4 things...rain dance

It is nice to be back in San Diego, although the time with my family was incredible.  Something that has been on my mind since my trip last weekend is the water shortage in the valley.  I have never been nostalgic about the Central Valley.  I was beyond thrilled to make San Diego my home.  When I drove through the valley this trip I was overwhelmed by the water shortage.  Most of the crops looked sad and dry.  Some of the fields only had tumble weeds.   The valley girl in me was a little heartbroken. The water shortage takes on another meaning in the valley- jobs, food, community.  The amazing produce is such a source of pride.  So feel free to do a rain dance and send some love California's way.Craving :  Fresh produce from the Central Valley.  I've never had a strawberry in San Diego that has tasted half as good as the ones you can eat at a fruit stand in Modesto.

Missing : Our airstream trailer on Orcas Island and our wonderful hosts Dan and Serena.  Dan is an architect and designed the perfect house overlooking the islands.  He explained to me that they take showers guilt free.  The rain water fills the well and then goes back out and waters the garden.  I am native to California so I had never heard of using as much water as you wanted.  He laughed at me and explained that it's pretty normal in the Pacific Northwest.  I've always loved that what is "normal" can be completely different in another neighborhood.

Dreaming of : A beautiful rainy October day.  I always love grabbing a book, drinking hot chocolate and listening to the rains cadence as I melt into my chair in pure relaxation.  Hopefully our rain dances will bring this dream to a reality.

Going to : The New Children's Museum for Target free Sundays.  Every time I photograph a wedding at the New Children's Museum I get inspired.  The Museum has so much to offer for all ages.  Sometimes I like to just go and walk around and enjoy the energy of all the children discovering new things.

Have a lovely rest of your Sunday everyone.

 

xoxo,

Suzanne

blackandwhite, shewanders

 

The $40,900 Question: Pure Beauty by Danielle

We had such a wonderful time working with Danielle from Pure Beauty at one of our weddings last month. Her sweet personality brought so much fun into the room. She was professional with everybody she had contact with and always had a smile on her face. Thank you Danielle for being so fantastic.1. When did you first decide that you wanted to be a professional makeup artist?

Well I started doing makeup and hair when I was 16 years old professionally, and I knew it was always something I loved doing. But it wasn't until my last year in college that I decided to start my own business and pursue makeup as a career.

2. What is something that you love about your job?

I love making people feel good about themselves. So the most satisfying part of my job is bringing someone's vision to life and making them feel confident and beautiful.

3. Is there a specific hair or makeup style that you absolutely love?

I always loved a classic nude lipstick. Its natural and sexy on anyone and can be paired with a more dramatic eyeshadow look or softer colors for an everyday look.

4. A tip for somebody looking to become a professional makeup artist?

Get your hands dirty! I think the best way to learn is hands on with experience in the real world. Try new things, push your limits, and always be willing to learn from other artists.

5. What has been inspiring you lately?

Lately I've been inspired by the fashion industry. Looking at all the new trends has been inspiring me to use colors I don't normally use and pair things together that are unique and yet classic. Seasonal colors in makeup are usually the same, but in fashion it always changes. So grabbing inspiration from the runways can truly pull together an amazing head to toe look.

6. What do you do to recharge and unwind?

I love to be outdoors, so a few hours at my pool with a good magazine or book is the best.

7. Any summer activities you have been enjoying?

This summer I really have enjoyed going to my local farmer's market to get fresh vegetables to cook some great summer meals.

8. If you could do another profession other than yours, what would you do?

I grew up doing acting, dance, and music, which is my other passion in life. So anything in the performing arts field would be amazing.

9. Three things you can't live without?

Scrambled eggs, music, and great family and friends!

10. If you had $40,900 to spend on one trip, where would you go and what would you do?

That's a tough one since there are so many places  I want to travel. But I would have to say Bora Bora, since I have been dying to stay in one of those bungalows out on the water. I would do any and all water activities there, relax on the beach, and explore the nearby islands.