Thanks for tuning into this episode of Edit Sesh!
Hamilton’s bar scene wouldn’t be the same without Mike behind the bar at Bar Sazerac—one of the city’s most beloved spots. This week, we chat about the best places to eat and drink in town, fun cocktail facts, hot takes from behind the bar, and why Smart Serve is more than just a certificate. Oh—and Mike made us a drink live on the pod, marking our very first in-person episode!
WHERE TO FIND MIKE
https://www.instagram.com/daisybloombar/
https://www.instagram.com/barsazers
FIND US ON INSTAGRAM
Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
OUR WEBSITES
Dorothy: dorothymayphotography.com
Effie: effieedits.com
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Today, we’re chatting with Dallas Lombardi. She’s the founder of Dallas & Co., a full-service planning and production company specializing in luxury events and weddings.
With over 20 years of experience, Dallas has built a reputation for creating breathtaking, high-end events while pushing creative boundaries. But her story goes far beyond the world of event planning. Dallas’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless advocacy. From supporting herself as a teenager to becoming an executive in the hospitality industry by 26, she has always carved her own path. But life took an unexpected turn when she adopted two children with her ex—only for him to walk away, leaving her to navigate parenthood alone. Her kids, who are biological siblings, have complex behavioral needs and possible FASD, a reality she was blindsided by due to a lack of transparency from the system. Now, Dallas is not just a mother—she’s a fierce advocate, fighting for the support her children deserve while balancing her career and personal life. On top of all of that, she just got engaged! She and her fiancé, Chris, are blending their families, as he also has children with disabilities. Together, they are building a life full of love, creativity, and perseverance. Today, we’re diving into her incredible career, the challenges and joys of motherhood, her fight with CAS, and how she continues to show up and create beauty in the world despite everything she’s been through.
This is a conversation about strength, vulnerability, and the power of forging your own path.
Connect with Dallas on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dallas.lombardi/
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
OUR WEBSITES
Dorothy: dorothymayphotography.com
Effie: effieedits.com
Thanks for tuning our Edit Sesh!
Today, we’re chatting with Katy McLean, a wedding planner turned content creator!
Katy McLean is the founder of Oh Happy Day Socials, a wedding content creation service based in Ontario, Canada. With 12 years of experience as a wedding planner and a background in publishing as a writer and blogger for wedding magazines, Katy has a deep understanding of wedding days and the significance of capturing every little moment. Her expertise allows her to document weddings in a way that feels natural, personal, and full of joy—just like experiencing the day through the eyes of a trusted friend.
Oh Happy Days Socials specializes in capturing candid moments and behind-the-scenes memories, ensuring that couples can relive the emotions and energy of their wedding day instantly. Known for her humor and approachable personality, Katy makes the experience fun, relaxed, and stress-free—like having your own personal hype girl with a camera. She has a knack for spotting the sweet, silly, and sentimental moments that make each wedding one of a kind, so couples can look back and say, "That was so us!"
Connect with Katy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohhappydaysocials/
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
OUR WEBSITES
Thanks for tuning our Edit Sesh!
Today, we’re chatting with Chris Briscoe, the best DJ in Hamilton! AND probably the world!
Chris is a seasoned Canadian musician, DJ, and promoter with over 20 years of experience. Born in England and having lived in California before settling in Canada, his diverse background has shaped his eclectic musical style, influenced by Motown, Funk, Soul, Latin rhythms, and Rock. As the original owner and operator of The Casbah Nightclub, Chris has played a pivotal role in Hamilton's arts community, earning a Recognition Award for Entrepreneurship in the Arts. He has collaborated with notable acts such as Jimmy Eat World, Jacksoul, and Tragically Hip, and has promoted events featuring artists like Tegan and Sara and Metric. Currently, through Briscoe Music, he offers DJ and event consulting services across the Greater Hamilton, Toronto, Niagara Falls, Oakville, and Kitchener-Waterloo areas, delivering unique musical experiences for weddings, corporate events, and private functions. We dive into his love for Music and the journey that led to his successful career, as well as his love for hosting 'A Chance to Dance!' a barrier free dance party that celebrates people of all abilities, in an inclusive and accessible environment.
Connect with Chris:
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briscoemusic/
🌐 Website: https://chrisbriscoe.ca/
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
OUR WEBSITES
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we chat with our guest, Ashlyn!
Ashlyn is a Canadian wedding and portrait photographer capturing art focused moments on digital, 35mm film and Super 8. Her specialty has accidentally (but happily) become her inventive, sometimes-campy, creative engagement shoots and most recently, she was honoured to be included on Junebug’s international list of Top 50 Engagement Photos of the year.
We talk about her origin story, and how she got to where she is today as a portrait photographer. By merging her love of creative direction and capturing authentic love she has found her own unique style that people have fallen in love with! We chat about studios, working with brands, influencers and so much more!
You can find her on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/justthedaisies/
And her website: https://justthedaisies.ca/
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- OUR WEBSITES ---
Dorothy: https://dorothymayphotography.com/
Effie: https://effieedits.com/
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we chat with our guests Ryanne & Brjánn! They are analog film wedding photographers who live in Hamilton, but travel worldwide! We talk about how their backgrounds in photojournalism, art, and commercial work got them to where they are today!
You can find them on Instagram at:
https://www.instagram.com/3bphotography/
https://www.instagram.com/ryannehollies/
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- OUR WEBSITES ---
Dorothy: https://dorothymayphotography.com/
Effie: https://effieedits.com/
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today, we're chatting with a Local Hamilton photographer, and Coffee shop owner, Katie Sadie! We dive into her background in the fashion and photo journalism industry, why she started Rooney's and how she's bring the community together!
We also chat about our movie of the week, Lion!
Check out Katie and her work:
https://katiesadie.format.com/
@katiesadiephoto
@shoprooneys
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today, we’re chatting with Dimitri, a super talented filmmaker from Hamilton, ON, who specializes in wedding videos. We dive into his love for creating videos and the journey that led to his successful career — including his time in the music industry, his travels, and even his experience as a chicken farmer!
Check out Dimitri's work:
Instagram: @dimistudios
Website: dimistudios.com
FIND US ON INSTAGRAM
Dorothy: @dorothymay_ Effie: @effieeditsphoto Edit Sesh: @editseshpodOUR WEBSITES
Dorothy: dorothymayphotography.com Effie: effieedits.com
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we chat with our guest, Janna! The owner of Hamilton based floral studio, Billie Flower Co. We talk about how she got started in the industry, common misconceptions about florists and plans for the future.
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- OUR WEBSITES ---
Dorothy: https://dorothymayphotography.com/
Effie: https://effieedits.com/
SHOUT OUTS! ---- Billie Flower Co.:
https://www.instagram.com/billieflowerco/
https://www.billieflower.co/
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we chat with our guest, Claire Dam, a former midwife turned talented photographer, dedicated teacher, and loving foster & adoptive parent based in Hamilton. We talk about her journey to what has lead her to becoming a trendsetter in the photography space, as well as an award winner, mentor and mother!
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- OUR WEBSITES ---
Dorothy: https://dorothymayphotography.com/
Effie: https://effieedits.com/
SHOUT OUTS! ---- Claire: https://www.instagram.com/dam.its.claire?igsh=NDFkbHNwcmtuajNi
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we talk about everything from photog meetups, to the Canadian Open! We chat with our guest, Pam from Ten West Photography. We talk about the value of community (over competition), how to deal with difficult client scenarios and her upcoming big move to a small town in northern Ontario
Rules for the Contest:
1. Find our Instagram post with the winky face
2. Like it
3. Comment your favourite podcast episode number
4. Share it on your story and tag us
5. Winner will be announced in the next episode!
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- OUR WEBSITES ---
Dorothy: https://dorothymayphotography.com/
Effie: https://effieedits.com/
SHOUT OUTS! ---- Millworks Creative: https://www.instagram.com/pam_tenwestphotography/
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we talk about everything from studio ownership to Pickleball! We chat with our guest, Danielle Rizzo - Owner and operator of our favourite studio in Hamilton, Millworks Creative. We talk about how she got started with Millworks and the challenges that come with running a studio/co-working space. She also eases our minds about the future of Millworks, with the building being up for sale and changing ownership.
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- OUR WEBSITES ---
Dorothy: https://dorothymayphotography.com/
Effie: https://effieedits.com/
SHOUT OUTS! ---- Millworks Creative: https://www.instagram.com/millworkscreative/
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we talk about everything from golf to industry trends. We chat with our guest, Aaron Daniel, an award winning international wedding film maker and soon to be Author. We talk about how he got started, trends in the industry and our thoughts on styled shoots. He also walks us through his process on creating captivating and award winning wedding films.
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- OUR WEBSITES ---
Dorothy: https://dorothymayphotography.com/
Effie: https://effieedits.com/
SHOUT OUTS! ---- Aaron Daniel: https://www.instagram.com/aarondanielfilms/ Nina + Darek: https://www.instagram.com/ninaanddarek
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we talk about everything from astrology and enneagrams to playing "nice" with other wedding vendors. We chat with our guest, Jeff Maeck - Ontario's hottest Wedding Officiant (says Effie). We talk about his love of Red Bull, moving out of photos, and helicopter elopements. Jeff walks us through how he and his wife started his wedding planning and officiating business.
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ----
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- OUR WEBSITES ---
Dorothy: https://dorothymayphotography.com/
Effie: https://effieedits.com/
SHOUT OUTS! ---- Jeff Maeck: https://www.instagram.com/heyjeffmaeck/ Website: https://maeckweddings.com/
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Welcome back everybody, I hope you guys have had a great week! I know you all have been on the edge of your seats waiting for part 2 of this episode. If you missed last weeks episode, we are in the middle of a great chat with Matt and Ali. Last week we learned all about their recent elopement in Italy.
But buckle your seatbelts cause we're diving even deeper today. Matt and Ali generously share insider tips on everything from SEO to achieving financial security as a self employed entrepreneur. And if you've ever wondered how to make waves on Instagram, trust me, you won't want to miss what he has to say! --- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ---
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/ - Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/ - Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- WEBSITE ---
https://dorothymayphotography.com/
https://effieedits.com/ --- SHOUT OUTS! --- - Ali: https://www.instagram.com/ali.turton/
- Matt: https://www.instagram.com/heytony.agency/
Thanks for tuning into our Edit Sesh!
Today we talk about everything from Ice Plunges to Instagram growth! We chat with our guests, Ali (a Hamilton wedding photog) and Matt (founder of HeyTony, a digital marketing agency here in Hamilton). In this episode they share their story about their recent elopement to Italy! This is a 2 part episode - next week we talk to them about how to grow your IG following as well as tips get SEO tips from the marketing guru himself! Introduction High and Low of the week Chat with Ali and Matt about their elopement in Italy --- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ---
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/ - Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/ - Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/
--- WEBSITE ---
https://dorothymayphotography.com/
https://effieedits.com/ --- SHOUT OUTS! --- - Ali: https://www.instagram.com/ali.turton/
- Matt: https://www.instagram.com/heytony.agency/
Thanks for tuning into our edit sesh!
Today we talk about everything from growing your business to Hamilton's best donuts. We chat with our guest, Alex Coombs, owner of "Northern Spruce Media", a thriving multi-media business here in Hamilton, Ontario. She shares how she scaled her business, gained her clients' loyalty and how she has built a dedicated team of 12 employees!
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ---- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/- Edit Sesh: https://www.instagram.com/editseshpod/---
SHOUT OUTS! ---- Alex: https://www.instagram.com/alex__coombs/
- Northern Spruce Media: https://www.instagram.com/northernsprucemedia/- Alex's Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1JIN7o8CL8XtP39lrCyeme
Thanks for tuning into our edit sesh!
Today we talk about everything from film photography to planning a wedding. Dorothy discusses her journey in foster care and how it has impacted her. We chat with our guest, Jules, owner of the branding agency "Goodwell Studios" here in Hamilton, Ontario. She shares her approach to maintaining a good work-life balance, and shares tips on how to build a website that speaks to your clients as well as implementing good SEO. Lastly, she shares her observations on wedding vendors and their ability to engage with clients.
---FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ---
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
---SHOUT OUTS! ---
- Rae : https://www.instagram.com/raeconnell?igsh=MXMxc3c3eTQ1cWF1Yw==
- Jules: https://www.instagram.com/goodwellstudio?igsh=MmtndGtpNXhldWYx
- Immersed Education Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4YbAQVRp8L/?igsh=MTJkeGRib2Z0ZWxjdQ==
- Aftershoot's Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4wA_vGsUbF/?igsh=MXNpaGRkNHVua2w1cA==
Thanks for tuning into our edit sesh!
Today we talk about about everything from how to choose your wedding photographer to identifying red flags and avoiding them. Effie discusses her experience with being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis. We chat with our guest, Dani, another photographer from Hamilton, Ontario. She shares her disappointment in hiring both a mentor and a husband/wife photographer team. We discuss how to be an ethical photographer who ensures that mistakes don't tarnish one's reputation.
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ---
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
--- SHOUT OUTS! ---
- Dani: https://www.instagram.com/daarssenphotography/
- Millworks: https://www.instagram.com/millworkscreative/
- Set Ready Rentals: https://www.instagram.com/setready_rentals/
“Welcome to our edit sesh! What are you editing today?”
Today we talk about AI in the photography industry, as well as porch pirates in Hamilton! We also had the pleasure of chatting with one of our fav Toronto wedding photogs, Cara Chapman! We discuss the pros and cons of AI, cocktails, and spicy wedding stories.
--- FIND US ON INSTAGRAM ---
- Dorothy: https://www.instagram.com/dorothymay_/
- Effie: https://www.instagram.com/effieeditsphoto/
--- SHOUT OUTS! ---
- Cara Chapman: https://www.instagram.com/carachapmanphoto/
- Aftershoot: https://www.instagram.com/aftershootco/
--> Try out Aftershoot: https://aftershoot.com/get-started?referrer=BXD2LE43
