Farae | The Empowered 30+ Spotlight | Hadonica's Photography

Meet Farae!

Farae chose our studio, Hadonica’s Photography, because she loved our aesthetic of displaying strong women as they are: beautiful and confident at their core. Together we worked to create a look that balanced the innate, all-natural beauty and being touched up as well.

She wanted to be photographed to capture elements of herself that she didn’t see in every passing day. As she puts it, “Life moves so fast, and it’s important to be still, and just take it all in. Still images help us to do that. It allows us to capture the moment and hold onto it forever.”

FARAE’S Q&A:

One word to describe yourself. Why did you choose this word?

I describe myself as resilient. I chose this word because, despite life's obstacles and setbacks (some self-inflicted), I continue to persevere. I take the "L", learn from it, regroup, re-invent, and come back stronger. I want to be clear that this is not done without the love and support of my loved ones and Jehovah God. I consistently draw strength from my amazing support system that allows me to get up and conquer each day.

Who are you as an individual?

This is by far one of the most challenging queries to for me to explore. I am a mother, daughter, companion, friend, mentor, entrepreneur, co-worker, leader, thought partner, and the list goes on. At my core, I am a flawed woman who seeks to be the best version of herself with every passing second. I am creative and analytical, giving and selfish, carefree and anxious, corny and intriguing...I am a complex human being whose worldview is constantly evolving, and I love it!!

In your opinion, what are some stigmas and beliefs that women face after they turn 30?

One of the beliefs that I have seen perpetuated the most is that life starts to decline after 30. There are jokes about how you experience physical pains that weren't there before, you start to get gray pubes, and your gut slowly impedes your view of your nether regions. Don't buy into that B.S. You are only as old as you feel. Take care of yourself, treat your body like it's your temple, mind your business, drink water, and live your life!!

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How did you feel when you turned 30?

I didn't feel any particular way when I turned 30. It was just another day. I have always been so preoccupied with my son or work that there were many years that I forgot by birthday altogether. For me, 30 was just another number, not a milestone or anything to celebrate, it was literally just the end of my 20's.

What advice do you have for other women in their 30s?

The advice I would give is to protect your peace fiercely, set boundaries and don't compromise them, love on yourself, value your time, and care less about the opinions and expectations of others.

What do you currently love about yourself?

I love my ability to operate in "chill mode". The world could be on fire, but you would never know it by my reaction, lol. My demeanor tends to have a calming effect on others as well.

Initially, Farae didn’t feel she was photogenic. She loved the power of a photograph but didn’t care for how she looked in them. After a day of pampering and connecting with herself and her mom, I believe her views have shifted! She came into this brimming with excitement to capture the bond between her and her mom and honor everything they’ve experienced together. The beauty of their relationship is more than evident in each photo.

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, take a moment to ask yourself how many photos you have of your mother. How can you create something together that will allow you to reflect back on the love you share?

Empower Yourself