We love celebrating mamas in any way we can. And today’s feature definitely includes one beautiful mama-to-be in one incredibly beautiful, regal winter maternity session. These images of Tierra taken by The Nashville Photographer illustrate her journey to motherhood. Not only are we obsessed with her gorgeous gowns, but the glowing love she exudes is as bright as all the natural light popping through Blanc Studio West-Nashville. Take a peek at some highlights from this day and read more about Tierra’s journey to motherhood below.
Tell us about you guys as a couple/family!
Tierra: I’m Tierra, a single mama of my soon-to-be mini me Tiegan Elise. We will become a family in January 2022!
What was the moment like when you found out you were pregnant?
Tierra: I was in complete disbelief when I found I was pregnant. I had a miscarriage in 2020 and never thought I’d be able to get pregnant once, better yet twice! None of my circumstances made since for me to have a baby, but my little gift is thriving, and I can’t wait to embark on my new journey of motherhood.
How did you announce you were pregnant to your family/friends?
Tierra: Honestly, I could not hold water, so I told my family and friends simply via phone and text. I did, however have a reveal photoshoot done after we passed 12 weeks, which is when I lost my first baby. I was able to make a social media post that my rainbow baby was coming soon. I felt it was important to share on social media, as so many supported me during my loss, and I became an advocate for other women who experienced loss.
How has your family reacted to your pregnancy?
Tierra: My family was quite shocked at first because of the unorthodox situation, but the love and support that we have received has been so overwhelming. Tiegan will truly be raised by a village, a bunch of boss women, and immediate family that are so excited for the first granddaughter/niece.
How has your pregnancy been so far?
Tierra: Whew that’s quite the question and I’m going to be completely honest, pregnancy hasn’t been the time of my life. I am a strong advocate that we should normalize not liking pregnancy but loving the baby. I thought something was wrong with me because I didn’t feel a glow, a connection with my baby, or like being pregnant. Pregnancy is tough and glamorized! A pregnancy after a loss is just not easy and no one talks about it. First trimester- I was weak, tired, alone, could only eat crackers and ginger ale and extremely anxious. I really lacked a connection with my baby because I feared getting my heartbroken. Second trimester- Blissful because other people knew I was pregnant, and I felt extremely supported. I regained energy and was able to sing again. During this time, I finally started to bond with my baby; however, I suffered extreme chest pain, no sleep, round ligament pain, and some other stuff I’ll spare the details. Third trimester- Whew just rough! I can’t sleep at all. I have been sleep sitting up since my second trimester. Anxiety, chest pain, Braxton-Hicks, swelling, and having to make tough decisions as a single mama about labor and delivery and navigating the pandemic has been rough. Overall, even if it seems like I’m complaining to some, I am extremely excited to meet my daughter and I’m grateful for this opportunity.
How far along are you in the maternity photos?
Tierra: I was 33 weeks in my maternity photos! I wanted to have a nice sized bump, but not miserable throughout the shoot.
How did you come up with your concept/location for your photos?
Tierra: At first, I wanted to go simple with my maternity shoot, but my sister convinced me that this would be my only child so let’s go all out! I’m glad I took her advice. I wanted an indoor backdrop modern vintage aesthetics that wasn’t just a plain colored backdrop. After looking at many Airbnb’s searching for a claw tub, vintage mirror, big windows, I’m so glad that I stumbled upon the Blanc Studio West -Nashville! This studio is such a gem in Nashville. I already ordered my yellow dress from Amazon, and it really popped off the canvas. My overall thought process for the shoot was magazine portraits, regal vibes, and embodying motherhood!
What was it like during the shoot working with the photographer?
Tierra: Sharon was amazing to work with! I have admired her newborn work from afar for years and I’m so excited she will be able to capture both my pregnancy journey and my new bundle of joy. She truly documented my pregnancy better than I could have ever imagined. She captured a glow that I just couldn’t see just looking in the mirror. I’m so thankful for her craft! Also, when you book a maternity session with her you have the choice to choose from her maternity gowns.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your maternity shoot?
Tierra: I’d be remiss to not mention a tremendous help agent in the city that has allowed me to truly feel as confident as I did during my maternity shoot. The Hope Clinic for Women has helped rebuild me mentally, emotionally, and physically. There wouldn’t have been a maternity shoot to feature without them providing so many resources that I get to receive as a member of their Bridge Program including counseling, mentorship, parenting classes and more! Huge thanks to them.
Tierra, you’re a rockstar and we’re so excited for you! Thank you so much for sharing your regal winter maternity session with us.
