FemFest – Celebration of Women on International Women’s Day!

Celebrate International Women’s Day in style at FemFest – a one-day conference in Birmingham on March 8th! Join us for an empowering day filled with inspiration, networking, and invaluable insights from a lineup of exceptional speakers and thought leaders.

Date: March 8th, 2024

Location: Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex

Tickets: Starting at $97

Headliners include:

Dr. Heavenly Kimes (Bravo TV)

Dr. Jackie Walters (Bravo TV)

Dr. Jada Moore-Ruffin

Stormy Wellington (Multi-million Dollar Life & Business Coach)

Candace Holyfield-Parker (Med-spa Guru)

Octavia Conner (Finance Expert)

Charnita Horton and more!

Featured Topics:

  1. Financial Literacy
  2. Self-Care
  3. Investing
  4. Real Estate
  5. Business Development
  6. Brand Building
  7. Live Sound Bath

Why Attend FemFest?

Gain insights from successful women in various fields. Network with like-minded individuals. Empower yourself with knowledge on finance, self-care, and business.

Be inspired by stories of resilience and achievement.

FemFest is not just a conference; it’s an experience designed to uplift, empower, and connect women from all walks of life. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, professional, or someone passionate about personal growth, FemFest has something for everyone.

Secure your spot today and celebrate International Women’s Day in a meaningful way!

PURCHASE YOUR TICKET HERE

JUST BELIEVE: THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY SCORES BIG WITH 25 YEARS OF STAR POWER

THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY prepares to illuminate screens nationwide for its Silver Anniversary broadcast as a special one-hour program on CBS Television Network* on Saturday night, February 10, at 8 pm ET/7C.

Taped in front of a live audience on Wednesday, Feb. 7 at Pearl Concert Theater, Palms Casino Resort during Super Bowl LVIII week, this milestone event is hosted by the dynamic duo of Cedric the Entertainer and Tichina Arnold, stars of the CBS hit series “THE NEIGHBORHOOD.” Anchored in the theme of “Just Believe,” the show features performances from artists T-Pain, Rachel Platten, and Mickey Guyton, who join previously announced acts Earth, Wind & Fire, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Robin Thicke, and The Players Choir are in the blockbuster talent lineup. Resonating with faith, football, and the belief that every obstacle can be transformed into an opportunity for greatness, this celebration of music is also a testament to the power of collaboration between art and corporate goodwill. A diverse slate of corporate and philanthropic partners have joined the broadcast, adding to its depth and meaning with a series of uniquely sponsored segments.

Crown Royal, a brand rooted in generosity, will present the “Lifetime of Inspiration” award to former partner, NFL player, CBS Mornings Co-Host and Host of NFL Today, Nate Burleson. Crown Royal will make a meaningful donation of $25,000 from The Crown Royal Generosity Fund to an organization personally selected by Mr. Burleson. Nate, a symbol of inspiration on and off the field, will receive this prestigious honor presented by football legend Fred Taylor. Amazon Prime steps forward to present the “New Beginnings” spotlight, honoring Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin. His story of resilience and family triumph will be shared in a powerful segment, reflecting the spirit of overcoming obstacles and finding new beginnings. C.J. Stroud, a rising star from the Houston Texans, will be honored with the esteemed “Faith in Action” Award. This recognition underscores his commitment to philanthropy and community service through the C.J. Stroud Foundation, which has become a force for meaningful change and exemplifies the profound impact athletes can have in creating a better world.

P&G brands play a significant role in shaping the SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25TH ANNIVERSARY experience. Leading the way is Febreze, bringing its unique touch to the celebration with an electrifying performance by the legendary Kirk Franklin and the all-NFL Players Choir, featuring the Southern University ‘Human Jukebox’ Band Drumline. In addition, Febreze proudly collaborates with the talented Howard University alumna designer, Rachel Motley, to create custom-designed cardigans that add a stylish and distinctive flair to the musical experience, ensuring that the performers are “Fresh as Febreze” while on stage. Mielle and King C. Gillette will host a beauty and grooming lounge to get all of the honorees and performers ready for their big moment.

Super Bowl Soulful Celebration will introduce the inaugural “ESSENCE Glass Ceiling Breaker Award presented by Mielle.” This award, as part of ESSENCE Black Women in Sports, recognizes outstanding women of color who have shattered barriers in the NFL and will be introduced by Caroline Wanga, ESSENCE Ventures President & Chief Executive Officer. Monique Rodriguez, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Mielle, will present this prestigious award to honorees Dasha Smith and Kimberly Fields from the NFL, and Sandra Douglas of the Las Vegas Raiders. These women, excelling in the field of sports, have paved the way for many others. The award presentation is a momentous highlight, continuing Mielle’s focus on inclusion and empowerment. In addition to music, the broadcast highlights partnerships, shared values, and a commitment to uplifting communities. Lexus brings its ethos of blending performance and soulful experiences, becoming a resonant voice in the celebration. Comforting Peanut Butter M&M’s will sponsor the “HBCU Spotlight,” shining a light on Markquese Bell, a Dallas Cowboys star and HBCU graduate of FAMU. Vibrant Emotional Health and former NFL player Brandon Marshall, CEO of I Am Athlete, share a powerful message on mental fitness with a call-to-action urging viewers to dial 988 if experiencing mental health challenges. The Huntsman Family Foundation, a Utah-based nonprofit, stands up for mental wellness and eradicating stigma, aligning its mission with a dedicated on-stage moment and message of hope presented by James Brown, veteran sportscaster and host of NFL Today.

In this collective moment, the Super Bowl Soulful Celebration amplifies a message of compassion and support. Disney helped Atlanta Falcons player Calais Campbell and his non-profit Charles Richard Campbell Foundation to create a magical experience, gifting a deserving family with a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to Disney World. Palms Casino Resort serves as the sponsor for red-carpet arrivals, adding an extra layer of glamour to the festivities. PlayersTV and Lionsgate will also play a vital role in supporting and enhancing the evening, contributing to the tapestry of the SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY. For a quarter-century, THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION has captured the hearts of millions through the shared love of music, faith, and the exhilaration of football. Bridging cultures and igniting inspiration, the Super Bowl LVIII-sanctioned special brings together NFL players with award-winning artists and acclaimed musicians from diverse genres onto a single stage. The result is an unforgettable evening that transcends boundaries and remains the sole multicultural and inspirational program sanctioned by the NFL during the electrifying Super Bowl week.

Tickets for THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY are on sale now and available to the public via Ticketmaster.com. Additionally, to mark this special occasion, exclusive commemorative 25th Anniversary limited-edition merchandise is available via the event’s official website SuperBowlSoulful.com, or on-site at the special taping in Las Vegas, allowing attendees to take home a piece of this historic celebration. Follow us @superbowlsoulful for updates and information. THE SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION 25th ANNIVERSARY is executive produced by Melanie Few, with Valarie Benning Thompson serving as producer. Veteran television creative Leon Knoles serves as Director, with Grammy-nominated artist Adam Blackstone serving as music director. *Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live but will have access to on-demand on Pluto TV and CBS.com the day after the special airs.

About Super Bowl Soulful Celebration

SUPER BOWL SOULFUL CELEBRATION, formerly Super Bowl Gospel Celebration (SBGC), was founded and executive produced by Atlanta-based marketing consultant Melanie Few. Conceived in 1999 as a gospel brunch in Miami, Super Bowl Soulful Celebration continues as the only multicultural program and inspirational event sanctioned by the NFL during Super Bowl weekend. The evening brings together an ensemble of NFL players, gospel/contemporary Christian performers, comedy, and award-winning musicians spanning all genres on one stage for a spectacular show filled with song, hope, laughter, and uplifting messages of inspiration. For more information and updates, visit SuperBowlSoulful.com or follow @superbowlsoulful on social media platforms.

Valentine’s Themed Products from KissUSA, FALSCARA, and imPRESS Beauty

Love is all around – In case you had not noticed, KISS beauty brands have released their new Valentine’s ‘s-themed products as well as new collections coming in.

KISSusa – Create a cool ’90s rocker chic vibe with our collection of edgy, voluminous, and shaggy lashes. New customers 15% off with code NEW15 Shop The Collection 
FALSCARA – Style Drop: Hot New Multipacks, Add Faux Mink and Clear Band Styles to Your Wisp Wardrobe +15% off for new FALSCARA customers with code NEW15 Shop The Collection 
KISSusa -Love Is… KISS Valentine Nails for that special day + New customers 15% off with code NEW15 Shop The Collection  imPRESS Beauty – Our luxe Bare
But Better NO GLUE manis work with every look and last up to 7 days thanks to our new & improved superior hold adhesive. Shop The Collection 
imPRESS Beauty – MAJOR MANI LOVE – Get your nails Valentine’s Day ready with flirty NO GLUE styles + For New Customers 15% off with code NEW15 Shop The Collection 
KISSusa – The New Natural Lash Collection. Create Effortless, Minimal Looks with a Lifted Effect + New customers 15% off with code NEW15 Shop The Collection 

Read This Before You Make Your Next Purchase, Regardless Of The Price

Shopping can be so much fun. You get to bring smiles to the faces of those you love by giving them the perfect gift. Of course, a little retail therapy is always great for you, too. Before you dive into your next shopping session, read the following useful tips to ensure you are a wise consumer of goods.

Image Credit

 

If you are thinking of buying high-quality jewelry, do your research. 

A jewelry purchase is a huge monetary expenditure you do not want to go awry. That is why when you are ready to buy a valuable piece, such as a diamond, it is imperative for you to do your due diligence and learn more from another Angara review. Read all of the applicable reviews on the gems and jewelry and research the company to ensure you will be purchasing your gemstone from a reputable business.

 

Always read the fine print.

Regardless of what you buy and where you buy it from, you must read all of the documentation before you click to purchase or tap to pay. If the content has been presented for you to read and it expressly states that by completing the transaction, you consent to the terms, you are agreeing to that information whether you take the time to read it or not. It is ok to wait a few moments before you get your retail therapy fix so you know what you are getting into. 

 

When in doubt, ask for help.

You cannot know everything about the product you are interested in, or every product, for that matter. Sometimes you have more questions about something and want to understand it before you spend your hard-earned money. Or perhaps you need assistance with a problem regarding said product. When that happens, your best source of help is through the customer service channels. You should try whatever services are available to you, such as:

 

  • Customer Service Representatives 
  • AI Chatbots
  • Email
  • Social Media

 

Watch this video for helpful tips on how to get better customer service.

Understand the return policy.

One company’s return policy can vary widely from the next. To that end, you need to understand the parameters of the policy before you buy a product. While you may fully intend to keep your items, there is always the possibility that they will arrive damaged from shipping or not work once you are home and ready to use them. Clothing can have imperfections that may not be visible in the store, and the list goes on. Knowing the timeframe in which you can return an item, whether it will be for cash, a credit card refund, or store credit, and whether a sale is final will help you in the event that a problem arises.

Image Credit

Now that you are armed with information on how to make the best-informed purchases, it is time to go shopping! Sit back on your comfy couch and click away. Or meet your bestie at the mall (they still exist) and grab a pretzel in the food court when you are finished.

7 New Fall/Winter Fashion Pieces from SHEIN

It’s October…meaning it’s time to grab your pumpkin spice latte, start thinking about holiday presents, and, yes, update your Fall/Winter wardrobe if you haven’t already.

In case you’re looking for some stylish, versatile, and quality keep these new items from SHEIN on your radar.

o   Elevate your fashion game this Winter with this head-turning bodycon dress. Its sleek silhouette and daring cut-out front add a touch of allure to your winter wardrobe, making it a stunning choice for holiday parties and date nights.

 

o   This coat is the epitome of sophistication and warmth. With its self-belted design and elegant flap details, it effortlessly combines fashion and function. It’s a versatile outerwear piece that complements any outfit.

 

o   Stay cozy and chic with this open-front fuzzy coat. It’s the perfect addition to your winter ensemble, offering both comfort and style. Its solid color makes it a versatile choice for various occasions.

 

o   Embrace the luxurious feel of velvet with this stunning bodycon dress. The bow front and lantern sleeves exude elegance, making it an ideal choice for formal gatherings and special occasions during the colder months.

 

o   This teddy coat combines the best of comfort and style. With its drop shoulder and cozy teddy fabric, it’s a perfect choice for achieving that effortlessly chic winter look. The flap pockets add a practical touch.

 

o   Add a touch of romance to your Fall/Winter wardrobe with this flounce-sleeve dress. The floral print and ruffle trim exude femininity, making it a delightful choice for brunches, weddings, or any special occasion.

 

o   Stay snug and stylish with this ribbed knit sweater dress. The mock neck provides extra warmth, while the ribbed texture adds a touch of sophistication. It’s a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down.

 

Ready to Wed? What To Know About Buying The Ring

If you are ready to get engaged, then you should be looking for the perfect diamond engagement ring. Perhaps you’re not looking for a diamond at all, but you’d like to use another gem of a different color that will stand out for your fiance. If you’re ready to get married, then this part is going to be one of the most memorable parts of the equation because buying a ring, getting down on one knee, and asking somebody to marry you is a big deal.

Featured Photo from Brides

There is so much that you’ll need to know about buying a ring, from this diamond clarity chart explained to the four C’s of diamond quality. You’ll also need to know about metal characteristics and the setting styles of the rings. Below, we’ve put together a list of what you need to know about buying the right ring for the right person at the right time in their lives.

Image source: Pexels

  1. Understand those forces in depth. You need to know the color of the diamond, the clarity, the cut of the diamond, and the weight of the carat. The color is graded on a D to Z scale, which means that the D is completely colorless and Z means that the diamond has a brown or a light yellow color. The diamonds with less color are rarer than the others. Our diamond clarity chart will explain this to you in more detail.

  2. Get to know the cut. When you start shopping for an engagement ring, you should understand what the differences are between a diamond shape and its cutting style. The shape describes the outline of the diamond when it’s viewed face up, but most people choose a round diamond. But there are other shapes such as the marquise, the pear, or the Oval to consider.

  3. Check out the diamond under different lighting. Daylight and spotlight are very different, which means that diamonds look different under various lighting conditions. Think about when you are planning to propose and what the lighting will be on that day, and then you can determine how your diamond is going to perform under that lighting. Fluorescent lighting brings out the brightness of a diamond but incandescent light brings out that fire on the inside.

  4. Choose your metal. Of course, you know that you have the classics with gold and silver but engagement rings also come in platinum and white gold, too. Choosing the right metal is important because you really want this ring to stand out. Gold and platinum jewelry have different characteristics and their colors are going to be different as well.

  5. Pick the right setting. With jewelry, diamonds are held in place by their setting, and there are different types when it comes to an engagement ring. A diamond can be held in place with four to six prongs, which is one of the types of settings, or the bezel, which is the most protective setting.

No matter what you do, this engagement ring is going to be beautiful.

Jovani Makes 2023 NYFW Debut

 Jovani, the formalwear brand known for glamour, elegance, and craftsmanship, made its New York Fashion Week debut with a runway show last night, Friday, September 8, 2023. The iconic show starred models Haley Kalil, Taylor Hale, Jen Selter, Jenn Lee, Camille Kostek, Jenna Bandy, Carson Roney, Xenia Tchoumi, Ari Chambers, Abby Baffoe, Sydney Zmrzel, Alison Bowles, and Ella Halikas.

Real Housewives’ Luanne de Lesseps, Rachel Fuda, Sutton Stracke & Cynthia Bailey were “Feeling Jovani” in the front row. Additional VIP guests included model Brooks Nader, dancers Allison Holker Boss, Kalani Hilliker, & Asia Monet Ray, Drew Afualo, The Bachelors’ Rachel Recchia, Indi Star, Victoria Garrick Browne, Carmella Rose, Baskin Champion, and more!

About Jovani: Jovani is a family-run company celebrating its 40th year in business. The brand synonymous with glamour, elegance, and craftsmanship creates works of art to empower women in their most magical moments. The brand has gained its fame through beloved celebrity fans, as a trusted brand to contestants and winners of Miss USA and Miss America pageants, and as a trusted brand for bridal, homecoming, prom, and more. Jovani’s trusted brand is now expanding further debuting their ready-to-wear and couture lines during their NYFW runway show.

Website: https://www.jovani.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jovanifashions/

Media Contact: Jovani@michelemariepr.com

Simple Tips For Perfecting Accessories

Whether you consider yourself a fashionista or just treat clothes as a practical matter, looking and feeling your best is likely always on your radar when you’re rummaging through your wardrobe. After all, the ideal outfit can boost your confidence, comfort, and happiness throughout the day. But, what if we were to tell you that you’re also missing out on a crucial style factor that could make just as much of a difference?

Accessories are an often-forgotten fashion focus, but these little additions can make or break even the most functional outfits. From making things fun and sassy to helping you feel glam on even comfy days, accessories are a transformative power for fashion good, and they’re a style subsect well worth delving into.

Unfortunately, while most of us mess around with accessories at some point, a lot of us either forget or simply don’t care to wear accessories daily. And that’s a significant waste of style potential! 

Of course, we’re not saying that you need to wear as many rings as Beyonce at the Grammys, but playing around with at least a few accessories could transform your look. So, how do you achieve an a* look with your accessories?

Find the right accessories for you

Most of us spend significant amounts of time tailoring our wardrobes. Yet, when it comes to accessories, we’re often guilty of opting for easy, costume-style choices. And, then we wonder why we’re not getting along with them down the line!

Accessories deserve every bit as much of your attention as your clothes themselves. To start getting accessories right at last, you certainly need to step away from cheap plastic pieces that turn your fingers or neck green!

Instead, focus on curating a high-quality wardrobe of accessories. Throw out all of those flimsy cheap rings and replace them with a 5 carat diamond ring in a shade that you know you’ll be able to pair easily. Replace all of those tangled cheap necklaces with one or two quality pieces that are sleek and likely to last you for a long time to come. 

Put accessories where you can see them

It can be tough to change a lifetime of treating accessories as a secondary consideration. As such, you need to train yourself in the habit of wearing accessories at last by displaying them where you can see them.

Instead of dooming your earrings to that dark, dirty bag that you never even think to look in, invest in some decent accessory holders that can display either around your bedroom or, better, in your bathroom. That way, even if you don’t spare a thought for accessories as you’re getting ready, you’ll inevitably see your new, sleek accessory collection when you’re giving yourself a last touch-up. And, when they’re this easy to hand, you might find yourself reaching for a bracelet or something similar to complement your outfit a lot more often. 

Take inspiration from the best

We often look to celebs and other figures in the public eye for style inspiration. But few of us think to pay attention to accessories in the same way. In reality, though, there’s a whole load of great accessory inspo at our fingertips when we’re ready to use it.

Figures like Miley Cyrus are perhaps most worth paying attention to right now. That’s because Miley loves to layer a load of accessories with her outfits, and she looks great doing it! Equally, Beyonce has a thing for personalized jewelry, while Kim Kardashian has even been snapped making vintage accessories cool again.

As soon as you start paying attention, it’ll be far easier to see how great accessories can be when they’re done well, and also how you could start on your own accessory journey. It just takes a little research and a basic idea of what kind of styling you’re looking out for!

Have fun styling

Accessories can be even more fun to style than our outfits. After all, the whole purpose of accessories is to contrast or complement the rest of our style choices. By having fun, and not being afraid to play around with what accessories have to offer, it’s possible to get stuck in a habit that you can’t get enough of. 

Whether you use apps like Stylebook to test out accessories with potential outfits, or just get stuck in with dressing up like you did when you were younger, you’re sure to settle on some great accessory combos that you’ll likely soon struggle to leave the house without. 

How To Elevate Your Look

Do you ever just get bored of your current look and want to do something different and fun? Elevating your look, aka – changing it up, doesn’t need to be expensive, and you don’t have to do anything too dramatic either. Style and beauty all come down to one thing – how it makes you feel. 

 

When you feel confident in what you wear, your hair and even your lip color, you will feel like you can take over the world. But if you’re feeling like your look is tired or just that you want to change what you are doing right now, here are a few tips to help you elevate your look. 

 

Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash

Tailoring 

The first and most important person in your life when it comes to elevated fashion and style is a good tailor. A good tailor will be able to make almost anything you purchase look like it was made just for you. 

 

They can adjust sleeve length, improve shoulder seams and inseams, and move buttons to be more flattering; plus, many have the skills to make clothing too. 

 

Look for recommendations and reviews for your local tailor, but be prepared to travel and book for the really good ones. 

Salon

The difference between a good hair salon and a great one is the staff. Look for highly-skilled, innovative staff that have a wealth of knowledge. But perhaps more importantly, ideally, you want to have a choice of services too. 

 

Getting your hair done should be something you look forward to, but sometimes you don’t want a cut and color. Salons like thealchemysalon.com are the perfect example of skill, innovation and an excellent hair treatment list if you want a treatment or extensions. 

Beauty 

Many beauty salons are now offering some chemical and sculptural procedures. Face peeling for a refreshed skin look, sculpting of the jawline using botulinum solutions, as well as more typical options like brow shaping and lash lifts. 

 

The great thing about getting semi-permanent beauty treatments is that it gives us less to do. For example, with lash lifts and extensions, if you don’t have time or like the feel of mascara – no problem. If you find filling in your brows a long process, then microblading is for you. 

 

There are many options to elevate your look in beauty without a long-term commitment.

Basics 

The basics are the building blocks of your look, and if you don’t have them nailed, you’ll always need to fill those gaps. Basics include the right underwear (supportive and the correct fit) and staples like great jeans and good t-shirts. Remember that many of the basics are classics, too, and work well together or with additional items. 

Classics V Trends

Fashion is what you wear, and style is who you are – as the saying goes. This means that you shouldn’t feel pressured to hop on fashion trends. Instead, you can choose a key piece to play with but keep your style classic (or classic to you). Trends have a habit of making people feel uncomfortable, and when you aren’t comfortable, you aren’t confident either. 

 

Experimentation is great, but ultimately comfort and confidence will elevate any look. 

 

Lacking confidence from time to time happens, but to get yourself back on track, check out these tips: Style Tips to Boost Your Confidence: Grooming, Colors, and The Right Fit 



Celebrate these Beauty Brands this Juneteenth

As we approach Juneteenth, we wanted to make sure you knew about several black-owned brands that have continued to make a huge impact in the beauty and entrepreneurial spaces. From Black Girl Sunscreen to Glow by Daye, these award-winning brands are dedicated to providing quality products made with people of color in mind.

In 2016, Black Girl Sunscreen was created by Shontay Lundy. ​Today the brand has sold over 1 Million tubes of sunscreen and is at the forefront of spreading the importance of wearing sunscreen amongst people of color. They’re sold in retail stores nationwide and on Amazon.com.  

GLOW by DAYE This award-winning hair accessory brand has sold millions worth of products on the Amazon platform. Known for its high-quality silk bonnets and deep conditioning caps, the brand has grown tremendously adding beautiful printed charmeuse scarves, adjustable shower caps, and portable hooded dryers. 

Rucker Roots offers healthy ​hair care ​products ​with no parabens, sulfates, petroleum, or artificial colors. Rucker Roots products were designed for all hair types and derived from vegetable roots such as Carrot Root, Ginger Root, and Turnip Root (GTC). ​Their award-winning mousse ​works great in wash-n-go routines and especially appeals to those with finer hair textures (3B to 4A Hair).  

The Roots Naturelle With a combination of authentic African tradition and ever-evolving modern science, The Roots Naturelle prides itself on making products to promote hydrated and healthy hair. Products are made with responsibly-sourced natural ingredients and sold across the country. They have skin care products including shea butter too!  

Bold Hold is the #1 Lace Adhesive. Created by Celebrity Hair Stylist and Master Cosmetologist, Tamika Gibson, the brand offers a wide range of temporary and semi-permanent adhesives and protectants that meet the needs for wig and hair piece application and maintenance.

LOVINAH is a luxury and clean beauty brand inspired by ancient African remedies that address modern-day concerns like hyperpigmentation, hydration, and dullness – especially for people of color. The products are currently sold at Macy’s and their Dragon’s Blood Cleansing Oil is a best seller!