Meet Devan Grace Storey! Devan is from Prince George but has been in Kamloops for two years. She is a kind photographer who loves hiking and going to the lake!
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I was born in Prince George, B.C. I moved to New Westminster in 2010 and found my way to Kamloops in the Spring of 2018.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My pets. I have always loved animals. There is no greater feeling in the world than the unconditional love of a pet.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Desert Rain Gifts. I seriously decorated most of my suite with this store. l absolutely love it. It's my go-to place for special gifts!
Describe yourself in one word.
Kind.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Right at this moment, I would go to Australia so I could help rescue and take care of the injured animals.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
That is a tough one. So many great hikes and lakes around. Billards, arcades, Blazers' hockey, we even have a trampoline park. We really have it all here. My personal favourite would have to be all the craft events put on by all the local artists.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Well, last week I slipped and fell flat on my butt while trying to demonstrate how slippery it was, while also advising others to be careful.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Being so fully supported by other local photographers. For example when my dog got sick at least five fellow photographers offered their time to take photos of him and I. It really reminded me why I do what I do, to capture precious memories.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
My favourite childhood memory is doing pretend photo shoots and fashion shows with my sister with our pets!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
Trying to collect warm clothing for the needy has been where my extra time has been going as of lately. I do often volunteer to photograph non-profit events which is my favourite way to give back.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I would get rid of childhood illnesses. There are so many children who are born sick, who become sick and who never get better. It breaks my heart.
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
Pretty much any hike or lake you go to you can venture off just a little bit and find yourself completely alone with nature and your thoughts.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
I would like to see more support for people needing to see a doctor here in Kamloops. We have a real doctor shortage crisis here in town. We need more support for the general practitioners so they are able to take on more patients, more incentives for specials to move to the city and more public education on how to use the online platforms that allow you to see a doctor or specialist online.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
The people! Everyone is really nice. When I first moved here I was so shocked when a lady pulled her car over, not to yell at me but to say she really liked my dress. It's really cool to see people lift each other up instead of tearing each other down.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
This year's list:
1. Go to the Wildflower Festival in Sun Peaks this year.
2. Be a photographer at Recovery Day B.C 2020.
3. Take a relaxing beach vacation.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I'm a huge Jeopardy fan. I've watched it every day for years. I have a huge crush on James Holzhauer.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook: Devan Grace Storey.
Instagram: @devangrace.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Devan Grace Photography
Why did you get into/start this business?
I have always loved photography and wanted a job where I was able to help people. After finishing my Physician's Assistant program in 2012, I decided to pursue my second dream which was photography. Later that year I started Devan Grace Photography.
What is the goal of your business?
My goal has always been to provide high-quality photography at an affordable price. I love photography and photos can be some of the best memories we ever get to keep. I started my business promising that I would always give back and keep my prices affordable.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Not truly believing in myself. It won't always be easy, there will be bad days but that doesn't mean you failed. If you believe in yourself and work hard anything is possible!
What do you always find yourself saying?
"Text me when you get home safe." I am a really caring person and always say this to my friends and family.
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Don't sweat the small stuff (and it's ALL small stuff).
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Ellen Degeneres. I didn't know much about her until a few years ago, going through a rough patch I found her to be so inspiring. Her message of being kind to one another is important because she doesn't mean just the people we like or have similar views with, she means EVERYONE.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
When we shop local we are supporting local. Local entrepreneurs risking everything to follow their hearts. We support their hard work, dreams, and families.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Being asked to be a photographer at Recovery Day BC in 2018. Over 30,000 people were in attendance as well as Mathew Good and 300+ vendors.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Clancy O'Malley owner and pharmacist at the Pharmasave Downtown. In 2018 he set up a table, computer with Internet, coffee and snack for whoever wishes to come in from the cold/ heat. He builds relationships with them and they are always so grateful.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Rustic Mamma - Tammy.
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. Thank you, Kamloops.
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!
