So. Today’s Valentines day huh? Eff that.

Why the edge? Simple:

There’s so much good- and not so good- emphasis on Valentines Day. So much hype about women being in a relationship, being in love, or at least with someone. Because that’s what women and men have been foolishly led to believe determines your worth.

You look around- people holding hands. Eskimo kissing. Buying each other what ever the “Valentines Day Sale” sign says to buy. Romantic dinners. Late night text-a-thons. Kinky sex stuff everywhere. As if this is the only season people get freaky (next to halloween, of course.)

So many people pretending to be happy. And a few that are genuinely in love. Bless them all, may they fulfill each others’ cravings for chocolate truffles.

But what about the OTHER half of the population?

What about the others who just got out of a shitty relationship? The ones who had a jerk face boyfriend? The gorgeous ladies that have so much to offer but men are intimidated to talk to them? What about the girls who just, for whatever reason- always attract mimbos or douchebags?

“I’ve been heartbroken. I’ve broken hearts. That’s part of life, and its part of figuring out who you are.” – Heidi Klum

Trust me ladies: You’re SO intelligent, classy and worth SO much more than most of us men lead you to believe. We’re idiots that way. We usually don’t figure it out until it’s too late and you’re Gone Til November.

Even with that simply truth, I see too many wonderwomen placing their worth in “having a man.” Didn’t you hear what I just said? So. This series is to encourage you to seek love from WITHIN. It’s to remind you that you are sexy, and you don’t need some guy to reinforce that for you. YOU can do that yourself.

If you don’t truly fall in love with YOURSELF, and embrace your own inner sexy, then how will you expect to magnetize your partner?

“I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life’s a bitch. You’ve got to go out and kick ass.” — Maya Angelou

These photographs are to remind you of your POWER. To encourage women to be bold, be brave, and let your inner feline out. To stop doubting yourself because they said something to make you, well- doubt yourself. To remind you to have FUN! It’s OK to be playful, dangerous and frisky…

You never needed his or her approval anyway, so good riddance. You are a bright, delicious star with megawatts of love to share. And the quotes from leading women in the world reinforce that.

“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” – Alice Walker

NOTE: These photographs aren’t “Hollywood.” This isn’t MAXIM. So if you’re looking for some over filtered, meticulously fabricated photoshopped women, this isn’t the post for you. Besides, I don’t have the patience or desire for days of post-production photography anyway.

These Toronto models are simply the REAL deal. Beautiful and brave (and awesome!) friends of mine who have BRAINS and TALENT to match their beauty.

==== SIDEBAR: Intelligence is sexy. My next Toronto photoshoot I think will be sexy bookworms… let me know if you’re interested ====

Some used this opportunity to overcome their insecurities being in front of the camera, and came out bolder and more confident because of it! They are truly kick ass chicks. The leather jackets represent toughness, resilience and a badass woman underneath. These ladies share their energy with you and encourage you to be the same.

And, of course… these photographs are meant to tease stupid boys. Rub it in, just a little. Why? Because you can. Why not? Women have a command that men will never decipher. Use it to your advantage ladies, because most men can’t.

“A great figure or physique is nice, but it’s self-confidence that makes someone really sexy.” – Vivica Fox

Now all you Fellas, let this be a reminder to Get It Together. Treat her like the delicious princess she is or she’ll find a deserving prince faster than you can say Giddy Up. Take it from these ladies… you boys know that’s a ride you don’t want to miss.

-Shawn Byfield