Welcome to the fourteenth edition of Behind The Drapes—your exclusive, all-access pass to everything going on behind the scenes at My Authentic Colors. This isn’t just about fashion; it’s about uncovering who you are and expressing that with confidence and joy. Whether you're a longtime color enthusiast or just beginning your style journey, I’m so glad you’re here.

🏡 Studio Updates

🚨 Big News! 🚨
We’ve just launched our Instagram Broadcast Channel! 🎉
Get exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes content, and first looks—straight from us to your inbox. Don’t miss a thing—join the channel now and stay in the loop! 🔗📲 www.instagram.com/my_authentic_colors

We’re proud to announce we’re an official Season 5 Partner for Mass Fashion Week! 👗✨

We had the chance to meet the incredible CEO, Maegan, at a recent business summit—and we instantly clicked. Now, we’re teaming up for something truly special. 💥 Models get an exclusive discount for being a part of Mass Fashion Week!

✨ GIFT CARDS NOW AVAILABLE! You can now purchase Gift Certificates on the website! Here are some directions on how you can purchase Gift Certificates

Head to my website www.myauthenticcolors.com
Click on the Top Right corner and click on “Color Analysis Consultations.”
Click on “Book an In-Person Color Analysis Consultation.”
Scroll to the bottom, where you will find Gift Certificates under “Products & Packages.”

We only have Gift Certificates for the full amount of our Full 3-Hour and Mini (60) Color Analysis Consultations at this time.

Did you know that I was a guest on the Wake Up New Bedford Podcast? I talk about my journey from being a fitness professional to talking about how I started the journey as a Color Analyst. My episode is broken into two parts and you can watch and listen to them down below.

Part 1: Wake Up New Bedford Interview

Part 2: Wake Up New Bedford Interview

I will be O.O.O from 9/27/25 - 10/8/25 for a work/fun-related vacation to Canada and Chicago. Please plan to book your appointments accordingly!

✨ MINI Appointments: Did you know that I started offering 60-minute Consultations every Tuesday and Friday based on your requests? More time, more insights, more YOU.

Book Your 60 Minute Color Analysis Here

📅 Upcoming Events

Here’s where you can catch me next—and yes, I’m bringing the full-color energy:

Westend Grill
📍 New Bedford, MA | 🗓️ August 16th | ⏰ 3PM–7PM

Time Out Market NEW
📍 Boston, MA | 🗓️ August 28th | ⏰ 6PM - 9PM

Books & Bulldogs NEW
📍 Norwood, MA | 🗓️ September 7th| ⏰ 12PM - 5PM

Macy’s
📍 North Dartmouth, MA | 🗓️ September 13th | ⏰ 12PM - 3PM

Gloria & Co
📍 Marion, MA | 🗓️ October 11th | ⏰ 10AM - 3PM

Westend Grill
📍 New Bedford, MA | 🗓️ October 18th | ⏰ 3PM - 7PM

The Seaport Inn
📍Fairhaven, MA | 🗓️ November 9th | ⏰ 11AM - 4PM

Indy Clover Boutique
📍 Wakefield, MA | 🗓️ November 16th | ⏰ 10AM - 1PM

Community Perk: As part of my vibrant community, you can book a 30-minute Color Analysis Consultation for 20% off with a special discount code “BTD20”—for any of my 30-minute Color Analysis Pop-Ups! Physical Products included in my 3-hour Consultation are not included in my Mini Appointments and can be purchased separately.

Don’t miss your chance to get draped and dazzled at a discount!

Book Your Mini Color Analysis Here

Today’s Topic: What I’ve learned (1 year later) as an entrepreneur.

On Wednesday, August 13th, 2024, I hit a milestone that felt like both a beginning and a culmination — I signed the lease and officially got the keys to my little colorful room at Byoutiful Escape.

This space — as small and personal as it may seem — represents so much more than four walls and some furniture. It’s a symbol of vision, persistence, risk, and faith in something bigger than fear.

Let me back up a bit. This journey started when I got my certification in Color Analysis. I knew I didn’t just want to offer a trendy service — I wanted to create a full-on experience. One that left clients feeling empowered, elevated, and seen. But I also knew I couldn’t do that in just any setting. I needed a space that felt intentional. That felt like me.

I searched in Middleboro and Taunton, two areas where I already teach fitness classes and have some community ties. But nothing fit. Either it was out of my price range, or it just didn’t click. And honestly? I was hesitant about New Bedford. It’s my hometown, yes — but I had tried so many times to bring my presence here, and it just never stuck. It felt like no matter how much I poured in, the city didn’t quite know what to do with me.

Still, something in me said: keep looking.

One random day, scrolling Facebook, I saw a post about a new beauty salon rental space opening up — Byoutiful Escape — and it was right near my apartment. I checked it out, instantly connected with the vibe, and clicked with the owners. It felt aligned in a way other spaces hadn’t. I told them I’d give them an answer on Monday. But I told my partner that night, “I’m going to tell them yes.”

So I did. I signed the lease — nervous, excited, and full of questions. Would New Bedford embrace what I was trying to do? Would people get it? Would this work?

The salon officially opened in November, but I didn’t open my doors until January 11th, 2025. I waited, not just for the sake of aesthetics, but for alignment. I wanted everything to feel right. I wanted a fresh start in a new year — both personally and financially (yes, tax reasons too — we’re being real here!).

But more importantly, I wanted my space to reflect me. Every detail mattered. I waited on custom pieces, searched for just the right textures, colors, and decor. I wasn’t trying to throw something together — I was building something intentional. I wanted people to feel something the moment they walked in. And that takes time.

It also takes money. I’ll be honest with you: I’ve spent over $15,000 on this space and this business. That number used to scare me. Now, I wear it like a badge of honor. Because I believe in what I’m building. I’m not just here to offer a service — I’m here to make people feel seen, confident, and understood. That’s priceless to me.

Fast forward to today — just eight months after opening — and I’ve already seen over 100 clients in my little colorful room and at events across the state. That alone humbles me. But it hasn’t stopped there.

Since launching, I’ve been invited to participate in local events, asked to collaborate with brands and businesses, hosted color sessions inside Macy’s, and even partnered with a pageant organization to help contestants express themselves through color. One of my Reels showing the difference between “good” and “bad” colors for me even went kinda viral, which still blows my mind.

It’s wild what can happen when you stay true to your vision, even when the road feels uncertain.

But let’s be clear: things will never be perfect in business. No matter how much you plan, prepare, or pour into it, there will always be something. A delay. A doubt. A “what if.” I’ve learned to stop chasing perfection and start chasing purpose. That’s what keeps me grounded when the chaos kicks in.

There’s still so much more in store — new ideas, partnerships, events, and ways to expand this vision beyond the walls of my studio. But for now, I’m celebrating the fact that I started. I said yes to something scary. I built this from the ground up. And I’m only just getting started.

Thank you for being part of this journey — for reading, supporting, booking, sharing, and showing up. I don’t take it lightly. This space was made for you.

💖 Swatch This/Scratch That

Welcome to Swatch This / Scratch That. Your weekly scroll through the glossy, the gaudy, and everything in between. I’m serving a mood board of what’s in… and what’s getting cut out. Let’s go! This week, I’m talking about entrepreneurship and what I’ve seen and learned over the amount of time I’ve been in the business world.

Swatch This:

“Collaboration Over Competition”

There is more than enough success to go around. Business owners who collaborate instead of compete are playing a different game — one rooted in community, not scarcity. The most magnetic brands I’ve seen lately? They’re cross-promoting, co-hosting, and connecting, not comparing. Collaboration doesn’t dilute your shine — it amplifies it. Stay in your lane, but don’t be afraid to wave at your neighbors.

“When Your Image Matches Your Intent”

Your service might be elite, but does your image say the same? More business owners are realizing that leveling up their look is part of leveling up their business. Color analysis isn’t about vanity; it’s about strategy. When your branding, wardrobe, and presence align with the quality of what you offer, clients feel the difference. Visual impact matters — and it’s not just for fashion brands anymore.

“Charge Your Worth. Period.”

Discounting your services just to book clients? That’s not marketing — that’s insecurity. The business owners I respect most don’t chase approval with lower prices. They stand in the value of their work, knowing the right clients will come.

Now, don’t get me wrong — sales can be smart. Strategic offers, seasonal promotions, and client incentives all have their place. But don’t run a sale just to fill a slow week or quiet your anxiety. If your pricing only holds value when it’s discounted, people will wait until it’s discounted. Set your rates with intention, and use promotions with purpose, not panic.

Confidence isn’t loud — it’s consistent. And knowing your worth isn’t arrogant — it’s essential to running a business that respects your time, energy, and expertise.

Scratch That:

Putting Clients on Blast (Yikes)
Yes, no-shows and last-minute cancellations are frustrating. But screenshotting someone’s missed appointment and posting it with passive-aggressive shade? Tacky. Handle it professionally. Set clear policies. Charge a fee. But dragging people online? That’s not the flex you think it is. Clients remember how you make them feel — even the ones who are watching quietly.

Your Business is Online (Whether You Like It or Not)
You can have the best service, the best product, the best vibe in the city — but if no one knows about it, what’s the point? Social media isn’t just for influencers anymore. It’s free marketing. It’s visibility. It’s credibility. Not showing up online is like closing your storefront for half the week. If you’re not using your platforms, someone else in your industry is — and they’re eating your lunch.

Personal Beliefs and Business: Read the Room
Your brand doesn’t need to be a mouthpiece for every opinion you have. You are allowed to have beliefs. You’re even allowed to live by them. But not every thought needs to be front and center in your business. If your content starts feeling more like a soapbox than a service, your clients will notice — and not always in a good way. Know the difference between being authentic and being alienating.

🎨 The Color Connection

This week in our Color Connection series, we’re stepping into the depth, drama, and undeniable impact of black—a color that’s as classic as it is commanding. If gray holds space, then black defines it. It sharpens edges, anchors palettes, and brings instant sophistication and clarity.

Black is the color of midnight skies, ink on parchment, polished obsidian, and timeless tailoring. But while it’s iconic, not every season wears black the same way—or at all. That’s where black alternatives come in, offering the same visual depth with a harmonious edge that aligns beautifully with your natural coloring.

Let’s explore black as more than just a fashion staple. It’s a symbol of strength, elegance, mystery, and refined authority. 🖤

🎨 Color Theory: Black & Near-Blacks

True Black is a pure neutral—the absence of light. It’s high contrast, high impact, and best worn by those whose natural coloring can hold its intensity. (Hello True Winters)

Near-Blacks & Deep Neutrals offer a softer, more wearable alternative across all seasons:

Ink, espresso, charcoal, deep aubergine, rich navy, and smoky olive—these hues echo black’s elegance without overwhelming.

Visual Characteristics:

Deep, grounding, and sleek. These tones frame the face, sharpen features, and offer a sense of quiet power.

🧠 Psychology of Black

Emotional Associations:

Authority & Power: Black conveys seriousness, control, and status.
Mystery & Elegance: Often seen as chic, enigmatic, and eternally stylish.
Protection & Boundaries: Suggests strength and self-containment.

Physiological Effects:

Enhances focus and discipline.
It can either elevate or drain, depending on contrast with skin tone.

Cultural Significance:

In fashion, black is both universal and individual.
In design, it's used to add sophistication, luxury, or modern minimalism.

Branding Insight:

Found in luxury, tech, and fashion (e.g., Chanel, Nike, Sony).
Conveys timelessness, innovation, and authority.

🌑 Black Alternatives by Season

Choosing the right black (or near-black) allows your natural palette to shine without harshness.

True Spring: Milk Chocolate or Brown Sugar
True Autumn: Dark Chocolate Brown or Marine Navy
True Summer: Nickel or Navy
True Winter: Jet Black (the only season that can pull off a True Black)

Warm Spring/Autumn: Nutmeg or Warm Navy
Cool Summer/Winter: Charcoal Gray or Faded Black.
Bright Winter/Spring: Warm Black or Espresso
Deep Autumn/Winter: Brown-Black
Light Spring/Summer: Light Clear Navy
Soft Summer/Autumn: Charcoal Brown or Taupe

Black doesn't have to mean literal black—it can mean depth, contrast, and quiet power that supports your tone instead of overpowering it.

✨ Up Next in the Color Connection Series:
Analogous Color Harmony 🎨
We’ll explore how colors that sit side-by-side on the color wheel can enhance each season’s palette—offering subtle, soulful pairings that create flow, softness, and cohesion.

Stay tuned for a week of chromatic connection and effortless color harmony. 💫

💸 Discount of the Week

This August, I’m doing things a little differently—and a little more celebratory! To mark my birthday month, I’m treating my Behind the Drapes community to an exclusive gift: My Birthday Discount is available to you all month long!

While the general public will only have access to this special offer from August 12th to 14th, you—my loyal readers and clients—get early and extended access for the entire month of August.

✨ Here’s the Deal: Enjoy 32% off any In-Person or Virtual Color Analysis Consultation ALL MONTH LONG!

Use code HAPPYBDAYMAC at checkout to claim your discount.

Whether you’ve been thinking about discovering your season or want to refine your color journey, now is the perfect time to treat yourself (and maybe a friend!) to a personalized color experience. Please do not share this code

Thank you for being part of my community—celebrating another year feels even more special with you in it. 💛

✨ Offer valid through Sunday, August 31st, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST

Book Your Color Analysis Here

💌 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Thanks for spending time Behind The Drapes. I’ve got so much more in store, and I want your input! Do you have a burning-style question? A favorite color combo? A topic you’d love me to cover next? Email me your ideas at info@myauthenticcolors.com—I’m all ears (and full spectrum lighting).

If you haven’t followed me on Instagram yet, this is where I hang out the most! I’m pretty cool on there if I say so myself.