Three months left of this year, it’s shocking but I can say this was a great year.
I just signed with one of New York City’s biggest agencies Wilhelmina, I look at the very things my family has fought for and reminded myself I am a Latina woman who was raised by a single mother in New York, and suddenly it ignited this fire within me that I am not just signed with one of the biggest new York city’s agency, I am paving a way for young Latina women, women of color who have been rejected or told otherwise that it is not possible, yet, possible because God makes a way. It wasn't easy through this journey, there were many lessons I had to face to guide me to this moment in time. When God calls his very own to show up, with purpose, there will a space created specifically for you with authority for your purpose.
Let’s talk about fashion month!! How exciting is it?? All the styles, shows and production work. I was able to attend a few events this year, which was lovely.
The show that enlightened my vision was Ralph Lauren, the refinement, colors and poise. It was exactly what I needed to see. It pushed me to shoot more, to push myself a little harder with the vision I have for the next few months. The pastures of the outdoors, nature and history.
I can finally say, I am an absolute fan of RL, I have a few thrifted pieces in my wardrobe, including some that have a similar aesthetic, I am excited to share soon.
There is something about Lauren that will always stick and it’s timeless.
Another show that was breathtaking was Michelledelrio, fellow Latina. Her designs are uniquely designed from her heritage, that are deeply rooted from Colombia. I was immediately drawn to the structural and juxtaposed symmetry that amplifies her culture and brings community together, through her designs. It reminds me of pieces, I would find in my grandmothers wardrobe, my tiá’s in Puerto rico and my mother’s from New york city. It truly brings me this warmth feeling of being comfortably stylish.
In reference to style and class. Angelina Jolie has a new creative collective online resource for emerging designers and artisans. It is a space for vintage materials to create one of a kind pieces through the CHLOÉ foundation. It will be a ready to wear capsule, for authentic women, commitments for social injustice, environmental sustainability and transparency with purpose. I am elated as a fellow humanitarian, artist and creative. I have great faith to see ATELIER JOLIE into something so special.
As fall approaches I will be taking a step back, learning new techniques with my hands, recipes and snuggling up with loved ones…All the simple and delicate things.
In regards to this crisp new season we are entering, it has conspired moments to be present with what is valuable in my life, there are transitions taking place in my families lives, all filled with joy, but change can be tough. It excites me to see all we’ve collectively prayed for is coming into fruition. This season has allowed me too steep into the harvest and gather the tools and finally put it to use.
My unsolicited advice is purchase a fresh journal, let it all out, your dreams, your goals for the next 3 months.
Write down all the work you would love to build, the partnerships you’ll like to cultivate, who would you like to cultivate it with, Think big, bigger than you have ever thought. Please list the names of those you love, ask them what can you hold accountable with each other, what can you pray for each other. (Iron sharpens iron) And- do me a solid and write a prayer down for you, allow yourself to write it all out. Speak it, have faith it will happen, at the right time.
Save it, and look at it when you feel lead too.
Speaking of writing,
Recently, Sofia Coppola came out with her first book ARCHIVE, which I am elated to soon own. She is probably one of the best woman filmmaker, photographer, actress and artist of all time. The list goes on.
Early on this year, I set a goal for myself to re-watch The Godfather (Sofia’s father Francis directed) , now that I am older. I wanted to receive a fresh revelation with the artistry. It helped me grasp the wisdom my mother inherited as a guideline reference for life lessons from The God father. She would make the Godfather references growing up and it was comical, being that we grew up in New York City we understood the grit of it. And, how it balanced our passion to keep pushing forward despite the obstacles that come in. (My mother is currently writing a book of wisdom, she has seen, been and gone through some interesting things, its no wonder she relates so much to these films)
Sofia created a space of filming with a background in all areas such as Modeling, design and fashion as well. Her influence is timeless and classic.
As, I grow creatively I am stretching my resources, stepping out of my comfort zone. What has changed the narrative for me is creating a vision. which leaves me to say,
Create a vision board for yourself, gather some close friends and have a vision board dinner party, or on your own, pour some wine, tea, coffee or water.
Just do me a solid and do this! Gather some magazines, newspaper, clippings you have saved (I know you have) Create a board. It will help you organize your goals and dreams.
When you do, each day when you pass it, pray over it. - You will thank me later, or not. either way it will help set a vision for the next season.
That’s the way I work: I try to imagine what I would like to see -Sofia Coppola
As Nate Johnston mentioned, We are about to enter an into a season of unparalleled promise and fulfillment.
I agree, new plans, new visions, get ready the new things are coming for you.
I am a huge advocate in coming together in prayer. I was by no means introduced to my faith through my household, it was a endless search that ended, when it all became clear to me. I have not spoken about my faith in my life, mainly because its a delicate subject for me to speak on. As well as private. I will soon, in the meantime, I am happy you are here, reading, thriving and taking every bit of grit you have to carry on to the next venture of your life.
Thank you for being here.