Helping little people deal with big feelings | Mildura Intimate Boudoir PhotographyRecently, I was chatting to my sister, who works in the mental health field, about some big emotions my seven year old was experiencing. During the conversation she happened to mention Kids Helpline - a service I had definitely heard of before, but to be honest, thought things had to be pretty extreme to contact. Appropriate local services can have a lengthy wait for appointments, and if you are like me, you’d like to see your little one’s mind put at ease sooner rather than later. In our case, Kids Helpline certainly hasn’t replaced these services, but it is a good go to in the interim. Chatting to other local mums since, it seems to be that when big things are troubling little minds, Kids Helpline really is an under used and untapped resource. Kids Helpline was founded in 1991 and on the first day alone answered 3200 calls. By the end of that year, nine months later, their counsellors had taken 90,000 calls. In 2018, after 27 years of service, eight million calls had been made to Kids Helpline, well and truly establishing its need within the country. So what can Kids Helpline assist with? Plenty of things. But first let’s look into what Kids Helpline is and who it can help. In Australia, Kids Helpline is the only free, confidential and private counselling service available 24/7 either online or by phone. It assists those aged five to 25 years of age, although there is an associated service available to help parents. There are so many big emotions our little ones feel, and it’s expected they might not know how to handle them all. After all, it’s something adults often still struggle with. They might be feeling angry, anxious, lonely, sad, scared or stressed. This could be from something that has happened at home or school. Maybe it’s body issues, bullying or cyberbullying, family or friendship issues, mental health or feeling unsafe.
Probably one of the biggest, most impressive things for me was that despite being apprehensive when first calling, the counsellor quickly made my son feel comfortable. He was so comfortable that he came running out of his room mid conversation asking for paper and a pen as the counsellor told him her name so he could ask for her next time if he wanted. And after a lengthy conversation with the counsellor you could see the positive result it had on him. There are some things to encourage your child to, or if you are a young person calling, think about before you call, such as what problem are you hoping to discuss and what is your goal or outcome from the session. While your call is confidential, Kids Helpline do have a Duty of Care, which means they might need to tell somebody if you or someone else are in danger of being significantly harmed or in a life threatening situation. The Kids Helpline website can be accessed through https://kidshelpline.com.au/ Its layout is really easy to navigate and not only can you access counselling through the page, but it also provides plenty of advice and information about a range of topics that impact young people - from ADHD, feelings, respect and setting boundaries. - Zoey Andrews
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Dating disasters and Tinder tales | Mildura Boudoir Photography... The guy who drank too muchI WAS living in another city and wasn’t driving. I got asked on a date by this guy, Brad*, who I had a major crush on for ages. Date night rolled around and I got myself all dolled up for the evening and headed out, catching two different buses on about a 40 minute trip to where we were meeting. We met up and Brad drove us into the city for dinner and knowing there were a few nice places around I was excited to see where he was taking me. We ended up at the Tradies Club, which was okay, but not the most romantic of settings, and grabbed a drink and ordered tea. Brad and I were having a good chat getting to know each other and I thought it was going well… until his phone rang. It was his friend telling him there was a band playing at a bar around the corner we both frequented. He proceeded to explain how much he really wanted to go and that he had forgotten it was on that night, and, of course, me being accommodating, I suggested he go thinking he was trying to blow me off. He asked me if I’d like to go with him, as he wanted to introduce me to his friends, so I said yes and we cancelled our already cooking order. We got to the bar and Brad said he would grab us some drinks and be back. At this point I ran into some friends, thankfully, because Brad disappeared. I didn’t see him for the rest of the gig and despite sending him messages he didn’t reply. When the band finished, my friends were leaving, so I followed them out the door and that’s when I saw him - drunk as a skunk, only vertical, thanks to being held up by two friends. Unfortunately he saw me and called out: “Oh, let me take you home. I was meant to drive you home!” “Yes, yes you were, but no thank-you,” I replied. To which he said he would see me again, before throwing up everywhere. I had to run to make it to the last bus out of the city, which I did, but I missed the connecting bus back home, so a friend rescued me at 12.30am. Looking back, at least I got to see one of my favourite bands, unplanned, and truth be told, I probably had more fun with my friends then I would have had with him anyway. Photo by israel palacio on Unsplash
... The guy that was too pushyJUST before lockdown, I started seeing a guy. One night we went out for drinks and he wanted to get a bit adventurous in public. I’m not one for public displays, especially sex, so he decided to attempt to tease me to persuade me otherwise. Instead I told him where to go and turned around to his little sister and started making out with her. We got free drinks and he got kicked out of the bar. ... The guy that lied about his Dad dyingI WAS living four hours from Sydney when I met a guy from there, who was planning on moving to my town. Harry* and I spent two weeks together with him mostly staying at my place before he had to go home. He was lovely the entire time and even respected the fact I didn’t want to take our relationship to an intimate level until I got to know him better. Harry returned home and we communicated daily. He had decided that he wanted to come back and he was going to look at houses when he did. I liked a good road trip so offered, with my best friend, drive the four hours and pick him up. We arrived and he wasn’t where he said he would be, so I called him. He didn’t answer at first but called me back about half an hour later. Apologising immensely he said he was at a friends farewell drinks at Kings Cross, but was good to go if we could come get him. Being a Saturday night, Kings Cross was bedlam, and I really needed to pee so I drove around to find a McDonalds. The toilet was downstairs in the dingiest, dodgiest looking stairwell but I needed to go. Peeing away, a couple comes in and starts doing the deed in the cubicle next to me so I hopped the heck out of there and ran back to the car. I called Harry to let him know I was at Kings Cross and messaged him, but once again got no response. We decided we were going home, so I messaged him telling him and he called me back. My friend, who is male, answered and blasted him for giving us the run around to which Harry told him he had received a phone call saying his Dad, who lived in New Zealand, had passed away unexpectedly. Feeling terrible we asked if he still wanted a ride and he declined. Considering the circumstances, I said I would speak to him the next day. As I said I would, I checked up on Harry and continued talking to him until I found out he was coming back to our town regularly to see and sleep with another girl while stringing me along. I have since found out his Dad did not pass away but instead the night we drove to pick him up was the night he met the other girl from my town. ... The guy who moved out on mePhoto by Resi Kling on Unsplash WHEN I was 17 I met a guy online, who I, at the time, thought was an Emo dream boat. He was two years older than me and we spoke for months before he asked if I would like to come and stay with him for a week and see how things went. I gave mum his name and address (both my parents were police officers), he purchased me a bus ticket and I was on my way a few days later. Everything was going so well, I met his friends and got along well with them all, including his roommate. He even asked me to stay a week longer to see how our connection would go further and once again I agreed since I had no job or school to rush home for. A few days later I had just got out of the shower, and there was a knock at his front door. To my horror it was two officers my mum’s colleague had sent to make sure I was safe. They absolutely berated the guy I was staying with while I watched on speechless in my towel. It was only a day or two later, the guy decided he was moving back to his mum’s house and that I needed to find somewhere else to stay. He also wasn’t going to pay for my return trip, as previously agreed. His housemate and their friend ended up taking me in at their new house temporarily before I moved more permanently in with another friend. ... The guy who was just rude
... The guy that sent the wrong messageI HAD been speaking to a guy through Tinder quite extensively for about a week. It was the weekend and he was going away. We were chatting late into the night as he travelled and, although we had spoken about meeting up one day, we hadn’t made any concrete plans. This night he seemed a bit wishy-washy with his responses, they were different from usual, but he was still very charming. Imagine my surprise then when I got a message from him saying he was only a few minutes away and describing the “fun” we were going to have. Confused, I firstly told him he didn’t know where I lived and secondly, that I thought he was away. Then it sunk in and I asked if that message was meant for another girl. At least he had the decency to reply that it was! We would love to share more of your dating disasters and Tinder tales. If you have a story to share please get in contact with Zoey Andrews.
In the Trenches - Women Can Do Anything! | Mildura Intimate Portraiture
“I think girls have more patience and maybe are not as confident so can be a bit more careful and slower in what they have to do,” Kelly said.
When it’s tools down Kelly is back to being a mum of two, with a step daughter as well so there is never a dull moment. “But I wouldn’t have any other way,” she said. Women on the Road - Breaking the Barriers | Mildura Intimate PortraitureMary Crump hasn’t always been an interstate truck driver, but she does wish she had gotten behind the wheel a lot earlier. The 51-year-old from Red Cliffs drives two up with her partner Michael Wisneske picking up freight. It often takes her from Adelaide to Melbourne but sometimes she ventures to places like Griffith. “I have been driving the truck for the last two and a half years,” Mary said. “I was travelling for a year with my partner before I got my HC (Heavy Combination) license.” Mary worked in aged care and disability for around 12 years before becoming a driver and began to be disheartened by seeing the people she cared for pass away. Hurting her back was the push Mary needed to decide to leave those industries and spend more time with her partner on the road. “My partner and I love the fact we can spend our time together and we have an awesome relationship, which makes it easier,” Mary said. “I love meeting lots of different people and seeing some of our beautiful country.” Mary and Michael have just purchased a brand new truck, a Scania R540, something that she thought they would never be able to do. But with the highs come the lows, and Mary said she has encountered some rude male drivers along the way. “On the whole most people have been very helpful and supportive,” she said. “Also, because I'm only 5 foot 1 inch, it can be a challenge getting up and down the trailers but I'm lucky that hubby usually saves me the job.” Although tough sometimes, Mary said she would definitely recommend truck driving to other females because it’s a good job and very rewarding. As for what females could bring to the job that males might not; Mary said it was patience. “I do believe women who drive trucks are more careful and wary on the road,” she added. “It sounds weird but I've met a few other female drivers and they are so mindful of their surroundings and don't take the chances that some male drivers do.” Mary hopes she will be able to keep trucking for another five years, before the two of them park it up and enjoy the rest of their lives together travelling. “That's the only downside to the job,” she said. “We don't seem to do much other than work but it works for us as we only have our fur baby and she comes with us every trip". “If any other women out there think they want to give it a go, I say go for it!" “It's actually a job that I wish I had gotten into sooner." Women Can Do Anything - Outdoor Vibes | Mildura Boudoir PhotographyGARDNER and landscaper, Neisha Nilsen loves getting her hands dirty. From Renmark, the 25-year-old has been in the field since high school, although it now plays second fiddle to her main job - a barmaid. When it comes to gardening and landscaping, Neisha does it all; mowing and whipper snipper-ing, laying turf and planting plants, pulling weeds and wheel barrowing dirt and gravel. “I enjoy working in an environment females wouldn't ‘normally’ work in to show that we can do it,” Neisha said. “The best thing about this job is feeling like I can accomplish just about anything, even in a male dominated environment.” Neisha said sometimes, being female, she finds the opposite sex don’t value her opinion, but she has proven to a lot of people that she is capable. “In saying that, I have developed a great sense of humour and have become ‘one of the boys’,” she added. And when it comes to getting the job done, Neisha said females can often go that extra bit. “I believe we females want to get a job done perfectly and have a tidy end result,” she said. “We have an eye for detail.” Asked if she would recommend gardening and landscaping to fellow females, Neisha didn’t have to think twice. “Yes,” she said. “It's a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and show everyone that females can do it!” Breaking the Barriers - Women Can Do Anything! | Mildura Intimate PortraitureMakayla Harrison is determined and driven and it’s because of this she is now doing what she loves every day. The 26-year-old is an A Grade industrial electrician, working in the water industry. She’s been in the field for nearly eight years having completed a four year apprenticeship, spending a year on the tools and then transitioning into her current role as an electrical technical officer. “Through my apprenticeship, I worked on motors, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Variable Speed Drives (VSD), electrical equipment at water treatment plants and electrical equipment at wastewater treatment plants,” Makayla said. “Currently I am an office based employee undertaking project management, electrical drafting, overseeing projects completed by local electrical contractors, designing switchboards and equipment and taking lead of projects from scoping to finalisation.” Makayla grew up on a 40,000 acre sheep station in NSW. She moved to Mildura to go to school. “Every chance I got I was back home at the farm helping Dad,” she said, “I just loved every bit of it. “I knew I wanted to be hands on; I just couldn’t see myself in a shop or behind a desk. “So that’s where it began - my passion was already behind me so from Year Nine in school, all I wanted to do was get into the workforce. “School wasn't my strong point and I really didn't love it at all.” Makayla did work experience every chance she got, including on Wednesdays and school holidays. She also did a Certificate Two in Electro-Technology while in high school. It helped Makayla establish what she wanted to do in life and, after trying cabinet making, graphic design and hospitality she struck gold in the electrical field. “My very first day was 41 degrees, pulling cables through trenches,” Makayla recalled. “I was sick that day and everyone said to me this is the worst part of it and I was like if that’s the worst part, this is what I want to do!" “I was so excited and absolutely loved every bit of it!” Makayla spent every spare minute from then on working for different electricians, gaining valuable experience and knowledge.
“I did work with anyone I could, and every three to four months, I rang every electrician in the phone book to ask if they had anything".
“I dropped my resume in at every opportunity I could. It got to the point they all knew who I was when I rang!” Finishing Year 12 Makayla’s perseverance finally paid off and she was offered two apprenticeships. She was ecstatic. “I had people try and talk me out of a male dominated career but I am so thankful that I stuck to my heart and did it,” Makayla said. “Designing a switchboard and seeing it built and on site working/pumping is an amazing achievement". “It was such an amazing day when I became an A Grade electrician!" “Through up and downs in my own life that extended my apprenticeship, it was a huge relief just that I followed my dreams and I did it!” Makayla said she would absolutely recommend a career as an electrician to other females. She was delighted to see her workplace employ another female electrician once she completed her apprenticeship. “When I first started my apprenticeship it was so unheard of for a girl to be in a trade, but now there is more and more and I think it is just the best thing,” she said. “Girls can do anything". “We can all do anything we put our minds to". “Don’t let people get you down or push you down; they will try and make it seem like you can’t do it - but if that’s what you want to do then you most definitely can!” Meet the Boudie Babes - Serena Philp | Mildura Boudoir PhotographySerena Philp is one of the newer faces to the ambassador team of Pure Beauty, but she’s right at home helping to build up and empower women. The mum of two beautiful boys not only brings plenty of encouragement and support to the group, but also her expertise as a qualified beautician. After becoming single last year, Serena said she feels more beautiful, powerful, sexy and stronger than ever. Serena shares with Pure Beauty what it means to be an ambassador and how much she appreciates the opportunity. Serena: I absolutely love being a part of the ambassadors. I've always loved to help build women up and empower them. I get to watch ladies go from having insecurities about themselves to loving their bodies! I love all the girls in the ambassador group and Lauren too. We have become like a sisterhood, a family, we have each other's back and I'm so grateful for their friendships. Pure Beauty: Applying for an ambassador position, was it an easy decision for you? Serena: So when the first ambassador applications opened up I didn't apply, I felt like I wasn't good enough to apply and there were so many others that deserved the spot. This time around I jumped at it! I put my application in and I was so excited but still had a bit of disbelief that I would actually get it, knowing so many other amazing ladies had applied too. Pure Beauty: As an ambassador, what are you wanting to achieve? Serena: I want to help clients get the confidence they are craving. They see us looking beautiful and stronger in our lives and the transformations we are all going through and I want to help guide them through that. I want to encourage them to learn to love parts of their body they aren’t in love with and encourage them to try new things. To be able to achieve this is so much fun! As ambassadors we get such a high seeing them smile and watching them fall in love with their bodies. It's an amazing feeling when we can see that we helped in some little way to get them to that part - whether it's by doing their makeup or boosting them before their shoots or chatting to them about lingerie choices. Pure Beauty: What’s been your greatest memory so far with Pure Beauty? Serena: There's so many moments that will stick with me forever; laughs with the girls, having our catch ups and our sleepover weekend was incredible. Also making new friendships and just watching the clients blossom into a whole new person after their shoots. Pure Beauty: So for someone having their first experience, what can they expect? Serena: You feel a little nervous at the beginning, you might be a little unsure about walking around in your undies but within a few minutes, half an hour maybe, you'll be fine! You'll be smiling and laughing, you'll absolutely love being pampered and getting your hair and makeup done! And when you see a photo of yourself after Lauren’s taken an image, you will be so surprised that that is you! You will feel on top of the world after your shoot and then you go back for the reveal and you see yourself in a whole new light. Pure Beauty: To those considering a boudoir experience, what’s your message to them? Serena: My favorite thing to say is: Just go do it! You won't regret it. This is for you - whether your’re a busy mum or a full time career woman. You deserve a shoot, you deserve to be pampered and have a whole day that's about giving you confidence and changing the way you feel about your body and yourself. You will have the most amazing time, trust me!
Pure Beauty: You inspire other women, but who do you look up to? Serena: There are too many influential women in my life to name; my family and friends have each given me something that has helped shape who I am and who I am as mum. I look up to so many ladies in my little village of friends and I love each and every one of them, they all give me hope and strength and keep me going. On a bigger scale, I love Constance Hall and Tiffany Jenkins; both for different reasons. Con I absolutely love. She's real, she loves her body and her kids are just like mine. They’re crazy and loud but she loves them to bits. She doesn't hold back and there's no filter on her life. Plus her clothes are fab! Pure Beauty: Do you have some parting words for our readers? Serena: My one wish for you, is to see yourself the way your best friend sees you. That you are perfect as you are; you are an amazing hard worker or mum, or incredible friend, lover, sister or wife. Enjoy your life. Be happy. Do things that YOU want to do. If you want bright pink hair then do it, if you want to wear your favourite dresses every day then do it! Life is too short to worry about what other people think, all that matters is what you think. You’re beautiful! Meet the Boudie Babes - Karen Cook | Mildura Boudoir PhotographyI REMEMBER becoming aware of who Karen Cook was for the first time. She was the bright and bubbly sales assistant at TTN Baby Warehouse - that’s about all I knew, but she knew lots about me. My name, my husband’s name, the name of my firstborn and the daunting experience we went through when he was born prematurely. Returning to the store in preparation for the arrival of my second child, I was impressed by her customer service and memory, and that appreciation and gratitude has continued to grow as I realised that was just the “norm” for Karen - she cares about each and every one and takes the time to get to know them. Karen is a ball of energy and optimism and so when it comes to being an Ambassador for Pure Beauty, Karen is an absolute natural. This year was meant to be one of discovery for Karen, but as she explains below, it hasn’t turned out as expected. Karen: I am a 42 year old Single Mum of two amazing kiddos - a 12 year old and an almost 9 year old. I have recently separated from a 15 plus year relationship (married for four of those years), so 2020 was supposed to be my year of self discovery and figuring out who I am as me - not wife, not partner, not Mum for half of the time but truly me! Roll in Covid-19 and 2020 had other ideas about a life of self discovery. Having to isolate and stay home has meant I, along with the other ambassadors and our fearless leader Lauren, have been able to make the most of the situation. We have aimed to bring light to other females and share stories of empowerment from our own shoots. It has also solidified friendships formed within the group - so although a different path than expected, but discovery is still taking place. I am still working at least four days a week at TTN Baby Warehouse which I have done for almost 13 years now and I still love it every single day. I have an amazing support network of family and friends whom I love with every beat of my heart, so my days are still very full. Pure Beauty: When I think of what being an ambassador encompasses, you seem to tick every box. But what does it mean to you? Karen: It means the world to me to be a Brand Ambassador for Pure Beauty. I am a very passionate person and I love to spread the love for things that I am passionate about. Pure Beauty combines two of my passions perfectly; my love of photography and empowering women to see themselves in a whole new way and, I guess through someone else’s eyes. I truly believe that there is nothing more beautiful and sexy than a woman who believes in herself and in her body, and has the confidence to portray this to those around her. It’s such an amazing quality to possess, and this is at the heart of Lauren's Pure Beauty brand. Her values align so perfectly with mine and her talent for capturing that beauty in every woman that walks into her studio is second to none. Pure Beauty: Was it an easy decision for you applying to become an ambassador? Karen: When I read that applications had opened for new Brand Ambassadors, I knew I would love to apply but I needed a push from some of the existing ambassadors to let myself do it. I applied while considering ending my marriage and my 15 year relationship and I needed to be sure that I could be everything Lauren needed me to be - as I don’t give my heart to something if I cannot give it my time equally. But I was given the nudge I needed, applied and was over the moon to learn that Lauren and the girls had chosen me to join their already amazing team. I don’t think I was overly nervous, just more excited to be a part of something so incredible! Being a part of Lauren's team is truly a blessing and one I cherish. Pure Beauty: What do you aim to achieve being an ambassador? Karen: I want to encourage every woman around me to believe in herself 100 percent. To be empowered enough to know that having a shoot is something she deserves, that she is incredible in the exact skin she is in and that she is beautiful and perfect just the way she is!! How can you top that? Helping women to see themselves through your eyes? You can’t! It’s the best feeling in the world to hear someone who has just had a Pure Beauty shoot, realise just how incredible she is, how beautiful she is, how powerful she is, how ENOUGH she is, just as she is. There is no better feeling than to help women realize their truth and their worthiness - Just As They Are. Pure Beauty: What about your first boudoir experience with Lauren, how did that change you? Karen: Having my own shoot with Lauren was something I will never forget. Seeing myself through Lauren's eyes, and Lauren's lens, has been life changing for me. Everyone has parts of themselves they wish were bigger or smaller or different than what they actually are, but since my shoot I embrace every inch of my body, and my shoot has transformed my mind to see myself in a whole new way. I am proud of the body that carries me through life. My body has grown and given birth to two amazing, gorgeous kids. It has loved, it has hurt, it has pushed itself past barriers and challenged itself to do better, to be better. But since my shoot, there is a contentment that I have for myself that wasn’t there before. I am happy in the skin I am in, and I am proud of this body that, so far, has carried me through 42 years of life. I love nothing more than sitting down with my signature box and looking through my prints, or pulling on my white gloves and flipping through my 35 page album, and being reminded whenever I need to be, that I am amazing, beautiful and perfect just the way I am. Pure Beauty: So it’s something every female needs to do? Karen: Having a session with Lauren is the most worthwhile thing you can do for yourself, as the appreciation and confidence you have for yourself carries through to every other aspect of your life. You won’t fully understand how life changing it is until you take the leap and do it yourself, but I will make one promise, and that is that it will be an experience you will never ever forget and you will never regret! Pure Beauty: Pure Beauty is all about female empowerment, but who inspires you? Karen: I have lots of influential women in my life and they influence me in different ways. They might be an amazing mum to their children, an amazing partner to their one and only or an amazing business women. There is no-one in particular that stands out as “the one”, but Lauren is most definitely up there as all of the things I admire in the amazing women in my life. She has created a business that’s sole purpose is to lift women up and to give them an experience that will change their lives, while at the same time giving them memories and reminders to keep forever of just how amazing they are. She is also an incredible woman - an amazing mum to three beautiful babes, a sensational wife and a gorgeous friend. She’s the complete package of the kind of woman I look up to and let influence me in my life. We are so lucky to have Lauren and her talents in Sunraysia. Pure Beauty: So for those contemplating having a boudoir experience with Lauren, what thoughts do you leave them with?
Karen: Don’t sit on the fence doubting whether you can do it ladies. I promise you that you CAN and you WILL do it; crush it, rock it, smash it right out of the ball-park. You will fall in love with yourself in a way you never ever thought possible, but it’s the kind of love that will be all you ever need!! I’m a big believer in loving yourself first and learning to then share that love. Don’t ever rely on someone else for that kind of love … love yourself first! Breaking the Barriers - Women Can Do Anything! | Mildura Intimate Portraiture JESS Smith is a diamond in the rough - literally. Currently studying to be a diesel mechanic, Jess, who is from Broken Hill, has always had an interest in fixing things. She recalls how it landed her in hot water as a child. “I have always been interested in mechanics for as long as I can remember,” she said. “I was always pulling apart everything I could get my hands on just to see how it worked." “I remember I was about 10 or 11, and mum bought this brand new toaster home - but it was one of those fancy ones that made an unusual pattern on the toast when it was cooking." “It wasn't even 24 hours old and I pulled it apart because I wanted to know how it did it." “Little did I know the trouble I was in when mum found out.” The 23-year-old got her introduction to mechanics about five years ago when she had to complete work experience as part of her school studies. “You got a few things to choose from - things like beauty, construction, hospitality, mechanics or medical,” she said. “I ended up choosing mechanics and did my work placement at Warrnambool Bus Lines as a mechanic/trade assistant." “After the two weeks the boss was super happy at how I did things and what I knew, so ended up getting an apprenticeship out of it.” Jess said she has always enjoyed working on her own cars because she had a passion to learn. She also wanted to prove that she’s not just a pretty face - she knows what she is doing as well. “There is a lot I like about being a mechanic,” Jess said. “Each job is different to the last, which is something I really enjoy because it’s not repetitive. Also the people you meet along the way is great." “Everyone has different knowledge so there will always be someone around to help.” Of course, being the minority in a male dominated field does have its negatives. “My main hate, and I use that word strongly, is the amount of sexist people still out there - even in this day and age,” she said. “As a female mechanic you will meet some people who will belittle you and talk down to you because you are a girl.” There have even been people requesting Jess didn’t work on their vehicle because she is female and wouldn’t know what to do or make a mistake, but she’s had the last laugh at times, still carrying out the work. “Ninety-nine percent of mechanics are male and one percent female, but my thoughts on that is that everyone needs to realise and understand that no job has to be gender specific,” she said. “If you can put your mind to it, ask the right questions and are mentally prepared for the tasks anyone can be the right person for the job." “There are still a lot of women out there who want to try these kinds of jobs but are afraid and my advice for them is to give it a go.” While Jess said it’s best not to do any major mechanical repairs to your car if you don’t know what you are doing, there is maintenance you can carry out - and if you are unsure how to do these things, YouTube is always a good source to learn from. “For me, servicing your car is pretty straight forward; eg lubrication top ups, oil changes as well as adding air to tyres or tyre rotations,” Jess said, “But not everyone knows how to do it." “I know a lot of men and women who actually don't know the basics on how to do them but there are things you can do to inform yourself and learn how to do the basics."
“You could always get someone who knows how to do it to show you a couple of times and the first time you do it by yourself just get them to stand there and watch.” She added that she thinks everyone should learn how to change a tyre. “The worst thing I have come across is people of both genders being stuck in the middle of nowhere and not knowing how to change a tyre,” Jess said. “Also learning how to tell if your engine is low on oil and radiator fluid - they are the two main things that are required to have a healthy engine." “Checking your fluids is best to do in the morning before you go for a drive." “Services are generally every 5000km to 15,000km depending on how old your car is.” As for indicators that your car needs a trip to the mechanic - she said the following are things to look out for:
Jess said it is always best to get a qualified mechanic to look at your car if you are unsure, as even the smallest things can turn into something major. “But women need to get out there and try these kinds of things,” she said. “Just because someone says you can't doesn’t mean you can't. “If you sit there and live your life listening to people that are constantly telling you you can’t, you won't be good at these kinds of jobs to prove them wrong." “Everyone can do it, it just takes a lot of experience, patience, studying and time, but if you put your mind to it, you will succeed.” Perry Sandhills Mini Shoots | Mildura Boudoir PhotographyWith such beautiful outdoor locations available to us year round, why wouldn't you want to get some amazing boudoir photos as the sun was beginning its descent over the desert dunes? The stunning Perry Sandhills in Wentworth was our chosen location for our Sand Dunes Mini Shoot, and the location and these stunning ladies did not disappoint! Did you have any obstacles or fears about doing this session? Whitney: Just finding the babysitter! Jess: My main concern was my self confidence and being able to nail the poses. Kim: Hell No! Vee: Not really no. What made you take the leap of faith to do a boudoir session? Jess: I was sitting on the fence, watching from the bushes at how amazing it all looked and when I saw that there was an outdoor session at the dunes I leaped! It spoke to my soul! Kim: I love doing them! The confidence it gives you during and after, the freedom of prancing around naked or in your beautiful underwear! Vee: I am part of a beautiful and encouraging team so how could I not?! Whitney: Loved the last one and really liked the outdoors theme. Did I provide enough pre-session info? Whitney: Yes Jess: YES! I loved the Pinterest board! Vee & Kim: Always do xx How did you feel BEFORE your session? Kim: So excited! I had been hanging for this session since Lauren released it. I had so many ideas on my Pinterest Board and purchased my lingerie the day after I registered months ago! (Keen much!?) I had such a clear vision on everything and shared it with Lauren and Vee so they knew where I was coming from. Jess: Nervous enough to BYO cider and diffuse all the oils on the way there! Whitney: Nervous and excited Vee: Excited and so pumped. How did you like working with my team? Did you love your hair & makeup? Whitney: The girls were all fantastic and very helpful Jess: Vee was a magician and I loved the natural look of my hair! Vee: I love working with your team and always love my hair. Makeup done by Vee, she did great! (lol thats me hehe) Kim: Vee is da bomb!!! I love that I give her my inspiration and she mixes it with her style to create something that is perfect and unique every time! Get Bold Ladies! She's incredible with colour! I really enjoy my chats with Mairee and she is amazing at creating gorgeous curls and waves for people with hair! How would you describe the session? (poses, direction, comfort level, thoughts, FEELINGS) Jess: It was an experience like no other. I was on an absolute high the entire time and the women were all so supportive and encouraging! LOVE LOVE LOVE! Whitney: Fun! Very comfortable considering it was in the open and really enjoyed the setting Kim: So much fun! It's great doing a shoot in a small group because everyone is really supportive and we all thrive off each other. Poses definitely test your core strength - at one point I even stopped breathing because I didn't want to lose that arch! Vee: It was so much fun! Poses were so cool and the environment of being outdoors was so freeing and made it so exciting. Was the session different than you expected? If so, how? Vee: It was, I thought I was going to be bothered by sand in my crack and in my hair buuuuut it was honestly the least of my worries. I had so much fun working with Lauren and I loved the outdoors. Whitney: Having had a shoot before I was better prepared, so it was probably a lot smoother and easier to get into it. Jess: It was WAY BETTER! I had fears of being intimidated with such natural beauty but it was full of love and laughs! Kim: It was better than I expected and I expected a LOT! How did you feel AFTER your session? Kim: My calf muscles are pretty sore from walking all over those sandhills! But in all honesty, I probably feel more myself than I have in a long time, and was really feeling as confident and empowered and incredible as I did after my very first shoot with Lauren. Vee: AMAZING! Jess: Empowered AF! Whitney: Fantastic! How did you feel when you saw your images? Whitney: I loved them, there were so many that I wanted and I was surprised how many there were considering it was a short session Jess: Overwhelmed and so in love with my booty! I didn’t know it could be so plump HAHAHA Kim: I've only seen some on the viewfinder at the shoot so far, but I know they are going to be killer! I can usually wait patiently to see my photos, but I seriously can't wait to see these..... I'm pretty sure I'm going to be broker than broke when I do! Vee: I loved my images! Lauren never fails to make me smile and feel empowered. The images were truly gorgeous. Did anything change about the way you see yourself after the session? Whitney: It renewed the want to accept the things I currently have and not be so negative about changes I have gone through. Jess: I feel more comfortable in my skin and more free to let loose around my husband. Vee: After every shoot I do I see myself in a better light then I did previously. I accept who I am and love the body I am in, I still face challenges when I don't feel great BUT I can look back at these photos and just think WOW! That's me, I look amazing and I felt fucking great. This helps that journey continue. Kim: I realised that I'd been hanging onto something that was dragging me down and holding me back at my last few mini sessions, and in life in general. I just totally let that go and had such a great time! I love my body and what it is capable of, and I love that Lauren captures it in all its glory, and I can truly be myself and it all translates beautifully into the images. Do you have any advice for women considering doing a boudoir session? Vee: Please do one. If you are considering but hesitating, reach out to any of the other ladies whom have previously had a boudoir session. I am personally happy to answer any questions to help you take that step forward. Remember that you are amazing, nobody is the same and that's why you are you! Kim: Just to let go of anything you might be hanging onto. Free your mind and do what feels right and be in the moment! Don't be afraid to ask for something or suggest a pose - there are no silly suggestions! Have fun! Laugh! Try to get rid of those pre-conceived ideas of what you look like. Don't wait to "lose weight, tone up, get a thigh gap" etc... just do it and you will truly love yourself stupid for it and, Trust Me here, You are So Worth It! Jess: Don’t creep in the bushes! Just do it! Whitney: Do it, and if you get the chance, do it again! Relax and trust that Lauren will make you look and feel amazing. Any final thoughts on your session, or anything you'd like other woman to know? Kim: The sand up all the cracks was so worthwhile! Ladies, jump on an outdoor shoot!!! Honestly, this shoot - although only a mini, really triggered something in me, and I think has been my absolute favorite shoot so far! Jess: We are all backing you! Your body deserves your love and to capture that on camera is something so special! Vee: Can I go back in time and do it again? Pleaaaase! I would like you to know that you are not alone in these feelings of nerves, self doubt or a lack of confidence. Those things are normal unfortunately.. But nerves are good! It means you are excited and feeling something about the experience. But you certainly don't need to feel nervous, its amazing. Self doubt and a lack of confidence shouldn't exist, because again you are fucking beautiful! You deserve self love and confidence! Whitney: Loved the outdoor venue and the pictures I got were awesome! I wasn't sure I would get the same feeling the second time around but I think it was actually even better because I wasn't worried about the nerves or what to expect, so it was much more relaxed and fun. |
WelcomeHere you will find my featured babes, #wearepurebeauty , as well as some tips for your boudoir shoot- from lingerie shopping to hair and makeup Something to add?We are excited to announce we are now accepting blog features. If you have something you would like to add to our blog, click here
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AuthorMildura resident and Photographer, Lauren Southwell launched Pure Beauty in late June, 2018 & is committed to helping woman feel beautiful, sexy and empowered through the art of Boudoir Photography. |