We had the good fortune of connecting with Emma Powell and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Emma, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Empowerment means completely different things from person to person. Some women find empowerment in wearing a bold red lipstick and others find it in learning a new skill. Neither of which is wrong. In boudoir, it’s the same. It’s not just about wearing lingerie and being provocative. Can you wear lingerie and be provocative? Absolutely you can! I’m here to cheer you on either way! Boudoir can also be modest in a beautiful gown, a cozy sweater and that bold red lipstick. Don’t be quick to judge or shame a women for what makes her feel empowered.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most proud to have built a community that doesn’t shame each other. There is only encouragement and understanding among so many beautiful women in all walks of life.
Being a solo-prenuer is never easy. There’s no one else to pick up the slack or remind you of what needs to be done. There are lots of lists happening over here! Besides that, business is about building relationships with people and being yourself. In my line of work, there’s no way around that.
Overcoming challenges comes easier when you have others in your circle doing the same thing. I have a couple of absolutely amazing women in my life that make my life easier to overcome those challenges.
When you start a company from zero, there’s many many lessons learned. I still learn everyday and that’s how you keep growing and evolving.
I want the world to know I started my company in the midst of postpartum depression, trying to find joy when I thought there was none left. No women deserves to go through postpartum depression, but it happens. Never be ashamed to ask for help, even when society tells you that you should be able to do it all. That’s not realistic. I fell in love with boudoir and it became my passion because of that experience. If you’re going through it, I know how you feel and I see you.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Personally I’d take someone to the Museum District, a speakeasy, the beach, possibly a sporting event if that’s going on. There’s so many cuisine choices, I wouldn’t even know where to start!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Emma Standal at Pittsburgh Luxury Boudoir Hailey Paul at Blushed Boudoir
Alex Loveland’s group: Alex Loveland Boudoir for Photographers
Website: www.emmaestellphotography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/build.self.confidence
Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/build.self.confidence
Other: www.tiktok.com/@build.self.confidence