Brown Girl Gumbo

Event Recap: Dark & Lovely and Everyday People Brunch

October 7, 2014

A couple of weeks ago I was invited by Dark & Lovely to attend the Everyday People brunch here in New York City.

If you’re unfamiliar with the popular brunch series, it’s held monthly at trendy The DL on the lower east side and hosted by stylish girl-about-town, Saada Ahmed and Bravo TV’s Chef Roblé.

Prior to brunch, we bloggers/editors were seated in a comfy “style suite” area of the restaurant where we learned about the haircare brand’s Au Naturale Anti-Breakagé and Au Naturalé Anti-Shrinkage lines (I love the Anti-Breakage line, but still haven’t tried the latter) from Soft-Sheen Carson’s Artistic Director Mezel Jefferson.

Me taking a selfie at the Everyday People brunch held in conjunction with Dark & Lovely at The DL in New York City on Sunday, September 21, 2014.

After we received the rundown on the various products, we were encouraged to move into the main room for a lovely brunch buffet of eggs, french toast, fried chicken, biscuits, potatoes, bacon and other yummy offerings.

Soft-Sheen Carson’s Artistic Director Mezel Jefferson, guest, Saada Ahmed and Chef Roble. Photo By: Pete Monsanto of Fly Life Images/Dark and Lovely

Photo By: Pete Monsanto of Fly Life Images/Dark and Lovely

It was a fun afternoon of mingling with fellow bloggers, editors and trendsetters (aka “the cool kids”) with awesome hair and eye-catching fashions. The food, networking and people watching was good, but the music made the event! I’m a true ’80’s baby, so listening to the hits of the 90s was a treat. Hearing old school Usher and Mase songs made me feel nostalgic and provided such a cool vibe. There was also a performance by R&B duo and neo-soul pioneers, Les Nubians, but I left (mommy duties called) before their set started.

Les Nubians performing at the Dark & Lovely and Everyday People Brunch at DL in New York City on Saturday, September 21, 2014.

If you’re ever able to attend (not sure if it’s ticketed or invite-only since I was invited by Dark & Lovely), I highly recommend it because the mix of food, people and music makes for an unforgettable brunch!

Have you ever attended an Everyday People brunch? If not, do you get together for monthly brunch dates with your friends?

Category: Featured, Features, Gumbo Mix, Hair | Leave a Comment

GIVEAWAY: Take the Dove Body Wash #OneShowerChallenge

September 30, 2014

When I think of quality body washes for sensitive skin, Dove is the first to come to mind.

Its signature, creamy formula is now improved to provide an even more luxurious shower experience. The new body washes are infused with a milder cleanser (Glycinate) coupled with super moisturizing components making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin like me.

NEW Dove Body Washes are available at food, drug, mass, value, club and online retailers, $6.99.

Also, unlike most shower cleansers that boast a gentler formula, the lather I’ve come to love is pretty non-existent. Luckily, that’s not the case with these washes. I can suds up and still leave the shower feeling clean and moisturized all without compromising my easily irritated skin. Oh and did I mention, I felt an immediate difference after ONE shower! Usually, results aren’t noticed until after a few uses, but my skin was smoother and softer following my first use.

If you like milder body washes and looking for a new one, definitely give Dove a go! Plus, who doesn’t love how the brand uplifts and encourages women to just be our naturally beautiful selves?

Check out their latest video, “Legacy,” that speaks to how we mothers pass our beauty ideals and insecurities on to our daughters:

**GIVEAWAY: Simply tell me how you inspire the little girls or young women in your lives to embrace their natural beauty for your chance to win a Dove Body Wash along with a necklace. One lucky reader will be randomly selected and announced (and contacted) next week, Tuesday, Oct. 7th.

Category: Beauty, Featured, Features | 13 Comments

A ‘Beautiful’ City Night Out with Jane Iredale

September 24, 2014

Recently I was invited to a lovely evening with Jane Iredale, the founder of jane iredale—The Skincare Makeup to celebrate the launch of her latest collection for fall, City Nights.

Held at New York City hotspot, Butter, editors and bloggers mingled and ate delicious food while receiving a sneak peek of the stunning collection.

Unexpected forest green and deep purple shades replaced ordinary black eyeliners for an updated autumn look. These gel liners (Jelly Jars) are great for days when you want to have a little fun with color without verging too far from basic black. Plus, the chemical-free natural formula won’t irritate eyes.

jane iredale-The Skincare Makeup ‘City Nights’ collection available here, starting at $28 (all items are sold separately).

The collection also includes a trio eye shadow palette of dreamy earthy hues to provide the perfect smokey eye. To top off the “city nights” look, there ‘s a sophisticated mahogany matte lip color (“Katerina”) and a shimmery red plum gloss (“Kir Royale”) for a bold, statement lip.

As if the evening couldn’t be anymore delightful, Jane personally thanked us for our support and treated us to the Broadway musical, “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical,” as a token of her appreciation.

It was certainly a beautiful city night that I won’t soon forget!

How will you change up your makeup look for fall? What Broadway shows have you seen recently or looking forward to seeing?

Category: Beauty | 2 Comments

6 Chic Capes to Rock this Fall

September 16, 2014

From fresh beginnings to fab new fashions, fall is by far my favorite season. It’s a time to recharge and adjust wardrobes to accommodate chilly temps without compromising style.

So, what better way to usher in the brisk season than with a cool cape? Yes, this sleek outerwear option has been a staple in fashionistas’ closets for a while, but admittedly—I’m late to the cape party.

This chic alternative to traditional coats and jackets will turn heads while keeping you warm. Plus, there’s just something sophisticated and undeniably ladylike about its free-flowing shape.

Check out these eye-catching buys:

DKNY Pure Wool Knit Cape available here, $235

Michael Kors Pea Coat Cape available here, $295

Cavalleria Toscana Cape available here, $170

DKNY “Blythe” Hooded Wool Blend Cape available here, $158

Yoox Back Cape available here, $95

Nordstrom Leather Trim Colorblock Cape available here, $148

Will you be rocking a cape this fall?

Category: Fashion, Featured, Features | Leave a Comment

Family Fun at Brooklyn Bridge Park with Amex EveryDay Card

September 11, 2014

Last weekend, my family and I were invited by American Express EveryDay Card to enjoy an afternoon viewing party of the 2014 US Open (via jumbo screen) at Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Upon our arrival, we were given super cute picnic blankets and baskets filled with a delicious lunch specially curated from renowned chef Thomas Keller provided by Bouchon Bakery. After eating and lounging on the lawn, we took my daughter to the complimentary tennis lessons for kids. She seemed to have a blast, but it’s safe to say that she will probably not be the next Serena Williams!

After the mini tennis lesson, my hubby and I resumed our relaxing afternoon noshing on grapes, viewing the US Open, and watching the kids play nearby in the grass.

Despite living in NYC for a little over 11 years, I had never made my way down to Brooklyn Bridge Park prior to last week. I’m not sure if it’s always been so nice, but if you haven’t been there lately you should definitely plan a trip before summer’s officially a distant memory. The breathtaking view alone is reason enough to go.

We had a fantastic, fun-filled family day that we’ll cherish forever.

Check out some of my pics below:

Have you ever visited Brooklyn Bridge Park? If you’re in the NYC area, there will be a Kite Festival held at the park from 11am to 3pm on Saturday, Sept. 13. Click here for more information.

Category: Gumbo Mix, Health, Travel & Lifestyle | Leave a Comment

Oprah Winfrey Wants to Read to You: ‘What I Know For Sure’ Column Released as Audiobook

September 11, 2014

If you’re a fan of O, The Oprah Magazine’s inspirational monthly column, “What I Know For Sure,” you’re in luck!

Earlier this month, Oprah Winfrey released an audiobook of the same title including some of her most insightful words of wisdom and revelations spanning 14 years from the popular column.

Narrated by the media mogul, the updated and revised collection of essays exemplifies her superb oratory skills making them even more compelling.

“What I Know For Sure (Audiobook),” by Oprah Winfrey available here, $18

The 4-disc book is organized by themes such as: gratitude, clarity, resilience, connection and similar categories. Ideal for those times when you need a little pick-me-up, this audiobook allows you to listen to one of the most powerful and uplifting individuals for knowledgeable nuggets for navigating your best life.

This will surely be my go-to self-help guide for years to come!

Listen below for an excerpt:

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Featured, Features | Leave a Comment

Celebrate Grandparents Day with Edible Arrangements!

September 5, 2014

We’re all familiar with a few frivolous “Hallmark” holidays, but for me National Grandparents Day isn’t one of them.

Personally, it’s a legitimate day to reflect and cherish the memories I shared with my late grandparents, as well as honor my children’s grandparents. This Sunday (September 7) my family and I are showing our love and appreciation for my mother-in-law by sending her a delicious Edible Arrangements fruit bouquet.

Edible Arrangements available here, starting at $29.

A great alternative to flowers, this nutritious gift is as beautiful as it tastes. The pineapple “petals” or grape “stems” make this an eye-catching present that grandparents and families alike can enjoy. What better way to promote healthy snacking while showing your adoration? I think it’s the perfect token of love for those very special individuals.