BeePie floral crown workshop + portrait session
Despite feeling confident in myself deep down, I can easily melt into a shy thirtysomething girl, stumbling over my words and apologizing for no reason. If someone compliments me, I deflect the praise and find a way to poke fun at myself. I know I’m not the only one who struggles with this.
It happens constantly when I photograph women. They ask if I can Photoshop their curves. If I can edit out their frizzy flyaways. If I can touch up their chipped nail polish. I get it, it’s incredibly brave to open yourself up in front of a stranger with a camera in your face. It’s easy to go to that place when we live in a world where gender equality is still elusive.
We’re told to love ourselves, but not too much. Lean in. But don’t be arrogant. Be confident. But practice humility. Acknowledge your worth. But don’t be unfeminine. Ask for what you want. But don’t be greedy.
Giving birth last year changed me as a person. It empowered me. If I could make it through sixty hours of labor without pain medication, I felt like I could do anything. With that, means no more hiding behind the camera if an opportunity comes my way.
When I heard the BeePie event series would be happening again, I knew I wanted to get involved. It’s an event run by women for women, leaving them feeling strong and beautiful. I’m thrilled to share that I will be participating as photographer, but I also fully intend on signing up to be on the other side of the lens.
As I type this, my daughter is pulling my hair while staring up at me, wide-eyed and as perfect as can be. I want her to know that what we say about ourselves matters. One of the best things I can model for her is how to accept a compliment with grace. As much as it will make me squirm, my goal is to be photographed without putting myself down or apologizing. Not even once. I know I’ll have the comfort of the best group of women to hold me to that.
The workshop series is hosted by Belovely at Maggpie Vintage Rental‘s warehouse, where you’ll learn to make your own personalized floral crown. True Beauty Marks will be on-site to provide hair and makeup for those who are interested. After you make your crown, get photographed by either myself or Cheyenne Gil Photography. Or 12 other insanely talented photographers. I’m going to have a hard time choosing one. Oh, and there will be mimosas and a DJ, so there’s that.
Check out details about the event series here. There are only ten slots available per photographer, so make space on your calendar and join me on Sunday, September 13th at 11am. Sign up here!
