Alexis Greve
Alexis Greve
Class Year
’24
Current home
Elmhurst, Illinois
Major(s)
Finance, Management
Current Position
Business Owner and Wedding Photographer at Alexis Lynn Photography LLC
After graduating with a double major in finance and management and a minor in photography, Alexis Greve ’24 moved on to create her own photography business, specializing in wedding and engagement photography. In addition to taking and editing photos, she schedules meetings with clients, manages her brand’s online presence, and oversees her business finances.
Ms. Greve makes an effort to stay in touch with her professors at Carthage and return to campus. “The community at Carthage makes it really easy to want to stay involved and keep visiting.”
What have you enjoyed most about your career?
“I love working with people and seeing their smiles when their wedding vision comes to life. It is the best job in the world!”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“My college experience helped prepare me for my career by teaching me valuable communication, time management, and problem-solving skills, which are essential for running my photography business. Through coursework and extracurricular activities, I learned how to manage deadlines, work with diverse groups of people, and think creatively. My time at Carthage also reinforced the importance of continuous learning, which I apply daily to refine my photography skills and grow my business.”
How has your liberal arts education benefited you?
“One of the most valuable skills I gained at Carthage was thinking critically and adapting to challenges. Weddings are fast-paced and unpredictable, requiring me to problem-solve in the moment, whether adjusting to unexpected weather, managing tight timelines, or finding creative solutions for difficult lighting situations.”
Why did you choose Carthage?
“Carthage was in a perfect location, right on Lake Michigan and between Milwaukee and Chicago. The idea of a small school where I could make real connections in the classroom was really important to me. A lot of Carthage’s programs, such as The Aspire Center, also helped me make my decision.”
What opportunities were made possible because of your Carthage experience?
“My college experience opened up several opportunities that helped shape my career as a wedding photographer. Working in the Office of Marketing and Communications on campus allowed me to gain real-world experience photographing events and learning to capture moments that tell a story. The photography classes I took helped me refine my craft, experiment with different styles, and build confidence behind the camera. My business classes gave me a strong foundation in business finances, marketing, client management, and entrepreneurship, which have been essential in running my photography business. These experiences gave me the skills and knowledge to turn my passion into a career.”
What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?
“All of my teachers at Carthage were amazing with helping me succeed in and out of classes. One of my favorite class experiences was my senior thesis class in which I was able to create a business plan for my photography business. Both the professor and my classmates created a great collaborative environment that I will never forget.”
What role have the values in Carthage's mission, "Seeking Truth, Building Strength, Inspiring Service — Together" played in your life?
“Carthage’s mission reflects my approach to both photography and life. Seeking truth drives me to capture authentic, meaningful moments. Building strength has helped me navigate the challenges of running a business with resilience. Inspiring service is at the heart of my work, ensuring couples feel supported on their wedding day. These values continue to shape my career and connections with others.”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“One of my favorite memories at Carthage was my J-Term trip to Greece in 2024. J-Term trips are an incredible way to grow your horizons, make new friends, immerse yourself in a new culture, and learn simultaneously. I will always remember the memories and friends I made in Greece.”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“My biggest advice to students is to take advantage of every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, even if it doesn’t seem directly related to their future careers. My on-campus job gave me real-world photography experience. It also taught me how to collaborate with a team, manage deadlines, and adapt to different situations. I also encourage students to be open to learning beyond the classroom. Some of the most important lessons come from experiences like internships, campus jobs, and extracurricular activities. And don’t be afraid to take risks and pursue what you’re passionate about.”