We had the good fortune of connecting with Kate Ivy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kate, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
Honestly, I’ve thought about this question a lot lately.
For a long time, I assumed other people were happier than I was. Maybe some are. But what has made the biggest difference for me is changing the way I think about happiness itself. I used to believe you were either happy, sad, angry, or something else all the time, as if happiness was a destination you could arrive at and stay in. Of course, I wish I felt happy all the time, but I’ve become grateful that I don’t.
I think our greatest joys are shaped by our hardest moments. There’s a saying that our highs are only as high as our lows, and I believe many of the happiest people have also experienced deep heartache. Without contrast, it’s harder to appreciate the good moments when they come.
So what makes me happy? Perspective. Paying attention. Noticing the little things.
Nature makes me happy. Animals make me happy, especially the funny and unexpected things they do. My wife and I have a dog, two cats, and ten chickens. They add plenty of responsibility to our lives, but they bring us even more joy.
My work makes me happy, too. I get to meet couples who are in love and preserve a meaningful chapter of their lives. I love the creative challenge of making photographs that feel honest and beautiful, and I love seeing clients connect with those images afterward. The fact that people trust me with those moments and are willing to pay me to do something I genuinely love is something I never take for granted.
Most of all, happiness shows up in ordinary moments: laughing with friends, sharing dinner with my wife, or cuddling with our pets. For me, happiness isn’t a constant feeling. It’s fleeting. And maybe that’s exactly what makes it so good.

Woman sitting on a chair, smiling, getting makeup applied to her face, in a room with wall art and a lamp

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
There are some days where I don’t feel like I am young enough or trendy enough or feeding the algorithm the right way and just want to give up. And then a couple will reach out saying they found me by searching “inclusive photographer.” They want to elope because their political views clash with those of their families, and they just want to say their vows in the mountains with a photographer they trust. That is when I know I am doing it right. And that I should keep going. It’s not always easy – and there is A LOT to keep up with, but I am running a business I am proud of and that is what matters.

Person holding a large bouquet of white flowers and greenery, wearing a white dress, outdoors.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Obviously, we would need to see a show at Red Rocks. We could tailgate before the show with some friends – grab some New Belgium beers.

The next day we would sleep in and grab some brunch/lunch on Tennyson before heading to hike Lake Isabelle (a 5 hour hike). On the way back we would stop in Boulder at Japango for some sushi and people watching on Pearl Street. That night we would grab a late night cocktail at a speak easy like Williams and Graham or Boys and Girls Club.

Another day we would walk around Downtown and Rino – to see all the art and stop into Crema for coffee. Lunch at Cart Driving. Head to the Contemporary Art Museum and South Broadway to stop in some vintage stores. Dinner at El Five. And then hit up some bars like Triangle or X bar or Tracks.

Another day we would do Jazz at the park at City Park and eat at a food truck. There is so much to do in the summer in Denver – so we could also play it by ear – see what events are going on and not be disappointed!

A couple stands close together, embracing, against a plain, light gray sky background.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Shout out to my wife who has to put up with me during wedding season. For wedding photographers, that usually means no weekends and late-night editing. I am endlessly grateful for her support and understanding. Having family and friends who give you grace during the busy times are an important part of this job!

Website: https://www.kateivyphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kateivyphotography

A smiling woman in a white dress is embraced by a person in a dark suit outdoors, trees in background.

Group of women in colorful dresses and a bride in white, holding bouquets, standing outdoors with trees in background.

A couple holding hands, walking outdoors on a dirt path, with trees in the background. The woman wears a white dress, the man a suit.

Image Credits
myself

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