A New Year, A New YOU!

January 3, 2008

Don’t you just love the beginning of a new year? Despite the usual wickedly frigid air, the first week in January always makes me feel refreshed, optimistic and energized. I can’t say that this eurphoric feeling lasts past the first 7 carefree days, but this year I’m going to try my best to keep my positive vibe buzzing as long as possible.

I’m not going to simply write or say what I want to accomplish this year, I’m going to put forth an infinite amount of effort into bringing my goals to fruition. I know that it’s easier said than done, but like the cliche says, “if you put your mind to it, you can do anything.” Failure is definitely not an option.

I have several personal, as well as professional goals that I need to make happen within the next 12 months. I realize that the only person who’s stopping me from successfully achieving them is me.

I encourage you to stick to your resolutions this year and become a better you!! We’re only on the third day of the year, so we have a long way to go!

Here are a few tips to help you stay on your resolutions’ wagon:

1. Choose an obtainable goal
2. Get specific about what time, when and where you’re going to carry out your goals (i.e exercising)
3. Don’t choose a goal that you fail over and over again each year
4. Ask friends and family to help you stay on track
5. Keep a journal (if you missed my posting on cute journals, check out entry: “Take Note”)

Category: Health | 4 Comments

BeanpYe Served Fresh & Hot!!

January 2, 2008

I know that many of you had a merry holiday season with a fair share of good food and delicious drinks, but I hope you’re not full just yet. There’s always room for dessert and pie is always on point — BeanpYe that is.

As I surfed the web a few weeks ago, I came across fellow BG Sabrina Thompson’s jewelry line, BeanpYe (www.beanpye.com). I was immediately drawn to her beautiful and ornate bracelets, earrings and embellished blazers. The extremely unique name, BeanpYe, which was actually Sabrina’s childhood nickname reflects her creative and cutting-edge designs.

With stylish, one-of-a-kind hand-made jewelry and custom-embellished blazers, BeanpYe is sure to satisfy your fashion appetite. Check out my Q&A with Sabrina:

Prior to officially launching BeanpYe in 2005, were you working in fashion?
Nope. I was a television producer working with several major networks in NYC.

BGG:What inspired/motivated you to start BeanpYe?
Sabrina: Several things…the fact that I knew I had a God given talent of crafting things with my hands and it was literally sitting there going to waste because I wasn’t using it. Also, the fact that I was tired of shopping and finding the same old generic looks. I don’t shop at the Gap or Banana Republic type of stores because they are ordinary. I feel that no one person is ordinary so why look ordinary? We all have a special spark or uniqueness about us. Why not create something for the people that express that?

BGG:What does the BeanpYe brand include?
Sabrina: Bold and ornate custom designed jewelry is what Beanpye is known for. Also, by special requests I will create custom designed blazers for men, women and children.

BGG:What three words best describe BeanpYe?
Sabrina: Fearless, funky and exclusive

BGG:Describe the BeanpYe customer.
Sabrina: A confident and unconventional person who approaches life with an avante garde, confident and multidimensional outlook on life. They range from industry executives to young college and high school students. My customers simply aren’t afraid to go against the grain and express themselves through the medium of art.

BGG:What gets your creative juices flowing when designing a piece?
Sabrina: A hot track with a dope baseline from any artist who doesn’t sound generic…some examples…Outkast, Erykah Badu, John Mayer, Nina Simone and more. Also, anything that is moving…the sounds or sight of water, a washing machine, subway, kids playing…

BGG:Has making clothes and jewelry always been your passion?
Sabrina: No. Actually it’s tied roughly about 4th or 5th on my list. First comes working with kids, 2nd writing/composing songs, 3rd is sports, 4th and 5th is creating eclectic social events and fashion.

BGG:Is all of your jewelry handmade? If so, what materials do you use? Sabrina: Yes it’s all either handmade or hand painted. I use everything ranging from acrylic paint, feathers, brass, turquoise, ivory, oak wood to indigenous stones from West Africa.

BGG:What fabrics do you use to create your blazers?
Sabrina: Wool, tweed, polyester & silk blends. However, let’s be clear…I only embellish blazers. I will take a blazer that has already been crafted and basically revamp it (changing the lining, buttons, outward appearance) to make it a one of a kind.

BGG: Is any of your merchandise sold in stores/boutiques? If so where? Also, do you foresee opening your own boutique in the near future?
Sabrina: Actually, as for now…it is an online boutique. I am looking into a few stores to showcase it in only for a limited time in 2008 in New York City; however, I have no visions of opening up a boutique. We are living in an age of major technology and many things are done in cyberspace. It’s all about keeping overhead low and keeping the product really exclusive. So far the online access and communication has been working out just great!

BGG:What celebrities have worn and/or requested your merchandise?
Sabrina: India.arie, Alicia Keys, Vivica Fox, Anthony Hamilton, Regina King, Nas, and new pop sensation Keri Hilson. Also, countless news anchors and entertainment correspondents on NBC, CBS, ABC, MSNBC, BET, FOX, E!, Court TV, CNN and HGTV.

BGG:What do you want your customers to feel when they buy your jewelry/blazers?
Sabrina: Energized, youthful and daring…like they are the best thing since sliced bread!

BGG:What advice would you give to a fellow BG who wants to start her own jewelry/fashion business?
Sabrina: Keep it simple and don’t over think it. Also, you don’t need a fortune to start your company. I started with roughly $350 and I learned out to be resourceful, yet creative! Don’t get bogged down with tons of business plans. I’ve never been one to write down my goals. I keep them in my head because while I’m busy writing it on paper…someone is busy physically making it happen. Keep your goals high yet obtainable and chip away at it week by week. Also, give yourself a break when you need it and remember if it’s YOUR business…the only pressure you put on yourself is the pressure you create. Be easy and have fun!

BGG:I noticed on your website that you travel to different cities across the country showcasing BeanpYe, do you have any upcoming events where BGs can find your merchandise?
Sabrina: As of now, I am finalizing my summer calendar. Being that I am an educator in the NYC school system, I leave my summers free to travel with BeanpYe. I am looking to do several festivals and private show-casings around the country in 08. I’ll keep you posted. Thanks for interviewing me!

Category: Fashion, Interviews | 5 Comments

No Favorite Fabulous Photos Today

December 21, 2007

Unfortunately, I am unable to post my favorite fabulous photos today. My computer is not getting an Internet connection for some reason. Therefore, I’m using my Blackberry to write this posting.

Anyway, I’ll be back next week after the holidays. Who knows, if my computer is functioning properly this weekend I may post the photos of the week.

Happy Holidays!

Category: Uncategorized | 3 Comments

BG: Mary J. Blige’s New CD

December 20, 2007

If you haven’t already bought the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige’s new CD, Growing Pains, you should do so immediately if you enjoy good hip-hop/R&B music. One of the best R&B BG singers of our time, Blige doesn’t disappoint with her latest project. Although it isn’t her best work, the CD is still worthy of inclusion in your MJB collection.

Growing Pains, is her 8th CD (not including live or special albums), but it still manages to have a fresh sound. Of course it still has Blige’s signature R&B flavor, but the CD definitely reflects her maturity and newfound confidence.

The uptempo intro track, “Work That,” is a testatment to her positive self-image and she encourages women to find their own too. Her first single from the CD, “Just Fine,” is by far the best song on the album. This infectious, feel-good song just makes you want to hit the dance floor.

Growing Pains is sprinkled with other sweet-sounding tunes, especially her smooth duet with Usher in “Shake Down.” Staying true to her customary rap-infused/R&B roots, the CD includes features with hip-hop heavyweights Ludacris and Pharrell.

“Just Fine” Video:

The CD appropriately closes with the harmonious, “Come to Me (Peace),” which is akin to an uplifting choir-sung spiritual. This particular ballad will definitely be one of Blige’s classic performance songs.

From What’s the 411, to her latest installment, Blige will and always be the R&B voice of this generation. Her truthful, soulful and unique sound has often been imitated, but she’ll always be an original.

P.S If you’re in the NYC area, you can meet Mary J. Blige at the Carol’s Daughter store in Harlem today (12/20) at 6pm. You can pick up her new CD along with some Carol’s Daughter goodies too!

Category: Music | 4 Comments

Take Note

December 19, 2007

Now that the new year is rapidly approaching, why not pick up a few journals for yourself and others this holiday season?

At the start of each year I try to write my personal thoughts and reflections in a journal. I credit my mom for instilling in me the importance of the written word. She’s kept a journal throughout most of her life. Me on the otherhand, I’m not as consistent, but I do have several journals.

Actually, journal writing doesn’t have to be consistent or contain certain thoughts. All that matters is that you write down exactly how you feel at that particular moment in time. From random thoughts to a rant about an annoying co-worker at your office, journals are your personal space to vent and reflect.

I recently read one of my journals from college and found it to be quite funny and entertaining. Although at the time, my circumstances were far from humorous. The affairs that were going on in my life during that time are totally irrelavant now, but it was fun and interesting to read years later.

So head to your nearest Papyrus or local stationery store to buy a journal. They make great stocking stuffers!

Here are a few pretty journals to check out **Please note that some of these journals are pricey, but you can find more affordable ones at Borders and Barnes and Noble bookstores**:

Leather Monogrammed Diaries & Journals Available at Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com from $40-98

12 Monthly Journals Available at www.redenvelope.com for $98

Seagrass Journal Available at Papyrus www.papyrusonline.com for $24.95

Leather Journals Available at Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com from $45-80

Pink Flowers Journal Available at Target www.target.com for $14.99

Cashmere Journal from Neiman Marcus www.neimanmarcus.com for $95

Allegra Leather Journal from Kate’s Paperie www.katespaperie.com for $32

Copper and Teal Embossed Pattern – Journal from Papyrus www.papyrusonline for $19.95

Category: Gifts | 7 Comments

Glove Love

December 18, 2007

For those BGs who live in warm climates and don’t have to worry about the unfavorable cold, wintry weather, be thankful! It’s December so it’s freezing in both of my favorite cities — Chicago and New York.

That means layering and keeping my body as warm as possible is essential to getting anything done outside of my cozy homes during these long, frigid months.

For me, the first thing on my body that gets cold are my hands; that’s why I have several pairs of gloves to keep in the pockets of each of my winter coats.

A nicely lined pair of gloves can keep your fingers toasty and fashionable!

Check out some of these functional, yet fabulous pairs of gloves.

Coach Leather Gloves Available at www.coach.com for $298

Australian Ugg Sheepskin Gloves Available at www.nordstrom.com for $140

Isotoner Cashmere-Lined Leather Gloves Available at www.isontoner.com for $40

Chain Leather Gloves Available at www.nordstrom.com for $88

Forzieri White Italian Leather Gloves Available at www.forzieri.com for $79

Isotoner Stretch Leather Fleece-Lined Gloves Available at www.isotoner.com for $35

Cashmere gloves available at www.walmart.com for $12

Category: Fashion | 6 Comments

“Spa”ctacular!

December 17, 2007

What’s the perfect holiday gift that you can give a BG or guy who is always on the go and always helping others, but never seems to find time for themselves? Oh yes, this includes YOU too — a gift certificate to a spa!

A nice spa treatment will help the over-worked, tired and always busy loved one in your life take a break from his or her demanding schedule and escape the daily grind.

Spa treatments have been proven to be an effective way to alleviate stress and provide relaxation for your mind, body and spirit. Whether it’s a facial, Swedish massage or a mani or pedi, giving one’s self “me” time is essential to healthy living. When you feel good, you treat others well and are more productive.

Here are a few popular spas throughout the U.S:

Bliss Soho

One of their most popular treatments right now is the “Mistle Toes.” This treatment gives your shopped out soles a lift with this hot milk, sweet orange oil and cinnamon stick soak plus paraffin wrap pedicure. Served with a cup of hot apple cider, and you’ll get a FREE holiday Essie nail polish.
60 min $70

568 Broadway, 2nd Floor
NYC NY 10012
212 219 8970
www.blissworld.com

P.S There are several Bliss spas throughout the United States. Check the website for more locations.

Honey Child Salon & Spa

I once got my hair styled at this salon/spa and received more compliments on my hair than I’ve ever gotten in my life! Plus, the owner is a BG!

735 N. LaSalle
Chicago, IL
(312) 573-1300
www.honeychildsalonandspa.com

The Root of You Salon and Day Spa

They boast a great massage called the “Awakening.” It’s a 50 minute Swedish full body massage that releases muscle tension with slow strokes along with finger pressure applied both following and across the grain of muscles and tendons to promote relaxation and help improve circulation. $70

5190 Buffalo Speedway
Houston, Texas 77005
(off Highway 59 on Buffalo Speedway @ Westpark)
832-778-1225
www.therootofyou.com

Le Petite Retreat Day Spa

One of their best-sellers is the True Transformation Facial. This classic custom spa facial helps restore skin’s dull, dried, damaged appearance. Aromatherapy and marine-based elements rich in trace minerals balance skin’s ph level, replenishing lost nutrients for that healthy, youthful glow.
60 mins: $110

331 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Los Angeles CA, 90004
(323) 466-1028
www.lprdayspa.com

Category: Beauty | 5 Comments