Welcome to the Island of Enchantress.

As I get older, I find myself wearing less makeup on an every day basis and not taking care of my hair. I tell myself that I’m finally comfortable with the skin that I’m in and I don’t need hair and makeup because I love myself the way that I am.

But you know what? That’s only half of the truth. As I approach 30, I am more comfortable in my own skin more than ever. I’m okay with being in public without makeup. Still, the other half of the truth is, I miss the routine and spending time to put myself together. Spending time to smooth out my hair or curl it. Taking the time to put on make up is much more relaxing and a self care moment. I feel so much more put together when I take the time to get ready. It makes me proud and confident in who I am.

It’s okay to want to wear makeup and look nice! Regardless of what people try to shove down your throat, spending time on yourself is not an insecurity. It’s a #SelfCareMoment. It’s an extension and expression of who you are. This look book project with Isabella Ocampo + Josh Thiel reminded me of just that.

Each one of these beautiful ladies represent a city in Puerto Rico. The amazing Isabella Ocampo from Dollhouse Salon in Kentwood, Grand Rapids put together this amazing concept with the incredible makeup artist, Josh Thiel, and myself.

Bella and I have always talked about how we want to see more diversity in beauty because representation matters. We wanted to showcase different skin tones, ethnicities, body shapes, and hair textures.

The beautiful thing about differences is the fact that we can celebrate it and empower one another. It’s time to push the envelop in ad campaigns to be more inclusive and showcase diversity across the board.

Hair and makeup can be a wonderful way to express ourselves. It’s like an extension of who we are. It can help us learn about each other and celebrate cultures.

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Hair by Isabella Ocampo at Dollhouse Salon in Grand Rapids, MI
http://dollhousehairsalon.com/

Makeup by Josh Thiel in Grand Rapids, MI
https://www.joshthiel.com/