Women To Watch Event - Pledge To Be Bella

Yesterday I attended a spectacular event called Women To Watch, hosted by Diamonde Williamson of Pledge To Be Bella. Pledge To Be Bella is a women's empowerment group dedicated to spreading beauty and positivity by promoting inner growth and progression.

The event took place at Atlanta's Honey Bubble Tea, a cozy cafe that served superb bubble tea and yummy baked goods. Created by two Atlanta residents that longed to make quality bubble tea, Honey Bubble Tea was the perfect location for this wonderful event. The intimate location and its sombre environment created the perfect temperament for a night of networking and making connections.

Me with the wonderful Diamonde Williamson Founder of Pledge To Be A Bella

The moment I walked in to Women To Watch, I was wholeheartedly greeted by host Diamonde Williamson, who handed me a little slip of paper with a question on it. Every woman in the room was handed the slip, each with different questions. The idea was that we were to go around the room discussing the answer to our question with different people and engaging in conversation. I absolutely loved this game because it made for an amazing ice breaker. Often, at networking events we find it hard to start conversation with people out of fear of feeling awkward. However, with this game, the questions led to more in depth conversations which led to connections being made, business cards being swapped, and even possibly future friendships.

Me with Ms. Chinyere Nwokah 

Diamonde announcing the winners of the raffle

Along with the question, the ladies of Pledge To Be Bella handed out little cards witha  number on it. This number was your ticket into the raffle. I was lucky number 29! My number was called and I won a chance for Diamonde to buy me anything I wanted off of the Honey Bubble Tea menu. I ordered their house special; the Signature Royal Milk Tea! It was fabulous! 

I was overwhelmed with excitement from the moment I walked into Women To Watch. The room was filled with so many ambitious and beautiful women. You all know that She's So Me is dedicated to any and everything that encourages women to put their best foot forward in life. As I told Diamonde herself, I totally respect everything that Pledge To Be Bella stands for and I look forward to the next event. The only way to reach our goal of empowering all women is to create situations like this where women engage with one another and share our knowledge.

Connect with Pledge To Be Bella

Twitter: @PledgeToBeBella

Instagram: @PledgeToBeBella 

Website: Pledge To Be Bella

The Girl With The Afro

As I am sure you all know by now,  my natural hair type is 4C. Below is the Naturally Curly definition 4C hair

I have really been enjoying my natural hair, but it was definitely time to get back into some braids. I had my hair re-braided the other day. My life at the moment is very hectic and very busy and braids are extremely convenient for this.

Something I have learned in this journey to natural is that the more you see results the more motivated you are to keep going. I hear of a lot of naturalistas talk about how they often have feelings of doubt and wanting to quit and revert back to getting perms because they feel like nothing is happening. Trust me when I say I also had the same feelings. Although I was loving my hair texture and its look, I was frustrated because I felt like it wasn't growing fast enough for me. However, the difference is that I didn't quit. I didn't give up. The other day, I was able to put my hair in a ponytail. Talk about progress right! Check out this mega puff I even achieved below! 

I would also like to apply this lesson to every day life. It is completely normal to have doubts in your abilities. We all have our insecurities. However, we should never let those thoughts of doubt hinder us from taking on life's challenges that we are faced with. The way I deal with doubt is by countering the thought. If my mind tells me "Joanna, you aren't good enough, you can't do that" I respond "Well, what's the worst that could happen." Don't be discouraged!

Hair Tips From The Girl With The Afro

- Only use a wide toothed comb when you are detangling your hair. It is much less damaging.
- Don't comb your hair when it is dry. Only detangle when wet!
- This may sound a little backwards, but brush your edges with a toothbrush. It helps you to catch   everything and it is much less damaging to your edges than a full out hair brush.

Feeling like Foxy Cleopatra 

Hope you enjoyed this post! Feel free to comment and ask questions. If you have other inquiries you may also leave those in the "Talk To JO" box on the right hand side.

Jo 

Stay On Top Of Your Game

Hey Everyone

This week I noticed that my time management skills were totally not in use. I was a little all over the place with my obligations and tasks this week. I then realized what the missing puzzle to my normally organized and put-together week was: My planner! This week I neglected to write down my "To Do List" into my planner. I totally operated on memory and although it didn't completely fail me, it still left me a little frazzled.

Here are some planners I have my eye on for the new year

House of DoLittle Express Weekly/Monthly Planner
Available on Amazon

Day-Time 2014 Pink Ribbon Pocket Monthly Planner
Available at Office Super Savers

Bloom Calendar Daily Planner
Available on Amazon

Let me tell you, I WRITE EVERYTHING DOWN. No matter how little of a task it may be, I write it down. This is mainly because I am the type of person who can get easily worked up when even the tiniest thing in my "organized life" goes haywire. I am sure most people have their own way of staying organized; however, if you don't, then I think you should give my way a try and stay on top of your game!

Another reason I love writing things down in my planner as opposed to memorizing my tasks or storing them in my iPhone is that I love the feeling of scratching a task off of my "To Do List." It is one of the most liberating feelings ever when I finish a task and get rid of it. Below is a picture of my actual planner. Take a look at how vigorously I scratch accomplished tasks off lol. I get THAT excited at the end of my day and see an entire list scratched away. It is definitely a source of motivation for me. 

Also, for the upcoming year, I am going to be adding a cork board to my bedroom wall. I saw something on Pinterest where a cork board is used as a motivational board as well as a method of keeping organized. Check out the cork board from Target that I have my eye on below. 

Cork Board
Available at Target

Hope you enjoyed this post! Feel free to comment and ask questions. If you have other inquiries you may also leave those in the "Talk To JO" box on the right hand side.

Jo 

Who is She: Stylist Dane Browne

WHO IS SHE?
From the heart of Brooklyn, New York is Stylist Dane Browne. From dance, to design, to styling and even singing, Dane is nothing short of a creative and talented individual. With her many talents, she found a true place for herself in the fashion industry. Dane has dedicated her time, passion, and energy to make a name for herself in the industry she loves so much. If she's not styling for a Photoshoot or styling a personal client, she is keeping herself updated on current fashion trends and updating her blog "The Adventures of Dane Browne."On her blog, Dane keeps her readers updated on current fashion trends, closet must-haves, and her personal style. You even have the option to shop Dane's closet on her website! If you have ever wondered about the ins and outs of the career of a stylist you definitely want to check out my interview with Dane Browne below! Dane offers her expert advice and very helpful tips!

How would you describe your personal style?
My personal style is an eclectic mix. I would say that i have two fashion personas. One would be my glam chic girl who loves girly pieces, big hair and stilettos, thats the dana in me. Dane browne is more androgynous and edgy. Black is my favorite color!

Describe the job of a stylist. What is a typical day on a shoot like? 
A stylist's job can vary. I'm more of a creative director. So I take on alot of visual and creative projects as well. So my job can be anything from dance choreography to still art to creative director of a brand.

A typical day on a shoot can vary but most of the time it starts with creating a mood board, sourcing clothing, casting models, Mua (Make-up artist) and more.

What is the process of styling like? Do you take your clients shopping or do you help them compose outfits from pieces they already own? 

It depends on what they may need from me. In the end I'm all about building the confidence of my client. I want them to feel glamorous like I do everyday! I can do anything from a closet makeover to personal shopping. My favorite job is elevating someone's personal style.

What do you love the most about what you do? 
I love to be able to express my creativity. I love to have freedom of the mind.

What do you like the least about what you do?
Sometimes it's very hard satisfying a tough client. I work very hard everyday to keep a consistent clientele.

What are your go to places for shopping?
I like to mix highs and lows. But I'm here for the everyday consumer. They are actually my favorite clients. Because I worked in retail and I work in high fashion, I know how to achieve the look for less. My favorite store is Zara. It's a go to place for chic runway looks.

Tell me five items that every girl MUST have in her closet?
1. A statement bag!!!
2. Black pump
3. Motor leather jacket
4. Statement jewelry
5. White collar shirt.

Which Fall 2013 trend are you totally loving?
Menswear!
I love it. It's apart of my aesthetic. I love that that this trend reigns on the runway. It's my favorite. A male blazer with a high waisted skirt. Or a menswear inspired tailored suit with killer heels. Girl meets boy.

What is the biggest mistake women make when they go shopping?
They tend to shop what they like and never go out of the box. This is how you end up with four pairs of flats that all look the same and no versatility or statement shoes. They also don't buy what they need but what they like. This leaves their wardrobe full of mismatched pieces. I always suggest you go on blogs, magazines and fashion sites. Start to create a collage of what you like most. Then create a list. This will be the items you need to focus on when you shop. It revamps and freshens your style. Also don't shop trend heavy! These pieces become outdated. Your closet should be 70% classic and 30% fashion.

If you could live in any city what city would it be and why?
Paris! I love Parisian fashion. I love the freedom of expression.

If you had to get rid of everything in your closet except for ONE thing, what would that one thing be?
Ugh! This is a hard one. I love it all. If I had no choice it would be to keep a white collar shirt. I remember when I moved and my clothes got lost. I had a white collar shirt and I wore it for a week straight in 5 different ways!

Tell me about two projects you've worked on that you are very proud of
My first celebrity shoot. I assisted my boss and mentor Kay Ingram, for a shoot with Trace Magazine. We shot Keri Hilson, Janelle Monae and Michelle Williams for the black girls who rock issue. It was amazing.  I love what the magazine stood for and it's message amongst support for the black community in fashion.

My second fav project was assisting in the presentation of Ashtyn ss13 collection at Lincoln center. It was the first of its kind and it was amazing. I got to meet many people including Beyonce's stylist Ty hunter.

How long have you been styling for?
Since I was 16. I started with designing for local dance teams in my area. As I grew older I crossed over to the fashion industry. My first official projects started when I was 18. It's been a long journey. It takes a lot of hard work, commitment and dedication.

She's So Me would like to thank Dane Browne for taking time out of her busy schedule to speak with us! Follow Dane on twitter @DaneBStylist and Check out her blog "The Adventures of Dane Browne"

This Week - A Week of Adventures

This week turned out to be pretty eventful on accident. It has been a pretty rainy week here in Atlanta, but I didn't let the rain stop me! Especially when it comes to my hair. I did an awesome bantu knot out on my hair and pictured below is day on and day two of the bantu knot out.

Day One of my bantu knot out - I attended an awesome bridal show event hosted by Modern Luxury - Atlantan Brides Magazine
My awesome boss Timeesha Duncan, owner of Tim Duncan Events and 1/2 of  The Tim and Lilly blog plus one'd me to this beautiful soiree. I had a great time. It was surely true to the Modern Luxury nature. It was luxurious, fabulous, extravagant, and interesting. The purpose of the bridal show was to bring together future brides and wedding planners for a night of wedding networking and luxury. There were tables set up by different florists with wedding decor ideas and few vendors came out to display their products. I also enjoyed the awesome red carpet experience when I was entering the event. The night was Hollywood themed so we were greeted by Marilyn Monroe, Elvis, Johnny Depp and others. Ok, I wish I got a picture with the Johnny Depp look-a-like because he literally looked EXACTLY like him. Anyway, let me tell you, as a single woman, this event made me want a wedding (not so much the groom lol) but definitely the wedding!

Me and Timeesha Duncan my awesome boss at Tim Duncan Events

Day 2 of my bantu knot out - This was a also nice day. It was very rainy. I mean the rain was pouring. However, I didn't want to dress blah even though the rain was kind of gross. I ended up going with this simple, yet chic rainy day outfit. And, oh yeah, my hair was pretty awesome this day too. I usually struggle with my fro-hawks, but I figured it out on this day. Lets hope I get it next time lol

So, by yesterday my bantu knot out was totally unrecognizable haha. My friend Regina celebrated her birthday at a delicious restaurant called Fuego Cantina and Grill in Buford, GA. The drinks were phenomenal and the food was even better. However, one of my friends ordered a Kebab meal that didn't turn out so great, but everyone else's meals were awesome. I had a chicken and steak fajita meal, which I scoffed down in about 10 mins because it was just that perfect! 

 How delish does my meal look? Well, it tasted just as delish as it looks!

I am particularly excited about this restaurant Fuego Cantina and Grill because their new location is opening up a dance floor. They are trying to incorporate a nightlife into their restaurant. For some odd reason the website isn't updated with their new address, but it is 33 Buford Village Way Buford, GA. They will definitely be seeing me again 

Of course I asked the waiter, "what is the strongest drink you all have here," and he recommended this drink, which everyone ended up ordering. I think it was called the "El Heffe." It was awesome!

Believe it or not, the party DIDN'T stop there yesterday. I ended up getting a call from my friend that she was bar-tending at a Nigerian birthday party. The party was really close to home so I had my mom drop me and my friend Rochelle off because we knew we would be drinking. Don't drink and drive people! Always find a designated driver. Trust me you will have much more fun that way! I also had a blast at this birthday party. Nigerians sure know how to party! I love my people :)

Hope you enjoyed this post! Feel free to comment and ask questions. If you have other inquiries you may also leave those in the "Talk To JO" box on the right hand side.

Jo 

Day 3 twistout

HAPPY SUNDAY SHE'S SO ME READERS!
I just got home from Church and I figured i'd give you all a post-Church update

So, I have been promising a hair post for so long and I haven't delivered. I'm so sorry about that! But, today I have a semi hair post (whatever that means lol). I recently took down my braids and I was so excited to see the progress in growth my hair made. My natural hair journey continues to be healthy, fun, exciting, and rich.

I washed and deep conditioned my hair and then I did a twist out. Usually, I don't like the result of my twist outs much, but this time I was totally in love. Today's post features DAY 3 of my twist out though. The twists aren't as defined as they were on days one and two. However,  as you can see, my hair is very thick and it retains the curls for quite some time.

SOME FRIENDLY TIPS

1) Buy a home hair dryer ladies!
My home hair dryer is my savior. It was gifted to me by my aunt back when I still had relaxer in my hair and because of that I never really did my own hair at home. So, I never really used it.  However, ever since I "went natural" the home dryer has been a savior. I literally get the salon experience from the comfort of my home with it. It is perfect for deep conditioning because it really seals in the goodness of the conditioner when I sit under the dryer. I sit under it and work on projects on my laptop or read books or watch Netflix. It is just convenient

Here is one home hair dryer I really love made by Conair! It is $35 and a great investment
Conair Hair Dryer

2) Love your curl pattern
I know this seems like a really odd tip, but it is the truth. If you aren't going to love YOUR curl pattern for what it is, then don't "go natural." Get a PERM! You cannot compare your hair to that of other women/naturalistas. Your hair is YOUR hair and it does what it does for YOU! Comparing your hair to others in terms of growth, curl pattern, and general look will have you stressed out and reaching for something unattainable.

Love your hair!

Hope you enjoyed this post! Feel free to comment and ask questions. If you have other inquiries you may also leave those in the "Talk To JO" box on the right hand side.

Jo