(Sponsored): BGG Attends Blogging While Brown Conference + AT&T ‘Inspired Mobility’ iPad Mini GIVEAWAY!

A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to attend my very first Blogging While Brown conference.

Thanks to AT&T, who sponsored my attendance, I was able to convene with fellow bloggers at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture in Harlem. Since I’ve been blogging consistently since 2007, I’m not sure why I had never gone to the conference prior to this year. But, as the saying goes, “better late than never!”

Throughout the two-day event there were various sessions customized to address the needs of us African-American bloggers. From learning how to earn six figures as a professional blogger to the importance of building relationships with like-minded bloggers, I sat in on several informative sessions. Surprisingly, a couple of the seminars were quite interactive, which helped facilitate networking. I’m always a bit shy when introducing myself, so I felt that having attendees talk and work together was an excellent idea on behalf of the organizers. I even got the opportunity to meet media personality, Jacque Reid, whose career I’ve admired since her days at BET.

Jacque-Reid-KBP-BWBJacque Reid and I at the Blogging While Brown Conference in NYC on Saturday, June 28, 2014.

While I enjoyed hearing about effective tactics on building traffic, ways to monetize my blog, as well as how to get invited to speak at conferences, I was mostly anticipating AT&T’s panel discussion on “Inspired Mobilitya national conversation about the cultural shift in how people use mobile and Internet technology to enhance their faith experience.

As a blogging partner with the popular telecommunications company, I knew about the “ministry meets mobile” initiative, but was excited to hear their team share it publicly at the conference. Plus, I wanted to learn about the findings from the survey that AT&T conducted in collaboration with Ebony magazine on this subject. Prior to being approached by AT&T for this campaign, I honestly had never thought about how faith and mobile technology could be merged.

AT&T U.S. Diversity Corporate Communications Executive L. Michelle Smith, Technology and Social Media Director, T.D. Jakes Ministries/ AT&T consultant Jason Caston, Digital and Social Media Expert Tiffani Robinson, and Ministry Multimedia Expert Chip Dizard led the engaging discussion. They talked about how using mobile technology apps such as Twitter are a great way to share the spiritual and faith-based conversation beyond places of worship. In fact, Robinson stated that using these easy online tools could ultimately reach a generation that would probably not hear certain scriptures and inspiring words outside of social media. According to Caston, “We’re witnessing a cultural shift. Mobility allows churches to expand their reach and connect with more people.”

BWB-ATT-Panelists

Pictured L to R: L. Michelle Smith, Tiffani Robinson, Chip Dizard and Jason Caston during the AT&T “Inspired Mobility” panel discussion during the Blogging While Brown conference on Saturday, June 28, 2014 in New York City.

After the discussion from the experts, the floor was open for questions from the Blogging While Brown audience. The conversation got interesting with inquiries such as the appropriate ways to use social media while in church. Caston provided a few tips during the panel discussion and he also has compiled a list of guidelines here.

Throughout the conference I interviewed a few people and asked them their opinions about the church using mobile technology. Not surprisingly, I found that all of them embraced the concept. No one really feels like using iPads and cell phones during church is taboo anymore.

Check out the clips below:


Sarah, the founder of the Colorism Healing blog, shares her thoughts on bridging the gap between mobile technology and the church during the Blogging While Brown conference.

Blogging While Brown attendee, Leah of Washington, D.C., shares her thoughts on bridging the gap between mobile technology and the church.

Blogging While Brown attendee, Nancy of Brooklyn, shares her thoughts on bridging the gap between mobile technology and the church.

Overall, it was a wonderful weekend full of learning, networking and being a part of a special initiative. Thanks again to AT&T for giving me the opportunity to attend the conference and be a part of the “Inspired Mobility” campaign.

*Disclosure: I received an iPad Mini and other accessories from AT&T.

UPDATE: Winner Announced!! Congratulations, Netta! You’re the winner of the iPad Mini Giveaway! Please send me your mailing address for shipment. Thanks to EVERYONE who participated and left a comment. Be sure to check out BGG daily for more giveaway opportunities!

**GIVEAWAY: In celebration of AT&T’s “Inspired Mobility” campaign, I’m giving away a Gift Pack which includes: (1) iPad Mini and AT& T accessories. Simply leave a comment telling me your thoughts on using mobile technology at church. Do you use Twitter, Facebook or Instagram during service? One lucky reader will be randomly selected and announced Tuesday, August 5th. This giveaway is only open to U.S residents.

Celebrate National Girl Scout Cookie Day!

In case you didn’t know, today (Feb. 8) is National Girl Scout Cookie Day!

Get ready to stock up on these classic treats in honor of the world’s largest girl-led business. Whether you crave Thin Mints, Trefoils, Peanut Butter Patties, Samoas (my personal favorite), or one of the other traditional flavors, you’ll be satisfying your sweet tooth while exercising girl power.

In fact, when you purchase a box of cookies from a Girl Scout, you are helping her gain life skills that can only be developed through personal interaction. It’s important for them to experience what it’s like to run their own cookie business through working directly with others.

GSCookies

Photo Courtesy: www.girlscouts.org

In today’s digital age, many people have lost the art of face-to-face exchanges and overall people skills that we don’t want to pass that on to our future generations. That’s why they don’t sell cookies online;  but that doesn’t mean that they haven’t made it easy to get your cookie fix.

Thanks to the newly revamped “Cookie Locater” app, customers can find cookies sales, nearby Girl Scout Cookie Professionals and other pertinent cookie-tracking information with a simple tap on your phone.

If you’re braving the imminent winter storm that’s headed toward New York City today, be sure to stop by one of these pop-up Sweetery truck locations to help a troop and indulge in a delicious snack:

  • The 1st stop – 8:30-10:30am – 42nd St & Madison Ave;
  • The 2nd stop – 11:30am-1:30pm – 57th St between 5th & 6th Ave;
  • The 3rd stop – 2:30-4:30pm – Park Ave between 52nd & 53rd St; and
  • The 4th stop – 5:30-7:30pm – Amsterdam Ave between 70th & 71st St.

You can follow the truck on twitter @GirlScouts and @SweeteryNYC.

It seems like yesterday when I was a little 8-year-old girl in my green and white uniform. Yep, like countless other women, I, too, was once a girl scout!  Oh the memories, and of course tasty cookies!

GIVEAWAY: What’s your favorite Girl Scout cookie? One lucky reader will win five boxes of your choice. For a chance to win, simply leave a comment below or tweet your answer to: @girlscouts with #onemorebox. 

GIVEAWAY: Halle Berry’s ‘Closer’ & Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

It’s hard to believe that in just over a week, our Instagram and Facebook feeds will be filled with candy hearts, red roses and other lovey-dovey sentiments all in the name of Valentine’s Day.

Whether you’re single, married or somewhere in-between, the often referred to “Hallmark” holiday is the perfect excuse to treat yourself or receive a few goodies. From a fresh fragrance to decadent cupcakes, let my following wish list serve as a bit of Valentine’s Day gift-giving (and getting) inspiration!

Closer-Halle-Berry-35

Closer by Halle Berry available at drugstores nationwide; $35

Hanky-Panky-Long-Stem-Thong-Bouqet-Roses-130

Hanky Panky: Long Stem Lovin’ Original Thong Bouquet (Half-Dozen) available here; $130

Kissy-Face-Medium-Cosmetic-Bag-Felix-Rey-95

‘Kissy Face’ Cosmetic Bag by Felix Rey available here; $95

I-Love-Lavanila-Gift-Set-Vanilla-Grapefruit-49.50

I Love Lavanila Vanilla Grapefruit Gift Set available here; $49.50

Marc-By-Marc-Jacobs-Marci-Pave-Watch-275

Marc by Marc Jacobs Marci Pave Watch available here; $275

The-Me-And-You-Book

Perfect gift for couples!! “The You & Me Book: A Love Journal” by Rachel Kempster & Meg Leder available here; $11

Dozen-Roses-Classic-Collection-Crumbs

Crumbs Dozen Roses Classic Collection available here; $42

**Will you be celebrating Valentine’s Day this year? One lucky reader will win a bottle of Halle Berry’s Closer fragrance. Simply tell me how you plan to celebrate the holiday or your most memorable Valentine’s Day. The winner will be randomly selected and announced on Friday!

Interview & GIVEAWAY: Dr. Ian Smith On Shredding Pounds Once and For All!

Now that we’re a full week into the new year, are you still on track with your resolutions?  If you’re like countless Americans who’ve made the commitment to get in shape this year, Dr. Ian K. Smith’s new book,  Shred: The Revolutionary Diet—Six Weeks, Four Inches, Two Sizes, will make it easier to keep your promise, and keep those pesky unwanted pounds in the past.

Dr.Ian K. Smith @doctoriansmith

The New York Times best-selling author’s latest effort serves as a comprehensive weight-loss manual. Think of it as a book version of a hard-nosed personal trainer and nutritionist, outlining in reader-friendly detail what it takes to well, shred those hard-to-ditch pounds. From stressing the importance of meal planning to strategic ways to switch up workout routines to increase weight loss, Shred doesn’t skimp on articulating the methods and techniques needed to complete the six-week program. Plus, it includes easy recipes for delicious smoothies, soups and stews to help maintain the plan.

But don’t be mistaken, this isn’t your typical diet book. There are no gimmicks to getting in shape. It takes hard work, dedication and will power to see successful results as the former “Celebrity Fit Club” medical expert expresses throughout the book.

I recently spoke with Dr. Smith to discuss Shred, working with the president and his favorite pig-out food!

The Shred: Revolutionary Diet—6 Weeks, 4 Inches, 2 inches

Shred: The Revolutionary Diet—6 Weeks, 4 Inches, 2 inches; Available here, $15

 

BGG: What sets Shred apart from your other books?

Dr. Ian Smith: It’s all of my best strategies in one place!

BGG: Tell me your thoughts on the key to losing weight with Shred.

DS: It’s not really a diet, it’s a way of life. It’s about a way of living. A lot of people think that they should go on a diet if they’re going to a reunion, birthday or on vacation. It’s fine to lose weight for those purposes, but I am interested in you losing weight permanently and for long-term healthy reasons, as well as aesthetic reasons.

BGG: Why is it so difficult for individuals to lose those last few pounds?

DS: When you’re so close to your target weight, it’s in general just more difficult to lose weight. People who have been successful at losing weight reach a plateau because they’ve done what they’ve been doing and their body has settled in and now they have to shake it up. The body has to see different foods, different quantities, etc. That’s what “Diet Confusion” is all about. “Diet Confusion” is about keeping the body off kilter so that you keep your metabolism going and your body won’t get adjusted to the same foods.

BGG: What do you want to convey to women about weight loss?

DS: I want women to know that weight loss is possible and weight loss is possible through making lifestyle changes. It is not about gimmicks to get those last few pounds off because once you stop the gimmick, the weight is going to come back. It’s not about perfection. It’s about finding a way to eat and exercising comfortably. It’s about making smart choices and balance.

BGG: Did you always want to work in the healthcare field?

DS: I always wanted to be a physician since I was a little boy; so my dream has come true. I was supposed to be a surgeon, but I got into weight loss and nutrition by accident. I was a columnist for Time magazine and a lot of my readers would and in questions about diet, weight loss and supplements. In order to fulfill the needs of my readers to understand in a complicated and frustrated marketplace I started becoming an expert in nutrition and weight loss.

BGG: Tell me about your involvement with President Barack Obama’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition.

DS: We (ambassadors for the White House) go around the country whether it’s on TV, in schools or churches to spread the importance of getting people to eat better and exercise more.

BGG: You’ve had many notable accomplishments throughout your career. What makes you the most proud? 

DS: I think the 50-million pound challenge and having the ability to enhance the national dialogue about the need for us to lose weight and to be healthier. I think that was a big deal.

BGG: We all know that you’re incredibly fit, but what’s your indulgence when you just want to pig out? 

DS: I was recently on “Rachael Ray” making barbecue steak, buttered mashed potatoes, and honey glazed carrots!

Watch Dr. Smith cooking in the kitchen below:

Be sure to follow @DoctorIanSmith on Twitter for daily health tips, quotes, etc. 

Is losing weight one of your New Year’s resolutions? If so, leave a comment below and you could win a copy of Shred! One lucky reader will be randomly selected and announced later this week! 

Calling All Moms: The Children’s Place $25 Gift Card Giveaway!

Ever since my daughter, Ava, was born (nearly 3 years ago!), she’s been heavily outfitted in clothing from The Children’s Place.

Her entire wardrobe is at least 90% TCP, while the other 10% is divided between Target and GapKids. The fact that it’s only a couple of blocks away from my apartment probably helps, but even if it weren’t conveniently located, I’d still shop there frequently. The prices are always affordable and the clothes are nothing short of adorable. Plus, the quality is excellent, which is a huge selling point because we parents all know how quickly kids can wear out clothes!

TCP-kids

Last week, I was invited to a “shop day” at the store for a mini shopping spree. And since I enjoy shopping for Ava more than for myself, it was a real treat!

Ava and I were surrounded by sparkly sequin skirts, glittery holiday dresses and plenty of comfy PJs. There was so much cute stuff to choose from, I had to tear Ava away from the overload of goodies, especially the eye-catching accessories. After about an hour or so, we left with several items including: boots, jewelry, tops and bottoms!

sparkly-skirtOne of my favorite pieces, Sequin Ombre Skirt; $24.99

flannel-boy

If I had a son, I’d totally buy this cozy-looking Flannel Shirt for him; $9

Pom-Pom-Chalet-Boots

We couldn’t have walked out of the store without these snazzy purple Pom-Pom Chalet Boots; $17

Whether you have a newborn, toddler or tween, TCP is a great place to stock up on fashionable finds for less.

With only days left before Christmas, I’d love to give a lucky reader a $25 gift card to pick up a few last-minute stocking stuffers for the little BG or guy in your life!

Simply leave a comment telling me your favorite Christmas song and I’ll randomly select a reader and notify the winner tomorrow (to get it in the mail in time before the holidays). 

**The winner is Soraya! Congrats! Thanks to all who entered. Stay tuned for more fun giveaways, etc!

10 Great Gifts Under $50 & GIVEAWAY!!

If you’re still unsure of what to get your BFF, sister, aunt, mother or co-worker for Christmas, let this list be your guide! With only a little over two weeks left in the gift-giving season, these affordable finds are fun, thoughtful and incredibly wallet-friendly.

From personalized mugs to makeup palettes, these stocking stuffers and gifts are great for the deserving BG (or YOU) on your list!

This lip balm set makes the perfect stocking stuffer for the hard-to-please tween on your list! Burt’s Bees Lip Balm Quartet available here; $9.99

Your co-worker will love you for this personalized pick-me-up mug. C Wonder Monogram Mug available here; $10

 

Show your mom how much she means to you with this 18K gold-plated Nadri Thin Cubic Zirconia Bangle available here; $50

Impress your shower-gel-obsessed sister with this champagne-inspired set. ‘Berry’ Bubbly Raspberry Champagne Body Butter and Bath Wash available here; $32 

Spray on your inner “Sasha Fierce” with this tantalizing plum and starfruit scented fragrance. Beyoncé Midnight Heat 1.7 FL. OZ. available here; $24.99 

 Stuff your BFF’s stocking with these striking Merona Leather Zipper Gloves available here; $17

Send your aunt a heartfelt message for the holidays with this magnetic video memo.   PLAY Video Memo available here; $49.99

For your nail-crazed niece, Essie’s Winter Collection Set is a must-have! Available here, $18

Your hair-product-loving pal will ooh and ahh over Oyin Handmade’s All-Natural  Sugar Berries Hair Pomade available here; $12 **Stay tuned for my Q&A with the founder!

The unofficial makeup artist in your family will rave for Avon’s Ultimate Makeup Palette available here; $29.99

**You can win it for the makeup maven in your life or yourself!! Simply leave a comment, Tweet or post a comment on BGG’s Facebook page for your chance to win! The winner will be randomly selected and notified on Monday, December 17th. 

Have you already completed your holiday shopping or are you just getting started?

GIVEAWAY: Aveeno’s “Winding Down” Prize Pack

Between press events, writing, traveling and taking care of Ava, I’ve been a busy BG this month. That’s why unwinding is so important to me.

As soon as I get home, removing my makeup is my main priority. I simply can’t function if my “face” is still on once I’m home for the night.  I’ve been using Aveeno’s Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes for a few months and they dissolve oil, dirt and other gunk from the skin with a few gentle swipes. Since I’m a lover of eye liner and water-proof mascara, a wimpy wipe just won’t cut it and these don’t disappoint! An added bonus is that unlike many removers, these wipes don’t have that unpleasant chemical smell.

Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Remover Wipes available here, $7

Before bed, I take a relaxing shower to ease away the stress of the day. Aveeno has a Positively Nourishing Calming Body Wash that smells wonderful and has a cleansing effect that doesn’t dry out skin. The delightful scent of lavender and chamomile is truly a treat for the senses. I finish up with their ultra-soothing Positively Nourishing Calming Body Lotion to seal in moisture. It sinks in quickly leaving behind smooth, glistening non-greasy skin.

Aveeno Positively Nourishing Calming Body Wash available here, $6

Aveeno Positively Nourishing Calming Body Lotion available here, $6

The quality of Aveeno products is outstanding! Even though I’m an ambassador of the brand, I used their products long before I was approached to partner with the company.

It’s been my mom’s fave for as long as I can remember and will probably remain at the top of my list for years to come too!

Do you use Aveeno products? Do you need to unwind? One lucky winner will win each of these products to create a spa-like experience home. Simply leave a comment, Tweet, or Instagram a pic holding your fave Aveeno product with the hashtag #BGGAveeno and the winner will be selected and announced next Wednesday on Halloween!