Meet Nettie Steuernagel! Nettie is a wedding photographer from right here in Penticton!
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My husband Herman. He is my best friend and pretty awesome.
What is your favourite local store in Penticton and why?
The Dragons Den. I am an artist so this place is like a small slice of Heaven. Plus the building is pretty darn cool.
Describe yourself in one word.
Passionate.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Petra. I have always wanted to go there.
What is your favourite activity in Penticton?
Kayaking.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
This would take a while to explain.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
The day I became a Christian. I was 15 and since then God has inspired me in so many different ways.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My family would holiday in B.C. to visit my relatives. I have seven siblings, so my parents and all eight kids would squish into our old blue station wagon and head through the mountains. Our favourite stop was Bijoux Falls where we would picnic on ham and cheese sandwiches and chocolate milk. Good times!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I have been involved with the Okanagan Beard Festival for the past 3 years which raises awareness and funds for the Discovery House. I have also started Paint Nights at the Leir House for youth and adults last Winter and am excited to start them up again this Fall.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would eliminate bullying within the adult community. Where do people think kids learn it from?
Where would you sneak away to in Penticton to spend some time alone?
I walk up Munson Mountain or by the creek that runs through town.
Where would you like to see positive change in Penticton and why?
I would love to see more support for the arts community and watch it thrive. Growing up in a small town, I had no resources to explore and grow my artistic skills. Having moved to a city where there is such a vast and welcoming artistic family has been delightful. There is so much potential in this place for artists to create and share their gifts with the world.
What do you think makes Penticton great?
The people!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
– See Andrea Botticelli in concert
– Go to Angkor Wat in Cambodia
– Meet Jasmine Star (Wedding Photographer and Business Owner)
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I am afraid of chickens.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook, Web page, Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Something Blue Photography.
Why did you get into/start this business?
I discovered my love of photography in high school and my calling as a wedding photographer when I opened a studio with a friend of mine. I was her assistant and second shooter for a few years and then started my own business after our studio closed.
What is the goal of your business?
To preserve a couples wedding memories in a timeless and beautiful way.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Self-doubt. I am my own worst critic.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
There are a few mistakes I would have liked to avoid, but mostly things would be the same.
What do you always find yourself saying?
It is so pretty here. (meaning the Okanagan)
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
The circumstances of your life are a result of your choices. If you want a better life, make better choices.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
My dear friend Katherine. I miss her so much and would love to catch up. One day wouldn't be nearly enough but I'd take it!
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Because others have supported me in pursuing my passions, how could I not support theirs?
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Bringing my dreams to life. Even if it's only for a short time, I made my dreams come true and thats pretty cool.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
S.S. Sicamous. I love that ship! I think the people there are doing an amazing job at preserving and showcasing a part of our history in such an awesome way.
My choice for the PentictonNow In Focus spotlight is:
Splendid Bastard Beard Supply
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Moving to Penticton has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. I feel more at home here than anywhere else I have ever lived. I found myself in Penticton. This is where my dreams are coming true!
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!
