Jamie and I (Lindsey), A.K.A. The Adore Girls are always honored when incredible women not only trust us to be their boudoir photographers but also allow us to share their stories. Today, I am excited to feature one of our newest Adore Girls, Miss E., who recently stepped in front of my camera for her first-ever boudoir session. Not only did she stun us with her high vibes and bravery, but we loved her story so much we want to share her empowering boudoir journey with you. We asked Miss E. a few questions after her session, and here's what she had to say.

First, tell us a little about yourself.

Age:

42, almost 43! (December, baby!)

Where do you call home?

Knoxville, Tennessee.

What do you do when you're not being an awesome model for our cameras?

I'm a spicy romance author! I've been writing for a couple of years now, and I'll publish my 27th book later this month. I never expected to be a writer, but it's been a fun, wild ride, and I love every second of it. 

Are you single, in a relationship, engaged, married, divorced? Kids, no kids, pets?

I'm a single mom to an 8-year-old princess. She looks just like me, but we're opposites in so many ways. She's super outgoing and loves meeting people, but I'm an introvert who prefers to stay home and relax. I'm glad we're opposites, though, because we balance each other out.  She pulls me out of my shell, and I calm her down. 

Tell us why you wanted to have a boudoir session in the first place.

I struggle with past trauma and body dysmorphia. Because of this, I rarely take pictures and actually don't have any displayed in my home.  My therapist encouraged me to get in front of the camera, especially to capture special moments for my daughter and me. I was very reluctant to take her advice until I had the amazing opportunity to have a Boudoir Photography session with The Adore Girls. I think I booked my session in June and had my shoot in August. 

I've never had professional photos taken before, and I was very nervous. But I wanted to do this to show myself I can do hard things and I'm more than my trauma.  I wanted to do something that my daughter would be proud of—that I would be proud of—even though she won't see these images until she's much older. I wanted to feel empowered, feminine, and beautiful, and I felt all those things during my session.

While a part of me thought that perhaps I should put this off, I decided against doing that because no matter when I took the pictures, I'd always wish I was skinnier, prettier, had better hair, etc.  But the truth is I'm still beautiful regardless of what the outside packaging looks like. We all are. And I refuse to continue allowing the mean words in my head to dictate my life.  

So I put on my big girl pants and drove to Nashville for the most wonderful experience I could've imagined. And I loved every second of it!

Why did you choose The Adore Girls' studio?

I saw an Instagram post promoting a free session giveaway, and I entered, thinking I wouldn't win.  I've always wanted to do a boudoir shoot, and I thought this could be my opportunity to do one. I didn't know much about the studio prior to entering the giveaway, but after completing the form, I did some research and was very pleased with my findings. 

Were you nervous about the boudoir session?

I was very nervous about the photo shoot in general, as I previously mentioned my struggles with body dysmorphia.  My only concern was seeing myself in lingerie, and I worried I wouldn't take nice pictures. 

How did you prepare for your boudoir shoot?

I read through all the materials that were sent to me and found them to be very helpful. I then started looking for clothing options, ordering several things online until I found a few items that I felt comfortable in. 

How was your boudoir experience at The Adore Girls' studio?

The experience was phenomenal from start to finish! I felt welcome as soon as I stepped foot in the door. The stylist who did my hair and makeup did a fabulous job, enhancing my features and making me look like the best version of myself. Lindsey took my photos, and I can't say enough wonderful things about her.  She was kind and patient and showed me everything I needed to do.  She took all the guesswork out of it and made the whole session fun and enjoyable. When it was all done, I was shocked at how fast time flew by. I had a great time!

What was it like seeing your boudoir photos for the first time?

I cried when I saw my images for the first time. I honestly couldn't believe that was me in the photos. For once, I felt beautiful, and I was thrilled with how well they turned out. 

What was your favorite part of the entire experience?

I seriously loved it all! I felt like a princess getting all dolled up and even had some laughs during the actual shoot. The whole thing was awesome.

Has boudoir photography impacted your life in any way beyond the photoshoot?

I'm grateful for the opportunity to have this shoot because it was a much-needed confidence booster. Whenever I start to beat myself up about my messy mom hair or not wearing makeup, I look at the images on the mobile app and remind myself that I'm still the girl in those photos. I'm just incognito today. 

What would you say to the next woman considering a boudoir session?

Do it! Do it now! Don't wait! I cannot express what an incredible experience this is, and everyone should have it. You'll see yourself in a whole new light and the way you deserve to be seen. You won't regret doing this for yourself. This was a truly magical experience. Everyone was so professional, kind, caring, and thoughtful. I'll definitely book another session in the future. 

Thank you so much, Miss E., for trusting us with your boudoir journey and for sharing your inspiring story! We can’t wait to have you back in the studio for another session in the future.

XOXO,

Lindsey & Jamie

The Adore Girls

Ready to book your own boudoir session? Contact us today and start your journey toward rediscovering your confidence and beauty!