Rachelle
5/5
One of the most amazing things about Sherbet Birdie is that their care doesnāt start when you walk through the doorāit starts the moment you book. I got a thoughtful pre-shoot survey asking about things like my clothing size, my preferred side of my face, and even allergies or food intolerances (which really matters when you're being served chocolate cake and champagne!).
They even ask if youāre someone whoās comfortable being hugged. That one small question really stuck with meāit just shows how much they genuinely care about peopleās comfort, whether youāre neurodivergent, a bit anxious, or just someone who values their personal space. And if you are someone who loves hugs, theirs are some of the warmest Iāve ever received.
Theyāve really thought of everything. Their wardrobe isnāt one-size-fits-allāitās inclusive, adjustable, and goes up to around a size 22. It means the curvy babes are not squeezed into something āclose enough.ā It felt like no matter your size you were part of the design, not an exception to it.
Walking into the studio is like being welcomed into someoneās cosy creative sanctuary. Thereās no rush or pressure. Youāre offered a tea or coffee, and greeted with big smiles from three of the kindest women Iāve met: Dianne, Marija, and Sacha. Dianne is insanely talented with hair and makeupālike, she makes you look in the mirror and do a double take. Marija helps you go through your photos afterward and never pressures you to buy more than you want (though youāll definitely be tempted). And Sacha⦠honestly, sheās this empowering, warm presence who makes you feel completely comfortable and confident in your body.
And then, thereās the shoot
From the moment you're helped into your costume (with the lovely team assisting you gently and respectfully), and your hair and makeup are done, itās hard not to feel like you've stepped into another world. Itās magical. Itās transformative. Itās not about vanity or content creation or portfolio-buildingāthough you could certainly use the photos for that. Itās about entering a dream space. Maybe you want to be a Marie Antoinette typeābold, opulent, and carefree. Maybe you see yourself as a Disney princess full of hope and light. Or a badass vampire, a witch, a goddess, a burlesque star, a retro pin-up, or something completely unique.
And yes, weāre all beautiful without makeup. But sometimes, having your beauty reflected back at you with artistryāthrough perfectly styled hair, custom clothing, and makeup that enhances whatās already thereācan help you remember who you are beneath all the stress and routines. It reminds you of your power.
And donāt worry if youāre not a natural at posingāSasha is amazing at gently guiding you through each setup. Sheās encouraging and clear, helping you find poses that feel comfortable and stunning. Walking into one of their custom-built sets is honestly surreal. The Marie Antoinette set in particular was jaw-droppingly beautifulāso much thought and effort went into every detail. It truly felt like I had stepped into a different century.
Yes, Sherbet Birdie might seem a little $$ st first but when you consider the level of artistry, emotional care, and empowerment they offer, itās more than worth it. They also offer payment plans, which makes the experience even more accessible š
This isnāt just a photoshoot. Itās a celebration of you. A chance to see yourself through a new, beautiful lens. And I truly cannot recommend it enough.