Happy Friday! We made it! I am so excited for the weekend because our pace will slow down and I get to spend quality time with my husband and kids doing the things we want. No more being tethered to school schedules, after-school activities and mid-week obligations. It is time to set this wild spirit — FREE!
I am so excited to share with you these fun pictures from my recent photo shoot with my amazing photographer Shawna Henrie of Bleudogfotography. Gratitude is what I feel for her because she has been my rock and support from day one. Shawna has been there from the very beginning of my blogging journey.
There were so many reasons why I dragged my feet in becoming a fashion blogger despite knowing it was my calling at this time in my life. I believe this discussion is worthy of a blog post so let me know if you are interested in hearing it. One debilitating mindset I had was my insecurity of being too different.
Don’t Let Your Thoughts Bully You
You see I am from Orange County, CA where everyone seems to be a size 0, tall, skinny and a blonde. I am complete opposite of that. I have been all sizes of the spectrum, I am short, I am thick and I have dark hair (which I used to color to make lighter but now I am embracing the dark side).
I told Shawna all of my insecurities, who mind you — is from Orange County, gorgeous, and a blonde herself! I just laid it out there in text fashion trying to decipher if she is the right photographer for me. Because, for those fashion bloggers out there you know that your relationship with your photographer needs to be built on trust.
She said so many poignant things that buoyed my spirit. Words that became a balm to my broken soul and self-limited thoughts. Shawna said the camera doesn’t lie and that I needed to start this path and to trust her. Because I was different I needed to step up and share my voice, passion, and beauty. That there are women are there who are looking for someone like me to connect with and receive inspiration from.
This Is Your Time To Shine
I was so humbled by her words. I knew that God was directing our paths and this connection was not a coincidence. It was my time to step forth and shine. This was not an easy thing for me to embrace because my natural inclination is step back, observe, and even hide sometimes! I am honestly comfortable with not standing out. But, I knew in my heart God didn’t want me to live my life like this anymore.
This style post is more than about the latest trends for me. It is symbolic of embracing who I am, having complete faith in me and my abilities. Loving everything about me. The flaws, weaknesses, insecurities, and imperfections make me beautiful. To understand that I am a work in progress. I am incredible because I am God’s creation.
Is it hard for you to step out of your comfort zone and take that leap of faith? Share with me a recent fear you conquered and was there someone cheering you on too? I would love to hear from you!
Photography by Bleudogfotography
My Talbots Style
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Jegging: c/o Talbots. I am in love with this Flawless Five-Pocket Jegging in Cadet Grey, $95! This ulta form-fitting style has the best super-soft fabric designed to keep its shape all day long! Talbots Sale: $20 off regular-priced pants when you buy one. Buy 2 or more regularly price pants get $25 off each. Valid through 9-13-2017. Stock up for FALL!
Handbag: c/o Talbots. Animal print drives me crazy! A super stylish bag that has many pockets for organization. This particular bag is from last season but similar soft haircalf handbag here and here.
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[/shop]Top: c/o Shein. Love this Crochet Lace Hallow Out Top! The high neckline has a great Victorian flair. It is only $16!
Boots: c/o Zooshoo. Obsessed with these tan leather boots, $95. The fringe dances with you and I will be wearing this all season long!
Embroidered Floppy Hat: Nectar Boutique in Laguna Niguel, CA. I bought the last one and adore the boho vibe! Love this one from Forever21 and Shein too.
Earrings: Zulily (old). Turquoise and me go together! I love the look of this gorgeous stone with any outfit. These earrings here and here are super cute too!
Sunglasses: Quay. Love these retro-inspired aviator frames, only $55!
Thank you always for stopping by and wishing you a fantastic weekend! Do share with me your thoughts about today’s fashion post!