2023 Bold Beautiful Perfect: Kelly
“I am not perfect – but yet I am. This is the body and mind that the good Lord gave me, and I choose to see the good! I chose to love me.“
Tell us about yourself, Kelly!
I am 58 years young! I work for the United States Postal Service and I’m a mother of 4 boys. Originally, I am from Minnesota. We transplanted to Mississippi for health reasons in 2015. I was fortunate enough to be able to transfer with the Postal Service. It was a difficult transition, mostly due to the climate. The “Southern Sweet” was also tough; I am quite to the point and I do not waste a lot of time sugar coating! But it has been good for me. The gentle women here have taught me so much!
What parts of your story can you share to help women to understand their own beauty?
I was abused as a child, and that fact held me hostage most of my life. One day, I woke up and realized it was up to me to break the chains that bound me. I took my mind and body back! I looked in the mirror and, for the first time in my life, I fell in love with ME.
It was a powerful epiphany. I am a bit overweight, I am not perfect – but yet I am. This is the body and mind that the good Lord gave me, and I choose to see the good! I chose to love me. What prompted me to make this shift – I could not tell you. Everyone’s journey looks different. I just know I am grateful and happy each day I wake.
This project is all about inspiring women to see their beauty. What parts of your story can you share to help women to understand their own beauty?
The Bible says that God has counted every hair on my head. He made me and He will always have my back (if I choose to let him in the driver’s seat). It’s a daily struggle for me to give up that control!
We all have gifts and talents to share. We all matter. Knowing I am protected and guided daily is an empowering feeling.
Tell us about your experience with the photoshoot?
I had a wonderful time! I loved the hair and makeup artist; Heather made me feel so beautiful! She explained everything as she went and gave me choices. I felt glamorous and free to let my beauty shine.
The photos themselves were so freeing! I felt like a little girl playing dress up. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
If I can help even one woman see herself differently and know that she is beautiful, then it was worth it. I never had a platform to help me grow as a woman. To be chosen was an honor; this is a lifechanging experience. I want to personally thank Brandi for allowing me to be a part of something so very special.
You are more beautiful than you know!
To book your own fabulous Portrait Session, contact us through the inquiry form below.
Much love,
Brandi
International Award-Winning Portrait Photographer
Brandi Stage is an international award-winning portrait photographer based in Bay St. Louis, MS. She creates an exceptional magazine-style photo shoot and timeless heirloom portraits for women, men, children and pets in her studio or on location.