Welcome to Blush Studio
Our talented team has been working with thousands of clients for over a decade now in our historic “little house” – the oldest building in Downtown Dayton, Ohio! Continue below to learn more about us, and then be sure to join our private FB group Blush Boudoir VIP – an online community where you’ll find our latest testimonials posted by past clients, helpful beauty and fashion tips, fun giveaways and a SUPPORTIVE community of strong women cheering each other on!
Tracy Pote
Photographer / Co-Owner
“I’ve been a professional photographer since 2001 and have always had a passion for photography and making people feel beautiful. As a wedding photographer I started getting requests from my clients for intimate pictures for their husbands-to-be. After several sessions I received many cards and emails expressing what an amazing time they had, with comments like ‘I have never felt more gorgeous or confident before’ and ‘these images brought me to tears’, I knew I was on to something, and in 2006 Blush Boudoir was born. Even then, I knew that I wanted to make a boudoir session something that a woman does for herself – from the glamorous experience of the professional make-up and hair, the fun of the actual shoot, and finally – to having stunning pictures that show each of my clients as her best and most beautiful self.
”I absolutely love shooting beauty and boudoir photography, and finding the right balance for each client. My camera can reveal things when words can simply not describe those real moments that happen with each session. But a Blush Boudoir experience is about so much more than the photographs – it can be a transformational experience for any woman. I truly believe my passion for making my clients feel at ease in front of the camera and bringing out the best in each and every one of them is the key to my success, and the reason many of my clients have come back for their second and even third shoots.” – Tracy
Jessica Hites
Photographer
“I was in the 6th grade when I received my first film camera, and once I snapped my first roll of film and saw what I captured, I was in love. Ever since then I knew what my life’s passion and future career would be – it’s a love that I never want to stop learning from! In 2010 with the support of my loving husband, I started Jessica Ashley Photography, and since then I’ve grown and found my voice in a field so full of wonderful artists. I did my own Blush Boudoir session in 2014 and knew it was something I would love to capture/create myself as a photographer. I just loved the way I felt before, during & after; it was such a freeing experience that all women should have at least once in their lives. I am thrilled to be a part of this wonderful Blush team since 2016 where I help other women see their own beauty! ”
– Jessica
Payton Abston
Makeup Artist & Hairstylist
“I’ve had a passion for makeup artistry since being in high school. After completing my professional training at L Makeup Institute in Las Vegas, I stayed and continued to work in the industry there, working for high profile clients like Cirque du Soleil and Ms. Nevada. In late 2020, I moved back to Ohio to join the Blush Boudoir beauty team and offer my freelance services including professional makeup artistry, makeup classes and spray tanning. I absolutely love transforming our clients at Blush and bringing out their true beauty to be captured in photos!” – Payton
Trista Noe
Makeup Artist & Hairstylist
“While attending the Orange County High School of the Arts in Santa Ana, CA as a theater major, I discovered my passion for makeup artistry while taking a required stage makeup course. I realized I loved the behind the scenes aspect of performances more than anything else. My passion led me to Las Vegas, NV where I attended L Makeup Institute and received a certification in TV/Film/Photography makeup. I have been doing makeup in the Dayton/Cincinnati area ever since. I am skilled at doing natural makeup for weddings and senior portraits, but absolutely love to do the more dramatic, sexy looks of a boudoir session. I have also been a freelance artist for companies such as Vincent Longo, Bare Minerals, and Calvin Klein. I am so excited to be part of the talented Blush Boudoir team, and for the opportunity to make every client gorgeous!” – Trista
Alex Everette
Hairstylist
Alex had no idea he wanted to do hair, however little did he know that in 2005 he’d start in the beauty industry and be right at home. He began his career in Huntington, WV where he served as artistic director at Lee David Salon. In 2011, he became a national educator for Paul Mitchell and through the surge in the men’s grooming market was known as one of the go-to’s for men’s hairstyling. This not only helped him become a top requested in-salon educator, but solidified his onstage presence from Cleveland to Las Vegas, and even Mexico and Canada. In 2019 he started his association with Aveda through Square One and the next year joined Blush Studio!
Chelsie Walhay
Hairstylist & Makeup Artist
“I’ve always had a passion for hair and makeup and anything beauty related. I graduated in 2014 from the Premier Academy of Cosmetology in Tulsa. Upon graduation and moving back to Ohio I started right away in the bridal industry offering bridal hair & makeup services. I love giving brides their moment on such a magical day and I’m passionate about continuing education and learning new techniques and skills. I got back behind the chair in 2021 at Let’s Do Makeup & Hair in Oakwood and Blush Studio where I’m excited to create the perfect look for our clients!” – Chelsie
Billy Pote
Studio Manager / Co-Owner
“I actually started my life with Blush Studio as the landlord for the current studio when I met Tracy in January 2010. Little did I know at the time that one day we would start dating and eventually become partners in business as well as life! I’ve been managing the studio since 2012, including client communications, accounting, scheduling, technology, marketing and yes – fixing things and ALWAYS painting walls at the studio! – Billy
