Ask Us Beauty Magazine: Holidays Renewed

ASKUSBEAUTY

BEAUTY/WELLNESS

A Season to Reflect, Restore, and Reconnect THE ART OF RENEWAL

HOLIDAYS RENEWED

SECRETS TO BEATING HOLIDAY STRESS 5

candace Cameron Bure

ROOTED IN FAITH, RISING IN HOPE

TURNING MOMENTS INTO Meaningful Keepsakes

For years, Ask Us Beauty Magazine has inspired readers to see beauty in a new way-not as something found on the surface, but as something deeply rooted in who we are and how we live. It’s been a journey of celebrating authenticity, purpose, and the power of storytelling. And now, that journey has evolved into something even more extraordinary.

Over the past year, we’ve been quietly building something new-something born from the same heart and purpose that started it all. Introducing Ask Us Magazine, a new division of Ask Us Beauty dedicated to creating custom publication keepsakes that capture life’s most meaningful stories in the most beautiful way possible.

We call it Story Studio.

What Inspired Story Studio

We saw a gap.

Photo albums preserve images. Memory books share milestones. But where is the soul of the story?

We discovered the power of this kind of storytelling firsthand. Amy’s father turned eighty-three. Michelle’s niece graduated high school. Two very different milestones, but both deserving of more than a slideshow or scrapbook.

We created custom keepsakes for them-pieces that felt personal, powerful, and yes, cover-worthy.

The result? Tears, pride, and something that lasted.

And we knew then: everyone deserves their story told with that kind of care.

That’s how Story Studio was born-a creative space within Ask Us Magazine devoted to helping people turn their most cherished moments into beautifully crafted magazines that feel worthy of the lives they represent.

Imagine your story-your wedding, your graduation, your business milestone, your family legacytransformed into a professionally designed publication. Every page thoughtfully written, every image artfully placed, every detail polished to perfection. That’s the experience of Ask Us Magazine: an elevated, editorial-quality keepsake that tells your story just as you’ve lived it-authentically, beautifully, and timelessly.

Our process is as personal as the pages we create. We begin with your story-your words, your photos, your memories-and our editorial team brings them to life through masterful writing, design, and layout. The result is more than a magazine; it’s a one-of-a-kind piece of storytelling art that becomes part of your legacy.

Whether you’re celebrating a love story, honoring a loved one, spotlighting a company’s journey, or creating a family heirloom for generations to come, Ask Us Magazine turns your vision into something tangible and lasting. It’s the perfect keepsake for milestone occasions-weddings, retirements, graduations, anniversaries-or a creative way for businesses and brands to connect with clients and teams through storytelling that feels personal and powerful.

And perhaps the best part? We make it effortless. From concept to completion, our team handles every stepwriting, design, editing, printing, and delivery. You share your memories; we transform them into something unforgettable. Because your story deserves to be seen, remembered, and celebrated.

ASKUSBEAUTY

BEAUTY/WELLNESS HOLIDAYS RENEWED

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CO-FOUNDER

Michelle Emmick

MANAGING EDITOR & CO-FOUNDER

Amy Breuer

PRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT

Allison Michele Horwath

DIGITAL MARKETING

Heather Cleverly

WEB DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

Kylie Malcolm

SENIOR EDITORS

Marianne Pienias

Jordan Peden

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES advertising@ askusbeautymagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Allison Michele Horwath

GUIDELINES

Ask Us Beauty Magazine looks to provide our readers with educational and empowering content. We ask our contributors to share their stories through their own words and beliefs. Our content providers are not employees of Ask Us Beauty, and while we do seek out contributors that we consider subject matter experts to the stories we share, we do not represent or guarantee their contributions and note that we are independent of the information they provide. We are committed to providing accurate information. If an error is brought to our attention, whether grammatical or factual, we will be happy to make the appropriate changes.

Please feel free to contact us hello@askusbeautymagazine.com.

Ask Us Beauty Magazine participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorial chosen products through our links to retailer sites. These are products/services that we believe may offer value to our readers. This does not affect our decisions on the products or services we select. We always want to champion that our readers decide for themselves on all beauty/wellness decisions which is the mission of our platform.

CONTACT

Contact Us at hello@askusbeautymagazine.com or visit our website at askusbeautymagazine.com

MISSION

Ask Us Beauty Magazine is a quarterly magazine with content designed to educate, empower, and inspire individuals on all things beauty and wellness. This is done by bringing together people of all backgrounds to share their knowledge and stories through our pages. Whether it’s through products, services, procedures, or personal brands, our mission is the change the narrative, allowing each one of us to define beauty on our own terms. Why? Because we believe beauty is not limited to our outside appearance. It is within us. It is in our professional lives and our personal passions. It’s in our health and wellness and our relationships with our families, friends, and loved ones.

www.askusbeautymagazine.com

Welcome back, AUB family. It’s been a while-and that’s because we took some time to pause. As midlife women running this platform, we know that sometimes stepping back is exactly what you need to move forward.

We started this magazine over 4.5 years ago, and what a journey it’s been. We’ve grown, we’ve learned, and we hope we’ve inspired so many of you along the way. From thousands of features and hundreds of interviews, to Times Square billboards, award ceremonies, fashion runways, TV appearances, and even our very own red carpet event-what a ride it’s been! And with the theme of living our best lives, that’s exactly what we’ve been doing, on our own terms.

We’ve always shared that we’re not owned by big media-we don’t have to play by the rules. And that’s what makes this platform special. This Fall issue brings us back to the heart of what we love about this magazine: educating, empowering, and inspiring people. One of the many lessons we’ve learned is that it’s okay to pivot, to grow, to try things that work-and gracefully let go of what doesn’t. And as women, we have to stay confident in ourselves and the incredible people who lift us up.

Personally, I took this summer off to focus on family-returning to my hometown, slowing down, and celebrating the people I love. I laughed, I played, and I truly lived in the

moment. I had the gift of spending precious time with my 92-year-old grandmother, who passed away just five weeks later. That time with her was a profound reminder of the importance of living intentionally and following the path that feels right for you.

As we move toward the close of 2025, we are grateful for what we’ve done, excited for what’s ahead, and so thankful for all of you on this journey with us. Positive media is our mission, and there are incredible things in store for 2026. Thank you for being part of this ride-and for continuing to embrace living your best life, on your own terms.

XOXO, MICHELLE EMMICK EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Michelle Emmick

Taloha

Choosing a State of Being That Inspires You to Live a Life That Makes You Feel Absolutely Alive

Contributor: Ari Zucker

IG @Ari8675

Wedding Photographer: Casey Simon

Website: LiveTaloha.com

There’s a difference between simply living and feeling alive. For Ari Zucker and Shawn Christian, that difference became the heart of Live Taloha - a brand and philosophy built on gratitude, courage, and connection. “Taloha” isn’t just a word; it’s a reminder that we all have the power to choose how we show up in the world.

At Live Taloha, we believe that feeling alive isn’t about chasing moments, it’s about creating them. It’s the conscious choice to approach each day with gratitude, courage, and connection. “Taloha” is more than a word; it’s a reminder that we all have the power to choose how we show up in the world. Whether it’s through kindness, adventure, creativity, or community, living Taloha means embracing life with open arms and an open heart. For us, this isn’t just a philosophy, it’s a way of life. It’s what drives everything we do, from the products we create to the stories we share. Because when you choose to live Taloha, you’re not just living…you’re becoming.

There was a time when I didn’t know what came next. Life had quieted in ways I hadn’t expected, and the path forward felt uncertain. So, I slowed

down. I took a breath. I went on what I like to call “thought walks,” prayed before bed, and allowed the answers to find me instead of forcing them into existence.

That stillness became my teacher. It showed me that being alive isn’t just about doing, it’s about being. It’s about choosing peace in the chaos, faith in the unknown, and gratitude for the small, quiet moments in between. My husband, Shawn, became the inspiration behind Taloha. Together, we discovered that alignment with ourselves, with each other, and with life itself.

As Live Taloha began to take shape, our journey was guided by the examples of other purposedriven brands that inspired us to dream bigger. But more than anything, we wanted our company to be a true reflection of who we are — Shawn and Ari, partners in love, in life, and in purpose.

Everything we create comes from that foundation: our deep love for each other, our commitment to family, and our connection with

our community. Live Taloha isn’t just a brand, it’s an extension of our lives, our values, and the way we choose to show up in the world. Sharing our story has become one of the greatest joys of what we do. Because when we open up about our journey — the struggles, the growth, the love — it

reminds others that they can do the same. Our goal is simple: to help people live a life inspired, to choose presence over pressure, and to embrace a state of being that makes them feel absolutely alive.

Right Here, Right Now

Finding Beauty, Peace, and Joy

in the Life You Already Have

Let’s be honest. Life feels heavy right now — every headline, every scroll, every conversation seems to carry more weight than it should. We tell ourselves:

“When things calm down, then I’ll start living.”

Or maybe your thoughts sound like this:

“When the bills are paid, the house is clean, the weight is gone… then life can finally begin.”

But what if then never comes?

What if joy and peace aren’t waiting down the road at all — what if they’re already here, right now, waiting for us to live them?

Here’s the truth I’ve learned (and relearned): “Someday” has a way of stealing today. Joy doesn’t always show up in the big moments. More often, it slips in quietly — unexpected, unannounced, hiding in the everyday moments we almost miss.

Sitting in the quiet stillness before the world wakes up.

Breathing deeply on a walk — a reminder of how good it feels to be here, right where you need to be.

Smelling bread baking in the oven.

Laughing out loud at something silly.

Wrapping yourself in clean, fresh sheets after a long day.

None of it is perfect. And it doesn’t have to be. The beauty is in noticing.

You don’t need to reinvent yourself to live a good life. You don’t have to hustle harder or wait until everything lines up. You just need to pause long enough to see what’s already right here — and let yourself enjoy it.

By Laurie Yannon Wing @medianewsblasters

And even if life doesn’t look the way you thought it would, hear me when I say: you’re not late. You’re not behind. You’re not broken. You’re here. And maybe that’s exactly where you’re supposed to be.

A Gentle Reminder

The world may feel heavy, but that doesn’t mean life has to. We don’t have to wait until things are perfect — or until “someday” finally arrives — to feel joy. Beauty and peace are already here, woven into the everyday. The more we notice, the more we realize how much good has been waiting for us all along.

And isn’t that what hope really is? It’s not about a flawless future version of our lives. It’s about trusting that even here, even now, God has a plan and a purpose for us.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.” — Jeremiah 29:11

That’s the kind of truth that lets us breathe a little deeper. Because once we understand that peace and joy aren’t something to chase or earn, but something we’re already given, everything shifts.

“Don’t wait. The time will never be just right.” — Napoleon Hill

But First, Coffee Dust

Vashon Island Coffee Dust

– Flavor Expedition Kit

Six wellness-forward spice blends — including Gingerbread and Cocoa Calm — that turn any coffee or tea into a cozy, sugar-free ritual. Comes with a gift spoon, ready to wrap and perfect for your favorite morning person.

www.vashoncoffeedust.com

Life’s a Peach

Pearson Farm x Pie Bar

– Peach Cobbler Kit

A sweet Georgia collaboration between fifth-generation Pearson Farm and Pie Bar, this easy-to-bake kit includes peakseason peach filling and a buttery cobbler mix. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s a warm, nostalgic dessert made for sharing — just add vanilla ice cream. www.pearsonfarm.com

A Few of Our Favorite Things

Cozy comforts to help you slow down, savor the season, and reconnect with what matters.

Snug as a Bug

Evergrace Home

– Ridgeline Faux Fur Blanket

Give the gift of warmth and everyday luxury. Sustainably made and ultrasoft, these throws elevate any space — whether draped over a chair or wrapped around your shoulders. Cozy, comforting, and made to share.

www.evergracehome.com

Game On!

Across the Board

– Wooden Travel Game Set

Soup’s On!

SoupaPotamus – Small-Batch

Hearty Soups

Born from founder Sue’s family tradition of big pots and fresh herbs, SoupaPotamus creates small-batch soups that bring comfort, nourishment, and connection back to the table. With nearly 20 varieties — including fall favorites like Fireside Barley, Upstate Split Pea, and Creamy Wild Rice — every pot tells a story of real ingredients and care. www.soupapotamus.com

Fall for This

Born to Be Free – Pumpkin Spice Body Butter

Put a Ring on it

Double-sided heirloom fun: Tic Tac Toe + Hangman in one wooden board, made in the USA. Comes with a velvet bag for easy carry — the perfect screen-free way to entertain kids (and grownups) on the go. www.acrosstheboard.com

Katia Designs – “Remember Ring”

This inspiring, two-tone adjustable ring is designed to help you pause, breathe, and realign with what matters. Worn on any finger (often the thumb), it’s a wearable affirmation you’ll see at just the right moment. katiadesigns.com

Hold the Phone

Whipped for fall and powered by skin-loving beef tallow, this small-batch body butter delivers rich hydration and deep repair through colder months. Infused with essential oils like clove, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla, it smells like autumn wrapped in a sweater — and feels even better.

www.borntobefree.store

World Vision – Handcrafted Cypress Phone Stand

Featured by gospel artist Erica Campbell, this collapsible Tree of Life stand is carved from cypress wood by artisans in Kenya. Free with a $75+ gift to the World Vision Fund — a meaningful way to stay grounded while lifting others. www.worldvision.org

Sable’s Holiday Guide

Tastemaker Sable Massingill Martinez is a travel and lifestyle journalist, brand PR + media consultant and curator of what’s new, and next, with a passion for intentional gift-giving.

Check out her holiday gifting must-haves below, and for more fun finds follow her on Instagram @sablemassingill

Gora Kadan Fuji

This newly opened Japanese Ryokan is where my husband and I are spending Thanksgiving this year, taking in unobstructed views of Mount Fuji and soaking in thermal waters. There is no greater gift than travel and restorative experiences. Book the trip!

My most complimented earrings (and I have several pairs) are from two female makers that I adore, Hyworks, and Loud Italians. Unique, one-ofa-kind and lightweight, these are jewelry pieces that anyone would love to add to their collection.

Marky’s Caviar

Every year from November to Valentine’s Day, my husband and I enjoy decadent date nights at home, to slow down during the busy Holiday season and nothing feels more indulgent than Marky’s Caviar sets. Another fun option for the caviar lover in your life: this cheeky Caviar Candle.

ChappyWrap

Family-owned and woven in factories in Germany and Poland, these blankets are the epitome of cozy, with a variety of gorgeous designs to choose from. The Harborview Herringbone is a staple in our home. For a special touch, each blanket is personalizable.

Color of Heat

One of my favorite finds of the year! This versatile piece can be styled in countless ways, from a poncho, kimono-style wrap to a travel blanket. Ethically made in partnership with artisans in Thailand, the hand-painted batik style design is absolute art.

Elizabeth, a Parsons-trained couture designer with over 20 years of experience at fashion houses including Marchesa, J.Crew Bridal, and Isaac Mizrahi, has a mastery of handwork, beading, and timeless design. Her twin sister Katherine brings two decades of luxury business expertise, having led record-breaking real estate transactions at Sotheby’s International Realty before joining her sister to launch Jumelle. Offering unparalleled service and exclusivity, each piece tells a story, each design celebrates the unique essence of the woman who will wear it, and each creation pushes the boundaries of what couture can be in the 21st century.

Rooftop pool

Dive into sparkling blue waters while you take in the beautiful South Florida skyline, enjoy artisan cocktails and snacks at our poolside bar

Complimentary Hard Rock Shuttle

All aboard our air conditioned Mercedes shuttle to non-stop gaming action and live entertainment at Hard Rock campus!

G7 Rooftop Restaurant

Enjoy a gourmet Japanese-fusion meal, artisan cocktails, and breathtaking panoramic views from our rooftop restaurant

Crafted to perfection with Carolina CreekHouse premium vinyl, this versatile makeup mat is designed to make your daily beauty rituals a breeze. No more messy countertops or makeup stains; our mat is here to revolutionize your makeup game.

https://askusbeautymagazine com/beautymat/

Gratitude: The Secret to Beating Holiday Stress

By: Dr. Beverly Pedroche

Instagram: @drpedroche

Website: https://drpedroche.com/ Substack: https://drbeverlypedroche.substack.com/

The holidays are supposed to be joyful—but for many, they feel more like a marathon of stress, obligations, and never-ending to-do lists. Between crowded schedules, stretched budgets, and messy family dynamics, it’s easy to lose your sense of calm. The good news? Gratitude is one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your mental health and make space for what matters during this chaotic season. By intentionally noticing and appreciating the small positives—even in the middle of the frenzy—you can buffer stress, boost your mood, and actually enjoy the moments that make the holidays meaningful.

1. Start Your Day with a Gratitude Exercise

Before diving into emails or holiday prep, take a moment to name three things you’re grateful for. They don’t need to be grand—maybe the aroma of fresh coffee, a supportive text from a friend, or a quiet minute of morning stillness. This simple

practice, done consistently, primes your brain to notice the positives throughout the day, helping offset stress and negativity.

2. Turn Routine Moments into Gratitude Pauses

Holiday chaos often leaves little time for reflection, but you can weave gratitude into ordinary tasks. While washing dishes, think of one thing the meal gave you. When wrapping gifts, recall a favorite memory with the recipient. These quick gratitude pauses act like minireset buttons, lowering stress, helping you stay centered, and giving you space to focus on what matters most.

3. Reframe Expectations Through Gratitude

The season is full of comparisons—your celebration versus what you see on social media or in ads. When you notice a “this isn’t good enough” thought, gently reframe it: “What here

really matters?” Gratitude shifts your focus to the positive aspects of the present moment, helping you feel content and keep things in perspective rather than feeling overwhelmed.

4. Strengthen Relationships with Gratitude

Expressing specific appreciation can transform ordinary interactions into an opportunity to deepen connection. Instead of a general “thanks,” try: “I’m grateful for how you always make everyone feel included.” This not only boosts the recipient’s mood but also reinforces your own sense of social support—a key component of mental well-being.

5. End the Day with a Mental Health Check-In

Before bed, reflect on one challenge or stressor that you handled well and one thing you’re grateful for. This practice helps you process the hard stuff while also noticing what’s going well, building resilience and a quiet sense of accomplishment.

Going Into the New Year

As the season winds down, carry both gratitude and a commitment to making space for what matters into the new year. By starting and ending each day with acknowledgment of what’s going well, pausing to savor small moments, and expressing appreciation in your relationships, you set a tone of mental well-being that lasts well beyond December.

Making the Holidays Count With Your Kids

Navigating the Holiday Frenzy

By Desiree Panlilio IG @encouragingteens

This time of year my mind often meanders through the whirlwind of holiday preparations I have to complete. I find myself contemplating the delightful chaos that accompanies this festive season. But for our teens, it also signals the beginning of midterms and finals, a crucial academic stretch that can sometimes overshadow the holiday cheer. There is a moment when we have to realize that our desires might not perfectly align with our teen’s academic responsibilities or their social wishes and responsibilities. What is the solution? Should

you play the parent card and “force” participation in events they may not want to be involved in? Or should it begin with our own introspection as a parent? I believe in introspection and communication to help create a holiday that minimizes stress, creates memories and builds bonds. It begins by examining our own wants and desires. Do we envision the holiday season as a time for cherished family traditions, or do we want it to be equally special for our teens, taking into account their evolving academic and social lives? Consider this approach.

It starts with a conversation between you and your teen, perhaps the entire family. Share your vision for the holiday season and listen to their perspective. Understand their academic commitments, peer group dynamics, and what they want to focus on during this time. By finding common ground and shaping holiday plans together, you can minimize the potential for hurt feelings and disappointment.

Be honest, if you really want your teen at the 15th annual family cookie decorating contest then say something. Tell them the “why” behind your request. Teens will understand and want to be part of the family tradition. After all, family traditions provide identity and a sense of belonging for all of us. Discuss your non-negotiable traditions, but remember to check that you have not made everything non-negotiable.

Then listen to your teen. If they want to go to a specific party that is non-negotiable for them, make sure it happens. Forcing participation damages the relationship and creates resentment.

family. Afterall, traditions are meant to build connections and belonging. Traditions should not be stagnant but reflect the dynamics of your family. If one of your teens tosses a new family tradition your way, embrace it, enjoy it, and respect that your teen wants to be part of building traditions and strengthening the ties that hold your family together.

So here’s to raising remarkable teens and watching them flourish. It’s a season of balance, understanding, and shared moments that will make the holiday frenzy not only memorable but also meaningful for everyone involved. Cheers to creating lasting family memories.

www.encouragingteens.com

Desiree Panlilio, mother of two and founder of Encouraging Teens, empowers teens to achieve personal success through coaching, accountability, and life skills, while helping parents strengthen trust and communication with their teen.

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

by Tammy Hugh & Izzy Cross

Ingredients

1 large Butternut squash

1 large sweet white onion

6 stalks of celery

2 medium carrots

5 green onions (only the white part)

4 small Yukon potatoes

4 cups of white stock

2 TBS of olive oil

¼ cup of heavy cream

Chives for garnish

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Cut butternut squash in half.

3. On a sheet pan place butternut squash, carrots, celery, onions and green onions. Drizzle with olive oil and add salt and pepper.

4. Roast in 375-degree oven until squash is tender, about 35-45 minutes.

5. Remove from oven and let cool.

6. Peel butternut squash. Add squash and remaining roasted vegetables to a food processor or blender. Begin to add stock 1 cup at a time and blend soup to a silky consistency.

7. Transfer to a sauce pot and simmer. Add cream. Add salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serve hot with crunchy bread. Garnish with minced chives.

TAMMY HUGH IZZY CROSS

A New Spectrum of

HOLIDAYS in COLOR Joy

Retail, Reimagined

Brands have caught on. Target’s Colorful Christmas aisles feature bubblegum ornaments and citrus garlands. Etsy and Pinterest searches for “nontraditional holiday decor” have surged. Even fashion has followed, with sequined pink blazers in December or pumpkin-spice-inspired mauves in October.

For decades, holidays have been defined by familiar hues: Halloween’s black and orange, Christmas’s red and green, Valentine’s pink and red. These colors were shorthand for a season, a signal that nostalgia had arrived. But step into any boutique, social feed, or neighborhood display this year and you’ll notice something different. Holidays are no longer confined to the sameold palette.

From Summerween’s sorbet tones to Pastel Christmases and Rainbow Hanukkahs, celebrations have gone technicolor. The modern holiday is not about sticking to tradition; it’s about remixing it.

What’s driving this chromatic rebellion? In part, it’s the cultural swing toward personalization. Where holidays once asked us to conform, color now gives permission to express. Pink pumpkins, lilac trees, and cobalt wreaths reflect a world that wants to play, not perform. The shift from “should” to “could” is happening everywhere, and color is the most joyful medium for that expression.

After years marked by uncertainty and restraint, the return of bright, unexpected hues signals emotional optimism. Color psychology tells us that pastels soothe, neons energize, and jewel tones inspire. Together, they communicate abundance and freedom.

The message is clear: consumers aren’t rejecting tradition; they’re refreshing it. A turquoise tree doesn’t erase the past, it reinvents it for a generation raised on mood boards and meaning.

For creatives, marketers, and business owners, this evolution is more than aesthetic. It reflects consumer values like flexibility, self-expression, and a hunger for experiences that feel both nostalgic and new.

Seasonal campaigns that lean into color play, beyond the expected, often find higher engagement because they surprise the eye and invite participation. The future of holiday branding may not be about the perfect red but the perfect spectrum.

The New Celebration Spectrum

So, what does a “holiday in color” look like? It looks like:

• Easter-inspired Halloween tablescapes mixing lavender and gold.

• Mint and blush holiday parties with citrus cocktails and mismatched ornaments.

• New Year’s décor in color gradients instead of metallic monochromes.

• Celebrations that reflect personality, not prescription.

The truth is, color has always been emotional; it’s just finally being allowed to speak freely.

Color My Holiday

What’s your holiday color vibe this year?

Classic & Cozy (Red, Green, Gold)

Soft & Serene (Blush, Cream, Mint)

Bold & Bright (Hot Pink, Teal, Lime)

Minimal & Modern (White, Silver, Sage)

Mix & Match: Whatever Sparks Joy!

If you could redesign one holiday tradition in color, what would it be?

Halloween (Goodbye orange & black!)

Thanksgiving (Bring on the jewel tones)

Christmas (Pastels, please)

New Year’s Eve (Color over metallics)

Valentine’s Day (Unexpected blues & greens)

As we close out another year, the message from this new color story is clear: joy has many shades. And maybe that’s the gift of this moment, a reminder that tradition can evolve without losing its heart.

Holidays, after all, have always been about connection and light. Now, they simply shine in every color joy can imagine.

Reader Poll

Color is personal, and this season there are no rules. From pastel pumpkins to mint green mistletoe, we’re seeing a full spectrum of joy and creativity across every celebration. We want to know how you are coloring your holidays this year. Take a moment to share your shades, your style, and your seasonal mood below.

What’s Your Palette Personality

Your favorite holiday palette says you are…

A Classicist: you find comfort in timeless tones

A Dreamer: you love soft, romantic pastels

A Trendsetter: bold color, bold choices

A Minimalist: calm, clean, and uncluttered

A Mixer: tradition meets twist

Which holiday hue deserves a comeback?

Turquoise Mustard

Lavender Navy

Coral

However you color your season, whether bold, soft, traditional, or entirely your own, remember that the brightest part of any celebration is what it reflects back: joy, warmth, and connection.

We will share our readers’ favorite palettes in the next issue, so keep an eye out to see which colors shine brightest this year.

From Overwhelmed to Empowered

Redefining the Holidays on Your Own Terms

Every December, women across the country slip into what I call “holiday autopilot.” We juggle work projects, family events, school parties, gift lists, and travel plans—all while trying to maintain a picture-perfect home that could grace the pages of Pinterest. And yet, for many of us, the season doesn’t feel magical. It feels exhausting.

As mothers, the pressure can feel even heavier. We want to create memories for our children, keep traditions alive, and somehow also manage the never-ending to-do lists. But living your best life isn’t about doing it all-it’s about doing what fills you with joy, purpose, and connection. And that means giving yourself permission to let go of the traditions, expectations, and pressures that no longer serve youand creating new ones that do.

Release the Myth of “Perfect”

Somewhere along the way, we were sold the idea that being a good mother, businesswoman, or community leader meant never dropping a ball. But the truth is, perfection doesn’t create meaning—presence does. No one remembers if your cookies were homemade or store-bought. They remember if you laughed around the table, if you were willing to set your phone down and be fully there.

This holiday season, I challenge you to choose presence over performance. Let the pressure for perfect melt away and watch how much more space opens up for genuine joy.

Redefine Traditions

One of the most empowering choices a woman can make is to shape traditions that reflect her real life—not an outdated script. That might mean skipping the elaborate seven-course meal in favor of a cozy potluck with friends. It might mean swapping matching holiday pajamas for a hike in nature. Or it could be creating entirely new rituals with your circle of women—like hosting a gratitude gathering, or a “women’s night in” during the busiest week of December.

As a mom, I’ve found that my kids don’t need the holidays to look a certain way. What they want is time, laughter, and love. When we redefine traditions, we reclaim our holiday on our own terms—and that freedom is the best gift we can give both ourselves and our families.

Build Community, Not Just Calendars

Living your best life doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in community. For me, some of the most life-giving holiday moments aren’t about the décor or the to-do list. They’re about connection: carpooling to school events with another mom who just gets it, celebrating wins with fellow female founders, or sharing a glass of wine with friends after a long week.

The holidays are the perfect time to lean into your circle. Ask for help. Share the load. Celebrate with women who understand your journey. Empowered women empower women—and when we come together, we thrive.

Living Your Best Holiday Life

At its heart, living your best life this season means being brave enough to say: This matters. That doesn’t. It’s about slowing down long enough to savor what really counts.

So as the holiday season unfolds, remember: your worth is not measured by the number of presents under the tree or the number of events you attend. It’s measured by the joy, peace, and connection you allow yourself to embrace.

This year, let’s trade overwhelm for overflow—and choose holidays that truly empower us, not just as women, but as mothers, friends, and leaders.

By Heather Cleverly IG @themagnoliacollectiveatl

Rooted in Faith, Rising in Hope

By Amy Breuer

Candace Cameron Bure greets you with the same easy warmth that has endeared her to audiences for decades. In conversation, she’s steady and sincere, clear about what matters most and generous with practical advice. Her new 30-day devotional, Rise and Renew, reflects that steadiness. It’s not a grand manifesto; it’s an invitation to begin each day with a few minutes of quiet, Scripture, and intention. “Whether it’s five minutes or thirty,” she told me, “that time changes everything. It centers you, lowers stress, and helps you handle the ‘Plan B’ moments when life takes an unforeseen turn.”

Candace describes her “why” in plain terms. She wants her work, books, films, podcasts, even social posts to nudge people one step closer to knowing Jesus. She’s careful not to overstate it. It’s not about grand gestures; it’s about consistent encouragement. She has seen, time and again, that small reminders make a real difference: a verse to ponder, a prompt to pray, a note that God loves you today. “The consistency of that,” she says, “is what God often uses.”

Interestingly, Candace was not born with this wisdom; it developed over time. Her perspective morphed in her early twenties, when her faith shifted from head knowledge to something deeply personal.

She likens it to trying on glasses and finally seeing clearly, the same world but in sharp focus. Faith stopped feeling like a list of rules and became gratitude for a gift she couldn’t earn. That change didn’t remove challenges, especially the public kind that come with being open about her beliefs, but it reframed them. She’s candid about how jobs were lost and bookings disappeared at times. Yet the very friction created new paths she hadn’t expected: writing, podcasting, and producing family content rooted in her values. “Challenges refine you,” she says simply. For her, refinement doesn’t mean hard edges; it looks more like clarity and calm.

If Rise and Renew has a heartbeat, it’s established in the morning. Candace calls it quiet time, prayer time; others might call it meditation.

Labels aren’t the point; the habit is. She’s realistic about the seasons of life. With three adult children now, her mornings look different than they did with toddlers, but the principle holds. Even waking five minutes before the rest of the house can reset the day. That modest, doable frame is part of why the devotional feels accessible. Each entry centers on who God says we are, trading common lies of shame, fear, and not-enoughness for Scripture-shaped truth. It’s a small practice with a compounding effect.

Hope is another steady thread. Asked what she hopes her daughter Natasha and readers of any age carry with them, Candace doesn’t just offer a slogan- she offers perspective: “Nothing is ever final.” Plans change. Circumstances shift. But the story isn’t over because God can move mountains and we can renew our minds. She often refers to Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the

plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” For her, it is not a quick fix but a lens. If God’s character is trustworthy, then detours can be met with steadier steps.

Her best advice to younger performers, and to anyone navigating first professional chapters, is to be practical and have character. Shine a light by how you show up, she says. Be helpful when you don’t need to be. Be encouraging. Go a little beyond what’s required. She doesn’t dismiss words; she simply knows that actions carry them. The fruit of the Spirit in having joy, patience, kindness, gentleness, self-control translates on a set or in any office. People recognize it quickly, and it opens doors for honest conversations about faith if and when they’re welcome.

This holiday season is full for Candace. Alongside the release of Rise and Renew, she’s launching her first live tour, a “ladies’ night out” designed for connection and lighthearted fun, with stories

from Full House and her Christmas films, audience games, and a conversation on women’s health with longtime trainer Kira Stokes. She wants it to feel like a gathering of friends: learn a little, laugh a lot, and leave encouraged. The through line is familiar, faith and wellness in everyday terms, offered with good intentions and without pressure.

At home, her rhythms are simple. She doesn’t skip Thanksgiving, even as the “Christmas movie person,” she laughs, and she still loves the weekend ritual of decorating. These days she often does it solo, and enjoys every minute. Most likely there are classic movies playing in the background while she fluffs the tree and hangs garland. It’s unhurried, reflective, and, in her words, “a happy day.” The point isn’t the perfect mantel; it’s the gratitude the season stirs.

When our conversation turns to beauty, her answer lands squarely in this magazine’s wheelhouse. Beauty, she says, comes from

within. Scripture’s emphasis is on the heart, not the surface. Her favorite tip is disarmingly simple: your smile. It’s free, it lights up a room, and it reflects what’s going on inside. That idea, inner life shaping outer presence, threads through every part of her message.

If there’s a single takeaway from talking with Candace Cameron Bure, it’s that consistency matters more than spectacle. Five quiet minutes in the morning. A kind word on set. A steady posture when plans change. A verse that reorients a tough day. None of it is flashy; all of it is formative. And while she’s deeply grateful when readers share how a post or page nudged them toward faith, she never loses her focus. She keeps the emphasis on the simple practices that anyone can start tomorrow.

Rise and Renew releases November 11. It arrives as a timely companion for a season that can elevate expectations and fray nerves in equal measure.

Candace’s invitation is modest and doable: begin the day with truth, carry hope into the interruptions, and let character do its quiet work. If you’re looking for a place to start, she’d point you to a chair, a few minutes, a short prayer, and the reminder that God’s plans are good, even when your calendar isn’t.

In an era that often prizes noise, Candace favors clarity. Not grand statements, but gentle ones lived out over time. Not perfection, but presence. Not a selfhelp sprint, but a daily renewal. And maybe that’s why her voice resonates in this moment. It taps into where we are with families, schedules, and real-life messiness, and reminds us that hope isn’t something distant or ideal. It’s something to live, to practice, and to hold onto when life gets loud.

Extra Minutes with Candace Cameron Bure 8

After our cover story conversation wrapped, I kept chatting with Candace about the little things that bring her joy, strength, and balance. True to her nature, her answers were thoughtful, heartfelt, and grounded in gratitude. Here are a few more moments we think you’ll love.

Q: What inspired the title Rise and Renew?

Candace: I wanted something that felt like movement and hope. Every morning we have the opportunity to rise up and renew our minds with truth. It’s a daily choice, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Just start with God, and let that shape the rest of your day.

Q: How do you personally start your mornings?

Candace: With quiet. I open my Bible, pray, and sometimes just sit and listen. I might write a few notes or read a devotional, but mostly it’s about centering my thoughts before the day gets loud. Even five minutes can make such a difference.

Faith, family, and finding beauty in the everyday.

Q: You’ve said that nothing in life is ever truly final. What does that mean to you?

Candace: I’ve learned that God can turn anything around. No matter what we’ve gone through or how off course we feel, He can create something new from it. There’s always hope. That truth gives me peace in every season.

Q: Has there been a moment when your faith became especially real to you?

Candace: Yes, in my early twenties. I believed in God growing up, but it was more head knowledge than heart understanding. Then one day, it all became clear. I understood what Jesus had done for me personally, and that realization completely changed my life.

Q: You’ve worn many hats such as actor, producer, author, CEO. How do you stay grounded through all that?

Candace: I remind myself that my identity isn’t in what I do but in who I am in Christ. When you know that, you can let go of the need to prove yourself. You can work hard, but you don’t have to carry the weight of it all.

Q: What would you tell someone who’s afraid to be open about their faith?

Candace: Start with kindness. People notice your character before they hear your words. Be joyful, helpful, and patient. You don’t have to shout your faith from the rooftops. Just live it consistently and let your actions speak first.

Q: What are you most looking forward to on your new live tour?

Candace: Connection. I’ve spent my life entertaining people from behind a screen, and now I get to meet them face-to-face. I want it to feel like a big girls’ night out—fun, encouraging, and full of laughter.

Q: How do you define beauty?

Candace: Beauty comes from within. It’s your heart, your kindness, your joy. And I always say your best beauty tip is your smile. It’s free, it lights up a room, and it reflects what’s going on inside you.

Rise and Renew releases November 11 wherever books are sold.

We’d love to know what practices help you “rise and renew” each day.

Share your morning rituals or words of faith with us at hello@askusbeautymagazine.com

Photo credit: Garrett Lobaugh

“It’s Turning Around for Me: Choosing Faith Over Fear”

Amber Krystal Website www.hwmministries.com Instagram @iamamberkrystal

Life has a way of testing us in ways we could never anticipate. This year has been filled with challenges that could have easily left me defeated, discouraged, or even paralyzed in fear. But instead of allowing those circumstances to define me, I made a conscious decision to keep the faith. That choice has not always been easy—because keeping the faith is more than just a saying, it’s a daily practice, a mindset, and a lifestyle.

Faith does not mean that challenges won’t come; it means that challenges will not have the final say. I have faced days when the weight of my circumstances tried to convince me that things would never get better. Yet, in those moments, I reminded myself of the victories I had already experienced. Victories are proof that God is still at work. Victories are reminders that what once seemed impossible can, in fact, be overcome. Each victory fueled my determination to press forward with courage, even in the face of the unknown.

When we encounter hardship, it is natural to ask why me? But I have learned to shift that question into what can I learn?

Developing a mindset that says, “This too shall pass” is not about denying reality—it’s about declaring victory over it. It’s about telling yourself that the storm you’re in is not permanent. The winds may blow, the waves may rise, but sooner or later, the calm will return, and you will emerge stronger than you were before.

Faith is also about manifestation. The Word teaches us that life and death are in the power of the tongue. When I speak faith, I am speaking my future into existence. When I declare that I will overcome, I align myself with the promises of God. And I have witnessed firsthand how those declarations open doors, shift atmospheres, and transform outcomes.

There is a song that has carried me through some of my toughest seasons. It says, “It won’t always be like this, God will perfect that which concerneth me. Sooner or later, it’s turning in my favor—it’s turning around for me.” Those words remind me that God is never late, and He is never absent. Even when things don’t look like they are changing, faith assures me that change is already in motion.

To anyone reading this who is weary, broken, or uncertain: don’t give up now. Every setback is a setup for a comeback. Every obstacle is an opportunity to develop strength you didn’t know you had. And every trial is a testimony in the making.

Hold on to your faith. Declare your victory. And remember—what you are going through is not your ending. It’s just a chapter. Sooner or later, it’s turning in your favor. It’s turning around for you.

Nervous System Beauty

The Calm Glow No Serum Can Create

by Dr. Katia Arroyo, Licensed Clinical Psychologist IG @relationaltraumatherapist

Iused to think beauty was something we had to chase, a skincare routine, a cleaner diet, the latest exercise trendv, whatever helped with meeting beauty’s expectations. As I sat across from all the different women in therapy, I began to notice something far more profound. The women who truly glowed weren’t necessarily the ones following the latest skincare routine; they were the ones whose bodies had learned how to exhale.

You can see it the moment someone begins to feel safe in their own skin. Their eyes soften, their tone gentles, and their presence feels lighter. That’s not magic, that’s a regulated nervous system. And it’s the most underrated beauty secret there is.

Stress Steals Our Spark

When life keeps us in constant motion, juggling work, caregiving, loss, and expectations, our bodies slip into survival mode. The nervous system doesn’t know the difference between a real emergency and emotional overload. It just reacts.

Your jaw tightens, your shoulders lift, and your breath stays shallow. Over time, that inner tension writes itself across your face. The glow fades not because we’re aging, but because we’re exhausted.

Our bodies are brilliant. When they stop feeling safe, they redirect energy from “thriving” to “protecting.” It’s not vanity to want to feel radiant again; it’s your biology asking for rest.

Safety is the New Beauty Routine

Here’s the part I love: the moment your body starts to feel safe, it begins to heal. Blood flow improves, hormones stabilize, and the stress chemistry starts to settle. That’s when your natural vitality returns.

You can’t fake this kind of glow. It doesn’t come from perfection; it comes from self-work. From slowing down long enough to listen to what your body has been whispering all along: “I just need a moment.”

I’ve learned to find those moments throughout my day, a hand on my heart before a session, a deep breath before checking emails, and not checking my phone for an hour after I wake up. These tiny pauses are not luxuries; they’re medicine.

The Calm Glow

There’s a certain beauty that only arrives when you stop performing and start breathing. It’s the beauty of peace, of groundedness, of being fully alive in your body again.

That’s the calm glow. The kind no serum can imitate, because it comes from within. It’s the radiance of a woman who has learned to protect her peace, set boundaries, and live gently in her own skin.

So yes, keep your skincare routine if it brings you joy. But don’t forget the inner ritual, the one where you remind your nervous system that it’s safe to rest, to say no, to feel, and to shine.

Because when you do, your body and your beauty will thank you.

Contributor Bio:

Dr. Katia Arroyo is a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist who helps women heal from trauma, stress, and toxic relationships. She blends evidence-based therapy with compassion to guide women toward emotional safety, self-trust, and authentic confidence.

A DAY IN MY LIFE:

Living My Purpose with Joy

By Elena George Instagram @elenageorge1mkp

Every morning before sunrise, Elena George steps into her purpose - helping others look and feel their best from the inside out. For more than four decades, she’s been the trusted hand behind some of the most familiar faces in television and entertainment. In her own words, Elena shares how faith, gratitude, and joy guide her through every beautifully busy day.

My mornings start when most of the world is still asleep. The first alarm goes off at 2:45 a.m., and by the second one at 3:00, I’m up. By 3:30, I’m in the shower — my time to meditate. I play my

YouTube services and listen to scripture as the water runs. It’s how I get my spirit right before the day begins. If I skip that time, I feel scattered. But when I take it, I walk out the door at 4:00 a.m. centered, grounded, and ready to give my best energy to the people I work with.

By 5:00, I’m at Good Morning America, setting up to do Robin Roberts’ makeup. I’ve been in this business for over forty years, yet every day still feels like a classroom. I watch, listen, and learn. That’s how I’ve stayed sharp — always paying attention, always open to growth.

When Robin arrives, there’s a rhythm to the morning. While her hair is styled by my dear friend and colleague Petula, I move between foundation, eyes, and contour. It’s like a dance, and we know each other’s steps by heart. Before the cameras roll, Robin, Petula, and I pause for prayer. Robin calls us her “Glam Fam,” and those moments we share have grown far beyond the studio. People stop us everywhere to say our morning prayer encouraged them or brought them peace. That means everything, because you never know who might need that word.

My days can twist and turn -working with on-air ESPN hosts, music producers, and book tours, to saying a quick hello to my friend music sensation KEM and his wife Erica at church, or getting ABC Producer Monica Escobedo ready for the MTV Awards. One thing’s for sure: my life is filled with excitement and beautiful memories. Beautifying is what I do, but more than that — it’s my ministry. As busy as it gets, I never take for granted the opportunities I’ve been blessed with.

Once Robin is camera-ready, my day doesn’t slow down. I might head to Deals & Steals host Tory Johnson, another guest in the building, or sometimes across the city — or across the country. One week I might be in Los Angeles with Lionel Richie before his book release (he’s every bit as kind and gracious as you’d hope).

Another day, I’m back in New York for Robin’s interview with NFL Eagles player Jalen Carter, then spending the afternoon with award-winning actress Edwina Findley - which somehow ended in a TJ Maxx luggage shopping adventure! That’s this career in a nutshell: no two days are ever the same.

There are nights when I don’t get home until after 11 p.m. I may be exhausted, but I’m still smiling. Why? Because I love what I do. Whether I’m flying to Europe, running between studios in Manhattan, or helping a friend get ready for a charity event in Brooklyn, I see it all as purpose. It’s never just about lashes, lip color, or foundation- it’s about helping people feel confident, inspired, and beautiful from the inside out.

I’ve seen the world. I’ve met extraordinary people. I’ve even flown on Air Force One. But the real blessing is that every single day, I get to live out my calling. I’m living my best life, and I don’t take one moment for granted.

LIVING MY BEST LIFE:

From Behind the Chair to Wellness Coaching

IG: @waitswellnesscollective

Photo Credit @heidimichellephoto

My Story

For nearly two decades, I dedicated myself to helping women look and feel beautiful as a hairstylist. But behind the chair, I often struggled with my own health, energy, and confidence. I had “tried it all” when it came to diets and quick fixes, but nothing stuck, until I committed to changing not just my body, but my mindset. Over time, I lost 55 pounds and gained something far more valuable: strength, confidence, and the belief that I could create a sustainable, healthy lifestyle.

The Shift

That personal transformation became the spark for Waits Wellness Collective. I realized my calling wasn’t just about outer beauty-it was about empowering women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s and beyond to feel strong, confident, and capable in every area of life. Through a mix of fitness, nutrition, and mindset coaching, I help women build lasting habits. We focus on the simple things that create big results: fueling with enough protein, moving our bodies daily, lifting weights, managing stress, and prioritizing sleep.

My Coaching Philosophy

I call it living with GRIT:

Growth – committing to learning and improving

Resilience – showing up even when it’s hard

Intentionality – choosing habits that align with your goals

Tenacity – staying consistent long enough to see results

This framework helps women go beyond quick fixes and instead step into the best version of themselves, inside and out.

My Advice for Readers If you’re ready to start your own journey, here are three steps you can take today:

1. Move daily. Even a short walk counts-it adds up.

2. Prioritize protein. Build your meals around it to support energy, strength, and body composition.

3. Protect your mindset. Your thoughts shape your actions; focus on progress, not perfection.

Final Word

Living your best life isn’t about being perfect. It’s about creating a lifestyle that feels good, fuels your confidence, and allows you to show up as your best self every single day.

Sara Waits, 38, is a hairstylist turned certified health and wellness coach and the founder of Waits Wellness Collective. After losing 55 pounds and maintaining her results, she now helps women build confidence, strength, and sustainable habits through fitness, nutrition, and mindset coaching.

turn kindnessINTO ACTION

By Marcia Agius | IG @kindness.circle.community

Photo credit: Josephine Gennaro- The Foto Factory and Films

Kindness remains a powerful source to counteract all the negativity present in our world. The Kindness Circle is a movement built on compassion and community. It shows how small, intentional acts can create ripples that change lives. Here are some ways to make acts of kindness simple by following our four pillars.

1. Kindness to Others

Kindness doesn’t have to be grand; it just needs to be genuine. A smile, a thoughtful text, or a helping hand can brighten someone’s day in ways you may never see.

Try this: Smile at a stranger, pay for someone’s coffee, or call a loved one simply to see how they are doing.

2. Kindness to Ourselves

We can’t pour from an empty cup. Treating ourselves with compassion is the foundation of extending kindness outward. That means celebrating small wins, setting healthy boundaries, and letting go of guilt around self-care.

Try this: Make sure to take time to do something that YOU love, whether that’s enjoying a cup of coffee by yourself, taking time to read a book you love or talking a walk in nature.

3. Giving Back

Generosity is contagious. Whether through time, talent, or treasures, giving back deepens our connection to each other. It doesn’t have to be bigwhat matters is consistency.

Try this: Pick one charity or clause close to your heart and give a small donation or volunteer your time to a cause you believe in or donate gently used items you no longer need or want.

4. Making Kindness Fun

Kindness isn’t just meaningful- it can be playful. Creative acts spark joy and encourage others to join in.

Try this: Paint kindness rocks (with words of encouragement) and leave them around your neighbourhood or gather a group of friends and hand out kind notes to strangers.

The beauty of kindness lies in its ripple effect. One action inspires another, creating waves of compassion that reach farther than we imagine. The Kindness Circle began with a single 52-week kindness challenge and has since grown into a community of kind humans committed to making the world brighter.

I Left the New Age Movement and Found Truth, Peace, and Purpose

By Kylie Malcom

Follow Me:

@kyliemalcolm

https://www.kyliemalcolm.com

From Crystals to Clarity

For years, I was deep in the New Age wellness space specializing in energy healing, spirit guides, sound baths, angel cards, manifestation, moon rituals. You name it, I did it. I believed I was on a healing journey, but I was unknowingly chasing “light” that never led to peace. I called it spirituality, but I was still anxious, confused, and constantly seeking the next thing to finally fix me.

The Wake-Up Call

It wasn’t one dramatic moment that changed everything. It was a series of unsettling experiences, deep spiritual confusion, and the realization that I was working harder to protect myself from “bad energy” than actually finding rest. I started reading the Bible for myself, not through the lens of a self-help filter, and discovered something shocking: the truth I had been seeking all along wasn’t hidden or mystical. It was Jesus.

Scripture says, “Even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14, ESV). That sentence hit me hard. I realized the “light” I was chasing wasn’t healing me - it was deceiving me.

The Beauty of Real Peace

@saltlightsociety_

https://www.saltlightsociety.com

business around it, and I worried what people would think. But the moment I truly surrendered and put my faith in Jesus, the fog completely lifted. You see, all that anxiety, heaviness, and confusion…gone. For the first time in my life, I experienced real peace that didn’t depend on burning incense, aligning chakras, or raising my vibration.

Helping Others Out of the Fog

Now, I help other women gently transition out of spiritual deception and into the freedom of God’s truth. My heart breaks for the women who, like I was, are seeking healing but walking deeper into bondage. I want them to know: you’re not crazy, and you’re not alone. There is peace. Real, lasting peace. And it doesn’t come from within.

It comes from the One who made you.

If You’re Feeling Pulled Toward Truth…

Trust that nudge with all your heart. Ask God to reveal Himself. Open His Word. He’s not hiding. He’s been waiting for you since the beginning. You just need to open your heart up to Him. It really is that easy.

Leaving the New Age wasn’t easy. I had built a whole

Age is Just a Number

By Marianne Pienias

Age is just a number… or so they say. Statistically speaking, the lower the number, the less likely you are to dwell on the possibility of it being your last. In our younger years, most of us didn’t bat an eye at how many calories we consumed each week or how many hours we slept (or didn’t sleep). We assumed we were invincible, guaranteed another day. The world was our oyster.

However, as our number continues to grow, so do our concerns about health. These realizations often hit us on milestone birthdays—like 40, 50, or even 60. Suddenly, we come to terms with the fact that what we eat matters, and our bad habits carry consequences. After the celebrations, many of us start to panic, reflecting on how we’ve treated our bodies and silently hoping it’s not too late for change. Yet, most of us aren’t doctors, and figuring out where to begin can feel overwhelming.

So, we turn to scrolling: reels, TikToks, Facebook ads—all seemingly good sources of information, right? Unfortunately, that’s often not the case! Still, many of us find ourselves lost in a rabbit hole of misinformation. We try crash diets, take miracle pills, and some even join expensive gyms, unsure of what to do once we cross the

threshold. Social media, whether we invite it in or not, begins to cloud our judgment, and before we know it, we’re fully invested in programs that lack scientific backing. Not to be negative, but much of what we consume is driven more by funding than research, leaving us unsure of what to trust.

Fortunately, there’s a tangible solution to combat this confusion: the Longevity Science Foundation (LSF), a non-profit organization grounded in ethics and dedicated to leading the charge in the longevity space. LSF focuses on three key areas: aging prevention science, chronic disease research, and advocating for the underrepresented, especially women.

Ironically, the President and CEO of LSF is only 25 years old—talk about defying the odds! Joshua Herring, a Tufts graduate and accomplished financial professional, has dedicated this

chapter of his life to helping people worldwide live longer, healthier lives. Founded in 2022, LSF has made significant strides thanks to Joshua’s unprecedented impact and passionate leadership since he took on his role just over a year ago.

Growing up in Washington D.C. as an only child, Joshua feels fortunate to have had opportunities that shaped him, like playing baseball and graduating from Tufts, crediting his supportive parents. Both are lawyers and cancer survivors, and witnessing their journeys highlighted the importance of sound medical advice and care. In a way, his parents are alive today because of the advances in science.

Joshua studied finance at Tufts, and after completing an internship, he jumped into full-time work while attending school during the second semester of his senior year. Driven by a desire to help others with their finances, Joshua quickly advanced his career at Alliance Bernstein. However, he felt a deeper calling. He realized that wealth means little without health, and just as he wanted people to take control of their finances, he wanted them to take charge of their health. LSF felt like the perfect fit. To everyone’s surprise—especially his parents, who envisioned him as a lawyer— Joshua transitioned from finance to the realm of scientific research and longevity.

His experiences with his parents’ health challenges and his success in wealth management have uniquely prepared him for his role at LSF. His parents overcame cancer thanks to research and quality medical care, and his financial expertise has been instrumental in securing funds for further research.

“Knowledge is power” is a guiding principle for Joshua, and he is committed to ensuring that everyone has the means to forge their own health path. The organization offers credible information about health trends that matter and funds research for groundbreaking solutions to common health challenges.

Thank you, Joshua, and the entire LSF team, for selflessly prioritizing everyone’s health. You remind us that 25 is just a number, and so is ours!

Let’s take our health into our own hands! Stop scrolling for health advice and visit the LSF website: longevity.foundation. Their mission is to get correct and valuable health information out to us. One of my favorite sections, which can be found under the “Education” tab is “Hype vs. Reality,” where you can explore the science behind pressing questions on hot topics like dieting and menopause. Of course your journey does not have to end there! Joshua specifically encouraged me to extend an invitation to all inquiring readers to contact him (or any member of LSF team) if you have any specific questions, need medical direction, or want to know more about the foundation. Contact information can easily be found under the “Leadership” tab. And since it’s a non-profit organization, if you feel inspired, please consider donating to a great cause—every dollar goes directly to research. We can make a difference at any age!

Aging with Alignment Through Mastery of your Personal Style

Genelle Beyer, Image Consultant & Professional Wardrobe Stylist ImaGen Style Consulting www.ImaGenConsultingServices.com https://www.instagram.com/imagenstyle_consulting/ Genelle@ImaGenConsultingServices.com Photography - Sierra Brown https://www.instagram.com/leoneandgray

In August 2022, I finally made an appointment with an eye clinic. I was convinced something was terribly wrong, since lately my sight had become blurry. I was struggling to read smaller texts and had become ‘that person’ who needed to zoom in on my phone to read labels. I took the eye test expecting that I had developed an astigmatism. My lovely eye doctor, after explaining the results, then asked “How old are you?”. I confidently replied, “Oh, I just turned 40 last month!”. She smiled and replied with a chuckle “Well that’ll do it”. No I didn’t need special prescription glasses….I needed reading glasses. I’m sorry? What now? How and when did I become that person who needs reading glasses?? That was my mom in her…Oh wait….40s. Now at 43, I have 3 pairs scattered throughout my house and my purse.

Turning 40 was an eyeopening experience (no pun intended). I don’t think I was quite prepared for all the changes that were waiting for me but what I am most grateful for is my unapologetic quest for authenticity and alignment. As an Image Consultant and Stylist for over 10 years, I firmly believe that a huge part of this alignment in womanhood especially, is expressed through our personal style. It is why the deep philosophy behind ImaGen Style Consulting is “Aligning your Image to your Essence”.

In the past few years, I have somewhat unintentionally been surrounding myself with more women who are in a similar process to me. Whether in age or stage we find ourselves laughing and crying throughout this aging process. I have never been one to celebrate or purport the saying ‘aging gracefully’, but I DO wish to age in greater alignment and authenticity, and I welcome you to join me!

You’ve entered this season with a form of undeniable confidence internally, but your wardrobe and style are yet to catch up. You KNOW who you are, but still find yourself unsure about what you want. Shopping with

an overabundance of choices in stores and online only creates greater frustration and fatigue.

Personal Style for ImaGen has never been about trends, or about being ‘the best dressed person in the room’. It has always been about transformation both externally and internally. I transform women through discovery and implementation of a personal style, brand and message that empowers them into that next level authentic self!

Yes, with ImaGen you WILL discover your best colors, understand your body type and have fabulous shopping days and in-home boutique styling sessions. You’ll even have a personalized LookBook and digital closet with outfit creations at your fingertips. But what we DO is merely the 1/10th expression of who you have 9/10ths BECOME. This isn’t (just) your ‘Pretty Girl Era’. This is your Empowerment Era! You know your worth, so we make your wardrobe worthy of the woman YOU ARE, elevating your professional and personal image; leading with confidence and expressing the BEST of yourself by dressing with intention and purpose with ImaGen.

Hi! I’m Genelle Beyer, Image Consultant and Professional Wardrobe Stylist based in the Metro Atlanta area. I love that my career so intrinsically intertwines with my ‘love story’. While pursuing my certification at the Image Resource Center of New York, I serendipitously met my now husband of 11 years, while visiting a mutual friend in his home State of Wisconsin.

We are parents to a 5 year old mini-stylist now herself and are lovers of great music, warm weather and scenic views. The first years of marriage were spent in the ‘frozen tundra’ of Wisconsin, but I proudly hail from the southernmost Caribbean, twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The daughter of a seamstress mom growing up, I was lucky enough to catch glimpses of her clients as they looked in the mirror, admiring the perfect fit of their custom-made pieces. As a styling professional in her own right, I channel that same sense of pride and accomplishment my mom would have felt at the end of a service, knowing that we had a part to play in our clients’ undeniable comfort and confidence.

My own career tapestry weaves together several areas of image and style expertise: a Psychology Major, former Nordstrom Stylist, Professional Bra Fit Specialist, Global Conference Speaker, former Secretary, VP of Communications and Programs & Education of the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) and recently featured ‘Hidden Gem’ of an online Atlanta lifestyle magazine.

ImaGen Style Consulting has been styling women for over 10 years, bringing freedom, joy and authenticity to their image and lifestyle.

Holiday 2025Hair Trends

The holidays are the perfect time to mix glamour with comfort. This year’s hair looks are all about shine, texture, and wearable luxury. Here’s what to expect:

1. Polished High Shine

Trend: Sleek ponytails and glassy blowouts

How to Get It: Prep with Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil for silky, frizz-free shine, then lock in with Kenra #25 Light Volume Hair Spray.

2. Luxe Volume

Trend: Big, bouncy blowouts are back in a modern way—think polished, not poufy.

How to Get It: Start with Amika Plus Size Perfect Body Mousse and finish with a round-brush blowout for volume that lasts all night.

3. Velvet Waves

Trend: Loose, brushed-out curls with a soft, romantic finish.

How to Get It: Curl with a 1.25” BabylissPro Nano Titanium iron, mist with Amika Fluxus Touchable Hairspray, and brush through for soft glamour.

4. Hair Accessories as Jewelry

Trend: Crystal pins, metallic bows, and pearl headbands elevate any style.

How to Get It: Secure styles with Kitsch Rhinestone Bobby Pins for instant sparkle.

5. Effortless Texture

Trend: Perfectly undone waves and lived-in updos for cozy celebrations.

How to Get It: Spritz Kenra Professional Sugar Beach Spray on damp hair and air dry for that chic, effortless holiday vibe.

Whether you’re hosting at home or attending a glamorous soirée, 2025’s holiday hair is about polished details and product-powered shine.

Contributor Credit: Instagram: @ETownstylist

Photo Credits: Olaplex/ Kitsch/BabylissPro/Kenra Professional/Jessica Mawhir

Fall Focus in Fashion

Michelle Lynch

Celebrity Stylist & Fashion Show Producer. IG: @posheproductions

Street Style

I’m delighted to talk about a subject that warms my heart and translates to the Fall Focus of quintessential street style of women on the go in 2025. I had the pleasure of going to Milan a couple of years ago and was blown away over the women and men that I saw on the street that clearly took pride in their everyday choices of what to wear for that particular day. It was amazing! I found myself taking more pics on the street than I intended to and NY is very similar in their zest for self expression.

I think that we’re in an era of self preservation that goes far beyond.… what to wear for that day. It’s more of a statement now. I think emotions are taken more into consideration like, how do I feel today? How can I mix it up? I want to express myself by throwing on a fur jacket with plaid pants and a cashmere sweater OR I’m going to wear this long androgynous shirt with just a pair of boots, tights and a bandana!

Anything can work with the confidence to pull it off and it all begins with chic-streetwear and thinking outside the box! Think of it as a public fashion show and people are watching you to see what you will wear next. Let’s enlighten them and show them how it’s done. Refer to your magazines for insight and creativity! Rock those streets with confidence!

Male walking the streets of Milan

Streetwear looks seen at London Fashion Week

Get to Know Stella Cole

@stellakcole

Photo Credit: Luke Rogers

There’s something undeniably enchanting about Stella Cole. With a voice that feels both vintage and fresh, she’s breathing new life into the Great American Songbook and reminding us that beauty often lies in timelessness. The Illinois-born singer first captured hearts on social media with her elegant renditions of beloved standards, quickly becoming a viral sensation for her effortless blend of old-Hollywood grace and modern authenticity.

Today, with her third release It’s Magic on Decca Records US, Stella is captivating audiences on some of the world’s most iconic stages-from Birdland and Café Carlyle to Carnegie Hallproving that classic doesn’t mean dated. We caught up with Stella through a written Q&A to learn more about her journey, her creative process, and how she continues to honor the past while inspiring a whole new generation to find the magic in the music.

Your single “Say It” is out—what inspired it?

This song is all about the feeling of someone saying I love you for the first time. It’s so romantic and magical to me, just the way I wanted the whole album to feel. I think the soaring string arrangement by Alan Broadbent is just brilliant. I was very inspired by Frank Sinatra’s version of this song with Tommy Dorsey.

Tell us about your album, It’s Magic. What makes it special?

I wanted to channel the old Hollywood magic of the movies I grew up on. My goal was to create something that felt otherworldly, a sort of escape for people. During the pandemic, so many people told me that my music was a source of comfort for them. I wanted to create an album that could calm people down and give them a bit of respite from the chaos and fast pace of the world.

What’s your favorite part of performing live?

I love the energy I get from the audience. Since I started my career singing to my phone in a room by myself, I never take the audience for granted. Live shows are my opportunity to let people get to know me more - I tell a lot of stories and make a lot of dumb jokes. My whole life, I’ve loved the great American songbook, but outside of my family, I never knew many other people felt the same way. Now, hundreds of people come to hear me sing these songs and it’s such an incredible feeling. People are cheering for Cole Porter like it’s a rock concert. It always cracks me up that I’ve really found my people.

Social media has been huge for your career, what’s your best advice for someone starting out?

Honestly, the algorithm has changed so much since I started, so I don’t even feel like I understand social media most of the time. I’d say consistency is key. I posted every single day when I was first starting, and that’s when I gained the majority of my following. I’d also say not to copy what others are doing. The more you can be original and authentic, the more your content will stick out. I need to take this last piece of advice myself, but I’d say don’t let the numbers become too meaningful and try to have fun with it.

Who are your biggest musical influences or dream collaborations?

Dream collaborators are Michael Buble, Josh Groban, or David Foster. My biggest influences are Judy Garland, Nat King Cole, Ella Fitzgerald, and Barbra Streisand. I was also very influenced by movies like Singin in the Rain, Sound of Music, Mary Poppins, Wizard of Oz, and Meet Me in St. Louis.

Outside of music, what passions or hobbies inspire your creativity?

I love to hike! Being out in nature is my favorite thing in the world. I don’t think I’m ever happier than I am when I’m in the mountains or the woods or by a lake with no cell service and spending time with people I love. The serenity of that is very inspiring to me. Reading is my other big hobby. In college, I nearly got an English minor because I kept taking so many English classes for fun.

If you could create the ultimate playlist to feel beautiful and confident, what 3 songs would be on it?”

The playlist that makes me the happiest is this playlist I have of musical theatre overtures. It has Sound of Music, Hello Dolly, Merrily We Roll Along, West Side Story, and about 20 more. My other hype album is playing Judy Garland’s Live at Carnegie Hall Album and lip syncing to the whole thing. It gives me chills every time.

This is kind of off brand, but my beauty/ confidence playlist isn’t full of many standards. It would probably include Lizzo “Good As Hell”, Sabrina Carpenter “Espresso” and Harry Styles “Sunflower.” Gasp, not me talking about music that’s not from the 40s and 50s!

When it comes to self-care, what do you like to do to look and feel your best?

Yoga and meditation are both so important to me. When I’m not consistent with those things, I notice a real difference in my mental health. I also love walking, which is part of the reason I love living in nyc. I think we’re often sold this idea that to be healthy you have to go to all these extremes. But I find it exhausting to try to work out 7 times a week for hours, or always be on a diet. I think balance is key in all things health and beauty. I feel the prettiest and healthiest when I’m letting myself enjoy life and being kind to myself.

Fun fact: what’s something fans would be surprised to know about you?

I thought I was going to be a lawyer or an actor after I graduated. I double majored in theatre and international relations at Northwestern University, and minored in German. I thought law school was next for me, or possibly Broadway. Also, I used to be fluent in German, and I’ve lost a lot of the speaking ability but I can still understand pretty well. Anyway, being a recording artist was never the goal. I didn’t even know there was a career in singing jazz standards. I always say this is beyond a dream come true, because it really is!

We ask everyone this question… How do you define beauty?

It sounds cheesy, but beauty is truly internal. Kindness, intelligence, and a sense of peace are so much more beautiful than anything material. The beauty industry might try to tell us differently, but we don’t need to buy anything more to be beautiful.

Oldies But Goodies

By Jordan Peden, Poesy Co @poesycollc

I’ve been listening to the oldies a lot lately. It didn’t start as a conscious choice, although I do love a classic tune.

Back in February, I did a little vehicle upgrade ahead of my second baby’s arrival. In the shuffle of all the ‘things’, I forgot to transfer my Sirius XM subscription, and I was left to turn the proverbial FM dial. During one of my first drives in the new ride, I scanned until nostalgically landing “Harper Valley PTA,” fondly remembering an old infomercial from my childhood selling oldies compilation CDs. I haven’t changed the station since.

When my husband asked me recently about my current oldies obsession, I couldn’t quite explain it. Now, I realize it’s good marketing. Stay with me.

My undergraduate degree is in English and American History with a concentration in American Consumerism. I spent my most intellectual years analyzing the ads of yesteryear and writing papers about how they shaped American culture. I may not have been alive to have been influenced by them, but I know they worked—and they still do. Otherwise, we wouldn’t still be talking about them. It was just good marketing, plain and simple.

Now, as someone who writes copy for a living, I know when it’s good, it’s good. Marketing, music, it makes no difference. There’s a reason the WYNZ Pure Oldies New England station exists, just like there’s a reason most folks of a certain age still remember the old Coca Cola jingle.

I get asked all the time what my advice is for business owners who are either trying to create their own marketing materials or are reviewing

assets from an external team. This is the best I can give: will it hold up? In 75 years, will it be on the Pure Oldies lineup? Will it be the “Harper Valley PTA” of the infomercial? Or will it get lost?

I want every word of copy I write to carry the kind of timeless staying power it takes to make people remember it. At its core, that’s what truly good marketing does. It makes people remember.

So, in a world of noise, be memorable. Be an oldie but a goody.

Poesy Co Client Spotlight: Four56 Decorating Four56 Decorating is Portland Maine’s newest premiere home decorating firm. Led by Founder and Principal Decorator Nettie Nitzberg, Four56 marries home function and organization with the beauty and style of your personal treasures, one space at a time, allowing your home to share your unique story.

Visit www.four56decorating.com to learn more.

Faith, Family, and the Crown:

The Story Behind

Miss Fil-Am Florida

Written By: Erica Untaran

In 2015, my mother and I decided to start a pageant to help revive her non profit organization, The Filipino American Social Club. At the time, her organization was going through a lot of changes and it needed a refresh.

The Miss Fil-Am Florida platform was a mother and daughter partnership, inspired by my childhood and what it was like growing up as a Filipina American myself. I already owned an event management company, (EG Event Management, LLC) producing fashion shows, small concerts, and art shows that fused music, art and culture together. So when my mother, Gigi, brought this idea up, I jumped right on it. I stepped into the roles of pageant director, marketing director, branding director, social media manager, modeling and pageant coach, the art director, photoshoot/video director, director of sponsorships, I mean the list goes on. I wanted this to be big so I served in every position that was necessary so the right people knew who

we were until we built a solid team. I love being able to provide a platform for women to find themselves, find their confidence and find their purpose in something greater than themselves.

Which ties into the purpose of our mission. What started as a fundraiser benefitting our chosen charity Gawad Kalinga USA, it became a symbol of true beauty, brains, and culture in

the Filipino community. Gawad Kalinga USA is a charity based in the Philippines known to help villages for the poorest of the poor and helping eradicate poverty, one family at a time. Each year, we sponsor a round trip ticket for our winner to embark on a special mission trip with Gawad Kalinga. We are now proud partners with the GK USA team and help guide the GK NextGen for a bright future and healthier tomorrow with our high school and college students being so involved with the preparation of the pageant.

We share the platform with the Gawad Kalinga USA team in hopes of creating more awareness and saving more children, more families.

2 years ago, my mom handed it over to me and I took over as the sole owner. This pageant isn’t just about beauty and grace, it’s about heritage, history and legacy. Our young ladies get to share their stories and represent their family roots while combining that with what it means to be American. Being a Philippine born Fil-Am myself, helping create this platform for the next generation became my mission. I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to give young women a voice and to share the experience of our beautiful Filipino culture.

With my event management background, I switched from producing fashion shows to going all in for this pageant. This is the stage for young Fil-Ams to reconnect with our culture, to have a voice and to make a difference. Not just on a local level, but international. 10 years later and still going, we are doing just that.

Just to be completely vulnerable, working with family isn’t always easy. There was heartache, disagreement, and a lot of ego. I even stepped down on 2 separate occasions because it became very frustrating not always feeling appreciated or overlooked. It took a lot for us to continuously push our emotions aside and keep working for something bigger than ourselves. God’s purpose became the center and made everything worth it. Every single person who has been involved with MFAF will always play a special role. I could not have done this by myself. This is truly a team effort!

Despite all of the hardships, I chose to honor her & honor our family. There were moments where I had to ask God to show me what I needed to do. I asked him to use me, to use this platform for His purpose and to fill me with his strength. God is just so good! He showed up through every student volunteer. He showed up through every contestant that graced that stage while they performed their hearts out. The outpouring of support from their families and of course my supportive Husband, my brother and my team. There aren’t enough words to express my gratitude. Entrepreneurship isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.

A business led by God, is unstoppable.

A huge congratulations to our winner Mariela who became Miss Fil-Am Florida 2025

@mariela.vict0ria

Peja The Teen Star Who’s Keeping It Real

By Carson Win @confidenceandconfetti

If you’ve been on TikTok, YouTube, or Insta lately and haven’t seen Peja pop up on your feed… seriously, where have you been?! She’s that teen influencer we’re all obsessed withposting super relatable vlogs, hilarious challenges, fashion inspiration, and even dropping her own music. With over 1.9 million YouTube subscribers and OMG more than a billion views, Peja is proof that being yourself is always awesome.

Peja’s journey started way before social media fame. She began modeling at age four and spent nine years as an All-Star cheerleader. Then, at age 11, she joined creative groups hosting events, photo shoots, and YouTube content creation. At 13, she started her own channel, posting everything from GRWM (Get Ready with Me) videos to family challenges and gluten-free baking adventures just to name a few. One of her YouTube Shorts even hit over 195 million views!

When I talked to Peja, I was a little nervous-after all, this was my first teen contributor interview for the magazine and she’s such a big name online! But within minutes, she made me feel completely comfortable and reminded me that

“we don’t have to be perfect to connect with people.” She was super sweet and honest about the ups and downs of growing up online. “There’s always pressure online, like no matter what,” she said. “But I don’t use filters, and I don’t try to look perfect. I put in the bloopers, the frustrations, the goofy faces-that’s just me. And that’s my biggest message: always be yourself.”

So, of course, I had to ask Peja for advice for other teens who want to start posting (low-key asking for myself too). Her advice? “Don’t overthink it. Just post! You’re never going to make everyone happy anyway, so you might as well have fun and be yourself. And seriously-engage with your followers. It makes a huge difference.”

Fashion is such a huge part of Peja’s vibe too, and we could all use some ideas on cute styling. I asked her about her favorite outfits, and she said, “I’m really loving baggy low-rise jeans lately because you can dress them up or down depending on your mood. If I had to pick one outfit to wear forever, it’d be comfy sweats with a cute top and sneakers-something that feels like me.” Her style advice? “It’s really about wearing what makes you feel good. Confidence is the best accessory!”

But Peja isn’t just about content and fashionshe’s also a super talented musician! She already has seven original songs out, and I can’t wait for her new track dropping this fall called Say Anything. On top of that, she’s acting as Emma on Brat TV’s 4pm Club and has even more acting projects coming up. She’s literally everywhere right now, and I’m here for it!

Beyond the spotlight, what makes Peja really stand out to me and her followers is her heart. As an ambassador for the female empowerment lifestyle brand Just Be 72, she represents what it means to celebrate self-love and inclusivity. “Being around the Just Be 72 family makes me feel like we all have each other’s backs. It’s amazing to see them grow and to grow alongside them.” Peja shared the importance of having fun and wants teens to know that life isn’t perfect and that being yourself is more than enough. “I feel most confident when I’m being 100% myself and not trying to be anyone else,” she told me.

Peja shows me and other teens that social media can be about authenticity, positivity, and inspiring others. Whether she’s singing, showing off the latest fashion trends, or just being her bubbly, relatable self, Peja reminds us that confidence really is key. I can’t wait to see where she goes next-her and me both! I’m just getting started, and with people like Peja cheering me on and paving the way for other teens to feel confident, the future looks and feels super exciting.

Follow Peja @pejaanne

The Morning Reset

7 Days to Reclaim Your Mornings

Each day includes:

A short, inspiring podcast episode

A reflection or journaling question

An intentional focus for the day

Podcast: The Robin Sharma Mastery Sessions “How to Own Your Morning”

Focus: Reclaiming your first hour as your Victory Hour.

Reflection: “If my mornings reflected the life I want most, what would they look and feel like?”

Action: Set your wake-up time for tomorrow: 30 minutes earlier than usual.

Podcast: The Mindset Mentor by Rob Dial “Build the Habit of Showing Up”

Focus: Momentum over perfection.

Reflection: “Where am I waiting to ‘feel ready’ instead of just beginning?”

Action: Do one small habit first thing (stretch, journal, or drink water before coffee).

Podcast: The School of Greatness by Lewis Howes “Design a Life with Purpose”

Focus: Moving with intention, not just speed.

Reflection: “What three things make me feel most alive, and how can I add one into this week?”

Action: Spend 10 minutes mapping your top 3 values or priorities for 2026.

Podcast: The Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday “Control What You Can”

Focus: Calm in the chaos.

Reflection: “What situations or thoughts drain my peace and what can I actually control?”

Action: Begin the day in silence for 5 minutes before looking at your phone.

Podcast: The Ed Mylett Show “Energy Management vs Time Management”

Focus: Protecting what fuels you.

Reflection: “Who or what gives me energy, and what consistently takes it away?”

Action: Remove or reduce one small energy drain today (scrolling, clutter, or over-commitment).

Podcast: The Mel Robbins Podcast “How to Reset Your Mindset in the Morning”

Focus: Gratitude as a grounding ritual.

Reflection: “What 3 things am I grateful for this morning and why?”

Action: Voice-note or text one person who has impacted you this year.

Podcast: The Robin Sharma Mastery Sessions “Your Heroic Future Self”

Focus: Imagining your next chapter with courage.

Reflection: “If I lived the next 12 months fully aligned with my values, what would my life look like?”

Action: Write a short note to your “future self” and schedule it to re-read next New Year’s Eve.

Optional Add-On:

Create a “Victory Journal” a small notebook or digital doc where you capture each day’s reflections.

A Season to Reflect, Restore and Reconnect

the art of renewal

Free Ways to Feel Renewed

Look up. Notice the sky. The clouds. The light.

Step outside. Let fresh air remind you how big the world is.

Place your hand on your heart. Feel it working quietly for you.

Light nothing but a smile. It’s the smallest way to share warmth.

Breathe in deeply. Count three slow breaths before moving again.

Notice one sound. A laugh, a leaf, a prayer, something alive.

Say thank you out loud. Gratitude shifts everything.

Write one sentence about today. No editing, just truth.

Look someone in the eye. See them fully; it’s a gift to both of you.

Stretch toward the light. A window, a candle, a sunrise.

Let yourself pause. Doing nothing is doing something.

Revisit a favorite memory. Let it wash over you.

Forgive quickly. Even if just in your heart.

“Peace doesn’t always arrive in grand gestures. Sometimes it comes quietly, asking only that we look up.”

– Ask Us Beauty Magazine

The best gifts we give ourselves don’t come wrapped. They come from presence – from noticing, breathing, forgiving, and remembering that joy often costs nothing at all.

Sit with quiet. It always knows what to say.

Pray or whisper hope. For yourself or someone else.

Drink water slowly. Feel it nourish you from the inside out. Walk barefoot. Feel the ground supporting you.

Smile at your reflection. See yourself with softness.

Call someone you love. Connection heals what hurry forgets.

Look for beauty in one ordinary thing. It’s always there.

Simple Tools for a Grounded Season

Grounding begins in the simplest moments. It is the soft light of a candle, the comfort of a warm mug, the pause that reminds you to breathe. These small, everyday tools invite calm, connection, and presence. As the season unfolds, let them help you slow down and rediscover peace beneath the surface of the celebration.

A Scented Candle

Light softly and breathe deeply. Let lavender, sandalwood, or cedar remind you to slow down.

A Woven Throw

Wrap yourself in warmth. Stillness feels easier when you are cozy.

A Blank Journal

A page that asks nothing of you but honesty. Jot reflections, gratitude, or quiet hopes.

Hold it with both hands. Let the weight steady you while the steam rises. 1 2 3 4

A Ceramic Mug

A Pocket Stone or Crystal Smooth, simple, and grounding. A reminder to stay connected to

A Small Plant Something

Playlist or Podcast

A Guided Journal or Deck of Prompts

Open to any page. Reflection made simple, one thought at a time.

Grounding Mat or Mouse Pad A small connection to the earth beneath you, perfect for workdays that need calm.

A Wellness Candle or Intention Jar

CLOSING THOUGHTS

2026 is calling, and we’re ready. Before we step into a brand-new year, we’re taking a moment to pause with intention and look ahead with excitement. This issue isn’t just a wrap-up of one year; it’s a doorway into what’s next. And instead of signing off with a traditional letter, I’m mixing it up with a Q&A to dive into the questions you’ve been most curious about.

Q: What do you hope readers will take away from this issue?

A: We hope this issue inspires you to honor the beauty of life as it is, and celebrate the imperfections, the triumphs, and everything in between. The holidays can be overwhelming, but they are also a time to slow down and savor what truly matters: connection, gratitude, and joy.

Q: What can we expect from Ask Us Beauty Magazine in 2026?

A: Ask Us Beauty Magazine will continue to be your trusted source for beauty, wellness, and inspiring stories that educate, inspire, and empower you to embrace your most authentic self. We are passionate about celebrating real beauty inside and out. You can expect even more features on holistic beauty, wellness, and the incredible individuals redefining what beauty looks like while living their best lives.

Q: We’ve heard about the Ask Us Magazine expansion. What does that mean?

A: That is correct. Ask Us Beauty Magazine has expanded to introduce Ask Us Magazine. Our latest line of publications were created to celebrate you. We believe in the power of personal stories and the meaningful moments that shape our lives. Whether you are marking a milestone, entering a new chapter, or simply finding joy in the everyday, we are here and excited to share your authentic story.

Q: What inspired this expansion to Ask Us Magazine?

A: The evolution is driven by growth and by our commitment to meet the changing needs of our readers. We recognized a gap and felt called to fill it with something truly meaningful. As co-founders, we’ve always believed that everyone has a story and that powerful moments are unfolding all around us. Memory books beautifully capture milestones, but when those moments meet our Master Storytellers, something magical happens and they become keepsakes designed to last a lifetime.

As we close out this year, our hearts are full of gratitude. To everyone who has joined us, shared your story, or simply found inspiration in our pages, we thank you. You are the reason Ask Us Beauty continues to shine.

This issue, Holidays Renewed, is a reflection of that spirit. Inside, you’ll find color, calm, and connection. These stories invite you to rediscover joy, to pause with purpose, and to find beauty in the season you’re in. From embracing a new spectrum of celebration to discovering peace and faith beneath the surface of the season, may these pages remind you that renewal is possible in every moment.