Pinch me please! I had my first (and hopefully not my last) fashion publication in a magazine! I would like to begin by thanking my friend Tara Arendacs for introducing me to John Flynn, the art director at (201) Magazine. John took Tara’s advice, and started following my blog. After a few months, he decided to reach out and offer me an amazing opportunity. The chance to be featured in the magazine under the (201) personal style section. (201) Magazine is the premier monthly lifestyle magazine in Bergen County, New Jersey! I tried to remain composed, but inside an overwhelming urge of excitement ensued. A chance to showcase my style, express my love for fashion, and spread the word about my business! This was a once and a lifetime opportunity and a dream come true!
John and I discussed all the pertinent details. First on the agenda: answering a series of questions pertaining to my personal style, items in my closet, go-to accessories, and style icons. As I answered each question, it became apparent that my responses flowed seamlessly. There was never writer’s block or lack of insight. Fashion really is my passion. Uncomplicated, this entire process was simply fun! I enjoyed sharing a piece of me and couldn’t wait to see the end result.
The day of the shoot was surreal. For a small second, I felt like a celebrity. I was surrounded by my hair and make-up artists, had my own personal photographer on hand, and even had a wardrobe change. The glamorous life ain’t bad people!
Another unique aspect of the interview was providing John with 5 of my favorite items. These items could be fashion or non fashion related. It was entirely up to me. I decided to pick things that really had some significant impact on my everyday life. Two in particular are worth mentioning. First is my grandmother’s onyx ring that I inherited after her passing. This ring is not only aesthetically beautiful, but meaningful as well. Incorporating a small piece of her memory into this momentous occasion was indescribable. Another favorite of mine is a photo of the girls and me in NYC. It was taken by a childhood friend and it truly depicts our relationship perfectly. Not to mention it captures NYC impeccably!
A few weeks later, the March edition was released. I had butterflies in my tummy! I anticipated this day ever since we wrapped up my shoot. I am not going to lie. The thought of many Bergen County residents seeing my face and reading my story frightened me. Would they relate? Would they think my style justified this feature? Why does self-doubt always make a cameo in every one of my endeavors?! Self doubt aside, I was about to face my “fashion” future! When I opened the magazine, I couldn’t help but smile. John did a fantastic job showcasing my story. I really enjoyed reading my words out loud and seeing them come to life in print!
Do you know the most grueling aspect of this whole process was choosing my outfits?! I am serious. I had so many different looks in mind, but ultimately wanted to look and remain true to me. In the end, I opted for jeans. I wear denim everyday and its timeless. I vowed to look back at my article in years to come and not cringe! I am not sure, however, I will ever be truly satisfied. I am such a fashion perfectionist!
I would like to personally thank Tracy from Teeze Hair Design for providing me with luscious locks and Erica from Pristine in Pink for doing my makeup naturally and precisely. Finally, I would like to thank Danielle Parhizkaran (my photographer), John Flynn, and the rest of the staff at (201) Magazine for your professionalism and graciousness. This experience will forever be embedded in my heart!
Shop Some Pieces from My Looks:
My Full Article– Pages 52 &53