PRETTY N’ PIECES

One can keep souvenirs of those they have known by adopting their thoughts, mannerisms, interests, and qualities. We collect small trinkets from stops along our journey.

We subconsciously analyze the behaviors of others to see in them what we wish to see in ourselves. We casually glance at the items we wish to take off of the shelf and add to our collection.

We hold those qualities close to us, regardless of if that person remains present in our paths. What starts as an admiration of character transforms into an adaptation of a characteristic. Friends become reflections of us.

It is as simple as a third-grade best friend introducing you to their favorite board game, Clue; it soon becomes your own favorite. The core memory highlighted from that experience has seemingly impacted your preference of entertainment. Watch as you carry that preference into maturity and, one day, recommend it during a family game night with your own children. Perhaps you will glance back and think of the joy you felt when you first played and held the tiny, silver weapons placed on the elaborate board.

Perhaps you will recall the first time that we became I. When a game that we loved became one that I loved.

Regardless of if a connection remains the same, the ghost of a memory will follow you and prove itself worthy of shaping your own interests. The reflection of your past has found its way into the choices you make, and in some way, you have left an imprint of your own personality with those involved. We are connected through these traits found in surrounding individuals that we choose to obtain or disregard, but our differences shine through the individualized way that we tweak each piece to properly fit us.

STYLIST: HANNAH SMITH PHOTOGRAPHER: MICHELLE DASCHBACH WRITER: PAYTON BROWN MODELS: CJ HUDSON, CARSON MILLER, AMAYA SANDERS, SUMMER HILL MAKEUP: SUMMER HILL