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I stumbled upon Most Everything Vintage in early January. I was scheduled to meet up with Harriet Anati (owner of Tulle on Lace), at Compass Coffee in Vancouver, WA, to discuss featuring her on my blog in February.  Since Harriet was running fashionably late,  I decided to stand outside and wait for her.  I was pacing back and forth, when the display in a nearby storefront window caught my eye. I have to describe what happened next like this…Do you remember the opening credits of A Christmas Story, when Ralphie and his friends are glued to the Higbee’s department store window? That was seriously me, until Alisa invited me inside.

Upon entering Most Everything Vintage, I found it difficult to contain my excitement and wonder. I knew immediately I’d stumbled upon something special. I’d finally found the vintage boutique of my dreams!! Until I found Most Everything Vintage ,  I didn’t think a boutique filled with items from my favorite eras in history existed. It was a lot for me process!

Over the next few months, trips to Most Everything Vintage became part of my weekend routine. It’s still hard for me to wrap my head around owning pieces of fashion history. I can’t count how many times I’ve said a piece “belongs in the Costume Institute at the MET ” before purchasing it and taking it home.

This month I’m so excited to introduce you to the owner of my favorite vintage boutique, Alisa Powell Tetreault! I can’t begin to tell you how much I’ve enjoyed getting to know her over the past few months.  I always look forward to our conversations about new pieces she’s found, garments she’s enhancing or projects she has planned in the months to come. Her passion for her business and vintage is truly inspiring.

Tells us about yourself

I grew up in the small town of Scappoose,Oregon, with my parents and three brothers. The best way to describe my parents is to say my mother is a combination of Martha Stewart and Laura Ingles and my father is McGyver. My father was an architect by trade.  He built our house, barns and tree houses. We lived on three and a half acres, raised our own animals and grew our own fruits and vegetables. My mother was a nurse but when she wasn’t working she cooked everything from scratch, painted and sewed. My mother was an amazing seamstress, she sewed all of our clothes growing up.  We spent much of my childhood years in fabric stores looking in pattern books and finding the perfect fabrics. My mother always said that your fingers will tell you of good quality fabrics. This is a skill I still use today when searching for and buying  garments for our vintage shop.

What inspires you?
When it comes to clothing, I am more of a remodeler. I allow the garment to speak to me in hopes that what I do honors the person who created it along with the one who wore it. Every piece has a story to tell and I love that I get to be a part of that story. Maybe I get a little too sentimental about it but the joy I feel when a client comes out of a dressing room with the look of pure joy on their face makes me so happy. When someone loves how they look, they stand taller, smile more and carry themselves with a new confidence. Specialty pieces are so much fun for me to make. When making head pieces it is usually the jewelry piece that inspires the creation. One of my goals is to throw as little away as possible and recycle what I can. I take pants that are too short and turn them into knickerbockers and then the leftovers become bow ties for gentleman and doggies. Every once in a while we get a wool or Pendleton shirt in that is unwearable so I turn it into santa hats or bow ties. When it comes to everything else in the shop, we have taken on the idea that our shop is ‘An adoption agency for things’ as we wait for the right person to come in and give a vintage item a new chapter in life. We work hard to wash, mend, clean, polish and present each piece. I am a lover of classic t.v. and movies. The fashion, especially 30’s and 40’s is stunning. Everything was tailored to fit perfectly. Consumerism hadn’t hit yet. People had fewer clothing pieces and accessories but what they had was made of quality goods, made to fit and made to last. What a different world we live in now where most items are created to be disposed of and replaced. The pride factor, both of the buyer and maker, is very rare to find. And when it comes to designing for our local Couve Couture Fashion Show, it usually takes one garment that inspires a whole collection. I have been dreaming up my next collection to go down the runway April ’19 for over 7 years. As my husband goes on tour with his band this May, I will have three weeks to start creating. So excited to start playing with pieces!

What inspired you to own your business and open Most Everything Vintage?

The realization of “why am I continuing to do for others when I know what I can do for myself.” I chose to take my knowledge of management and marketing to create a business for myself. In October of 2010 we began looking for business spaces in downtown Vancouver, at this time the market still hadn’t recovered and there were lots of empty spots to choose from. We were either going to open a Bistro or Vintage and Antique shop. Since we couldn’t afford the start-up costs for a bistro – vintage shop it was!

You’re a very busy lady! I can’t fully list everything you do…but between running your shop, buying inventory and scheduling/ planning photo shoots. How do you find time for yourself?
This is where I fail miserably! I love what I do but my business can run my life. I need to find some balance and hoping that I can concentrate more on that this year. I am so determined to be the best Vintage Boutique in SW Washington and even compete with the best in Portland. This determination pushes me from morning to night. From ironing, sewing, social media posting, shop displays to bookkeeping, marketing and the list goes on. Thankfully I have a loving and understanding husband of 24 years. He is busy as well pushing forward with his band and recording/producing life. I’m always thankful when we can go out treasure hunting together. It’s fun to go out and shop but it’s  a lot of work getting the items ready for the shop. As I type this I am about to put another load of laundry in from our buying trip yesterday. When we first opened the business, Facebook was an incredible resource to build a business. So different today. Social media changes constantly on how it works and who can see what you are posting. Viewers are also changing. I have just a few seconds to catch someone’s eye in hopes they like what have to offer. Attention and loyalty has changed over the years as well as society doing more and more of their buying on-line. I have always felt that vintage is very personal. It needs to be touched and tried on to make sure it is just ‘perfect.’ Hopefully this thought will continue through the years.

What tip would you give to other females who hope to own their own business one day?
If you have passion for what you do and the product or service you offer, you can be successful. It is very hard work but if you love what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. Make sure you have a good business plan and are prepared to spend the next 5 years giving it all you have. Make sure that those around you understand this as well.

If you could spend the day with one female who made history, who would she be and why? What questions would you have for her?
This is a tough question but since I am surrounded by classic fashion I would have to say Coco Chanel. When it comes to fashion designers before mass production and imported clothing, there were few female designers. I would ask her what it was like to be a female designer in a profession that was held by men. What ‘little black dress’ was her favorite.
How did she find balance in her world of building her name/brand, creating and having a life outside of that.

Thank you to Alisa for being the AGNF Fierce Female of the Month! I’m so thankful to have found you and your boutique!

Be sure to follow Alisa and Most Everything Vintage on Instagram @mosteverything  and stop by her website to learn about fashion through the ages!

Thank you to Lizzie Harrell Photography for the stunning photos!! I can’t thank you enough for your support.

Two years ago my fiancé and I traveled to Rome and Florence. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, we weren’t able to make it to Northern Italy. Despite going to Paris last March, Venice remained at the top of our “future travels” list. This year when it came time to pick our international travel destination, we toyed with the idea of returning to London, but ultimately Venice seemed like the right choice considering we’d never been.

I have to say, I never thought I would be able to love a city as much as Paris but I didn’t want to leave Venice! The minute you begin exploring, you feel as if you’ve been transported back in time to the Renaissance. Venice is so well preserved it’s amazing . Colorful masks, leather goods and glass decorations fill store front windows. Occasionally you’ll even hear church bells ringing in the bell towers. Can you see the picture I’m painting? All of the residents on the island were extremely friendly and they didn’t appear to think less of us for only knowing 5 words in Italian. Truth be told, all Venetians we encountered spoke English.

We stayed at the Hotel Santa Chiara, a four star hotel conveniently located by transit to and from Marco Polo Airport. When choosing a hotel, easy access to transportation is incredibly important to us. Even though the hotel was further away from tourist attractions such as Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge, the landmarks were still within walking distance. If you ever realize you’ve wandered too far when it comes time to return to the hotel, you can take the appropriate water bus to the Ple. Roma stop as it’s just a stone throw away from the Hotel Santa Chiara. Since there are no cars or bikes on the island, traveling by boat or on foot are really your only options.

If you’re looking for things to do in Venice, here are a few ideas:

Visit Piazza San Marco, there are several things to do there. You can take the lift to the top of the San Marco Campanile for an amazing 360 degree view of the city or visit Basilica di San Marco to see the gold plated dome ceilings and intricate mosaics. Before leaving the basilica, be sure to visit the museum upstairs, it’s easy to miss. The museum houses four copper horses gifted to the city of Venice from Constantinople. No one really knows how old the majestic horses are, but recent studies indicate they may be 2000 years old, maybe even older. Additionally, you can tour the Doges Palace and prison. The palace housed the government officials of the day and is still home to one of the largest rooms in Europe.

Try to schedule a day trip to a nearby city. When we we were staying in London we took the train to Paris, when staying in Rome we took the train to Florence. This time we took the train from Venice to Milan, to see the Duomo and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper. Europe’s high speed bullet trains make day trips elsewhere extremely doable. A train ride from Venice to Rome is only about 3.5 hours one way.

Get lost. Honestly you should be prepared to get lost anyway. Venice is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets and bridges. Following a canal frequently leads to a dead end and your forced to retrace your steps only to forget the way you came. The fact that the streets have no real names, creates another  challenge. Looking for signs on buildings pointing to well know bridges or piazzas is definitely helpful.

Visit the islands of Burano and Murano. Just a ferry ride away from Venice, is the island of Burano. Burano is known for its colorful houses and handmade lace. The island of Murano is primarily know for its skilled glass blowers and various products made of glass. Our trip to the islands took up the majority of the day, so if they’re something you want to see, set aside an entire day for exploration.

Ride a gondola! Sure it’s a stereotypical tourist thing to do, but how often are you really going to do it? 80 euros will get you a 30 minute canal tour, 120 euros will get you 45 minutes. Realistically, if your ride begins at a different spot each time, you’re guaranteed to see different sites. Incentive for me to return to Venice and do it again? Most definitely!

Relax and most of all, enjoy your meals in Venice. Your waiters expect you to order drinks, appetizers, main courses and desserts. As you’re walking around the island, you’ll notice tourists and locals alike sitting at cafes enjoying a cappuccino or (my personal favorite) an Aperol Spritz. In Venice (and Rome) it’s completely acceptable to take up a table for hours. The waiters won’t even bring you your check, you have to ask for it when you’re ready to leave.

Ok, so I’m no Rick Steves, but I hope you enjoyed my travel guide to Venice! If you have any questions or if I forgot to mention one of your favorite attractions, let me know in the comments! Also, I’m so sorry it took me so long to get this post up!

Happy Wednesday, everyone! I hope you’re all having a fabulous week! Mine has been interesting to say the least… I won’t bore you with the details that include British Airways loosing one of my bags.

Anyway….

Not long after arriving at our hotel in Venice, I realized I forgot to pack my mascara. Forgetting to pack it actually turned out to be the best thing I could have done, because it led me to Kiko Milano Cosmetics  (a store we just happened to pass on the way to Piazza San Marco).

At first glance I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into…I honestly wasn’t looking to spend a fortune on mascara since I already had multiple options at home, including a complementary Smash Box mascara I received from Influenter for testing purposes. Upon spotting the mascara in Kiko Milano, I made a beeline over to it. Would you believe it was under 4 euros?! Had I really stumbled upon MAC-esque makeup boutique, without the MAC prices?? Indeed I had!

Immediately after applying the mascara, I knew I’d be returning to Kiko to stock up before heading home. Needless to say, that’s exactly what happened!

My Venice travel guide will be on the blog soon, in the meantime you can enjoy some guilt free cosmetic shopping 🙂

***Kiko Milano offers free standard shipping (to the U.S.) on orders over $15! ****

Kohl eye pencil//  volume and curl enhancing mascara// matte pressed blush duo // intense color blush// eye shadow palette with four shades // fast dry nail polish // sharpener // loving this lipstick palette //

I met Jacquelynne Faith at a fantasy photo shoot in Washington last fall. I remember feeling absolutely intimidated by her when we first met. She was confident and completely comfortable in a world of professional hair and makeup -basically everything I  wasn’t.

In between shots and wardrobe changes we would chat and get to know each other. We discovered we both love fashion, we’re practically neighbors and have ties to The Sunshine State! After the shoot we all went to dinner and Jacquelynne opened up about her battle with Lyme Disease and the impact it has on her everyday life.

Jacquelynne and I have stayed in touch since the shoot and when I began planning this series, I knew immediately I wanted her to be apart of it. In the world of social media, it’s so easy to judge someone by a photo. That’s why I’m so excited for you to get to know Jacquelynne Faith, there’s a lot more to this lady than meets the eye.

Tell us about yourself

As a “Jacquie of All Trades”, this is one of the hardest questions to answer. I remember having to do an “elevator speech” as my first Public Speaking class assignment in college, and the concept of telling a stranger who I am concisely was more daunting than the whole speaking in front of people thing-which I actually love. To put it simply, I’m a professional writer, actress, and model-and after many years of putting “aspiring” in front of those or letting people know I was a server instead, I can finally say that with absolute confidence and excitement, and it’s awesome! Outside of that, I am enthusiastic about other arts, travel, science, nature and animals, medicine and natural healing, dance, music-the list goes on. All in all, I would say I am and strive to be even more of a modern renaissance person. I like to follow my curiosity and stay creative in as many ways as possible, from saying yes to strange random gigs for the story to pursuing a side career as a professional mermaid…yes, that’s a real thing.

How do you balance all of your projects and endeavors and still find time for yourself?

Truth be told, this is still a struggle for me. I think it’s part of why chronic illness has been a part of my experience here on Earth. I’ve always felt a need to move and a pressure to succeed. This is an awesome quality- until its not. I’ve had to actively teach myself to like…put on a candle and take a bath. Because I do have health issues, however, it’s become essential for me to take that time. I also look at time a bit differently because the notion of having less of it has been more prominent, so I would never say…decline an invitation for a potentially life changing trip because I booked a commercial. I used to be that person that felt very obligated to what are, in the grand scheme, trivial things. I have integrity and almost always follow through on my word and my bookings, but I’ve learned how to make decisions based on the bigger picture when I really have to. If that comes across as selfish…thank you. It took me a REALLY long time to do that as a recovering people pleaser. But you know, at a desk or on set for a prescription drug commercial, the truth is, I’m totally replaceable. My life is not.

What inspires you?

This has changed over the years, but currently, I’d have to say other artists that I connect with on a person level-people that are on their way up. These are the people who I can learn from the most. It’s easy to look up to celebrities whether they are actors, writers, models, or freakin’ house flippers-but the truth is, a lot of them aren’t in a place where they “show the work” anymore. I love to follow and speak to those who still do long division. Those on the cusp of their big break, the ones with many thousands of followers, but not quite a million-the ones who love to share their passions and all the behind the scenes efforts and mishaps. The ones who still answer messages from “little people”. They are proof that the magic is in the work as much as it is in the result. They show what it really takes and that people can go from doing nothing to SOMETHING-even if they weren’t thrust into the spotlight by their parents at 5 or Simon Cowell at 16.

What is your personal mission statement and how has your battle with Lyme Disease impacted it.

My personal mission statement would be something like:

“I will continuously evolve by way of choosing love over fear, saying yes to what calls to my heart and no to what doesn’t. I will continuously evolve by choosing to learn from those who are further down a parallel path, rather than choosing envy. I will remind myself that the best way to influence the world is to make sure my own light shines as often as possible, and should it dim, I will choose to be patient with myself and find the spark again and again. The choice is always mine.”

I honestly just made all that up now, but it feels true to how I try to live my life, even though I get off track sometimes. I think being honest about that and then moving forward anyway is a more efficient use of energy than struggling to keep up the appearance of having it all together, all the time. You might think having a chronic illness hindered all of the above, but it actually shaped it. Lyme is still teaching me lessons, and exams aren’t quite over, but I can say that I’m somewhere mid-semester of learning to to be as selfless as I can while still being kind to myself-all and all, to use my energy as wisely as possible, because I don’t have as much of it as many my age.

I’ve been in that place where I thought my days were numbered, and I really have to reassess all the time: If I don’t have that much time-whether it’s because I only have so many hours in a day before I feel to too sick to work or play, or because life itself is short-how will I spend what I do have? Lyme makes that question more important while also making it somewhat difficult to answer and created a catch-22, because I’ve decided a lot of what I love to do, but I don’t have the ability to do it as often. It’s also made me both hyper-aware of how many worthwhile causes there are to fight for, while also reminding me that I’m responsible for taking care of myself in order to get to a place to participate. It’s a blessing and a curse.

As a full time writer, actress and model; what advice would you give to someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Don’t get lyme disease before you choose to follow your passions, and thus-always wear organic tick repellent. But really, keep an eye on the people you admire, but never let it negatively influence your view of your own position. It’s somewhat natural to compare-to be upset you didn’t get started sooner, to be upset you don’t have the same connections or the same financial help-or in my case, the same health-but we have to turn it off. It just gets in the way. If you find paying attention to what others are doing is making you feel bad more than inspired, log off instagram for a month and focus on you. Comparison can be motivating or it can be devastating. I’ve had seasons of both-and that’s okay. Know how to recognize when something makes you feel contracted (fearful, anxious, small) or expanded (stimulated, excited, like miracles can happen) and act accordingly.

What amazing projects lined up for 2018???

I’m really moving forward on my personal blog (jacquieofalltrades.com) on living a creative lifestyle and finding a balance between positive thinking and reality. I want to give tips while being emotionally honest about my own struggles instead of coming at it from a “know-it-all” perspective. I’m also starting a poetry and prose instagram @jackiepaperandink to share the creative writing I hope to be published. I’m also working on that mermaid thing…no joke. Other than that, lots of fashion shoots to share and trips around the United States!

Thank you so much to Jacquelynne Faith for being the AGNF Fierce Female of the Month! You’re truly an inspiration.

Be sure to connect with Jacquelynne on Instagram @jacquelynnefaith

I thought about saving this post for next year, but red and pink isn’t just for Valentine’s Day. It’s the perfect combination for color blocking and a reminder that spring is right around the corner.

I never thought I would ever buy a bodysuit but I couldn’t resist the red ruffle! The long sleeves were also another selling point, since it’s still pretty chilly in Oregon right now. After reading the size reviews, I decided to order a size up and the medium fits perfectly. As for my skirt, it’s one of my favorites from Chicwish (similar here).

Lastly, for those of you who are apprehensive to buy a buy a bodysuit…I was too but hear me out – They’re actually really comfortable! I’m seriously thinking about buying a few more (loving this one, this one and this one) to pair with high waisted jeans.

I hope you’re having a great weekend!

Last fall I was perusing Instagram and discovered Tulle on Lace. I was immediately drawn to the aesthetic of the brand, tulle skirts in beautiful shades pink, glitter and feminine details that had me dreaming of Paris. It wasn’t long after discovering the brand I decided I had to meet the woman behind it!

After texting for a month or so, I officially met Harriet at 2017 Fashion NXT in Portland. Meeting her for the first time was like reuniting with a friend I hadn’t seen in ages. Her smile was contagious and so was her positive energy.

During the 2017 holiday season, I had the honor of collaborating with her and wearing one of her pieces. Since then we’ve met for coffee, I’ve assisted with one of her shoots and she’s gotten me hooked on Gossip Girl.

Without further ado, I’m so excited to introduce you to the AGNF Fierce Female of the Month: Harriet Anati!

Tell us about yourself ? My name is Harriet. I was born in Ghana West African and have always loved fashion. As a child, I would observe my mom who loved to sew as a hobby and I would make dresses for my dolls.

At the age of 24 I moved to New York City, where I was inspired to pursue my love for fashion even more.

Eventually I taught myself how to sew and design combining my two favorite fabrics, tulle and lace. In 2015 I  started my clothing line, Tulle on Lace, after getting so many compliments on pieces I had made for myself.  From there I moved to the Pacific NW and had my 1st runway show with RAW Portland.  Since then my designs have been featured in various runway fashion shows, magazines, CNN commercials and publications such as the Oregonian. I believe women can do whatever they put their mind to, “Nothing is impossible to get to your dreams”.

When did you first discover your love for fashion?
My desire for fashion sparked at a young age when  my first Barbie doll was gifted to me.

What inspires you?
My inspiration comes from anywhere or anything! Since I’m a girly girl, my inspiration comes from anything pretty ranging from textures of fabrics, to beautiful packaging of other products and designs from other fashion leaders.

What is your personal mission statement and how does it impact your business?
My personal mission statement is to “do what you love” based on that,  I design things I love as opposed to what I think others will love. As a result, I am able to work long hours without feeling as if it’s work …it makes me love my job.

If you could give one tip to an aspiring fashion designer, what would it be?
My advice is to know or discover your aesthetic, knowing that is half the battle and it helps you to stay true to yourself and your designs.

Shop the online boutique and connect with Tulle on Lace on Instagram @tulleonlace

Thank you to Lizzie Harrell Photography! (fun fact, Lizzie Harrell and Harriet got together to create  Valentine’s Day inspired images last month. When one fierce female teams up with another, amazing things happen!

I’ll be introducing you to another fierce female in March.

X.O.X.O

 

Was January 16th really the date of my last blog post?! I’m sorry, guys. I don’t like making excuses but January was an incredibly busy month!! Between working 40+ hours a week at my office job,   attending blog meetings on the weekends, shooting new outfits, filing my taxes and planning my next vacation…the first month of the new year completely got away from me!

white sunglasses// plaid blazer vintage Pendleton // hat vintage 1940

I recently stumbled upon the most amazing vintage boutique in Vancouver, Washington! I think I’ve been 3 times since discovering it and I’m already planning my next trip back. Nothing excites me more than vintage pieces in perfect condition!!

strapless jumpsuit// H& M white button up, old // circle bag

Obsessed with this jumpsuit from Arrow Clothing! Putting a button up shirt underneath your favorite strapless piece = a look that’s completely appropriate for a day at the office.

Tweed hat // quilted bag // black tee // high waisted jeans

I recently purchased my first pair of high waisted jeans last month and I’m in LOVE!! They’re super flattering, make my legs look longer and have me ordering bodysuits!! All things I never thought possible!

How chic are these details?! This bag looks so much like a Chanel and it’s under $30!

quilted bag // sunglasses

Katy Perry Witness tour shirt

The other night my man surprised with tickets to Katy Perry, if you’ve never been to one of her shows you have to go!! I don’t usually wear band/tour t-shirts out of the house but this one was so cute and pink that I couldn’t resist running errands in it!

Next up on the blog… the AGNF Fierce Female of the month!

You all know how obsessed I am with feminine details and classic silhouettes.  When I saw this dress from Arrow Clothing, I ordered it immediately! Black and white has always been one of my favorite color combinations, it’s simple yet elegant.

The Kait dress is perfect for an effortlessly chic day to night look. There’s absolutely no such thing as being over dressed, especially if you’re wearing something that makes you feel great!

I decided to pair this gorgeous dress with my favorite pair of Tory Burch flats and a traditional red lip to embrace the dress’ Parisian vibes that stole my heart. Speaking of stealing hearts… Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and this dress would be perfect for a night out with that special someone!!

Oh! I almost forgot to mention this dress is only $40!! I’m wearing a size small and it fits perfectly. Happy shopping, everyone!

Thank you Arrow Clothing for partnering on this post!

Thank you to Neu Perspectives Photography for partnering on this post as well!

The word “fierce” has many definitions, it can be used to describe boldness, it can be used to describe the combination of a positive mental spirit, bold words and unapologetic actions used collectively, it can also be used to describe something or someone outstanding.

A series of ups and downs in 2017 inspired me to begin this series. In early spring of 2017, I was desperately searching for other women, building a brand, that I could support. Ultimately, I was hoping we could support and learn from each other in order to achieve our goals. After a few failed attempts to build this type of relationship, I was about to give up.  Luckily, I decided to try one more time and I’m so glad I did.

The one door that opened eventually led to another open door and over the course of a few months, I began to realize I wasn’t alone. There actually were other women out there who understood the power of “collaboration and community over competition.”

I am beyond excited to begin a monthly year long series on the blog featuring women who embrace their passions, support other females and truly embody the definition of fierce. These women have inspired me with their stories, motivated me with their words and have left me in awe of their ability to find beauty in everything.

This series is dedicated to those women, those I’ve met and those I still hope to meet, working hard to achieve their dreams while supporting others.

Thank you to my dear friend Lizzie for her enthusiastic response to kicking off this series. I can’t wait for you all to get to know her, so here we go!:

Tell us about yourself
Hi there! My name is Lizzie Harrell. I’m a portrait photographer specializing in contemporary feminine portraiture. I was born and raised in Cincinnati, OH, moved to New York City at 22, and then to Portland, OR in 2016 where I now live with my husband (Adam), our pup, and two kitties. When I’m not behind the camera, you can find me mixing up a classic cocktail at my home bar or cuddling on the couch with my furbabies and my nose in a book.

What inspires you?
Girl power! Seeing women support and empower each other is incredibly inspiring. When I was younger, I often felt pitted against my female peers and in competition with them. Changing that mindset, choosing community over competition, and knowing that we all are elevated when we lift each other up is what it’s all about.

When did you first discover your love for photography?
The love story begins my junior year of high school when I took a photography class. My dad dusted off his 20 year old Minolta X-GA for me and I was off snapping 35 mm black and white images. Photography was the perfect hobby for an introvert like me. It made me more comfortable in social situations to have a lens to hide behind. I also loved developing and enlarging my images in the solitude of the dark room. After high school, I sort of lost touch with photography. I still enjoyed taking photos casually, but I didn’t take it seriously. My focus was on performing theatre, dance, and improv. Then, about 4 years ago I was burned-out from performing and felt this creative void in my life. I mentioned to Adam that wanted to get back into photography and he surprised me with a camera for my birthday. Something just clicked — pun intended 😉 — and not long after I knew I wanted to be a professional photographer. These days, my approach to photography is completely different than socially-awkward teenage me. Connecting with the people I’m photographing, getting to know them, finding what makes them tick, is a big reason I love what I do.

What inspired you to start Lizzie Harrell Photography?
I knew that I wanted to be a business owner, that I wanted to do something that would impact women’s lives in a positive way, and that I wanted to do something creative. For a while I didn’t know what form that would take. Photography became the perfect trifecta for me when I realized I could help women recognize their own beauty. As someone who has struggled with body image a lot, I understand how important it is for women of all shapes and sizes to feel seen and celebrated. It’s slowly getting better, but women are still bombarded with images of idealized beauty everywhere we go and it takes real effort to resist comparing ourselves to unattainable beauty standards. My mission is to get every woman I possibly can in front of a camera to show how beauty comes in endless shapes, sizes, colors, and ages. The more we actively look for beauty in ourselves and others, the more we see and appreciate it.

What is your personal mission statement and how does it impact your business?
“Approach each day with an open mind and open heart. Bring love and light to everyone you meet. Leave everyone better than you found them.” Business has always been about people to me. I love serving my clients, giving them an incredible experience, and wowing them when they see their images. There is nothing more rewarding.

If you could tell the teenage version of yourself one thing, what would it be?
You are enough. You are worthy of love and belonging just as you are.

I hope you all enjoyed getting to know Lizzie Harrell, my January Fierce Female! Be sure to check out her blog and photography on Instagram.

Stay tuned for more fierceness in February and throughout the year!

2017 was definitely a whirlwind!

The year started out with a trip to Los Angles, followed by a trip to Paris, San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver B.C., Las Vegas, Wilmington, N.C. and then Seattle again. With so much to see elsewhere, it’s so easy to overlook places that are easily accessible. Last year I made a point of seeing parts of Oregon and Washington I had never seen before.

Whether I’m jet setting or on a road trip, traveling makes me feel alive. I love getting lost in a new city, taking photos that don’t need a caption and finding inspiration where I least expect it.

For this post, I pulled some of my favorite images from 2017.  Some of you may recognize these photos from Instagram, but I tried to pull new ones as well.

Overall, 2017 really taught me the power of collaboration over competition. It also taught me to go where you are loved. It’s important to surround yourself with positive people who encourage and support you both emotionally and creatively.

Last but certainly not least, thank you all for following along in 2017. I can’t thank you enough for your support.  All Glam No Filter has grown a lot  over the past year and I’m looking forward to everything 2018 will bring.