June 9th 2024
This past Sunday, we celebrated 2 years of Speak To Me Photography. We made the decision last year that we wanted to make the conscious effort to celebrate what we have accomplished, as well as celebrating the incredible women who have trusted us over the past year. As we have grown our client list have grown significantly. The first year being a lot of friends, this year we have met so many different people who found us organically or through different promotions we have done. So exciting, and it was incredible to see some of these women again. Let me tell you a little bit about the day so next year you can decide if you would like to join us.
The Prep
There is so much that goes into it, not a single aspect of it feels like work, and is 100% worth it. The way we start is putting together our client list. Everyone who has ever done a photoshoot with us, and those who are booked for a future photoshoot. We extend a plus 1 to each of these individuals, to bring a friend who may be interested, and overall have someone with you that you know. However, we do this for everyone who has ever been in the vulnerable positive of having a Boudoir Experience, has the support and time to be around others who have done the same thing. Hype each other up and share stories, we definitely make it interesting!
Then we decide upon venue. this year we were all over the place, but due to changes we made, it made more sense for a smaller venue. My incredible assistant Colette has always made her home available to us for photoshoots, as it looks straight out of HGTV. You definitely have recognized the bathtub and bed from several of our photoshoots! We also made the decision as a team to offer mini photoshoots this year.
The Minis
This year we decided to offer photoshoot minis, particularly since we have done so many different photoshoots in the space. January 2023 Leah and I did the first balloon tub photoshoot and it was a dream. The contrast of black and silver, then the pinks, we were definitely inspire to revisit this set. We didn't want to just do the same old thing, no no. I adjusted it make it unique, special and specific to what we are celebrating. Another bathtub of balloons, but lets make it Speak To Me Photography colors (gold, black, silver and confetti ones for fun), lets get crafty and create a cute canopy of sheer curtains, with some candles (no flames of course-safety first) and get a little wild. A discounted rate, again exclusive for our past clients. It came together so beautifully. Hair and makeup services were also available and we had bookies throughout the duration of the day.
The Set Up
I love my girls. The set up was flawless if I do say so. Amazing cupcakes procured by Kasi, charcuterie from Gather & Graze, fruit and dip from Mama Jago, and of course an amazing mimosa bar. The signature mimosa bar has changed and evolved a bit over the past 2 years, and I think we finally found the perfect solution. We love variety, and want to focus on diversity and options. So having the popsicles truly elevated the experience and made it easy for a custom experience.
We had our 2 wonderful mannequins and our new neon sign in place, as well as a bunch of sample product for everyone to see and take pictures alongside. The Polaroid camera got a ton of use and a solid workout to document the day.
The Photoshoots
We had 5 photoshoots throughout the day and each were unique and beautiful to what each woman had envisioned for the same space. It never ceases to amaze me how different people can interpret the same space or vibe, as well as the impact of someone's second photoshoot. For 4/5 of the women, it was their second photoshoot with us, the 5th being Kasi who has obviously done a ton more.
The outfits, the props, the different poses to suit each person, this is the type of stuff I live for.
The Giveaways
One of my favorite parts the party is the giveaways. Again, the whole purpose of this party is to give back. Express gratitude for the individuals who trust me with their Boudoir Experiences and allow us to do what we love. To push the boundaries of Boudoir and emphasize the connection we have with our bodies.
Some of the things we gave away were:
- Blue ridge Estate Winery's Inspiration Glitter Wine and 4 female body form champagne glasses: Contributed by Samantha
- Custom Hair Care Routine with Kasi: Contributed by Kasi
- Professional Makeup Application with Leah at Trends Salon: Contributed by Leah
- 2 Tickets to any Charcuterie Workshop with Gather & Graze: Contributed by Gather & Graze
- 1 Private Pole Class at Go Getter Movement Studioz: Contributed by Go Getter Movement Studioz
Continuing to expand and grow is my primary goal. As a photographer, as a business owner and as a person. The last 2 years have taught me so many lessons, and I've been so fortunate to overcome the difficulties as they arise and to continue to move forward. Gratitude is so important in daily life, and I will forever be grateful to everyone who has joined me or been a part of the journey.
