Oh man, it’s that super polarizing “holiday” that everyone loves/hates. Some people are all about it, others are like, not. I personally enjoy the reminder to celebrate and be thankful for the love I have, but I know it’s not for everyone. However you feel about Valentine’s Day though, I think there’s something we could all celebrate on not just this day, self-love.
It’s safe to say that self-love doesn’t come naturally to a lot of us. Growing up, I was a huge weirdo (not much has changed) and always felt like an outsider. I was lanky and pale (or sunburnt) all my life and would rather look for frogs than normal teenage things. Flash forward 15 years and I’m still pale (thanks to rashguards, the sunburns are avoided) and feel lanky at times. And, if I had a choice, I’d prefer to find frogs than most adult activities. I’m pretty much the same (weird) person I always have been, I’m just finally learning to accept it.
Self-love means different things to different people. According to Psychology Today, self-love is defined as, “a state of appreciation for oneself that grows from actions that support our physical, psychological and spiritual growth.” Basically, you do things that make you feel good and are true to your values.
I’ve worked with my therapist for almost six years and self-love is a constant topic that comes up. I’ve learned to slowly accept my feelings and values and stop apologizing for them. I’ve become more confident in what I believe in and what I am passionate about. It’s absolutely a work-in-progress, but it’s been some of the most rewarding work I’ve done.
So for this Valentine’s Day, whether or not you are celebrating, make sure you prioritize love for yourself. I don’t have all the answers, but I do have a couple great resources that I’ve shared below. We can all use a reminder to take time to appreciate the life, body, health, and spirit we all have, so why not take this day of love and turn it inwards? Happy Valentine’s Day indeed.
How to Love Yourself: 5 Love Languages
A Seven-Step Prescription for Self Love
20+ Ways to be Good to Yourself
THE RESCUES:
You’ve already met one Peace for Pits pup, but here are two pitties that you’ll definitely want to meet.
Sundance is the most outgoing, friendly, and smiley girl you’ll ever meet. She loves everyone and gives so many kisses, she’s basically perfect. I texted my husband her pictures and told him we basically needed her asap. Sadly, we have to wait but you should probably go meet her because she’s fantastic. For more information on Sundance, click here.
Sgt. Peppers was the lone man of the day and boy did he steal the show. He almost looks like a Shar-Pei mix and has the most soulful eyes. He also was a cuddle bug and demonstrated some of the awesome skills he has. One of his quirks, however, is chasing cars, so a home with a fenced-in yard would be ideal for this handsome man. For more information about Sgt. Peppers, click here.
THE STYLE:
For this shoot, I was lucky to collaborate with some amazing people (see the list below!) including Jenny Yoo. This champagne colored dress made me feel more award ceremony ready than bridesmaid which I loved. All her pieces are super romantic and I’d be happy to wear these dresses to any upcoming wedding I’m a part of.
xoxo,
Christine
Thanks for Elizabeth Nord Photography for these photos and Urban Allure Events for planning this fantastic shoot! Take a peek at the rest of the amazing team that made this shoot happen.
Pitbull Rescue Organization: Peace for Pits, Inc.
Bridal gown and bridesmaid dress: Jenny Yoo Collection Chicago
Models: Willow Faygenholtz, John Drucci Malandruccolo
Hair and Makeup: Kate Johnson Artistry
Floral: Navjot Design
Balloon Arch: Gromeza floral design studio
Cake: ECBG cake + pastry studio
Place Setting Rentals: Tablescapes Event Rentals
Favors: Flour & Fig
