Nigerian photographer Sanni Olarotimi, founder of Kenya Safari Wedding, says he started the platform to provide a digital space that connects couples to the right wedding vendors across Africa.

Sanni is based in Nigeria while his company operates from Kenya.

Speaking to Word Is, he said he has successfully run the platform although he is away.

"We aim to create unique wedding tourism experiences for couples throughout Africa, and our services don't require physical meetings," he said.

"We bring certified wedding professionals in the industry on our platform so couples can have access to them.

"We as KSW don't offer a physical product for couples but serve as a networking firm between the vendors and them."

Sanni started the art of photography at the age of 16 years after working as a child labourer at construction sites with his father at around 11 years of age.

"Those moments built my perspective of what adult life and work felt like. By the time I was 15 years, the fear of working such a job made me look for other professions and photography was my choice. I left home to pursue my career."

After investing in a camera, lenses, laptop and hard drive, he was robbed while working in the streets. He was depressed for seven months.

It was after that incident that he decided to explore other capabilities.

"I started learning digital advertising tools to understand the online marketing space. The more I learned about it, the more fascinating it became. I learnt how to monetise social platforms like Instagram and Facebook, providing value with sales strategies through content marketing."

Among the challenges, he says that as a solo founder who has never been to East Africa, he has consequently been labelled a 'scam' as most people would request to have a physical meeting.

"I always opted for virtual video calls, which wasn’t enough reason for some to be convinced of brand eligibility due to the alarming rates of fraudulent schemes online," he said.

"I had to invest in networking with local wedding professionals to understand the industry and its pain points.

"Also, collaborating with local wedding bloggers in neighbouring countries and growing our online community."

His focus is to keep the business running and grow it globally.

"Our interactive online portal showcases inspirational wedding materials and unique wedding vendors portfolios, like photographers, make-up artists, hairstylists, floral decorators, gift boxes, bridal dress designer, groom suits, cakes and luxurious wedding cars or choppers.