It’s totally normal to look to others for validation but at some point in life, growing into your skin and accepting you for you is an important step in self-realization and building your self confidence. I’d like to introduce you to Cathy who is one of our Fabulous 40 Over 40 and she shares about her growth story below.

What is this Fabulous 40 Over 40, you ask? Well, I’m welcoming 40 Women Over 40 into my studio as part of an exclusive Fabulous Beyond 40 Experience. Like Cathy, you get your own Custom Luxe Photo Session that could include Boudoir, Intimate Portraits or Beauty, or a customized combo of it all. Later this year I’ll be hosting a gallery-style exhibit of all of the women and we’ll celebrate each one!

You’re invited to participate too so click here to learn more and read the stories of the women who’ve already visited Mateus Studios! I hope you’ll join us!

Cathy is Fabulous Beyond 40! 

Age: 40

What Made You Want to Celebrate Being Fabulous By Doing The 40 Over 40 Luxe Photo Session?

Had a really awful 39 with the pandemic going on, just really want to feel good about myself again. Normally my coping involves some form of travel to dress up and make me feel good. This event offers some aspects of self pampering.

What Did You Enjoy Most About This Vancouver Boudoir Experience? How Did It Make You Feel About Yourself?

I think it’s the fact Michele tries to understand each client and tailor her style to the client.

What Have You Learned to Appreciate More as You Have Aged?

I think mostly feeling comfortable with myself. For quite some time I worked with a very young crowd and there definitely had been moments of self awareness that “oh I’m just not pretty enough” or “oh I’m just maxed out with ma capability or ability to take in new things.” Being able to live “this is me, this is who I am” has always been a struggle, and not try to be people pleasing or feel sad about not being able to please people. I’m still working on this aspect everyday.

How Has Your Relationship With Yourself and Your Body Changed Over Time?

I’m still very aware of parts of me that “could’ve been better”. I think trying not to have people to validate this is very hard for me. I think I’m mature enough now that I’m not shy to show me, and I have learned that I can be just as cute and sexy without the big chest or bum. And to be honest, I’m my worst critic.

If You Could Go Back in Time and Meet Your 18 Year Old Self, What Would You Say to Her?

Life is a bitch but it’s okay. You’ll pull through more things than you think.

What is Your Motto or Favourite Quote?

I don’t actually have a motto that I live by, but I really like Helen Keller, “The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even heard, but must be felt with the heart.”

What Advice Can You Offer Other Women Of All Ages, Around Ageing and Fully Embracing Who We Are In The Moment?

Come back to who you are. It’s so easy to be lost in this world where it’s almost all about glam and no brain for women.

Any Thoughts You’d Like To Share With Others?

We do often need validation from others — parents, coworkers, partners, friends. But really, the only validation we need is to answer one question, “Have I fulfilled my own life mission?” “At the end of the day, can I say I have no regrets?”

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Cathy, thank you so much!! I completely agree that looking to and approving of ourselves is what’s important, not the opinions of others, and then knowing that we’ve done our best and lived our lives to the fullest. Just by choosing to gift yourself this Luxe Portraits opportunity doing Boudoir and Beauty Portraits, shows that you are honouring you and good on you!

Would YOU like to be one of our 40 women over 40? Discover what it’s all about here and then reach out for your complimentary consultation.

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Photos shared with permission.

Michele Mateus is a Boudoir, Intimate Portrait & Nude Fine Art Photographer located in Coquitlam, BC. Serving Coquitlam, Vancouver, Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley, BC. Studio, Outdoor and On-location Boudoir Photography.

Hair & Makeup By Jenny Valla.