“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.”
– THE A L C H E M I S T
This story is simple but special.
When I first moved to Los Angeles, I was constantly enamored by this particular structure. Nestled discreetly between shops on Sunset Blvd. stood El Chavo; a lively concoction of Moroccan design meets Havana flair. Earlier this month, the Mexican restaurant with the mean margarita happy hour decided to officially close its doors for good.
I heard rumors of this looming fate last year but somehow found it hard to believe. It seemed far too beautiful too be left behind. I told myself one day I would shoot there before it was too late. I knew it would happen when the moment was right. At the time, I knew I didn’t have the tools necessary.
I’ll be honest; my desire for this goal was strong, yet my effort was minimal. That’s the crazy thing about manifestation, we’re told we have to want it, yet if we exert too much force it evades us. Things begin to happen when we demonstrate the strength and faith to release whatever it is we want. I’ve found there’s a special kind of magic in trust.
Two years came and went. This past September, I finally made good on the promise I made to myself. Like a well mixed cocktail, all the ingredients came together seamlessly; location, wardrobe, photographer and a little bit of ‘magic.’ The result of getting out of my own way was the imagery within this post.
At first, I felt as I do with any successful shoot: accomplished. When I paused, I realized it was deeper than success. It was that my vision came to light through my unwavering faith. What makes life most exciting is the possibility of having a dream actualized. Of creating the unseen in the mind and watching it appear.
As El Chavo phases out, and the old becomes the new, I’ll be curious to see how the spot is modernized. I truly hope whoever decides to take over this special space chooses to preserve some of its iconic and stylistic appeal. Regardless, I will continue to slide my cat eye shades down the bridge of my nose to sneak a peak whenever I cruise by.
She’s watching you, kid.
M
|| FEATURED L O C A T I O N ||
El Chavo Restaurant
|| FEATURED P R O D U C T S ||
Zara, Suede Platfroms
J.Crew, Chandelier Earrings
|| P H O T O G R A P H Y ||
Amaazing dress looking great..:)
Thank you Andy 🙂
Xx,
M
You look so stunning babe!
Beautiful post! Loved reading it!
XO
Aimara
http://www.waysofstyle.com
Aw thanks Aimara! Glad you enjoyed <3
Xx,
M
Ive always loved your content and your looks are awesome!
x
mutzii || http://www.theshoenazi.com
You are amazing and so gorgeous! I love this setting – your photos are spectacular! Love the dress you’re wearing and how you styled it with the shoes. Perfection babe! Xoxo
Aw, you’re a doll! Thank you so much for the kind words and admiration. I admire your work just as much <3
Xx,
M
I love when all the pieces come together and a vision is physically executed! You should be so proud of your accomplishment — not everyone has the talent, will or tenacity to see their goals through from start to finish.
xo Stella
http://www.theheartsdlite.com
Thank you so much Stella for the kind words and encouragement!
Much love,
M
These pictures are stunning !! I love your style and love your beautiful presence ! You are such an inspiration!!
Thank you doll! You’re too sweet <3
Xx,
M
When I visit, I gotta go! Love the outfit!
You must!
<3
M
Love this dress and your shoes. Amazing post. I live in La and need to visit this spot.
http://www.styleweekender.com
You should definitely visit. Oh how fun! We should link, I would love to meet you 🙂
Xx,
M
Let’s plan something. I’ll DM you. 😙
Let’s do it!! <3
this look is so awesome
Thanks Thorton!
Xx,
M
These pictures are beautiful and the backdrop is amazing! It feels like we are right there with you. And love your off the shoulder dress and the way you styled it. Perfection.
xo, Jackie
stylemydreams.com
Such a lovely comment! Thank you Jackie xx
You captured this dress so beautiful. Love it in every single way, in every single angle!
Dimme – http://blushingheels.com
Thank you so much lovely!
Xx,
M
What a perfectly lovely place for a photo shoot!
Thanks Teresa 🙂
Xx,
M
I loooove the clutch! How brave and cute those socks with the open shoes, loving it! Great job lovely, really enjoyed this post! xx
Hehe I love the shoebee look 🙂 Thanks for reading! Glad you enjoyed.
Xx,
M
Girl I love your editorial style photography! And the socks with the sandals are just tooo cute babe!
THANK YOU!!! Hehe thanks
<3
M
http://www.cartincoupon.com
Great site for discounts, thanks Andy 🙂
Wow great read and I love your outfit, perfect photo shoot babe! Xo, Darci
Thank you Darci. You’re so sweet <3
Love this photo story!!!
So editorial!
Thank you Olga! I do love me some editorials 😉
Xx,
M