Jeweled and Thorned Crowns

Ornamental and jeweled crowns may have belonged to a sovereigns regalia, and worn on certain occasions; a woven crown of thorns may have been placed on the head of Jesus during the events leading up to the crucifixion; and the Game of Thrones may have been an adaptation of medieval fantasies about power struggles; but the significance of the crowns placed on my head during a recent photoshoot were symbolic of one of the most desirable assets of oneself: The ability to see themselves prominently in the takeover of their personal goals and aspirations.

Since the moment I was able to walk and talk, it was clear I operated on a different wavelength than my peers, whether through my unconventional love of writing and performing, or my unique fashion sense and style. My refusal to keep my opinions to myself sometimes put me at odds with others in my various roles or professions, but my entire approach to remain positive, and be a social advocate and public influence made me the person I am today.

Veronica Scallion is an educator by day, and a photographer, and cosplayer and pop culture enthusiast the rest of the time. Veronica and I have had the opportunity to collaborate once before - in a graveyard, which makes me appreciate the unique vision and creative concepts Veronica brings to life:  before, during and after a photoshoot (and especially during the editing process).

Veronica said this shoot (and the jeweled and thorned crowns) represented ‘confidence’, and “how since ancient times, society has praised individuals who never quit, those who are at the central core of social issues, those who are dynamic in their own right, and those that use their power and influence to make a positive difference in the world”.

I was honoured to put the crowns on my head knowing the concept of this shoot would have so many advantages for me, and anyone who might appreciate the emotions I tried to emulate: Confidence; Leadership; Power and Influence. However, I also appreciate that it isn’t in just putting a crown on your head that gives you these attributes. You have to set goals; know where you’re going or what you want to do with the qualities and characteristics you possess; take responsibility for your actions; embrace self-confidence; learn from your mistakes (or don’t be afraid to fail); take risks; be committed and determined to get what you want out of life - win, lose or draw.

After years of feeling less than confident about my skills and abilities, I’ve concluded I can’t do it alone – at least not all of the time. If you want personal or professional success and don’t feel like your ornamental and jeweled crowns are the regalia you need in your closet – then pull out the swords and daggers, or whatever weapons you feel are better suited to take you into battle – and give it all you’ve got. Success is measured by whatever outcomes you set for yourself.

Good luck. You can do this!

Follow us on Instagram | @JacquelineBiollo | @VeronicaScallionPhoto

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Jacqueline Biollo is the President & CEO of NOTSOLO Consulting, which markets and promotes the potential value of the associated collaborative of the entertainment industry (fashion, photography, event management and education).