New volume 1 issue 4 November- December

2 Visit BBUmagazine.com | November-December 2014

3


CONTENTS

Volume 1 | Issue 4 November-December 2014

5 CONTRIBUTORS

6 EDITOR’S LETTER

7 BEHIND THE LENS TEAM Get to know the team that made our cover photo shoot simply beautiful!

ON THE RADAR 10 IN THE COMMUNITY– Community Events and blogger recaps, Upcoming Event Calendar 13 SPOTLIGHTS– Business Professionals to watch; Dr. Johna McClendon, Author Jennifer Hayes, and Photog-rapher Ken Maurice Kellogg 16 BBU! LIST Editor's Pick– Gifts for the family this sea-son

BBU! STYLE 20 FASHION– Fall to Winter Favorites

THE WHOLE U! 27 HEALTH & WELLNESS- Why Should you Brush AND Floss by Dr. Bethaniel Jefferson 28 INSPIRATION– Inner You by Faye Carter 33 CONNECTING OVER FOOD– Carrot Cake is on the BBUI! menu 34 READER’S LOUNGE– Bound by Memphis by Au-thor Jennifer J. Hayes 38 LAST WORD W.O.W. Moments by Shunte Davis

FEATURES 18 VISUAL STORY– “When Color Tells the Story” by photographer Jamel Sims 22 BEAUTY AWARD WINNERS– Winners from the Total Beauty Ladies Events 2014 Beauty Awards 30 COOKING UP FOOD FOR THE SOUL– Talented Houston based Chefs and Bakers

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On this page Photographer: Jamel Sims

JS Photography/Retouching Model: Kienia Green MUA: Quetta Stubbs

BBU! Magazine

PUBLISHER

MY BEAUTIFUL FAMILY INC LLC

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & FOUNDER

Shunte Gamble-Davis

EDITOR-AT-LARGE & FOUNDER Wendell Davis

CONTIRBUTING AUTHORS

Dr. Bethaniel Jefferson Life Coach Faye Carter

Fashion Blogger Shalanda Turner

● ● ● ●

Join the BBU! Team Beautifully Being U! Magazine wants to hear from

you! We welcome submissions for publication.

We provide inspiration and reliable information that

helps women balance their lives.

Submit to [email protected]

● ● ● ●

Contact Us: Beautifully Being U! Magazine

P.O. Box 2294

Stafford, Texas 77497

(P) 832-866-4373

Beautifully Being U! Magazine is published four times a

year as a digital download or as a printed copy and is

purposed to be a great tool for beautifully living. Alt-

hough BBU! Magazine strives to ensure the accuracy

and correctness of the information published, we do

not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccu-

racies or missions. The views expressed by authors of

publications or event presentations, published in BBU!

Magazine, do not necessarily represent the views of

BBU! Decisions or actions based on the information and

publications provided by BBU! are at your own risk. Re-

production in whole or in part without prior written con-

sent is prohibited. Trademarked property of My Beauti-

ful Family Inc. LLC


I decided to step outside of my comfort zone for the cover of this issue. I wanted to

end our debut year on a personal note to convey our gratitude for the out-pouring of support!

We have had the pleasure of working with very talented writ-ers, entrepreneurs, models, and sponsors. I am so excited to see what 2015 will hold for Beautifully Being U! Magazine and from the editor’s desk things are looking pretty exciting.

Stop by and visit us online at www.bbumagazine.com. We have a fabulous line up of fundraisers, BBU! Cover opportuni-ties, and more! I look forward to seeing you soon!

From the Editor’s Desk

Be Bold….Be Beautiful….Be U!

xoxo..Shunte

FOLLOW US!

/BBUMAGAZINE

7

Behind the Lens Team | BBU! Cover

Photography by Roderick Lightfoot

Tell us about your company.

RL Studio incorporates a passion for photography

and an understanding of light and composition to cre-

ate stunning images for every client.

What inspires your photography?

The beauty, creativity and uniqueness of the universe.

In the world of photography, how do you define beau-

ty?

That which invokes pleasure as its defined by

the absorption and deflection of light.

How can our readers contact you?

www.rlstud.com

How did you get your start?

My introduction came from watching my mother put makeup when I was child. My

mom was a Mary Kay rep which allowed me experiment with different colors and

texture on myself and friends. I was a makeup artist before I knew what a makeup

artistry was. It was pure love at first before I knew it was real a profession

What advice would you give someone starting out in your profession? Learn your

craft and be enduringly passionate about your God given gift. Study the human

face, skin and how light act to it. "Practice not until you get right but till you can't

get it wrong.

What one trend are you liking? Orange Lipstick

How do you define beauty? Being comfortable in your own skin. It doesn't matter of

your skin color, weight or size. Whether it's makeup or clothing, rock it,

have confidence, and make it your own. "Keep It FIERCE Honey"

Company: Makeup by SHATARA

Facebook: makeupbyshatara

Instagram: fierce_honey

Twitter: makeupbyshatara

Join the Team! Email us at

[email protected] to participate in the next issue of BBU!

Make-Up by

Shatara Davis


9


Photography by RL Studios

On the Radar | Events

1 W2W Workshop Leaders

(Left to Right) Shanna

Naylor, Shunte Davis,

Alexis Herron

2 W2W Panel Speakers

(Left to Right) Dr. Shiree

Berry, Shalanda Turner,

Arnaecia Alridge. Rayla

Scott

1

2

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Featured Blogger/ Shalanda Turner

A ugust 2nd, I was privi-

leged to participate in TBLE (Total Beauty La-dies Events) 1st Annual

Woman 2 Woman Empowerment

Conference as a panelist. Shunte, CEO & Founder of TBLE had asked me a few months ago if I would like

to be on the panel for the event, and I of course said yes! Y'all may not know this about me....but I'm a talk-er (Shocker)!

Hahaha, and I love to talk about topics that I feel somewhat knowl-

edgeable about, such as fashion blogging, and my life as a fashion blogger, so I was amped and ready to go.

The conference was broken into 2 parts: The AM Conference, and the PM Awards Luncheon. I was a pan-

elist during the PM portion, but I definitely wanted to attend the AM conference and it was sooooooo re-

warding! The AM Conference kicked off with light mingling over breakfast, while

everyone arrived and grabbed some yummy treats and coffee.

Then we moved over to the other

side of the conference space to create Affirmation Nametags. It was ex-plained that we needed to take the first letter of our first name and

come up with a name that described us and write that, & our name on the nametags.

I did Super Shasie. Once we had our names, we put the same name on brown paper bags that we stacked

up to receive affirmations from guests of the conference throughout the day! At the end of the morning,

everyone had a bag full of empow-ering statements to take home with them!

After our bags were set, our key-note speaker, Alexis Herron gave an encouraging, dynamic, engaging, & interactive speech on goal setting

themed to Beyonce's "I Woke Up Like This". Basically the message was know your worth & never give

up! You woke up this morning be-cause you have a purpose. It was really powerful, and I took so many notes!

Apart of Alexis's interactive speech was having everyone at the table write down a goal and pass them

around until we each had a goal that wasn't ours. Then one person from each table stood up to read the goal

they received and were asked to offer at least one method of achiev-ing their goal. The purpose was to show that connections are very im-

portant, and connect with other peo-ple can help you achieve your goals.

Between the Keynote Speaker and the Teambuilding session, Shunte awarded Jackie Adams, owner of

Melodrama Boutique, with the Woman of the Year award! Congrats to Jackie! You might also recognize Jackie from my FGI-Houston Event

Coverage on Shop Talk.

After Jackie's award and a brief

break to leave affirmation state-ments for each other, Shunte Davis kicked off the team-building work-shop. First she shook us up, but hav-

ing us switch seats and sit with peo-ple we didn't know. Each table re-ceive a black bag with an item in-

side. Each table had 3 minutes to come up with an elevator pitch to promote their product, resulting in a buy or try. We then had 1 minute to

deliver our spiel, commercial. This was sooo funny! Everyone had unique ideas for promoting their

tables products! This wasn't my first time making a vision board, as I made a wall-sized

one about 2 years ago, but this is the first time, I made a portable one. I was getting so into my vision board making that I didn't want to stop

working on it to head over to the luncheon! LOL!

PM AWARDS LUNCHEON Most of the AM Conference at-tendees stayed for the PM Portion of the Conference, and joined the

luncheon-only attendees. During lunch, myself, Dr. Shiree Berry, Co-median Rayla Scott, and Marketing Guru Arnaecia Aldridge spoke to

the ladies from the panel. We answered such questions as,

"How do you deal with woman be-ing catty?" "How did you know this was your passion?"

"What's the best way to increase self-esteem and feeling good about one-self?" and more. I had an amazing

time participating on the panel, but an even better time participating in the conference and learning from all the leaders and woman around me!

It was a great time, and I can't wait to attend next year! Read more about events

at live-life-in-style.com

Shalanda on Left


Save the Dates for 2015 January 31st

April 18th

1ST ANNUAL COUTURE FASHION SHOW | SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER | F.F.H. EVENT When: January 31 6-9pm Where: Crown Plaza Hotel (Near Reliant), Houston, Texas Cost: $50 VIP / $40 General Admission Tickets: www.Wec-Couture.eventbrite.com About: Total Beauty Ladies Events' CEO Shunte Gamble-Davis hosts her 1st Annual Couture Fashion Show purposed to fundraise to provide scholarships for deserving 2015 graduates through their

non profit organization My Beautiful Family Inc. and as a launch party to debut their women’s organization Women Empowering Change. A GREAT GATSBY SOIREE| 3RD ANNUAL GALA | F.F.H. EVENT When: April 18th 5-9pm Where: CWA Local Banquet Hall, Houston, Texas Cost: $75 VIP / $65 General Admission Tickets: www.GatsbySoiree.eventbrite.com About: Total Beauty Ladies Events' CEO Shunte Gamble-Davis hosts her 1st Annual Woman 2 Woman Empowerment Conference purposed to fundraise to support My Beautiful Family Inc. The evening

will host a 1920’s theme dinner party complete with a red carpet, live and silent auctions, casino tables and fun.!

13

On the Radar | Spotlight

Dr. Johna McClendon is the Leading Lady and

Co-Founder of Manoah McClendon Ministries.

She serves on the Board of Directors of the min-

istry’s non-profit 501c3, host of Johna’s Broad-

casting Corner, Professor of Manoah McClendon

Ministries Online Institute, Chair of the

McClendon Global Foundation, and the adminis-

trator of the Food for Living Program.

She is the proud wife of Pastor Manoah McClen-

don and mother of Zoe and Manoah McClendon

II.

Dr. McClendon completed a Doctorate in Educa-

tional Administration from Texas Southern Uni-

versity in Educational Administration with em-

phasis in Higher Education. She is also pursuing

a Doctorate of Biblical Wisdom from the Wisdom

University. She has earned her Master’s in Ur-

ban Education from Langston University and

Bachelors of Science from the University of Cen-

tral Oklahoma.

Dr. McClendon’s books “Triumphant: Opportuni-

ties in the Midst of Brokenness” launched Fall

2014. The motto that is the driving force of her

life is Matthew 19:26; “With man this is impossi-

ble, but with God all things are possible.”

Website: http://www.manoahmcclendon.org

Author of Triumphant: Opportunities in the Midst of Brokenness

Dr. Johna McClendon



Author of Bound by Memphis

Jennifer J. Hayes

Jennifer J. Hayes now resides in

Houston, Texas, with the two loves

of her life: her husband of 9 years

and their 5 year old son. Jennifer is

currently working as a marketing

director for SinglesPLUS, a suc-

cessful matchmaking compa-

ny. She has been helping her cli-

ents find love, for the past 15 years.

Somewhere in between running a

successful marketing firm, hosting

a relationship-based radio show–

S.W.A.K. Radio, writing her col-

umn- Jei, Knows it All, supporting

her foundation- I Know How to

Read, and being a wife and mother,

she managed to fulfill her latest

passion in writing her first debut

novel Bound by Memphis.

Her novel Bound by Memphis won

her last year's BWABC Literary

Author of the year award. Jennifer

is a graduate of the University of

Houston and currently working on

her second novel, Memphis Mae.

Read more about Jennifer at

http://www.jenniferjhayes.com

15

CEO & Lead Photographer of Ultimate Events Unlimited

Ken Maurice Kellogg

Tell us about you.

My craft is a spiritual art. Since I was young, art has

been a part of my life. My aunt (an art professor) taught

me a lot about fine and conventional art. While maturing

into a man, I learned graphic design and photography.

My wife was the catalyst for me venturing into full profes-

sional photography. Now, I have built a brand that

speaks for itself. With the ability of transcending person-

ality and emotion through images, I can tell a story the

way it was meant to be told.

Tell us about your company

Ultimate Events Unlimited is a company based on giving

the personal experience. Along with design and event

planning, we strongly feature photography and videogra-

phy.

What inspires your craft?

Being able to capture a moment in time only to express

the sentiments of that moment in an artistic form of sto-

rytelling is a dream come true! My inspiration is True

Love.

How do you define beauty?

Beauty is to be felt, heard, and seen. It must be observed

with more than just eyes. True beauty is the perfection of

creation. Beauty is also an instrument that reflects sheer joy.

Tell us about your most memorable shoot.

I don't have a single favorite event, but there is one that stands out. One of my clients wanted to go to

Seattle for their engagement session. So, while reliving their courtship in the hills and snowy slopes

of the Northwest US, we had the privilege of capturing their love story for 3 days. Venturing out to

Washington state for a session with these great love birds was awesome!

Company Website: www.ultimateventsLLC.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ultimateeventsphotos

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ultimateventsphotos



Our picks for the perfect gifts this season!

BBU! List

Smartphone Projector Bring the movies to you

all from your phone!

Superman Caped Knee Sock

USBCELL MXAA02 AA Rechargeable Battery 2 Cell Pack by Moixa

17


When Color Tells the Story

Photographer: Jamel Sims JS Photography/Retouching

Model: Sanya Ismail

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BBU! Style | Fall Favorites

Fall to Winter Favorites

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Betsey Johnson Blackout Pave Halo Studs Steve Madden Women's Darona Boots Booties RAG & BONE Skinny Jeans Turn-down-collar Denim-seamed Md-long Sweater Vivienne Westwood Anglomania Women's State Coat – Black

Linda Lee Johnson Diamond & Rose Gold Cos-

mic Coin Pendant Necklace

River Island Cream wrap blouse

THVM Twilight Hi-Rise Skinny

Steve Madden Women's Skippur Boots

Jaeger Short Wool Cocoon Funnel Neck Coat

Inspiration for your fall to winter wardrobe.

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V. Fraas Confetti Bouclé Loop Scarf

UNIQLO Women Heattech Knit Long

Sleeve Dress

Burberry Wendron Boots

Alexander McQueen Ivy Embossed Patent

Leather Biker Jacket

Chicwish Amore Tulle Midi Skirt in Black

Prada Black pointed toe 'Vitello Lux' ankle

zip leather booties


BBU! Style | Feature

2014 Beauty Awards

Mimi Irvin Beauty Category: Beauty/Fashion Blogger

Tell about your company. My blog MeYe Label (pronounced MY Label) was created to inspire women to realize that personal

style is about YOU while adding unique pieces on a budget. In less than two years, I have become known on various social media platforms, specifically Face-book and Instagram, for demonstrating my unique

style at my day job as a Corporate Chic. I am a huge fan of thrift, resale, and consignment shops. I am here to inspire you to find your "treasure find" and

honestly say it's MeYe Label. How did you get your start? I started my first blog post in March of 2013 on Facebook all on a whim. I

wanted to show women they could think outside the box yet be professional in corporate America, while accomplishing it on a budget.

What is your personal motto? My personal motto is "Dress the Part, Shop Smart"

How do you define beauty? Beauty starts within yourself. It's not just physical, it's how you treat peo-ple, how you carry yourself and walking in confi-dence.

ONE word that describes your style: DARING

Must Have Beauty Item: Red Lipstick

Kim Tezeno Beauty Category: Model

Tell about your company. KimKay Enterprise is a company that consists of products, workshops, and coaching sessions for

models. My company is a one stop shop for models whether they are seasoned or aspiring. We focus on equipping models with the essen-tials needed to be successful in the fashion in-

dustry. How did you get your start?

My modeling career started from when I partic-ipated in the Nzuri Natural Hair Health & Beau-ty Expo. I went to an audition for the fun of do-ing something different and I was chosen, after

that experience I have been off and running in the fashion/modeling world.

What is your personal motto? My motto is “TO THY OWN SELF BE TRUE” How do you define beauty? I define beauty as

something that comes from within it has nothing to do with what can be seen with the eyes. A person is beautiful when they possess a beauti-ful spirit.

ONE word that describes your style: Sophisticat-ed

Must Have Beauty Item: Sunscreen SPF20

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Melissa Williams Beauty Category: Model

Tell about your company. I am a upcoming model in the Houston areas who sells Ardyss products. I can

help with weight loss and nutrition goals. One appointment with Ardyss will change your life!

How did you get your start? I start exposing myself to modeling by participating in photo shoots and fashion

shows. What is your personal motto? It's never too late to achieve you dreams, stay focus

and make it happened never give up! How do you define beauty? Beauty is in

the eye of the beholder. ONE word that describes your style: Fash-ionista

Must Have Beauty Item: Designer Hand-bags

Ashly Escamilla Beauty Category: Model

Tell about your company. Through Our Lens Photos (TOLP) modeling Agency is a full range modeling agency that

represents women, men, makeup and hair artists, and photographers at the national level. Talent available in all genres from live events, runway, and concept photography.

How did you get your start? In mid high school I started modeling for a

local Baytown photographer and got a lot of attention. From there, I began modeling for students at the Art Institute of Houston. Now, I am happily signed to the Through

Our Lens Photos (TOLP) modeling Agency.

What is your personal motto? Anything is possible as long as you try your best and give it your all.

How do you define beauty? My definition of beauty would be to have a good spirit, nice personality, along with good hygiene. You see, beauty isn't only about the outside,

what’s on the inside also matters. Its not all about looks.

ONE word that describes your style: Theatri-cal

Must Have Beauty Item: Urban Decay's Eye Shadow Primer


BBU! Style | Feature

Mahreen Khan Beauty Category: Make-Up Artist

Tell about your company. Since debuting in 2013, I built my company focusing on the needs of the customer. At Bella Services, we

strive to provide our clients a customized package that best suits their need. I travel to my clients for their convenience on the day of their occasion so they are comfortable.

How did you get your start? I've been fortunate to work with some very talented

people however, I worked to get my name out there by volunteering my services for charity. My first big break was the South Asian Bibi Bridal show.

What is your personal motto? I believe life should have a work life balance and anything is achievable.

How do you define beauty? Beauty is a combination or internal bliss and external confidence. When I style a woman, I believe in creatively enhancing her natu-ral beauty and accentuating their features to her full-

est potential without changing her appearance com-pletely. Beauty is a woman's smile, the sparkle in their eye, their confidence.

ONE word that describes your style: Dynamic Must Have Beauty Item: Kabuki blending brush

Kiante Sloan Beauty Category: Hair Stylists

Tell about your company. KSalon Inc. is a boutique Salon that offers exclusive services to our clients. Our ser-

vices range from hair care and beauty needs including makeup and skin care. How did you get your start?

I began my career in high school cosmetol-ogy courses. Then I started my first Salon as a result of co-owning for several years.

What is your personal motto? Excellence as a standard.

How do you define beauty? My belief is that beauty starts on the inside. It's reflect-

ed in a person’s character and personal in-tegrity. It radiates outward to a person’s appearance, whether they are simple in personal style or a flamboyant diva.

ONE word that describes your style: Ele-gant

Must Have Beauty Item: Mascara

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Tamela Rice Beauty Category: Event Planner

Tell about your company. My company name is TaLaHaRi Wedding Plan-ning. TaLaHaRi comes from the first 2 initials of

my first name, middle name, maiden name, & married name. It also means royalty, therefore I treat my clients as such. We handle the stressful aspects of the planning and execution process so

our clients can enjoy their special event without the stress. TaLaHaRi is more than planning and execution, we conduct extensive research and

offer vendor connections, an unforgettable expe-rience, and resources to help each client get the most value for each dollar.

How did you get your start? It all started with my desire to help people un-derstanding how stressful planning a event can

be. I immediately wanted to do something to take the stressful burden off those individuals. It's all about seeing people happy!

What is your personal motto? That I may not have the proof, but I have the promise. As long as I have a promise, that’s proof enough for me...FAITH!

How do you define beauty? Beauty is more than what’s on the exterior; it's the interior that shines

even when you don't even try. The characteris-tics that makes a person who they are from the inside out.

ONE word that describes your style: Sassy Must Have Beauty Item: Lashes

20%

OFF

Advertise with BBU!

Expiration Date: 01/31/2015

Offer expires

January 31,2015 Email us at

[email protected]

BEAUTIFULLY BEING

U! MAGAZINE


27

The Whole U! | Health & Wellness

Why Should You Brush AND Floss

Studies have shown that there is a link between your dental health and the health of your body. This is called the mouth body correlation. Many individuals wonder why they must go to a dentist and the importance of proper brushing and flossing. The mouth is the entryway to your body. Anything that you place in your mouth, can be beneficial or detrimental to your health. If you were to place a pen in your mouth, the germs that are circulating in the air are on the pen, they go in your mouth; and can possibly lead to an ailment; especially if you have a compromised immune system. The same things happens with food. If you brush your teeth at 8 am, eat breakfast, drink tea, water, soda, or smoothies throughout the remainder of the day; bac-teria and particles from the food remain in between the teeth. Why must you brush? Brushing properly allows you to keep your teeth for a lifetime. Brushing involves gently massaging the gums in a circular motion and brushing each tooth for 3 seconds each on the front and back sides of every tooth. Proper brushing takes approximately 2 to 3.5 minutes. Why must you floss? Over the course of one day; chemicals & bacteria remain in between the teeth from food. Even if you brush 2 – 3 times per day, brushing alone will not remove all the food debris. Floss helps you get in between the teeth & remove food particles, bacteria, & plaque that may build up and cause more problems if you do not remove them. These problems include inflammation of the gums, redness, irritation, possible bleeding, and can lead to loose teeth over a period of time. With proper brushing and flossing you will be able to keep your teeth for a lifetime. There are many quotes that say, “only floss the teeth that you want to keep.” Hopefully you want to keep all of your teeth and you can begin a healthy oral care regimen at home. Dental care is affordable but prevention of gum disease and dental decay is important. Proper brush-ing & flossing would not be complete without a visit to your dentist at least twice per year. Call a dentist today to begin proper oral care.

BETHANIEL S. JEFFERSON, D.D.S graduated from Prairie View A & M

University in Prairie View, TX and then attended The University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry. She spent 3 ½ years as an associate in vari-

ous dental settings and then purchased a private practice. She is a member of the American Den-

tal Association, The Greater Houston Dental Society, The Texas Dental Asso-ciation, & volunteered to be on The

Peer Review Committee. Dr. Jefferson participates in The Star of the South Dental Meeting each year in Houston, TX & is a Class Host or Class Captain.

She continues to increase her dental knowledge by taking continuing educa-

tion courses throughout the year be-cause she believes in providing com-prehensive dental care to each of her patients. Dr. Jefferson has been in den-

tal practice for over 10 years.

Phone - 281-895-7787 Fax - 281-895-6844 www.drbethanielsjefferson.com


By Faye Carter

Inner You

The Whole U! | Inspiration

O ne thing I have come to love is a photo

shoot. The thought of make-up, clothes, camera, and lights makes me giddy in-side. Through the lens of the camera im-

ages are taken. In the development processing, air-

brushing takes away unwanted imperfections making the final product flawless.

However, cameras only have the capacity to shoot im-ages of the outer us. What about the images of the in-ner us? If the camera could bring the inner us out onto a canvas what would those images reveal? Would it

expose dark images of low self-esteem? Or would it capture bright images of a healthy self-esteem?

A good portion of my young adult life was spent struggling with my looks and weight. The fight to im-press people, especially men, brought my self-esteem down to an all-time lows. I went through a countless

number of hairdos and I exchanged my eyeglasses for contact lens. I even went as far as purchasing expen-sive clothes I couldn’t afford to starving myself to lose weight.

I would do just about anything to invest in the outer me.

However, nothing I did was lasting because I made no genuine investments in the inner me. Please don’t get me wrong, its’ a good thing to invest in the outer you keeping your motives in order.

Negative comments added to my low self-esteem. Back in my University of Houston days, I had a huge crush

on a slightly older man. Not only was he older he was hot. I ditched class to hang out with him! To my disap-pointment, he made it clear, in order for me to date him I had to tone up. Since then, I have had a host of nega-

tive comments hurled toward the shape of my legs, the fullness of my lips, and the thickness of my glasses.

It’s funny how we want what we don’t have, making us ungrateful for what we do have. What we consider im-perfection is someone else’s treasure. Women with hips wish for no hips while women with no hips wish for

hips. Shorts women wish to be tall and tall women wish to be short. Brunettes wish to be blondes and blondes wish to be brunettes. The wish list goes on and on.

Over the years, I have come to realize that the outer me will not make or break me. It’s all the things on the in-side that dictates who I am. Thankfully, it’s never too

late to make golden investments in the inner you. How? Love yourself. Know that you’re made in the image of the Most High God.

Delete those who are sowing negativism from your cir-cle. Change what you can for the good and embrace what you can’t. The most important thing is that you’re healthy. Uproot negative comments and plant positive

comments in your spirit. And now, dear sisters and brothers, one last thing, set

your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8).

Faye Carter, on the Left, for the Cover of the Spring/Summer issue of BBU! Magazine

29

20% Your Ad Here!

Expiration Date: 01/31/2015

Offer expires

January 31,2015

Email us at [email protected]

BEAUTIFULLY BEING U! MAGAZINE


Marissa Moncriffe

Cuisine D’or Gourmet Catering by Marissa Jonais

Tell us about you and your company: Cuisine D’or Gourmet Catering by Marissa Jonais is an independently owned business that specializes in all things flavor. I love of food, fabulous décor, and setting the perfect atmosphere.

I have always had a passion for cooking and making people happy one meal at a time. My professional background is in business management where I received my bachelors degree from Texas Southern University in Houston, TX. I love what I do and I can’t wait to cater your next event! What is your favorite dish your company offers? My favorite dish that Cuisine D’or offers is the Bourbon St. Pasta. It has about 13 different ingredients in it and it all marries together like a match made in heaven. Just to name a few, it has Andouille sausage, fresh shrimp, and a dash of cayenne to make it come alive.

Booking Information Email: [email protected]

COOKING UP FOOD FOR THE SOUL

31

LaKisha Green

Epiphanies Desserts

Tell us about yourself and your company. I am a self taught culinarian. By profession, I am also a nurse and kinesiologist. My in-terest in baking began as a child as I watched my great-grandmother and grand-mother provide baked desserts for love and for sale. In 2007, I decided to step out on faith and begin what has become one of my greatest passions and endeavors. What inspired your love of cooking? My grandmother inspired my love for baking. I also have a heart and desire to create edible joys for my loved ones and clients. We know great food is connected to great feel-ings! What is your favorite dish or dessert your company offers? The pumpkin squares are my favorite dessert because this has been the chosen dessert used to win people over and create fans of EPIPHANIES. What’s been the most rewarding part of your career? The most rewarding part of my career has been providing specialty treats for my clients and experiencing their reactions and acts of excitement and appre-ciation.

Booking Information [email protected]

Connecting Over Food | Feature


Tell us about yourself and your company. I'm a New Orleans native and I come from a very large, loving family. My love for celebrating and en-tertaining came quite naturally. We always had or

found a reason to celebrate. I worked as a cook for 9 years, then In 2011 I decided to start my own catering business. That same year I received an associates degree in Gourmet Cooking & Catering and Food Service Management Cer-tification. Idias Catering is short for I Do It All. We specialize in But not limited to Creole Cuisine and we also offer decorating and event planning ser-vices. What inspired your love of cooking? My inspiration for cooking came from my trips to the school cafeteria when I was a kid. I loved the smell of it and everything that was going on behind the scenes. I knew then an there I had a connec-tion with cooking. I enjoyed cooking and entertaining my family and friends. As I grew older, I learned that both of my grandmothers where cooks and business owners. For me it was a no brainier to start my own business! What is your favorite dish your company offers? Idias Catering is known for our Shrimp & Crawfish Pasta, Pound Cake and our Bread Pudding w/Rum Sauce. Our clients absolutely love it!


Sharon Alfred

Idias Catering

33


Tell us about yourself and your company. Dinner for Two is what I consider a unique type of catering company. Our focus is to not only give you great customer service and great food, but to also create memories. What inspired your love of cooking? My culi-nary journey began with a job as a dishwasher. I was always present throughout the kitchen area asking questions and taking notes. That is when I realized that I loved the way people responded to food, and the journey begun. What is your favorite dish or dessert your com-pany offers? We are a catering company that is open to a variety of dishes that may rattle ones appetite! What’s been the most rewarding part of your ca-reer? The most rewarding part of my career is being able to entertain clients with my culinary creations.


Arthur Thomas

Dinner for Two Catering

Connecting Over Food | Feature

35

Connecting Over Food | Recipe

Moist Carrot Cake

2 cups sugar

2 cups flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 ½ cup vegetable oil

4 eggs

3 cups grated carrots- you can get these in the produce area

1 cup chopped walnuts

1 package cream cheese

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ cup heavy whipping cream

2 ½ cups sifted confectioners’ sugar

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, Grease one 9 or 10 inch round or square

pan

Sift the flour, salt, cinnamon, baking soda

Combine the sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, soda, oil. With an electric mixer

beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the carrots and the walnuts. Pour the

batter into the prepared baking pan.

Bake at 350 degrees, for 1 hour 20 minutes. Note: this cake can be made

in two 9 inch layer cake pans just change the baking time to 40 minutes.

To Make Frosting: With an electric mixer blend the cream cheese and

cream. Add the vanilla and confectioners' sugar, can add more sugar if

you want it thicker.

Recipe by Celeste Henry To order this cake and more visit us online at

www.gateaux.vpweb.com

http://www.gateaux.vpweb.com/


Loosely inspired by true events, Bound by Memphis, by Jennifer J. Hayes, is the steamy, sultry romantic story of Jasmine Henderson, a successful public relations consultant who has everything she's wanted in life... Well, just about everything. Fourteen years ago, while planning her wedding to Melvin Brown, better known as MB, she was left at the altar with no explanations. Although she assumed she'd never move on, she ended up meeting and marrying the love of her life, Chauncey M. Henderson, and having a child, years later. It's when Jasmine's latest work venture places her in the city that holds memories to her past, Memphis, MB resurfaces when he learns she's back in town. Although Jasmine loves her husband, her son, and her life, she can't deny the passion and chemistry that she once shared with MB. Briefly away from her fam-ily and home in Dallas, Jasmine is left alone to deal with these emotions and unresolved questions of MB. She goes looking for answers to why he walked away. When forced to confront painful memories she awakens something she thought died long ago. In this novel, Jasmine discovers herself as she explores the depths of her former love versus her current life, and learns "Love doesn't change, people change." Bound by Memphis takes you on an insightful jour-ney of love, joy, and pain, and gives a deeper meaning to why sometimes "you have to lose happiness to find it again." Read more about this book at http://www.jenniferjhayes.com

Jennifer J. Hayes The Author

Reader’s Lounge | Spotlight

Bound by Memphis The Book

37


W.O.W. Moment Words of Wisdom

“Know your worth.”

-Shunte-

Not too long ago I posted "Know your Why" to my personal facebook page and immediately saw the people who appreciated my gentle words of affirma-

tion. Soon after my heart became saturated with “Knowing your Worth.” I felt the sudden urge to post for anyone needing a boost of confidence to get them just a little further in their journey.

Now I sit to write this same message of hope. We all have something of value to add to this world; we all

matter. When we take a look at who we are, we de-pend less on others to tell us who we are. We func-tion from places of confidence, joy, and peace. As a result, our light continues to shine.

How I wish I had this to pull from years ago when I found myself caught in the grips of despair. I can look back and see how far I’ve come and I know that

it gets better. It makes my heart smile to share mes-sages of empowerment because we all need words that speak life into us. We all need those who lend

not only a shoulder to lean on but love from their hearts. Be encouraged and know your worth!

Shunte Davis

The Last Word | W.O.W. Moment

39

Our fragrances are inspired by designer perfumes and colognes that are formulated true to the scent. They are 100% concentrated fragrance

oils that prove to be more intense and longer lasting on your body. Our

products are always chemical and alcohol free. Great for sensitive skin! Visit us online at www.tru-essenceoils.com

Special Thanks We thank you for your support of our 2014 Fundraising for Hope Campaign. The funds raised this year will provide free

mammograms for women in need of healthcare assistance. For more events, visit us at www.totalbeautyladiesevent.com.

2014 Sponsors 2014 Supporters

DJ Party Man Entertainment RE Event Solutions Keisha’s Kreations TASC Corporation Idias Catering Dinner for Two Catering Cuisine D’or Gourmet Catering


Documents

New volume 1 issue 4 November- December