Photography by Robert Nelson
Shot on location at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, Manalapan
Johanna Kandel
Occupation: Founder and CEO, The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness
Beauty factor: Eating disorder survivor and champion, role model, educator, dog lover, persevering spirit
Handbag, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa
Proudest achievement: Recovering from a 10-year battle with an eating disorder and using the experience to give back and make a difference
Surprising fear: I have no problem standing in front of 5,000 people but when it comes to small talk, I would rather be a part of the wallpaper. I just can’t do it.
Her definition of “beauty”: It’s who you are on the inside and how you treat others—and yourself. It’s in your heart, soul, and spirit.
Favorite keepsake: My grandmother’s engagement ring. My father’s father was in the Holocaust, and I wear the ring all the time.
Palm Beach haunt: The section of beach where dogs are allowed on a leash. It’s my happy place.
Best part of her job: Helping others going through what I went through and seeing the light that comes back into their eyes
Stress reliever: Walking and listening to great ’80s and ’90s music
Celebrity idol: Brené Brown. I’ve read all her books and seen her TED talks. She really defines the idea of being open and moving past the shame. In my head, we’re best friends.
Childhood dream: To be a ballet dancer, and I was one for a few years.
Next profession: I’d be Joanna Gaines from HGTV’s Fixer Upper. I’m always looking at real estate online and remodeling properties in my head.
Future goal: To be able to offer reduced or free treatments to individuals who are uninsured or mis-insured
Role model: My mother’s mother. She lived to be 100 years old and was the epitome of a strong woman. Her voice keeps me going during hard times.
Words to live by: Feel the fear, and do it anyway.
Hair: Gregory Ash Yomontano, Deborah Koepper Beauty, Palm Beach
Makeup: Deborah Koepper using Deborah Koepper Cosmetics, Deborah Koepper Beauty, Palm Beach
Palm Beach Illustrated thanks the management and staff of Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa for their gracious hospitality.
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