loan.
• Sole proprietors are more likely to see a direct impact on personal credit than LLCs or corporations.
• Missed or late payments on the loan may show up on your personal credit report.
• You can protect your personal credit from business debts by structuring your business as an LLC, S-Corp, or C-Corp, opening a business bank account and business credit card to keep funds separate, and understanding how defaults are resolved.
What Is Business Credit?
Business credit is based on your business’s credit history and is expressed in the form of business credit scores. Both your business credit profile and business credit scores give credit agencies, lenders, vendors, and suppliers an indication of how you handle your debts and your likelihood of paying them on time.
Building your business credit profile can pay off by giving you access to small business loans and other types of financing with favorable rates and terms.
How Does Business Credit Work?
In order to establish credit for your business, you need to first legally register it as a business entity. Once your business is registered, your business credit reports will be created when vendors, suppliers, or creditors report your company’s accounts and activity to a business credit bureau. This activity helps to generate the information that informs your business credit scores.
Difference Between Personal and Business Credit
While business and personal credit are two separate entities, the lines can sometimes get blurred.
Your personal credit score is linked to you through your social security number and uses information drawn from your personal credit reports. Your score reflects your funding and payment history, such as your use of credit cards or your record of paying off a student or personal loan, and can affect your access to future credit and what interest rates you pay. It may also be looked at by landlords and potential employers.
A business can have its own credit score, so long as it is a separate legal entity with a federal employer identification number (EIN). If you’re trying to get a business loan, some lenders may examine only your business credit history, which is reported by three major business credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and Dun & Bradstreet. Others may look at both your business and personal credit scores.
Recommended: Personal Loan vs Business Loan: Which Is Right for You?
What Types of Business Activities Can Affect Personal Credit?
In some cases, your business credit can affect your personal credit. Let’s take a closer look.
Business Credit Card Use
When you apply for a business credit card, the lender will typically perform a hard credit inquiry into your personal credit. Any hard credit pull can potentially lower your personal credit score by a few points, so you may see a small, temporary dip in your personal credit scores.
Once you’re using your business credit card, some activities will impact only your business credit, while others may affect both personal and business credit scores. It all depends on what the credit card issuer chooses to report and which credit agencies they choose to report to.
Some business credit card issuers report all of your account activity to the three major consumer credit bureaus (TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian), while others will only report negative information to those bureaus, such as being more than 30 days late on a payment.
Most Business Debt
Any type of business loan could impact your personal credit if you personally guarantee the business account or your social security number is linked to the debt. The lender will likely report a defaulted business loan to both the business and consumer credit bureaus in these cases.
How Can Business Loans Affect Personal Credit?
A business loan can affect your personal credit score in a variety of different situations.
If your business doesn’t have an EIN and the loan is tied to your social security number, for example, you would be personally liable for any debts if your business fails and is unable to repay them. Failure to make timely payments would affect your personal credit score.
Another scenario in which business loans can affect personal credit scores is when the borrower signs a personal guarantee. With a signed personal guarantee, both your credit score and your business’s credit score may be affected by missing payments. A personal guarantee also puts your personal assets at risk.
Recommended: Can Personal Loans Be Used to Start a Business?
5 Ways to Protect Personal Finances From Business Debt
If you’d prefer to keep your personal credit score separate from any business debts, there are some actions you can take to help make that happen. Below are some options you may want to look into.
1. Select the Right Business Structure
How your business is structured affects how banks and lenders interact with you. For example, if you’re a sole proprietor, it’s your name that will appear on every debt owed by your business, and your business and personal credit will be one and the same. Thus any late payments and defaults you accrue can have a negative effect on your personal finances.
If you want to sever ties, you would need to become a Limited Liability Company (LLC), S-corporation, or C-corporation. Each setup comes with a unique set of tax burdens and benefits, so when choosing a business structure, it can be a good idea to consult with a tax professional or business organization lawyer.
2. Open a Business Bank Account
Establishing a separate bank account for your business bank is one of the most important steps you can take to keep your company’s finances separate from your own.
When looking for the right bank to open a business checking account, you’ll want to consider services you need now and might need in the future (such cash flow management tools or merchant services), as well as fees for business accounts (which can be different from fees for personal accounts). Also, check the documentation requirements for opening a business bank account.
3. Consider Getting a Business Credit Card
It can be hard to get a business credit card right out the gate, especially if your credit rating is not excellent or close to excellent.
However, you may be able to find a business credit card that does not routinely report activity to the consumer credit reporting agents. Keep in mind, though, that you need to make all payments on time. Most major small business cards will report if you default on the card.
Another option may be to get a secured business credit card. A secured card uses money that you yourself deposit as collateral. This refundable deposit protects the card issuer in case of default.
Like a regular credit card, you make payments on any amount you use each month. After your business has proven to be financially responsible, you can request to upgrade to an unsecured business credit card.
4. Understand How Defaults Are Resolved
How a default is handled will depend on how the loan was set up. If you personally guarantee the loan, your lender may collect any collateral you put up to secure the loan, meaning you could lose your car or house. Likewise, all missed payments will show up in your personal payment history, which can lower your credit score and make it harder for you to get a personal loan or credit card.
If you or your partners did not personally guarantee the loan, then the business itself may be sued and any business assets you used to secure the loan might be seized. You can also expect fees, interest, and penalties to accumulate, as well as your business’s credit score to take a hit.
5. Communicate With Your Lender
When applying for a business loan, it can be a good idea to ask the lender whether it will look at your personal credit report and score before approving you for the loan. If so, this means the lender will be doing a hard credit check on your financial history, which could temporarily lower your score by several points.
It can also be smart to review any documents and contracts that accompany the business loan. If any of them request a personal guarantee and require your signature instead of your business’s, then you know you will be held personally liable for the loan or line of credit.
You may be able to challenge the personal guarantee, but if you do, the lender may deny your loan request or increase your interest rate, meaning you’ll pay more for the same product.
Personal Finances Affecting Business Loans
There are three scenarios where your personal finances might impact your ability to get a small business loan:
1. Your business is structured as a sole proprietorship or partnership.
2. Your business has a limited credit history.
3. Your business has a low credit score.
If any of the above are true, the following may impact your ability to get a loan or your loan terms:
Personal Credit Score
If your personal credit score is low, it can have a negative impact on your business loan. It may not prevent you from getting approved, but it could keep you from getting strong loan terms.
Personal Debt
Personal debt also has the potential to lower your prospects for being granted a business loan. If you have a lot of debt in your name, it may give lenders enough of a reason to charge you high interest rates, fearing you may one day default on payments.
Recommended: No Money Down Business Loans
The Takeaway
Whether a business loan affects your personal credit depends on a few factors, including the type of loan you’re applying for, how you’re obtaining the credit, and your business structure.
Applying for a business loan or credit card can lead to a small hit to your personal credit score because of the hard inquiry from the lender. If you personally guarantee a business loan, your personal credit can also be affected. Finally, if you run a sole proprietorship or partnership, your personal credit could be affected by a business loan if you put your name on the loan documents.
However, business debts don’t impact personal credit if the company and the owner are two separate legal entities and the loan isn’t connected to your name or social security number.
If you’re seeking financing for your business, SoFi can help. On SoFi’s marketplace, you can shop top providers today to access the capital you need. Find a personalized business financing option today in minutes.
With SoFi’s marketplace, it’s fast and easy to search for your small business financing options.
FAQ
Are business loans based on personal credit?
In some cases, yes. A business loan will likely be based on your personal credit if your company is structured as a sole proprietor or partnership, if your business’s credit history is thin, or if your business has a low credit score.
Can a business loan show up on my personal credit report?
Yes, a business loan can show up on your personal credit report if you personally guarantee the loan or if the lender reports it to credit agencies. This typically occurs in cases of sole proprietorships or small businesses where personal and business finances are closely linked.
Do small business lenders check personal credit?
In some cases, yes. Lenders will likely check your personal credit if your business doesn’t have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), meaning the loan will be in your name, or if your business is new or has a low credit score.
Can a business loan affect getting a mortgage?
If your name is attached to the business loan in any way, then yes, it can affect your ability to get a mortgage.
When applying for a mortgage, your lender will likely look at your debt-to-income ratio. Your business loan (and any other debt you already have) combined with a new mortgage could potentially push you past the threshold that lenders like to see.
If your business is a separate entity, then a business loan will not likely impact your ability to get a mortgage.
Can my LLC affect my personal credit?
Yes, your LLC can affect your personal credit if you personally guarantee loans or credit for the business. In such cases, defaults or late payments could be reported on your personal credit report. However, if the LLC borrows without a personal guarantee, your personal credit may remain unaffected.
Photo credit: iStock/Rockaa
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Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .
Do you want to learn how to become a photographer? Many photographers are making $50,000 and over each year. Today, I have a great interview to share with you. I interviewed my friend Sydney Hampton on how to become a photographer. I actually met her when I hired her to take my maternity photos, and…
Do you want to learn how to become a photographer?
Many photographers are making $50,000 and over each year.
Today, I have a great interview to share with you. I interviewed my friend Sydney Hampton on how to become a photographer. I actually met her when I hired her to take my maternity photos, and later on my newborn photos. We stayed in touch, and I recently asked her if I could interview her for this article.
Sydney is a photographer who focuses on family, couples, maternity, branding, and newborn photography.
The demand for this kind of photography is high, and many people are looking for quality photographers for these types of photos.
Are you wondering questions such as:
How much money can a professional photographer earn?
Is there room for new photographers?
What equipment does someone need to become a photographer?
How many hours does it take each week to run a photography business?
If so, these questions, plus more, will be answered in today’s interview about how to become a photographer.
Today’s interview will help you get started and perhaps even introduce you to a new way to work at home.
Recommended reading:
Tell me your story. Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Sydney Hampton and I am a wife, mom, and photographer. I am the face behind Sydney Hampton Photography. I love being a photographer and helping others figure out their path in the world of photography.
I am also the creator of The Mom Photographers, a group that helps moms who are photographers get more organized, manage their time better, and grow their businesses so that they can grow their business while balancing life as a Mom. The Mom Photographers is a community, educational hub, blog site, and we have a podcast on Spotify that features moms who are photographers and business owners.
What kind of photography do you do?
I do several types of photography, but currently I focus on family, couples, maternity, and newborn. Maternity and newborn have my heart, but I have also done many other types of photography including weddings, senior portraits, and business and branding photography.
This year, I am really focusing on family, maternity, couples beach photography and in-studio sessions such as newborn and business branding. As a photographer in a prime vacation destination, I tend to do a lot of beach mini sessions and have found that men and children are usually not up for full sessions. This has helped to truly launch my business to another level where I am able to do mini sessions weekly.
Why did you decide to become a photographer? How did you get started?
I have always loved photography and really started getting into it in about 2006 when I was in high school. I grew up with photography all around me; my Dad was a professional sports photographer. So from a young age, I learned how to shoot in manual and learned important key things like composition.
Like many though, I really thought of myself as an amateur, especially being around family members like my dad and his brother, my uncle, who also is a photographer but an amazing wildlife photographer. After the first 2 years of college, I put my camera down for a few years. When my father passed, I inherited his camera and really picked it back up as a way to connect with him.
To be honest, it was my husband who gave me the confidence to become a professional photographer. After watching me for 2 years continuously take photos of landscapes, our van, and dog on road trips and seeing the passion I had for it, he convinced me to take a leap and go for it.
I truly decided to become a photographer as a way to do what I love, and maybe make some money. With my husband’s support, we were prepared for it to make nothing, so the risks were low.
In the beginning, I attribute all of my success to the military community! As a military spouse, I was able to reach out to the military spouse community and have clients that I still service 5-plus years later and in different states! The support from that community has been ongoing. I was able to grow a following on Instagram and Facebook, which really helped create my business as a Florida Keys vacation photographer. Having followers and clients who shared my work regularly, allowed me to establish credibility and book new clients.
What do you like about having a photography business?
My favorite part about having a photography business is that I get to be with home with my kids all day every day. Having the freedom to create my schedule, be with my family, and to be creative is beyond any financial benefit. While this year has been my busiest and most financially beneficial year thus far, I have made sure to dedicate time to doing things with my kids where I can set my phone aside. I have found that the biggest blessing has been to step away from work and not be worried.
I love how diverse photography as a career is. For example, it can be very simple like just stock photography on the side, or just weddings or you can open a studio and become a portrait and newborn photographer… Or you can do it all! You can photograph events such as weddings for thousands per wedding, do family sessions, maternity, business advertising, even sell products like landscapes, start blogs and podcasts, create courses, write books, and more. Just like with many other opportunities, the sky is the limit – it’s a perfect career for someone creative and driven, yet also great as a side gig.
I have been fortunate to see many sides of photography from just word of mouth within a small community with a few clients to over 400 clients so far this year alone. I have loved that I get to meet new people with each shoot and that I am able to connect with people from all walks of life.
I believe in growing and learning from others, which is part of why I created a community called The Mom Photographers where I host a podcast/blog and talk with other moms who are photographers about all the topics we face. Things like how do you edit with kids, what does workflow look like when you have kids, and ways to get started. Through The Mom Photographers, I will also be releasing educational videos, courses, presets, and doing hands-on/virtual workshops.
How much money can a professional photographer earn?
Again, it’s all flexible. You can do it very part-time and only make a few thousand a year or you can make a million. It truly depends on a few key principles such as the amount of time and effort you want to put in, the quality/ consistency of your work, and the type of photography you choose to do.
On average, most photographers can expect to make about $50,000 in a small town or non-tourist destination.
In a tourist destination or bigger city it is easy for a photographer to make $75,000+ with the right tools in their pocket and a quality consistent product. Now, I’m not saying anyone who just buys a camera can walk out and expect to make $75,000. It takes professionalism, some business knowledge and having a quality product that people want to buy. It also takes time, but working with a mentor or shadowing a photographer are ways to speed that up. I have also found that those who do start with a mentor or who work under an established photographer their first year tend to make more money and be more successful in the end.
I am actually mentoring 5 photographers currently and just hosted a styled shoot with 12 other photographers. To me, connecting with others is key! So to be able to host a shoot that I create and make money is a blessing.
What equipment does someone need to become a photographer? Do they need to spend a lot of money to get started?
Someone looking to get started will need a camera, a lens, computer and a few programs to help make them successful such as Lightroom. To get started as a family, couples or wedding photographer I definitely suggest having a professional level camera/lens set up.
I always suggest shadowing and making sure it’s what you definitely want to do before you invest in equipment. Knowing that this is the right path for you is step one.
I actually have a free course called: Is Photography Right for you? My goal with this course was to lay out a realistic expectation of what all is involved to start and be successful in the photography industry.
Below is some more in-depth information on what equipment you need to become a photographer:
Camera – I highly suggest starting with a Professional camera. I suggest going with a mirrorless camera. I am a Nikon user, and I suggest getting the best camera you can within your budget. My top suggestion is the Nikon Z 6II which you can find lightly used for around $1300 or Nikon z6III $2500 which was just released in summer 2024. It’s good in low light, sharp, and easy to use. If it is out of your price range, then go for the Z50 would be my next suggestion (which is $1,000 brand new or used around $750). I currently have 2 cameras, a Nikon Z 6II and a Z8 which is my new camera, I went with the Z8 over the flagship Z9 for 3 reasons.
1. It’s smaller and lighter
2. It uses the same batteries as the Z 6II.
3. It was the same performance but less expensive.
Lens – I definitely recommend when you buy your camera to not purchase it with a kit lens. Buy a lens appropriate for the work you would like to do. Example: family, maternity, or portraits – go for a 35mm or 50mm lens with an f-stop of 1.8 or lower, then later add lenses such as 85mm, 50mm, 35mm, and 70-200mm. I like to shoot with a lower f-stop because I like the subject isolation and blurred background. For Family, Maternity and newborn I definitely suggest having a 50mm and a 35 mm. My favorite lens is my 50mm 1.2 this lens gives dreamy background and crisp images. The kit lens often does not hold value for resale well, and it’s better to just buy the camera body without it. Nikon just released a 35mm 1.4 lens which is $599.
Computer – I use an Apple MacBook to do all of my editing. I edit on Lightroom primarily and also on Photoshop. I also use several other programs to assist me in saving time that I go more in-depth with in a few of my Mom Photographer blog posts (Aftershoot, Portraiture, Imagen AI, and Topaz). For newborns and Portraits, I love Portraiture!
Website- You can actually start your website for free through Pixieset. I have been using them for 6 years and they are amazing, I love how everything is integrated. It is not only the host site I use now but how I book clients and deliver galleries. Pixieset also has a print store, and is always looking for ways to improve. Once you do get more involved and find yourself needing to upgrade the prices are still reasonable at $19/month and up. You will still need to get your own url from a site like GoDaddy and you can connect that to your Pixieset.
With those things, anyone can start. The list grows with what type of photography, so I suggest starting simple in one type of photography, like aiming for just family or just branding.
Note about the camera purchase: You can start with an older camera or with what ever camera you have. The goal with starting with an older camera would be to learn to shoot in manual, as well as to learn composition. Just definitely plan to set aside money to upgrade to a professional camera as soon as you can so that you can provide clients with a quality product. Also depending on the photography route you choose you could also start with a camera like a good drone! Think landscape, real estate, marketing, weddings or a way to earn income while saving up for your professional camera. Lots of professional photographers love to work with people who can provide drone video and photo images.
What is your typical work schedule? How many hours does it take each week to run a photography business?
My typical work week varies depending on the time of year. I have weeks where I maybe work 5 hours and other weeks where I work 30 plus. But in general, even at my busiest, I still have freedom to do things with my family that matter, like church 2x a week, dance class 2 days, or enjoy time with my family and our little farm.
Each morning, I spend the first 15 minutes checking all emails, scheduling social media posts, and responding to DMs. I often also find that my best editing hours are between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m. because I have a two- and four-year-old! Batching content is also a great way that I save some time.
Is there room for new photographers?
Many may say no, but I say Yes!
Lots of room, and there will be room for anyone new. In any industry, there is always someone who is burned out, not driven, not open to changes in the industry. There is always a new style, but even more so, there is simply just a huge range of customers and what they are looking for.
There’s someone who wants a $100 shoot or a $10,000 shoot. So it’s important to know where you want to fall in there and to aim for how to build your business and create the quality product worth what you want your target market to be.
For new photographers, you can be a second shooter or an associate shooter for a well established photographer. This is a great way to start while still working a regular job and never have to edit anything except what you want for your own personal use. This is something most photographers, including myself, don’t know before taking the plunge to be professional.
Looking back, this is the perfect approach for someone with a job or a busy life not wanting to ruin their name doing free shoots and never gaining repeat clients. It’s also a great way to learn and cash flow everything while not taking huge risks.
Also, I am a strong believer in being a business with insurance and everything you need to be legit. You can start as a luxury photographer without having to spend 10 years to get there, but you need to be able to create a luxury product consistently, and that does take some time and guidance from others such as mentors. You will need honest feedback from someone who knows photography well.
Can you list the steps to get started with a photography business?
First make sure its something you want to do, my suggestion is shadow someone, watch Youtube videos or take a course like my free course: Is Photography right for you?
Next is get a camera, or even rent one, to learn how to shoot in manual and to build a portfolio for Instagram and your website. You should have 50-200 unique edited images that you feel, and others honestly feel, show the quality of what you would like to charge for your website.
I have found that honest criticism is key to success, so being able to hear someone say, “No, I would not pay $350 for your work,” and why is important. All friends and family will always sing your praises, but you need to know what clients or potential clients think when they look at your website. Be open to criticism, and allow it to help you grow, don’t ever let it set you back!
What are your best tips for someone who wants to become a photographer?
Find a prominent photographer in your area to shadow, or mentor under. You can even shadow or mentor under me from anywhere in the world. I also can help you find a reputable photographer in your area. Shadowing is really a great way to start.
My biggest tip, keep learning. The industry is constantly changing, growing with it is key!
Always accept criticism and be open to seeing your work through the eyes of others even if its discouraging at first it will help you to grow in the long run and eventually you will become your harshest critic.
Figure out the style you want to portray and use a preset to create consistency in your work.
Build a website and social media following.
Shoot as much as you can, even if it’s your neighbor or kids.
I do offer a mentorship program with an in-person and a virtual mentorship option. You can find the mentorship program information by clicking here.
What are your goals for your photography business for the future?
My goals for this year, now that I have hit a 6-figure-income photography business, is to create passive income. I would also like to grow and spend more time with my family.
Knowing that our family would like to possibly add another little one in the future and that I tend to take off up to 6 months postpartum, having passive income or finding ways to keep my photography business moving while I am out has been my goal.
With this in mind I created a team this past year, started another blog and a podcast. I also created The Mom Photographers to not only achieve my goals but also to help other moms have a one-stop shop to learn, grow, vent, and connect with other moms who are photographers. The Mom Photographers is a Facebook group as well as a website, blog, podcast, community, and educational hub.
I will be releasing a few courses in the next 6 months:
Is Photography Right for You?
How To Get Started as a Professional Photographer While Being a Mom
The Mom Photographers Course for Established Professionals Looking To Grow and Dedicate More Time With Their Family
Kids- College guide to photography as a Job: with a focus on growing wealth at a young age and avoiding debt.
I will also be going more in-depth with the podcast and YouTube, adding free educational information, weekly tips, advice from experiences myself and others have learned, business trends, and ways to grow.
My financial expectation this year is to hit $175,000 and 3-5year goal is $1 million/year. I always aim to set realistic expectations and my goals are higher. Over the last few years my income has grown each year by 50-100 percent, so for me a competitive goal keeps me motivated.
I am fortunate to have my husband, a retired military warrant officer, to be my support system and help me in all aspects. My husband is my rock who not only homeschools our kids while I do shoots but also drives me to each shoot and helps me stay on task. Without him, I would be nowhere near as successful. It is imperative for anyone’s success that they have a good support system if they have kids or a family.
We are also fortunate to have zero debt including our home – our mini modern farm, as we call it! Complete with our 4 dogs, 2 cats, 10 ducks, and 13 chickens.
Photography has very much been a financially freeing stream of income that has allowed us to live in a million-dollar paid-for home on top of my husband’s retirement from the military. It also allows our children to grow up with the unique opportunity of having both parents with them every day. I am 34 and my husband is 45, we believe in being debt free and cash flowing everything. Making Sense of Cents often talks about the many benefits of financial freedom, and how to grow wealth. When I mentor photographers I also make sure to include how important it is to not build a business on debt, and that saving for three categories is imperative- taxes, emergency fund, and equipment upgrades.
The World of Hyatt Credit Card has a limited-time welcome offer for new cardholders that could help with travel goals in the next year.
Those who apply and are approved for the card through Oct. 31, 2024, get this sign-up bonus: Earn five category 1-4 Free Night Awards to use at Hyatt hotels after spending $4,000 in the first three months of opening the account. This offer includes domestic and international properties.
Compared with the card’s previous sign-up offer, this bonus is much more straightforward and easier to attain — although it’s also less flexible. Here’s why.
The card’s former offer enabled you to earn up to 60,000 bonus points, but in two different tiers: It awarded you 30,000 points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of opening the account. And then, for the first six months, you earned 2 points per $1 on spending that would otherwise have earned only 1 point, on up to $15,000 spent.)
The new offer of five free nights is certainly less complicated. But depending on how you book at Hyatt, the previous offer might have allowed you to redeem those 60,000 points for even more than five nights, assuming you booked lower-category properties.
Even so, if the Hyatt family is your hotel group of choice, you should easily be able to extract enough value from this new offer to more than make up for the card’s $95 annual fee. As a cardholder, you’ll also earn ongoing rewards in a variety of categories:
4 bonus points per $1 spent with your card at Hyatt hotels, including participating restaurants and spas. Properties under the Hyatt umbrella include the Park Hyatt, Miraval, Andaz and Hyatt Place. (On top of that, you’ll earn 5 points per dollar spent at Hyatt hotels by being a member of the World of Hyatt loyalty program.)
2 points per $1 on dining at restaurants, airline tickets purchased through the airline, fitness club and gym memberships, and local transit and commuting.
1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
You can redeem points for hotel stays, room upgrades, eligible purchases at select Hyatt locations and more.
In addition to the sign-up bonus, the card also offers a free night at any category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort every year after your cardholder anniversary, and an extra free night in a similar property if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year. As a cardholder, you’ll also get automatic Discoverist status, which makes you eligible for a 10% bonus on points earned on eligible purchases, an upgrade to a preferred room (if available), late checkout (if available) and waived resort fees on Free Night Awards.
It’s been a long day at work or a totally fun night out, and you’re finally home to your Chicago apartment. You reach into your purse or pocket to find your keys, only to find out they’re not there. You desperately search for a few more seconds, but come up empty-handed. Time to face the facts — you’re locked out of your apartment. No need to panic, though. There are plenty of things you can do to get yourself out of this pickle.
What do I do if I get locked out of my apartment?
Locking yourself out of your house is one of the most discouraging feelings, especially when you can envision exactly where your keys are — inside the apartment. The best reaction is to already have a plan in place, but since not all of us think about it beforehand, here’s how you can handle the situation when you’re in the moment.
1. Get in touch with management or maintenance
If you’re locked out of your apartment during your management or leasing office’s business hours — and there’s an office on the premises — walk over and ask for help. Property managers or your landlord will always have a spare key on hand for things like maintenance emergencies, so it’s a pretty safe bet they can let you into your place within a few minutes. If they don’t have a key, they’ll likely have the number of a local locksmith they can call for an emergency visit. If it’s after business hours and your complex has an emergency maintenance number, try that.
Going this route is sure to produce quick results since you know they already have a copy of your key, but it may come with a fee. Asking the leasing office or maintenance staff to help you when you’re stuck outside of your apartment can cost you anywhere from $25 to several hundred dollars depending on the terms of your lease.
2. Reach out to your roommate
One of the perks of having a roommate is getting help in situations like these. Even if you have to wait for them to get home, at least you won’t have to take more dramatic measures to gain entry. Contact them to let them know what happened and see when you can expect them home.
If you have to wait a while, ask if you can come to them and grab their key. Make sure to promise to return the favor if ever needed. If you have to wait, try to relocate to a coffee shop or restaurant where you can hang out safely for a few hours until help arrives.
3. Look for another way in
You may have locked the front door, but what about the windows? Or, if the apartments in your building have back doors, do you have one you can use? If you want to avoid tracking down a spare key, you can always try to find another way to get into your apartment. This won’t work if you live in a high-rise or otherwise difficult-to-access unit, but some have the right design to give you a chance. For example, if you live on the first floor and have a balcony, you might be able to get in through that door if it’s unlocked.
4. Call a locksmith to unlock the door
When all else fails, you may want to call a locksmith. Make this your last resort because you’re going to have to pay for professional locksmith service. You might also be charged a fee if the lock gets damaged or needs replacing after you’re inside.
In theory, locksmiths can unlock apartments without doing any damage, but there’s no guarantee it will happen seamlessly. They may even have to install a new lock to let you in, resulting in an inconvenience for your property manager or landlord. They’ll most likely charge you for that.
How to avoid getting locked out of your apartment
Locking yourself out of your apartment the first time is one time too many. It can be incredibly inconvenient and a little embarrassing. The best solution is to prevent the problem from happening in the first place.
1. Upgrade to a smart lock for your front door
One way to prevent yourself from getting locked out is to upgrade your lock or doorknob that allows for keyless entry. There are a variety of smart locks that guarantee entry into your home with just an app — you pretty much can unlock the door by just getting near it.
By downloading the appropriate app and logging in, you can remotely control your lock. Smart locks let you control the doors from wherever you are, which is especially handy if you have young children that may try to escape. This even allows you to let in the pet sitter or overnight guest without you being at home. Most have monitors, too, so you can see who’s at your door and a logging system that lets you track each time someone locks or unlocks the door. It’s added security coupled with convenience. It’s also a significant upgrade.
Adding smart locks isn’t something you can do without the landlord or property manager’s permission. Make sure to check with them before purchasing the technology. They may even like your idea so much that they’ll pay for the installation and offer the upgrade to the rest of the tenants in your complex.
2. Give a spare key to a friend
If you don’t have a roommate, never underestimate the power of giving a spare key to someone else. This can save you on more than one occasion. It will not only be there waiting if you lock yourself out, but if you ever need someone to come into your apartment when you’re not there, you’re set. The trick is finding the right person to hold on to your spare, so when you give them a call, they’ll be available to hand it over.
3. Do a double-check for your apartment key
Another way to prevent getting locked out of your apartment is to work a key check into your routine before you even leave. Everyone has a routine before walking out the door. You may check that your stove is off, set the thermostat and turn off all the lights. This routine can include a check that you’ve got your wallet, cell phone and house keys.
If routines aren’t your thing, try giving yourself a permanent reminder. A sign on or near your door in a bright, bold color telling you to grab them is sure to catch your eye on your way out. Having a designated spot for your keys can also help.
4. Carry spare keys
This is only a helpful strategy if you can put a spare key in something you always carry. If you change out your wallet or purse often or forgo them altogether, it’s harder to keep a spare with you. The best trick is to make a spare and store it between your cell phone and the case. It’s one way to ensure you always have a key with you, unless you lose your phone.
Locked out of your apartment? It’s not the end of the world
It might feel like the absolute worst at the moment, but getting locked out of your apartment is only a minor inconvenience. Thankfully, there are people out there who are able to help and ways to make sure you don’t make this same mistake again.
A circular home perched on a hillside in Los Altos Hills, California, got a modern makeover that anchored it firmly into the 21st century.
The architecturally distinct, 5,103-square-foot circular house was thoroughly renovated by San Francisco-based practice Feldman Architecture, to extraordinary results.
The extensive remodel brought the house down to its studs, completely rebuilding the geometrically unique structure to make the most of its prime location — on a hillside in Silicon Valley, surrounded by a lush nature reserve.
The end result is a beautiful enhancement of the house’s original form, one that delivered both a refreshed exterior design and inviting, contemporary living spaces that open to the surrounding nature.
Like Fancy Pants Homes’ content? Be sure to follow us on Google News
The owners fell in love with its unique architecture
According to the architecture firm, the owners of the Los Altos Hills house fell in love with its quirky architecture and only had a modest remodel in mind for their newly purchased home.
However, after moving in, the need for a more comprehensive renovation soon became apparent. Apart from some dated living spaces, the house also featured low eaves that obstructed access to views.
They hired an award-winning design practice to breathe new life into the 1960s-built home
They commissioned Feldman Architecture — an award-winning design practice recognized for creating warm, light-filled spaces that are site-sensitive and carefully crafted — to upgrade the home, now aptly named the Round House.
An extensive remodel transformed the circular house
Built in the 1960s, the circular home’s original structure — referred to as the “doughnut house” — had an open-air courtyard in the center.
It “was really interesting and very awkward at the same time,” said Steven Stept, Project Principal. The public living areas faced the private wooded hillside, while bedrooms opened onto sprawling, exposed views of Silicon Valley.
The Round House’s central courtyard was turned into a kitchen with a skylight
The original central courtyard, once open to the sky, was turned into the kitchen — fitting for the home’s residents, an aspiring baker and a family of food enthusiasts.
The award-winning kitchen now features a large circular skylight that streams daylight into the space, creating a makeshift sundial that illuminates different sections of custom, curved casework throughout the day.
Contemporary living spaces and an open floorplan define the interiors
From the main entrance of the 5,103-square-foot home, visitors can effortlessly progress through the open-plan living room, kitchen, and spacious deck, which now feature a clean, decidedly contemporary design that makes each space more inviting and polished than the last.
Pie-shaped rooms provide privacy
A concentric hallway traces the kitchen, leading to discreet pie-shaped rooms carefully arranged to separate private spaces from common areas.
See also: Revisiting The Domestead, a unique geodesic dome house in L.A.
Making the most of its 180-degree views
An outdoor deck has been strategically carved out at the intersection of the living room and kitchen – framing sprawling views of the South Bay — which are also observed through the home’s generously sized windows.
They also added a wrap-around walkway to take in the views
Not settling for the outdoor deck alone, they also added a wrap-around walkway which provides each of the bedrooms with outdoor access.
Seamless transition to the outdoor areas
Tall, curved pocket doors vanish into the walls, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Meanwhile, outside, curved landscape walls radiate outward and blend into the thoughtfully designed softscape.
A challenging project, executed beautifully
Due to the challenges posed by the house’s unusual circular form, the project team had to look for creative solutions at every step of the way.
Since most conventional solutions favor straight geometry, thinking out of the box was central to the renovation project, with the team constantly adapting to the constraints of the unique project.
The team behind the project
While Feldman Architecture spearheaded the architecture and interior design aspects of the renovation — with Partner in Charge Stephen Stept and Anjali Iyer, Project Architect at the helm — the Round House’s stellar remodel was a team effort.
Baywest Builders served as the general contractor, Variegated Green handled the landscape design, with Lea + Braze Engineering (civil engineer), BKG Structural Engineers, Romig Engineers Inc. (geotechnical consultant), Tucci Lighting (lighting designer), Urban Tree Management (arborist) also contributing.
More stories
Menlo Park’s priciest home is a masterclass in indoor-outdoor living
Home of the Week: A dramatic Greek Temple-like villa in Berkeley with views worthy of Olympus
A jaw-dropping mid-century modern estate — inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater — breaks local record
A circular home perched on a hillside in Los Altos Hills, California, got a modern makeover that anchored it firmly into the 21st century.
The architecturally distinct, 5,103-square-foot circular house was thoroughly renovated by San Francisco-based practice Feldman Architecture, to extraordinary results.
The extensive remodel brought the house down to its studs, completely rebuilding the geometrically unique structure to make the most of its prime location — on a hillside in Silicon Valley, surrounded by a lush nature reserve.
The end result is a beautiful enhancement of the house’s original form, one that delivered both a refreshed exterior design and inviting, contemporary living spaces that open to the surrounding nature.
Like Fancy Pants Homes’ content? Be sure to follow us on Google News
The owners fell in love with its unique architecture
According to the architecture firm, the owners of the Los Altos Hills house fell in love with its quirky architecture and only had a modest remodel in mind for their newly purchased home.
However, after moving in, the need for a more comprehensive renovation soon became apparent. Apart from some dated living spaces, the house also featured low eaves that obstructed access to views.
They hired an award-winning design practice to breathe new life into the 1960s-built home
They commissioned Feldman Architecture — an award-winning design practice recognized for creating warm, light-filled spaces that are site-sensitive and carefully crafted — to upgrade the home, now aptly named the Round House.
An extensive remodel transformed the circular house
Built in the 1960s, the circular home’s original structure — referred to as the “doughnut house” — had an open-air courtyard in the center.
It “was really interesting and very awkward at the same time,” said Steven Stept, Project Principal. The public living areas faced the private wooded hillside, while bedrooms opened onto sprawling, exposed views of Silicon Valley.
The Round House’s central courtyard was turned into a kitchen with a skylight
The original central courtyard, once open to the sky, was turned into the kitchen — fitting for the home’s residents, an aspiring baker and a family of food enthusiasts.
The award-winning kitchen now features a large circular skylight that streams daylight into the space, creating a makeshift sundial that illuminates different sections of custom, curved casework throughout the day.
Contemporary living spaces and an open floorplan define the interiors
From the main entrance of the 5,103-square-foot home, visitors can effortlessly progress through the open-plan living room, kitchen, and spacious deck, which now feature a clean, decidedly contemporary design that makes each space more inviting and polished than the last.
Pie-shaped rooms provide privacy
A concentric hallway traces the kitchen, leading to discreet pie-shaped rooms carefully arranged to separate private spaces from common areas.
See also: Revisiting The Domestead, a unique geodesic dome house in L.A.
Making the most of its 180-degree views
An outdoor deck has been strategically carved out at the intersection of the living room and kitchen – framing sprawling views of the South Bay — which are also observed through the home’s generously sized windows.
They also added a wrap-around walkway to take in the views
Not settling for the outdoor deck alone, they also added a wrap-around walkway which provides each of the bedrooms with outdoor access.
Seamless transition to the outdoor areas
Tall, curved pocket doors vanish into the walls, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Meanwhile, outside, curved landscape walls radiate outward and blend into the thoughtfully designed softscape.
A challenging project, executed beautifully
Due to the challenges posed by the house’s unusual circular form, the project team had to look for creative solutions at every step of the way.
Since most conventional solutions favor straight geometry, thinking out of the box was central to the renovation project, with the team constantly adapting to the constraints of the unique project.
The team behind the project
While Feldman Architecture spearheaded the architecture and interior design aspects of the renovation — with Partner in Charge Stephen Stept and Anjali Iyer, Project Architect at the helm — the Round House’s stellar remodel was a team effort.
Baywest Builders served as the general contractor, Variegated Green handled the landscape design, with Lea + Braze Engineering (civil engineer), BKG Structural Engineers, Romig Engineers Inc. (geotechnical consultant), Tucci Lighting (lighting designer), Urban Tree Management (arborist) also contributing.
More stories
Menlo Park’s priciest home is a masterclass in indoor-outdoor living
Home of the Week: A dramatic Greek Temple-like villa in Berkeley with views worthy of Olympus
A jaw-dropping mid-century modern estate — inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater — breaks local record
The Ikon Pass is a ski membership that provides access to a collection of ski resorts around the world. The most expensive pass from Ikon includes unlimited access to 17 Ikon Pass resorts and up to seven days per year of access to other resorts, plus buddy passes and discounts on food, drinks and retail purchases.
The Ikon Pass is an excellent choice for people who plan on skiing multiple days each winter. With many lift tickets running between $200 and $300 per day, just one multiday ski vacation can justify the cost.
What Ikon Pass resorts are included?
There are more than 50 Ikon Pass mountains where passholders can ski and snowboard around the world. However, access may be limited depending on what type of Ikon ski pass you have. Limited blackout dates apply to the Ikon Base Pass and the Ikon Base Plus Pass.
Resorts in the United States
Thirty-nine of the Ikon Pass mountains are in the U.S. Of these resorts, they’re primarily concentrated in the Rockies and Northeastern states.
Pacific NW (6)
Rockies (15)
Midwest (2)
Palisades Tahoe.
Sierra-at-Tahoe.
Mammoth Mountain.
June Mountain.
Big Bear Mountain Resort.
Snow Valley.
Sun Valley.
Alyeska Resort.
Crystal Mountain Resort.
The Summit at Snoqualmie.
Mt. Bachelor.
Schweitzer.
Aspen Snowmass.
Steamboat.
Winter Park Resort.
Copper Mountain.
Arapahoe Basin.
Eldora Mountain Resort.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Big Sky Resort.
Taos Ski Valley.
Deer Valley Resort.
Solitude Mountain Resort.
Brighton.
Alta Ski Area.
Snowbird.
Snowbasin.
International travelers can also take advantage of 22 Ikon Pass resorts in multiple countries. Southern Hemisphere locations make it possible to ski throughout the year since their ski season starts just as the North American ski season comes to an end.
Canada (8)
South America (1)
Europe (6)
Oceania (5)
SkiBig3. Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Cypress Mountain. RED Mountain. Panorama. Sun Peaks Resort.
Tremblant. Blue Mountain
Valle Nevado.
Grandvalira Resorts Andorra.
Kitzbühel.
Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley.
Dolomiti Superski.
Switzerland
Zermatt Matterhorn. St. Moritz.
Thredbo. Mt Buller.
New Zealand
Coronet Peak. The Remarkables. Mt Hutt.
Niseko United. Arai Snow Resort
When planning your ski vacation, keep in mind that some ski resorts require reservations. While this can be frustrating, limiting access prevents overcrowding. This way, you’ll spend more time on the slopes than in the lines for ski lifts.
What ski pass options are available?
Ikon Base Pass
Ikon Base Plus Pass
Ikon Session Pass
Adult $1,359.
Young adult $1,019.
Child $429.
Ages 4 and under $149.
Adult $969.
Young adult $699.
Child $359.
Ages 4 and under $99.
Adult $1,219.
Young adult $949.
Child $609.
Ages 4 and under $349.
Adult passes:
4-day $479.
3-day $399.
2-day $289.
17 resorts.
14 resorts.
14 resorts.
Up to 7 days each at 42 resorts.
5 days each at 39 resorts.
5 days each at 45 resorts.
2, 3 or 4 days total at 43 resorts.
Blackout dates
Dining and retail discounts
Friends and family discounts
12 passes.
Ikon Pass (Best)
The Ikon Pass offers the most benefits and ski lift access of any pass. There are no blackout dates, and it includes unlimited access at 17 destinations. This means that you can ski or snowboard as much as you want at these locations throughout the ski season.
With the Ikon Pass, you’ll receive up to seven days each at 42 additional destinations. Passholders also receive a 15% discount on food, beverage and retail purchases at select destinations. You can use up to 12 friends and family discounts per season.
Ikon Base Pass
For skiers on a budget, the Ikon Base Pass adds blackout dates and eliminates access to some destinations in exchange for a reduced price. Even with these restrictions, you still get unlimited access to 14 destinations and five days of lift tickets at 39 other resorts. Passholders also get a 10% discount on food, beverage and retail purchases at participating destinations and eight friends and family discounts.
In the Northern Hemisphere, blackout dates this season include several days after Christmas, the weekend before Martin Luther King Jr. Day in January and the weekend before Presidents Day in February. The Southern Hemisphere has blackout dates for two weeks in July.
A major downside for the Ikon Base Pass is losing out on six resort destinations. These locations are Alta Ski Area, Aspen Snowmass, Deer Valley Resort, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snowbasin and Sun Valley. If you want to visit these locations, consider upgrading your pass or purchasing single-day lift tickets.
Ikon Base Plus Pass
For skiers who want access to every Ikon ski resort but still want to save money, the Ikon Base Plus Pass is a solid choice. It includes unlimited access to 14 destinations and limited visits to Ikon’s 45 other ski resorts. There are limited blackout dates, but if your travel plans are flexible, you can work around those restrictions.
While the premium pass includes unlimited visits at Crystal Mountain, Schweitzer and Steamboat, this pass is limited to five days at those resorts per season. Blackout dates also apply to these resorts. Additionally, you’ll receive just five lift tickets at the other resorts compared with seven visits with the Ikon Pass.
Holders of the Base Plus Pass get a 10% discount on food and drinks and at retail stores at select destinations. You can also bring friends and family along by using up to eight discounts per season.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Skiers planning to upgrade from the Ikon Base Pass to the Ikon Base Plus Pass should consider buying the premium Ikon Pass instead.
With a $250 cost to upgrade to the Base Plus Pass, the difference in cost for adults and young adults between the Base Plus Pass and the Ikon Pass isn’t that much compared to the extra benefits and access you’ll get with the Ikon Pass. For children, the Base Plus Pass is actually more expensive than the top-of-the-line ski pass.
Ikon Session Pass
Travelers who aren’t ready to commit to a full season of skiing and snowboarding can still purchase an Ikon Session Pass to save money over single-day lift tickets.
Session passes can be used for one or more days at 43 ski resorts. They can be purchased for two, three or four days of skiing, but blackout dates may apply to select destinations. With this pass, some resorts also require reservations.
What to consider
Before buying your pass, consider which Ikon Pass mountains you want to visit, when you want to travel and how many days you’ll ski. You may be able to save money by purchasing a lower-level pass instead of the premium pass with the highest price tag.