Metamorphosis

Hello Everyone!

It's been some time since I have written a post. I have been quite busy with custom orders and designing new looks. Angel Eyes Designs was invited this past weekend to the 3rd Annual Mo'Rockin' Fashion Fest in Wicker Park. The Star Model Students wore my designs and rocked it on the runway. I was very pleased with the turn out. Again a big thank you to Latino Fashion Week for inviting me and for the students who so proudly wore my designs.

Many changes are on the way, hence the name of this blog is named after that change. Every once in a while, we need to stop what we're doing and analyze our work. Angel Eyes is in the process of doing so. There needs to be a change so grand, that will take this company to the next level. It's a very exciting time and scary all the while. Yet, I am so welcoming the changes coming. I'm all about improving, growing, and learning.

In these past weeks, there are many things I have learned about myself. Much like the caterpillars my son has been caring for, I feel much like them. I feel that I have been one thing, crawling around aimlessly, yet taking in the nutrients I needed to grow. Now, like the caterpillars, I am in the Chrysalis phase. For them, it only takes about 7 to 10 days to break free with their wings, ready to fly about. In my case, I may stay in this phase for longer than just a week or two. I am hoping to soon be ready to break free and also spread my wings. I will enjoy my time during this phase as I get to look deeper within myself, with a microscope so I can see all my flaws and all the beauty as well.

I can't tell you what will become of all this. I can only share my experience with you, hoping it can maybe help you on the path you're on. Don't be afraid to explore yourselves. You are not what people say your are. You are what you feel and what you see. People are quick to pass judgements on us because it is easier than having to judge themselves. Whatever path you're on, whatever decision you're struggling to make, always talk about it with someone. You'd be surprised that in a conversation, you sometimes will figure out the right choice for you.

I will post again and share with you this Metamorphosis I am currently undergoing. I can't wait to see the outcome. I don't know what colors my wings will be, but whatever comes, I will be accepting to it.  Until next time, enjoy the end of summer, and welcome the changes in the season. Peace and Love.

Angelica Santoyo-Bernal

A Girl and A Dress

Thursday, July 28th, 6:45 a.m. I get a text, "Hey. The Shoot." I could barely open my eyes to read the text, I looked outside and it's raining. Not a good day for a photo shoot. About 10:45, it was just cloudy and a little drizzle. I said, let's do this. I packed up my gear, umbrella, dress, and headed out to what was going to be my debut as a Fashion Photographer.

The day couldn't have been more perfect. We headed to Millenium Park, Chicago's hidden treasure. Joel Burton, Father of Leia Sofia Burton, allowed me to photograph Leia in an original Angel Eyes Design. She wore an ivory chiffon summer dress from my Summer Limited Collection. Leia was more than happy to participate. The 4 1/2 year old was a bit shy at first, so we told her to just play. She got into the water, she climbed benches, she splashed in water puddles and played with an umbrella under the waterfalls. I didn't even feel like I was working. I was simply following this little joy, full of wonder and amazement. I had so much fun, as did she. At one point, her dad got into the water as well. After the shoot, we went to Maxwell's and got some grub, then hit up Mario's Italian Ice on Taylor. It was a great day in the Park.

I never really saw myself as a photographer. I think it's definitely fun to do, but I would never want it to be my job. I think it would lose it's fun factor immediately. As long as the photo shoots remain fun, spontaneous, and simple, I'll take on the projects.  I'm so glad that Columbia College groomed me to be more than I thought I ever could be. All those classes of drawing, sketching, sewing, photography, tailoring, textiles, you name it, I took it. I am finally appreciating how it all was worth it and came to good use in my life. 

Here are some photos from my Photo Shoot with Leia Sofia Burton. You can view the complete album on my website www.angeleyesdesigns.com under the tab A Girl and A Dress. None of these photos were Photoshopped or enhanced in any way. There was also no Make up or Hair Stylists involved. Just A Girl and A Dress!