In this empowering episode of The Audacious Founder, host Melissa Manning sits down with Nikki Watarz, a former mortgage broker turned full-time boudoir and branding photographer. Nikki shares her incredible journey of reigniting her passion for photography, building a business rooted in self-love, and helping women step into their power—one photoshoot at a time. From the transformative magic of boudoir to the importance of authentic personal branding, Nikki opens up about her pivot into entrepreneurship and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

• The power of boudoir photography in promoting self-love and body confidence

• How Nikki built her business from a creative hobby to a full-time career

• Why branding photos should reflect personality, not just professionalism

• The importance of creating a safe, private environment for photo sessions

• Using photography as a tool for empowerment, especially for women entrepreneurs

• Invest in visuals that truly reflect your brand and your personality

• Create a comfortable space (or seek one out) for any vulnerability-based service

• Leverage social media and communities for business growth and education

• Consider hiring a mentor to navigate the business side of your passion

• Don’t wait until you're ready—practice, learn, and launch anyway

• Boudoir by Nikki (Nikki’s studio)

• Nikki’s Instagram and website

• Facebook photography education groups

• Google Ads and mentorship for creative entrepreneurs

• [4:02] Nikki joins and shares her recent updates

• [6:48] Nikki’s official intro and business background

• [10:25] Melissa talks about her own boudoir shoot experience

• [13:21] What boudoir photography really is and why it’s powerful

• [18:10] Reclaiming your power through feeling good in your body

• [21:07] Why branding photos should be fun, vibrant, and full of YOU

• [24:18] Nikki’s leap from mortgage broker to full-time photographer

• [30:38] Inside Nikki’s cozy, empowering home studio

• [33:57] What’s in Nikki’s client closet (and why it matters)

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