Welcome back to the latest in our series of vendor interviews! We are so excited to feature Kim Jay Weddings, a photographer based on Vancouver Island. Not only is Kim an incredible photographer who has had the pleasure of working alongside our island officiants, but she was also married by one!
Please introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Kim Jay and I am an elopement and wedding photographer based on Vancouver Island.
And fill us in our your history with YHM Officiant Chris-Ann!
Chris-Ann was our elopement officiant and we couldn’t have been happier to have her marry us. We had a very non-traditional wedding – splitting up the vow ceremony, legal ceremony and party into three different events. This allowed us to have our wedding the way we wanted, and not have to sacrifice various aspects. We wanted to throw a big party for our friends, but still wanted to have the intimacy of a small family gathering, so this allowed us to incorporate our families and our friends into the celebration in a way that made the most sense.
Chris-Ann was so accommodating and relaxed for our legal ceremony, and that was exactly the vibe we were going for. We got married in the park with our immediate family as witnesses. It was perfect!
How long have you been in the wedding industry?
I started photographing weddings about 5 years ago. I’ve been full time for 3 years now.
What first attracted you to the wedding industry?
I’ve always had a love for photography. I got my journalism degree so I could shoot for publications. At the time I was big into concert photography and worked for a number of festivals on their photos teams. I love documenting what is happening, and telling a story through the images. It’s addicting! I got started in weddings like I think a lot of photographers do – a friend asked me to shoot their wedding and I did.
When you’re not busy with weddings, how do you love to spend your time?
Camping, road trips and going to festivals are how I spend my free time. Hanging out with my fur babies and my hubby when we are not exploring.
What does Kim Jay Weddings do?
Kim Jay Weddings is a photography company that provides documentary coverage of weddings and elopements, with a modern, fine-art flare.
What makes your business stand out from other photographers?
The connection I make with my clients is so important to me. In order to capture people as who they really are, they have to let you in; building a relationship of trust is essential. I go out of my way to help people with their planning, and try and go the extra mile to keep them relaxed on their wedding day. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way.
If you had one piece of advice for couples looking for a photographer, what would it be?
My one piece of advice for couples looking for their wedding photographer would be to make sure you LOVE the photographer’s images and how they edit – because what you see is what you will get. It’s also really important to make sure you connect with them on a personal level. I work with my clients for over a year, or even two years sometimes. So having a good connection is key, and will make sure you have fun along the way.
What are the current trends in weddings and photography? What’s on its way out?
Elopements are definitely on the rise, which I love! I was an eloping bride myself. In fact, one of your officiants, Chris-Anne, was the one who married us! I love the intimate nature of elopements. There are less moving parts (and other’s opinions to worry about) so the day feels more stress free and more relaxed.
I think trying to fit couples in a mould and poses that don’t match who they are is on the way out – thankfully!
What are the biggest mistakes couples make with photography?
Not printing their photos! It’s such a digital world now, but images are enjoyed best when they are in your hands, not on a screen. I encourage people to make prints or an album so they can leaf through the memories for years to come!
Where can couples save? Where should they splurge?
Personally, I think that couples should splurge on photography because these are your memories! I’ve spoken with couples that wish they had hired a professional photographer rather than opting for their friend, and they echo that sentiment. I also think good food is key! A happy belly and good conversation are the pillars of a good party, so I’m all about splurging on quality food and drink.
Couples can save money by keeping things intimate! Cutting down that guest list to your closest people will cut the bill, and allow you and your partner to have more quality time with the guests you do invite.
Thanks so much to Kim for teaching us the value of photography and sharing so many awesome tips. You can learn more about Kim Jay Weddings via:
Website: https://www.kimjayweddings.com/
Email: kimjayphotography@gmail.com
Instagram: @kimjayweddings
