Preview | Thuy, 2018 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits

This woman is a proud mom, the founder of 923 Designs based here in the Silicon Valley,  and a woman who exemplifies what it looks like to hustle and hustle hard. 

Thuy is an old friend of mine from high school and as we took time to catch up on life as she prepared for her photo shoot (many thanks to Miranda from Love and Artistry for hair/makeup styling!), I couldn't help but feel proud. Proud to know another fellow woman entrepreneur, proud that she's a hard-working mom, proud that she is an example of a woman who doesn't give up. She talked about how she took that leap to start her own interior design company, how she's raising her son, and working with the challenges along the way. We laughed about the realities of growing up (suddenly, late night outings don't sound as fun as being home in your pajamas), the things we've learned along the way, and could not believe how much time had flown by in the blink of an eye since our high school years. 

It is an honor to share with you all a sneak peak into Thuy's photo shoot with Heartbox Photography - there will be more to share to be be sure to stay tuned!

Melba | 2017 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

I just want them to know
That I gave my all, did my best
Brought someone some happiness
Left this world a little better just because, I was here

I was here, I lived, I loved, I was here

-Beyoncé

Sometimes, when pulling together the final story to share on the blog, I close my eyes to feel and get caught up in the lyrics of a song, allowing the music permission to carry me away even for just a few minutes. It not only awakens a deep-seated creativity, but interestingly enough, it also often takes me back to actually remember the expression of the woman I currently photographed, the person I am writing about. It reminds me of her story, who she is as a woman, the richness of her who she is a person. How she looked as she arrived at the studio, how she shared small bits of who she is, who she is becoming, what and who matters to her, and even more importantly, why.

From her favorite color, to the details of this season of life she finds herself in, to what she likes or dislikes about herself, to how she feels about her family, her friends, this life.

How she feels about being photographed.

Her excitement and nervousness, the look on her face when she sees her heart show up in these images.

When she sees that her smile is her best feature.

Melba's life is rich. Rich in many, many ways. And yes, in reflecting upon that, the lyrics to Beyonce's song "I Was Here" seemed more than fitting for this beautiful woman, this wife, this mother, this grandmother, this friend, this sister, this human being.

You can immediately see the passion Melba has for life, the deep love she has for her family, the joy that radiates from inside her heart when speaking about her husband, her children, her grandchildren, her friends and the overall colorful tapestry of experiences and memories that make up her life thus far, from a young girl, to a grown woman today. 

Her life is a beautiful testament to what shaping a legacy of family, life, and love look like - a legacy of love given freely, deeply, and without boundaries. And it is my privilege and honor to share a piece of who Melba is with you all here.

 

 

 

 

 

"There are so many more countries I want to see! I was blessed to travel with a longtime friend during 2015 [to Europe].

She made the arrangements since she had lived in Europe and the MIddle East. We visited Paris, took a train adventure through Austria and Switzerland."

 

 

 

 

 

Who makes you laugh the most?

"My hubby, Tino - we make each other laugh everyday.

Even when bad things happen we find a reason to laugh."

 

"Since I [entered] my 50's five years ago, I've been trying new things. I took my husband, my youngest daughter, Ariane and her then-boyfriend, Quinn, tandem skydiving over Hollister. [I] could see Monterey Bay from 15,000 feet. A few weeks after that, I went scuba diving in Monterey Bay.

Still have more I'd like to try. Honestly, the most recent was this photo shoot.

I was very nervous and had no expectations - just knew I didn't feel comfortable having my picture taken. But it was amazing and I'm so grateful."

What do you think makes a woman beautiful? 

"Her laughter, her honesty, her caring actions."

What is one piece of advice you would give your 18-year-old self?

"Concentrate on finishing school, full time work can come later."

What do you  most appreciate about your life now?

"Grateful for my husband, our family,

and the opportunities to share new experiences."

If you could meet anyone in history, who would that be and why?

 

"I've always liked math and science - [so] Albert Einstein!

"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new." - Albert Einstein

Photography: Heartbox Photography

Hair/makeup: Kalani Brown

Rhonda | 2017 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future." - Proverbs 31:25

When she first shared her story with me, I remember feeling just this sense of "whoa". Mostly because I am more prone to being skittish about the future than confident and am always immediately floored when I meet a woman like her who has survived so much and still wears the badge of an unwavering faith for all to see.

The hint of her Southern roots can be heard in the sweetness of her voice, but don't let that fool you. This beautiful lady is refreshingly honest and straightforward, but in such a way that clearly reveals that at her core, she is also strong, kind, and loyal, being the first to stand up for what she believes is right or even to defend a friend from a bully as a child growing up in the South. 

And that laugh? Well, you can see it for yourself in the twinkle of her eyes through these photographs and video that I am so very proud to share with you all of this beautiful lady named Rhonda. 

Rhonda, thank you for being willing to step out in front of my camera, to share your story and your faith without filters or shame, to boldly live life out loud, to dance simply for the joy of it - all so as to encourage other women - other people -  to do the same. I have enjoyed getting to know you, to laugh with you, to be a part of celebrating this new season of your life. May these photographs continue to draw forth that shining smile of yours for all to witness, even years down the road. 

"I went through a 2 year period of loss. My parents, my dog, and my husband of 25 years all pass in a 2 year time frame. We moved from New Mexico to take care of terminal parents so we left behind our support system of friends and church, too. After the loss of my mom on Mother's Day 2013, I came to California to grieve and start my life over."

 

 

 

"My life is beginning again.

I have related my life to the Japanese art of Kintsugi where they turn broken pottery into beautiful art by putting it back together with gold or other precious metals."

When was the last time you left your comfort zone? I performed a dance routine on stage last May and we had some mistakes but it came out fine.

If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why? This is tough. Abraham Lincoln because he stood up against the norm [even though] it wasn't a popular idea and [because] he wanted to bring the entire country back together to heal. Jesus because he loved me enough to die for me.

My dad - he died when I was only 10 and I didn't know him very well or what his dreams were for me, but I know he was respected and well loved. His funeral wasn't even standing room, the building was packed and the procession was over 5 miles long in the rain.

What is one piece of advice you would give your 18-year-old self? Take better care of your health, skin and body - you only have one and you want it to last! And...insist that your husband learn to dance with you.

 

 

 

 

 

What do you think makes a woman beautiful? 

"Her spirit and heart.

Women are designed as emotional beings and we need to appreciate that."

 

 

 

 

What do you appreciate most about your life now? 

"How good God has been to me.

He has seen me through some long and difficult storms and blessed me with some of the best friends a person could know."

A funny or surprising fact about yourself? I presented flowers to the wives of the Russian cosmonauts that first shook hands with American astronauts in space. Shook hands with all of them.

I am [also] stronger than I look. I have dead lifted over 200 lbs and bench pressed 90 lbs. They still ask me at the grocery store if I need help out with my items...haha!

 

 

 

 

 

 

"I know that I am in God's hands and that he has a purpose for the next half of my life.

I found God's joy - His internal, overflowing, abundant joy."

 

Many thanks to Keziah Dauz for her styling of Rhonda's hair and makeup!

PREVIEW | Bea | Glamour and Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

Even in this digital age, I am still a huge advocate and fan of having pictures printed out, whether it's treasured in a special folio box, an album you can touch, or a beautiful frame to display. And in this era of blinding speed and fleeting moments, I am still a huge advocate for stopping time in a special way for a woman through a timeless portrait of just herself.

Yes, I know it seems odd to take some time out of an incredibly hectic and busy life to have your portrait taken. I know it seems odd to have your hair done, to go beyond just the two second application of eyeliner and instead have a professional do your makeup in a way that makes you feel your best, polished self. However, many years down the road, it won't seem so odd anymore. Because that portrait of you that you hold in your hands is now part of the legacy of your family. Your children will treasure it, your grandchildren will have a glimpse into generations before them. It will serve as a reminder to you, that every year of your life is important and that there is something wonderful about reflecting back on a photograph of yourself from years ago. It will bring a smile to your face as you recall just where you were at in life when it was captured. And as a woman, I hope it resonates something deep inside you and reminds you that you are valued and wonderfully made.

Exist in photographs for yourself. Exist in photographs for your loved ones. 

Exist in photographs. 

I am incredibly excited and honored share with you all the latest celebration of women who have chosen to exist in photographs, a lovely mother and wife named Bea.

Bea not only a mother and wife, but a daughter, a sister, a friend, yoga instructor, speech and language pathologist, a homehealth therapist, a Netflix marathoner. Having spent an afternoon with her in the studio was more like hanging out with a familiar friend as her easygoing personality and laughter filled our conversations. 

As always, this is just a sneak peak, so stay tuned for more!

Happy Thursday!

Many thanks to Kat Tinney  of A List Makeup for Bea's hair and makeup!

Margret | September Birthday Rewards | Portraits by Heartbox Photography | Bay Area, CA

As the cooler air starts to settle in and we teeter between the remnants of summer weather mixed with the anticipation of a new season to come, I'd like to take the time out to say a happy birthday to the September Birthday Rewards winner, none other than the lovely Margret!

Margret and her family were one of the earlier supporters of my endeavors with Heartbox Photography and to have that trust from people to allow you into their world in front of the camera is a gift I will never forget.

Margret, I hope you had a fabulous September birthday celebration. Thank you for always being so supportive and genuinely kind. Here's to many, MANY more beautiful years to come!

Marie | June Birthday Rewards | Portraits by Heartbox Photography | Bay Area, CA

Awhile back, I had the honor of photographing the lovely Marie as part of the Fifty and Fabulous series. Her constant smile and upbeat personality are nothing less than a joy to be around and it is my pleasure to announce her as the winner for June's Birthday Rewards drawing!

Cheers to you, Marie! Here's to many more years of life, joy, and hula dancing like there's no tomorrow - happy birthday! 

Preview - Danielle, 2015 | Headshot Portraits by Heartbox Photography | Los Gatos, CA

Walking into any new situation that involves crowds of people and name tags has never been easy for me. Ever. It is almost a guarantee that as I maneuver my way through the crowds of confident chatter from women of various professional backgrounds, my focus and footsteps will always be zoned in on finding the snack/refreshment table quickly so I could hide my lack of confidence beneath the casual munching of cheese and crackers.

However, despite my innate ability to be terribly awkward and shy, I have been very fortunate to meet a ton of friendly and welcoming professionals who have been helpful and kind beyond what I can ever measure. 

Danielle is one such individual and I had the privilege of meeting her at a local networking event hosted by a wonderful organization called Women in Consulting. I had the opportunity to get to know this talented graphic artist and project manager as we spent a beautiful and sunny afternoon preparing for a photo shoot to update her headshots. 

Below is just a sneak peak into Danielle's photo session - there's definitely more so be sure to stay tuned! 

Happy Tuesday!

A special thanks to stylist,  Kat Tinney,  for her beautiful work on Danielle's hair and makeup!

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!

Marie. 2014 | Fifty and Fabulous | Contemporary Portraits by Heartbox Photography | Santa Clara, CA

If there is one fast way to determine just how tough you are physically, how graceful you are as a dancer, I highly, HIGHLY recommend you take a Hot Hula class with Marie. I have two left feet, survived and it was still fun. =)

I had met the lovely Marie awhile back when I signed up for a Hot Hula class taught at a local community center - she was the instructor and I quickly learned how fun (and challenging!) it could be to take a beautiful Hawaiian traditional dance and turn it into a fabulous way for folks to have a great cardio workout. (My legs just about fell off after the workout and I have renewed respect for those who can dance hula for hours!)

Before the shoot, I got a chance to talk with Marie a few times and learned that she is not only a go-getter career woman, talented dancer, beloved daughter and friend, but a mother and grandmother as well. Chatting with Marie is like chatting it up with your best friend or sister - her genuine smile, cheery spirit, and sense of humor make it obvious to me why she is a great instructor and why many of her students enjoy her classes.

I have always believed that a woman should celebrate every season of her life and am proud to share Marie's photo shoot as part of the Fifty and Fabulous series offered by Heartbox Photography.

Marie, thank you for being so open and genuine from our very first conversation. It was an honor to photograph you, to learn more about you and your family, and just to be able to connect with such a lovely person. Here's to celebrating beauty that never goes out of style....

Happy Thursday!

Many thanks to the talented Vlada Fomenko-Haggerty for Marie's beautiful hair and makeup!

Krystal, 2014. San Jose City Hall, CA. Headshot Photo Session

I always find something so fun about outdoor photo sessions, especially because I love the endless possibilities the Bay Area has to offer. Combine that with the perfect balance of late afternoon light and it's a recipe for every photographer's dream.

I met Krystal for a late afternoon shoot and got the chance to chat with her during her make up and hair preparation by the talented Vlada Fomenko-Haggerty. I love being able to make my client's laugh and relax in front of my camera -with Krystal's friendly smile and wicked sense of humor, I immediately discovered that photographing her would be more like having fun spending the afternoon hanging out with an old friend.

Krystal is a user experience designer in the tech field as well as a talented artist. While her hair and makeup were being prepared, my eyes grazed the walls of her home and saw a beautiful collection of her work. My own painting skills never saw itself past 1st grade so to meet another artist who uses paintbrushes to create beautiful art is a real privilege.

Krystal, it was honor to meet and learn more about you, to share a sunny afternoon of laughing and photographs. Thank you for trusting me to capture your smile with my camera! I truly hope these photographs serve as a reminder to you of your own unique brand of girl-power fierceness for years to come. You rock!

Happy Tuesday!

Many thanks to the talented Vlada Fomonko-Haggerty for Krystal's beautiful hair and makeup!

Kari, 2014. Los Gatos, CA. Headshot Photo Session

Meet the lovely Kari.

We were originally scheduled to have her photo shoot take place at a nearby park, but the beautiful surroundings of her own backyard with the afternoon sunlight peaking through the abundance of trees proved to be the far better location. As Kari's hair and make up was being prepared by the talented Vlada Fomenko-Haggerty we chatted about everything from work, to career goals (Kari is currently working towards building her own business), to outfits for the photo shoot and the fun of being a gal who loves trying new beauty products.

Kari is refreshingly down to earth, a true go-getter. The love she has for her family is palpable as you get to know her. I couldn't help but smile every time she mentioned something she loved about her husband's personality, the way he treats her, as well as how much she loved her kids.

Kari, it was truly an honor to have you in front of my camera. I look at these photos and can see in your eyes that you not only smile and shine brightly from the outside, but from the inside as well - and that is the mark of a truly beautiful woman.

Happy Tuesday!

Fifty and Fabulous: Preview | Marie, 2014. Portraits by Heartbox Photography, Santa Clara, CA

As an artist, sometimes the new ideas can fill every crevice in my mind in crazy abundance that it almost becomes hard to pick one and run with it, grow it, try it out without being trapped to my perfectionist ways.

I'm basically saying that I can be very crazy, slightly A.D.D. when it comes to the world of creative possibilities that photography can offer. 

One of the ideas that I'd been wanting to try out for a while was portrait sessions that celebrated women who had reached that remarkable milestone of being 50 years old. Fifty and fabulous, as I once heard it phrased. 

That life stage where her beauty is timeless more now than ever because in addition to her outward beauty, she also carries internally a unique element of depth that only comes from a full life of a woman who has lived, laughed, loved, cried, triumphed, and grown.

Marie is a beautiful mother and a grandmother. A graceful dancer who invests her time teaching the art of hula to other women for them to enjoy. A woman who celebrates 50 years of life with joy, gratitude, and laughter. Lots of laughter.

There is more to come, but for now, here's a little sneak peak into Marie's Fifty and Fabulous photo session with Heartbox Photography - stay tuned!

A special thanks to the talented Vlada Fomenko-Haggerty for Marie's beautiful hair and make up!

Noel, 2014. Santa Clara, CA. Portrait Photo Session

I have known Noel since before I was old enough to drive, back when junk food was our best friend and after school homework and talking on the phone with friends was what filled our days on weekday afternoons.

It was a time of fun and innocence and though there are moments presently where waves of nostalgia overcome me, I also can't deny the even more beautiful moments where I see how life has come around full circle in ways sweeter than the long summers of our days as teenagers.

Noel is a wife and now a mother to the cutest little kid named Dominic. During the photo session, the undeniable joy that Dominic brings Noel was apparent with each giggle and mischievous smile that graced this little one's face. I half expected to Dominic to start throwing his toys at me before the shoot was over, but this kid's a champ and actually survived the entire time in front of my camera - he must get his camera charm and patience from his momma! ;)

Noel, it was honor to capture you and Dominic in these photographs. It's so sweet to see that the kind smile I knew from when were kids has only gotten more joy-filled with the presence of Dominic in your world. I am thankful that we are back in touch even after all this time and hope that in years to come, you will always be reminded of how beautiful you are as a wife, a mom but even more so, as a woman.

A special thanks to the talented Vlada Fomenko-Haggerty for Noel's beautiful hair and make up!

"People who are confident in themselves and lead their life by treating peoples as they want to be

treated are beautiful to me."

"People that treat themselves and others with respect tend to give off a certain light. That light is what makes someone beautiful."

"I surround myself with kind, good-hearted people...and they are are a reflection of me."

What are you confident or proud of now that maybe you weren't so proud or confident about when you were younger?

"Understanding what I want, finding strength to reach goals. I am more confident in expressing my emotions and have learned that I don't always HAVE to be happy."

"We need to accept the fact that every woman is different and no one woman is perfect." 

"Take care of your health, emotionally and physically - you only have one shot in life."

"Laugh often and love deep."

Ramya, 2014. Santa Clara, Portrait and Makeover Photo Session

She possesses a quiet nature, a sweet face that will break into a smile throughout your conversations with her.

Meet Ramya.

Throughout her photo session with me one sunny, Saturday afternoon, I learned that she was a wife and a mother and loved being a model. She was patient with my inability to tell a good joke and flowed through the entire session like an absolute pro.

Ramya, it was an honor to to get to know you, to work with you, and to capture your beautiful smile on camera. Thank you for being a part of the  Heartbox Photography movement that encourages every woman that she is not only beautiful, both inside and out, but is also worth celebrating today.

Many thanks to the talented Vlada Fomenko for her beautiful styling of Ramya's hair and make up!

Happy Monday!

Sandy, 2014. Santa Clara, Glamour Portrait Photo Session

Many of you know that I have embarked on a health and fitness journey for no other reason that to be just that...healthy and fit.

And part of what inspired this journey are women like the lovely Sandy.

I had met Sandy through Total Woman Gym + Spa, a gym and day spa dedicated to helping women achieve their health, fitness and wellness goals. Sandy's photo session too place on an afternoon that was as sunny as the bright smile she wore when she walked into the studio. Her joyous laugh and conversation flowed through the studio as she got styled and prepared for her shoot by the talented Kathleen Tinney. No doubt this was going to be a fun shoot!

In our initial correspondence, I learned that Sandy is a wife, mother, and woman who made a decision to change her habits to reflect a healthier lifestyle. For most of us, especially us women living in an image-laden world, I know it is not easy to be so honest with strangers and simply say that you made a decision to get healthy because high-blood pressure, or unintended weight gain could lead to something worse down the road. But honest is exactly what Sandy was as she detailed to me her reasons for wanting to be make her health a priority, to be fit, to be strong. (It was shortly thereafter that I began working with a trainer, too, to push and challenge me - one of the best decisions inspired by her story!)

Sandy, I am incredibly honored to have been able to participate in this celebration of you - a celebration of your life, your health, your beauty. Thank you for sharing everything you are and most of all for inspiring me to push myself to new challenges in my own health and be unafraid to work with a trainer who can help keep me accountable.

Here's to inspiring women everywhere to get healthy!

A heartfelt thanks to the talented Kathleen Tinney of A-List Makeup for Sandy's beautiful hair and make up!

"Kindness, compassion, humor, creativity, love.  I think that all shows on a person's face, and more importantly, the people in my life whom I think are beautiful are the ones that make me feel beautiful, too."

"I don't think there is just one definition of beauty. There are so many different kinds of people in the world and so many ways to be beautiful. I mean, obviously there are things that are considered aesthetically pleasing - smooth skin, symmetrical face, fit body, youthfulness - but I really feel that it's what one puts out into the world that makes one beautiful." 

"I was not confident about much when I was 18. But life teaches you so much. I'm more confident in what I believe, and what I don't believe now than when I was 18. I'm much more comfortable with who I am. It would have been difficult for me to say that I liked myself back then. 

I wanted to be someone different, someone fabulous. I do like who I am now, not to say that there isn't room for improvement, but I do like myself. I have recently rediscovered that I do have a strong body and that makes me more confident in what I can physically do. I also appreciate that, in general, I'm in good health and shouldn't take it for granted."

"If I put it in the context of giving advice to my daughters, I would say take care of yourself. Take care of your body, take care of your mind, take care of your spirit. That's where beauty is."

"I've been lucky so far and have had no major illnesses or injuries. Part of the reason for gettingin shape is that I need to stop pushing my luck! 18 year olds think they will live forever - 48 year olds know better!"

"Practice acceptance. Accept your shortcomings and imperfections and be accepting of others as well. Don't ever be afraid to ask for help. I couldn't have made the progress I've made in the last few months without the help of my fabulous trainer, Leily. I will be eternally grateful to her."