Body Jewelry } Pink Blush Boudoir Photography Edmonton YEG

Every so often I get the creative itch to do something totally different. As much as I love shooting boudoir, sometimes I just need to change things up a little bit. A few weeks ago, I got inspired to make a new body cage for the studio. I found some random broken jewelry pieces around the studio while cleaning up and got to work! Looking at the bits and pieces, I knew I could make something our clients would love. There's nothing better than a boudoir studio that supplies one of a kind jewelry, now is there? Here are some hot photos of Miss G showing off our new body bling... 

Also, I need to give a quick shout out to Tricia Victoria Photography for the new B&W preset I've been using.. It's like hot sauce, I could put it on everything! Thank you Tricia.

Ladies Support Other Women } Pink Blush Boudoir Photography Edmonton YEG

If find it all too common that women are very quick to judge or put each other down. I understand that not everyone is always going to like everyone else, but since women in this world have it hard enough as it is, I can't justify putting another women down. I might not always agree with another woman's actions or choices, but I try to understand that everyone has their reasons. 

I was never a popular girl in school, and often felt threatened by other girls. Usually for things like talking to a boy, or even just for being friends with one. This was something that I struggled with a lot, since I found it hard to be friends with girls, and the guys where easier to hangout with. When I was in grade 11, my then boyfriend cheated on me with a girl from school. I remember everyone expecting me to hate this girl because she made out with my boyfriend, but I knew exactly how being hated on by other women made me feel. I also knew that it was my boy friend who did the wrong doing, not her. I didn't feel the need to make best friends with this girl, but I also saw no use in rubbing her face in her actions. She had her reasons for making out with a guy she knew had a girlfriend; most likely, those reasons came from a place of low self value. Instead of being angry I tried to forgive her, and accept that she had her own struggles. 

I wish more women could treat each other this way. Instead of pointing out every fault or trying to bring another woman down so you can feel better. Try to see that the woman you are judging, disrespecting or putting down has a heavy enough load. Maybe with a little compassion, we might all be able to make healthier life choices. Maybe by having each others backs instead of stabbing them, we can join forces and be a powerful example for our children. Considering every human was created by a woman, that could create a pretty powerful change. 

Here are some photos of the Lovely Miss D to help brighten the day.. 

How to Be Sexy } Pink Blush Boudoir Photography Edmonton YEG

It's pretty common that my clients will let me know that they are not sexy, or they don't know how to be sexy. Most women assume you have to look a certain way or be young, but there is so much more to sex appeal then what you look like. Being sexy is more about how you feel about yourself, then it is what you look like. Here are a few tips for "being more sexy":

1) Take care of your body and mind

If you want to feel sexy you need to feel good. Whatever form that happens to take for you; whether it's eating really well, getting your nails done, going out with great friends, eating an entire box of chocolates, you do you. I myself like to eat lots of natural pant based foods, and doing yoga. I also recommend a little Maca Root to help boost your libido but that's just me... 

2) Move Slow and Breathe Deep

If you are trying to seduce your partner, try slowing things down. The art of the tease isn't done quickly, you want to leave them waiting, and begging for more. Make sure you remember to breathe. Taking deep breaths will help calm you down and stimulate your nervous system to relax and enjoy. 

3) Eye Contact

Looking deeply into your partners eyes with confidence will help get their full attention on you. It also sends a message that you know what you want. Just remember to take breaks and look away. If you stare too long you might just scare him. 

4) Do boudoir!

Ok, we are a bit biased here, but we have also heard over and over again from these same clients who "don't know how to be sexy" that doing boudoir has changed that... dramatically. 

So, speaking of finding your sexy, here are some lovely photos of Miss C. who found just that after coming to our studio. We absolutely loved having her light up our space and had to share some of her stunning shots (with her permission, of course!)

Gift for Him } Pink Blush Boudoir Edmonton YEG

Wondering what to get your special someone for this coming Holiday season? Look no further. Boudoir is the gift that gives to you and to him. Doing a boudoir shoot is a wonderful way to pamper yourself with a day filled with glamor and self love. Something I think all of us ladies need more of, but it will knock his socks off too. The only thing he will be asking for once he see your photos is a little time with just the two of you. Tomorrow is our last day to take advantage of you $200 special. The session includes a hour shoot, hair and makeup, and 1 fully retouched images. Options to add on more images or Albums are available. Offer ends November 13th 2017. Email us for more information on booking the boudoir special. sarina@pinkblush.ca 

Here is what Miss s and to say about her experience with us:

"I thought of doing Boudoir photos for several years but factors like cost and self-image got in the way. Now I am post two babies and not a spring chicken anymore and I wanted to be sure if I were to invest in something like this, I would be happy with the end result. It wasn't until I came across Pink Blush and their work that I knew this was the right choice; I knew they could make me look good and feel good and I was not disappointed. I love that they offer a full service with hair, makeup and photography all in one place. Her home studio is beautiful! I didn't have to worry about anything other than what I would like to wear. My session was with Sarina and I trusted her with everything. I felt more at ease than I expected and walked out of there feeling confident, beautiful and so anxious to see my pictures. I was shocked to be able to view my pictures so soon, only a couple days later and loved so many, making a decision on what to choose was difficult (and I don't often like pictures of myself)! I think it's worth it for every woman to do this (for herself) at least once!"

Edmonton Boudoir } Pink Blush Boudoir Edmonton YEG

Finally Friday is here. I hope you all have something that feeds your soul planned for the weekend. Tomorrow Calie and I will be busy with client shoots. Sunday I have a bridal style shoot set up with the lovely Gillian Rae. It will be cold so we booked a hot yoga class at Bliss yoga to warm us up after. 

Here is a little more from the beautiful Miss M

48 Hour Prep Before Your Boudoir Shoot

We often have women ask us what they can do to prep for their upcoming boudoir shoot so we have compiled a list of tips to follow to ensure your are ready for your shoot. If you want to get really serious, you can start practicing these tips well in advance but 48 hours is a good amount of prep time to get your skin and body looking fabulous! Enjoy!

1. Shave, Wax or Au Natural!

Whatever you choose, be sure to plan in advance to avoid any irritation. We are whizzes at Photoshop, but if you look good, you feel good and it will shine through in your photos.

2. Probiotics

These miracle pills will help iron out any excess gas or bloating which means a sleeker and slimmer figure.

3. Say Good Bye to Sodium, Alcohol and Carbs

These three culprits will bloat you like there is no tomorrow, so be sure to steer clear of both before your shoot. That being said, having a glass of wine or champagne right before your shoot to loosen you up is okay and you can feast on some carbs right after!

5. Eat Green

Eating green before your shoot will not only make you feel good on the inside but it can also trick you into thinking you are a lot healthier than you are (even if you are just doing it for the 48 hours). You will have more energy, feel happier and slimmer!

6. WATER

We cannot stress this point enough. Make water your best friend! In fact, you should always be drinking water because it will help make your skin appear flawless and help combat water retention. If you think water is "boring" try a squeeze of lemon or lime to spice things up!

7. Sleep

Beauty sleep is not some made up tale, it is a serious fact of life! Sleep has a huge affect on your skin and how you look, so be sure to catch up on your rest and even treat yourself to some extra zzz's right before your shoot.

8. Get Active

Doing a bit of exercise right before your shoot can make your muscles pop so take some time to do a few push ups and planks to get the blood flowing.

Summer Meals For Every Boudoir Babe!

It is HOT outside, YEG! And you know what that means? Time to bust out the summer recipes to beat the heat and impress your guests at any BBQ this season. Calie and I love entertaining in the summer and we have discovered some delicious, no heat recipes that will satisfy your hunger and keep you sane when it is boiling hot out. Be sure to pair this food with one of our Boudoir Babe cocktails from last week to ensure the best meal possible! Happy Eating!

Chickpea Avocado and Feta Salad

Ingredients:

1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 2 avocados, diced ⅓ cup chopped parsley 2tbsp green onion, thinly sliced ⅓ cup feta cheese Juice of 1 lime Salt and pepper, to taste

Gently combine all of the ingredients in a bowl, avoiding mashing the avocado and feta. Season with salt and pepper to taste!

Recipe from www.homegrownandhealthy.com

Corn, Avocado & Black Bean Dip

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cup fresh sweet corn 40 cherry tomatoes, halved 1 15 oz. can of black beans, rinsed and drained 2 avocados, diced 1 red onion, finely diced 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (use the stems too!)

Dressing: 2 Tbsp. olive oil 1 lemon, juiced (or 2 limes) 1-2 tsp. cumin 1/2 tsp. kosher salt 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Whisk the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl and drizzle over the veggies. Can be served as a salad or dip!

Recipe from www.produceonparade.com

Watermelon Feta Chunks

Ingredients:

1 small seedless watermelon 1 (1-pound) block feta cheese 1 cup basil leaves

Cut 1 small seedless watermelon into 1-inch cubes (about 40). Top with 1 (1-pound) block feta cheese, cut into 1-inch squares (1/4 inch thick), and 1 cup basil leaves; secure with toothpicks. Transfer to platter; sprinkle with 3 tablespoons olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper.

Recipe from www.goodhousekeeping.com

Grilled Shrimp Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Ingredients:

1 pound uncooked shrimp, 16-20 per pound 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 lime, juiced 1 teaspoon lime zest kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 10-12 8-inch round rice paper wrappers 6 ounces rice or vermicelli noodles, softened in hot water and drained 1 red bell pepper, seeded and thinly sliced 2 carrots, peeled, halved and thinly sliced 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, halved and then thinly sliced 2 cups spring green lettuces ½ cup cilantro leaves ½ cup Thai basil leaves ½ cup mint leaves

Peanut Sauce: 2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter ¼ cup hoisin sauce 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon water 1 teaspoon sugar ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper

Directions:

Shell and remove the tails from the shrimp and rinse. Place in a bowl and drizzle with the olive oil, lime juice and lime zest and season with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Skewer the shrimp and heat the grill to medium heat. Brush the grill with oil or cooking spray and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side then remove and let cool. When cooled, remove the shrimp from the skewers and slice in half from head to tail and set aside. Fill a large plate or pyrex dish with warm water, dip a rice wrapper into the warm water and completely submerge the wrapper for 1 minute. Set on the wrapper on a clean, flat surface and arrange a few slices of the veggies and herbs on the bottom ⅓ of the wrapper then top with a few lettuce leaves, a small handful of the vermicelli noodles then more veggie slices and herbs. Place 3 shrimp halves, grilled side down, on the rice paper just above the pile of the vermicelli and veggie pile. Fold the bottom of rice paper over vermicelli and veggie pile and roll over to form a cylinder. Fold in the two sides of the cylinder to make a package and keep folding over until it resembles a burrito shaped roll. Cut in half or in thirds, and serve with peanut and nuac cham dipping sauces.

Recipe from www.foodiecrush.com

Strawberry Spinach Salad

Ingredients:

one package (10 oz) fresh spinach (about 10 cups of torn leaves) 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries (cleaned and hulled) 1 cup avocado, chopped 1 cup blueberries 1 mango, sliced 1/4 cup cashews

Dressing:

1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 3 to 4 tablespoons brown sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder 1 teaspoon mustard powder 1 teaspoon onion powder garlic salt or garlic powder salt and pepper

Directions:

In a medium bowl, combine the dressing ingredients, and whisk together well. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can serve the dressing immediately or you can cover it and chill for an hour. In a large bowl, combine all of the salad ingredients, except the cashew nuts. Add the dressing to the salad and toss. Sprinkle cashew nuts on top of the salad.

Recipe from www.juliasalbum.com

XO Calie & Sarina