Tag: Lifestyle

Lifestyle Tips /

Bedroom Trends That Are On Point For 2018: Home Decor Tips

There is nothing better than wearing the top style trends for 2018. You also know that being proud of your home is a must, and keeping up to date on all the latest trends isn’t always easy.

Featured Photo from Chic Celebrity Bedrooms

How often do you look around your bedroom and wish you could completely change it out? It’s such a personal space to be stood in that you want it to look right. Everyone has different levels of comfort and while some want a popular mattress type, others want to have a firm or memory foam mattresses that are more supportive. Some people like pale yellows for the walls, while others prefer geometric patterns. Some people like pale yellows for the walls, while others prefer geometric patterns. The bedroom is where we spend the least amount of money compared to the kitchen and the bathrooms, but 2018 is the year for change – even in these last few weeks! Here are some of the trends that you could follow for the last bit of the year, setting your bedroom up for an amazing 2019.

Dark Colors. Think plum, mulberry, and navy for bedrooms in 2018. It’s all about the darker colors that really shout sumptuousness and relaxation. Duck egg blue and pale yellows have no place in the bedroom when these brave color choices can make your bedroom the perfect haven. Dark throws on the sheets in lieu of dark walls can still add that sensual atmosphere.

Color Splashes. Splashing color across the bedroom in the form of tropical prints against the darker walls and blankets can make a huge difference. The bolder colors are beautiful when they are accentuated against the darker tones.

Natural Textures. In 2018, natural textures are king. Rattan pieces in the bedroom are making a huge statement because it’s durable, stable and it just looks great! Hand-woven beds, furniture in different thicknesses for distinctive shapes and colors that vary in rattan (well, they stay natural in color but different contrasts) can make your bedroom stand right out.

Wabi-Sabi. It’s a trend that we’re touching on now, but there is a real trend for fashion that is less than perfect. The technique is to use concrete walls with a decorative crack through the middle. Mismatched sheets and throw pillows and textiles that just don’t quite fit are so fashionable now. Keep it simple and use bright colors on dark to create contrast. Something a little imperfect can remind you that life doesn’t have to be perfect to be comforting.

Tech Detox. Remove the TV. Remove the smartphones. Remove all technology from the bedroom and make it a zone for reading. Your bedroom being on trend means making it a tranquil sanctuary!

Your bedroom in 2018 can be on trend with a little thought and shopping. Choose the best colors and materials and make your bedroom stand out from the crowd.

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Accessories /

ESSENCE.COM EXCLUSIVE: KANDI BURRUSS DENIES PREGNANCY RUMORS

Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss is busy! After recently wrapping up filming scenes for the reality show–along with opening two new restaurant locations, developing a cosmetics line and more–the 42-year old songwriter and mother of two are trying to have another baby with husband Todd Tucker. But as she admits to ESSENCE, the road hasn’t been easy.

“We’re definitely trying to figure out ways to grow our family,” she revealed. “I know a lot of people thought that meant that I was pregnant. But I’m not pregnant. Let’s be clear. I saw that floating around the internet…”

“Unfortunately, it’s not happening…” she said of conceiving a baby. Burruss also shared that fans will see her struggle with fertility on the upcoming season of Real Housewives. “So obviously we’re just going to be talking about what that means for our family…”

For more on this ESSENCE.com exclusive, see below:

https://www.essence.com/celebrity/kandi-burruss-denies-pregnancy-rumors

Beauty /

Time to Hit Reset: Meet Bobbi Brown’s EVOLUTION_18 De – Bloat

Made with a combination of powerful antioxidants, this is the remedy for when you need to fit back into that little black dress or just want to hit reset, while still leaving you feeling energized.

With the holiday season right around the corner, it’s easy to overdo it. Champagne, sugar, and salt can leave you feeling bloated and sluggish. Enter Debloat, the latest addition to Bobbi Brown’s EVOLUTION_18 wellness collection and the perfect remedy for when you need to fit into that little black dress or just hit the reset button.

Debloat helps with water retention by flushing out extra fluid, (thanks to our signature Water Balance Blend of hydrangea root, dandelion and juniper, and powerful ingredients like matcha, ashwagandha, and apple cider vinegar), while still leaving you feeling energized. For the holidays and beyond, consider this your new secret weapon.

SRP: $35.00
Servings: 20

Beauty /

TESSA THOMPSON GRACES ESSENCE MAGAZINE NOVEMBER COVER

“In playing these lov­ers who really keep each other honest, we’ve developed a friendship where we can speak very, very candidly to each other. There’s a lot of trust between us. When you have that kind of trust with another actor, you can push further and do things that surprise you because you feel like you’re supported…” –Tessa Thompson talks to ESSENCE about working with her Creed IIco-star Michael B. Jordan

ESSENCE COVER STORY: TESSA THOMPSON

Actress Tessa Thompson has gone from Hollywood’s best-kept secret to widely sought-after it girl. From heading across the pond to film a Men in Black spin-off with actor Chris Hemsworth (where ESSENCE caught up with her), to reprising her role as Bianca in the upcoming Creed II—she’s on everyone’s radar. Looking stunning in ESSENCE’s upcoming November spread (shot in Columbia Road in London), she talks about everything from working with co-star Michael B. Jordan to pushing boundaries when it comes to her artistry. “Obviously, I like the idea of expanding perceptions of what a woman can be and what a woman of color can be,” Thompson tells ESSENCE Entertainment Director Cori Murray in the cover story, London Calling. “I like to introduce new spaces…” ESSENCE’s November issue will be on newsstands October 26th. Attached is the cover—for more on the upcoming issue, visit ESSENCE.com

Lifestyle Tips /

STAY CALM AND HEALTHY THIS COLD AND FLU SEASON

With cold and flu season here there is no time like the present to take charge of your health. We all know sleeping well, eating healthy and staying relaxed are the basics of wellness.  But, don’t forget to use essential oils as a wellness technique!

  • The Ultimate Elixir – This next-level wellness company has transformed the concept of the multivitamin. The USDA organic whole food powder is made up of a synergistic blend of nature’s most complete nutrient-rich superfoods and super greens to naturally maintain your bodies pH balance for optimal health. Recommended to be taken daily, this blend of greens, mushrooms, super fruits, herbs, and enzymes has been sourced from around the world to provide the body with the perfect nutrition it needs. Retails for $75.
  • Shield for Immunity CBD Bath Bomb – Loaded with 100mg of pure CBD and inspired by the 15th Century legend of Four Thieves, the effective and aromatic mixture of clove, rosemary, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and other natural botanicals provide a shield of protection by supporting and strengthening the body and its immune system, all while providing a deeply soothing bath time experience! Retails for $19.99.
  • Sleepgram Pillow – The side effects of sleep deprivation are horrifying, and lack of sleep definitely lowers your immune system, so a good night’s sleep is crucial in helping you stay healthy!  This luxury microfiber pillow is customizable to create the best pillow for you regardless of size, weight or sleeping style to promote proper alignment for your best sleep.  It’s hypoallergenic, machine washable, and has a sleek design with a 100% cotton cover to keep you cool. Retails for $49.95.
Birmingham /

#Halloween Boo at the Zoo is Coming: Birmingham Zoo present by Wells Fargo

SAVE THESE DATES IN THE MONTH OF OCTOBER! Make your Halloween plans all month long in October with the Birmingham Zoo! Prepare for over the top fun during our 27th annual Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo. Watch as the Zoo transforms into a destination of spooky attractions, themed rides and carnival games for 18 nights!

Come to experience the excitement on Henley Park with inflatables, ghostly Ghoul School, Bat Keeper Chats and so much more! Guests are invited to wear their favorite family-friendly costumes as they partake in the festivities.

Trick or Treat Lane will be the sought-after candy place for anyone with a sweet tooth! Take a wild ride around the Zoo on our Eerie Express Train. The Spider Slide, Ghost Rollers and Scarousel are just a few thrills that are sure to entertain children of all ages.

Meet members of our animal family at the UAB Callahan Eye Hospital Wildlife Show and around the park with Animal Greetings. Boogie down at the Monster Mash dance party under the Safari Peak.

Boo at the Zoo presented by Wells Fargo is one spook-tacular event you won’t want to miss!

WHEN

October 11 – 14

October 18 – 31

 

TIME

5:00PM – 9:00PM

 

WHERE

Birmingham Zoo

 

PRICING

*Members: $15 – Rides and Admission

*Members: $8 – Admission Only

Non-Members: $18 – Rides and Admission

Non-Members: $10 – Admission Only

 

Purchase a Premium Parking Space for $10

Parking spaces must be purchased in advance. Guests must have printed parking pass in the dashboard of a car.

 

GHOUL SCHOOL

Monday – Thursday

*for the days of October 11, Oct. 18, Oct. 22 – 25 and Oct. 29 – 31

5:30pm, 6:15pm, 7:00pm

in Henley Park

 

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

UAB Callahan Eye Hospital Wildlife Show

Weekends (Fri/Sat/Sun) and during the full week of Halloween Oct. 29, 30, 31

5:45pm, 6:30pm, 7:15pm

 

Animal Greetings

Monday – Thursday for the days of October 11, Oct. 18 and Oct. 22 – 25

NONE on October 29, 30, 3

 

Event Tickets:  CLICK HERE

 

Biz Stain and Odor Eliminator /

Get The Biz: Easy Laundry Tips and How To Remove Harsh Stains

This is an exciting time of the year.  We have college football games, holiday parties, and charity events.  But, let’s talk about the elephant in the room and that’s stains.

All of the delicious food and travel can be a breeding ground for loose debris on clothing.  That means laundry duties are extended beyond normal time constraints.

Featured Photo from ImgSave.me

Unless you want to spend quality time at the dry-cleaners (which is no fun) knowing how to clean your clothing can be an advantage.  The first step is to understand there’s a difference between general washing and stain removal.  It’s advised that stains are treated prior to washing.

Biz is a stain and odor eliminator. Not only does it enhance the color in clothing but the product removes stains.

The Stain Removal Process:

To eliminate harsh stains such as blood, grass, grape juice, or chocolate pretreat the area with a small cape of Biz Stain and Odor Eliminator.  Wet the stained area and gently rub the liquid (Biz) in the fabric.  Place the items in the washing machine with your normal detergent and let it dry.  It’s just that easy to remove stains!

Unlike other stain removal products, Biz does not leave a clear film on clothing. Having the right products and strategies in place makes laundry day easy. Also, don’t forget to use clothing baskets and a hanging rack for gentle items.

Purchase Biz Stain and Odor Eliminator at Amazon or Target.

Sponsored Post  

 

 

Uncategorized /

3 Easy Tips To Expand Your Friendship Group or Girl Tribe

If Jane Austen were writing a version of Pride and Prejudice for the 21st century, her opening lines would have been very different. Rather than focusing on a man of good fortune being in want of a wife, the more universally acknowledged truth in 2018 is that making friends as an adult is extremely difficult.

The difficulty of making friends as an adult is a common refrain of the modern age for one good reason: it tends to be true. Making friends as a child was easy – most of us didn’t even really think about the process at all – but as an adult, it’s far more challenging.

However, while we all universally accept that it’s difficult to make friends as an adult, there’s no denying that having friends is hugely beneficial – to our well-being, our lifestyles, and even our health. So how can you overcome the barriers to making friends once and for all?

Featured Photo from Haute Living

#1 – Focus on mutual interests

The best way to connect with new people as an adult is to look for mutual interests. This can be something rather broad, such as a shared interest in fitness; or more niche, such as taking up gaming in order to make friends with players from all over the world. With a mutual interest, you always have a point of discussion; something to ease you into the friendship and give you a chance to connect.

Mutual interest friendships tend to go one of two ways: you then begin to share other aspects of your lives, or the friendship remains within the interest that brought you together. Both types of friendship are beneficial, so it’s best to be open-minded, and see where things lead.

#2 – Ensure you have the time for new friends

If you are hoping your friendships will expand beyond focusing on mutual interests, then you will likely need to ensure you have the time for a new friendship. Modern life is busy, and many friendships – both the newly-established and those from childhood – struggle when confronted with a hectic schedule. If you are going to go to the effort of making new friends, you need to be willing to compromise and make time for that friendship in order for it to flourish.

If you suspect you don’t have time for an endless array of meetups and evenings out, then it may be best to focus your search for new friends online. Online friendships can hugely enrich your life, while still enjoying a tacit understanding that “real life” has to take priority from time to time.

#3 – Let the friendship evolve naturally

If you are keen to make new friends, it’s often tempting to try and accelerate the process; skip past the introductory stage and get into the deep-and-meaningful phase of friendship. This is understandable, but it’s also unlikely to work. Friendships, like romantic relationships, have to be allowed room to breathe and proceed naturally. Finding new friends is a long-term investment, and there’s no shortcut to intimacy, so be sure you’re willing to give a new friendship the space it needs to develop on its own.

In conclusion

With the tips above in mind, you should be able to ensure your experience of finding new friends – even as an adult – is as effective as it can be.

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Lifestyle Tips /

How to Achieve a Healthy Lifestyle: #LivingYourBestLife

Throughout your life, you will have many ambitions. Perhaps you want a family one day and to get married, to land your dream job, or travel the world. Whatever you want to achieve in your future, a part of that should be getting a healthy lifestyle so that you are able to enjoy and celebrate all the great things to come. It can, however, be hard to know exactly what you need to do in order to be at the peak of your health, so this handy guide will help you out by giving you some ideas of how to be in the best condition of your life and look out for your health.

The right treatment

No matter how healthy you are, every now and again a trip to the doctors will be necessary for one reason or another, and this is not a bad thing as the medical professionals can help you to achieve this healthy lifestyle you want. However, doctors and nurses are not infallible and can make mistakes. If this happens, you need to make sure you get the right advice on how to get compensation for any negative effects caused by the negligence of the medical professionals who treated you. The Medical Negligence Experts are a great resource for this and can help you get justice if your health has been harmed.

Keeping strong

Exercise is always something sighted as being a must if you want to be healthy, and for good reason too. By doing some frequent physical activity, you can lengthen your lifespan and remain mobile for many years to come. One great exercise to do, especially if you struggle with high impact sports like running and cycling, is yoga. The health benefits of yoga are manifold, as frequent practice can improve your posture and protect your spine, build muscle mass making you stronger, while also having a positive effect on your mental health as well, as yoga has been proven to be a calming way of moving through stress and anxiety.

Eating right

A third way of achieving the healthy lifestyle you want is to change up what you eat on a day to day basis. To make sure you are making the right changes in your diet it is important you know what a healthy diet looks like.

Start with breakfast. Instead of sugary cereal, trying something such a porridge which releases energy slowly throughout the day. Adding antioxidant-rich cranberries and blueberries will help you keep energy levels up while fighting off illness. For lunches and dinners, the general rule is the more colorful, the better, and an easy way to do this is to build your own rainbow salad bowl. Fill the bowl with greens, such as spinach and lettuce, adding in shredded carrot, purple cabbage, and cherry tomatoes, adding in protein with some steamed chicken and some carbs with quinoa. Achieving a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be a chore once you know how to get started.

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Beauty /

ESSENCE CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCED ON THE HEELS OF THE ICONIC BASKETBALL PLAYER’S REVEAL OF HIS LATEST COLLABORATION WITH DESIGNERS FROM HARLEM FASHION ROW

ESSENCE, the leading media, technology, and commerce company serving Black women, today will launch The Strongest—a captivating new social media campaign highlighting sixteen Black women who exemplify strength to NBA star LeBron James. The announcement comes fresh off the heels of the sports icon’s exclusive reveal of his latest Nike signature shoe collaboration—designed by three African-American women—during Harlem Fashion Row’s (HFR) annual gala last night, where he was honored with the HFR Icon Award.

Featured Photo from Essence

In The Strongest, viewers will be moved by stunning images of these sixteen women who inspire us all through their various roles as activists, trendsetters, family, athletes, business leaders, journalists, content creators, and entertainers.  The list of names includes James’ wife Savannah James; his mother Gloria James; tennis icon Serena Williams; Emmy-award winning writer/actress Lena Waithe; Olympian Simone Biles; TV commentator Cari Champion; Marketing Executive Bozoma Saint John; his Nike shoe collaborators, designers Fe Noel, Kimberly Goldson and Undra Celeste; and many more. In bringing these stories to life, James’ goal is to encourage a celebration focused on women of color from a place of positivity.

James, who is known for using his popular platform to empower those making a positive impact in their communities, felt it was important to bring in previously unheard voices as he embarked on this journey to reveal his definition of strength to the world. Showcasing everyone from celebrity to CEO, he enabled and empowered women of color to be a part of this movement in front of the camera and behind the scenes.

For more exclusive photos, footage and a full list of The Strongest, please visit ESSENCE.com and join the conversation @ESSENCE via Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

About Essence Communications Inc.
Essence Communications is the number one media company dedicated to Black women and inspires a global audience of more than 15 million through diverse storytelling and immersive original content.  With a multi-platform presence in publishing, experiential and online, ESSENCE encompasses its signature magazine; digital, video and social platforms; television specials; books; as well as live events, including Black Women in Music, Black Women in Hollywood, Street Style and the ESSENCE Festival.  Essence Communications is owned by Essence Ventures, an independent African-American owned company focused on merging content, community, and commerce to meet the evolving cultural and lifestyle needs of women of color.