Friday, December 28, 2012

P.H.A.T GIRL FRIDAY

Well divas, today is the last P.H.A.T GIRL FRIDAY of 2012.  If your life has been any thing like mine, this year has been very eventful and there are still a few days left.  I consider all things both good and bad a blessing, so I must say that I have been extremely blessed in 2012.  Every aspect has not been positive but I have learned so much and all of it has prepared me for the next level.  I have been doubted, talked about, lost acquaintances and have opted out of business dealings with certain people but the gain has been much later than the loss. I have gained knowledge, experience and made connections that are far greater than anything I could have imagined. I have a lot of work to do and even more opportunities to capitalize on.  I plan to enter 2013 at maximum speed because I am going to grind and hustle right out of 2012. I am very optimistic as I set my sights on what 2013 but, I can honestly state two facts, (1)2012 don't owe me nothing and (2) I will be hustling all the way till the ball drop and 2013 is official.  

In the process of me building my brand, I have learned a lot about life, people, business and most of all myself.  I am humbled by the love and support that some have shown me and driven by the love that some chose not to display.  Either way it has continuously fueled me.  This year I have made great connections, with old friends and new friends too.  Some of these people are apart of the plus size community and some are just great business people.  However, they are all people who I have benefited a great deal from and want to share with you.  Keep in mind, I can't name them all right here right now but you will get to know them through my blog and other post. If you aren't mentioned, it isn't personal..... Believe me, you will have your time.  To those mentioned and those who aren't, thank you for everything and I look forward to the next chapter. 
The beautiful Shay Rozay(blue dress), model, writer, philanthopist and all around business woman.  She is the founder of Rozay's Way and the administrator of Full figured Fly and Fabulous.  She works with Full Blossom Magazine and is an active participant in Full Figured Fashion Week.  

Gwen Devoe, Founder/CEO of Full Figured Fashion Week. A strong business woman who works hard to make "BIG BUSINESS" receives the respect and attention it deserves. 

"THE DREAM TEAM" (listed from left to right) Demetris Love, Charlie Hill and Tosh Sevier, the master minds that founded Albany Fashion Week.  Three very humbled individuals who live to bless and empower others.  All talented, educated and goal oriented individuals whom are working hard to put Albany, Georgia on the map and keep it there. 


Sparkle Hyche(pink tights) and Monique Dickinson, professional /celebrity stylist and owners of DonniNicole.  These fashion forward divas are the queens of vintage clothing and styling.  Between the two of them, they cater to every possible fashion need (hair, makeup, shoes, clothing and accessories).

Mia Moffitt the brains and beauty behind "The Queen of the Curves" and the "NO PLUS SIZE BULLYING CAMPAIGN."  She works hard to spotlight plus size models and plus size events.
Full Blossom Magazine, is a magazine that works to empower, inform and highlight the live of full figured women.  The man with the plan that makes things happen is Mello Evron Andrews.  Mello, is a hard worker wears a number of hats with pride.
Brandon "Da Brat" Teemer, an extremely talented self taught makeup artist. 
Makeup, fragrances, accessories, design and so much more.  Juici Luci is a brand that is growing and will be around for years to come.
Jamaican born model Tessnie Mowatt-Mason is a plus size model who has a unique unmatched beauty.  She is guaranteed to be one of the "IT" models of 2013
Photographer, Producer(audio and video) and CEO of Cliquemuzik Ent.  Brian Hall is a hard working young man filled with drive.

Monday, December 17, 2012

BUILDING A BRAND



  THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING!!!  DESIGNING, STYLING AND WRITING ALL WITH THE GOAL OF ENCOURAGING AND EMPOWERING OTHERS.  I AM WORKING TOWARDS BUILDING A BRAND BASED ON THE DREAMS AND REALITIES OF MYSELF AND OTHER WOMEN LIKE ME.  THE GOAL IS TO EXHIBIT THE BEAUTY AND STYLE THAT FULL FIGURED WOMEN/GIRLS ARE EQUIP WITH.  TO ENCOURAGE WOMEN NOT TO BE DEFINED BY THERE WEIGHT OR CONFINED TO THE BOX THE SOCIETY PLACES US IN.  TO TRANSFORM THE BASHFUL INTO BOLD AND BUILD CONFIDENCE WHERE SELF ESTEEM IS LOW.  I WANT TO DESIGN AND STYLE THE CLOTHING THAT SPEAKS VOLUMES.  I WANT TO MOTIVATE CURVY DIVAS TO LIVE SO LOUD THAT PEOPLE NEED EARPLUGS TO BE IN OUR PRESENCE.  IF I NEVER SELL ANOTHER ARTICLE OF CLOTHING, OR SEW ANOTHER STITCH, MY SOUL WILL REJOICE IF I HELP OTHERS TO LOVE THEMSELVES.  YES, I WANT TO BUILD A BRAND, I WANT P.H.A.T GIRL FRESH TO BE A PHRASE SPOKE IN EVERY HOUSEHOLD BUT MORE THAN THAT, I WANT TO REBUILD THE PLUS SIZE COMMUNITY...........



Sunday, December 16, 2012

MAKEUP MONDAY Featuring Kim Concrete-Rose Jones



It is makeup Monday and I am presenting you with another talented unique diva that can beat a face with her eyes closed.  As you all know I love makeup matters, so I live for all of the tips and pictures.  Even though, I am a MUA, I still have a lot to learn and these ladies keep me on my toes.  I first got a weft of  Kim's talent in the group "Makeup Matters", and then again when she entered a contest that Bigmama's Clothing was hosting in the group.  Although I don't know her personally, I know that the girl has serious skills.

Kim is a 25 years old, native of  Dallas, Texas, is a self taught MUA. She is a mother of two beautiful girls and has been married to her high school sweetheart for 12 years.

QUESTION:  What inspired you to become a makeup artist?

ANSWER:  I have always had a passion for the glitz and glam. It's so magical to see the wonders of makeup. If you want high cheekbones, contour.  If you want fuller eyebrows, draw them. There are so many tricks to give your face a flawless finish. I am a newbie in the makeup artistry field but I am finding my way. I enjoy seeing the smiles on my clients faces and love bringing there inner sexiness out that they had no clue they had.

QUESTION:   What celeb would you work with if you had your choice?

ANSWER:  Oprah, it doesn't get better then that. The knowledge she would spit as I was doing her makeup would be amazing. I am all about positivity. Negativity will get you absolutely no where in life. And Oprah is the epitome of Dreams can come True.

QUESTION:   What is your favorite accent item?

 ANSWER:   False Lashes. I naturally don't have any lashes. They are the thinnest,lightest lashes ever. When I throw my strips on then I am good to go when I'm in a rush.




QUESTION:   What is your favorite look?

ANSWER:   Anything crazy. I love being Different. I love crazy loud colors. I do neutral every now and then but I love the art in makeup so I express it thru my face for sure.

QUESTION:  Who is your favorite makeup artist?

 ANSWER:  QUEEN OF BLENDING for sure and she has been for years. I didn't know you could do such things with makeup until I started watching her YouTube videos 3 years ago. Her realness and passion for Makeup is out of this world.

QUESTION:  What are your favorite Products?

 ANSWER:  E.L.F. Concealer, Maybelline Tattoos(Great as a base) , blending brushes and can't leave my MAC lipsticks out.






Thursday, December 13, 2012

JUICY LUCI

MS. JUICY LUCI





Last year I ran across Juicy Luci's page from a link on a friends page and the rest is history.   Although I didn't discover her, she is my best find of 2011.   This young lady is super talented and very down to earth. She is a curvy diva that is filled with confidence, who promotes the same in other women. Even more than that, she loves God and gives him glory for the move in her life.  Not only does she have her own material that she is constantly producing, she takes others ideas and visions and brings them to life. The fact that women that I have respect for as business women and artist are down with her is no surprise, because her gift is undeniable.  In a short amount of time, she and I have developed a very respectful relationship with one another.  She knows that I shop on a budget and respects that.  She never hesitates to show me her latest inventions and I know I can hit her up for her input or advice. Maybe we get along so well because we share the same birthday, or maybe it is just the fact that strong ambitious women respect the greatness they see in one another.What ever the connection is, I look forward to a long business relationship with her and I am highly anticipating her next move. 
 

 I have purchased earring, fragrances and lip stain from Juicy Luci.  I can honestly say that I have never been disappointed with any of my products and I always receive compliments on the merchandise. The first time I wore my signature Juicy Luci earrings, about 20 (maybe more) different chicks asked me about them.  One woman even tried to buy them for twice the price.  However, I just couldn't bare to part with them.
Your girl rocking all things Juicy Luci!!!
 Even now, a year later, I am still approached whenever I wear them.  Just like the earrings, the fragrance, Oh Na Na received amazing reactions.  A older guy stopped me and said, "please don't think I am trying to get fresh but what kind of perfume is that!!"  I got so much attention until my boyfriend said, "oh you can't wear that ish unless I am with you".  The girl is like Midas, everything that she touch....... It turns to gold! 

Now you all know how I am when it comes to makeup, so you have to know that the emergence of Juicy Luci's Soho Lip Gloss/Colors really drove me wild. Before everyone started wearing all of the out of the box colors this year, I was already on it.  So when she revealed her new baby, I was super excited. It saved me the time and headache of mixing my own, the money of buying from others and gave me an amazing look. I had been spending over $20 for different lipsticks of non-traditional colors (green, neon pink, purple....).  Even her largest container cost less and was just as pigmented if not more. I started wearing a black glitter lip and was super excited to see that she too was creating glitter lips.  When I got my second order of lip stain, she had included a "Eve" lip stain with glitter.........  I FELL IN LOVE!!  I am such a slave for red and pink lips and ''Eve" had me feeling like Adam (ready to sin).  lol!!!  I am currently chatting back and forth with her about creating a P.H.A.T GIRL FRESH lip stain so stay tuned. It is no surprise that she is already at the top of the game with this Soho Lip Gloss/Color because she started out beating faces(makeup artist).  The fact is, you can't lose when you make your own rules and she is in her own zone when it comes to makeup.




The truth is the girl is badder than a two year old and on her way to the top. I respect her hustle to the utmost because she is all about her brand as any entrepreneur should be. She hustles from the late night to the early morning. I posted a status earlier today that speaks to her reality, "TRUE DREAMERS, RARELY SLEEP!!" She is too busy living dreams and creating others to sleep on life. With a sexy name and style you can't resist, Juicy Luci embodies all that is FRESH!!  She doesn't follow trends, she is a trendsetter and she stays a couple steps ahead of the game. If you don't know her.... Get to know her because I promise she is going to be around for years to come. Juicy Lucy's future is as bright and colorful as her lip gloss and earrings and as sweet as her fragrances!  
Yours truly rocking "Eve Glitter Lip", looking P.H.A.T GIRL FRESH

Monday, December 10, 2012

MAKEUP MONDAY with Anicia Bri'Qai Perry

 

So, while Facebook surfing( one of my past times), I stumbled upon the page of what was obviously a very talented and trained makeup artist.  I have looked at her page several times a week since then, so that I could get a glimpse of all the new looks she creates.  Now that I have become a Instagram junkie(don't judge me), I am greeted with a new look nearly every day, and I love it!!!  Once she and I begin talking through social media, I learned that doing make wasn't a job for this young lady, it was a gift from God.  With no training, just a desire to learn, Anicia is talented far beyond her years.
 

Anicia Bri'Qai Perry is a 18 year old Self taught makeup artist, who resides in Seattle WA. Her sister always had these big colorful eye shadow pallets & Anicia used to steal them and play with them all the time. She started adding other different makeup artist on Facebook & asking for their professional opinion and critics of  her work. She says, that has helped her grow as an artist. However, I think that this is her gift from God.  As a woman of a more mature age, I am very proud of her and I want her to know that this gift can carry her places she never imagined.  Be on the look out for Miss Anicia because with the right drive and determination, she is headed to the top.

 
QUESTION:  If you could work with any celebrity, who would it be and why?

ANSWER:  Lala Anthony, She is a beautiful person inside and out & is very positive. 

QUESTION:  What is your favorite product?

ANSWER:  I love Wet n Wild's white eyeliner pencil as a eyeshadow base.

QUESTION: What is your favorite look?

ANSWER:  My favorite look is my signature look(sunset look).

QUESTION:  Who is your favorite makeup artist?
 
ANSWER:  My favorite makeup artist is Terrell Mullin . 


CONTACT INFO:  https://www.facebook.com/AniciaMUAPerry



Thursday, December 6, 2012

P.H.A.T GIRL FRIDAY!!! Introducing Miss Tessenie Mowatt-Mason



What's up you guys, it is officially P.H.A.T GIRL FRIDAY!!! You made it through all the hustle and bustle of the work week and now it is time for a little rest and relaxation.  Don't hesitate to love on yourself a little bit because you deserve it.  Even if you have to work, make time for you.  A little me time goes a long way. 

I know that you have seen my numerous post about the P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE. We already have a great number of women from different walks of life who are committed to the cause.  My goal is to spotlight different members of the P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE every P.H.A.T GIRL FRIDAY, in an effort to introduce them to you and the rest of the world.  This week it brings me great pleasure to present to you, Tessenie Mowatt-Mason.

Tessenie is a 25 year old  aspiring plus size model who was born December 31, 1986 in Jamaica. She attended  Mount Alvernia High School where she graduated and transitioned to Northern Caribbean University where she received a Bachelors in Business Administration.  She moved to Canada one year ago in order to further her education, in post graduate business.  Although Tessenie always wanted to be a model, she says she was told, "you have a pretty face but you are too fat."  Which is a famous insulting phrase that most full figured girls/women are quoted. Tessenie who begin modeling 4 months ago stated,  "I was so excited to learn about plus size modeling and the opportunities that existed."  After all the discouraging words, Tessenie received her big  break in July 2012 when she was chosen to walk for 7 out of 8 designers at the International Fuller Woman Expo. From that point, her career took off.  She was booked for the same show in Detroit (Sept 2012), LS 1426 Fashion Week (Nov 2012) and Curvaceous Styles Gala (local Canadian designer)when speaking about her life as a model, Tessenie humbly states,  "In my very short career, I must say I have been afforded some awesome opportunities which allowed me to network with some very powerful women in plus fashion."  her goal is to continue working hard to make her mark in the lives of women and the fashion industry by being a woman's advocate and a plus size supermodel. 



Tessenie is a wonderful young lady and I am looking forward to watching this beautiful flower continue to blossom.  It is so obvious that she is determined not only to be her best but to enrich the lives of others.  When she saw my post about joining the P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE, Tessenie immediately contacted me.  She didn't hesitate to comply with what I was asking and for that, I have a lot of love and appreciation for her. Her humble spirit, positive attitude and eagerness to be of service to others is the reason that I asked her to be a member of the P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE ADVISORY BOARD. For all of you who question your existence and why God made you the way he did, take notes from this Jamaican beauty; "I truly believe I was blessed with my curves and I want to help women like me wear their curves with confidence. Love and own your body, you only get one shot!"


CONTACT INFO:
 www.facebook.com/TessMikayla
www.twitter.com/TessenieM
or @TessenieM


P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE

I know that all of you have been seeing my post about being a part of the P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE.  It has been brought to my attention that some of you are not totally clear on what being a part of the group entails.  The P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE is a diverse group of positive, confident women. The intent is to work within your communities to enrich and empower other women and girls. Don't let the name fool you, the group is a sisterhood.  Although it was birthed from Bigmama's Clothing, it is not restricted to just plus size women.  Any woman who wants to help change the lives of others and give unselfishly is more than welcome.  If you become and member and desire to start an entire chapter, we will work with you to do so. This is a service sisterhood and just as our goal is to be of service to others, we will do the same for one another.   

As a plus size woman, I know that many women and girls (especially plus sized) struggle with self-esteem, body image and other issues.  They are not strong and bold enough be happy with who they are in the face of society.  This really makes me sad but I know the feeling all to well.  As a woman we bare a lot of the worlds burdens but we are never granted the empathy that we deserve.  As the mother's of this universe we are expected to nurture and be strong no matter what.  However, the reality is that is not always the case.  There is an entire generation of daughters who have yet to find their joy.  They are ashamed of who they are because of the reality of their existence.  Things like skin color, hair texture, weight and height should never make them ashamed of who they are, but it does.   As we have heard many times, we must be our sister's keeper and it takes a village to raise a child, so we must take action.  In order to help our sisters and the next generation, we must act now.  God has not given us all of the strength and boldness not to be of service to his people.  It doesn't matter what your religion or race is, we are all committed to service, and we are all connected as sisters. 

Being a part of the group is simple, there are no monetary requirements although once the board has been completely assembled we may ask you to purchase your gear so that we can represent (our clique).  However, I promise you it will be less than $20.  We are still in the planning stages but the foundation has been laid.  The board is already being formed and paperwork is being drawn up. Program coordinators are being contacted.  We have members from New York to Canada all the way down to Georgia and across to California, making stops in both Alabama and Texas.  I am asking that all interested ladies send me a bio and a photo because we need to build a member portfolio.  The photo's will also be used for the website, blog and other advertising.  I will make it a habit of making you ladies aware of any major decisions that are being made as I want all of us to build this into something greater than we ever imagined.  If you have suggestions or ideas, pleases don't hesitate to contact me, I will be listing all of my information below.  Also, many of the members are members of a Facebook group called Full Figured Fly and Fabulous, so if you would like to get to know some of the other sisters, please check the page out.  THANK YOU IN ADVANCE!!!

bigmamaclothing@gmail.com is the email for bio and pics
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/maui.bigelow
https://www.facebook.com/BigmamasClothing
twitter
https://twitter.com/MSB_PLEZ
https://twitter.com/PHAT_GIRL_FRESH
Instagram
http://instagram.com/msb_plez/
http://instagram.com/bigmamas_clothing
Blogger
http://phatgirlfresh.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/FFFnFAB/

WELCOME TO HER ZUNIVERSE




"YOU PURCHASE FASHION, YOU CREATE STYLE..........."  This is something that I firmly believe.  Personally I am a fashion junkie who has her own style.  I am not one of those to be consumed by an items brand name, if I like it, I buy it. I love unique pieces, I'M DIFFERENT(in my 2 Chainz voice) so things that go against the grain always catch my eye.  My bold, confidence will not allow me to stay in a box. Which is why when I ran across this sisters  page on Facebook, I was in awe. I love me some accessories because they can make a basic ensemble turn into a WINNER.  I have never told her this but I actually set there and looked at every single picture and then I went to the website and did the same, hell I even look at the personal pictures too. I actually created looks in my head as I stalked, I mean browsed her page.  The girl style is just as unique as her name and her talent is out of this world.  Once you enter her space it is as if you are in another place and time.  I guess that is a part of her plan to give us an experience like none other and that is exactly what she does.  I can't lie, I tried to figure out how to figure out how she did it and than I realize..... FOOL THAT IS HER GOD GIVEN GIFT, YOU CAN'T IMITATE THAT.  Now I can wait to place may order and become a part of her Zuniverse(although I am already in my head).  To me, is the epitome of a true artist because everything about her is artistic in some form.  Although I initial became familiar with her on Facebook, when I ran across her on Instagram, I thought she was a makeup artist.  I mean everything she touches is so vibrant and full of life.  I really can't imagine what she is going to do next.   Normally I interview via the phone or internet and then write my version of the person I am interviewing bio.  I try to condense things and accent the high points.  However, this sister is so dope, I decided to let her speak for herself in her own words.  I asked her to provide me with a brief bio and this is what she said............




   BORN AND RAISED IN BROOKLYN NY …SHIPPED 2 VA AND STRANDED…I’M A MOTHER…SOON TO BE WIFE…AN ARTIST… A JEWELRY DESIGNER AND SO MUCH MORE…. A JEWELRY DESIGNER OF A DIFFERENT KIND… I STARTED DESIGNING BACK IN 1999 AFTER I HAD MY SON… I STOPPED DRAWING AND PAINTING FOR SOME REASON AND HAD TO ASK GOD TO REDIRECT MY ARTISTIC ENERGIES…AND SO CAME THE BIRTH OF “MY ZUNIVERSE” … MY WORK IS A LABOR OF LOVE FOR ME ... I AM IN LOVE WITH WHAT I DO ...MY EARRINGS ARE MADE FOR THE WOMEN OUT THERE WHO AREN'T AFRAID 2 BE BOLD TREND SETTERS THAT STAND OUT FROM EVERYBODY ELSE... FASHION DIVAS... THE GREAT JEWELRY JUNKIE THAT I MYSELF AM... YES I HAD TO TAKE A BIG GIRL PILL AND FINALLY SHARE MY CREATIONS WITH THE WORLD... I STARTED MAKING THEM FOR MYSELF IN THE BEGINNING…GREAT NARCISSIST THAT I AM {J/K}... I WAS TIRED OF SEEING ALL THE WOMEN AROUND ME LIVING ON “PLANET COMMERCIAL” AS I CALL IT…. I’M NOT THE AS SEEN ON TV TYPE OF GIRL…SO I STARTED TAKING SCISSORS TO EVERYTHING IN ARMS REACH ... AND THERE YOU HAVE IT ... IT STARTED WITH MY 4 INCH CROCHET CREATIONS AND HAS GROWN INTO A FABULOUS MONSTER SINCE THEN...ME BEING THE SELFISH FASHIONISTA THAT I AM ... IT REALLY MEANS A LOT TO ME TO SHARE MY GIFT WITH EVERY ONE... I HAVE GOTTEN SUCH GREAT FEEDBACK FROM PEOPLE THAT I HAD TO SHARE ... I HAVE MADE PIECES FOR TV PERSONALITY TRACY DIMARCO FROM JERSEYLICIOUS… R&B DIVAS CHERI DENNIS &  LYNDRIETTE…MODEL ACTRESS AND DANCER MS KYSN JUST TO NAME A FEW… I THANK EVERYONE FOR ALL THE SUPPORT THUS FAR AS I CONTINUE ON WITH MY LIFE OF CREATION… WELCOME TO MY ZUNIVERSE 



 Contact Information:  
 https://www.facebook.com/ZulaneEdghill?ref=ts&fref=ts
http://myzu.bigcartel.com/
 http://www.youtube.com/user/CoCoGyrl1da

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

A SEED SOWER......

I know that today is Wellness Wednesday. And I am supposed to be talking health, and in a sense I am. Because the things and people that bring you joy...... add to your life in abundance.  Which is why I have to take this time to give recognition to a person who never ask for any. A person who gives unselfishly and expects nothing in return, my God sister Ms. Danisha Morris.

I learned a long time ago that the seeds people sow into your life don't always have to be monetary.  Some times the seeds planted in your head and you heart bloom into flowers that are more beautiful than those planted in your pocket.  However, Nisha is one who plants seeds of all kinds.  She is a positive, goal, oriented woman who continues to excel at everything she does because God grace is with her.  I am honored to call her my sister and blessed to have her in my life. She has feed my soul more than she may ever know and more than I could ever express and for that I am forever grateful.

I want to extend the warmest, most heart felt HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MS. DANISHA MORRIS!!!! YOU ARE PROOF THAT BEING P.H.A.T GIRL FRESH IS NOT ABOUT THE SIZE OF YOUR WAIST BUT THE SIZE OF YOUR HEART.  You are bold, beautiful, confident and God-fearing.  There are so many woman feeding off your confidence. So many young girls who need to know your story. You are proof that hard work and determination will take you as far as you allow it and that the sky really is the limit. You are a fountain in which the waters of greatness flow. So again I say happy birthday and I love you.



Monday, December 3, 2012

LOVE DOESN'T HURT (Domestic Violence)!!!





No matter how much we grow as people, there is one issue that always sneaks back into our homes.  That issue is domestic violence.  Domestic violence was traditional defined as violence or physical abuse directed toward your spouse or domestic partner; usually violence by men against women.  However, men can and are victims of domestic violence as well. The fact is although love is not perfect it damn sure doesn't hurt and no one has the right to physically or verbally abuse another.

Sadly enough domestic violence is again in the news following the murder/suicide in which, Jovan Belcher  a linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs, shot and killed his girlfriend and later himself.  The situation is very sad because no one has answers and now there is a three month old baby who has neither a mother nor a father.  No one knows exactly what happened that led to the shooting other than the fact that the couple argued following Kasandra Perkins, 22 attending a concert the following night.  Police were contacted about the incident by Belcher's own mother, who reportedly stated that her daughter had been shot by her boyfriend.  As so many people mourn and ask why, we must face the reality that this will not be the last time this type of tragedy strikes. 

For many years, domestic violence was like that "pink elephant" in the room, every one knew it existed but no one acknowledged it.  However, with so many celebrities breaking their silence, and cases like O.J Simpson and Floyd Mayweather, domestic violence has a voice.  I remember growing up and watching my Fat Daddy(my grandma's long time boyfriend) beat on my Nannie(my grandmother).  I know that as a child behavior is learned but I never felt that it was right.  Although I loved and respected him(and still do), I never ever thought that what he did to her and us was right.  The reason I said us is because at the time me and my cousin were living with my Nannie and it really hurt and traumatized us.  What people tend to forget about domestic violence is there are indirect victims too.  Those of us who witness the abuse with no control over the situation, bare just as many scares as the ones who are being physically and verbally abused.  As a girl, I had the same question that I have for victims now; why don't you leave?  I was so bothered by the fact that my Nannie did not have the strength to just leave.  However, once her children got wind of it, she did leave but she allowed him back into our lives and it wasn't long before he was beating her again.  This is the sad truth of so many victims.

I am sure their are a number of issue that lead a person to become violent and enraged. Many times the anger comes from a build up of stress and tension. The actions may even be out of the person's character, from all the accounts police have received, Belcher was a good guy but something made him snap. I am sure that there is a place in many of the aggressor's head that can justify all of their actions. It is an illness and must be treated as such. Just as drug abuse has to be treated, so does physical and emotional abuse.  I know that many times victims feel obligated to stay in the situation due to love and loyalty.  However, the truth is you staying is only making the situation worse.  When domestic violence is present the entire family unit is injured and the entire family unit needs to be healed.  This healing doesn't mean that the victim has to remain or return to the situation, just that they need to identify with signs and why it was allowed so it never happens again.  Your children need to know that this isn't acceptable behavior and that it isn't their fault.  Can you imagine how Belcher's mother has to feel? To have witnessed her son commit such a crime and then learn that he had taken his own life. She lost two people whom she loved dearly and is left to raise a grandchild who unknowingly bares the scares of domestic violence. Now that is a wound that will never heal...

No relationship is perfect and love is a roller coaster ride but it shouldn't leave you battered and bruised.  Never underestimate where a person's anger can take them and where it can leave you.  If they hit you once with no repercussions......... I WILL HAPPEN AGAIN!!   if they threaten to kill you, believe them and act quickly.  Their are many victims that could have saved their own lives if they had just taken heed to the signs.

MAKEUP MONDAY feat. Honei Bee Fly


Tonight I did a little Q&A session with one of the makeup artist from the Facebook group Makeup Matters, it was none other than Mrs. Honei Bee Fly.  I have been admiring her work on Facebook and IG for about a year now and the sister is super talented to say the least. If I lived any where near her, I would have been STUNG(her slogan)a long time ago.  More than her talent,I like that fact that she is humble and she gives God all the glory for her gifts. If you are in the Arlington, Texas area and in need of a look that accents your positive and eliminates your negative..... look up THE BEE, SO YOU CAN GET STUNG!!!!


QUESTION: What are your favorite products and what is your favorite look?

 


ANSWER:  When it comes to makeup looks I like to keep things simple. Though I am a MUA, I believe in beauty on the inside and on the outside, letting your outer beauty shine through but in a natural way. Normally I like to wear something light like Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer with concealer, a bronze/pink or peachy blush, natural looking lashes, and a nice natural lip in the "peach family". This look is easy and it really allows your natural features to pop.

QUESTION:  Who or what inspired you to be a makeup artist? 

 

ANSWER:I never thought in a million years I would be doing makeup. It was never a desire of mine. However, a friend of mine planted the idea in my head because he is a photographer and wanted a MUA for his clients. Well the first time, I ignored him. However, a few months later the idea came up again and God allow that seed to grow! I begin thinking, "OK, maybe I can do this and I did"....


I'm so grateful to have this talent that God continues to let grow. He knew exactly what He was doing because this is a vision I never saw for myself. Another reason I know it was God because I found myself with no income, I had lost my job but my makeup business actually began to pick up and I was booking ladies left and right! Its by the His grace that I have done so well. I just pray and hope that He continues to allow this talent to grow and that I can be a blessing to those ladies who need my service to make their events special and complete!


CONTACT INFO:   https://www.facebook.com/pages/Get-Stung-Makeup-by-Honei-B-Fly/125961517504831                

Friday, November 30, 2012

The Rozay Way

First off, HAPPY P.H.AT GIRL FRIDAY!!!  I hope that you all have a great weekend and are able to get some me time. I have decided to do a little more with P.H.A.T GIRL FRIDAY.  Starting today I will spotlight A member of the P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE or plus size divas on the move.  So today, I would like to introduce to some, reintroduce to others and pay respect to............... Ms. Shay Rozay!!!!!

I have only had the pleasure of communicating with Ms. Rozay via social media and one phone conversation.  However, it is obvious that she is one of the most authentic people I have met.  From the moment of our initial contact, she was very warm, straight forward and lighthearted.  I must admit, I never expected a woman/model with her impressive resume to be as down to earth as she was.  She and I talked as if we were old friends, laughing and swapping stories for over an hour.  In spite of her established foundation, Ms. Rozay believes in me and my movement enough to say......"I would love to be apart of the P.H.A.T GIRL CLIQUE!"  She even went on to extend an olive branch to me and allow me to work with her on up and coming projects.  You don't find too many individuals with her star power that are so humble and gracious.  However, one thing is evident; Ms. Rozay is determined to be of service to mankind and she believes in girl power.

Before the glitz and glamor, Ms. Rozay was little Miss Shana Washington.  Born and raised as an only child in Queens, NY to Ms.  Robin Waldron.  Ms. Rozay, has always been a people person and has served as a mentor in several programs in her area and abroad. In 2005 she implemented “The Girl Club”, an informative female only mentoring group that focused on exploring different aspects of the urban teenage experience.  Now as an adult she is the voice of and for thousands of women.  Not just women in her region but all over the world.  She makes an effort to promote happiness, self love and confidence.  Ms. Rozay is a true philanthropist as she is constantly volunteering, donating and fundraising for the greater good of others.  She participated in the PLUS Model Magazine's MS Walk fundraiser and raised $200 as a walker. She worked as a street team leader for the Full Figured Fashion Week distributing advertisements and providing event information to public. In memory of her cousin she created the Jason Jones Scholarship Fund promoting violence prevention by using sports and other entertaining activities as an outlet for our youth. On July 9th,2012,  she hosted her first annual “Stop the Violence- JAY DAY” to raise money for a scholarship fund in her cousins name and honor. She spent the rest of the summer volunteering with Full Blossom Magazine’s Summer Youth Employment Program group “Stepup II Royalty” mentoring, teaching modeling techniques, interviewing skills, etc. She also formed a Full Figured Fly & Fabulous group that walked in the NYC Kidney Walk.

Although modeling was a childhood dream, Ms. Rozay was not driven to pursue it until after the death of her cousin.   In mid-2010 Shay was propositioned to model by Mello Andrews of the plus woman’s internet publication Full Blossom Magazine; she immediately began to explore the world of full figured fashion and hasn't looked back since.  She began her venture with Full Blossom Magazine on July 24, 2010 as a featured model at the grand opening of Johntine’s Plus Size Boutique. She participated in her first official photo shoot a week later.  Ms. Rozay won Full Blossom Magazine’s Cover Model Contest in early-2011 and she was featured on the cover of the 2nd issue.  To date Shay’s cover received  the most views in the magazines history. Quickly gaining popularity she decided to create a Facebook like page, “Shana the plus model”. Her creative energy birthed Full Figured Fly & Fabulous in May of 2011; a women's only Facebook group, she call’s it “A Secret Sisterhood” specifically for sharing inspirational & motivational experiences, stories and quotes. Over 400 females from all over the world participate in sharing self-esteem secrets, fashion tips & much more daily.  In 2012 Shay has been apart of the Sonsi FFFWeek Social Media Team & Street Team while working on a few different projects as the promotions specialist for Full Blossom Magazine and the executive assistant to Sakinah B, the Owner/designer of “curvy” clothing line Eyani Couture.

Armed with beauty, brains, style, class and curvy confidence, Ms. Rozay is truly the epitome of P.H.A.T GIRL FRESH!!! . Despite life's trials, Ms. Rozay has remained because the spirit of a true hustler can never be broken.  Her testimony proves that tragedy can be transformed into triumph and it is never too late to live your dreams. My advise to the world is to remember the face and the name because the world will see much more of Ms. Shay Rozay!! 

Contact info:
  https://www.facebook.com/PlusModelShana
https://www.facebook.com/SHANATHEPLUSMODEL
 https://www.facebook.com/groups/FFFnFAB/
http://www.shayrozay.com/model.html
 @_shayrozay (IG and Twitter)

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

PROTECT YOUR DREAMS

I have learned that you can't expect others to always be supportive and encouraging of your dreams and the efforts you make.  During my journey, I have met a number of  so called "positive people" who tried to down play, destroy and discourage my dream.  Not because they don't see my potential, but because they did see it!!!!!!!  AND IT SCARES THEM......It is historically proven that people make efforts destroy things that they fear and disagree with.  Slavery and the Holocaust are two example of this.  Both the Jews and the Africans were admired for their strength, abilities and intelligence and for this reason, they were both victimized and oppressed.............  September 11, 2001 is another example of how people will try to destroy what they disagree with.  The greatest example ever, is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.....  And I could easily go on and on......................  However, I just want you to know that you have to be mindful of who you allow to see your vision.


You should always handle your dreams with care!!!  Never share them with those who you aren't sure are in full support of you and your dream.  Just as the Bible says, there is power in touching and agreeing, there is power in touching and disagreeing.  You don't want to find your dreams in the hand of someone who is not in support of it because they will put forth as much effort as possible to destroy it.  I know a lot of people who are trying to obtain things in their lives and every time they are close to the mountain top....................  they find themselves back at ground zero.  Why?? Because they have powers working against them.  Sometime it is best to work in silence, execute your plan and display your finished project.  This is not being shady or wrong, this is just protecting your investment(dream).  I know that what God has for me is for me.  However, the devil is busy and he may not be able to destroy God's plan but he will try.  So remember to guard your dreams with your life because,Dreams are like stars...you may never touch them, but if you follow them they will lead you to your destiny.”(unknown)

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

THE INFAMOUS MAKE-UP MATTER

I am a huge believer that looking good and feeling good go hand in hand.  Self love always starts with self although things like hair, clothes and even make-up heighten a person's confidence.  I love all of these things but make-up is my obsession!!!  I like a number of brands; some high end, some department store brands, some drugstore brands, even brands that are carried in the beauty supply stores.  If it looks good I will try it and if I like it I will buy it consistently.  That is the way I have always been, I have never been a slave to brand names.  I have style..... and style is what allows us to create our own looks no matter what product or merchandise we use.

I am a member of a Facebook group called Makeup Matters, and I love it.  I have met so many people and learned so many things. The group has enlightened me about a lot of products and procedures.  It is a group of makeup lover who don't mind sharing(tips, information and products).  Last week when I checked into the group, I read a post that left me pissed off.  Someone had read and posted a thread in which Tyme The Infamous(popular makeup artist) was basically speaking  against using dupes(drugstore brand makeup).  She was saying that they are a waste of time.  She went on to say that you may as well spend the extra money to purchase department store brands such as M.A.C.

 The fact is many of the individuals in the group are just as talented as Tyme and that talent is visible using some of the same brands (dupes) that Tyme thinks isn't worth it.  Hell, personally I love Wet and Wild lip colors and I happen to know that a great number of the women in the group do too.  Personally I don't even consider them dupes.  They are what they are!!!!  Dollhouse Pink is just that, Wet and Wild was not trying to make an exact copy of  M.A.C. Saint Germaine because if they were the price point would be a lot higher.  Drugstore brands are not only for the poor woman who want to be almost as cute as the woman wearing NARS, it is for the fashion forward diva who enjoys makeup, looking good and refuses to be a slave to brands. 


The thing that angered me was not that she said it but that we all know she wasn't keeping it real.  Most of the ladies in the group are able to reminiscence on a time when her reviews included drugstore brands too.  More than anything it bothers me when keeping it real goes wrong, which is exactly what happened.  Just because you have gained fame and recognition, don't forget where you came from.  There was defiantly a time in your life, maybe when you were a humble girl in Denver,Co.  that you used Wet and Wild, Covergirl and other drugstore brands.  Now don't get me wrong, this is not an attempt to make light of Tyme's talent or the fact that she has over 72,000 subscribers and get more than 4 million views a year.  I just think that it is important to never allow fame to consume you, never forget your past and and never allow yourself to be define by anything other than your actions.  I really don't think that she was able to see the flaws in what she was saying.  The fact is many of Tyme's subscribers wear drugstore brand makeup and are fine with it.  It is not cool to let fame turn you into a bitch.  It is in no way cute to think that you can talk down on people because you have elevated.  Get it together sister, a lot of us love you and your work but can do without all of the extra bullshit because we can smell it a mile away. 



Electric blue eyeliner from NYX on the bottoms lip...with NYX eyeshadow base in white in the middle...lined my top lip with purple rain lipliner. And used the purple and the blue from my coastal scents creative me palette
Purple rain lipliner is from NYX.  LOOK CREATED AND MODELED BY:  Kim Concrete Rose Jone(Facebook.com/KimJLuvMakeup and instagram @KimJLuv)



Eyes: BH Cosmetics 88 matte palate
Lips: NK Lavender Tint
Cheeks: BH Cosmetics 10 color palate.  LOOK CREATED AND MODELED BY: Kawambee Dorsey (https://www.facebook.com/makeupbykawambeed)

Eyebrows:Bh cosmetic 180pallet brown
Concealer under brows: ruby kisses HD concealer in MED
Eyeshadows: BH Cosmetics
Top eyeliner: NYX liquid liner in blue
Bottom liner: NYX black eyeliner pencil and Bh cosmetic eyeshadow
Under eye concealer: Mary Kay foundation in color 300
Highlighter under eyes: ruby kisses HD powder banana
Lipstick: NK cosmetics (beauty supply brand) color lavender tint
Blush: plum rich Loreal.  LOOK CREATED MODELED BY:  Dani AnnaNicole Smith (@danianna_baby on IG)