THE CURATED
MOTHERHOOD GUIDE
An exclusive VIP experience reserved for booked clients of Christine Sarah
THANK YOU FOR TRUSTING ME!
This is your personal invitation into a thoughtfully designed, one-of-a-kind motherhood experience. This guide was lovingly created to help you feel completely confident, fully prepared, and genuinely excited for the session ahead. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to bring your vision to life from what to wear and how to prepare, to styling support and meaningful tips that help the experience feel effortless, personal, and true to your story.
As a valued client, you’ll also receive access to hand-selected local perks and exclusive partner discounts which is a small, intentional way to help you feel pampered and seen during this fleeting and tender season.
You’re not just showing up for photos. You’re stepping into a beautifully curated experience centered around connection, legacy, and the heart of your motherhood. I’m so honored to create something meaningful with you.
Let’s get to the details
WHAT TO WEAR
01. DO I FEEL CONFIDENT IN THIS?
I want you to feel like a TEN in whatever you choose! That confidence will translate, I promise.
02. DOES THIS FEEL COMFORTABLE?
Can you move around in it without feeling insecure or irritated? If your straps are constantly falling down, your strapless bra needs a constant hike up, or you feel insecure about how tightly it fits - it might be a good idea to steer clear.
02. WOULD I LOVE TO SEE THIS COLOR PALETTE ON THE WALLS OF MY HOME?
There is a reason you designed your home the way you did. Think about the aesthetic of your home and bring that into your style palette. If bright red or pink is going to clash on your walls, don’t include it in your photos. Think timeless and heirloom - classic colors and pieces that won’t fade with time.
02. WOULD I LOVE TO SEE THIS IN AN HEIRLOOM ALBUM FOR THE NEXT 20+ YEARS
When choosing what to wear, think beyond trends and focus on what will feel timeless to you and your children. These images are going to live in a luxury album, a keepsake you’ll revisit for years to come. Ask yourself: Will I still love this look in a decade? Does it reflect the version of me I want to remember and celebrate? Choose pieces that feel personal, elevated, and lasting.
When coordinating outfits, I want you to ask yourself 3 honest questions.
STYLE TIPS FOR
MOTHERHOOD SESSIONS
Choosing what to wear can feel like a lot, but don’t worry, I’ve got you! The goal is to select outfits that not only photograph beautifully, but that make you feel confident, comfortable, and like your best self. Below are tips to help you style your session with ease.
Coordinating vs. Matching
Think complimenting, not copying. Instead of everyone in the same color shirt and jeans (unless it’s matching white shirts and this is REALLY the look you are going for), go for varying tones and textures that flow together. Choose a color palette -(think soft earth tones, muted pastels, or cozy neutrals) and mix within that range.
Example: Mom in a soft blush dress, oldest child in warm tan pants with a cream top, another child in neutral beige or soft olive. Each different, but harmonious. You could even add in a soft floral or flannel pattern.
Choose Soft Neutrals & Movement-Friendly Pieces
Colors that reflect light and complement natural tones always photograph beautifully. Soft creams, taupe, dusty blues, terracotta, sage, blush, or warm grays tend to feel timeless and elevate your images.
Opt for clothing with texture (like knits, linens, gauze, or cotton blends) and pieces that move like flowy skirts, draped dresses, oversized button-downs, or layered shawls bring life and softness to your images.
Layering, Accessories & Elevating the Look
Layers not only give dimension to your images but also help create variation throughout the session. Think cardigans, hats, denim or leather jackets, long cardis, or wraps. They can be taken off or swapped for different looks mid-session.
Accessories are your secret weapon, but keep it simple and classic. A statement earring, bracelet, a simple (or heirloom) necklace and don’t forget your wedding ring if you have one.
Final Tip: Choose Comfort + Confidence
We are going for timeless over trendy here. The best outfits are the ones you can move in, snuggle in, scoop up your toddler and spin them around and laugh freely in. If you feel confident, it will show in every image! Same goes for your children. If they are uncomfortable, they might be extra grumpy which we don’t want.
Check out my Pinterest board on Wardrobe Inspiration!
We are going for
TIMELESS OVER TRENDY
WHAT TO AVOID
Every session is unique—and so are you.
While I offer styling tips to help your images feel elevated and timeless, I also believe in honoring your personal style. The suggestions below are meant to guide you, not limit you. If something here feels like you, we can absolutely make it work.
These tips are simply here to help avoid distractions and keep the focus where it belongs—on connection, emotion, and the story we’re capturing.
Bold Logos or Graphic Tees
Logos, words, and brand graphics tend to pull attention away from the story we’re telling. Even small ones can become distracting in an image, drawing the eye to the chest or shoulder area instead of the emotion or connection in the moment. Simplicity is key—think clean lines and solid or subtly textured pieces.Choose Soft Neutrals & Movement-Friendly Pieces.
Neon Colors
Bright neons (like highlighter yellow, lime green, or electric pink) reflect light in harsh ways and can cast odd color tones onto skin—especially in group shots. Even if your child insists on their neon Crocs, it’s best to opt for tones that blend more naturally into the environment (we promise they’ll thank you later).
Super Small Patterns or Tight Plaids
Tiny, repetitive patterns (like tight stripes or micro-checks) may look fine in person, but on camera, they can cause something called “moire,” where the pattern appears distorted or fuzzy. This effect can be especially noticeable in high-resolution images and takes away from the overall polish of your gallery.
Athletic Wear or Stiff, Overly Structured Outfits
Unless your session is centered around a sporty theme or editorial fashion look, steer clear of activewear, overly structured blazers, or anything that restricts natural movement. These pieces can look stiff in photos and prevent the kind of cozy, connected interaction we’re aiming for. Instead, go for soft fabrics, movement-friendly layers, and pieces you’d naturally wear while cuddling, twirling, or chasing your toddler through a field.
In short: choose pieces that support the story, not compete with it. Your connection, emotion, and the environment should be the stars of the show. Your wardrobe is just the beautiful frame.
THE FINISHING TOUCHES
These small details may seem subtle, but they make a big impact in your final images. None of this is about perfection. It’s simply about helping you show up feeling like your most confident, put-together self.
Here are a few easy tips to help you prep with intention and enjoy a little self-care along the way!
Little things that help you feel confident, polished, and camera-ready.
Nails:
Keep them clean and natural, or go with a fresh polish in a timeless, neutral shade, or something like a pink or classic red. Whatever your style is! No chipped polish, please—it’s one of the few things that can’t be retouched later.
Spray/False Tanning:
Use with caution. Uneven fading, streaks, or dark patches (especially on ankles, wrists, or elbows) will show in photos and can’t be photoshopped cleanly. If you’re unsure, it’s better to skip it.
Hair Color:
Avoid trying a bold new shade or major change right before your session. Stick with what makes you feel most confident and like you. A fresh touch-up of your usual color can be a perfect boost.
Hair Style:
Hair that moves is magic. Soft waves, natural texture, and styles that aren’t overly stiff or set tend to photograph best. Think effortless, not overdone.
Skin Prep:
If your skin allows, gently exfoliate the night before and moisturize well. This helps makeup sit beautifully and gives skin a healthy glow.
Lips:
Keep them hydrated leading up to your session—dry lips tend to show more on camera. A bit of balm or gloss can go a long way.
Arms & Legs:
If they’ll be showing, moisturize the day of your session (and bring lotion if your skin tends to dry out).
Toes:
Wearing sandals? Be sure your toenails are clean or freshly polished in a neutral tone, or something fun like a pink or red. The color is up to you just make sure you won’t regret your choice 10 years down the road!
Shine Control:
If your skin tends to get oily, bring blotting sheets or a translucent powder to gently touch up as needed during the session.
Styling Tips for Children
Your little ones are the heart of this session, and how they’re styled can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your final images. Here are a few helpful tips to make choosing their outfits simple and stress-free:
1. Keep it timeless
Soft neutrals, gentle earth tones, and muted pastels always photograph beautifully. Think cream, taupe, oatmeal, dusty rose, soft sage, and warm browns. These colors complement every skin tone and create a cohesive, light-filled look that will stand the test of time.
2. Avoid logos and characters
While that superhero tee may be a favorite at home, bold graphics and licensed characters can distract from the emotional feel of the image. Choose simple, solid pieces or classic patterns like subtle florals, ribbed textures, or delicate plaids.
3. Prioritize comfort
The more comfortable your children feel in what they’re wearing, the more natural and happy they’ll be in front of the camera. Make sure clothing fits well and isn’t itchy, stiff, or overly bulky. Bare feet are always welcome in the studio and give a sweet, relaxed vibe.
4. Layers and texture are your friends
Layered outfits add beautiful dimension to photos. Think of cardigans, overalls, rompers, or a soft swaddle for babies. Incorporate textures like cotton, linen, knitwear, or lace to add richness and detail without overwhelming the frame.
5. Coordinate, don’t match
Aim for complementary colors and tones across your family’s outfits rather than identical pieces. A coordinated look feels more natural and elevated. Lay the outfits out together ahead of time to see how they flow.
6. Plan for backups
If your child is still in the toddler or baby phase, bring along an extra outfit or two just in case. Accidents happen, and having a clean, styled backup will help keep things moving with ease.
7. Accessorize minimally
Small accessories like a soft bow, a knit bonnet, or a delicate headband can be lovely. Just keep it minimal and true to your style. Skip anything too large, colorful, or stiff that might distract from their expressions.
