Can We Just Say… THERAPY?
Before I came in for my shoot, I was a complete wreck — months of working myself up, and honestly? I was this close to canceling. I kept thinking, me, do a boudoir session?? For who?? I’m a 57-year-old single woman with no one to show or share the pictures or the experience with.
But then Jillene called me. She talked me through everything, helped me understand what I was feeling, and eased so much of my anxiety. That call alone changed everything.
The day of the shoot, I was so excited… but then that voice came back again: “Oh my goodness, why are you doing this, T?!” I was almost ashamed that I hadn’t backed out. But I showed up. And when I walked into the studio, Jillene welcomed me with open arms and so much understanding. She helped me pick out a few beautiful pieces from the wardrobe, and all I could think was — those won’t fit you, your body’s going to show, you’re not pretty enough.
I felt ashamed. But I faked it — and I know Jillene could see through that — but she kept lifting me up, gently, without making me feel self-conscious. She kept that negative voice at bay.
Then Clarissa came in to do my hair and makeup and OMG — the talent this young lady has is unreal. I was stunned when I saw myself in the mirror. Right before we finished, Amy walked in and it hit me: This is really happening.
Stepping into the studio with Amy… I can’t describe it. Within 30 minutes, she had me in a place of calmness I’ve never felt before. The way she spoke, the way she guided me into poses — it was like I was meant to be there. Halfway through, she told me she saw a change in me, and I felt it too.
I was looking for something to rebuild my self-worth after a really hard season. I’d lost over 100 pounds, and I wanted something to say, “You did it.” But part of me felt like that was vain — like I should be ashamed for wanting this. I was afraid I’d regret it.
But deep down? I wanted something that reminded me who I really was.
And I got exactly that — and so much more.
What I didn’t expect was the massive boost to my confidence and self-esteem. These women made me feel seen. They gave me something I didn’t even know I was missing: a sense of power, of worth, of me.
I wasn’t in a good place when I came in. I don’t think there’s anything else I could’ve done that would’ve changed how I felt in such a short amount of time. It literally reset my clock — and I haven’t looked back since.
Amy… I could not have done this without you and your amazing team. I’m beyond grateful for the patience, the kindness, and the care you gave me.
And I cannot wait to do it again. 💋
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Boudoir by Amy Gilmore
Phone: (419)-789-1565
Email: hello@boudoirbyamygilmore.com
Studio: Downtown Defiance, Ohio