Sparkles

"It's the most, wonderful time, of the year.." Americans sure know how to celebrate and decorate during Christmas season. We have a lot to learn from them. I love all the sparkling lights and funny ugly christmas sweater days. This post is about celebration - celebrating life and the independence of my beloved home country, Finland! I am so thankful for the veterans who fought in the war for our independence. Because of their sacrifices I get to benefit from the opportunities my country offers. I love my country and I´m proud to be a finn! 

These pics were taken way back before I came to the States. I just felt this is the right time for posting them. I found this sparkly dress from a vintage store years ago. It really didn´t make any sense to get the dress, since where would I wear it.. But does everything have to make sense? And you never know when you might need the perfect dress, right ladies?! I think we should celebrate more enthusiastically and have fun dressing up. I don´t do it often enough, even though I would love to. So I need to have a silly photoshoot to dress up, obviously?! But really, it´s too true! Most of us tend to take our lives too seriously and forget to live in the moment and have fun. I had a great time doing this photoshoot and this blog is really a fun outlet for me to express myself. 

I want to keep this blog light-hearted and not to get into too deep thoughts, which I have a tendency to do. But I would love to get feedback on how I could improve it. Please feel free to message me!

Wishing my country a Happy Independence Day and all of you, my dear readers, a wonderful time of the year with gifts and surprises!

Intricately yours,

Marjo

Photos by Tim Kiukas

Happy Thanksgiving Everybody! 

It's thanksgiving in a couple of days already! I'm glad I get to take a mini vacation soon since life has been pretty hectic. For the past week I had the chance to be apart of a short movie and see behind the scenes. So many people have such romantic views about filmmaking but when you get to see how much work it requires, it ain´t that glamorous anymore. Of course, I still want to continue on this journey and learn everything about producing films! I am still working on the project that we shot by the coast too. After these projects are done, I will have more time and energy to focus on other things as well.

I haven't forgotten one of my passions either. Fashion! I can't help but love all things beautiful and aesthetically intriguing. Dressing up for me is like art and I like to do experiments with different styles. This hat is one of my favs and it goes so well with fall colors. The dress is from Ivana Helsinki and I just think it is absolutely lovely. My Chie Miharas fit well and give a spark of edginess to the outfit. We photographed these pics already in august and I actually forgot I had these, so here you go! 

Just a quick thought on thankfulness. As most of us know, studies show that we can deliberately cultivate gratitude and can increase our well-being and happiness by doing so. Gratefulness and especially the expression of it to others, is associated with increased energy, optimism and empathy. Research also suggest that one of the reasons why being grateful feels so good, is it helps to kick-start a cycle of positive vibes. Isn't it interesting that when we start being grateful, we're more likely to feel positive in the minutes or months ahead. And the people around us can feel it too. I don´t think we can ever talk too much about the importance of being grateful! This life is too short for not being grateful for every moment aye?

Intricately yours,

Marjo

Photos by Tim Kiukas

Greetings from the coast!

Life has been very busy for the past two weeks. But all is well and I am living in such a deep gratitude! Here is a quick update. Two weeks ago we went to the coast to shoot a video and do stills for our new project. Me and Annette drove there through Redwood forest(I love those trees, they are so magnificent!) a day before the rest of the crew arrived. First we went to Patrick's Point and we actually ended up shooting the project there eventually. It was a blast! I'm not allowed to release anything to do with it yet, but you will see it for sure when it is ready. We are really excited about the project! There will be a video, story book and instructional video, all coming soon.

Another place we visited is called Fern Canyon. To get there, you have to drive through a dark and mystical forest with puddles of water on the road... it was a fun adventure! Though I would recommend anybody that wants to drive there, to have a 4-wheel drive. Annette's car didn't get stuck on the road but we did wish we had a proper Jeep under us. I also wish we had had more time to hike and seek hidden places. There's just so many places by the coast that are full of wonders! Annette captured some beautiful moments during our trip and I wanted to share them with you. I also have bunch of photos that I will probably post later on. The coast is one of my favorite places in the world; my mind, soul and spirit always gets refreshed in places like that.

The beige sweater is from Zara and it is one of my favs especially when it gets colder. It was perfect for this weather. I was also surprised, how good my new Dr. Martens were in my feet, considering it was a long day and a lot of hiking and climbing..

I hope all of you are doing well and thank you for being you! The world needs you. I believe we must find the time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives. Thank you friends and family for loving me and believing in me. A special thank you for my dad, I wouldn't be who I am without you! Lots of love to you all!

Intricately yours,

Marjo

Photos by Annette Biggers

Just do it!

Me and Annette went to search spots for photoshoots recently. This wasn't a planned photoshoot but she captured some beautiful moments in different locations, so I wanted to post them for you to see! I have been writing and want to share my heart more as well, but I need to take some time to process and release the words at the right time.

All in all, everything is going well with my internship and life in general here. So what's new? I've been writing new songs and got myself a midi controller, which I am pumped about! I am finally getting my gear together so I can start to record on my own soon. It is actually a pretty scary thing to put myself and my heart out there, but I know it will have an impact on peoples lives. At least I am stepping out and doing something! If you are in the same season, I would encourage you to just do it! Whatever it might look like for you; whether it means preparation or doing something on your own. Use what you have right now. If you only rely on others and wait for the right people to surround you or the right timing, it will probably never happen before you take risks. The world is waiting for your talents to be revealed. Smack fear in the face, if that's what's holding you back! 

I am really excited for you to step out to do whatever you are called to do! And let's remember to encourage and see the gold in each other, even in the process. 

Intricately yours,

Marjo

Photos by Annette Biggers

                                 

                            

Beverly Hills 90210

Do you remember the show Beverly Hills 90210?! I went to LA last week and literally felt like I went back in time and was part of the show! Well, partly because I stayed in Beverly Hills during my time in LA..! It was such a beautiful time and I felt so privileged to stay there. Thank you friends!

The dress and sandals are my favs, because they are comfortable for any occasion, especially hot californian weather. The headband is fun and brings a special spark to any outfit. Steve Madden's bag is handy, because you can wear it as a handbag as well as a backpack. I love it! My friend Tommy Martinsen took these pics, we were in quite a rush, because my schedule was packed. Forgive me for not having more to show!

My primary reason to be in Hollywood was to attend an event for independent artists. The event was for people that are involved within the music industry to distribute their music through Tune Core. I got a lot of practical advice and knowledge. Some of the most successful people in the music industry came to share their insight and all in all it was a great experience. Though at the same time, I realized what I want for my life as well as what I don't want. I have found the path I am on, is very different from most people. The sounds I want to create take me back to the beginning, where everything started...when I gazed into the eyes of pure Love. I believe every heart longs for an intimate connection with the lover of their soul and that every person in the planet has been created for a purpose, for a relationship with God. And there is nothing better than the presence of the living God! My heart is to see that the sounds and creativity coming out from that place of intimacy, will shake entire nations. I think; Isn't it interesting that even when your mind can not perceive certain things, your heart can still feel it? I've found this to be especially true through audiovisual presentations... What do you guys think?

I also had the privilege to visit Sony Pictures Studios! GUESS WHAT! I am now starring in a movie. Just kidding... I wish! My friend works there and he invited me. It was really exciting to see how TV shows are produced and how the filming lots are the size of small stadiums. Unfortunately I was not allowed to take pictures, but the visit was fun! All in all, my time in LA was short, so I didn't really have enough time to do everything I wanted. I've been there a couple of times before, but you always find something new to see and experience. One thing that is good to know, if you travel to or from LAX, is that LAX is a crazy busy airport! I almost missed my flight connection to Redding.

Now I am back in Redding in our new apartment which I had left for LA whilst the other girls were moving in. I live with three other girls now and our new home is pretty neat. You can see mountains when you step out from our front door and we have our very own palm tree in our backyard! We also have a pool, hottub and gym for the residents. Now I'm back in a normal rhythm here and most of my time is spent in learning audio engineering. I have a couple of cool photography projects that I am a part of. I will post it here, when it is ready. It is a really exciting project!

I have made some wonderful new friends. One evening my friend and I drove to the mountains. We went there to look at the view of the dam, it was gorgeous. We stood there for a couple of minutes, when I heard some rustle from the bushes, which my friend heard too, neither of us freaked out until we heard a growl!!! We took off as fast as we could and ran to the car! My side door of the car wouldn't open for some reason. I screamed my lungs out! Finally the door opened and I got in. Thank you Jesus! We put the lights on but couldn't see anything moving outside. Mountain lions and coyotes live in those areas, though I don't care to know what it was, I'm glad to be alive. And next time, I will surely be more careful.... Until next time!

Intricately yours,

Marjo

Hi dear ones!

First off, my outfit. This dress is perfect for the heat in Redding, the colors bring life. These photos were taken before my arrival to the States, thus I am wearing the cardigan(which is actually my sisters). These sneakers are my favorite to wear with anything, they are super comfy. Second, the weeks are passing quickly. I finally found time to concentrate on the blog! I intend to keep everyone updated as frequently as possible. Here is a short update of my life since I arrived in the States.

Upon our arrival to SF, we spent 2,5hours in traffic! This traffic jam was crazy town!! We left SF and headed up north. I met up with my Californian family and we continued to Paradise. Paradise is a beautiful place in the mountains of Northern California. The time I spent with my Californian family was precious; our days were filled with kayaking, and finding a car. My "new" baby is a retro purplish Jeep! The Jeep, does the job to help me get around. You need a car in the States because there are few sidewalks, the system is different here. So, I am really happy I found an affordable Jeep. I can even go to the Redwoods and sleep in the Jeep. Now, that is cool, or what.

I arrived in Redding two weeks ago, one day last week it was +47/117F!! It was like sauna outside, ironically indoors is like an igloo! It does not make any sense, but it is how they roll around here...

My primary reason for living in Redding, California is to be involved with audio engineering, photography as well as building community. One of the projects I am part of includes recording/filming conferences, videos, and live streams. I am really excited about audio engineering and especially post-production, since I want to produce music on my own in the future. Editorials and photoshoots comprise my current venues in photography, an art that will always be part of my life. Each week here is different. Next weekend, I am heading to LA for an event for independent artists and I am going to visit Sony picture studios!

Over the past couple of days I have pondered perseverance and surrounding yourself with the right people. First, perseverance pays off. I paid a price to be here, and its worth it. When you are faced with a sacrifice, do the right thing, don´t give up, hold onto hope, and pursue your dreams. Someone once told me, success is dependent on a chain of multiple people and the chain is as strong as the weakest link. Application of the weakest link idea touches many situations across life. I feel privileged to be surrounded by amazing people with expertise in my field of audiovisual communications as well as with my spiritual journey. It is good to be aware of who we surround ourselves with. Individuals who are wiser than ourselves help us to grow. Let's be strong links for others around us, to help them reach their full potential. It is time for all of us to rise, shine, and be the light!

May your week be full of joy! Be thankful for all things. Life is a gift.

Intricately yours,

Marjo

Photos by Tim Kiukas

Dress: Zara

Shoes: Vagabond

 

Chie Mihara #2

Hello from California! I arrived here two days ago and jet lag hit hard. It usually takes a couple of days for me to get over it. I'm pretty much zoning out now, but happy and thankful to be here. This year is going to be exciting in a lot of ways!

This shoot is a continuation of the last post with Chie Miharas. I did this editorial with a friend, who is also interested in fashion photography. It was a lot of fun! We wanted to have some movement in the photos and the green Nike cap gives the style a glimpse of edginess. I bought this golden dress from the States already a couple of years ago and I'm glad I did. When I saw it, it made me feel like royal. There was something about the golden dress.

The meanings of colors had never struck me before. But later on I started to pay more attention to them. Most of us are not aware of the meanings of colors or care about what colors we wear. Did you know that they actually release things?

The golden color in general is mostly associated with achievements, abundance as well as value. But it is not only a color of prosperity. At the uppermost level gold is associated with higher ideas, wisdom and understanding. It is said to inspire knowledge, spirituality and a deep understanding of the self and the soul. In the meanings of colors gold is also generous and giving, compassionate, fun, loving, confident and eye-catching. Gold has long been associated with royalty alongside purple.

When reading about the meanings of colors, I realized that the negative side has a lot to do with fears; fear of success, failure and trust. All of us most likely face these fears at one time or another... I know I have. But the truth is that what ever we reflect on, we become. We actually become a mirror reflection to what we behold in our hearts and transform into what we behold. That said, I want to encourage you to step out as well and face your fears. Let Love in. Let's be people of inspiration and see the gold in each other!

Hope you have a golden week!

Intricately yours,

Marjo



Photos by Ragnar Orav

Shoes: Chie Mihara
Dress: Duro Olowu
Cap: Nike

  

                       

Chie Mihara #1

A while ago I went shopping with a friend and she wanted to find shoes for her. I was there to help her find the perfect pair and wasn't even looking to find anything. I did try out almost all of the high heels in the store and only got myself sore feet. I thought I was never going to find a feet-friendly pair of heels. Women look gorgeous when wearing them, but most are horrible for your feet.

I guess it is during those times, when you're not looking, you would run into them. All of the fabulous heels I had tried on were killing my feet. Have you ever felt that comfy or even bearable high heels just don't exist? While walking around the store, these funky, intricate heels caught my eye. While waiting on my friend, I tried them on. They felt great! I hadn't heard of Chie Mihara before, so I was totally clueless. The shop assistant then told that the designer really puts effort on her designs. Her idea is that you don´t need to suffer to feel beautiful. The designer combines comfort and beauty in her designs!

I had to check her out(there´s a lot of videos about Chie Mihara on youtube if you're interested). The designer's attitude is beautiful. She said in one of her videos: "if you put passion into something and you really feel so great about what you are doing, in the end, that product months later, maybe kilometers away, somebody is going to feel the same thing". You might think it was just a sales pitch, but I must say, I felt it. Luckily the heels were on sale! Chie Mihara is a pricy design, but worth it. We should always have quality before quantity, right?

One of my passions is to capture beautiful things through photography. Me and my friend did this shoot. It was fun to model and style. Mostly I'm on the other side of the camera. This was the first shoot with Chie Mihara design and these heels go with pretty much everything I own. So, I got a bit carried away... Next posts are fun as well!

These Chie Miharas actually brought a new flow of inspiration. Who would have imagined that shoes could have such an impact. There is definitely something about when you put passion into what ever you are doing. Just do it and do it with excellence and passion. People will feel it and experience it. For me, I got this creative flow when I saw these heels. It's wonderful when you find something that inspires you - whether it's fashion or fishing - that you get so excited about life and the beauty of this creation! That you feel alive. To be honest, starting something ain't never easy but if you never start, you can´t know where it could take you. Starting this blog has been on my heart already for some time. It´s never too late to dream a new dream and start to pursue your dreams. Just take the first step towards them!

I hope you got inspired!

Intricately yours,

Marjo

Photos by Anna Bartholomaus

Shoes: Chie Mihara
Pants: Mango
Top: Vintage

Welcome to my blog!

This blog is an outlet for my passion for fashion, travel, photography, all things beautiful and most of all a source of fun! With the words of artist Rodney White: It costs nothing to dream; it costs everything not to. I am a dreamer and I hope to encourage people to dream beyond their wildest imaginations! I think life can be viewed through intricate angles, as a treasure hunt, discovering the gold hidden in ourselves and others. I believe that every dream is a clue toward discovering the hidden treasure and it always depends on our angle of view. 

This blog is also going to be my diary, since I am moving soon to California for 9 months! This site will be full of fun posts of photoshoots as well as anything I come up with. You are most welcome to follow my journey and I hope you will be inspired as well! 

Intricately yours,

Marjo