INFECTA Magazine - Girl Power feat The Montes Twins | May/21 - Year I - Vol 5

The Montes Twins GIRL POWER M AY 2 0 2 1 - Y E A R I - V O L 5

INFECta 10

THE CONFIDENCE KEY

by Alison Bowles

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DEBUNKING THE MYTHS OF LASH EXTENSIONS!

by Jessica Thompson

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COMMITMENT FREE, FUN & FABULOUS HAIR

by Dianna Elizabeth

16

MY ALL TIME AT-HOME WHITENING FAVORITES

by Renae Sweeney

18

SPRING CLEANING FOR YOUR SOUL

by Katie Ann Magyar

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COLOR CORRECTION 101

by Katy Moody Cusick

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GIRL POWER: THE MONTES TWINS ENTERED THE CHAT feat. Allicia and Allexia Montes by Lisa Opie

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BEST FRIENDS FOR NEVER

by McKenna Kelley

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GET JUICY

by Joanna Trailov

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CREATE

by Ekaterina Scherbakova

46

ZODIAC: TAURUS

by Manish Arora

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| MAY 2021

INFECta MAY’ 21

MAY 2021 |

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EDITOR’S LETTER

wer o p l gir 1 may’2

On set at our May cover shoot with social media stars Allicia and Allexa Montes, I was taking in every moment of girl power we had in the studio. Our beauty editor Alison Bowles was on set helping with hair and makeup, and inspiring me to get more creative. Andrea Vasquez, the owner of PinkApple Dresses came by to help style the girls in her pieces, and Juanita Crary topped off the styling for the Montes twins with her iconic touch. This issue is all about girl power and embracing the power of being female. We are so much more powerful than we give ourselves credit for, so focus on taking up your space this month and unleashing your inner boss.

XOXO Lisa Opie Editor-in-Chief

ON THE COVER: Make-up: Lisa Opie, Alison Bowles / Hair: Lisa Opie / Styling: Juanita Crary Wardrobe: Lacy Coe, PinkApple Dresses / Photography: Franz Orban, Flavio Iryoda Production: The Code Creatives

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The same creativity that sets you apart can make you part of our creative community. And if you are passionate about Fashion, Miami International University of Art & Design is the place to be.

We'll help you turn your love of Fashion into the pursuit of a career that loves you back.

THE EDUCATION IS HANDS-ON. THE FUTURE IS WIDE OPEN.

We offer a range of associate and bachelor's degree programs including Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising & Accessory Design. You'll learn by doing-applying the same talent, tools, and techniques used in the industry

Where will your passion take you? Find out.

WWW.MYMIU.EDU AIMIUinternational@aii.edu 1.305.428.5903 Miami International University of Art & Design is one of The Art Institutes, a system of private schools throughout the United States.

MAY 2021 | Boulevard, 5 Programs, credential levels, technology, and scheduling options vary by school and are subject to change. 1501 Biscayne Suite 100, Miami, FL 33132-1418. © 2020. The Arts Institutes International LLC. All rights reserved.

team

ABOUT US

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LISA OPIE

MCKENNA KELLEY

ALISON BOWLES

@lisa_opie

@mckennak_

@alissonbowles

From owning her first business, Vizcaya Swimwear at 20, to spilling all of her beauty secrets on her YouTube Channel LadyCode, to working as a celebrity hair and makeup artist at the most exclusive events in the world, Lisa Opie uses her platforms to promote women’s empowerment and wellness.

Performer, writer, and creative from New York City, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theatre from the University of the Arts. McKenna believes in creating art and sharing stories that inspire vulnerability and connect us closer to one another, and our own humanity.

Professional makeup artist and beauty influencer from age of 16. An advocate for helping women to reach their fullest potential. Named one of the “Top 20 Instagram Accounts to Follow” and continues to inspire through the beauty and modeling industry. Featured in Forbes, MAXIM, Yahoo Finance & more.

RENAE SWEENEY

FRANZ ORBAN

JESSICA THOMPSON

@doctor.renae

@thecodecreatives

@gorjess_rose

General and cosmetic dentist in Miami; Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, Doctorate in Dental Medicine and Certificate in Public Health from University of Pittsburgh; When not seeing patients or teaching fitness classes, she enjoys working out, traveling and spending time with her monkey, Rafiki.

Franz has been part of beauty pageants for a long time, as a sponsor for Vizcaya Swimwear or judging multiple pageants including Miss Universe Iceland. Franz is a self-taught photographer, combining his talent and experience of working with celebrity photographers with his natural instinct for perfection.

Based out of Atlanta, GA, Jessica is a professional lash and makeup artist. Jessica is LadyCode Certified and has been a traveling member of the LadyCode Team for over 4 years. She is passionate about her work and loves to create looks that leave her clients looking, and feeling, beautiful.

| APRIL DECEMBER 2021 2020

#iNFEcta DIANNA ELIZABETH

KATIE ANN MAGYAR

KATY MOODY CUSICK

@dianna_elizabeth_bridal

@katieannmagyar

@katymoodycusick

In the beauty industry for over 10 years as a hairstylist and makeup artist. Has worked in fashion, editorial, production, with top a list celebrities. Stylist and bridal beauty specialist. Her passion is hair and loves to create and educate! Her purpose is to help women to feel beautiful and gain the confidence they deserve.

Dancer, model, actress, Vizcaya Swimwear spokesmodel, and pageant queen with experience in the entertainment industry. An environmentaliste, she uses her platforms to talk about sustainability through social media and dance. Her vision for the world has made her an award winning choreographer and director.

Katy has years of experience working on set for national and international campaigns. “Being accustomed to highstress fast-paced work environments, I’ve learned to roll with the punches with professionalism”. Carmella Marcella Garcia, infamous drag queen and mentor, influenced many of her class looks.

MANISH ARORA

JUANITA CRARY

JOANNA TRAILOV

@manishastrologer

@juaniavi

@iamlov_jlov

Renowned KP Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Reader Vastu Consultant, rendering professional advice to clients with a high degree of success. Manish has been conferred with the title of Jyotish Varahamihir and Jyotish Aryabhatt, writing monthly astrological columns for 40+ international magazines.

Fashion Stylist, Journalist, and fashion Professor with 15 years of experience.

Juanita has worked for Rolling Stone South America, GQ Mexico, and multiple Colombian magazines. Her current soundtrack plays The Sisters of Mercy and her go-to garment will always be a motorcycle jacket.

Driven by good-old-fashioned heart and soul, as a mentor, coach, and intuitive teacher, Joanna has dedicated a lifetime to self-love and self-awareness. Joanna has taken her certification in Sports Medicine and experience as a Master Reiki Practitioner to help others find a path to healing.

DECEMBER APRIL 2020 2021 |

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lisa Opie

EDITORS

Beauty Alison Bowles Breauna Washington Carlos Marrero Dianna Elizabeth Gizella Manzano Jessica Thompson Katie Ann Magyar Katy Moody Cusick Lisa Opie

EDITORS

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGERS

Sustainability Elizabeth Tran Wellness Anna Vieira Joanna Trailov McKenna Kelley Ramina Ashfaque Renae Sweeney Zodiac Manish Arora

Lisa Opie Flávio Iryoda ART DIRECTOR

Xavier Maranon PHOTOGRAPHERS

Franz Orban

DIGITAL Available year-round at infectamag.com PRINT On-demand printing available at infectamag.com, delivered worldwide at your door.

CONTACT US Questions or comments? info@infectamag.com

CONSUMER SERVICES INFECTA Magazine is a bi-monthly digital and print on-demand publication focused on makeup, hair, skincare and social media for the young and independent influencer girl.

PUBLISHER AVESSA Media Group LLC Brickell - Miami, FL 33130 United States of America

A PROUD MEMBER OF

© 2021 AVESSA Media Group LLC, a Florida limited liability corporation. All rights reserved.

The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future.

No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a through examination of the particular situation.

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| MAY 2021

MAY 2021 |

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BEAUTY GUIDE

ALISON KAY’S

Keys to Beauty May 2021 THE CONFIDENCE KEY

HOW DO YOU OWN YOUR UNIQUE BRAND OF BEAUTY? WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL BEAUTIFUL? It is so important that we don’t use makeup to “cover up” or to “put on a new face” but to embrace who we are and what makes us unique. Confidence is being comfortable in our own skin, and not being afraid to show the world who we truly are. Here are my tips to boosting confidence with beauty.

KEY #1 POP ON SOME LIP GLOSS

IDK about you, but lip gloss gives me a whole new attitude.

Sometimes a pop of gloss is all I need to feel like the baddie I am.

MY FAVS:

City Beauty Clear- $35.00 Discount Code: ALISONB | citybeauty.com Lisa Lips Tokyo - $16.00 | ladycodeshop.com

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KEY #2 RADIATE FROM THE INSIDE OUT.

When your soul is happy, it shows. Take time throughout the day to express gratitude and thankfulness. Take care of yourself, so that you can take care of others. The most beautiful thing about someone is the joy that they radiate from the inside.

HERE ARE MY FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS THAT MAKE ME FEEL RADIANT:

Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand in Pinkgasm - $38.00 | charlottetilbury.com Iconic London Prep-Set-Glow - $25.00 | row.iconiclondoninc.com Kevyn Aucoin Glass Glow Face and Body Gloss - $32.00 | kevynaucoinbeauty.com

KEY #3 Embrace your signature look. We all have something that we do in our beauty routine that is uniquely ours. For me, I love the way that I do my winged eyeliner!

MY FAVS:

Elf Expert Liquid Eyeliner in Jet Black - $3.00 | elfcosmetics.com Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid Eyeliner - $19.00 | rarebeauty.com

What makes you, uniquely you? Send me a DM on Instagram @alisonbowles to be featured!

MAY 2021 |

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BEAUTY TIPS

Debunking the Myths of Lash Extensions!

BY JESSICA THOMPSON

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| MAY 2021

I

HAVE BEEN A LASH TECHNICIAN FOR THE past three years now so I am pretty knowledgeable on everything related to lash extensions. Over the course of my career I have gotten a lot of the same questions regarding lash extensions. Are they damaging? Do lash extensions hurt? Can I get my lashes wet? I have heard hesitation from many but mostly because they have been misinformed on what lash extensions are. Here are some lash extensions myths debunked! Lash extensions is a luxury service that enhances your natural beauty. Although it requires maintenance every 2-3 weeks, it is so worth it. Pictured are my lash extensions applied by the talented Hucky Pressley of Lashes of Atlanta, where I currently work.

“LASHES RUIN YOUR NATURAL LASHES”

HUGE FALSE Lashes should be applied correctly by a licensed esthetician or cosmetologist.It is all about using an experienced lash technician who understands how lash extensions should be applied. Too heavy or too long of lash can definitely cause damage to a healthy natural lash. My tip is to find a licensed and experienced lash artist. Look at their instagram pictures or website. Investigate before you book your lash appointment.

“EYELASHES SHOULD NOT BE WASHED”

FALSE!

“ALL LASH EXTENSIONS ARE THE SAME”

SUPER FALSE

It is so important to wash your lashes every single day. This should be done with a foam cleaner that is oil free. Washing your lashes regularly will help your lashes last long. Your lash extensions are an investment!

Take care of that investment.

Lash extensions are so customizable to each and every client. There are so many options to fit everyone’s wants and needs as it pertains to their lashes. It is so important to have a thorough consultation with your lash artist to determine exactly what look you are wanting.

MAY 2021 |

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BEAUTY GUIDE

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| MAY 2021

HAIR COMMITMENT FREE,

FUN & FABULOUS FOR THIS SPRING!

BY DIANNA ELIZABETH

W

E HAVE ALL BEEN THERE. WE ARE ready for a drastic hair change, whether it be a funky new cut or a complete change of color. But sometimes, as bad as we want it, we are still a little too nervous of the commitment to actually do it. Totally normal!

But how can we get the hair we want without actually committing to something that we may end up not loving? A great alternative to playing with hair color or a new cut and style is extensions! We are in a time now where vibrant fantasy colors and funky hairstyles are what is trending, so what better way to play with change than to pop in a few fairy pink clip- in extensions to create a peekaboo effect, or even a long clip-in ponytail extension. Take your bob length hair from

short and blunt, and transform it into having some serious Ariana Grande locks. If you are looking to change your color or style completely, why not buy a wig or two? Wigs are great to change up your style and color without the long term commitment, and gives you the opportunity to embrace the different looks and styles that you love without changing your natural hair one bit!

The company Hair Extensions, has a little bit of everything, from colored clip in extensions to long luscious ponytails and wigs, and even clip in bangs! It’s a one stop shop to change up your look and feel like a million dollars with no commitment whatsoever. >>> HAIREXTENSIONS.COM >>> PRICES VARY

MAY 2021 |

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DAY TO DAY WITH DR. RENAE

my all time at-home

whitening favorites

BY RENAE SWEENEY, DMD

BEAUTY TRENDS COME AND GO BUT A PEARLY WHITE SMILE WILL NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE. IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT YOU’VE NEVER HEARD SOMEONE SAY, “YELLOW IS THE NEW WHITE,” WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR TEETH. SO, LET’S TALK ABOUT SOME OF MY FAVORITE AT-HOME WHITENING PRODUCTS FOR EVERY LIFESTYLE!

BEST AT-HOME WHITENING GEL Colgate Optic White Advanced LED Whitening $39.45 This whitening gel combines LED whitening light with blue light technology via its rechargeable tray. It’s enamel-safe and is formulated to whiten without sensitivity. This product also has one of the highest concentrations of hydrogen peroxide that you can get over the counter, giving it extra whitening power. amazon.com

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BEST WHITENING TOOTHPASTE FOR SENSITIVITY Crest ProHealth 2 Step Whitening Toothpaste $12.99 This 2-step system relives sensitivity, reduces plaque, and whitens for superior results on a daily basis. The cleansing toothpaste is meant to remove plaque and strengthen teeth while the perfecting gel polishes and whitens. walmart.com BEST WHITENING ON THE GO Zoom Whitening Pen $27.96 This is the perfect product for those that are always on the move. You can carry it with you anywhere you go.

The product does require proper and consistent applications to be effective. walmart.com

BEST OVER THE COUNTER WHITENING STRIPS Crest 3D Professional Effects - $49.99 Crest Whitestrips are one of the most recognizable over-the-counter teeth whitening systems available. These whitestrips produce safe and reliable results that many dental professionals recommend. This is my go-to recommendation for patients looking for great maintenance whitening product to add into their weekly `routine. walgreens.com

BEST NATURAL WHITENING PRODUCT Lumineux Whitening Strips - $37.99 Don’t like the thought of whitening with hydrogen peroxide?! Try these natural whitening strips that will whiten your teeth without sensitivity. oralessentials.com

**DISCLAIMER: ALL WHITENING PRODUCTS WILL ONLY WHITEN YOUR NATURAL TEETH, THEY CANNOT WHITEN ANY FILLINGS, CROWNS, VENEERS, ETC.

MAY 2021 |

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BOMBSHELL ON THE BLOCK

Spring Cleaning For Your Soul

BY KATIE ANN MAGYAR

SPRING IS THE TIME OF RENEWAL AND GROWTH. AND YOUR HOME SHOULDN’T BE THE ONLY THING THAT GETS A DEEP CLEANING THIS TIME OF YEAR. IF YOU REALLY WANT TO GROW INTO THE PERSON YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO BE, YOU HAVE TO DO SOME SPRING CLEANING FOR YOUR SOUL AS WELL. SO, IT’S TIME TO ROLL UP YOUR SLEEVES, AND ASK YOURSELF THE TOUGH QUESTIONS:

DO I BELIEVE THAT I AM CAPABLE? The key to making your dreams come true is, as cliche as is sounds, believing in yourself. The fact of the matter is, whether it’s a promotion, a movie contract, or anything in between, no one is going to believe in you if you don’t believe in yourself.

Knowing deep within yourself that you ARE capable of doing the thing that you want to do or getting the job you want to get is step one. You need to remove that negative voice in your head that says, “you’ll never get there.”

HOW DO THE PEOPLE IN MY LIFE SERVE ME? Do the people in your life help you be the best version of yourself or do they encourage self destructive tendencies? The people you surround yourself with do have a big influence on how you evolve. You want to surround yourself with empowering people who are positive and supportive of you; people who help you grow, not hold you back. You can help them grow too! It’s a fruitful and important circle.

DOES YOUR LIFESTYLE SUPPORT THE PERSON YOU WANT TO BE/GOAL YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE? OR IS IT STANDING IN YOUR WAY? Change starts at home, within yourself. Change is very personal. Organizing your life, and making daily efforts to help you achieve what you want is so important. It’s time to shed the old habits that no longer serve or aid you in your goals. Now

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with the technology we have, there are so many ways to help you kick old habits. It’s time to take life by the reins, and build yourself and your life so you are actively working towards your goals.

WHAT TYPE OF HABITS WILL HELP ME GET TO MY GOAL? Once you’ve recognized the habits that are holding you back, it’s much easier to replace them with good ones. Are you always running late for work? Figure out a way to help yourself go to sleep earlier so you can get up early and be on time.

Does Meditation help you relax and focus? Try to build it into your daily routine, even for just five minutes. Do you find yourself falling victim to late night snacking on unhealthy foods?

Replace those chips with healthy snacks! Help your body help you by creating an environment for success. Do you need to find a way to exercise to be productive throughout the day?

Make time in your day, even for a daily walk.

The point of all of this is to say that you are in control of your environment and are fully capable of setting yourself up for success. It’s a difficult process, but you can make this happen.

Where there is dirt, plant roses that will come back year after year. It’s hard and gritty work, but the reward is worth it. You’ve got this bombshell.

MAY 2021 |

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BEAUTY GUIDE

COLOR correction 101

BY KATY MOODY CUSICK

1: 2: 3: 4: 20

| MAY 2021

Find a color wheel and understand which color is needed to correct the issue you’re trying to conceal. Sometimes it can be hard to determine, don’t be afraid to consult a professional. It can mean the difference in selecting yellow, peach, or orange to color correct under-eye circles.

The best way to ease into color correcting is to mix the color corrector into some concealer. Color correctors tend to be very concentrated and you only need a very sheared amount or a tad mixing into your concealer as a base layer.

In most cases, you do not need to use every color corrector shade! It’s deceiving when a palette comes with 6 colors... just know that you may only want to use 1-3 colors.

Keep in mind the lighter your skin tone is the paler the corrector shade is, the darker your skin tone is the deeper the color corrector needs to be. Just like foundation, there are so many colors.

Your goal is to select a shade across the color wheel from the problem areas shade.

MAY 2021 |

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COVERGIRL!

GIRL POWER

THE MONTES TWINS HAVE ENTERED THE CHAT

BY LISA OPIE

I FIRST MET ALICIA AND ALEXA MONTES IN PALM BEACH, WHERE THEY WERE ATTENDING A MODEL CASTING IN 2018 TO WALK IN NEW YORK FASHION WEEK. WE BOTH HAD OUR FIRST MOMENTS, BECAUSE THEY WERE THE FIRST TWINS I EVER DID MAKEUP ON, AND I WAS THE FIRST MAKEUP ARTIST THEY EVER WORKED WITH. SINCE THEN, OUR PATHS CROSSED AGAIN FOR A RECENT PROM PROJECT AND AGAIN FOR THIS SHOOT. EACH TIME WE CONNECT, THEY LEVEL UP A LITTLE MORE AS INFLUENCERS AND I HAVE A HUNCH IT’S STILL ONLY THE BEGINNING FOR THEM.

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MAKE-UP LISA OPIE, ALISON BOWLES

STYLING JUANITA CRARY

WARDROBE LACY COE, PINKAPPLE DRESSES

HAIR LISA OPIE

PHOTOGRAPHY FRANZ ORBAN, FLAVIO IRYODA

PRODUCTION THE CODE CREATIVES

| MAY 2021

MAY 2021 |

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COVERGIRL!

THIS HONDURAN-PERUVIAN DUO GREW UP IN PALM BEACH, BUT LIKE EVERY SUCCESSFUL INFLUENCER, THEY MOVED TO LOS ANGELES LAST YEAR WHEN THEY ATTAINED 2 MILLION TIKTOK FOLLOWERS AND LIVED IN THE

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ICONIC HYPE HOUSES BEFORE MOVING OUT ON THEIR OWN. THEIR VIRAL TIKTOKS SHOW OFF THEIR FASHION AND STYLE, MOVING TO LA ON THEIR OWN AT 18, AND OF COURSE, THE TIKTOKS ABOUT BEING TWINS.

MAY 2021 |

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COVERGIRL!

THEY ALWAYS STICK TOGETHER AND IT’S BEEN SAID THAT THEY HAVEN’T SPENT MORE THAN 24 HOURS APART FROM EACH OTHER. YOU GIRLS HAVE *MADE* IT TO SOCIAL MEDIA STARDOM WITH AMAZING BRAND DEALS AND COLLABORATIONS WITH BRANDS LIKE E.L.F, OH POLLY, CLINIQUE, AND MORE! WHAT IS YOUR DREAM BRAND COLLAB?

Alicia: Me and Alexas dream collab would have to be Prada ! We would love to have a place in the high fashion world and Prada is one of our favorite designers! We feel like it’s definitely one of our wildest dreams!

TODAY ON SET, WE DID SHOT SO MANY DIFFERENT LOOKS FOR THIS ISSUE. WHICH LOOK WAS YOUR FAVORITE?

Alicia: My favorite look had to be the neutral look with brown! Me and Alexa have been adding brown to our wardrobe lately and I feel like that was the look I was in love with the most!

Alexa: My favorite look was definitely the rhinestones look: it fit my aesthetic so well! It was extra, fun and unexpected--I was obsessed!

WHAT’S THE CRAZIEST MOMENT YOU’VE EVER HAD AS AN INFLUENCER?

Montes Twins: the craziest moment we’ve ever had being a twin influencer was when we were interviewed by good morning America for just being twin influencers and sharing our content ! it was the coolest recognition we’ve ever gotten to this day.

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YOU HAVE LIVED IN SOME OF THE BIGGEST CONTENT HOUSES IN LA, BUT CHOSE TO LIVE ON YOUR OWN EVENTUALLY- WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE LIKE IN THE HOUSES AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE INDEPENDENT ROUTE?

Alicia: Living in a content house in LA was definitely an experience to say the least, although I met great creators along the way living by myself is much more ideal , you don’t have to deal with the drama of the business and your time is much more well spent when you focus 100% on you and the content you want to put out.

Alexa: moving into a content house in LA was exciting in the beginning but me and Alicia felt like we were much better off living on our own.

We decided to go and be independent because the house wasn’t what it seemed like and we were much more creatively inspired when our environment was filled with nothing but good energy! We love that we have our own space to be as creative as we want and manage our time as we want.

MAY 2021 |

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COVERGIRL!

THE TWINS ARE IN TOUCH WITH THEIR SPIRITUAL SIDE AND CAN EASILY HAVE CONVERSATIONS WITH YOU ABOUT ASTROLOGY, AND CRYSTALS. WHEN THEY AREN’T CREATING CONTENT, THEY’RE ALWAYS LOOKING OUT FOR EACH OTHER.

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MAY 2021 |

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COVERGIRL!

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

KEEP UP WITH THE TWINS: TIKTOK: @THEMONTESTWINS INSTAGRAM @ALLICIAMONTES @ALLEXAMONTES

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HAIKU FOR THE SOUL

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| MAY 2021

Best Friends For Never

BY MCKENNA KELLEY

I

’LL BE THE FIRST ONE TO ADMIT IF NO one else will, that at twenty-three I am still actively working on getting over past traumas from middle school. Yes, I said middle school. Trust me when I tell you that kids can be mean. Nevertheless, the one thing I do miss about middle school is how nonchalant calling someone your “Best friend” used to be. For someone like me, who didn’t really have many girlfriends until highschool, I fell prey to just accepting any and everyone into my non existent circle. As an only child, I found joy when I was younger in going to school just to try and make new friends and meet new people. A large majority of the time these relationships were surface level, as many are in our youth. Still, for some reason I always found it easy to trust people. When someone did show interest in being my friend, I never hesitated to jump on the opportunity. I wasn’t a shy kid, just a really awkward one, and a little lonely, so when I found people who I thought accepted me for who I was it felt refreshing.

Even though I put trust in people’s good character, as the friendships progressed, most times I ended up being either butt of jokes or eventually isolated. If it’s a hard truth I had to learn from middle school, it’s the fact that not everyone has your best interest at heart. Sadly even those who first appear to.

I went out for dinner with an actual friend a year or so back and she had expressed to me how her then girlfriend viewed potential friendships and relationships. “Everyone starts at level zero, then they gain respect by how they prove themselves over time. Kindness, loyalty, that sort of thing.” she had said. At the time I didn’t completely agree. To me, I didn’t understand the concept of proving oneself. However, now reflecting on the statement, it occurred to me that if I had allowed others to initially show me who they were, instead of assuming I knew who they were, I’d have saved myself a lot of unhappiness in my past friendships. The truth is we see potential in people in not just romantic relationships, but in friendships as well. This potential often allows us to accept less than what we deserve. What’s worse, is that betrayal or heartache when it comes from a friendship is an indescribable pain. Although friendships lack romantic intimacy, they are emotionally intimate. I truly think my good friends are like sisters and brothers to me. You share part of your life with people who also share parts of their lives with you. Just like romantic relationships, a lot of the time people also bring baggage and insecurities into friendships, that ultimately take a toll on their healthy progressions. In my experience this usually happens when someone has a very narrow and selfish definition of what it means to be a friend, or puts too much expectation on someone who is also only human.

MAY 2021 |

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HAIKU FOR THE SOUL

We give our friends more chances than we do our romantic relationships at times, because it is hard to believe a friend would ever do anything to hurt or betray us. In reality, when we step back, it is important to see that someone is going to only offer you what they can offer to themselves. Meaning, if a friend is unable to offer themselves patience, kindness, and understanding, it is more than likely that they will not be able to offer you any of those gems either. In the age of social media and false connectivity, it is so easy to create surface level friendships. It is easy to only want to be friends with people who provide to you a benefit of some kind or resource. I painfully realized that to some people in my past, that’s all I was to them. Someone to party with, someone to use, someone who offered them something they couldn’t offer themselves. News flash if you didn’t know this already: Not everyone is your friend, nor should they be.

I’d like you to do an exercise right now. Think about all the people who you call friends.

Are you visualizing them? Great. Now take apart those people, and think about how many of them you just go out with, or who call you up when there’s a function or when they need some quick advice. A decent amount right?

Now how about the friends you feel you can talk to about real things and receive hard honest advice. The ones who you don’t have to see for months but are only a phone call away. The ones who you can go to crying, who p u s h you to be your best, who constantly support you, but put you in your place when they see you going down a wrong path. The people who you are inspired by.

The list is a lot smaller right? The point of this visualization was to show you that the second group of friends are the ones with substance. They are good for you and add genuine value to your life. It is also to show you just how small a circle of true friends actually is.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m always down for a fun time, but if the same people you have fun with aren’t the same people you can be vulnerable with, maybe you need to do some thinking about who you consider a friend, and who you consider an acquaintance.

Now that I am older, I realize that all you really need is a close circle of people to keep you going. That’s not to say I don’t like making new friends or talking to new

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people. I am still very much that middle school girl at heart. It’s just to say, I am more aware of how important it is to protect not just your heart but your energy. Not everyone has your best interest at heart. That is not to say you can’t love people from afar. I practice this each and every day.

Setting boundaries is an act of self-care. You must find balance in every friendship, and discern who is adding value, and who isn’t.

This is also not to say you should constantly have a guard up and not introduce yourself and your circle to new individuals that could very well enhance your life or perhaps provide new perspectives. It is to say however, that you must be very particular about the energy you surround yourself with. I’ve seen and experienced what happens when you simply keep others around for company and not companionship. You are the one who ultimately gets hurt.

So, where does that leave you now?

Well, I’ll offer a piece of advice that I think everyone should understand: People are not disposable. If your friendships just need a little mending I encourage you to put in the work to fix them. True friends are very rare these days. On the flip side of that, if you feel that after reading this you need to reevaluate your friendships, be honest with yourself and with others. Also, maybe do some deep thinking and ask yourself if you’ve been the toxic friend at one point too. We have all been guilty of it at one time or another.

The important thing to do is not to dwell in toxicity or continue to surround yourself with it. I will also offer that it is okay to apologize, and it is okay to forgive. It is okay to tell someone that you need space, or need to end a friendship. You evolve in your friendships and personal life by taking accountability for actions, and being honest. Now, I don’t know about you but all this talk of friendships has me wanting a girls day. Let me know if you want to join. Like I said, I always love meeting new people.

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FEELING WELL

get juicy

BY JOANNA TRAILOV

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| MAY 2021

ARE YOU JUICY? JUIC*Y 1. Adjective (of food) full of juice; succulent.

“A juicy apple” Similar words...succulent, tender, moist, ripe 2. Rewarding or profitable especially financially: FAT Tempting appeal // “Fat juicy contract” // “A juicy dynamic role” 3. a: Rich in interest: COLORFUL // “Juicy details” b : SENSATIONAL, RACY // “a juicy scandal” c : full of vitality : LUSTY

J

UICY IS A VIBRANT, SHAPELY AMOUNT OF BODY...

Juicy is healthy and ever so supple, flowing and enriched with everything needed to rise, function, and thrive. Being juicy is being full of everything you need to live your desired life. Imagine if you could design your life just the way you wanted. Would you? As we step into this place of knowing we become more juicy in awareness we discover what hydrates our inner beauty with ingredients that sustain us .

Pay attention to how you feel... Body, mind, and soul.

What do you desire the most? What feels good? What do you crave and how do you feel when you are your juiciest? Keep in mind you are the expert of you and what feels one way or another, may not for you. So take the time to get to know yourself. Pursue this relationship endlessly. Yes, you are what you eat and everything that goes in is affecting you. The question is... What is truly being absorbed? What is nourishing you? What is toxic?

Check in with your 6 senses and observe what you are receiving and listen to them daily. What are you recieving...body, mind, soul?

Eating your greens along with brightly colored fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and food high in Omega 3 fatty acids will nourish and feed your joints and keep you juicy. Everything is connected and our joints connect more than just our bones. This is really important for our overall well being and feeds our vitality in many ways from... Hormone balance, to how we feel when we move, how our brain functions, and how we digest what we are ingesting. All components play into how we vibrate and feel emotionally. When we feed with intention it begins a process that ignites our movement from the inside out and can be applied or prescribed like medicine. Being juicy is a prescription for wellness and vitality, which is a sustainable therapy for all no matter your age, sex, or personal challenges.

When we choose nutrition and movement as our medicine, weight is managed, disease is dispelled, and our personal challenges are inspired with purpose. Think about that in regards to living a sedentary life and taking drugs like pain medications or mood stabilizers to create that experience or... Get living and move and eat for purpose... Which sounds more sustainable to you? There is a reason why people that stay active, eat healthy, and live long vivacious lives that inspire us so much. They know the importance of being juicy. Everything we are receiving is hydrating or dehydrating us in some way… How is your life and the atmosphere you are living in feeding you? Do you feel juicy?

Pour yourself a tall glass of water, soda, or wine... Which will feed you body, mind, soul? Meditate each morning before you start your day or... Jump out of bed and cruise right into your day... Which will sustain your thrive? Meditate before you go to sleep or... Watch TV... Which will feed your sleep, comfort your thoughts, and relax your nervous system? Take a walk outdoors and breathe fresh air before, during or after your work day or... Sit all day at your desk all day...Which will promote juicy joints and organic flow in your body, mind, and soul? Get active with friends, family, and loved ones. Play, laugh, dream, and feel through your senses. Discover the endless resouvior of your tender heart and all that has ripened in your journey. Allow yourself to be juicy body, mind, and soul.

Receive all that is ready... Expand and fill up with colorful, sensational, succulents that are rewarding and vitalizing.

You’re worth it...Get juicy!

Said like a true icon… ”IF YOU DON’T KNOW NOW YA KNOW” -NOTORIOUS BIG- JUICY

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BEAUTY EDITORIAL

CreatE MAKE-UP ARTIST

EKATERINA SHCHERBAKOVA

@make__up__katerina_

PHOTOGRAPHER

YARSEVA ELENA @yarseva.ph

MODEL

RUBIKOVA VALERIA @valerierubikova

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ZODIAC

TAURUS 20 APRIL – 20 MAY

BY MANISH ARORA YOUR ABILITY TO PICK UP ON THE SUBTLEST OF CUES IN YOUR ENVIRONMENT ENHANCES YOUR KNOWLEDGE. YOU MIGHT FEEL INSPIRED TO DO SOMETHING SELFLESS IN ORDER TO HELP OTHERS, AND FEEL ESPECIALLY STRONG WHEN WORKING TOWARDS AN IDEAL OR CAUSE. YOU’RE ALSO DRIVEN TO PURSUE WHAT YOU FEEL MAKES YOU AN INDIVIDUAL, WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER PEOPLE, EMBRACING THIS PART OF YOURSELF AND TRYING TO DO MORE WITH IT. IF SINGLE, BE LEERY OF AN OFFICE OR SCHOOL ROMANCE, ESPECIALLY WITH A BOSS OR SOMEONE PROMISING TO TAKE YOU HIGH PLACES. FAVORABLE DATES: APRIL 1, 6, 10, 15, 19, 24. FAVORABLE COLORS: WHITE & RED.

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GEMINI 21 MAY – 20 JUNE

You feel pleasantly effective, competent, and ambitious.Beautiful energy is with you for feeling in sync with people around you and with your environment. By extension, you are displaying a quiet confidence that endears others to you. You’re compromising and fair with your relations, wanting everyone to get along and keeping the peace. You can also attempt old goals that you gave up on or failed at and want to try again. You may look at the path your life is taking and think you should go down a different path. Favorable Dates: April1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20 Favorable Colors: Yellow & Blue.

CANCER 21 JUNE – 22 JULY

This month favours mental tasks, communications of all kinds, travel and transportation for you. Finances can improve, or you may get good news about practical matters and personal possessions. Emotionality is a possibility, but your ability to step back from your emotions and to apply logic tends to dominate. Attraction is a strong note this month. It’s more about attracting than pursuing at the moment. You can also feel more creative and drawn to the arts, so it’s a good time if you’re in an artistic/creative studies and profession. Favorable Dates: April3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22. Favorable Colors: Yellow & Blue.

LEO 23 JULY – 22 AUGUST

You’ve been coming on quite strongly these days, with more energy to move personal plans forward and more directness in your requests and an added dose of personal magnetism and perhaps some serendipity going for you.

You find it easier to make new friends, attracting people to you naturally that share the same point-of-view as you. In love, you’re a little more distant, but can connect with loved ones as a friend, and believe that friendship is an important foundation for any relationship.You want to feel useful and put your time to good use. Favorable Dates: April 3, 7, 12, 16, 21, 25. Favorable Colors: Yellow & Green.

VIRGO 23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

You’ll want to explore unusual ideas, think outside of the box, and talk things over with like-minded people. It’s a wonderful time for unified action, joining with others, pitching in, getting involved, and helping people. Thinking is clearest when it concerns work and health matters. Use the time to assess how your life is going and what new

projects or ideas you want to begin. No matter what, you feel more emotional and sensitive.If in a relationship, you try to connect with your partner intellectually. Favorable Dates: April 7, 8, 16, 17, 25, 26. Favorable Colors: Purple & Green.

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER

You’re driven toward intellectual pursuits, and want to learn more and more, becoming an expert at something. You can be both productive and sociable right now and get away with both.

Communication, mental pursuits and interests, romance, and work are all in good shape right now. You also enjoy thinking about your future, the dreams that you have for your future, and what you hope your future will be like. It’s a more balanced time than usual. There is more optimism in your exchanges and interactions.

Favorable Dates: April3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22. Favorable Colors: White & Blue.

SCORPIO 23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER

There can be a stronger appreciation of the intangibles in life right now, and letting go of something in order to embrace the new comes a little easier as a result. You tune into the more subtle or other worldly elements of life right now, and thus your understanding of others, yourself, and your purpose can increase. You have discipline and plenty of energy for your goals when you want to work on them. You can make more money but also spend more money, so watch your spending if you don’t want to kill your budget. Favorable Dates: April1, 6, 10, 15, 19, 24. Favorable Colors: Yellow & Green.

SAGITTARIUS 22 NOVEMBER -21 DECEMBER

You’re more in touch with your feelings, and when you’re hurt, it hits you at your core, so you’re more sensitive and may shy away from exposing your emotions to others. You crave attention, need it like air, and want to be praised for the things you have done.You are very much in your element, and the inner idealist is drawn to healing and helpful activities. It’s not a good time for new plans, but it is a good time to revise your plans, or to try old plans that you gave up on in the past. FavorableDates: April2, 7, 11, 16, 20, 25. Favorable Colors: White & Green.

CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

You enjoy using your imagination, being creative and artistic and are more compassionate, understanding. You want to be productive so you try to get organized, make lists and create

a routine that you can follow with ease. Helping someone out, offering sincere and mindful advice, being a source of comfort, and inspiring others with your insight can figure strongly now, and can also lift your spirits. In love, you’re affectionate only behind closed doors, with no one looking. If single, you can have a secret crush that you fantasize about. Favorable Dates: wApril 4, 5, 13, 14, 22, 23. Favorable Colors: Red & Green.

AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY

You enjoy focusing on your goals, ambitions, and success. You can come up with big ideas and talk a big game. You make good impressions on the right people, you get along well with your superiors, and you feel you can accomplish a lot in your career. You’re attracted to new ways of living, and want to learn more about other cultures. In love, you’re fun, don’t want to take it too seriously, keep things casual, and are willing to take a little risk. You’re also more gregarious and chatty. Favorable Dates: April 3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22. Favorable Colors: Red & Blue.

PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

You can become interested in learning something new, and feel a stronger link to your beliefs. It’s a good time to tap into your intuition, as well as for connecting or coming to an agreement with an important player in your life. Thinking about matters of the past can actually be quite productive now. Love is easily attracted and expressed this month.

You are sociable and receptive and you might learn something about a partner or a friend that raises your respect levels further.You may also come across as somber, seductive, or dark.

Favorable Dates: April 1, 2, 10, 11, 19, 20. Favorable Colors : Yellow & White.

ARIES 21 MARCH – 19 APRIL

You enjoy using your mind and you can spend time trying to learn new things, and you’re genuinely curious about the world and people. You can come up with lots of short-term plans that help you get smaller projects finished, and you have a sweeter personality. This month is strong for reconsidering, reorganizing, reconnecting, and generally pouring special attention into your social life or feeling of connectedness, in general. Some of you can see the return of an old lover at this time as well. Favorable Dates: April 5, 7, 14, 16, 23, 25. Favorable Colors: Purple & Grey.

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