Laura Mae Kijurina: Crafting Personalized Micro Weddings

Women's Journal Staff on July 19, 2024

“Love is a beautiful thing, and to be a special part of one of the most important days in peoples’ lives is just amazing.”

As the founder of Always & Forever Civil Celebrant, Laura Mae Kijurina has established herself as a wedding celebrant dedicated to helping couples create personalized wedding ceremonies. Laura’s foray into the world of wedding celebrations was encouraged by her late husband, who nudged her to pursue celebrant training. This set her on a journey toward her calling.

From Admin to Dream Weaving

A typical day for Laura involves wedding administration including script writing, paperwork and connecting with vendors when she wears her celebrant hat. Her after-hours are filled with fun activities like walking dogs, honing her cuisine skills, gardening and spending quality time with friends. However, her primary focus remains on envisioning and orchestrating distinctive wedding ceremonies for her clients.

Laura’s affinity for imaginative celebrations was the catalyst for her celebrant services. She states, “I am your Celebrant beyond your ceremony helping make your dreams happen.” Her emphasis on collaborating with couples to manifest their ideal weddings has struck a chord with her clients.

Personality and Personalization

As a celebrant, Laura has had to contend with extensive competition, with numerous options available to couples on the central coast of New South Wales. She tackled this obstacle by specializing in smaller, more intimate weddings. Her niche of micro weddings has helped her carve out a unique space in the market.

Beyond strategic positioning, Laura’s friendly persona plays a key role in attracting clients. “I have a personality that makes people feel at ease,” she shares. By blending amiable energy with made-to-order ceremonies, Laura delivers exceptional services that capture the essence of each couple.

Connecting Across Cultures

As an expat from Canada now based in Australia, Laura can easily connect with international couples tying the knot down under. Her unique background also enables her to relate to those embarking on second marriages. These experiences allow her to infuse customized details into her ceremonies.

Laura credits her late husband for motivating her to push boundaries and achieve success as a celebrant. She also acknowledges the mentors who have guided her journey. “I have married many couples since I started and I am grateful for the mentors I have had to help mold me.”

Micro Weddings – Her Signature Offering

In an already crowded marketplace, Laura managed to make her mark by focusing on smaller, elopement style weddings. “By specializing in one thing, MICRO Weddings, I was able to make my mark and be unique,” she explains. Beyond cost savings, her micro weddings allow couples to focus on their intimate celebrations without getting overwhelmed by large guest lists and elaborate planning.

Laura’s friendly personality coupled with her niche offering has struck a positive chord across New South Wales’ central coast. She is now looking to ramp up her business even further. “Grow Grow Grow – one day at a time,” she says, summing up her expansion plans.

The Key to Sustained Success

For Laura, turning passion into profit has been about loving what you do. “If you love what you do, no matter how much work it may be, you continue to do it because you enjoy it,” she states. This mantra has kept her going even when overwhelmed. Her advice to others facing burnout is simple – “Rest and relax but don’t quit.”

As she continues serving more couples and planning distinctive weddings, Laura is motivated by the prospect of people acknowledging her work. “To hear someone say: “Oh you are the Laura-Mae they are talking about” keeps me excited and pushes me forward,” she shares. With a passion for celebrating relationships and a commitment to grow, Laura Mae Kijurina is set to make her mark as Australia’s premier micro wedding specialist.

To learn more about Laura, visit her website here.

Published by: Nelly Chavez

Pop, Pour, and Pamper with Luxurious Gift Ideas for Her to Make Her Day

Women's Journal Staff on July 19, 2024

Finding the perfect gift for her can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but it doesn’t have to be! Whether it’s for a birthday, an anniversary, or just because, the right gift can light up her world and show her how much you care. From classic treasures to trendy treats, we’ve curated a list of gift basket ideas that will make her eyes sparkle with delight.

Get ready to ditch the guesswork and discover the art of gifting with thoughtful, creative, and unique gifts for her that she’ll cherish forever.

The Charm of Wine Baskets

Imagine the joy of unwrapping a beautifully crafted basket filled with fine wine and gourmet treats—a gift that tantalizes the senses and warms the heart. Wine baskets are not just presents; they’re experiences wrapped in elegance and charm. From the effervescent sparkle of a champagne gift basket to the rich red and refreshing white wine gift sets, these curated collections offer something for every connoisseur, making any occasion truly unforgettable.

Bubbly Celebration Gift Sets

If you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication and romance to your gift, consider a champagne rose gift set. Champagne is synonymous and loud with celebration, and when combined with the delicate, floral notes of rose, it creates a gift that is both luxurious and unforgettable.

Pop, Pour, and Pamper with Luxurious Gift Ideas

Photo Courtesy: Dcwineandspirits.com

Imagine the gentle effervescence of a premium Champagne Rosé, its delicate blush hue dancing in the light, paired with gourmet treats and elegant accessories. Ideal for celebrating life’s special moments, indulging in luxury, and toast to unforgettable memories with a gift that truly speaks the language of love and celebration.

A Wine Basket of Relaxation and Luxury

In a world of immersive and pampering experiences where relaxation meets luxury, a wine and spa gift basket is unbeatable. These baskets are designed to provide everything she needs for a relaxing spa day at home. Alongside bottles of her favorite wine, you’ll find other spa essentials. This combination of wine and spa products offers a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing her to unwind and rejuvenate in the comfort of her own place.

Beyond these Curated Collections

Beyond the typical offerings, there’s a world of wine gift baskets for her, waiting to be discovered, each one designed to create unforgettable moments. Whether she’s a connoisseur or simply enjoys the occasional glass, the right gift can elevate her wine experience to new heights.

Personalization– wine basket for her isn’t just about the wine itself; it’s about curating a collection that speaks to her unique tastes and preferences. From adding her name or a special message to selecting wines that align with her favorite flavors, personalized wine gifts show lots of thoughtfulness and care.
Gift by Occasion– it adds another layer of significance. Whether it’s her birthday, an anniversary, or a holiday, the right wine basket can make the celebration even more memorable.
Origin-specific collection- highlight wines from renowned regions, offering a unique and authentic taste experience, perfect for the discerning wine lover.

Conclusion

Here this blog comes to an end, but the journey of finding the perfect gift for her is just beginning. Embrace the charm and elegance of wine baskets from online stores like DC Wine & Spirits to create memorable experiences that she’ll cherish forever. Whether it’s a bubbly celebration, a relaxing spa day, or a personalized touch, the right gift can make any occasion truly special. So, ditch the guesswork and master the art of gifting with thoughtful, creative, and unique wine gifts that will light up her world.

Lets Make Her Day Extraordinary!

Published by: Khy Talara

Ann Russo: Breaking Down Barriers in Mental Health Care

Women's Journal Staff on July 19, 2024

In a field as delicate and multifaceted as the mental health landscape, Ann Russo positions herself as a beacon of compassion and dedication. Combining academic excellence with unique experiences and personal beliefs, she has established a niche for those in need of safe spaces and judgment-free support.

As the Clinical Director of AMR Therapy and creator of Empowering Pathways, Ann’s personal brand is synonymous with holistic and integrative therapeutic approaches. Her innovative insights enable her to provide top-tier counseling, consulting, and mental health advocacy.

Her professional approach and personal beliefs are a testament to her unwavering commitment to empowering individuals — and effectively transforming modern mental health practices as we know them.

A Diverse Background of Academic Achievements & Expertise

Ann Russo’s educational background is robust and diverse, with a bachelor’s degree in religion and an MA in Theology from Loyola Marymount. Her rich academic foundation underpins her expertise in addressing complex human experiences not often talked about — particularly around queerness and religious trauma.

Raised in a queer non-monogamous household during the 1980s and 1990s, Ann’s early life immersed her in the nuances of alternative relationship structures and the multifaceted nature of identity.

This personal history deeply informs her professional ethos and her approach to therapy and advocacy. It also allows her to connect both personally and professionally to people coming from or going through similar situations.

Passion & Commitment to Integrative Therapies

Ann’s therapeutic practice is distinguished by her integrative and holistic approach. She combines practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), sex-positive therapy, and psychodynamic insights to create personalized treatment plans.

Her specialization in religious trauma around queerness, backed by her educational degrees, allows her to offer compassionate, informed, and culturally sensitive perspectives — a feat that is both rare and invaluable in the mental health landscape.

A Dedication to Both Mental Health Patients & Providers

Ann Russo extends her expertise to both patients and providers. Through a range of consulting services, she is able to enhance the skills and knowledge of mental health practitioners. These services include:

Case Consultation. Ann provides in-depth discussions and analysis of clinical cases, leveraging her extensive experience with diverse, complex scenarios to improve outcomes. Her insights help practitioners navigate their clients’ unique challenges more effectively.
Skill Development. Ann offers focused training on specific therapeutic interventions, such as CBT, sex-positive therapy, and psychodynamic principles. Her comprehensive approach equips practitioners with the tools and techniques necessary to deliver high-quality, specialized care.
Ethical Guidance. Navigating ethical dilemmas is a critical aspect of mental health practice. Ann’s MA in Theology and her background in clinical work enable her to provide nuanced ethical guidance, consequently helping practitioners uphold the highest standards of professional integrity.
Career Development. Ann assists practitioners in setting professional goals, building a thriving practice, and achieving career milestones. Her mentorship, grounded in her success with AMR Therapy, provides strategic advice and support for those looking to advance their careers.

Continuing Education and Public Engagement

Through her initiative, Empowering Pathways, Ann offers CE/training programs on crucial topics such as:

ethical non-monogamy
religious trauma around queerness
alternative relationship counseling
sex-positive therapy

These programs are designed to enhance the professional development of mental health providers. The goal is to foster a more inclusive and informed therapeutic community through Ann’s reduced-rate clinical support.

Ann also addresses societal issues through her blog, public speaking engagements, and podcasting. Her proactive approach to reducing stigma and empowering others is evident in her public discourse, where she tackles challenging topics with grace and authority.

A Mentor, Advocate, and Pioneer

Her ability to train and speak to larger groups is well-documented, with numerous past successes highlighting her effectiveness in these roles. She is dedicated to creating a supportive professional network through mentorship and collaboration, where the transformative impact of her consulting and training services is emphasized.

Ann also offers remote services as a response to the diverse needs of clients and professionals nationwide. This adaptability ensures her services are flexible and accessible, allowing her to reach a broad audience and provide support to those who need it most.

A Legacy of Empowerment & Compassion

As the founder and Clinical Director of AMR Therapy, Ann has built a progressive online practice that breaks down barriers to mental health care. Since its inception in 2018, AMR Therapy has provided inclusive services to over 1800 individuals, focusing on the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, sex positivity, and non-monogamous relationships.

Ann Russo’s career is a testament to her dedication to authenticity, professional integrity, and social equity. Her multifaceted role as a therapist, consultant, educator, and advocate continues to inspire and empower those around her.

For those seeking a mental health consultant, podcast guest, or expert trainer, Ann Russo is ready to collaborate. Her transformative journey and unwavering commitment make her an invaluable ally in the pursuit of mental well-being.

You can also subscribe to her newsletter!

Published by: Khy Talara

Kayla Crane, LMFT Offers Guide to Modern Relationships

Women's Journal Staff on July 19, 2024

By: Jay Feldman

In a day and age where technology affects every aspect of people’s lives, relationships are not excluded. While the digital age has brought individuals closer in some aspects, it has also introduced a host of daily challenges for couples. From work-life balance to social media, relationships require new approaches and strategies to maintain closeness and connection. Kayla Crane, LMFT, the owner of South Denver Therapy, addresses these modern-day dilemmas with tailored approaches such as Relational Life Therapy (RLT), teaching couples how to live a more relational life despite the disconnection that technology often promotes.

Understanding Contemporary Relationship Dynamics

Understanding contemporary relationship dynamics is a complex journey. Gone are the days when physical distance was the sole culprit for feelings of disconnect. Today, partners can find themselves sharing a couch yet inhabiting entirely separate worlds – one fixated on the glowing rectangle in their hand, the other yearning for connection. This constant access to technology can breed a new kind of loneliness, chilling isolation despite physical proximity.

This “digital divide” doesn’t just create a physical barrier; it erodes the very foundation of healthy relationships – trust and intimacy. The constant pinging of notifications and the allure of virtual worlds can leave a partner feeling neglected and unimportant. Further complicating matters is the curated perfection that bombards people on social media. Platforms overflowing with seemingly flawless relationships can distort reality, breeding envy and dissatisfaction. This constant barrage of unrealistic expectations can create a chasm between what is seen online and the messy, beautiful truth of real-life connections.

Bridging the Digital Divide

In today’s digital age, technology can unknowingly become a wedge between couples. People are constantly bombarded with notifications and social media updates, pulling their attention away from real-life connections. This constant connectivity fosters an individualistic mindset, which can be detrimental to a healthy relationship. Kayla Crane, a Relational Life Therapist (RLT) expert, recognizes these challenges and bridges the gap between technology and strong couple bonds.

Relational Life Therapy emphasizes relational skills, helping couples move away from a “me” mentality and operate as a unit. Through RLT, Kayla empowers couples to navigate the digital world while nurturing their connection. She highlights the importance of setting boundaries with technology to create pockets of quality time together. Her advice is simple yet effective: “Schedule regular “tech-free” times where you can focus solely on each other without the distractions of screens.” By incorporating these practices, couples can strengthen their bond and create a lasting, fulfilling relationship.

Actionable Tips for Healthy Relationships

Kayla Crane believes that open communication is the bedrock of any thriving relationship. She argues for frequent “check-ins” with your partner, emphasizing their role in maintaining a strong connection and preventing minor issues from snowballing into larger conflicts.

“Having a weekly check-in can help both partners feel heard and valued,” she explains. These check-ins shouldn’t just be about sharing information; Kayla also recommends actively practicing validation and empathy. By truly trying to understand your partner’s perspective and acknowledging their feelings, you can cultivate a deeper sense of connection and strengthen the foundation of your relationship.

Embracing Professional Guidance

For those inspired by these insights or seeking help in improving their own relationship well-being, Kayla Crane, LMFT, extends an open invitation for a free consultation via her website. Embracing innovative therapeutic approaches like those offered by Kayla can create paths toward deeper connection and fulfillment. As people continue advancing into uncharted digital territories impacting their relationships, having access to expert guidance becomes invaluable—not merely for surviving but for thriving together as a happy couple.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The contents of this article should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Published by: Khy Talara

Cervello Laser Hair Reduction: Achieve Lasting Smoothness

Women's Journal Staff on July 19, 2024

Harmony Skin Care Sarasota, a reputable medical spa led by nationally recognized successful microsurgeon Dr. Julio E. Pabon, is thrilled to announce the addition of the Cervello Laser for permanent hair reduction. This advanced, FDA-cleared Italian-made device offers a practical, gentle solution to unwanted body hair, elevating the spa’s already exceptional offerings.

Harmony Skin Care is renowned for its holistic approach and state-of-the-art treatments. It integrates advanced technology with personalized care to reveal natural beauty and wellness. The introduction of the Cervello Laser aligns perfectly with the spa’s commitment to providing superior outcomes in a tranquil, luxurious setting.

The Cervello Laser stands out in the crowded market of hair removal technologies due to its unique Double Cooling Technology, which ensures treatments are comfortable and not painful. This innovative system cools the skin before, during, and after the laser pulse, protecting the skin and eliminating irritation. Patients can now enjoy a more comfortable experience while achieving smoother, stubble-free skin.

The laser disables hair follicles to reduce growth, providing noticeable results after just a few treatments. Clients can achieve up to 85% permanent hair reduction with continued sessions. The Cervello’s ability to treat all skin tones with multiple laser wavelengths in a single handpiece sets it apart from other devices, making it a versatile and effective choice for a diverse clientele.

Harmony Skin Care’s personalized treatments, including the ForeverYoung BBL™, ForeverClear BBL™, and SkinTyte™, already provide remarkable results in photo-rejuvenation, acne treatment, and skin tightening. The addition of the Cervello Laser enhances these offerings, providing clients with a comprehensive suite of services to address various skincare needs.

Dr. Pabon emphasizes that the procedures at Harmony Skin Care are conducted by medical professionals with over 25 years of experience, ensuring high standards of care. This expertise and cutting-edge technology allow the spa to deliver consistent, long-lasting results that enhance clients’ natural beauty.

The introduction of the Cervello Laser reflects Harmony Skin Care’s dedication to staying at the forefront of the skincare industry. The spa’s use of Sciton’s BBL (Broadband Light) and Cervello laser systems demonstrates a commitment to utilizing the latest technologies to achieve outstanding results.

Cervello Laser Hair Reduction Achieve Lasting Smoothness

Photo Courtesy: Alex W.

Clients who have experienced the Cervello Laser hair reduction treatment have expressed high satisfaction with the results. The device’s compact design and portability make it a valuable addition to any medspa, and medical professionals and clients alike have praised its effectiveness and ease of use. Testimonials from various medical professionals highlight the device’s effectiveness and client satisfaction. For instance, Gia Cordaro, Director at Images Medical Spa, praises the Cervello Laser for its reliability and ease of use. Dr. Mukesh Arora echoes this sentiment, noting the impressive results and the device’s compact design. Tiffany Anne from Le Sapphire Medical states that the Cervello Laser’s quick and almost painless treatment has left clients extremely happy with the results.

Harmony Skin Care invites clients to experience the benefits of the Cervello Laser and discover the power of advanced technology to achieve lasting smoothness. The spa’s compassionate experts design personalized renewal journeys, ensuring each client receives individual attention and care tailored to their unique needs.

The addition of Cervello Laser Hair Reduction to Harmony Skin Care’s repertoire signifies the spa’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation. Dr. Pabon’s expertise as a microsurgeon and fertility specialist brings a unique perspective to the practice, combining medical rigor with a deep understanding of holistic wellness. This dual approach ensures that every client receives cutting-edge treatments and a deeply personalized care experience.

The Cervello Laser is a testament to Harmony Skin Care’s philosophy of integrating advanced medical technology with a holistic approach to beauty and wellness. The device’s Double Cooling Technology is particularly noteworthy, as it enhances client comfort significantly compared to traditional laser hair removal methods. Continuous cooling before, during, and after the laser pulse protects the skin and ensures a comfortable experience. This feature is especially beneficial for clients who have previously found laser hair removal treatments uncomfortable or painful.

The spa’s comprehensive suite of services, including the ForeverYoung BBL, ForeverClear BBL, and SkinTyte, is further enhanced by adding the Cervello Laser. These treatments offer clients a broad range of options for achieving youthful, clear, and tight skin. The ForeverYoung BBL treatment, for instance, uses photo-rejuvenation to restore collagen, refine skin texture, and erase sun damage and age spots. The ForeverClear BBL treatment targets acne by using light energy to penetrate deep into pores, providing clearer skin over time. The SkinTyte treatment utilizes infrared light technology to boost collagen production, resulting in natural-looking skin tightening and contouring.

Harmony Skin Care’s commitment to using only proven technology is evident in its choice of the Cervello Laser and Sciton’s BBL systems. These technologies are known for their effectiveness and safety, ensuring that clients receive high quality treatments available in the market.

For more information about the Cervello Laser and other advanced treatments available at Harmony Skin Care Sarasota, visit Harmony Skin Care Sarasota or contact the spa at +1-941-921-1007.

About Harmony Skin Care Sarasota

Harmony Skin Care Sarasota, led by Julio E. Pabon, MD, offers medical expertise and holistic care to reveal clients’ natural glow. The spa’s award-winning treatments and tranquil ambiance provide a rejuvenating experience to enhance inner wellness and outer radiance. With a focus on advanced technology and personalized care, Harmony Skin Care delivers superior outcomes in a luxurious setting.

Published by: Khy Talara

The Rise of Imperfectionism in Modern Fashion

Women's Journal Staff on July 19, 2024

By: Anna Ivanova, fashion designer and constructor of sportswear at Bona Fide.

In the world of fashion and design, a new trend has emerged—imperfectionism. This approach rejects the idea of achieving absolute perfection and instead focuses on the uniqueness and individuality of each piece. Designers increasingly use the principles of imperfectionism to create collections that highlight the natural beauty and characteristics of materials, as well as the uniqueness of handmade items. In this article, we will explore how the principles of imperfectionism help designers create distinctive collections and why this approach is becoming increasingly popular.

Principles of Imperfectionism in Design

Imperfectionism in design is based on the recognition and acceptance of imperfections as an integral part of the creative process. It is not just a rejection of the pursuit of perfection but an active use of imperfections to create unique and expressive pieces. As Iuliia Zhdanova notes in her article “Freedom from Perfectionism – A Path to Creativity and Harmony”: “Perfectionism is the persistent belief that an ideal result not only can but must be achieved. A perfectionist believes that if the ideal is not achieved, then it is not worth acting.” In the context of design, this belief limits creative freedom and stifles innovation.

Creating Unique Collections

Applying the principles of imperfectionism allows designers to create unique collections where each item has its own distinctive individuality. Designers actively use material imperfections, uneven seams, and natural color variations to create expressive and vibrant pieces. This approach highlights the craftsmanship and uniqueness of each element in the collection.

Impact on the Creative Process

Imperfectionism allows designers to focus on the creative process rather than just the result. This frees them from the pressure of needing to achieve perfection and encourages experimentation and innovation. As Zhdanova emphasizes, “A healthy pursuit of high results stimulates a person, inspires them to achieve goals, and allows them to enjoy the process. Perfectionism, on the other hand, paralyzes aspirations, devaluing any intermediate results” “Freedom from Perfectionism – A Path to Creativity and Harmony”. Inspired by this approach, designers can take risks and try new techniques and materials, leading to truly original and innovative collections.

Examples of Successful Use of Imperfectionism

Many well-known designers actively use the principles of imperfectionism in their work. For example, Japanese designer Yohji Yamamoto is known for his collections where fabric imperfections and uneven cuts become central design elements. These features make his work unique and recognizable.

Conclusion

Imperfectionism in design is not just a fashionable trend but a philosophy that allows designers to unleash their creativity and create unique, expressive collections. Embracing imperfections as part of the creative process frees designers from the pressure of perfectionism and stimulates innovation and experimentation. As Iuliia Zhdanova notes, “Imperfectionism helps a person treat themselves with care and respect, enjoy intermediate results, and take pleasure in the process.” This approach allows designers to find beauty in imperfection and create truly unique pieces.

Using the principles of imperfectionism in fashion and design is a step towards a more human and creative approach that values the individuality and uniqueness of each item.

Published by: Holy Minoza