Cheri's 40 over 40 Story

What is your favorite body part or feature? 
I love my eyes and full lips!

Are you anxious or nervous about anything related to your portrait session?
I damaged my body with the years of being overweight. As I see myself in pictures, I have never been happy… I hope to change that!

Why is it important to be part of the 40 over 40 campaign?
I have come a very long way in my 50 years… I was overweight for over half of that. I am in a place where I have some confidence to actually pose for a photo instead of hiding in the back. I am looking forward to being front and center!

Are we celebrating a milestone, transformation, birthday or another event with your portrait session?
I have lost over 100 pounds! It’s time to celebrate me!

What do you hope to gain from participating with the 40 over 40 campaign?
Show other women who have struggled in some aspect of their life that they are in control! Take charge and own it!

What excites you the most regarding your portrait session?
Feeling like a pin up model from the 40’s/50’s! I feel like I should have lived in a different lifetime. The silver screen sirens have been my joy for as long as I can remember! Elizabeth Taylor, Katherine Hepburn, Betty Davis, Judy Garland,  and So many others simply take my breath away!

What is the most valuable lesson life has taught you?
Remind those who are close that you love them, they may not be there tomorrow!

What wisdom would you like to share with your younger self?
Value all those who are around you! Take criticism to heart! Know that no matter what… you are worthy of love and more importantly, respect!

Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
My mother! She was a teen mom in the 70’s, married and pregnant in high school. I watched her struggle my whole life to build a life for us. A family, a home. She worked several jobs to make ends meet. She often says that I raised her… little does she know that without her, I would be lost! She is my everything! 

What's your favorite beauty secret?
Under eye serum! It reduces puffyness and dark circles!

When have you felt the most beautiful?
I don’t know that I have ever felt lot beautiful….

What was happening when you were extremely proud of yourself?
4 years ago when I decided to take control of my life and lose the weight!

Describe yourself in 3 words
Funny, Smart, and Loud!

Cheri was a joy to photograph and I enjoyed getting to know the beautiful woman she is inside, as well.  This beautiful woman and her bestie traveled from McHenry, IL to participate in the 40 over 40 campaign!  Grab your bestie or your mother/daughter and celebrate womanhood, aging gracefully and yourselves!  There are spaces available still in the second round of the 40 over 40 campaign so inquire today!!