AUGUST 2015 Noire Edition
All About
AVA
Money matters:
Being in the black
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Photog: Mystro Photography
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Model: Tamara Dennyse, Publisher Photog: Rainedrop Photography www.rainedrophoto.com Makeup: Love Faces by Nikki Hair: Tanesha Townsend Stylist: Effortless Fashions & Designs Resale Boutique
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» A Message from the Publisher One year in and I feel elated! Curvy Connect is blossoming into something I only dreamt of. When I was a little girl, I envisioned being in a room full of creative minds, sharing ideas on how to bring an amazing marketing strategy or creative idea to life. Never did I imagine it would be a company that I would build with my sister! Me and “Jen”, as I affectionately call her, have always had that entrepreneurial bone in our bodies… coming up with ideas that we thought were great, but never grew. Working on countless projects together, I have to say this one is the best one of all; the most challenging, the most creative, and by far the most rewarding. Curvy Connect is moving in directions that will create new roads, new connections, and best of all a new vision of the word CURVY. Our vision! As we celebrate our one year anniversary, my heart is filled with joy and my eyes are brightened a bit more. I am humbled with gratitude while we all walk this road together. Thank you to our amazing team, followers and readers! Our journey continues as we pave the way!
Publisher/Model P.S. - Please share CCM with a friend today, and ask them to subscribe! It’s free! www.CurvyConnectMag.com THANK YOU… My mom for all of your encouraging words and support during those super late nights. Your unconditional love helps me to strive for the best. Regina Hatcher of Effortless Fashions & Designs Resale Boutique, you’ve been there since day one. Thanks for all the advice, support and late night styling sessions. Kim Tezeno and Wykesha King thank you for always being so supportive and helpful. You are always promoting TEGA Creative Studio and CCM. Your thoughtfulness goes a long way. Barry Gatlin with Mystro Photography, thank you for capturing some of my best moments. Entire CCM Team… Thank you!
Grow With Us! LIKE | SUBSCRIBE | FRIEND | FOLLOW u Facebook.com/TamaraDennyse u Twitter and Instagram @tamaradennyse
u Facebook and Instagram @curvyconnect u Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, and Google+ @curvyconnectmag Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com 5
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TABLE OF CONTENTS THIS ISSUE
PAGE
Editor’s Pick: Model Zone, LLC 5 Femme Fatale Cocktails Money Matters: Being in the Black Lashing Out! All About Ava Fashion, Flare & Living Life C.U.R.V.Y! Walking the C.U.R.V.Y! Road Noire Revealed #ccmcandidlycurvy From the Male POV: The 3 S’s for Success
12 14 22 27 30 34 44 58 63 64
PUBLISHER
Tamara Dennyse EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/STAFF WRITER
Jennifer Amoako CREATIVE DIRECTOR
TEGA-Creative-Studio.com CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/PHOTOGRAPHER
Daniel Wilson FASHION EDITOR
Regina Hatcher COVER Jennifer Amoako, Editor-in-Chief Photog: AMEX Photography
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jacqueline “JackieRed” Goodwater
Model: Tamara Dennyse, Publisher Photog: Rainedrop Photography Makeup: Love Faces by Nikki Hair: Tanesha Townsend Stylist: Effortless Fashions & Designs Resale Boutique
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Latisha, the Frugalicious Diva Robert Skuja
p27 WE WANT
YOU!
Are your positive, upbeat, and love all things CURVY? Awesome... Join the team. Curvy Connect Magazine is seeking motivated individuals from all over. Become a Curvy Connect Ambassador! Submit your contact information and 1-2 paragraphs on why you want to be on our team. Visit www.curvyconnectmag.com for more information.
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Curvy Connect Mag P.O. Box 112 Alief, TX 77411-112 832-819-4CCM (4226) © Copyright 2015 Curvy Connect Inc. Material may not be reproduced in whole or in part, in any form without prior written permission. Photo Credit - Robert Skuja
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Jennifer Amoako, Editor-in-Chief Photog: Mystro Photography
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» A Message from the Editor
Amazing things can happen when you set a goal and work wholeheartedly toward it. Curvy Connect Magazine has evolved from a simple idea to what it has become today. I’m very pleased with our growth over the past year and I am forever grateful to those that took a chance on us, including our readers. Because you believed in us, we didn’t want to let you down. Even with a few bumps in the road, we did our best and I hope that we’ve made you proud. The lessons we’ve learned have proved to be invaluable and I can say that we are truly living our brand. Confident. Upbeat. Resilient. Vivacious. You! With emphasis on the “Resilient.” This year has been quite an adventure filled with travel, curvy events, and incredible people. I’ve gone to Houston twice, the U.S. Virgin Islands, New York two times, and I’m in Baltimore as I type this… all representing Curvy Connect Magazine. We have built connections with people around the world including two CCM team members in Canada. I’ve gotten to work with companies where I’ve been a customer for years as well as newer businesses making their mark in the plus-size community just like us. Opportunities that were unimaginable just one year ago! There are so many people involved in the success of Curvy Connect Mag, that it is impossible to thank everyone here. However, I’d like to acknowledge a few very special people that helped turn our vision into reality. THANK YOU… Supermodel Emme and Jessica Kane for sharing words of wisdom, encouragement, and being positive role models for me. CCM Team Member Daniel Wilson for being constant, sharing our vision, and being my Right Hand Man. My mother for believing in me and being the best CCM Marketer ever! My dear husband for investing in my dreams, giving me room to grow, and being part of the team. I could not do this without you and your support, reassurance, and love. You are the BEST! There are many more people to thank including our awesome CCM team members. We’ll have to do something special, just for you! For now, I invite you to read our Anniversary issue. Dark, sultry, even abstract… We have faded to black for the “Noire” edition, but our future looks bolder and brighter than ever before!
Editor-in-Chief
Grow With Us! LIKE | SUBSCRIBE | FRIEND | FOLLOW www.CurvyConnectMag.com u Jennifer on Facebook.com/curvyconnectmag.eic u Facebook and Instagram @curvyconnect u Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, and Google+ @curvyconnectmag
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ADVERTISE WITH US!
Focus. Implement. Results.
www.curvyconnectmag.com | 832.819.4CCM (4226)
Thank You‌ Chastity Garner Valentine for being our very first cover girl and feature.
Ms. Linda Scott Houston for giving us a platform when we were still finding our way in the very beginning.
Dr. Dawn Radio Show for having CCM as guests and ALWAYS sharing, reposting, and retweeting.
Ms. Gwen DeVoe for allowing and encouraging our participation in the FFFW Casting Tour and main events in NYC.
Published Models for having the courage to pursue your dreams and allowing CCM to help make them come true.
We appreciate everyone that has supported us in any way!
Thank You!
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Model: Sheila Lopez Photog: Shellie Lynne of Solight Photography MUA: Shellie Lynne Stylist: Shellie Lynne
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Model: Plus Model Sxy Lxy Photog: Bryce Coleman of J Bryce Photography MUA/Hairstylist: Domonique “The Hairstylist MUA” White
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MODEL ZONE LLC Model Zone is about creating a safe place for women to network and be mentored. I remember being in some very sketchy TFP situations when I first began modeling, and while we all know better sometimes when you want your dream so much you take risks. I wanted to create a business that would be affordable, safe, and allow models to network with businesses, retailers, publications, and photographers who can make an impact on their career without that risk. I want to see our curvy models succeed.
Brittney Tamang Executive Director/ Model Zone
EDITOR’S Sometimes when I make connections through social media, I don’t remember how we originally became “friends.” Maybe through a mutual friend, a group, commenting on a post… no matter how it began, one day I realize that we have more in common that just Facebook. That’s how I feel about Brittney Tamang, the Creator and Executive Director of Model Zone, LLC. Long before Model Zone existed, Brittney and I chatted, exchanged ideas, and shared stories. It didn’t take long to see that she is not only beautiful outside, but inwardly too. I also admire that she is a body-positive advocate, a voice for the curvy community, and she has a passion for plus-size modeling. Under the mentorship of Jessica Kane, who I personally admire as well, Brittney created Model Zone! We’ve all heard the horror stories of aspiring models being lured into bad situations in hopes of being discovered. So, I can truly appreciate Brittney’s vision of creating a safe environment for women to learn the business and work toward their dreams. Being a plus-size model is a profession, and as with any
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S other line of work, there are standards and guidelines. Yes, some beauties are so unique and extraordinary that they may be discovered in the mall! But we all know that is not a reasonable expectation. If you aspire to be a model, whether standard or plus-size, you need to study and practice… truly honing your craft. Working with Model Zone cannot guarantee that you’ll become the next Ashley Graham, Robyn Lawley or Denise Bidot, but Model Zone can help stack the odds in your favor! I always stress the importance of “investing in yourself.” Whether that investment is time, money, or both, you have to decide what your goal is worth to you. Through coaching, networking, and helping you build a strong portfolio, Model Zone will help guide you on your way to becoming a model in a safe and bodypositive environment. I am pleased that Curvy Connect Magazine has partnered with Model Zone, LLC to bring you insider tips on creating publication worthy images and opportunities to showcase your talent to the world. Visit www.modelzonellc.com.
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Dark Sparrow (Pictured Left) 1.5oz VDKA 6100 1.5oz Chardonnay .75oz Fresh-Squeezed Lemon Juice .75oz Simple Syrup 8 Muddled Red Seedless Grapes Steamy Affair 1oz Irish Cream (Carolans) 1oz Coffee Liqueur (Kahlua) Sugar - to taste Coffee - hot Light Cream Preparation: Add Kahlua and Carolans Irish cream to a coffee glass or mug and stir. Fill with hot coffee and sugar to taste. Float light cream or half & half on top. Black Roska 2oz Black Vodka 2/3oz Blackberry Liqueur (Joseph Cartron Creme de Mure des Roncieres) 2/3oz Brown Sugar 4 slices Lemon 2 Blackberries 1 slice Cucumber Preparation: Muddle lemon slices and brown sugar in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add black vodka and blackberry liqueur, and then shake vigorously. Strain into a rocks glass full of ice and garnish with blackberries and a cucumber slice.
Tickled Pickle (Pictured Right) 2 Parts VDKA 6100 3/4 Part Lemon Juice 3/4 Part Simple Syrup 1 Part Sour Pickle Brine 1 Part Australian Lager Beer Preparation: Combine all ingredients (except beer) in a shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a tumbler glass. Top with a heavy splash of lager beer. Stir gently, garnish with skewered mini pickles and dust with cayenne pepper. Fever 3oz (6 tablespoons) gin 1oz (2 tablespoons) dry vermouth 1 teaspoon Dubonnet Rouge 1/2 teaspoon anisette or other anise-flavored liqueur Preparation: Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice, then add all ingredients and shake or stir well. Strain into chilled Martini glasses. Garnish with lemon twists 16 Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com
Model: Kat Stroud Photog: House of Winter Stylist: Catherine Schuller Wardrobe: PLY Apparel
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Model: L. Chantay Photog: Doss Tidwell MUA: India Henderson
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WWW.SKINANDBODYAPPEAL.COM
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Models: Curv’e Key, CC Bradley, Stevedra Allen Photog: Kesha Booker MUA: Kesha Booker Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com 21
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Model: Pokey Photographer: AP at www.PerryDesigns.net MUA: Jo-Anna at FernormFaces Stylist: Tina at Flipped Kouture Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com 23
Money Matters:
Being in the Black!! By Latisha, the Frugalicious Diva
H
ey Curvy Chicks!! Frugalicious Diva is back and excited to send up a challenge to both myself and you about getting your money right!! This August issue is the Noire Issue. “Noire” in French means “black” (the feminine version of course). Although black is often looked at as bad: Black Widow, blacklisted, black hole, we’re going to chat about “Being in the Black” in regards to our money. It’s always about the money (or saving it) when the Frugalicious Diva is involved, so let’s get started. It’s now August and about to enter into the last quarter of 2015. So as far as I’m concerned, it’s time to
start getting ready for Christmas and it’s time to write down goals for 2016. Though the ads are not visible right now, it’s still possible to plan. Keep a watch on this site: www.bfads.net/Stores to see when some of your favorite retailers will post their ads. Cash is Queen! First, set money aside with the intent to ONLY plan to use CASH. Determine that you won’t go into debt for Christmas. Decide how much you want to spend on the entire holiday and divide it by the number of months you’re going to save it. Then take it out first (pay yourself) and deposit it into an online account that’s not readily available to you. Make sure it accrues interest, as a bonus.
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Don’t be like me and wait until the last minute to gather funds to shop. I can often get away with it because I save all year long and only have to buy minimal gifts. My parents and my daughter tell me exactly what they want; I’m in a secret pal gift exchange to cut costs and other items I often collect throughout the year, when I see a deal. Oh and I have no issues with re-gifting (we’ll talk about that in a few months).
Plan Your Black (Friday) Attack! Don’t try to hit ALL the stores on the same day. Even though Black Friday is the day after Christmas, many sales often start days in advance. Stagger your visits and take a buddy. My cousin and her best friend are so skilled with Black Friday shopping that they each have teams every year. Anyone rolling with them MUST attend the “Sales Flyer Party” where they combine all circulars, scour each page and mark the targets. Next they make their list of stores and determine the sales times. This is to maximize your limited time in the stores; after all you’ve already probably waited in line. The route is based on those times. Last, they coordinate teams to make sure each store, time, and sale is covered. For the larger chains they send each team out for specific items. That way no one person is responsible for finding too many items and they can easily get in and out.
Budget to Black! So many people want more money at the end of the month,
but no one wants to do the work to get there. I understand…I’ve been there and I still get weary sometimes. The simple rule to a great budget is to write your goals, list what you earn and everything you spend. The budget sheet I used is two sided to accommodate both a Projected Budget and an Actual Budget. The projected side is all your prep work in terms of what you plan to spend in the month. It will include the following:
n Expected Income – List your beginning balance, then list your employment, business income (if applicable) and any other “streams” of income you expect to receive. Is it your birthday? Put an estimated amount you’re almost sure you’ll get. Are you a vendor selling your wares this month? Then list your projected business income. The Frugalicious Diva is about building wealth, so multiple streams of income is a must!! n Fixed Expenses – Here is where you map out your normal bills and/or debt: rent/mortgage, utilities, credit cards, car payment, and any auto draft bills or savings plans like mutual funds. Whatever applies to your household including items like emergency fund and tithes for church or a charitable organization should go in this category. Also, if you’re saving for Black Friday, like mentioned above, here is where you’ll add your Christmas Cash “payment”.
n Variable Expenses - You may or may not have the same expenses every month, so this category is specific to the
month in which you’re budgeting. They are flexible and in some cases can be eliminated. This is where you plan for entertainment, dining out, clothing, and even your groceries. Many think that’s fixed, but because Frugalicious divas use coupons and are building stockpiles, this category should be very flexible.
The greatest thing about budgeting is seeing how you actually spend money. It paints a picture for you. If you have more money than month, then you can spend more on what you truly enjoy. While that’s fun, especially in the summer, my frugalicious advice to you is to save more or use that extra to pay off debt. If you have less money than month, make some adjustments. Another tip is to leave a buffer in your bank account, say $50. Pretend it’s not even there and when you balance you checkbook, (do people still do that?) modify the amount. This helps in case of incidentals and gives you an automatic carryover into the next month. Media will have us to believe that black references are bad, but in the Noire Edition of Curvy Connect Mag, we are showing you just how beautiful Black is!! We love little, black and curvy dresses; we marvel over black diamonds; now we can brag about our “in the black” and overflowing bank accounts.
What other tips do you use to keep your money “In the Black? Be sure to tell us at Curvy Connect Magazine! Follow us at www.CurvyConnectMag.com.
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Model: Alicia Cowan Photog: Renee Blaj/Guillermo Ruiz MUA: Charles Danner
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Model: Shahidah Photog: Mystro Photography MUA: Shareece Gregory Stylist: Linda Scott
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best fake
eyelashes… Fake eyelashes can be very hit or miss! The perfect pair can finish a look perfectly, but choose the wrong pair and you can #look overdressed, or they can fall out! Here’s my top five fake #eyelashes, to help you avoid those eyelash errors!
1. SHE UEMURA FAKE EYELASHES Price: $25 at sephora.com These are the perfect eyelashes! They are subtle enough for daytime chic, but inject just enough glamour into the #eyes. They are easy to apply and last for a few weeks, too!
3. SEPHORA FALSE EYE LASHES Price: $8 at sephora.com Want thicker, blacker lashes? These lashes sit perfectly on top of your own, and give you a jet black and very sexy look. To make the most of them, team them with a black kohl pencil, and smoky eyeshadow. A very hot #look!
4. SEPHORA FLIRTIT-LASH-DUO FAKE EYELASHES Price: $8 at sephora.com These are a little different from conventional fake eyelashes. Instead of going over your natural lashes, these tiny strips enhance what you’ve got and give you a very #flirty flutter.
2. SEPHORA GLITTERY FAKE EYELASHES Price: $8 at sephora.com If you are looking for something a little more show-y, these fake lashes are divine. The feathers are so light and soft, and they actually don’t restrict vision at all! They are very easy to apply, and always make a huge impact!
5. SEPHORA DELUX LASH KIT GLITTER Price: $18 at sephora.com These are so easy to apply, you can do it with one hand! The eyelashes are perfectly shaped, and give the illusion of naturally big, black #eyelashes. The glitter looks subtle but sexy, and they #look really natural. A winner! Source: “11 Best Fake Eyelashes” by Kati Blake via www.allwomenstalk.com/6-best-fake-eyelashes
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Model: Plus Model Kerri Photog: Ron Mayes MUA: Jenice Mangruem
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{FEATURE}
By Robert Skuja Photographer/Journalist
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{FEATURE} Rain was forecasted but it never came. The hot sun was shining in Kensington Market, a multicultural and eclectic neighbourhood in Toronto’s downtown core. The sensory potpourri of sweet mangoes, yellow plantains and exotic spices filled the air on the corner of Augusta Avenue and Baldwin Street where I was to meet Ava Jones, the fashion designer and owner of Pheline Couture. The agreed meeting place was an open-air coffee house and as I walked in, there was no mistaking that the beautiful woman with a smile as bright as the sun spilling in, was Ava. I couldn’t help but wonder too, if she was having flashbacks of her birthplace as the nearby Caribbean market dispensed its fragrant lure. A kind and courtly greeting put me quickly at ease and excited to spend time photographing and chatting with her. We began with the photos as the sun seemed happy to stick around and spend time with us too. After an effortless photo session and back at the coffee house, we sat on a small, side patio that felt more like a cottage. The people bustling by on this narrow, mainly pedestrian street seemed to fade to a blur as I began my questions for Ava. Though bittersweet, her memories are vivid of leaving behind the Aunt that helped raise her. Tears also fell for the pet goat with the bright red handkerchief and the fishing boat-lined beaches of Alligator Pond in the Parish of St. Elizabeth. A long trip on the back of her Uncle’s motorbike down Jamaica’s south coast road would take five year old Ava through the shade of Bamboo Avenue and onwards to the airport. A plane destined for Toronto, Canada would reunite her with her parents and her new life would begin. Early on, Ava was larger than most her age and along with high school, came the teasing. Although she had friends, she was the still thought of as the “fat girl” and as a result, never a part of high school’s popular crowd. “There weren’t any boyfriends around because I was bigger,” says Ava, “people didn’t really gravitate towards me for that reason.” It wasn’t a lot different at home for her either. Her petite mother, a size 8 with all the best intentions, often pressured Ava to lose weight with regular comments about her daughter’s size being ‘too big’. Going to the mall proved discouraging also. In her early teens, the age of self-discovery and with a yearning to express her own style, Ava found that fashion choices for girls of her size were limited to say the least. Boy’s sizes fit her, however they just hung off her feminine frame. Resourcefulness, found her tapering, adapting and altering the aptly sized boys clothes into creations that enhanced her developing curves. This quickly progressed into designing, cutting and hand sewing her own dresses, and out of necessity, Ava had found her passion. Her own designs, patterned for her shape and size brought with them much attention and at 15, she began to notice for the first time, that her curves could captivate. She recalls how she first felt uncomfortable with the attention from men. “I just couldn’t figure out how to process their reactions,” she explained and it took quite some time to understand and accept the fact that she was beautiful. When she did, there was no holding her confidence back. Ava embraced her size, her curves, her pure, natural beauty and was happy with it all. Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com 33
{FEATURE}
With her creative talents discovered, Ava left high school to study fashion marketing and management but after a student placement with Toronto designer Sunny Choi, her creative passion took over and Ava focused on design. As a follow-up to her studies, Ava sharpened her skills apprenticing with another Toronto designer/tailor before embarking on her own by launching Pheline Couture in 2009. Influenced by the “figure flattering” feminine styles of the 1950’s and 60’s Pheline debuted its ‘ready to wear’ collection both in Canada and the USA at the Fuller Woman Expo. Inspired hugely by Valentino’s femininity, Galliano’s romanticism, and the sculptural edginess of Gaultier and Miake, Ava’s “one of a kind” creations are designed with a full-figured woman in mind. She says of her fashions, that she wants to “give people a realistic view of what fashion looks like on real sized bodies, because that’s who’s wearing it.” With the average size of women being a size 14 and the majority of well publicized fashion designers producing clothes for women under size 10, it really does set an unrealistic view. “Wear clothes to fit,” Ava urges, “don’t squeeze yourself into a size 10!” Pheline fashions fit the plus-sizes. Her designs don’t camouflage curves, they celebrate them. She enhances the sex appeal of full-figured
women through shape, pattern, colour and texture and the beauty of her creations beautify the woman who wears them. As sweet as the fragrant mangoes that mingle through this cafe in Kensington Market, is this quiet notion; Could beauty be as simple and as pure as nature intended it to be? Can beautiful treasures come from the most simple of intentions? From Ava’s origins in Jamaica, the trees of Bamboo Avenue were used to provide shade and protection to travellers and to the roadway. What remains from this simple, 17th century intention is two and a half miles of one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the world. A road that five-year old Ava remembers into adulthood. A girl, that out of need, turned boy’s clothes into beautiful creations which enhanced and paraded her beauty and led Ava to discover her passion, recognize her beauty, create her beautiful fashions and enhance the natural beauty of real women everywhere. Beauty is everywhere, in everyone. It just needs to be discovered, embraced and shared in order to shine! Ava Jones is doing just that!
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Rainedrop PHOTO G R A P H Y
Rainedrophoto.com
{FEATURE}
Jennifer Amoako, Editor-in-Chief Photog: Twentyone0six MUA/Hair: J’la
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{FEATURE}
By Daniel Wilson
Sitting down with Curvy Connect Magazine Editor-in-Chief Jennifer Amoako was destined to be special. Chatting with this dynamic, funny and fascinating ambassador of the curvy movement proved to be as enlightening and engaging as anticipated. To find out where it all started, Amoako told of her early introduction to the modeling industry. “I took an interest in modeling in high school. Before I knew what a “plus size model” was, I knew I wanted to be one. I wasn’t interested in runway, I felt like I wanted to be one of the people in the catalog. Back then the J.C. Penney catalog was really popular so I used to go through that and think ‘I could model the clothes in here.’” Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com 37
{FEATURE}
She explains about finding her way in the business. “One time I drove to Chicago and attended a Barbizon seminar. I even had a portfolio made. I was about 18. It wasn’t really serious, but I wanted to find out what modeling was all about. Since then it’s always been something I’m interested in, but not something I want to do personally.” Her relationship with Publisher Tamara Brown started early - very early. “I’ve known Tamara since I was 4 years old, we literally grew up together. We truly consider ourselves sisters.” It was that close relationship that eventually sparked the idea of a magazine. “Curvy Connect was originally Tamara’s idea. Around January of 2014 she suggested an online ‘lookbook’ to showcase aspiring models and help get their names out there. I thought that was great and from there it grew to the idea of a magazine… maybe have a couple of articles on beauty and fashion. That’s where I came in. She’s a graphic artist and I freelance for her when she needs copy written. That’s how our roles were developed, her as publisher and me as editor. The ideas kept flowing and it just got bigger and bigger.”
It wasn’t just the idea of a magazine that cemented Amoako’s love of the plus size industry. It was the people. “I love the camaraderie of the curvy movement. It feels like a sisterhood. Also, a lot of people have the misconception that women or girls who are overweight automatically have low self-esteem. That’s never been my experience. My mother
helped me develop a positive self-image from the very beginning. Everyone has moments of self-doubt, but my size never stopped me from being popular, dating, or any of that.” The feisty Editor is persistent in getting her message of body positivity across. “I really like that we can get that message out there, that we are not stereotypes, we are not the fat joke in every movie. We have the same issues that all women have regardless of size. We want fashionable clothes, we love beauty, and we’re the same as everyone else. I love the curvy movement for shattering those myths.” There is still work to be done though, as she admits. “As hard as we work, the stereotypes still exist no matter how far we go, no matter what barriers are broken down or what we achieve. I did not know how vicious people can be online to one another, to perfect strangers, especially centered around something like weight. I was familiar with social media before Curvy Connect but I wasn’t on it personally. I didn’t have Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Since being online so much more now, it’s shocking to me to see that people can be so cruel for no reason.” In her goal of helping plus size women dress their best, Amoako offers some direction. “Just because something comes in your size doesn’t mean you should wear it. For example, the ‘Rock the Crop’ situation… obviously some plus size women wear them and look amazing. It’s an individual choice. But I honestly don’t think they are for everyone. Personally, I would never wear a crop top.”
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{FEATURE}
AS HARD AS WE WORK, THE STEREOTYPES STILL EXIST NO MATTER HOW FAR WE GO, NO MATTER WHAT BARRIERS ARE BROKEN DOWN OR WHAT WE ACHIEVE... IT’S SHOCKING TO ME TO SEE THAT PEOPLE CAN BE SO CRUEL FOR NO REASON.
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Jennifer Amoako, Editor-in-Chief Photog: Daniel Nathan Makeup: Shanee’ Danielle
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{FEATURE} Jennifer Amoako, Editor-in-Chief Photog: AMEX Photography
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{FEATURE}
Amoako is pleased that both mainstream and smaller market retailers are beginning to hop on the curvy bandwagon. “Other than mass retailers like Lane Bryant, Avenue and FULLBEAUTY, I like Kiyonna Plus Size Clothing. When you go to their website, they have a section dedicated to regular, everyday customers wearing their clothing in addition to stock images of models. Their sizes range from 1X to 5X. They’ll give information like ‘this model is wearing a 1X and she’s 5’ 5”’ or ‘this model is wearing a 4X and she’s 6 feet tall’. That information, along with pictures helps you visualize how the garment may fit you. You can say ‘my tummy looks like this, or my backside looks like that’. It really helps and I appreciate that about their website.” Other suppliers also warrant some recognition, Amoako states. “Somebody else really getting it right is eShakti. I’ve ordered from them a couple of times. You can order based on just a standard size up to 36W I believe, or you can get it tailored and customized to your measurements and it’s only seven dollars extra. It’s great if you’re not that perfect hourglass, you can get it tailored larger on the top and smaller on the bottom or whatever.” Things change in the fashion industry and it’s not uncommon for consumers to open their minds to new possibilities. “Over the summer I’ve been into the chevron prints. I’ve started to like florals a little bit more as well. I always had a disdain for flowers on clothes, because when I was younger it seemed that all I could find were ‘old lady’ clothes and they were always flowered, so I hated floral print things I didn’t want to look like a sofa! But now they come in big bold designs or dainty flowers, so I’m appreciating floral prints more than I have before.” Finding new solutions to old problems is welcome and it doesn’t hurt that retailers are finally listening to their customers. “I think retailers are learning some valuable lessons, such as with the Target boycott. I think everyday women like myself, have a larger voice because of social media, the popularity of bloggers, and so on. We’ve had the same complaints for years, but with social media you can be in their face. Now they see how it can negatively affect their bottom line and no business wants that. They realize they have to listen to what we want instead of putting us in a potato sack and wanting us to pay top dollar for it.”
“If you told me a year ago I’d meet all the people I have, I wouldn’t have believed it!” Amoako laughs. “My number one person was Supermodel Emme. I didn’t expect to have the reaction I did. I knew I might potentially end up meeting her, it was her event. But when I did meet her, she was so warm, she gave me a hug, and I got choked up because of all she represents. She’s a pioneer. It was definitely a pleasure to meet Chastity from Garner Style and CeCe Olisa from Plus Size Princess. I also loved meeting GabiFresh. She was the first plus size blogger I ever knew about! Meeting Victoria Janashvili of ‘The Curves Book’ was awesome. To hear her story and how a plus size woman inspired her was very inspirational.”
Photo: Jennifer with Supermodel Emme
Photo: Jennifer with Supermodel Emme
Photo: Jennifer with GabiFresh
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{FEATURE} When asked about her most memorable events, Amoako doesn’t hesitate. “Hands down my favorite event was The Curvy Con! Although I love fashion shows and I appreciate that part of the industry, Curvy Con was so much more to me. It was wellorganized, it had a theme, but more than anything was the feeling of unity. It wasn’t about models; it was about everyone. It was so positive. It just radiated good vibes and good energy. It was like a big slumber party, but everyone was fashionable and fabulous!”
Photo: Jennifer with Chastity
photos. We want to offer something to the everyday, well-rounded woman. We want to talk about healthy curves. We’re not going to force the weight loss issue. We want to talk about beauty trends and travel. That part has grown; we never expected it to be so content heavy as far as written articles. The magazine has grown that way and the website has become a beast of its own. It’s important to have that content; it’s something we’re continuously working on.”
Photo: Jennifer with CeCe Olisa
Having been witness to many young hopefuls with dreams of modeling, Amoako puts forward some good advice. “I would suggest to any young lady looking to break in to plus size modeling to invest in yourself. And by “invest” I don’t mean with just money. Invest your time and effort into to learning your craft and honing your skills. It’s not just about being pretty. Modeling is a career… a profession. If you want to be taken seriously, you have to take it seriously yourself. If you’re submitting for a model call and they ask for a professional picture, don’t send them a selfie from your phone taken in your car. It is a job and should be taken seriously.” Building her reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the full figured community, Amoako sets her sights firmly on the future of Curvy Connect Magazine. “Ultimately, Curvy Connect provides a platform for aspiring models and we’ll continue to do that. But we don’t want to just be a showcase for the 44 Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com
According to Amoako, changing and growing is just part of the process. “The overall goal of creating a network for plus size women, aspiring models, and professionals hasn’t changed, it’s just expanded. I want Curvy Connect to stay true to its vision of being body positive too. We’ll always live our motto of ‘Confident, Upbeat, Resilient, Vivacious, You!’ Where we’ll go as a magazine I really don’t know, I can’t pinpoint because things are always changing. I think we’ll let the magazine evolve organically and see where it goes.” - 30 -
INVEST YOUR TIME AND EFFORT INTO TO LEARNING YOUR CRAFT AND HONING YOUR SKILLS. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT BEING PRETTY. MODELING IS A CAREER… A PROFESSION.
{FEATURE}
Jennifer Amoako, Editor-in-Chief Photog: Mystro Photography
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{FEATURE}
Model: Tamara Dennyse, Publisher Photog: Rainedrop Photography www.rainedrophoto.com Makeup: Love Faces by Nikki Hair: Tanesha Townsend Stylist: Effortless Fashions & Designs Resale Boutique 46Diva Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition Wardrobe: Amour
:: curvyconnectmag.com
{FEATURE}
By Jacqueline “JackieRed” Goodwater
MET TAMARA BROWN ABOUT TWO YEARS AGO AND WORKED WITH HER ON A FEW PROJECTS. TAMARA IS VERY PLEASANT AND ALWAYS HAS A SMILE ON HER FACE. I CONNECTED WITH HER AND LATER FOUND OUT SHE CREATES AMAZING GRAPHICS AND DESIGNS. I REMEMBER THINKING TO MYSELF, “THIS GIRL HAS A GIFT.” A FEW MONTHS DOWN THE LINE, SHE PITCHED HER PUBLICATION VISION TO ME AND ASKED ME IF I WANTED TO BE A CONTRIBUTING WRITER. I KNEW IT WOULD BE VISUALLY AMAZING AND I WAS HONORED TO ASSIST.
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{FEATURE}
Q| A|
Tamara, where are you from? I was born in East St. Louis and moved to Michigan when I was about 5 years old. I moved on a dead end street and that is where I met my best friend, Jennifer Amoako of 30+ years. I moved to Houston, Texas in December of ’97, right after Army Reserve bootcamp. I grew up in an active military family and it was in my roots. All through high school, I was active in J.R.O.T.C. I also loved graphics. I attended the Art Institute of Houston. Upon graduation, I was hired to work for one of the top ten design agencies. I started working as an administrative assistant and when a position opened up at the firm, I applied and was offered the position. I learned so much! After ten years of working for the company, I decided to create and build my own business. I left corporate America in 2007 and have not looked back.
Q| A|
Q| A|
Tell us your experience as a petite plus model? I started my journey in the summer of 2013 when I cut my hair and went natural. I wanted to embrace the entire transition and came across a flyer for a pageant in December of that year. I wanted to explore the curvy community and started to attend casting calls. I started to get selected and learn a lot about the lack of connections when something positive was taking place. Curvy Connect Magazine came into existence because I wanted to expose people to the industry in a positive light.
Congrats on placing as a finalist in the Cynthia Bailey Agency monthly contest! Tell us more. It was such an amazing feeling to place. To be chosen by a supermodel with her own agency, to me means that maybe she can see potential in my talent. Being a fairly new model and to be recognized by someone of her caliber is a great feeling.
Photo: Model Tamara Dennyse, 1426 Fashion Week Designer: Pheline Design Photog: Mystro Photography
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{FEATURE}
IF OPPORTUNITY DOESN’T KNOCK, BUILD A DOOR. ~MILTON BERLE
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Model: Tamara Dennyse, Publisher Photog: Rainedrop Photography www.rainedrophoto.com Makeup: Love Faces by Nikki Hair: Tanesha Townsend Stylist: Effortless Fashions & Designs Resale Boutique Wardrobe: Diva Amour
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{FEATURE}
Model: Tamara Dennyse, Publisher Photog: Rainedrop Photography www.rainedrophoto.com Makeup: Love Faces by Nikki Hair: Tanesha Townsend Stylist: Effortless Fashions & Designs Resale Boutique
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{FEATURE}
Q| A| Q| A| Q| A|
What is your favorite Plus-Size magazine? Curvy Connect Magazine, of course! I have a huge respect for Skorch Magazine and Plus Model Magazine though.
What makes a publication successful? Hard work and dedication‌ You have to be committed and believe in what you are doing. When you have support from others that bring great ideas it can be explosive and pretty amazing! Photo: Model Tamara Dennyse, 1426 Fashion Week Designer: Jay Jay Designs Photog: Mystro Photography
The premiere issue featured Chastity Garner Valentine of GarnerStyle on the cover. What type of feedback did you get? There were so many positive compliments. People loved it! Chastity is very down-to-earth. I had pitched the vision and she believed in it. The first issue had many models based out of Houston. We were able to venture out since that first issue to many different countries! We have been able to show people we are serious. We did not want to be a popup magazine.
Q|
Where do you see Curvy Connect Magazine in 5 years?
A|
I see Curvy Connect all around the world globally; our own Curvy Connect Convention and have our own show!
Q|
Photo: Model Tamara Dennyse, 1426 Fashion Week Designer: Pheline Design Photog: Mystro Photography
How is Curvy Connect Magazine different from all the other curvy publications out there?
A|
Curvy Connect Magazine is accessible. We publish quality work. We make connections. We are showing people what’s really going on in the curvy community across the world! Photo: Model Tamara Dennyse, BGR2 Konfidence & Kurves MUA: Love Faces by Nikki Photog: Emperial Photography
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{FEATURE}
Q| A|
Q| A| Q| A|
When you hear the word “quality,” what comes to mind? Something that everyone wants. You want people to desire your look or work. You want to stand out, be recognized, and professional. That is what Curvy Connect Magazine strives for in every issue.
What advice can you give to aspiring publishers, editors, bloggers, and writers wanting to start their own publications? First step, believe in what you are doing. Secondly it should not feel like work, it should be enjoyable. You will have some long nights… but in order for it to grow you must find it within yourself to push forward. Nurture it and it will grow strong.
If you could change the rules in media and the industry, what would you change? In the fashion category, I would change the model stats. In the media category, I would change the way “plus-size” is looked up upon. The scrutinizing is quite ridiculous. Kudos to Tess Holliday on her accomplishments. She gets a lot of heat!
CURVES COMES IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES AND ALL SHOULD BE
Model: Tamara Dennyse, Publisher Photog: Mystro Photography Hair: Tanesha Townsend
Grow With Us! LIKE | SUBSCRIBE | FRIEND | FOLLOW u Facebook.com/TamaraDennyse u Twitter and Instagram @tamaradennyse u Facebook and Instagram @curvyconnect u Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, and Google+ @curvyconnectmag www.CurvyConnectMag.com
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I have seen Tamara and her business partner, Editor-In-Chief Jennifer Amoako grow rapidly with a quality publication over the last year. “Crisp, edgy, different and curvaceous” is how I felt when I laid eyes on the first published copy of Curvy Connect Magazine last summer. I knew this was not a pop-up project but a serious vision come to life, and I knew I had to be a part of it! One year later and Curvy Connect Magazine is global… connecting all parts of the curvy world together. Congratulations on the vision and Happy One Year Anniversary! Best Wishes, Jacqueline “JackieRed” Goodwater Model | FitSpert | Future Nutritionist
{FEATURE}
Model: Tamara Dennyse, Publisher Photog: Rainedrop Photography www.rainedrophoto.com Makeup: Love Faces by Nikki Hair: Tanesha Townsend Stylist: Effortless Fashions & Designs Resale Boutique Wardrobe: Diva Amour
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Model: Model: Carmina Suzanne Photog: AMP Studios/ Doug Hansgate Head Stylist, Co-Producer: Adrian McAdory Hair: Brittany La Bella the Hair Artist MUA: SalleyNycole Esthetics & Makeup Artistry Creative Director: Carmina Suzanne Designer: Dede Allure
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Model: Catasha Singleton Photog: Michelle Alexander MUA: Holly Ernst Stylist: Steffany Allen
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Model: Wy Renae Photog: The Lennz Photography MUA: Allegra Webb Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com 59
By Regina Hatcher
Mysterious, sensual, sexy, alluring, devious, naughty... What word best describes your fantasy NOIRE? Divas, write your own naughty tales with the most sexy lingerie options for curvy gals! No longer are we smothering our curves in frumpy, matronly, nightwear. We’re embracing our bodies with boldness, and packaging up our sexy!
We want truthful, accurate listings with customer reviews. Show us pretty, sexy, curvy femmes modeling all options available. List realistic size guidelines we can use to make the most informed decisions. Offer a “hassle free,” discreet return policy.
The demand for better selections in fullsized fashion has not been limited to just outerwear. Goddess-sized divas want to showcase their bodies in sexy and comfortable “unmentionables.” Give us versions of romantic honeymoon, naughty fantasy, spicy sinfuls, and more! We want items that flatter, but fit well. No longer are we accepting poor quality fabrics that scratch and bind our love handles. Well thought out designs in an array of colors is what appeals to us. We expect size options to accommodate extended sizes. No more “granny” leftovers. Since we LOVE OUR BODIES, we want them packaged up nicely.
Well, now that we’ve expressed our demands, let’s get down to “risky business.” Let’s peek at some of the hottest looks in black, plus-size lingerie. Lingerie can be so versatile and easily incorporated into looks outside the boudoir. From corsets to thigh high stockings, you can be naughty all day long.
Accessibility is yet, another key factor. If local retailers don’t carry selections in our size, online shopping is our next option.
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To help us showcase the latest in little, black, sexy things, we’ve enlisted the help of our friends at Hips & Curves, Your Ultimate Plus Size Lingerie Boutique. HipsandCurves.com was launched in 2000; they “offer a secure, private and entertaining shopping experience.” Their “aim is to provide fabulous, sexy plus size lingerie that celebrates the beauty and sensuality of fuller figures.” They carry an array of items in sizes up to 6X.
PANTIES: From boy shorts to thongs, something about black undies makes me feel sexy. Boy shorts are my absolute favorite...That’s our little secret!
BRAS: From practicality to tantalizing; it’s your call. NIGHTIES: Whether you’re looking for something to actually sleep in, or maybe add a little heat in the night, there’s something for YOU. CORSETS: Want sensual additions to your after-five affairs? Yet they’re flexible enough to wear with an afterfive ensemble. HOSIERY: Why limit yourself to boring, bland hose? Wear a sexy pair of thigh highs with your business attire on the days you may dare to try something “new” for lunch. BODYSTOCKINGS: Self explanatory, don’t you think?
Those are just a few of our favorite features from Hips & Curves. Be sure to take a peek for yourself. They don’t just sell lingerie! Don’t be afraid to explore your options. Continue to embrace your bodies, while loving your curves. Don’t be afraid to experiment if you’re a bit shy. If you’re already comfortable in your skin, ROCK WHAT YA GOT! Continue to demand the best quality and styles options from retailers. Don’t let anything stop you from “PACKAGING UP YOUR SEXY!”
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Model: Cat Bajowski Photog: Simon Balnozan MUA: Carley Quinn
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Model: Tyana ChimerĂŠ Photog: Darque Room Images Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com 63
Model: Chase Banks Clarke Photog/MUA/Stylist: Julie Meyer
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#ccmcandidlycurvy
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Be sure to follow us on Instagram for your chance to be showcased in our Candidly Curvy section! Visit www.CurvyConnectMag.com for more information.
Instagram @curvyconnect | #ccmcandidlycurvy Curvy Connect Mag :: August 2015 Noire Edition :: curvyconnectmag.com 65
From the
Male POV
for Success {S1 - SELF CONFIDENCE} {S2 - SMILE} {S3 - SOCIAL MEDIA} By Daniel Wilson
We all want to find a way to power our way to success. We look for a formula, a phrase, something that will stick in our minds to help us get ahead. For those beginning their journey into plus modeling, the road may seem so littered with booby traps, potholes and rough spots that it might seem foolish to even try and proceed. You will have days when nobody wants to see you, everything you do gets rejected and you feel that trying to realize your goals is hopeless. You might have moments when you think it’s easier just to give up. I’d like to address that thought right now. It is NOT ‘easier’ to give up! There is nothing easy about going through life wondering ‘what if’! And if you wait too long to pursue your dreams, time will step in and make the decision for you. You can put things off and delay attempts to seek out your goals but one day you may realize you’ve simply waited too long. And that is not an ‘easy’ feeling. That’s the hardest feeling of all not knowing ‘what if’, always wondering if you could have been what you set out to be. Don’t let it happen. At the same time, we’ll be real as well. Not every plus size girl is going to grow up to be runway model. There are precious few openings for anyone in that field and much has to do with being in the right place at the right time. We can’t always count on a series of fortunate events to help us along. However there are multitudes of jobs in the plus size fashion industry, including fit models, catalog models, event organizing, company reps, photography and video, marketing - countless opportunities. Starting out with dreams of becoming a plus model and ‘ending up’ as an independent clothing designer for example, wouldn’t be too hard to accept. And those sorts of situations are attainable with
hard work, savvy and a structured plan. Let’s go ahead and look at the ’S times 3’ formula for getting ahead in the plus modeling world.
{S1 - SELF CONFIDENCE} Why is this the number one thing you can do as a plus model to help kickstart your career? Because it’s the number one thing anyone can do to help themselves move their careers forward. You have to undeniably, without question believe in yourself first. If you don’t believe, no one else will. It’s not something verbal, no one is going to see you looking down at your feet or fidgeting with your jewelry or whispering when asked a question and think ‘oh, she doesn’t have much self-confidence, we’ll pass her by’. It’s an instinctive reaction. Our brains make judgements in a fraction of a second and it could be that instant that gains or loses you that opportunity. Self-confidence doesn’t mean arrogance. Self-confidence means belief in oneself and takes knowing - knowing - that you are worthy of the task ahead of you. So let the world see the self-confident, world beater inside you. Know that you can accomplish your goals and that knowledge will emanate from you with your words, your tone and your body language. This is the most important thing you can do to help yourself succeed.
{S2 - SMILE} Everybody knows about self-confidence, or should, but a smile is one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal. You may not have consciously thought of using a smile as a calculated strategy. If you haven’t, think of it now, because there are many people in many different walks of life who absolutely use their smiles as intentional devices to reach out to those around them.
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{FEATURE}
How our Editor-in-Chief uses the Three S’s for Success A genuine smile, self-confident and humble… Jennifer makes lasting connections in person and through social media. “A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.” –Phyllis Diller
Try this experiment if you’re still unsure. Turn on your favorite radio station and listen to the announcers as they joke around, banter or tell a comical story. Why do they sound so chipper and cheerful? Because they are smiling as they talk, even if they are by themselves. Your voice sounds different when you smile; the human ear recognizes the tone in a smiling face as opposed to a straight or frowning face. The old saying for being successful in negotiating is ‘smile and say no until your tongue bleeds’. It’s an old adage because it works. In a potentially confrontational situation like a negotiation, a smile throws off your opponent. It says ‘I disagree with what you’re proposing, but I am not taking it personally’. In the arena of modeling, your smile is one of your best selling points. I don’t mean grinning like a fool for no reason, but a genuine, ‘I care about you and your opinions’ expression. Show them that smile and they’ll remember you for it - guaranteed.
{S3 - SOCIAL MEDIA} It’s a big world and the great part about that is you can reach almost every square inch of it by being smart with your social media. Use it - it’s there for that purpose. There is so much you can do for yourself - by yourself - through social media. Learn its do’s and don’ts and its interplay with those you are trying to influence. You create a ‘brand’ for yourself just the same way car companies create brands for themselves. It’s fun to watch the Dodge and Ford pickup truck commercials, each trying to be more rugged and macho than the other - while still being socially responsible, empathetic and environmentally friendly! It’s quite a dance. Your ‘brand’ doesn’t have to be so complicated. It simply has to present the best ‘you’ to the world.
Try not to get involved in socially dividing causes. But at the same time, if you have a cause you really believe in, expound on it! If you strongly support animal rights, let your followers know. They will come to identify you with that cause. Be active, if you have a Twitter account, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Foursquare or whatever. Keep current, especially if you are gathering a fan base. It’s easy to get hooked on these sites - they can be real time sponges. But if you are using them as devices to further your career, then be wise about it. Update, edit, make them exactly what you want them to be, post often enough to hold people’s interest and then get on with the real world and let your social media accounts do what they should be doing - generating interest in you and your brand 24/7.
Happy Anniversary CCM! And lastly, a special anniversary shout out to - us! This issue marks Curvy Connect’s one year anniversary and I couldn’t be happier or more proud of the people I work with. Tamara and Jennifer are so knowledgeable and so passionate about the curvy community and their dedication deserves special recognition. An overwhelming number of new magazine startups never make it to the one year mark and that accomplishment in itself is to be commended. I’ve been a sideline witness to the growing pains Tamara and Jennifer have experienced with CCM, the ups and downs, the triumphs and the tears and they’ve come through it with boundless energy and enthusiasm for the future. Congratulations girls, the curvy community is a better place thanks to your contributions and commitment. And congratulations to you, our loyal readers for supporting us. Stick around because the best is most definitely still to come! - 30 -
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No More Martyrs!
Redefining Strength. Embracing Wellness. Building Community. No More Martyrs is a mental health awareness campaign committed to building an online community of support for Black women with mental health concerns. Connect With Us: twitter: @No_More_Martyrs | Instagram: No_MoreMartyrs www.facebook.com/Join.No.More.Martyrs For More Information: NoMoreMartyrs@Valenrich.com
www.Valenrich.com/No_More_Martyrs
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