Today we’d like to introduce you to Nelsen Varghese
Nelsen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
The story began one day at a wedding. I was watching a slideshow filled with beautifully captured moments when I turned to my cousin and said, “Man, we won’t have slideshows like this at our weddings.” My parents had come to America with a singular focus: to ensure everyone in our family was taken care of. I grew up surrounded by 17 cousins who were literally my neighbors, and we focused on living in the moment rather than documenting it.
That perspective shifted when my cousin had his daughter, Kenna. I decided to document her milestones, a choice rooted in a desire to preserve moments my family often let slip by. At the time, I was already learning videography while working with a rap duo from Chicago called 2 Masters. Initially, I handled management, but as we struggled to find creatives who could bring our ideas to life, I took on a more creative role. Videography wasn’t just a skill I wanted to learn—it became a passion.
When Kenna was born, I saw an opportunity to develop my craft by capturing her life’s moments. I spent countless hours watching Peter McKinnon videos, soaking up every bit of knowledge I could. I’ve always believed that while some skills require formal education, others just demand a willingness to dive in and start creating.
In 2019, I took a leap and set out on my own to focus on videography full-time. Soon, friends with small businesses began reaching out for my services, and Lead with Love Creative was born. The name reflects my mission: capturing the loving moments between couples, documenting life’s candid milestones, and showcasing the passion behind small businesses.
This journey has been about more than just videography. It’s about creating meaningful connections and trusting the process. I owe so much to my family for giving me the foundation that inspired it all. Without their love and the experiences we shared, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Owning a business is like running an endless obstacle course—every day brings something new to dodge. When you’re just starting out, it feels like you’re juggling a hundred roles while trying to figure out which hat to wear first. My journey began in Chicago, where I honed my skills and built a solid foundation. But in 2023, I decided to shake things up. I moved to Austin, looking for a fresh start, a new pace, and an open canvas to create something extraordinary.
My first week in Austin, life threw me a curve ball—I got robbed. All the equipment I brought to kick start my business was gone, just like that. For a moment, I questioned everything: Was this a sign to quit? Should I pack it up and go home? But as I took in the city’s energy, watching people hustle and thrive despite their own challenges, I realized I had two choices: let this be the end or treat it as just a speed bump.
I chose the speed bump. Instead of giving up, I doubled down, trusted my gut, and went all in. Looking back now, I can almost laugh at my “welcome to Austin” moment. But that experience reshaped me—it made me hungrier, scrappier, and even more determined to succeed.
This city challenged me right from the start, but it also gave me the push I needed to grow. And for that, I’m grateful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Lead With Love Creative?
I think every business owner dreams of their “side hustle” becoming their main gig, and I’m no exception. But for me, it’s about more than just making a living. I want Lead With Love Creative to be something I’m proud of every single day—a brand that grows creatively, innovates boldly, and stays true to the quality that got me here. It’s never been about quantity; it’s about making every story count.
Lead With Love Creative is all about crafting something truly special, whether I’m capturing candid moments between a couple on their big day or showcasing the heart and soul of a small business. My journey started with family—documenting milestones within my own circle gave me a foundation in videography. Now, it’s an incredible privilege to be invited into the most meaningful moments in other people’s lives.
Over time, I’ve expanded Lead With Love Creative to include rentals like photo booths, audio guestbooks, and other unique add-ons. The goal is to create a seamless, memorable experience for clients—a place where they can find everything they need to make their event unforgettable. While I may not always be behind the camera due to the volume of work, our rentals still allow me to help clients capture memories they’ll cherish forever.
What I love most about Lead With Love is the constant collaboration and learning that happens across videography, rentals, and photography. Each side of the business feeds into the other, pushing us to innovate and grow. What sets us apart is our intentionality—we don’t just capture moments; we tell authentic, meaningful stories that resonate.
The relationships we’ve built with our clients are the heart of this journey. Many return for milestone after milestone, and it’s an honor to be part of their lives in such a personal way. When you work with us, you’re not just booking a service—you’re inviting someone who is genuinely invested in capturing your story with care, creativity, and heart.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Just dive right in! If you feel like you’re drowning, that’s all part of the process. The best way to learn is by doing—no book, video, or class will teach you as much as real-life experience. You’ve got to get hands-on, make mistakes, and stumble a little. Find people who are already doing what you love, watch how they work—not to copy, but to be inspired and learn the ropes.
And that comparison game? Leave it behind. I wasted too much time stressing over what others were doing. But here’s the truth: they’re not you, and you’re not them. It’s your unique vision that’ll set you apart.
Think of it this way: a boat only moves forward if the captain’s steering. Don’t let fear hold you back from being the one at the helm. Like Aaliyah said, “Dust yourself off and try again.” Mistakes will happen, and that’s okay. Embrace them, learn from them, and keep moving forward.
Starting out can feel overwhelming, but remember—every setback is just one more step toward where you’re meant to be.
Pricing:
- Lifestyle Films – Starting At $350
- Wedding Films – Starting At $1500
- Brand FIlms – Starting At $400
- Photobooth: $650 – $1300
- Audio Guestbook – $300
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leadwithlovecreative.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadwithlovecreative/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leadwithlovecreative/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@leadwithlovecreative
- Other: https://dot.cards/leadwithlovecreative
