Over the past year I've lost about 100 lbs and have been feeling more confident and beautiful than I ever have. I decided that doing a boudoir shoot would be the perfect way to "reward" myself for the accomplishment. I was somewhat still on the fence about doing it, but then after attending a burlesque show I received the inspiration I needed to go for it! I primarily did it for myself, but of course, my husband reaps some benefit as well!

The planning process was amazing. Shalista provided all the information I could have possibly needed to help me get ready and make me feel comfortable prior to the shoot. Without all of her helpful hints, I would have been completely clueless! I had so much fun going out and buying new lingerie and shoes for the photos, but knew that if there was something I couldn't find or something I didn't think of, Shalista had items available for use at her studio.

I arrived for my appointment and immediately felt comfortable and at ease. Angelique did my hair and makeup and I could not have been any happier with her work. It was absolutely perfect and she was so fun to talk to, which also helped set the tone for the shoot. I really thought I would be more nervous once I arrived at the studio and it was time for the actual shoot, but Shalista make me feel so comfortable and was so helpful. It was far easier than I ever expected it to be. Shalista really, truly knows what she's doing and is so professional, which was a huge help and support for me. Once the shoot was finished, I felt amazing. I rode that high all week long!

Going back for my viewing, I was so excited (and a little nervous). I could not believe that it was ME in those pictures! They were absolutely beautiful and it was very difficult to choose my favorites. I really enjoyed the way that Shalista presented the images, using a large flat screen TV with a slideshow set to music. It really made me feel special and it made the experience that much more fun.

I'd do this again in a heartbeat and will absolutely recommend the experience and Shalista to others. I'm so, so glad that I had this experience and truly feel like it has only enhanced my new state of mind and being. Thank you for everything, Shalista! <3

What made you decide to do a boudoir session? Please describe how you came to the decision and what finally made you take the leap!
I've always been a fan of boudoir photography, but never really felt like I was in a place physically to be able to do it. The confidence just wasn't quite there. However, in the past year I've lost about 100 lbs and my confidence has skyrocketed. I feel better about myself than I ever have and decided this was something I really wanted to do. I was still a little on the fence, but then after attending a burlesque show, I decided I HAD to do it!
What made you decide to hire me as your photographer?
I had seen Shalista's work on Facebook and heard from other people who had phenomenal experiences with her. It seemed like a no-brainer to me to choose her for this exciting experience!
How were you feeling before your shoot? Any thoughts going through your head?
I was a little nervous, but honestly I was more excited than anything. All of the guidance and information Shalista provided ahead of time really put me at ease for the big day and, as a result, I was ready to go when I walked in the studio door.
Now that you've had your own photo shoot, how was it?
In the words of Fergie...G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S! It was absolutely amazing and surpassed any expectations I had going into it. Angelique delivered absolutely flawless hair and makeup, resulting in exactly what I had envisioned. Shalista was so supportive and made me feel so comfortable and beautiful in my own skin throughout the entire process. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Is there anything I could do that would make this experience completely perfect?
No way! I thought everything from scheduling to viewing and ordering was perfect. Don't change a thing!
How did you feel about having your hair and makeup done?
LOVED IT. It really set the tone for the whole day for me. I'd recommend to anyone that they add that onto their experience.
Any other thoughts or suggestions you'd like to tell me about?
Shalista is amazing and has a great team! I cannot WAIT to see the final products and show off all the beautiful pictures she produced!