Model for a day

A few weeks back I received a pleasantly surprising email from the features editor of Essentials magazine, Taryn Arnot. She said the feature piece for the magazine's December issue was about how 'inspiring', 'real women' would be celebrating the festive season. She had read my blog and thought I would great for the feature! Well first of all to be thought of as 'real' is a huge compliment and affirmation that I am being authentic about who I am on my blog. But then to also be referred to as 'inspring' was amazing! I agreed to take part in the feature, which entailed answering some questions pertaining to the topic and then going for a photoshoot. It was immensely exciting.

Myself and two other bloggers (Laura from Harassed Mom blog and Melinda from Diaries of a white mother raising a black baby) were to meet Taryn and the photo shoot crew at a boutique hotel and wedding venue called Morrells Manor in Northcliff.  We tried on a few different clothing ensembles and then had hair and make-up done. While we waited for our turn in front of the camera we were treated to some delicious snacks and beverages. It's so funny how nervous I was, but then so were the other two women for whom it was also a new experience.

I was first up in front of the camera. I think I was nervous because I envisaged a whole Tyra Banks Americas next Top Model scenario where you have to pose in different positions with specific 'looks'. It was of course nothing like that seeing that this was obviously not a fashion shoot. I was photographed in two different settings and the poses were very 'portrait' in nature. It was finished very quickly and then we were free to go. I stayed and chatted with the other ladies for a bit before heading home.

It was certainly an experience I will always remember, not least because I spent a relaxing afternoon without the kids, being preened and pampered and treated like a star. Thanks to Taryn Arnot for choosing me and thanks to Essentials magazine for the opportunity. So look out for the December issue of Essentials, I certainly am excited to see it!