Spicy Day Date - Couples Boudoir Sessions

Looking for a creative way to celebrate?

If these past couple of years have brought us anything, it really has tested our ability to be vulnerable and spend a lot of time with one another.  As we have slipped into new routines of social distance we are pushed closer to our immediate circle of intimacy.  Have we learned to distance ourselves or have learned to strengthen our  bonds with our partners. Either way it never hurts to focus on your intimacy whether it be emotional, mental, spiritual and yes of course physical. 

Boudoir photography is a special type of photography that is taken to promote self-esteem and body acceptance. Typically it is viewed as an empowering experience for women who are looking to celebrate a milestone in their lives. The reality is men can benefit from it too, and together couples can experience this journey as well.

You might be asking yourself, who does a couples boudoir session? Just ask yourself…..

Do you want to spice up your relationship? Do you want to do something that will be fun for both of you? Do you want to create a bond with your partner that you both can enjoy?

This article will cover some tips on how to prepare for a couples boudoir session to make the experience all the more enjoyable for both partners.

For the couples who are about to take this journey together, I want them to know that they are not alone.

It often starts with an impulse buy - you see an Instagram post of a boudoir session and think that it would be a good idea for your partner.

A professional photographer will teach you how to feel confident in your skin while capturing these moments in the most beautiful way possible.

It's all about taking charge of our sexuality, being comfortable in our own skin, and being able to share this with our partners.

Planning a couples boudoir session can feel challenging for some because we are working with two bodies, two minds, and three relationships. You have the relationship of the two people, and then their individual relationships of self. One partner might be a little more timid and shy than the other. Through a series of questions and getting to know you we discuss how to overcome any nervousness.

As with all sessions, I am here for you along the way. You can ask me anything. The most important thing is that you feel heard int he process. Like all relationships, communication is key. From the moment you inquire I will help guide you through the process. The session and the images are not the only part of this experience, but also the preparation leading up to your session. I have great tips and tools that will help ease you into the day of the shoot.

I have a guide specifically tailored to you and your partner.

What are your self-love resolutions for 2022?

The new year is always a great time to wipe the slate clean and start fresh. Review the last 12 months or beyond. Think long and hard about how you treated yourself.  Were you being nice to the body that carries you through this journey of life, or were you over critical of yourself? It’s important to take care of yourself rather than be overly critical. We can all improve on how we treat ourselves, and it’s usually easier to start at the beginning of the year. .

Last year I made a list of resolutions for myself for the new year. I wanted to be more organized, more patient, more honest, more understanding, and more loving. I wanted to make healthier choices, take more time for myself, be more vulnerable, and be more conscious.

Self-love resolutions 

I resolve to love myself more. I resolve to be kinder to myself. I resolve to forgive myself. I resolve to believe in myself. I resolve to be present for myself. I resolve to be the best version of myself. I resolve to love myself.  I resolve to love the skin I am in today!  . I resolve to love the skin I will be in tomorrow. I resolve to love the skin I was in yesterday. I resolve to make choices that help me love the skin I am in. I resolve to do this now."

Tips to implement your self-love resolutions

I know it can be hard to implement resolutions that are about self-love, but it's worth it! It's important to remember that you are worth it. You deserve to be loved and respected. The best way to show yourself love is to be kind to yourself and dedicate time for yourself.

You may want to try meditating, or perhaps taking a bath with some lavender oil. When I come home from a long day there is nothing like a hot bath and my audible book. I grab a cold glass of water that is so refreshing in a hot steamy bath. I tap into one of my favorite audibles or grab my kindle and dive into another world. 

Solid deep sleep is vital to self care. There is a healthy medium somewhere at six to eight hours, find your balance. The mental and physical rest is so important and required. I wake up feeling rested and refreshed. For my emotional care,  I use my journal to express my feelings. In my journal I express my frustrations, but I create a list of the things I feel thankful for. I do this on a daily, and I have for many years. 

I dedicate time at the end of a day to me and start my day with accessing where I am, and where I want to be. I take time to consider and give myself permission to be happy. I practice light meditation and gratitude on a regular basis. I clear my (private) space of clutter and I keep it organized. Trust me, life has not always had this balance.  Over the years I have dealt with my struggles, but I grow every year I am alive. I learn how to love myself a little more every year. 

1. Learn to decompress after a long day through a exercise, a hot bath or reading your favorite book…UNPLUG

2. Get a good of uninterrupted deep sleep….Catch some good zzzz's

3. Wake up and write in a journal to put your emotions on paper, list all the things you are grateful for

Take some time to be gentle and kind to yourself. This will help you love yourself and respect yourself. You are wonderful right now. You are good enough. You are smart enough, you are kind enough, you are strong enough, and you are brave enough. You are not broken. You are not less than. This will help you love yourself and respect you and your body. This will help you be more confident and empowered. And I promise you that this will help you be healthier. I promise that you will start feeling better. I promise that you will start.

Self-love resolutions from others 

I've been seeing more and more posts about people making resolutions to love themselves more. I think it's a really great idea. It's so easy to focus on the negative things, but it's so important to focus on the positive. Also, I'm so guilty of it. I think I'm a pretty good person, but every once in a while I'll think something pretty bad about myself. I'm not great at letting those thoughts go, I'll admit, but it makes me so sad to think that someone might be thinking that way about themselves. It's so hard (and maybe impossible) to be perfect all the time. Like, I don't think I'd ever feel completely comfortable with myself

Conclusion 

We are all at different stages in this journey of self love. Whether you are coming out of a toxic relationship, or maybe still in one, it is vital to find the help and the tools that enforce healthy emotional, mental and physical actions. A toxic relationship doesn't always involve another person, it can also be with ourselves.  

We entered this new decade with so many challenges. So many expectations are put on us everyday. The last thing you should do is project unrealistic demands on your own self image. Start this day by loving the person you are right now

The Perfect Role Model to Follow - Ms A

So many women that walk through my door come in with a slice of apprehension. That is totally normal and 100% okay. You are probably meeting me for the first time and I am asking you to be vulnerable. You have chosen to walk through the doors and share a side of you that rarely gets seen. If you are struggling with self image ideals of yourself that makes it even harder. While our perception is that plus size women struggle the most, I am here to tell you that all women struggle. This story is more about it being a state of mind than anything.

The tub is a fun set and addition to your session

So much of our worth has been tied to body image. While women are mostly impacted, I do want to recognize men go through it too. So if you are man reading this, know I hear you and I see you. The majority of individuals I work with are women and I can empathize with my gender. As a woman myself, I understand all of the things in life you are asked to do and maintain. I feel like a superhero on some days and then on others I feel like a complete failure. When it comes to my body that is a constant love and hate. I will admit that lately it is mostly love.

So on with the story of Ms A. When she contacted me she told me that she had done another session a few years ago. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t curious. I wanted to know about her previous experience. She told me she loved it and wanted to do it again. She wanted a different look. There was a dark and moody sultry vixen waiting to be unleashed in my studio.

When Ms A came to the studio I was blown away by her excitement. She was ready to go and she was the most prepared of anyone I have ever had come in. This was not her first rodeo and to top it off she is a total lingerie connoisseur. Plus size lingerie is not as readily available or easy to find. Thankfully in the past 5 years we have had a really amazing influx of great brands emerge. I will cover that later on, back to our story.

Ms A, opened up her suitcase and it felt like a steam trunk of glamour gasped for a breath of fresh air. If I asked “Do you have fishnet thigh highs?” She said YES! “do you have a black garter to match? “ She said YES!

This chic had everything. She was ready to flaunt her assets and 100% trusting in my ability to mold her into the light.

Right at that moment I knew this session was going to be an explosion of fireworks and she was a masterpiece in the making.

The most important thing you can do for your session is relax and learn to love an appreciate your body as it is today. It is through truly loving your skin, truly appreciating your shape and loving this vessel that carries you through this life. We cannot exchange it for a different model so learn love yourself.

Many women will ask how I pose them if they are plus size. I will pose you just as I pose anyone else. If you can do the pose I will put you in it. The most important thing in this case is bringing the right size lingerie for you. Don’t bring in a baby doll that is going to look like a tent, get a form fitting bodysuit, bustier or anything that shapes your body. Ms A wears a piece that forms to her body and I posed her in my favorite floor pose.

All Bodies are beautiful

And no matter what angle or pose I wanted her in she was game. Communication is key and I want to know if I put you in a pose if it is uncomfortable. The other really important thing you being on the day of your session is your voice. Let me know what you are thinking. I am not a mind reader and when you tell me what you are thinking or feeling I can serve you better.

Bring in something fun that you might have thought of! Want to feel like a Queen? Bring in your crown!

Not everything you bring in needs to be lingerie either. It was a last minute decision that Ms A made to throw in this fun tulle skirt. We ended up totally getting this Betsy Johnson moment! If there is something you think might be fun, bring it. You have your chance to shine and express your personality in a safe open environment. If you knew the childhood I had you would know it is pretty difficult to shock me.

Ms A is free in the moment and feels like diva and lets it all out. Her express is of total power and comfort. This is why this image is so successful. She believed in herself then and continues to do so today.

We all have insecurities we want to overcome. Some things may sound trivial to one person but are everything to another person. You are free to share those blocks with me.

My goal at the end of the day is that you feel like a Pretty Woman! While I know that looks are not who we actually are, if you feel happy about your outside it does help your inside.

If you look closely at her shoulder you will see her daily affirmation “Pretty Woman”

Boudoir Builds Self-Esteem, for real!

 Confidence is Intoxicating

What do you think of when you hear the words boudoir photography? Maybe you think of sexy women in lingerie, strutting their stuff for the camera. Or maybe you think of models with the “perfect” figure, makeup, and hair. Maybe you think I could never do that or I wish that were me.

Boudoir photography is so much more than sensual, intimate photos. It’s about you—learning to love yourself and your body, feeling empowered in your beauty and femininity. No matter what you may think when you look in the mirror, you are strong, sexy, and unique, and your beauty deserves to be celebrated. I talk with so many women of seriously all shapes, sizes, heights and backgrounds. I know how one comment from someone can stick with you for life. I carry a few of those with me for life. No matter how hard I try to push them out and say they don’t mean anything, they linger in the corners of my existence. It’s funny how you can brush off one comment but the other just digs under your skin.

It wasn’t until I went through a few really life changing events that I learned how to live with my insecurities and how to make my confidence build into something brighter than my fears.

Still nervous about getting in front of the camera? Here’s how a boudoir session can help build your self-esteem and confidence.

See yourself in a completely new light.

Boudoir photography allows you to see yourself and your body from a different perspective. Instead of noticing your perceived flaws and disliking your body, boudoir can help you see just how incredible and beautiful you are. Spending a day getting pampered and strutting your stuff is more than just a good time—it can completely change your self-image. When you stop to see how gorgeous you truly are, you begin to appreciate yourself and your body a little bit more. Plus, you’ll have those stunning images to look back at on days when you’re just not feeling yourself to remind you of how sexy you are.

Show yourself a little more love.

I think we could all admit that we’re a little better at loving others than loving ourselves. But every single one of us deserves love, and you definitely deserve to love yourself. A boudoir shoot can help you feel more confident about the way you look and more comfortable in the skin you’re in. That’s a big deal! As women, we see so many negative images from the media and people around us about what we should and shouldn’t look like. Boudoir can help you push away all that talk and learn to better love yourself!

Step outside your comfort zone.

If you’ve considered doing a boudoir session, chances are you’ve thought that you could never look as sexy or confident as the women in those images. But guess what? Those women have things about their bodies they don’t like to, but they took a leap of faith and reminded themselves that they are beautiful. You can do the same! A boudoir session takes you out of your normal, day-to-day life and shows you the sexiness and beauty that you often just don’t see.

Celebrate you—and have fun doing it!

One of the most intimidating things about a boudoir session for many women is getting nearly or completely nude in front of a photographer. Trust me, I get it! But it’s my job to help you feel completely at ease. After all, I’m here to capture your beauty and make you feel like the gorgeous woman you are. Boudoir is a fun opportunity to celebrate who you are and to bring your sexy self out of hiding! You are allowed to start at whichever level you want. You just need to tell me your comfort zone.

Feel a sense of empowerment.

Let’s face it, we all have insecurities. But getting treated like a celebrity for a few hours can certainly help you fully embrace your natural beauty and sexiness. And once you see your images, you’ll be blown away by how incredibly gorgeous you really are. Those photos will always be around to remind you of your beauty and help you rediscover that self-confidence anytime you need it.

No matter your age or where you are in your life, you deserve to love and celebrate your beauty. A professional boudoir shoot can help you do that and allow you to see yourself as the gorgeous and incredible woman you truly are.

Healing Fresh Wounds and Breaking Self Doubt

My friend Eldika is one such brave woman. She has fought the world all these years and come out stronger after every struggle. The day of our shoot was a hard day for her, no sugar coating it.

I had the great opportunity of photographing Eldika at Seattle Boudoir & Company. I loved her attitude and the results came out fabulous.

Eldika’s Story

Here’s Eldika’s story. She wanted to share it in her own words. You can read what she wrote below!

“Self-confidence has never come easy to me. Let me rephrase that: ACTUAL self-confidence has never come easy to me. I’ve been good at standing proud, sticking up for myself, and being in command. But, until recently, it had not been very honest.

I grew up on the border in El Paso, Texas. As a child, I was considered too black to laugh at jokes spoken in Spanish and too Hispanic for cornrows. As a teen, I was mocked for playing bass in a punk rock band while also maintaining good grades in school. I participated and excelled in swimming. I was a part of a band, theatre, which wasn’t considered very “punk rock.” Later, I put myself through college. And nursing school full-time with some help from my mother and while still working two jobs. I spent years in my late twenties in an abusive, controlling, manipulative relationship. As a result of this toxic relationship, I still struggle with PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

In 2014, when I left my hometown to start fresh, I was exposed to a different type of adversity. I worked in the NICU units. The color of my skin than my nursing ability was the reason parents refused me to care for their children. Feeling rejected for being too black, or not being black enough, or Mexican enough was one part. Not being punk enough, or enough of a girlfriend was another part of the story. My struggles with my weight were also a barrier others used against me.

In spite of it all, I’ve tried to live a genuine life, which now, at 38, I can finally reflect on. Every hardship, strife, and setback.

I can look at myself in the mirror and, for the first time, speak my truth. These things happened, but they don’t define you. Don’t let them consume you. You came out on top. I can now tell myself and actually believe it. I have worked hard on myself and worked hard to achieve my goals. I grow by the day; I am a beautiful work in progress.

Now I embrace everything about me that others were quick to criticize. I speak my broken Spanish, with pride. I wear my crowns (what I like to call my headwraps), with pride. I blast the dopest jams as loud as my stereo allows, with pride. I advocate for my mental health and the mental health of others with no shame- with pride! I strut my stuff both mentally and literally when I walk into work. Because I am confident in my ability to give outstanding care. I spend my free time shaking all this glorious flab in belly dance classes because it feels good. I refuse to allow anyone to take any of this away from me now. I AM ME AND I AM PROUD! And my confidence, genuine and true, builds daily.

However, posing for a boudoir shoot was not something I ever thought I would have the confidence to do. Yet, somehow, I was drawn to it. To say the experience was cathartic is an understatement.

Molly really knew how to spark my confidence. She drew it out which translated into the most beautiful photos. The first time I saw them, I couldn’t believe these photos were of me. I can’t thank her enough for conveying what I feel within me to something others can see.

Before, it was as though the perceptions of others were what defined me. Now that is no longer the case and this shoot really cemented that inner part of me. I share this because I know most of you struggle with pieces of what I’m saying, too. But, know I am here. I am your ally. My mouth is open to share with you. My ears are open to hear from you. My arms are open to embrace you. You are a boss, babe. OWN IT!”

Be Your Own Woman

Thank you so much, Eldika for giving me a chance to photograph the sassy you. I loved our boudoir session as much as you did. I am sure your story will inspire many. It will help them to be proud of themselves and never give up.

I wish all my readers and clients lots of love and confidence. Those who truly see you will love you. Those who don’t, are not worth investing time in. I want everyone to know I see you for the love you have in you. Love one another, stand by your sister with conviction and pride. Embrace the human next to you. Love is infinite and it does not cost you anything. Moreover, the rewards are amazing!

Featured Vendors

Quincee Camille Artistry - Hair and Makeup Instagram @quinceecamilleartistry

Bold & Edgy Boudoir Photography | Ms. K

Boudoir photography can take be personalized to reflect any style or personality. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing the stunning Ms. K. Ms. K’s edgy boudoir session was truly one of a kind. I really enjoyed working with her to create this wild studio boudoir photography session!

Bold, Edgy Boudoir Photography

Ms. K wanted to create a boudoir session that reflected her personality. I love how she has such a strong, bad-ass energy and personality while still being so romantic and seductive. She brought her pet snake with her, a gorgeous python. It was amazing to be able to have her snake in her shoot. He added such a bold element to the entire photoshoot. Her short, stylish hairdo really set the stage for an edgy, bold look. She also had some amazing jewelry pieces that really were so unique. I loved showcasing the necklaces. They were truly one of a kind.

Boudoir on the Wild Side

The snake was not always cooperating, but he was always content. Mainly, when we wanted him to do something, he would just tuck himself away in the dark corner of her folded knee. He just wanted to go to sleep! Trust in knowing that this animal is very well cared for. Ms. K is a professional, very capable of owning and caring for this animal. Before I allow any exotic animals into a boudoir photoshoot, I must ensure for the animal’s safety and temperament. I need to know that the animal is well-cared for, and I also need to verify that being in the photo studio with the different lights and sounds won’t stress them out.

During the photo session, the well-being of the animal is just as important as my model! At any point, if the animal is exhausted or overwhelmed, then they can be done. I do have quite a bit of animal handling and care myself. I feel very comfortable with most all animals. If you are interested in incorporating an animal in your shoot, I am open to it. Contact me to tell me about how we can create a customized boudoir session to reflect your style and personality!

Hair & Makeup by Kat St John with Paper Dolls NW

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Couples’ Boudoir Photography

Valentine’s Day is synonymous with love and romance. But Valentine’s Day is also about passion, sensuality, and desire. What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a couple’s boudoir session? Couple’s Boudoir photography sessions are an amazing way for you to connect with each other and have a truly unique experience. Here are six reasons to schedule your own couple’s boudoir photography session to celebrate Valentine’s Day!

Six Reasons for a Couple’s Boudoir Session

I’ve talked in the past about the beauty in boudoir photography. In fact, I recently talked about what a great idea it is to give the gift of YOU as a Valentine’s Day gift! But a couple’s boudoir session is a steamy, exciting way for you and your partner to connect. Here are six reasons why you should consider scheduling a couple’s boudoir photo session.

Boudoir Sessions Celebrate Your Relationship

Each couple’s boudoir photography session is a custom-tailored, unique photography experience. What better way to celebrate your relationship than with a photography experience that is based on you, your likes, your desires, and your story as a couple?

Couple’s Boudoir Sessions Spark Passion

A couple’s session is sure to ignite your passions and desires for each other. It’s a fun way to spice things up with something new and saucy. This is not your everyday date for sure! The intimacy and sensuality that you get in touch with during your couple’s session is sometimes surprising and unexpected. When was the last time you two slowed down and really looked into each other’s eyes? A couple’s session can be an amazing way to slow down and truly reconnect. Let those sparks fly!

Photo Sessions Let You Become the Masterpiece.

I will pose you both and put you in the best light to showcase you and your partner in the best way. There’s no need to be shy or modest. Every photograph is tastefully, artistically posed.

Share a New Experience Together

Spend the day together in a way you never have before. Then, top off the day with a night out for dinner. Your couple’s boudoir session can transform into a whole day or even weekend away in downtown Seattle! Take a chance to do something new, different and exciting together as a couple.

Love Your Body and Theirs

Often, when people talk about boudoir photography, they worry about having the right kind of body for boudoir. Let me tell you right now: every body is beautiful. There’s no need to be self-conscious. Love your body for all the amazingness that you are as a person. Love your partner’s body for all the amazingness they are! Your boudoir session will help you appreciate how you two come together as a couple in a beautifully unique way.

Build Confidence

Confidence is the sexiest thing you can put on in the morning. Boudoir does this! Why not nurture that part of you and your partner!

About Couple’s Boudoir at Seattle Boudoir & CO.

I open my doors and welcome all couples who express love and gratitude toward one another. This studio is proudly LGBTQ+ friendly. Love is love and it is beautiful in all forms. If you would like to learn more, please don’t hesitate to reach out.