Embracing the Pure Life

Jenny, founder and designer of Pure Life Jewelry, sent me a few pieces from her newest collection and I’m obsessed! All of her items are handmade in Phoenix, AZ (Yay, my hometown!). With her small batch production, being crafted in the states, and sweatshop free environment she is doing wonders for ethical jewelry. By purchasing her products, you’re also supporting the economy and local business. We are all guilty of purchasing items from overseas or from companies who likely don’t have the most ethical practices, but by choosing quality over quantity, local over import, etc. we can make a difference. Plus, her pieces are so cute and definitely fit the gypsy boho vibes everyone is going for nowadays (lol me).

I headed out to one of my fave coastal photo-shoot spots, Terranea Cove, in Rancho Palos Verdes. It’s also one of the few places in that area with 24/7 free parking! I was shooting a girlfriend of mine (@serenalisaa) and her boyfriend (@drlord) for some content. I’m trying to expand to couples photography as well as portrait/lifestyle. Anywhoo, I was able to sneak in some shots at the end!

In my first look, I’m wearing the Dreamer Necklace and Pyramid Mixed Metal Ring accompanied by my newest recycled fashion find (rust sweater) from Buffalo Exchange.  You can really tell how carefully crafted her pieces are and I thought the golden and copper tones of the jewelry matched well with a warmer shade and outfit.

My second look included the Moonstone-Moxie: Radiate Love Ring which I paired with a high-collar tank and patterned velvet kimono.  These I had purchased way back in the day before I had even heard of sustainable fashion, but the top is Brandy Melville and my kimono is from the notorious mom store Chico’s. Can you guess who I was shopping with when I got this? Yup, mom haha. The silver and light purple stone on the ring complemented the costal ocean vibes and my cooler toned neutrals.

One of my favorite parts about working with small American businesses is that you get a personal interaction with someone and form professional relationships. It’s more than just seeking ethical and sustainable companies to work with. Jenny was such a pleasure to work with and is so passionate about what she does. It can be difficult to start a jewelry business (or any business for that matter), so show her some love and check out her work! 

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Desert Stardust

This was the same day as the Cotton Field excursion, however different vibes call for a different blog post! Ryen was awesome and let me get a little creative and put glitter/foil all over her face. Made for a beautiful stardust effect or starDUSK in this situation because it was sunset :)

Denim Shirt - Buffalo Exchange (consignment store), brand is Madewell

Tan/Brown Vegan Western Boots - Coconuts by Matisse, purchased from ShoeMall

Brown Vegan Western Boots - Coconuts by Matisse, purchased from Amazon

 

The Scottsdale Cotton Fields

I went out exploring with my friend, Ryen, for a photoshoot. I've seen these cotton field photos all over Instagram for years and have never been able to find them and when I did they were out of season.. until NOW! These cotton fields were so dreamy. 

Rust Sweater - Mom's Closet 

Brown Distressed Jeans - Free People

Tan Hat - Urban Outfitters, Ecoté

Brown Vegan Western Boots - Coconuts By Matisse, purchased from ShoeMall

Vegan Suede Olive Hat - Free People

Turtleneck Sleeveless Top - Free People

Brass Necklace - Buffalo Exchange

Rustic Car - Becca Booker Media

Went out exploring with my gal pal/old co-worker, Becca Booker, to take some pics. We found this random spot near the 101 freeway which was a private lot that held sooo many horses! Instead of just backtracking once we found out it was private property, we asked one of the guys if we could take some photos around the area. We told him 15 minutes.. we were def there for an hour haha. Cheers to random/semi-deserted ranches off the freeway!

Vegan Suede Hat: Free People

Necklace: No Brand, Purchased from Poshmark

Lace Racerback Bralette: Free People

Sweater: Free People, purchased on consignment from Buffalo Exchange

shot by @beccabookermedia, edited by me