I can’t thank Barb (of French Kiss Events) enough for choosing me to help her vision come to life. I was honoured.

Thank you again to these amazing local vendors for their truly beautiful work.

Event Planning and Stying: French Kiss Events

Floral Design and Styling: Rook and Rose

Cakes: Passion for Cakes

Invitations and Stationary: helloLOVER

Wedding Dress: Blush Bridal Boutique

Tux: Outlooks for Men

Hair: Marion Groot for ma-luxe

Makeup: Carly Flint Makeup Artistry

Jewelry: Adorn Atelier

Venue: ma-luxe studios

Now for those of you who have heard my story about getting attacked by one of my mom’s roosters a few years ago (I refer to the attack in this post too) you might have been surprised to see that chickens have made it as one of my favourite things friday posts. Well the trauma must have passed because I do love chickens and I especially love having their farm fresh eggs. It doesn’t get more local than right next door. You see Darren and I moved this past October to a lovely piece of property that happens to be neighbouring my mom and dad’s property and it is AWESOME. I spent a number of years living at their property growing up and have always been so in love with it. So when the opportunity came to buy something right in that same area we thought ‘why not?!’ You never know unless you try right ??

Hayden and I quite often wander over to their house in the mornings to feed the chickens, check for eggs and also throw a few apples or alfalfa cubes over the fence for their two sheep.

As I start to plant my vegetable garden I am so excited that Hayden will get to grow up having such a healthy perspective on local produce and the importance of knowing where your food comes from. Food Inc anyone ?!

I got this bowl in the Grand Bizarre in Istanbul. Isn’t it gorgeous ?!

This is Mrs. Speckles. She’s my mom’s favourite.

This is not the most flattering picture of me, but I still love it. Please keep in mind it was early and I am majorly sleep deprived

Hayden’s first time holding an egg!

He’s laughing because the egg didn’t last long

And I was extra excited to hear that Kim was the highest bidder on my portrait session

I think it is the fact that the rain seems to be back in full force. Or maybe it’s the fact that it has been 13 months since we’ve been on a vacation and that’s a long time for us. Whatever the reason I am craving travel and getting somewhere HOT.

Here are a couple snaps from when we were in Oahu for Dana and Adam’s wedding last year. Snorkelling while this pregnant and swimming with the sea turtles is still one of my most amazing memories ever.

I’d love to hear what your faves are !! Please feel free to leave a comment I want to take a moment to wish everyone who ever stops by the blog … whoever you are, (hi mom!) a healthy, truly happy and prosperous 2012. May you live your best year yet!

]]> http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/2011-weddings-some-personal-faves/feed/ 6 http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/weddingbells-spring-summer-2012/ http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/weddingbells-spring-summer-2012/#comments Thu, 22 Dec 2011 22:54:10 +0000 admin http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/?p=3811 I often wondered what it would feel like. As I nervously scanned the rack looking for the latest issue of Weddingbells my heart started racing. There it was. I eagerly flipped to page 98, Hayden squealed in the shopping cart like he was sharing the excitement. I smiled. This moment has been a dream of mine since I started my journey with photography almost 5 years ago. In February will be my two year anniversary of shooting full-time. And seeing my work in print, published in this prominent bridal magazine, makes me pinch myself….hard.

I am so lucky to have amazing couple like Elaine and Chris who put so much thought and effort into creating the perfect wedding for them. This wedding was a dream to photograph not only because of this incredible couple but also because of these fabulous vendors: Rook and Rose Floral Boutique, Twisted Sifters, Blush Bridal Boutique, Equinox Catering and Affinity Guesthouse.

What away to finish the year. I remember writing the words on my business goals for 2011 and thinking to myself that this one “Be published in a prominent wedding magazine” seemed so far out of reach. Now for 2012 I am inspired and I must keep in mind my favourite quote from the movie Inception “don’t be afraid to dream a little bigger darling”.

I also wish to congratulate Rosie who is an AMAZING photographer whom I truly admire who was also published in this same issue. You can check out her beautiful work here.

We had a little visitor …

Thank you to the following vendors:

Reception Venue: Fireside Grill *can’t say enough FABULOUS things about this place!*

Florals: Jennings Florists

Dress: Maggie Sottero

Make up Styling: Carly Flint

Hair Styling: Lindsay Price

I am feeling a little short on words tonight and the pumpkin seeds I have in the oven need a stir so this post is going to be short and sweet.

Feel free to love Sandra and Don some comment love below!

Sandra arriving in style.

A couple final portraits.

Thank you to the following vendors…

Venue: Sea Cider Farm and Ciderhouse

Flowers: Kenmar Flower Farm

Hair and Make-up: Sharon Rai Artistry

Officiant: Peter Scales

Dress: Allure Bridal

]]> http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/sandra-don-married-part-ii/feed/ 1 http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/sandra-don-married-part-i/ http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/sandra-don-married-part-i/#comments Sun, 30 Oct 2011 22:25:23 +0000 admin http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/?p=3526 I knock three times.  Sandra comes to the door in her cute tank top and jean shorts, but done to the nines with her hair and make-up looking so super glam. She is completely at ease and relaxed and I am not surprised for a second. Sandra has been one of the most easy going people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I knew that her wedding day would be no different. She chose to get ready at the Brentwood Bay Lodge Resort and Spa which was such a treat for shooting lovely detail and getting ready images. As I moved around shooting I chatted with her lovely TWIN bridesmaids. How awesome is that I thought it was so cool to have not only two sisters as her bridesmaids, but twins!

When we were all ready to go, Sandra’s brother came and picked her up in style, in a firetruck. You could tell the guests at the hotel were wondering what was going on, and were relieved to find out that it wasn’t a fire, but instead cheered for her on as she climbed aboard.

We arrived at Sea Cider and quickly set up their first look. Sandra casually picked up her dress and strolled past the apple crates towards Don. His reaction is priceless as you will see. I think he may have liked what he saw!

Then we moved on to the ceremony. One of my favourite moments was when they passed their rings around to all their guests for them each to bless them, or think positive thoughts for them and their marriage. Loved that!

On to their portraits.

As Sandra and Don looked out over the orchard he squeezed her tight and whispered in her ear. She giggles and her face lights up with so much happiness. There is so much sweetness and adoration with their love. I get the feeling that they both feel so lucky to have found one another.

Conversation comes so easy with these two. As we wander around shooting portraits we chat about our love for Maui and snorkelling and how jealous I am that they are heading to Hawaii for a fabulous honeymoon. My body misses the heat already.

Don and Sandra it was a treat to be a part of your wedding. Thanks for having me!  Feel free to leave them some comment love below.

I have the coolest brides.

Thank you to the following vendors …

Venue: Sea Cider

Flowers: Kenmar Flower Farm

Hair and Make-up: Sharon Rai

Officiant: Peter Scales

Dress: Allure Bridal

]]> http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/sandra-don-married-part-i/feed/ 2 http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/contest-the-best-engagement-photos-of-2011/ http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/contest-the-best-engagement-photos-of-2011/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2011 22:33:47 +0000 admin http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/?p=3404 So I am incredibly flattered that one of my images of Jesse and Emery has been chosen by Bride.ca as one of the top engagement photos of 2011 in Canada !!!  They are having a contest right now to pick the overall winner and currently we are in 7th place.  If you would like to help them win please head over to this facebook link, log into your Facebook and VOTE by ‘liking’ their image.  The contest closes October 15th.  If you want to help spread the word, feel free to share the facebook link on your wall !!

I truly truly appreciate your support !!

Good luck Jesse and Emery

This wedding came together with a fantastic team of people.  Sharon Rai and her team did an amazing job creating a very vintage hollywood glam look for Angie.  She looked just gorgeous.  Corey put together incredible florals for this event.  She even incorporated native Australian florals which added such a sweet personal touch.  She does the stunning arrangements that are always on display at Brentwood Bay Lodge.  Last but definitely not least, Jackie May is the fabulous wedding coordinator at the Brentwood Bay Lodge.  Jackie is always so wonderful to work with and truly goes the extra mile to ensure that everything is just perfection.  Love working with her!

And here are the images.  Please feel free to leave a comment for the lovely couple!

First Look … Such sweet emotion

Jannea has one of the cutest laughs I have ever heard and her laughter throughout the ceremony had everyone giggling. Geoff is a kind soul, you can so tell from the moment you meet him.  His smile could not have got any bigger during the day if he tried. Jannea looked so stunning in her gorgeous Maggie Sattero gown that I am not surprised Geoff was grinning from ear to ear.

These two are enjoying a fabulous Hawaiian honeymoon.  Got to admit that I am a tad jealous.  I could use some serious heat, the like four days of summer we have had just aren’t cutting it.

Hope you guys are soaking up some vitamin D and having an amazing time in paradise.  It was such a pleasure working with you!

How hot are those shoes ??!

They wanted to arrive at their reception early so that they could greet each one of their guests and take their coat.  This gives you a sense of what kind of thoughtful and lovely people they are.

So here are Lisa and Steve-o, as Lisa calls him, are on their wedding day at the beautiful Abkhazi Gardens.  Feel free to leave a comment!

A couple after my own heart having a sushi snack before the reception.  Love it !

One of my all time favourite pairs of boots has to be hands down my pair of cowboy boots.  These were passed on to me from my mom who has had them since she was about 16 years old.  How cool is that !!  These are my camping boots, yard work boots, can’t go wrong with boots and tights boots, as well as the boots you will often find me sporting at my portrait sessions.  In fact I will be wearing them today for Katelyn and Paul’s e-session shoot.

So here you have it, my Favourite Thing Friday post goes out to all the boot lovers out there!

Whether it be sleeping in together and having a leisurely breakfast then heading to the breakwater for a stroll, or staying up at the cabin at Cowichan while sitting on the dock not saying a word, just enjoying the moment and each other, these two have grown together.  They are fun, relaxed and care so deeply about one another.  Their comfort and love for each other is beautiful to witness.

Alison and Derek it was a true pleasure to capture your wedding day.

Love the sweet kiss in the side mirror

]]> http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/alison-derek-married-2/feed/ 3 http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/favourite-things-friday-11/ http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/favourite-things-friday-11/#comments Sat, 18 Sep 2010 00:06:24 +0000 admin http://www.kimkalynphotographyblog.com/?p=2409 I have to start off this post by saying that wasps are DEFINITELY not one of my favourite things.  I got stung today for the first time in years and wowzers I forgot how much those little monsters hurt.  OUCH !

Now on to something much more enjoyable, and the topic of my post today, Amy Seeley.  For those of you who haven’t heard of her, she is an amazingly talented artist who makes beautiful beautiful music.  I often spend my days editing to her wonderful tunes and recommend you check out a song or two that are available for a listen on her website, here.  Personally, Gravel Lines, Catalinas, and Look Up, Look Out are my favourites.

Enjoy !

Athens is bustling.  The people greet with a kiss on each cheek and carry on conversation with passionate enthusiasm.  There are cars honking, pigeons gallore, and cafes on every corner.  I truly enjoyed our time there and believe it is somewhere I will visit again.

When Darren and I first started discussing possible honeymoon destination options we talked of Bali, Costa Rica, New Zealand, and Greece and Turkey as our top choices.  With our love for travel it was a tough decision.  But to be honest my heart was set on Greece and Turkey all along.  I have heard nothing but good things about these two destinations.  I have such romantic visions of Greece with its amazing cobblestone walkways, pots of bright coloured flowers, amazing architecture, history and culture and food to die for.  And Turkey with its spectacular beaches, friendly people, unique culture and breathtaking mosques. 

Today just happens to be my birthday and I truly cant imagine being anywhere more beautiful with the man of my dreams.  I would love to describe the view from my terrace but I know I will not do it justice.  My silly little laptop is not the best for loading photos right now, so unfortunately this post will be without a picture.  However, I look forward to posting MANY travel snaps once I return.

Please bare with my if I am a bit slow to return your email.  I promise that in between sipping glasses of white wine and snacking on olives, dolmades, feta and baklava I will get back to you as soon as I can    I will be away until the 28th of May.

Also a quick thank you to Deb and Malcolm for housesitting while we are away and to Melia and Cam for looking after our fur babies!   We owe you guys some Ouzo when we return!

Dawn has recently graduated with her PhD in Human Development and Applied Psychology and as a form of celebration we took these images to document this incredible achievement.

Like a LOT of people that I photograph, Dawn does not like having her photo taken.  I am so glad that she put her trust in me and let me capture these special images.

Upon viewing her photos, Dawn wrote me the sweetest and most touching email.  I ask her permission to share some of her beautiful words:

“I cried.  They are so beautiful.  Oh Kim – I never dreamed that I could have not one, but many photos where I think I look beautiful. You have given the greatest gift.  I can’t believe you did this. I am really at a loss for words.  I won’t be ever able to thank you enough.  You are truly a brilliant photographer.  You are so gifted.”

This is why I love what I do.

We had to take a few with her ADORABLE pup, Barney.  How cute is he ?!

If you are a friend of mine on Facebook or a member of my group on Facebook or have my on your Twitter you will know that my blog has been down for almost a week and I have been STRESSED out about getting it back.  The Cliff Notes version is that when I transferred my website over to my new site through Clickbooq (which I love!), the blog didn’t manage to make the trip over with it.  Bryan at Clickbooq really helped get the ball rolling to fix my blog and it was his hard work that got this rescue mission started.

So as my little blog was lost in Cyberspace, Matt through ProPhoto Blogs worked his A@# off trying to rescue my lovely new blog and bring it back to life.  I was really upset thinking that I had potentially lost over a years worth of blog entries.   So I am soooo grateful for having Matt come to its resue.  I can’t thank him and the staff at ProPhoto Blogs enough!  Matt provided AMAZING customer service!  I have raved about this company before (I even have a little blurb on them at the top of my blog) as I have been SO impressed with their easy-to-use awesome blog templates, but this experience just made me love their company that much more.  Matt, you are a blog saver and I can’t thank you enough!

So back to the story of how this whole new blog / rebranding experience started.

I LOVED my previous logo, designed by my good friend and uber talented graphic designer, Jo!   Her website is under construction, but I will link to her fabulous business as soon as it is up.   Sidenote – Darren and I were just in England for the week visiting her and her boyfriend Dan (who is also an uber talented designer himself) HI GUYS!  I loved my pink K logo.  It was my first logo.  Having a logo was a milestone in my business.  I finally felt like I was a legit business owner and I was finally proud to give someone a business card   That was a BIG step.  The experience in creating it was really my first experience in digging into what my business was all about and what I wanted to convey to my clients and I have a special place in my heart for that first logo as it also represented a lot of my personality in the design itself.

As my business and photography has grown over the past year I felt that my logo needed to change as well to represent the imagery I hope to create.   As I have mentioned on the blog over the past month, I had the pleasure of working with Richard and Amy of Red Leaf Studios on the brand redesign for my business.  This was an incredible experience.  One that transcended my branding and has truly helped me examine all aspects of my business.  They have just begun to offer this service to photographers and if you are contemplating re-vamping your branding I would HIGHLY recommend getting in touch with these two!  In fact, they just did a blog post on their site about this service which you can read here.

So without further aideu here is the link to my new and improved website.  I hope you like LOVE it.

And no post is complete without a photo.  Here is a teaser photo for the ever so patient Sarah and Stephen, who have waited extra long for their blog teaser.  I promise there is more images to come very soon!

I’d love to hear what you think about my new blog and website.  Leave a comment or drop me a line

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