2025 40 Over 40 Series: Becky Busby

By Brandi Stage / June 10, 2026

“Losing my son and my husband of 50 years changed my life in ways I never expected. Grief isn’t something you get over—you just learn how to carry it.“   Becky’s story: At one point, my husband and I joked that we were running the ‘Busby Bed & Breakfast,’ with a full house that included…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Lisa Morrison

By Brandi Stage / May 22, 2026

“I’ve learned everything that I can do by just doing it!“   Lisa’s story: I’ve learned everything that I can do by just doing it! I’ve been working since I was fifteen years old and have had the same career for 35 years. I was fortunate to find a field of study that enlightened me…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Ruth Witt

By Brandi Stage / April 22, 2026

“I don’t have anything I would change because I like where I am.“   Ruth’s story: I play with Belle.     What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? The challenges? Opening jars. What has been your favorite decade you have lived through and why? Current because I…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Audra Hoffmaster

By Brandi Stage / March 4, 2026

“Learning to stand on my own, make my own decisions, and rebuild my life reshaped me into a stronger, more determined person. Today, I trust myself, value my independence, and know I am capable of creating a life that fits me. I have learned to appreciate what really matters.“   Audra‘s story: At 58, I’ve…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Nikki Hollier

By Brandi Stage / February 25, 2026

“It’s not how we fall but how we rise. I will continue to rise no matter what I may face. Rise up ladies and walk into a new you. Anyone can do it at any age.“   Nikki’s story: We are products of our upbringing right? Or does the way you see the people you…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Jennifer Oberfell

By Brandi Stage / January 27, 2026

“I used to try and be a million places to please everyone and it just became overwhelming. Now I try not to stress and do what I can. In time you learn you don’t have to please everyone.“   Jennifer’s story: After having 2 special needs children and spending my late 20’s and 30’s navigating…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Leslie Smith

By Brandi Stage / January 20, 2026

“I realized that everything I wanted to feel on the outside had to start on the inside. That how I’m viewed, treated, and received in this world begins with me.“   Leslie’s story: There came a point in my life when I stopped waiting for joy to find me—and decided to create it myself. Through…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Jena Regan

By Brandi Stage / January 13, 2026

“You can start over at any age and I’m living proof of that. Life will break your heart, test your faith, and hand you loss you don’t think you can survive. But if you keep showing up, you’ll be amazed at what you’re capable of building from the ashes.“   Jena’s story: You can start…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Angela Ritchie

By Brandi Stage / January 8, 2026

“After divorcing Caleb’s dad and escaping an abusive relationship with a narcissistic partner, I found the strength to rebuild my life. Now, 20 years later, I own a thriving insurance brokerage firm—one that gave me the freedom to raise Caleb without missing a single sporting event or special moment in his life.“   Angela’s story:…

2025 40 Over 40 Series: Helen Haw

By Brandi Stage / December 30, 2025

“I think everyone has a part of his or her life we might choose to do something differently, but even the unpleasant experiences help us to grow.“   Helen’s story: I am a baby boomer. My mother was from Louisiana and met my Illinois born father who was in the army. We moved several times…

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Brandi Stage is a portrait photographer recognized by the prestigious International Photography Awards and based in Diamondhead, 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.