We were lucky to catch up with Serena Pleskach recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Serena thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

As a (primarily wedding) photographer, my company mission is that I believe that love is beautiful, no matter what it looks like. Growing up in places like Washington state and Denver, Colorado, then moving to the south later in life was a culture shock. People are treated so differently in the south, and inclusion is fewer and further between down here. I have met countless people and couples, both through the wedding industry and outside of it, who have struggled with their self image, with accepting their own relationships, and with finding wedding vendors who will service them because their relationship doesn’t look like people think that it “should”. In my own business, and as a queer business owner, I strive to create a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC clients and friends. I want everyone to feel loved and accepted, and I don’t ever want my clients to feel like they are being treated as less than for who and how they choose to love.

Serena, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hi! I am Serena. I’m a middle Georgia based traveling Wedding + Elopement photographer, dog lover, chardonnay drinker, avid traveler, & hopeless romantic. I am mostly known for my shooting and editing style, which is rooted in warm, earthy undertones, and the provocation of genuine emotion. Separated from traditional themes, I strive to create high-end, editorial, modernist art through my photos. I pride myself in being the type of photographer who doesn’t take a clients money, show up to take photos, and then leave. I want to get to know my clients, their personalities, their love stories, and truly capture that authentically.

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

From the very beginning of my inquiry/booking process, I try to foster a relationship with any potential or returning clients. This includes video calls, phone calls, in person meetings, etc.. I like to not only be the photographer for my wedding clients, but also a resource that they can reach out to if they need help planning their day, finding other vendors, or just a friend to rant to if wedding planning stress gets to be overwhelming. I also try to keep in touch with my clients post-wedding, by sending anniversary gifts, offering returning client discounts as their families grow, and more.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

I love listening to podcasts! There are so many amazing business owning related podcasts, and specifically photography podcasts. A few of my favorites are: Oh Shoot! with Cassidy Lynne
Gold Biz Podcast with Rachel Traxler
and Shine + Thrive with Sara Monika

Contact Info:

• Website: http://kayandwest.com/
• Instagram: instagram.com/kayandwest
• Facebook: facebook.com/kayandwest
• Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kayandwest