Where to begin!? I was honored to host the Sharing Some Love Event again this year at my studio Clique Studio LLC in Schenectady, NY. And I believe for the first time, I was asked “Why do you do this?”. Three simple words – to give back. I’ve been drawn in past years to volunteer for different organizations, and had played with the idea of a cancer survivors event. With boudoir being the focus of my photography career, it was easy for me to see how a women having fought cancer could benefit from seeing themselves once again as beautiful. Originally i thought this would be a breast cancer event. Women who had a mastectomy would be the perfect women and the idea of October for breast cancer awareness month was discussed. But as the event developed it became more clear that any woman who fought, or was fighting this disease would value the day and was a woman we wanted to be involved. The fall is always hectic for people. Using Valentine’s Day as the base date just made sense.
Local stylist Erica Sherman, of Jean Paul Salon and Spas, and I brainstormed
how we could make this work. We recruited stylists from all over the Capital District to volunteer their time an services. In the past 2 years I also reached out to a handful of local businesses with the request for just a small donation of some kind. And long time friend and talented videographer Ben Pliss of Ben Pliss Media was top on my list to contact about the possibility of a creating a short video documenting the day.
I’m not saying it didn’t take some work, but with just a little help from a great group of people, this event went off again this year with incredible success. I can not being to express the appreciation for all involved.
Before I introduce you to the gorgeous, courageous ladies we pampered – let me tell you about the other local people and companies who helped make it possible.
Stylists: Erica Sherman of Jean Paul Salon and Spas, Ruth Dollery of Studio Orlo, Destiny Slover of Lipstick Beauty Lounge, Lauren France of Jean Paul Salon and Spas, Erin Ford of Erin Ford Makeup Artistry
Local Businesses: Niskayuna Food CO-OP, Niskayuna Wine and Liquors, Aperitivo Bistro, Villa Italia Bakery, Studio 4 Hot Yoga and Pilates
To truly get a sense for the day, take 2 mintues to watch this powerful video that Ben produced! I think I’ve played it 30 times myself! CLICK THESE WORDS TO PLAY VIDEO and enjoy the images below!
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Once the styling was done it was time to have these ladies rock their incredible looks! Each survivor had their own mini shoot with me.
We wrapped up the day with a few group shots!
Honored to have met all of them – they truly are inspiring women that touched all of our hearts.
“IT WILL NOT DEFINE ME!”
