Event Alert: AmberMag’s Survival Secrets of Game Changers with Miss Jessie’s & Tia Williams

June 8, 2012

For all of my fellow bourgeoning beauty bosses (I co-founded a beauty brand back in the day), AMBERmag.com is hosting an event that you absolutely can’t miss!

On Tuesday, June 12th beauty mavens Titi & Miko Branch, the sister duo behind Miss Jessie’s will be on hand to share tips/insight on how they built their curly hair care empire while one of my absolute favorite editors, Tia Williams, of the brown beauty blog authority –  ShakeYour Beauty, will serve as moderator.

If you’ve ever dreamed of selling that irresistible lip scrub concocted in your kitchen or envisioned your homemade hair products on store shelves, this is the perfect event for you!

I’ve attended two of these Survival Secrets of Game Changers’ events and trust me, this will be $20 well spent.

Click here to register. 
PRICE: $20 
DATE: TUESDAY, JUNE 12, 2012 
TIME: 6:30 P.M. to 9 P.M. 
LOCATION: National Comedy Theatre 347 West 36th Street, Between 8th and 9th Avenues New York, NY
 *Wine, light fare and gift bag with samples from Miss Jessie’s. Must Pre-Register. No payment at the door.

Do you use Miss Jessie’s products?
Category: Beauty, events | 1 Comment

Tune In: Centric’s Hip-Hop Takeover Weekend

June 8, 2012

We’re over a week into June, which means Black Music Month is in full swing. To celebrate the historical music month, Centric TV is airing “takeovers” featuring specials each weekend throughout June. Last week they kicked things off by highlighting the career of the legendary group Earth, Wind & Fire.

Starting tomorrow (10PM EST), hip-hop fans will be in for a weekend of high notes. Viewers will get an inside look into the history of hip-hop with various programming including: Being Mary J. Blige, Hip-Hop Odyssey: Know Your History, Heavy D: Be Inpsired, and Public Enemy: Welcome to the Terrordome.

In between those specials, the network will air old school videos from some of the hip-hop greats and trailblazers.

The next couple of weekends will feature specials celebrating Don Cornelius, Teena Marie, R. Kelly, Gladys Knight, and more.

If you could choose, who would you like to see have a music “takeover” on Centric?

**The winners of the L’Oreal Paris True Match makeup are: Zee, Bailey, and Steel Heels! Congrats. Please email me your mailing addresses. 

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 2 Comments

Giveway: Aveeno Sun-Protection Prize Pack

June 5, 2012

Sitting poolside soaking up the sun getting a pedicure is definitely on my summer agenda. Before I plan my fun days in the sun, I’ll need to fill my tote with a few sun-protecting essentials: sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun-shielding hat.

Thanks to Aveeno, I want to make sure that you’re covered for summer too. I’m giving away one prize pack to a lucky reader filled with the following: Wide-Brimmed Hat, AVEENO Hydrosport Sunscreen SPF30, AVEENO Smart Essentials Daily Nourishing Mositurizer SPF 30, a pair of 100% UV-Protecting Shades, and One Month of ACUVUE OASYS Brand Contacts.

If you’re wondering how contact lenses fit into this summer bundle, well that’s because most contacts don’t offer any UV protection. These offer the highest level of UV blocking available in the marketplace.

For more information on how the sun affects vision, be sure to take a listen to HealthVision with Dr. Val’s podcast here.

While those warm sun rays feel good beaming down on our bodies, we need to take the proper precautions to prevent skin cancer.  Sometimes we BGs forget that like our fair-skinned counterparts, we’re also susceptible to the disease.

Simply leave a comment sharing your summer vacation plans for a chance to win the prize pack. **Exam and fitting fees not included. Winner must present current, valid prescription for ACUVUE Brand Contact Lenses. Please note that this giveaway is only open to U.S residents. The winner will be randomly selected and announced on Monday, June 11th. 

Category: Giveaways, Travel & Lifestyle | 9 Comments

Giveaway: Test Your Memory With L’Oreal Paris’ True Match

June 4, 2012

Growing up, I loved playing memory games. If any kid thought of challenging me to memory card pursuits, they had to be pretty confident in their matching skills. That’s why when I learned about the L’Oreal Paris True Match memory game I couldn’t wait to play. A beauty game combo? Count me in!

It’s super easy to play. Simply go to the site, click on virtual color swatches until you uncover all matches and voila, you’re on to the next level. From now until July 11, the player who flexes her memory muscles to the max by becoming the day’s highest scorer can win a prize pack worth $70.  
Available here, for $10.95
Plus, Balanda Atis and Janine Cherette, two BG chemists, worked diligently for 7 years researching 57 ethnic backgrounds to develop this innovative 33-shade collection. They’ve come up with a formula that’s oil-free, doesn’t clog  pores, and goes on seamlessly for a flawless finish.  
Whether your complexion is beautifully bronze or a lovely deep mahogany, let L’Oreal Paris help you find your precise True Match shade. 
Have you played the game? Three lucky readers will win their shade as determined by the site. Simply leave your True Match makeup color in the comments. The winners will be randomly selected and announced on Friday. 
Category: Beauty | 6 Comments

Beauty News: Carol’s Daughter Transitioning Kit Now Available

June 1, 2012

For those naturalista newbies who’ve been waiting for a haircare savior for their in-between strands, the time is here.  Carol’s Daughter Transitioning 1-2-3 Kit is now available for purchase online.

The set which includes: Purifying Low Poo Cleanser, Renewing Scalp Spray, and Restoring Anti-Breakage Treatment is ideal for those journeying into a newfound freedom from chemically straightened tresses.

Solange Knowles, style maven and Carol’s Daughter spokeswoman, is featured in the brand’s chic, summery ad video for the kit. Check it out below and to learn more about the products read my overview here.

Carol’s Daughter Transitioning 1-2-3 Kit available  here,  for $40

What are some of your go-to natural or in-between styles? 

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

5 “Berry” Good Reasons to Eat Berries

May 31, 2012

Balmy weather, beach bumming, impromptu barbecues, and delicious berries are the cornerstones of summer. All fruits have outstanding health advantages, but berries are the crème de la crème when it comes to wellness and beautifying benefits.

Packed with antioxidants, Vitamin C, minerals, and more, these scrumptious bites can enhance complexions, contribute to weight loss, and even help prevent certain cancers. From strawberries to blueberries, berries are always at the top of my grocery list. Plus, they’re the perfect snack for my 2-year-old daughter who can eat them by the carton!

Check out what these tasty, nutritious treats can do:

1. Antioxidants found in blueberries have been proven to soften skin, decrease inflammation, and reduce the onset of wrinkles.
2. Cranberries and blueberries contain compounds that help ward off bladder infections.
3. Blueberries and raspberries contain lutein, which help improve vision.
4. Blueberries’ anthocyanins attack cancer-causing agents.
5.  Strawberries are used topically in traditional medicines to treat burns and other skin ailments due to their astringent properties.

What’s your favorite berry?

Category: Travel & Lifestyle | 2 Comments

Vera Wang Wins with Cosmetics Line

May 30, 2012

Vera Wang is undeniably one of the most sought-after designers in the world. Her breathtaking fashion creations have mesmerized style-seekers for decades. Now with the recent launch of SimplyVera Cosmetics, Ms. Wang is working her wondrous creative magic in the makeup realm.

Simply Vera Vera Wang Cosmetics available exclusively at kohls.com

Inspired by the designer’s personal makeup philosophy – the collection is comprised of 16 elegant, fun, and modern offerings for face, lips, and eyes in over 70 shades. Plus, the line consists of skincare products that brides will love such as primers and serums that will help keep their makeup in place for their “big day.”

Fans of Vera Wang fashions can now wear makeup that will complement their overall style and serve as an extension of the designer’s unique vision.

Have you ever worn a Vera Wang design? What’s your favorite makeup brand?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment