Melissa Barry - AndBloom

Joined20/07/2024

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Navigating Perimenopause with Homeopathy: A Natural Path to Balance and Well-Being

WHEN PERIMENOPAUSE HIT ME (LITERALLY IN THE BELLY) … I DRANK THE COOLAID AND STARTED TO PANIC! Perimenopause can feel...

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Photographer & author of
“The Art of Aging Unapologetically”
#andbloom

I haven't got much to add in the caption just to r

I haven't got much to add in the caption just to remind you that nothing is ever what it seems and that you 🫵🏼 are doing great! Keep going.

#andbloom #lifestyle

I think it’s about change because change can be

I think it’s about change because change can be scary. Just when you’ve got everything in order, something shifts again, and it’s up to you whether you adapt or not. I’ve always liked a bit of change—it’s just how I’ve been—but lately, I find it more challenging at times. Sometimes I’d rather things stay the same instead of changing. I’m less flexible, less willing to go along with every new wind. And yet, I believe you have to keep inspiring yourself through change, even if it’s just a little, even if it’s only for yourself. How do you feel about change?

Slide 6 is definitely my comfort zone. ❤️

Just because someone else succeeds doesn’t mean

Just because someone else succeeds doesn’t mean you’re destined to fail. There’s an abundance of opportunities out there, and your journey might just take a bit longer—but that’s perfectly okay. Remember, there’s plenty of space for all of us to thrive. No one needs to dim their light to make room for others. Embrace your uniqueness and take up your rightful space; you deserve it.

#shinebright #uniqueness #womenempowerment #andbloom #supportwomen #togetherness #sisterhood

And remember that you are loved. ❤️ #reminder

And remember that you are loved. ❤️

#reminder #andbloom

This is Herma. Portraying her was a profound inspi

This is Herma. Portraying her was a profound inspiration to me. It’s not every day that I have the privilege of photographing a stunning woman in her 90s. I am beyond grateful that she chose to be part of AndBloom, sharing her story to inspire women around the world.

A few days after our photo shoot, I found an envelope in my mailbox at home. Inside was a handwritten letter from Herma, expressing her gratitude. She wanted to thank me and my team for what she called an “unforgettable afternoon,” describing how a whole new world had opened up for her in my studio. Alongside the answers to some questions I had sent her earlier that week, Herma included a heartfelt message she wanted to share:

Herma: “I would like to give the following message to the women who follow you:
Listen to others. Be genuinely interested. Don’t judge too quickly—embrace others with love. Of course, you’ll face disappointments, but try to see things from a new perspective. Ask yourself why you feel dissatisfied. Sometimes, the issue lies within you, not with the other person.

When I became a widow 31 years ago, I began exploring new paths while raising my family of four children. I learned to play bridge, attended the theater more regularly, and started volunteering. My advice to all women: continue to enjoy life and invest in the people around you.”

#womenover90 #andbloom #greyhair #portraitphotography photography #womenempowerment #agepositive #positiveaging #aging #selflove

Want to get ready with me? I try not to wash my ha

Want to get ready with me? I try not to wash my hair every day, but it’s a challenge. Today, I washed and styled it, and when I make an effort, I love how it looks.

It’s still too short for a proper ponytail, but if I could, I’d wear it up every day—maybe it’s for the best. I style it with Noelie’s Grow and Shine gel and use my Babyliss blow brush (AS82E) to add some volume, then straighten the ends for a modern touch with a straightening iron that has a variable heat setting to protect my hair from burning.

A bit of mascara from Mac Cosmetics and an orange-toned matte lipstick from Gucci complete my makeup look. I also stacked a few necklaces, including my favorite new vintage Chanel charm. ❤️

Today, I’m wearing a home and handmade AndBloom kimono from vintage and new fabrics combined, the limited edition Polka Dot Winter version, and a beautiful knitted vest from Kiro by Kim with some warm socks and clogs. I also added some chunky earrings.

Check out my webshop for the kimono, polka dots and chunkies. Have a lovely day! 🌸

#andbloom #grwm #over40fashion #getreadywithme

For me, this moment came when I was in my early 40

For me, this moment came when I was in my early 40s and had just became a mother. Suddenly, I realized who I was, what I had done in my life, what I was capable of, and what I still wanted to do. And that there would never be anyone again who could tell me what I could or couldn’t do—no societal expectations either. Hallelujah. 🙌🏼

Do you remember when this moment was for you?

#andbloom

When someone asks me, “What’s your best aging

When someone asks me, “What’s your best aging tip, Dee?” I pause for a moment and reply, “Hang out with older women.” Find a muse, a crone, a sage, or a guide—they hold the wisdom. They’ll show you that aging isn’t something to fear; it’s just living.

The absence of older women’s faces in media, magazines, and advertising is part of a toxic cycle. When society doesn’t celebrate or appreciate female elders, fewer women feel inspired or empowered to step into that role. It’s no surprise—if something isn’t valued, who would want to embody it?

Humans are social creatures. For personal growth and fulfillment, we need to identify with meaningful roles at every stage of life. This connection gives us a sense of purpose and belonging. If young women have no positive examples of aging, it’s natural for them to find the process intimidating.

Now, as for my second, third, fourth, and fifth-best aging tips? Let go. Love yourself. Listen to your heart. And laugh—often and loudly.

Oh, and number six? Own who you are, because you absolutely rock. 🤟🏼

Have a happy, vibrant day, everyone. 🤩

Muse in the 📷: @annekewesterbos

#womenofacertainage #over60 #andbloom

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