Guest Blogger: Katie

Hey you all, guess what?! I'm a Grinkie Girl now! And seriously, I can't say enough good things about my experience.

Let me tell you more!

Christi provided lots of information in advance as to what to expect for the day/shoot experience, but I still found myself feeling a bit unsure as I drove up to the studio space. But from the moment I walked inside, after admiring the pink flamingos at the front doors of course, I felt right at home.

I'm not sure how I originally found her on social media (I will admit that I spend a decent amount of time on Instagram scrolling around), but I've been a fan of Christi's work for quite some time now. I remember seeing some of her images for the first time and thinking just how empoweringly beautiful they were. I also really liked how everything Christi does just oozes fun. You can just tell she love what she does. It's not just fun though, Christi is a true professional. You can see in her work her desire to continually expand her skillset to try new things and push against the social constructs of beauty. So, when I had the chance to be photographed by Christi, I couldn't let it pass me by. I even drove 4 hours round trip to make it happen!

I'm sure others go to be photographed by Christi with a clear plan, but that was not me. I didn't really know what I wanted to look like or what I wanted from the photoshoot experience beyond just wanting to feel good with the final images. Honestly, I really just wanted some pretty pictures of me. I'm a fairly awkward person at times. I'm that friend who might "ruin" your photo with squinty eyes or a random look on my face if you don't give me a lot of advanced notice when we take a picture together. I'm not a good candidate for the candid photo. But that's okay, that's just me! I'm not big into makeup, fashion, or style either. Those things don't come as naturally to me, and I'm most comfortable with sweatpants, messy buns, and dog hair everywhere. When I do "dress up" for something, I know I look great just like I know I look good as the natural, relaxed version of me. I haven't always felt so comfortable in my skin; it's been a journey to where I am today. This context is important to know, because Christi was able to work with all of this. She was able to see me and capture me in an authentically enhanced way. And even as someone who typically is more comfortable in a dressed down style, I truly enjoyed the process of being professionally glamourized and photographed. I didn't feel like I lost myself in that process. And, just like I wanted, the final images were very much me. I got my pretty pictures of me.

Everything about posing for photographs was new to me. Christi patiently helped me move into various poses, answered all my questions, showed me various shots along the way to help me trust the process even more, and provided jokes that kept me laughing throughout the process. Seriously, she just gets on the floor with you and pours her heart into getting that perfect shot captured. This lady has all the skills!

As we moved from taking photos into reviewing them, I was shocked at the number of images that I actually liked. I kept thinking wow, that's me. Wow! The wrap up process of selecting images and ordering was relaxed- no hard sell at Grinke Girls. If you like it, let's talk about what you want to order and what works for you. I ended up ordering an album, and I can't wait to see the finished product and share it with my partner. Best gift ever, right?!

Final thought: You are good enough to have a professional photoshoot. Christi will make you comfortable, even if you're totally new to the experience, and you'll love the results. Invest in yourself and this amazing artist. You're worth it, and you won't regret it!

Guest Blogger: Nadi

I was raised in a fundamentalist Christian church with my father as the pastor. Despite living in a

large city, we were incredibly isolated and taught to fear everyone around us. I was reminded

constantly that I was a sinner and could make one wrong decision that would lead me to hell. I

hated my body and myself for so long because I was taught that I was a disgusting, immoral

human. I felt I would never be worthy enough of love. That much shame, anger, and grief take a

heavy toll on the body.

I didn’t have many healthy outlets as a teenager, but I had my camera. When my parents

weren’t home, I took photos of myself. It was the one thing I had that made me feel beautiful. I

continued to do self-portraits (no such thing as selfies back then) for years whenever I felt

insecure. It didn’t matter if no one saw them. They were my way of reconnecting with my body

because I felt like a ghost most of the time. Seeing that photo on the screen reminded me that

for a moment, I was myself.

In college, I realized I was queer and, years later, nonbinary. At that point, I discovered a

love for being behind a professional’s camera. LGBTQ+ folks are constantly told we don’t exist

or that we take up too much space by existing. When I model or do shoots, I prove that we are

here. We are powerful and beautiful and worthy of taking up space.

I have experienced so much abuse in my life. I live with the pain daily and walk through

the world with it on my sleeve. But when people see photos of me, they don’t see decades of

abuse or PTSD. They see someone with piercing eyes in a dynamic pose proudly displaying

their queer nonbinary existence.

That is why I do photoshoots. I am the person that my younger self needed to see in the

world. And that is something worth celebrating.

I love working with Grinkie Girls. Christi creates an open environment to celebrate individuals regardless of gender, gender expression, and sexuality. There is no pressure to conform to gender norms during her shoots. Christi is ready to make you feel sexy however you want to present yourself. While the business is named Grinkie Girls, Grinkie’s is for everyone.

Guest Blogger: Jillian

It was the most beautiful, amazing experience. Christi’s personality, creativity, and demeanor are so on point!!! She has this way of making people feel instantly comfortable. Such precious magic that is. 

Hey future Grinkie Girls! Stress less, trust more, enjoy the experience and the process as much as the final outcome focus. Don't be afraid to let your creativity and secret fantasies come out to play! 

My favorite part? #ALLOFIT . HA. But seriously, feeling held and loved on by some fiercely strong and wise Goddesses was probably the best. And seeing what a smoke show I am. ;)

The three most important things in my life are kindness, authenticity, and adventure. 

What lights me up? Fun. Play. Dancing. Music that I can shake my ass too. Deep soul conversations. The brilliant complexity of the Universe. Setting humans free from internalized oppression. Seeing strong humans reclaim every last ounce of themselves.

Something People don't know about me? Oh gosh, I feel like I am pretty open about a lot of things. Let's see... I can be shy in new settings, especially around larger groups. People who I am comfortable around are often surprised by this because once I am comfortable with you you can't get me to shut up. I love people so very deeply. Even strangers I met just once in passing in a beautiful moment. This heart inside here loves BIG. And sometimes it really hurts to love so wide open. Yet it's all I know and the core of who I am. Wanting to radiate love to whomever needs it most. And loving big enough to set people free.

I came in for a session for fun and play and creativity and reclaiming the sexy feelings inside my own skin. I've wanted to do a shoot with you forever. I had heard about your work for years! Can't wait to play more! :)

Guest Blogger: Rosie

I was absolutely comfortable. Future Grinkie girls should look through their drawers and ask friends for lingerie before buying online. You probably already have the perfect outfit or know someone who does. Practice arching your back at home!

My favorite part was seeing the pics as we went. Omg, that’s me! Gives a little boost for the next set of pics.

The three most important things in my life are my family, my friends, and my passions. It maybe cliche, but really that’s what makes me happy. It just lights me up to be outside. Doing things that help make other people happy.

One think people don’t know about me is that I fake being an extrovert.

I cam in for 2 reasons-1) I wanted to see if I could transform from MaryAnn to Ginger and loved the idea of seeing myself as just me-someone other than mom and wife. Doing something just for me.

Guest Blogger: Mara

I've known Christi since high school and am privileged to call her friend. She's right that Grinkie Girls have more fun! I did my first photo shoot with her in 2011 when my marriage was on the rocks and I felt ugly inside and out. Christi put out a request for models of all sizes. I gingerly responded, "all sizes?" The first photo gave me the boost I needed to leave an unhappy marriage and feel good about myself. It took me 30+ years to love and accept my body. In my new marriage I am blessed with the most loving stepkids (adults) I could have ever imagined. I came into Emilia's life when she was 16 and I tried to model honoring and loving yourself first. I am so proud of the woman she is growing into and how she is defying the odds by accepting and loving herself for who she is.

Emilia and I came in together for a photo shoot in September to try out the Ostrich Feather Wings. I intended to do a mini shoot and get 1-2 photos. She reminded me that I will never be as young as I am today and to just go for it and do a full shoot. Look who is modeling healthy behavior for step mom???? I LOVE my photos and am so glad she reminded me to live my best life....Once a Grinkie Girl, always a Grinkie Girl!!

Guest Blogger: Kelly

Future Grinkie Girls should know that it will be an experience where they will get to feel like a goddess! Yes, posing is a bit complicated at times but if they trust the photographer and MUAH and just let loose, magic is going to happen!

My favorite part was going thru the photos. It's a big confidence boost and proof that if you have a first class MUAH and photographer you will have stunning images. An ordinary gal can be transformed!

The most Important things to me are my family , humility, knowing that no one person is too important that they should treat people like they're "less than" or not worthy of respect, and building up self love and confidence. I make it part if my mission in all of my businesses (Beautiful Strength, The Strength Factory, and Superior Retreats) to build everyone up and promote self love. Social media and the general population do a damn good job of beating us down and I want to be a beacon of light in the darkness showing all that once they start to build themselves up, start loving themselves more, and ignore the haters that their confidence will begin to grow and they will in turn be happier and healthier!

It lights me up to see people achieve something they never thought they were capable of doing.

What people don't know about me? This is hard as I am pretty much an open book. I guess I would say that most don't realize that I usually lift 5 days a week. I'm a thick girl and I am very passionate about showing people that not every body will react the same to specific diet fads, exercise, etc. AND that is OK! My body has undergone several different changes throughout it's days on this beautiful planet of ours and the most recent one is actually my strongest to date

What motivates me to come in for a session?

I do sessions like this to show people that beauty is not one dimensional. Yes, makeup and hair can transform us but there's more to it than that. Our true beauty is held within us and no amount of makeup will ever make someone MORE beautiful than they already are. Makeup can be a form of armor that can give a mini confidence boost or highlight a feature of our body that allows us to be more free and to be our true selves. It has the ability to help us express all the hidden power we hold inside that we may not remember we have in our everyday existence. Simply put, these shoots help remind me of the fierce woman that I am and it's not because I am wearing makeup or pretty things. It's because I get to focus on me and see myself through the eyes of a master MUAH and master photographer!

Guest Blogger: Kathleen

I felt very comfortable during the shoot, I don't think anything could have added to the experience. Wear something you are confident in at home and just let loose, Christi will do the rest. My favorite part, but also my most vulnerable part, was the reveal of the photos. It was great to see the results immediately.

My three most important things in my life are: my family (including 2 dogs), friends and my health

Getting friends together for a fun evening together lights me up. Not everyone knows that I have traveled to almost 20 countries, including solo travel to Southern Africa as well as the Galapagos Islands!

I was motivated to do a boudoir shoot because I knew I'd want a time capsule from the period of time leading up to my marriage to Bryan. It is a gift equally for him as it is for me :)

Guest Blogger Bridget

As I sit and type this, I am 42 years old and five days away from giving birth to a baby boy. His name is Marcel, and he belongs to two French Men from Bordeaux. I am growing and carrying this little guy as his gestational surrogate!

This will be my second surrogacy. I delivered twins for another couple in 2019 and after the babies were born, the couple basically took the kids and ran. No goodbyes, and no follow ups. Nothing. I was completely shocked and devastated that this was how my time with them ended. There was no way for me to get closure or even know how the babies were doing.

So I decided to do another surrogacy because I wanted a happy ending. And I am feeling SO good about all of it. The current intended parents are professional puppeteers and perform shows for children and adults in Bordeaux. They recently wrapped up a series of clown acts at the local children's hospitals, before they got on a plane to arrive in MPLS to meet their little boy. It's quite magical really!

This photoshoot meant a lot to me. It was like the icing on the cake, to close out this beautiful journey. I arrived and Christi and Betsy made me feel so comfortable and beautiful. i was able to bring a few pieces of clothing and accessories that were special to me and we incorporated them into the photos. I had never done anything so "fancy" for myself before. I was able to have 4 or 5 outfit and scenery changes and Christi directed me on where to place my hands, legs and even helped me make good faces for the camera! I felt totally assured that she knew exactly what she was doing to get the shots needed. And then she put them up on the big screen and my jaw dropped! They were ALL, SOOOO BEAUTIFUL! I felt glamorous, strong and confident, all at once! I am not sure when the last time was that I felt all of those feelings at once.

I had zero hesitation in spending money on myself to have those images forever! I will look at them all the time and remember just how fucking strong and beautiful I am!!

Guest Blogger: Ashley

Christi is so calming and easy to work with. I felt at ease the whole time, and I really felt like I could trust her 1000%. I knew if at any point in time I felt uncomfortable I could easily speak up and she would listen and do what she could to resolve it. I have worked with many photographers before, and this is hands down the best and easiest experience I have ever had. I can't wait to work with her again!

To say 2020 changed the lives of the world population is an understatement. We all suffered losses. It wasn't just loss of life either, it was experiences like weddings, bonding over dinners, holidays and so so much more. In 2020, I had a huge loss of my identity, my hobbies, and what made me feel whole.

Before 2020 I ran on coffee, the gym, therapy, the great outdoors, pretty dresses, and a healthy dose of Star Trek. I had made some drastic changes in my life and things were really turning up in such a great way! I was hitting the gym 3 times a week, I felt strong physically and enjoyed being a tiny tank, but even better than that was the sense of peace I got after running a mile and lifting weights. It was my therapy, my me time, activate meditation, and my heart always felt lighter after a good gym session.

Right when the world was about to shut down, and before we really understood what Covid-19 really was, I got sick. March 15, 2020 snatched my life away as I knew it, and it handed me a jarring and terrifying reality. For the next 3 months I shuffled from the front of my apartment to be where there were windows and a tv, to the back where my bed was. My partner delivered groceries and promptly dropped them in my kitchen and ran because he knew I couldn't carry the bags up the half flight of stairs, but he couldn't stay for fear of catching covid too. I rigged my shower so that I could sit to bathe, and I nearly recklessly chopped my hair off on more than one occasion because my arms were so weak I could barely wash it (thankfully I was able to manage keeping my mermaid hair!). There were times I would drift off into sleep wondering if I would wake up the next day. My body was stuck in perpetual fight or flight mode and my Vagus Nerve which controls that is only just now starting to heal over a year later.

I could write a novel about my experiences being sick and my struggle to find my footing in a body that didn't feel like my own, but instead I'm going to pivot into my recovery. In February if 2021 I started an intensive physical therapy program. Shortly after I added in little bits of meditation (I still hate it, but it really works!), And journaling that would prompt me to evaluate how to challenge my struggles. By June I started to feel a spark of my former self. It was time to heal after a year of grieving the loss of what felt like ever facet of who I was.

A huge part of focusing on my recovery was knowing I needed to celebrate surviving. When I look at this body it is unfamiliar to me, it isn't capable of the things it used to be, but it survived. Learning to love who I am in the present instead of the person I was before getting sick has been a difficult life lesson. I have always known I wanted to shoot with Christi, but somehow reading "you are perfectly beautiful now" in her bio on her website hit differently. I felt compelled to show myself kindness in the face of a change I didn't choose. It was time to be soft and gentle, and to remember that my identity isn't wrapped up in "I can do it myself".

For my 34th birthday I decided to celebrate me, that I am still here, and while Covid has changed so much about my life I am still the same person at my core. Loving myself and learning to ask for help has been my greatest personal challenge of the pandemic. What better way to do that than to do a photoshoot! Having my edgy side, cozy moments, and starlet vibes captured by Christi and highlighted by her hair and makeup team (Sammi and Betsy!) was truly a dream come true. They helped me heal my heart and fed my soul. I will be forever grateful to them for helping me remember that power isn't just from lifting weights, doing a million squats, or running, but power is also the ability to slow down, to look in a mirror and love yourself despite the challenges or changes, and remaining soft in a world that demands you to toughen up.

The woman I am today is just as worthy of love as the woman I was prior to getting sick, and having these photos as a reminder is such a treasure!

What lights me up? Everything! I live for my time outdoors. I want to go get dirty camping and hiking, but I also love sitting and playing with makeup and costumes. I find joy in every little thing (to the point of being a bit obnoxious, but hey, I'm having fun!

If I'm being honest though, the thing that lights me up the most is my partner. He walks into a room and I feel at peace and I know I'm electric! His smile melts my heart.

What is something People don't know about me? I'm a fairly open book, so it is hard to think about what people don't know about me. I guess based on my social media activity most people don't know that I enjoy being outdoors, camping, hiking, working out, and my biggest fandom isn't Disney,  it's Star Trek.

What motivated you to come in for a session? After an incredibly difficult year and a half of recovering from Covid I decided it was time to really celebrate myself. My body survived a terrible disease and while it shifted and changed a lot in that course, I am so proud of my progress and my healing. I think it is super important to remember my body as it is, and how hard I fought to get better. What better way to remember it than to celebrate it by showing my body in its current state?

Guest Blogger Michelle

I would tell future Grinkie Girls to just relax. This is more pampering and less stress! Also to trust your instincts when it comes to what outfits/accessories you are bringing. If you love it – you probably look good in it

My favorite part is definitely the shooting. It’s so much fun getting my picture taken! Nothing more self-confident boosting then having someone direct you into looking your best!

The three most important things in my life would be my family, my friends and (I feel narcissistic saying it – but myself). With Covid restricting who I can see when, I really became down. I love being social and hosting parties, so when the restrictions hit and I couldn’t see anyone, depression kicked in a bit. As I’m sure it did with a lot of people. I had gained some weight and my self-confidence was shot. I was a little nervous coming in for the shoot, because I know I wasn’t looking my best. But the shoot really helped me feel better about myself. I learned that my self-confidence is an important factor in my lifestyle. When I’m happy with myself, I’m a better person for my friends and family. Grinkie Girls helped me find my self-confidence again.

I really enjoy art and artistic things. Being considered a work of art makes me so happy! I feel like a painting when Christi and Lela pamper me . Every time I do something like this – it just inspires me to do more artistic things and explore creative projects that I’ve been considering doing for a while, but never quite got around to doing.

People don’t know I secretly enjoy being photographed! I had wanted to become a model when I was younger. I had a photoshoot as a teenager – but nothing ever came from it. I had lost hope that I would ever get to do something fun like that again. The Pin-up shoots and Boudoir shoots let me live that dream a little bit.

Originally I was looking for a photographer to photograph my husband and I in our wedding outfits. I did a 50’s style wedding dress but didn’t get any really good shots on the day of the wedding and I really wanted a good one to put up on the wall. I was recommended Grinkie Girls from one of my favorite vintage shops (Via’s Vintage) and called up Christi. I was nervous at first but Christi and Lela made me so comfortable it was like chatting with old friends. Then my friends saw my pictures and decided it would be so fun to do a group pin-up shoot. So we all made plans to come in for that! It was a blast! Everyone looked so gorgeous and nothing lifts up your spirits more than seeing your friends all dolled up and having fun! I would do it every year if I could! This last shoot was more of a boudoir style – and I loved it so much! I’ve always been in love with the Victoria secret wings… they are so beautiful! So when Christi said, “How would you like to shoot with the wings?” I’m sure my inner self was dancing in an excited high-pitch squeal! But it was morning – so the outer me just said, “Sure! Sounds fun!”.

Guest Blogger: April

What should people coming into a shoot like this know?

Bring things that have meaning to you and tell your story. Trust the photographer and be willing to be goofy. I really enjoyed working with a different make-up artist and seeing their vision for my face. Knowing that there were so many props and costume back-up ideas available on site was great even though I brought a lot of my own looks. Having a day to just play and focus on my own creativity was a nice breather from life stress.

The three most important things in my life are my kids, having space to be creative, meaningful connection to others. It lights me up to learn new things, dance and go on travel adventures. People don't know that I love studying foreign language and tend to hoard cookbooks.

What motivated you to come in for a session?

I had some professional and personal challenges this past year that required me to rebrand and take a new direction. I wanted to be able to have photos that recognized that and allowed me to feel more confident in taking the steps I need to move forward.

Guest Blogger Hannah

Why is it often so difficult to accept or pursue pampering and self-care? I’m pregnant with my

first baby and naturally I’ve noticed all the beautiful maternity photoshoots floating on

Instagram and Facebook. Throughout my pregnancy I’ve admired the women who are

embracing their ultimate femininity, but I had never considered having a photoshoot for myself.

Why not? Well, there’s plenty of excuses that crop up in my mind. That’s way out of my

comfort zone. It’s too much money. I’m not pretty enough. That’s great for other people, but

not for me. And so on.

Through a mutual friend, I stumbled upon Grinkie Photography. Grinkie mostly specializes in

boudoir and pin-up photos, but had announced they were expanding their maternity

photoshoots as well. I ended up connecting with Christi, the photographer extraordinaire, and

decided this might be something to pursue. I was excited about the prospect of taking

maternity photos that were different than the typical sessions I’d seen on social media (all still

beautiful though, of course!).

I remember as soon as I scheduled the photo session that I began feeling self-conscious. It

sounds silly to fret over something so lovely, but maybe that’s just me. I felt a mixture of

excitement as well as slight anxiety about having vulnerable photos taken of me that would end

up online. As we know, once something is posted online, it’s there to stay. Not only that, but I

started to wonder how comfortable I felt exposing my belly for photos and over-thinking about

what’s too much to show and what’s okay. As a volunteer youth leader at my church and

someone who tends to be more modest in general, my nerves started to get the best of me.

My initial chats with Christi leading up to the shoot put me at ease. She was very reassuring

that she wanted me comfortable during and after the photo session. I decided to embrace the

project and was determined not to get stuck in my head.

The minute I walked through the door my hesitations evaporated. The hair & makeup process

was a breeze and I felt I was talking with two old friends the entire time. Christi had some

wardrobe options for me as well as my own clothes that I brought. I’d pose for a shot and she’d

gush over the photo and show me immediately. I couldn’t believe that was me! The whole

process felt unique, beautiful, and fun. I was also able to give approval for any photos that

would go online.

I don’t know if this baby will be my last, but I do know that I feel empowered to allow myself

more photo shoots and more pampering. My hope is that you will too.

Guest Blogger: Alexandra

I definitely think it’d be fun to come with one friend and some wine to make a fun girls day of it in the future. Future Grinkie Girls just need to come with an open mind overall. Christi does a great job directing shots and obviously know how to make us look good. I really did enjoy the entire experience - the pampering with hair & makeup, the playing dress up, the actual shooting, and the reviewing pictures right away so it’s tough to choose a favorite. I do think it’s great that we have the opportunity to review the images right away rather than having to wait to see the results. You leave feeling beautiful.

The three most important things in my life are my family, friends, and health.

My little Ruby gal lights me up. She’s honestly the best gift I’ve been blessed with and makes life much brighter. People don’t know that I earned my Master’s Degree at age 23.

I came in because I had a little nudge from a family member , but I was also looking forward to feeling beautiful during a time when I don’t always feel that way. I have been fortunate with very easy, healthy pregnancies but you certainly don’t always feel beautiful at the end when your body is 30+ pounds heavier and full of all sorts of aches and pains. I was looking forward to feeling beautiful and pampered for the day, which really motivated me to show up.

Guest Blogger Suzy

If this is something you have never done before, take a deep breath and know that you are in a talented, caring & empowering space! Getting to shoot the shit with Christi and Lela throughout the whole process. They are two beautiful and bright souls!

The most important things in my life are leaving a positive wake wherever I go, discovering and embracing other unique souls, and generally appreciating all that mother nature has created for us! Getting other people to laugh or smile lights me up.

One thing that people don’t know about me is that my knickers are au natural. (editors note: Both Suzy and Christi like to crack themselves up)

I got an album, what an absolute treasure trove of images! It will forever be a reminder of the amazing feeling of empowerment, self acceptance & celebration of being our individual bad ass selves!

🙏🏼Grateful to have had the opportunity to work with these UH-MAY-ZING women. Their talents are second to none. They will forever be a part of the tribe of uplifting & fantabulous people I have my life. I’m so thankful to know them beyond their professional lives.

Guest Blogger Livi

Grinkie Studio is a safe & empowering space! Thinking about taking pictures in lingerie can make us feel a lot of things, it’s easy to over think and worry about “imperfections.” I did not feel awkward or forced to be “sexy.” I felt free, beautiful, empowered, and yes, sexy too!

It’s not often I let someone else do my hair makeup, so I loved that. I’m a shopper so I enjoyed getting new lingerie. Honestly, I loved looking through all of the photos and picking our favorites! It’s really amazing to see yourself through someone else’s eyes/lens.

The three most important things in my life? Clichés maybe, family time, enjoying my work as a hairstylist and always learning!

What lights you up?

My loves; my husband & our fur babies. Elma, my pug, makes me laugh everyday. & my cat, Nubbins, is the cuddliest purr ball you will ever meet! Also, motorcycle rides.

What is something People don't know about you?

I have a resting bitch face and don’t cry often but movies are my weakness, I become a total softy!

What motivated you to come in for a session?

I have admired Grinkie Photography’s work for many years, Christi (& Lela) do beautiful work. Everyone looks amazing, & like they are having the fun. I saw Christi’s new bed set and I just had to lay on it!

Guest Blogger: Em

For a while back my mom was interested in pin-up. Since I can remember she has always kept around knickknacks and doohickies that serve no purpose than to be a prop. Small collections of porcelain cats, cupcake shoes, lipstick chairs. You name it, my mom has probably owned something similar. It wasn’t too much of a surprise that she was getting pin-up photos done. What was surprising to me was getting invited to join her, having just turned fifteen and not having professional pictures done since I was around seven.

When the time rolled around, the day after Easter, my mom left early to make sure we got there on time. When we got there we had a small screening, (and I was offered complimentary snacks,) and were shown the clothes we were allowed to try on. The selection was great for anyone of any size, with a whole rack of shoes to choose from. Even though I am awful at holding still and not blinking, the makeup was flawless. We got to take before and after videos, TikToks, as well as the actual pictures. Both Christi and Lela were so easy to get along with and chat with (even if I was anxious.) The entire studio felt like a safe space. I felt special and free to express myself the entire time.

I’m really glad to have had this experience. Sometimes I have a hard time feeling comfortable being myself and being happy with how I look. On this day I wasn’t worried about either of those things!”

Guest Blogger: Jacki

One thing is certain that when we become parents we start to view the world through a brand new lens. Your priorities now center around this vulnerable life you’re responsible for. As time goes self-care can seem like a ghost from another lifetime. The little things that spark warmth inside you are the easiest to push to the back of the queue when you’re already overbooked day is behind schedule.

I realized some time ago that I completely abandoned every healthy habit and hobby of mine in exchange for sleep deprivation and perpetual anxiety. I first noticed it in photographs of myself. My eyes were hauling some pretty heavy bags and they looked lifeless inside. I started avoiding mirrors and avoiding being photographed.

14 months after the untimely passing of my mother I decided to contact Christi. I had admired her work and cheered her from afar for years. At some point recently I had gotten the idea to invite my daughter to a shoot with me. She hadn’t had photos taken since she was a little girl. Now she is a teenager with a unique personality that deserves to be celebrated. I was excited to get something on the books.

Before the date of our shoot my father passed unexpectedly and was reunited with his wife. With the responsibilities that came with his death I was so exhausted and devastated I seriously considered cancelling the photo session. Self-care had never before been so necessary. So we got a hotel and headed 4 hours south to take some photos.

Christi and Lela had such vibrant, loving energy that we immediately felt at ease and at home. They pulled a personality out of me that I forgot I had. They helped me remember that although I am wading through grief, I don’t have to live there all the time.

On that day I watched my daughter shine like I’ve never before seen her shine. Her photos leave no doubt about that.

I was scared to see my photos. I thought the fancy camera and natural lighting would offer no mercy when exposing every fine line and blemish and I would feel worn out.

None of those things happened though. I saw a strong bloodline and a rich story being represented. Our smiles looked easy and our eyes bright. We looked relaxed and happy. There’s magic in those oversized hair flowers, I swear it.

We chose self-care and amazingly enough we felt cared for! The pictures are such a treasure but the experience that came with them is pretty unique and special. Plan to completely lose track of time. And don’t forget snacks and water! Being fabulous is hard work

Guest Blogger Robyn

I truly was terrified to do this but Christi and Lela made me feel at ease immediately. I appreciate the gift of their time and attention.

My message to future Grinkie Girls: You are beautiful and you deserve to feel and See proof of it. For a moment in time I felt special and pretty. You are worth having beautiful photos of yourself. Best gift I have given myself in forever.

My favorite part was the relaxed atmosphere. Christi’s enthusiasm and genuine excitement was contagious. To see beauty through her eyes. This goes for Lela too. SideBar: everyone wants my hair curled like that all the time lol.

The 3 most important things to me are: My beautiful girls, family and grandchildren, my 2 dogs, and my creativity.

Things that light me up? Music, Art, Nature, Ocean, or Lakes, and being appreciated.

I had shut away my sense of seeing myself as anything but mom , grandmother, mature woman. I truly wanted to reconnect with the me I tucked away.

Guest Blogger: Mariah

Hi! I am Mariah and something that not a lot of people know about me is that I struggled with getting pregnant. Infertility is a tough journey. After 2 years of trying, 2 miscarriages, many months of medications, shots, and 2 IUI rounds later I am finally pregnant! It was a hard couple of years, but it taught me a lot about myself and brought my husband and I closer than ever. I think that when we share our struggle with others it helps us to not feel so alone and maybe it will help someone else.

My friend told me that Grinkie Girls was doing a maternity photo shoot and said that I should try for it. I had never thought about going outside of my comfort zone and doing something like this especially while being 9 months pregnant! Would I be showing my belly not covered?! The thought of that was scary! But I decided to face my fear and to do the photo shoot.

The miracle of creating life is such a beautiful and incredible journey that needed to be captured in a way that could be remembered forever and boy did they ever do just that. I can't wait to show my daughter these pictures someday and share with her the journey of how she came to this world.

I am so glad that I did the photo shoot! The whole experience was wonderful, from the makeup, hair, to the ladies making me feel completely comfortable! I felt so beautiful in a time that is hard to accept and embrace the changes in my body. They helped me see my baby bump in a way I had not looked at it before, a beautiful miracle to be celebrated!