Happy New Year, friends! As we kick off 2025, I’m buzzing with excitement about the fresh possibilities and personal projects on my radar. I am always excited for the New Year as it really invigorates my spirit each year.  This year is all about discovery, creativity, and connection. Here’s a peek into what I have planned for my 2025 journey:

1. French Girl Era: Scarves, Books, and More!

This year, I’m diving into my French girl era! There’s something so captivating about the effortless style, timeless elegance, and joie de vivre of French women. I’ve started reading French Women Don’t Get Facelifts and plan to tackle French Women Don’t Get Fat next. These books are sparking a fascination with French philosophy, lifestyle, and beauty secrets. I’ll be sharing my discoveries—whether it’s chic French brands, elegant styling tips, or fresh ideas for living intentionally. Stay tuned for some très chic inspiration here in the Austin beauty scene!

2. Avoiding Amazon: A Personal Challenge

Yes, I know this might sound wild, but I’m challenging myself to avoid shopping on Amazon in 2025. Why? Supporting small businesses and shopping mindfully feels more aligned with my values. I’m not saying I’ll never need to use it (life happens!), but I’m committed to seeking alternatives first. By shopping small and local here in Austin, I’m hoping to keep the dream of independent businesses alive. Wish me luck!

3. Consistent on YouTube: Quirky Gal Guide Incoming

I’m stepping up my YouTube game this year! My goal is to create a lifestyle channel where I can share all the quirky, fun, and relatable parts of my world. Think of it as a guide to life through my lens—from beauty and style to my creative endeavors and personal growth. It’s time to connect in a new way, and I can’t wait to bring you along for the ride.

4. Exploring New Skills: Watercolors, Pottery, and Photography

2025 is the year of hands-on creativity! I’m signing up for classes in watercolors, pottery, and photography to expand my artistic horizons. These are all things I’ve wanted to try for ages, and I’m finally taking the leap. Who knows? Maybe you’ll see some of my creations pop up in my studio or online!

5. Reviving the Ambitious Women of Austin Meetup

Before the pandemic, I started a group called the Ambitious Women of Austin, and it was such a joy. The group was a place for women to connect, collaborate, and inspire one another. Many have asked when it’s coming back, and I’m thrilled to say 2025 might be the year! Let’s make it a space to share goals, dreams, and successes right here in our beautiful city.

6. A Focus on Women Over 35

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how often women over 40 are overlooked in beauty and wellness spaces. The bad advice, the wrong products, and don’t even get me started on all the marketing hoopla pushing trends every single month! That stops here with Heather Maria Beauty. I’ll inspire you, but I’m committed to sharing nothing but timeless advice and guidance. This year, I’m intentionally choosing to focus my services on women over 35. These are the women I deeply connect with and feel inspired to serve. It’s about celebrating our wisdom, experience, and unique beauty at every age.

7. Adding Chemo Makeup Lessons to My Services?

With my oncology background, I’ve been deeply reflecting on ways to give back and make a meaningful difference. After all, it’s a true passion of mine. In 2025, I’m planning to add chemo makeup lessons to my service menu, though I’m still fine-tuning them to ensure they’re as impactful as possible. After caring for women in oncology for many years, I’ve learned there’s a real need for education on topics like makeup sanitation, managing skin changes during chemotherapy, scarf tying techniques, and addressing brow and lash hair loss. These sessions will focus on helping women undergoing treatment and how to navigate after treatment feel beautiful and confident, providing actionable tips and support during such a challenging time. It’s my way of bringing light, connection, and care to those navigating this journey.

8. A Trip to New York: Experiencing the Big Apple

I already have a trip planned for 2025 to New York! I absolutely love spending money on experiences, and traveling is one of my favorite ways to create lasting memories. I can’t wait to soak up the energy of the city, try amazing food, and explore all the art and culture it has to offer. Stay tuned for updates from my adventure—and how it might inspire my Austin-based services and style!

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Those are my big plans for the year, and I’m eager to get started. But enough about me—what are your New Year’s goals? I’d love to hear what you’re dreaming up for 2025. Let’s make this year one of growth, fun, and fabulous discoveries. Cheers to the new year!