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5 Inspiring Quotes to Celebrate National Friendship Day

August 4, 2018

They say the best things in life are free.

When it comes to friendship, that sentiment couldn’t be truer. This Sunday, celebrate your besties in honor of National Friendship Day.

Throughout life’s ups and downs, friends are always by our sides. Whether they’re cheering us on, giving advice or lending their shoulders to cry on, friends play an incredible role in our lives. Essentially, they’re the family that we’ve chosen for one reason or another. Maybe you went to elementary school together or bonded over the fact that you both love the movie “Brown Sugar” or started chatting in the playground while your kids played hopscotch, no matter how friendships blossom, it’s a beautiful thing when they do.

I’ve been blessed with many friendships throughout the years. Sure, some have fizzled while others have flourished, but I’m grateful for them all. I believe we learn a little bit about ourselves by the friends we choose. Perhaps a friend brings out your humorous side while another encourages you to explore the world — good friendships have a positive impact on our well-being. Like rare gems, no two friendships are the same. Each person adds something different to our lives and that’s what makes them special.

The Joy of Friendship by Jackie Corley available here, $12.

Collecting books on friendship has been a hobby of mine for more than a decade. No matter how many books I read, I’m always intrigued and fascinated by the intricacies that result in two people clicking and connecting socially. I’ve recently added, “The Joy of Friendship,” a new release from Jackie Corley to my growing collection. The book features 200 inspiring and uplifting quotes about you guessed it, friendship. From Aristotle to Muhammad Ali, the book is chock full of funny, thought-provoking and delightful quotes about the beauty of friendship.

Genuine friendship is a precious, two-way street relationship that should never be taken for granted. I’m grateful for my friendships and I’m proud to be a friend.

Here are 5 of my favorite quotes from the book:

*”The pieces I am, she gather them and gave them back to me in all the right order.” —Toni Morrison

*”Honesty and openness is always the foundation of insightful dialogue.” —bell hooks

*”It’s the friends you can call up at 4 a.m. that matter.” —Marlene Dietrich

*”The best time to make friends is before you need them.” —Ethel Barrymore

*”Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain It’s not something you learn in school. But if you haven’t learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven’t learned anything.” —Muhammad Ali

What’s the most thoughtful thing your friend(s) have ever done for you?

Category: Gumbo Mix | 1 Comment

Samsung and Boys & Girls Club Partnership Empowers Students to Explore STEM

August 1, 2018

With summer winding down and back-to-school season around the corner, it’s time to get your kids prepared for the school year ahead.

Thanks to Samsung and the Boys & Girls Club of America, children ages 9 to 12 can get an academic jumpstart on STEM-centric (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects to prevent summer “brain drain.”

Through the partnership, kids can participate in science-based activities keeping their minds sharp and active for rest of the summer. With fun experiments and observations that focus on everything from creating a circuit board to making a fidget spinner—the 5-week program is filled with enriching, hands-on projects that help them understand how things work in the world around them.

Not only does the program help kids learn and stay busy, it also aids in sparking interest in STEM subjects that will undoubtedly drive the jobs of tomorrow. Exposing young people to STEM and giving them the opportunity to explore those concepts, sets them up for success by fostering a passion that will lead to lucrative careers in the future that will help maintain a strong economy.

With so many children faced with limited access to learning during out-of-school time, specifically STEM-related programs, this partnership is crucial and groundbreaking because it’s available to everyone. Whether it’s in-Club or in the comforts of their homes, youth can enjoy DIY-STEM projects (with adult supervision) to keep them engaged all summer long.

Simply visit the Boys and Girls Club of America’s website and download all the STEM projects and experiments here.

Week 1: The first week will explore the fundamentals of energy and electricity.

Week 2: The second week will educate youth on the basics of engineering and design.

Week 3: Kitchen skills will be put to the test during the third week’s focus on food chemistry.

Week 4: The fourth week will investigate aeronautics and how they affect everything we do.

Week 5: Physical education will be front and center as youth are educated on the human body during this final week.

If you know a child who will enjoy learning about STEM through exciting, educational experiments, then this summer program is something you don’t want to miss!

Has your child expressed interest in STEM-related activities? How do you keep your child mentally stimulated during the summer months? Share your comments below and via Twitter using the hashtags, #BGCAandSamsung #DIYSTEM.

Category: Featured, Gumbo Mix, Uncategorized | Leave a Comment

What is Earth Overshoot Day and Why is Love Beauty and Planet Honoring It?

July 31, 2018

You may think tomorrow is simply the start of a new month, right? Sure, it is the first day of August, but it’s also Earth Overshoot Day. Not sure what that means? Read on.

Basically, we’re using up more of the planet’s resources than can be replenished in a year. Although we’re only 8 months into the year, tomorrow (August 1^st) we would’ve already used up all of Earth’s resources for 2018. At this dangerous rate, we’re going to need to clone another earth by 2030 to support us.

The word is out and many are jumping on board to keep our beautiful planet’s resources intact. From entire cities ditching straws to celebrities sharing their commitment to the cause, every small act of love counts.

In honor of Earth Overshoot Day, Love Beauty and Planet has created a #SmallActsofLove video that shows how simple it is to preserve Earth’s resources in small, but meaningful ways that can have a big impact. Not only have they developed an eye-opening clip, they practice what they preach.

The bath and beauty brand’s in-shower products are made with 100 percent recycled bottles and recyclable packaging. They also use a special glue to ensure that labels tear away cleanly from the bottle during the recycling process to ensure they get a second life. Plus, their delightful fragrances are infused with ethically-sourced oil or extract that are obtained from a responsible sourcing program that supports the ecosystem and livelihoods of the farmers and communities who grow them.

Love Beauty and Planet products are available, here.

Just when you thought you couldn’t respect this brand more, it gets better. Love Beauty and Planet is working together with The Recycling Partnership to help transform a U.S. city’s recycling system – making it easier for more of its residents to recycle, and recycle well. The brand is contributing $40 per carbon ton of greenhouse gas emitted during the creation, manufacture, and distribution of their products to The Recycling Partnership to improve recycling solutions that ultimately make residents’ everyday lives and health of our planet better.

As a mother, I want the best for my kids. That’s why I do my best to preserve our beautiful planet’s precious resources. For example, we only use reusable bags for groceries and use refillable water bottles instead of plastic ones. It’s up to all of us to keep our planet clean, bountiful and vibrant for generations to come!

What are your #SmallActsofLove to help preserve Earth?

Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

Healthline Features My Top SPF Picks for Darker Skin Tones

July 27, 2018

Throughout the years, I’ve written countless pieces about the importance of sun protection for black women. That’s why I was thrilled when Healthline, one of the fastest growing online consumer health publishers on the planet, approached me with the opportunity to share my favorite SPF products for women with darker skin tones.

I, along with three other beautiful, sun-kissed brown girls shared our go-to products to protect our melanated skin from harmful UV rays.

From sunscreen sprays to tinted lip balms, our selections help prevent sun damage keeping our skin healthy and radiant.

Read on for the full feature:

What’s your favorite SPF and SPF beauty product?

Category: Beauty | 3 Comments

Jane Iredale’s Triple Luxe Will Make You Ditch Your Current Lipstick Stash

July 26, 2018

When it comes to eco-friendly beauty, jane iredale reigns supreme.

For more than two decades, the all-natural, vegan cosmetics line dubbed The Skincare Makeup, has amplified women’s natural beauty around the world.

Triple Luxe, the brand’s newest line of lipsticks is a testament to the company’s innovation and dedication to working with the best natural ingredients. Available in 15 high-wattage shades, the long-lasting formula glides on like a cream, but finishes matte. I’m a matte kind of girl, but don’t like how many offerings dry out my lips. Luckily, the hydrating blend of oils and waxes in this new collection provide moisture that remarkably allows the color to stay put.

Not only are the shades universally complementary they’re also named after women in the founder’s life. For example, “Natalie,” a deeply-pigmented hot pink hue, is named after her global brand ambassador and lead makeup artist Natalie Soto, whom I had the pleasure of meeting at the Triple Luxe press launch last week.

jane iredale — The Skincare Makeup Triple Luxe Long Lasting Naturally Moist Lipstick™ available here, $35

At the lavish event held at 1 Hotel Central Park, I had the chance to touch, test and smell (the lipsticks are infused with Tahitian Vanilla and Blackberry) the lipsticks. I was blown away by the luxe feel and posh packaging. Each sleek case is outfitted with a magnetic closure that prevents handbag makeup mishaps. How many times have lipstick tubes come undone in your makeup bag or purse? Unfortunately, it’s happened to me more times than I can count.

With such a wide variety of shades, it’s hard to pick just one. But, if I had to choose a favorite, it would be Joanna — a pretty plum shade with pink undertones.

I’ve been a fan of jane iredale for 10 years and remain loyal due to their premium products, which are worth every penny. The brand has stayed true to itself, which is a difficult feat in this nonstop, ever-changing social media age.

Hopefully, they never deviate from their core values of delivering quality cosmetics that look good and are good for women and the environment. If they stick to it, they’ll always have a fan in me.

Below, check out pics from the gorgeous event:

Have you ever used jane iredale products? If so, what’s your favorite?

Category: Beauty, Featured, Features | 2 Comments

CurlFest: 6 Reasons to Attend the Natural Beauty Celebration

July 23, 2018

It’s hard to believe that less than ten years ago, not many black women embraced or celebrated their natural hair throughout the U.S.

Fast-forward to today and countless black women from around the world and all the way to Wakanda are proudly rocking their curls, coils and kinks. That adoration and admiration was on full display at Curly Girl Collective’s 5^th Annual CurlFest in Brooklyn this past Saturday.

Women (and men) with an array of hair textures gathered in Prospect Park for the one-day event created to celebrate the beauty and versatility of natural hair. With a host of brands and sponsors showcasing their natural hair products, artists creating pieces in real time, fun photo activations, and fashion and food vendors selling goods — the event is a one-of-a-kind get-together teeming with positive energy, fellowship and love — all set to a feel-good soundtrack.

If you’re a curly girl who’s never attended CurlFest, don’t miss out next year. Read on to see why you should save space in your summer schedule for the best natural hair event of the year!

Incomparable energy
Some things are hard to describe with words. CurlFest is one of them. The undeniable positive energy that exudes from Prospect Park that day is unmatched. Being surrounded by people who look like you and share common interests creates a connectivity that automatically radiates throughout the event. You’ll find beaming smiles while compliments overflow during this hair-centric lovefest.

Endless hair inspiration
It goes without saying that unique hairstyles abound at CurlFest. From fire-engine red ringlets to bold and blond Afros, the hair inspiration is endless. When it comes to hair versatility and creativity, black women can’t be outdone. Additionally, attendees can see hair demos and live tutorials using some of the sponsored products. If you’re low on style ideas, attend CurlFest and you’ll leave with a bevy of unique concepts to get your creative juices flowing.

Opportunities to support black-owned businesses
Sure, CurlFest is all about hair, but style is also front and center at the event. With numerous fashion, jewelry and home décor vendors along the lawn, attendees can support black designers, artists and boutique owners. Whether you’re looking for Afrocentric attire, bespoke accessories or eye-catching artwork, the festival has you covered. What’s better than supporting black businesses while elevating your flyness at the same time?

Empowering panels
Black women are often told that we’re not beautiful, aren’t smart and don’t measure up to our counterparts. CurlFest’s mission is to erase the lies that have been fed to us for centuries. Throughout the festival, attendees are treated to inspiring panels and empowering chats aimed to uplift, educate and dispel those nasty untruths about us.

This year, Renae Bluitt, New York-based blogger/publicist/filmmaker hosted a discussion about her upcoming documentary, “She Did That,” which features black female entrepreneurs. Each year the festival brings out illuminating voices to help us recognize and appreciate our greatness.

Curly hair-approved products in one place
Whether your head is full of tight 4C curls or loose cascading coils, no two strands are alike and the product spectrum to care for them is reflected at the festival. With more than 40 hair care brands on hand, attendees can pick the creams, lotions, potions and other concoctions to make their curls shine. Plus, festival goers can touch, test and smell the products before purchasing, which is crucial for those with sensitive noses.

Teachable moment for young girls
When I was pregnant with my daughter, I knew that I wanted her to unequivocally know that she was beautiful. I understood that meant giving up my relaxer and going natural. Back in 2009, forgoing straight hair wasn’t radical, but it wasn’t as acceptable as it is today. I thought, “How can I declare black is beautiful,” if I couldn’t fully embrace myself?

CurlFest is a place where young black girls can see their glorious beauty in a sea of more than 25,000 black women. It’s one thing to hear confidence-boosting affirmations, but to see them personified is a different story. I can’t imagine being an impressionable 8-year-old like my daughter and seeing so many beautiful black women unapologetically wearing their non-chemically straightened hair. Who knows what that could’ve done for my self-esteem?

CurlFest helped spearhead the natural hair movement in New York City and their efforts are paying off big time for young black girls looking for examples of beauty and validation. It’s a safe space for us to be ourselves and bask in our undeniable beauty!

If you’re proud of curls, want to test out cool products, pick up fashionable styles and chill with your bae or squad, then CurlFest is for you! Be sure to visit CurlyGirlCollective.com to stay up-to-date with events, announcements, etc.

Have you ever attended CurlFest? If so, describe your experience.

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Beauty, Fashion, Gumbo Mix | 3 Comments

Misty Copeland Captivates ‘Whipped Cream’ Audiences

July 16, 2018

For those who saw Michael Jackson mind-blowingly moonwalk in the ‘80s or watched Michael Jordan glide through the air and slam dunk basketballs as a Chicago Bull, they witnessed greatness. You can add me and my daughter to the list of lucky individuals who’ve seen a legend performing in their prime.

Last week, my daughter and I saw Misty Copeland in “Whipped Cream,” a fanciful ballet of confectionery delight at the Metropolitan Opera House on the city’s upper east side. As the first African-American principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre (since 2015), Copeland is at the top of her game and her performance as “Princess Praline” is a testament to her talent.

Courtesy Metropolitan Opera

While the lavishly designed stage and beautiful costumes and seamless choreography bring the story of a boy who gets sick from eating too many sweets to life and falls into an enchanted delirium, nothing compares to Copeland’s charisma, athleticism and allure. She stands out and mesmerizes audiences with her effortless moves and transfixing strength. Her body is a masterpiece and the stage is her canvas. With every spin, twirl and pirouette, Copeland captivates. Her presence is so powerful that you can’t take your eyes off her.

Sure, the ballet was wonderful, but Copeland made it an unforgettable experience. I’m so glad my 8-year-old daughter could witness her undeniable magic in a ballet that was colorful, entertaining and most importantly, kid-friendly. After the show, we were lucky to have Copeland sign Ava’s limited edition “Misty” Barbie for a treasured keepsake she’ll hopefully be able to share with her daughter one day.

If you ever get the opportunity to see Copeland gracing the stage, go! Be sure to check ABT.org for upcoming performance dates.

Have you ever witnessed a legend during his or her prime?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

8 Reasons Why Attending the Essence Music Festival is a Must

July 13, 2018

When it comes to music festivals, Essence takes the cake and this year was no exception.

Held in New Orleans every year since its 1995 inception, the Essence Music Festival brings black women together from around the country and possibly across the globe during the 4^th of July weekend for three days of food, fellowship, empowerment and of course, music.

This was my second year in a row attending the popular event (with my cousin) and it was nothing short of amazing. In fact, I’m still on a high from all of last week’s fun. From the delicious food that only the Big Easy can bring to the inspiring sessions and activations to the high-wattage concerts, Essence Fest epitomizes the vibrancy and all-around #BlackGirlMagic that makes us enviable and awesome.

If you’ve never made the pilgrimage to the festival, don’t miss out again. Start planning now so you can see what the hype is all about. Trust me, if you go, you won’t regret it. It’s an event that every black woman should experience at least once in her lifetime.

Below, find several reasons why you need to mark your calendars now for next year:

Fashion epicenter
It’s no secret that we black women are the frontrunners when it comes to fashion. The bright and bold getups that we coordinate and accessorize pop up on runways and in fashion spreads years after we’ve popularized them. So, at Essence Fest you get to see head-turning styles up close and personal with the women who set the trends that others follow.

The Crescent City transforms into a massive catwalk and is the perfect backdrop for us Nubian queens to strut our stuff freely and confidently. Additionally, there are black-owned shops with a myriad of products for sell. Whether you’re on the hunt for clothes or accessories, Essence Fest has you covered thanks to business owners who set up shop at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Black girl-inspired, hand-painted eyeglass cases for sell at the convention center.

Natural hair and beauty mecca
If you’re in need of hair inspiration, look no further than Essence Fest. Whether you wear your hair in braids, twists, an Afro, locs or somewhere in between, there will be plenty of styles to inspire your next look. You’ll leave with a ton of ideas and concepts that you never imagined. Seeing your fellow brown girls rocking unique styles makes Essence Fest double as a hair and beauty show.

Delectable food
New Orleans is practically synonymous with good food. There’s no other city in America with authentic, southern creole cuisine like NOLA. From mouthwatering gumbo to charbroiled oysters, the menus around the city are brimming with Cajun flavor. Oh, and the city’s sweet pralines and sugary beignets (from Café Du Monde) are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. The unique fare is such an integral part to the Essence Fest experience that there are food vendors inside the convention center to give visitors a taste of the city under one roof.

Delicious charbroiled oysters at Neyow’s Creole Cafe, a black-owned restaurants in New Orleans.

No visit to New Orleans is complete without stopping by Cafe Du Monde for coffee and beignets in the French Quarter.

Nonstop Parties
If you don’t want to party, you should probably skip the festival altogether. Well, not exactly, but you should definitely rethink your stay. For starters, New Orleans is basically one big ole’ party. With throngs of people walking down Bourbon Street tossing beads, drinking and dancing, it’s safe to say that partying is a priority for most festivalgoers. While you don’t have to let loose in the middle of the sidewalk, you can unwind to your liking at one of the countless Essence-sponsored and non-sponsored parties taking place throughout the weekend.

essence-fest-dark-n-lovely-party-new-orleans

Dark N’ Lovely hosted a party to celebrate their latest haircare offerings including pastel hairsprays to amp up any look.

The Dark and Lovely party had flowing drinks, great music and fun hair demos and photo activations.

This year I attended a couple parties including one hosted by Dark and Lovely that was so much fun. They had hair demos, interactive photo booths, drinks and great music. Finding a dance party is easy – if you don’t snag any invites prior to your arrival ask around – there are always plenty of options.

Empowering seminars
We all need to recharge our batteries from time to time and Essence Fest gives us an opportunity to sit down and get an uplifting word. With inspiring speakers that talk about issues that affect us as black women, attending the sessions and seminars at the convention center are a must. From fibroids to finances, the topics run the gamut, but they’re always relevant and delivered through the lens of the black American woman. Plus, plenty of our favorite celebrities offer insights on issues pertaining to their careers and personal lives.

Energetic concerts
Music is at the heart of the Essence Fest and for a good reason. Nothing unites people like the power of music. During the 3-day festival, R&B and hip-hop acts take center stage at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome (and in Super Lounges) each night. This year’s performances were outstanding. With a throwback New Jack Swing set led by the legendary Teddy Riley, and Janet Jackson headlining, this ‘80s baby was in music heaven. The concerts are my favorite part of the festival and such a great opportunity to sing and dance with your girls.

Janet Jackson showing concertgoers why she’s the queen of pop music during her headlining set at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

My cousin and I enjoying the performances at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

Immersive brand activations
Many of our favorite brands are on-hand during the festival. For me, nothing makes me happier than Disney so the fact that the iconic brand has had booths during both of my visits was a cherry on top of already incredible experiences.

This year Ruth Carter, the Oscar-nominated costume designer, spoke about her work on the groundbreaking “Black Panther” movie. Additionally, the Disney booth displayed costumes from the characters of Wakanda, as well as the garments worn during the upcoming “The Nutcracker” release. There were also “Christopher Robin,” “Ralph Breaks the Internet: Wreck-it Ralph 2,” and “Four Realms” displays to promote the forthcoming films. If that wasn’t enough, there was also a 10-year anniversary display celebrating Marvel films like “Avengers,” “Ant Man” and more!

Plus, Disney gave attendees a pair of Minnie ears, which were the perfect accessory for the fun photo activation. Visiting booths are a fun way to engage with the brands that resonate with you.

Me standing in front of the suit worn by Chadwick Boseman in “Black Panther” at the Disney booth.

nutcracker-misty-copeland-disney-essence-fest-display

Misty Copeland’s ballerina costume in the upcoming “Nutcracker,” on full display at the Disney booth.

Beautiful bonding
Essence magazine was created to celebrate black women and that mission remains. Essence Fest is an annual gathering that brings us together to laugh, make new friends and just marvel at and respect our tenacity, sisterhood, undeniable beauty and overall, well, essence. The festival allows us to escape the harsh realities of the outside world – it’s like a giant cocoon that protects us from the injustices, racist remarks, snubs and other slights that so many of us face in our everyday lives. Essence Fest is a stress-free zone that just lets us be!

While this year is over, don’t miss out again. You have an entire year to budget and prepare for next year!

Have you ever attended the Essence Fest? If so, describe your experience.

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 6 Comments

EVENT: Finding Ashley Stewart Model Search Finale Coming to Brooklyn

July 11, 2018

If you’re in the New York City area and enjoy good R&B and hip-hop music, eye-catching fashions and uplifting women empowerment, keep reading.

Ashley Stewart, the popular women’s plus size brand is heading back to Brooklyn for its second annual model search.

On September 15 at Kings Theatre, the fashion label is hosting the #FindingAshleyStewart Finale where eight finalists from around the country dubbed the “Ashley Divas” will vie for a chance to be crowned Ashley Stewart 2018.

The winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize, a makeover, exclusive photoshoots, a wardrobe overhaul and much more.

The can’t-miss event will be hosted by Loni Love with musical performances by SWV, MC Lyte, DJ Kid Capri, Naughty by Nature and Denise Belfon — plus, a special presentation by Soledad O’Brien.

The model search is sure to be fun, fashionable and undoubtedly fabulous.

If you missed last year’s show, check it out here:

Tickets for the show can be purchased at local Ashley Stewart stores or Ticketmaster.

Do you know someone who would make a good Ashley Stewart model? If so, tag them in the comments below!

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

Get Ready for ‘Hotel Transylvania 3’ with Original and Sequel DVDs

July 6, 2018

Your reservation is ready for July 13 at “Hotel Transylvania: Summer Vacation!”

Join America’s favorite monster family as they embark on a fantastic voyage onboard a cruise ship. The frightful family is back again, but this time Drac (Adam Sandler) and company are the ones in need of a vacation from running the hotel.

While things seem to be seamlessly cruising along, their vacation takes a turn for the worst when Mavis (Selena Gomez) realizes that Drac has been smitten by the human captain of the ship, Ericka, who doesn’t have the family’s best interest at heart.

Before it’s time to check into theaters for the latest installment of “Hotel Transylvania,” grab your little ghouls and goblins, and catch up with “Hotel Transylvania” and “Hotel Transylvania 2”— the first two movies that made you fall in love with the friendly spooks in the first place.

Both movies are available on DVD and jam-packed with awesome special features and extras like commentary from Sandler and music videos to make your viewing even more enjoyable.

Get ready to visit the lovingly creepy family for a fun-filled adventure that will make you and your little ones scream with delight!

My kids love both movies and can’t wait to see “Hotel Transylvania: Summer Vacation” this weekend when it opens in theaters July 13!