Category: Uncategorized

Celebrity /

Megan Thee Stallion’s Pete & Thomas Foundation to Honor Southern Black Girls

In a powerful demonstration of how investing in Black girls creates a pipeline of changemakers, Grammy Award-winning artist Megan Thee Stallion’s Pete & Thomas Foundation will honor Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium founder LaTosha Brown alongside 13-year-old mental health advocate Mila Henry at its inaugural gala.

Taking place July 16, 2025, at Gotham Hall in New York City, the black-tie affair will be hosted by actress Taraji P. Henson, featuring performances by Muni Long and entertainment by DJ D-Nice. The gala will benefit initiatives focused on education, housing, and health and wellness in underserved communities.

The pairing represents a remarkable full-circle moment: Brown’s organization awarded Henry a grant through the #BlackGirlJoyChallenge that she used to start her own nonprofit, MH Boxes, serving Black girls’ mental health needs.

ABOUT THE HONOREES

LaTosha Brown: A Force for Transformation

LaTosha Brown founded Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium in 2017 with a powerful belief: “If you change the life of a Black girl, you change the world.” Now being recognized for her transformative work empowering Black girls and women across the South, Brown is a dynamic force igniting social change worldwide. As co-founder of Black Voters Matter Fund and founder of Truth Speaks Innovation Foundation, she stands as a visionary thought leader, institution builder, and cultural activist.

“LaTosha embodies the spirit of radical possibility that the Pete & Thomas Foundation seeks to celebrate,” said Chanceé Lundy, Executive Director of Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium. “Her vision has channeled over $10.2 million to more than 220 Black women-led organizations.”

Brown’s Southern roots and global vision have allowed her to amplify voices across the U.S. and over 30 countries. She has advised countless social justice organizations, served as a fellow at Harvard’s Institute of Politics, and co-designed the Power, Innovation, and Leadership executive education program at Harvard to boost Southern women leaders’ effectiveness. Featured in major media outlets, she continues to advocate for social justice, political empowerment, and cultural transformation.

Mila Henry: From Joy Grant Recipient to Mental Health Advocate

Mila Henry, founder of MH Boxes, represents the powerful impact of investing in young Black girls’ dreams. At just 12 years old, Mila received a grant through the Black Girl Joy Challenge, a collaboration between the Pete & Thomas Foundation and Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium, and used the funding to launch her own non-profit organization, MH Boxes, in January 2024.

MH Boxes provides mental health care packages filled with journals, self-care essentials, affirmations, and wellness tools specifically designed for Black girls. Mila’s own journey with mental health as a biracial Black girl inspired her to create this supportive community-led initiative that addresses the critical gap in mental health resources for Black girls, who are often underrepresented in mental health conversations.

“Mila exemplifies why we invest in Black girls’ dreams,” said Brown. “When we provide resources and believe in their visions, we witness the creation of solutions that address real community needs with innovation and heart, led by the very people who understand those needs most deeply.”

Now 13, she continues to expand MH Boxes’ reach, working to ensure that mental health support is diverse, inclusive, and accessible to all Black girls. Her work demonstrates how the #BlackGirlJoyChallenge can and has inspired real solutions and empowered young voices to drive meaningful change in their communities.

A Powerful Partnership with Purpose

Founded in 2022 in honor of Megan Thee Stallion’s late parents, the Pete & Thomas Foundation has been a key partner in the #BlackGirlJoyChallenge, providing funding for 100 girls through its collaboration with Southern Black Girls. “LaTosha and Mila represent two generations of visionaries,” said Lundy. “This gala honors the power of partnership, and what’s possible when we fund the future of Black girls at every stage of their leadership journey.”

Since its inception, the Southern Black Girls #BlackGirlJoyChallenge has supported over 800 girls with innovative community projects; from arts and entrepreneurship to fighting period poverty and promoting wellness.

About Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium

Founded in 2017 by visionary LaTosha Brown and anchors Felecia Lucky (Black Belt Community Foundation), Alice Jenkins (Fund for Southern Communities), and Margo Miller (Appalachian Community Fund), the Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium is a philanthropic organization dedicated to funding Black girls and women across the Southern United States. Operating in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia, Southern Black Girls employs participatory grantmaking approaches that center Black girls’ voices while supporting racial justice, education, health and wellness, economic mobility, and leadership development.

For more information about Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium, visit www.southernblackgirls.org or follow @SouthernBlackGirls on social media.

For more information about the Pete & Thomas Foundation, visit www.peteandthomasfoundation.org.

For more information about MH Boxes, visit www.mhboxes.org

Accessories /

Chic & Budget-Friendly: 7 Summer 2025 Fashion Trends

Summer is here, and if you’re like me, you’re ready to glow up without going breaking the bank. But staying stylish and modest in this economy? Whew! It’s a challenge — but not impossible. Whether you’re curating your Sunday best or keeping it casual for weekend brunch, I’ve rounded up seven hot summer trends for 2025 that’ll keep your look fresh, modest, and wallet-friendly.

Featured Photo from Marie Claire

1. Linen Everything (Yes, Even Sets)
Linen is the fabric of the season — breezy, breathable, and perfect for modest layering. Two-piece linen sets are all over Pinterest and TikTok.
Budget Tip: Grab neutral-toned sets from H&M, Old Navy, or Amazon. Pair with a wide belt and strappy flats to elevate the look.

2. Flowy Maxi Dresses with Sleeves
Dramatic but demure — these dresses scream elegance. Look for tiered or ruffled maxis in bold florals or soft pastels.

3. Bow & Tie Details
Bows are everywhere this year — on collars, sleeves, waistlines. Feminine and playful but still grown-woman appropriate.
Style Hack: DIY a bow belt using an old scarf or ribbon to transform a plain dress.

4. Wide-Leg & Cargo-Style Pants
Say goodbye to skinny jeans — it’s all about flow and function now. High-waisted, wide-leg pants give modest coverage and keep things airy.
Budget Buy: Thrift them! These styles are a goldmine in secondhand shops.

5. Modest Swimwear That’s Cute (For Real)
Think longline tops, high-waist bottoms, and even skirted options that don’t look frumpy.
Where to Shop: Cupshe, ASOS modest section, and Amazon.

6. Sheer Layering (Done Right)
The trick is to use sheer pieces for layering without compromising coverage. Think mesh dusters, sheer button-ups over tank dresses.
Modest Tip: Always layer with a solid base like a ribbed midi dress or bodysuit for coverage.

7. Statement Accessories (Because We’re on a Budget)
This is how you level up basic outfits. Think oversized sunnies, beaded bags, or stacked bangles.
Budget Hack: Hit up local markets or Etsy for handmade pieces under $20.

Final Thoughts:

You don’t need a $500 Shein haul to slay this summer. Just a little creativity, a few smart buys, and a heart grounded in grace. Dressing modestly is a blessing, not a burden — it’s about honoring your body and still feeling confident, feminine, and free.

Accessories /

Blenders Eyewear: Cool Mom Era

Blenders Eyewear, a long-standing celebrity-favorite eyewear brand created by the legend Chase Fisher, has shades for hitting the beach in your 1989 era, shimmering gold in your Fearless era, or falling in love in your Speak Now era.

Running mom errands in Rimini Crystal Hot Pink Sunglasses

 

Blenders shades are perfect as the weather heats up!

Lifestyle /

How to Personalize Your Wedding with Unique Details

Your wedding day is one of the most significant occasions in your life, and every detail truly matters to you. It reflects the individuality and commitment of your relationship. Many couples are moving away from cookie-cutter ceremonies and want to infuse their personalities into every aspect, from unconventional décor to innovative ceremony elements and non-traditional wedding rings. The possibilities for personalizing your wedding are endless. Below, we will look at some creative ideas for making your wedding yours. 

Photo Credit:  Edward Eyer

Discovering Your Style

The first step in personalizing your wedding is understanding what you and your partner find unique. Start by discussing your shared interests, hobbies, and values, as this will provide a foundation for the personal style you can infuse into your wedding. Perhaps you both have a passion for nature, travel, art, or a quirky shared hobby; these common interests can form a basis for planning your wedding details. Consider how your personalities can be woven into various elements of your day, from the invitations to the color palette, menu, and music.

One of the easiest ways to showcase your individuality is through custom decor. For instance, if you love traveling, you might want to decorate your tables with photo galleries or vintage suitcases from your travels. 

Unique Ceremony Elements

Your ceremony is the center stage of your celebrations, providing an opportunity to create a moment that reflects your personality and beliefs. Traditional ceremonies possess charm; however, you may want to consider adding some unique elements to make your vows even more personal.

Instead of reciting traditional vows, you might want to think about writing your own. This allows you to express your promises and share anecdotes that reveal your journey together. Personal vows are heartfelt and create an unforgettable moment for you and your partner.

There are many creative ways to symbolize your union. Some couples blend colors during ceremonies, representing different aspects of their relationship, while others plant a tree together to symbolize growth and nurturing.

Consider involving your guests in the ceremony. For example, you could have them light a candle or sign a guest book, which could later be turned into something for you to keep in your home.

One increasingly popular idea is incorporating wooden wedding rings into your ceremony. Wooden rings offer a rustic elegance that speaks to the beauty of nature, individuality, and sustainability. They are visually striking and carry a deeper meaning of growth and strength. To learn more about these unique rings, look at wooden wedding rings. 

Non-Traditional Wedding Rings

Usually, people will choose a classic metal such as gold or platinum; however, for couples who are looking for something that reflects their style and are now looking for more t non-traditional options, wooden wedding rings, for example, would give you a unique blend of nature and craftsmanship that is perfect for seeking less conventional ways of showing your sign of commitment. 

Why Choose Wooden Wedding Rings?

Sustainability: Wooden rings are often made from sustainably sourced wood, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Customization: With every wooden ring you choose, you will receive a unique piece due to the wood’s natural grain color and texture; thus, you will never find two rings that are the same. This symbolizes the uniqueness of your relationship. Many jewelers offer customization options, allowing you to select the type of wood and engrave a personal message or significant dates.

Comfort and warmth: Unlike cold metal bands, wooden rings possess an organic warmth that may be more comfortable for everyday wear. They often feature a smooth, natural finish that adapts perfectly to your skin over time.

Symbolism: Wood represents growth, resilience, and growth, all qualities of a lasting marriage. This can be reflected in the choice of a wooden wedding ring, a daily reminder of your commitment to nurturing and growing your relationship. 

Personalized Decor and Ambiance

Your wedding venue offers numerous opportunities to showcase your unique style. Think beyond standard floral arrangements and consider elements that reflect your interests. You might add personalized signs, directional arrows, or even a whimsical sign with quotes that have special meaning for you and your partner. Create centerpieces incorporating personal items such as travel photos or mementos from your relationship. Consider using small travel trinkets or vintage books that symbolize your memories. Consider incorporating these themes into your decorations if you love a particular era, hobby, or style. For instance, a rustic outdoor wedding might feature mason jars, wooden accents, or a build-up table to enhance the atmosphere. Lighting also plays a vital role in setting the mood, so consider including lanterns, fairy lights, or a dramatic light installation. 

Culinary Delights with a Personal Touch

Food is vital for your wedding day; you must choose your menu. This presents a fantastic opportunity to include personal touches that leave lasting impressions. You could work with your caterer to create a menu featuring all your favorite dishes, family recipes, or meals you have enjoyed while traveling the globe. This should delight your guests while providing a glimpse into who you are. Consider crafting a signature cocktail or mocktail that reflects your tastes. You might name the drinks after yourselves, the places you have visited, or some of your shared experiences. Additionally, consider incorporating interactive food stations where guests can customize their dishes. This could include a salad station, a gourmet popcorn machine, or a taco bar. 

Entertainment That Resonates

Entertainment is another area where you can incorporate plenty of personalization into your wedding performance music, and even the activities on your wedding day can be tailored to reflect your personality. Consider hiring musicians or performers to play some of your favorite songs. If you love a particular game, consider ways to include it by setting up fun games or activities involving your guests, such as a photo booth with props related to your hobbies or even a trivia game about your relationship. If you come from different cultural backgrounds, find creative ways to blend your traditions. This could mean incorporating unique music, cultural rituals, or dance performances celebrating both heritages, providing a diverse experience for you and your guests. 

Incorporating Technology with a Twist

More and more people are now beginning to incorporate technology into their weddings, as it provides an exciting opportunity to add a personal touch. Consider creating a personalized wedding website where guests can RSVP and view your love story and any important details about the big day. Include sections that feature fun facts, personal photos, and even a blog documenting your journey for loved ones who cannot attend your wedding in person. You could always live-stream your ceremony, as it’s a thoughtful way to include them. You might even add a personalized message or live chat during the event, allowing remote guests to feel more connected to the day. Rather than having a traditional guest book, consider setting up a digital version where people can leave photos, messages, or even video greetings from the day. 

Bringing It All Together

The beauty of a personalized wedding lies in all the fine details that make thoughtful touches and showcase who you are as a couple. This is the way to express your personality. Every little choice you make, from the rings you wear to the decor you choose, highlights your identity as a couple and tells your unique love story. Adding small personal touches goes beyond the aesthetics of your day; it reflects your passions, values, and shared vision.

Celebrity /

LEADHER AWARDS 2025: A GLOBAL CELEBRATION OF WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP AND EMPOWERMENT

The LEADHER Awards, presented by RBC, a premier celebration of women’s leadership and impact, is set to take place on March 8, 2025, coinciding with International Women’s Day. This prestigious event, to be held at the iconic Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa, will honor women from across the globe who have made extraordinary contributions to their industries, communities, and society at large.

The LEADHER Awards recognizes the achievements of women breaking barriers and challenging norms across fields such as business, technology, media, humanitarian work, sports, education, and more. The event will bring together a distinguished group of individuals from various sectors to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the awardees and to inspire the next generation of women leaders.

The Gala will feature prominent public figures, with special appearances by notable celebrities, activists, entrepreneurs, and influencers, including:

Meagan Good, Actress, and Activist

Don Lemon, CNN anchor and journalist

Nzinga Blake, Executive Producer, and Emmy Award winner

Tessy Ojo, CEO of The Princess Diana Awards

Haja Sailma Monorma Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation of Sierra Leone

And more distinguished guests from entertainment, media, politics, and business.

“We are beyond excited to bring together such an incredible group of trailblazing women and influential figures for this special occasion,” said Gwen Madiba, Founder of Equal Chance. “The LEADHER Awards is not just about honoring women’s accomplishments but also about inspiring everyone, regardless of gender, to break down barriers, shatter stereotypes, and make a lasting impact on the world. We are incredibly grateful for the support of RBC, whose partnership as our title sponsor is helping to elevate this important celebration of leadership, empowerment, and equality.

“At RBC, we are committed to empowering women to thrive in their chosen career paths,” said Devinder Gill, Regional Vice-President of RBC. ”The LEADHER Awards are a reflection of RBC’s long-standing commitment to supporting women’s leadership, empowerment, and diversity, while also promoting community-focused initiatives that drive meaningful change. ”

A Celebration of Women’s Empowerment and Inclusion

The LEADHER Awards Gala serves as a powerful platform to recognize the achievements of women from diverse backgrounds and industries. This year’s ceremony will feature an evening filled with award presentations, inspiring speeches, and performances, all aimed at celebrating women who are not only excelling in their careers but also using their platforms to uplift and empower others.

As part of the event’s commitment to fostering meaningful change, the Gala will also shine a spotlight on issues such as gender equality, mental health awareness, diversity and inclusion, and community-driven initiatives.

Event Highlights:

Exclusive Red Carpet: The event will feature a red carpet experience, with celebrity appearances, media interviews, and photo opportunities.

Keynote Speeches and Award Presentations: Renowned leaders and awardees will deliver powerful speeches, sharing their journeys of resilience, determination, and empowerment.

Entertainment and Performances: The evening will feature live performances and entertainment, celebrating the power of women in the arts and media.

Global Media Coverage: The event will be broadcasted through various media platforms, ensuring that the incredible stories of women’s leadership and empowerment reach a global audience.

About the LEADHER Awards

The LEADHER Awards is an event dedicated to honoring and celebrating the accomplishments of women who have had a profound impact on their communities, industries, and the world. The Gala brings together leaders from various sectors to amplify the voices of women, share inspiring stories, and create opportunities for future generations of women to thrive.

The LEADHER Awards aims to create a world where women’s achievements are not just recognized but celebrated, with a focus on promoting inclusion, diversity, and social change.

For more information about the LEADHER Awards or to learn how to attend or get involved, please visit www.leadherawards.com.

BET /

Celebrate Black Excellence: HBCU Honors on BET

The 2nd Annual HBCU Honors, Presented by Procter & Gamble, brings a one-of-a-kind celebration of Black excellence to television audiences when it airs on BET on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 8 PM ET. Taped at the historic Cramton Auditorium at Howard University, this star-studded awards show celebrates the remarkable achievements of HBCU alumni, including this year’s major honorees Will Packer, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, and Jewel Burks Solomon.

Hosted by award-winning actress and comedian Kym Whitley, a proud Fisk University alumna, the show highlights the enduring legacy of HBCUs with legendary performances, heartfelt tributes, and powerful moments. Dedicated to the theme “Celebrating Black Excellence,” Whitley sets the tone for an evening filled with inspiration and joy.

“For over 100 years, our schools have produced some of the most influential leaders in the Black community,” she shares. “Our hope and our progress rest on the shoulders of these leaders and the innovation of today’s graduates. Tonight, we celebrate and we honor them.”

One of the many highlights of the evening came from honoree Will Packer, Emmy-nominated filmmaker and Florida A&M University (FAMU) graduate, who was awarded the HBCU Honors Industry Impact Award, presented by Mielle. In an emotional presentation, Packer’s children, Nija Packer and Zion Packer emphasized his journey from an aspiring college student at FAMU to a Hollywood visionary. Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Packer delivers a powerful speech that resonates deeply with the audience.

“I stand on this stage because I was surrounded by a community that told me that I was enough when others told me that I was not,” he shared. “I was supported by folks who told me, ‘you cannot only be good, but you can be great.’ I am honored to receive this award… but I am just one person. I stand as a representative of so many others who are part of a community that is ready to let the world know that we will not be stopped, because we got each other.”

Dr. Lonnie Johnson, a proud Tuskegee University graduate, former NASA engineer, and inventor of the Super Soaker, received the HBCU Honors Innovation Trailblazer Award, presented by Florida A&M University alum Marcos Purty, Vice President of Global Quality, Supplier Quality, and Operational Excellence at General Motors. Dr. Johnson inspired the audience by reflecting on his groundbreaking contributions to science and engineering while underscoring the importance of future innovators.

“Black excellence is about setting the example for our youth because they are our legacy. I thank this community for ensuring we build that bridge to the future.”

The evening also celebrated Jewel Burks Solomon, a Howard University graduate, entrepreneur, and advocate for women and diversity in technology. She was presented with the HBCU Honors Founders Award by Kelesha Armand, Spelman College Alumna, and General Counsel of Consumer Banking and Deputy General Counsel of Consumer & Community Banking at JP Morgan Chase. Solomon’s speech reflected her commitment to creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, particularly in technology and entrepreneurship.

“I feel so blessed to be standing here at Howard University, my beloved alma mater, receiving this honor,” she said. “In light of a world that continues to undervalue our work and contributions, I want to remind us all that our dreams matter. Your ideas, paired with your tenacity and the support of your community, can change the world.”

Hosted by Joe Clair and AutumnJoi Live, the HBCU Honors Blue Carpet buzzed with energy as notable guests made their entrance, including Grammy-nominated artist Raheem DeVaughn, HBCU Honors Founder Michelle M. Bailey, tech leaders Jeron Smith and Aloni Ford, reality stars Yandy Smith, Mendeecees Harris, Jr., Karen Huger, Askale Davis and Clifton Petite, alongside community leaders like Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott, State’s Atty. for Prince George’s County Aisha Braveboy, former NFL player Marcus Allen, political strategist/TV host and founder of #WinWithBlackWomen Jotaka Eaddy, The Crown Act founder, Kelli Richardson Lawson, UNCF executive vice president Maurice Jenkins, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, Fayetteville State University Board Chair Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard, PhD., The Links, Incorporated Eastern Area Director, Lisa Loury Lomas, PhD., Elsie Cooke Holmes, President, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Chris V. Rey, National President Phi Beta Sigma & President Barber-Scotia College, Maurice Jenkins, Executive Vice President, United Negro College Fund, local TV news personalities Tisha Lewis, Stephen Graddick, Alena Oakes, Marissa Mitchell and Wisdom Martin, creator of Super Bowl Soulful Celebration Melanie Few, Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Prelate of Global United Fellowship, and many more!

Kicking the show off with an electrifying performance, Be’la Dona, DC’s legendary all-female Go-Go band, was joined by the Howard University Ooh La La! dancers to set the stage for a triumphant evening. Grammy Award-winning artist Fantasia had the crowd on their feet with a soul-stirring medley of her hit “When I See You” and other fan favorites, leaving the audience captivated. Other standout performances included “The Voice” Season 24 sensation Mac Royals, who delivered a smooth rendition of Bobby Caldwell’s “What You Won’t Do for Love,” and HBCU Rising Star Imani-Grace Cooper, who wowed the audience with her performance of “Better.” Gospel powerhouse Erica Campbell and her daughter, Krista Campbell, a Spelman College student, performed their first-ever nationally televised duet of Erica’s hit “Help,” celebrating faith and family.

The night featured a number of unforgettable collaborations, including a poetic musical tribute by Grammy Award-winning couple, J. Ivy and his wife Tarrey Torae. Their moving performance announced a $100M campaign to support HBCU students and honored the Divine Nine with appearances by national presidents and students from each Black Greek-letter organization. Gospel icon Hezekiah Walker, accompanied by the Virginia Union University Gospel Choir, performed his classic “Every Praise,” honoring the legacy of gospel music and celebrating the Hezekiah Walker Center for Gospel Music at Virginia Union University.

The show concluded with a powerful finale featuring hip-hop icon MC Lyte, Hezekiah Walker, the Virginia Union Gospel Choir, and Erica and Krista Campbell performing Lyte’s single “Thank You” from her new album. Before the final performance, Michelle Bailey, HBCU Honors Founder and Spelman College graduate, took the stage to reflect on the event’s impact and the power of HBCUs.

“My heart is truly full. This has been a beautiful night of Black excellence and HBCU Honors. It is truly a dream come true. I’m standing here tonight on behalf of our ancestors, and I think they would be proud. This has been an incredible evening for our HBCU culture—a night to celebrate, honor, and elevate the legacy that binds us all.”

With its unforgettable moments, impactful announcements, and cultural pride, the 2024 HBCU Honors continues to elevate the legacy of HBCUs and inspire future generations. Don’t miss the broadcast on BET, December 1, 2024, at 8 PM ET.

For more information on the HBCU Honors, visit www.HBCUHonors.org, and follow @HBCUHonors on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Accessories /

Glow Up Your Eyes with New ‘Kista’ Digital Lifestyle Glasses – Gunnar Optiks

Gunnar Optik’s just unveiled three hot new digital lifestyle glasses that will glow up your daily work routine!

Designed for women who prioritize style and eye health, the new Anna, Kaia, and Lahti, all part of the elegant new Kista Collection, go well with any outfit while offering the eye-protecting, blue-light-blocking, and computer vision syndrome-fighting benefits Gunnar Optiks is known for.

Anna (MSRP: $99)

  • Its contemporary cat eye is elegant and made of a premium hand-polished polymer frame available in three unique colorways.

Kaia (MSRP: $99)

  • It has a unique square-shaped design and a stylish keyhole bridge. A glossy, premium polymer acetate frame material is used, and adjustable nose pads provide premium comfort.

Lahti (MSRP: $99)

  • It has a round style with a flattened upper frame and is accented with metal details in the temples.
Celebrity /

LOVE & MARRIAGE: HUNTSVILLE CAST AND CARLOS KING “SPILL THE TEA” AT PRIVATE LA EVENT 

OWN Network celebrated the highly anticipated launch of the new season of their hit reality series, Love & Marriage: Huntsville  with an exclusive Special Live Conversation and reception at NYA Studios West in Los Angeles. Alongside reality king and Creator and Executive Producer, Carlos King decked out in fit to impress, were Love & Marriage: Huntsville castmates Kimmi Scott, Maurice Scott, LaTisha Scott, and Marsau Scott.

TINA PERRY, President of OWN Network; SHIRLEY SALOMON, Vice President of Production of OWN, DARYL BOLANDER, Vice President, Programming & Development of OWN; and DREW TAPPON, Head of Unscripted Development and Executive Producer of Love & Marriage: Huntsville, OWN, among many others, also were present to toast to OWN’s #1 series.

The evening kicked off with a bustling red carpet, followed by an inspiring sizzle reel highlighting OWN, Love & Marriage Huntsville, and the partnership with Carlos King and Kingdom Reign Productions. Following the sizzle, Carlos made a grand entrance, welcomed the invited guests, and introduced The Scotts.

The real and raw conversation around black love, the development of the show on OWN, and the authentic storytelling were met with a roaring round of applause at the end. The festivities then continued at NYA with an elevated reception where guests sipped on themed cocktails like Carlos Spills The Tea, Spicy Love & Marriage Margarita, and Reign Drops and snacked on hors d’oeuvres with local NAACP, NABJLA members and press in attendance.

OWN reinforced last night the value in investing in African American creators and storytelling that speaks authentically to the culture and community that left people inspired and encouraged.

PHOTO CREDIT: Yvette Jones/ OWN NETWORK

Accessories /

Stylish Summer Finds: Shopping for Fashion on a Budget

As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with some chic summer essentials. But fear not, fashionistas on a budget! You don’t need to break the bank to stay on-trend this season. With a little creativity and savvy shopping, you can score some fabulous summer fashion finds without emptying your wallet. From breezy dresses to versatile accessories, here’s your guide to shopping for summer fashion on a budget.

  1. Thrift Shopping: One of the best ways to find unique summer pieces at affordable prices is by hitting up thrift stores and consignment shops. You’d be amazed at the treasures you can unearth – from vintage sundresses to statement accessories. Keep an open mind and be prepared to hunt through racks, and you might just score some one-of-a-kind gems that won’t break the bank.
  2. Online Deals and Discounts: Take advantage of online deals and discounts to snag some stylish summer staples at a fraction of the cost. Many retailers offer seasonal sales and promotions, so keep an eye out for flash sales, coupon codes, and clearance events. Sign up for email newsletters and follow your favorite brands on social media to stay in the loop about upcoming sales and special offers.
  3. Mix and Match: Get creative with your existing wardrobe by mixing and matching pieces to create fresh summer looks. Pair a breezy maxi skirt with a basic tank top, or layer a lightweight cardigan over a sundress for a versatile ensemble that can take you from day to night. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations and accessories to elevate your summer style without spending a fortune.
  4. DIY Fashion: Put your creativity to the test by DIY-ing some of your summer fashion essentials. Transform an old pair of jeans into trendy cutoff shorts, or give a plain t-shirt a stylish makeover with some fabric paint or embellishments. Not only is DIY fashion budget-friendly, but it also allows you to put your own personal stamp on your summer wardrobe.
  5. End-of-Season Sales: If you’re willing to wait until the end of the season, you can score some incredible deals on summer fashion during clearance sales. Retailers often slash prices on seasonal items to make room for new inventory, so keep an eye out for markdowns on swimwear, sandals, and lightweight clothing as summer comes to a close. It may require a bit of patience, but the savings are well worth it.

Featured Photo from USA Today

Conclusion: Shopping for summer fashion on a budget doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little creativity, resourcefulness, and savvy shopping, you can build a stylish summer wardrobe that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re scouring thrift stores for hidden treasures or taking advantage of online deals and discounts, there are plenty of ways to stay on-trend without overspending. So go ahead, embrace your inner fashionista, and strut your stuff in chic summer style – all while keeping your budget intact.

Happy shopping!

Birmingham /

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