Hi Fancies!

Have any of you started to listen to holiday music yet?! I feel the judgement already—I started November 1st! Ha! The holidays have become such an important part of my life these past few years. For years, starting in high school, I hated the holidays. There was just nothing special about it for me. I liked the little time I saw my family, but I actually ended up going to the movies every Christmas night with my best friend because, well, we didnt want to be completely alone.

Then, I started dating my now husband. His family, especially his dad Stew, basically made me go over there for every holiday event. I was so used to being home and pouting that I didnt really feel the need to be in public and pout with other people. Yeah, I know—sad and oh my god who is this girl?! It wasnt until I threw myself into the holiday shenanigans with them (full throttle) that I actually started to feel the Christmas spirit.

For the past 6 years, I have been the happiest little lady around this time of year. Yes, I know…Thanksgiving hasnt even arrived yet—but, I promise this all goes together! I started playing Christmas music the day after Halloween…and it has given me the best feeling afround the house and studio. My husband laughed at me and told me it was too soon, but, would he rather I be upset this time of year?! I think not. He’s getting into the spirit, too, while I write this.

Last year I pout together my first ever Christmas Mini Boudoir sets. The photo above is of our flocked tree, doused with the grandest of gifts below. I was so proud of how all of this came together, and the ladies that came out for it were so pleased! I remember seeing their faces seeing the tree all done up, and it was just golden from there on out.

This year, I have decided to do our second annual Christmas Mini Boudoir sets at a quaint little house nestled right inside Hillsborough, NC. Imagine a beautiful shiplap room adorned with gifts, stockings, and the plushest of blankets (and a Christmas tree). It’s a beautiful scene to picture, right?! On Saturday, November 23rd I am offering 45 minute sessions to ladies wishing to gift a magical gift this year. There are only 7 spots open, and they start at $99 (sitting fee) to book.

To inquire, simply send me an email to nikki@fancythisphotography.com and I will gladly answer any and all questions you may have.

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We are on to the last few weddings of the year! They have all tugged at my heart strings…this past weekend I had the privilege of photographing Katie and Stewart’s brunch wedding in Greensboro at the Carolina Theatre. It’s always an honor to serve couples in this way, and these two were the kindest of souls.

Their wedding was one of firsts for me. Katie and Stewart decided to do their first look right before they walked hand in hand down the aisle together to marry one another. Later, they had their sweet reception at the Theatre, and instead of a first look—they had their first game! How fun to witness that!

The weekend prior I photographed Risa and Matt’s wedding that took place at Bay 7 in Durham. I loved the energy of their wedding. Especially the dancing! You guys, the dancing and sweet toasts were everything. I am so honored to be part of such grand wedding days! The photo above was taken right as they were announced, how fun!

These two had amazing design style. I started off the day photographing Risa getting ready at their downtown apartment. Seriously, I was taking all of the notes on what to do with my own house. The photo below was taken in their bedroom—omg!

If you made it this far, thank you! I hope it is atleast entertaining, and you find good humor or inspiration for your personal life. You all mean the world to me, and its because of you that Fancy This is what it is today. Thank you for your continued support and love.

Cheers,

Nikki

Hey ladies! 

Let me just say--boudoir sessions are killer! Ah! This is one of my favorite types of portrait sessions. Whether you are wanting to gift your beau something special for your anniversary, or even day of the wedding, or just want to feel really good about yourself--this is something you should think about doing. There is something so powerful about it, and yes, I promise you will feel like a rockstar afterwards! Who doesn't want to feel like a hot babe in their own skin?! 

I wanted to write this blog to give you ladies a few bits of advice, some preparation tips, and some of the things that I ask each client to bring to their session. This is a fun shoot, and to document all of those amazing characteristics about you we should hone in on some specifics to prepare.

Let's start with the fun stuff--hair and makeup! I always suggest to have your hair blown out the day of your boudoir session. One, it feels absolutely amazing, and two, you look amazing. This is such a good time for you to go out and have yourself pampered-you deserve it! I don't feel as though an up-do is needed as those long locks are beautiful when down. This session is about feeling natural, and having your hair down gives us more options for you to play with it, etc.

For makeup, I would suggest to have it done professionally. Professionals know what makeup looks best on camera, but also it just gives you a time to relax before the session. Most of my sessions portray more of a natural look, so I always suggest to go that way when having your makeup applied. However, if we are going for a more moodier type of session, I love a good smokey eye. If you need recommendations for the triangles best hair and makeup studios, I will be glad to give you my list of recommendations. 

Treat yourself to a manicure, ladies! We will be doing some close shots, so your hands will definitely be modeling in the photos. If you are feeling extra fruity, treat yourself to a pedicure, as well. You deserve it.

Next up on the list is outfits! Yes ladies, I love a good pair of heels and sexy lingerie! The list below goes over some items you should looking out for and packing while preparing for your session.

• Veil -- If you are planning on gifting this as a gift to your significant other right before the wedding, or even as an anniversary gift, then I want you to bring your veil! Endless opportunities here and it just feels classy.
• 5-6 outfits. Try bring outfits that portray different types of mood. For instance, you can bring your favorite pair of jeans and a white button down blouse. Bring different types of lingerie to showcase different sides of you. 
  • For lingerie, bring something light and ethereal. Creams, nudes, ivories and blushes are a perfect match for this!
  • Bring something dark and moody, like black or navy lingerie. A deep grey works well, too.
  • Bring something that is just downright sexy. Think a long open back black dress, even lace. Think classic, bold, and sexy.
  • Bring something fun and enticing. For me this would be something pink and flirty, for other people this may be red lingerie with cute kitten heels. This is your time to be something you have always wanted to be, so take that excuse and go shopping for something that is totally you.
• Heels and/or stilettos. There is nothing sexier than a good pair of heels, ladies. Bring your favorites!