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Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Shante Does The Odd Market

Odd Market LA's first launch event had a amazing turnout and will be held on a weekly basis at Casa Vertigo, a 88,000 square foot historical event space in downtown Los Angeles. The event featured gourmet food trucks, with 88 Seller Booths of local vintage vendors, Live Music, and DJs. The event also highlighted great samplings of local vendors. Many vendors had very unique and crafty items only to be found at this particular market.
Majority of the food vendors within Odd Market gave out an abundance of product samples, including Nesquick milk shakes, Diabolo Vegan Soda, and Gindo's Spice of Life Hot Sauce. The event features vendors that will return each week and host new fashion, art, vintage and handmade collectibles, and gourmet food trucks. The Odd Market L.A. will continue to host and showcase some of L.A. unique treasures and collectibles. The event will continue be held every Sunday this fall.
 
*Shante Berry is the BGCitizen for Los Angeles

Pink Post 2: Bright Pink

Bright Pink is a non-profit that focuses on educating women on Breast and Ovarian Cancer. Through helping women at a young age to recognize risks and symptoms, they are helping women save their lives and the lives of their friends and family. They recently held their Bright Pink University event which graduated 20 more ambassadors to continue to further their mission. Carli Feinstein, the organization's Chief of Staff, helping me to understand more about this amazing information.
Women after registering for the Brighten Up Educational Workshops.


Q: How did the organization get started?
CF: Bright Pink was founded in 2007 by Lindsay Avner who lost both her great-grandmother and grandmother to breast cancer and watched her mother fight breast and ovarian cancer at a young age.
 
Q:How many ambassadors do you currently have?
CF: We currently have 60 Education ambassadors and 21 Support Ambassadors. Our Education Ambassadors are responsible for reaching 150 women each quarter through Brighten Up™ Educational Workshops and our Support Ambassadors are responsible for facilitating monthly Experiential Outreach Groups and supporting growth of their local high-risk networks.

Attendees at a Brighten Up class.
Q: Why do you look to get women involved at such a young age if their risk of being diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancers is low?
CF:One in eight women faces a lifetime risk of breast cancer and it is the leading cause of cancer death in women ages 15 to 54. Ovarian cancer, while far less common than breast cancer, still affects many women: one in 67 faces a lifetime risk. Ovarian cancer is known as “the silent killer” because its symptoms can be difficult to detect. As a result, 2/3s of women diagnosed will die as a result, making ovarian cancer the deadliest gynecologic diseases.
Q: What is your suggestion to young women that are afraid of these topics?
CF: At Bright Pink, we believe that knowledge is power. We encourage young women to understand the true potential and gift that understanding their risk for these diseases can provide them. We ask them to collect their family history from both their mom and dad’s side of the family, and then complete Bright Pink’s Assess Your Risk tool at AssessYourRisk.org for a personalized risk assessment. You can print the results and take them to your next doctor’s appointment to help determine what steps you should take in your journey to take control of your breast and ovarian health. Knowing your risk for breast and ovarian cancer does not make you a victim, it empowers you to be a strong advocate for your health.

 

Friday, September 26, 2014

This Is How We Brew It Contest

If you love coffee, this contest from Organo Gold is perfect for you! To enter, you have to create a recipe using Organo Gold products, take a pic of it, and submit the recipe. Entrants are then automatically entered to win a year supply of BrewKups and a Samsung Tablet. The deadline to enter is September 30. You can enter to win here.

Breakups to Makeup Gets Sticky

Breakups to Makeup is known for its cool sayings that are adorned on accessories and tees. They have now put a few of their latest quips on stickers. The best part is that their fans will get to decide which of the new sayings will get to be put on accessories @breakupstomakeup!

You can now purchase the stickers online at $7 per 3 pack at breakupstomakeup.com.

The Inspiration 2: Powerhouse Personalities

Have you ever heard of a "powerhouse personality"? According to Stacey Hawley, author of RISE TO THE TOP: How Women Leverage Their Professional Persona to Earn More, it is how you behave, lead and manage at work.
1.  Assertive powerhouses – Assume control of discussions, decisions or meetings; do not fear social interactions and attack issues “head on”.   Straight-forward in their approach.   These women are not necessarily demanding or relentless in their approach either.  They are NOT mean.  They just do not hesitate when it comes to having the “sticky” discussions.  Their main goal is to resolve issues, finalize decisions and move forward.  Management expects this personality to offer opinions about how to resolve issues or accomplish tasks.  Because this powerhouse does not fear social interactions and believes she is clear in her expectations and desires, there is an assumption management is aware of her performance and compensation expectations.   Unfortunately this is not always the case.

2. Confident but Humble powerhouses – Use respectful, efficient and consistent decision-making that is communicated in a respectful, yet firm manner.  Considerate of her own emotions, as well as of the emotions/feelings of other people.  These powerhouses realize they are high performers – good at what they do.  They are more likely to consider others’ feelings and emotions before engaging in sensitive discussions.  However, they would much prefer to extol other people’s talents and for others to extol their praises.  As a result, management isn’t always aware of their stellar performance or how their performance relates to certain accomplishments.  Most importantly, to stay confident, these powerhouses don’t ask for too much.   By definition, if they didn’t receive everything they wanted, their confidence would wane.

3.  Politically Savvy powerhouses – Engage and master social interactions to develop alliances and advocates.  Actively solicits all viewpoints, especially opposing viewpoints.  Considers the information gained from these relationships and the impact on the company culture when making decisions.  Politically savvy powerhouses do more than network or engage in one-way relationship building.  They establish mutually beneficial relationships to solidify their role in the company and propel their career.  Unfortunately, the relationships aren’t always with the right people at the right time.  And their “representatives” may not be representing their interests appropriately.

4.  Fiercely Loyal powerhouses – Exhibit understanding and patience.  Value relationships – especially the relationship with the “company” and expect others to “do the right thing”.  They build long-standing relationships, are company role models and make decisions that consider individual needs but are ultimately based on customer/company goals.  Companies need these powerhouses – their longevity is highly valued.  However, because the risk of departure is low, companies don’t always compensate these powerhouses as highly.  Companies would rather provide these powerhouses intangible benefits – like flexibility – since the risk of them leaving is low.

According to Hawley, success boils down to how women  exploit the right facets of their powerhouse personality.

“Women need to leverage the aspects of their personality (the pros) to help them succeed and downplay the sides that might be limiting their successes.  If a female powerhouse can do that, she can succeed anywhere,” adds Hawley.
 
Which personality are you?

Upcoming Movie Faves


In the movie The Boy Next Door, J. Lo is sad because her husband is a cheater, and she ends up hooking up with her new neighbor that ends up being a teen...and one of her students. On top of that he's nuts! It hits theaters January 23, 2014. Check out more at theboynextdoorfilm.com .

In the I AM ALI documentary about Muhammad Ali, Ali's children and George Forman speak about the private life of Ali- what he was like outside of the ring. The movie comes to theaters Oct. 14, 2014 as well as On Demand. Visit IAmAliTheMovie.com for more details.


Chris Hemsworth and Viola Davis are intertwined in the world of cyber crime in the upcoming movie Blackhat. The movie opens Jan. 15, 2015. Learn more at blackhatthemovie.com .

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Pink Post1: SterlingForever.com

As we all know, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast Cancer is such a massive problem in women's health that it is easy to feel like it's impossible to help or donate to the cause. However, as many of you shopaholics know, tons of retailers run special promotions during October, a percentage of the proceeds going to Breast Cancer research.
SterlingForever.com is donating 25% of the proceeds from the sale of the following pieces to the Susan G. Komem Foundation. Making purchases adds gorgeous jewelry to your collection while helping to fund research for this disease that has devastated so many lives. Doesn't it feel good to shop for a cause?! Below are a few of my favorites. 

Pink Crystal Leaf Earrings; $12
Pink Crystal & Gold Choker; $28
Faux Leather Pink Rhinestone Snap Cuff; $25

For more options, visit SterlingForever.com. 

Sunday, September 21, 2014

Glamping: The Untold Story


Last weekend I went glamping in Pine Mountain with Just Us Girls, the organization I have volunteered with for the past 5 years. I was a little scared to go because I am not the outdoors type at all. And even though I knew that it was supposed to be glamorous camping, I was still skeptical. But honestly, it was awesome!

First off, this is where we slept- no tents! I was so not looking forward to sleeping in a tent! And they are huge on the inside and resemble a hotel room. I know it's hard to envision but I promise it was nice.




Again, trees and grass are not my favorite, but you couldn't deny how beautiful the views were. Everything was so scenic. If I ever go back, I would totally take the days slowly and take everything in. However, I do have to say this: if you are not a walker, this may not be the trip for you. There are a lot if hills and trails and such. Luckily it rained, so I didn't have to experience that part if the trip:)

We went on a safari which was fun. The animals smelled horrible, lol, but when they came up to the bus we got to throw feed in their mouths. 



Back at the camp site there was a salt water pool that felt magical. I had never been in one, so I couldn't pass up the chance to take a dip. We also played games and made s'mores.  To be honest, I think the girls more so enjoyed burning the marshmallows than making the yummy treats. 

On the trip I also got to meet the new volunteers. These ladies are a lot of fun! So fun, in fact, that they made the time pass way to fast.
It has only been a week and I am ready to go back lol. Glamping has made an outdoor trip girl out of me. I'm ready for the next adventure, as long as their are no tents:)

Book Review: Jamie Loves Her Natural Hair


I got so excited when I was I strolling on Instagram and saw that Ariane Roberts of BlackNaps.org had written a children's book, Jamie Loves Her Natural Hair. The work she has done on her website has given so much inspiration to women with natural hair, I just couldn't wait to see what she had for the natural kiddies. 
In short, the book is adorable. Narrated by little naturalista Jamie, the book discusses her favorite styles and how in love she is with her do. Even as a child, she encounters curl haters, but that's okay, because she loves her look!
For me, the overall theme of the book was confidence and being okay with looking different than others. Through this book, Roberts encourages curly young girls to embrace their hair, and I stand behind her in this mission. I can't help but think that if books like Jamie Loves Her Natural Hair would have been around when I was growing up, I could have avoided scalp burns and over 20 years of hair hate! 

Friday, September 19, 2014

PVIFF Preview


It's that time of year again: the Peachtree Village International Film Festival is coming to Atlanta, Sept. 26-28. This is the perfect fest for those of you who want to watch films or do a little star gazing- VIP guests include Lyn Whitfield and Lisa Wu. 
Actress Lyn Whitfield will be starring in the highly anticipated Take the Spotlight on Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7:45 @444 Theater. 
Open Legs With A Closed Mind is a documentary that touches on all the hot button issues, like single motherhood and interracial dating. Catch it Friday at 4pm. 
For more info on screening times, visit pviff.com. 

Snapped: David Beckham @ The Breitling Boutique in Manhattan

Super sexy footballer was photographed at the Breitling Boutique in Manhattan where he was attending a super exclusive soiree with Breitling execs. 
As the Breitling Ambassador, he got to hang with Breitling President Thierry Prissert and view timepieces from both the Breitling for Bentley and Breitling collections.
The Breitling 4,500-square-foot store is the global brand’s largest boutique. Swoon, how good does David look in all black?!
For more info on Breitling timepieces, visit Breitling.com.

TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe Do LFW

TONI&GUY Hair Meet Wardrobe Global Brand Ambassador Mark Hamilton spearheaded and created the looks for shows during London Fashion Week, each if them having their own, standout, individual flavor. 
Designer: Matthew Williamson
The Look: The Flirtatous Bounce
The Designer: Marchese
The Look: Woodstock Waves
The Designer: Vivienne Westwood Red Label
The Look: The Classic Sweep
The Desiger: Sophia Webster
The Look: The Cyber Twist
What do you think if these looks? Visit TONY&GUY on IG@ Hair_Wadrobeaus


The Terrible 29s 7: Destitution Discomfort

Yesterday was a tramatic day. 
I had an allergic reaction to my lunch which was horrifying! I'd never had one before, and I found myself with burning lips, scratching at my neck. 
Luckily, one of my friends was able to bring me some medicine or I would have had to go to the ER. My uninsured friends know how hellacious that is. Naturally, I invited her upstairs to my room to hang out and she was like, "It's hot in here!" And I explained to her that I NEVER turn on my air conditioning, relying solely on Dollar Store box fans. The last time I turned on my air for an hour I was charged like $300. And then she gave me a look. 
I'd made that look only once before myself when a man I was dating told me he didn't think that Storm was worthy of being an X-Man. It's a look of confusion, shock, and awe. What really hurt me was the hint of disgust in her face which read, "Bitch, what are you a peasant?! How broke are you really?! I could never live like this!"
I have reached a new level of broke: the stage where you are snubbed by life long friends! I am so broke I am actually making folks uncomfortable!
She stayed in my room all of five minutes and then ran out of here so fast there were sparks flying off her custom edition Nikes. It was like she was afraid that the humbleness of my apartment was going to grab her by the ankles and pull her through the carpet into a lower income bracket. 
I would tell her she hurt me, but why? It is hot in my apartment and I do wish I could turn on my air. It is what it is. #brokegirlproblems

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Review: ON Powered Refreshment

Energy drinks have never really been my thing. My brother drinks them like they are going out of style. To me, they have always tasted like salt water. But ON Powered Refreshment is different. Not only does it have flavor, but it actually gives you energy.
Whenever anything claims to give you energy, I am skeptical. Nothing other than sleep has every energized me. But not only does ON energize you, it does so as naturally as possible. There is very little sugar and caffeine, using B Vitamins to give you a boost. And it doesn't pick you up and then drop you or give you jitters. I felt alert all day. This us a big deal for a woman that is ready for a bps after she wakes up, lol!

My favorite flavor was Raspberry Limeade, but they are all delish. Find out more info on On at OnBeverages.com.



Dana Does NYFW2: Korto Momolu Show Presented by SheaMoisture

I was so excited to attend Project Runway's alum Korto Momolu's show.  I felt a little lump in my stomach when they couldn't find my name on the list at check in. However, once I told them who I was there with sponsor Shea Moisture they checked me in with no problem and ushered me upstairs to get backstage access.
Korto's and Shea Moisture's staff was pleasant and welcoming.  The first person I noticed was celeb MUA Renny Vasquez (I follow him on Instagram). He's worked with Gabriel Union, Brandy and Niecy Nash. I knew immediately he was the Lead Artist because of an Instagram post he sent a day earlier.  I could see why Renny was so successful. Not only was he super talented but he was very humble and down to earth.  When asked what the inspiration was behind the model's looks, he told me he got a sneak peek of Korto's collection and since the colors were vibrant and bold, he wanted the models' to have a bold pop of color on the lips. 

Face
    1.     SheaMoisture Primer was applied to the entire face to even skin texture and provide a clean palette.

2.     SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Pressed Powder was applied all over the face with a damp sponge.

3.     SheaMoisture Color Correcting,Contouring & Highlighting Palette was applied with a damp sponge and blended with a foundation brush to sculpt the sides of nose, cheekbones and jawline.

4.     SheaMoisture Illuminating Powderwas applied to cheekbones, hairline and jawline with a kabuki brush for a glow effect.

5.     SheaMoisture Mineral Blush in Annecy Maroon was applied to the apples of the cheeks for a pop of warm color.

Eyes:

1.     SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Eye Shadow in Claudia was applied with a damp slanted brush to the brows to define and fill in color.

2.     SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Eye Shadow in Celia was applied all over the eye and brow bone as a base.

3.     SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Eye Shadow in Montana was applied on the lid and blended, and then applied under the eye corner-to-corner and blended.

4.     SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Eye Shadow in Claudia was dabbed on the outer eyelid for intensity.

5.     SheaMoisture Liquid Eyeliner in Black was applied to upper and lower lash line, corner-to-corner.

6.     SheaMoisture Lengthening Mascarawas applied to upper and lower lashes.

Lips:

1.     SheaMoisture Lip Exfoliator was applied to the lips and excess was wiped off with a tissue, leaving moisture on the lips.

2.     SheaMoisture Lip Crayon in Robertawas applied all over the lips as a lip color and liner.

3.     The final touch was a generous layer ofSheaMoisture Lip Gloss in Rosie for shine and a hint of color.

SheaMoisture Products Used:                                                                                                                       

·          SheaMoisture Primer - $15.99

·     SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Pressed Powder - $14.99

·     SheaMoisture Color Correcting, Contouring & Highlighting Palette - $24.99

·     SheaMoisture Illuminating Powder - $11.99

·     SheaMoisture Mineral Blush - $5.99

·     SheaMoisture Wet/Dry Eye Shadow - $4.99

·     SheaMoisture Liquid Eyeliner - $8.99

·     SheaMoisture Lengthening Mascara - $8.99

·     SheaMoisture Lip Exfoliator - $7.99

·     SheaMoisture Lip Crayon - $9.99

·     SheaMoisture Lip Gloss - $9.99 Product Availabilitywww.Target.com

After speaking with him I got a chance to briefly meet Korto, who was also very nice and down to earth.  When asked why she decided to partner with Shea Moisture for her show she said, "It's a no brainer, they get me and I get them."
Now on to the fashion.  I was lucky enough to snag a seat in the front row.  From start to finish this collection was beautiful. I oohed and aahhed at every model that strutted the runway.  They looked like goddesses in long flowy chiffon gowns in hues of blues and beiges. There were also some bold asymmetrical pieces in fun colors of oranges and corals. The collection was also very wearable. There was nothing in the collection that the average woman couldn't wear. I wanted every piece. Now if only my bank account would allow that lol!
* Dana Norman is TheBGInTheCitizen for the East Coast