We had the good fortune of connecting with Kari Joy Kuschel and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Kari Joy, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind the success of my brand has been the unique experience I give my clients. From the moment I first meet them to after their wedding day (when they receive their photos) I offer an individualized experience for each couple. It’s important that I get to know my couples well so I can not only meet their needs, but exceed them! When booking with me my couples get lots of mini guides to help them with each part of planning for photos, like an engagement session style guide, wedding timeline guide, and even a guide filled with fun date night ideas to have a break from wedding planning. They also receive little surprises along the way that are catered to each couple such as featuring their story on social media or getting surprise gifts in the mail! All of this helps build wonderful relationships with my couples so when they get in front of the camera they are comfortable and have photos they love! Weddings are a time to celebrate, so from start to finish I make sure my couples feel celebrated and served well!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
When I first started my photography business I learned right away that I had my own style and unique that set me apart from others. I focused on capturing authentic and joyful moments in a natural and candid way while edited with bright and airy touch. I never went to school for photography or business so I spent many hours finding the right places to further my education online and enhance my skill both in business and in photography. Along this journey I have learned that I can accomplish more that I ever thought! The first three years of my business I was still working a full time job while running my business. Anytime I wasn’t working, I was spending on my business! I am SO thankful that I waited three years until going full time with my business because of the many valuable lessons I learned along the way. I learned to push through the long hours and work even harder to make my business successful. I also learned that time is valuable and how I can worker smarter to increase my productivity and available time! Because I worked a full time job in the beginning of my business I was able to invest back into my business through gear and education, which in the long run created a strong foundation for my business! Now I am full time in my business and I’m so thankful I spent those beginning years how I did!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting me here in Colorado and I wanted to show them an AMAZING weekend I would start by taking them to Rocky Mountain National Park and we would take one of my favorite short hikes to Dream Lake. There is nothing quite like the gorgeous mountains here and fresh air! At some point in the trip we would have to go to Beaujos Pizza, mostly for their delicious honey-infused cheesy bread! I would also show them around all the cute locally owned stores in Old Town Castle Rock near where I live!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There have been SO many people who have supported me on this journey of becoming a business owner. I want to shout out to two specific people though! First, my husband Kyle has been the MOST supportive from the moment I told him I wanted to start this business. I seriously could not have done this without him! Next I want to thank my business coach that I had when I first went full time with my business, Morgan. She helped me set and achieve goals to further my business, but most importantly she is a huge encourager. She helped me tremendously in all aspects of business and life!
Website: www.karijoyphotography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/karijoykuschel
Facebook: www.facebook.com/karijoyphotographyllc
Image Credits
Kari Joy Photography (all photos taken by me)