🐍 The Last Shed: Closing the Year of the Snake with Reflection & Renewal

The Year of the Snake is coming to an end. Snakes teach us about transformation, shedding skins, and rebirth. But let’s be honest: shedding isn’t always graceful. Sometimes it’s raw. Sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it means leaving behind parts of ourselves we thought we couldn’t live without.

This year has been one of my hardest. I’ve walked through loss, grief, and sadness. But instead of letting it break me, I’ve let it fuel me. That’s why I finally leapt out of my comfort zone: I launched my waterfall boudoir adventures, I said yes to wild sunflower shoots (our August 31st session is going to be unforgettable), and I finally planned my dream boudoir & yoga retreat in Costa Rica—the ultimate experience of healing and growth.

I want you to feel that same freedom. That same rebirth. So I’ve created a 12-week journaling journey—one deep question each week—to help you close out this transformational year. Think of it as your final shed, so you can step into 2026 radiant, raw, and reborn.

🖋 Your 12-Week Year of the Snake Journal Prompts

Each week, sit with one question. Light a candle, pour a cup of tea, and let the answers flow.

Week 1: What am I most proud of shedding this year?
Week 2: Where have I resisted change, and why?
Week 3: What grief or loss am I still carrying, and what would it feel like to release it?
Week 4: How did I surprise myself in moments of strength?
Week 5: What comfort zone did I step out of—or where do I still need to?
Week 6: How has my relationship with my body evolved this year?
Week 7: What stories or beliefs am I ready to outgrow?
Week 8: What am I learning about my power through vulnerability?
Week 9: Where have I seen beauty grow out of pain?
Week 10: Who do I want to become in 2026?
Week 11: What symbolic “skin” do I want to leave behind this year?
Week 12: What is the brightest gift I discovered in myself this year?

🌹 Transformation doesn’t come easy. Shedding never does. But it is always worth it.

The last months of the Year of the Snake are your invitation to reflect, release, and prepare. To honor the lessons, even the painful ones. To celebrate the new skin you’re stepping into.

And if you’re ready to embody this transformation in a deeper way, join me—in the studio, in the waterfall, in the sunflowers, or even in Costa Rica. This is your moment to shine, to shed, and to rise.

✨ “Ready for your own final shed? Book The Serpent Gift experience below. Step into 2026 radiant, raw, and reborn.”

Over the past few months, I’ve had the honor of photographing so many incredible women. Each one came to me with her own story—stories of challenges, victories, heartbreak, and celebrations.

What they all shared was this: on some level, each of them had struggled to see the beauty in her body. To love it. To honor it. To believe it was worthy of admiration just as it is.

But with a little faith and courage, they chose to do something bold. They stepped into my studio, trusted the process, and trusted themselves.

And in the end? Every single one of them walked away changed—whether it was a breakthrough in self-love, a new perspective on beauty, or the realization that their body is already more than enough.

These sessions are about more than photos. They’re about transformation. They’re about coming home to yourself.

The Sacred Prostitute: The Evolution of Female Sex Work and Its Cultural Significance

🌹 The Sacred Prostitute: Reclaiming Power & Autonomy 🌹

For too long, society has worshipped women’s beauty in secret while shaming it in public. We cheer when men push their bodies to the edge for labor, yet condemn women who choose to use theirs as art, as livelihood, as survival. This contradiction is not just hypocrisy—it’s patriarchy in action.

But the “Sacred Prostitute” archetype reminds us of something deeper: there was a time when women’s sexuality was seen as holy, healing, and worthy of reverence. In ancient temples, priestesses embodied the union of body and spirit, offering intimacy not as shame, but as ceremony. It was patriarchy that stripped that reverence away, weaponizing shame against women who dared to claim their sensuality.

The Truth of Survival

So often, sex work isn’t entered out of luxury, but out of necessity. Women are making the best of hard circumstances, turning survival into strength. Their choices are not weakness—they are resilience in motion. Every woman who steps into that role is living proof of feminine power: resourceful, unbreakable, unstoppable.

And let’s name the hypocrisy clearly: when married men seek services, it is not the woman who breaks vows—it is the man. She did not promise fidelity. He did. Sex workers are often filling a void society refuses to acknowledge: men starving for connection, intimacy, or simply someone to listen.

The Artistry of the Body

And then there are the dancers. The strippers. The burlesque queens. The women who move their bodies like poetry. These women spend years learning to flow, to climb, to bend, to hypnotize. They are athletes, performers, and artists. Watching a woman dance is no less art than watching ballet—it is raw beauty, skill, and dedication. To shame them is to turn away from art itself.

Reclaiming What Was Ours All Along

To honor the Sacred Prostitute is to say: my body is mine.
My sensuality is mine.
My craft, my survival, my artistry—it is all mine.

No one has the right to shame a woman for how she chooses to use her body. Whether she is surviving, thriving, or creating beauty, her path is sacred.

Because when women reclaim autonomy over their bodies, society shakes. And that power is exactly what patriarchy fears most.

#SacredFeminine #ReclaimYourPower #SacredProstitute #SensualArtistry #FeminineResilience #BoudoirIsArt #EmpoweredWomen #BodyAutonomy #SexWorkIsWork #UnshameTheBody #PinkBlushBoudoir

August Full Moon - The Sturgeon Moon

The full moon in August, often referred to as the Sturgeon Moon, is a powerful time for reflection, release, and renewal. Named after the abundance of sturgeon fish during this time of year, this lunar phase symbolizes abundance, resilience, and the deep connection to our emotional waters. It’s a magical opportunity to let go of what no longer serves you and step boldly into your radiance—just like we celebrate in boudoir photography.

What the August Sturgeon Moon Represents

The Sturgeon Moon encourages us to:

• Reflect on abundance: Recognize the richness in your life, whether it’s in love, creativity, or self-discovery.

• Release limitations: Shed insecurities or fears that block your self-confidence and self-love.

• Reclaim resilience: Just as the sturgeon thrives in challenging waters, you are capable of navigating life’s depths with grace and strength.

How to Host Your Own Full Moon Ceremony at Home

Embrace this lunar energy with an at-home ceremony that’s intimate, empowering, and deeply transformative. Here’s how:

1. Set the Scene

• Choose a cozy, quiet space—a candlelit bathroom, your bedroom, or even outdoors under the moonlight.

• Gather sacred items like candles, crystals (moonstone and aquamarine are ideal), sage or incense, and a journal.

• Wear something that makes you feel empowered, whether it’s a silky robe, your favorite lingerie, or nothing at all.

2. Cleanse Your Space and Energy

• Light sage or palo santo to cleanse your space of stagnant energy.

• Take deep breaths as you imagine releasing any negativity or doubt that’s weighing you down.

3. Meditate Under the Moonlight

• Sit comfortably and close your eyes.

• Visualize the moon’s radiant glow filling your body with light and washing away fear, doubt, or self-judgment.

• Allow yourself to feel grateful for your journey and the beauty you bring to the world.

4. Write in Your Journal

Use these prompts to dive deep:

• What areas of my life feel abundant and full of beauty?

• What limiting beliefs about myself am I ready to release?

• How can I embody resilience and self-love in my daily life?

• What does my most radiant and empowered self look like?

5. Speak Your Prayer or Affirmation

End your ceremony with a heartfelt prayer or affirmation. Here’s one you can use or adapt:

Under this radiant Sturgeon Moon, I release what no longer serves me. I embrace my abundance, my resilience, and my divine beauty. I am enough, just as I am. I shine brightly, unapologetically, and with love.

6. Celebrate Yourself

• Dance, take a moonlit bath, or simply savor the glow of your candles as you bask in your empowered energy.

43 & On Fire: Boudoir, Rebirth, and Reclaiming My Worth

I just turned 43. And damn… what a year 42 was.

I won’t sugarcoat it—this past year cracked me wide open.

In January, I lost both of my senior dogs just five days apart. The grief was guttural. The kind of heartbreak that forces you to sit still with your pain, question your purpose, and soften into surrender.

Around the same time, I had to face a painful truth: the family I had spent my entire life trying to stay connected to, prove myself to, belong to... never really saw me. Not the way I needed to be seen. That kind of realization doesn’t just sting—it shatters illusions you’ve built your entire identity around.

And so, for the last year and a half, my life felt like it was on pause.

I needed space to grieve, to unravel, to heal. And that healing journey wasn’t linear or pretty—but it was necessary.

Shedding My Skin: The Year of the Snake 🐍

It’s poetic really, that we’re in the Year of the Snake—a year of shedding skin, letting go of the old, and stepping boldly into the new.

That’s exactly what I’ve done.

I shed the pain. The grief. The old stories that said I wasn’t smart enough. Not good enough. That my dreams were too much or not for me. I stopped trying to prove my worth to people who never valued me the way I deserved.

I let it all burn.

Because I’m a Leo, baby. And I rise in the flames.

Rebirth Looks Good on Me (And She Wears Pink 💕)

For most of my life, I dressed in black. It was armor. A soft, silent signal that I was protecting something tender underneath. And don’t get me wrong—black still slaps. But when women start to heal? When they start to come home to themselves?

They fall in love with pink again.

Not because it’s soft or sweet—but because it’s powerful. Pink is the color of rebirth. Of joy. Of unapologetic feminine fire. And I am deep, deep in my pink girl era.

Building Dreams from the Ashes

June marked the first time in over a year that I felt ready to move forward again. And when I tell you the Universe showed up for me—it showed up with backup dancers.

✨ Two adventure boudoir sessions—fully booked in the Rockies and Drumheller.
✨ My Costa Rica Retreat is finally happening (after dreaming about it for three years) thanks to a magical collaboration with a past client and local yoga queen.
✨ Moon Ceremonies return this September—something I’ve longed to do since COVID shut them down.

✨I walked on fire - literally I did a ceremonial fire walk.. And you can bet I’ll be doing a project next year where I talk a bunch of you with me to walk on fire too.

And through all the heartbreak, one thing remained steady—my business.

Even when I felt stuck, I still showed up. Because every woman I photograph is another life changed. And even when I felt frozen in my own pain, my work helped launch other women forward.

The Real Reason I Do This Work

When I went no contact with my family, it hit me:
I had been trying to prove my worth to people who never saw it.

But the truth is—I’ve always been enough.

And now, I don’t need to prove anything to anyone.
I get to do this work because I love it.
Because it’s powerful.
Because I’m damn good at it.

My superpower?
Helping women see in themselves what the world has tried so hard to hide:
Their worth. Their light. Their power.

Because when a woman remembers who she is? The world better watch out.

She stops letting people use her.
She stops dimming her light to make others comfortable.
She starts taking up space, speaking her truth, and setting the world on fire with her brilliance.

This Next Chapter? 🔥 It’s Pure Leo Energy.

I’m entering 43 with fire in my belly, clarity in my vision, and a whole new level of badass energy.

💫 My art is evolving.
💫 My clients are transforming deeper than ever.
💫 My relationship with my husband has grown stronger and more beautiful through our shared grief and healing.
💫 And my business? She’s in her glow-up era.

This next year is going to be straight fire. And I hope some of you come along for the ride.

So if you're feeling stuck, lost, or like life’s been holding you down, hear this:

You are not broken. You are becoming.

Let’s shed the old. Let’s claim the fire.
Let’s dance in pink.
And let’s make this next chapter the hottest one yet.

With love, fire, and a whole lot of pink,
Sarina Rose

How Boudoir Posing Goes From Scary to the Best Part

Why Posing Should Be the Part of the Shoot You’re Most Excited About
(At least when you shoot with me...)

Let’s be honest—when most women think about boudoir photography, posing is the part that brings up the most anxiety.

“How am I supposed to look sexy?”
“What do I do with my hands?”
“What if I feel awkward or silly?”

or my personal favourite “I have Chantler Bing face”

And listen, I get it. For so many of us, especially those who’ve been taught to hide or shrink parts of ourselves, the idea of stepping in front of a camera and trying to pose can feel intimidating as hell. But I’m here to flip that fear on its head—because posing, when done right, isn’t something to dread. It’s the most powerful, liberating, and transformational part of your boudoir session.

I’m not that photographer who just throws you into a pose and says, “Give me your best bedroom eyes.”

No, babe. That’s not how we do things here.

Yes, I will coach you. I’ll guide you, from the tilt of your chin to the placement of your toes. But what I offer goes so far beyond the mechanics of posing. What I offer is connection. To your body. To your sensuality. To your own power.

Because this shoot? It’s not just about taking pretty pictures. It’s a rebirth.

It’s a journey of remembering who the hell you are underneath all the noise. And in order for that transformation to happen, we have to go deeper than stiff, still poses and forced smiles. We have to awaken your body—and your spirit—to move, to express, to feel.

From Exotic Dancer to Empowerment Coach

Before I picked up a camera professionally, I spent 8 years as an exotic dancer. I learned how to move, how to use breath and posture and gaze to seduce. But here’s what most people don’t understand—yes, I learned how to move for the male gaze, but in that performance, I uncovered something unexpected: a deeper connection to myself.

The real magic didn’t happen under the lights. It happened in my bedroom, after work, when I’d put on music and dance—just for me. There was no audience. No judgment. Just my body and my breath and the rhythm I was creating. It was art. It was power. It was mine.

I created my own sacred space—a space to simply be in my body. Not to impress. Not to seduce. Not for anyone else’s pleasure but mine. There was no goal, no climax to chase, no partner to excite. Just me, fully present, and the uninhibited joy of existing in my own skin.

And now? I get to share this safe space with my clients.

My Signature Sensual Movement Method

Over the past 14 years as a boudoir photographer, I’ve developed my own method to teach women how to connect to their bodies in a way that feels intuitive, empowering, and-yes-sexy as hell.

We start slow. Breath work. Simple hand placements. Subtle movements.

And then? We build. One breath becomes a gaze. One hand movement becomes a sway of the hips. Your body starts to move like it remembers something ancient. Something sacred. Something wild.

By the end of your session, it’s no longer about the pose at all. It’s about the feeling. It’s about letting your body lead and trusting that it knows exactly what to do. I’ve watched women, women who walked in saying “I’m clumsy” or “I’m not sexy” - end up doing their own seductive little dance in front of my camera by the end of the shoot. Not because I told them to. But because they finally reconnect with their bodies in a way that feels good to them.

This Is Where the Real Transformation Happens

When you shoot with me, it’s not about faking a look or squeezing into some idealized version of sexy. It’s about discovering your own flavor of power—and letting it shine.

You leave my studio not just with stunning images, but with a renewed sense of confidence. A knowing. A fire in your belly.

Because you didn’t just get posed—you got embodied.
You didn’t just follow instructions—you moved with purpose.
You didn’t just play a role—you reclaimed your own damn story.

This is the part of the shoot I get most excited about.
And I want it to be the part you get excited about, too.

Because when you finally see yourself move in that way—when you feel that sensual, soft, strong, divine energy radiating from you—there’s no going back.

You’ll never see yourself the same way again.
And you won’t want to.

Want to get started on your own movement journey? Every booked client gets access to my exclusive posing videos to help ease into it before your shoot, but don’t worry if you don’t watch them—I’ll be right there, guiding you, every step of the way. No experience necessary. Just a willingness to show up, breathe deep, and trust yourself.

Let’s move.
Let’s rise.
Let’s transform.

You ready?

How about I take this one step further?

Not only am I confident I can help guide you through posing for photos, I will empower you so much that you slay your video clips too. And just to prove it, here’s a short clip of one of my clients.

Miss S: It was her very first time ever in front of the camera. She came in nervous, unsure if she could pull it off… and within minutes, she was flowing like a goddess. ✨

Yes, it’s sexy. Yes, it’s a little vulnerable. But more than anything, it’s empowering AF.

Hit play and see for yourself how quickly fear turns into fire.

Boudoir Studio Edmonton posing video with first time client

One last confidence boost—because this one’s a game-changer.

Every few months, I host an in-studio posing workshop exclusively for my booked clients. It’s a one-hour, hands-on experience designed to help you reconnect with your body before your shoot. You’ll join a small group of women—each on their own self-love journey—as I guide you through a variety of poses, offer real-time feedback, and help you tap into your natural movement.

It’s fun, it’s low-pressure, and it’s filled with genuine “aha!” moments. Best of all? You’ll realize you’re not alone. You’ll be surrounded by women cheering you on as you cheer them on too. It’s about connection, confidence, and remembering that your body was never the problem—it just needed to be seen.

If you’d like to join a workshop, just mention it when you book, and I’ll help you find the perfect date.

So… have I given you enough reasons to let that fear of posing melt away? Because your dream shoot is waiting—and I promise, you’re more than ready.

July Full Moon: The Buck Moon

July's Full Moon is called the Buck Moon, symbolizing growth and transformation. During this time, male deer, or bucks, are growing their antlers—representing strength, renewal, and stepping into your power. This moon invites you to embrace your inner strength and release anything holding you back. It’s a perfect time for self-care, empowerment, and celebrating your personal journey.

For boudoir enthusiasts, the Buck Moon can be a time to reflect on how you express your sensuality and confidence. Channel its energy to feel radiant, powerful, and unapologetically yourself.

How to Host Your Own Full Moon Ceremony

1. Set the Mood:

   • Create a sacred space. Light candles, burn sage or incense and gather any tools you feel connected to, such as crystals (moonstone, selenite, or clear quartz are great choices), tarot cards, or flowers.

   • Consider wearing something that makes you feel powerful—lingerie, a silky robe, or even nothing at all!

2. Cleanse Your Space and Yourself:

   • Use sage, palo santo, or incense to cleanse your area.

   • Take a salt bath or a shower with intention, imagining the water washing away any negativity.

3. Set Intentions:

   • Write down what you want to release and what you want to call into your life. Be specific and heartfelt.

4. Moon Meditation:

   • Sit under the moonlight or near a window where the moon is visible.

   • Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and visualize the moon’s energy washing over you. Imagine it filling you with light and strength.

5. Release Ceremony:

   • Safely burn your list of things you’re releasing, allowing the smoke to carry them away.

   • Speak your intentions out loud to solidify your manifestation.

6. Close with Gratitude:

   • Thank the moon for its guidance and take a moment to feel the powerful energy you’ve created.

Journal Prompts for the Buck Moon

1. What areas of my life am I ready to grow and strengthen?

2. What am I holding onto that no longer serves me?

3. How can I embody my most confident, radiant self?

4. What does "strength" mean to me in my personal journey?

5. How can I celebrate my sensuality and inner power this month?

Full Moon Prayer

"Dear Moon, radiant and wise, I honor your light and embrace your power. Under your glow, I release all that no longer serves me. I step into my strength, my beauty, and my truth. Guide me to radiate confidence and love, illuminating the path of my highest self. With gratitude, I welcome new blessings and growth. So it is."

June Full Moon - Strawberry Moon - Sweet Abundance

The full moon in June, known as the Strawberry Moon, is a time of abundance, sweetness, and blooming potential. This moon symbolizes a period of completion and ripening—when the seeds you’ve planted earlier in the year begin to bear fruit. It invites you to celebrate your journey, release what no longer serves you, and step into your power with confidence and grace.

Whether you’re new to moon ceremonies or a seasoned moon-child, this guide will help you create an intimate ritual to align with the energy of the June full moon. Let’s dive into the magic and set the tone for your empowered transformation.

What the June Full Moon Represents

• Themes: Growth, harvest, celebration, and gratitude.

• Zodiac Influence: The June full moon often falls in Sagittarius or Capricorn, offering fiery optimism or grounding discipline, depending on the year. It’s the perfect time to reflect on how far you’ve come and align with your soul's purpose.

• Elemental Energy: Fire and Earth—focus on passion, stability, and releasing old patterns.

How to Do a Full Moon Ceremony at Home

1. Set the Scene

   • Choose a quiet, comfortable space—indoors or under the moonlight.

   • Gather candles, crystals (try moonstone or clear quartz), and fresh flowers or herbs.

   • Light incense or diffuse essential oils like lavender or sage.

2. Cleanse Your Energy and Space

   • Use palo santo, sage, or sound (a singing bowl or clapping) to clear any stagnant energy from your space and aura.

   • Visualize the moonlight pouring into your space, cleansing and filling it with radiant energy.

3. Write and Release

   • On a piece of paper, write down anything you want to release—fears, doubts, or habits holding you back.

   • Burn the paper (safely!) in a fireproof dish, watching as the smoke carries your burdens away.

4. Set Intentions

   • On a new sheet of paper, write affirmations or goals that align with your higher self. Be bold and dream big.

5. Moonlit Meditation

   • Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Visualize yourself glowing under the moonlight, radiating strength, beauty, and empowerment.

   • Focus on your breath and repeat a mantra like: “I release what no longer serves me and embrace my truest self.”

6. Celebrate

   • Dance, sip a glass of wine, or enjoy strawberries (a nod to the moon’s name). This is your moment to celebrate YOU.

Journal Prompts for the Strawberry Moon

1. What am I ready to release to make space for abundance?

2. How have I grown in the past six months, and what am I most proud of?

3. What does my dream life look like, and what steps can I take to make it a reality?

4. Who or what lights my soul on fire, and how can I invite more of that into my life?

5. How can I honor my body and spirit during this season of growth?

Full Moon Prayer

"Dear Moon, glowing with infinite light,
Guide me to release all that’s no longer right.
Fill my heart with joy, my soul with fire,
Help me align with my highest desire.
I honor my journey, I trust my way,
Thank you for your blessings this sacred day."

Happy 14th Birthday Pink Blush

Claim Your Crown: Why Self-Celebration Is the Ultimate Power Move 👑

This June, I’m celebrating 14 years in the boudoir industry.
Fourteen years of growth, grit, beauty, and badassery.
Fourteen years of capturing the divine feminine in her most powerful form.
And close to 2,000 women who have stood in front of my lens, stripped away doubt, and dared to celebrate themselves.

This birthday isn’t just about my business—it’s about every woman who’s walked through my studio doors and found herself a little stronger, a little softer, and a lot more in love with her body and her story.

But if I’m being real… this year?
This one was personal.

I’ve done some serious healing. Faced some shadows. I’ve cracked open in ways I didn’t expect, and instead of letting it break me—I leveled up. I’ve come out the other side more grounded, more creative, and more fiercely devoted to helping every single client experience the transformation I’ve lived myself.

So here’s what’s new—because this year, we go deeper than ever before:

💋 Flow Posing Videos – All clients now get access to my exclusive video series to help you feel confident and connected before shoot day.
💋 Posing Workshops – Want even more prep? Attend one of my in-studio group workshops and learn how to move like the masterpiece you are.
💋 Self-Love Meditation – Designed to help you ground into your body and melt into your magic right before your shoot.
💋 Boudoir Video Add-Ons – Bring your experience to life with cinematic, sensual video footage you can relive over and over again.

This is more than a photoshoot. It’s a declaration:
You are worth celebrating.

And not just when you hit a milestone.
Not just when you’re in love, or when life feels easy.
But especially when you’ve fought hard to love yourself again.
Especially when you’re still in the thick of it.
Especially now.

So whether you’re turning 25 or 65, getting divorced or just got promoted, running your empire or healing your heart—this space is for you.

This experience is transformative, it is an investment into your future self. We are creating timeless art of YOU that will be a lasting reminder that your are enough, worthy, and utterly captivating in your own skin. My clients leave with a new understanding that they are all that they need to be, and their bodies can be a place of safety, comfort and pleasure that is all their own.

I know you are here because deep down you have been wanting to experience these feelings for yourself, and you absolutely can. You just have to click the button and Claim Your Crown.

Still don’t believe me??? Here are some reviews from my clients just from this past month.

Miss J

Never in a million years did I ever think of doing a boudoir shoot, but I had a milestone birthday and said "let's kick this decade off with a bang!" After a lot of research into finding a photographer I'd be comfortable with, and I can say with 100% confidence that working with Sarina was absolutely worth it.

The experience from start to finish (booking, pre-consultation, and shooting) was seamless. Sarina is extremely professional and timely in her responses, but her standout quality is her ability to make you feel comfortable, safe, and empowered. Her personality is warm, fun, and her eye for celebrating femininity in its rawest form is magic. Sarina's passion radiates in every step of the process, and it shows in her work - I'd never seen myself in the way she captured me and I truly felt like a piece of art.

Words cannot express my gratitude for such a positive experience and I cannot recommend Sarina enough - thank you, Sarina!
Highly recommended!

Miss K

I honestly cannot say enough amazing things about my experience with Sarina! From the moment I arrived, getting my hair and makeup done was such a fun, confidence-boosting experience — I felt so beautiful and truly hot even before we started shooting.

What really stood out to me was Sarina's creative vision. She took what I had initially imagined and expanded it into something far beyond what I could have ever expected. Her ideas and artistic direction truly brought the shoot to life in ways I didn't even know were possible.

Despite feeling a bit vulnerable at first, Sarina made me feel incredibly safe, comfortable, and empowered. Her guidance with posing and the way she captured each shot was unbelievable — when I saw the photos, I was genuinely amazed that it was me! It was such a huge confidence boost and a moment I'll always remember.

I would recommend Sarina a thousand times over to anyone considering a shoot. She has a real gift for making you feel sexy, confident, and totally at ease. The entire experience was unforgettable, and I’m so grateful for it. Thank you, Sarina! ❤️

Miss K

From start to finish, my experience was nothing short of incredible. I was nervous going into it, but Sarina made me feel completely at ease within minutes of arriving. Her professionalism, warm energy, and attention to detail helped turn what could have been an intimidating session into one of the most empowering things I've ever done.

The studio was beautifully set up—clean, private, and tastefully styled. The lighting was perfect, and the selection of props and backdrops gave each photo a unique feel. She gave just the right amount of direction, helping me pose naturally while still capturing my personality and style.

What truly stood out was how respected and celebrated I felt throughout the process. It wasn't just about looking sexy—it was about feeling confident, strong, and beautiful in my own skin. The final images blew me away. They were elegant, artistic, and flattering in ways I didn’t know were possible.

If you’re on the fence about doing a boudoir shoot, let this be your sign to go for it. It’s an experience that can be deeply affirming and unforgettable, especially when you're in the hands of someone as talented and caring as Sarina.

Miss A

I had an absolutely incredible experience with Sarina at Pink Blush! From the moment I arrived, she made me feel completely comfortable and at ease, which is so important when it comes to boudoir photography. Sarina’s warm personality and professionalism instantly put me in a relaxed state, allowing me to truly enjoy the session and express myself confidently.

Her attention to detail, creative vision, and genuine care truly shine through in every shot. She created a safe, empowering environment where I felt beautiful and confident throughout the entire process. The photos turned out absolutely stunning! I couldn’t be happier with the results!

I highly recommend Sarina to anyone looking for a transformative, empowering experience with exceptional photography. I am beyond impressed and grateful for this memorable experience!

This isn’t just my business birthday—it’s yours too.
Because every time a woman decides to see herself and celebrate her body… the world shifts.

Motherhood Unscripted: Real Birth Stories of Strength and Resilience

Mother's Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a profound acknowledgment of the pivotal role mothers play in our lives. It is a day for reflection, gratitude, and celebration of the unconditional love and support mothers provide. By honoring mothers, we recognize the essence of motherhood and the invaluable contributions they make to our families and society.

“Being a mother is discovering strengths you didn’t know you had, and dealing with fears you never knew existed..” – Linda Wooten

I am very sensitive to the broad spectrum of Mother’s Day. To some it brings joy and fulfilment. To others it can bring pain or resentment. We are not all mothers and not all had mothers, but I would like to bring to light the pure and raw power that women can have within them to bring new life into this world. To be an absolute bad ass that cannot be contended with. I am all about empowering women in their truest of forms and one that cannot be beat is motherhood. I would like to dedicate this letter to those that have given an ultimate sacrifice. Given entirely of themselves for other tiny humans in whichever shape or form.   

From Trauma to Triumph: My Journey to a Redeeming Birth

After the trauma of birthing my first son.. 46 hours later, 36 labouring at home, and 10 hours of provider abuse by medical professionals in a hospital, pieces I will speak to later, I was blessed with a redeeming birth. My water broke at 5 am on Thursday, August 3, 2023. Nothing was progressing contraction wise, so I just let my life go on. Come Friday, I met with my midwife that confirmed it was amniotic fluid. She asked what I planned to do the rest of the day. I told her a play date with my son that has been long over do. The look on her face ! She wanted me to rest at home, but I felt safe and confident in my body. We were only blocks away from our home, so if anything were to go down it wouldn’t be a problem. There was worry around me that my water had been broken for too long. I gathered ingredients for a midwife brew that would induce labour. My husband asked that I take it, but deep down in my core, I knew this birth would come naturally. Fast forward, my husband’s sister came and picked up our son later that night. I knew it was time. I had so many big emotions of not only him leaving, but him also not being my only child any longer. I laboured for an hour and a half, starting at midnight, before calling our midwife and doula. Once they came it was REAL. I disassociated and felt as if I were in a different realm. Suddenly, SOMETHING WAS HAPPENING. At 4:01 AM, August 5, 2023, I birthed our beautiful daughter Earth side in our living room. She was fast and fierce. Her Leo showed. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Being in my own home, being able to rinse off in my own shower, and being tucked into my own bed after all of baby’s checks were done is indescribable. Noone to come checking in regularly, no machines or tubes, no distraction. Just myself, my husband, and our newest addition. Truly blissful.

This, unfortunately, wasn’t the same as it came to the birth of my son a few years prior.

Most people thought I was crazy when I said I was to birth at home when pregnant with my son. I just smiled and nodded, thinking the crazy thing was a hospital birth. I wanted full autonomy and no interventions. To feel and experience everything physiologically. I had read books, spoken with other mothers and fathers that birthed at home, and felt more than confident that I could too. A dear friend was our doula, and I loved our midwives. I truly believed this was the right and only choice. My water broke right at 39 weeks at 5:00 am. I calmly got out of bed and went downstairs for some preparations before gently waking my husband. He may as well have jumped out of bed and ran around in circles with the news. I told him to calm down, that I was going to go to the other bed to rest. While I did so, he set up all the fairy lights and birth pool in the living room. I then messaged our doula and midwives. I rested as I could and wanted, ate what I wanted, watched some shows, and then a movie. We had grilled cheese and soup for lunch, the sun was shining, and surges began.

Eventually though, it all becomes a blur. My contractions became VERY strong, and VERY consistent, for HOURS. It felt like it would never end. My body kept telling me to stand, but I couldn’t even do that. My husband had to hold me up. I labored on all fours, leaning on the kitchen island, no position seemed to move things along. My cervix ended up swelling shut. It was now coming on 33 hours. I was gently suggested to call for an ambulance to go to the hospital. I immediately refused. Three hours later, it was brought up again. I was so tired. I couldn’t rest, and the contractions just wouldn’t stop. I couldn’t catch my breath. It was time to make one of the most difficult decisions I had had to up to that point in my life. Give in. Give up. I would be able to rest, I was told. All I could imagine was my baby being so exhausted. Having worked for so long, for tens of hours. I eventually agreed. At 36 hours labouring at home unmedicated, the ambulance was called.

Nearly immediately, I knew my dream was about to come crashing down. I heard one of the paramedics say, “we tried to have a homebirth.” I knew I was doomed. I begged them not to strap me in, having had hospital trauma years prior. I was strapped down for transport and sent for what felt was my doom. Once admitted, I learnt that my Dr was male. I was devastated. I was told he must perform a cervical check before anything else. I begged for a nurse to do it. Surely, they are capable. The answer was an adamant “no.” It had to be him. The alternative was a c-section. This set me into hysterics. I did not want a strange old man shoving his fingers up my vagina without my consent. But I did not want a c-section. One of my fears was checked off. Lack of consent. I was screaming and crying to my husband in the bathroom, “THIS ISN’T SUPPOSED TO BE HAPPENING!” over and over.

Next came an epidural so that I could rest. It was so painful. Another fear checked off. Intervention.

I was told, “none of that yoga breathing!” as I tried to breath down my baby. I was told to, “Stop screaming! This isn’t like in the movies!” I was told, “it can’t hurt”, that the pain and wave I am feeling is not a contraction. Even though, after over 40 hours, I was well aware of what a contraction felt like.

I was lucky enough to have “been able” to have the nurse sit the bed all the way up so that I could bare down on my knees when I knew it was time to push. Again, I was told to stop the “yoga breathing” that I was to hold my breath and push that way. I was at my absolute breaking point.

My baby then began to crown. Now. Get this. I was told to stop pushing because the Dr. was not in the room. I. Saw. RED. These people were no longer going to take away ANYTHING from me or my baby. In one big raw push, I ROARED my baby out. Our son. Our Ethan Benjamin. Our trooper and warrior. His name means “strong and enduring”. It can’t be more fitting. We stuck it out together and made it through. Regardless of unforeseen circumstances that tarnished our birth story.

Birth isn’t always beautiful, but your body is.

I am a divine. I am strong. I am woman.

-S

Many Forms of Motherhood

Motherhood comes in countless forms—biological, adopted, chosen, and beyond. Each path is unique, but no matter how it unfolds, it leaves a mark on your soul. The moment you see that first positive test or hear the news that a little one is on the way, life shifts irrevocably. From that point forward, you are forever changed.

Motherhood is raw, real, and relentless. It’s piles of diapers and endless laundry, sore breasts, and bottles that need washing and sanitizing. It’s sleepless nights that stretch into endless days. It’s feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, guilty, and at times, lost. Yet, it’s also bursts of joy, pride, excitement, and the kind of love that makes it all worthwhile. In just one day, you can feel the highest highs and the lowest lows—doubt intertwined with empowerment.

And then there are the physical changes. One mother shared her story with me:

“Did you know that upon conception, your bladder shrinks to a fraction of its size to make room for the growing uterus and womb? No wonder we have to pee all the time! My body immediately began to change. Organs moved, muscles loosened, and shifted. Sometimes, I didn’t even feel like myself. Yet, in those moments, I also felt like a sacred vessel, allowing a tiny human to thrive. I was blessed with the power to grow and build LIFE!”

Babies are considered full term at 39 weeks—anything beyond that is a bonus. But, as every mother knows, babies don’t always follow the plan. Sometimes, they have their own timeline, teaching us early on that control is an illusion and that motherhood is about embracing the unexpected.

Love Triumphs Pain

Due to complications, I ended up in the hospital a month early on a Thursday night and was told I was going to have the baby that weekend. Not even 12 hours later, I was being induced on Friday morning.

Although, I didn’t have much say about whether the baby was coming, I was able to have a say about whether I wanted a medicated birth: which I did not. Because I didn’t want an epidural and I was induced, I was warned about the risk of having to have an emergency caesarean and being put under. I told the doctor and nurses the only pain medication I wanted was laughing gas, which ended up making me nauseous in the first 20 minutes and I didn’t end up using it.

I was in full control of the positions I was in during labour: laying on my side was the most comfortable and when the pressure of the baby moving his way down made me feel like I was going to poop; I was able to sit on the toilet for about 10 minutes before the nurses encouraged me to go back to the bed. When I was able to make it back, I leaned on the edge of the bed until it was no longer comfortable and laid back down on my side. The nurse brought me a peanut ball to use to help relieve pain and move things along.

When I reached 10 centimetres dilated, I had no idea the bright lights were on and the birthing team was in the room: I was on my side with my face shoved into a pillow so I could scream when the contractions would become super strong. As soon as I had birthed the baby and he was placed on my leg, I forgot about all the pain I had felt during labour. Delivering the placenta almost felt more painful than delivering the baby, but the pain would come and go because I was distracted by my baby and the fact that I just successfully birthed him.

In a matter of a few hours, I was lucky enough to have a natural and unmedicated birth to a healthy baby. I would not have been able to get through it without my amazing support team: my mom and fiancé. Even after experiencing an unmedicated birth, I would not change a single thing and would choose no pain drugs again and again.

I am brave. I am resilient. I am powerful.

-C

The Power of a Birth Team: Supporting Mom Through Every Moment

A birth team can include many different people—family members, doctors, nurses, midwives, and specialists—all contributing their unique support. Each person plays an important role, offering medical care, emotional support, or practical assistance to help both mother and baby through the birthing process.

One essential role on the team is that of a doula. While doctors, nurses, and midwives are primarily focused on the baby’s health, a doula is there for the mother—her advocate, companion, and emotional anchor. Doulas provide continuous support, offering comfort measures, guidance, and encouragement. They create a safe, nurturing environment where the mother feels empowered and cared for, no matter how the birth unfolds.

A doula’s presence can make a world of difference, reminding mothers that they are never alone in their journey, and that their strength and voice matter every step of the way. 

Holding Space: The Sacred Role of a Doula

When I found out I was pregnant with my first baby, I felt incredibly fortunate to have already learned what a doula was, and I immediately added one to my birth team. I never imagined I would one day have the honour of becoming a doula myself. But after experiencing a challenging birth, I discovered, through the journey of healing, that attending births and sitting beside new parents was truly my calling.

Birthwork lives deep within our DNA, carried through the lineage of midwives, aunties, doulas, and birth attendants who have paved the way before us. I’ll never forget the first birth I attended as a doula—the mother welcomed her baby earthside with such strength and grace, and it moved me profoundly.

Since then, many others have welcomed me into their sacred journey after learning they were pregnant, inviting me to hold space and witness their transformation through the labyrinth of Labour Land.

Birth and the postpartum period are filled with blood, sweat, and tears—but they also hold the closest encounter with the Divine Spirit, be it God, Creator, Allah, Mother Earth, or whatever name we give to the force that brings forth life.

No matter how many births I’ve attended—whether physiological, medicated, or caesarean; at home, in a hospital, or in a birthing center—I remain humbled by the raw, powerful magic of birth.

With Gratitude,

Asha

Where Love Lives: Bringing Babies into the World at Home

I knew before I was pregnant that I wanted to have my babies at home. My husband was on board because I was so confident. We both believed in me. There were many similarities between all three of my pregnancies and births, and I cherish the stories of our babies coming into the world. I love that homebirth is a normal thing for our kids and that my experiences helped expand our friends and family members' perspectives on pregnancy and birth. 

After each birth I felt a sense of pride and strength that I have not experienced anywhere else in my life. I loved the comfort of being at home. I needed the control over my body and movements, not someone telling me how to position so it would be easier for them. I wanted to know the midwives I was inviting to my births and have a relationship before I was at my most vulnerable. I did not want to think about when was the right time to go to the hospital (and would not have made it for my first). I focused on myself knowing that I was exactly where I planned to be. 

We did not know what we were having but my instinct on girl, boy, boy was correct. They were all born around 39 weeks in the bathtub or birth pool and were very fast labours- the first two less than two hours. I do not know what a stomach contraction feels like because it was my back throbbing the whole time. Afterwards being in my own bed with all of my familiar comforts and my tiny new person was lovely. 

For the second and third births it was very special to have our kids at home with us. We didn't plan alternative childcare because I did not want anyone else in the house and I knew it would be ok. The kids came to my midwife appointments and were excited and as prepared as they needed to be for their age. 

Our almost 4 year old woke up in the middle of the night when she heard me labouring and was so excited peeking around the corner when her brother was born at 3:04am. For the next birth my almost 3 year old son saw that the birth pool that had been set up for a week finally had water in it and he was getting ready to climb in with me. Although that was not the cute distraction I needed at the time it is a sweet memory. He and his sister were in a room nearby watching morning cartoons until the baby's head was born. Instead of sliding out on the same push like my first two, there was a pause between contractions with just the head underwater. I told Dad to run and get the kids and both older siblings watched me bring baby out of the water with the next push. After waiting months for their baby to come they discovered at the same time as us that they had a little brother. 

I am so happy I was able to have all my babies at home and hope I inspired others to do the same if they want to. A few weeks after our youngest was born my then 6 year old daughter thanked me for working so hard to have the baby. What an amazing Mom moment- I love that my kids already have an insider's understanding and acceptance of birth. It is not the silly scenes you see in movies. It can be full of excitement, joy, struggle, pain, sounds, movements, patience, incredible strength and determination. I am sad that part of my life has passed, but am extremely proud of myself and the confidence I had in creating each of my birth stories.

-A

The Birth Plan: Hopes, Dreams, and the Unexpected

Creating a birth plan is a common and important part of preparing for labor and delivery. It’s more than just a list of preferences—it’s a thoughtful reflection of your hopes and dreams for how the birth experience will unfold. A birth plan typically outlines key elements like the desired atmosphere, pain management options, postpartum care, and specific newborn procedures. It’s a way to communicate your wishes clearly to your birth team, helping ensure that your vision is understood and respected.

Many mothers spend hours crafting this plan, carefully considering every detail to create the ideal birth scenario. It becomes a source of comfort—a way to feel prepared and empowered in the face of the unknown. However, as many mothers discover, birth doesn’t always go according to plan. Despite the most meticulous preparation, unexpected situations can arise, requiring flexibility and resilience.

Sometimes, the journey of childbirth requires letting go of the envisioned path and embracing a new one. In those moments, it’s important to remember that while plans may change, the strength and love guiding the process remain unwavering.

From Dream to Reality: Navigating an Unplanned Birth

At 23, on the verge of having my first baby, I toured the hospital. The nurse's mention of the "ring of fire" during the birthing room visit terrified me, a term I'd never heard. Despite this fear, I held a strong belief in my body's ability to give birth naturally, echoing the experiences of women for millennia. My carefully written "birth plan" reflected this conviction.

However, my daughter arrived 12 days overdue, necessitating an induction. Labor began intensely and quickly. My water broke, and we rushed to the hospital. The pain upon arrival was overwhelming with each contraction, triggering panic. I walked to the nurses' station, desperately seeking Tylenol or anything for relief, my fear of needles paramount. They offered morphine, explaining oral medication wouldn't suffice. I hesitated, returning to my room to consider it. After two more grueling hours, I returned, begging for the injection. Twelve hours had passed.

Following the morphine shot, my labor stalled, requiring a second induction. Another six hours of labor ensued, and I was moved to the birthing room. A trip to the shared bathroom revealed a horrifying scene in the adjacent room – blood everywhere, a stark contrast to the idealized vision of childbirth. Fear gripped me; this looked nothing like a miracle.

After 24 hours, the doctor's empathetic expression as he informed me I needed a C-section was clear. My partner had returned to our room to sleep, and exhaustion washed over me. A desperate thought surfaced: "I've changed my mind, I don't want a baby. Just let me go home." I woke my partner to share the news of the impending surgery, feeling utterly devastated by my body's perceived failure.

The cesarian delivery brought my baby into the world, and the difficult labor faded almost instantly. I would do it all again without hesitation. My experience was nothing like I had envisioned. Perhaps my doctor should have disregarded my "birth plan," emphasizing the unpredictability of the process. Ultimately, the goal – a beautiful, healthy baby – was achieved.

Pregnancy and labor are indeed messy, unpredictable, and undeniably miraculous.

-D

Motherhood is a journey defined by resilience, vulnerability, and unwavering love. It doesn’t come in one shape or form, nor does it follow a predictable path. Whether the journey unfolds at home, in a hospital, with a supportive birth team, or through unexpected challenges, every story holds its own beauty and power. Through these personal reflections, we honor the mothers who embody strength through every contraction, every sleepless night, and every transformative moment. Motherhood is more than a role—it’s a testament to the human spirit, the ability to nurture life, and the courage to embrace the unknown. To all the mothers, in every form and story—you are powerful, you are remarkable, and today, we celebrate you.

Happy Mother’s Day

This Blog was written by one of my dear friends and client’s Miss S. Thank you Sarah for sharing your story and the stories of others.

May Full Moon - The Flower Moon

Flower Full Moon Ceremony Blog for Your Boudoir Journey

The Full Moon of May, often called the "Flower Moon," marks a time of abundance, growth, and blossoming beauty. This moon celebrates the peak of spring, reminding us to embrace the blooming energy within ourselves. Just as the earth is bursting with life, it’s time for you to step into your radiance and honor your unique power. A full moon ceremony is the perfect way to channel this energy and celebrate your inner goddess.

What Does the May Flower Moon Represent?

The Flower Moon symbolizes fertility, creativity, and transformation. It’s a time to shed the last remnants of winter’s stillness and fully embody your vibrancy. Under this moon, we’re called to nurture our passions, foster self-love, and embrace the beauty of who we are. The Flower Moon’s energy is about blooming into your best self—unapologetically.

How to Do Your Own Full Moon Ceremony at Home

You don’t need elaborate tools or rituals to honor the Flower Moon. Here’s a simple, empowering guide:

1. Prepare Your Space

• Choose a quiet area where you won’t be disturbed.

• Light candles and incense to create a calming ambiance. Lavender, rose, or jasmine are ideal for the Flower Moon.

• Place flowers or fresh greenery around you to symbolize growth and beauty.

• Bring a journal, pen, and any crystals associated with love and creativity (e.g., rose quartz or citrine).

2. Cleanse Your Energy

• Use sage, palo santo, or sound cleansing (like a singing bowl) to clear your space and aura.

• As you cleanse, say aloud: “I release what no longer serves me. I invite love, abundance, and creativity into my life.”

3. Set Intentions

• Sit comfortably and take a few deep breaths.

• Reflect on what you want to bloom in your life. Focus on self-love, empowerment, or any specific goal you’ve been nurturing.

• Write your intentions in your journal as if they’ve already come true. For example: “I radiate confidence and love in all that I do.”

4. Meditate Under the Moonlight

• If possible, sit outside or near a window with moonlight streaming in.

• Visualize yourself blossoming like a flower, opening up to the world with grace and strength.

5. Close with Gratitude

• Thank the moon for its guidance and energy.

• Write a short gratitude list in your journal, focusing on the things that bring joy and beauty to your life.

Journal Prompts for the May Flower Moon

• What areas of my life are blossoming, and how can I nurture them further?

• How do I define beauty within myself?

• What old habits or beliefs am I ready to release to make space for growth?

• How can I show myself more love and appreciation?

• What intentions do I want to set for the next phase of my journey?

A Prayer for the May Full Moon

Under the glow of the Flower Moon, I honor the beauty within me.
I release all that dims my light and step fully into my power.
May I blossom with confidence, grace, and love.
I am worthy of abundance, joy, and growth.
Thank you, moon, for your luminous guidance. And so it is.