A Promise to Herself: Sheri’s Nashville Boudoir Session at 51
What is a boudoir session like when you are 51, a registered nurse, and a divorced mom who has spent most of her life taking care of everyone else? Sheri put it in three words: unashamed, sexy and free.
Sheri found us on Instagram. She did not book because of a promo or a milestone. She booked, in her words, as “a gift and promise to myself to document my beautiful life.” That is one of my favorite reasons I have ever heard.
She walked in without nerves
Most women tell me they were terrified in the parking lot. Sheri was not one of them. When I asked if she was nervous beforehand, her answer was one line: “I was not nervous.” What she wanted going in was clear too. She wanted to feel, as she wrote it, 10000% in love with herself.
Once we started shooting she described herself as uninhibited. Here is how she felt seeing her images for the first time at her reveal:
“Extremely proud and unashamed. Liberated.”
Her favorite part was not a photo
I asked what her favorite part of the whole experience was, expecting her to name an outfit or a set. She went somewhere deeper:
“It takes a strong sense of self to do something like this. It solidified my confidence and trust in my self image. How comfortable I felt naked and vulnerable.”
She chose this next image herself, and I understand why. It is quiet, it is strong, and it is completely her.
The one thing she wants you to know
Sheri gave the same advice twice on her questionnaire, so I am going to pass it along exactly as she meant it:
“Be very vocal about how you want your hair and makeup, if the studio is doing your hair and makeup for you.”
She is right. Hair and makeup are included in every session here, and the artist wants your input. Bring a photo of a look you love, say what you never wear, and speak up in the chair. You should walk onto set looking like the best version of you, not a version of someone else.
Would she recommend a boudoir session? “Yes, 100%. I would recommend to every woman. It’s a liberating experience.” And her advice to a woman still thinking about it: “Just do it.”
Thinking about your own session?
Sheri, thank you for trusting me with your story and your images. To every woman reading this at 41, 51 or 61 and wondering if it is for her: it is. Start with the booking guide, it walks you through how a session at our Nashville area studio works, what is included, and what to expect at your reveal. Then book a free phone consultation and we will talk about your promise to yourself.
