The Woman Behind Belle Marie Boudoir: Meet Olivia

The Belle Marie Boudoir team has grown recently, and we thought it was the perfect time to reintroduce ourselves. We’re a small but mighty crew of three women dedicated to helping you feel confident and empowered before, during, and after your boudoir photoshoot.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll spotlight each member of the Belle Marie team. First up, Olivia!

Hi, I’m Olivia!

I’m the founder and photographer here at Belle Marie Boudoir. I’ve been a photographer since 2010. Yep, 15 years now! I started my career shooting high school seniors, families, and newborns. I love bringing joy to my clients during photoshoots and helping people see the most beautiful and real version of themselves through photos.

A Little About Me

I’m originally from California, but I moved to Minnesota with my husband when he accepted a new job opportunity. Since then, we’ve built a life we love and added two amazing kids to our little family. When I’m not behind the camera, you can usually find me spending time with my family, whether it's cozy movie nights or adventures around our little corner of Minnesota.

Want to know a few fun facts?

• Favorite food: Cake. I’m a total dessert snob and 100% proud of it.

• Go-to movie: Stardust. Give me a good fantasy story and I’m hooked.

• TV obsession: Psych for laughs. I’m also a big anime fan, I love Spy Family and Kaiju No. 8.

• Currently reading: The Primal of Blood and Bone by Jennifer L. Armentrout. Yes, I’ll absolutely talk books with you during your session, especially if you have some romantasy recommendations.

  
  

How Belle Marie Boudoir Began

In 2021, I was looking for a way to stay busy during the slower months (senior season tends to quiet down in the winter). I decided to try something completely new: boudoir photography. At the time, boudoir was starting to grow in popularity, but even I didn’t expect how quickly it would change everything.

That first year, I booked 20 boudoir sessions. It only took a few shoots to realize this was what I was meant to do. There’s something magical about boudoir portraits. Watching a woman walk in feeling nervous and walk out glowing with confidence, it’s the best feeling in the world.

In 2022, I did 55 boudoir session.  Then 77 in 2023. By the end of 2023, I knew I couldn’t do it alone anymore. That’s when I hired my best friend, Tia, as our studio manager. She’s been such a gift to our team, handling client consults, communications, keeping everything organized… mostly she makes sure things run smoothly behind the scenes.

With Tia onboard, I could finally focus more on the creative work I love most. It was good timing, because 2024 was absolutely wild, in the best way! We photographed 140 boudoir sessions, and I’m still in awe of the amazing women we got to meet and photograph that year.

Why I Love Boudoir Photography

Over the last few years, I’ve had the honor of photographing over 400 women. Each session is unique and meaningful. Some clients come to celebrate a birthday, a major life change, or just to do something for themselves. Others book maternity boudoir sessions to celebrate the strength and beauty of their bodies during pregnancy. No matter the reason, every session leaves me inspired.

I’ve shared so much laughter in our studio (yes, I love a good dad joke), and I’ve cried happy tears with clients who saw themselves in a new light for the first time.

Whether you’re nervous about boudoir or ready to go all in, my message to you is this: You don’t need to wait for a “better time.” You don’t need to lose the weight. You deserve to feel beautiful now, just as you are. Boudoir is about more than pretty photos. Boudoir photography is about healing, empowerment, and joy.

What We’re Building at Belle Marie

Belle Marie Boudoir has grown from a solo venture into a full-service Minnesota boudoir photography studio. In 2024, we

added our in-house hair and makeup artist, Mackenzie, to the team. She brings the glam and pampering that make our sessions feel like a true self-love experience.

We’ve also been adding new set designs to keep things fresh and exciting. Whether you want something soft and romantic or moody and sultry, we’ve got a look that fits your vibe.

Our studio is built to be a safe, uplifting space where you can show up exactly as you are. We’ll guide you through every step, from choosing outfits from our client closet, posing guidance, hair and makeup, and even emotional support if those pre-session nerves kick in.

Looking Ahead

The future is bright, and I’m so proud of what we’re building here. We’re always dreaming up new ways to make Belle Marie the best experience for our clients. Whether that’s through new sets, workshops, or growing our team, one thing will never change: our commitment to empowering every woman who walks through our doors.

Whether you're looking for boudoir photos as a gift, a couples boudoir session, maternity boudoir, or a confidence-boosting experience that’s just for you, we’re here to help you feel incredible in your own skin. Our Minneapolis boudoir studio is here to welcome you at any stage of your journey and we can’t wait to show you how incredible a boudoir photoshoot can make you feel!

Thank you to every woman who has trusted me to be part of your story. It’s the honor of a lifetime, and I am excited to meet even more of you in the months and years ahead.

Stay Tuned…

Next week, you’ll get to meet Tia, our amazing Studio Manager. She’s the heartbeat of Belle Marie behind the scenes, and clients adore her just as much as I do. We can’t wait to share more about the incredible women who help make Belle Marie Boudoir what it is today.