Kimberly & James
Kimberly & James
Our Story
How We Met
Kim had just moved to Seattle, and decided to try her hand at online dating. Although the debate about who first contacted who continues, Jamie (being the seasoned Seattleite) suggested a dinner date at a local pizzeria. Kim talked the night away, and Jamie got a few words in too. At the end of the night they made plans to go shopping for raincoats at REI, and the rest is history.
The Heart Grows Fonder...
After spending a year together in Seattle, Kim retreated back to Canada to start her career. Jamie and Kim both felt that they had found something special in each other, and decided to give a long distance relationship a try. For 2 years they overcame their dislike for talking on the phone, and travelled back and forth from Seattle to Ottawa. In June 2018, Jamie took the plunge and moved to Canada! He learned what a toque was and survived his first Ottawa winter. During a late winter snowstorm in February 2019, Jamie told Kim how much he loved the life they had built together (with their corgi Lois) and asked her to marry him.
Who's Who
Parents of the Groom- Stephanie and Val Paulson
Stephanie and Val are joining us all the way from Grapeview, Washington! As seasoned world travellers, they've been to Ottawa a few times, and likely know the city's museums better than the locals.
Parents of the Bride- Henry and Nancy Bertens
The infamous Hank and Nanc. If you've spent any time around Kim, you almost certainly heard countless stories of these two characters!
Ushers- Ben Barr-Wilson and Rob Baesman
These two are friends of Jamie dating back to early childhood. If you're looking for embarrassing stories, these two have years of material!
Flower Princess- Iris Bertens
Miss Iris is most certainly Kim and Jamie's favourite niece. She's a VIP at this event, and she won't let you forget it!
Assistant to the Flower Princess- Arlo Bertens
Arlo is Iris's little brother, and Kim and Jamie's nephew. He's a sweet little guy, and is most likely to be found in close proximity to the Food Stations.
Ring Master- Stephen Redmond
Stephen is Kim & Jamie's eldest nephew. Just like his uncle, he's an awesome trombone player.
Witness- Margaret Redmond
Jamie's older (and wiser) sister Margaret. She may look innocent now, but she's responsible for Jamie's only broken bone.
Witness- Dan Bertens
Dan is Kim's younger brother. He can offer insights about why you should never agree to a game of Monopoly with Kim.
Ceremony Participant- Erin Kelly
Kim & Jamie have spent countless nights with Erin & her husband Dustin, and daughter Emilia. Their dogs Cheeko and Lois are also BFFs.
Ceremony Participant- Scott McGuffin
The multitalented Scott is one of Kim's dearest friends from her medical school days. He's credited with being the guy that taught her that musicians are cool.
Master of Ceremonies- Paul Battin
Paul and Kim went to Mitchell District High School together. Although she may not have admitted it back then, Kim always enjoyed Paul's company. Paul absolutely loves to banter, so Kim & Jamie knew that he'd do a great job as the MC!