I cannot even begin to express how excited I am to be launching this portrait series! My Redefining Beautiful series is a celebration of women over 40, sharing their story alongside their beautiful portraits.

It’s my hope that by sharing these women’s stories, you will be encouraged to embrace your own self exactly where you are now in life and recognize your beauty.

And this is project is open now to join! If you are a woman 40 or over, I encourage you to be a part of this movement to Redefine Beautiful.

You can learn more and sign up here!

Charlene was a joy to photograph and get to know! She is 68 and fabulous and has more adventures than most people half her age. She is a world traveler and can help you design your dream travel experience as she is the co-founder of Charlotte James Travel, a high-end bespoke travel company.

Now without further ado, Charlene!

What was your motivation for doing this photoshoot? / Why did you choose to take part in this project?: I love the idea of redefining beauty. What is beauty after all? It can be fleeting and skin deep. Real beauty is something that radiates outward and creates more beauty.

How old are you now? : I am 68

How do you feel about being __ (years old). : I love it, I am not into ageism and concerned about age. It is truly a number. I love working out and moving and working and sharing what I do with others. My work is my passion, so it does not feel like work

What is your most powerful trait? : My determination and passion for people and life

When do you feel most confident? : When I feel really good about myself and am in touch with who I am

When do you feel the most beautiful? : When I feel fit and trim and have an inner calm

How has your relationship with time changed as you've gotten older? : It seems to move faster than it did when I was younger!

How has your relationship with yourself changed? : I know myself so much better, I like who I am

What would you tell your 20 year old self? : Be calm, hang in there. Life has so much to offer, good and challenging and will have lots of opportunities for growth and love. Life will test you

What advice would you give to a 10 year old girl?: You can be whatever you can dream and are willing to work for. Don't let anyone slow you down for a second, embrace this world and don't listen to anyone who tries to tell you otherwise. Don't get sucked into the age old need for competition for a man, be supportive of other women and mentor them as you grow

What do you value most now? : Time and love

What are your ambitions? / What are you looking forward to?: Growing my beautiful travel design business, spending lots of time with my grandson and family and enjoying my beautiful husband!

What beliefs about women growing older would you like to change? : That we have to go sit in a rocking chair! We have so much to offer.

How has participating in this project been for you? : Lots of fun!

What would you tell someone thinking of participating in this project? : Do it! Embrace it and help to get rid of silly stereotypes..

Feeling inspired? We are now booking sessions for this series! If you are a woman age 40 or over, I encourage you to take part, you won’t regret it. See yourself in a new light!