Friendors: Friendly Conversations with the Vendors Behind Your City's Best Weddings

She Gave the First One Away: Nicole of Pop-Up Weddings BC on Doing It Afraid and Loving What You Built | Friendors Podcast What happens when you give away your very first wedding - and that single act of generosity becomes the foundation for an entire career? In this episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Nicole, the founder of Pop-Up Weddings BC, for a conversation over a decade in the making. These two have been working weddings side by side since Nicole launched one of Vancouver's most beloved micro-wedding companies - and this is the first time they've actually sat down to talk about all of it. This conversation explores what happens when someone leaves a career in criminal justice, starts a vintage rental company in her garage, and stumbles into the wedding industry by simply saying yes when no one else would. From her unexpected origin story to the hard lessons of business partnerships, bad reviews, and showing up on her worst days with a smile, Nicole shares what it really looks like to build something meaningful when you don't have a blueprint - and why loving what you built makes all the difference. Whether you're a wedding vendor just finding your footing, a couple exploring micro-wedding options, or a creative entrepreneur who's ever had to figure it out as you went - this episode is for you. 💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn Why "it's okay not to know what you're doing" is the most freeing thing you can tell yourself when starting a business What it really takes to show up fully for your couples when your personal life is falling apart How to know when to say yes to getting married in the rain - and the one question every couple needs to answer first Why knowing your niche attracts better clients and makes the work more meaningful The real challenges of business partnerships - and what Nicole learned the hard way What it's like to officiate end-of-life weddings, and why it's one of the greatest privileges in this industry How to think about bringing family into your business without fracturing the relationship 🌿 Who This Episode Is For ✔️ Wedding vendors in their early years looking for permission to start before they're ready ✔️ Couples considering a micro-wedding or intimate ceremony ✔️ Creative entrepreneurs navigating business partnerships ✔️ Anyone who's had to show up and perform on one of their hardest days ✔️ Wedding pros who want to build a business around clients they actually love 🌲 About Pop-Up Weddings BC Pop-Up Weddings BC is a Vancouver-based micro-wedding and intimate ceremony company offering all-inclusive packages that cover everything - officiant, photographer, planning, and decor. Founded by Nicole over a decade ago, the company has become one of BC's most trusted names in small, intentional celebrations held in beautiful outdoor locations. It all started with a free wedding given to a stranger. That spirit hasn't changed. 📲 Connect with Pop-Up Weddings BC Instagram: @popupweddingsbc Website: www.popupweddingsbc.com 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors Friendors features real conversations with wedding professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs building meaningful businesses without sacrificing their lives. 📍 Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify

Different Is the Superpower: Chris & Sam of Isle + Oak Photography on Partnership, Identity, and the Wedding Work They Were Told Not to Do | Friendors Podcast What happens when you build an entire career around the one thing you were told never to do? In this dynamic Season 2 premiere of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Chris and Sam, the creative duo behind Isle + Oak Photography, to unpack nearly a decade of partnership, creative risk-taking, and building a wedding photography brand that defies convention. This conversation explores what happens when two art school "black sheep" ignore the rules, bond over their disdain for pretentious programs, and dream up a business over dessert pizza on Scotland's Isle of Skye. From navigating COVID as a brand-new company to discovering their signature shadow-and-light style through failure, Chris and Sam share the real story behind one of Vancouver's most recognizable wedding photography brands—and why being different became their greatest asset. Whether you're a wedding photographer, creative entrepreneur, someone considering a business partnership, or a vendor looking to stand out in a crowded market, this episode will leave you inspired to embrace what makes you different. 💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn Why being the "black sheep" of your industry can become your greatest superpower How a creative partnership allows you to take risks you'd never take alone The unexpected gifts of COVID and how crisis can refine your creative identity Why throwing away the checkbox leads to more authentic, memorable work How to build a recognizable brand through consistency—not viral moments The importance of gender-inclusive language in attracting aligned clients Why the ordinary moments on a wedding day matter most 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who This Episode Is For ✔️ Wedding photographers & second shooters ✔️ Creative entrepreneurs considering a business partner ✔️ Vendors who feel like the "odd one out" in their industry ✔️ Anyone building a brand rooted in authenticity over trends ✔️ Creatives looking for permission to do things differently 📸 About Isle + Oak Photography Isle + Oak Photography is a Vancouver-based wedding photography duo known for their emotionally-driven, shadow-and-light aesthetic. Founded by longtime friends Chris and Sam after a trip to Scotland's Isle of Skye, the brand has spent nearly a decade capturing weddings with intention, artistry, and a people-first approach. 📲 Connect with Isle + Oak Photography Instagram: @isleandoakphotography Website: https://isleandoakphotography.com/ 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors Friendors features real conversations with wedding professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs building meaningful businesses without sacrificing their lives. 📍 Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify

What does it really take to build a creative business, raise kids, and protect your marriage—all at the same time? In this deeply honest and insightful episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with returning guest Erica Miller, photographer and co-owner of Young Hip & Married, to unpack over 15 years in the wedding industry, entrepreneurship through parenthood, and the realities of building a life-first business. This conversation explores what happens behind the scenes of running a successful wedding brand while navigating marriage, childcare, burnout, financial uncertainty, big dreams, and constant pivots. From starting a business while raising young kids to learning how to work with your spouse instead of against them, this episode is packed with wisdom for creatives at every stage. Whether you're a wedding photographer, planner, creative entrepreneur, small business owner, or parent building a business, this episode will help you feel seen—and better equipped. 💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn • How to balance marriage, parenting, and entrepreneurship • What it's really like to raise kids while running a wedding business • The importance of defining your "why" as a business owner • How Erica built a thriving photography brand alongside motherhood • Lessons from working with your spouse in the same industry • Why flexibility, flow, and communication matter more than perfection • How long-term vision helps you survive hard seasons in business • Why entrepreneurship can be a powerful legacy for your kids 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who This Episode Is For ✔️ Wedding photographers & wedding vendors ✔️ Creative entrepreneurs & freelancers ✔️ Parents building a business ✔️ Couples working together ✔️ Small business owners in the events industry ✔️ Anyone chasing freedom, flexibility & family-first success 📸 About Erica Miller Erica Miller is a photographer, entrepreneur, and co-owner of Young Hip & Married, one of Canada's leading wedding brands. With over a decade of experience balancing business growth, marriage, and parenting, Erica brings real-world insight into building a sustainable creative career. 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors Friendors features real conversations with wedding professionals, creatives, and entrepreneurs building meaningful businesses without sacrificing their lives. 📍 Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify

In this episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Esther Moerman to unpack how mindset, energy, and genuine human connection can shape a wildly successful wedding photography brand. Esther shares her journey from shooting weddings for free and learning through "YouTube University" to becoming a sought-after destination wedding photographer. She opens up about building confidence, showing up authentically online, and why making people feel something matters more than chasing perfection behind the camera. This conversation is great for photographers, wedding vendors, creatives, and entrepreneurs who want to stand out, attract aligned clients, and build a business rooted in passion and purpose. 💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn • How Esther built her photography brand through energy and connection • The role of mindset in creative business growth • Why client experience drives referrals and longevity • How social media and authenticity fuel brand visibility • Lessons from scaling a wedding photography career • Advice for photographers starting (or restarting) their business 🌍 About Esther Moerman Esther Moerman is a Canadian and destination wedding photographer known for her high-energy presence, emotional storytelling, and people-first approach to photography. 📲 Connect with Esther YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@esthermoermanphoto Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esthermoermanphoto Website: https://esthermoermanphoto.ca TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@esthermoermanphoto_ 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors Follow Friendors for real conversations with wedding pros, creatives, and entrepreneurs building meaningful businesses. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify

In this high-energy episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Rob Hamilton, the mastermind behind Side One Entertainment, to explore what it really takes to turn a passion for music into a multi-city wedding and events entertainment company. From starting as a working musician and jazz guitarist to leading a 150+ performer roster and managing 250+ gigs per year, Rob shares hard-won insights into scaling a creative business, building elite teams, navigating the events industry, and delivering unforgettable live experiences for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. This episode is a must-watch for musicians, DJs, wedding vendors, event pros, and creative entrepreneurs looking to turn talent into a thriving, sustainable business. 💡 In this episode, you'll learn: • How Rob built Side One Entertainment into a multi-city brand • The business side of weddings, live bands, and event entertainment • How to manage talent, systems, and growth at scale • The challenges of scaling a creative company • Why flexibility is key in the modern event industry • Lessons for musicians who want to become entrepreneurs 🎸 About Side One Entertainment Side One Entertainment is one of Canada's premier wedding and event entertainment companies, supplying top-tier bands, DJs, and musicians for luxury weddings and large-scale events across multiple cities. 📲 Connect with Rob Hamilton & Side One Instagram: @sideoneband Website: http://sideone.ca/ 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors Follow Friendors for in-depth conversations with the creators, vendors, and entrepreneurs powering the wedding & events industry. 📍 Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts & Spotify

In this inspiring episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with industry icon Genève McNally of DreamGroup Weddings & Events to explore the essential role of vendor relationships in creating extraordinary wedding experiences. With over two decades of leadership in Vancouver's wedding community, Genève shares powerful insights on teamwork, trust, communication, and the magic that happens when great vendors come together. Genève opens up about the origins of DreamGroup, her philosophy on collaboration, and why the best weddings are built on respect, professionalism, and genuine connection. From her early days at Brock House to becoming a mentor and advocate for wedding pros across the city, she reflects on what it means to build a career rooted in service and community. Whether you're a wedding planner, photographer, florist, venue manager, or any event professional, this conversation is filled with wisdom to help elevate your craft and strengthen your vendor relationships. 💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn: How DreamGroup became one of Vancouver's most trusted planning teams Why great vendor partnerships are the foundation of unforgettable weddings Genève's philosophy on leadership, mentorship, and longevity The importance of clear communication and shared values How community-driven professionals elevate the entire industry Tips for building strong, lasting vendor relationships 🌸 About DreamGroup DreamGroup Weddings & Events is a celebrated planning collective known for its polished process, calming presence, and exceptional client experience. For more than 20 years, they've helped couples bring meaningful, personal celebrations to life throughout Vancouver and beyond. 📲 Connect with Genève McNally & DreamGroup Instagram: @dreamgroup Website: dreamgroup.ca 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors Stay tuned for more conversations with the creatives, makers, and professionals shaping the wedding and events industry. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this dynamic episode of the Friendors Podcast, Shawn Miller sits down with Reuben Major, one of Vancouver's most influential voices in hospitality and venue design. From transforming industrial spaces into immersive experiences to building cultural landmarks like Vancouver Urban Winery, Havana, and The Flamingo Room, Reuben shares how he blends design, storytelling, and community to create venues people never forget. He opens up about his unexpected path into hospitality, the lessons learned from managing iconic nightlife spaces, and why atmosphere is more than décor — it's energy, intention, and human connection. Whether you're a wedding vendor, creative entrepreneur, event planner, designer, or hospitality professional, this conversation delivers powerful insight on creativity, business growth, and building spaces that bring people together. 💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Reuben Major built some of Vancouver's most recognizable venues The creative philosophy behind atmosphere and experiential design What makes a space feel alive — and what kills the vibe The importance of community, culture, and storytelling in hospitality Lessons from running bars, wineries, and nightlife spaces How to stay inspired and evolve in a changing creative industry 🏙️ About Reuben Major Reuben Major is a Vancouver-based designer, creator, and operator known for shaping iconic spaces that blend art, culture, and social experience. His projects include Vancouver Urban Winery, The Distillery Bar, Havana Vancouver, The Flamingo Room, and other beloved community hubs. 📲 Connect with Reuben Instagram: @reubenmajor Venues: Vancouver Urban Winery | Havana Vancouver | The Flamingo Room 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors Join host Shawn Miller for conversations with the creatives, makers, and cultural leaders shaping the wedding, events, and hospitality communities. Available on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

In this heartfelt episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Lauren Kirkey of Young Hip & Married to explore what it truly means to create inclusive, meaningful, and deeply personal wedding ceremonies. Lauren opens up about her journey as a queer officiant, the importance of representation, and why there are truly no wasted experiences when it comes to building a career centered on connection and storytelling. From officiating Vancouver's unforgettable 150-wedding mass celebration in Robson Square to guiding couples through intimate elopements, Lauren shares how purpose, identity, and lived experience all shape the way she holds space for love. Whether you're a wedding vendor, officiant, planner, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation offers inspiring insight into authenticity, allyship, and elevating the wedding experience for every couple. 💡 In this episode, you'll learn: How Lauren Kirkey found her calling as a professional wedding officiant Why inclusive language and representation matter in modern weddings Behind-the-scenes stories from Vancouver's 150-wedding mass ceremony How to bring purpose and identity into your creative work What Young Hip & Married is doing to make weddings more accessible and authentic 💞 About Young Hip & Married: Young Hip & Married is a Vancouver-born collective of professional officiants creating personalized wedding ceremonies with heart, humor, inclusivity, and intention. 📲 Connect with Lauren Kirkey & Young Hip & Married: Instagram: @younghipandmarried Website: younghipandmarried.com 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors for more conversations with the creatives and wedding pros who bring the magic to life.

In this episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Jeff Chang, the creative force behind The Apartment Photography, to explore how nearly two decades of experience in the photography world have shaped his artistry, teaching, and philosophy on creative work. Jeff opens up about his journey from self-taught photographer to respected educator, reflecting on how the industry has evolved, what keeps him inspired, and how he's learned to balance growth, humility, and curiosity behind the lens. This is an honest, insightful conversation for photographers, creatives, and wedding pros who want to build a sustainable, fulfilling career rooted in passion — not perfection. 💡 In this episode, you'll learn: How experience refines your creative voice The evolution of The Apartment Photography Lessons from 18 years in the photography business What Jeff has learned from teaching and mentoring others Why creativity thrives when you stay curious 📲 Connect with Jeff Chang: Instagram: @theapartmentphoto Website: www.theapartmentphotography.com 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors for more authentic conversations with the creatives and entrepreneurs behind the wedding and events industry.

In this episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Erin Bishop, founder of the award-winning Filosophi Events, to talk about creativity, connection, and what it takes to build a meaningful brand in the modern wedding industry. Erin shares the story behind her company's original tagline — "A Cure for the Common Wedding" — and how that philosophy has guided her through more than a decade of designing celebrations that truly reflect her clients' personalities. From her unexpected start in the music industry to leading one of Vancouver's most respected event planning companies, Erin opens up about growth, leadership, team culture, and the evolution of weddings over the years. Whether you're a wedding planner, creative entrepreneur, or vendor looking for inspiration and real talk about the business of love, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and heart. 💡 In this episode, you'll learn: How Filosophi Events became one of Vancouver's top planning companies Why creativity and empathy are key to client experience The difference between growth and alignment in business How to lead a team with trust and authenticity The changing landscape of weddings post-pandemic 🎉 About Filosophi Events: Based in Vancouver, Filosophi Events creates authentic, one-of-a-kind weddings and events for clients who want something beyond the ordinary. 📲 Connect with Filosophi Events & Erin Bishop: Instagram: @filosophievents Website: www.filosophievents.com 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors for more candid conversations with the creatives, makers, and wedding pros behind the magic.

In this inspiring episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Jasmine Hoffman, one of Vancouver's most recognized makeup artists, to talk about her 25-year career in beauty and weddings. From studying at Vancouver Film School to working with thousands of brides and top brands, Jasmine shares how she built a lasting business through authenticity, consistency, and a whole lot of pink. She opens up about her early days freelancing, her transition into wedding and event makeup, and how she's turned her passion for artistry into a powerful personal brand. Whether you're a wedding vendor, beauty professional, or creative entrepreneur, Jasmine's journey will inspire you to lean into your unique style, stay consistent, and create magic that lasts. 💡 In this episode, you'll learn: How Jasmine launched her makeup career from film school to full-time artistry The importance of personal branding in the beauty and wedding industries Why consistency and authenticity attract the right clients How to grow a team and business without losing your creative spark Tips for longevity and success as a freelance artist 💋 About Jasmine Hoffman Beauty: Jasmine Hoffman is a Vancouver-based celebrity makeup artist and educator specializing in weddings, events, and brand collaborations. Her signature pink aesthetic and focus on confidence have made her one of the most sought-after artists in Western Canada. 📲 Connect with Jasmine Hoffman: Instagram: @jasminehoffmanmakeup Website: www.jasminehoffman.com

In this episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Ashton Pollock, the creative force behind Bespoke Decor, one of Vancouver's most beloved event and wedding design companies. Ashton shares the real story of how her business started — with nothing more than a napkin sketch and a vision — and grew into a thriving creative team known for transforming spaces into unforgettable experiences. From humble beginnings to leading a powerhouse of designers, Ashton opens up about the grit, mistakes, leadership lessons, and mindset that shaped her entrepreneurial journey. Whether you're a wedding vendor, event designer, or creative business owner, this conversation will leave you fired up and ready to grow your own dream team. 💡 In this episode, you'll learn: How Bespoke Decor began with one idea and unstoppable drive The difference between managing and truly leading a creative team Why failure and flexibility are key to sustainable growth How to build a brand rooted in authenticity and collaboration The realities of balancing art, business, and personal growth 🎥 About Bespoke Decor: Bespoke Decor is a Vancouver-based design and rental company known for creating custom wedding and event experiences that blend beauty, creativity, and heart. 📲 Connect with Bespoke Decor & Ashton Pollock: Instagram: @bespokedecor Website: www.bespokedecor.ca 🔔 Subscribe to Friendors for more candid conversations with the creatives, makers, and wedding pros behind the magic. Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

In this episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller sits down with Shyah Yan Zarrabi, the creative force behind Shyah K Films, to talk about his journey from creative curiosity to becoming one of the most sought-after wedding filmmakers in the business. Shyah opens up about the mistakes that shaped his success, how he learned to trust his creative process, and the importance of doing the "reps" — showing up, learning from failure, and growing through every project. It's an episode of real talk, inspiration, and practical takeaways to help you find your flow in film and business. We cover: How to embrace mistakes as part of the creative journey Tips for building a successful wedding filmmaking brand The mindset shift from perfectionism to growth Why collaboration and consistency matter more than gear How to keep your passion alive while running a creative business 👉 If you're a wedding vendor, filmmaker, or creative pro, hit that subscribe button for more weekly conversations on business, creativity, and life behind the lens. 📸 Connect with Shyah K Films: Instagram: @shyahkfilms Website: www.shyahkfilms.com 🎧 Don't miss more from Friendors: Instagram: @friendorspodcast

In our premier episode of Friendors, host Shawn Miller welcomes his wife, photographer and co-owner of Young Hip & Married, Erica Miller, to share her journey from shooting with a hot pink film camera as a kid, to building a career in the wedding industry. Together, they reminisce about their early days: film rolls, first gigs, learning Photoshop from scratch, and the chaos of photographing a wedding just six weeks after giving birth. With candid stories about marriage, business, and the realities of starting from scratch, Shawn and Erica set the tone for what Friendors is all about: honest conversations, hard-earned lessons, and a whole lot of heart.   Stay connected with us at: https://www.younghipandmarried.com Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendorspodcast/

Listen to 'Friendors: Friendly Conversations with the Vendors Behind Your City's Best Weddings' everywhere on October 6th. Stay connected with us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/friendorspodcast/