Brown Girl Gumbo

‘Insecure’ x Tidal Event Recap Plus 5 Reasons Why It’s the Best Show On TV

August 7, 2018

It’s time to clear your Sunday evenings for the next couple of months.

Our favorite besties Issa (Issa Rae) and Molly (Yvonne Orji) are back for the third season of HBO’s hit show, “Insecure,” premiering Sunday, April 12.

Set through the lens of Issa, a young black woman living in Los Angeles — the groundbreaking series brilliantly showcases the ups and downs of life for young black women. The hilarious, yet thought-provoking semi-topical show will undoubtedly keep us glued to our screens as we watch the relatable and likable characters navigate their way through the insecurities that come with dating, friendship, work and all-around “adulting.”

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending a private screening and pop-up event hosted by HBO and Tidal to celebrate the upcoming season premiere. From carnival-style games to a karaoke station staged like Issa’s bathroom mirror rap sessions, the cheeky “adulting ain’t easy” theme was personified at every turn.

After settling in with tasty bites and refreshing drinks, attendees got a sneak peek of the season’s first episode. If the premiere is any indication of what’s to come, fans are in for tons of laughs and awkward, cringe-worthy moments.

Here’s why I’ll be watching “Insecure” this season (and seasons to come):

It showcases the intricacies of true black female friendships, which is rarely seen on television.
Between Issa’s beautiful braids and regal corn rows to Kelli’s (played by Natasha Rothwell) gorgeous wash-and-go styles, the natural hair inspiration showcased is endless.
Hardly anyone’s path to love is without detours, a few wrecks and countless bumps in the road. The series shows just how messy the journey can be as the varied characters make their way through the good, the bad and the ugly of dating.
The show manages to highlight the racial microaggressions young black professionals face in the workplace in a comical, light-hearted way, which in reality is far from funny. I believe showing these conflicts can open people’s eyes who may be guilty of inflicting similar microaggressions at their jobs, which will hopefully inspire them to change their ways.
It exemplifies black excellence. Sure, some of the characters have their flaws, but don’t we all? The fact that the series was created by black people, written by black people, features black people, represents black people and showcases music made by black people, I think that makes it the epitome black excellence!

Below, check out pics from the event:

Are you an “Insecure” fan? If so, what do you love the most about the series? Also, if you’re not already streaming the soundtrack on Tidal, what are you waiting for?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | Leave a Comment

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