Embracing Inner Beauty with a Breast Cancer Survivor Photo Shoot: A Journey of Strength and Self Love

Have you ever thought about commemorating your difficult journey with a breast cancer survivor photo shoot? In a world where self love and empowerment are celebrated, Facet Studios by Angel McElhaney prides themselves on being a safe space for women to embrace their beauty, share stories, and uplift one another. We had the privilege of hosting a beauty event that left a lasting impact on those who attended. Here is a glimpse into the transformative experience shared by one of our participants, Sarah Wilkey. Sarah is a breast cancer survivor and shared her boudoir experience with us in an interview.

Finding Strength Through Vulnerability with a Breast Cancer Boudoir Shoot

What was your favorite part of the boudoir shoot?

[My favorite part of the boudoir shoot] was all the women really embracing each other, sharing stories and uplifting one another.

Sarah Wilkey, Breast Cancer Survivor

How did you feel before, during and after the boudoir shoot?

Before the boudoir shoot I was nervous. My body’s been through a lot. It’s very different and I was intimidated. During the boudoir shoot I went from feeling awkward to laughing and encouraging. I felt like I owned it. After the boudoir shoot I felt confident in my body. It’s been through a battle. I am strong. I feel like there’s so much I can accomplish.

Sarah Wilkey, Breast Cancer Survivor

How would you describe the beauty/boudoir experience in your own words to someone new to it?

A beauty/boudoir experience is all about finding your inner goddess and letting her out. Learning to love yourself: mind, body and soul.

Sarah Wilkey, Breast Cancer Survivor

Tell us your story in your own words

July 23, 2021

One year ago, my life was turned upside down.  During a routine self check, I found a lump in my breast. After many appointments and tests, I soon got that earth shattering call to tell me the news. I remember asking her 3 times to make sure I heard her right.  I  lost control and sobbed in my husband’s arms for 15 minutes straight then sat up and said “OK, I’m done crying. Now it’s time to fight”. I have to say that I’ve been very blessed during my battle.  I’ve had a strong support system and we caught it early.  Stage 1A  hormone positive IDC breast cancer. There is no routine cancer, but if there was, this would be it. I’m so thankful that I didn’t wait. That I had my friends who followed through making sure I called the doctor.  I was lucky enough to have just a lumpectomy and radiation, no chemo. I lost my nipple in the process. I did feel quite a bit of pressure to get a nipple tattoo.  Instead, I decided on a Phoenix.  I wanted to turn a bad thing, into something beautiful. Even though my body has been through so much, changed so much, I too will come out even more beautiful.  I’m thankful that my beauty experience showed me that I too am the Phoenix.  

Embracing your Inner Goddess with a Boudoir Photo Shoot

Are you ready to embrace your inner goddess? It’s time to embrace every curve and scar and take a step to self love with a photo shoot! Which of these breast cancer photo shoot ideas do you want to use for your shoot? These can be used for many boudoir shoots to honor your hard stuff and finally stop hating your body. If you’d like to apply to a model/client call or submit a boudoir inquiry you can do so here.

A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes

Sarah Wilkey is a great testament to resilience and courage. Battling breast cancer and undergoing life altering changes, she is emerged as stronger and more beautiful than ever. Choosing a phoenix tattoo as a symbol of transformation, she embraced her journey with grace and determination. Like the mytical bird rising from the ashes, she too found beauty in her scars and strength in her vulnerability. Thank you for choosing Facet Studios for your beauty/boudoir photo shoot.

Share your Story

If you have a story of resilience, self discovery, or transformation, we invite you to share it with us in our VIP Cincinnati Boudoir Facebook Group. Here is where you will hear it first for beauty events and Cincinnati meet ups. Your journey may inspire others to embrace their inner beauty, and find strength. Your story matters and we would love to uplift, empower, and celebrate your triumphs. Together we can foster more self love and self acceptance through community support.