ToteSavvy: Efficiency with Style

Since the day I started my baby registry, I knew that I did not want to haul around a diaper bag. Don’t get me wrong, there are so many stylish diaper bags on the market— However, I wanted to be able to use my favorite handbags because let’s be real, unless you’re going on a date night or you’re doing some errands of your own, you probably won’t see those handbags for a long time. So instead of going for a temporary diaper bag, I’m so glad that I’ve discovered the ToteSavvy, which lets you turn any handbag or tote into an organized diaper bag. It makes it easy to switch bags depending on the occasion without having to unpack/ repack anything.


As a girl who has always used a bag organizer to keep my bags tidy, this tote savvy organizer is heaven sent. Efficiency and style all in one.

I use both the original large ToteSavvy and the deluxe for my Ella tote and neverfull.  Below I’ll share my must haves for a day out as an exclusively pumping mama.

Water Wipes: I also use honest brand too, but I find the packaging of water wipes to be a bit sleeker and easier to pull out.

Pacifiers: I always pack 3, just in case. We use the Ryan and Rose brand along with Nuk.

Pacifier Sterilizer: I find this to be a good form of paci-storage and gives me peace of mind knowing it sterilizes as well.

Pacifier clip: the one she leaves the house with, typically. Must have a 3 month old who likes to drop them everywhere any anywhere.

Diapers: we love using the honest brand, clean and cute.

Diaper Trash Bags: This are a must for us. Whether we are over someone’s house or moving around in public spaces, we find this to be a responsible addition. The ones you see below are great because they don’t leave a stench behind.

Sanitizer: a MUST, obviously. We use either Thieves or the Honest spray one.

Sanitizing Wipes: also a MUST. I use them to clean surfaces, the out side of bottles, stroller handles, even my phone. I use the honest ones as well since they’re a cleaner option, with less harmful chemicals that I feel safer around my little one.

Sleepygize Blend: I use this essential oil blend on myself when rocking her so she can relax and stop fighting her sleep. Her first sleep regression is kicking in.

Disposable Changing Pads: although the tote savvy comes with a reusable changing pad, I don’t feel comfortable laying it directly onto the changing station surface and then putting it back in the bag with the rest of our stuff. So I bought cute ones from Marshall’s to be able to lay down before the changing pad and then toss afterward. You can also use wee-wee pads from any store.

Extra Clothes: I will say one outfit is not enough for a full day outing. Babies need 2-3 changes a day. I typically pack a onesie or two and a sleeper.

Full Bottle: as an exclusively breast pumping mama, this is something that brings me peace of mind. Sometimes I’ll pack two and add them to the insulated pocket.

Manual Pump: on the go pumping is a necessity for me, if I were traveling for than 24 hours I’d definitely take another one and some pump cleaning wipes.

Empty Bottle: I also pack an empty bottle to pour my pumped milk into.

Burp Cloth: Because my baby is in the teething stage, make that 2!

Bib: I always pack one for every outfit. The drool and milk mess is epic.

Teether: it’s about that time with a 3 1/2 month old and soon it’ll be toys too!

Accessories: mama & baby glasses, extra bows and socks!

That’s a day in a life of a regular 4-8 hour outing with my 3 month old babe. Tote Savvy is the best option for us because it allows one the flexibility to pack for short or longer outings. A huge thank you to ToteSavvy for sponsoring this post and for making a product that’s makes our life easier, efficient and stylish.

Not Just a Cute Bible Verse, k?

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. • Psalm 37:4

Yeah no, I’m not going to throw a cute Bible verse at you. Let’s break this down for sec, shall we?

That’s an actual promise in scripture. But I get it, easier said than done right? We live in a world where instant gratification is everywhere. Where we are tricked into thinking you can manifest anything your heart desires. Yadi, yadi, yadaaa. But let’s talk about steadfastness in the spirit.

See, it’s obviously easy to rejoice in moments of joy. But what if I told you, joy wasn’t meant for moments? What if I told you joy is a supernatural fruit of the spirit, that you can have at EVERY moment, every season. Shoot, joy can be present in moments of heartache, despair and darkness.

To delight is to take pleasure in. To find joy in the midst. But how are you supposed to discover this supernatural fruit if you’re not leaning into the VERY thing that can provide it? It’s not JUST about going to church and doing ABC. That comes from a place of practice. Rather, love fulfills & God IS love. The more you press into the One who holds the key to this mystery, the more you will discover TRUE joy.

I’m talking from a place of experience. Yes I’m only 26, however, God called me out at 16. One of the darkest seasons of my life. I had seen things I shouldn’t have, I was experiencing things that forced my young heart to grow up a lot quicker in many ways. God restored my youth. Jesus guarded my childlike heart as soon as I encountered Him. I shouldn’t be here today. Like at ALL.

It’s been a heck of a journey, almost 11 years of seeing the Lord turn beauty from ashes in my own life. I want to see this for you too, because I’ve seen God do this for SOOO many others.

You’re not stuck. Your marriage is not stuck. Your ability to experience goodness is NOT stuck.

What might be stuck is your faith, your willingness to abide in God.

& if that’s the case, surrender.
We’re here to help you. We’re here to pray with you & help connect you to others who have seen God do it over & over again.

But it’s up to you. Are you going to allow those tears to dry in vain? Or trust in God?

Mama's Homemade "Gatorade"

Homemade Orange Electrolyte Mocktail 😍

When I find something I enjoy, I want everyone around me to try it too 🤷🏻‍♀️ #oversharing

I used to love drinking those sport themed beverages until I started reading labels 🤮

Here is my new go to electrolyte-hydrating powerhouse cocktail.

1 grapefruit
1 orange 🍊
1 lime
1 lemon 🍋
A dash of Himalayan salt
1tbsp local honey 🍯

** feel free to try this with watermelon too… sooo good.

Add this citrus tonic over a pitcher of water and ice! Sip and enjoy throughout the day 🙌🏼

Once I realized that electrolytes could support nerve/ muscle function, hydrate the body, balance blood pressure and acidity… my mindset shifted and I automatically began reading those labels.

Other options are coconut water, watermelon juice or other natural juices (home made of course) and even smoothies with whole food ingredients.

Hope y’all enjoy 🤍

Canceling Fear in the Name of Jesus

** This post was written when we were 7 weeks pregnant and there was an empty sack with no heart beat on our pregnancy confirmation ultrasound **

Cancelling fear in the name of Jesus.

It’s in our nature to fear the unknown or circumstances that feel unfamiliar but here is a promise and a command that we can use to combat the enemies lies and defeat fear:

Do NOT be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10

Everything is spiritual, everything.
Protect your peace, protect your heart, protect Gods truth.

His truth is the key to set you free from all that wants to hold you bondage. This message is for the woman (or man) that needs a reminder: you don’t belong to worry, you don’t belong to fear. Whatever battle you’re facing, face it with TRUTH. Face it with your sword, the word of God (Eph.6)🗡

Oh & remember what God I’m talking about:

“I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs” Isaiah 41:18

Phew, I needed that reminder too 😅✌🏼

Beware of Silent Deception

It was on a day like this a few years ago where I almost took my life. I was on my way to homestead to treat myself to a milk shake (I was very broke at the time— so this was a big deal)

I was driving my little PT cruiser with a joy that was beginning to fill my heart. It took a few years to get there. Not to experience happiness, rather joy. Happiness is temporary and joy is like a virtue. It’s steadfast.

It took me time to see that the suffering I had endured wasn’t in vain. I was free from it. I was free from being held captive by the pain. I wasn’t subject to it anymore and for the first time on that day I felt so light, free and grateful.

I heard a small voice as I was driving. “You can end it like this. What an amazing way to go, with joy and a blissful day” for a second I thought it was Jesus. I looked over the ramp/ hill that I was near and considered driving myself off it.

BUT THEN, Jesus.
I heard another voice. This one was different. This one I was familiar with. It whispered directly to my heart.

God asked “Are you sure that’s me?” My heart began beating so fast. I had almost been deceived by a lie that came disguised as light. It ran goose bumps all over my body and each hair down my back was up and alert to what had just happened.

My story is a little different, considering I went through the struggle and THEN considered ending it on a “good note”— but this doesn’t change that we should always practice vigilance my friends.

I will always encourage everyone to grow your relationship with Jesus. Speak to Him, even if you don’t hear anything, see anything, whatever. God IS there. He will show up, and when you spend enough time with someone, you’ll be able to recognize their voice much faster.

If you were in a dark room and let’s say your mom is in there with 100 other women calling out your name, you’d eventually find her. Why? Because that’s your moms voice. You know her. You spent time with her.

Get to know Jesus today.
You were made with purpose ON purpose.

our "why"

Nesting is in full swing over here and I’ve been setting aside all the baby things and using all that I can to support this new bump. 😅

Today I saw a reel that spoke truth about one of the businesses that I’ve been running for 3 years. And realized we’re here. My “why” is finally here. The reel was about this business not being some quick and easy opportunity. And it was so refreshing to see and repost.

However, nothing is more rewarding than seeing over 1200 families encounter our mission in spreading low tox living in Miami. & THEN seeing friends experiencing a legacy business that can be willed to our children.

It takes work. It takes market research.
It takes costumer care, team building and definitely a lot more than sales. Sales is just what people see and even THAT we do different because we ARE different. It takes strides like any other business— eventually pulling out LLC’s and sooo much more!

We are people with lives transformed by a lifestyle that has come with many testimonies— making it THAT much “easier” to share because the paychecks are just a plus/ reward not our #1 motive.. and it shows.

We love each other, we love the people God has entrusted us to serve and educate. & best of all we’re unlike any other business. Less than 5% of our organization does this business. The rest are just beloved costumers.

As a soon to be mama, I want to thank everyone who has ever welcomed Essential Family into their homes/ lifestyle. We are in the business of changing lives and we are SOOO grateful for your support. Our team has been forever changed because of you. Women who have been able to afford leaving jobs that robbed them of time with family. Teachers who have been able to experience a fair income and travel. Freelancers like myself who have been able to take time off in peace and actually REST.

Grateful is an understatement.
Jesus, thank you for making a way for this team.

Grieving with Excitement

Lately, I’ve been asked quite a few times how I REALLY feel and I wish I could put it all into words… but I just couldn’t. I have felt far too many things. So I’ll attempt to merge all my notes into one for this loaded question.

When I first found out, I was nervous and completely unsure. I had never taken a pregnancy test or had a pregnancy “scare.” 

**Side note: even though I get why people use that phrase— because every scenario is different… I just can’t relate. I wasn’t scared, just jumpy. Nervous that I would be disappointed if it were to come back negative and nervous that the results would could also be positive.**

Fear wasn’t in the picture yet (that came later).  I knew whatever the results would be, it was Gods will. There is nothing better than being within His will. So when that second line made its appearance within 15 seconds, I began panicking with excitement. I even called my client/friend who encouraged me to take it to confirm. She congratulated me and we hung up fairly quickly.


I began crying and laughing… I even attempted to pray a VERY scattered prayer lol 😅 

Anyways, fear began to make an appearance within hours. Between letting my family and closest friends know, I began hurting AND worrying for other peoples potential reactions to our news.

I was told in 2020 by a practitioner that my hormones were off— apparently my progesterone was extremely low and my chances of conceiving could be hindered if I didn’t change certain things about my diet and sleep schedule. However, I never let what my practitioner or the results completely discourage me, because I knew deep down that the Lords will mattered more than my own. Whatever it may be. 

Instead, I found myself most of last year and even early 2021 surrounded by women that God called me to comfort, who were struggling with this very fear. I didn’t go looking for this, it just happened. Looking back at it now, it was definitely spiritual… maybe even a test. Don’t get me wrong, its not that I never spoke about or processed what I was told by my doctor, I definitely discussed it with my family… It’s that, I chose not to dwell on my chances of infertility knowing well it wasn’t serving me or anybody else around me.

So with that said, I concluded that our news might hurt some of the closest people to me. I found myself feeling guilty almost daily. It even got me physically sick a few times. I wasn’t sure how to process this and I overthought it until it made me sick and cry. 


And that my friend/ reader is just the beginning of what I REALLY felt.


So the days kept passing and we kept processing. We let some of our spiritual family know first, so they could stand in the gap for us and pray. We knew we needed intercession in this season and wisdom. Then we made our way to our family, with the exception of my father.

I actually told my father before anyone else; if you don’t know, my dad has been in federal prison for about 14 years. I wanted him to know how much I valued and loved him, so I gave him what I could. I even recorded his tender reaction. He was so happy even though the pain of knowing he wouldn’t see his grand daughter’s first few years were all over his voice.

I remember asking God for a miracle. Not for me but for the miracle He was knitting within me. I wanted my father to experience this and see what Jesus can do when we dedicate our homes to Him. Let’s just say 2 weeks later God made a way. He was granted house arrest after what seemed like over 100 attempts over the years. And although my biological father is still part of the system, my Heavenly Father made a way for us to at least have more intimacy for the times to come.


That’s what I felt.

A rollercoaster of emotions if you will.

Point is, I was not feeling worthy of my pregnancy and now my face was to the floor in awe of the Lords mercy and grace.  There was still more to navigate though - there was more added stress, which might seem unnecessary stress to some,  but it’s very real, and I know I’m not alone.  Every time I peed, I would check my underwear, constantly worried I would see blood or something unsettling, each time walking out of the bathroom, praising God with a sigh of relief.

Yes, God calls us to peace, even in pregnancy, but this fear was real and very present, and so I had to take it to God each time.  Needless to say, my days consisted of new bred anxieties, on top of more anxiety already there on top of more unfamiliar fears.  It was one heck of ride that you only know when you are living it.  One thing can’t be taken away from us though and that’s that women are extraordinary beings created to sustain these seasons! 

So now that we have excitement, fear, guilt, unworthiness and worry which pretty much sums up my first trimester… let’s talk about the physical feelings— can someone say barf?

Imagine having all these emotions and thoughts swirling through you, of course it’ll make morning sickness an all day thing. 😅 I threw up quite a lot which was not the norm for me. I honestly only throw up maybe once a year, if that.  With migraines up the wazzu and cancelling every photography session from week 7 to week 18, it’s safe to say I was going through it.

Taking a financial hit and a few other hits at that, all I could do is coach myself to remain grateful. It’s so easy during moments of suffering (physical or emotional) to find ourselves complaining.  I tried to stay grounded in gratitude because I knew this was just part of it. Thankfully, it eventually subsided because I discovered a magic pregnancy pill called bonjesta. It’s the only reason I was able to go back to work besides Jesus, lol!

K, so a little emotional update:

By now I was feeling excitement, fear, guilt, unworthiness, worry, financial stress and physically sick with a little sprinkle of gratitude in between pukes.

With all of that, I was learning a WHOLE lot. Right off of YouTube videos, different pregnancy books/ workbooks and visiting different OBs till I found the right one. I had many moments of fear and stress with things I would experience during that process. From my first ultrasound where the doctor actually told me it looked like an empty sack (after we had already told most of our loved ones), to my first OB getting mad at me for asking her if she could check my progesterone levels, and even the process of figuring out if I was even comfortable with having a midwife, home birth or whatnot. 

That was pretty much my first 16-18 weeks of pregnancy. Thankfully, I eventually found my mama voice and was empowered to make my own decisions and stick to them. 

So now we can finally add a positive word to the emotion list: Empowered. 


Now that we’ve closed our second trimester, I’m going to share a little bit about those emotions because… boy is there a lot of them 😬


It’s through the late nights of preparation, whether it’s reading up on postpartum or shopping/ building for baby’s nursery… I can’t help but feel a sense of grief. Almost like I’m saying goodbye to a part of myself that I will never get back again. Saying goodbye to a part of my marriage that I will never see again. Soon, we won’t know who we were without our precious gift from God. It’s a whole lot of discovery when it comes to identity. 

It’s almost like our identity doesn’t change, but it evolves. 

With no regret whatsoever, I’m allowing myself to grieve what’s left of the life I know before baby comes. With every kick and nudge I feel from her, I can’t help but feel this overwhelming love and excitement. Instead, I’m trying my best to have more moments like these— where I’m self-reflecting, curled up in bed and drinking some cafe con leche. Trying to soak in every last moment of this season of my life. 

And boy, are these pregnancy hormones real. I’ve definitely cried a few times writing this post. Only God knows and now you, that I have been the most observant I’ve ever been. The slowest I’ve ever been. I find myself starring at my husband more now than ever. Taking in what he looks like before this new change. Looking around my home, and remembering its character. I know there are many changes coming and I cannot help but feel like I’m grieving with excitement.

Imagine finally looking down at your weight at a check up and seeing you’ve gained nearly 30 pounds already. At this moment I was extremely confused why my doctor hadn’t said anything about this extreme weight gain. I began crying right then and there. Knowing that I still had another 20 weeks to go of this pregnancy. And knowing that the recommend weight gain is typically 25 to 35 pounds. My doctor looked at me and said I look fine and sometimes the scale doesn’t calculate extra amniotic fluid, placenta weight, uterus weight gain, and yes, booby gains.

All things that still didn’t comfort me, but made sense. I am a big boned female and I am almost 5’7. But that didn’t make it any easier. I had spent the last quarter exercising weekly and trying to get my diet in order. I was experiencing severe discouragement knowing I lost my progress and gained back everything I lost and then some. 

Initially, when I first sought out personal training early 2021, it was to lose some boobage because God knows these girls are really heavy and weigh me down a ton. So yeah, nothing prepared me, not even the 20 million people that told me my boobs get bigger.  For them to get this big, and knowing this is just the beginning of it.

Also, I love it when people say not to give into your cravings, but there’s almost no way. Ok, fine…. I’m not going to say that there’s no way— I mean, God calls us to have a spirit of self-control. But it’s really hard OK? 😔 
Imagine, after all that nausea, you finally find something that you can actually keep down AND enjoy and you don’t want to let go of it. - But then you realize- “Wait a second! Lucky charms has never been a part of my diet or “Why am I craving an egg and cheese Mcgriddle from McDonald’s?” I haven’t even eaten here since I was a junior in high school.

I’ve had many “What the heck is going on!?” moments…to say the least, lol.

That’s pretty much me… On a weekly basis. Trying to figure out what this baby ACTUALLY wants. Is it magnesium? Is it some fresh sun? Could it be some healthy glucose? Calcium?

So yeah, there is no one at fault here but myself for my newfound cellulite and whatever else has changed that I chose not to look at in the mirror. But I have to remember constantly that my worth is not found in this fleeting flesh. My worth is not found here on this earth. Not in what I look like… Not in what I have nor what I strive for… It’s a constant dying to myself where I remember I’m just called to serve God. Serve Him as a soon to be mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend and confidant. 

Whatever titles you have or hats you wear…. We’re called to serve Him through them all. 

So friend, I’ve felt and currently FEEL a lot. But I’m excited to let you in on one very important truth:


We are not called to live or be led by our emotions. You see, the Lord calls us to a higher standard. He wants us to be led by peace when making decisions (Colossians 3:15) because emotions come and go and they will always lead us astray. 

So if you’re feeling any of the emotions listed above, you are not confined to them. You are actually very capable of being in control of them. You have been given authority by your God-given right to denounce anything that robs you from the peace that can be found in Jesus.

So feel what you have to feel, friend. FEEL IT.

God gave us feelings for a reason— but instead of acting on them, take it to His feet. 

Pray about it. 

Surrender it. 


Gods got this.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

~ Colossians 3:15



** edited by Nikki Alvarado **

Lets talk preparation and fear

It’s both sad and exciting. I’ve known Us for 9 years now and it’s always been just Us. But now Us looks different. It’s with uncertainty and a calming fear that leads me into prayer asking God for His blessing in this new season. It’s so hard to not know what these future days will look like, but I have no choice but to trust. With every project we work on, I can’t help but try to soak in these final moments of being a family of 2.

Honestly, it hits me almost daily, especially when we’re laying in bed together in the silence of night— these are the final moments as just Amner and Michele.

However, I know the Lords plans are higher & greater. They are plans to prosper. I have grown to cling onto His promises, especially this season. I know what is ahead of us is not the happiness we see on Instagram or the inspo we pin on Pinterest. It’ll be beautiful because it’s our greatest project yet— our greatest responsibility yet. It’ll have its challenges and changes.

But that’s what makes a project beautiful— the final reward, knowing it took hard work.

Baby girl, your mother and father have grown their friendship since September 2013, we have taken time to discover our identities in Christ and our identity as a couple. Our mission as a family is always to serve God and His children. We are humbled that the Lord chose us to raise you. We are grateful for our future lives with you and we know those changes will be beautiful because He is the potter and we are the clay.

Dear Aria Hosanna,

September 5th we found out that you were going to be what we have always dreamt of. 💝

“When baby Aria comes…”
“By that time, baby Aria will be…”

Aria, your name has been picked out since 2013 when I first came across the meaning— “Lioness of God”

Your father and I have always envisioned a little girl as our first born. We’ve always called you “baby Aria”. You are a chapter that we knew would come one day. You mark a period of time that we had been building and working toward. We have been praying and thinking of you since we decided to get married.


Aria Hosanna, may you roar praises onto our God. May you be filled with joy, adoration and praise for Jesus. 💕

PS.

Thank you Madrina, Taira for making this gender reveal happen. We are so grateful for your love and support. Along with everyone else in our lives who have taken time to pray/ intercede for this miracle.

May Jesus receive ALL the glory.

Even though I’ve always thought that you would be ours, I’m now understanding that you’re the Lords gift to us. We are aware of the responsibility in raising you.

There are so many things I want for you and so many things I don’t want want for you. I will do my absolute best to be spirit led in raising you and nurturing you. At times, it’s scary to think that you’ll be born during these times but I know deep down that your mission is for such a time as this.

You are called baby girl, called to rise up during your generation and roar during the birthing pains of the earth. You’re a warrior in the spirit and I can feel it. I pray to be the mother the Lord needs me to be. I pray you exceed us in anything we have done or have tried to do.

Manifestation < Faith

So I attempted creating a vision board at the beginning of this year & this is what happened 👇🏼

First off, in making this I knew that “manifesting” isn’t a word I wanted to take part in. This was more a visual “make your requests known to God” kinda project. With that said, I cranked up some worship music and verbally prayed for hours as I cut up pictures, favorite verses, quotes, etc… At this time I was being intentional— knowing that His ways are higher than mine. This year I wanted to accomplish a lot and some have been completed, others might not be in His plans. Some might be, but maybe not right now.

Ex. I wanted to go to Paris, so we took action. We booked our flights, packed our things and literally 2 days before leaving we had to cancel everything due to a health pass that’s required in Europe. The Lords ways are higher.

Our team wanted to run for platinum this year. We took action. Had meetings, hopped on zoom calls and strategized. It’s not the season. This season calls for rebuilding, re-establishing and remembering our mission here in SoFlo. However, one of my personal desires were met, God blessed my husband and I with an all expense paid retreat to visit one of our farms. The Lord knows order.

Here is an obvious one, yes I put up a few pictures nudging towards building a family. It wasn’t a burning desire at the time, but as I leaned into His will & His desires for my life & it slowly began becoming mine. I had plans that first week of January to get my body ready for this new season. I knew I wanted to be more active for the first quarter of 2021— He made a way. I was able to tighten up certain expenses and invest in my temple for a season. All in preparation.

PRUDENCE. Practicing caution in all that I do has been the best thing for my walk with God. I needed the Lord to still the voices and expectations around me. I had to hone into my identity in Christ. We still have about a quarter left of this year and all I can say is wow. It’s incredible what peace we can feel when we stop trying to “manifest” & instead actually exercise our FAITH. Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean we do nothing. James 2:14 says that faith without works is dead.

Delight Yourself in the Lord

🚨Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. • Psalm 37:4


Yeah no, I’m not going to throw a cute Bible verse at you. Let’s break this down for sec, shall we?

That’s an actual promise in scripture. But I get it, easier said than done right? We live in a world where instant gratification is everywhere. Where we are tricked into thinking you can manifest anything your heart desires. Yadi, yadi, yadaaa. But let’s talk about steadfastness in the spirit.

See, it’s obviously easy to rejoice in moments of joy. But what if I told you, joy wasn’t meant for moments? What if I told you joy is a supernatural fruit of the spirit, that you can have at EVERY moment, every season. Shoot, joy can be present in moments of heartache, despair and darkness.

To delight is to take pleasure in. To find joy in the midst. But how are you supposed to discover this supernatural fruit if you’re not leaning into the VERY thing that can provide it? It’s not JUST about going to church and doing ABC. That comes from a place of practice. Rather, love fulfills & God IS love. The more you press into the One who holds the key to this mystery, the more you will discover TRUE joy.

I’m talking from a place of experience. Yes I’m only 26, however, God called me out at 16. One of the darkest seasons of my life. I had seen things I shouldn’t have, I was experiencing things that forced my young heart to grow up a lot quicker in many ways. God restored my youth. Jesus guarded my childlike heart as soon as I encountered Him. I shouldn’t be here today. Like at ALL.

It’s been a heck of a journey, almost 11 years of seeing the Lord turn beauty from ashes in my own life. I want to see this for you too, because I’ve seen God do this for SOOO many others.

You’re not stuck. Your marriage is not stuck. Your ability to experience goodness is NOT stuck.

What might be stuck is your faith, your willingness to abide in God.

& if that’s the case, surrender.
We’re here to help you. We’re here to pray with you & help connect you to others who have seen God do it over & over again.

But it’s up to you. Are you going to allow those tears to dry in vain? Or trust in God?

Remodeling a Remodel

Last summer we realized it was time to rearrange our space. As a lifestyle photographer, I use my home as a studio and I’ve been noticing that there has been a HUGE transition in decor/ style since the pandemic began.

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Cozy minimalism in any style is what people are longing for. Whether it’s mid century, industrial, farmhouse, coastal or any other style— but minimal.

We’re in a season looking for symmetry, functionality and aesthetic, here is a my current journey as we remodel our remodel.

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I began purchasing different pieces from target, amazon and homegoods in order to help me narrow in my aesthetic. Many times we found ourselves sourcing pieces and modifying them by putting our own twist on some designs.

Anywho, some of ya’ll have been asking where we got our pieces and although the renovation process is far from done… I want to share some honest reviews as I like the pieces.

We wanted to get this list to you but we really wanted to take our time and be honest about all these pieces.

This TV console is a gorgeous midcentury modern piece with a little hint of boho. As I looked for TV consoles I was really feeling the black accents, and this target find was timely. Not to mention, it’s the perfect dupe for the one in pottery barn. Although its a good $1,100 off the original PB price, it definitely comes with its imperfections. This console is known for having uneven nobs as you can see in the picture above. Also all these target pieces are a pain to assemble.

This is the link to view/shop this item:

TV Console

Now let’s get into these light fixtures that drove us and our IG family nuts. First things first, I bought these light fixtures from two different vendors: Amazon and Home Depot. The big one is from amazon and the smaller one is from home depot (more expensive too)

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HOME DEPOT LIGHT FIXTURE PRO’S: Black and not bronze, and it is built very sturdy

HOME DEPOT LIGHT FIXTURE CONS’S: Too small for my space and $100 more expensive than the larger one.

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AMAZON LIGHT FIXTURE PRO’S: Inexpensive for size and quality

AMAZON LIGHT FIXTURE CONS’S: Color is bronze and not black

We asked our IG fam to vote on our final decision and although it was a close call, it was clear that its better to go big than small in this case. According to many of you, the smaller one would make the space look smaller, so we took your advice and kept the one from amazon. Below are the links:

Amazon Light Fixture

Home Depot Light Fixture

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Can we just talk about how we’ve purchased over 8 barstools in the process of looking for the perfect fit and we finally narrowed it down to these two. A boho styled barstool (right) which was a ross find for only $50! and a midcentury model (left) which was set— 2 for $150 leaving them at $75 each.

We decided to go with the ones on the left, however, they are sold out on wayfair so we’re stalking them till then (I will add more info on this on our next blog post)

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When looking for a couch, I fell in LOVE with the RH cloud couch and look. Cozy, minimal and trendy. HOWEVER, the cloud and all its dupes are typically white and if there is one thing that isn’t “Michele Proof” it’s white anything. With that said, let’s talk about our couch and the back-order dilemma we’ve been dealing with.

We purchased the Savesto Sectional from Ashley furniture and I couldn’t be happier with the light beige color, the stain warranty and the customizable approach that it offers. It also make the perfect cloud dupe with a little twist of color.

Here is our issue… We haven’t received the rest of the section as of yet. We’re missing about 4 pieces and we still haven’t unwrapped the ottoman. Last but not least, you get what you pay for. Our couch came with 4 stains, we’re assuming its from the warehouse workers that packaged the product. We have reached out to Ashley and we haven’t gotten much of a response.

UPDATE: They gave us a discount (didn’t give us good options on this)

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We haven’t finalized the space yet, but we have a home-made DIYed art ledge that has to be repainted and put above the sofa & against the wall. The lamp and eucalyptus tree are there for now to help me visualize the aesthetic (temporarily)

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Pillows are homegoods and hobby lobby finds. The accent pillow with our last name/ wedding date was a gift. The lamp is from amazon and the Eucalyptus tree as well. (Still looking for planters, preferably concrete)

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When looking for a dining table, lets just say it was a whirl-wind of craziness. The table and bench came with a total of 3 blemishes— 1 scratch & 2 minor dents. The chairs were wobbly, stained and one of them had loose cloth. Luckily, Ashley furniture worked with us and gave us a decent discount for the inconvenience— BUT AGAIN, you get what you pay for. This collection is a west elm dupe.

Isanti Dining Table & Chairs

I don’t regret this purchase one bit BECAUSE its imperfections are barely noticeable. PLUS! We’re talking total savings here! The good out-weighs the bad.

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We recently decided it was time to make our coffee station a little more minimal— we wanted to add more black accents throughout the home.

BUT… this target find was too short and not wide enough, therefore decided to buy the tv console from the same collection and we began modifying it to give it height and a similar look to this piece.

I know, I know, we’re very EXTRA. But no matter how much I looked for a buffet style table, nothing was working the way we wanted it to. We decided to buy wood, measure, cut and sand it. Amner’s next step is to paint it black with a special spray-paint-gun that we rent and BAM.

We bought a few footer leg options from amazon and finally narrowed it down to one (more info on our next blog post) I also purchased some mini art ledges from target in order to remove the current rustic industrial pieces that are there. Again, minimal and functional.

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Along with these art ledges, I picked up some clear jars with wooden lids.

I’m not feeling too eclectic this season, so these will do for now! Thank you all for reading and keeping up with our reno’s reno <3

Modern Pharisees

This is going to be a heavy one— Humanity is an interesting phenomenon. I’ve been pondering on this recently. I once read “We are all born legalists, but we are made into Pharisees.” That hit me... HARD. Pharisees were Jesus’s enemies.⁣

Pharisees were Jesus’s enemies.⁣

Pharisees know what to say, but do not do what they say. ⁣Like even right now. I can say all “the right things” about God but my heart can be far from it. & just the thought of that is scary. ⁣

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The outside of their cup was clean and the inside was dirty. 🙅🏻‍♀️ (Matt 23:25)⁣

All know is that, I don’t want to be that person. I don’t want to walk in that deception. Friend, trust me when I tell you that at any moment this could be you. Because this has been me.⁣ It’s so interesting how we can fall into so much pride and self-righteousness... at any moment. (without even knowing it!)⁣

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& if you’re thinking “I’m not self-righteous” that’s exactly what a self-righteous person would say. 🥴⁣

So I have to constantly remind myself:⁣
1. Anything I have is because of His grace.⁣
2. Anything good in me is because of God.⁣

Romans 7:18 says it and I believe it.

Dropping Limiting Beliefs in Business

Two years ago today, I made the official decision to stop limiting myself & my business. Sometimes we put limits on ourselves because we fear the outcome. In October of 2018 I was conflicted. 😣During that season, I was fearful of my two businesses not “matching”. Sometimes overthinking “will this even work?” However, that first month I realized I wasn’t just a photographer... and that was OK.

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A few weeks later it was time to renew my LLC for my business. The inner conflict arose again so I took time to self-analyze & pray. Then it hit me, limiting myself would be separating both of my businesses. At the time, “Photography & Oils”

So I changed my business name to “Coco Michele, LLC” in efforts to keep it simple. Friends, don’t allow your sub-brands to over shadow your REAL brand. The reason why people trust YOU. Whether you are a realtor, MUA, caterer, writer, photographer, hair stylist, singer, Oiler, Jesus lover and the list goes on....

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People chose you because YOU are the brand. 👏🏼

I refuse to be confined. I refuse to leave Jesus out of ANY of my businesses. That may make some people uncomfortable and that’s okay. But that’s why it’s important to know YOUR brand.

🙏🏼 Because of that decision two years ago, I’m humbled at the fact that God would entrust my husband and I to lead of 1,000 members in our Essential Oil business/ organization.

🙏🏼 Because of that decision two years ago, I’m shook that God would entrust me to consult 22 women in navigating their businesses during these uncertain times.

🙏🏼 Because of that decision two years ago, I’m so GRATEFUL that we can now choose what projects to pick up in Photography.

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Point is, don’t limit yourself friends. You have a lot to offer to your community.

Live, Learn & ALWAYS trust in God.
xx, Coco Michele 💖

Your Significant Other Will Fail You

“Amner will fail you”
& that’s when the Holy Spirit burst my bubble👏🏼

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It’s when I was finally free from the idolization of marriage. You see, people get really caught up in seasons. I only know this, because I was one of them. It’s not a day. It’s not a moment. It’s what the Bible says it is:

Marriage is a physical representation of Christ and the church. A metaphor. Laying your self down for the sake of the other person. (Read Ephesians 5:22-32 & dig deeper)

The most liberating thing I learned before getting married was that Amner will fail me but the Christ that lives in his heart, his convictions & spirit won’t.

That’s when I realized what marriage really was. It’s not an emotion. It’s not a feeling. Love is a choice. A choice to show up everyday.

Marriage is a marathon— one day we’ll face the Father and understand an aspect of His love that is only to be experienced through it.

If you’re reading this and you’re in a season of singleness, use this time to grow your intimacy with the Lord. He will provide the spouse that He’s been preparing for you in due time.

If you’re reading this and you’re married, use this season to press into God. Pray for wisdom and ask Him to lend you His eyes for your spouse.

If you’re reading this and you’re feeling stuck in your relationship, draw closer. He makes beauty from ashes & that’s a promise.

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"New Normal"

I couldn’t stand the phrase “New-Normal” 🛁 ⁣

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I didn’t want to accept that I have to stand 6-ft apart from people in the grocery store, or wait to see my nail technician... or any other first-world-problem luxuries.⁣ 🤷🏻‍♀️ ⁣

No seriously, as an entrepreneur it’s hard to shut off my brain and relax. So I’ve always had my own “disconnect system”. I would do my nails every 12 days, go to Trader Joe’s weekly, and spend time in-between working with my friends or nephews/ nieces. 💅🏼 ⁣

So Yesterday, I stopped myself and realized that the best luxury is our health. That gratefulness and a content heart is all that is needed. ⁣🙏🏼

I’ve decided to reframe my perspective/ adapt this “new-normal”— I’m going to make it a habit to be more grateful.

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Like kissing your significant other, hugging your family, crowded restaurants, stocked grocery store shelves, consistent business &
of course, Trader Joe’s 🛒 🙏🏼 ⁣

I’m missing manicures, flying on planes, fellowshipping with friends, working out in public places, Movies and popcorn, & date nights with Amner💖⁣

I look forward to us not having to worry about something as silly as toilet paper, sneezing in public, nor fear. 🌸 ⁣

From here on out, I will practice more gratefulness. I will tip better & love harder. Praying for the world today 🌎⁣

It Is FINISHED.

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Death, where is your sting???⁣

“When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” John‬ ‭19:30‬ ‭⁣

Friend, Jesus died for YOU. ⁣
yes, YOU.⁣

& right now you may not know what that means. But here is my prayer for you:⁣

May His presence go before you, May His favor be upon you. I pray that you may have an encounter with the ONE who is for you. I pray that you may receive His grace— His GIFT of eternity, peace and joy (even in the midst of suffering)⁣

In Jesus name, amen.⁣

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Recently, I had the honor of photography a fellow believer and blogger named Isa. Here is the thing… She’s only 16 ya’ll! Can you believe that?! I don’t know what is about this new generation— but its so beautiful how eager they are for Jesus.

Keep Living in Light sweet girl!

check her out here!

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Struggles & Snuggles; Working From Home

Working from home has been a dream of mine since I was 9 years old. No seriously, back then work was elementary school and I REALLLLY wanted to be home schooled! (That didn’t happen, btw!)

Anywho, at the beginning of this pandemic, I was high key excited because I am SUCH a homebody and I can literally go DAYS without stepping outside. Healthy right?!

However, sometimes I swear I’m going to lose it. I’ve been going up and down the stairs with my purse just so I could feel normal 🤣👜 ⁣⁣

I’m learning its crucial to have rest days and how important it for us to stay busy/ find something todo during quarantine. Whether it’s reading the word, or working on a project— it’s KEY to staying sane 🔑


My goal is to find balance in all this mess. Picking up the word and resting on the weekends. Weekdays are for continuing to show up and HELP business owners.✨ ⁣

In uncertain times, I want to continue to support others, regardless of what my day looks like. DM me if you’re a small business or if you need prayer. Tell me how I can help you! 💖