You all know me as a premier boudoir photographer here in Connecticut. As a business owner I belong to many groups that support other local businesses here in CT. These groups allow me to meet amazing people that I’d love you to get to know as well. Welcome to another installment of our “Celebrating Local Women in Business” blog! We focus on local Connecticut businesses. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about these people and why they chose the work they do. You’ll find out what drove them to transform that passion into their work. We’ll also find out how their business has had a positive impact on others.
The Trahan Insurance Agency opened their new location at 819 Voluntown Road in Griswold, CT on March 1st of 2023 but brought with them, decades of knowledge and customer service. Owned by Kevin Trahan, the agency is known for their customer care and their hard work to source the best insurance at the best rates possible for their clients. They provide insurance coverage for Auto, Home, Motorcycle, Off road vehicles, Boat, Home/Renters, Life, Umbrella, Jewelry, and more.
Name: Delaine Trahan
Position: Personal Lines Producer
“After having passed my CT state insurance exam I will be going to work for my husband, Kevin Trahan”
“Delaine joined the Trahan Insurance Agency after 30 years in bookkeeping. I’m excited to start my new career and will strive to provide insurance solutions for my clients. I’m happy to be joining the agency and be working with my husband Kevin and niece Tara. In my free time, I enjoy golfing and biking…”
“Our agency will be able to help people with all their personal insurance needs…. Auto, home, motorcycle, boat, etc.”
Name: Tara Bjorkland
Position: Personal Lines Producer
“My uncle, Kevin Trahan, has always been a big influence in my life and so when it came time to start WORKING, I thought what better place to start than working for him.”
“Insurance is something that most people know they have to have but don’t know how important it truly is. It’s knowing that if something unforeseeable and devastating happens that you have taken the necessary measures to ensure you and your family are properly taken care of. It should be seen more as a safety blanket than a cost you wish you didn’t have to pay. When I interact with my customers, I make sure they know exactly what they are paying for and never pay for anything they don’t need. I like being an advisor for something that can be confusing if you don’t have the proper guidance. I like getting to know each and every one of my customers so we can build a bond and they will feel comfortable to come to me with any questions or concerns.”
“I liked the thought of working in insurance because it’s something that you need to have and I wanted to learn more about it.”
Delaine & Tara’s desire to provide service and quality within the insurance industry set them apart. “DON’T OVERPAY…CALL TIA!”
Call Tara for a quote, mention you saw this blog and receive a $10 GIFT CARD!
To be featured in our Celebrating Local Women in Business blog go to our Women In Business questionnaire and tell me more about you and your business!
Do you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about? Please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
Call me to set up a complimentary consultation! You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And remember, Gift Certificates are always available.
You all know me as a premier boudoir photographer here in Connecticut. As a business owner I belong to many groups that support other local businesses in CT. These groups allow me to meet amazing people that I’d love you to get to know as well. Welcome to another installment of our “Celebrating Local People in Business” blog! We focus on local Connecticut businesses as well as some of their key employees. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about these individuals and why they chose the work they do. You’ll find out what drove them to transform their passion into their work. We’ll also find out how their business has had a positive impact on others.
Celebrating Local People In Business Featuring Brad & Pamela Thompson
Brad and Pamela stated WellnessWithin in January of 2013. Their service helps people of all ages, all over the world. They have touched the lives of hundreds of people through in person and on-line workshops, speaking engagements, and one-on-one programs.
Name: Brad & Pamela Thompson
Owner Of: WellnessWithin (all one word)
Why and how did you get involved in your business?
Pamela – “For many years I struggled with anxiety, worry, overwhelm and low self-esteem and searched for something or someone who could “fix” what I believed was wrong with me. On this quest I read many spiritual books, took self-help courses and studied several energy therapies. I completed the full course in Reiki training, learned kinesiology, became a certified Healing Touch practitioner, and studied Quantum Touch. While I was studying the teachings of Abraham Hicks and the Law of Attraction, I was introduced to Quantum Physics which challenged much of what I believed was true about this world and myself. All of the searching I did lead me to realize that the answer I was looking for was actually within me, and I made many positive shifts over the years. However, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) was the first modality that enabled me to actually get to the root of much of the dis-stress I experienced and release it, resulting in greater shifts in a shorter time. My husband and I along with our 2 daughters took the EFT training together. He and I then went on to be certified, then continued to learn more and more energy modalities, incorporating them into our personal lives as well as our business. (Brad talks about that below.) It was a natural progression to share what had transformed my life with others.”
Brad – “After retirement as an educator in 2013, I became interested in how the mind impacts the body. I attended a workshop called, “The Mind/Body Connection” given by two physicians and leaders in the Mind/Body movement. Having seen firsthand how powerful the mind/body connection is, I started my quest to learn more so I could apply mind/body techniques to not only enhance my own emotional and physical health, but that of others as well. During the next several years, Pamela and I became certified by EFT International as Emotional Freedom Techniques Practitioners. We also trained in other powerful mind/body protocols such as Matrix Reimprinting, Intention Tapping, Optimal EFT, PSYCH-K, and more. We have been fortunate enough to study the works of some of the world’s leaders in mind/body medicine, including Biologist Bruce Lipton, Dr. Kim D’Eramo, Founder of the American Institute for Mind/Body Medicine, Gary Craig, Founder of Emotional Freedom Technique and Optimal EFT, Gregg Braden, Karl Dawson, Founder of Matrix Reimprinting, Dawson Church, Lynne McTaggert, and many more. Even before we developed our toolkit of mind/body skills, Pamela and I decided we wanted to share our expertise in a way that would positively impact the lives of friends, family and anyone else who was interested in taking control of their own health and well-being. Since starting our business, we have touched the lives of hundreds of people of all ages through in person and on-line workshops, speaking engagements, and one-on-one programs.”
What motivates you to run your own business?
The knowledge that we can assist a person to transform his/her life from one of dis-ease, unhappiness, and overwhelm to one of ease, joy and autonomy.
The freedom to share our expertise and knowledge within our own parameters.
The freedom to set our own hours and be flexible with the times we work with people.
The ability to provide and hold a truly safe, gentle and supportive space for another as they work through what is keeping them stuck physically, emotionally or behaviorally.
How does your business help or benefit others?
Transforms people’s lives by:
Empowering them with the knowledge that they have more control over their own health, happiness and wellbeing than they have been led to believe
Unraveling limiting beliefs learned from past events and installing ones that are supportive
Shifting emotional attachment to past troublesome events
Helping them reach the point of complete self-acceptance and love,
All of this impacts every aspect of their lives, opening up so many more possibilities for them
List or describe any additional information about yourself or your business that you would like included
We can and have worked with people nationally and internationally because of technology.
Pamela is a former nationally certified interpreter for the Deaf and a teacher of American Sign Language.
On a personal level:
We have 2 daughters, 1 son and 2 grandsons. Our greatest joy is that everyone loves getting together for food and games, and when we do, the laughter is simply wonderful and continuous.
We also have 2 beautiful cats.
We live in the country, have a small vegetable garden and expansive flower gardens.
Remember, WellnessWithin offers individuals a 30 – 45-minute complimentary conversation to learn about their health goals, what they are struggling with, how they can help you, and to answer any questions you may have.
To be featured in our Celebrating Local People in Business blog go to our Local Business questionnaire and tell me more about you and your business!
Do you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about? Please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
Call me to set up a complimentary consultation! You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And remember, Gift Certificates are always available.
You all know me as a premier boudoir photographer here in Connecticut. As a business owner I belong to many groups that support other local businesses here in CT. These groups allow me to meet amazing people that I’d love you to get to know as well. Welcome to another installment of our “Celebrating Local Women in Business” blog! We focus on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women and some of their key employees. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about these women and why they chose the work they do. You’ll find out what drove them to transform that passion into their work. We’ll also find out how their business has had a positive impact on others.
Celebrating Local Women In Business Featuring Dawn Mattos
Dawn opened River Valley Insurance Agency in partnership with Apple Valley Insurance. Her agency is located at 141 Brown Ave Jewett City, CT. Dawn’s dedication to her clients goes far beyond getting them the best rates possible for their insurance. Her personal touch sets her far above the competition leading to many of her clients becoming personal friends.
Name: Dawn Mattos
Owner Of: River Valley Insurance Agency, 141 Brown Ave Jewett City, CT 06351
“In my industry I have many competitors but I’d like to think my personal touch is what makes me different and is the reason I gain business leads. My motto is ENTER AS STRANGERS and LEAVE AS FRIENDS!!!”
“I was introduced to insurance just shy of 30 years where I took an entry level position within an insurance company. After many promotions and the drive to learn more, I transitioned from the insurance company side to the agency side of insurance. This is where I found my niche’ and obtained my insurance license in 2004.”
“For me, finding the right insurance is all about listening to both my client’s personal needs and their financial needs.”
“The desire to always do better and provide a service for others, is a positive reflection of my hard work and compassion for people. It is the personal touch and attention to detail that I feel separates me from others when selling insurance. Having solid knowledge and confidence to sell insurance allows me to make the client feel comfortable and to provide them with peace of mind that their personal belongings and assets are well protected.
After being in the insurance industry just shy of 30 years, I was presented with an amazing opportunity to partner with a long-standing insurance agency from Rhode Island – Apple Valley Insurance. This partnership allowed Apple Valley to branch into Connecticut and offered me better options for my clients with their wide variety of insurance companies.”
Dawn’s knowledge of her industry and her desire to be an active part of her community set her apart. Make your appointment with her at River Valley Agencyin Jewett City!
To be featured in our Celebrating Local Women in Business blog go to our Women In Business questionnaire and tell me more about you and your business!
Do you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about? Please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
Call me to set up a complimentary consultation! You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And remember, Gift Certificates are always available.
So many women worry about picking out the right lingerie for their boudoir session. If you’re planning a boudoir photo shoot and are lost in the sea of choices when it comes to lingerie, read on!
The first thing I tell women is the most important thing is to pick something that makes you feel good. If you feel uncomfortable it will show in your photos. Now, I’m not saying don’t try new styles or colors, I’m saying if something doesn’t fit you well and you hate how it looks on you, move on to the next option! Here are five tips to get you in the right direction.
1.) Understand that not every style compliments every body type. Just because it looked good on the model, it may not look good on you and that’s OK!
2.) Lingerie, like all other clothing can vary in size between manufacturers; so, don’t get stuck on a size tag!
3.) Don’t rule it out before you try on. You may be surprised how amazing it makes you feel and look!
4.) Lacey doesn’t automatically mean scratchy. Materials have come a long way over the years and today’s lace can be super soft and comfortable.
5.) Lingerie can be fun to wear every day. Many lingerie pieces such as teddies or corsets can be combined with a pair of jeans and a jacket for a very trendy look!
Keeping these tips in mind when you go shopping, keep an open mind, try things on and be brave! Try new colors, styles and have fun! Lingerie is meant to make you feel good about yourself and celebrate the flirty, sexy goddess that you are no matter if your 20 or 60.
If you live in our area and want to set up a private shopping experience, give us a call at 860-376-5514!
If you have ever dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation. You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Rhode Island, Pennsylvania. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! Gift Certificates are always available on line or at the studio.
You all know me as a premier boudoir photographer here in Connecticut. As a business owner I belong to many groups that support other local businesses here in CT. These groups allow me to meet amazing people that I’d love you to get to know as well. Welcome to another installment of our “Celebrating Local People in Business” blog! We focus on local Connecticut businesses as well as some of their key employees. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about these individuals and why they chose the work they do. You’ll find out what drove them to transform their passion into their work. We’ll also find out how their business has had a positive impact on others.
Celebrating Local People In Business Featuring David Mansulla
“Connecticut has the third highest electric rates in the country with only Alaska and Hawaii having higher rates …”
“I was a training manager, training others to run retail stores, and a customer service manager, training other managers how to provide customer service excellence, for many years. But times have changed and I had to switch gears because companies like Amazon have changed the way America shops. I wanted to transition into a business where I could use my customer service skills to help people solve some of their problems. For me, what jumped right out was the solar business. Connecticut has the third highest electric rates in the country with only Alaska and Hawaii having higher rates, so I jumped into the solar business working for someone else. This other company didn’t fit what I thought was the best way to serve employees or clients. They put their employees into a pressure cooker to get results and it wasn’t the environment I wanted to work in. Well, I did like helping others learn about and go solar, but I did not like the tactics they were using. Let’s face it, on some big decisions some people like time to think about things. I know I do! Some people may even want to get a second or third company to give them an offer. I know I would! In fact, the only reason in my mind that you wouldn’t want someone to look elsewhere is because you’re afraid of the competition. When you have a great product, fairly priced, you don’t have to operate in that way.
So, I left to find higher ground with a company that had a similar customer service philosophy as my own. Knowing what I wanted, and what I didn’t want now, I approached the solar industry with a different, more educated mindset.
What I decided to do, was to start my own solar consulting / contracting company where I didn’t have to answer to others for how I treated each of my clients. I was able to give my clients all the information, but none of the high-pressure sales tactics rampant in today’s solar marketplace. I liked the style I learned years back when I started out at the Ritz Carlton where we learned to anticipate and fulfill each customer’s needs. So now I could sell solar systems the way I wanted to sell solar systems and my clients can comfortably refer to me as the guy who has their best interests in mind, not some never ending bottom line.”
“ … I learn about each client’s needs and requirements, then provide unique solutions for them.”
When we asked David what motivated him to start his own business, he replied:
“I can run my business the way I want to, not the way some executive in New York, who personally couldn’t care less about my clients, wants me to run it. I love to inform people about options they have with solar! So many companies selling solar today sell cookie-cutter solar. They tell you enough about solar to get you excited, then in 5-10 min. they have someone in another country create a design for your home. Then you lease the system, only the next day you start to think about all the questions you still have! By contrast, I start by seeing if solar is possible for your home, then I ask you questions that will help lead me to provide the right product(s) for your home and meet your financial goals. I can present to you your best options for solar, or solar with back-up batteries, with the confidence that I am presenting you the best products on the market, designed specifically for your needs. This is one of the big differences that separates my business from hundreds of others selling solar. I also help many people who have been told that they can’t go solar by a company. I believe in rolling up my sleeves, and doing the networking required to help make their solar dreams come true. It may be more work, but it is also definitely more personally rewarding!
So that’s my business model; I learn about each client’s needs and requirements then provide unique solutions for them. Never cookie-cutter. I am there as a resource for them to ask questions as they make up their mind what’s best for them and their families.”
We asked how David’s business helped or benefited others and he answered:
“Wow, let’s start with lower electric costs to begin with! Solar provides cheaper, cleaner, price protected power. This gives my clients more money to spend on what’s important to them. It’s also the first time many of them have had a choice as to how they get their electricity. Now with batteries coming out for solar, it also offers them peace of mind knowing they will have power when the grid shuts down. Solar batteries are much quieter and much lower maintenance than noisy back-up generators. Solar is of course good for the Earth! It’s clean, renewable energy that produces zero greenhouse gases and doesn’t require vast amounts of water like fossil fuels. Not to mention it doesn’t have the baggage of nuclear energy. There is no radioactive waste to deal with! I also align myself with companies that have a cradle-to-cradle plan, or birth to rebirth plan for recycling old solar panels. In fact, each system that I sell, depending on the size of the solar system, is the equivalent of planting 100-200 trees each and every year it’s operating! So solar saves my clients lots of money and helps our fragile environment so they can feel great about that as well. It’s a win / win scenario!”
“Our consultation service is always free …”
“Not everyone who calls me can go solar. Only about 1 in 3 can for many reasons. It may be the design of the roof, shading, condition of the roof, or the direction of the roof. That said, I can still help many that are told they can’t go solar. Each home is unique and needs to be looked at individually. I can work with a tree removal service or a roofer to get the job done where others couldn’t be bothered. In fact, homeowners should check with their tax consultant because many can get great tax incentives off a new roof if needed, when they choose to go solar. So, we often give options where others simply move on. That’s what good customer service is. Our consultation service is always free, so it doesn’t cost anything to get the facts specifically for your home. You will know by the end of our consultation what you will save in writing, all about the warrantee, the product, and much more!”
David’s love for what he does and his passion for providing clean, cost-effective energy to his clients is just a small piece of what sets him apart from other solar companies. Contact him today to setup your free consultation at Suntastic Solutions
Mention Marilyn Riel or Menagerie Photography Studios and receive a free month of solar, upon install (not to be combined with any other offers).
To be featured in our Celebrating Local People in Business blog go to our Local Business questionnaire and tell me more about you and your business!
Do you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about? Please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
Call me to set up a complimentary consultation! You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And remember, Gift Certificates are always available.
You all know me as a premier boudoir photographer here in Connecticut. As a business owner I belong to many groups that support other local businesses here in CT. These groups allow me to meet amazing people that I’d love you to get to know as well. Welcome to another installment of our “Celebrating Local Women in Business” blog! We focus on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women and some of their key employees. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about these women and why they chose the work they do. You’ll find out what drove them to transform that passion into their work. We’ll also find out how their business has had a positive impact on others.
Celebrating Local Women In Business Featuring Pam Patalano
Some know Pam as a mother of five, some know her as the driving force that helped save Pachaug State Forest. Others may know her as their Registrar of Voters or a Justice of the Peace. You may have seen her campaign signs around town for the Board of Education but most people don’t realize that all of these hats are worn by one amazing woman that owns and operates Tree of Life Holistic & Wellness Center located at 39 Wedgewood Dr. in Jewett City Connecticut and Full Circle, A Healing Space located at 650 Ten Rod Rd. in North Kingstown Rhode Island.
“Its not something that is a choice for me, but rather a calling to help others.”
“I am a mother of 5 children, Alexandria, Jasmine, Krystina, Jack & Christian. My boys still live at home. I have a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and an associate’s degree in Graphic Design. I worked in the jewelry & textile industries for many years in a management capacity.
I have experienced many spiritual healings in my life. Clear signs that I was on a misguided path in my life journey. The signs never stopped and I felt an incredibly strong pull towards serving my fellow man. I learned about energy work and the healing that is possible. It’s not something that is a choice for me, but rather a calling to help others.
I started the holistic business in February of 2015 because there was a need in the area that I live in, for meditations, metaphysical and spiritual workshops, healing therapies, woman’s massage, Intuitive training, astral traveling and many other holistic interests. I felt it was time for me to spread my wings and open up.
“The benefits of mediation & massage are limitless. They help with mind-body balancing, lowering blood pressure, decreases anxiety, promotes healing, relaxation and increases overall well-being.”
We take a Spiritual approach to life-journey coaching. This is not your typical coaching session. The powers that be or one’s spirit guides are used within the sessions to assist the client in understanding the causes of their own trauma, stresses, and to help them to find a positive path in their lives through healing from the inside out.”
To be featured in our Celebrating Local Women in Business blog go to our Women In Business questionnaire and tell me more about you and your business!
Do you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about? Please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.
Call me to set up a complimentary consultation! You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed. To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio? We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island. Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And remember, Gift Certificates are always available.
I’ve been meaning to write this for a while and decided now is a great time to just get this done! I hear “reasons” all the time from women why they can’t do a boudoir session and I’m telling you today that those “reasons” are really just excuses! I’m a huge believer in loving yourself as you are today in this very moment, and if you aren’t quite there yet, we can help empower you to see yourself as the confident, individual Dream Girl that you are. So, without further ado, here are the Top 10 excuses women tell themselves (and me) why they can’t do a boudoir shoot right now, and my responses to them and YOU!
#1) I need to lose 5 or 10 lbs. first
Most women who say they need to lose weight before their session are really just afraid they won’t like what they see in their photos. I’m not trying to discourage you from committing to a weight loss journey if it is for your health and emotional well-being, however, you DON’T need to lose weight to look good in your photographs! I believe that every woman is beautiful as she is right now, and I know how to pose you and use studio lighting to enhance your best features. In addition, utilizing our professional hair and makeup services before your photoshoot provides you with the extra confidence boost to feel ABSOLUTELY GLAMOROUS!
#2) I’m not very photogenic
The right photographer can take awesome photos of ANY woman no matter her shape, size or experience. Pose coaching and directing is a huge part of what I do, and is essential even in the images that appear “candid”. Coaching you into the pose, allows you to relax and not worry if you’re “doing it right”. You will know exactly what to do and how to do it. I will make sure you don’t feel awkward in front of the camera.
#3) I don’t own any sexy lingerie and garters / stockings aren’t my ‘thing’
Here is a small list of what clients wore in some of our favorite photoshoots:
Matching bra and panties
Yours or your significant other’s button-up shirt
Tank top or camisole
Oversized sweater
A satin robe or kimono
Or just a bed sheet…
Whatever it is that shows your personality works! And remember, this can also be a great opportunity to go shopping and get something new.
#4) What if he doesn’t like my pictures
Trust me, he will! Most significant others already love you for who you are and think that you are beautiful in your everyday look. We will be photographing you looking amazing, sexy and confident. No man in his right mind wouldn’t appreciate gorgeous images of the woman he loves. Here is a quote I received from a previous client:
“… He was so pleased with how they all came out. He actually teared up. He said how happy I looked and that he was really glad I ended up doing them even … He loved how special they were. And I know he will treasure them…”
#5) I’m shy and don’t know how to be sexy
That’s perfect! As a matter of fact, it can be easier to photograph women who don’t have a preconceived interpretation of what “sexy” looks like. I can direct or provoke a thought that will effortlessly capture a sexy expression in a way to appear completely candid. Just wait until you’ve seen your pictures!
#6) Everyone will see my pictures
No, no, no! You may have seen boudoir portraiture on our web page, blog posts, advertising and possibly our newsletter; Portraits that YOU may not feel comfortable sharing with the public. However, we only share photographs of women that allow us to display their images so that other women can see the potential beauty that lies within them. We have every client sign a release form that either grants or denies us rights to showcase your beautiful portraits. The choice is completely yours if you want them to remain completely private or not.
#7) I can’t afford a boudoir photo session
I won’t pretend to completely know your financial situation. HOWEVER, I will say a couple of things. First, you may not be able to drop several hundred dollars at this very moment, but we can help make your dream photoshoot come true by setting up a payment plan for you. Second, you can save for a photoshoot just like you would a girl’s night out, a vacation, or that designer handbag you really want! A boudoir photo session is an investment, but it is something you may only have the chance to do once in your life. If you want a confidence-boosting, unforgettable experience with quality portraits to cherish for a lifetime, you can have it!
#8) I’m too old to have boudoir photos taken
Are you too old to feel special, appreciated or beautiful? You get to choose to embrace who you are throughout life’s many beautiful stages. You may not be that same girl as you were in your early 20’s but now you’re even better…you’re a woman. A strong, beautiful, independent woman.
#9) I don’t feel comfortable getting naked in front of strangers
That won’t be a problem with us because we do not shoot nude photography. We may imply nudity but you will be covered in all of your photographs. Boudoir portraits can be as covering as you want them to be. There is a spectrum of how revealing you want your portraits to be from fully clothed to a tasteful ILLUSION of nude. The important thing to remember is that we will meet you where you’re at. We will never have you do a pose or wear an outfit that you are not comfortable with. Also, remember that we will not share your portraits with anyone you don’t want seeing them, so you can feel comfortable showing more skin in front of the camera. In most cases, you will be wearing more than you would for a day at the beach.
#10) I’m not married and don’t have a boyfriend
Boudoir is more for YOU than anyone else. Realizing your beauty is one of the most incredible things a woman can experience and having amazing portraits of yourself looking absolutely ravishing is life changing. Here is a quote from one of my clients that actually made me cry when I read it that explains it all: “It was so much fun. I cried telling about my confidence issues, but I soon realized that I’m not the only one who feels that way. Today, I felt beautiful. Today, I felt powerful. Definitely makes me want to take a second look in the mirror and tell myself “I am worth every good thing that people say about me.” I am awesome and beautiful and quirky. I need to own it. That’s me. Like it or love it, it’s me!”
I hope I was able to address some of the excuses that we all tell ourselves. What it all boils down to is fear of the unknown and now that it’s no longer “unknown” you have nothing to be afraid of! So… what are you waiting for?
Book Your Boudoir Session Now and trust in us as professionals to take great care of you and help you bring out that side you’ve never seen before.
A graduate of the New York Institute of Photography, Marilyn has won awards for Best Artist and loves doing editorial style work as well as contemporary portraiture.As a member of the Better Business Bureau and the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce, she takes pride in operating a professional studio and being part of the local business organizations.
This mixture of coconut oil and brown sugar makes an amazing lip scrub. It isn’t something you need to use daily but it does a super job cleaning up your chapped lips and leaving them soft and kissable. This recipe is completely edible so no worries about putting it on your lips. I use this once a week and it works great!
In colder weather, the product will become harder. If the mix is a little hard you can soften slightly first. This does not have to be refrigerated and the shelf life is about 6 months but always use caution with any product. If the lip scrub starts to smell different or you see mold, throw it out and make a new batch!
A graduate of the New York Institute of Photography, Marilyn has won awards for Best Artist and loves doing editorial style work as well as contemporary portraiture.As a member of the Better Business Bureau and the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce, she takes pride in operating a professional studio and being part of the local business organizations.
Are your feet or elbows a bit dry or callused? When you are showering, use this coconut oil and sugar scrub on those rough areas like your feet and elbows. It will help remove any dry skin while it also restores the softness. (And none of those scary foot scrapers are required!) This scrub is great for exfoliating and can be used anywhere you need it. I use it to wash my hands when I have been working in the garden or doing anything that might dry my skin. I also use this about once a month on my face to exfoliate and give my skin a moisturizing boost. Do use caution if using this in the shower; depending on the amount you use, your shower floor may get a little slippery from the coconut oil.
Ingredients:
Coconut Oil
Granulated Sugar
Two tea bags of green tea
Measurements:
1/8 cup Coconut oil
1 cup Granulated Sugar
1/8 cup brewed green tea – cooled
Making the mix:
Mix coconut oil and sugar.
Slowly add Green Tea to mix until consistency is like wet sand.
Storage:
Store in a sealed container – plastic is recommended if you will be using this in the shower. I use these plastic travel soap containers from Amazon.
In colder weather, the product will become hard, just rub with a warm washcloth to soften. In warm weather it will be much softer.
This does not have to be refrigerated and the shelf life is about 6 months but always use caution with any product. If the scrub starts to smell different or you see mold, throw it out and make a new batch!
A graduate of the New York Institute of Photography, Marilyn has won awards for Best Artist and loves doing editorial style work as well as contemporary portraiture.As a member of the Better Business Bureau and the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce, she takes pride in operating a professional studio and being part of the local business organizations.
If you are like me, you have lipstick containers with a little left in the bottom, not really enough to use but you still hate throwing it away because you love the color. Well, here is a way to use those up and make a great lip balm that will keep your lips soft and shiny. The coconut oil keeps your lips soft and helps if your lips are chapped. The color from the lipstick adds a touch of tint and lets you get the most from your favorite lipsticks. It is super easy to make and I love it!
Ingredients:
Coconut Oil
Lipstick – a great way to use up the bottoms of lipstick colors you love!
Measurements:
1 Tbsp. coconut oil
1/8 tsp. lipstick (you can try adding more lipstick if the color is too light)
Making the Mix:
Melt the coconut oil and lipstick slowly. If using a microwave, only do 10 second intervals, mixing in between. Once the ingredients are melted, stir well to blend until color is uniform. The color will be darker when in liquid form. If you find the color is too light once it cools, you can just put it back into a bowl, melt it back down and add more lipstick to darken the color.
Storage:
Store the mix in a tightly sealing, covered container. The lip gloss can become very soft or liquid in warm temperatures so make sure you have a container that seals tightly. During hot summer temperatures, you may want to store this in the refrigerator. I used these Clear Plastic Refillable Cosmetic Jars with Lids from Amazon.
A graduate of the New York Institute of Photography, Marilyn has won awards for Best Artist and loves doing editorial style work as well as contemporary portraiture.As a member of the Better Business Bureau and the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce, she takes pride in operating a professional studio and being part of the local business organizations.
