Kimberly Murray Photography

When planning for a photo shoot, the first things that often come to mind are choosing the perfect location and the right styling.  But, what often gets overlooked is the accessories.  A statement piece, such as this Heart of Haiti bracelet that can be purchased from Macy’s, might be just the thing to complete your look!

I recently learned about the Heart of Haiti “Trade, Not Aid” initiative while attending an event for bloggers.  This initiative was established by Willa Shalit (artist and social entrepreneur), The Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, and Macy’s to provide sustainable income to Haitian artists.  (It’s hard enough being an artist struggling to pursue your passion while making ends meet; it’s even harder trying to do that while rebuilding your and your family’s lives after a major earthquake.)  So far, the Heart of Haiti initiative has helped to provide income for approximately 8,500 people living in Haiti.  The entire Heart of Haiti collection features dozens of one-of-a-kind, handmade works of art, including home decor items (e.g., quilts, metalwork, ceramics, baskets) and jewelry.  Each item is made by master artisans from raw materials that often derive from recycled and sustainable items.  One of the 750 artists employed by this initiative is Myrta Balan; she makes intricate metal items for the home.  The Atelier Artisans make beautiful, cow horn and bone jewelry such as this bracelet worn by Kathleen.  You can read more about all of the artists on Macy’s website.

When I received the bracelet from a Heart of Haiti partner, I showed it to Kathleen and asked her to choose an outfit that she thought best fit her style and would coordinate with the bracelet.  I love that she did not just choose a simple black dress, which would look absolutely beautiful and chic, but totally expected.  Instead, she chose a crisp white top and blue and white textured slacks.  I never would have put those items together (I probably would have gone the black dress route…LOL), so I took notes on how to look stylish, modern, and fashion-forward without seeming to try to hard.

Pardon this quick commercial break while I show you two of my favorite images EVER.  Can you say flawless skin and pure sophistication?!  Kathleen, you are simply beautiful.

Another thing that I loved about this shoot with Kathleen was how she completely transformed her outfit by putting on a persimmon blazer.  By cuffing the sleeve, she was still able to showcase the bracelet and show off her personal style.  This look would work perfectly for the office, an after work affair, or a lifestyle photo shoot.

I’ll end with some artistic shots.  If you would like to purchase a unique jewelry or home decor item expertly crafted by a Haitian artisan, visit Macy’s Heart of Haiti website.  Most items range from $25-$60.  (Some of the more intricate items cost a bit more.)  Your purchase will help Haitian artisans earn a living, provide for their families, and send their children to school (education in Haiti is not free).  After you visit the site, leave a comment here to let me know which item you fell in love with!

To keep up with updates from me, like the Kimberly Murray Photography Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/KimberlyMurrayPhotography or follow me on Twitter at @kmurrayphoto.

For more information on Heart of Haiti, follow @HeartofHaiti on Twitter or like the Heart of Haiti Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/HeartofHaiti.

To see a video of Everywhere’s Travels to the Heart of Haiti, click here.

Full Disclosure: I received the bracelet to review for this post. However, the opinions are my own.