Real Women of Rochester | Erin Julian
Erin Julian | Age: 39 | Marketing Maven | @erinleighjulian
Q: Tell us about your journey through womanhood.
A: It's a journey, right? It is hard and fun and ongoing. There are days when I think I have it all figured out and then... well, that will teach me to think I have it all figured out.
In January 2017, I had to have a hysterectomy. It changes how I saw myself as a woman and how I felt. I had a period of time when I felt that I was less than. It was hard to shake, especially when my body felt so different.
These photos are proof that I am not less than. I am still the same woman. How powerful is that?
Q: What would you say to another woman who may be going through something you've been through?
A: We all experience things so differently. It is hard to imagine how one woman's experience would feel to her, as it did to me. All we can do is support each other and hope for the best.
Q: What surprised you most about your photography experience?
A: It was so easy and exhilarating. In the moment, I was so wrapped up in the little details. It is hard to imagine how it will look when you are positioning your body in a particular way. Then, Natalie shows you the shot on her camera, and you are like, "Oh, that is why I just did that." It is so neat to see it all come together.
Q: How do you feel when you look at your favorite photo of yourself from your shoot?
A: I feel glamorous. I sometimes forget it is even me.
Q: What would you share with a woman who doesn't think she is beautiful enough to be photographed?
A: That is bullshit. It just is. We are all beautiful. There is no "maybe when." The time is now. Capture your best self today.
Q: What message would you like to share with other women?
A: We need to support each other and build each other up. It makes all the difference in the world. I have so many strong, fierce, powerful women in my life. I have so much gratitude for all of them. They have helped shape me and continue to do so. What a gift. We just need to do that for each other, everyday.
Q: What are your thoughts on beauty?
A: Beauty starts on the inside and with self-love. It's not easy, it's work; however, it is the best work you can ever do.
Q: What are your hopes for the next generation of women? What advice would you give to them?
A: I hope that the world we are creating today is a place that offers hope, joy, love, and opportunity. As far as advice goes, I would offer this: always stand up for yourself!
Q: What would you say to your sixteen year old self?
A: It gets better.
Q: What empowering message would you like to share with young women today?
A: Spend less time on doubt and worry; it gets you no where. Spend more time on the things that give you joy.
Q: What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome career-wise as a woman?
A: When you struggle with self-worth, it can make others take you for granted. That was a hard work environment to be in and it wasn't until I was no longer there that I realized that I was doing great work and added value.
Q: What's the most empowering experience you've had as a woman?
A: The first time Natalie photographed me, I felt more empowered than I ever have. I saw myself that way that many others had and I just never believed it or felt it. It was an incredible day that will stay with me forever.
Q: When do you feel the most beautiful?
A: Right after I get out of the shower. It is just me, in the purest form. I love when I get to put on a fancy dress (and that doesn't suck), but I love the simplicity too.
Q: What do you love about being a woman?
A: Everything!
