Where They are now: Cirrus Gold creative company
When Michelle and Brandon Dorrill first joined StartUP Columbus, Cirrus Gold Creative Company was already operating, but like many entrepreneurs, they knew it could be more. The business, a photo, video, and content marketing company, had clients and momentum, but Michelle was looking for something deeper: consistency, structure, and clarity in her brand identity.
“I was already operating when I joined StartUP Columbus,” Michelle says. “But I wasn’t consistent with branding, pricing, or systems. The biggest challenge was keeping all those pieces aligned as I grew.”
Through the StartUP Columbus program, Michelle found exactly what she needed. The experience helped her recognize that every entrepreneur wrestles with these growing pains, and she didn’t have to figure it out alone.
“Every single entrepreneur has stood in your shoes,” she reflects. “Hearing that during the program made a huge difference. It reminded me to show myself grace while building.”
After graduating, they didn’t stop there. They joined the StartUP Columbus incubator to gain even more support—and their growth speaks for itself. What once was a small list of clients has become a thriving, consistent business with steady work and long-term relationships.
“When I joined StartUP, I had enough clients to pay bills. Now, we’re creating consistent content for returning clients and supporting other small businesses with meaningful storytelling,” she shares.”
Cirrus Gold’s reach has expanded quickly, serving clients both in Columbus and in larger cities like Atlanta. That growth happened because they put in the work—refining the brand, staying visible, and doing what they call the “less fun” backend tasks that keep a business strong.
And they are still evolving. They recently became ordained so she could legally officiate weddings for the couples she photographs, a move that underscores just how personal their business is. Cirrus Gold isn’t just about delivering great photos; it’s about capturing life’s moments and building trust with the people who share them.
Balancing that kind of work with personal life isn’t always easy. Michelle and Brandon admit it depends on the season. But they learned to adapt, to rest when needed, and to lean into her purpose. Their experience proves that entrepreneurship isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress.
“Just do it,” Michelle says to other aspiring founders. “StartUP Columbus is worth every investment of your time and energy. You’ll walk away with tools, support, and a stronger belief in your vision.”
From a freelancer with ambition to a founder with vision and strategy, Michelle’s journey is a reminder of what’s possible when you pair passion with support. Cirrus Gold Creative Company is shining brighter than ever—and this is just the beginning.
