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…

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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…

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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…

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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:…

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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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2025 40 Over 40 Series: Jamie Paige

By Brandi Stage / December 10, 2025

“Put your heart into everything you do!“ Jamie’s story: Put your heart into everything you do!     What are some of the rewarding parts of the current decade you are in? The challenges? In this era of my life I have taken a leap of faith and made a big career move. The fear…

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2025 40 Over 40 Series: Susan Prestridge

By Brandi Stage / December 3, 2025

“You have to take the lessons learned and input in life to make you the person you want or become. It may take time but lessons are there for reasons. I would not trade it for anything.“   Susan’s story: Geez… I have no idea where to begin…I was tickled pink when Brandi called. I…

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2025 40 Over 40 Series: Yashica Mack

By Brandi Stage / November 26, 2025

“I would not do anything differently. I now understand that everything happened for me to be at this place, in this moment, loving myself at this time.“   Yashica’s story: “If I want to be free, I’ve got to be me. Not the me you think I should be, not the me I think my…

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2025 40 Over 40 Series: Stephanie Box

By Brandi Stage / November 11, 2025

“If I had the opportunity, I wouldn’t change a thing! With each decade, I’ve lived and loved and been the best I could be with the help of God, my family and friends.“   Stephanie’s story: This Bible verse has always brought me peace, letting me know that God truly has gone before me to…

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2025 40 Over 40 Series: Jamie Ball

By Brandi Stage / November 6, 2025

“If you want anything in this world, YOU have to work hard for it. For most of the world life is not easy, but hard work will pay off in the end.“   Jamie’s story: My parents divorced when I was 4 years old. My father re-married within about 9 months. My mom had custody…

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Brandi Stage HEADSHOT NEW EDIT copy

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.