Your DREAMS don't just have to be DREAMS.

Remember those dreams you had as a little child? Yes, those BIG dreams. It's never too late. Your dreams all start with believing you can. And lucky for you-- I'm here to help. 

There is nothing more beautiful and attractive than confidence. And top that off with inner peace and true happiness-- what more could you want? Well maybe your dreams are to move up the corporate ladder? Possibly be the top female software executive in the world? To be able to walk into a board room full of men, in an arguably male-dominated industry, and command respect. Naturally so.

Do you realize that you are your brand? Literally. Nothing superficial...but how you dress, how you approach each day-- that's how the world sees you. How do you want the world to see you? Likeable, warm, charismatic, or maybe approachable? That's where I come in. 

Maybe you're a guy in your mid-40s...newly divorced and have no idea where to start in this new chapter. Shoot, dating and life have changed considerably over the past 20 years. --But that doesn't mean you have to go into this new "life" alone. You can have someone in your corner; someone who helps pick up the pieces, organize your life and get you dressed for success. Or perhaps you would rather dress for new love, because you haven't given up and are ready to get back out there on the dating scene. 

My wish for you in this post is to spread hope, love and happiness. As a stylist / personal shopper and branding specialist (both personal branding and business branding), I'm here to help you. Happiness doesn't come in superficiality, but it does happen when you believe you can. --Percisely when you have the help and confidence to believe you can. 

Just like that incredible confidence you exuded as a child. Dreams are still attainable. True love, happiness and success is right in front of you. It all starts with believing. And lucky for you, I'm here to help.

All the best. XOXO,

Laura

laura@life-stylebylaura.com

All material in this blog is copyright of SkinnyinHeels and Life-STYLE by Laura. For media, styling and/or personal and business branding inquiries, simply contact us at: laura@life-stylebylaura.com 

Fashion Stars: STEPPING OUT for a Cause

"I am so sorry you have to face life with this kind of wound. I don't have any answers or magic words. In fact I would rather sit or walk with you for a silent hour than fill your ears with words that ring hallow and fall so short of real comfort. I would rather do your dishes. Or restock your refrigerator. Or write out the checks to pay your bills, answer you phone or take care of other mundane details. I would rather listen to you tell me all the things you love about the person you are missing so much. Or light a fire in your fireplace or make you something warm to drink. Or read the Psalms to you. Or bring you a pot of homemade soup. I would rather sleep on the floor by your bed so when you wake up in agony, someone is there... No one can talk away the pain. Grief drains most words of their power anyway." (Billy Sprague, Letter to a Grieving Heart)

Such a powerful quote, touching and equally beautiful. That quote still tugs at my heart strings after losing my brother ten years ago. To all of those who are reading this and have loved and lost, this quote is for you too. Grief does not come with an expiration date; take a deep breath, please be gentle with yourself and remember that there is a reason YOU are still here today. 

I know why I'm still here. I have a story to share, and more importantly, I am determined to make a HUGE difference in the lives of others-- especially right here in the Dallas community. I'm honored and humbled to be hand selected by Yvonne Crum as one her 2016 Fashion Stars. And it's just not just about being a fashionista, stylish or connected in the "Dallas scene", we are "Fashion Stars for a Cause". 

The most exciting part is that I now have the unique opportunity to utilize my platform in fashion to raise awareness and funding for the Suicide Crisis Center of North Texas. Yes indeed, 100% off all money raised between now and the black tie gala for Fashion Stars for a Cause (FSFAC) on Friday, March 25th at Dallas Country Club goes DIRECTLY to the Suicide Crisis Center of Dallas.

**I will share information at the end of this blog post as to how you and your business can get involved today and help support the Fashion Stars in our partnership with the Suicide Crisis Center of Dallas.

On Friday, September 12th, National Suicide Awareness Day, I had the pleasure of attending an event at Dallas City Hall. It was an informal kick-off for the FSFAC 2016 campaign. Brian Cuban, as pictured in the photo below, was the keynote speaker, in addition to Dallas mayor, Mike Rawlings and retired marine, Jeff Pierson.

Do you notice the shoes in front of the podium? Shoes, shoes and more shoes. This was just one side of the room at Dallas City Hall. Every SINGLE pair of shoes represents ONE life that was lost to suicide in Dallas over the last year. Can you believe that in one year, over 475 people committed suicide in Dallas? Just Dallas. 

As I listened to each speaker talk, my eyes welled up with tears. I glanced around the room at every pair of shoes, and I got chills through my entire body. That's 475 children, parents, siblings, spouses, grandparents... 475 lives that were lost too soon. And 100% percent of these lives lost could have been prevented. Suicide is a permanent answer to a temporary situation.

And it all starts with us talking about it. Right here. Right now. Did you know that in this country more than 22 military veterans commit suicide every single day? That's roughly one suicide every hour. These veterans are not committing suicide because they are selfish or taking the "easy way out". Each veteran truly believes that their loved ones will be better off without them. 

Not all wounds are visible. Everyone is fighting a battle that no one knows anything about. So why is it that depression, PTSD, anxiety and all the silent illnesses that plague so many of us are never talked about-- dusted under the rug? Nearly 16 MILLION Americans suffer from  a major depressive disorder. Depression is NOT a choice, and that stigma needs to stop. 

So how can you help? There are several ways to get involved by supporting the Suicide Crisis Center. I promise that no amount is too little: 

1) Donating made easy. I have set up a GoFundMe account for Fashion Stars for a Cause benefitting the Suicide Crisis Center. Click here: GoFundMe 

2) I am also selling raffle tickets for $100 each. You do not have to be present at the March 25th gala to win. You DEFINITELY want to buy at least one raffle ticket. So far, there are two amazing raffle prizes, and again; it's all for charity:

- BELK $5,000 Gift Card

- Exclusive Three Day, Four Night trip to Havana Cuba, from Conscious Cuba 

You can easily purchase your raffle ticket using the GoFundMe account. Simply put in the memo section how many raffle tickets you would like, and I will arrange delivery. If you would like to e-mail me to purchase raffle tickets, that's also easy: Laura@life-stylebylaura.com 

4) Become a corporate sponsor for the Fashion Stars for a Cause black tie event at Dallas Country Club on Friday, March 25th. Please call me for more details. I'm happy to help you and explain the different levels of corporate sponsorship! The best way to reach me is at: 832-314-0105 

5) Purchase individual tickets for the gala. Or, if you would like to bring a larger group, a table for 10 is available for $2,500. Again, please feel free to call or e-mail me for more details. 

Presenting your 2016 Fashion Stars. Together we can and WILL make a difference!

Photo credit: Danny Campbell Photography

From left to right-- Back row: Carmen Surgent, Whitney Kutch, Bridget Sommerlatte, Laurie Graham, Shayema Rahim, Gina Marx, Francis Harrison, Shelley Herrera-O'neal, Laura Fedock (me), Kristy Morgan, Sherice Brown, and Amanda Ward. | Front Row:  Margie Wright (Executive Director of the Suicide Cricis Center of North Texas) and Yvonne Crum (Founder and Chair of Fashion Stars for a Cause). 

*To learn more about the Suicide Crisis Center of North Texas and the services they provide, please visit their web site: Suicide Crisis Center 

Photo credit: Danny Campbell Photography 

All media inquiries can be directed to: Laura@life-stylebylaura.com

All skinnyinheels.com blog posts are © of Laura Fedock with Life-STYLE by Laura. All rights reserved. The content, verbiage and descriptions used in this post and all skinnyinheels.com blog posts cannot be copied or republished without written consent from Laura Fedock. All photo credit is given to photographers when the photo is taken by a professional photographer.  

Men's Fashion; Confidence is KEY.

Confidence is key. When a man walks into a room, his internal confidence becomes external. Whether he is drawing upon his experience, his faith, or the notion that he knows he looks good . . . wherever it comes from, confidence is key.

We all want it, but not every one possesses it. Confidence comes from an array of sources, but most importantly for men, confidence comes from their job. Did you hear that? Yes, a man feels most confident when his career is going well, and he's cruising to the top.

So what breeds confidence? It's not superficial, just the truth. When a man feels confident in his appearance, he can enter a room-- whether it be a high-pressure meeting, networking happy hour or first date, the man with confidence will always leave a lasting, favorable impression.

And on this notion of confidence, a man's professional wardrobe is absolutely essential. Dress the part, and the rest falls into place. It is imperative that every man understands how to pair different textures, fabrics and how to transition his look from day to night - all with confidence.

The easiest way to illustrate a well-rounded men's wardrobe is with pictures. My inspiration this week came from a dear friend in fashion, Joey Powers, who is also known as @dapper.one on Instagram. So without further adieu, let's begin:

Your first impression of this look is probably along the lines of, "Wow, that outfit is on point!" Yes, that's exactly right, as this look accomplishes a modernized three-piece suit, without the formality of your traditional three piece "mixy matchy" suit. The midnight blue sport coat paired over a heather grey vest with dark denim truly creates an aesthetically pleasing attire. Not to mention the pocket square with the perfect amount of color. Your father would not wear this look, and that's a good thing.

More buttoned up. This look is awesome! Pairing a navy blue pinstripe blazer over a stark white button down is definitely a classic duet. But, what makes this outfit oh so memorable is the diagonal-striped army green tie, topped off with a fun pop of print  and color in the orange and blue pocket square. Not detail goes overlooked in this number.

Window panes for days. This look initially draws you in with the standout-window pane sport coat, but what intrigues you and draws you in is the accessories and ease of this outfit. The balance of earth tones and metallics is instrumental to the overall magnetism of this ensemble. And yes, denim is the perfect mate for this blazer - carrying this look from the office all the way to date night.

Neutrals that are not so neutral. Talk about mixing textures- this look truly draws you in right away. The white poof of a pocket square is classic and elegant. But most importantly, pairing a plaid sport coat with a printed tie takes sheer confidence, but it must be done right- like in this photo. Make sure you steer clear of any tie that stares back at you. These are ties that tear your eyes away from the rest of the look. 

Bam! Bold and in charge. This look may not be for everyone, but it sure is memorable. The bordeaux mix plaid sport coat is a standout piece and is ideal for a special occasion or holiday party. Another three-piece look that is grounded with a lighter wash denim. These jeans adds an extra dimension of style - all with ease.

Is it a beach wedding? Every single aspect of this look equals true, effortless perfection. The neutral kaki suit, crochet navy-striped tie and the beaded bracelets are definitely on point. Add to it the French blue linen-blend button down, and you really have one stand out look. This is BY FAR my favorite outfit. Wow is an understatement! 

In the end, fashion is the stigma that draws in your audience, while confidence is the trigger that holds their attention. So let’s talk about what’s real. What sells. Who climbs the ladder and who holds it up. How many times has your brilliant idea, that you were so excited about the night before the presentation been overlooked by "the powers that be" only to be stolen the next quarter by a lesser colleague who presented it a way that you couldn’t? What's the difference? What does he have that you don't? The answer my brilliant friends is CONFIDENCE.  

A man’s confidence turns from internal to external in heart beat, before a single syllable of a word has been uttered. Whether it be a high-pressure board room meeting or a first date, a man's confidence is the key that unlocks the openness of his audience’s mind. So where does confidence come from?  Clearly you have the intellectual side figured out. You are smarter and work harder than the guy who gets all the credit, but your audience is not nearly as receptive to what you have to say as some others. Take a hard look at the situation and realize the only difference between him and you is that he LOOKS better, you know it, he knows it, and most importantly the audience, (bosses, colleagues, etc.) know it. What if we level the playing field? What if you look as awesome (if not better) than him? What would happen to your career then? Let's find out - together.  

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For styling and media inquiries, please contact Laura Fedock with Life-STYLE by Laura at:

Laura@life-stylebylaura.com

Photo credit goes to Joey Powers! Be sure to follow him on Instagram: @dapper.one !

Because life is BEAUTIFUL...

Isn't that quote amazing? It may seem deep, but don't you worry dolls, this post will be moving and awesome (if I have anything to do with it :) Let's just start by saying that I am more inspired than ever to inspire YOU this week. We all know that life is not all rainbows, butterflies and walking through a meadow with daisies. And that's ok. I truly want to inspire you to find strength today and every day, whether your life is full of happiness, stress or sorrow.  So let's begin, shall we?

Thank goodness it's almost Friday, right? I don't know about you, but this really has been a LONG and very busy week. And on top of that, I just found out that two of my closest friends have parents who are dying from cancer. That awful, gut wrenching, six letter word: C-A-N-C-E-R. My heart hurts for them, and all I can do is show them unconditional love, provide daily inspiration and be a truly selfless friend. After all, I will never forget who was there for me after my brother passed. These exact two friends were there, by my side . . . loving me, unconditionally - every step of the way. 

So with that being said, this post is a tribute to the two of you. You know who you are. I love you both dearly, and am sending you more love, positive vibes and prayers than you can ever imagine. May this week's blog, full of inspirational quotes and many beautiful things be a pure reminder that through all the sadness and trials in this world, we can still find peace and beauty. 

Now before I formally introduce to you one of my favorite up-and-coming jewelry designers and her stunning collection, allow me to share this with you. You may have seen this quote on my Facebook page this week:

I choose love. To love fiercely and freely. What about you? I'm sure if you have loved and lost in this lifetime, or maybe right now there is someone in your life who is currently struggling, this quote probably hits close to home. So why is it that we have to lose someone we love (be it a friend, family member, even an acquaintance) for us to truly embrace how fleeting and short this life is? When we lose someone, I like to say that God just needed another angel. Others may say that despite the hurt and loss, we always have to realize that this life is so precious, so BEAUTIFUL. Each and every day is a gift; after all, it's called the "present". 

Every. Single. Thing. About this life is beautiful. Without the struggles, we truly aren't capable of appreciating the good times. And that's just it. What does your life look like when everything is going well? And what makes you happy? For me, I love waking up in the morning and hearing my yorkie snoring next to me. I love music, sunsets, laughing, singing and gemstones. Oh, and I love LOVE. Yes, love. 

I love fashion, obviously, and it's through fashion that I have a platform to share my passion for life, experience with the loss, and ultimately, my love for others. I always told myself, from the very beginning of my career in fashion that I wasn't shopping and styling clients. What I am doing is truly helping others. Helping them excel in their careers. Helping them feel confident and beautiful. Helping them celebrate life's precious moments and special occasions. And that's just it; I really am.

So many beautiful things right? And that's one of the reasons why I chose this week, this post, to formally introduce to you one of the sweetest, most talented jewelry designers I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Her name is Sarah Strain and her collection is called St. Raine.

Isn't she gorgeous? And such a sweet girl. In all my years in fashion, I've never been more inspired by a jewelry designer's pieces, than I am with Sarah's. They bring me so much joy. That may sound cheesy, but they truly do. And so I'm here to share them with you. Each and every one of these pieces is extremely affordable and beautiful. 

And, here's the best news! As always, you get a 10% discount using promo code "LAURASTYLE" at checkout, but there's more. I'm sure you could see this one coming, but here goes: I will personally donate a SIGNIFICANT portion of the proceeds from all the jewelry purchased this week to the American Cancer Society. If you purchase multiple pieces, please feel free to shoot me an e-mail. Maybe there is a specific cancer that you would like me to make the donation from your sale towards,  and I am more than happy to do that. My e-mail is: Laura@life-stylebylaura.com

And gentlemen, this is the perfect opportunity to surprise your significant other, daughter, grandma, etc with a stunning, yet affordable piece. There's no need to feel excluded from the fun. So without further adieu, here's my Top 20 jewelry picks from the St. Raine collection! **Please note, when you visit the St. Raine site, you can purchase any piece, not just the ones showcased below. As long as you enter the promo code at checkout, I will be donating a portion of the proceeds back to the ACS. 

1) Peruvian Opal Lariat Necklace. There's something so delicate and beautiful about this necklace. The colors are divine, and the lariat silhouette is stunning and very flattering.

2) Blue Agate Gemstone Bracelets. These color are so gorgeous, let's just be real. Don't they make you smile?

3) Aquamarine and Pave Diamond Moon Bracelets. Oh that sweet moon. Such gorgeous colors and that moon and tassel are so pretty together. No, I'm not being cheesy . . . just honest.

4) Pave Diamond Wishbone Necklace. Talk about the perfect necklace for layering, right? So precious.

5) Non Tarnish Gold Shark Tooth Anklet. Pretty cool, right? And wearing an anklet is truly fun and different. This piece is perfect for daily wear and for your next beach getaway or pool party.

6) Geode Light Blue Tassel Earrings. Tassel earrings are among St. Raine's top selling items, and they come in a plethora of colors. Each pair is so effortless, sweet and feminine! 

7) Pave Diamond Opal Necklace. This necklace is the perfect statement piece to wear at your next cocktail party or black-tie event. But don't feel limited by this necklace, as you can absolutely pair this beauty back to a white T-shirt and distressed denim.

8) Amethyst Necklace. There is something so pure and beautiful about the amethyst birthstone. For me, purple is such a pure, divine color. It almost looks like you can see the clouds in this piece.

9) Pave Diamond and Labradorite Statement Ring. Talk about a statement ring. Wow, just wow!

10) Chrysoprase Spike Necklace. You have probably seen similar necklaces, but not with stunning colors like this (and the other ones on the St. Raine site). And if you were to find a necklace like this at a large retailer like Neiman Marcus, it would cost you at least $250.

11) Morganite Pave Diamond Druzy Necklace. Isn't this blush color gorgeous? And can we please just pause and say thank you to Sarah for having such a gifted eye for beautiful colors and textures? This necklace is pristine in its design. All around, it's amazing.

12) Dream Catcher Earrings. Need I say more? Call me a dreamer, and a doer . . . and let's just say these earring equal perfection.

13) Geode Cobal Blue Beaded Tassel Earrings. This blue is amazing! And it couldn't be more perfect for Dallas, TX, as all our sports teams (Cowboys, Mavericks, Rangers, and Stars) rock the color blue in their team colors.

14) Pave Diamonds and Light Pink Chalcedony Lariat. Once again, the lariat silhouette is back with a  bang. And going back to a previous blog post, wearing the color pink is always a good idea. Studies show that wearing pink can actually help you feel happier and more content. It's all in the power of pink - pretty sweet, huh? 

15) Peruvian Opal Point Necklace. The way the light hits this pendant is impeccable. There really aren't any words that do it justice, and especially at that price. Yes please.

16) Rose Quartz Necklace. Did you know that rose quartz is a healing stone? Not only that, but finding beautiful rose quartz in this hue and color intensity is extremely rare. Obsessed is an understatement.

17) Peruvian Opal, Diamond and Agate Necklace. This green and pink combination is absolutely beautiful. It makes me want to jet set away to a beach somewhere. What about you?

18) Lariat (14k Gold Filled). Absolutely beautiful. It's classy, elegant and ideal for layering. Lariat necklaces are very flattering on a woman's body, as it showcases our curves.

19) Non Tarnish Gold Filled Body Chain with CZ Charm. This is St. Raine's #1 selling body chain, and it's the most beautiful body chain I've ever seen. It's perfect for everyday wear; dainty, beautiful and sexy - yet classy. Love, love, love.

20) Gold CZ Anklet. And the evil eye pendant is one of my absolute favorite symbols. The evil eye is all about positivity. It's a sacred pendant that symbolizes cutting all negative people and energy out of your life. Who doesn't need that? 

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So those are my Top 20 picks! Be sure to check out the entire St. Raine collection. And don't forget,  I will be donating a significant portion of the proceeds from all jewelry sold over the next week to the American Cancer Society. Be sure to share with your friends and family. It's for a good cause, and I sincerely promise that you will LOVE the St. Raine collection. :)

"Don't be afraid to give yourself everything you've ever wanted in life." You deserve to be happy. You deserve to wake up every day and feel loved. You deserve to be surrounded by beautiful things. You deserve to love this life. And that is my greatest wish for you.

Cheers fashion lovers. XOXO - Laura

All styling and media inquiries can be directed to Laura@life-stylebylaura.com

The BALANCE

Happy Wednesday fashion lovers! Today's post includes some of my favorite fashion finds, all together displaying one of my coveted styling tricks-- mixing hard and soft together in one outfit ensemble.

Yes ma'am. Clearly this shot is the epitome of mixing hard and soft. Right away there was something about this photo that caught your attention, but you probably weren't able to put your finger on it. That's because the juxtaposition of mixing a delicate lace top with distressed denim and rock-studded heels truly creates a delicate, aesthetically pleasing balance of feminine (soft) mixed with edgy (hard). When it comes to balancing the two, you really can't get more delicate and feminine than a blush lace; nor can you get more edgy than distressed denim with studded pointy-toe pumps.

Now, before we take a closer look, please allow me to clarify one thing. We're showcasing this lace top because it's stunning, BUT, for styling purposes, especially for a daytime look, this top is truly something you would layer under a romper, dress, etc. (Also, this top is nude lined. There is nothing sheer about it in the bust area.)

And now for my closeup. ;) You may have failed to notice this beautiful jewelry from afar. Maybe you saw it, but the overall look is what caught your eye. This stunning necklace and hand chain truly add unique, feminine touches to further balance this look. *And, for simplicity's sake, I will post all information pertaining to brand links, boutique info, and purchasing discounts (with promo codes) at the end of this blog.

This above photo is all about the grace and beauty that comes with being a woman. After all, why not celebrate being a girl? Personally, I feel most beautiful when I'm wearing heels (obviously, as "heels" is in the title of my blog name). I also love when my my overall makeup is natural but my eyes are dramatic. When it comes to my favorite outfits, I'm all about mixing warm tones (like this blush top) with cool tones (blue denim). 

And isn't this shirt so much fun? For me it doubles as a comfortable tank to pair back to skirts and shorts, but it also works great as a bathing suit cover-up.

And I'm sure you're loving the shoulder chain? That shoulder chain, hands down, is one of my FAVE stand-out signature accessories ever. Obsessed is an understatement!

And of course, we can't close this blog post without playing off the whole idea of, "MY OTHER SHIRT IS A BIKINI". Yes...when it's summer time in Dallas, we kinda live in our swimsuits. After all, what better way is there to cool off in this Texas heat? This bikini is fun, flirty and feminine! It's truly unlike any bathing suit I have ever worn. I just love it!!! And the accessories paired with it (specifically the antique metal necklace) once again balance hard and soft.

Now for the outfit details. In order to receive an exclusive discount, simply enter promo code "Laurastyle" at checkout. If you choose to shop in person at the boutiques listed below, that's awesome too. Simply tell them that you heard about their boutique on my blog and they will honor the 10% discount / promo code for you! :)

LOOK #1, OUTFIT DETAILS: 

* Necklace: Kori Green. Available at the Abi Ferrin flagship store in West Village in Dallas, TX. Feel free to check out her collection HERE, but you want absolutely want to order her jewelry through the Abi Ferrin boutique in order to receive your exclusive discount!

* Hand Chain: St. Raine: Just remember "LAURASTYLE" at checkout! 

* Lace Top: For Love And Lemons skivvies. The same skivvies top can be purchased in other colors (like stunning tropical orange and black) at Bask Boutique AND you get your discount with the promo code! 

* Watch: Chanel. Available at Neiman Marcus.

* Denim: AG. Available at Nordstrom.

* Shoes: Valentino. Available at Neiman Marcus. 

LOOK #2, OUTFIT DETAILS:

* Tank Top: Bask Boutique. Currently sold out. Sorry dolls!

* Shoulder Chain:  Opal Milk by Rye sold exclusively at the Abi Ferrin boutique. You can also purchase the Opal Milk by Rye collection online HERE. Remember promo code "Laurastyle" at checkout. You receive the same discount online as you do at the AF boutique. (This shoulder chain was a custom piece that I ordered at a Trunk Show at the Abi Ferrin boutique. It can be ordered through the Abi Ferrin boutique, or on the Opal Milk by Rye web site.)    

LOOK #3, OUTFIT DETAILS:

* Bikini: Bask Boutique.

* Necklace: Opal Milk by Rye. (This exact necklace was also a custom piece that I ordered at a Trunk Show at the Abi Ferrin boutique. It can be ordered through the Abi Ferrin boutique, or on the Opal Milk by Rye web site.) 

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Professional Photo Credit: Marcus Lopez Photography 

Venue: SISU Uptown | And a huge THANK you to Dan Bui, owner of SISU!

Makeup: Jeff Roose from Neiman Marcus

Hair: Cam Allison from Pin Salon Dallas

On-site styling assistance: Mary Massoudi Guevara 

All styling and media inquiries can be directed to: Laura@life-stylebylaura.com

All skinnyinheels.com blog posts are © of Laura Fedock with Life-STYLE by Laura. All rights reserved.  The content, verbiage and descriptions used in this post and any blog post cannot be copied or republished without written consent from Laura Fedock. All photo credit is given to photographers when the photo is taken by a professional photographer.