Alora & Aleayah | A Celebration of Phenomenal Mothers & Daughters

“I am a strong woman because a strong woman raised me.”

-author unknown

Mothers are different kind of hustler. And I love photographing them, especially when they do a mother and daughter photoshoot like Alora did with her daughter, Aleayah. It not only gives them an opportunity to get dolled up together, but to mark a moment in time that celebrates their relationship as well as the beauty that comes from recognizing women raising up the next generation of women.

Portraits can definitely be done with other loved ones, so why not bring in the other awesome people in your life to create new moments like this? These two beauties stepped out in front of my camera at my favorite time of the afternoon (love that softened natural light!) to capture a few shots and I am so proud to share them with you all.

Most mothers are often behind the camera and I want to invite mothers out to step out in front. Give yourself permission to exist in portraits, to celebrate exactly where you are at today. Your children will want to have those photos of you and with you to cherish for themselves. Do it for you, yes, but even more so for you and your loved ones.

Here’s to celebrating phenomenal mothers and daughters in our communities and around the world.

Alora and Aleayah, thank you for the honor of creating something just for you both to cherish for years to come. :)

Image | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Daisy Gonzalez-Duarte of Beautiful One Makeup Artistry

Jeannette | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women | 2020

Did I mention I get to work with awesome women who are doing awesome things in their field and community? :)

Jeannette Marsala is an estate planning attorney and owner of Marsala Law Firm here in San Jose. Prior to embarking on her journey as an attorney, she was a medical dispatcher and also worked with special needs adults with developmental disabilities. This San Jose native has a deep passion for helping families and it is evident by not only her work as an attorney but as a volunteer in her community.

It is always an honor to work with other women who are leading the way in serving others with the gifts and skills they have been given. Thank you, Jeannette, for allowing me to capture just a glimpse of who you are in these photos!

Images | Heartbox Photography

Hair/makeup | Becky Lau

Michelle | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women | 2020

She walks in beauty,

like the night…

Of cloudless climes

and starry skies

- Lord Byron

Image | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Katie Pheneger

Beautiful Stories, Beautiful Faces | International Women's Day 2020

How proud I am to serve and use my work to empower women. To remind them of their depth, their unique wiring, 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 at the beauty of the various stories and diverse life paths that weave together a sweet reminder to me of how proud I am to be a woman.

#InternationalWomensDay2020

Milana | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“The thing I appreciate most about my life is my gratitude. Gratitude turns what you have into enough and then some.”

-Milana Istakhorova

Owner & Founder of More Than Fitness

***

“At age 20, my older sister was getting married and we decided to go on a diet together to lose weight for the wedding. We both started on an extremely restrictive diet; by the end we had each lost 30 pounds. Sounds great, doesn't it?

Except it wasn't.

It was miserable, I was starving, cranky, and couldn't focus. But I was so happy that I was thin. Unfortunately, because I hadn't learned how to eat appropriately, I gained all the weight back. Over the course of the next several years, I went up and down 30 pounds 2 MORE times with the help of restrictive dieting. With the weight loss came confidence and what I deemed "self-love" and I was "taking care of myself", however, with the weight gain all of that was lost. I was angry with myself, I told myself I had no self-control or will-power, and that I wasn't strong enough to keep the weight off.

Finally, one day I was sick and tired of feeling like garbage in my heart and in my body. I hired a personal trainer and started learning what MY body needed in order to function well and look the way I wanted it to look. It was just as much a journey of mindset work as it was weight loss. From that total transformation from the inside out, I decided to try my hand working part time as a kickboxing instructor. I fell in love with working in fitness. So in love, that I left graduate school, and decided to pursue personal training as a full time career. I've since obtained many certifications and worked with hundreds of clients.

While working in corporate fitness for the last couple of years, I noticed that the pattern I experienced on my weight loss journey was strangely similar to the majority of the women I was working with. The work I was doing with my clients quickly became more about the mindset shift. Women have been raised with a very specific understanding of what kind of body is considered beautiful or attractive. The majority of women in this world do not fall into that category. Furthermore, even the women who DO fall into that category have tremendous body image issues. Due to the trauma women experience around the way their body looks paired with the reputation of the fitness industry, so many women avoid the gym like the plague. They're afraid of: what might happen, who might think or say what, not knowing what to do or what Instagram post to believe, etc.

My company, More Than Fitness, is creating a revolution in the fitness industry and is teaching women how to approach fitness differently. Fitness is more than dieting and exercising. Fitness is about community, play, movement, and nutrition - and it looks different for everyone. I take my clients on a journey of deep, long-lasting, holistic transformation of the mind, body, and soul. My mission is to take the fear out of fitness, end the cycle of body trauma and shaming and help women start on a new venture of self-love.

My biggest goal for my clients isn't to help them lose weight so that they can THEN love themselves; it's to guide them in falling in love and deepen the connection they have with themselves so that their body reflects who they are on the inside, regardless of dress size.

I want women to know that they are already incredible, gorgeous goddesses exactly as they are. Women have enough fighting against them in this world, from corporate America, to politics, to the media, etc. we don't need to be fighting against ourselves as well.

Give yourself the compassion and grace you would your best friend or daughter, name the things you love about yourself and celebrate every wonderful part of yourself daily. And most importantly, fall in love with everything you are - yes, even if you're unhappy with your appearance.

Change that comes from love is deeper, more real, and more sustainable than any change that comes from hate.”

Best advice you ever received?

“Was actually from a meme on the internet!!! "Master how to remain calm."

Not only does this do wonders for your mental health, but it also does wonders for every individual organ system in your body.”

Image | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Becky Lau, Beautiful One Makeup Artistry

The Giving of Love

Happy February, everyone!

Traditionally, the month of February tends to bring to mind endless images of hearts, a chubby, flying baby who is reckless with his bow and arrow, shades of red overpowering every aisle at your local grocery store, and a sudden hike in the price of a regular dinner simply because it is February 14. 

And while there is nothing inherently wrong with any of this (I love any excuse to eat more chocolate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, let's be real), it can dilute the real message behind the celebrations of this month that are much more important. 

And that celebration is rooted in the giving of love.

Giving of love to your friends. 

Giving of love to your family. 

Giving of love to your neighbors as you would want given to you.

Even in the giving of love to strangers you encounter daily. 

There is much to be said about what you gain from giving love. And I hope this month, whether you celebrate with best girlfriends, partners, or beloved family over an overpriced dinner and red/pink balloons everywhere, it would be rooted in the beauty of giving more love out into the world around you.

Here's to love,

Maria Abelaye, Owner

Heartbox Photography

Jennifer | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“You don't manage people; you manage things. You lead people.”

-Grace Hopper

American computer scientist & United States Navy rear admiral

Meeting boss women leaders in fields like technology is simply whole new level of cool.

Jennifer is a Director of User Experience Design at Glassdoor as well as mentor, speaker, and leader with TechWomen. I had the privilege of hearing her speak in San Francisco at an event that TechWomen was hosting to share about the work being done in mentoring other young women in the areas of techpreneurship in Sierra Leone.

Jennifer is one of the many leaders representing women in technology and I am excited to share with you all these final images (and her insight!) from her photoshoot with Heartbox Photography.

Happy Wednesday!

**

Images by Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup by Daisy Gonzalez-Duarte of Beautiful One Makeup Artistry

***

Can you tell me a bit about you as a person and what you find most rewarding about your work?

I work in user experience design for the software industry. I’ve been doing this for at least 15 years - I’ve kind of lost track at this point. It’s a career I sort of stumbled into - I’d never heard of user experience design when I was in school.

My first job out of college was at a software consulting company, and to be honest, I didn’t love it. When I joined a project with a guy in this new role of user experience design, I realized why. Despite our best intentions, we weren’t delivering a good product because we weren’t thinking about how people actually use software, just what the programs needed to do. So I made the switch and never looked back. 

Today, I lead a team of 6 designers at Glassdoor, with the goal of creating tools for job seekers and employers that are as intuitive and enjoyable to use as possible. The hiring process is stressful enough for everyone already, so we feel really good when we can deliver a product that in some way helps. But what I find most rewarding these days is the chance I have to mentor my team and help my organization strive for the best experience possible.

What are some things that you would want women to know with regards to any of the following topics: self-confidence, beauty, education, women in the tech and science fields?

Beauty is very personal. It’s more than a cliche when they say “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”, because it’s not just about what one personally think is beautiful, it’s also what you focus on. So when you feel ugly and your inner critic is stomping on your self confidence, try changing your focus. No matter how much of a mess you think you are, there is always something beautiful about you. 

Bad hair day?

Focus on how your eyes sparkle. 

Puffy eyes from lack of sleep?

Think about how engaging your smile is. 

Focus on the things you like about yourself, not the things you hate. And remind yourself that just because you couldn’t stop thinking about that pimple, other people are just as likely to have missed it because your eyes were sparkling or smile was so engaging.

When it comes to women in tech and science, especially here in Silicon Valley, I think it’s important to know that the first computer programmers were women.

In fact, programming languages as we know them today were first invented by a woman, Grace Hopper. Women can absolutely be successful in a field that was started in large part by women.

Best advice you ever received?

Whenever you’re upset with someone in your life, a coworker that you think is working against you or a family member you think has been thoughtless, remember to stop and ask yourself what you really, truly know about the situation.

Our brains love stories, and they are hard wired to fill in gaps and create those stories. But the story your mind creates might be wrong. So hold off on judging someone else’s motivations. Tell them what you see and ask them to fill in the gaps for you.

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

I am fortunate to have the opportunity and ability to travel. Not just because I get to take great vacations, but also because I get to meet and connect with new people and different cultures.

Sometimes you see better ways of doing something. Sometimes you realize how much worse things could be than the life you were granted.

And sometimes it’s just a different lens on the same situation that makes you see something in a new light. 

Seeing first hand the variety of experience others have of the world has made me both grateful for what I have and mindful of what I might be able to do better.

Danielle | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“Her eyes have their own vocabulary.

What a beautiful language to learn.”

-author unknown

Danielle is a beautiful wife, mother and career-woman extraordinaire that I had the privilege of meeting through another client who just happened to be her personal trainer. As with most career women and mothers that I meet, Danielle is driven in her work and centered around caring for her family, doing an amazing job and also placing the needs of others before hers.

When we connected and started discussing the design of her shoot, she had shared that she has never done anything like this before and while excited, was also understandably nervous as most of my clients are. What I respect about Danielle is that this photoshoot is one of the many courageous steps she’s taken into remembering who she is as a woman and giving herself permission to not only take care of herself, but also celebrate exactly who she is and what she is still growing to be.

It still floors me to see how much women juggle between career, family, and life itself and I am beyond honored to share with you all some images and a behind the scenes glimpse into Danielle’s photoshoot with Heartbox Photography.

Happy Tuesday!

Images | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Daisy Gonzalez-Duarte of Beautiful One Makeup Artistry

“Really, I had lost myself for the last 15 years. Since having kids, juggling my demanding career consumed all my time, so although its such a cliche, there wasn’t any time left over for me.

Five years ago I had a health scare, which woke me up to seeing that things had to change. However, after initial changes, taking care of myself fell aside again.

After further decline, including gaining a lot of weight, I reached the end of my rope, and finally implemented changes to take care of myself. “

“I started working out with a personal trainer, implemented better nutrition, including removing processed foods, and did daily activities to help reduce stress.

I still have a ways to go, but I feel 200% better than I did 2 years ago, and am aiming to look and feel better by age 50, than I did even 20 years ago.”

“We need to be nicer to ourselves and realize its OK to not be able to do everything.

We put so much pressure on ourselves to do it all, that we lose sight of ourselves in the process. There will never be time to take care of you, so make the time. You are a priority.”

Best advice you ever received?

“Life is short. Each day is precious. Be sure to take time every day to do things you want to do, not just the ones you have to do.”

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

“I feel like I have my life energy back. Along with my health, my relationships are improving, and having time to play with my kids before they are gone is priceless.”

Ruth-Anne | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“This world is but a canvas to our imagination.”
-Henry David Thoreau

If there is one thing I firmly believe, it’s that when you are true artist, your inspiration is never just limited to your own medium or even your own abilities, . A lot of the time, my own inspiration as a photographer comes from dancers, the sounds and beats of all different kinds of music from all genres, even watching people knit together a complicated pattern that produces an incredible tapestry that tells a new and bigger story.

I had the privilege to photograph a local Bay Area artist/painter and graphic designer, Ruth-Anne Siegel. I can not paint anything artistic to save my life, which is probably why Ruth-Anne’s work is incredibly beautiful to me. Vibrant colors have always been something I absolutely love and her work embodies some of the most beautiful blends and bursts of color I have ever seen. My words don’t do her work justice, you need to see it for yourself here! When I see her latest creations on social media, it’s almost as if I can also experience and feel her focus, her smile, her joy, taking heed to an invitation into a piece of her world when she makes these these colors come to new life on canvas.

Ruth-Anne is an inspiration to me as photographer and I am so honored to have worked with her on her photoshoot with Heartbox Photography.

Happy Friday, everyone!

Images | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Daisy Gonzalez-Duarte with Beautiful One Makeup

***

Can you tell me a bit about you as a person (your own life journey thus far), what inspired you to start your business and what you find most rewarding about your work?

“I always wanted to be an artist and when I found out I could be a graphic designer that’s what I decided I’d be when I grew up! After a career at a large agency in New York City and then many start ups in Silicon Valley, I decided to work for myself.

My clients are mostly women entrepreneurs running their own businesses or non-profits. My art career doesn’t end with graphic design. I’m also a fine artist. I paint bold, expressive, colorful abstract paintings that I sell locally in art fairs and open studios as well as in local galleries and online.”

What are some things that you would want women to know with regards to beauty, self-confidence, and growing up as a woman in today's world?

“If you are beautiful on the inside, you’ll be beautiful on the outside. A shared smile, a foundation of confidence, and an innate sense of who you are makes you shine. I know that when I’m sure of myself, I can do anything!”

Best advice you ever received?

“Never assume, always ask.”

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

“I appreciate that I and all my loved ones are healthy, happy, and fulfilled.”

Melanie | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

I think with anything that seems intimidating and unknown, it’s much more common to avoid it entirely and somehow hope it will turn out just fine. This includes planning and truly knowing where your financial house stands - whether it’s sand or cement.

I had the pleasure of meeting Melanie awhile back and we immediately connected over our common love/slight obsession with our dogs. In conversation over all things pet-related, I also learned that she is a financial advisor with Financial Perspectives based here in the Bay Area. It is evident that she has a true passion to help educate people make sound financial decisions, especially women. Historically, when it came to personal finances, women seemed to come in second in many aspects, whether it was how much we earned compared to our male counterparts or even when it came to having the tools and knowledge to make the decisions best for retirement, college education planning for kids, etc. Her work encourages women to take a much more active role and to allow education help ease the fears of the unknown when it comes to personal finances.

As someone who advocates for all things that help women continually move forward, it is an honor to share with you all these final images from Melanie’s photoshoot with Heartbox Photography!

Images | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Beautiful One Makeup Artistry

“Personal finance knowledge is sorely lacking for everyone, and having the ability to share my knowledge and be a part of someone reaching their financial goals gives me great satisfaction.

My journey to the woman I am today has been a constant discovery, which is what I love best, because I have a deep desire to continue to learn.”

-Melanie Pelayo, Financial Advisor

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

“I know I have the skills within me to accomplish what I want to do if I set my mind to it.

I’m grateful to have my family around me and their support no matter what, and appreciate the sacrifices my parents made to help me become the person I am today.”

Tracie | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“Feminism isn’t about making women stronger. Women are already strong.

It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.”

-G.D. Anderson

I had the opportunity to opportunity to photograph the beautiful Tracie Root.

And her story? I was seriously blown away. I mean, really, we talk about women and being strong, surviving but to be honest I heard Tracie’s story and all I could think about was how I couldn’t fathom having to endure what she did. There’s something about a woman’s smile that becomes even more beautiful once you learn more about the life challenges they’ve endured that had the potential to wipe away that smile forever - and yet it’s still there, brighter than ever.

Tracie’s own personal story is the backbone to the work she does as an established certified health and wellness coach here in the Bay Area and as the owner of Gather in Santa Cruz and I am so proud to share with you all these images that capture the essence of this phenomenal woman.

Images | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Daisy Gonzalez-Duarte

***

I grew up in Silicon Valley and was always a high achiever for all the external things - school, performing arts, career - but I always struggled with health and energy. I was overweight as a teenager and was a yo-yo dieter into my 30's. I was a smoker, I lived on caffeine and nicotine and lots of junk food, dieting off and on, with little success as I was motivated by what I looked like on the outside.

“By age 40, I was married to a great man, had 2 great kids, when life hit us hard and my husband lost his 4-year battle with cancer.

I was left with 2 preschoolers and most of my family and friends did not live near me, so the kids and I were literally on our own, attempting to survive in this new season of life.”

A couple of years later I realized that this was how things were going to stay if I didn't make some changes, so I started with my health. I connected with a health coach who had a proven system that taught me how to make real changes. I got to a healthy weight and that trickled to all areas of my life.

“She taught me how to pay it forward, and not only was my physical health transformed but I learned how to ask for and to give help, how to cultivate gratitude, how to hold space for myself and others, and how to find my own peace after trauma.”

I began coaching in 2012 and life has never been the same. Helping people with their healthy body, healthy mindset, healthy finances, whatever is most important to them (or all three and more!)...there's nothing better when you can guide another to transform their life!

What are some things that you would want women to know with regards to beauty, self-confidence, and growing up as a woman in today's world?

“I believe that all people have beauty within them if they focus on love and gratitude. Like in the movies - the "ugly witches" are ugly because they have ugliness within them.

The beautiful ones use their power for good and helping others. The movies didn't just make this up! If you have gratitude and love in your soul, beauty will radiate from within, and you will shine bright.”

Best advice you ever received?

“Everything we do is a choice.

What do you choose?”

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

I'm grateful that I get to pour into others every day. My family, friends, and the world at large, my mission is to show people what's possible and hold space for them while they work toward their transformation

- and I get to live that mission every day!

Guest Blog Post | Top 7 Holiday Eating Tips

One of my amazing clients is none other than Milana Istakhorova, a Certified Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach and owner of More Than Fitness, based here in the Bay Area. Given that the holiday season is upon us, Milana has graciously agreed to share some of her expertise in a guest blog post to help us not only enjoy our time but also the yummy treats that are sure to present itself in abundance during all the festivities.

Be sure to check out the More Than Fitness website as well as follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more tips and even opportunities to schedule personalized coaching.

Here’s to health and beauty - both inside AND out!

***

It’s that time of year again!

 The season for joy, connection, and celebration.

It’s also prime season for eating. Holiday parties, extra treats around the office, seasonal foods that make you feel like you’re missing out if you don’t indulge…

Everyone knows how common it is to gain 7-10lbs over the holiday season…but it doesn’t have to be that way! 

If you want to avoid that for yourself and feel amazing when you enter 2020, I suggest practicing these 7 tips:

1. Don’t allow overindulgence for more than one meal per day.

2. Keep breakfast light or skip it entirely if you’re having a large lunch or early dinner.

3. Drink at least half your body weight in ounces of water per day.

4. Break a sweat every single day.

5. Make sure you’re strength training no less than 3x/week.

6. Buffets are for bites – to try and taste a variety of things, not to consume full portions.

7. Don’t be afraid to say no. If you’re getting peer pressure to eat more than you desire, it’s ok to decline.

Here’s the thing though...

I’m actually all for indulging and enjoy food!

And that’s one reason that I love making healthy alternatives to some of my favorite seasonal items. 

P.S. If you know you could use some extra support through this season, let me know and I'll schedule a time for us to chat about how I can help right away!

Festive Not Frazzled - Tips for Surviving the Holidays!

One of my awesome clients, Sarah Moore, is the owner and founder of Hey Presto! Personal Concierge and seeing as how the holidays are right around the corner, I HIGHLY recommend not only taking advantage of the services she provides, whether the tasks small or huge, but also utilizing the tips she has so kindly shared as a guest for today’s blog post below!

Image by Heartbox Photography

Tips for Surviving the Holidays

- by Sarah Moore, Owner & Founder

Hey Presto! Personal Concierge

Remember being a child, when the holiday season held so much magic? Fast forward to adulthood, and these days the magic is more fleeting, and it certainly doesn’t happen with a wave of a wand.  If only.

The holidays can present a dizzying array of demands: holiday cards, decorating, meal planning, hosting, travel arrangements, gift shopping, wrapping, social functions, and that’s after we take care of our everyday, year-round tasks like feeding the family and keeping up with the laundry.  Consider also that Thanksgiving falls late this year, leaving only the blink of an eye before Christmas arrives.  If the very thought of all that makes you feel frazzled and not festive, here are some tips to consider for a smoother approach to the holidays, allowing you to stop and smell the Christmas trees along the way.

Edit your to-do list. When you look back on the holidays will your memories be so different because you bought the cookies rather than baked them yourself?  Because you hosted a potluck rather than a dinner party? Or because you didn’t have new sheets on your guest bed?  Ask yourself whether the additional workload will make a tangible difference to your memories (and your sanity).

Get Help! Discuss at home how to share the workload and talk to family about realistic expectations.  If you have kids then enlist their help with appropriate tasks.   They can help ready the house for visitors, brainstorm gift ideas, and let’s face it, Grandma will appreciate the meaningful effort a child has taken to wrap a gift, even if it doesn't look perfect.  Shared activities like gift wrapping can make for fond memories, and have the added bonus of helping the kids focus on giving rather than receiving.

Take time for yourself. Holiday obligations can be important but be sure to balance them with some time for yourself.  It can be as small as a walk around the block.  A bubble bath with some holiday music.  A movie and a glass of wine.  Self care is key and will give you the bandwidth to handle the stress.  Take a mindful moment to reflect on what the holidays mean to you.

Start early & be proactive.  Start small.  From the tiny acorn grows the mighty oak. Wrap your gifts as you buy them.   Batch cook in October or November and freeze ahead.  Take a few minutes to consider your festive clothing.  Decisions are way easier without time pressure.

Keep your plans focused. A good example of this is decorating.  Focus on the front door and the tree, and if you can manage it, one other focal point.  If you can’t, who’s really going to remember?  Oh, and remember, take Instagram with a pinch of salt, life is real, people!

May your holidays be intentional, free of drama, and with a healthy sprinkle of magic!

Hey Presto Concierge Services provides personal concierge services to individuals and small businesses in the Bay Area.  We offer ‘Holiday Elf’ packages, where you can get help where you need it most, including wrapping, decorating, errand running, shopping.  Post holiday clean up?  We’ve got you covered too. Call 408-465-9009 for more info. www.heyprestoconcierge.com.

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.”

Corina | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“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. “

Kathy | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“Confidence and intelligence will never stop being beautiful.”

-author unknown

I love hearing stories about women who have stepped out in huge ways to try something new and way out of their comfort zone. It is amazing to see how much that “new” and sometimes scary step turns into something so life-changing for them you’d never guess they had any hesitations in the first place.

Kathy is a devoted mother of 4, a nurse manager here in the Bay Area and a ballroom dancer with the sweetest of smiles. She shared with me that she never would have imagined developing such a love for ballroom dancing, let alone be competing in dance competitions. Needless to say, dance has impacted her greatly and I loved being able to capture Kathy in beautiful outfits she has used in competitions.

Most of all, I loved being able to capture the sweet smile of a woman who continues to celebrate, grow, and learn from the journey that her life has been and what it has yet to be.

Kathy, thank you for trusting me to capture you in this season of your beautiful life. The best is yet to come.

Images | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Becky Lau of Beautiful One Makeup

“In my real world I am a mom and a nurse. I have been a registered nurse for 31 years and a mom for 21 years. I have twin girls and two boys that bring me much joy and are the center of my life. I don't know what I would do without them!

In my fantasy world, I am a ballroom dancer although my teacher always told me it is not a fantasy anymore, it is my reality! Unfortunately, I had to leave an unhealthy marriage but the past seven years have been such growth years in my life. I've struggled with weight issues my entire life and focus now on healthy eating and exercising regularly. “

“Balancing a stressful management career and family left very little time for myself and I found ballroom dancing to be my saving grace. It was my escape after a busy work day. It was something I had always wanted to do.

Entering that dance studio over 6 years ago changed my life. I have never been surrounded by so many positive, supportive people who, instead of being judgmental and critical were always uplifting.

I never imagined that I would be out there on the competition floor in those beautiful costumes, make up, hair and spray tan. But they told me I could and I did! The excitement is indescribable.

My mom died at the young age of 53. From her I learned that family is the most important thing in your life, you must do what is best for you, that life is short and you have to enjoy each moment.

From dancing, I learned that comparing yourself and your journey to others is the most damaging thing you can do to your self esteem. I've learned that your confidence needs to come from within.

I have learned that you have to love yourself and take care of yourself before you can take care of anyone else. I was convinced that I would die at this age as well and as I turned 53 this year, I am starting to believe that I will be living a long life.”

“I appreciate that I have had the opportunity to learn and grow and now I am able to support and mentor others in their career and coping with illness. I appreciate that I have more strength to be uplifting to others.

I am honored to have my patients and their families share their lives with me and that I have the opportunity to make a difference. And I appreciate that I have a beautiful outlet - ballroom dancing - that connects me with a wonderful family of friends who support my journey. Above all I am proud that my children are thriving and doing so well now.

When I first separated from my ex, I purchased a silver band inscribed with the words "Ancora Imparo." It is attributed to Michelangelo and means I am still learning.

I have worn it almost every day since and it is my reminder to be kind to myself, that we learn from every situation and grow each day. It reminds me to not give up.”

“Ballroom dance has challenged me to do things I never imagined I could do and that has boosted my confidence and self esteem tremendously.

Do I still struggle?

I think we all do but to be around people who support your journey makes such a difference. And nothing compares to that magical feeling of floating across the dance floor and connecting with your partner.

What looks so easy takes much work and that work is the most rewarding part, not the end result.”

“The best advice I have ever received as an adult was to not quit dancing after my first instructor left - not because I am still dancing but because it taught me how worthwhile it is to challenge yourself and not run away when you are faced with a challenging situation.

Sometimes you must step out of your comfort zone to get better, to learn, to grow, to experience new things. You never get better if you give up. My favorite quote: "Inhale Confidence, Exhale Doubt"

Jennifer | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

Jennifer is one of the most down-to-earth women I have had the opportunity to meet. She’s not only an executive for the City of San Jose, but she is also dedicated mother, and a singer and actress for local theater productions.

Basically, she’s the boss lady you’d admire, respect, and look up to. :)

When I heard about all her varied interests outside her day job, but also in her personal life, I couldn’t help but smile to think about how awesome it was to meet a woman so engaged with life itself.

Jennifer is an example of what I think us women need to be reminded of often - that we’re not “just” mothers or “just” this role at work, etc. - but we’re a lot of different roles and the richness of that is exactly what makes being a woman today so awesome.

I am so honored to share with you all the final images and behind the scenes footage of Jennifer’s photoshoot with Heartbox Photography.

Images | Heartbox Photography

Hair & makeup | Becky Lau

“As a single, working mom raising three teenagers, my days are quite full. I love my career as an engineer, and devote most of my time outside of work helping my children learn, grow, and prepare to launch into their own lives.

Both at home and at work, my goal is to help those around me find their voice and grow into the best “them” they can be.”

“I am also a classically trained pianist and love to sing. I’ve been singing in church choirs most of my life. and music has always been a part of my life.

Looking ahead to future empty-nester days, I joined my love of music and desire to become a part of a supportive community into an interest in community theater. I performed in my first few shows in the past year and a half. “

“Being on stage has helped me develop confidence in new areas, meet a group of wonderful people, and promote my goal of helping my kids become independent. Having something of my own to enjoy models to my kids that I’m more than just their mom.

I appreciate working at a job I enjoy, loving my children and family, the company and support of good friends, and remembering that taking time to care for myself enriches my ability to take care of others. “

“The best advice I ever received was from my paternal grandma.

She told me to “be happy with what you have.”

This advice has become my secret to happiness. I learned that happiness comes from within by accepting who you are are, where you are at this very minute, and finding gratitude for what is in your life at any given moment.”

Phoebe | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

I stared at the blinking cursor on my computer for awhile as I was preparing to write this post.

It wasn’t for any reason that was bad - the complete opposite. It was more like “how do I even have enough words or the right words that would accurately communicate the message and story of Phoebe’s life?”

The one thing that I think anyone can say about Phoebe is that she is all about God and not in a superficial way - rather, in a deep, heartfelt, raw and real way. The kind that makes the skeptic believe in the hope of actual miracles in this world again.

To say she has gone through a lot in her life would be an understatement and yet, what she is quick to share with anyone she meets is a message of the unwavering grace, love, and pursuit of a God that is real and alive. Despite having gone through childhood trauma, physical and mental health battles that sometime resurface even today, grace and hope collided with Phoebe’s life in ways that has changed it and continues to change to it. It is no surprise to me that Phoebe’s daily work in founding Overcoming with Grace is grounded in wanting to help others experience a life transformed as hers has been. Maybe you or someone you know could use a message of hope and life change and this is coming at the right time. Visit her website, learn about her story. You’ll see what I mean. :)

I am so very honored to share with you all the final images from Phoebe’s photoshoot. She is a woman, a devoted wife, a mother, a survivor, and living proof that God does some pretty crazy things out of a never-ending love for His people.

Happy Tuesday, everyone!

Images | Heartbox Photography

Hair & Makeup | Beautiful One Makeup

Can you tell me a bit about your journey since your last photoshoot, what inspired you to start your company, and what you find most rewarding about your work?

Oh man, a LOT has happened. I got pregnant with our second daughter, who is now 2 and is this spunky, funny, sweet, ball of fire!

I started Overcoming with Grace, because I wanted to be an example to women of what is possible.

Whether they've experienced trauma, loss, debilitating health issues, deep negative self-talk, or any pain...they CAN recover.

Not only can they recover, but they can actually have JOY in their life again after experiencing so much heart ache and pain. They can get out of the darkness, even when it seems like there is no light.

Time and time again, God has shown me that with whatever I thought was impossible to overcome or heal, His limitless power can heal anything. We have an impossible God!

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

I appreciate the way I view suffering and trials way more than I ever have. I used to view it as another hardship and challenge that would inevitably come, because, hey, that's the life I've been living. Always a tragedy, trauma, loss, surgery, diagnosis, struggle, failure, betrayal, etc. So what's next?

Now, it's more of: I wonder what God is going to show me, or teach me, or grow me through this? I wonder what I'm going to learn more about Him and myself? It's such a freeing way to view challenges and suffering. This came most clear to me earlier this year when my physical and mental health flared up the most it has in awhile.

It showed me a new layer of living with my conditions, where I could not only still have joy in my life, but also to show others that it is possible to do it too. It showed me a new level of letting go. And being able to LIVE with my family, friends and the other people placed in my life has been such a gift that no condition, past trauma or anything or anyone else can take away!

The most rewarding thing about my work is seeing when the light bulbs start going off in my clients of how they don't have to be at the mercy of their circumstances...when they start being aware that they CAN take back control of their lives in a healthy, empowered way...when they start being aware that they have everything they need within them to succeed and feel loved, and it's not depending on anyone or anything else....seeing all that magic start and unfold more and more is such a gift and privilege!

Best advice you ever received and advice you'd give to your own daughter now regarding confidence, beauty, wholeness as a human in today's day & age?

When you can view beauty and confidence WITHOUT comparing, you've gotten confidence down. (Oh, that just came to me at midnight!!! LOL!)

Even when we compare ourselves to our old self, sometimes we do it negatively and in a way where we keep unhealthily striving.

I would tell my daughter to view her beauty, confidence and wholeness from within, and not the within from herself, but from the one who created her. God is THE voice that will carry her through.

When she has God-confidence and views herself the way He does, then I know it won't matter whatever comes her way, she will be able to soar through!

Karmen | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women

“Love yourself for who you are, and trust me, if you are happy from within,

you are the most beautiful person, and your smile is your best asset.”

-Illeana D’Cruz

Karmen Reed is a Money-Mindset Coach and Consultant based here in the Bay Area. I had the privilege of recently photographing this lovely woman and learning not only more about her personal background but also about what inspired her to do the work that she does to help other women achieve their optimal success when it comes to their mindset and outlook on finances. She is also a devoted wife and mother with one of the warmest laughs and sunniest smiles I have ever encountered. If there is one thing I noticed about Karmen from the beginning is that she genuinely passionate about learning all that she can as well as teaching others so that they, too, can grow in their own professional and personal endeavors.

I am extremely honored to share with all of you some of the final images from this lovely woman’s photoshoot with Heartbox Photography. As always, a heartfelt thanks to Kathleen Tinney of A-List Makeup for her beautiful work on Karmen’s styling of hair and makeup for this special experience!

Here’s to celebrating phenomenal women everywhere, especially to women like Karmen who set out to help women realize their own inner-awesomeness.

“I was born and raised on the island of Brac in a little Mediterranean country Croatia. I came to America in 1987 when I was 20 years old because I fell in love and could not see anything that is in my way of that happiness.

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.

I also always had a mentor, a coach, a community I could rely on for support and help, as much as being challenged to rise up and take steps I was afraid of. This type of environment allowed me to thrive. I was learning about myself, business and the world. This inspired me to share everything I learned, to give back to women who are on a similar journey of empowerment, financial independence, and living their best life every day.

I learned to be a masterful coach. I started mentoring and coaching women and helping them create an amazing relationship with money so they can thrive in every area of their life. I absolutely LOVE watching women go through beautiful transformations when it comes to self-awareness and empowerment.

It is my goal to help many women create an amazing relationship with money, because how we do money is how we do everything.”

“The best advice I have ever received is from my mom when I was a child:

Go explore and find your own answers.

These words are imprinted inside my soul. I am definitely an explorer. This has become my DNA blueprint.”

“I believe that the beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder, and that we have to be that for ourselves.

Our empowerment comes from the place of awareness about our self-talk and our emotions.

Our self-confidence comes from our self-empowerment.

We as women have so much to offer to the world, and the world is hungry all the time. When a confident woman offers her love, care, perspective, knowledge, vision to the world, the world stops and listens.”

“My message to all women today: rise and thrive!

Create a legacy you will be proud of, step into your brave, and show the world your love. This is what beauty is in my eyes.”

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

“I have an amazing husband, I have two adult children, I have family abroad, and my husband’s big and complicated family is near and dear with many activities, we are surrounded by great friends, and we are very active socially.

I used to think that these are my disadvantages when it comes to my entrepreneurial journey, because these are my obligations as well. Relationships that are strong require work, time, and commitment consistently.

I looked at some of my colleagues who were seemingly more successful and was envious of their freedom from close relationships, mortgage, and family, because they can focus all their time and energy into their business.

What I realized is that my envy was so unfounded. I realized that I am the one with everything I need, and my relationships are my support, my cheerleaders, my biggest fans and that was an advantage.”

“I love my life and I want to help other

women fall in love with theirs!”

Sarah, Anna, and Rosie | Mothers and Daughters | 2019

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!