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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What to Wear Wednesday | Santa Clara Santa Cruz Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

I am not the type of girl who wears skirts just because. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I am very much a jeans and t-shirt wearing gal. I do however enjoy dressing up when the occasion calls for it, and I appreciate pieces of wardrobe that can be worn many different ways from formal to casual.

A pencil skirt is a great option for putting outfits together. Depending on how you style them they can be a fantastic look for office attire, date night, ladies night out, or casual day at the beach or maybe even a concert! I have a dress that fits like a pencil skirt on the bottom and it is my go to favorite little black dress. There is something about the way a pencil skirt hugs and the hips and through the legs that makes me feel sexy. And I do believe that this silhouette looks great on every body shape. I’m telling you, something about the shape of it is very sexy ladies. Oh, and just imagine wearing this skirt with some stilettos and a bra (or braless!) for your photo shoot! Smokin’ hot ladies!

Let me show you some ways to wear a pencil skirt at an office or for a professional job.

You can choose a gorgeous colored skirt and pair it with a complimentary top. If your job requires you to wear a blazer this skirt pairs perfectly with one.

Mint Pencil Skirt and Polka Dot Top

 

A wrap pencil skirt is another great option for a professional look.
BOSS Vylea Wrap Pencil Skirt

 

A patterned skirt is a great look for work,
Printed Pencil Skirt

 

or for a casual day.
Lace Pencil Skirt & Eyelet Top

 

How would you feel wearing this out for a Spring date night?
Spring Date - Burberry Geometric Print Pencil Skirt

 

I found so many great looks for wearing pencil skirts when I was searching, I’m having trouble not sharing them all with you! The last way to wear a pencil skirt I’ll talk about today is for a casual look. Get out of those jeans and put on a casual skirt for the day (talking to myself here ;))
Tricky Trend: Pencil Skirts and Sneakers

 

Ah ok, just one more because it is so freaking gorgeous! Look for a lace pencil skirt! Swoon.
Lace Pencil Skirt

 

Lace Pencil Skirt

 

What’s your favorite? Would you go for a professional look or are you more of a casual pencil skirt gal?

What to Wear Wednesday | San Jose Santa Clara Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

Lace dresses have been trending lately, and I love showing you what’s in style currently. I love that there are many different shapes and styles of lace dresses out there, so you can definitely find something that suits you.

I love that you can find a beautiful bold colored lace dress to wear.

Lace dress

 

And I love that you can find a long sleeve style.
dress

 

This two tone dress is amazing!
Party Dress

 

If you prefer color over neutrals but don’t was something super bright, check out this gorgeous green lace dress.
Lovely Lace Dresses

 

But if you do prefer something bright, check out this pink dress.
Pink Lace Dress

 

Maybe you prefer just a hint of lace instead of a full lace dress, don’t worry, there’s a dress for you too.
dress

I love that this dress is a bit longer than most, and that it’s lined then sheer at the bottom. This dress would be a great choice for a spring or summer date night.

dress

 

What’s your style of lace dress? Do you prefer something a bit fancy, or more casual? Bright colored or neutral?
 Devon

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What to Wear Wednesday | Sunnyvale Mountain View Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

Piggy backing on a post from a few weeks ago about how a little detail can really make an outfit, today I’m going to feature another detail.

Today’s detailed piece of clothing is detailed jeans. So simple but it really changes the look and feel of an outfit. What’s nice about purchasing your jeans with the rips or distressed look already there is that they are placed in strategic areas.

Ripped jeans can look sloppy, but if you pair them correctly you can look amazing.

Pair them with a casual v-neck top and some flat sandals for an easy going everyday look. To this I would add a light necklace, maybe an under shirt, and some bangles.

what do guys even talk about

 

Another way to pair your ripped jeans is to wear them with that new off the shoulder top you purchased after last weeks blog (right?!). I have to say I am not a fan of showing your bra but for some reason I think it works with this top.
a new twist on devotionals in d

 

It doesn’t take much of a ripped look in your jeans, sometimes a little goes a long way. And I am in love with this top.
authentic.

 

But if you are feeling that maybe a little rip in the knee isn’t enough, feel free to find a pair of ripped jeans that suit your taste and style. Maybe these are more up your alley. Pairing them with the heels in this outfit helps bring this into a nicer look.
Untitled #685

 

Who says your ripped denim has to be the typical blue? It doesn’t.
Coral & Black

 

What do you prefer? A few rips or tons? Blue denim or colored denim? How do you like to pair your ripped denim?
 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!

What to Wear Wednesday | Mountain View Los Altos Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

Sometimes it’s the simple things that can add some flair to your outfit or even change your mood. Something such as, hmm I don’t know, an off the shoulder top or dress for instance.

An off the shoulder blouse can add that little something extra to your look or that spark to your day. This type of blouse can be worn with a variety of bottoms.

Try pairing with complimentary colored shorts for a fantastic summer look.

OFF THE SHOULDER

 

Feel free to dress up a luxurious off the shoulder top with an equally amazing skirt for an upscale event or party.
OFF THE SHOULDER

 

Of course it’s so easy to pair with jeans, which would be my style 😉
I love the color of this blouse and pairing it with the wedges is such a great idea.
comment riverdale theories! or pm me!

 

A bright colored top looks great with a dark wash denim.
tag in d yo yo yo

 

If an off the shoulder blouse isn’t your top choice but you like the idea, what about an off the shoulder dress?!
Off-Shoulder Dress

 

I have to admit that I am in love with this dress, there’s something about the pattern that I just love.
Spring Trend: Off-Shoulder Dresses

 

And of course the always popular black option. Do wear something with a bit of color to jazz it up. A fun shoes, bright necklace, or a wrist full of bracelets.
Offshoulder

 

What do you prefer ladies, an off the shoulder blouse or dress?

 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!

What to Wear Wednesday | Los Gatos Willow Glen Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

A fun way to add a little jazz to your outfit is to wear an item that has some embroidery. You may be thinking “She can’t be serious” but hear me out and give me a chance. I’m not talking about embroidered items your grandma would wear. I’m talking about classic, nicely done embroidered pieces.

Try pairing a beautiful floral embroidered top with jean shorts for a casual sporty look, or a summery skirt.

SheIn/ Embroidered Smock

 

embroidered top

 

An embroidered skirt can be a stunning wardrobe item too.
Embroidered Skirt & Blazer

 

Floral Embroidered Tulle Skirt

 

Embroidered shorts or jeans can be beautiful to wear as well.
Fun Summer Embroidered Style

 

Summer Free For All 3845

 

Untitled #2833

 

And of course don’t forget an amazing embroidered dress
Embroidered floral detailing'

 

Embroidered Floral Sleeveless Ball Gown Dress

 

What do you think ladies? Would you add one of these items to your wardrobe? I hope I’ve opened your eyes to something you may have passed along before.
 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!

What to Wear Wednesday | Santa Clara Sunnyvale Bay Area Boudoir Photographer

Every woman should have a few staples in her closet, the Little Black Dress (LBD) should be one. But what about another dress option, the Little White Dress?!! You haven’t thought about that, have you?! Today I’m going to make you contemplate buying one of these pretty dresses to add to your wardrobe.

A Little White Dress is a great option because since it’s a neutral you have so many different options in ways to wear it. The first step is to buy the silhouette that flatters your body. After that, let’s look at how to style it.

An off the shoulder dress is a fantastic option for these warm summer months.

little white dress

 

Try pairing it with some gladiator sandals.
The Little White Dress 2

 

Eeek I love this one! A lightweight cardigan, a fantastic patterned belt that ties in with the shoes!! This is one fantastic outfit.
The Little White Dress

 

Of course you can always wear white with white.
SAMMYDRESS.COM: Little White Dresses

 

Light colored accents can be just as great as bright ones. I love this blue bag and the long sweater is amazing paired with this LWD.
The Little White Dress

 

Of course feel free to wear those bright colored heels. They’ll look amazing.
little white dress

 

Do you have a Little White Dress in your wardrobe? How do you prefer to wear it? Do you pair it with light colors or add a bright pop of color? Can’t wait to hear from you!
 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!