Empowerment & Inclusion
Read more about the two powerhouses behind the CSRA’s first and only lingerie boutique.
Meet ashley gardner, boudoir photographer & Owner
Hi babes! I’m Ashley and I am so excited to introduce myself! I was born and raised in California and in 2018, I relocated to Augusta, Georgia and have been empowering women in the area ever since!
I had found a passion for photography when the oldest of my three kids was born and that was the start of my family photography business.
As much as I loved working with families, I always had an interest in Boudoir photography. Shortly before we moved to Augusta, I started doing more research into this new genre, and I began holding model calls to build my Boudoir portfolio. Once we moved to Augusta, I made it my goal to restart my photography business and go all in with Boudoir.
Since opening Boudoir by Ashley in 2019, I have fallen even deeper in love with not only boudoir but the way that it empowers women. I love to capture my clients in a way that is risqué and sensual, but allows them to feel powerful and confident in themselves. I am truly grateful for all of the incredible women and couples I have met through this career who have put their trust in me, and allowed me to be included in each of their journeys’.
I am so proud that I have not only been able to create a safe space, but to also provide an environment where inclusion and self expression are incredibly important.
Over the last 5 years, I have quickly become known for my dedication to my clients, and I hope that my mission to build self confidence and empowerment shows through with Serpent + Sage.
Meet Nick Davis, Manager & Makeup artist
Hey, I’m Nicki! I moved to Augusta in 2016 from North Georgia. In true Libra fashion, I’ve always had an affinity with all things beautiful. From nature, art, to fashion and eventually evolving into makeup. I started doing makeup in theatre and dabbling in SFX. I found true love in beauty and the power it holds for all the women I’ve met through it.
In 2019, I joined Ashley and that passion grew stronger. I never thought that lingerie would mean so much to me. It’s more than just a bit of lace but an outlet to expresmyself, my sexuality, and explore the beauty and solace that is body neutrality. I’m so incredibly grateful and excited to share a piece of my heart with everyone that walks through the Serpent + Sage doors!
our journey
Ashley and Nicki have worked together since Ashley started Boudoir by Ashley in 2019. They quickly developed a kindred sisterhood bonding over their similar interests in eclectic items and building confidence in their clients. For years Ashley and Nicki heard complaints from clients that there were no options for lingerie in the CSRA, andthe few options that did exist in the area did not offer any size inclusivity. Ashley and Nicki decided to solve this problem and bring amazing and inclusive lingerie options to the CSRA. In late 2023 they decided to open Serpent + Sage. The store name is inspired by a mythological power symbol and their love of all things ethereal and spicy.The Serpent, inspired by Lilith, represents the power and strength of the feminine spirt. She stands for rebellion, sensuality and individuality. Sage represents the love of all things whimsical and macabre, including sage bundles, witchy trinkets, tarot cards and other taboo items.
What Makes Us Different?
Women Owned
Inclusive
