Last month, I did a “just because it’s my birthday” photo shoot because I made a deal with myself about six months ago that if I dedicated more energy into taking care of my body and working out, then I would reward myself after my hard work with a photo shoot. I’m proud to say that I was able to meet the goals I set for myself, but I’m also not ashamed to admit that it wouldn’t have been without the help of my Lord, my family, and many others who encouraged me to push through. I’m so blessed to have a team of people who help me bring my visions to life and make things happen.
“Never take for granted the power and worth of a great support system, its integral, in my opinion, in creating the ideal balance in your life!”- Asia Saffold
Plus, there are so many skilled and talented people, right in my own network, that together we’ve discovered, that when we work together, we are so much stronger! I encourage you all to dive into your own network and discover what amazing things you guys could collaborate and create together!
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I want to thank my husband who is a champion when it comes to rigorous workout schedules and dietary discipline and motivating me and encouraging me every day to stick to my goals. He’s a great example of all that can be achieved when you focus on a goal and put forth the efforts and sacrifices to reach your goals.
Also, I couldn’t have done it without my trainer/nutritionist, Kevin Henderson, owner of “Hold Ur Weight” Fitness, who showed up every single Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for the past several months and pushed me to achieve my goals. Lord knows it wasn’t easy, and there were several times when I just wanted to throw in the towel or make up excuses as to why I couldn’t go any further. But thank you for pushing me and delivering results! Kevin and I are working on something for all you mommas out there who ask me how to snap back into shape after a baby, so stay tuned for that!
Now, on to the photoshoot…
My vision was to go enjoy some well-deserved me time on a “staycation” for my birthday and capture the essence of just living in the moment there.
Location, Location, Location!
The London Hotel West Hollywood was the perfect setting for my birthday staycation. I wanted somewhere that had total Hollywood glam vibes, and that’s just what I got on this wonderful property. I can’t speak highly enough about this place! I liked them so much that I even gave them an excellent review on TripAdvisor, which it’s actually rare for me to take time to make a review on those kinds of sites! Here are my top three reasons why I loved my stay at the London Hotel West Hollywood:
- It’s aesthetically beautiful. I’m talking blogger paradise. The floor to ceiling mirrored columns, marble and gold accents, and bold colors scream luxury. The rooms are comfortable, and each of them has a balcony, which—believe it or not—is kind of hard to find in LA.
Photo by Von Jackson (www.vonjackson.com)
- Top notch service. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a very friendly valet who welcomed me and made me feel right at home. When I walked into the lobby, the front desk workers were also very kind and made my check-in process an enjoyable experience. It got even better the next day when it was time to order my room service. I ended up sleeping in pretty late and missed the time to order room service. I called about 30 minutes too late but still decided to shoot my shot. The person on the phone was not only willing to accommodate my wish to still order breakfast, but he also went the extra mile and offered to make me my favorite french toast which wasn’t even a menu item choice. I was beyond grateful for him extending himself and making my experience truly unforgettable. His name was Sebastian (I believe) for all who wish to request him when visiting the London Hotel West Hollywood!
- Prime location. I didn’t realize until I got there that I would be in the absolute best location for what I was looking for. It is right on Sunset Boulevard and offers breathtaking views from almost any place in the hotel. Even in my room, which faced the backside, I had an amazing view of the city. From the rooftop pool, which was amazingly beautiful, there was a 360-degree view of iconic Hollywood.
And the glam…
My glam squad showed up for my birthday shoot, and I can’t thank them enough. My fab high pony was slayed by Tamara Necole (@saddity_hair), and the face was B-E-A-T by Juanice (@juanice.mua). I loved my look. It was bold yet soft.
“Being both soft and strong is a combination few have mastered”-Yasmin Mogahed
Photo/Video Super Team:
Man, when I say effortless talent, I mean it! I’m so happy I found Von Jackson on “the gram” through a fellow mommy blogger friend! He was a pleasure to work with, extremely professional and efficient in his use of time during a shoot, able to make me feel completely comfortable while shooting, and produced some images that I’m extremely proud of! I’m so hard on myself when it comes to liking a photo, but I can honestly say that I love these pictures. They make me proud of myself for the hard work I put in at the gym and at the dinner table.
Accompanying Von was the very talented Jerrami. I wanted to do a video to capture my vibe walking into my next year of life, which he was able to do.
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And last but not least, the styling.
What’s that they say? “Ask and ye shall receive”? I’ve been saying for years that I wanted a stylist, but not just any stylist. One that gets me! Someone who can understand my style, bring my ideas to life, and help me develop and even deepen my understanding of both style and fashion! I recently got a “2 for 1” special blessing when God brought Devyn into my life! Not only has she been what I’ve been looking for in a stylist/personal shopper, but she’s also been a wonderful friend since we met through our men playing for the LA Rams together this season! Devyn, a.k.a. @MoxieeD brought everything together for my photo shoot and was an absolute pleasure to work with, from her professionalism, keen sense of style, game-ready attitude, and her ability to get me loose and comfortable in front of the camera. I know the shoot wouldn’t have been so successful without her! I love the looks that she put together using existing clothes out of my closet and new items that came together perfectly…and at a really good price! Check out her website if you’re interested in working with her, here!
Hope you guys enjoyed these photos as much as I enjoyed taking them! Hopefully, it will inspire you to also set some goals and reward yourself more often for your accomplishments! Also, step outside of your comfort zone sometimes and try something different. Remember, you never have to feel alone when you want to do something different. Just assemble a great team together to help you make it happen!
“In order to grow, you must recognize the boundaries of your comfort zone, then go beyond them.” -Asia Saffold
Be blessed. Be Balanced. You Deserve it!
xoxo,
