Invitation for the 50 & Fabulous Magazine, Issue #2

Calling and invitation!

Is there an AMAZING woman you believe should be celebrated and featured in the upcoming 2nd issue of the 50 & Fabulous Magazine? It could be your mother, your sister, your best friend, your daughter – or maybe it’s you!

The invitation is now open and I am looking for 50 women to be included, so don’t miss out on this special opportunity!

If you would like more information on how to be included in the next issue for 2025 or are simply curious to see what this is all about, schedule a complimentary consultation here.

P.S. Don't miss the opportunity to own a copy of the very first issue from 2024 - both print and digital copies are available to purchase on the link below, so be sure to check it out!

Celebrate women...and exist in photographs.

Image by Heartbox Photography

Andrea | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“Wonder Woman is not a fictional character. Wonder Woman is a mindset.”

-Michelle A. Homme

Andrea and I scheduled a photoshoot to celebrate her recent birthday and if you haven’t already picked up by now, I absolutely LOVE when women decide to do a photoshoot simply because they are celebrating another year of life.

What better reason to get dolled up, dressed up, and strike a pose? I think it’s the best way to not only continue to own who they are as a woman but also to show the world that a woman’s beauty is timeless.

As we chatted and got to know each other during the styling of hair/makeup an her photoshoot, I learned that Andrea works as a forensic and clinical psychologist.

This incredibly smart woman (who, by the way, is a little over 5 feet tall with the sweetest smile) then proceeds to casually mention that her regular days at work involve visiting jails, prisons, and courtrooms utilizing her investigative skills and background in psychology.

I thought it was incredibly fascinating that Andrea has always wanted to be either a psychologist or a detective and worked her way to accomplish just that, in a field that I don’t often see a lot of women in.

I am so proud to share with you all a few images from Andrea’s photoshoot with Heartbox Photography as well as a little bit about her background, from Andrea herself!

Special thanks to Becky Lau of A Beautiful One Makeup for Andrea’s hair and makeup!

“As an adolescent, I wanted to be either a psychologist or detective. Mainly, I wanted to do something make the world a better place but also was fascinated with human behavior and emotions. So, I found forensic psychology!

It’s a wonderful combination of psychology and investigating why someone might have committed a crime and why.

Although I never liked school, I had a goal so I gained a doctorate and now have my own practice. I am hired by judges and attorneys to evaluate individuals who have been arrested for various crimes. I evaluate and administer psychological tests to help the court understand who they are, if they have a mental illness, substance abuse issue, their tendency for violence or sex offending, or psychopathy.

Sometimes, I need to testify in court which is stressful but also thrilling. It can be difficult and sad to hear of individuals abuse, poverty, and neglect in childhood.

Mental illness, substance use, and homelessness is so often misunderstood by our society. It is very rewarding to know that I can make a difference in these individual’s lives and assist their attorneys and the court to understand them and provide the treatment they need. I am also thankful to all the clients I’ve evaluated for sharing the stories of their lives with me.”

“Beauty is not being sexy or adored by others.

It can feel really good but beauty is how you treat others and make them feel.

Never compare yourself to others and trust your intuition.

Go live out loud in the world.”

Best advice you ever received?

“Life is not fair.

While this may sound negative, it helped me stop becoming upset or comparing my life to others.

Focus on what you have and be in the moment. This is the place of most joy and happiness.”

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

“I appreciate that I have learned that quality of friends is better than quantity. I like that I don’t feel the need to go out every evening can enjoy time at home with the love of my life with our pets. It’s nice to feel grounded.”

Preview | Natasha, 2018 | Portrait Photography | San Jose, CA

 “It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent." 

-Madeleine Albright

Outdoor summer sessions with gorgeous light and the warm smiles of client's like Natasha are the best ways to spend an afternoon "working" as a photographer. :)

Hanging out with Natasha was more like hanging out with a friend and as we took a stroll down the dirt path of a San Jose park, ducking in and out of the summer sunshine, my heart smiled to see images like the one below captured onto my camera.

This woman is simply a sweet and easygoing individual and I am so excited to capture a bit of who she is in this sneak peak below to share with you all.

Stay tuned for more to come!

And many thanks to Kat Tinney for her styling of Natasha's gorgeous hair and makeup for this shoot!

Preview | Azalia, 2018 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

"Nothing makes a woman more beautiful than the belief that she is beautiful."

 - Sophia Loren

Azalia is a wife, a mother, grandmother, and sister - a woman who is as beautiful and unique as her name. We had chatted briefly a few years back when I had met her through a mutual acquaintance and it is my honor to now have her in front of my camera. I love when women step out and not only get dolled up for the day, but also make that decision to celebrate their life by choosing to exist in gorgeous images that will last a lifetime.  

The light was perfect for her shoot (that gorgeous, natural daylight was ahhh-maaazing) and below is just a sneak peak into her photo session. Be sure to stay tuned for more to come!

Special thanks to Kalani Brown of Kalani Style for Azalia's hair and makeup!

Vicky, 2018 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Oakland, CA

Part of why I chose to be a photographer of women is because I believe that it is a unique way to not only bring out the beauty that I believe every woman possesses, but also because sharing their stories is a way to empower, inspire, and encourage other women and young girls. 

I was so inspired to get to know Vicky and learn more about her journey as a young, single mom to now a soon-to-be graduating DrPHC of UC Berkeley. And to learn that it was also another woman who inspired and mentored her many years ago to embark on this journey makes her story even more empowering. 

I am so proud to share with you all a few of Vicky's images and a behind the scenes look from her photoshoot with Heartbox Photography as well as the story of her journey through her own voice. 

Here's to celebrating the beauty, strength, and stories of all women.

Photography: Heartbox Photography

Hair/makeup: Kalani Brown

"Choosing to do be photographed is not something that comes naturally to me - usually I am the person who wants to hide in the shadows. For the past five years, I have been a doctoral student at UC Berkeley and I have had many challenges getting to where I am today. I haven't always had the confidence in myself that I should. The year of 2017 was about self-love and all I had to offer exactly as I am now. This new year in 2018 is about confidence and growing into the woman I know I have worked hard to become."

"As a young, single mother at 19, I knew that I could not provide the life my son deserved if I did not receive an education. My sister was one of the first in our immediate family to attend and graduate college and I was lucky to follow in her footsteps. I went back to school when my son was a few months old and fell in love with learning again. I started at the community college level and made my way to a four year university. While at San Francisco State University, I met Dr. Velia Garcia and she told me that I would be Dr. Gomez one day. I laughed at her and said I wasn't even sure if I could graduate with my bachelor's degree. "

"It turned out that Velia saw something in me that I did not see in myself. She taught me the importance of mentoring others and helping them reach their goals in a way that honored themselves. In 2012, Velia lost her battle with cancer and it was the sign I needed to apply to obtain my doctorate degree. Over the past five years, I have mentored many students, particularly underrepresented students like myself to pursue their academic and professional goals in a new way that honors who they are."

"So many have sacrificed so much so that I could walk through these doors and accomplish my dreams and I want to continue opening the doors for others to reach theirs. This degree is not just for me but for those that came before me and for those that will come long after I am gone. I wanted to demonstrate to others that anything is possible even when you feel the deck is stacked against you."

"My life's work is to continue mentoring others while teaching undergraduate and graduate students. My goal for this year is to take risks and be the best me I can be. Deciding to participate in this photoshoot with Maria was a vital step in my journey. I knew after seeing photos she did of a friend that she would bring out my natural beauty and confidence. "

Preview | Faliha, August 2017 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Fremont, CA

"And the beauty of a woman
With passing years only grows."

-Audrey Hepburn

So many things make up this beautiful woman named Faliha - her love for adventure, for travel, for memories made that involve beautiful views of beaches and water around the world, just to name a few.

To anyone who meets her, you will see that her smile and enthusiastic personality radiates towards the camera and towards the fullness of life itself.  It was on a lovely and sunshine-filled day that I had the privilege to celebrate this remarkable woman through a photo session.

It is with great excitement that I share with you all a sneak peak image of Faliha's photo shoot with Heartbox Photography. There is more to come, so stay tuned!

Shoutout to the awesome Kalani Brown of Kalani Style for Faliha's gorgeous makeup!

Elissa | 2016 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

"Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." - Rachel Zoe

She is a wife, mother of two, a daughter, friend - not to mention a woman well-skilled at leading others through her work at Facebook, Groupon, and e-Bay. I recently had the opportunity to photograph and get to know this wonderful lady named Elissa and I am so honored to share not only a bit about her, but also some of my favorite images from her photo shoot with Heartbox Photography!

Elissa, thank you for trusting me to capture you in these photographs and to celebrate who you are as a beautiful woman, influencing others greatly both at home and work. Your youth and vibrancy, your essence as a woman, simply shined through with each smile you shared in these images.

May you be reminded, for years to come, that you are valuable and beautiful, with a unique style that is all your own.

Many thanks to Kat Tinney of A List Makeup for her work on Elissa's hair and  makeup!

What is one thing you wish you could tell yourself back when you were 18 years old?

"I [would] tell my younger self to have more confidence in myself and my abilities and not to compare myself to others. Be me."

What would you tell young girls with regards to beauty and self-confidence?

"Don't rush it - you will grow up. Enjoy your life as it is today. Make time for your family and friends. Enjoy the moment."

"I try to manage family and work life but not always well -- but enjoy the fun and challenges of both parts."

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

"I appreciate my family and friends. I am grateful for the support and friendship they give me."

"I believe true beauty comes from within. A self-confident person who cares about herself, is happy, and brings joy to others is truly beautiful."

I couldn't agree more, Elissa. 

Preview | Ruchi | Glamour and Contemporary Portrait | Santa Clara, CA

It was like the fall colors of the leaves that surrounded the park beckoned the gold of the afternoon sunlight into a perfectly choreographed dance for us to witness. And needless to say this breathtaking background was perfect for a photoshoot with a lovely woman named Ruchi. 

Ruchi has been a long supporter of Heartbox Photography , standing behind the message that every woman is beautiful and has a story to tell. I am so very excited and honored that she took that step to grace my camera with her presence. Below is just a sneak peak into her photoshoot with more to come -  stay tuned!

Many thanks to the talented Keziah Dauz of Beauty by Keziah for making Ruchi's hair and makeup look absolutely stunning for this photoshoot! 

PREVIEW: Kelly | Beauty & Glamour Maternity | Santa Clara, California

There is something so magical about bright and natural light weaving it's way into the photographs of a woman celebrating an important moment in her life. And the bright afternoon sunshine that softened it's glow through the white curtains made for the perfect backdrop for an afternoon beauty and glamour maternity photo session. 

Kelly is a lovely wife, mother of one little boy, and soon to be mother of a second boy in August. I was recently given the honor of photographing this beautiful woman for her maternity session and I am so excited to share with you all a little sneak preview image from her photoshoot. There is definitely more to share, so stay tuned!

Many thanks to the talented Kat Tinney for Kelly's hair and makeup!

PREVIEW: Sukhdeep | Glamour and Contemporary Portraits | Alameda, CA

When I was younger, I used to wonder about that whole idea about a woman never revealing her age. And when I say I "wondered" about it, I really mean that I thought it was strange and well, actually, disagreed with it. I don't know who came up with that idea, but shouldn't a woman be proud of her age? Shouldn't she be able to walk around with a sense of joy, instead of hesitation, knowing that every year in her age represents life she is continually blessed with? 

On a sunny and cool afternoon, I had the privilege to meet a lovely woman named Sukhdeep. In addition to her sweet and friendly smile, what stood out to me even more in our conversations as I got to know her was how she laughed and shared how proud she was to be a woman in her 40's.

And that declaration right there? Well, that deserved a you-go-girl kind of high-five in my book! Needless to say, Sukhdeep is all kinds of beautiful, inside and out. 

Below is just a sneak peak in to her photo session with Heartbox Photography. There are more images to come and more to share about Sukhdeep, so be sure to stay tuned!

Many thanks to the awesome Jessica Quintal for Sukhdeep's hair/makeup!

FAQ & Tips: How to Prepare for Your Portrait Session with Heartbox Photography

Having your portrait taken is absolutely an exciting and huge deal. It's a chance for you to celebrate where you are right now in this moment in life, a chance to #existinphotos for your loved ones and even more so, a rare opportunity to encourage other women by stepping out in front of the lens to share your story and definition of beautiful.

As with any special occasions, there are preparations to be made and I highly encourage my clients to approach this in the same fashion. Below are some of the questions I am asked the most and by sharing them here, I hope they serve as a helpful guide to every woman preparing for her portrait session with me!

And of course, the biggest tip I can give? Don't forget to book a night out afterwards with your best friends, your special someone, your loved ones - because you will look fabulous!

When does the session begin?

The session begins promptly at the time that we agree upon in your contract. I am a natural light photographer, so please be sure to arrive promptly to ensure we capture a ton of beautiful images for you!

What should I expect when I arrive?

Please be ready and on time, dressed in a comfortable outfit (you can change into your photo shoot clothes later on) with no makeup applied and your hair clean and dry, free form any hair product. I will take a few “before” photos of you then your stylist will begin your makeup and hairstyling.

What should I wear?

I highly suggest bringing at least 2-3 different looks.

• Avoid patterns, baggy/boxy styles or “office-wear” type collared dress shirts.
• Fitted outfits in solid colors work best and is most flattering for all body types.
• Try to think of an outfits that you would wear if you were going out for the night, something fun, and most importantly, outfits that make you feel at your best and most beautiful! This could be a gorgeous dress or some pants with a chic and fun top.
• Make sure that the tops you choose have the most flattering neckline for you. (This could mean a v-neck, scoop, etc.)

Can I wear accessories for my photo session?

Yes. Earrings, bracelets or necklaces are welcome. However, I would recommend that they are kept to a minimum as the most classic and timeless beauty shots that come out the best are the ones that focus on you and not the accessories you are wearing.

I don’t wear a lot of makeup. Can I still do this type of shoot?

Absolutely! The stylists I work with are very familiar with varying degrees of makeup looks that can range from a more classic/natural look to something heavier and dramatic. We can provide suggestions, but also can tailor it to your preferences.

Do I need to get my hair dyed/manicure/pedicure/waxing done?

The more prepared you are for the shoot, the better you will feel while being photographed and the more you will love the final product. This is a special occasion and the more effort you put into it, the better the outcome.

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Any other tips on how to prepare for my session?

To feel your best, get enough sleep the night before. Do not try any new beauty products outside of your regular skin or hair care routine the day before your photo session. Do not attempt any crash diets in the months leading up to your photo session. My goal is photograph you as you are today – fabulous and beautiful!

I’d like to book a photo session now but I need to get into shape.

Time doesn’t stand still – I definitely encourage you to celebrate who you are today. As a professional, I specialize in being able to pose my clients in the most flattering ways no matter what the body type.

Will you direct me on how to pose?

Absolutely! I will guide you through every single pose, position, and direction. You will never be left in front of my camera not knowing what to expect. As a professional photographer and as a woman, you can be assured I will guide you into the most flattering poses for the best photographs!

What is required to book a session?

All appointments are on a first come, first serve basis and are considered fully booked when the signed contract and non-refundable retainer has been received by my studio.

How long is the photo session and makeover?

Please allow approximately 4 hours for this experience.

Can I do a photo shoot outdoors instead?

Yes. These arrangements can be made at the time you book your appointment.

Do you have just females on your team?

Yes. I am the only photographer and any assistant or stylists I work with are women as well. My business is run purely by women and for women. I believe this makes my clients more comfortable during the photo session.

I don’t have any idea regarding how I’d like to be photographed – I just want nice photos.

We can chat over coffee, over the phone or on email and work out the feel and style of the shoot during that preliminary conversation.

How will I view my photos?

We will schedule an in-person viewing session to view your photos within 3 weeks of your session. 

If I refer a friend or family member, will I get anything?

Absolutely!

If your referral books a photo session with me, you automatically a number of credits towards any prints or products on the current Product Menu. The person you refer ALSO receives a certain amount of credits towards her prints and products. There is no expiration on these credits and you may earn as many credits as you wish! Certain restrictions and rules apply. Please see me for details.

Are there any other rewards programs available?

Yes! Ask about our Birthday Rewards for special drawings exclusively for clients. 

Asmeret, 2015 | Portraits by Heartbox Photography | Bay Area, CA

The one thing I've always, always, always loved about the kind of portrait photography I chose to pursue is that it is not a one-way deal. It never gets tiring to be able to see a smile light up a person's face when they see themselves in a new light because of a photograph I can present to them.

It had been about 15 years since I last spoke with Asmeret and to be able to reconnect through photography has been nothing but fun and fabulous - much like Asmeret herself! We had last seen each other when were teenagers and I had the privilege to spend a sunny afternoon chatting, catching up and laughing with an old friend from long ago.

In our laughing and chatting, we each learned how life had grown us, what rough seasons it had taken us through since high-school, the victories we got to witness and experience as young adults growing into, well, older adults, how God's grace sustained us through it all, and what we still hope and dream for as 30-somethings now.

Azzy, I am excited to have reconnected with you after all these years and beyond honored that you have allowed me to capture your kind smile, your unique fierceness, in these photographs. I hope they serve as a lasting reminder of how awesome it is when you let your internal beauty shine through - brightly, unwavering and most of all, real.

Happy Wednesday, folks!

A special thank you to the talented Kathleen Tinney of A List Makeup for her beautiful work on Asmeret's hair and makeup!

Stephanie, 2015 | Portraits by Heartbox Photography | Santa Clara, CA

Whenever I finish a shoot, I often have moments of complete photographer's geek out. It's a bit like a happy euphoria for an artist and photographer, when something they envision comes to real life in a photograph before them on the screen.

That's how I felt when I photographed the lovely Stephanie. 

Stephanie is a wonderful friend of mine and being able to capture the very essence of her in these photographs was not only an honor but an incredible reminder of the joy I feel when I'm given the opportunity and trust to paint a picture for a woman. To paint a new perspective for her, to show her what she may not always see or remember everyday - that she is, indeed, a beautiful and unique creation in a class all her own.

A special thank you to the wonderful Kathleen Tinney of A List Makeup for her beautiful work on Stephanie's hair and makeup!

Preview | Asmeret, 2015. Portraits by Heartbox Photography, Bay Area, CA

The theme was movement, mystery, fierceness. Add a beautiful late afternoon light and it's enough to make the little artist in me geek out and smile all kinds of happy.

A little sneak peak into this weekend's shoot with the lovely Asmeret...

There's more, so be sure to stay tuned!

A special thank you to the wonderful Kathleen Tinney of A List Makeup for her beautiful work on Asmeret's hair and makeup!

Ezraly, 2015 | Portraits by Heartbox Photography | Santa Clara, CA

When I first chatted with Ez about a photo shoot and possible themes, I remember distinctly how she described herself. A mom, a wife, a career woman, a yoga instructor, just trying to do it all. And funny how that can describe a lot of us women - busy, striving for the people we love, for ourselves. 

At first I thought about how I can possibly convey in a photo session that she was a mom, a career woman, a wife, etc.? It was in that moment I realized that while all those characteristics are important and significant, the main theme I hoped to convey in Ez's photo shoot was that she is a beautiful woman who laughs, loves,  and is a person who has life in her to share. 

So, the theme of this shoot? Show off Ez's warm smile. Capture who she uniquely is. Have fun and dance around in a tulle skirt....just because. Paint a an elegant portrait of a woman whose children and husband will one day look back on these photographs and be reminded how truly special she is to them.

Ez, it was an honor to have you in front my camera. Really. Thank you for allowing me into your world, for being yourself, for sharing who you are and being a part of a bigger message that every woman is fabulous and beautiful just as she is today. 

Happy Thursday, all!

A special thanks to LilyAnn Nguyen of A-List Makeup for her 

beautiful work on Ez's hair and makeup!

"I consider people who have an ease about them beautiful. Those who don't take themselves too seriously and can make fun of themselves is very attractive. I'm drawn to authenticity, sincerity, and consistency."

"[The perception of] beauty has definitely changed for me as I got more comfortable in my own skin. Trying not to judge oneself will always be a struggle, but I'm getting better and better at its a I learn to simply "breathe" through it."

"There will always be features of ourselves that we aren't fond of, but once you learn to accept and love that feature, it all of a sudden sparkles in a different light. So come from a place and humility and gratitude..."

Future Glory | Headshot Portraits by Heartbox Photography | San Francisco, CA

It never fails. 

Whenever I meet women who are doing big things in this world through their work, I always feel inspired and reminded that my own work and aspirations can be a game changer, an avenue of hope for bigger causes. That a dream can break limits in remarkable ways.  

Theresa Lee and her business partner Jennie Chen are two such women I had the privilege of meeting and photographing in the beautiful city of San Francisco. They are the owners of San Francisco-based company, Future Glory. Not only does their company create beautiful accessories and handbags, but they also support and partner with Freedom House and Because Justice Matters, two organizations that take huge active strides towards combating human trafficking and violence against women.

The rain-free, afternoon light peeked through the windows of a studio in the Dogpatch neighborhood of San Francisco (where much of their products are made), making it an ideal day for a head shot photo session. Though the afternoon San Francisco air started to cool down as the time passed, both Theresa and Jennie remained upbeat and patient in our search for the best light and backgrounds for their shoot.

Theresa and Jennie - Thank you for not only being an inspiration as business owners, but for playing an active role in restoring hope back to women and victims of human trafficking. It was truly an honor to meet you both and I am excited to see more of what's in store for Future Glory. 

Happy Wednesday!

Many thanks to the talented Tammy Do from A-List Makeup for Theresa's beautiful hair and makeup!

Preview | Ezraly, 2014. Portraits by Heartbox Photography, Santa Clara, CA

She teaches her class with patience, encouragement, and with a quiet reassurance. The quiet reassurance that make even the newest student feel comfortable and willing to try their very best.

To sit in a class set at an average temperature of 100 degrees for 90 minutes can be somebody-please-call my-mommy a little intimidating, the instructor makes all the difference in the world. Thankfully, I landed in a class taught by a very patient instructor named Ezraly.

I had the privilege to photograph the lovely Ez recently and am excited to share a little sneak below. As always, there's more, so be sure to stay tuned!

Happy Tuesday!

Many thanks to the talented Lily Ann from A-List Makeup for Ez's beautiful hair and makeup!

Sharing and Contributing

Early on this endeavor to build a women's portrait photography business, it was strongly impressed upon me how the best photographers seem to be the ones who gave back. Not necessarily in finances, though many have done that, but the generosity contributing their talents and time to help grow and sharpen the community of aspiring professionals like myself.

I used to think that connecting and sharing with other photographers was a sure fire way of contributing to my young business' demise (what with all the competition so prevalent in our industry). Yes, because I foolishly thought that giving away that secret function on my camera would absolutely ruin my chances of any success.

Key words to highlight from that paragrapph? I foolishly thought.

But now, after learning so much from other professionals who have generously given to me, after being encouraged and guided by photographers far more experienced in this industry than me, I can see that, truly, it is far better to give than to receive, to help exchange knowledge than to withhold it out of fear. And, if anything, I believe that any healthy competition keeps me on my toes artistically and serves as a much needed fuel to keep complacency and laziness with my business and my craft at bay.

Tonight, I had the privilege of receiving input from another photographer who also happens to be an attorney by trade. I connected with her through a mutual network group and she has been nothing short of generous with her legal expertise and business input. Connections like this? Priceless.

One day, I hope to make a huge impact on the lives of other photographers the way that others have done for me.

Happy Tuesday!

Laura, 2013. Cannery Row, Monterey, Glamour Photo Session

One of the things I love the most about being a photographer is that I have the rare opportunity to get to know new faces. And being a photographer of women means that the conversation with my clients and models are always interesting and can be sprinkled with topics that vary from the challenges of being a mom, a career driven woman, why our hair just won't always behave itself in the morning as we rush out the door or yes, even the confessions of the time our eye lash curler attacked us. 

As I'd mentioned in her preview post, Laura had contacted me for a makeover and photo shoot to take place in the beautiful coastal area of Monterey. As the sun gently lit up the late afternoon, the talented Emily Nguyen of A List Make Up set to work on Laura's hair and make up for the photo session. 

After a quick outfit change (because ladies, we all know that awesome hair and make up is never complete without an awesome outfit to match, amen!) Laura and I took a stroll through the beautiful Cannery Row of Monterey to capture the afternoon light for her photos. We chatted about everything - from her being a mother, an aspiring law student, to the trials of walking around in a fabulous pair high heels. 

Laura, thank you. It was an honor to be able to not only photograph you, but to also learn more about you as a person. You rocked the shoot and I hope these photos remind you every single day of your beauty and your fabulousness - simply because you are you. 

Here are a few of my favorites. To see more, feel free to check out the video here or at the bottom of this post.

Happy Friday, everyone!

Hair and Make Up by:

Emily Nguyen of A List Make Up

And boom. Model status.

Go on with your gorgeous self, Laura! Absolutely loving this Monterey light...

Laura and I share a similarity in that we both freeze when it's below 75 degrees. Even though the ocean breeze left Laura almost frozen, I'm happy to say she summoned her inner model and bravely pushed through, resulting in these beautiful shots.

One of my absolute favorite shots...

Eat Your Vegetables and Call Your Mother

I remember the days when I was young and eagerly anticipated the day when I could say that I didn't need my mom.

As a grown-up (kinda!), I've stopped anticipating that day and now instead cherish the fact that I still have moments that I need my mom and still have her around to ask her a question about a recipe that she always got right and I was still working on making edible, what good grocery sales are currently going on at Safeway or Lucky's, or even to receive her once-in-a-while-but-more-like-everyday voicemails on the benefits of drinking enough water, eating vegetables and oh, have I talked to my sisters lately/tell them to call their mother.

Moms are funny - especially my mom. With all the ups and downs, I'm thankful for all that she's taught me and still continues to teach me. And the occasional eat your veggies/call your mother/where are your sisters voicemails? Well, let's just say that I can't wait to pass some things on to my kids one day. =)

Happy Monday!