TODAY IS MOTHER’S DAY!! I want to start this special feature by sending tons of love and hugs to all the wonderful Mothers out there. Let be this the opportunity to send a message to the wonderful mothers that wear many hats, the ones that are usually stuck in many roles of being everything to everyone and often end up being emotionally invisible to themselves. Today let yourself be loved and celebrated, you deserve attention, affection, and most importantly you deserve SELF-LOVE, give yourself a big wide hug and let yourself be inspired by the gorgeous woman and mother featured in this special edition.

Meet Mila! 45 and fabulous mother of 5 participating in the third and final round of our 40 over 40 project in Sacramento. When Mila contacted me in March she said she feel intuitively that this was her chosen time to shine. Mila had recently drastic changes in her life that were both bold and courageous. This was her 3rd time signing up for the project and she was hoping that the 3rd time was the charm….. I can confidently said this portrait experience gave her so much more than she was expecting. Here is what Mila shared about her experience:

I am a 45-year-old mother of 5 children, each a unique blessing in my life. From my previous marriage, I am proud to have raised 3 remarkable daughters, aged 16, 18, and 20, who inspire me every day. Additionally, I am fortunate to share the joy of parenting with my long-time love of over 10 years, resulting in two incredible children, aged 4 and 1, who fill my heart with pure happiness.

Having previously owned a daycare for approximately 7 years, I embarked on a transformative journey prompted by the challenges posed by operating a daycare during the tumultuous times of the pandemic. This led me to make a bold decision to pivot my career path. As a life strategist, I now have the opportunity to unlock people's full potential, providing them with expert advice in areas such as financial literacy, life protection, and overcoming mental obstacles.

Empowering individuals to break free from self-imposed limitations and embrace a life of abundance is a true passion of mine. I believe in equipping people with the tools they need to thrive and reach their goals, and I take great pride in guiding them toward financial literacy, safeguarding their well-being, and achieving personal freedom.

In addition to my dedication to financial literacy, life protection, and personal freedom, I am deeply committed to promoting equal access to the legal justice system. Educating, empowering, and encouraging others to navigate the complexities of the legal world is a cause close to my heart. By advocating for equal opportunities and supporting individuals in their pursuit of justice, I strive to create a more equitable and inclusive society for all.

40 over 40 project by Mayumi Acosta Photography

Why did you want to participate in this project?: Three years ago, I stumbled upon Mayumi, a talented professional photographer, while searching for someone to capture stunning senior portraits of my daughter. Through her, I discovered the captivating 40 over 40 project, which instantly became a personal aspiration. With the recent move to our new home, fate intervened when the project brochure fell out of a box, affirming that the time had come. Without hesitation, I eagerly booked a session with the esteemed Mayumi Acosta.

What were you personally hoping to gain from this experience?: My intention for this experience was to capture branding images that radiate the confidence and empowerment I feel on my life journey, both as a serial entrepreneur and as a woman. As mothers, we often prioritize everyone else's needs, leaving little room for self-assurance. I wanted to remind myself of my own beauty and power, while setting an example for my daughters. It was crucial for them to witness strong, inspiring images of their mother as a role model.

Sacramento 40 over 40 project by Mayumi Acosta Photography

women over 40 by Mayumi Acosta Photography

What are you feeling now about being photographed? What was your favorite part about this process?: Let's set things straight: I'm a selfie pro, haha! However, being in front of someone else's lens makes me feel a bit overwhelmed. Stepping into the studio, I was nervous and unsure, but Mayumi's expert guidance and professional approach quickly put me at ease. Witnessing how effortlessly she directed me, I became her eternal muse. I would gladly repeat this experience countless times. Every woman, including my daughters, deserves to feel this way. I am absolutely enamored with the images captured.
My favorite part of this process was having my daughter Alyssa there with me to watch it all unfold behind the scenes, and she even made me a little music playlist to help put my mind at ease.

What would you tell other women over 40 about doing something outside their comfort zone?: To all the remarkable women over 40, I urge you to embrace the power of stepping outside your comfort zone. It's in these moments of growth and exploration that we discover our hidden strengths and unlock new possibilities. Don't let fear or self-doubt hold you back from pursuing new experiences and challenges. Embrace the unknown with courage and confidence, for it is through these ventures that we truly thrive. Remember, age is just a number, and your potential knows no bounds. Embrace the opportunity to redefine yourself, break barriers, and create a life that ignites your passion. So go ahead, take that leap, and witness the incredible transformation that awaits you.

What piece of advice you would like to give to your child or any young person that you wish someone would've given you?: If there's one piece of advice I wish someone had given me when I was younger, it's this: You were created by the most masterful creator. Your heavenly father has downloaded an unspeakable power inside of you that comes from the main source. Through Him, all things are possible. Never underestimate that extraordinary power within. You possess boundless potential, strength, and resilience that can overcome any obstacle. Don't let anyone or anything dim your inner light. Embrace your uniqueness, chase your dreams fiercely, and never settle for less than you deserve. Life will throw challenges your way, and there will be moments of doubt and uncertainty. But remember, even in the darkest storms, you have the power to rise, to conquer, and to soar higher than you ever imagined. Believe in yourself, for you are capable of achieving greatness. People will always have something to say, just ignore the noise and do what you want to do.

If you had a super power what would it be?: Since I was a little girl, my answer to the question of having a superpower has remained unwavering. If granted extraordinary abilities, I would become a protector of the vulnerable: children, the elderly, and animals. My empathetic heart shatters into countless fragments at the mere thought of their suffering. It is my deepest desire to shield them from any form of abuse or mistreatment. No child should endure pain, no elder should feel neglected, and no animal should suffer in silence. With unwavering dedication, I would use my superpower to bring solace, love, and justice to those who need it most. Together, we can create a world where their innocence is cherished, their wisdom is respected, and their lives are filled with compassion and kindness.

What would you say your most notable accomplishment has been?: Undoubtedly, my most significant achievement, surpassing all others, is the privilege of being a mother. Though it may sound cliché, my children have transformed me into an honest and genuine woman. Their presence has held me accountable, constantly reminding me of the responsibility and love that comes with parenthood. Their infectious humor and unique personalities have gifted me a front-row seat to the most extraordinary show in town. Every day, they bring joy, laughter, and an unwavering sense of purpose to my life. Being their mother is an honor beyond measure, and it has forever shaped the person I am today.

Do you have a favorite quote, by you or someone else?: "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style."

“ Mayumi - I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the magic we created together during our unforgettable photography experience. The moments we captured, the memories we immortalized, and the art we produced will forever hold a special place in my heart. Your passion, creativity, and dedication to your craft were truly inspiring. The way you saw beauty in the simplest of things and brought them to life through your lens was truly remarkable. Our collaboration was a true testament to the power of artistic synergy.
As you embark on a new adventure, moving out of the country with your husband, I want to wish you nothing but the best. May this new chapter in your life be filled with endless joy, love, and discovery. May your photography continue to flourish and touch the lives of those who have the privilege of witnessing your work.”

”To anyone reading this, if any part of my life has inspired you in any way, my heart is full. I believe that through our shared experiences, we have the power to uplift and inspire one another. Let us continue to spread love and light, and to create beautiful moments that leave a lasting impact.”

- Mila

Mila’s photoshoot was a AMAZING!! not only were we able to create beautiful portraits showcasing her sexy, strong and powerful side, we even had time to produce some killer personal branding photos she will be using for her business. Here is a little sample of them :