Best Christmas Gift

Beauty Beyond Breast Cancer | San Jose Bay Area Boudoir Portrait Studio

Today I am honored to share a post from a recent client. She is strong, courageous and very brave.

 

This is her story:

 

My name is Daniella C. my journey started back in July of 2016. I went to El Centro for my grandfathers funeral. When I was there I found out breast cancer was pretty heavy on my dad’s side, but I didn’t know how far down the family line it went. My father passed in 2015 from Gastric Cancer at the age of 59. Hearing of the breast cancer frequency, I began asking questions. I spoke with a cousin that I met as a small child and we got to talking. She let me know that my grandma and great grandma on dad’s side both passed of breast cancer. She also informed me that we had a first cousin pass at 32 from breast cancer. Then she told me her sister is beating it right now at the age of 38. I knew right there I needed to get checked. My cousin then informed me that her sisters doctor suggested that ALL first cousin women and men should be test for the the BRCA gene. I asked my cousin if she had been tested? She said no because her doctor told her she was too young. We continued to talk and I found out that there is frequency of colon cancer on my mom’s side also. With all this new family cancer knowledge, I began my research.

When I returned home I explained my findings to my husband. He told me to reach out to my OBGYN and start from there. I did my first mammogram in October 2016 and everything was normal. After speaking with my OBGYN we also decided for me to talk to a genetic specialist. The genetic specialist started my family tree for cancer. We went through the whole list of all the people in my family that had cancer. After this whole processes she came back and said you aren’t that high of a RISK. But in my Gut I knew I was. I explained to her I wanted the BRCA test done because of the recommendation of my first cousin’s doctor. She told me that if I can get her the genetic test my cousin took, she would test me also.

At this point I reached out to my cousin and asked if she could pass my contact information to her sister and to please have her call me. I was so nervous because she was battling cancer and I wasn’t sure if she would even want to reach out. Well, one day I received a message through Facebook and it was my cousin with breast cancer. I was so happy she was willing to speak with me! We got to talking and I explained to her everything that was happening. She was so happy and loving and she sent me her test results within 2 days. I couldn’t believe it and was so thankful. As we all know, not everyone is so forth coming on personal situations.

At this point I emailed the genetic specialist at Kaiser and information she needed. The next day she contacted me by phone. By now this was December 2016. She told me all I had to do is go in and have my blood drawn and the results would come back in 3 weeks. This was right before my 36 birthday that I did the test. The first week of January of 2017 I got that call while at work. The genetic specialist told me I was BRCA1 positive. My heart sank into my stomach and the first thing I asked was what about my children? She told me all my children would have to be tested at the age of 18. I have a son who is 21 but does not want to get tested yet. My other 2 children are 13 (daughter) 7 (son).

Hearing those words I knew right away I would have to take action and do something. At this point I knew I was high risk for breast AND ovarian cancer. 85% for breast and 40-50% for ovarian cancer. My life was about to change in a very big way. I started the journey of appointment after appointment and doctor after doctor. I was scared and nervous about the decisions to be made but with the support of my husband and kids I knew I could do this. After all the appointments and getting a MRI which I requested, they found a mass in my right breast. I was so scared. I had a ultrasound and biopsy of the breast and it came back benign. One thing I can say going through all this right here is stick with your GUT!

At this point I knew the best thing to do was surgery to remove my breast. They told me a mastectomy would reduce my chance of breast cancer from 85% to less then 5%. Right there this was a no brainer for me. I finally decided on the date of 5/25/2017. I also decided to have a double mastectomy with diep flap reconstruction. This was by far the biggest decision in my entire LIFE, but I knew if I didn’t, I had a high chance of dying from cancer. As a mother/wife/daughter/sister telling your family you have CANCER is something NO one would ever want to say.

I was gifted this mini photo shoot by my Tia. It was the best thing I did before my surgery. I would have never done this for myself, and after I did this shoot, it really sunk in; in a couple of weeks my breast would be gone. A part of me for 36 years, would be gone. They breast fed my children and of course comforted my husband hahaha. This new journey I was about to embark on was overwhelming to say the least.

It is now post surgery. I have new breasts but with no nipples and not so nice scars, however, I AM CANCER FREE. WOOOHOOO! My photo reveal was post op and was very emotional. I looked at myself and was like WOW, these are beautiful pictures. Then I looked down and said to myself WOW, I am STILL beautiful! Once I am healed, I will definitely be doing another with Danea. Every women should do a shoot in her lifetime. We as women need to embrace ourselves and love ourselves with all the flaws we have.

As a women we need to know our BODIES and always stick to our gut. If I didn’t I could be sitting here now, with cancer. PLEASE listen to your body and research the BRCA gene. I am so happy I did.

Thank you for reading this. I hope it will help someone out there.

Love

Daniella

And here are her stunning images… oh and that hair, yes please!


San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits
Despite a session like all others full of laughter and sexiness, we took a few moments at the end to really embrace the true solemn feelings that Miss D was experiencing. The loss of breasts does not make you less of a woman, but it’s a changing body, a loss. And with any loss, there is a sadness, a mourning, a change. Again, thank you so much, Daniella, for putting your story out there for others to see. You are beautiful inside and out. xo

San Jose Boudoir Photographer where to take sexy photos Best portraits

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Fashion Friday | Santa Clara San Jose Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

Christmas is 2 days away!!! Some people dress up for Christmas Eve and Christmas, some people choose to go casual. Let’s look at some gorgeous and comfy ideas.

I love a beautiful colored coat with a neutral dress. It looks so classy and elegant.

Wish 🎄

 

And the opposite looks good too; a red blouse with a cream coat. Don’t forget the red heels!
Have yourself a Merry little Christmas!!

 

Of course you don’t have to wear red to dress up for Christmas
Holiday Party Tulle

 

I’m more of a casual dresser; a nice sweater and some comfy skinny jeans is my style. I love this blanket scarf!
Season's Greetings

 

You can still wear a pop of color if you like to dress casual.
Christmas Countdown

 

What’s your style on Christmas Eve and Christmas ladies? Do you dress up or are you more of a casual dresser?
 Devon

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!

Fashion Friday | San Jose Sunnyvale Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

Almost one week away from Christmas ladies, and I know a lot of women who like to wear a new little something for the bedroom around this time of year as a gift… let’s talk about some good options.

A gorgeous, deep, jewel toned burgundy outfit is a great choice. This color looks great on every skin tone and is a great alternative to the flashy red that most companies use.

HOLIDAY SEASON GIFT IDEAS

 

Something with a little bling never hurt anyone…
Holiday Lingerie

 

A little see through lace is quite nice
Gift Guide 2016

 

And white is always lovely
Luxury White : Holidays

 

Of course there is always the Holiday lingerie items…
Santa Baby

 

Whatever you choose to wear, Happy Holidays ladies!

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!

Tushy Tuesday | San Jose Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

Happy Tushy Tuesday, everyone!

I hope you all are well and enjoying this holiday season! 🙂

San Jose Bay Area best boudoir photographer

 

Sexy Photos San Jose Boudoir Photographer

 

 

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!

 

 

Fashion Friday | San Jose Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

The Holidays are coming!!!! If you are thinking about booking a session with us to surprise your significant other with a beautiful album or perhaps even a canvas, call us!!!! December 1 is the deadline for ordering an album to have it arrive in time.

Phew, now that my PSA is out of the way, why don’t I give you some ideas about what to wear for your upcoming holiday shoot! We just have to go along with the Naughty or Nice theme; after all, isn’t that the biggest question around this time of the year?!

Naughty or Nice?

 

What you wear depends on your comfort level. Don’t bring something you are not feeling sure of yourself in, because it will come across in your photos. If you are on the more daring side bring something a little see through or more revealing. A bra & panty set with a garter and stockings are a great choice. Feeling a little shy, choose a corset or a chemise. You can still bring stockings to wear. Stockings add a little sensuality to almost anything you bring in. And there are always silk robes that you can cover up with to your liking, and feel a bit more flirty. Don’t forget heels and stockings no matter what you bring!
What are you waiting for, we are waiting for you!! Call us today to book your session. Danea offers complimentary wardrobe consults and can even meet you at a lingerie store to see how things fit on you and guide you in your selections. We will make sure you feel and look fabulous for your session.

Devon

 

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!

Confessions of a Boudoir Photographer

I love hoodies and I don’t mean “like”, I mean LOVE! If the weather is cool and I am at home you will 9 times out of 10, find me in an over sized pullover hoodie(I don’t like zippers). I may even own a few XL, because I love them big, loose and cozy! I recently started buying plain colored ones instead of touristy ones to feel more “dressed up”. LOL. I have even debated having a Boudoir Coterie hoodie made.

Unfortunately though, I can relate to this:

Boudoir Coterie cozy hoodie

Regardless of how I might look, don’t try and take away my hoodies– I’ll cut ya! hahaha


 Only 5 more weeks to book a session before the holiday deadline! Contact us today!

Sexy Photos San Jose Boudoir Photographer

 

 

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!

 

 

Only SIX Weeks Left! | San Jose Bay Area Holiday Photography Gift Creator

Give the gift of you.

I can’t hide it, I absolutely HATE putting out Holiday booking reminders, especially since they should really start in September. Blah! I believe this is because I cringe upon seeing Halloween and Christmas decorations in August, even though they are my favorite holidays and I go crazy with decorating for both. Thus, sitting down to design promos in August makes me spazzy. Haha. Unfortunately though, I cannot change the time frame of sessions and how long they take from start to finish in order for you to have your amazing gift in hand before Dec 25th.

Sooooooo, if you have been thinking about gifting your significant other(and who are we kidding, it’s really a fabulous gift for yourself) then now is the time, ladies!

I promise, you will love it no matter how nervous you are when you arrive! We’ll make you look and feel like a supermodel. 🙂

Best San Francisco Bay Area Boudoir Photoagrapher

There is no reason to wait. Contact us today!

or

bcoterie@sbcglobal.net — 408.460.1855

P.S. Did you see our October Fall Booking Special?

Check it out before it’s too late! 😉

 

Sexy Photos San Jose Boudoir Photographer

 

 

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Keep updated on all that is happening with Boudoir Coterie by joining our VIP Mailing list. You’ll also be the first to hear about upcoming events and specials, be privileged to VIP only offers, makeup and fashion tips and much more! P.S. We do not share or sell your info and you can unsubscribe at any time!