Messages to the Heart: Reflections of Beauty and Truth

Messages to the Heart was born from an organic pairing of one couple's passion: Elise's thoughtful, healing pastel paintings paired with Phil's mindful philosophy derived from years of coaching clients to success. Together, they bring a visceral expression of everyday inspiration brought together through art and words. Readers will feel touched, inspired and reminded of their "ah-ha" moments of truth and beauty in their own lives.

As two creative souls passionate about the healing arts, Elise and Phil Okrend founded a successful greeting card company, MixedBlessing in 1990 based on messages of peace, tolerance and diversity. The story behind their company was featured in national media such as The Wall Street Journal, USA Today and Good Morning America. Their greeting card business success allowed the couple to diversify further into individual passions. Elise now pursues her artistic callings in healing and mindful pastel paintings in her art gallery space in Asheville, North Carolina and in the permanent collection of hospitals, offices and residences. Phil helps hundreds of clients as a certified life and business coach, incorporating writing, public speaking and original reflective music into his practice.