Hammamet, Tunisia - January 2020

What inspired this photoshoot?

Tunisia was not a place that I had on my radar until December 2019. I booked a last minute flight to Spain for the end of the month. I started looking at destinations from Spain to celebrate NYE. I love Spain; it’s one of my favorite countries; however, my curiosity was pulling me to explore elsewhere. I got on Skyscanner and began searching for last minute deals. Tunisia came up as an option. I didn’t know much about Tunisia other than knowing it was a filming location for Star Wars.

As I was looking, I remembered that my sister had told me a while back that she had a friend from Tunisia. She had told me that if I ever go, she would connect us. I booked my ticket and excitedly asked my sister to connect us. It was a soul-friend match made in Heaven. It turns out, her friend, Ahlem, is a lightworker like me, executive coach, intuitive, and energy healer…aka, my kind of woman.

When my sister connected the two of us, she shared with Ahlem about my mission of modeling in photoshoots in countries all over the world. Ahlem was super excited to hear of my mission and eager to support. When I arrived in Tunisia, I connected with Ahlem. She was already down the path of planning an epic photoshoot adventure. There were 2 areas she recommended to me—Hammamet and Sidi Bou Said. She found 2 different photographers to support with these photoshoots. She lined up her hairstylist and a makeup artist to support the first photoshoot, and the outfits magically appeared as well. Everything came together so beautifully. I couldn’t have planned this. It was orchestrated by the divine.

What is the location like?

Hammamet is a beautiful beach town located on the southeastern coast of Tunisia. It is a 1-hour drive from the capital, Tunis. The town boast many quaint cafes, shopping, and Tunisian street food. This is a popular destination for a day at the beach. The coastal views are stunning.

How did you find your outfit?

Prior to visiting Hammamet, Ahlem had informed me that she her dear friend, Faten, lives there. She works for the cultural center and said she would be great for helping me find a store to acquire an outfit. When we arrived in Hammamet, we connected with Faten. As soon as she saw me and heard of my mission, she lit up with joy. She asked Ahlem to drive her by her home. We waited in the car and moments later, Faten came back with arms full carry a beautiful dress and accessories. She was carrying her sister’s traditional Tunisian Wedding gown and offered for me to wear it. I was completely blown away. It was one of the most beautiful pieces I had ever seen or worn. And I was incredibly honored that she would entrust me to wear something so special to her family.

In Tunisia, brides start by putting on a beautiful white lace dress undergarment. After that is in place, the bride is adorned in individual hand-embroidered sleeves that are dressed one by one. Next an ornate collar is placed over the white lace followed by an intricately woven colorful dress. Final touches are made by placing gold jewelry, gold ankle cuffs, and a gold crown. The quality of gold depends on the wealth of the family.

I felt like a bride and queen all in one…like royalty. And the fact that it belonged to Faten’s sister made it even more special. I will forever remember this incredible gift and honor of wearing this traditional dress in Tunisia.

Photoshoot Credit

Photographer: Karim Nadhour

Karim is from Tunisia. He takes beautiful portrait shots of his subjects. He has such a kind and friendly energy to him. I felt at ease and well-taken care of by him. I often get approached by many people when I am doing a photoshoot. An Italian man was infatuated by our experience and wanting to take photos of me. He was also trying to tell Karim how to take photos. Karim was not phased by this man, and graciously worked around him without allowing him to overtake the experience. :) I laugh when I think about that moment.

Karim has a great eye for detail and capturing more raw and authentic photos. When you’re in Hammamet, be sure to reach out to Karim. You’ll have a beautiful and memorable experience.

Check out Karim’s Instagram and other work here.

Hair + Makeup: Imen Dhib and Soù Mayà Baroumi

While in Tunis, Ahlem took me to her Hairstylist, Imen. Hair Salons in Tunisia are special. They are women-only and a safe place for women to be themselves and enjoy being pampered. I loved the energy of Imen’s salon. I got to meet other local women and enjoy having my hair washed and blown out.

Soù Mayà works with Imen in her salon. She is a makeup artist and very talented. She kept me away from the mirror and told me “No Peaking!” until she was finished. She did a lovely job of keeping my makeup more natural and highlighting my features.

How did you feel during and after the photoshoot?

This experience was so majestic. I felt like a Tunisian bride adorned and ready to start a new life. The clothes made me feel like royalty and so special. The best part of the experience, by far, was being connected with such kind and welcoming people. Ahlem, Faten, Imen, Soù Mayà, and Karim all made the experience. It’s always the people of each place I travel to who remind me of why I’m on this mission and why I keep going. I have nothing but gratitude for each and every soul I connect with during each experience.