portrait
Celebrating Sisters & Friends
in photography
“There's no better friend than a sister.”
- author unknown
Photographing sisters holds a special place in my heart.
Mostly because I have the gift of two sisters myself and while a lot of our childhood was filled with your typical sister fights over toys and clothes our adulthood now shares a bond that makes me deeply grateful for my siblings. I have the privilege of having sisters I can call my bestest (yes, that’s a real word) friends.
Consider celebrating your sisters (or those you consider your sisters) through a photoshoot. Because sisters are simply priceless.
Image by Heartbox Photography
50 & Fabulous Series | Karen Wolk
in photography
I read a saying somewhere that says with age, you look outside what you are inside. And if that's true, then what you can see from Karen is a vibrant spirit who embraces life in all the best ways.
From the minute I connected with Karen to talk about her involvement in the 50 Fabulous Series, I am in the midst of creating, I immediately appreciated her sense of humor, authenticity, how she celebrated her age and life itself.
This gem of a lady celebrates a birthday today and I am honored to share one of my favorite images from her shoot with me with you all!
Image by Heartbox Photography
Women in Business | Adrienne Rush
in photography
“The most successful entrepreneurs I know are optimistic. It’s part of the job description.” -Caterina Fake
A dedicated wife.
Proud mother.
And…boxing club owner.
Yes, you read that right. Adrienne Rush is the owner of TITLE Boxing Club, a boutique fitness gym that offers boxing and kickboxing classes in Mountain View, California. I had the privilege of photographing her earlier this year as part of the 50 Fabulous Series I am working on to create a magazine celebrating the amazing women in the Bay Area who are 50+.
After many years in the tech industry, Adrienne eventually retired and took on the unexpected and exciting adventure of not only becoming a business owner but also in an area of fitness she had no prior experience in - boxing. Today, she not only runs this successful club, but also is a active participant/student in the boxing/fitness classes herself.
And in my world, there is just something incredibly cool about women who take up boxing to stay healthy and fit. I am so honored to share with you today’s 50 Fabulous spotlight on the amazing Adrienne.
Happy Monday!
Image | Heartbox Photography
What do you enjoy about what you do? What are some of the challenges?
My favorite part of running the business is helping people improve their lives through fitness. I meet wonderful people, have an amazing staff, and I love hearing members share their stories about how working out at the club has successfully helped them address health issues like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, weight issues, or found that boxing helps them reduce the stress in their lives. The biggest challenge by far has been the closure we had during the pandemic.
***
Knowing what you know now, what would you tell your 18 year old self?
Don't be afraid to be yourself and take risks.
***
What do you appreciate most about your life now/what are you most proud of? My life is full of things to appreciate - family, friends, good health, pets, nature - too many to list. I am most proud of my two wonderful daughters.
***
A fun or surprising fact about yourself? People are often surprised when they first learn that I run a boxing fitness business. They say, "Boxing? You?"
***
If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why? Ruth Bader Ginsberg because she was not afraid to act in spite of so many challenges and pressures to conform.
Unapologetically Shine Forth
in photography
“I can't think of any better representation of beauty than someone who is unafraid to be herself.”
- Emma Stone
Before and afters are some of my favorite images to share from a client’s photoshoot.
Why?
Because it is evidence that everyday, REAL women are magazine-cover stunners and they’re EVERYWHERE around us.
They are our friends, our co-workers, mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunts, and daughters.
Whether she is 18 or 85.
Whether she is just learning life or has gathered many seasons of life, wisdom, and experience already.
It is evidence we can give all women a chance to see their own uniqueness in themselves, give them encouragement to unapologetically shine it, and the permission to own their own limitless beauty.
Happy Wednesday, everyone!
Shine forth.
Image by Heartbox Photography
Re-Ignite Vision
in photography
Inspiration really can come from everywhere.
Movies.
A walk outside.
Dance.
Sketching on a whiteboard.
A conversation.
Taking a nap.
A quote.
Books.
A little boredom.
It's funny how seemingly unrelated things like these actually influence business processes...
Spark creativity...
Generate new ideas...
Sharpen vision...
Carve out solutions...
And ultimately re-ignite vision.
Image by Heartbox Photography
A Celebration of Phenomenal Women | Sarah Chamberlain
in photography
“A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman.”
-Melinda Gates
When I think of Sarah, the words “vibrant, energetic, leader” immediately come to mind.
Her involvement as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA is a national association in the United States that supports and promotes court-appointed advocates for abused or neglected children) eventually led to Sarah and her partner’s decision to adopt their daughter, Keriann. Sarah’s love for her family, her work (she currently serves as a Creative Director at an ad tech company here in the Bay Area) and life itself was clearly evident in our conversation and I am thrilled to publish this spotlight on a phenomenal woman whose drive and vision creates meaningful impact on the work she does for others and the community around her.
Images by Heartbox Photography
***
“I moved to the Bay Area from Washington, DC a little over 8 years ago with my partner Jason Pittman who was tasked with building the first Khan Academy brick-and-mortar school. We were exposed to some pretty big fish fairly quickly, but I really was looking for a more down-to-earth scene.
Looking for ways to build community and put down some roots, I started to do a lot of volunteering with kids in higher need communities. The biggest impact I felt I was able to make was as a CASA.
I encourage all my friends who haven't had children to explore being a child advocate or mentor for those who need a little extra support. It’s been the best experience of my life, and I hope to do more work here in a “second career”.
That said, I love my “day job”, where I’m the Creative Director at Frequence, an ad tech company in Mountain View. I’m proud to be the first female in executive leadership here and have developed additional resources, such as Women@Frequence and as well as our community initiative, where we’ve worked with hunger and education services.
After being a CASA for two years, Jason and I decided to adopt our daughter, Keriann, who was in her teens. She’s been an incredible part of my life and has pushed me to grow in ways I never imagined.”
What do you enjoy about what you do? What are some of the challenges?
“I enjoy connecting people. Nothing feels better than growing with a community, and seeing the fruits of your combined labor. This applies when working on the software we develop, implementing new creative workflows and growing a team of creative employees. It’s nice because we all have the same general goals - but different approaches in how we get there. It’s wonderful to track personal growth, but also see the changes in co-workers and mentees over a similar arch of time. This makes everything worth it!
The struggle lately has been finding time to make personal connections on a larger scale. Time is so precious and I think the last two years really showed me the importance of being intentional with it.”
Knowing what you know now, what would you tell your 18-year-old self?
“She was such a mess! I didn’t know where to begin - I had so many interests and both terrified and excited by new things. I would probably give myself the same advice as I would currently - be precious about who and what you spend your time doing. Don’t attach yourself to anyone or anything that is just there because of comfort or fear of something new. Don’t let anyone waste your time - especially you!"
I look at my daughter, who is now 23, and often think about the things she could’ve taught me. She has always been laser focused on what she wants - and I have a lot of respect for the way she carries herself and the expectations she puts on those around her. I was not that strong at 18, 23, etc.”
What do you appreciate most about your life now/what are you most proud of?
“I appreciate self care. Although most would label me an extrovert, I think I’ve become more introverted or recognized that I need a fair amount of downtime where I can be completely “off”. I’m always doing something - sending and email, researching a new project, et - but the holy grail of self care must come first. Working from home post-pandemic has made it easy to get sleep, good nutrition, and exercise. Stress management is so important and I feel like I’ve finally figured that out.”
If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?
“This is hard! I’m kind of a pessimist in this way - they whole “don’t meet your heroes” curse. But I’m inspired by people who were bold enough to shake things up. It takes so much effort to step outside your comfort zone and fight against the current.
That said, I think I admire this so much after reading about Regenerative Design pioneer Victor Papanek. He was not a well-known industrial designer, but he was really focused on “breaking” things - redesigning everyday items for more sustainability, better ergonomics, equality, et. His book, Design for the Real World: Human Ecology and Social Change is really a hidden gem.”
Who inspires you and why?
Women.
“[My daughter], Keriann - she’s the strongest woman I’ve ever known.
My mom. She’s 75 and still working on herself. She never settles for long - she’s a passionate volunteer and is still working as a nurse. Her work ethic and tireless care for her family is something I feel is so special.”
A fun or surprising fact about yourself?
“I have a lot of past lives. I’ve worked in a lot of different roles/industries, which I feel contributes to empathy and compassion.
I’m a creative professional, and enjoy many creative pursuits but don’t really consider myself an artist. I’m definitely more about the journey/process and the collaboration. It goes back to connecting - I love to manage a complex project, bringing in the best men and women for the job(s). I think that is my superpower.
I’m excited about “reopening” San Jose. I’ve been working with the New Leaders Council for the past two years and am so inspired by this group of passionate progressive thinkers.
I hope to continue to find ways to connect to community and culture in our city, and look forward to marking and observing my growth here.”
Freya Krishnan | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
in photography
No joke, one of the very first things I ever shared with Freya was that I simply could not take a selfie to save my life. (Yes, I am still somehow a photographer!) Freya was holding a workshop I attended dedicated to helping people like me see that a good selfie is indeed possible and can be used for fun social media marketing. I am less afraid of selfies now because of her! =)
Sometime later, I had the privilege to help Freya update her own headshots. This driven and creative woman does phenomenal work helping others as a Visibility and Confidence Coach as well as an entrepreneur and mentor. I am so proud to share with you all not only some of her images from her photoshoot with me, but also a bit more about Freya and her story that led to where she is today and shapes who she continues to grow into for the future.
Happy Wednesday, everyone!
Images | Heartbox Photography
***
“I have always been a huge advocate for women and small businesses. As a Visibility + Confidence Coach, my mission is to empower women in business so that they can be seen as their most authentic and confident selves. I run workshops and group programs that teach on how to increase visibility, expand networks, and become more confident in the process.
I have been an entrepreneur for about 15+ years now, but it feels like I have been one for most of my life. I was born and raised in the Philippines. Growing up, my parents always ran some form of small business. They made sure that their kids helped out in all their ventures, and though none of us siblings ended up going into business school, in their own way our parents taught us motivation, resilience and work ethic. And they most definitely instilled the entrepreneur mindset in me.
I migrated to the United States at 17 to study Computer Science…that is a long story. I somehow found my way back into entrepreneurship because I needed to find fulfillment and an opportunity to practice creativity that my grey cubicle could not provide.”
My passion is to help other women succeed by leading by example and showing them that they are capable of ANYTHING they set their minds to.
The challenge for me is finding balance in everything that I do. Being a hybrid entrepreneur, I have to juggle my day job as a Project Manager with my other businesses. It's a lot to manage but I always make sure I have fun and set aside time for self-care.”
Knowing what you know now, what would you tell your 18 year old self?
”Have a long term vision, learn how to set goals and surround yourself with people who know where they are going and are going to challenge you to be a better version of yourself.”
A fun or surprising fact about yourself?
“I secretly want to be a food photographer/stylist. I do love food and I love to travel. So almost every trip I go, I try to go on a food walking tour or have a list of restaurants that I want to try. My whole family is this way. I guess we were raised as foodies and wanderers! I also love to cook and consider it a relaxing and creative outlet to work on a new recipe or prepare a meal for guests.”
Portrait of a Lady | 50+ Fabulous Series | 2021 | Mara
in photography
I want to show women (and everyone, really) that there is even more to celebrate, not less, as the years go by. This is the first year I am launching the Portrait of a Lady campaign that aims celebrates women who specifically are 50+ and fabulous. It is my deep honor to feature the lovely Mara as one of the many faces you will see in this series for 2021.
Happy Friday!
Images | Heartbox Photography
Hair & Makeup | Kalani Brown
******
“I grew up in Tacoma, Washington, the daughter of Latvian refugees who immigrated to USA when Soviets invaded after WWII. I was three years old when the family arrived, so I am a completely assimilated American woman, with the benefit of cultural ties—language, food, community—to the Old World.
My education consists of BA in Psych and MBA in management. My career was largely in construction—first in accounting, and later as CFO for a mid-size home builder, so I was able to indulge a bit of my creative side with involvement, however cursory, in marketing and staging.
After retirement, I moved to California to be closer to my son and daughter in the Bay Area. At 74 years of age, I feel there is a lot of adventure and travel waiting for me. [I am} looking forward the end of the pandemic and to the world reopening!”
“I celebrate good health and the energy to pursue interesting and varied experiences. I celebrate the ability to choose a path completely different from my previous life, the ability to meet new people and participate in charitable activities. I celebrate being able to read or do nothing at all when the spirit moves me.”
“Fifty+ and Fabulous is an exciting threshold and opportunity to enter a new array of experiences with solidified confidence and optimism. I know those traits were often lacking in my earlier and more self-conscious stages of life.”
What are some of the challenges about this season of your life?
“I notice that there is sport in marginalizing older people. Sometimes we are technically challenged, and marketing is seldom directed to this demographic. It would be a mistake, however, to count us out because we love to learn, travel, and look good while doing it.”
I think it is important to stay centered and present in every stage of life. So, enjoy the college years and everything that comes after with a sense of excitement, curiosity, and vigor. Each time is different and allows you continually grow and evolve. And most of all—never sell yourself short. Remember that you really are “all that!”
What do you appreciate most about your life now?
“I appreciate being close to my children and grandchildren, the community where I live and the relationships I have formed.
I appreciate the natural beauty surrounding me. And especially, I appreciate the freedom and time I have to spend with those I love.”
Who or what inspires you and why?
“I am inspired by the intellect and innovation of this age in which we live. Constant exposure to new ideas and writings instills fascination and a desire to keep up and continue learning.”
A Journey of Learning & The Importance of Cheerleaders
in photography
“My journey was that of learning. I was always a very curious being, always looking for opportunities to learn more… about everything. This has really allowed me the courage to start my own entrepreneurial journey. I was never alone on that journey. I was surrounded with people who love me and they were my biggest supporters and cheer leaders.”
Image | Heartbox Photography
Hair & Makeup | Kat Tinney
DJ Express | A Celebration of Black Excellence
in photography
“Music and rhythm find their way into the secret places of the soul.”
-Plato
I have always thought there was a whole new level of cool whenever I hear a woman is in an occupation that is more commonly filled by men. The list is endless of these types of occupations, and no doubt, being a DJ is one of them.
Meet DJ Express.
Beneath this San Jose native’s quiet demeanor lies a deep love and passion for all kinds of music and for me, a Bay Area native who also believes that music truly does have a soul language all it’s own, you can just imagine how excited I was to have her and her work represented in this series.
In our time together, I got to learn a little more about her journey as a DJ, her inspirations as an artist, her hopes as a young professional, post collegiate years, and her family background as an Eritrean black woman.
An early morning photoshoot in some of my favorite areas of downtown San Jose getting to know this awesome individual was, needless to say, one of the best ways to spend a Saturday.
I am honored to share with you all today’s spotlight profile on this talented and incredible woman, DJ Express.
Images | Heartbox Photography
***
Tell us a bit more about your background - where are you from, what inspired you to be a DJ?
“[I was] born and raised in San Jose, CA – the daughter of two Eritrean immigrants. There are two DJs I met at events in the East Bay Area that inspired me to take this seriously: Eden Hagos – an Eritrean woman DJ that had one of the most versatile yet well-mixed sets I’ve listened to and another DJ that was able to read and vibe off his crowd in a way I haven’t seen DJs do in a long while.”
“[I am most proud of] being able to identify myself as an Eritrean black woman. I am proud of the bloodline I’m from and being able to live my purpose representing my people.”
What is something most people might now know about you?
“Love musicals and Broadway. Going to performing arts schools growing up, I had a chance to participate and grew to love the production that goes behind these shows.”
***
Can you tell me about someone who has had a huge influence on your life? What lessons did that person teach you?
“My dad and brothers play a huge influence my life. Each of them pursued goals that others would say are unthinkable, then achieved them, usually being the first in their specialties to do so. Their persistence, drive, humility, and faith in God have always reminded me to stay true to my vision.”
***
What is the best advice you've ever received?
“People have the right to hate you for no reason.” - my dad
“They say every man is defined by his reaction to any given situation. Well, who would you want to define you…someone else? Or yourself? Whatever you do homie, give your heart to it, and stay strong.” - The late, “Tha Great” Nipsey Hussle.”
Who/what inspires you and why?
“Jadav Payeng – who spent 37 years of his life planting trees to restore the oasis he grew up on in Majuli island which was destroyed due to human deforestation.
Every day (for about a total of 13,505 times) this man would walk to the destroyed barren and plant a tree. Mr. Payeng single handedly grew a forest twice the size of Central Park and brought back hundreds of animals to the oasis.”
“When I feel hopeless about the current climate, I think about him, and ways I can create daily habits that will lead to accomplishing a greater purpose.”
***
If you could meet anyone in history, who would it be and why?
“Archbishop Desmund Tutu – to have a conversation with him regarding how his faith lead him during the apartheid in South Africa.”
***
What does "honoring and celebrating black excellence" mean to you?
“As a DJ , I honor and celebrate black excellence by making sure I buy from/work with black businesses, support and promote black creatives on my radio show/sets, unapologetically work with venues that respect their black patrons and wear and accessorize items that I’ve bought from black business owners during my live sets. (I.E. glasses, makeup and earrings in this photoshoot were purchased from black women-owned businesses.)”
Corina | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
in photography
“She is a queen. Her soul is royalty.”
-Adrian Michael
Corina is the example of a queen that is well loved by her family.
I immediately noticed her quiet and steady smile as well as a laugh that was easily expressed in any given moment. Needless to say, it was a joy to spend some time getting to know her and create a photoshoot that celebrated Corina as the matriarch of her family, her recent birthday, and just the fact that she loved her life as it has shaped out to be.
Her family gifted her this photoshoot and needless to say, it was an honor to be chosen to capture such a beautiful and strong woman on camera not only for images that will be forever part of their family legacy, but also for images that will always remind Corina to celebrate everyday and every season of her life.
I am so proud to share with you all a few of Corina’s beautiful images and a behind the scenes look into her experience with Heartbox Photography.
Special thanks to Becky Lau of Beautiful One Makeup Artistry for Corina’s styling on this special day!
And last, but not least, Corina’s note to her family:
“My special thanks to Denise, Mayra, Luis and my husband Alonso for this great experience to capture in photographs this moments that we will treasure in years to come. “
“I am so grateful I started early to have a family. This year is so special to me. I turned 50 and had our 35th wedding anniversary.
My oldest grandson is 10 years old now. Now we are experiencing the empty next and we are ready to move forward.”
“Beauty comes in all colors, shapes, and sizes.
God created us as life givers. Even if a woman does not have children, she still can create or give life to someone else.
We are full of love. Beauty comes form our inner selfs.
Confidence is the acceptance of who you are created to be.”
“The best advise I ever received was to persevere.
Remaining there gets results.”
What do you appreciate most
about your life now?
“Now, I have more time for myself. “
Jennifer | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
in photography
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.”
Celebrate Daughters, Celebrate Legacy
in photography
I love when clients bring in their daughters to also be photographed - because she is essentially shaping the life of a human that will grow into a young lady one day knowing it is absolutely awesome to celebrate every year of your life, whether you are 8 or 80 years old.
Celebrate the legacy of girls and women in your family with a portrait to last a lifetime - there’s something beautiful and powerful that is beyond the images itself.
Happy Wednesday, everyone!
Image by | Heartbox Photography
Hair & makeup | Katie Pheneger
Laura | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
in photography
"Feminism isn't about making women strong. Women are already strong. It's about changing the way the world perceives that strength."
-G.D. Anderson
I absolutely love Laura’s energy and warmth and am so excited to share with you all these stunning images from her photoshoot! She’s a budding entrepreneur with Rodan and Fields and it was so much fun being able to create fresh new headshots but also some images that were entirely for fun because with the beautiful outfits she brought - WHY NOT?
This was Laura’s first time ever doing a photoshoot like this and I am beyond honored to be able to help create images she can use as headshots but also ones that captures her class and confidence as a woman.
Cheers to phenomenal women…EVERYWHERE.
Images | Heartbox Photography
Hair & Makeup | Kalani Brown
What are you most proud of as the woman you are today and why?
“That I have created an amazing life for myself. I have amazing friends and family that support and encourage me. I live life with a a lot of gratitude!”
What do you believe makes a woman beautiful?
“Confidence and a positive attitude.”
“I feel like I am a half-full kind of person. I enjoy inspiring others to live life full out!”
“I love to travel, meet new people, and experience new things as often as possible.
I believe in taking care of yourself inside and out!”
A Celebration of Phenomenal Women | Peggy, 2019
in photography
I think what made me the most excited to have Peggy in for a photoshoot was simply the story of her life thus far. She is the owner and founder of Ballet Petit, but she is a teacher and long-time investor of children who love the art of dance, she is a wife, mother, and grandmother, she is a cancer survivor, she is a woman whose smile, humor, and warm conversation make you feel like you’re talking to a long-time friend even after a few minutes of meeting her.
Peggy had never done a photoshoot like this before and as with most women, had some hesitations to step out in front of my camera. However, that did not stop her because in a very real way, this photoshoot was more than taking a few photographs - it was celebrating her journey with life on so many deeper levels.
I beyond honored to share with you all a few images from Peggy’s photoshoot, a behind the scenes video glimpse below, and most of all, a little bit about her through her own voice.
Here’s to the celebration and journey of life, both the peaks and valleys, and being able to see a deeper beauty through all the seasons.
Images | Heartbox Photography
Styling | Kalani Brown
“About three years ago, I went to yet another doctor’s appointment to try and control my asthma. After a chest X-ray, and several more follow up appointments, it was determined that asthma was not the issue after all - I had Hodgkins Lymphoma, Stage 2B, with some extra symptoms.
It was a huge shock. I was told, due to concerns for my immune system during treatment, I was not permitted to teach school during my treatment, but was encouraged to teach ballet and take my ballet classes each week, for as long as I was able. It was a scary time. Less than a month later I started 6 months of chemotherapy every 2 weeks, followed by weeks of daily radiation treatments.
I decided the day I was diagnosed that I would do my very best to keep dancing, knowing that it would help my survival physically, as well as emotionally. I wanted to be strong for myself, and to set a good example for my students of the power and strength that comes from doing what you love. “
“I kept my focus positive, accepted the help and love of my community, and happily kept dancing all the way through my cancer treatment year. I didn’t give up. I made it and I am proud of that!”
What would you tell your 18-year-old self?
“I was a pretty strong-willed and ambitious 18 year old. I thought that if I tried hard enough, I could make just about anything happen or not happen.
I would tell my 18 year old self, “You may think you can control your life, but you can’t. Life happens. You can, however, have some control over how you handle what comes your way in life.”
“A beautiful woman lives her life according to her beliefs and the dreams she holds in her heart. Whatever it is that she values, desires, aspires to be or do, wants to achieve, her beauty shows through as she takes the steps necessary to fulfill herself and make her dreams become a reality.”
“Everyone has a place. Everyone has worth. No one is perfect. We all have imperfections.
This reminds us that we are all human. Regardless, we can all try to be our best selves while seeing the best in others. We become our best selves by being honest, open, and aware of ourselves and how we share this planet with others as we navigate through our lives.”
“I have been so fortunate to have lived my life surrounded by wonderful people in my family, my schools, and in the world of the classical arts. The proverb about it taking a village to raise a child rings so strongly for me.
I am grateful for the many people who have been a part of my village from the day I was born to the present day. They have been such an important part of my life story. I have been lucky to have had such a vibrant and supportive village. They have all had some part of who I am today. It has been pretty wonderful, the ups and even the downs. All in all, I am happy with how my life has turned out.”
Tara | 2019 | A Celebration of Phenomenal Women
in photography
“If you’re lucky enough to be different, don’t ever change.”
-Taylor Swift
Tara is a mother, an ambitious go-getter, a woman dedicated to continuously learning and meeting challenges head on. Her love for fitness, passion to help and serve others through her work is evident - I even had the opportunity to see her in action as she skillfully led the organization of a local fitness fair for the community here in the Bay Area.
As part of the continuing “Phenomenal Women” series that features women from all over the Bay Area, I am so proud to share with you all a glimpse into the life of this entrepreneur, mother, and resilient go-getter - the lovely Tara, owner of Infinite Health and Fitness.
Here’s to celebrating phenomenal women everywhere who hustle hard in their own life for the purpose of serving others.
Images | Heartbox Photography
Hair/makeup | Kalani Brown
What are you most proud of as the woman you are today and why?
“Over the years I find myself more and more proud of my humble roots. I grew up in a cabin in a small town, where my doctor's office was in his house and my backyard was nature's wonders.
For some time, I didn't know how to integrate that into having a city or suburban life once I ventured out after college. I tried to fit in. I didn't understand different cultural norms and sometimes got in "trouble" with my peers due to differences in societal conditioning.”
What advice would you give your own niece as she grows up?
“To spend time with herself, figuring out what she likes, dislikes and being strong in the alone time.
Being alone does NOT mean no one wants to be with you.
Also, a fit woman makes everyone happy!”
What do you believe makes a woman beautiful?
Her ability to handle what life reveals. Take it seriously, then handle it with grace snd smile back at it with gratitude.
For example, "You've been kicked out/broken up with/fired?!”
Great. Now you can find your new destiny because it's been waiting!
“Recently, I have opened a new business - the 5th since I was 18. This time, I am armed with a business degree education and the confidence of experience. I still expect some twists and turns, but will welcome more wins this time than I ever believed could happen. “
What would you tell your 18-year old self?
“That she will be able to get over the imperfections of life experiences, and be able to celebrate every rise after every fall. And this process will maker her stronger and more resilient, which is a space that cultivates love and not fear.
Also, that she will be able to help people like she wants to :)
But only after some adventure and healing and evolution/awakening.
“I want her to know over and over that things do not matter, and people will disappoint.
But sometimes things can seem like they matter and sometimes people can share magical moments that change your life for the better.
And to accept it all as imperfectly perfect.”
“When a woman puts herself aside to attend to a friend, child, senior, or clients needs, with the utmost respect, personality, attention and skill, her vibe is beautiful.”
Monique, 2019 | San Jose, CA | Glamour & Contemporary Portrait
in photography
“To be a woman is to unapologetically resilient despite everything.”
-h.h.
There is a sweet and calm demeanor that I immediately liked when I first approached Monique for the possibility of doing a photo shoot with Heartbox Photography.
As most of you know by now, I am a firm believer in finding ways to connect with other women who run local businesses and organizations simply for the fact that women who support women is nothing short of impactful and great. The best part is that I get to know them even beyond the work they do and learn about them as wives, mothers, daughters, and grandmothers - as the unique and beautiful person they are.
Being allowed to share in their world and learn about what inspires them, their family history, even their dreams for the future is a privilege that makes the story of each woman I photograph so fun and beautifully unique.
Monique is the founder and proud owner of Innate Sense. She is a wife, a loving mother, a daughter, and a big sister. (I even got to meet her little sister during the Image Reveal appointment and absolutely loved the sweet, sisterly dynamic of their relationship as she helped her choose her images!) During our photo session, I learned more about Monique’s Portugese ancestry and how having a desire to help people be whole and healthy are one of the factors that inspired her work.
One of my favorite things about her photo session is her love for color, beautiful patterns, and accessories in the outfits she thoughtfully selected for her day - this probably explains why we definitely took a little longer wanting to capture the gorgeous look and feel of each outfit combined with the natural surroundings at a local park!
The sunlight was bright, the skies were clear, beautiful, and perfect for the afternoon and needless to say, I am so proud to be able to share with you all the final images and behind the scenes video from this lovely woman’s photo session with Heartbox Photography.
Here’s to celebrating the phenomenal women everywhere around us!
Many thanks to Kalani Brown for Monique’s hair/makeup styling!
“I see beauty when a woman knows
her worth and shares her
gifts with the world.”
What are you most proud of as the woman you are today and why?
“I am most proud of taking the path that my heart led me towards for my career and to live out my soul’s purpose.
Growing up, many members of my family had jobs that they didn’t like, but tolerated them because they needed financial stability. I knew from a young age that I wanted to work in a way that I enjoyed, that allowed me freedom, and to help others.
I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to do, but my heart guided me and here I am with a business where I have all those things and life that I love.”
What would you tell your 18-year-old self?
“I would tell her to surround herself with a close circle of good friends and fully enjoy the season of her life with little responsibilities. I would tell her to travel more to gain a broader perspective of the world and people as a whole.
I would let her know that “success” is not a destination that she needs to TRY to get to…she will forever be evolving and becoming who she is meant to be in the world. To enjoy the journey, it all ultimately works out for her highest good.”
What advice would you give your own daughter as she grows up?
“Well, I am sure my advice would vary depending on the stage of her life she is in…but I would always tell her - you are here for a purpose, you are love,d and to always be true to herself.”
What do you believe makes a woman beautiful?
“I believe inner peace, confidence, and self-love
makes a woman glow and shine her beauty from the inside out.”
Azalia, 2018 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA
in photography
Azalia is a lovely wife, mother, and grandmother. I had met her some time ago through a mutual acquaintance and I'm so excited to share with you all these final images from her photo shoot with Heartbox Photography. And yes, that shade of purple on her dress was beyond AMAZING and I loved how it just brought out her elegance so well!
Many thanks to Kalani Brown for her lovely styling of Azalia's hair and makeup for this photo shoot!
Preview | Thuy, 2018 | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits
in photography
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!
