LAUREN Southwell is the face (and personality) behind Pure Beauty, a beauty and boudoir photography business in Mildura.

Those that frequent the VIP Pure Beauty Facebook group, the website or have been lucky enough to have an experience with Lauren in her studio will know she’s easily identifiable by her enthusiasm and passion, for life in general but also for empowering females across all mediums.

But who is Lauren, how was Pure Beauty born and what inspires her to be the amazing person she is.

We find out:​

Pure Beauty: Can you explain to me how the concept of Pure Beauty came about and why?

Lauren: When I was pregnant with my twins in 2013, I spent a fair bit of time off work. 

I started to understand my importance as a photographer and to value my work and myself, which made me want to research into the selling of printed, tangible products. 

I watched hundreds of hours of video resources, including a lot of live videos by one photographer in particular. 
She lived in the US and just happened to be a boudoir photographer. 
When I first saw her images, I was in awe but thought “I could NEVER do that”. 

The more I watched her videos, the more I saw the client's perspective and the change in their confidence was incredible to see.

I started to think perhaps I could do this.

I began researching beauty and boudoir poses, lighting, marketing and everything in between. 

I thought I was ready to launch in 2015 but soon enough, we were delighted with the pregnancy of my daughter. 

I continued to research and was close to wanting to launch when I realised I needed to work on my own self esteem first. 

One day I was out having a few drinks with two photographer friends and I announced to them why I wanted to launch boudoir. 

By the end of my blabbing, one of them said “you have even convinced me to do a shoot!”. 

Two weeks later we were shooting the very first Boudoir shoot in a hotel room.

It was the very first time I had felt 100 percent confident in a photoshoot. 

The feeling I got from showing her images of herself was incredible and extremely addictive!

Pure Beauty: How old is Pure Beauty?

Lauren: That first Boudoir shoot was March 22, 2018. 

From that moment, I knew I wanted to make this my career. 

I was scared, excited and so nervous, but I planned my launch party and officially launched on June 29, 2018.​

Pure Beauty: Before Pure Beauty you had Purely Taken Photography. How did you originally get into photography?

Lauren: When I was 12 I was given my very first film camera for my birthday. 

I literally took it everywhere. 

I became known to be the girl with the camera. 

I’m sure my friends and family got sick of me pointing a camera in their face but that didn't deter me. 

My love and passion for photography continued after school as I enrolled in a photography course and grew with me when I moved to Australia at the age of 18. 
It was then, I started getting asked to photograph families, people, animals and even a wedding. 

The more images I took, the more I was asked to photograph, the more passion I had.

Pure Beauty: The Pure Beauty concept puts you in a powerful and unique position of being able to either remind or show each and every woman just how amazing and beautiful they are. What is it like to be able to deliver this to your clients?

Lauren: It is something that is extremely hard to explain. 

I don’t think I truly understood the power of an intimate portrait shoot until I started to hear back from clients, hours, days, weeks even months after their shoot, thanking me for changing their lives. 

It is the most honest work I have ever done and I am so incredibly thankful to each and every client for trusting me! 

I have never felt as proud as when I look back on my Pure Beauty journey.​

Pure Beauty: What is the most rewarding thing about your job?

Lauren: It would be easier to say what’s NOT! 

I love hearing my client's stories, meeting new ladies and forming amazing friendships along the way. 

During the experience there is a point at which each woman “let’s go” of the fear, worry, pain of feeling judged, not good enough or just looking silly. 

That is definitely one of the most memorable moments for me as I know it is that exact moment where the empowerment truly happens. 

Showing my beauties their images both behind the camera and at their reveal, is of course another hugely rewarding part and again when they collect their images. 

But perhaps one of most rewarding things is when I get messages like: “Thinking of you for many reasons but just wanted to let you know how proud I am of my postpartum body and no longer even having any negative thoughts about my body. A boudoir experience lasts way longer than the photo shoot xx”.

Pure Beauty: It's most people's dream to be doing a job they love. How does it feel to be doing what you love each and every day?

Lauren: Absolutely incredible! 

I have so much energy, passion and love for Pure Beauty.

I am so, so lucky!​

Pure Beauty: You've got an amazing team of professionals behind you. How do they assist you in what you want to achieve for your clients?
Lauren: I am so lucky to team up with some amazing women that share the same passion and vision as I do with helping women and grow my business into a recognised brand.

Pure Beauty: Are there any challenges that come with your role at Pure Beauty?

Lauren: Because I love my job so much, I am never rushing out the door to get home.

Which is a great thing for my business, but does mean I miss out on quality time with my children. 

Although I have dedicated “no work days”, where I’ll only do VIP group fun.

That’s not work right?​

Special thank you to my girl El at Inner Soul Photography for these images

Never, in her wildest dreams, did Vee picture herself wearing lingerie for a Boudoir Photography Shoot, let alone become an Elite Brand Ambassador for Pure Beauty Photography. Vee shares with us her very personal story about Congenital Breast Asymmetry and envelops us in her emotional and powerful journey to loving and embracing her body.

Growing up, I was always a happy kid, with really supportive parents and siblings.
As I started high school, I struggled with Breast Development and I spoke to my mum about it. I had always struggled with bras, both padded & not.  My mum was amazing, and always had me professionally fitted. When we went shopping it was my biggest insecurity, I developed on my right side - around a B cup, but was flat chested on my left side. I was always assured by the women whom fitted me "It’s okay, it’s normal, everyone has different sized breasts.”  That helped to a degree at the time, but my insecurities became worse as I was getting older. Girls around me, were a lot more developed… but I was still the same...
I was 18 when I went back to my GP.  I had waited to see if I would develop, but there was no change at all.

I didn’t feel right about it

My GP referred me to a Specialist in Breast Surgery, who told me I had Congenital Breast Asymmetry - I was born that way and it wouldn’t have developed naturally.
It was an emotional rollercoaster that day, but my Specialist advised surgery was available. I would have two implants, one larger than the other, to make them the same size.  Unfortunately the price of the surgery was extremely expensive, but was offered to go on a waiting list.  It was a relief knowing that there was help available.

 Some people think it's silly, but being at my age and not being able to fit in a bra was a massive struggle. I would look at my body every day in absolute disgust and hatred.
 I travelled to Melbourne many times, meeting my Surgeon and hoping a date would be confirmed.  Every time I went, “We still don’t have a date for you”, it became harder and harder.

​The travel, appointment and returning the same day was so difficult. I was tired - physically and emotionally, but was lucky that I had such a great support network from family and my boyfriend, who all flew with me at individual times.  My Surgeon was so lovely, and she helped me understand the procedure, the side effects if the surgery happened, the bonuses and what I would have to do post surgery. But every time I went, there were tears.
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I was becoming a woman and constantly covering or hiding myself.

​At my final appointment (I didn’t realise it would be my last), they said they didn’t have a date, and I could still be waiting for a really long time.  I cried so much, but my Surgeon was amazing - very comforting and understanding. I called mum and told her that they still had no news - we both cried a lot.

 A few months later, I received a call from the hospital and was told my surgery would be in 2 weeks if I could attend!  I was in shock! I cried and had to ask several times if she was serious! She assured me she definitely was.
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I had to get a mammogram and ultrasounds before my surgery.  I called mum and told her the news, we both couldn’t stop crying!  I called my dad and my boyfriend, and they were so happy for me. I told work that I finally got my appointment, and they gave me all the leave I needed for the surgery and recovery.

The lead up was so exciting and it also made me extremely anxious, but FINALLY it was happening.

 It was the day of the surgery. I checked in and waited for an hour before seeing the nurses and doctors.  I cried a lot due to my nerves and the “unknown”. Being knocked out scared the hell out of me, and having waited 4 whole years for this, all culminated to this moment - TODAY WAS MY DAY!

​Before I knew it was in the hospital bed, in my gown and being dotted and lined ready for the dissection (well, that’s what it looked like to me at least!). I met my Surgeon once again, and she comforted  me and told me it was going to be okay. I met the other staff for the surgery and they were all so amazing, I couldn’t have been left in better hands.

BAM! I was asleep and all of a sudden it was done.  A doctor from the surgery rolled me out, and as I was waking up he said he had called my mum and my boyfriend to let them know that I was awake. Even though I was super out of it from all of the anesthetic, I was crying, I couldn’t believe after all this waiting it was over.

I was in the hospital for just under 24 hours, was looked after wonderfully by the staff and nurses. I went home the next morning and stayed with my family and mum. Later in the week, I was surprised by my Dad, sister and boyfriend a few days earlier than expecting them.
I had an amazing week, my recovery was incredible. I was booked in to see my Surgeon for a check up the following week, I gave her the biggest hug and she honestly changed my entire world.  She fought so hard for me to get this surgery. If it wasn’t for her I may still be on that waiting list.

Serena has been a long time supporter of Pure Beauty, and has always been a big contributor to the VIP Group. She is always uplifting women with her beautiful comments, and submitting a Featured Blog for the Website. Serena was also one of the first ladies to start paying into her Boudie Bank for her Boudoir Shoot. So, when it was time for Serena's shoot, you can just imagine how excited I was, after so much anticipation! I can't wait to photograph this beauty again for her Ambassador Shoot....
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Did you have any obstacles or fears about doing this session?
I did want to lose a tiny bit of weight from my tummy and legs, but then I didn't. But I didn't really worry about it today, I felt sexy and beautiful just the way I am.

What made you take the leap of faith to do a boudoir session?
I don't know! I just sort of decided to go for it and figured the rest out later - Ha Ha!
I'm glad I did though!

Did I provide enough pre-session info?
Absolutely

I love entertaining, but I also love keeping things simple! So what is my best weapon, whilst still catering for a group of people with different tastes? Platters!
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If you have ever been to a Pure Beauty Photography Information Night, you would have experienced one of my platters.

So here's a few tips and tricks for creating your own Platter de Resistance!!!

Start with several larger items and position them at the centre and ends of your platter

I purchased several large plastic platters (from Cheap as Chips of similar) for around $2 each. I also purchased a couple of smaller ones, for when it's just a small nibbles platter for two or three people. These are great because they are reusable, easily stacked away in my pantry, and can be used for a multitude of serving different foods!

I always purchase a few different types of cheeses and at least one dip. I try  to cater to most people's tastes - not everyone is a fan of Blue Cheese or a Spicy Chilli Cheese! My usual suspects include Brie or Camembert, Tasty Cheese, a Herb or Mild Chilli Cream Cheese, and I like to mix it up with a Goats Cheese or something a little different. I chop and change which dip I buy too - no one wants the same thing over and over! Some of my favorites are Spicy Pumpkin, Beetroot Hommus or Pesto and Cashew chunky dip. I like a bit of colour!

I then place the dip in the middle of the platter, and then a cheese north, east, south and west of the dip. This works as a great starting point for placement of your other items. I tend to find that starting with the larger items, makes it easier to visualise where you want to place the rest of your items.
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Don't be afraid to add meat to your platter - unless you are catering purely for vegetarians - the sky is the limit!! Again, I try to cater to everyone's taste! Not everyone likes Hot Salami or Spicy Twiggy Sticks! I like to add the traditional favorites, like Kabana and Twiggy Sticks, but love adding some Shaved Ham or Prosciutto and Salami.

Fruit goes with Cheese AND adds an element of something light to your Platter

Grapes are always a perfect addition to a cheese platter, but don't be scared to put on Strawberries, Cherry Tomatoes (yes, tomatoes are a fruit!) or Figs! Mix it up, you might really surprise yourself and your guests!

I love an Antipasto element, but remember to select wisely. For example, I love a Fetta stuffed Bell Pepper, but as these are bathing in Olive Oil, these are NOT suitable for a Pure Beauty Information Evening. Think about it......touching all these beautiful photos with oily and greasy fingers! Aggggghhhhhhh! (I can hear Lauren quietly dying inside as I wrote that!) So, I save my Antipasto additions for other events where beautiful and expensive photographs are not being touched!

Of course on a Cheese Platter you want to have crackers! I don't like to inundate my platter with crackers - I can always (and do) take another packet with me to add to the platter when the initial supply is running low. Remember your guests too - anyone gluten free, Keto??? An addition of crudites (carrot sticks, celery etc..) is a great option, or look for crackers that are gluten free.

​And don't forget the Cheese Knives!!!
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Don't just limit yourself to Cheese and Nibbles!

The possibilities are endless....Fruit platters are always amazing, and can offer so much fresh variety. Mix it up with the fruit and don't be scared of a fruit you haven't tried before! Dragonfruit is really pretty with its magenta skin and inner white flesh with little black seeds - whilst this doesn't have much taste, it makes a great palette cleanser to move on to the next fruit. I love it when exotic fruits are in season and I can play with the different shapes and tastes - fresh and ripe Starfruit is amazing and a beautiful addition to a platter (or a Punch! Proven recipes to follow in another blog!)

Again, start with the larger fruit and work your way down. I love breaking up the colours too where I can - mix it up, separating colours so you don't end up with a big block of orange or red, but don't be too hard on yourself if you have some of those colours together. Ensure your fruit is fresh and ripe! I can't stress this enough - there's nothing worse than taking a bite into rock hard and tasteless Honeydew Melon (which I personally find tasteless ALL the time, but I still put it on a platter because I know so many people enjoy it), or worse.....an overripe & mushy strawberry! And always, ALWAYS rinse your fruit under gently running cold water, and let it drain properly. You don't need a big puddle of water on your platter!
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Remember a nice glass of wine is a fabulous accompaniment for a platter! But drink responsibly my Beauties!

My next platter is going to be a mixed dessert platter - think waffles, strawberries, chocolate dipping sauce etc... Now I only haven't attempted one so far because I'm really not a sweet tooth, I love my savories, BUT I can see the enjoyment so many people get from these (think of those yummy dessert platters from Royal Copenhagen or Bobby + Me!!)

They do put a smile on my face (before the sugar kicks in on the kids and I have to deal with the after effects!)

​Kim xo

If all else fails, I think it’s time to bring out our superwoman pose. 

That’s right! 

Stand up nice and tall in front of a mirror, put that sassy hand on your hip, stick out that chest and boobs, roll those shoulders back, slightly turn your chin up and point that nose as though you are doing a “resting bitch face”, raise your loose hand up towards the sky, take a deep breath and I bet you will have difficulty trying not to smile. 

After all that you will know how powerful and beautiful you are because you have GOT THIS GIRL!



​Here are some resources you can access if you need further support or this blog has raised:
-          Lifeline - 13 11 14 or https://www.lifeline.org.au/get-help/online-services/crisis-chat
-          Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636 or https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
-          Headspace or eheadspace (if under 25) - 5021 2400 or https://headspace.org.au/covid-19/
-          Workplace Employment Assistance Program (EAP) as per your workplace.
-          Telehealth options to talk to a private counsellor via a Mental Health Care Plan. You will need to contact your GP to organise this.
-          1800RESPECT- 1800 737 732.
-          The Orange Door - 1800 290 943.
-          Mallee Sexual Assault Unit – Mallee Domestic Violence Unit.

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, please call Mental Health Services at any time on 5022 3500.

Stay safe lovely ladies! 

Much love to you all,
Your friendly social worker
Xo (or an elbow bump given the situation)

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