Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, and Jimmy Choo. Every year, more and more little girls are groomed into women with an insatiable appetite for sky-high designer heels, unforgettable pumps, gem-adorned flats, funky flip flops, and jaw-dropping boots. In today’s world, teenage girls are more likely to know the names of designers worn on Carrie Bradshaw’s feet than names of former Presidents.
Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By Amy Arsenault | Categories: Fashion & Beauty, Featured, Recently Featured | Tags: fashion, shoes, style | Leave A Comment »
It’s summer—and it’s very hot, with temperatures reaching almost 110 degrees. One weekend, you tell yourself, “It’s time to go shopping!” On your list are few items you need in order to have a fabulous summer look, including that adorable dress you saw in your favorite store ad, plus designer shoes, jewelry and a few feminine
“must-haves.” Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By Celia Gonzalez | Categories: Business, Featured, Recently Featured | Tags: credit card, debt, shopping | Leave A Comment »
By SVL Staff
All Clothing and Accessories Provided by Dillard’s – Sunland Park
& Agua Boutique
Summer is here and the heat is reaching record-breaking highs. Yes, it’s very hot and you feel the urge to dress less formal for work. Don’t give in to the temptation. Your goal to getting dressed for work is to project a professional, competent image at all times. But, this doesn’t mean you have to wear suits all the time, either. Choosing the right fabric to wear is a Summer “must” for staying fresh. Also, knowing how to pair colors, textures, patterns, and accessories makes a world of difference. So, if you are looking for something to wear to your next business meeting or simply want to look “shnazy” for casual Friday, SVL has provided some fashionable wardrobes that are work appropriate for the Summer weather.

Chic Ensemble Agua
This season, a beautiful scarf is the absolute go- to accessory! Pair it with a bold yet simple dress, and your outfit becomes a chic ensemble. If you really want to make a statement, add a cute hand bag and a pair of sleek pumps. Traffic-make way!

Black and White Agua
Black and white are timeless colors. This cute dress is very versatile, making it perfect for both work and play. For business, pair it with classic black patent leather pumps. And for on-the-go-fun, slip on some chic sandals.

Don’t You Just Love Leopard? Dillard’s
This fun and modern-day blouse screams sassy. It will let people know you’re ready for business. For an extra pop, we added a yellow handbag. This outfit is fashion fabulous!

Confident ‘N Classy Dillard’s
This outfit is subtle with a pop! A classic dark brown suit is always sophisticated. Pairing it with a ruffled red blouse gives this outfit an instant upgrade. Add an amazing leopard printed purse and you’ll have heads turning when you walk down that hallway!

Hot Pink Is Cool! Agua
This outfit is perfect for casual Friday. Wear your favorite silk top with a light cardigan and you’re good to go. Bright colors will help you look fresh and fabulous all day long.

Comfortable is “In” Agua
This outfit is not only ‘in’ but extremely comfortable. A beige skirt worn with a white sleeveless blouse is perfect for the hot, summer weather. This vintage-esque silk scarf adds a splash of style. When it comes to silk scarves, the bolder the pattern the better! Magnifique!

Casual Done Right Dillard’s
Fitted cuffed jeans paired with a striped t-shirt and black blazer inspires a modern-day rock star look. Suitable for a casual workday, this outfit is perfect for women on the go. Paired with the perfect handbag, necklace, and shoes makes this outfit a ‘must-have’ for summer.

The Power Suit Agua
Ladies, if you’re looking for a power suit that demands attention, this outfit is for you. This ensemble is a classy look that personifies confidence. The blazer is fashionable yet sophisticated and perfect for work. Plus, a bold necklace provides the perfect finish. Time to close that deal!
Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By SVL Staff | Categories: Fashion & Beauty, Featured | Tags: accessories, fashion, outfit, style | Leave A Comment »
Is there a mountain—or problem—in your life obstructing you from accomplishing your goals? If so, have hope. As God’s child, you have the God-given right to be victorious in everything that you do. Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By Jennifer Sanchez | Categories: Featured, Recently Featured, Spa for the Soul | Tags: god, inspiration, mountain, Spa, Spa for the Soul | Leave A Comment »
Every season offers something unique. Summer provides the opportunity to embrace the shade during the day or the beautiful night sky in the evenings. Whether you wish to get out for lunch or dinner, SVL has provided some of El Paso’s select outdoor hot spots that are sure to satisfy your tastebuds. Bon appétit! Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By SVL Staff | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle, Recently Featured | Tags: dining, hot spots, patio | Leave A Comment »
Delicately prepared for our enthusiastic taste buds, Chef David, proud graduate of Le Cordon Bleu, has given the traditional Mexican mole a classic French twist. This oh-so-delicious Pato En Mole showcases just a smidgen of Chef David’s ten years of experience. With close attention to detail, this dish is well balanced and seasoned with a sweet surprise of 99% cocoa.
Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By SVL Staff | Categories: Featured, Food, Recently Featured | Tags: duck, Food, mole, recipe | Leave A Comment »
At the height of bikini season, most women prefer to steer clear of conversations involving their so-called “imperfections.” Among those imperfections, cellulite is a commonly shunned topic during the summer months. Although some see cellulite as a beauty flaw, most doctors consider it to be completely normal. Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By Amy Arsenault | Categories: Featured, Health & Exercise, Recently Featured | Tags: beauty, cellulite, wellness | Leave A Comment »
To keep your entire body strong, fit and fabulous, you must start with a strong core. The muscles that form your core are located in your back, pelvis, hip and abdomen. These are important areas for creating a strong foundation to start building your upper and lower body strength. When exercising outdoors, keep in mind that in the summer heat, you can quickly become dehydrated. Keep your skin protected and your body well hydrated. Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By Su Voz Latina Editor | Categories: Featured, Health & Exercise, Recently Featured | Leave A Comment »

After

Before
Photography by Omar Mena
Clothing by Dillard’s – Sunland Park
Makeup by MAC Cosmetics at Dillard’s – Sunland Park
Hair by Jessica Avila
Have you ever looked at the clothes in your closet and felt that even though you owned at least two dozen outfits, you had nothing to wear? We’ve all felt that way at one time or another. Sometimes what you really need isn’t new clothes but a second chance at style. Believe it or not, a few additions to your current wardrobe and some professional tailoring separates you already own can make a world of difference in how you feel. And when you feel better, life’s better all the way around. Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By SVL Staff | Categories: Fashion & Beauty, Featured, Recently Featured | Tags: makeover, montero, stephanie | Leave A Comment »
The “Damsel in Distress” is a time-tested archetype, and at least part of it is true–there are few things more distressing than having car troubles out on the open road. Here at Su Voz Latina, we’re dedicated to keeping our readers informed. Here are some simple maintenance and replacement techniques so you know what to do if something goes wrong. Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By Austin Savage | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle, Recently Featured | Tags: car, change, maintainence, tire | Leave A Comment »
Have you ever felt like every time you opened your Bible or went to church or your small group, God kept pointing you to the same thing over and over again? That’s been happening to me lately. Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By sharronhoddemiller | Categories: Featured, Recently Featured, Spa for the Soul | Tags: jealous, Spa, Spa for the Soul | Leave A Comment »
Passion is perhaps the most important ingredient when creating a recipe–even more so when creating a restaurant. Alejandra Chavez, Chef/Owner of Thyme Matters, clearly puts passion into everything she does. You can hear it in the way she speaks, you can see it in the way she works, and you can sense it in the atmosphere of her restaurant, “Thyme Matters.” Her restaurant has helped start a trend in homegrown restaurants that are blooming all over the Sun City, and her menu has set the bar pretty high. Story continues…
Jul 20, 2010 | By SVL Staff | Categories: Business, Featured, Recently Featured | Tags: Business, latinas, thyme, woman | Leave A Comment »
with Andi Herrera and Stevie Pendergrass for Soirée Planners
Floral arrangements provided by Fiori Flower Market. Photography by Azddin Amdaa for The French Vue Photography
Summertime is a great time to throw a magnificent backyard party. The ladies of Soirée Planners have stepped in to give us the rundown on the summer party trend list.

Jul 20, 2010 | By SVL Staff | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle, Recently Featured | Tags: ideas, party, tablescapes | Leave A Comment »
How many times have you seen a commercial about summer where the message was meant to make us feel that this season was carefree and all about relaxation? And how many times did you think to yourself, “That’s not how things are in my world,” as you juggled the things on your to-do list?
Summer may have a reputation as the most peaceful time of year, but the truth is that it’s completely the opposite. It’s actually more hectic, more demanding and less carefree than almost any other time of the year. Working moms suddenly have an extra job as they shuttle children to and from activities and camps. Vacations don’t always go as smoothly as planned. The relatives we had looked forward to seeing seem to get on our nerves. Add to that the sweltering heat and it’s no wonder we feel so stressed each year when June rolls around.
While everyone experiences these expectations and letdowns, it may be helpful to remember that we can choose NOT to feel stressed about them—this summer or any time of year. We’ve been given a promise–one that can substantially lighten our worldly burdens if we will only remember it and hold fast to it:
Jeremiah 1:5 (Amp)
Before I formed you in the womb I knew [and] approved of you [as My chosen instrument], and before you were born I separated and set you apart, consecrating you…
God made this statement to the prophet Jeremiah, but the same promise applies to you and me. God has made us who we are and deems us capable of whatever task is laid before us. Not only that, but He reminds us that he has a peaceful life
planned for us:
Jeremiah 29:11 (Amp)
For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.
God’s plans for us are all about prosperity and hope and harmony. This gives us the confidence to face every task with the assurance that we have an advantage – God is on our side.
These promises were amplified many years after Jeremiah was a prophet when Jesus came. Through Him, we were given even more reason to be at peace.
John 14:27 (Amp)
Peace I leave with you; My [own] peace I now give and bequeath to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. [Stop allowing yourselves to be agitated and disturbed; and do not permit yourselves to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly
and unsettled.]
So when the worries of this life get you down, or the stresses of summer make you feel defeated, remember that God has given you all the abilities you need to succeed in this life. You are beautifully and wonderfully made. Take peace in His promises.
How many times have you seen a commercial about summer where the message was meant to make us feel that this season was carefree and all about relaxation? Story continues…
Jun 01, 2010 | By Melissa Sobey | Categories: Featured, Recently Featured, Spa for the Soul | Tags: bible, god, peaceful, relax, Spa for the Soul, summer | Leave A Comment »
It’s the end of the school year! No more homework tantrums or sports practices. No more rushing every morning to make it on time to school. Freedom is here! Oh, wait–there are two words that kids tend to repeat during the summer break: “I’m bored!” Whether you’re a working woman or a stay-at-home mom, you might encounter a day when you don’t know how to entertain your kids while they’re out of school.
Consider a few of the following ideas to enjoy during the summer with your kids. It’s important to consider the age range of each child, because some activities might be boring for the older kids while the simpler ideas prove positively fantastic for the younger ones.
Plan ahead
If you don’t spend most of your time at home, we recommend keeping a calendar listing the activities you want to try. That way you can prepare ahead of time. You and your children can sit down together and discuss the kinds of activities they want to experience. If you’re on a budget, it’s essential that you limit your activities to the ones that are home-based or don’t require too much
out-of-pocket expense.
Attend a “story time” at your closest library
Almost every library in town hosts book readings; children of all ages enjoy learning about different subjects. Take advantage of their natural curiosity and check out books for them. Allow older kids to choose one or two for themselves. This summer fun experience will help them develop good reading habits in the future.
Catch a movie at the dollar theater
There always seems to be one movie that you and your children didn’t get around to seeing. Take advantage of a matinee during the week when flicks are less costly…and splurge on some popcorn to share!
Sprinkler Day
This can be the perfect excuse to get the bathing suits out and have fun jumping through the sprinklers on a hot day. This means you, too, Mom! You can water the garden while the hose is on and take some time to talk to them about water conservation and other conservation topics.
Make homemade play-dough
This activity is fun even for adults. It’s a form of relaxation because of the waythe dough is kneaded and pounded–and it even serves as aromatherapy! Working with Play-Dough can help calm anxiety and teach children that crafts don’t have to come from a store to be fun (see recipe).
Bake a cake: Kids love sweets!
Why not have them cook their favorite cake and surprise mom or dad when they arrive home one afternoon?
Play entrepreneur
Plan a garage sale inwhich your children sell their unwanted items, or set up a lemonade stand. You can get together with some other parents to help with the sales.
Go bowling: Bowling is one of those activities that can bring family together. Invite your friends and family!
“Table games” day: Many kids don’t realize how to play games without a computer. Break out the old-fashioned board games, including memory games, poker, chess and others.
Volunteering: Lots of organizations in our city recruit volunteers over the summer. For example, the El Paso Museum of Art is accepting applications from teens 14 years and older.
Play “My Favorite Rock”: Use the rocks in your back yard as craft items. Take children on a rock hunt. Have them pick a rock they like and decorate it with acrylic paint in the color of their choice. You can use them as patio decorations.
These are only a few activities that you and your kids can try. You’ll think of even more as summer marches on. Remember that what’s most important is the love you give them and the time you spend together.
It’s the end of the school year! No more homework tantrums or sports practices. No more rushing every morning to make it on time to school. Freedom is here! Story continues…
Jun 01, 2010 | By Celia Gonzalez | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle, Recently Featured | Tags: activities, dough, family, fun, Kids, summer | Leave A Comment »
Superheroes work tirelessly to keep their secret identity separate from their everyday personalities; but these four Super Moms put those superheroes to shame. Harmoniously balancing their home life and their work life is their super power. Story continues…
May 05, 2010 | By Austin Savage | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle | Leave A Comment »
May is the month when we celebrate our mothers, and in honor of this month, I would like to write about the word “mothering.” The verb “mother” means to teach, to nurture, to love and to protect. What a daunting, yet wonderful job we mothers have. Story continues…
May 05, 2010 | By Barbara Legate | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle | Tags: inspiration, memories, mother's day | Leave A Comment »
Finding new and thoughtful ways of expressing gratitude for the special women in our lives on Mother’s Day is always a challenge. Story continues…
May 05, 2010 | By Melissa Sobey | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle | Tags: gift, guide, mother's day | Leave A Comment »
The Lord loves you so much! The Bible says that He even knows the number of hairs you have on your head. No matter how far you think you are from Him, He wants us to know that He’s always there waiting for us. Many ask, “Why did you leave me, God? Where are you amidst my pain and suffering?” Story continues…
May 05, 2010 | By Jennifer Sanchez | Categories: Featured, Spa for the Soul | Tags: bible, god, Spa for the Soul | Leave A Comment »
Spring is here and so are some of the many delicious fruits that come with the season. Pears come in so many different varieties that it makes it hard to choose one to fit your taste. Story continues…
May 05, 2010 | By Farzad Farrokhnia | Categories: Featured, Food | Tags: dessert, pear, recipe | Leave A Comment »
Summer break is right around the corner, and with it comes the added stress of finding something to keep vacationing children busy. Story continues…
May 05, 2010 | By Denisse Rauda | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle | Tags: care, child, day care, mother, women | Leave A Comment »


For the worried mother, scheduling visits to the ever-so ominous doctor’s office can be a little daunting. Questions like “What shots does he need?” Story continues…
May 05, 2010 | By Amy Arsenault | Categories: Featured, Health & Exercise | Tags: child care, Children, Health & Exercise, immunization, mom, mother's day, sick | Leave A Comment »
Whether you’re eloping to Vegas or tying the knot with a fairytale wedding—no matter how you say “I Do,” one thing is always certain: the day after saying your vows, a certain reality sets in. Life together suddenly becomes more complicated than choosing a new sectional sofa or fighting over Project Runway vs. ESPN. Your relationship evolves into a life together where issues like budgeting, credit cards and even your bi-monthly spa trips are put under a giant microscope.
Monica Narvaez, [CFP®, Director of Financial Planning and Partner, at Strategic Wealth Advisors and Financial Advisor with Investors Capital Corporation] helps couples not only eliminate debt but also accumulate wealth. She lent us her expertise in order to help newlywed readers get their checkbooks ‘in check.’ While finances can be a conversational landmine for new couples, considering the following fundamentals can help avoid unpleasant conversations later and ensure financial stability now.
Discuss Your Priorities
Before committing to a plan, keep in mind the basics of your marriage. Things like age, income level and amount of debt can be important factors in determining the first steps you need to take. While a couple in their mid 20s may want to focus on paying off school loans, others may want to start saving for a down payment on their first home. Narvaez notes that it’s important at this stage to “be realistic” about your priorities and “know what you can and cannot spend your income on.”
Whether you plan to travel the world or prefer to populate it in your first few years of marriage, recognize what your priorities are and determine a way to accomplish them. Focus on paying down debt and building for the future. Now that your credit scores and financial history are intertwined, it’s important to stay honest and on track because, as Narvaez says, “No one likes surprises.”
Set Common Goals
An unavoidable dilemma arises after reading guideline number one. Your partner is thinking, “backpack through Europe” and you are already choosing the tile for your brand new condo. It is simply impossible to set a budget and stick with it if you are each saving money for different goals. Discussion and compromise need to take place in order to get you both on the same wavelength. Many couples forget that the root of money problems is a lack of communication; view this conversation as an opportunity to strive for something together.
Narvaez suggests that couples work together by “establishing a plan to get a good handle on income and expenses. Then agree on a dollar amount to save every month in order to reach your goals.”
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Once common goals and a budget are established, it’s important to stick with them. Imagine your husband splurging on sports while you opt out on your weekly mani/pedi in order to afford a nicer home. Avoid making him feel the same way by watching where your money goes when it comes to wardrobe and personal beauty. Abiding by the plan you create together shows that you respect and care about one another’s feelings and that you’re willing to work as a team.
Have an Emergency Plan
Last but not least, always be prepared for life’s little “what ifs.” You never know when the unexpected will occur so try to build an emergency fund – ideally, it should equal the cost of living for about three months. Narvaez recommends that newlyweds “start saving or investing early on. Ideally, do so systematically from your paycheck every month. As the saying goes, ‘out of sight, out of mind.’ Couples get accustomed to living on the difference and the result is a nice, fat bank account.”
Overall, financial planning is a joint effort that requires compromise and trust. Work on finding a middle ground so that the monetary goals you have agreed on as a couple are made possible and you can prevent one of the most prevalent causes of unsuccessful marriages in the United States.
Quick Guide to Financial
Planning for Newlyweds:
Establish your Budget
Focus on Reducing Debt
Be Honest with Each Other
Set Common Goals
Save, Save, Save!
Respect the Plan
Set Up an Emergency Fund
Whether you’re eloping to Vegas or tying the knot with a fairytale wedding—no matter how you say “I Do,” one thing is always certain: the day after saying your vows, a certain reality sets in. Story continues…
Apr 14, 2010 | By Amy Arsenault | Categories: Business, Featured, Recently Featured | Tags: budget, finances, Marriage, money | Leave A Comment »
By Candice Lapin of ParaTiNovia.com
What trends should be at the top of your list while you are planning your wedding? There are so many incredible new details emerging in weddings, it is difficult to choose. Here are just a few of the ideas that are making me and all the women in my office swoon this season. Story continues…
Apr 14, 2010 | By SVL Staff | Categories: Featured, Lifestyle, Recently Featured | Tags: event, married, photography, trends, wedding | Leave A Comment »