Paulo Coelho, Brazilian author of The Alchemist, once said “Outer beauty is inner beauty made visible” and after having the opportunity to work with a young woman as genuine as Wendy, I can’t help but to agree.
From the inside out, this Stonewall Jackson High School Senior, radiates beauty, compassion and selflessness. Not one to shy from her convictions and love for the Lord, Wendy has spent her high school years moved to follow her calling to care and help others. From Student Leadership to volunteering with the children’s ministries at her church to the Peer Diversity Club at Stonewall High, Wendy has been front and center, leading the way of love.
But, of course, she isn’t stopping there. By the beginning of August, Wendy had set off for a nine-month mission trip, aiding people in Albania, the Philippines and South Africa. Luckily, during her fall senior session months before, I was fortunate enough to sit down together with Wendy. She told me that she had felt the calling from the Lord to “take a year off from school and participate in the World Race… with a greater purpose than to just sight see, but to spread the Word of the Lord worldwide.”
And so, obviously, it was my honor to truly capture this one of a kind heart for all the world to see. With the Fall season upon us, Mother Nature had already generously created the perfect backdrop. Orange, red and brown leaves, some still hanging onto their branches, while others had just fallen ever so gently to the ground. A soft curl through her honey brown, Ombre hair was all that was needed to frame her soft, lovely features and those adorably chic, thick-rimmed glasses.
And as always with the purpose of Twelfth+Grace, to inspire inner confidence and strength in young women, Wendy came prepared, ready to dazzle! Whether pairing the Northern Virginia Fall weather perfectly in her fur vest or shining bright in her yellow dress with a scalloped seam, Wendy simply exuded charm and charisma.
In the end, it should be no surprise at all that the same girl who sparkled bright throughout our shoot believes that “True beauty is having a gentle soul and loving passion but having strong morals.” If ever I have been witness to this embodiment of values in my career, it is through having met Wendy… graduate of high school & crusader of kindness.
Hair & Make-up provided by: Carolyn Thombs Makeup Artistry