Five Golden Rings

"On the fifth day of Christmas my true love gave to me, five golden rings."

    I have been very excited to share this post with you all week.  On Monday, some of my photos were featured on Misselainious, a blog created to help orphans in India.  The inspiration for this shoot came from the color.  We decided to recreate a look that represented old Hollywood glamour from the Golden Age of Hollywood.  Not to mention all that she wore was shimmering gold; the gown, the shoes, the gorgeous French netting veil.  

    I would like to introduce Lauren Reavely. This stunning women is someone I deeply respect and admire.  It is easy to see how physically beautiful she is; let's just say it, Lauren you are gorgeous!!  Lauren has an inner beauty that exudes grace and joy, such a lovely heart.  She loves Jesus and it shows.  You have a heart of gold Lauren, you stepping out to help these sweet children inspires me! 

    When Lauren approached me last week to be her photographer for this day of the series I couldn't say no.  I've been wanting to get into fashion photography and I love that my first fashion shoot was for more than just creating a beautiful image, which as you can see above they are lovely.  I loved this session so much because is it combined my love for photography, fashion, and helping out others who otherwise couldn't help themselves.  

    Lauren has committed to raise $1000 through the month of December, and is over half way to her goal!!! How amazing is she? I would like to encourage you, yes you to join us not only helping Lauren reach her goal but helping and rescuing the children.  

How can you help??

-To donate online, follow this link or the 'give now' button on the sidebar on Misselainious' website.  All donations are tax deductible and made through a secure page.  It would be fantastic if you could put 'Lauren R' in the comments section when you are donating, check the box 'feel free to tell Elaini I contributed' so that Lauren can get a running total!

-Checks can be made out to Warm Blankets Orphan Care and sent to the following address.  In the memo line, please put '12 days project --Lauren Reavely'. (Warm Blankets Orphan Care, 5105 Tollview Dr., Suite 115, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008)

Want more information?? No problem.

    Elaini Garfield, the beautiful woman behind Misselainious did an amazing job of styling this shoot and all the work she has done over the past year and a half or so for the little kiddos in India.  Elaini has such a huge heart, it inspires me.  Misselainious' goal is to use fashion to help orphaned children in India.  What she realized is that we have been blessed with so much we can have 'fashion' while these children who grow up surrounded by turmoil, human trafficking, and loss struggle to stay clothed.  An education would give them a completely different life but that becomes hard when it's required they wear a uniform and most often don't even have clothes to wear.   

    That is where Elaini started, with a problem that she wanted to be a part of changing.  I love it!  When Misselainious first began, she decided to wear one dress for several months to identify with the children who only have one outfit.  She accessorized it different ways, taking a photo every day, and blogged about it.  If you check out her website, you will see all the great things she has done in the name of these kids through fashion.  Her goal which she has already surpassed was $50,000 for the orphans in India (actual amount raised so far: $61,391.64) and has now been changed to $70,000.  Misselainious partners with Warm Blankets Orphan Care, giving these children a future and a hope through educational and vocational opportunities.  The children will have the opportunity to go to school with their peers and be taught skills that will enable them to become productive citizens. 

    Let's dream big for these children who may never get the chance to dream at all unless we do something.  Help Lauren reach her goal of raising $1000 towards Warm Blankets Orphan Care.  Even the smallest gift will make a difference.  

"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." -Arthur Ashe

Thank you!!

Check out my facebook page, 'like' it if you haven't already and see the full gallery here!