Jennifer Hudson wants her fellow Chicagoans to get healthy and lose weight.

The famously slimmed down Oscar-winning actress opened the Jennifer Hudson Weight Watchers Center on the south side of  her hometown yesterday. Known for her incredible body transformation, the Weight Watchers spokeswoman and star of the upcoming biopic, Winnie, was joined by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanual at the weight loss facility’s ribbon cutting.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, the singer/actress said,”I never thought I’d make it to have my own center. I’m so honored to be here and see this day.”

Got to love J-Hud!

Are you a fan of Weight Watchers? What do you do to stay in shape?

Not ready to say goodbye to summer (which officially ends at the end of the month)? Gather up your girlfriends and plan a quick end-of-season getaway. With countless last-minute summer deals, finding a vacation spot that complements your group’s personality should be easy.

The iconic Fontainebleau in Miami Beach is an ideal destination for BFF bonding due to its innumerous amenities. Whether having a dance-filled night out on the town, enjoying delicious dinners, shopping till you drop, or relaxing with luxurious spa services is what you’re looking for, then this celebrity hangout has you covered.

Renovated in 2008 from its 1950s art-deco design during the Rat Pack heyday, The Fontainebleau boasts 22-acres and houses two of the city’s most popular nightclubs, 12 restaurants, 3 shopping boutiques, and the incomparable 40,000-square foot Lapis Spa.

I recently had the pleasure of indulging in an invigorating, complimentary massage at the aforementioned lavish resort. The treatment was the perfect antidote to the demands and ongoing duties of a busy mom like me. Lapis surpassed all of my previous spa experiences with its ultra-chic design and serene atmosphere. While I enjoyed the spa, my only regret is not having a few of my best girlfriends with me to share the experience.

Pefect for BFFs and bridal parties, the spa offers great packages to make any getaway a grand-slam.

If you’re looking to plan your own girls getaway, be sure to follow these tips:

Stash Cash: Prior to the trip, make sure that everyone sets aside extra cash to go towards the vacation pool that will cover tips, taxis and meals.

Consolidate Your Packing: If your BFF has a fabulous flat iron ask her to bring it so that you don’t have to and vice versa. This way, the group can use certain items/products without having to lug around individual ones.

Pick Activities that the Entire Group will Enjoy: Nothing is worse than being on a trip with friends who aren’t on the same page when it comes to the excursion’s activities. Let everyone know in advance if there will be planned activities to ensure that you’re all in agreement.

Dine with Your Friends in Mind: Dining can be one of the most enjoyable parts of a girls getaway. That’s why it’s important to make sure that the places you visit offer food selections that the entire group can enjoy.

Lapis Spa is offering $99 treatments as part of Miami Spa Months now through the rest of the month. Click here for more information.

Have you taken a girlfriend getaway this year? If so, where did you go?

Yes, Beyonce Knowles, is going to be a mom! It seems like fans have been dying for Beyonce and her hubby, Jay-Z, to have a baby ever since they tied the knot 3 years ago. Now that the singer will be sporting a bump, I’m sure moms-to-be will be taking note of what’s sure to be a chic pregnancy.

What did you think of her two baby-bump ensembles? Did you prefer the orange flowy gown or the sequined jacket and tuxedo pants?

In case you missed it, here’s the clip where she revealed her growing belly to the world!

Hello My Beautiful Brown Girls,

Somehow my Brown Girl Gumbo page on Facebook was erased. Therefore, it would mean the world to me if you could “like” me again.

Thanks in advance,

Karla aka BGG

If you’re a fashion editor/blogger then you don’t want to miss the launch of the popular, UK-brand, Kandee Shoes, taking place TONIGHT at The London Candy Company.

Check out the invitation below: