Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Marcy Harris-Ortiz. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Marcy, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

Creativity was ingrained in my world, thanks to my father—an artist whose influence shaped my early years profoundly. Together, we explored art in its myriad forms, from learning to mix crayons to make the perfect skin tone in my Barbie coloring books to discovering the play of light and color in nature. His guidance taught me to see beauty where others might not, instilling a deep appreciation for visual storytelling and the transformative power of art.

However, life took a turn when my father moved away, leaving my mother—a dedicated mail carrier—to raise me single-handedly. Witnessing her tireless work ethic and the physical toll it took, I gained a stark understanding of the sacrifices required in traditional careers. It was clear early on that I didn’t want to follow in her footsteps; the post office was not where I saw my future.

Despite my passion for art, pursuing it professionally was daunting. My grandparents, pivotal figures in my upbringing, cautioned against it, citing financial challenges and the uncertainties of a creative career. These warnings were underscored by my father’s own struggles with addiction, highlighting the harsh realities of an artist’s life.

Yet, through it all, my love for art persisted, fueled by a deep-seated belief in its ability to empower and inspire. This journey has been a testament to resilience, navigating the complexities of pursuing a heart-led passion amidst practical concerns. Today, as a trauma informed boudoir photographer and yoga teacher, I merge my artistic vision with a mission to celebrate and empower women—a testament to the enduring influence of art in my life.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your background and context?

My journey into the world of boudoir photography is deeply rooted in my passion for celebrating the inherent beauty of every woman. Despite the challenges and uncertainties associated with pursuing a creative career, my determination to merge artistry with empowerment led me to establish Coterie Columbus Boudoir.

At Coterie Columbus Boudoir, we specialize in creating intimate and empowering boudoir photography experiences. Our services go beyond capturing stunning images; we provide a safe and supportive environment where women can embrace their bodies and celebrate their unique journeys. Whether it’s capturing the confidence of a new mother, commemorating a personal milestone, or simply affirming self-love, our goal is to empower every client through personalized, transformative photography sessions, self love coaching, retreats and in-person events.

What sets us apart is our commitment to authenticity and inclusivity. We believe that beauty transcends conventional standards, and our photography reflects this belief by celebrating diversity in all its forms. Each session is tailored to showcase the individuality and inner strength of our clients, ensuring that their experience is not just about photographs, but about a profound journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

I’m incredibly proud of the community we’ve built at Coterie Columbus Boudoir—a space where every woman feels seen, celebrated, and empowered. Through our work, we strive to redefine beauty standards and inspire self-confidence in every woman who walks through our doors.

For potential clients and followers, I want you to know that Coterie Columbus Boudoir is more than just a photography studio; it’s a transformative experience that celebrates your unique beauty and journey. We’re here to support and empower you every step of the way.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

A few years ago, my maternal grandmother was diagnosed with stage 4 terminal colon cancer. She had led a vibrant life, and her sudden illness shook our family to the core. Her passing just four months later was a profound loss that shattered my world. My grandmother had been a pillar in my life, shaping much of my personal identity. Her transition unearthed layers of grief and revealed deep-seated anxieties and panic attacks, which I struggled with for the first time.

During this dark period, I found myself unable to manage the demands of my creative career and withdrew from my business. Some days, even getting out of bed felt insurmountable. It was a time of deep introspection and profound sorrow. Yet, amid the darkness, I found solace in simple comforts—my husband’s support, the healing power of yoga, and the therapeutic act of tending to my garden.

Slowly, these small acts of self-care began to pull me from the depths of despair. This period became a catalyst for personal growth and rediscovery. I immersed myself in painting again and embarked on yoga teacher training, seeking to find new meaning and healing through these practices. What began as a period of profound loss and uncertainty ultimately led to a journey of rebirth and self-realization.

Through resilience and perseverance, I emerged stronger and more aligned with my true self. This experience taught me the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of healing. It was a journey that reshaped my perspective and deepened my commitment to empowering others through my work.

Is there a mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey was initially shaped by the influence of my grandparents, who cautioned against pursuing art as my life’s work—a caution that has proven true in many ways. A life in the arts is filled with both risks and rewards. Initially, my journey was driven by a need to prove myself—to demonstrate that art is a worthy pursuit, to overcome fears of following a path that might lead to struggles like those my father faced.

However, through periods of grief and profound darkness, I experienced miraculous transformation. I released the deep need for external validation and reclaimed that creativity is innate to each of us. We all crave the opportunity to express our true selves, to be seen, understood, and loved. This realization shifted my focus inward, towards self-acceptance and self-love as the foundation of my creative and personal growth.

Today, my creative journey is driven by a mission to empower others to embrace their authenticity. Through my work in boudoir photography and yoga, I strive to create spaces where women can reclaim their beauty and strength, starting from a place of inner acceptance and self love.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://coteriecolumbusboudoir.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/spiralingtothecenter
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spiralingtothecenter
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcyharrisortiz
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@marcyharris-ortiz1421
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/coterie-columbus-boudoir-canal-winchester
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/marcy-harris-ortiz
• Other: https://www.facebook.com/coteriecolumbusboudoir/
  https://www.facebook.com/themarcyharrisortiz/