Over 40 Portrait Exhibition: Shining a Spotlight on Women Over 40

Watertown, NY – The much-anticipated second bi-annual 40 Over 40 Portrait Exhibition will take place on December 7, 2024, at the Masonic Temple Performing Arts Center in Watertown. This powerful event celebrates the stories and strength of women over 40 in Northern New York and beyond, highlighting their resilience, confidence, and invaluable contributions to the community. 

This year’s exhibition will feature 40 stunning portraits of remarkable women, paired with their personal stories of growth, challenges, and triumphs. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with these women and celebrate their achievements in an inspiring and inclusive setting. 

Event Highlights: 

● 40 Portraits & Stories: Explore the beauty and power of women over 40 through compelling images and narratives. 

● Live Music: Enjoy a captivating performance by the talented Mirabella Phinney. 

● Dessert Station: Treat yourself to delicious confections while mingling with other guests. 

● Photo Booth: Create memories with loved ones at a fun photo booth sponsored by Snapshots Photo Booths. 

● Prizes: Enter to win exciting giveaways, including a free photo session with Sarissa Melissa Photography and prizes from local women-owned businesses. 

The event is open to everyone, making it the perfect opportunity for families, friends, and individuals to celebrate the beauty and power of self-expression.

In addition to the portraits, the exhibition will feature a resource station highlighting local nonprofit organizations that support women. This collaboration aims to raise awareness of community resources while fostering connections and promoting the work of women in business. 

How to Join the 40 Over 40 Project 

After a successful exhibition in December 2022, Tousley is continuing her empowering 40 Over 40 project, with sessions now booking for the next bi-annual exhibition in December 2026. Each session offers an unforgettable experience, including a professional makeover with hair and makeup, a personalized styling consultation, and a two-hour photo session designed to celebrate and capture your unique story. 

To learn more about joining this incredible project, visit 

https://www.sarissamelissaphotography.com/40over40 

About Sarissa Melissa Photography 

Sarissa Melissa Photography has been a trusted name in Watertown since 2010, with Melissa Tousley establishing her current studio in the historic Watertown Masonic Temple in 2015. Melissa specializes in a wide range of portrait photography services, including professional headshots and branding photos for business professionals, styled maternity sessions, families, creative high school seniors, and empowering beauty and boudoir portraits. 

Melissa is passionate about creating transformative and confidence-boosting experiences for her clients, tailoring each session to make it truly impactful. Whether in the studio or on location, her focus is on delivering photography that not only captures stunning images but also empowers and inspires. 

More about Melissa Tousley 

Melissa Tousley is a Portrait Photographer, Social Media Coach, and Artist who thrives on sharing her creativity through visual storytelling. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Merchandise Management from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, Melissa always envisioned owning her own creative business. After moving to Watertown in 2009, she made it her mission to connect with her new community and give back in meaningful ways. 

In addition to her work behind the camera, Melissa is the founder of the annual International Women's Day event, a celebration of women entrepreneurs, professionals, and creatives coming together to learn, grow, and connect. She also established a Women in Business group, which gathers regularly to foster education, collaboration, and philanthropic efforts that directly contribute to the North Country community. 

Over the years, Melissa has served as a board member for organizations like Better Arts, Northern NY Professional Photographers, Professional Photographers of Central New York, and Watertown First. She has also dedicated her time to initiatives such as "Tunes Tools for Schools," toy drives for the "Christmas Crusade for Kids," Give NNY, and volunteering for the American Heart Association’s “Heart Walk” team photos for nine years. 

Through her work with Sarissa Melissa Photography and community involvement, Melissa was honored as a 20 Under 40 Emerging Leader in 2019. Constantly studying her craft through mentors, conferences, and training, Melissa strives to bring innovative photography services to the North Country while inspiring creativity and connection in all she does. For more on Sarissa Melissa Photography, visit www.sarissamelissa.com