Rihanna: Pop Performer Now Perfumer

January 19, 2011

Rihanna, the R&B singer and burgeoning fashionista is the latest celebrity to add her two “scents” to the fragrance world. Her debut perfume, Reb’l Fleur is a lovely mix of prime fruits and ambrosial florals, as well as a tantalizing mix of vanilla, patchouli and amber. The fragrance, as well as the packaging personifies the pop diva’s pretty-as-a-petal beauty, while highlighting her edginess.

You can get your hands on this sure-to-be Valentine’s Day must-have once it arrives in stores next month. In fact, BGG will be giving away 3 bottles from our favorite Barbadian beauty.


Available in February at retailers nationwide for $49 (1.7 oz)

Would you try this fragrance? Stay tuned, there will be a giveaway in the next few weeks!

Category: Beauty | 8 Comments

Chicago Event Alert: Stars for Hope Pakistan Flood Relief Fundraiser

January 15, 2011

As we reflect upon last year’s devastating earthquake in Haiti, another natural disaster was nearly overlooked in the media and press – the Pakistan flood. The number of individuals affected by the flooding exceeds the combined total of individuals affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the 2005 Kashmir earthquake and the 2010 Haiti earthquake.

That’s why the organization Stars for Hope, is conducting a fundraising event in Chicago this Sunday, January 16th to help raise funds for the victims. There will be a bevy of BGs and guys in attendance including Top Chef’s Malika Ameen and Glee’s Iqbal Theba.


Visit www.starsforhope.org for more information.

So if you’re in Chicago this weekend, this event is a great opportunity to support a good cause.

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Back in “The Game”

January 11, 2011


Last night I was invited to the exclusive premiere screening of my favorite scripted TV show, “The Game,” here in NYC. However, due to my absent-mindedness, I totally forgot about it! It wasn’t until about 10pm last night as I was feeding Ava that I remembered. Once you embark upon the journey of motherhood, it’s like your memory becomes complete mush! Well, since I missed the sneak peek, I definitely won’t be missing the premiere tonight airing on it’s new home, BET 10/9c.

Will you be watching?

Category: Uncategorized | 13 Comments

Are You a Frugalista?

January 10, 2011

Since the recession went into full-swing back in 2007, most of us have tried to cut back on our expenses. Author and blogger and fellow BG, Natalie P. McNeal took her scaled-back spending efforts a step further and documented her debt online for the world to see with her blog, TheFrugalista.com.

After divulging her $20,000 secret (debt) and having successfully found ways to stay fabulous while being frugal has resulted in a must-read book titled, The Frugalista Files. Formatted as a detailed debt diary, McNeal takes readers along on her journey towards financial freedom.

If you enjoy getting weekly manis and pedis and watching cable TV, but know that it’s killing your bottom line, then this book is for you!

How do you cut costs, while staying fabulous? Three lucky readers will win a copy. Simply leave a comment and a winner will be randomly selected and announced later this week.

**Congratulations to Product Junkie Diva for winning the Queen Collection lipstick. Please email me your shade of your choice and your mailing address!

Category: Book | 25 Comments

Queen Collection Launches New Lip Colors!

January 5, 2011

Looking for a new lip color to kick-start the New Year? Look no further than our favorite Covergirl, Queen Latifah’s, new Queen Collection Lip Color.

Each of the 24 richly pigmented, stand-out shades were made with us BGs in mind; so they’re sure to complement our lovely skin-tones. Not only do the colors pop, but they also moisturize giving us a pretty and hydrated pucker. From deep browns and spices to corals and reds hues, you’re certain to find your perfect shade!


Available at drugstores nationwide.

Do you plan on switching up your makeup style this year? One lucky reader will win one of the Queen Collection lipsticks (winner will select shade). Simply tell me why you’d like to try this new lip collection. The winner will be randomly selected and announced later this week.

Category: Beauty | 8 Comments

Great Makeup/Hair YouTube Tutorial Page

January 4, 2011

If you’re ever in the need for a fun, quick, and comprehensible makeup/hair tutorial, please check out one of the best – Bombshell Artistry! Plus, if you’re in the Chicagoland area and need to be beautified, check her out for personal bookings!

Do you use YouTube for makeup/hair tutorials?

Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

Event Alert: Urban Decay Gives a Sneak Peek!

January 4, 2011

Hello all of my beauty-loving Bostonian babes and fellow NYC makeup mavens, Urban Decay is coming to your town to celebrate its 15 Year Anniversary.

In honor of the fabulous milestone, the always on trend beauty brand is conducting makeovers and also introducing the 15-Year Anniversary 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil Set for an exclusive sneak peek before its February launch.

Packed in a reusable, windowed and magnetic silver-foil box, the 15 pencils feature 9 existing and 6 brand new shades of the 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil, plus a sharpener.


$92 (if sold separately it would cost a whopping $264!)

The super luxe set will only be available for purchase ONLY at each store on the corresponding event dates on a first come first served basis. You know we girls love to get our hands on stuff before the masses, so here’s your heads-up!

Thursday, January 6th from 11am – 5pm at Sephora’s Prudential Center location (1800 Boylston Street, Boston, MA)

Friday, January 7th from 1pm – 7pm at Sephora’s Times Square location (1500 Broadway, New York, NY)

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Happy New Year!!

January 3, 2011

I can hardly believe that it’s 2011! Last year was an amazing year for me simply because I gave birth to an angel on earth – my daughter, Ava. It’s because of her that I work harder everyday and aim to be the best mother and role model for her that I can possibly be. Although I try not to set resolutions at the top of the year, I do have a few goals that I’d like to accomplish within the next 12 months.

One of them being, making more time for Brown Girl Gumbo. This year I hope to update more regularly and keep you guys engaged. I know that there are a bevy of blogs and other websites out there that you can choose from, but you continue to read BGG. I am forever grateful for your support and will strive to stay on your must-read list. Here’s to a great new year!!

What are some of your goals for the upcoming year?

Category: Uncategorized | 4 Comments

Great Gifts for Everyone on Your List

December 15, 2010

With only ten days left to shop before Christmas, now is the time to get those last-minute gifts and stocking stuffers. Whether you have to get a gift for your boyfriend, BFF, mom, tween nephew, sister, dad or co-worker, BGG has a round-up that will have you jumping with yuletide joy!


Barnes & Noble NOOKcolor E-Reader
Your book-loving mother will adore you for giving her this cool and colorful eReader. Available at www.bestbuy.com for $249


Sally Hansen Lacrosse Gift Set
This set would make a great stocking stuffer for your prissy sis. Available at drugstores nationwide for $4.99.


Who doesn’t love a great body scub and gel? This cranberry-scented set will make your aunt or mother-in-law swoon with delight. Available at www.thebodyshop.com for $29.


Write N’ Roll Flexible Keyboard
This convenient, full-sized silicone keyboard makes a great gift for the techie in your life. Available at Gift Shop at Macy’s for $25 www.macys.com.


Sonic Colors Video Game for Nintendo DS
Your game-crazy nephew will be glued to his console with the popular Sonic Colors video game. Available at www.bestbuy.com for $29.99


Anthony Logistics Face Kit
Give your guy some face time with this nature-based facial kit. The set includes an all-purpose moisturizer, cleansing clay, cleanser and scrub that will keep your guy well-groomed. Available at www.anthonylogistics.com for $30


Ihome iP3 Studio Series Audio System
Get your guy grooving to his iTunes with this super sleek sound system. Available at www.ihomeaudio.com for $199.99.


Click and Be Happy
A combo of perfume and lip gloss is the perfect multi-purpose must-have for your BFF on the go. This customizable fragrance and gloss set comes with three variations on the popular ‘Happy’ scent and corresponding shades making it an ideal match. Available at www.clinique.com for $28.


Icon Rose Quilt Multi Pouch
This pretty leather pouch is a chic option for your niece. It’s just the right size for carrying cards, cash and change. Available at Fossil for $35 www.fossil.com


Kenneth Cole Cufflinks
These cute cufflinks will transform ordinary shirts into standouts, which will make the metrosexual on your list very happy. Available at Gift Shop at Macy’s for $60 www.macys.com

Category: Gifts | Leave a Comment

Let Friendships Flourish!

December 9, 2010

I recently read an article online that said spending time with our gal pals is as important to our health as heading to the gym. It’s a known fact that we women connect with each other differently than men and the support of our girlfriends help us deal with stress and life experiences, but who knew that cultivating those relationships with our girls could actually lower blood pressure, heart rate and even cholesterol!?

So the next time you think about rescheduling girl time, think again – your heart will thank you for it.

Me with one of my BFFs Azeeza (I only take pics when I’m with her!!) Even though she lives in Chicago, we still stay in touch. I do need to find more NY friends. LOL!

When was the last time you hung out with your friends? Do you have one or two BFFs or do you have a group of friends that all hang out together?

Category: Uncategorized | 8 Comments