Inspiring Woman

My 2013 Girls Day Experience

Mon, May 13, 2013 No Comments by Miss Daja

Over the weekend I was invited to attend Girls Day which is a yearly activity day held by the Boys & Girls Club of Las Vegas, NV. With this being their 32nd Celebration, I was very happy to be apart of such a great experience. I was invited by my big sister (in my head) Ms. Alicia Gibbs, Founder of EVibes and I brought along my dear friend Kelly J aka DJ Kelly J for the ride in which we both loved every bit of.

In case you aren’t familiar with Girls Day, let me fill you in. There is a designated day that hundreds upon hundreds of girls ages 7-12 spend 3 hours enjoying fun games and activities, food and prizes. For every girl, there is a lady volunteer that she is partnered up with. Upon arrival we sign in, grab our tshirts (this years color was pink. You know we love pink!), and from there we are lined up; adults in one line, girls in the other. The first girl and first adult are paired, second girl and second adult are paired, and so on until there is no more pairing to be done. Thankfully this year there were more volunteers than there were girls. There were so many games to play that me and my Girl of the Day didn’t get a chance to play them all but overall, that didn’t stop us from enjoying the time spent and the laughs shared.

For me, meeting Greta sparked something in me. When I first got paired with her, I could instantly tell that she was very shy. From the moment I spoke to her and she didn’t respond, I knew that all I needed to do was make her feel comfortable around me. I was a new face and quite frankly, she was probably taught not to talk to strangers like most young girls are. So how could I blame her for being shy, scared even. I was once her. I immediately held her hand and talked her ear off telling her about myself and my favorite colors, Disney characters, movies, food, games and things that she could possibly relate to. In this moment, I felt so alive. I wasn’t trying to impress her with my job title, what Community I lived in or even explaining why I don’t have a car and why I prefer it that way because I’m sure she wouldn’t care and what benefit could it be for a 7 year old? She wasn’t concerned about any image and for those 3 hours, I was able to tune out the outside world and tune into the mind of a 7 year old.

After the first 20 minutes of me rambling and smiling so hard at Greta, she began to warm up to me. I noticed she would reach for my hand first before I thought to and she would laugh at my attempts to be funny. I felt like a big sister. We played games together, had lunch, snow combs, popcorn and cotton candy. Got our faces painted, took lots of pictures and she even read to me. She was extremely intelligent for her age and impressed me more times than I can count. The moment she told me “This is the best day ever. I’m going to go home and tell my brothers and they are going to be so jealous. And I want to put our pictures on my framed cork board on the wall above my bed.” I realized that 3 hours of my time that I would have probably spent online searching the web, blogging or even running errands, could have possibly changed a little girls life. She probably feels as though I inspired her but she was the one to inspire me. I encourage you all to value your time and share it with those who’s lives you could possibly change.

I want to thank Alicia and the Boys and Girls Club for making my day one to remember. Until next year…

Tagged Girl Talk, Inspiring Woman

Mrs. Carter Show World Tour Fashion Review

Fri, April 26, 2013 2 Comments by Fashion Fridays With Naomi

The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour has officially began overseas and Queen Bey has arrived fashionably prepared! The internet and news stations have been going nuts over Beyonce’s many custom made designer costumes and we’ve got all the details! If your not willing to dish out $200+ per ticket, here’s your chance to see just what she rocked …. so far!

The above Queen Elizabeth themed promo ensemble was a vintage Thierry Mugler corset from the Haute Couture Spring 1997 line paired with a blue bell sleeve coat and gold cage skirt by Alexander McQueen. The outfit was accesorized by custom “Jay-Z” jewels, but of course!

While the Elizabethan costume was stunning, the most controversial to date is the gold revealing body suit. The faux busted costume took 600 hours and 30,000 Swarovski crystals to make and was custom fit to her body using paint! This creation was crafted by designers The Blonds out of NY.

This shoulder padded, sheer white costume was designed by couture “invitation only” brand Ralph & Russo as well as a white and gold embellished suit.

Emilio Pucci was the designer of choice for Beyonce’, designing the majority of the looks this tour. Beyonce’ took to her blog to release exclusive sketches for each of his looks (along with a few others). See Emilio’s sketches come to life below!

Other fun favorites from the tour include a royal blue sparkling body suit designed by London designer Vrettos Vrettos

The sexy black studded “cat suit” was designed by legendary brand Givenchy

This red high split sheer dress was designed by Israel based designer Alon Livne

This gold and black skirted body suit was designed by David Koma

Beyonce’ switched it up for her most recent appearance in Paris France just this Wednesday in a custom number from Kenzo’s Spring 2013 collection. Watch as she puts this ensemble to work as well as a sneak preview of part of the show! We anticipate Beyonce’ to continue to switch up her looks as the tour continues, and as always we will keep you updated. Which Mrs. Carter Show World Tour look is your fav?

Tagged fashion, Inspiring Woman, music

“It’s easy to pretend ‘to be fierce and fearless because living your truth takes real courage.” Gabrielle Unions Heartfelt Speech

Tue, April 23, 2013 6 Comments by Miss Daja

Last month Gabrielle Union gave a speech at the Essence’s Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon. And after reading her speech, it made me gain another type of love for her. Now we’ve seen her work all over the big screen and we have also seen parts of her love life displayed all over the media whether we wanted to or not. But that doesn’t take away from her being human.

I personally agreed with Gabrielle’s honesty and have found myself in situations similar. With different backgrounds and scenarios yes, but as a woman feeling as though I didn’t measure up to my peers, it took a long time for me to find my own lane and stick to it. Thank you Gabby for sharing your heart with us.

“We live in a town that rewards pretending. I had been pretending to be fierce and fearless for a very long time. I was a victim masquerading as a survivor. I stayed when I should have run. I was quiet when I should have spoken up. I turned a blind eye to injustice instead of having the courage to stand up for what’s right. I used to shrink in the presence of other dope beautiful women. I used to revel in gossip and rumors, and I lived for the negativity inflicted upon my sister actresses or anyone who I felt whose shine diminished my own.

It’s easy to pretend to be fierce and fearless because living your truth takes real courage.

Real fearless and fierce women admit mistakes and they work to correct them. We stand up and we use our voices for things other than self promotion. We don’t stand by and letracism and sexism and homophobia run rapid on our watch. Real fearless and fierce women compliment other women and we recognize and embrace that their shine in no way diminishes our light and that it actually makes our light shine brighter.

So many of us in this room are sisters. We don’t always get to see each other and its good to see you here today. Women who we’ve laughed with, cried with, and struggled with, thank you for not turning your back on me.

Thank you for not tap dancing on my misery, even when I wasn’t always returning the favor.”

Tagged BEAUTY, Confidence, Girl Talk, Inspiring Woman, support

HERstory || DeAira Williams – “I don’t portray myself as a female producer I’m just a producer, and I think people treat me the way I perceive myself.”

Tue, April 9, 2013 2 Comments by Miss Daja

1. In short, who is DeAira Williams and what does she do? I believe that is still to be determined because everyday I grow in new ways; I’m constantly evolving. But, one thing that remains the same is that I am driven by the art of music and my determination to achieve everything I set my mind to. I produce and compose music which allows me to express myself in a way that words can’t reach. I feel as though when you are creating in any art form words are meaningless because expression is driven by the creativity of your emotions, you know, it’s how you feel.

2. We are all attracted to different careers but you chose music/producing. Tell us how that come about? Ever since I can remember I have always been attracted to music. Some of my earliest memories trace back to when I was 4 years old. I remember making up my own raps and songs then. As I got older I kept writing and wanted to pursue a career in writing music but couldn’t ﬁnd a producer/composer who illustrated the kind of tracks I wanted. So I started making my own tracks and it stuck.

3. After receiving a basketball scholarship for a career you thought you loved, to one day realizing your heart was in music, what have you learned about the importance in following your heart and chasing your dreams? I’ve learned that you must always check yourself and be aware of what you are doing. I realized that I did like basketball but there was something lingering that I never fully gave the proper attention to. If you have something that haunts you then you probably should be doing that. I learned that the price of an unfulﬁlled dream/ goal is steep.

4. In a world of competitors and every one aiming to be better than the next, how do you stand out among your peers in the same industry as yourself? I want to stand out by creating something that people can feel and that resonates with their emotions. I’m also trying to push the envelope and expand my range. I try to make various types of music and one thing I’ve found that remains the same, no matter what type of music it is, is that good music hits people’s core. As long as you keep it pure you’ll be alright.

5. In a male dominating field (Producer/Composer) what has your experience been like thus far? Negative/positive? when dealing with other producers? I haven’t came across any discrimination, at least to my face, for being a female producer/composer. I don’t view it that way either. I feel as though there is only one type that matters and that’s the good ones. I focus on being the best I can be, and not being the best for a girl. I don’t portray myself as a female producer I’m just a producer, and I think people treat me the way I perceive myself.

At Deaira’s Listening Party for Love Among Other Things. Pictured with (from L to R) Kelly J, Deaira, Keiara Katz and myself.

6. When you feel like giving up and going back to your comfort zone, what/who inspires you to move forward and not look back? My love for music inspires me and I think about what I really want out of life. That allows me to refocus and relight the ﬁre. I have also found that I am in love with music as a whole not just creating it, and everyday my love gets deeper. Plus there is an amazing feeling that I get when I create something so dope; I feed off that.

7. Are there any artist, male or female that you feel would vibe best with your art and that you haven’t yet but would like to work with? There are so many people that I want to work with, I would just say everyone. To just name a few Kat Dhalia, Leah Labelle, Jhene Aiko, The- Dream, Missy Elliott, Miguel and Jeremih.

8. I’m curious to know, how long does it actually take you to finish a track? Your shortest time? Longest time? It honestly depends. There have been times where it takes months or an hour an a half. I don’t like forcing anything so if I don’t have anything I just stop and come back to it. There are other times when I can’t keep up fast enough.

9. Where does DeAira see herself in 5 years? Being a well sought after producer/composer with my own production company. Working on someone’s project like how Timbaland will produce someone’s whole album. I think thats dope.

10. For those that want to keep up with your work, where can you be reached? People can check my site deaira.net twitter/instagram: d3aira

Following the 1ˢᵀ visual installment for the beat tape ‘Love Among Other Things‘ is the single track artwork and audio entitled “Bitter Sweet” produced/composed by Las Vegas native DeAira. ‘Love Among Other Things‘ is set to release May of 2013.

Tagged art, Girl Talk, Inspiring Woman, interview, support, talent

HERstory || Fashion Edition Featuring TiKeDi “TiKeDi was not built and designed with one type of female in mind.”

Fri, April 5, 2013 No Comments by Miss Daja

1. Where did you come up with the name TiKeDi for your fashion line? And how many are behind the brand itself? The name TiKeDi was derived from our names. Ti is the first two letters of Ti, Ke is the first two letters of both of our middle names Keenya and Kenya, and Di is the first two letters of our last name Dickenson. There are two people behind the brand TiKeDi, Ti and Asia Dickenson.

2. Explain your line for those who have no clue on what you create and sale..
TiKeDi offers a modern twist to your favorite basics, embracing every individual ability to be unique. We offer shredded pieces (dresses and shirts) suitable for every women and any occasion. All of our produces are fully shredded, made to order, and the entire process is done by hand. Because our customers are our number one priority every piece is made for the individual.

3. What is a day in the life of you and your brand like? A TiKeDi day is filled with waking up in the morning and checking all emails and orders. After checking emails and orders made overnight we then ship out orders that has been already processed and completed. We then go ahead and start on all new orders, and we work on those all night (usually up until 6 am). And every other Friday and Saturday we drop off pieces/ orders to ATL boutiques as they are demanded.

4. From your experience, what are 5 key components to running and maintaining a successful business?
–> Customer service is always key, we would not be where we are today without our customers and their loyalty. And as consumers ourselves we know what it is like to have good customer service, and we know what its like to experience bad customer service
–> Organization For us organization is the number one component, it drives our customer service, marketing, communication, and our fresh ideas. By staying organized we are able to maintain stability in our work environment and with each other. If we are unorganized or one thing is out of place it messed with the order in our work space, orders get messed up, and that is something that we can not only not afford but it is also unpleasant for the customers.
–> Marketing Social networking and marketing is the fuel for our business. You have to market so that your product can be seen. Instagram has been one of the biggest contributers to our marketing platform. We live in an age of visual stimulation, so when people can see our products on people other than models, on people who look like them and I, they are more likely to buy.
–> Communication Communication with our customers and supporters is very important to us, but communication with one another is even more important. Because we are twins, and the fact that we live together and work together, it can be easy to mix business with personal. Lucky for us we are each other ying and yang so we balance one another out. We are a team and we work as such, so there are no mix ups, no hard feelings, and we are able to deal with each other when we are not in TiKeDi mode.
–>Fresh ideas In order to continue to gain new followers and customers and to keep the ones we already have we have to always come up with new ideas. In this industry it is so easy to fall over to the waste side or to be forgotten. Fresh ideas keep us current, it keeps us in the spotlight and it keeps the consumers wanting more.

5. As the designer, what do you hope the consumer understands about your pieces just by seeing, touching and/or wearing Tikedi?
We just want the consumer to understand that TiKeDi is made for them. TiKeDi was not built and designed with one type of female in mind. Everyone can be comfortable and sexy in TiKeDi.

6. Describe the type of woman the Tikedi line is made for.
TiKeDi is made for all women. If you are confident in your skin then TiKeDi is for you. If you are a little shy and sweet then TiKeDi is for you. If you want to discover your “sexy” then TiKeDi is definitely for you. All TiKeDi pieces are offered in a range of sizes from xs to 4x because we want everyone to feel included. TiKeDi is not geared towards just the “normal” size woman. Anyone can wear our pieces and they do.

7. After following you on several Social sites, the one thing I’ve noticed and what stands out about you to me is your confidence. What can you say to the young girls reading this that may help them love the skin they are in?
We will tell them what our mother always told us “You will never know what it is like to be someone else, you will always be you, love and accept the skin you are in, it makes no sense wishing that you are/ were someone else.” You will always be black/white/spanish, you will always be female. These are things that we cannot change. You can only be the best you that God and the universe has intended. Pray for mental stability and then live for you.

8. If you could choose one person, dead or alive, famous or not, to be the face of your brand, who would it be and why?
The one person who would be the face of TiKeDi would have to be our current model Crissy. More than anything TiKeDi is a family business and she has stuck with us from day one. Being in the business for years and being signed to an agency she never told us no or acted as if she was too big for TiKeDi, we can never thank her enough for that. Second runner up would be Rihanna though. We love Bad gal RiRi

9. If you don’t mind sharing, what’s next for Tikedi? and do you have any plans on incorporating men pieces to your collection?
Our current goal is to be placed in at least one boutique in every major city (NYC, LA, ATL, Vegas, etc.) We will also like to make enough of a profit to start donating a portion of every order to a charity whose focus is the well being of girls. We hope to reach ladies worldwide and make everyone feel beautiful and sexy when they wear TiKeDi. We pray that TiKeDi becomes bigger than our dreams and the brand becomes a go to brand for shredded pieces. We definitely would love to be placed in international boutiques at some point. Also we are currently working on a sister site filled with fun and affordable accessories, the website for that is www.keenyab.bigcartel.com

10. Where can the audience keep in contact with you and your work?
We can be reached a number of ways.Website: www.tikedi.bigcartel.com, Email: shoptikedi@gmail.com, Instagram: ShopTiKeDi, Facebook: TiKeDi, Twitter: ShopTiKeDi. For those who are in Atlanta or metro Atlanta our pieces can be found at Envy ATL boutique in Little Five Points.

Tagged branding, fashion, Inspiring Woman, interview, support, talent

GIRL TALK || Women’s History Month Q&A w/some of your Favorite Social Media Influences

Mon, March 25, 2013 2 Comments by Miss Daja

1. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING A WOMAN?

Tisha Jade: I don’t think people fully understand the power and beauty that lies in being a woman. I love that we have the privilege to carry and bring life into this world. I love our capacity to love. I love that we can do everything a man can do, and more, while wearing a pair of six inch heels.

Brittney Parker: I love that we’re strong no matter what. It is known for the male to be head of the household, strong (physically), and the provider. Women are mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually fit. Just like Beyonce said “We bare the children, then get back to business” (paraphrased). I love that I have been able to build myself up in the things that are good for me. Being called smart and THEN beautiful is something I love about being a woman.

Tae Merida: Being Seductive and Sensual. Women are beautiful in all aspects; but it’s something about a woman’s “spice” that makes her even more intriguing.

Ashlay Cashlay: One thing I love most is the way a bad ass pair of heels makes me feel.

Love Darbie: I simply love the power in our femininity. I love our ability to create life, I adore our inner strength, and I praise our motivation to change the status quo of womanhood. Plus we have the the ability to get fabulous in some awesome heels and red lipstick.

Mia: I love the strength of a woman, how we’re looked at as meek and mild but in reality can carry more weight than a male. It’s our secret weapon.

Telisha: I love being a woman because we are so multidimensional. When we think of masculinity we think of a dominating and competitive energy. As a woman I can be soft, strong, submissive, and competitive all in a day. I can run things as an entrepreneur then come home and be submissive to my man. I love it, being a woman is ever evolving, exciting and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

2. IF IT WERE POSSIBLE FOR MEN TO EXPERIENCE ONE THING ABOUT BEING A WOMAN, WHAT RESPONSIBILITY WOULD YOU HAND OVER WITH NO PROBLEM?

Tisha Jade: I’m not really sure I would. Sure it would be easier if men could experience some of the things we go through, or help with the responsibilities, but I believe that all the roles of the woman are rightfully placed. As much as we may dislike certain things, there’s beautiful harmony when the roles of the man and woman are fulfilled.

Brittney Parker: Simple. Bare children. That is probably one thing that men cannot experience besides the curse Eve put on us. True, they experience daddy weight, a little bit of emotional hormonal imbalances BUT carrying, growing, & then birthing a child — a man needs to fully understand LOL.

Tae Merida: Our addiction to chocolate!! A woman’s relationship with chocolate is pretty REAL. Its our go-to feel good food, and the form of a male replacement.

Ashlay Cashlay: Honestly, I wouldn’t hand over anything. I love being a woman and everything that goes along with it.

Love Darbie: Monthly cycles! Cramps and bloating included.

Mia: I want to say bearing a child but I’ve never experienced that first hand, I just know what I’ve seen heard sooooooooo I’d say I’d want them to experience how women get “hollered at” They need to see how they come at us so that some of them can come better/correct lol

Telisha: I would hand over the responsibility of physical maintenance. Seriously being fly and healthy adds up!

3. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WISH WOMEN WOULD DO MORE OF? AND ONE THING YOU WISH WOMEN WOULD DO LESS OF?

Tisha Jade: I wish women would spend less time checking for the next female, and invest more time in building self love, and confidence in themselves. It seems like that it’s always a competition between women. We’re always comparing, and judging each other. We always have to be one-up. Women who feel more confident within themselves are less vulnerable to feeling threatened by their female friends. What if we just empowered each other more, and supported one another? What a force we would be.

Brittney Parker: I wish women would love themselves more. The understanding and action of loving ourselves has been confused over the course of years — maybe even decades. I say this because women are more in tune with buying themselves ‘love’. Instead of seeking it within themselves. Secondly, I wish women would blame themselves less. Stop making excuses. I could go in on that but I’ll leave it there.

Tae Merida: I wish woman would be more adventurous and less fearful. Women tend to second guess and overanalyze situations, instead of just taking that initial leap of faith! #YOLO. Blame it on our “woman’s intuition”.

Ashlay Cashlay: Be more supportive of one another and less “picking apart” of one another.

Love Darbie: I wish more women would challenge the norm. I’m currently studying Computer Science in university and I would love to see the number of women graduating with computer science degrees reach more than 11%! On the other hand, I wish women would do away with the self-hating. Between the media’s pressures and our own inner conscious, our vision of beauty has been so altered. Learn to realize that our flaws and perfect imperfections make us beautiful.

Mia: I wish women would unite more. We need to befriend, support, take up for and pray for one another more. Women should do less self-deeming things as we already have a hard time with those deeming things that are inflicted upon us unwillingly.

Telisha: I wish we would take a stand for each other more often. Aside from striving for our own success I wish we would also take on the responsibility of ensuring our sisters are also successful. I wish we would do less of putting our needs and desires on the back burner. If you are an unfulfilled woman you are not doing your co-workers, family or lover any good. When a woman’s energy and happiness is at it’s highest level its contagious.

4. FINISH THIS SENTENCE.. WOMEN MAKE THE WORLD GO ROUND AND MEN MAKE THE…

Tisha Jade: money? Sad, but true. The harsh reality is women take the backseat when it comes to finical equality. We earn less than men overall, and the pay gap only increases as we get older.

Brittney Parker: Can I change that? LOL. I would say, “Men make the world go round and a damn good woman adds years onto his life, to continue the process” there is nothing wrong with submission.

Tae Merida: woman’s libido go round.

Ashlay Cashlay: Men make the pursuit of building an empire much more worth while. In my opinion you begin to notice the level of respect shift. To me, you gain more respect towards yourself as well as the respect from others.

Telisha: world a more safe secure and sexy place with all that intoxicating masculinity we love so much.

5. WHO ARE SOME FABULOUS LADIES THAT YOU LOOK UP TO AND WHY?

Tisha Jade: I look up to Beyonce, Michelle Obama, Karen Civil, and most importantly my mother and grandmothers. They’re all strong, independent, genuine, ambitious, loving, compassionate women. They are the epitome of godly women and serve the role as a mother, wife, and friend.

Brittney Parker: Wow. I’m going to give my immediate five. 1. Janet Jackson 2. Kerri Washington 3. Karen Civil 4. Tasha Smith 5. Myself

Tae Merida: B E Y O N C E. - she’s “spicy”, creative, passionate, poise, devoted, driven, genuine, and one of a kind. She is an inspiration to all woman, and an example that through dedication you can truly be the best at what you aspire to be in life.

Ashlay Cashlay: Women who are in pursuit of building an empire for the obvious reasons above. Respect.

Love Darbie: Michelle Obama & Sheryl Sandberg – They’re educated, powerful, and influential! What’s not to look up to?

Mia: Of course I look up to my mom. Im a spitting image and reflection of her. I also admire Solange’s style, Madame C J Walker’s brilliance for hair care, Victoria’s Beckham’s fierce, my grandmother’s strength, Beyonce’s spirit and Josephine Baker’s talent. to name a few.

Telisha: Every woman who crosses my path, even if she is miserable and rude, I look up to in some way. We feed off of each other, well at least we should be. That miserable lady culd turn out to be the sweetest person, there’s always more to a person than the surface. My role models are Michelle Obama, Beyonce (I’m not a stan though, let’s get that clear), and Eartha Kitt for now…My role model list changes weekly depending on my mood.

CONNECT WITH THESE BEAUTIFUL LADIES..

|| Name: Tisha Jade – Location: Missouri – Site: www.neverjaded.com – IG: @tisha_jade – Quote: “Don’t compare yourself to others. Compare yourself to the person you were yesterday. The only person you should strive to better than, is the person you were yesterday.” ||

|| Name: Brittney Parker – Location: Southern California/Las Vegas – Site www.BrittneyParker.com - IG: @Tahleeduh – Quote: Philippians 3:14, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”||

|| Name: Shante Merida – Location: Los Angeles/ Las Vegas – Site www.20andsomechange.com www.taemerida.com – IG: @taemerida ||

|| Name: Ashlay – Location: Los Angeles/Las Vegas – Site www.20andsomechange.com www.thecashlayproject.com www.nosubliminals.com – IG @ashlaycashlay ||

|| Name: Dara . Location: Austin, TX . www.lovedarbie.com . IG: @lovedarbie
Quote: No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars or sailed an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit. ||

|| Name: Mia Campbell – Location: Los Angeles – Site MYPINKGRASSHOPPER.COM - IG - @MIAGRR - Quote -
“Anyone can get dressed up and glamorous but it is how people dress on their days off that are most intriguing” -Alexander Wang ||

||Name: Telisha Ng – Location: Toronto, Canada – Site: goddessintellect.com & http://battleofthesexesshow.com IG: Goddessintellect – Quote: Don’t be mad, UPS is hiring ||

Tagged BEAUTY, Confidence, Girl Talk, Inspiring Woman, support

No Boiz Allowed Introduces Pretty Ego

Fri, March 15, 2013 4 Comments by Fashion Fridays With Naomi

At No Boiz Allowed we strive to promote the positive woman. This also includes FASHION! With so many online boutique’s these days, it becomes hard to decide just where to spend your hard earned money. Why not put your money into the pockets of a positive business woman? NBzA would like to introduce an up and coming online boutique, Pretty Ego! With the motto, “You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to be fashionable. Pretty Ego is a unique boutique that provides high quality fashionable apparel & accessories to fit anyone’s budget” you can’t go wrong! Offering Chanel Inspired pieces, an assortment of leggings and printed bodycon dresses as well as unique accessories, Pretty Ego is a one stop shop for your online shopping needs. Prices currently range from $7.50-$65.00 and arrive in pretty pink packages! The CEO also wears several of the pieces herself. We got the chance to catch up with the San Diego CEO Risa to get an exclusive interview as she introduces her line and tells us about her first time experience at her own pop-up shop and at this years Magic Convention in Las Vegas!

1. Risa, give us a little background on yourself and what inspired you to become a business woman?
Well I have been on my own since I was 16, so I have always been a go getter. I have always juggled 2 jobs to make sure my bills are always paid. I started modeling, doing a few magazines and videos and generated a small buzz from that. I dare to be different. I hate fitting in or being the same as everyone else. People began to compliment me on my style and were always asking where I got my clothes from or asking me to style them so I figured I would give them what they asked for. I have always wanted to start a business I just woke up one day and said ok today is the day I get the ball rolling and that’s how Pretty Ego was born. I have always handled my business and have never been a lazy person.

2. How do you balance your daily life with managing a business?
It’s hard to own a business and still have time for school and relationships. Luckily for me I have living, supportive, understanding people in my circle so they understand my crazy schedule. I rarely have time for me but it has always been business before pleasure for me. My priorities have and always will be in check. I take care of the most important things first and the rest gets done when time permits.

3. What is your advice for anyone who wants to start their own business in fashion?
Don’t copy other people because what works for one person may not work for you. Nothing comes easy. If you don’t grind you don’t eat! If you aren’t tired at the end of the day you need to work harder.

4. Who is the Pretty Ego customer? Who does your brand speak to?
My brand speaks to the working woman, the busy mothers, the full time student, the hustlers and the fashion addicts. Everyone has a “pretty ego” regardless of their shape, size or skin color. Some woman wear a suit all day, carry around a backpack or diaper bag. Pretty ego boutique offers my customers a chance to get dressed up in some dope gear and get pretty to go out and enjoy themselves after handling their big girl duties. It’s an alter ego..one side of you is handling your priorities and your other ego is a pretty mufxxa that wanna dress up and go have fun! Lol

5. What can we expect for the future of Pretty Ego?
My men’s line launching spring/summer 2013 and a brand new woman’s line, along with a full website make over!

6. How successful was your first “pop up” shop?
Very successful! It was nice to see women getting together to support one another. Shout out to “B’Swank” and “Body by NC”.

7. What did you do mentally to prepare for this event and what would you do differently next time around?
All I had time to do was mentally prepare lol . It was so last minute and I had a ton of things going on I was not able to fully prepare how I wanted. Thankfully my sister was able to help me, next time I would definitely plan better as far as little details and promo goes.

8. What was your favorite part of this event, least favorite?
Favorite part of the event was promoting my brand to people who didn’t know about us prior to the pop up shop. The least favorite part was standing up for 4 hours in 6 inch heels lol

9. Las Vegas Magic Convention is coming up and this will be your first appearance as well, how are you feeling about this event?
Excited and nervous!! Eeeek!
(we have spoken to her since as she concluded it was a success and lots of fun!)

10. NBzA promotes the positive woman, what is one thing that PrettyEgo and/or yourself does to do the same?
I am always supporting women as far as giving business advice or any other kind of wisdom I can offer. I am always supporting woman who are doing positive things. Pretty Ego is making a Brest Cancer Awareness shirt for Breast Cancer month and 100% of the proceeds will go to Susan G Kolmen Foundation towards finding a cure. Pretty Ego also donates at can food drives, toys for tots and we are always looking to get more involved in charity work.

View some of the Pretty Ego merchandise below:

“California” Two Finger Ring- $19

Denim and Leather Moto Jacket- $38

Printed Body Con Dress- $35

Black Fringe Top- $24

More Pictures From Pretty Ego

Connect with Pretty Ego
Twitter- @ShopPrettyEgo
Facebook- Pretty-Ego
Instagram- @PrettyEgo
Website- www.prettyego.com

Tagged branding, business, Confidence, fashion, Inspiring Woman, interview

Alena and Myiah introduce Gyrl Talk App to NBzA Audience

Sun, March 10, 2013 6 Comments by Miss Daja

1. Ladies, for those that have no clue, tell us exactly what the GyrlTalk app is?
GyrlTalk is a messaging platform for women full of expression. It provides an all-inclusive communication suite for instant messaging, group chatting and photo sharing. GyrlTalk also integrates social media so you can remain connected with your networks such as Facebook and Twitter. GyrlTalk also introduces over 50 never-before-seen emoticons to create the ultimate chatting experience between women.

2. Introduce yourselves. How many ladies are behind the creation of GyrlTalk App?
The GyrlTalk team includes Alena McCord-Estes, 27 and Myiah Hughes, 28. We were both born and raised in Atlanta, GA. Our life journeys connected us at Florida A&M University and again in New York City with similar goals to conquer the big city in our respective industries.

3. How has the response been so far from your customers and the users of GyrlTalk?
The response has been overwhelming. Women of all backgrounds, ages, colors and etc. are really excited about this exclusive communication suite. They are especially eager about chatting with such a variety of emoticons with their girlfriends. The app merges so many (multiple) features and applications that we all use on a daily, some users have found themselves “GyrlTalking” 50% of their day! We are enthusiastic about the response and eagerly working on original ideas to keep the app fresh and innovative.

4. Where did the general idea of GyrlTalk App come from?
The iPhone 4S was Myiah’s first introduction to Apple. Shortly after its release, one Saturday morning, the two of us were chatting about the upgraded features and installing emoji onto her device. She noticed there were no emojis that represented people of color. We both immediately began to search for an app that would fill this void in the iPhone world and came up empty. From that conversation we decided to create an app that would represent a variety of women and our unique expressions. This was in October of 2011.

5. When it comes to business, what or who keeps you ladies motivated?
Freedom.
Millions of women are confined by society’s definition and trajectory of our skill sets. In 2011 we founded Star at Heart, LLC the umbrella under which GyrlTalk falls. Star at Heart’s mission is to inspire women to rebel against those limits and pursue every single thing that brings them joy. The ultimate goal is happiness..living it and inspiring it.

6. Are there any famous Gyrl Talk faces that we may recognize when downloading the app or is it your everyday around the way girl that looks like you and I?
GyrlTalk’s Star Keyboard is a reflection of a mixture of women from all walks of life. We really wanted everyone to be able to identify and have ownership in the expressions of each Star on the keyboard. So the characters are you and me!

7. With so many expansions of GyrlTalk, how does GyrlTalk app plan to expand with it. What
should we look forward to?
We have an arsenal of innovations for the GyrlTalk app, including the monthly release of more fun and flirty emoticons. We will be introducing new sharing features exclusive to the app that are centered around things that women love to discuss, i.e. clothes, shoes, makeup, food, etc. We also plan to constantly enhance the interface and usability to align with our users most frequently accessed features.

8. What technology devices are GyrlTalk compatible with?
GyrlTalk is currently available on the iPhone, iTouch and iPad. We are very excited about sharing it with our Android girlfriends as early as this Summer.

9. If each of you could give your favorite quote that sums up your focus, what would it be?
“If it doesn’t exist, create it.” ~ Alena & Myiah, Star at Heart Founders
“What is now proved was once only imagin’d” ~ William Blake

10. How can the viewers keep in contact with you?
twitter: @GyrlTalkApp
instagram: @GyrlTalkApp
facebook: www.facebook.com/gyrltalkapp
Web site: www.GyrlTalkApp.com

Tagged Girl Talk, Inspiring Woman, interview, support

#BlackHistory – From Dorothy Dandridge to Halle Berry

Sun, February 24, 2013 No Comments by Miss Daja

The 1st Black woman nominated for a Best Actress Oscar was Dorothy Dandridge for the film Carmen Jones. 47 years later, Halle Berry, who also played Dorothy Dandridge, became the first African-American to WIN an Oscar for Best Actress in a leading role.

Tagged art, Black History, Inspiring Woman

HERstory – Tryneal Addison – 16 year old Creator, Co-Producer, Host, Spokes model, Actress and Writer… – Get Inspired

Mon, February 18, 2013 No Comments by Miss Daja

Meet Tryneal Addison, 16 year old Creator, Co-Producer & Host of What Girls Think Web Talk Show! This unique talk show features teen girls and young women from different cities and cultural backgrounds discussing important and fun topics of interest to young people. They’ve never met in person — but convene “virtually” each week using web technology. Tryneal is also a Spokes model for Foundation Golden Runway! Actress and Writer. She is setting the tone for young ladies around the world and providing them with a platform to express, support and relate. I had the pleasure of interviewing Tryneal hoping to inspire the readers of No Boiz Allowed. Age truly is nothing but a number when you are passionate about your dreams.

1. Using only 5 words, how would you best describe yourself?
Determined, Passionate, Outgoing, Sassy & Creative.

2. Tell us about your talk show “What Girls Think” and what was the inspiration behind creating it?
I think what motivated me the most, is the cry I am hearing from our teens. I see their hurt, their pain, their sorrow, their unanswered questions. I want to Motivate, Educate and Recreate the lives of youth. To do that, I wanted to create a platform that gave us a voice, where we felt that we had our own special place to release our thoughts. I feel like we deserved that much. The platform of it being a talk show is a bonus. I came up with the idea, when I was 14 years old, I typed up my proposal, I sent it off to a bunch of production companies, and I never got a response. Then one day I was scrolling on the internet and I ran into my Disney Producer and we created an idea, and now the rest is history!

3. How does it feel being pegged as the “Oprah” of your generation? Is it pressure? motivation? how do you feel?
Yes! It is A LOT of pressure. See the thing is, I love Oprah.. I really do. But I was never in my life trying to be the next chapter of her. That is a lot of work and I am not to sure If I’m ready for it. It does give me a lot of motivation though. It keeps me humble that so many people see in me what they see in her, and for that I am grateful. It makes me feel empowered, self-efficient , nervous, excited… I mean the list can go on. I’m just honored that so many people see that type of power she has in me, but it most def can get overwhelming.

4. How did you find the courage to set yourself apart from your peers and move forward with your dreams at an early age?
Honestly, there was just something deep down in my soul that yearned for accomplishing my dreams. There was always this deep determination ( I call it an “Old Soul” ) since 5 years old, about getting what I wanted and never taking NO for an answer. I was that kid that got bullied, picked on and laughed at. I was the girl that was tallest in my class. I was the girl that had a little extra weight on her. So I basically took all of that pressure and hurt and I turned it into determination to go after my dreams, and I said to myself, “Just wait. We will see who has the last laugh.”

5. Aside from the business side of things, what are some of your favorite past times?
I loved my young life as a kid! I loved the summers from ages 5-10. I had such a fulfilling life, going outside to play in the sandbox, going to the swing set and seeing which one of my friends I could beat by getting the highest in the air! I loved, when the Ice cream man would come down our street and Id buy everyone of my friends a 25 cent Popsicle! I loved rolling down the “Big Hill” in summer and I loved sledding down it in the winter! Now a days, I love listening to music, reading, shopping, dancing, hanging with friends & family and just having fun!!!

6. For girls and women that look up to you, what advice would you give them when it comes to moving forward with their dreams?
I would say, just always love yourself. I really mean, LOVE YOURSELF. Find out what it really means to love yourself and when you figure that out, you will realize that you deserve the best at all times. Love is a very easy but hard feeling. It can be tricky and hard to understand. I feel that loving yourself should be easy and that If you don’t love you, who will?! Believe and always trust God. He has your back. Don’t ever be afraid to run to him in your time of need. Lastly, “Smile because you can, Because you have the right ,and because your worth it”

7. Up to this point in your journey, what has been one of your most humbling experiences?
I think just getting my show on a network. That was VERY hard to do and I Thank God for opening major doors for me. He has had my back for as long as I’ve lived and I am just so passionate and grateful for the blessing. I will continue to work hard and just wait on God to see what he has set for my future!

8. Who are some well known women that you have yet to work with that you would love to if the opportunity presents itself?
Well of course Ms. Oprah Winfrey!!!! I would love to work with Wendy Williams (How You Doin Wendy!) Katie Couric, Ricki Lake, Tyra Banks, Tyler Perry, Amber Riley, Raven Symone… The List goes on! So many amazing people that I look up too!

9. What can we expect and look forward to from your talk show What Girls Think since it launched in July?
With the past launch of July 2012, I think you can expect more shows, more excitement, more show guests, more fun , more laughs and just more of us opening ourselves up. We will be truly letting our fans know who we are and what we stand for. It going to be amazing!!!

10. Where can the viewer keep up with you and your power moves?
You can find my on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/TrynealAddison or Twitter @TrynealAddison @GirlsThinkTV You can visit “What Girls Think Website at www.whatgirlsthink.tv and visit my persoanl site at www.TrynealAddison.com