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Photo: Design Essentials
 Congratulations to Design Essentials celebrating 25 years of beauty, innovation and style. Design Essentials recently hosted ‘A Beautiful Legacy: Celebrating 25 Years’, an exclusive private event for members of the media. Essence.com Hair and Beauty Editor, Deena Campbell hosted the event which took place at the very beautiful Asante Restaurant in Atlanta, headed by celebrity chef Marvin Woods.

The media brunch included tips and lessons learned by Design Essentials Founder and CEO Cornell McBride Sr. and the DE family. The conversation-based event was the perfect setting and timing for unveiling their 25th Anniversary Look Book. Celebrity photographer, Allen Cooley images graced the pages of the book. Take a look inside the event.

L to R: Design Essentials® founder and CEO Cornell McBride Sr., 
Design Essentials® Director of Interactive Media Shalonda McBride Armstrong, Essence.com Hair and Beauty Editor, Deena Campbell, Design Essentials® President Cornell McBride Jr., and Design Essentials® Director of Operations Andre McBride. Photos: ExclusiveAccess
 
 


Steps Event beautifully put the magic (décor) touch throughout the event. Table bathe in the Design Essentials colors along with a course menu list.
 
Bloggers and media asked a round of questions regarding the beauty industry and their experiences related to it.
 
Pictured (far right) is Design Essentials Look Book cover model. Fashion Designer Ade Bakard styled the models for this event.
 
 
The man behind the Design Essentials 25th Look Book images, Allen Cooley, explained his inspiration when capturing images.
Congratulations Design Essentials on 25 years of beauty and solidifying a place in the haircare industry. Looking forward to 25 more years.

Do you follow me, Urban Crush? If you like this or similar posts be sure to like, share, follow, join etc. I love reading all the cool comments or answer questions you all have. Thanks again. Until next time XO

 


Every woman should own a pair of basic-colored shoes in her closet. I have many of the classic black but decided to expand my collection of nudes/tans. Retail therapy is a calm and soothing outlet to do, no matter if its window shopping, cruising online sites, or strolling the mall etc., I always stumble upon great things I like to share with you all.  And, because summer is not officially over yet, we have plenty of time left. So, first stop:



::::::::::::::::::::DSW:::::::::::::::::::::

Love at first sight! I found these cute Guess wedges (above photo), but in another color. Oh no, just my luck they didn’t have my size, bummer. I strolled over to the sale section and not only are they marked down but an additional percentage off as well. Woot Woot! Ha! Upon first sight I looked for the flaw, but the sales associate explained they’ll mark down a shoe when it is the last color/size…. Oh really?! Ok, where have I been, am I the last person who knew this? You know I had to snatch them up.


Allow me to give an honorable mention and share this pair (wedge), I purchased some months back when I first decided I was going nude, lol! Again, saw them and knew they would make a great addition.


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Although these fabric ballerina flats are not nude, but they're in the basic-color family that I found at Urban Outfitters. Talk about comfort you guys, wow! Just what the doctor ordered when you are on some chill relax day and wearing six-inched heels is not in your forecast. By the way… I love their fabric-like bags, cute!

In the photo above you see my daughter and myself modeling two of the styles that I purchased. They have many colors and styles to choose, but again I went for the basic laid-back look.

Another honorable mention are these cute gold and tan heels my daughter modeled…and yes we wear the same size shoe, lol.

There you have it, some of my recent buys for my collection and I didn’t technically have to get nude to get it, lol.  Summer is drifting away and not sure what to focus on next. Hmm, maybe adding more metallic or adding to my boot collection perhaps? Not sure yet but whatever it is, I’ll definitely showcase my finds with you. Until next time you guys! XO

:::::::::::::::::Want to socialize?!:::::::::::::::::


We live in a fast-paced society but always hear “Life is short…”, but what we do with it and how we spend our time makes all the difference in our future. Finding yourself on the wrong side of the tracks or going into an early grave is not a good look.

ALL THAT GLITTERS AIN'T GOLD **********************
We see many artists, entertainers, and idols flaunt their lavish lifestyle via television, music or social media platforms. I’ll admit, ballin’ out is very enticing and many want to ‘represent or be about that life’ also…. minus the millions of dollars in many bank accounts. They say, “It’s not trickin’ if you got it” so to each its’ own but don’t try to keep up with the Jones, Kardashians or anyone else if you can’t afford to.

 Designer brands/style, the hottest cars and phones may be new one minute and considered old in a year or two with an updated version. Focus on your book smarts and less on plastic surgery to imitate the celebrity-style you’re eagerly seeking. What is your real goal here? To impress, to be popular, to hold on to a boy/girl that you're sooo in love with…or so you think?! That boy or girl will be there, stay strong and don’t cheat your youth just to hurry to adult hood.

At some point we all want independence but, if your story reads like front page negative news, or you-should-have-your-own-ratchet-reality-show storyline, then fine-tuning your priorities may not be a bad idea. It’s not cool to be out of control, drugged-out, disrespectful to parents (or other authorities) - missing guidance, etc. Another mother shouldn’t have to lose her child to the streets or senseless acts caused by police brutality, or hatred in the world.   

THERE’S LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL**************
Slow down you’re moving too fast, pace yourself and find your rhythm. The world is yours and you’ll get where you need to go in due time. Play your position by educating yourself, and surround yourself with the right people. Be a respectable reliable force others can see in your bright future. What seeds you plant today will flourish tomorrow, be it good or bad. So keep your eye on the prize.

·        -Celebrate more birthdays, have fun but grow wiser.
·        -Achieve great things as you make your mark in the world, putting forth the effort can be very rewarding.

First rule of business, stay in school, get your diploma….hey go for a degree or two. Whether via interning or a job, show responsibility, work ethic and leadership skills. Aim for advancement, if you have a passion for something, truly go after it. Create your own lane and soar high.

“School just isn’t my thing” or “I’m not interested in being an entrepreneur”, yeah I get it but, are you happy with your 9 to 5 job, if you have one? Maybe you have goals and dreams, and if so, education will play an important role in your upcoming moves so, plan it out. Don’t allow fear to take over decisions that could be life-changing for you. Everyone have a talent they’re good at, or passion for something so find what it is and onward march! Young world, do you know where you’re running to? Expecting success when everyone else is expecting failure is a sign of a visionary. Seeing things no one else can yet see sounds like a BOSS to me! Stay motivated, you can do it….let’s go! Xo

What advice would you give our youth today?  Or to your younger self, if you could. Stay blessed! 

As much as I love to cook, I equally love to bake. Oh boy! If only a scratch n’ sniff area was supplied on all screens you could smell this delicious sweet dessert. 

INGREDIENTS
1 Cup Chocolate Chips
2 Cups Pecans
¾ Cup Butter (melted)
½ Cup Evaporated Milk
1 (14oz) bag Caramel
1-1/3 Cup Water
1/3 Cup Oil
3 Eggs
1 (18oz box) German Chocolate Cake Mix
 DIRECTIONS
Prepare cake mix according to the box instructions. Pour ½ batter into a 13x9 inch pan and top with 1 cup of Pecans. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, set aside to cool.
(NOTE: You may alter cake mix flavor with Chocolate or another cake of your choice. Get creative, it’s your cake. I initially try a recipe as-is, per original recipe but then my creative juices come up with other alternatives to try.)
Let cake cool. In double broiler (or in my case a pot of boiling water with a bowl on top)
melt caramel, milk and butter stir constantly until melted. 
(Note: I used a personal touch by adding a little cocoa powder to my milk mixture also caramel do not need to melt separately, I sat a small portion aside for something else.) 
Pour the caramel mixture over the cooled (room temp) cake. This layer would be the caramel in the center of the cake. (NOTE I also added a little pecans and chocolate chips on this step)

Pour the remaining batter on top, sprinkle last 1 Cup, or remainder of Pecans, depending on if you use some for center of cake, and chocolate chips. Bake an additional 20 minutes, let cool and Voila! Enjoy. 

Ooooohhh, so delish! This is one dessert I will schedule either as a 'cheat' day or just-because-I-deserve-it day, lol. 

 (Note: if you like a real gooey center, you may want to use more caramel)
What are some of your go-to desserts, Peach Cobbler? Red Velvet Cake? I would love to hear about them. Have any questions or comments, leave them in the comment box below. Until next time, xo. 
  



I lalaLove various types of bags, the more unique the better....guess that makes me a bag lady, huh. The funny thing is no matter how much I put inside, it tends to get over-loaded and weighed down. Like many women, we switch our bags quite often and I want to share my latest find. This Isaac Mizrahi cutie that I picked up at Marshalls, the right size & fit that can be utilize for any purpose.

The black patent leather with gold zippers and name plate on the outside, was the sleek look I was searching for. Looking inside the bag, I noticed the cute pink polka dots and four deep pockets- two on each side. Making it the great on-the-go makeup/hair or traveling bag. I may start off using it as my purse, either way, here are some essential items I normally carry… of course it varies depending on the size and occasion.


It’s a must that I have gum on deck- and yes I am a popper, but mindful while I’m out standing next to someone. At times, I attend long events and in the mist of conversations, the sweetest, coolest people could scorch your nose hairs clean out of your nose… maybe eyebrows and lashes too, lol. I wouldn’t want my breath to be associated with hot garbage either, so being prepared is much easier on both parties.
                                                         
My lips feel bare if I don’t have Chapstick or gloss to keep them moisturized, so that's always a plus. Touching countless objects, handles and whatnots require plenty hand sanitizer and lotion, a definite staple. I spruce up my perfume by having a travel-sized roll-on or mini-sized bottle of my favorite scent.
                                                            

With a million and one things going on- like many of us- jotting down a to-do lists, content to write, etc. the old fashion way with a notepad and a couple of pens equal satisfaction. It’s not fun having year-around allergies, but my albuterol inhaler and non-drowsy allergy medicine is crucial for my occasional asthma flare-ups & unexpected reactions. I’m also prepared to stop headaches right in its tracks whenever they start to come around. 


 Am I the only one who still carries around a ‘Tip Guide’ card? It’s quicker for me to pull it out than to type the info in my phone. My set of keys have way-too-many-reward cards on them, only a few are in heavy rotation.

Oh yeah more gum; can’t get enough, lol. My little blue pouch contains first aid items…..you never know what minor emergency you’ll encounter while out. I guess it’s the ‘prepared-mom’ in me.


Again, these are my normal items but other times I may have a music device, mini-notepad, tablet, vitamins, makeup, snacks, etc. Grab my phone, keys and decide which pair of sunglasses to sport for the day and I am out the door, ready to tackle the world.

What are some of your go-to essential items? Have a great one. xoxo 


All photos: Urban Crush

I decided a while back that my hair needed a major detox from relaxers. My hair is relaxed two, sometimes three, times a year and my last relaxer was several months ago, back in February. Since then, I’ve gained about two inches of new growth….yikes! Shout out to all my natural and transitioning sistahs out there, natural haircare maintenance can be a lot of work.

What is your haircare routine?
I have dry thirsty hair which requires me to frequently moisturize it. I still incorporate my basic routine that you can find in this past post here. Although I buy more sulfate-free and natural hair products nowadays, I still love trying other items to switch up every couple of months.
(Pictured) Peppermint Essential Oil- Stimulates blood flow deep down to the hair root.
Lavender Essential Oil- Has soothing properties, great for regeneration and anti-inflammatory. I add a few drops to my bathe along with bubbles and even Epsom Salt- depending on the day I had. Heaven.

Essential Oils are used in a wide variety of beauty products. These oils pack a powerful punch and very potent, so if used on skin, it’s advised to always dilute them with a carrier oil; Coconut, Olive, Jojoba, Grapeseed, Avocado, etc. Or even water. A few drops goes a long way.
Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (EVCO) is one of my top go-to staples. I use it in an applicator bottle and can be used for skin, hair, cooking… everything! The benefits are amazing.


I keep infused-water in my spritz bottle. Just add a few drops of your favorite essential oil and you’re done. Any bottle will do and I set my nozzle to spray in a light mist. I use this twice daily on most days, but use as needed. For extra shine I sometimes use a mist/spray but serums give shine also.
 
(Above pic) My hair was in Bantu knots overnight and taken out the following day. This is one way to get the curls/coils you want without applying heat. The soft curls sprung back in place when I stretched a few out to its normal length.

After I wash/condition hair, I used the Moisturize & Seal method. I misted my hair with infused-water, then apply a leave-in conditioner, followed by an oil. I’ll then twist, braid, Bantu knots or pin it up before placing a satin hair bonnet/scarf on it.  

Lighting and shine is all you need.
This look lasted several days for me but once those coils fell and the curls were done, I decided to moist & seal again but this time wearing a twist out. Some attempts turn out better than others but the results were nice.

 After a couple of days of the Twist out, I finally used heat by flat ironing my hair. Don’t forget to use a heat protectant, a lifesaver for your hair. I loved my straight silky look and although I didn’t add more product to my hair, it still had a nice shine.

No one can detect two inches of new growth. Oh and I cut about an inch off my armpit-length hair due to split ends. When I don’t use heat to straighten my hair, I love rocking the simple blow-dried look, just blow and go, lol. (Tip: I normally air dry my tresses but when I decide to blow dry it’s usually set on cool.)    

There you have it, a few simple things that I add to my routine. Staying on a haircare regimen and paying attention to your hair needs will allow you to achieve the healthy hair results you’re seeking. Good luck on your haircare journey. -xoxo

Have any questions or want to share your routine, leave it below in the comment box. I would love to know great products or tips you use.

All photos: Urban Crush

PROM GLAM (A Beauty Drive-by)

 
Let’s showcase a little behind-the-scene makeup glam for any occasion and now that Prom is over with, a perfect time for that stroll down the graduation isle. Shout out to Makeup Artist/Owner of Contour Beauty Bar, Zavia, who dolled up (my daughter) model Italia for Prom.



This side view of a Ponytail Mohawk is super cute, adding a bit of fierceness to round out the look. Werk it!
Makeup done!  
 
 
Next up….Mani & Pedi time! Makeup on fleek, check. Italia posed for the camera briefly before being whisked off to her station finding the right controls for a soothing massage. Italia threw the camera some serious mean-mugging looks, while getting pampered, truly enjoying her treatment. 
The final glam look: A pretty in Pink (Rouge) Prom dress that perfectly fits Spring.
 
After meeting up with her handsome Prom date Deshawn, the two headed off to a fun event and managed to pose for many car pics and selfies before the end of the night.
 
Also, Happy Belated Birthday Italia, I know you truly enjoyed your day ;) and Shout out to Eleanor Smith who spent most of the day with us.
 

Photos: Urban Crush
 
 
 

 

I receive questions like this quite often, so I wanted to share a little background and thoughts about my experiences. Shout out to Vincent Johnson who is an amazing friend (a go-getter as well) who inspired this post.

I have always tried to be a giving person via time, energy, effort, a shoulder, conversation, suggestions, opinions, etc. I'm packed with a lot of laughs and so much love. I am not threatened by the next one’s success or their life, I compliment and congratulate people all the time. It’s great to hear successful stories and motivating people is right up my alley.


THE START OF IT ALL (how I began)
(MY EXPERIENCE) I envisioned my passions early on as a youth, so my path started long before social media existed. I laugh when I think back in high school- 800 psychic numbers were popular. I remember asking this “so-called psychic” about future career endeavors. How hurt I was when she said I will not be involved in music/entertainment, nor will I ever meet anyone famous, lol. Ouch! Just crush a young girls dreams- that hurt. Now calling the 800 New Edition message-of-the-day number was another story, lol. I still remember walking in from school with my mom holding that expensive phone bill in her hand. Yeah I was in trouble but I was a teenager- don’t judge me, ha ha.


Fast forward- moved many miles away after high school to further my education full-time in another state. I didn’t know anyone but I soaked in everything I learned in school like a sponge. So, between full-time school, part-time job and interning simultaneously I started meeting people. I asked genuine questions and always kept conversations interesting.  


(THE TAKEAWAY) No matter the industry you pursue or where you reside, by attracting positive things into your life, all desires can be successfully obtained. Once you begin on your journey to your dreams- there may be a lot of stumbles, bumps and failures in the road- but have determination in the forefront to keep going. A great support system is key but many may not have that in place and that’s ok because you’re not alone. A total stranger can give all the boost you need to motivate you along. There are a wealth of books, positive online resources and forums to grow and learn from.


START LIVING YOUR PASSION
(MY EXPERIENCE) I have always kept my eye on the prize via jobs and experiences on the music/entertainment platform (music videos/movies, radio station, entertainment magazines, recording studio, co-manager of on-air talent of a television show, co-producer of comedy shows, interviewed interesting beautiful people, etc.).  
It’s something about that ‘first time’ experience- seeing your dreams manifest- and rewarding to live what you love.  


The term, ‘six degrees of separation’, holds true, we come across and connect with people in certain circles. It’s crucial to build relationships in any business because think about it, no one truly does it on their own. One time I was traveling back home to Atlanta, as the person sitting next to me struck up a pleasant conversation.  I found out she works at REVOLT TV, which is Diddy’s entertainment music network. She also explained her boyfriends’ involvement in helping ink the deal for the popular Netflix series, ‘Orange is the New Black’, when it first surfaced.  As our travel came to an end, she gave me her business card, and again this was all in passing. You never know who you come across and what being-in-the-right-place-at-the-right- time can bring.

(THE TAKEAWAY) Opportunities come and go so determine which opportunity is right for you. Many doors will slam and many no’s will echo but one opened door and one yes is all you need. Stay focused and keep going because you never know who is taking notice and someone somewhere will BELIEVE in your dreams. Surround yourself with like-minded people and those more successful in order to learn and grow. Everyone will not divulge their secret-to-success with you so don’t take it personally, although they should think back when someone gave ‘them’ their break.

There are those who allow ego to represent them or won’t ‘pay it forward’ to help the next one. Again, don’t give negative energy and people- not wishing you well to begin with- a platform. Focus on your goals, be genuinely helpful and very grateful to those around you. Hard work and determination is part of the process but without forming relationships or having a genuine supportive circle, the roads you travel… may be a long lonely one. The struggle is real but your destiny is going to happen- no matter when or where. If it’s meant for you it will be for you. There’s enough room for everyone to succeed, claim it, it’s yours. Get inspired and get connected. Figure out which next steps to take to accomplish your dream. Let’s go!

I hope this was helpful and gives someone the needed encouragement to start or continue their desires in life. Have any questions or comments? Leave them in the comment box below for ya girl, let’s connect.
***Photos: Urban Crush***