Last week I was invited to attend a media brunch and view The Matte Collection, fully customizable kitchen.
The brand has incorporated innovative technology and style into the design of kitchen staples. After speaking with the company representative, she stated that the new wall ovens can cook a whole chicken in 15 minutes!
The Cafe Distinct By Design kitchen offers an array of metal knobs and handles in brushed bronze, brushed stainless, brushed copper and brushed black. Cafe is the first appliance brand that allows you to switch out the hardware on your kitchen appliances, bringing an unprecedented level of luxury and personalization to an affordable price.
The ability to change out hardware is fascinating! What fashion-conscious women wouldn’t like the option to personalize her kitchen? Another aspect about the collection is that the stainless steel finish is smudge-proof. That particular feature makes an aesthetic difference, especially if you have little hands in your home.
To learn more about The Matte Collection, click here.
Today, Amazon officially kicked off the holiday season with the opening of its Black Friday Deals Store (amazon.com/blackfriday), as well as announcing new, convenient ways for customers to shop as well as new, exclusive entertainment for the season.
Amazon’s curated shopping guides take the guesswork out of gifting and help customers delight their loved ones, plus treat themselves this holiday season. With low prices and best-ever deals, innovative ways to shop a vast selection, and convenient doorstep delivery with free shipping for ALL shoppers on more than 100 million items, Amazon has you covered this holiday season.
New this year for Amazon customers:
Take the guesswork out of gifting: Customers can shop four gift guides, including our most comprehensive Amazon Fashion Gift Guide ever, as well as the new “A Holiday of Play” lookbook available on Kindle or online, providing top Holiday Toy List picks for kids of all ages.
Enjoy a movie break with a holiday classic: Exclusive access to It’s a Wonderful Lifeon Prime Video – the first time in the film’s 72-year history that it is included in a subscription streaming service!
Delivery as fast as today: Tens of millions of Prime members in the U.S. can choose from more than three million items available to ship with Prime FREE Same-Day Delivery – the largest same-day selection in the U.S. Additionally, two-hour delivery from local Whole Foods Market stores is now available in more than 60 cities making holiday feast planning even easier.
Ask Alexa: Customers now have access to Butterball Turkey Talk-Linevia Alexa. Simply ask “Alexa, open Butterball” to tap into decades of experience on how to cook the perfect turkey from Butterball Turkey Talk-Line experts.
Deck the halls: Real Christmas tree delivery on trees ranging from the 10 to 14-inch Charlie Brown Christmas Tree (available now) to the six to seven-foot Fraser Firs, Balsam Firs, Black Hills Spruces. All treesover $25come with Free Shipping.
Shop in store: Now open in the SoHo neighborhood of NYC and at Park Meadows in Lone Tree, Colo, Amazon 4-star features products rated 4 stars and above, are top sellers, or are new and trending on Amazon.com. Customers can also visit one of the more than 100 Amazon store locations in 22 states where you can shop for highly-rated gifts, devices, and smart home accessories. Find the Amazon store nearest you.
Essence Communications, the leading media, technology, and commerce company serving Black women announced a record-breaking economic impact of $280 million for its 2018 ESSENCE Festival® presented by Coca-Cola. Growth in Festival attendance, which reached more than 510,000, and a boost in tourism spending within the host City and State of New Orleans, Louisiana, garnered the highest fiscal input in the event’s 24-year history. Nearing 130,000 attendees per day, the ESSENCE Festival is now also the nation’s largest entertainment and cultural event based on average daily attendance, leading events including Coachella, SXSW, New Orleans Jazz and Made in America festivals.
“As one of the world’s largest annual curated content experiences attracting an international audience of more than a half million people over the course of one weekend, the essence Festival packs a proven and powerful economic punch–and continues to reach new heights in collaboration with the State of Louisiana and City of New Orleans,” said Michelle Ebanks, CEO of Essence Communications. “Working together with our government and enterprise partners, we are pleased to report the highest-ever contribution to the growth and profitability of local businesses and services that help to create an unforgettable experience for our Festival community.”
With the 2018 summer Festival season wrapped, the 4-day Essence Festival has emerged as the leader in size and economic significance among the country’s largest live events and a top destination for tourism during Fourth of July weekend. Through attendee surveys and analysis based on event production, lodging, food & beverage, retail, gaming and transportation spend, the annual economic figure represents a substantial benefit to Louisiana and New Orleans seasonal tourism and shines a spotlight that furthers the legacy of one the nation’s most culturally rich and diverse destinations.
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JULY 06: (L-R) Angela Rye, Mary J. Blige, Maxine Waters, Alencia Johnson, Queen Latifah and Remy Ma pose onstage during the 2018 Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on July 6, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Essence)
“This year’s Essence Festival was a great success in terms of attendance and national exposure for New Orleans and Louisiana. I believe many of the Essence Festival attendees will be returning to our state for years to come,” said Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.
“On behalf of the City of New Orleans, I am grateful for our continued partnership with the ESSENCE Festival and proud of the impact that’s been made,” said New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “This year’s Fest generated tremendous economic activity for the City — money that went to our large and small businesses and to the working men and women who make them run. We look forward to another historic year in 2019.”
In addition to the attendance and economic impact, the scale of talent, programming and digital engagement at the ESSENCE Festival is unmatched. A 2018 Essence Festival by-the-numbers analysis reveals further record-breaking engagement including 100+ performing artists; 200+ influencers, leaders, creators and celebrities; 150+ Marketplace entrepreneurs; and 200+ hours of live content throughout the weekend that generated 5 billion+ media and PR impressions and reached trending status on social media, featuring 103+ million posts, shares and likes and resulting in 14+ billion social media impressions.
“On the eve of the ESSENCE Festival’s 25th anniversary, scheduled for July 4-7, 2019, this summer’s extraordinary gathering underscores the convening power of culture, as well as the continued interest and engagement of Black women globally around community and content that empowers and inspires,” said Ebanks. “We were thrilled this year to be able to introduce new entrepreneurial and business experiences such as our ESSENCE E-Suites and our ESSENCE Marche e-commerce platform. But there’s so much more. As an almost five-decade-old startup, we are excited to move forward not only as a reimagined media and content company but also as a technology and commerce company using 21st-century platforms to provide even more effective solutions to our community of women. We are continually evolving to shape our work to meet their needs with increasing depth and relevance, and this is just the beginning.”
The 2018 ESSENCE Festival was executive produced by Essence Festivals LLC, a division of Essence Communications Inc. (ECI), and produced by Solomon Group. GeChar was the executive producer of the 2018 ESSENCE Empowerment Experience.
Sponsors of the 2018 ESSENCE Festival included presenting sponsor Coca-Cola and major sponsors AT&T, Ford, McDonald’s, State Farm and Walmart.
About Essence Communications Inc. Essence Communications is the number one media, technology and commerce company dedicated to Black women and inspires a global audience of more than 17 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 people of color.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
On Friday, September 14, the Birmingham Zoo will host its largest annual fundraising event, ZooGala 2018 – Indaba in Africa, sponsored by IBERIABANK, partner of the Birmingham Zoo for the past nine years.
The affair will be held at the Zoo. Stunning décor inspired by African safaris, markets, savannahs, rainforests, and coastlines will transform the event into an evening to remember. Guests are invited to mingle and enjoy culinary offerings, inspired by regional African cuisine by Kathy G. & Company. Live entertainment will be performed by The Main Attraction for your dancing pleasure. Throughout the evening, guests will experience special animal walkabouts and greetings.
The Birmingham Zoohosts an online silent auction that includes an array of exciting travel opportunities, artwork, jewelry, fine wine, and dining. Anyone may partake in the online auction. Guests do not have to be present at the event to participate; registration is encouraged.
Chairs for this year are Amanda Davis, Leigh Davis, and Sumner Rives. ZooGala Advisor for 2018 is Britt Redden. Candice McKinney is Chair of the VIP Pre-Party, which begins at 6 pm and will introduce an innovative conservation program. Honorary chairs are Janice and Roddy McKinney. IBERIABANK ZooGala 2018 tickets may be purchased for $250/person. VIP Pre-Party tickets are $350/person and include entrance to ZooGala.
IBERIABANK ZooGala 2018 proceeds benefit the Birmingham Zoo’s animal care and educational programs. Guests must be 21 years or older. Attire is cocktail. For ticketing information and more details about the party, to participate in the online auction, and in the case of inclement weather, visit www.birminghamzoo.com.
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