November 2011

happenings

Atlanta Wedding Planning Expert Hosts Evening of Bridal Beauty at Upscale Beauty Lounge

November 29, 2011

Wedding Expert, Tia R. Ervin Hosts ‘Beauty & The Bride’ at Polished for Brides-to-Be

Wedding Expert, Tia R. Ervin

Wedding Expert, Tia R. Ervin is coming to the rescue for all brides preparing for upcoming nuptials in her signature “WEDucation” event, Beauty & The Bride, hosted at Polished Beauty Lounge in quaint Vinings on Wednesday, December 7th. This invitation only event is the prime opportunity for brides-to-be and her wedding party to indulge in real talk about weddings and the beauty secrets that lie within. With countless weddings under her belt, Tia knows the make or break tips for making every woman shine on the most important day of her life.

Not only will brides have their taste buds tickled by a tasting with Qream Liqueur and dessert samples as their sweet reward, but their experience will only get yummier when they are spoiled rotten with a mani/pedi service available at Polished! With close to 15 years creating beautiful, unique and fantasy weddings, author and wedding expert, Tia R. Ervin aka “The WEDucator” delights in opportunities to share her knowledge with others and currently serves as the Georgia Chapter Chair of the Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants (ACPWC). When Ervin isn’t busy guiding her own clients through the endless sea of wedding planning details, she spends her time as “The WEDucator”, an endless source of wedding planning knowledge and a trusted advocate for brides, grooms, wedding party members, parents of the bride and groom, aspiring wedding planners and other wedding professionals. Ervin shares, “I have a wealth of information gained through my personal experiences as a certified wedding consultant that I’m bubbling over with, ready to pass on to brides and other wedding professionals – simply because I’m passionate and sincere about my desire to share what I know so others may have it easier than I had it!”

Beauty & The Bride is so much more than the expected dialogue about bridal beauty. It’s all straight talk taken from “The WEDucator’s” playbook for making brides beautiful with simple tips and solutions that will keep the bride’s glow as bright as the ‘bling in the ring.’ But it’s not all about the bride, get ready bridal party, because the “The WEDucator” has something for you too. Not only will you learn ways to achieve a camera ready look for your girl’s big day, you will get a glimpse into modern day expectations of your role and responsibilities as well.

You can find us by following @TheWEDucator or using hash tags #bridalbeautychat, #beautyandthebride or #WEDucator.

Sponsors include: Polished Beauty Lounge, Tracey Brown Photography, Qream Liqueur, Floral Couture, Livi Rae Lingerie, Diva Wine Shop, Gimme Some Suga Bakery Bar, Perfect Wedding Guide, Milestone Occasions, Kennard Photography, Eden Fantasys, Silpada Sterling Silver Jewelry, Wrapped Couture, and Bijox Wow Jewelry.

happenings

Get your Kix at the BET Hip Hop Awards Block Party!

November 11, 2011

Ok…so now I’m in recovery mode from all the excitement and events surrounding the BET Hip Hop Awards. And since I had just pulled an all-nighter at the BET BBQ Kickoff Party at Piedmont Park’s Magnolia Hall, I seriously needed a day (or two) to recoup. So, I estimated that by the coming Monday morning, just after the BET Hip Hop Awards would have ended, and all the surrounding festivities were officially in not-to-distant memory status, I (and the “luggage” that had begun to form under my eyes) would be due for a much needed trip to Sleepytown USA. But, as the saying goes, “You snooze, you lose.”, so, I guess I had better reschedule my travel plans since the weekend hadn’t even gotten started and there were yet a plethora of award related activities on the radar.

Nikka Shae with the fab Nicole Garner of The Garner Circle PR

Fly urban apparel at FlyKix ATL

So what’s next on the agenda? Hmmm… The choices were endless, BUT, thanks to a few well timed invites by the uber-fab Nicole Garner of The Garner Circle PR, I was able to attend several of the hottest events leading up to the awards ceremony.

Next in the lineup…

The BET Hip Hop Awards Nominee Block Party!

Hosted by The Garner Circle PR at FlyKix ATL on Peters Street in the Castleberry Hill District, this event was set to feature a slew of celebrities who were scheduled to drop by to pick up some and “fresh” and “fly” gear. Ok, ok… I know. The word “fresh” has undoubtedly been stricken from the thesaurus of Hip Hop vernacular since 94’, but hey, I’m reminiscing a bit 😀 so bear with me a moment.

FlyKix's urban-esque ambiance sets the tone

Fly Kix on display like fine art

So upon entering FlyKix I could not help but be captivated by the eclectic setting. With its graffiti art covered walls acting as the canvas, the sneakers and urban apparel were displayed with this abstract and colorful backdrop like Basquiat originals. The urban-esque ambiance stayed true to capturing the Hip Hop culture in style. FlyKix is a concept boutique that houses custom fitting stations, an in-store lounge, and market specific limited edition footwear and apparel. FlyKix’s merchandise represents a collision of lifestyles and subcultures infusing the arenas of music, skateboarding, sports, street art, and original style.

Espada's natural lemon based premium tequila

Nikka Shae and the fab Kenya of You Bored Bish! enjoying Espada daquiris

As I made my way around the shop mingling with the attendees, I met the fabulous Kenya Williams, who blogs under You Bored Bish! (no typo) ;-P. Kenya is a hoot! Of course I had to know where she came up with the name “You Bored Bish!” for her blog. Kenya said that the name came out of being literally “bored” out of her mind one day. And, the “Bish” part; well, I’ll let you figure that one out for yourself. 😀

So, while Kenya and I were hammin it up, we were introduced to the most fab tequila-based cocktails I have ever tasted by Espada Tequila. Shinobi Muhammad and Marion Skinner, who represent Espada, handed us a few of their signature drinks to sample. Ok. If you have never tasted Espada Tequila before…let’s just say you WILL thank me later! Espada is an Ultra Premium Tequila with natural lemon flavoring. Now, I’m not a tequila kinda gal since most tequila-based drinks tend to have a bitter undertone that leaves a bite worst than a rabid Chupacabra. But let me tell you… Espada tastes nothing of the sort.

And with its lemon liqueur flavoring and smooth taste, it will have you desiring another sip…and in my case three! 😛

Espada Tequila Models with Shinobi Muhammad (Espada Tequila), DJ Trauma & Marion Skinner (Espada Tequila)

DJ Don Cannon, Too Short, and DJ Drama

So, Kenya and I tried several mixes of Espada based drinks such as the Yellow Diamond which is Espada on the rocks with a splash of Sprite…d-lish!, strawberry and mango daiquiris blended with Espada…(OMG!), and Espada Tea which is Espada mixed with tea…classic Long Island iced tea drink, but with a bit of flair. So, after a few trips to the Big Apple :-P, Kenya and I were ready to catch a few celebs. A few notables spotted in attendance were Too $hort, Plies, DJ Don Cannon, and DJ Drama.

Courvoisier was also on hand to serve their new Rose Courvoisier flavored cognac.

Very, very smooth taste with a “rosy” finish…perfect on the rocks. 😛

Special thanks to the fab Nicole Garner of The Garner Circle PR for the invite!

Bravo Nicole for putting together such a great event! We had a lovely time!

Ok divas…it’s time to skedaddle (actual word) and try to get some rest from all the BET Hip Hop Award events…

Besides, I have a flight to catch later. I’m heading back to Long Island (thanks Espada)!!!

glam on

7 Steps to Discovering Your Celebrity Style at Any Size

November 1, 2011

Statistics tell us that more than 80% of women are dissatisfied with their bodies, and the problem starts young – 65% of young girls think they are too fat and dabble in dieting at an early age, which begins the dangerous cycle of yo-yo dieting.

While watching some of your favorite celebrities on television, you may often find yourself thinking, “Wow, I don’t know how she does it; she always looks flawless and amazing.” It may seem as if they wake up that way, but the truth is that most celebrities and public figures have mastered the art of their signature style or have a fashion stylist or image expert on speed dial for their special occasions, red carpet affairs or when it’s time to freshen up their personal brand.

You may not be a celebrity (yet), but here are seven steps to help you discover your celebrity style and look simply flawless for every occasion regardless of what size you are.

1. I dream in color – Wearing color can communicate non-verbal messages of various kinds. The color that is near your face tends to cast either flattering tones or drab shadows, which have the power to make you appear youthful, slender and happy or dull, frumpy and lifeless. Have a Color Analysis performed to determine which colors are your primary colors for the hues in your skin’s undertones.

2. Size doesn’t matter, shape does – When you know what shape you are, you can determine how to flatter your figure. The number inside the apparel doesn’t matter as much as the fit, shape and drape of the garment you have on.

3. Discover your style type – Do you prefer clean lines and cuts without a lot of intricate detailing? Well, your style is probably Conservative. If you love the latest trends and fads, more than likely, your style is Fashion Forward. It’s a lot easier to shop when you understand the primary direction in which you’re going. Being consistent with your style is what helps you to create and develop your personal brand.

4. Mind your trends – Every season, we watch to see what’s new on the runway or what our favorite celebrities will wear next. I’m guilty too; however, the key to creating your signature style is to invest in your signature items of apparel. Trends fade every season, so the last thing that you want to do is date your wardrobe. Sprinkle a few trends here and there throughout the season. I always say that your closet should only consist of 10% trendy items.

5. Invest in your signature items – A complete wardrobe should consist of a variety of staple pieces. These are the items that tend to get a lot more wear and tear than the other items in your closet, such as a tailored suit, pencil skirt, cashmere sweater, trench coat, etc. I always recommend to my clients that they “invest” in these items. Check specialty and discount department stores for sample sales, trunk sales and clearance sales in off-season to stock up on these items.

6. Mix it up – Get comfortable mixing and matching your suits, accessories, trousers, etc. Don’t be afraid to step outside of the box; every single item in your ensemble does not have to match. You will get more bang for your buck by creating various looks from limited pieces. That’s one of the first steps to owning your style.

7. Be realistic about what looks great on you – Trust your gut instincts, wear your clothes, and don’t let them wear you

style setter

10 Tips to Help You Shop Like a Professional

November 1, 2011

Save Money, Look Fantabulous, Save Time & Eliminate Clutter in Your Closet

Fall has settled in and it’s almost time to update your winter wardrobe; here are a few tricks of the trade to help you turn your next shopping trip into a fun excursion instead of a daunting task

1. Always do a closet analysis before your shopping excursion. Take note of what you already have and what items are needed to complete your wardrobe. This will keep you from falling prey to the SALE and over-splurging on unnecessary items.

2. Be sure that you feel your best. Nothing wears you out and ruins a shopping trip more than an off-mood or you aren’t feeling well. (You are bound to either dislike everything you try on or even worse … overspend.)

3. Find the perfect shopping buddy who will be honest with you.

4. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

5. Buy items that fit perfectly. The idea is to purchase articles of clothing that flatter body parts that you love, and distract from the places you want to cover up.

6. Invest in classic, basic items — in basic colors. (You will wear them more often than trendy items that will go out of style with the seasons. Build off of your basics then get into colors.)

7. Buy classic items during off-season to save money, e.g., buy winter items at the end of the season and summer items at the end of the summer season.

8. Limit your trendy purchases to three or four pieces per season. This will eliminate the well-worn cliche, “I don’t have anything to wear.”

9. Don’t forget your accessories; they bring everything together. Shop for them the same way you shop for clothes. (Invest in classics that are sterling silver or gold and then incorporate color.)

10. Only shop with cash or your debit card. This will protect you from creating more debt and you will feel fantabulous about your shopping trip.

glam on

10 Ways to Reconnect with Yourself Before the End of 2011

November 1, 2011

2011 has been a busy and tiring year but it’s not over yet, we still have to get through the most hectic, yet wonderful time of the year, the holiday season. Thanksgiving and Christmas will be here before you can blink your eyes; next up New Years. So before you have a seasonal panic attack, sit back, relax, have a cup of warm tea and meditate a bit on these 10 ways to reconnect with yourself.

1. Always take a few minutes out of your day for you and you alone, meditate, daydream, paint or whatever suits your fancy

2. Treat yourself. We all have budgets and it is wonderful to stick to them, so do you a favor and be certain to budget in a treat for yourself. It can be something as simple as purchasing your favorite ice cream or as major as stashing a few dollars each month for the diamond tennis bracelet you’ve had your eye on. This helps to prevent you from feeling deprived and possibly binging when you do go shopping.

3. Schedule fun time in. Laughter is good for the soul and helps to keeps us youthful. Try to do something fun at least once a week. Scientific studies have shown that positive emotion builds your emotional capacity to handle adversity and stress, and be more open and creative. If life’s gotten so hectic that you don’t even know what to do for fun, make a game out of trying new things until you find what’s fun for you.

4. Get a hobby. This inspires you to have something to look forward to, gives you peace, satisfaction and joy. If you’re not sure what you enjoy, try a variety of activities until you find your fit.

5. Don’t be afraid to say no. Life can be hectic and chaotic these days for everyone, however don’t let individuals intrude on your “me time” and “family time”. Unfortunately some people will drain you of your time, energy & last dime if you allow them to, being a friend is great but being a doormat is not.

6. Create inspirational phrases that you would like to see come to pass in your life, put them on your bathroom mirror or some place you look at every day. We take in so many negative images on a day to day basis; it is imperative that we speak positively to ourselves and the people and things we encounter. For example: I am a beautiful, successful, talented & loved woman that changes lives.

7. Be sure to get adequate sleep. It’s impossible to feel great about yourself and the world you’re in if you’re sluggish and tired. If you experience insomnia, give yourself down time before going to bed. This means quite time, you may choose to put your thoughts for the day in a journal, turn off the phones/ televisions or just meditate on calm and soothing thoughts.

8. Exercise at least 3 times a week. Exercise helps to get our heart rates up and energy levels pumped. Get energized, burn some calories and get a great nights’ sleep.

9. Eat properly. Be good to your body and in return your body will be good to you. Cut back on your fast food intake and you’ll notice a difference in your mental health as well as on your scale.

10. Be productive instead of busy. If you get distracted easily you may find your to-do-list at a standstill. Don’t get overwhelmed by your laundry list, just take your tasks on three at a time. Tackle the first three, then the next three and before you know it your mission list will be complete.

glam on

From Frumpy to Fabulous: 10 Quick and Simple Ways to Improve Your Overall Image

November 1, 2011

Welcome to The Secret Corner for my Secret Tips, if you want to know what it takes to be fabulous from the inside out and head-to-toe check out my latest article

FROM FRUMPY TO FABULOUS: 10 Quick and Simple Ways to Improve Your Overall Image

Updating your image and wardrobe can seem like a daunting task if you’re not sure where to begin; as your image expert I’m delighted to share my tips to help you turn this “task” into an exciting adventure as you transform from frumpy to fabulous.

Zip it up- This is what I call the model strut, you will never see a model rocking the runway without a sassy pep in her step. Displaying good posture is the key to zipping it up. Practice in the mirror or on the sidewalk, just make sure that get it. This can literally make you appear up to 10 pounds slimmer.
Dress for the size you are now- Stop holding on to those jeans that you’ve had since high school. Buy clothes in the size that you currently wear, not the size you would like to be. Dressing in your appropriate size for your body type can instantly make you appear lean and polished.
Invest in a new bra- 70% of women in the United States are wearing improper bra sizes. Go to a specialty bra store and get fitted. This is a major to-do when you want to go from frumpy to fabulous. (just a warning, this can become addictive)
Dress for your body type– The size on the inside of your garment doesn’t matter as much as having apparel that fits your body type.
Don’t forget your Spanx- Spanx is every girl’s best friend, this is a body shaper like no other; flatten bulging bellies and smooth cellulite dimples with this undergarment miracle worker.
Layering- This is a key element to creating a fabulous signature look that is polished and well put together. Feel free to mix and match items with jackets, blazers, belts, vests, etc.
Brand your accent pieces- Find a staple piece and run with it. As for me¸ I love shoes and handbags; use your staple piece to set yourself apart from the crowd, this can be a scarf, broach, feathers, flowers, you name it, the sky is the limit .
Get a mini face lift- You don’t have to go under the knife to get your eyebrows shaped, facial hair removed and eyelashes applied. It’s as simple as 1-2-3. You will appear younger and radiant as soon as you’re done
Get a new hair style– A fresh new haircut, some extensions or a new hair color can turn your life around. Be sure to schedule a consultation with a specialist to ensure professional and accurate results.
Get a massage- Take the weight of the world off your shoulders by getting a massage. This will help you to relax tight muscles, release poisonous toxins and balance the fabulous new you

Atlanta Wedding Planning Expert Hosts Evening of Bridal Beauty at Upscale Beauty Lounge

Wedding Expert, Tia R. Ervin Hosts ‘Beauty & The Bride’ at Polished for Brides-to-Be

Get your Kix at the BET Hip Hop Awards Block Party!

7 Steps to Discovering Your Celebrity Style at Any Size

10 Tips to Help You Shop Like a Professional

Save Money, Look Fantabulous, Save Time & Eliminate Clutter in Your Closet

10 Ways to Reconnect with Yourself Before the End of 2011

From Frumpy to Fabulous: 10 Quick and Simple Ways to Improve Your Overall Image

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