1
IN THIS ISSUE ON THE COVER DR. FATIMA IBRAHIM WARDROBE STYLIST TRINA D’ELENA, TMD STYLE BOUTIQUE PHOTOGRAPHER EDITH DUARTE CONTRIBUTORS DR. FATIMA IBRAHIM ELLE WALSH, THE VEGAN CHICK BAKERY MICHELLE SNELL, THAT TEXAS COUPLE BUSINESS MANAGER JOHN TYRA EDITOR IN CHIEF EDITH DUARTE
ELLA Inspires is an online magazine that celebrates business and entrepreneurship. Each month one woman will share her personal story of life, love, and business. ELLA is a modern woman; unafraid of paving her own way. She is strong despite overcoming many trials before reaching her own version of success. ELLA Inspires is published by ELLA CREATIVE MEDIA, LLC. Read past issues of ELLA Inspires at www.ellainspires.com.
2
ELLA Inspires Magazine
Table of Contents ELLA INSPIRES MAGAZINE (SPRING 2021)
FEATURE: FOCUS ON FATIMA BY FATIMA IBRAHIM
PAGE 08
Fatima Ibrahim is a Doctor of Optometry and content creator. She is passionate about eye care and helping her patients and community see clearly and maintain their ocular health. Dr. Fatima curates an Instagram and blog sharing lifestyle content and eye health tips. Her goal is to represent all women, especially those who are black and Muslim, and to inspire women to live their best lives. Fatima is a wife and pink connoisseur with an eye for style. SPRING INTO DALLAS BY MICHELLE SNELL
PAGE 20
Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and culture enthusiast. A professional educator by day, her passion for travel has her jet setting all over the world in her free time. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blog, That Texas Couple. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty. HOW TO DINE OUT WITH DIETARY RESTRICTIONS BY ELLE WALSH
PAGE 26
Elle Walsh is the owner of The Vegan Chick Bakery in McKinney, TX and a restaurant allergen consultant. She is a wife and mother of two who loves to travel and cuddle her Chihuahua dog, Sadie.
ELLA Inspires Magazine
3
The creation of ELLA Inspires Magazine and the ELLA brand itself was the direct result of taking tiny steps forward at crucial moments. In an effort to improve the brand visibility for my then web design clients, I formed a magazine. Then, to create a unique experience for the women being featured, we formed a #beautysquad to help women look their best during their photo shoot. In order to include even more women into our mission, we started partnering with local studios and venues to host those photo shoots. After that, we reached out to local women-owned businesses to sponsor products in exchange for photography. Then, two regular columnists were asked to write columns every month. All of these tiny movements propelled us forward and formed the brand you see today. If you are reading this, you are part of a growing community of women supporting women. To the women that were featured on the covers in 2019 and 2020: we admire your courage and we are thankful you trusted us with your story and your hearts. We are eager to show you what we have planned for 2021 and thank you for being part of this amazing journey! We’re only getting started. ---
Edith Duarte, Editor-in-chief
ELLA Inspires Magazine
4
ELLA Inspires Magazine
PHOTO: @PHOTO.GRAPHY_BY_ABBY
ELLA Inspires Magazine
5
HONAKER HOUSE THE
MURCHISON
HOUSE &
IS
A
HONAKER
VICTORIAN
BREAKFAST
BED
OFFERING
A
CHIC RETREAT SPACE TO HOST RELAXING
STAYS,
WEEKEND
GETAWAYS, PHOTOSHOOTS, & CREATIVE GATHERINGS.
109 COLLEGE ST. FARMERSVILLE, TX 75442 @HONAKER HOUSE
6
7
On The Cover Fatima Ibrahim is a Doctor of Optometry and content creator. She is passionate about eye care and helping her patients and community see clearly and maintain their ocular health. Dr. Fatima curates an Instagram and blog sharing lifestyle content and eye health tips. Her goal is to represent all women, especially those who are black and Muslim, and to inspire women to live their best lives. Fatima is a wife and pink connoisseur with an eye for style. fatima.b.ibrahim
8
9
Fatima in Focus FEATURE BY DR. FATIMA IBRAHIM
I was born on the west coast in California. I lived there for
Villa Park is the small suburb we lived in for a few years. I
about one year and don’t remember much about California
started attending a private Muslim school for grades first
aside from the stories my parents shared about living
through twelve. I remember that first day attending my new
there. When my family moved out of Orange County, we
school. I walked into class wearing a traditional kaftan that
came to Phoenix, Arizona and lived there for several years.
I chose for the first day. I remember feeling out of place
I remember the heat of Phoenix, warm walks around our
among my new classmates in their school uniforms and
subdivision, Avon parties, and how metal seatbelts warmed
instantly regretting my decision. Yet, by the end of my first
up by the sun would all but burn my fingers. When we left
day there, I had made a friend with a girl who sat across from
Arizona, I was about 7 or so. I was halfway through first
me and my desk.
grade and dreaded starting a new school in the middle of
T H E E AR LY Y E AR S
“I still recall the contentment I felt to be accepted by a new friend.”
We moved to the Midwest and settled down in Illinois.
I spent twelve years of primary school there and overall loved
Instead of living in the city, my parents chose the western
my experience. Attending a private Muslim school placed my
suburbs where it was more peaceful, yet still lively. The
religion on a pedestal. It made my faith the foundation of my
suburbs had a nice selection of private schools that my
childhood and with classes like Islamic Studies and Quran
parents were interested in for my brothers and I to attend.
class, it also taught me more about my faith on a regular
the academic year.
basis.
10
ELLA Inspires Magazine
11
“I would not be the woman I am today without both the dark and the light, the struggles and the victories, the scarcity and the abundance, the fear and the courage.”
12
Throughout the majority of my grade school years, I was
We did not travel often or have the typical family vacations of
often the only student of African descent in my class. At times,
which I would often hear. Money was tight and traveling was
it felt isolating and at other times, it made me feel unique.
a luxury. But when we did travel, it stood out as a beautiful
Though, I did not always feel like I fit in, I felt connected to
and joyful highlight in my young life. We traveled a handful of
my classmates, friends and teachers through our shared
times, often by train or bus. The first time I took a plane ride
faith and that was invaluable. During Ramadan, we all fasted
was when I was in my 20s. The earliest trip I do remember
together. During Eid, we celebrated together. And when one
taking with my family was to visit distant relatives. I was
of the five daily prayers were due during the school day, we
maybe eight or nine years old and was so glad to be on a new
took a break from classes and prayed together. I thrived at
adventure and to be spending time with my relatives and
school and participated in numerous organizations and some
people who belonged to a small family like ours. We took a
sports. There was the National Honor Society, Pep club, Model
long greyhound bus ride from Illinois down to Tennessee to
United Nations, Mathematic and Robotics. I played on the
stay with my second cousins for several days. The highlight of
basketball team as the center and joined a short-lived track
our trips included visiting a nearby carnival and riding a horse
team. Being a member of clubs and teams, helped improve
drawn carriage.
my ability to lead and to also be a great team player. While I was in high school, my family moved out of Villa Park
Growing up, my parents and teachers had a great impact on
and to another suburb. It was less than an hour away and we
my life. I watched and admired my parents with their jobs
loved it. It was up and coming and full of new developments
and their independence. They knew so much about life and
including
a
new
were always sharing stories of
hospital and later on
their experiences as children,
a new glitzy library. It
“My parents immigrated to
was also much more diverse than where we had lived.
T H E AM E R I C AN D R E AM
America from Nigeria in the 1980s in search of the American Dream.”
as
black
individuals,
and
as parents. I admired their wisdom, their education, and their clear sense of purpose. I
also
really
admired
my
teachers who spent their days dedicated to instructing my
My parents immigrated to American from Nigeria in the 80s.
classmates and I; ensuring that we understood our studies.
My father came to the states as a student with my mother
I admired their knowledge, their patience, and the joy they
alongside him. They came to the states in search of the
showed in being educators. I was a good student and excelled
American dream. My parents have always been very hard-
with their guidance. When I completed high school, I gave the
working individuals. My father is a teacher and my mother is a
Valedictorian speech and teared up.
healthcare lab technician. When I think back to my childhood, I remember how hard my parents worked to provide for
I knew the role that everyone who supported me - from my
my brothers and I. During the week they worked tirelessly;
parents to my teachers - had in my being there on that stage.
sometimes at multiple jobs.
I was leaving behind my childhood and entering adulthood. I was excited to start college and experience new things and
I still remember the stories my mother would share with me
meet new people.
of the struggles they experienced when they first moved to America as well as the struggles they still experienced. My fondest childhood memories include time spent with family and going on new adventures.
ELLA Inspires Magazine
13
14
ELLA Inspires Magazine
FOCUS ON MY FUTURE When I was in high school, I became very interested in eye care. In tenth grade, I was tasked with doing a research project on a topic of my choice. At the time, I was thinking about my future and what I wanted to do with my life. Eye care intrigued me. I decided to make my research project about eye care and the different professions within it. I often think back to my father’s own career as a teacher and my mother’s job in healthcare as catalysts for my own love of sciences and healthcare. As a young bookworm, I was also very nearsighted and my trips to my local Optometrist was a clear gateway into the field. When I entered college, my interest in eye care grew. During college, I attended a program for minority students like myself to learn more about what it takes to become an Optometrist. It was called Focus on Your Future and was held for one week at the graduate school I would later attend. During the program, I lived on campus and spent time with other minorities who were interested in healthcare, eye health in particular.
ELLA Inspires Magazine
15
16
@hakeemahcmb
WOMEN
TO WATCH HAKEEMAH MODEST
CUMMINGS
FASHION
STYLIST
IS
A AND
MOTHER OF 2 GIRLS. SHE IS FROM CHICAGO AND I LIVES IN THE DMV AREA. HER COMMUNITY IS BASED ON A COLLECTIVE LOVE OF MODEST FASHION AND POSITIVITY.
MY WORDS TO LIVE BY “If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything. Know your truth and strive for excellence.” This summer brought a lot of truths to light for me with regards to the layers of my identity as a Black Muslim woman. Some of this involved a painful realization of the changes that needed to be addressed within our community to ensure we are doing our part to treat each other fairly and with respect. I decided to take a more active role as a leader in that respect, and that involved a lot of courage. It was not a business move, but rather a necessary move as a responsible human being, regardless of the size of my platform. I’m happy my message was received by my community. 17
18
ELLA Inspires Magazine
The program strove to increase representation of minorities in eyecare by exposing a group of us to the field and fostering a connection between us - the students - and the school. The program had a positive impact on my entrance into eye care and years after graduating, I spoke with the school’s magazine about my experience there and how useful I felt that Focus on Your Future was; especially for students who haven’t had the exposure to the school or field. I also participated in an organization called ‘Mission for Vision.’ Through it, I volunteered with the Chicago Lighthouse for the blind and visually impaired, collected used eyeglasses for the Lyons Club, hosted eye care professionals for educational talks, and more. I was also a member of organizations for Muslim students, for black students, and for students interested in fashion. While completing my undergrad, I started writing for my college’s fashion magazine and website. After I received my bachelor’s degree, I studied for four years to become an Optometrist at the Illinois College of Optometry. As a student, I shared my own personal experiences as a student on the school’s website. After graduation, I shared my insights
“To To me, our vision is our most precious sense and being able to help people see clearly every day is a gift with instant gratification.”
in my graduate school’s magazine.I shared my experiences as a minority student and as a professional currently in eyecare. I started practicing in the city and appreciated how well my school prepared me for the transition from student to doctor. I started off working with an optometry mentor at one of the clinics where I had rotated as a fourth-year student. Later, I joined a new multi-clinic practice where I was the lead Optometrist at my own clinic. I practiced in Chicago for 3 years and lived in the heart of the city. During this time, I met and married my husband and we decided to move out of the Windy City to Dallas in 2019.
I have been practicing as a Doctor of Optometry for about 4 years now. What began with me as a patient in need of glasses to manage my own nearsightedness, blossomed into a love for caring for the ocular health and vision of my patients. For reference, without the aid of glasses or contact lenses, everything past 14 centimeters is blurry and out of focus for me. When I decided to care for the sense I myself cherished and desired most, I knew I made the right decision. Since moving to Dallas, I have been working at a multi-clinic practice where I see and examine numerous patients a day. The workload is high, but I love being able to help my patients
A G R AT I F Y I N G G I F T
achieve their clearest and most comfortable vision while
When I think about what I am passionate about, I often think
improving their overall health and wellness. (Cont. Page 18)
of eyes and my love for eye care. I’ve always been intrigued by these small, yet intricate and complex structures with so many layers.
ELLA Inspires Magazine
19
Spring in to
Dallas
If you are like most, then you are ready to say farewell
Poston Gardens allows visitors to experience over half
to the cold days of winter and hello to the beautiful
a million tulips during March and April, according to a
days of spring. Here in Dallas, spring brings about mild
statement by the founder. Of course, Springtime also
temperatures and the renewal of nature all around,
means the Texas Bluebonnets are in bloom. Some of
making it the perfect season to get out of the house and
the best local places to see bluebonnets include Ennis
shake off those winter blues. Luckily, the greater Dallas
Bluebonnet Trail, Cedar Hill State Park, Coppell Nature
area is full of fabulous places to do just that!
Park, and Arbor Hills Nature Preserve.
THE SPRING BLOOMS
T H E PAT I O S
Nothing says spring like the beautiful blooms that appear
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy one of the many patio
throughout nature, and several places in Dallas that
restaurants in Dallas. These patios are the perfect place
highlight the flowers of the season.
to enjoy a drink while basking in the incredible spring weather. Check out HG Supply Co. or Savor Gastropub
Dallas Blooms at the Dallas Arboretum welcomes spring
for a great rooftop patio and delicious craft cocktails.
by displaying upwards of 100 varieties of beautiful
Other fun places worth mentioning include The Foundry,
blossoms — amassing more than 500,000 spring-
Oddfellows, The Porch, The Yard, and the Katy Trail
blooming flowers, according to their website. You can
Icehouse.
catch this fabulous spring celebration at the Arboretum between Feb. 20 and April 11. Head just south of Dallas to the town of Waxahachie to feel like you have been transported to the tulip fields of the Netherlands when you visit Poston Gardens.
20
ELLA Inspires Magazine
T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S If you are in the mood for something a bit more active, consider visiting the many parks in and around Dallas to welcome in spring. Cedar Ridge Preserve has more than nine miles of hiking trails and more than 600-acres of land to explore. Across town, the Trinity River Audubon Center contains four miles of trails and boardwalks to explore. For great views, head out to Piedmont Ridge and Scyene Overlook. Just outside of Dallas in Plano, Arbor Ridge Nature Preserve has a diverse ecosystem with more than two miles of paved trails.
Michelle Snell
DAL L A S FAR M E R ’ S M AR K E T Spring is the perfect season to visit the Dallas Farmer’s Market. Visit The Shed to see all of the local vendors displaying their unique goods. While visiting, do not forget to pop into the Market Shops to browse more local vendors and
@thattexascouple Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and culture enthusiast.
try some great local eats from the food court.
A professional educator by day, her
T H E DAL L A S Z O O
over the world in her free time. Michelle
passion for travel has her jet setting all
Known for being the largest zoo in Texas, the Dallas Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals, according to the zoo website. During the spring months, the animals become more
enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blog, That Texas Couple.
active, and many welcome new babies into their families — making spring the perfect season to explore the Dallas Zoo! Dallas and the surrounding metroplex have so many great outdoor attractions, and spring is the perfect time to get out and enjoy them! While this list only scratched the surface, we hope that we have inspired you to say farewell to winter and hello to Spring!
ELLA Inspires Magazine
21
“By sharing my own story and bringing my voice to the table, I know I’m paving the way for someone else like me.”
While practicing optometry, I continue to share my story and insights on social media along with eye health tips and a variety of lifestyle inspiration ranging from fashion and food to home and travel. Having an outlet for creativity and being a source of representation in healthcare -- and in all spheres -- has become very important to me. By sharing my own story and bringing my voice to the table, I know I’m paving the way for someone else like me.
R E P R E S E N TAT I O N M AT T E R S The other day, I was conversing with a new friend who started following my story on social media. She shared with me that she was interested in eye care but never pursued it due to a lack of representation. She wished she had found me, a Doctor of Optometry, years ago; the fact that I am able to inspire her now is humbling. Much like her, I didn’t grow up knowing black, female, and Muslim doctors. In my graduating class in optometry school, for instance, I was one of only two black and female doctors; I was the only one who was black, female and Muslim. Growing up, none of my own doctors were black and female.
22
ELLA Inspires Magazine
23
About 13% of all Americans are black, yet only 4% of all doctors are black. Black and female doctors make up just 2% of all doctors. It can only be assumed that doctors who look just like me make up even less of the population. Representation matters and is important for multiple reasons. Research studies have shown that when there is concordance between the race and gender of both the provider and the patient, there are benefits. A patient who is black and female paired with a doctor who is also black and female experiences more trust, better communication, and shared decision making in care. Minority patients benefit when they are cared for by doctors who are also minorities.
R A C I AL C O N C O R DAN C E
“Representation Representation matters to my older female patient who shared with me how happy she was to be seen by a black female doctor.”
Research has shown the far-reaching impact trust between She trusted me and told me I reminded her of her daughter. We patients and doctors. In a study from Stanford of 1,300 black
even spent extra time together at the end of her exam, as she
men, patients were 56% more likely to get a flu shot, 47% more
told me about her family and how she wished her daughter had
likely to get a diabetes screening, and 72% more likely to get black female doctor role models earlier on. a cholesterol screening when their doctors were also black even though in this study, care by white and black doctors alike Representation matters to the older gentleman who heaved a deep were scored the same. More diversity in healthcare results in
sigh of relief at the end of his exam; expressing how proud and
safer, healthier, and stronger communities across the US. Most
privileged he felt to finally have a black doctor care for his health.
patients I see find the clinic through their insurance or via a local search.
Representation matters to the middle-aged black patient who smiled widely and said that he never thought he would get the chance to
Some, however, seek out doctors who represent them racially or
see a black doctor in a predominantly white suburb.
culturally. Pairing patients with doctors who represent them is difficult when representation is low. Health in Her Hue is a new
Representation also matters to the young college student who sat
digital platform that allows patients to find member doctors in my chair with amazement in his eyes; it was his first time having who may represent them more easily. As a doctor with Health
a doctor who was black. He told me he was in college and he had
in Her Hue, I am glad to be more accessible to minorities. I have
never considered healthcare or being a doctor until now.
cared for patients who found me through the platform and was glad to provide them with the care they sought.
Representation is important for patient care. I’ve appreciated being able to have my own voice amplified through initiatives
I see patients from all walks of life, and we work together to
that seek to increase representation on social media. (Cont.
improve ocular health and meet visual goals. On a weekly basis, Page 24) I interact with black patients who share how they take comfort in my presence and I’m regularly reminded of the importance of representation. Representation matters to the mother and daughter who sought me out because they wanted to be treated by a doctor with shared experiences.
24
ELLA Inspires Magazine
ELLA Inspires Magazine
25
How to Dine Out with Dietary Restrictions BY ELLE WALSH
I love to eat and call myself a foodie! I love to try different restaurants and I love to t r y d i f f e r e n t t y p e s o f f o o d s . A l t h o u g h i t’ s n o t a l w a y s e a s y t o t r y n e w r e s t a u ra n t s when you have dietary restrictions, it is n o t i m p o s s i b l e ! He r e a r e s o m e t i p s t o h e l p you venture out of your comfort zone at new-to-you restaurants!
BE HONEST If you aren’t honest with the wait staff about your allergies, how will they know? Don’t be afraid to speak up and be your own advocate.
BE FLEXIBLE Don’t get disappointed if your pickings are slim. Don’t get
C AL L AH E AD
frustrated. Be flexible and pick what you think will be the best choice.
I always like to call before I go and speak with the hostess about their offerings for people with allergies. I don’t expect them to know everything about allergies but I use it as a gauge of the ability of the restaurant to work around my needs.
26
ELLA Inspires Magazine
CHEF KNOWS BEST The chef knows best. He/she knows all of the ingredients and the cooking system. Sometimes it’s easier to let them decide what’s best. Whenever I order somewhere new,
Elle Walsh
I order like this: “I will have this or whatever the chef suggests for vegans.”
@thevegan.chick
T H E T R I E D AN D T R U E So many times, I have ordered French fries and a garden salad, hold the cheese and croutons because I know that at most places this works for me. When I don’t see
Elle Walsh is the owner of The Vegan Chick Bakery in McKinney, TX and a
anything on the menu or the wait staff has not been
restaurant allergen consultant. She is
helpful this is what I order.
a wife and mother of two who loves to
I hope this helps you the next time you try a restaurant that may become your new favorite!
travel and cuddle her Chihuahua dog, Sadie.
ELLA Inspires Magazine
27
28
This past year, Black Lives Matter has become a more wellknown and supported cause and with it, more initiatives that help represent black individuals arose. Last year, I participated in Share the Medical Mic and joined a group of 20 different black female doctors. We each took over the social media platform of a corresponding white female doctor and extended our reach to many more individuals. The metaphorical sharing of the mic amplified more voices and allowed for more people to be represented.
S O C I AL M E D I A Through social media, I have been able to share the things I love on a regular basis and also be a part of the movement to increase representation. As an ambassador for different lifestyle brands, I’m increasing cultural representation across healthcare, fashion, faith, etc. I hope to empower all women, especially black and Muslim women, to go after their dreams and live their best lives.
ROLE MODELS I hope to empower all women, especially black and Muslim women, to go after their dreams and live their best lives. Throughout my life, I have had a number of people influence and inspire me. At the top of the list, my mother has influenced my life, from childhood to now. She’s caring, nurturing, hardworking, outspoken and honest. She’s also amicable and joyful. Her character has influenced my personality and the compassionate individual that I have become. She’s also stylish and loves dressing well, something I’ve definitely picked up from her. Other women who have influenced me include public figures like Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey and authors like Yasmin Mojahed and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. All of these women are strong leaders who sought out knowledge, gained success, and paved the way for other women.
“II hope to empower all women, especially black and Muslim women, to go after their dreams and live their best lives.” 29
Michelle Obama once said: ‘One of the lessons that I grew up with was to always stay true to yourself and never let what somebody else says distract you from your goals.’ It resonates with my own journey because it urges me to follow my goals and to walk in my own power; to be bold and courageous in the face of doubt and adversity. Realizing your goals, no matter how big or small, can be challenging. It requires persistence, being intentional, and constant motivation. I would tell anyone who comes to me for advice to go after your dreams to achieve your goals. Identify the goals you have for your life whether it be a personal health goal or a professional one like becoming a doctor. Outline plans for the steps it will take to reach the goal. There will be bumps along the way and may be moments when you want to give up.
SUPPORTING WOMEN Collaborating and working together allows us to grow and to thrive as individuals and as members of a larger community. My work as a content creator has given me the opportunity to connect with so many talented individuals. Having a group of supportive friends on social media presently has been great and I am definitely in favor of collaboration over competition. Coming together for campaigns and initiatives is one way that I love supporting women. When we work together on these projects, we generate more ideas and often have greater success. In addition to this, there are so many other ways that I love to support women. Numerous women own countless businesses providing services like healthcare and products
L E AN O N M E
including clothing, jewelry, handbags, skin care, and beauty.
Having support and guidance to help you reach your goals
It’s important to support their businesses by spending money on their work and products
along the way is critical. Support
may
be
in
the form of a group or in the form of oneon-one
mentorship.
And with both, having representation can be a source of regular guidance and inspiration.
Don’t
(especially minority women in
“With hard work, you will succeed.
small businesses). Numerous
When you achieve your goals,
bettering the lives of women
reflect, reevaluate, and express gratitude. Be kind to yourself.”
across
the
globe
educational monetary these
through
resources aid.
and
Supporting
businesses
with
donations, volunteering, and
be
by spreading their message is
afraid to reach out and ask for assistance.
also important.
When I was in optometry school, I had a group of girlfriends with whom I studied. We leaned on each other through struggles and celebrated with each other’s victories right on up to receiving our doctorate degrees. Support at that time in my life was priceless. Now with social media, there are numerous ways one can offer and receive support. Sometimes simply observing someone you admire on social media taking steps toward their goals can inspire us to do the same. Through social media, I have been able to interact with a great deal of people, those who inspire me, those who support me, as well
As a black, female, and Muslim doctor, I have experienced what it is like to be the only one like myself in the room. I have learned so much over the years navigating my own education and career, etc. Know that whatever struggles you have as a minority, you are a strong, intelligent, & beautiful individual capable of achieving anything that you set your sights on. Focus on your goals and your ‘why’ and eliminate the noise.
as those who I inspire and support.
30
foundations exist that cater to
ELLA Inspires Magazine
“I would not be the woman I am today without both the dark and the light, the struggles and the victories, the scarcity and the abundance, the fear and the courage.”
31
32
“My My husband, mother, father, brothers and extended family have been a great support to me throughout my years of education and beyond.” W H AT ’ S N E X T The community of like-minded and inspiring women and friends I’ve met throughout my life and on social media have also been supportive and inspiring in their own ways. I’m excited to be joining a group of strong and beautiful women featured in Ella Inspires. I feel humbled to be a part of Ella Inspires and grateful for this opportunity. I have several partnerships in the works and professionally, look forward to one day owning my own clinic as a Doctor of Optometry.
33
BRANDS WE LOVE
BRANDS WE LOVE Soaring Suds Soap Co. @soaringsuds316
Every soap, shampoo bar, and bubble bar is handcrafted from scratch in small batches using only natural, crueltyfree vegan ingredients. Made with love in Munising, MI, they’re designed to indulge body, mind, and spirit with bright, skin-loving formulations that you won’t find anywhere else. The Soaring Suds Soap Co. Promise Our products are a refreshing surprise for the senses, but our ingredients will always be crystal clear. We believe goodness shines from the inside out, and trust requires transparency. We happily provide you with information about our ingredients, how they’re sourced, and how a product is made so you can get to the best part: immersing yourself in bath time and emerging with soft, nourished skin.
34
BRANDS WE LOVE
BRANDS WE LOVE Peluzzi Organica @peluzziorganica
“I was looking for a skincare line that offered fresh nutrient-densed, therapeutic, cruelty-free, plant-based, clean, and toxic-free products. Most of the products marketed as natural contain unhealthy chemicals, human and animal derived ingredients. I wanted to find a product line that will target many skin issues with a positive effect on my family’s and my well-being. My recipes worked for me many years but wanted something more complete and luxurious. My standards became higher so I took the challenging project of perfecting my beloved skin care recipes into consistent formulas. I use ingredients backed by modern science and incorporating traditional plant medicine into my family’s and my own skin care and wellness. I fell in love with the process and the results.” -- Martha Escobar We partnered with Martha to create our first branded product and scent: The ‘Inspire’ aromatherapy soy candle! Now available for purchase at www.ellainspires.com
35
BRANDS WE LOVE
BRANDS WE LOVE Pretty Simple, LLC @prettysimplecollection
Pretty Simple began in 2014 when Leah had a shift in priorities. As a breast cancer survivor, and mom to a recently diagnosed Type 1 Diabetic, she decided life is simply too short to not be around for it. Beyond what you see on this site, PS is more than something you wear. It comes from within. It is living with purpose. Believing in your dream, and having the courage to go for it. When you shop with Pretty Simple you are not only supporting a small business, but the type 1 diabetes community. A portion of all sales is donated back to t1 non profits like JDRF and T1 International! On behalf of our family, we thank you! We are honored to have you here. With grace and gratitude, Leah.
36
BRANDS WE LOVE
BRANDS WE LOVE Pin Up Cosmetics @pinupcosmeticssf
Pin Up Cosmetics is a handcrafted natural and vegan beauty brand with a retro flair established in 2007 in San Francisco, CA. Our products are created in small batches ensuring the highest level of quality and freshness. Tested on friends and family never on animals. We artfully craft our products using pure minerals, pure essential oils and plant based ingredients. In 2012 we added a line of natural products for pets, called Natural Pet Pals. We produce small batch handcrafted pet care for dogs and cats! Your pets deserve quality non-toxic products just as much as you do.
37
INSPIRED BY WOMEN
#INSPIREBOX
Made by women • Made in the USA • Handmade or Organic • Not found on Amazon.
The #inspirebox is a quarterly box subscription featuring a curated collection of luxury lifestyle and self-care products (plus other unique items) made by Women around Texas and the United States. subsribe! • www.ellainspires.com 38
