Celebrating Sisters & Friends
in photography
San Jose photographer
Celebrating September Birthdays
in photography
“Her soul is fierce, her heart is brave, her mind is strong.” -Unknown
Every year of life is a gift worth celebrating - happiest of birthdays to one of my awesome September birthday clients, the beautiful Julie!
Image by Heartbox Photography
Re-Ignite Vision
in photography
Inspiration really can come from everywhere.
Movies.
A walk outside.
Dance.
Sketching on a whiteboard.
A conversation.
Taking a nap.
A quote.
Books.
A little boredom.
It's funny how seemingly unrelated things like these actually influence business processes...
Spark creativity...
Generate new ideas...
Sharpen vision...
Carve out solutions...
And ultimately re-ignite vision.
Image by Heartbox Photography
International Women's Day 2022
in photography
How proud I am to serve and encourage women. To remind them of their voice, their possibilities.
March is when we celebrate International Women’s Day. And as I look at the faces of just some of the women I have been privileged to photograph over the years, I am in awe of the beauty seen in various stories that weave together a sweet reminder of how proud I am to be a woman.
Images | Heartbox Photography
#InternationalWomensDay2022
New Year, New You 2022 Headshots
in photography
Happy New Year, everyone!
To kick off the celebration of this new year, I am excited to once again offer the New Year, New You 2022 Gift Card below that may be used towards any of the Business Headshot Packages from Heartbox Photography!
First impressions are everything so whether it's for Linked-In, your company website, or any online social media presence - why not step forward confidently with a headshot you can be proud to use in 2022?
This offer expires February 28 so if you have questions or are looking to book your session,
visit this link and choose a date/time for your consultation today.
Cheers to new beginnings in 2022!
Lisa Riggs | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
in photography
“It’s making a difference in the world that prevents me from ever giving up.”
-Deborah Meier
It is my honor to share with you all this month more about the CEO, Founder, and woman behind the Bay Area-based company, Spirit Sox USA.
Phenomenal women are everywhere and Lisa Riggs is no exception. She comes from a long line of entrepreneurs (her grandfather started his own jam and jelly company!) and is the first in her family to move from food-industry based entrepreneurship to socks! Spirit Sox USA helps fuel fundraisers for organizations in various industries and non-profits, both locally and nationally.
She has also been featured as a podcast guest on Blue Roads Education Group, School Zone Podcast, and Enterprise Podcast Network. In addition to being affectionately known as the “Sock Queen”, Lisa is also a proud mother, wife, and loyal Bay Area fan of both the 49ers and Giants!
Image | Heartbox Photography
Hair & Makeup | Daisy Gonzalez-Duarte of Beautiful One Makeup Artistry
***
“I founded Spirit Sox USA about 5 years ago. We are a certified woman owned company that customizes socks uniquely for each customer. My true goal is to make the world a better place 1 sock at a time and that's why I do what I do and donate 5% of my profits to helping underserved communities.
On a personal note, I've been married almost 25 years and am enjoying empty nest more than I expected with my husband! My son, Mitchell, is 20 and attends UCI, majoring in Chemistry with a goal of saving the planet with chemistry. My daughter, Kayla, is 19 and will be a sophomore at Cornell, studying communications and already an editor for the Cornell Sun and blog writer for the Women's Network. We love our animals! Our 2 rescue dogs, Tucker and Callie, our 30 year old box turtle, Henry, and our 5 fantail goldfish! In my spare time I love to exercise, enjoy the outdoors, go to the beach and read. My happy place is swimming with the sea turtles in Maui!”
What has your journey looked like personally/professionally to get to where you are now?
“I had to grow a lot personally in order to grow professionally. I'm a perfectionist and perfectionists do not like to fail. Do you know the % of startups that fail? 90%. So my personal growth which included confidence in myself and my abiilites as well as overcoming, or even embracing, the fear of failure. I have to admit Google search is my friend - it's amazing what I have been able to teach myself from full Photoshop skills to how to build a business!”
What do you enjoy about what you do? What are some of the challenges?
“Honestly, my favorite part of my job is helping my customers improve their community or area of the world. Who would think a pair of socks can make the world a better place?!
But time after time, I've seen my customers raise money with their sock fundraisers to fight teen suicide, support Down Syndrome, raise awareness for mental health, fund cancer reasearch on so on."
My main challenge is being a one woman show, not because I'm a woman, but because I wear so many hats. I did get funding to start this company so I truly have built it from the ground up. As we've grown, I've been able to hire contractors to take on roles in the company but I just never seem to have enough time to get it all done.”
Knowing what you know now, what would you tell your 18 year old self?
“My 18 year old self always focused on the negatives about myself rather than the positives. Thankfully I when I went to college I found both my indepence and the start of my self confidence. So if I could talk to her now I'd say: Be kinder to yourself. Enjoy the moment. Have confidence in YOU.”
What do you appreciate most about your life now/what are you most proud of?
“My family 100%. I am so proud of my kids for their intelligence, their accomplishments and most importantly for the genuinely good humans that they are. I'm also very proud of my husband and I who have our 25th anniversary approaching and worked our tails off to create a loving and happy household for our family. As we all know it's not always easy, but it sure is worth it.”
Who inspires you and why?
“My dad has always been my biggest inspiration. He's so smart and confident but also one of the kindest, most thoughtful people you will ever meet. He's run and sold multiple companies so he is tough in the boardroom but a softy with babies and dogs and his grandchildren, too! I come from a family of entrepreneurs. My grandfather started his own jam and jelly company. My dad started a strawberry company. And as the 1st female entrepreneur I took us out of food and into socks!”
A fun or surprising fact about yourself?
“Fun fact: I have a 30 year old box turtle named Henry. He is my sidekick and I love him dearly! Also, I am a sports nut! Die hard 49er and Giants fan. We've had season tickets to the Niners for 31 years and I rarely miss a game!”
If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?
“Honestly, I think I'd like to meet Oprah. She has overcome so many barriers and failures to be the household name that she is while always retaining her class and her authenticity. She is someone women of all ages and colors can look to as a role model.”
Yael Rakib | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
Yael is the founder and owner of The Law Office of Yael Rakib. As an estate planning attorney, this incredibly accomplished woman continues making a great impact in the lives of countless families, but the first thing you will immediately notice even more is that she is the most proud to be a mother to her little girl.
Family is everything to Yael and it drives her passion to work in the field that she does. I recently had the opportunity to create new images for her company’s website and the most fun part was to include her sweet daughter as well in these photographs. Yael and I both agreed that her daughter definitely stole the show! It is my honor to share with you all some of the images from this fun photoshoot and also a little more about this phenomenal mother and attorney, Yael Rakib.
Images | Heartbox Photography
Hair & makeup | Daisy Gonzalez-Duarte of Beautiful One Makeup Artistry
*****
“I am a single mom to a smart, fun and sassy five year old girl who keeps me on my toes. She’s the reason I branched out on my own and started my estate planning and probate practice. I’m passionate about helping people plan their legacies. Whether you’re a parent who wants to give everything to their kids or if you’re single and have charitable intent and everything in between, I want to help you achieve your goals.
“I am also uniquely situated because of my own life experiences to understand the situations of others who are going through divorce, those responsible for loved ones struggling with substance abuse, and parents of blended families. I use my education and experience to help you create an estate plan which fits your individual situation.”
“I started my legal career in child welfare law and I found after some time that this was not my passion. I had a friend tell me once that she thought my superpower is how much capacity I have to care for others and, unfortunately, empathy made it very emotionally difficult to work in this field. A mentor of mine introduced me to estate planning and, due to the necessity for flexibility as a single mom, I had to start my own practice. It took guts and grit, but I’m glad every day that I did it. This process also inspired me to mentor other young female attorneys who need the extra guidance and inspiration to strike out on their own.”
What do you enjoy about what you do? What are some of the challenges?
“I really enjoy meeting new people and putting their minds at ease about the uncertainties following what should happen to their assets if they lost capacity or died. Some of the challenges are that this area of practice does not work in a vacuum — there are intersections with family law, business law, intellectual property, even international law. But, it is very satisfying finding answers to new questions, expanding my knowledge and meeting new people along the way from whom I can learn.”
Knowing what you know now, what would you tell your 18 year old self?
“I would tell my 18 year old self not to wait for the “right time” to come along. My father is an entrepreneur and I always looked up to him. I used to think that when the time was right, that I would know that I was ready to do something on my own, much like he had. The truth is, there is never a “right time” and it always takes guts and hard work to accomplish big dreams.”
What do you appreciate most about your life now/what are you most proud of?
“My family, my friends, my clients and my colleagues.
I have really good people in my life and I strive every day to make them proud and to give back to them.”
Who inspires you and why?
“I have been very fortunate to have many sources of inspiration. I’ve already mentioned my father because he was a role model in starting my own business. Now-a-days, my father continues to inspire me to work harder and achieve more. My mother inspires me to be more kind and patient. My daughter inspires me to be a better role model and to overcome challenges. My siblings inspire me to accept and love myself. My friends inspire me to be more selfless. My colleagues inspire me to learn more, and to teach others, as well as provide others with opportunities.”
A fun or surprising fact about yourself?
“I can squat over 200lbs!”
If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?
“Ruth Bader Ginsberg because of her strength and success in breaking down barriers.”
A Celebration of Black Excellence | Black History Month 2021
in photography
“We've learned that quiet isn't always peace
And the norms and notions
of what just is
Isn't always justice
And yet the dawn is ours
before we knew it
Somehow we do it
Somehow we've weathered and witnessed
a nation that isn't broken
but simply unfinished
We the successors of a country and a time
Where a skinny Black girl
descended from slaves and raised by a single mother
can dream of becoming president
only to find herself reciting for one
And yes we are far from polished
far from pristine
but that doesn't mean we are
striving to form a union that is perfect
We are striving to forge a union with purpose”
***
-Amanda Gorman
Excerpt from 2021 inaugural poem “The Hill We Climb”
Images | Heartbox Photography
A Journey of Learning & The Importance of Cheerleaders
in photography
“My journey was that of learning. I was always a very curious being, always looking for opportunities to learn more… about everything. This has really allowed me the courage to start my own entrepreneurial journey. I was never alone on that journey. I was surrounded with people who love me and they were my biggest supporters and cheer leaders.”
Image | Heartbox Photography
Hair & Makeup | Kat Tinney
Dr. Shea Lindsay | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
in photography
“Your body hears everything your mind says.”
-Naomi Judd
I think one of my favorite things about Shea is that when we first connected over a Zoom conference call a few months ago, I learned she was just as passionate about all things involving holistic health as I was. When someone else can understand and get excited with you about the healing properties of vegetables, well, in my book, they deserve a high-five. =)
Dr. Shea Lindsey is founder primary practitioner of the Chiropractic and Functional Living Boutique here in Menlo Park. Using the chiropractic technique, Network Spinal, she helps patients heal from past physical and emotional traumas, become more adaptable to stresses, as well as give them the tools and resources to replace old patterns with new more optimal life strategies.
Joining us on the photoshoot was none other than her sweet son, Liam. It was a beautiful summer day and being able to create images that also captured the essence of Dr. Shea as a mother was a wonderful reminder of the joys that still very much continue to exist.
I am honored to share the latest profile on this incredible woman, wife, mother, and healer - Dr. Shea Lindsay.
Images | Heartbox Photography
***
Can you tell me a bit about you as a person (your own life journey thus far), what inspired you to start your company, and what you find most rewarding about your work?
“Honestly, I’ve always been a super sensitive person, sensitive to other peoples energy, food, stress, chemicals…you name it. I think because of that, I was extremely anxious and experienced headaches for most of my life. Thankfully, I had a mother who was very knowledgeable about holistic health and present in my life. She really helped me shape a healthy perspective about my sensitivity. “
“New England born and raised, I found my way to California to make a change and to start my life. After personal training and teaching fitness classes for about a year, I decided to start my doctorate in Chiropractic. There I learned about an amazing gentle technique, Network Spinal that helped people liberate their bodies from trauma allowing them to live with more freedom. It ended up changing my whole relationship to anxiety!”
“I started my own practice after working for a doctor for a few years because I knew if I branched out on my own it would be scary, but worth it! I have been practicing in Redwood City for 2 years helping to align peoples spines and help them liberate their own traumas and tension.
I love what I do because I get to watch people transform everyday and become more aligned with their truest and most authentic self.”
Who or what 3 things have helped shape you to be the woman you are today and the woman you are becoming?
“Moving to California was a very important part of my journey. That is where I began to truly grow into my own.
My soul sister Lindsay helped guide me towards chiropractic school and Network spinal. I feel like this step was so important in my evolution to who I am today.
My daughter Sage was an unexpected pregnancy 3 years ago. Being pregnant with her transformed me! When she passed away, my whole life changed. Her gift of life and death woke me up to my own purpose and passion in life. Because of her, I am more on purposed and open than I have ever been.”
Best advice you ever received?
“Follow your knowing. It is always there for you to access when you need it.”
What do you appreciate most about your life now?
“My family. We have the most amazing son who is 7 months old. My husband and I have been able to be home a lot, so this last few months have been the sweetest time together. “
DJ Express | A Celebration of Black Excellence
in photography
“Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul.”
-Plato
I have always thought there was a whole new level of cool whenever I hear a woman is in an occupation that is more commonly filled by men. The list is endless of these types of occupations, and no doubt, being a DJ is one of them.
Meet DJ Express.
Beneath this San Jose native’s quiet demeanor lies a deep love and passion for all kinds of music and for me, a Bay Area native who also believes that music truly does have a soul language all it’s own, you can just imagine how excited I was to have her and her work represented in this series.
In our time together, I got to learn a little more about her journey as a DJ, her inspirations as an artist, her hopes as a young professional, post collegiate years, and her family background as an Eritrean black woman.
An early morning photoshoot in some of my favorite areas of downtown San Jose getting to know this awesome individual was, needless to say, one of the best ways to spend a Saturday.
I am honored to share with you all today’s spotlight profile on this talented and incredible woman, DJ Express.
Images | Heartbox Photography
***
Tell us a bit more about your background - where are you from, what inspired you to be a DJ?
“[I was] born and raised in San Jose, CA – the daughter of two Eritrean immigrants. There are two DJs I met at events in the East Bay Area that inspired me to take this seriously: Eden Hagos – an Eritrean woman DJ that had one of the most versatile yet well-mixed sets I’ve listened to and another DJ that was able to read and vibe off his crowd in a way I haven’t seen DJs do in a long while.”
“[I am most proud of] being able to identify myself as an Eritrean black woman. I am proud of the bloodline I’m from and being able to live my purpose representing my people.”
What is something most people might now know about you?
“Love musicals and Broadway. Going to performing arts schools growing up, I had a chance to participate and grew to love the production that goes behind these shows.”
***
Can you tell me about someone who has had a huge influence on your life? What lessons did that person teach you?
“My dad and brothers play a huge influence my life. Each of them pursued goals that others would say are unthinkable, then achieved them, usually being the first in their specialties to do so. Their persistence, drive, humility, and faith in God have always reminded me to stay true to my vision.”
***
What is the best advice you've ever received?
“People have the right to hate you for no reason.” - my dad
“They say every man is defined by his reaction to any given situation. Well, who would you want to define you…someone else? Or yourself? Whatever you do homie, give your heart to it, and stay strong.” - The late, “Tha Great” Nipsey Hussle.”
Who/what inspires you and why?
“Jadav Payeng – who spent 37 years of his life planting trees to restore the oasis he grew up on in Majuli island which was destroyed due to human deforestation.
Every day (for about a total of 13,505 times) this man would walk to the destroyed barren and plant a tree. Mr. Payeng single handedly grew a forest twice the size of Central Park and brought back hundreds of animals to the oasis.”
“When I feel hopeless about the current climate, I think about him, and ways I can create daily habits that will lead to accomplishing a greater purpose.”
***
If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?
“Archbishop Desmund Tutu – to have a conversation with him regarding how his faith lead him during the apartheid in South Africa.”
***
What does "honoring and celebrating black excellence" mean to you?
“As a DJ , I honor and celebrate black excellence by making sure I buy from/work with black businesses, support and promote black creatives on my radio show/sets, unapologetically work with venues that respect their black patrons and wear and accessorize items that I’ve bought from black business owners during my live sets. (I.E. glasses, makeup and earrings in this photoshoot were purchased from black women-owned businesses.)”
Dr. Mayen Udoetuk | A Celebration of Black Excellence
in photography
“Who you are surrounded by often determines who you become.”
-Vicky Saunders
“Honored” doesn’t even come close to fully describing how I feel as I continue to be privileged to meet and learn more about women like Dr. Mayen Udoetuk.
My first connection with her was about a year ago at a panel discussion she organized here in the Silicon Valley addressing the topic of women in leadership and diversity and inclusion. I was one of the members in the audience and what I remembered walking away with was an even more solidified belief that women have much value to bring to the table and to the discussion. I think that having a willingness to learn is one of the greatest attributes in a true leader and Dr. Udoetuk, having led such an important discussion, is an example of that.
She is no doubt a role model in many respects for others and to have her included in this series that celebrates Black excellence inspires me deeply - to do work that is meaningful, to see the richness in people’s stories, and to be extremely thankful for the people who have helped me along my own path.
Without further ado, I am proud to share with you today’s spotlight on Dr. Mayen Udoetuk.
Images | Heartbox Photography
***
“I'm from Houston, Texas. I first fell in love with chemistry from listening to my mom explain the world around me, but also from watching countless episodes of "Bill Nye The Science Guy" and "The Magic School Bus". After years of undergraduate training, summers spent in various university research labs, and conducting on-campus research during each semester, I earned my BS in Chemistry.
Afterwards, I went directly into a Master degree program for Microelectronics-photonics (a type of engineering). Though I was initially intrigued by that field and the bioanalytical chemistry research I was conducting at the time, I became more interested in what was happening to me psychologically during such a strenuous learning process. That's when I found out about educational psychology. Since then, I've earned a Masters and a Doctorate in the field, and have crafted my career around it.
I'm most proud of my resilience, my humanity, and my creativity. Each one of these attributes has helped me thrive when I wanted to give up, to be humble enough to ask for and receive assistance when needed, and to exemplify creative problem solving in my personal and professional lives. “
What is something most people might not know about you?
“There's a lot people don't know about me. One thing I don't mind sharing is that despite my extrovert tendencies, I'm an introvert through and through. Most people also don't know that I'm a creative regarding resin work, flower pressing, dancing, playing piano, and drawing. I've spent so much of my life being focused on my career that I never really shared those aspects of myself until recently.”
Can you tell me about someone who has had a huge influence on your life? What lessons did that person teach you?
“I've been blessed with so many people who have had huge, positive influences on my life. To name a few: Dr. Jim Hammons introduced me to the world of education and how to thrive in it; my mentors and good friends Dr. Carol Bunch Davis, Dr. Liz Borda, and Dr. Juan Sanchez taught me to lean into my strengths and be accounted for with each new professional milestone and challenge; my mom and good friend Dr. Kenyatta Dawson taught me to embrace my creative self wholeheartedly; my mom and dad taught me to be courageous when taking calculated risks; and my inner circle of "sista friends" taught me what it means to cultivate sisterhood.”
If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?
“I'd love to meet my maternal great -grandmother and grandmother, as well as my paternal grandmother. I can only imagine the warnings and wisdom they'd share.”
“The people who inspire me most are those that came from very little or nothing, yet still found a way to make something extraordinary with their lives while also blessing others in the process.
When you're raised in an environment that focuses on survival, it's extremely difficult to evolve your mindset and behavior. Those that find a way out of vicious cycles for themselves and for others through constructive means are the true MVPs.”
***
What does honoring and celebrating Black excellence mean to you personally?
“Honoring and celebrating Black excellence is alchemy exemplified. Alchemy is "a seemingly magical process of transformation, creation, or combination". Or, to put it plainly, taking nothing and making it something.
There's no doubt in my mind that is indeed Black excellence.
We honor and celebrate it by not letting the work of our ancestors be in vain as we build upon their legacies while creating our own.”
Corina | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
in photography
“She is a queen. Her soul is royalty.”
-Adrian Michael
Corina is the example of a queen that is well loved by her family.
I immediately noticed her quiet and steady smile as well as a laugh that was easily expressed in any given moment. Needless to say, it was a joy to spend some time getting to know her and create a photoshoot that celebrated Corina as the matriarch of her family, her recent birthday, and just the fact that she loved her life as it has shaped out to be.
Her family gifted her this photoshoot and needless to say, it was an honor to be chosen to capture such a beautiful and strong woman on camera not only for images that will be forever part of their family legacy, but also for images that will always remind Corina to celebrate everyday and every season of her life.
I am so proud to share with you all a few of Corina’s beautiful images and a behind the scenes look into her experience with Heartbox Photography.
Special thanks to Becky Lau of Beautiful One Makeup Artistry for Corina’s styling on this special day!
And last, but not least, Corina’s note to her family:
“My special thanks to Denise, Mayra, Luis and my husband Alonso for this great experience to capture in photographs this moments that we will treasure in years to come. “
“I am so grateful I started early to have a family. This year is so special to me. I turned 50 and had our 35th wedding anniversary.
My oldest grandson is 10 years old now. Now we are experiencing the empty next and we are ready to move forward.”
“Beauty comes in all colors, shapes, and sizes.
God created us as life givers. Even if a woman does not have children, she still can create or give life to someone else.
We are full of love. Beauty comes form our inner selfs.
Confidence is the acceptance of who you are created to be.”
“The best advise I ever received was to persevere.
Remaining there gets results.”
What do you appreciate most
about your life now?
“Now, I have more time for myself. “
Sarah, Anna, and Rosie | Mothers and Daughters | 2019
in photography
Mothers of daughters
are daughters of mothers
and have remained so in circles joined to circles,
since time began.
-Signe Hammer
Sarah is a wife, mother, and the founder/owner of Hey Presto!, a personal concierge services company based here in the Bay Area. It was my privilege to be able to not only have her come in for for updated headshots that represent her and her company, but also to capture a moment in time with her and her two beautiful daughters.
I love when women make the decision to not only step out in front of the camera for themselves, but also bring in their daughters with them for the photoshoot. A day of hair/makeup and pampering is always fun, but what makes this even more memorable is that these images are ones they will keep for a lifetime. It represents capturing a special moment in time with Sarah and her daughters, especially because time is so fleeting and children grow so fast. So why not add to the legacy and images of family memories for years to come with photos that celebrated a mother and her girls - the women of the family.
Here’s to mothers and daughters everywhere, to existing in photographs forever.
Images | Heartbox Photography
Hair/makeup | Katie Pheneger
How has having daughters changed you as a woman?
It's a journey of course and I guess this is true of parenting in general but being a role model to any young person is both scary and a privilege. I’m learning that each time you think you solve an issue, or get through a ‘phase', a new one takes its place. I’ve become more patient, and have learnt to trust my instinct. Oh, and to appreciate the small moments!
What are some things that you would want your daughters and other young girls want to know with regards to beauty, self-confidence, and growing up as a woman in today's world?
If only all these girls knew how amazing they are, and what potential they have. I want them to know that if you believe in yourself anything is possible. Don’t let anyone tell you you’re not good enough, not smart enough, not pretty enough. You will have to work hard for your opportunities, but when you see one, be fierce and bold and grab it with both hands! Don’t regret the things you’ve done, regret the ones you haven’t!
What are some things that you would want your daughters and other young girls want to know with regards to beauty, self-confidence, and growing up as a woman in today's world?
If only all these girls knew how amazing they are, and what potential they have. I want them to know that if you believe in yourself anything is possible.
Don’t let anyone tell you you’re not good enough, not smart enough, not pretty enough. You will have to work hard for your opportunities, but when you see one, be fierce and bold and grab it with both hands! Don’t regret the things you’ve done, regret the ones you haven’t!
Are there things you hope will change by the time your daughters are your age?
Besides world peace, a halt to climate change, and equality for all!?!
Actually, I find it difficult to imagine what their lives will be like in 30 years time. Technology will surely evolve and who knows what the world will look like then. It has made life easier in so many ways, and I love that our wider family is spread all over the world but that we are still in each others’ daily lives with the wonders of the internet, FaceTime and email.
But at the same time I hope technology won’t make the world too ’small’ and discourage them from having real-world adventures and travel. You can learn so much online but nothing can replace a real-life, in-person experience.
Can you tell me a bit about you and what inspired you to start Hey Presto!, what you find most rewarding about your work, as well as what you want others to know about your company?
I was looking to get back to work after a career break and quickly realized that I was surrounded by people constantly on the go, stressed and overwhelmed, running from one activity to the next, trying to stay on the Bay Area merry-go-round.
A lightbulb went on as I realized its a perfect fit for my skills and experience. I love to organize and I love to help people, and so Hey Presto was born!
I love that I can help people with their everyday struggles, such as running errands, or admin, but also the bigger projects like vacation planning, doing the legwork on remodeling projects and dealing with life’s events like coping with life when a baby joins the family, or moving house.
It's so rewarding to know that I can make a difference and help smooth the path.
Best advice you ever received?
To follow my own path. My own mom was a working single parent but I think her biggest lesson to my sister and I was to be fierce. By that I mean that she encouraged us to have a strong will, take pride in our work, and responsibility for our tasks. She taught me to be practical and encouraged me to speak out if I ever wanted anything to change.
What do you appreciate most about your life now?
I have an amazing, supportive husband, beautiful kids, and good health and exciting opportunities.
I love my life right now!
A First Try and Reflection Back
in photography
This past weekend a friend of mine celebrated the fourth year anniversary surviving a brain aneurysm. Back when it happened, I wasn’t as close to her as I am now and to put it bluntly, I am thankful to God for allowing her to miraculously survive and heal from that - to live today. I would not have known her had she gone home so to speak. :)
As part of celebrating her (and her brain!), she invited a group of us to join her for a hike that, truly had it not been for love for my friend, I would NOT have done. Give up chocolate for a day, yes. Climb up a hill for fun, no. But alas, friendship and love makes you do some weird things.
It was long, it was warm day, and there was an incline towards the end I wasn’t a huge fan of. BUT! We all made it! And yes, indeed it was beautiful and also so interesting to physically look back at the path and think “Seriously? We went and surivived ALL that way?!?”
I think that as much as being in the present and hoping for the future, it is equally important to look back. It makes the entire endeavor that much more meaningful, that much more sweet, that much more interesting, really.
I got to thinking about this as I looked at archives of past work. Below is one of the first photos I ever took when setting out to be a photographer of contemporary and glamour portraiture. I barely knew my camera, barely knew what I was aiming for, barely knew what it was like to create something without fear. I only knew that I wanted to create. That’s all.
And while it shows indications of a newbie just starting out, to me, it’s an image I am proud to share with you all and proud to say I created, even while still learning so many things.
Happy Wednesday!
Image | Heartbox Photography
Hair/makeup | Julieta Camacho
Lady In Red | Glam Out Your Outfits!
in photography
Red is always a good idea.
Always.
And I absolutely love it when women want to rock a special outfit just because for their photoshoot.
What outfit do you want to glam up and be photographed in? Let’s do it - there’s no time better than the present!
Image by Heartbox Photography
Hair/makeup by Katie Pheneger
Celebrate Daughters, Celebrate Legacy
in photography
I love when clients bring in their daughters to also be photographed - because she is essentially shaping the life of a human that will grow into a young lady one day knowing it is absolutely awesome to celebrate every year of your life, whether you are 8 or 80 years old.
Celebrate the legacy of girls and women in your family with a portrait to last a lifetime - there’s something beautiful and powerful that is beyond the images itself.
Happy Wednesday, everyone!
Image by | Heartbox Photography
Hair & makeup | Katie Pheneger
Birthday Celebrations
in photography
“Let us celebrate the occasion with wine and sweet words,”
– Plautus
What’s even better than helping women celebrate who they are through creating timeless images? Celebrating their life whenever a new birthday comes around. =)
Cheers to this month’s #MarchBirthdays!
Image | Heartbox Photography
Hair & makeup | Keziah Dauz
Monique, 2019 | San Jose, CA | Glamour & Contemporary Portrait
in photography
“To be a woman is to unapologetically resilient despite everything.”
-h.h.
There is a sweet and calm demeanor that I immediately liked when I first approached Monique for the possibility of doing a photo shoot with Heartbox Photography.
As most of you know by now, I am a firm believer in finding ways to connect with other women who run local businesses and organizations simply for the fact that women who support women is nothing short of impactful and great. The best part is that I get to know them even beyond the work they do and learn about them as wives, mothers, daughters, and grandmothers - as the unique and beautiful person they are.
Being allowed to share in their world and learn about what inspires them, their family history, even their dreams for the future is a privilege that makes the story of each woman I photograph so fun and beautifully unique.
Monique is the founder and proud owner of Innate Sense. She is a wife, a loving mother, a daughter, and a big sister. (I even got to meet her little sister during the Image Reveal appointment and absolutely loved the sweet, sisterly dynamic of their relationship as she helped her choose her images!) During our photo session, I learned more about Monique’s Portugese ancestry and how having a desire to help people be whole and healthy are one of the factors that inspired her work.
One of my favorite things about her photo session is her love for color, beautiful patterns, and accessories in the outfits she thoughtfully selected for her day - this probably explains why we definitely took a little longer wanting to capture the gorgeous look and feel of each outfit combined with the natural surroundings at a local park!
The sunlight was bright, the skies were clear, beautiful, and perfect for the afternoon and needless to say, I am so proud to be able to share with you all the final images and behind the scenes video from this lovely woman’s photo session with Heartbox Photography.
Here’s to celebrating the phenomenal women everywhere around us!
Many thanks to Kalani Brown for Monique’s hair/makeup styling!
“I see beauty when a woman knows
her worth and shares her
gifts with the world.”
What are you most proud of as the woman you are today and why?
“I am most proud of taking the path that my heart led me towards for my career and to live out my soul’s purpose.
Growing up, many members of my family had jobs that they didn’t like, but tolerated them because they needed financial stability. I knew from a young age that I wanted to work in a way that I enjoyed, that allowed me freedom, and to help others.
I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but my heart guided me and here I am with a business where I have all those things and life that I love.”
What would you tell your 18-year-old self?
“I would tell her to surround herself with a close circle of good friends and fully enjoy the season of her life with little responsibilities. I would tell her to travel more to gain a broader perspective of the world and people as a whole.
I would let her know that “success” is not a destination that she needs to TRY to get to…she will forever be evolving and becoming who she is meant to be in the world. To enjoy the journey, it all ultimately works out for her highest good.”
What advice would you give your own daughter as she grows up?
“Well, I am sure my advice would vary depending on the stage of her life she is in…but I would always tell her - you are here for a purpose, you are love,d and to always be true to herself.”
What do you believe makes a woman beautiful?
“I believe inner peace, confidence, and self-love
makes a woman glow and shine her beauty from the inside out.”
Minh and An, 2018 | San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, CA | Portraits
in photography
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
- Lao Tzu
Minh and An are this really awesome and fun couple I had the honor of photographing not too long ago. Even after only a few minutes with them, I could see immediately that they were two people who thoroughly enjoyed laughter, love, and each other. I am so very excited to share with you all some of their images as well as a video of their session and time with Heartbox Photography. :)
Minh and An, thank you for allowing me this opportunity to get to know you both and to document your love. May these images serve as a treasured reminder to continue celebrating your journey together for years to come.
And of course, many thanks to Kat Tinney for styling Minh’s beautiful look for this photo session!
First impressions of one another?
I thought “tall, dark and handsome. An says he thought I was really bubbly (not sure if that’s true, I’m convinced I have RBF…) and smart (I think he meant I was a wise-ass.)
Who is more organized? I would argue that I am! I organize my things religiously. Everything has its place.
Who is the messy one?
An would say that it’s me, but I think we both think of the other person as super messy because we like our space a certain way. Haha, woes of living together.
Who is more forgetful?
An - he can’t leave the house without asking me where his phone and keys are. I have to invite him to events via calendar because he forgets what I say a second later when it comes to planning social events. Men can’t plan but they sure can draft their fantasy football team with great finesse, lol!
Who is most likely to be late? We both like to show up to things on time, if not fashionably late by 5 or 10 minutes.
Who is the night owl? I am - I stay up until 1 AM while An tucks in at 10PM.
Who is the better dancer? An can totally twerk. Watch out, he’s climbing on your tables!
Who is more likely to get sick? I am. :(
Who laughs louder?
We both seem really reserved in new settings, but we end up being the loud and rambunctious couple when we’re in a warm and welcoming space.
Who is the better cook? No comment. We both can’t cook and like getting takeout, but I’ve been trying to be a good dutiful wife and finding recipes for the Dutch oven. An is really brave for even trying to eat my cooking.
Who is more affectionate? We both are very affectionate people if we get to have our own time alone to recharge. Even after 8 years, I think we will have a lot of chemistry (read: really bad habit of PDA.)
What you do you appreciate and love most about each other? I really appreciate that he takes care of the little details of day to day life for me, like washing my car or bringing me my favorite food, especially whenI have my head in the clouds. An appreciates that I provide him with support, even when days are dark.
What are you both most excited for with regards to your new future together? We’re both excited to strengthen our long term relationship into a marriage full of friendship and laughter for the years to come.
