BELLA Magazine’s 2021 BEAUTY Issue, Featuring Meagan Good

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LETTER from the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

the

Women of Influence issue

When we published our first Influencer Issue under my direction last year, I led this letter with the following phrase: “People listen to other people first. They will always trust them more.”

When you think back to an important decision you’ve made, did you ask someone for direction? I can bet you reached out to people you knew and trusted.

People first rely on family and friends, neighbors, and personalities they know, like, and trust before making a decision. Did you know that this also happens with our intellectual development? Mental perceptions become a part of who we are whether we are aware of them or not. They influence how we think, how we respond, and how we act. They create our belief systems, our cultural mores and philosophies, even our habits.

We are also influenced by our genetic heritage, culture, our parents and other family members, friends and enemies, and by what we have read, seen, and experienced.

Influence, therefore, is the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something. We’ve collectively experienced some of the most impactful effects of political and social influences in our lifetime in the past year alone.

Our cover star Meagan Good has been a woman who has moved consistently through her career. Her faith has influenced her and her career I’ve so admired so much through the years, making her a fabulous pick to highlight as the face of our “Women of Influence” Issue. You’ll love her interview on pages 68-73.

With our recent travels to finally celebrate our Arts + Culture Issue in Los Angeles, we also worked with a familiar face on the runways, Joy Corrigan, who was an absolute joy. Learn more about the young, fresh-faced model on pages 62-67.

You’ll also enjoy flipping through pages 18-26 for our “Women of influence” fashion feature, as well as “BELLA Bosses” on pages 42-49 to learn more about the movers and shakers influencing our world in so many creative ways. Lastly, we talk to Sherri Shepherd, a face you’ve known for decades. You can read about what’s new for her this year on pages 58-61.

As we know, influence can take on many forms. Our newest one comes to you in the form of our very own TV show, “Life Is BELLATM,” which you can watch exclusively on Facebook Watch.

Now read on—we’ve delivered some of the best people + resources available to you to live your most BELLA life!

With love + warm wishes,

Vanessa Coppes

SPOTLIGHT ON:

Isaac Perez of

Ready Steady NYC As visual media like cinematography and photography continue to evolve, new stories are being told in unique and creative ways. Riding this visual wave are the storytellers of Ready Steady NYC, a unique fusion of experienced cinematographers and trend-setting producers led by Isaac Perez. With the hardline mission, “Adapt or Die,” Ready Steady strives to continue reinventing the way we tell stories.

behind the scenes at

La Peer Hotel with Joy Corrigan

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BELLA is excited to announce the launch of its new namesake show, “Life Is BELLA ,” which will bring the pages of each issue to life on screen. Set to air bi-monthly coinciding with the release of each fabulous new issue, the can’t-miss show will feature BELLA’s own editors and brand partners dishing on all things BELLA. Catch each segment exclusively on Facebook Watch: Facebook.com/BellaMag.co.

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the back cover Kimberly Mascarella Kimberly Mascarella was beyond thrilled to be asked to create the back cover art for the March/April “Women of Influence” issue. The 16-year-old junior at Miller Place High School in New York discovered her artistic talent back in grade school. Since then, she’s always known she wanted to follow her passion for painting and drawing.

She titled her piece “THE FLAME” to inspire women of all ages to be the keepers of the flame and remind them they hold an immense power in their hands. She added influential elements, such as the phases of the moon, zodiac signs, magical flowers, and butterflies in flight to symbolize what it means to be a woman blazing her way through the world— fierce, fearless, feminine, and forever blooming.

Graham Nation, Joy Corrigan, Luis Casco

Vanessa Coppes, Luis Casco, Joy Corrigan, Graham Nation, Jennifer DeCillis, Julio Cepeda

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Vanessa Coppes Chief Executive Officer, Editor-in-Chief Gina LaGuardia, Editorial Director Jessica Licciardello, Creative Director Janene Mascarella, Beauty Director Alexandra Anastasio, Entertainment Editor Amanda Mactas, Food Editor Mindy Shapiro Gura & Paula Shapiro Orlan, Stylists Jonathan Calixto, Fashion & Lifestyle Correspondent Norah Lawlor, Lifestyle Editor Jennifer Walsh, Mind + Body Correspondent Jessica Cirz, Cover & Features Photographer

Interns

Stephanie Brogna, Sharon David, Madison McHugh, Amanda Ringel, Sarah Rundbaken

Jennifer DeCillis Publisher Lynette Barbieri, Business Development Associate Cheryl Devine, Business Consultant Raffaela Pontecorvo, Administrative Assistant Jenna Guarneri, Public Relations

Contributors

Barbara Bellesi Zito, Julio Cepeda, Kimberlee Ho, Yolanda F. Johnson, Kimberly Mascarella Carmelia Ray, Meghan Rose, Jarrod Thalheimer, Shalini Vadhera

Medical Advisory Board

Julie Davelman, Ph. D. • Dr. B. Aviva Preminger • Geraldine Viggiani, LCSW, LCADC, PMH-C

Real Talk with BELLA, The Podcast Vanessa Coppes, Host

BELLA TV Hosts

Danita Chantel, Jennifer DeCillis, Madison McHugh, Cheldin Barlatt Rumer Jessica Cirz, Producer Vivian Nacionales, Producer Isaac Perez, Director Stephanie Giang, Contributor

BellaMag.co

Vanessa Coppes, CMO & Editor-in-Chief Jennifer DeCillis, Managing Editor

Contributing Editors & Writers

Alexandra Anastasio, Kelly Bellucci, Jonathan Calixto, Danita Chantel, Dionne Clarke, Jennifer DeCillis, Ruta Fox, Vanessa Jordan, Jessica Licciardello, Dr. Robi Ludwig, Amanda Mactas, Janene Mascarella, Elena Murzello, Kristen Robertiello, Roger Sands

BellaLatinaMag.co

Vanessa Coppes, Editor-In-Chief Candy Calderón, Editor-At-Large

Contributors

Jenny Colón, Jorge Soto

BELLA MEDIA + COMPANY

632 BROADWAY • NEW YORK, NY 10012 • 718.473.5663 • INFO@BELLAMAG.CO • BELLAMAG.CO

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BELLA Magazine is a national subscriptionand newsstand-based lifestyle publication offering a curated guide to fashion, beauty, health, travel, philanthropy, arts and culture, cuisine, celebrities, and entertainment.

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Connect and follow us!

BellaMag.co BellaMag.co @BellaMagCo BellaMagTV.co

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Photography by Doreen Laskiewicz Photography DoeMiso

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contributors

Former founder of beauty brands such as Beauty Bar and Pride & Glory, JENNIFER WALSH gives her in-depth perspective on wellness as a veteran entrepreneur for the past 20 years. Now, through her Walk with Walsh Media platform, she shines a light on the people and brands that are putting nature first.

MINDY GURA AND PAULA ORLAN, The Style Duo, are BELLA’s fashion stylists.

You won’t want to miss their “Color combo chic” article for some trendy styling ideas for spring (pages 14-15).

For more tips and tricks, check out their Instagram: @TheStyleDuo.

ALEXANDRA ANASTASIO, Entertainment Editor for BELLA Magazine, is a lifestyle writer with a knack for sharing stories about people—and pets! Follow her on Instagram @Alexandra_Anastasio or visit AlexandraAnastasio.com.

BELLA Beauty Director JANENE MASCARELLA has the latest tips, tricks, and tools to help you spring ahead most beautifully, from top-notch products poised to give you a fresh start (page 36) to a roundup of the best beauty advice (pages 32-34). She's thrilled to share her tried-and-true fragrances that celebrate the power of flowers (page 37), and to shine the spotlight on clever products designed by female-founded companies (pages 52-53). Here’s to a season of beautiful new beginnings!

AMANDA MACTAS is BELLA’s Food Editor. In this issue, she gives us an exclusive with some “Spirited Women” (pages 88-91) and delights us with a game of “Pandemic Travel Bingo” (page 94). Follow more from Amanda on Instagram @ManhattanTwist.

Need some fashion advice?

Then look no further— BELLA’s Fashion and Lifestyle Correspondent JONATHAN CALIXTO has you covered.

He’s on top of the latest trends as seen during NYFW, Miami Swim Week, and all the events in between. Stay tuned to what he is up to next via his Instagram @ThisisJCali.

JENNIFER DECILLIS is the publisher of BELLA Magazine, managing editor for Bellamag.co, and a BELLA TV host. She covers various topics, including beauty, lifestyle, and health and wellness—all of which you can find in this issue. Follow along with her on Instagram @Jennifer.DeCillis.

Photography by Jocelyn Cruz

JESSICA CIRZ is the cover/ feature photographer for BELLA Magazine, capturing fleeting moments in time for what they are and what they may never be again. Follow her on Instagram @JessicaCirzPhotography.

YOLANDA F. JOHNSON is the president of YFJ Consulting, LLC, the founder of Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy, president of Women In Development (WID), NY, founder of Allies in Action Membership Network, and a classically-trained opera singer and composer. Read her latest installment of “The beauty of giving back” on page 85.

KIMBERLEE HO is a food photographer and baking LUIS CASCO, owner blogger who loves sharing of Luis Casco Makeup, easy recipes and tips is a well-known beauty for busy people on her expert and make-up artist blog Kickassbaker.com. with over 20 years of Follow her on Instagram experience. Luis has @Kickassbaker. been lead makeup artist for award shows and other high-end events like the Primetime and Daytime Emmys, and top Fashion Weeks around the world. He has worked with leading celebrities and models, including Joy Corrigan, found on pages 62-67.

Follow him on Instagram @LuisCascoMakeup.

MEGHAN ROSE is a Los Angeles-based spiritual advisor, tarot card reader, and meditation guide. In addition to working with corporate groups, hosting events, and working privately with her clientele, she is also an author and writer of “The Intuitive Tarot Manifestation™ Workbook.” Head straight to pages 78-79 for her “Tarotscopes,” prepared exclusively for BELLA, then connect with her @MeghanRoseTarot on Instagram and Twitter.

BARBARA BELLESI ZITO is a NYC-based freelance writer covering books, real estate, personal finance, and more for Millionacres, LoopNet, and others. Her debut novel is due out later this year, and she’s at work on another. Catch her procrastinating on all of the above on Twitter @BarbTheWriter.

CARMELIA RAY is a celebrity matchmaker and online dating expert with more than 28 years in the love industry. Her weekly relationship podcast “Better Love” features her top dating tips. She’s the go-to dating expert regularly spotted in the media. In this issue’s “The Love Files,” she shares the “3 keys to lasting love” (pages 82-84). You can follow her on Instagram @CarmeliaRay and @BetterLovePodcast, or visit CarmeliaRay.com.

JULIO CEPEDA is a professional videographer and photographer based in Los Angeles, California. After attending ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, Julio spent the last six years working and collaborating with a variety of talented actors and musicians, providing the qualified video and photo material for their portfolios in order to enhance their careers.

BELLA Editorial Director GINA LAGUARDIA has been in the publishing biz—online and off—for more than two decades. She spends her days ensuring good grammar and maintaining deadlines while enjoying her daughters, watching movies with her husband, and doing CrossFit with her friends. Follow her on Twitter @GinaLaGuardia.

BELLA Creative Director JESSICA LICCIARDELLO brings the pages of BELLA to life with her design. She is also an artist and writer who shares her expertise with readers in her articles both in print and online. You can discover more her work at JLDELLO.com, and on Instagram @JLDELLO.

GRAHAM NATION is an editorial and celebrity hairstylist based in Los Angeles, California. Deriving his inspiration from New York and London, Graham has created his niche, classic styles with a bit of edge and undone cool. He has worked with elite clients like Victoria Beckham, Bebe Rexha, Ashanti, and Kathy Ireland, and you can see his work on our Joy Corrigan feature in this issue (pages 62-67).

Follow him on Instagram @GrahamNation.

NORAH LAWLOR is the founder of Lawlor Media Group, a PR, marketing, and strategic communications agency in New York City, which is celebrating its 20 year anniversary. She is also an avid traveler and chronicler of the jet-set lifestyle.

Follow her on Instagram @LawlorMedia.

Now that 2021 is shaping up to be just as bizarre as 2020, JARROD THALHEIMER had made the transformative decision to go full-speed ahead on his mid-life crisis. He has started training in MMA fight techniques and the vagaries of jazz piano while becoming addicted to Ted Lasso. Read his latest piece, “Alpha Ladies, Beta Gents” for more laughs (pages 80-81).

GERALDINE “GERRY” VIGGIANI, LCSW, LCADC, PMH-C is a psychotherapist and owner of Lotus Blossom Psychotherapy, LLC in Eatontown, NJ. Her expertise lies in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, addiction, and perinatal mood disorders and traumatic birth experiences.

Joy Corrigan

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CONTENTS STYLE REPORT 13 THE Color combo chic, Dressed by an influencer

18 ELEVATE Women of influence STEPS TO FABULOUS 28 5Choosing to live beautifully—inside and out SCENE 31 BEAUTY “The best beauty advice I ever

received,” Colorful celebration, Spring fresh, Flower power, Rx for radiance, Ayurvedic beauty secrets

BOSS 42 BELLA 7 bosses that inspire us all

TEAM 50 BELLA Special women, lasting impact Sherri Shepherd

58

& LIFE 52 HOME 14 clever products from

women-founded brands

SPACES 56 SOPHISTICATED Your Space NJ

CLOSE & PERSONAL 58 UP Sherri Shepherd

TO KNOW 62 GETTING Joy Corrigan

STORY 68 COVER Meagan Good

w e n r u o o t Listen

T S A C D PO Tune in as BELLA Magazine’s new podcast division shares some sassy, funny, and intelligent conversations with Team BELLA and Editor-in-Chief Vanessa Coppes. It’s all the BELLA content you love, from entertainment, beauty, lifestyle, empowerment, and more.

The BELLAs will dish their opinions on each topic, diving deep beneath the surface of what we see on the glossy cover. Whether it’s fashion and lifestyle tips, celebrity interviews, or exclusive for-BELLA-earsonly news, the ladies will deliver what you want to hear the real way—the only way!

ith w K L A T REAL

A L L E B Z I N E M A G A

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Meagan Good

68

CONTENTS & CULTURE 74 ARTS LGBTQ+ activist Isis King

76 TAROTSCOPES Owning your power NOVEL IDEA 78 AEnjoy a spring fling with these fresh reads

LOVE FILES 80 THE Alpha ladies and beta gents

,

3 keys to lasting love

BEAUTY OF GIVING BACK 85 THE Women-owned businesses that give back

Trailblazer

74

INSIDER 86 BELLA 5 women making their mark

BELLA 87 CHOW Spirited women, Lemon blueberry yogurt cake

94 TRAVEL Pandemic travel bingo 95 MIND+BODY Arrogance vs. confidence, Traits of influential women (and how you can become one), Awaken the light, From the inside out, Creating wellness from passion, Combating the Zoom effect

TOWN 112 AROUND Behind the scenes with BELLA

THE LATIN@ VERSION OF TM

IS COMING

TO MIAMI!

BELLALATINAMAG.CO @BELLALATINAMAG

SHOP ONLINE • MERCH • ISSUES • & MORE

ShopBELLAMag.com

BELLA

THE STYLE REPORT COLOR COMBO CHIC ∙ DRESSED BY AN INFLUENCER

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the style report | hues of happiness

Color combo

chic

By Mindy Gura and Paula Orlan

Who doesn’t love trendy and chic combos when it comes to fashion?

Like leather and lace and denim on denim, a double dose of trendiness is a fun way to enhance your wardrobe.

This season, fashionistas everywhere are excited to create ensembles with Pantone’s picks for the colors of the year–Illuminating and Ultimate Gray.

Pantone chose these very different hues because they wanted to create “a marriage of color conveying a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting.”

The juxtaposition is an inspiring way to take your outfits up a notch or two in 2021!

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Workout Bella Sweatpants $98, GreystateApparel.com

Wigman Sun $309, EtniaBarcelona.com

Bella Sweatshirt $88, GreystateApparel.com Jazz DST $120, Saucony.com

Workday Jelly Backpack $18.99, RainbowShops.com

Haverhill Collection Large Studs $285, Havermill.com

Haverhill Collection Ventana Ring $285, Havermill.com

Lizzie Handbag $188, CarrieDunham.com

Allerton Dress $365, TheFoldLondon.com

Ball Twist Knit Cashmere Beanie hat $150, BellemereNewYork.com

Balica Loafer $99, FrancoSarto.com

Outdoor Cropped Silver Jacket

by Seventy Venezia $529, AlloraByLaura.com

Zoom call

Brunch date

Audrey Ankle in Golden Leaf $129, BeijaFlorJeans.com

The Enamel Medallion 18k gold-plated (3 initials) $65, The-Adorned.com

Cutout Sweater $14.97, RainbowShops.com

Cable Knit Gloves $35, StateCashmere.com

Audrey Ankle in Pure White $178, BeijaFlorJeans.com

Easton Mule $49.95, ChineseLaundry.com

the style report | men’s trend

Dressed by an

influencer

By Jonathan Calixto

Are you typically scrolling through social media trying to find the latest trend? Here’s your chance to get dressed for your next outing by some of today’s tastemakers.

Whether you are looking to dress-up, reach for something a bit comfier, or just need a pop in your accessory game, here are this season’s must-haves!

Photography by Simi Vijay @simivijay

Igee Okafor

Mid-Length Kensington Heritage Trench Coat $1,990, Burberry.com

is a determined businessman and personal style connoisseur. Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Igee moved to the U.S. in 2013 to further his learning and has since been at the forefront of reporting on trends and serving as a resource for all things men’s fashion. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of Bond Official, and the lifestyle blog Very Igee Okafor.

IgeeOkafor

Pedro Rodrigo Gonzalez

is a dancer, costume stylist, influencer, and founder of StyleGonzalez.com. Style Gonzalez is a place where Pedro Rodrigo reveals his experience within the fashion industry and fashion weeks, shares his personal way of dressing, and reports on trends and his travels, always with a carefree, cheerful air, creating an environment full of creativity.

StyleGonzalezCom Jacquemus Single-Breasted Boxy Blazer $656, Farfetch.com

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Diego Leon

is a Bronxbased menswear fashion creator, stylist, and founder of the website Dandy In The Bronx. Diego is all about classic menswear from a Latinx/Bronx perspective.

He wears suits everywhere and wants to show that his kind of lifestyle is accessible to anyone.

DandyInTheBronx

Forecast Waterproof Plain Toe Oxford $125, Florsheim.com

Martha Luna

Style expert is a powerhouse Latina, juggling a variety of skills, from celebrity stylist, fashion designer, power speaker, and red carpet host, to humanitarian, and lifestyle and travel content creator. Luna works with numerous brands to develop beautiful storytelling content to share her perspective in the industry and inspire many globally.

MarthaLuna

Photography by Nikita Kleshch @nkleshh

Relaxed Fit Hoodie $24.99, HM.com

Ruben Fajardo

is a fashion stylist, style expert, and influencer originally from Colombia, who is now based in New York City. Ruben’s versatility in the fashion industry includes working on fashion editorials, music videos, films, and advertisements, which included high-profile clientele such as John Legend, Ciara, the Jonas Brothers, and brands like Prada and Michael Kors. His inspiration comes from his love for color, art, travel, and design.

Fajardo_Ruben

Fuego Socks $40, AgniAtelier.com

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elevate

WOMEN of

INFLUENCE Janine Just & Claudine DeSola Photography by Jessica Cirz

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BELLA teamed up with NYC-based content studio, Caravan Social Club, to highlight women of influence across various industries. Caravan founders Janine Just and Claudine DeSola hope to elevate the stories of brands, influencers, and fellow creatives through virtual programming and sharable media. Learn more at CaravanSocialClub.co and follow along @CaravanNYC.

NICHOLE GALICIA

Philanthropist, model, actress: “Django Unchained,” founder of The Orchid Foundation @OfficialNicholeGalicia Photography by Ryan West

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elevate

AYELET ZURER

Actress: “Munich,” “Man of Steel,” Angels & Demons,” Apple TV+ “Losing Alice,” Netflix’s “You” @AyeletZurer Photography by Daniel Kaminsky

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elevate

GABRIELLE RUIZ

Actress, philanthropist, producer, activist, and champion for the arts @GabrielleRuiz Photography by Kat Hennessey

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LAUREN SESSELMANN Former professional soccer player, Olympic bronze medalist, trainer, speaker, mental health advocate, “The Pro Mentality” podcast host

@LSesselmann Photography by Glen Dandridge Jr.

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elevate

MARCI ZAROFF Founder and CEO of “ECOfashion Corp” and “Seed to Style” @MarciZaroff Photography by Dah Len

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NADINE NICOLE

Founder and board member of True-connection.org, actress: Amazon’s “The Expanse” @_NadineNicole_ Photography by Kelly Balch

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elevate

TRISH HOSEIN

Creator of spoken word project TRISHES, visual artist, refugee volunteer, anthropologist @TrishesMusic Photography by Bo Riley Music

Handmade with Sand & Earth Elements from your favorite travels #We a r Yo u r Tr a v e l s

dunejewelry.com

5 steps to fabulous

Choices for

every day

celebrating women

By Vanessa Coppes

It’s the most fabulous time of the year—a time we get to celebrate International Women’s Day! March 8th is the day we get to show our sisters from all walks of life just how fabulous they are.

In my many years as an influencer, impostor syndrome has crept in. Have you ever felt it? It is a psychological pattern in which an individual doubts his or her accomplishments and has a persistent internalized fear of being exposed as a “fraud.” Women especially suffer from it—way too much!

It’s incredible still how many women I speak to who feel like absolute failures despite their astronomical accomplishments. We do it to ourselves, we do it to each other, we get in our heads, and it serves no one.

Public speaking is something I still fear with a vengeance. As I have matured and grown into my role as CEO of a national media company and the co-founder of ETTWomen, speaking in front of others happens frequently. With time, instead of fear, I’ve learned to channel joy and excitement. My fear is now left where it belongs—at the door!

Still, finding that confidence hasn’t come without a lot of self-love. Impostor syndrome is real, and I believe that when women give themselves a way out of the self-deprecation and the discomfort of self-promoting, they not only are more effective in their roles, they dramatically improve their confidence and performance.

They also unconsciously help set up other women up for success.

When you can see yourself in someone else, it can motivate us to strive to uncover our true potential.

Do you sometimes struggle with your self-confidence?

1 2 Confident women power pose in the bathroom. They’ve got that positive visualization thing down. But they also keep in mind these subtle strategies when they really need to shine: THEY ACTUALLY DON’T “KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON.” When people are already experiencing pre-performance jitters, it’s much easier to shift into a state of excitement than calm. Think about it: It’s easier to trick ourselves into thinking we’re psyched about something that scares us because the physiological symptoms are so similar: sweaty palms, thumping heart, the release of the stress hormone cortisol.

THEY UNDERSTAND THE POWER OF A PAIR OF DIRTY SOCKS. Well, sort of. Serena Williams has said she’ll wear the same exact pair of socks when competing in tournaments. Beyoncé has an hours-long pre-stage ritual that involves prayer, stretching, and listening to her favorite music. And motivational speaker Tony Robbins says 10 minutes of high-energy movement and repetition of incantations help him take the stage with the confidence he’s known for. Some of the greatest artists, athletes, novelists, and thinkers of our time have relied upon their own quirky pre-performance rituals to help them get in the zone—and produce their best work.

3

THEY DON’T FEEL SORRY ABOUT SAYING “I’M SORRY.” Chronically over-apologizing can be a dead giveaway that our confidence is flagging. Apologizing for circumstances that are obviously beyond our control (“Sorry you ran into traffic”) actually demonstrates empathy and increases people’s trust in us.

THEY DISTRACT THEMSELVES IN THIS KEY WAY. You know the feeling: It’s that prickle of heat up your neck and/or the knot in your stomach when you’re asked to talk about your successes.

We all know that flush of discomfort strikes most women (social norms, unconscious bias, etc.). But there’s a way to outsmart the anxiety that keeps us from bragging. Before you’ll need to brag, get your heart rate up by running up the stairs or playing a pumping song. You’ll be able to blame your racing heart and jangled nerves on those activities instead of what you need to say, and you’ll perform at the top of your game.

5

THEY CELEBRATE OTHER WOMEN….PERIOD. When one of us wins, we all do. Why? We subconsciously give other women permission and courage to pursue their own dreams. It’s almost always true that every woman we meet is fighting a battle we know nothing about. Have compassion and empathy. Admiring other women’s strengths actually helps us all come out as stronger individuals. It’s cool to see other women climb the ladders of success—even if you’re still debating that climb yourself. It’s an indirect, “If you can do it, so can I!”

There is no more time for competition, no more time for envy, and no more time for fear. The time to live the life of your dreams is now.

So, let’s get to it! Let’s roll, chicas!

DO YOU HAVE ANY RECOMMENDATIONS YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE WITH ME? LET’S CONNECT ON INSTAGRAM! VANESSACOPPES

Want to create a shift in your world and in that of another woman?

Find one woman in your community today to simply reconnect with and ask how you can support her—easy as pie! Remember, doing something with another woman creates momentum, it’s not as lonely, and can actually be really fun!

29

Awaken the Light Multidimensional Light Creations These unique one of a kind creations are brought forth with profound love, respect and honor for the vessel which houses the soul within this brief moment of human experience we call life.

Each design is fine-tuned and calibrated to serve you within your highest and greatest potential and is alchemized in love.

Each Andara, Crystal and Gemstone is certified authentic and hand selected.

May each sacred connection within these pieces spark exactly what is right and true for you and serve as a catalyst of awakening to your next greatest expression & highest self.

- K.Ay’Nea, Light Path Visionary & Pendant Designer

AwakentTheLightWithKAyNea AwakentTheLightWithKAyNea www.KAyNea.co

BELLA

BEAUTY SCENE

“THE BEST BEAUTY ADVICE I EVER RECEIVED” ∙ COLORFUL CELEBRATION ∙ SPRING FRESH FLOWER POWER ∙ RX FOR RADIANCE ∙ AYURVEDIC BEAUTY SECRETS

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beauty scene | pretty smart

The

best beauty advice I ever

received Women of influence tell BELLA the beautiful words of wisdom that truly left a lasting impression.

Jasmine C. Leyva Actress, filmmaker, vegan TheInvisibleVegan.com

“Years ago, I was working on a commercial shoot and one of the extras was this stunning woman in her 40s that looked all of 26. She looked at my skin and told me I needed to stop wearing foundation. After our conversation, I stopped trying to enhance my beauty with makeup and started enhancing it with love and care. I walk around the house spraying organic rose water on my face like I’m Cleopatra, I eat foods that nourish my skin, I rarely wear makeup, and as I watch my skin perk up from years of abuse, I 32 fall deeper in love with my natural beauty. That’s the real beauty.”

Jenny Patinkin

Celebrity makeup artist and brand founder

JennyPatinkin.com

“When I was a little girl, I loved watching my mom put on her makeup. She had rouge in a container that looked like a lollipop, and she would give it a little swirl on each cheek and then blend. As I grew up and started wearing makeup, my mom would remind me how important it is to have a little color in your cheeks, to look fresh and awake. When my daughters started to wear makeup, I would remind them of the same thing. My mom’s advice always stuck with me, and to this day, cream blush is one of my favorite makeup products.”

Lindsey Catarino Master Life Coach, MBA LindseyCatarino.com

“I’m going to be 43 this year and no one really believes I’m a day over 30. The best beauty advice I ever received was from a beautiful older woman I was on a tour group vacation with. She was the kind of woman that every one notices—she had style, grace, and she looked flawless well into her golden years. She told me to drink hot water with lemon every morning when I wake up. Turns out, it really makes a major impact in your hydration to drink the water warmer. Your skin starts to look softer and younger—you just really glow.”

Aida Bicaj

Celebrity aesthetician and skincare expert

AidaBicaj.com

“My mother taught me to never go to bed without washing my face.

She stressed the importance of taking care of my skin at a very young age. I always tell my clients that the sooner they start taking care of their skin, the better they can prevent aging. Cleansing your skin is one of the most important steps in a skincare routine. My mother advised me that once a week you must get rid of the dead cells on your body in order to better penetrate products. You need to take care of your body as much as your face. She always said the first signs of aging are your knees, which you need to take care of!”

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beauty scene | pretty smart

Katina Mountanos

Mindset coach and author of “On Adulting”

OnAdulting.com/the-book

“The best beauty advice I ever received is from my (soon-to-be) mother-in-law, who is from Punjab, India. She’s given me so many natural beauty tips over the years, but my favorite one is giving yourself a weekly coconut oil hair massage. It doesn’t need to be fancy—I literally use coconut oil from the supermarket—but it feels indulgent and leaves my hair feeling really nourished!”

Lulu Cordero CEO and founder of Bomba Curls BombasCurls.com

“Show yourself love first. My mom would always say that you’re no good to anyone else if you aren’t taking care of yourself first. That meant showing my body love and care by eating healthy, nutrient-rich foods (I actually live a plant-based lifestyle), so that it may thrive. Beauty truly does come from the inside out.”

Shama Hyder Founder, Zen Media ZenMedia.com

“My big beauty tip comes directly from Jan Marini, founder of Jan Marini Skincare and skincare goddess to the stars. She told me—the best skincare starts with a customized approach, as in, the best skincare is the one that works for you! It’s why what works for your best friend may not work for you. So while the fundamentals like sunscreen are sacred, what makes your skin truly glow is bound to be unique. Knowing this, I started to second guess myself a lot less!”

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beauty scene | women of strength

A colorful

R

enee Marshall-McKinley, founder of KYSS, a line of natural bath and body products, celebrated her birthday recently with a colorful call to action. "I wanted a way to celebrate and showcase women after I saw a picture of a beautiful Black woman wearing bright pink from head to toe.”

celebration

Renee planned for a monochrome birthday photo shoot on the steps of East Orange, NJ City Hall, and within three weeks, ladies came from all over to participate, she explains. "Some I’ve known since kindergarten, some I’ve met through my entrepreneurial journey, church, friends of friends, and even my middle sister. We laughed, we slayed, and we promised to stand together as sisters!

MyKyss.com Photography by Jocelyn Martin of Jocelyn Renae Creative

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beauty scene | beautify Bali Body 1-Hour Express Self Tanner $32.95, us.balibodyco.com YOUNGBLOOD COSMETICS Micellar Water $30, YBSkin.com

Doucce Freematic Eyeshadow Quad Palette in Sweet Dreams $35, Doucce.com

Lottie London Ombré Blush $6.95, Ulta.com

SPRING

Smith & Cult Locked & Lit CBD Lip Balm in Glassy Pink $21, SmithAndCult.com

Dominique Cosmetics Creamy Fill & Define Lip Liner in Nudie $18, DominiqueCosmetics.com

FRESH

Ready to put a fresh face forward? Here are latest and greatest get-gorgeous goodies we absolutely love...

By Janene Mascarella

Repêchage® Ultrasonic Skin Spatula $150, Repechage.com Elaluz Overnight Facial Glow $29, Elaluz.com

RE:ERTH Illuminating Concentrate $95, Rreerthus.com

TO112 Superior Blowout Mist $48, To112.com

Odele Clarifying Shampoo $11.99 Target

PMD Clean Body $159, PMDBeauty.com

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beauty scene | tried & true Laubahn Perfumes Naughty Garden is a radiant fragrance of hybrid flowers and alluring aromas. The dreamy scent mingles green leafy notes with an assortment of hybrid flowers. It’s warm, exotic, and magical! $175, LaubahnPerfumes.com

FLOWER

POWER BELLA Beauty Director Janene Mascarella shares a bouquet of her favorite flirty floral fragrances picks.

DOLCE&GABBANA Dolce Rose Eau de Toilette celebrates the most iconic of flowers—a symbol of love, beauty, and femininity. The fragrance, crafted by perfumer Violaine Collas, is an addictive fruity floral, full of energy. $105, Sephora.com Gucci Flora Limited Edition Gorgeous Gardenia Eau de Toilette For Her is an expression of modern sensuality. Opening with a sparkling prelude of red berries, it gives way to an opulent floral heart. $109, Sephora.com

Daisy Marc Jacobs Spring Limited Edition features inviting bursts of pink rosebuds and rosewoods blossom to create a fresh feeling of elegance, while green cardamom adds a spicy texture. $100, Macys.com

Bond No. 9 New York Spring Fling is a vivacious feminine floral focusing on the profusion of vibrant florals throughout New York City’s green spaces from the High Line to Central Park, Bryant Park to Washington Square. $385, BondNo9.com

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beauty scene | doctor designed

L

ooking for professional results without having to schedule an appointment? From dentists and dermatologists to plastic surgeons and more, here are the very best products developed by top docs—no prescription required!

Rx for RADIANCE

By Janene Mascarella

Dr. Kaplan’s newest addition to the Diamond Contour Collection, the Lifting Rose Quartz Neck Serum is a powerful new anti-aging treatment that is clinically proven to improve skin firmness, skin elasticity, and skin crepiness after just one use! $115, KaplanMD.com

A rich night treatment formulated with high levels of botanical- and marine-derived Circadian Repair Proteins, Cellular MD Bio-Advanced Skincare - Night Shield Lotion replenishes the skin’s supply of naturally occurring enzymes. $85, CellularMD.com

Packed full of highly concentrated hyaluronic molecules, AIREM’s Halo - Hyaluronic Serum works as a super booster against signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, while simultaneously providing intensive hydration and revving up collagen production. $225, AiremEssentials.com

This ultimate night cream targets your anti-aging skin concerns.

Bluelene Night Cream is infused with the clinically proven, supercharged antioxidant Methylene Blue to soften wrinkles, reduce the appearance of sunspots, and smooth, hydrate, and stimulate collagen production. $39.95, Bluelene.com

The wisdom of ancient traditional Chinese medicine melds with modern innovation with Redmint Danshen Detox Treatment Mask.

The detoxifying sheet masks clarify and even skin tone while reducing skin impurities. $78 (box of five), Redmint.com

Unlike traditional water flossers that take up coveted space on the bathroom counter, Spotlight’s chic, compact, and transport-friendly Water Flosser is not only effective, it’s gentle and offers a clinically proven flossing solution. $110, SpotlightOralcare.com

A comforting cream targeted for super stressed-out skin, Murad Intense Recovery Cream reduces visible signs of stress-induced aging and redness.

It hydrates and deeply moisturizes to relieve severe dryness. $80, Ulta.com

Previously only available through dentists, Oralift, along with the Oralift app, is an all-natural, noninvasive facelift designed to help you turn back the clock by tightening and strengthening facial muscles resulting in plumper cheeks, fuller lips, and a wide smile. $295, Oralift.com

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A weekly clarifying cleanser, Dr. Yates MD Reset Detoxifying Shampoo with apple cider vinegar, flaxseed oil, and hemp oil removes the stubborn build-up that results from hair products, hard-water mineral deposits, chlorine, and other chemicals. The result: healthy and shiny locks. $39.99, YourHairLossExpert.com

A high-potency vitamin C serum designed to improve the look of wrinkles, brighten the complexion, and support the microbiome, RM Skincare - Glow CE Serum features a protective antioxidant system that guards against free radical skin damage. $126, DrMoran.co

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beauty scene | global glow

Ayurvedic beauty

secrets

By Shalini Vadhera

As a global beauty expert and the author of “Passport To Beauty,” there’s nothing more exciting than scouring the globe for the best beauty secrets.

I spent a good amount of my childhood visiting my relatives in India. On those trips, I fell in love with all the beauty rituals I learned from my grandmothers and cousins. Not only had they been around for centuries, but they worked.

My hair and skin had never looked so good! And because it was based on the ancient practice of Ayurveda, it was a beautiful proactive approach to beauty from the inside out.

Ayurvedic beauty celebrates balance. It’s the ultimate self-care practice. Once you delve into the power behind it, you realize that beauty is more than skin deep. What you eat, how you deal with stress, and how much sleep you get all play a part in your overall beauty routine. It’s the ultimate 360-degree approach to beauty.

Ayurveda is based on the five elements of nature: Water, fire, ether, earth, and air. By identifying which “dosha” type you are–Kapha (earth), Pitta (fire), or Vata (air), it allows you to truly shine from within while also bringing you the most powerful skincare and self-care rituals that start in the home. You can find out what your dosha is through a number of online quizzes.

1

SMOOTH SKIN WITH ALMOND OIL

If you suffer from dry skin, you’re going to love the secrets behind almond oil. Pure almond oil to the rescue for softening and saying goodbye to dry skin in a flash! Use it on your body as a special massage oil either before or after your shower or bath; use a few drops on your face after cleansing at the end of the day.

The best almond oil is made at home, since commercial almond oils have preservatives. Follow my recipe for creating your own almond oil:

Take a handful of fresh almonds, blanch them, and let them dry. Grind them in the food processor, then put them in a fine sieve and press with a spoon until the oil is released.

Place in a small bottle and refrigerate. (This oil can turn rancid very quickly if left at room temperature.)

YOU GLOW, GIRL

Indian women make their skin radiant with a traditional mixture of chickpea flour (absorbs oil), turmeric (a great anti-inflammatory and antiseptic—and an Ayurvedic powerhouse), and almond oil. This powerful combo instantly exfoliates, softens, and brightens skin on your face and body.

GET-YOUR-GLOW-ON MASK Ingredients: 1 cup chickpea flour 3 tablespoons of turmeric (powdered form) Almond oil (enough to form a paste) Mix into a paste form. Apply to the face and body and let sit for a few minutes. Remove by rubbing mixture off with your hands. This motion will add to the exfoliation process and also helps with the removal of fine facial hair, better known as pesky peach fuzz. Wash the rest of the mixture off and enjoy fabulous baby soft skin. I personally like to use this mask once a week!

SHINIER-THAN-SHINY LOCKS

In India’s cosmopolitan city of Bangalore, it’s common knowledge that the Here are some of my favorite Ayurvedic beauty secret to ultra-shiny locks lies within the delicate white petals of the secrets passed down from my family. All of these are easy to make and ones you can quickly add to hibiscus. Dry these beautiful flowers and boil them with coconut oil. your beauty and self-care routine.

Apply once a week and leave on overnight. Wash in the morning and walk out of your bathroom with jaw-dropping shiny hair.

Shalini Vadhera is a global beauty entrepreneur, author, and activist.

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ShalinisWorld.com

Coconut oil is a secret to getting full, thick, shiny hair. It’s also great to help strengthen hair if your hair is thinning. Give yourself a hot coconut oil scalp massage once a week to promote growth and wash away tress stress. Coconut oil is great for making hair shiny, strengthening follicles, sealing the cuticles, helping with split ends, and stimulating hair growth.

Growing up I can remember my cousins and I lining up to get a good old scalp massage from my grandmother. Enlist the help of a friend or loved one for your own bit of heaven. Heat some coconut oil up in a bowl and give yourself a scalp massage once a week. Sleep with it on and wash in the morning!

3

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BELLA boss

Boss

BELLA

7bosses BELLA we admire

By Janene Mascarella

Running a thriving business takes drive, determination, and a whole lot of hustle! We’re spotlighting seven savvy entrepreneurs whose immense success proves how a little belief and a big leap of faith can land you a leading role in your own life. Looking to recalibrate your career path? Let their accomplishments be your compass.

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KARYN

Calabrese

Chicago, Illinois LIVING FOODIST AND HOLISTIC HEALTH EXPERT KARYN’S INNER BEAUTY FOUNDER ShopKaryns.com MY BUSINESS: Karyn’s Inner Beauty exists to rejuvenate the way

people approach achieving and maintaining timeless health, well-being, and clarity by celebrating the purity of nature’s original design—in food and in the human mind and body. For the past 50 years, I have been committed to taking care of my body and helping others do the same.

In addition to a raw diet, I believe in regular detoxification and have developed a program that teaches hundreds of people each year.

The Karyn’s Inner Beauty brand also includes an intimate, yet sweeping day spa (Karyn’s Inner Beauty Center), an extensive learning center (headlined by a 28-day cleanse program), a cookbook, an uncookbook, and all-natural retail lines spanning wellness supplements and raw cuisine.

No matter your stage on life’s journey, no matter what drives you, or what you seek, Karyn’s lives as a resource to guide, inspire, and reawaken the most wholesome, empowered, best possible you.

IN THE BEGINNING: All the women in my family died overweight

and very young. My mom died at 47, my grandmother at 50, and my great-grandmother at 60. I was very sickly. They had all started out tiny like me, and they all got very large, and they died of degenerative diseases.

I was just very fortunate and blessed to meet the right people at the right time in my life to inspire me to go a different route.

MOST REWARDING: My job as the founder and face of my

company involves a huge range of commitments. What I love most is teaching. Getting to share and witness the powerful benefits of a vegan diet and detoxification with students in my detox program is the most gratifying part of my job. I’m constantly motivated by the fact that my company is able to make a significant difference in so many people’s lives.

What I do feels like a calling more than a job.

MOST INFLUENTIAL: I was initially

inspired by my mother, Marilyn, who sought alternative means to heal her cancer.

My mother didn’t win her battle, but I was determined not to go down the same road.

She taught me there is no such word as can’t, so I always believe there is no obstacle I could never overcome.

At the time when I met Dr. Ann Wigmore (co-founder of the Hypocrites Institute and founder of the raw food movement in our time), I was transforming from a vegetarian to a vegan [lifestyle]. Everything changed for me when she brought me into the world of raw foods and taught me healthier eating and the importance of detoxifying your body. At age 89, Dr. Ann could still do cartwheels. I knew that she was someone I had to follow and listen too!

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BELLA boss

YVETTE

Bodden

New York, NY AWAKENED-WOMAN (AW) FOUNDER AND AUTHOR Awakened-Woman.com

MY BUSINESS: AW is a community designed to inspire,

empower, and encourage women to live their best lives. Each time a story is shared, a connection is created. We all have a unique story and can learn from one another. This site is a place women can visit to feel less alone in their journey.

IN THE BEGINNING: Finding one’s passion is a journey; I

did not set out to also find purpose. I am one of many women with a collection of experiences as a woman and single mother, working a 9-5 in corporate America, but it is my story that led me to write about what I was going through that brought me to AW. My greatest wish has been to help other women feel less alone by sharing personal stories. Over time, I’ve learned how unique we all are—and inspirational. The rest is history; writing to empower others has been the mission since. My book, “A Journey to Becoming the Best Self,” was only the beginning, there’s so much more to do!

MOST REWARDING: I have received messages from women

around the world, some of whom don’t live in a modern society.

Having the power to inspire women everywhere to hope for something different—a better life—is the greatest gift AW has provided.

MOST INFLUENTIAL:

My life has been blessed with amazing influences. My mother was the first in my life to make an impact. She did her best with what she had, often making something out of nothing.The AW Empowerment Series has offered lots of opportunities to speak with incredible women.

Each one left me with renewed energy, and encouraged me to continue sharing powerful stories. Real women thriving in the face of life’s most challenging situations have had an effect, as well as timeless classics like Jennifer Lopez, who continue to redefine age, beauty, and the limitless power we have to create the life envisioned.

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Photography by The ABView Photography

MARCI

Hopkins

Wyckoff, NJ “WAKE UP WITH MARCI” HOST, CREATOR, EXECUTIVE PRODUCER WakeUpWithMarci.com MY BUSINESS: “Wake Up with Marci” is a TV talk

show that airs on WLNY-TV 10/55 in the New York/ New Jersey market. Out of market, it can be seen on Roku, Amazon Firestick, and YouTube. It’s a show about empowerment and learning to live our happiest lives.

I have candid conversations with celebrities, wellness experts, and other inspirational individuals who seek to share their stories of hope with you and me.

IN THE BEGINNING: I have always worked in

television. I spent most of my earlier years working for Fox Cable Group. I worked in operations and programming and was ultimately promoted to director of on-air promotions for FX Network in Los Angeles. Ten years ago, I made a transition and started working in front of the camera. Five years later I decided to take a break from the entertainment industry to start my healing journey, as I am a sexual abuse survivor and coped with alcohol. I am proud to share I just celebrated five years of sobriety!

Once I found self-love and true happiness, I wanted to give that same gift to others. I harnessed all of my experience in television and launched “Wake Up with Marci,” a talk show of inspiration, empowerment, and learning to live our happiest lives.

MOST REWARDING: Sharing my

experiences with my audience is an absolute gift. There is nothing quite as rewarding as receiving messages from men and women thanking me for being so open about my journey to sobriety. My greatest joy is knowing that my openness about my life on social media and my show has helped people, whether it be with using their voice, moving forward with a dream, facing their fears, or beginning their own healing journey.

MOST INFLUENTIAL: When I first

started my show, I was so influenced by Oprah. She is genuine, leads with her heart and her true desire to help others, and she has instilled so much joy, hope, and happiness in countless lives. That is my mission on “Wake Up with Marci”—to empower, share hope, and inspire my audience to live their happiest lives.

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BELLA boss

Gura and PAULA Orlan MINDY

New City, NY (Paula), Woodcliff Lake, NJ (Mindy) FASHION/CELEBRITY STYLISTS, PERSONAL SHOPPERS THE STYLE DUO TheStyleDuo.com MY BUSINESS: Growing up with a stylish mom and grandma, we have always had a

passion for fashion. After graduating Tufts University and then starting our families, we decided to use our talents and passions by getting into styling and personal shopping.

We love making our clients feel good about themselves by helping them buy and wear clothes and accessories that give them the confidence they need to suit their lifestyles.

IN THE BEGINNING: Our first big gig was working as personal shoppers for

Neiman Marcus. We always loved their designer collections, so it really made us happy working there. We enjoyed styling the clients and hosting seasonal fashion shows, which we still do to this day. We decided to branch out on our own a few years later because we were getting very busy with celebrity clients who needed us to accompany them to showrooms and stores on a daily basis. We now spend a lot of time in NYC, but Neiman Marcus will always feel like home! We love what we do now because we enjoy working with celebrities, meeting new clients, working directly with designers and showrooms, and of course styling for BELLA!

MOST REWARDING: The most rewarding part of what we

do is styling the fabulous BELLA Magazine photo shoots. We absolutely love working as a team. We thrive on collaborating with the editors, photographers, glam team, and celebrities regarding beauty direction, location, lighting, and the overall vision. Teamwork makes the dream work!

MOST INFLUENTIAL: Our mom, Jill Shapiro, is our biggest

fashion influence and icon. She is so up to date on every designer, fashion, and style. When we were little girls we marveled at the way she styled her hair, did her makeup, and shopped for the coolest outfits. She even helps us at photo shoots and events. She exudes the perfect combination of classy and trendy style. (If only she saved her fabulous jumpsuits from the seventies!)

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TIA

Blanco

Southern California PROFESSIONAL SURFER/ENTREPRENEUR AND CO-FOUNDER DEAR SELF SKINCARE DearSelfSkincare.com MY BUSINESS: Dear Self ’s mission is to provide a high-

quality skincare line that encourages you to practice self-love.

Each product is named after a positive affirmation designed to redirect your habitual thinking patterns. Dear Self believes in the power of plant-based ingredients, natural skincare, and never harming animals in the process of developing our formulations. Our expert chemists ensure all of our products are non-comedogenic, paraben-free, safe for sensitive skin types, and free of synthetic fragrances. Dear Self loves our planet and that is why we aim to make this skincare line as eco-friendly as possible.

We have committed to packaging in glass bottles to help put an end to the mass consumption of plastic. Co-founded with my sister Aja, we understand the importance of lifting each other up on our personal journeys. We have both always shared the same passion for skincare and beauty. It was our dream to put together a high-quality line inspired by self-love, while aligning with our cruelty-free beauty and planet-friendly.

IN THE BEGINNING: My sister and I have always been very

passionate about vegan and cruelty-free skincare that was made with plant-based botanicals. We wanted to create a skincare line that aligned with our values. We also both have extremely sensitive skin, therefore we wanted to create a line that was gentle on all skin types. One day we let go of all the excuses that were holding us back from creating our dream line and made it happen! We went for it. There were a lot of trials and tribulations in learning how to formulate products that met our standards.

Some mistakes were made, but over time we have developed a line we are both very proud of.

Photography by Nicole McCluskey Photography by Daniel Tayenaka

MOST REWARDING: Hands-down the

most rewarding aspect of this journey has been helping others in the process. Whenever I read any of our positive reviews, it makes me feel so fulfilled inside. It is a special feeling to know that my passion for skincare has helped people with their skin or overall confidence.

MOST INFLUENTIAL: My co-founder,

partner in crime, and inspiration will always be my sister! Aja has been the best big sister and has inspired me from day one. She graduated valedictorian—first in her class— and received the Harvard Book Award. She is quite the super woman! Her ambition and hard work have influenced me in my career to be driven and dedicated.

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BELLA boss

JENNIFER

Fitta

Dallas, Texas, and New York REVOLT CAREER NETWORK (FORMERLY BYOB REVOLT) FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT RevoltCareerNetwork.com

MY BUSINESS: The Revolt Career Network is a proprietary

method I created and trademarked for career advancement.

The method and our company focuses on self-awareness, selfacceptance, and self-accountability with tangible tools. We’ve coined the term “career wellness.” Since creating the method, it has been converted into multiple programs and platforms now used in 33 higher education institutions across the US for career preparedness, individual use for performance tracking and growth accountability, and now for enterprise use where companies can use this for better hiring practices, non-traditional performance management, and value alignment for employee retention. I also wrote the book, “BYOB Revolt,” which was published in 2019, and have since written all of the programs, manage the strategic initiatives, technology management, and company operations.

In addition, I am the host of our flagship podcast, “Bitch, I Quit,” which tackles topics of career advancement in a non-traditional approach. My goal is to constantly challenge the status quo and create space for people to align their careers with a value-driven approach that yields meaningful gains.

IN THE BEGINNING: Prior to starting the Revolt, I was a business strategist and had worked my way up to the C-suite by the age of 30 through my passion and expertise in marketing.

Specializing in digital marketing and targeting, I had created successful growth strategies using a unique approach. I reached a point in my career where I loved what I was doing, but I still felt unfulfilled. I used the strategy approach that worked so well for my clients and adjusted it as a personal tool for career advancement.

MOST REWARDING: The most rewarding part is getting to wake up with passion for what I do every single day. To be able to follow my passion and watch others find theirs is a gift beyond value. Every time someone embraces the method, it’s really not about embracing the method, it’s about herself, her values, and creating a career on her own terms. It’s a high that I never want to quit!

MOST INFLUENTIAL: Aside from my mother, who is an incredible influence for both myself and my sister, there is one woman who I have been inspired by and influenced in my career and in my life. That’s Dolly Parton. It might sound ridiculous because I have never met the woman, but she possesses everything I strive to be. She is a true individual who knows and accepts herself for who she is. She is an incredible business woman who embodies humility, empathy, and fiery passion. She is a national treasure who all women can be inspired by. When I’m really in the thick of it, I often think, “What would Dolly do?”

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Photography by Paul Kaido Asyn Photography

TAMEARRA Oakland, CA SOULEY VEGAN FOUNDER/CEO SouleyVegan.com

Dyson

MY BUSINESS: Souley Vegan is a 100% plant-based Louisiana

Creole restaurant, and we are now expanding take-out locations in multiple territories. Being vegan myself, I take pride in the unique recipes we prepare and serve that I have developed over the years that makes us one of a kind. Even though the work is very challenging, I love to serve the community.

IN THE BEGINNING: I worked at Marin General Hospital

for just under 10 years in the endoscopy department of the surgery center. I was a single mother, just a few prerequisites away from nursing school. I had struggled to keep my school schedule and parent at the same time. I left Marin General because I believed I had something to offer the world, something it had not yet seen—a different, more comfortable, and identifiable introduction to a vegan cousin.Even though I struggled, got evicted from my apartment, and had everything else taken from me in my pursuit to launch and develop Souley Vegan, I never looked back. I had faith in my products and the service I had to offer the world.

MOST REWARDING: Being an inspiration to people. I love to

tell my story and inspire.

MOST INFLUENTIAL: My mother. Her deep love for her

children through the worst of times inspired me to be strong.

team BELLA

WHAT SPECIAL WOMAN HAS

INFLUENCED YOUR LIFE? VANESSA COPPES

CEO & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Meet the women of the Borbón family: My mom, Luz; my tías, Yolanda and Fidencia; my cousins Ana, Amanda, Elena, Sandra, and her daughter Amalia. My crazy aunt Eli from the Bronx is missing in this picture, but her presence is there—she’s always there.

This unit has helped keep our entire family together. They are examples of resilience, unconditional love, and unmatched badassery. These women are the reason I know not only how to dance a proper merengue, but how I learned resilience, independence, selfcare, self-love, and what family truly is. In anything we’ve done through the years, we always seek each other for advice and guidance. My ability to get through life has come from knowing I’ve always had a strong pack of women who’ve unconditionally had my back.

ALEXANDRA ANASTASIO ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

When I think of a woman who has been influential in my life, there’s not one, but two who are standouts in my mind. Both my mom (pictured at right) and my grandmother taught me valuable lessons that I’ve carried through to adulthood.

My mother showed me things like strength, compassion, friendship, forgiveness, and most importantly, unconditional love. In watching her, along with my grandmother (we were fortunate to grow up under the same roof ), I saw two women who took joy in their family, filled their home with love, and shared a passion for cooking.

JENNIFER DECILLIS

When I began to lay down roots in my own home, I took with me the values and traditions I was fortunate to have had, and carry them on under my own roof. Although times may be different, the core of what these two women taught me continues to live on—along with their cooking!

PUBLISHER

The woman who has influenced my life the most is, of course, my mom. She has shaped me into the woman I am today, and is the true embodiment of strength, support, and resilience. She has always encouraged me to chase my dreams and follow my heart, and I strive to become even a fraction of the extraordinary woman she is. Plus, we celebrate her birthday during this issue, on April 17th, so Happy Birthday, Momma!

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GINA LAGUARDIA EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

One of the most influential women in my life has been my grandmother. She always made me feel special and that spending time with me was her greatest joy. To this day, I think back on my “Gram Sleepovers,” and remember how fun it was to stay up late with her to gossip and watch “programs” together. She was such a strong, independent spirit—if something needed to get done, she’d do it herself and do it better than anyone. I always admired her seemingly unending abilities—to cook, to make jokes, to stick to her goals, and even to just make doing everyday tasks like reading the newspaper or vacuuming the living room look stylish (she was always dressed to the nines).

JENNIFER WALSH

MIND AND BODY CONTRIBUTOR

The most influential woman in my life has been my mother. She has always been by my side, encouraging me to try new things, to create, and to learn. She stood by my side when I went out to start my first business in 1998 when there were very few female founders. I have a profoundly disabled twin sister who cannot move and spends most of her time in a wheelchair. My mother taught me what courage, faith, and love looks and feels like in how she raised us both.

MINDY GURA & PAULA ORLAN

FASHION STYLISTS

We both agree that the most influential woman in our lives has always been our twin.

Our wombate, best friend, business partner, secret keeper, laughuntil-it-hurts buddy, and so much more!

Mindy for Paula—and Paula for Mindy! As twins, we love and support each other and inspire and motivate one another on a daily basis. From fashion tips to family stuff, decorating and cooking to planning family parties and vacations together, we are constantly sharing, growing, and bonding. It’s a relationship that is hard to describe in words, but having a twin is a double blessing, for sure!

VIVIAN NACIONALES PRODUCER - LIFE IS BELLA

My mother, Matilde (pictured above), and mother-in-law, Doris, have been the most influential women in my life. My mother, who passed away this summer at the age of 93, lived a long and challenging life. Listening to stories of her humble beginnings and having a front row seat to her fearlessness and can-do attitude taught me there is always a way to get things done, and if that doesn’t work, figure out another way! My mother-in-law, Doris, is a quiet yet strong presence in my life. As I moved from girlfriend, to daughter-in-law, to mother of her grandchildren, she has been the most loyal, kind, nonjudgmental force in my life—not to mention a good listener!

I always tell her that when the time comes, I want to be the kind of mother-in-law she is to me. Both of these women have helped to shape the woman I am today.

JANENE MASCARELLA

BEAUTY DIRECTOR

My mother, Carol Sumampow, has most certainly been the most influential woman in my life. She taught me how to be a mom, a friend, a sister, a wife, a cook, a good listener, and a kind person.

She also taught me to be sincere, sympathetic, and pretty much everything in between! Everything I am now and will ever be is because of her. So grateful because she is also my best friend.

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home & life

14

clever products from

female-founded brands you

need to try

Who runs the world? Well, you probably already know the answer to that! We found some fierce and fearless female-run brands that truly embody the entrepreneurial spirit. Here are some of their cool new products masterfully designed help you live your best life.

By Janene Mascarella

SOME LIKE IT HOT

Head to Allyson Block Designs Shop on Etsy and score her Trailblazer Mug to help you rise and shine and sip with great intention. She created a line of word art mugs that are meant to encourage and bring insight into our daily lives. She hopes her mugs inspire women to take time to dream, engage, and share the moments and memories that make our lives meaningful.

Starting at $16.99, Etsy.com

HOME SWEET HOME SCREEN

Messy home screen making you cringe?

The ScreenKit App is a clever lifestyle tool developed by two women that helps you organize, customize, and beautify your home screen vs. settling on the cluttered, disorganized approach. The app makes it easy to personalize your home screen with hundreds of different themes to jazz up your iPhone in a flash.

Free to download; premium themes and widgets are available for a one-time payment of $9.99, US App Store

TIDY UP

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mumi Design is an organizing brand founded by two Latina moms who, frustrated by not finding the right products to satisfy their packing and tidying-up needs, decided to create their own line of travel, home, baby, and office solutions. Their new Divider Cubes are versatile, flexible organizers that keep closet clutter under control. $48, MumiDesign.com

MASTER PLAN

Life is hectic, but one way to calm the chaos is to have a good plan. The Balance Bound Planner is a beautiful weekly planner that revolutionizes the way you manage your days and prioritize self-care. By dividing each day into four sections—work, self, others, and home—you can see, at-a-glance, where you’re spending your time and where to build in time for self-care. $42-$46, BalanceBound.co

SHAKE THINGS UP

Need to spice things up a bit? A Dab a Do Ya! seasoning created by Jolie Oree-Bailey (Chef Jolie) of Low Country Quisine, a gourmet catering company based in Dallas, is anything but ordinary. Described by home cooks as, “your new go-to seasoning that elevates the flavor of everything you eat,” A Dab A Do Ya! includes familiar flavors like salt, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and more, combined to bring a taste of “low country” to your favorite foods. $13, LowCountryQuisine.com

SWIPE RIGHT

Invented by Tina Kuligowski, a Department of State staffer who was working on a project to install WiFi in the United States’ embassies and consulates around the world, Spray Erase is an erasable spray paint designed especially for dry-erase boards. Cleverly designed to look like giant-sized markers, Spray Erase works just like regular spray paint, letting you fill big expanses of whiteboards with color or use stencils to give lessons and presentations extra impact. $24.99 for a four-pack (red, blue, black, and green), SprayErase.com

SLEEP TIGHT

The pillow of your dreams is just a few clicks away! Developed by women, Pluto Pillow custom-builds pillows based on your body stats, how you sleep, and what you like. All you have to do is fill out the questionnaire on their website and your data runs through a proprietary algorithm that helps them create a custom pillow for your unique sleep profile. Now you could add pillow designer to your resume—happy snoozing!

Starting at $95, PlutoPillow.com

PLANTIFUL DECOR

If you have a case of cabin fever, Green Philosophy Co. is here to help alleviate the blues from staying indoors by bringing elements of the outdoors into your home. The company combines artistic design with natural plant life to bring you fun, funky, and functional interior décor and gifts. The Succulent Plush Pillows are snuggle-worthy and a breath of fresh air! When founder Lillian Lau couldn’t find the plant decor she was looking for, she decided to take matters—and a lot of green fabric—into her own hands. $39 each, GreenPhilosophy.co

SERVES A PURPOSE

The Statement Tray is an all-in-one solution for entertaining and decorating throughout the year. First, choose your Statment Tray in clear, white, or black acrylic. Next, make your statement with interchangeable reversible inserts for any season, holiday, occasion, and mood. You can even turn the tray into a cheeseboard with its bamboo charcuterie inserts. Great for small spaces and clutter-free living, no wonder it is touted as the “Jack of All Trays”! $45, StatementHome.com

JAM ON IT

Have you ever heard of boozy jam? Wicked Finch Farm produces the delicious jars in New York, and with combos like Strawberry Prosecco and Bourbon Blueberry, it’s a match made in heaven. The recipes were inspired by the combination of berries grown on a historical farm in the Hudson Valley and founder Mariana Leung-Weinstein’s favorite cocktails.

Each jar is presented in bespoke packaging of artisan papers, raffia, and parchment. $12, WickedFinchFarm.com

TORCH CALORIES

The hottest new fitness trend blazing the trail is FitFighter, a strength and conditioning system originally designed for the fire service and based on its own patent-pending Steelhose free weights and iOS training app. After leaving the army, founder and CEO Sarah Apgar (an Iraq war veteran) joined her local volunteer fire department in Huntington, NY, to recapture the sense of camaraderie she had experienced in the military. That very move helped inspire FitFighter’s creation. It’s the functionality of a dumbbell, kettlebell, sandbag, med ball, and sledge—all rolled up into one!

Starting at $65, FitFighter.com

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home & life IT’S A WRAP

Sarah Smith, founder of Wrappily, wants to help people become more environmentally conscious by making small simple changes, like using eco-friendly wrapping paper. Wrappily is milled, printed, and packaged in the US, and many of the prints are created by local artists. Reversible gift wrap sheets come flat and folded with gift tag stickers. $10, Wrappily.com

STICK UP

If you’re looking to spruce up your space this spring, Tempaper can help you stick to that goal. The removable wallpaper brand was created in 2008 by twin sisters Jennifer Matthews and Julia Au. Tempaper’s self-adhesive wall coverings offer just the right fit for all spaces and tastes, pairing state-of-the-art production methods and materials.

Single roll: $39.99, Tempaper.com

BERRY BENEFICIAL

Lindsey Christianson started Elderberry Queen after seeing the impact elderberry syrup had on her own family of seven—a household where keeping germs to yourself is not an option. She quickly found that the products currently on the market were unaffordable, so she set out to create her own with all-natural, organic ingredients. $8.99 and up, ElderberryQueen.net

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Be a part of a fabulous community

of women entrepreneurs!

ETTWomen.com

Join ETT Women!

ETTWomen is a community of women entrepreneurs that network with intention.

We learn from and support each other in personal and business development.

ETTWomen.com | 479 RT-79 Suite 6-A | Morganville, NJ | 07751 | @ETTWomen

sophisticated spaces | create + connect

MAKE

THIS

SPACE YOUR SPACE Your Space NJ a blank slate for content creation and private events Photography by @imagesbybobbysax

Your Space NJ was created for content creators who need a blank canvas to create whatever comes to mind. For the small business owner, large corporation, or the next up-and-coming YouTuber, the 2700-square-foot facility, located in Manalapan, New Jersey, is a space for everyone.

In addition to the beautiful space and various sets available for rent, the venue also offers lighting and equipment rentals, concept/branding services, and on-site photographers, videographers, hair stylists, makeup artists, and talent. Your Space NJ also provides an infinity cyclorama wall, seamless paper backdrops in white, black, and pink, professional lighting, green screen lighting, a table-top cyclorama wall for product shots, a complete kitchen area, dressing and seating areas, a VIP Lounge, two bathrooms, and two garage doors that can be used for natural lighting and space for vehicles.

FOR MORE INFO ABOUT YOUR SPACE NJ CALL 732-425-5683, OR EMAIL 56 NJYOURSPACE@GMAIL.COM

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FA S H I O N | W E L L N E S S | FA M I LY | H O M E | C E L E B R AT I O N S | L I F E S T Y L E

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12/4/20 10:33

S up close & personal

herri Shepherd

By Alexandra Anastasio Photos courtesy of Damu Malik

From the time she was a young girl, actress, comedian, and TV personality Sherri Shepherd has been making people laugh. You could even say performing has always been in her blood. From the early days of putting on family talent shows, to performing standup in comedy clubs, Sherri would eventually take her talents to the screen.

She’s recently partnered with HealthyWage to drop the “Quarantine 15” many gained this past year as a result of the COVID lockdowns. With an incentive to lose money along with the pounds, participants on the website are essentially betting on themselves, which is just another aspect of the challenge that attracted Sherri the first time around.

The road to success wasn’t always a smooth one, but the TV star credits her faith in guiding her through, even on the darkest of days.

“The only person that will stop you is you,” she says. “HealthyWage is aligned with what I believe in and I really like that.”

“Truly knowing that God gave me the gift to do this, and knowing He was guiding me in this career, if something didn’t happen for me, I knew that it was going to, I just had to be patient, push through, and not let the word “no” hurt me,” she explains.

Along with making people laugh, Sherri is inspiring others when it comes to getting healthy. Diagnosed with diabetes 14 years ago, Sherri, who also lost her mom to the disease, knew how important it was to live a healthier lifestyle.

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Healing and helping people through laughter

As Sherri prepares to tackle a brand new weight loss challenge, she’s also serving up laughter on shows like, “Call Your Mother” and “Mr. Iglesias,” along with her podcast, “Two Funny Mamas,” alongside close friend and fellow comedian Kym Whitley. This past summer, the former co-host of “The View” joined Fox’s syndicated show, “Dish Nation.”

In between filming, Sherri spoke to BELLA about the work she’s doing both professionally and personally, and what she hopes to accomplish in the future.

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up close & personal You’ve partnered with HealthyWage for a second time to not only lose weight but to inspire others as well. What led you to team up with them again?

I like the folks behind HealthyWage, and something about money being an incentive to lose weight is a big deal. It’s like getting an allowance—it drives people a little bit more.

I lost weight with HeathyWage the first time but then COVID hit, and 30 pounds hit during the pandemic. I said to them, ‘I want do this again,’ and I wanted to really focus on why and how you push through, and they loved it.

You talk about your son Jeffrey being your “why” in your journey to becoming your healthiest self. How does it make you feel knowing you’re helping other people find their “why?”

To complete a journey in life, you have to get back to the question of ‘Why are you doing it?’ and ‘What is the purpose?’

I think that also applies to weight loss. During those times when you want to give up, you have to look at ‘Why did I do this in the first place?’

For me, it helps to keep focusing back on Jeffrey.

I lost my mom when she was 41 and I was in my early 20s, and it has affected me even to this day.

When I think about who my why is, it’s Jeffrey because I don’t want him to go through the same experience.

You mentioned participants bet on themselves. Exactly how does the program work?

You set your own weight loss challenge, and you just have to commit to six months. This is what I like—it’s not a fast, fad diet. If you can commit yourself to six months, you’re setting yourself up to make lifestyle changes.

You decide how much weight you want to lose and how much money you want to invest.

For me, I’m trying to lose 15 pounds, so obviously I’m not going to get $10,000 but I’m going to get something. All the participants who hit the goal they’ve selected are guaranteed to get a cash prize.

Along with the HealthyWage partnership, you have a lot of exciting projects happening right now, one being the new ABC sitcom, “Call Your Mother.” Tell me a little bit about your character.

What I love about this show is number one, Kyra [Sedgwick]. I just love her so much—and the fact that this show has so much heart.

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I play the best friend Sharon, kind of no-nonsense. I live in Iowa and she checks back in with me so I can keep her straight in the weird land of LA. Kari [Lazer], our writer, writes brilliantly. The show is funny and very touching and I love that she writes for women in their 50s and what we go through.

What do you love about this particular show?

I love the fact that I’m working. I’m so blessed in this day when you don’t know where the next job is coming from. We are grateful to be on the set again and I’m grateful that I can make you laugh for 22 minutes. And I love the people I’m working with—they’re all so kind, and we have a good time.

You also star in the Netflix original comedy series, “Mr. Iglesias,” in the role of Principal Madison. The show delivers comedy but also touches upon important, relatable issues. What do you hope viewers take away from the show?

I love Gabriel [Iglesias]; we’ve known each other for 20 years from when we were doing standup.

Neither of us had any money, and he would give me a ride home from gigs in a car that sounded like bullets were coming out of the exhaust pipe because they had repossessed my car. So to see where he is now—I’m so proud of my friend and so thankful he asked me to do the role.

This is another show where the family can sit down together and watch it. It makes you think but it makes you laugh as well. I admire everybody I work with, and I love those kids—they are my babies. It’s a family show, but it feels like a family on that show.

Last summer you became one the newest co-hosts of Fox’s “Dish Nation.”

How does it feel to be back in that type of setting?

I love “Dish Nation” so much and I get to shoot that one from my house.

When I was on “The View,” the ladies weren’t really into pop culture, and I am a pop culture junkie! This is a gig where I sign on and laugh nonstop. That’s why it’s been on for 10 seasons—people love the banter and that we’re so familiar with each other.

What lessons did you take away from your eight years on “The View”?

I think learning how to talk, because on “Dish Nation” there are eight of us talking all at one time. [There are] seven people in your ear at the same time, laughing, and to sort through all of that and get your opinion out, Barbara [Walters] taught me how to do that with four women sitting

at a table. I used to sit at the table and wait for everyone to quiet so I could get in my opinion; Barbara told me I’ll never get my opinion out [that way].

I’ve learned to find my air space and get in there, be more proactive instead of waiting.

And the second thing is I’ve learned to work with other people, be a team player.

Kindness is really important to me and everyone practiced that on the show.

Barbara was hard on me, but she was kind to me, and I think I bring that to “Dish Nation.”

What led you and Kym to create the podcast, “Two Funny Mamas?”

We’ve been besties since we were both struggling comics. We lived across the street from each other, and would keep getting eviction notices together. We were on the “Tom Joyner Morning Show” for four years and were fan favorites. I said to Kym, ‘We need to do a podcast, we love to talk Let’s just do it for us.’

We’re going through so much in the world—people are fighting depression, they’re tired, they’re sex-starved (…me!) and I think laughter is sorely needed. Someone on my Instagram said to me, ‘You’re too silly, you’re not serious enough’…God help us all if I can’t be silly and sit down and laugh.

Connection is important, however you can make it, and if people can connect through Kym and I, shoot, I’m so happy!

You’ve accomplished so much in your career.

Is there something you’d like to do but haven’t yet?

I’d like to have my own talk show, “The Sherri Shepherd Show.” I hosted “The Wendy Williams Show” for two days, and I’m addicted. I would like to do a drama, and create my own comedy—my own sitcom.

And I’m going to be in a relationship in 2021, it’s going to be a good one!

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J

getting to know

Living the life she always dreamed of

oy Corrigan

By Alexandra Anastasio

Photography by Julio Cepeda Hair by Graham Nation Makeup by Luis Casco Styling by Mindy Gura and Paula Orlan

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Top: Glassons Jeans: One Teasoon Shoes: Charles David Earrings: Electric Picks 63

F getting to know

rom humble beginnings to traveling the world for her career, model, actress, fashion designer, and philanthropist Joy Corrigan is living the life she dreamed of as a young girl growing up in a small town in North Carolina.

“At that time, I dreamed of things but never actually thought they would happen, but every day since has led to a step in that direction,” says Joy. As one of 10 children (she has six brothers and three sisters), Joy credits her tight-knit family for being supportive and encouraging, especially when she took a leap of faith and spread her wings at 17 years old into a world that was unknown.

“My family loves each other and there is nothing we can do wrong, so the real world was a huge shock when I moved out because not everyone is kind and loving, or wants the best for you,” Joy explains. “I had to learn quickly how to navigate through different personalities.”

In spite of the naysayers, Joy’s fierce determination proved successful. Her modeling career has allowed for travels all over the world, and she’s using her platform for causes close to her heart.

BELLA caught up with Joy to talk about the work she’s doing both in front of and behind the lens, and how dreaming big will show you anything is possible.

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At 14 years old you had your first taste of modeling when asked to walk in a fashion show. Were you immediately hooked?

I was approached in the mall to walk in a fashion show, and I was so excited. I was able to keep the clothes, and I never had new clothes—only hand-me-downs—so that was exciting. From then on I always had in the back of my mind that I would love to do this for a living. But I was homeschooled and didn’t have an opportunity to do any modeling in my small town, so it wasn’t until I moved to Florida and pursued modeling that I actually start working.

Was it a difficult decision to leave your hometown?

Yes, because a lot of my siblings and most of my friends didn’t leave town. I was the one who was different. I feel like I’ve always been quite the daredevil—I love taking chances and doing things that scare me—so that side of me was excited.

I went to college at Southeastern University, a small Christian university in Florida, but realized it wasn’t for me, so I left and moved to Miami. It was a very hard decision—I had about $400 in my pocket and stayed with a friend until I could find a place. I went there not knowing many people, and I didn’t have a job, but I knew there was more out there. I was going to find out what that was.

It wasn’t easy at first—most [modeling] agencies said no—but one said yes. I worked hard and proved myself.

I started traveling the world and would spend a few months at a time in places like Germany, Italy, Australia, South Africa, and then finally I moved to New York.

You’ve appeared on screen with some big-name talent like Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger. What did you take away from those projects?

The best part of getting to work with such talented, well-known actors is knowing my dreams can come true. A long time ago, these great actors were like me— they didn’t have a lot of experience, and now look at them! That was inspiring.

At what point did you decide it was time to start focusing on your acting career?

Since I left college, I’ve always been taking classes and studying, but when I started getting busy modeling, I put it on the back burner. I wanted to take the opportunity to travel the world and be a model because that career was happening for me, so I thought, I’m going to take this and run with it. But I’ve always practiced the craft of acting. Only more recently, since moving to California, have I really started to pursue it 100% and hopefully will be booking some bigger roles.

That’s my goal right now.

Crop top and pants: Hemant and Nandita Butterfly necklaces: Electric Picks

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getting to know Being a part of two competitive industries, how do you handle both the highs and the lows?

I think if I didn’t define my own self-worth from the beginning, I would be lost. And, if I had listened to what other people said to me, I wouldn’t be where I am.

Coming from a very supportive, close-knit family has helped me to remain true to myself. I think everybody wants to tell you you’re only ‘this good,’ or only going to accomplish ‘this,’ or that ‘you won’t get there.’ Some days I would think, maybe they’re right. But then I thought, anything is possible because look how far I’ve come each step of the way. The strongest thing is when you believe in yourself. There were times I wanted to quit, but I didn’t.

In an effort to make a difference, 10% of all proceeds are donated to the Wild Tomorrow Fund. What led you to partner with this particular organization?

We chose them because they are an amazing charity making a difference.

They are on the ground in South Africa, buying land, employing people to stop the poachers, breeding rare species, and making sure the land is protected. When I found out all of the great things they do, I knew it was a perfect match.

You design all of the clothing; what’s up next for the brand?

Right now I’m finishing the summer collection, which debuts in late spring. We’re launching a new set of sexy swimwear and trunks, incorporating bright colors and edgy prints. I think it’s my favorite one so far.

You started the fashion brand, “Naked Species,” with your sister, Gina. How would you describe the style?

It is edgy, fresh basics for the conscious man or woman. It’s streetwear with a twist that gives back and has a mission behind it.

What other organizations do you work with?

How did you come up with the name?

I wanted to have a mission behind the brand—that was important—so before I even decided on the name, I decided I need to pinpoint one area I’m really passionate about.

Growing up on a farm, I love animals and I thought, what if one day the plants and animals aren’t around—how devastating would that be?

Jumpsuit: My Beachy Side Bracelet: Michael Kors

I started doing research and learned so much. If everyone knew the importance of our earth and the millions of species to be extinct, they would help do something about that.

So I thought ‘endangered species,’ and ‘naked’ is the raw form of that species.

I saw that the name was available and said this is it and just ran with it.

JoyCorrigan 66

Right now I’m working with amfAR Gala to help with HIV and COVID. I’d love to work with more organizations; any great charity that wants to work with me, I’d love to work with them and do as much as I can with my brand, my voice, and my image. Down the road I hope to partner with more charities for Naked Species.

What new projects do you have coming up?

I’m planning on going to Africa to visit the Wild Tomorrow Fund to see them in action. Once things open up and we’re allowed to travel, I’m going to start planning that. As far as acting goes, I’ve been auditioning for some really cool roles. Stay tuned— hopefully you’ll see me on the big screen this year!

NakedSpecies

Crochet halter and skirt: My Beachy Side

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cover story

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M

eagan Good

Finding purpose in her passion

By Alexandra Anastasio Photography by Cécile Boko Makeup by Jorge Monroy Styling by EJ King

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A cover story

ctress Meagan Good has graced both the big and small screens in a multitude of roles since childhood. What started out as a hobby has turned into a consistent career, something Meagan credits God for allowing. She says it’s her deep faith that’s gotten her through difficult times, keeps her moving forward, and allows her the opportunity to help support other young women.

Day in and day out, the talented performer continues to take on new challenges within her craft. Not only is she stepping into characters who are inspiring, she’s fulfilling her passion of telling those stories from behind the camera.

Earlier this year, Meagan made her co-directorial debut on the film, “If Not Now, When?” alongside good friend and co-star Tamara Bass.

“It was such a great experience working with Tam,” says Meagan. “We see all of the same things, but we also see very different things, so having two sides to the brain working, you just cover all bases. We got each other, we knew the project we wanted to create and the message we wanted to share, and said let’s do it.”

While Meagan is now making films she’s passionate about, the transition from child to adult actor wasn’t without its challenges.

“A lot of the roles I was getting, I was fighting to find substance, and fighting to show people I am a dramatic actor, and I do want to try comedy,” she explains. “There is so much more in me that you aren’t seeing; you want me to be pretty, but that’s not enough for me and that doesn’t last forever.”

While Meagan admits she’s had quite a few transitions in her career, the wild ride is far from over. With a lineup of new projects, including a talk show alongside her sister and cousin, a new business venture, and an even stronger desire to use her platform for the greater good, it is her faith and strong belief in God that has allowed her to be right where she is.

BELLA caught up with the actress to talk about her life and career, and learn more about the ways in which she is living her purpose.

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You’re staring in a new Lifetime movie, “Death Saved My Life,” alongside your sister La’Myia. What was the experience like?

I produced a film about 11 years ago called, “Video Girl,” and my sister played my sister in the film. Earlier this year, my directorial debut came out that she helped produce and also had a small cameo in, which was exciting. This film was the next thing. I read the script and fell in love with it.

When my sister decided to come on board it was pretty amazing. A lot of times when you’re doing a scene, especially when it’s emotional, you draw upon trauma and experiences you’ve been through to figure out how you can relate to the character and understand their experience. Since my sister and I have been through so much together and we know everything about each other, being in these scenes together was a unique and special experience that I hold dear to my heart.

Tell us a little bit about the character you play in the film.

The character’s husband is a well established man within their neighborhood and their city—he’s very beloved.

She’s successful as well, has had some trouble in the past, dealt with depression, and her parents both passed away. Her sister disappeared for a good 10 years and her husband was her only support system. He’s controlling and manipulative, physically and emotionally abusive, and when she decides to stand up for herself, he plans to have her murdered.

It’s the true events of how this woman ultimately flipped this on its head and said, ‘I’m going to fake my own death and I’m going to get you to be accountable for what you’ve done.’

What did being a part of this project mean to you personally?

I’m big on women’s empowerment and self-love, and gaining the understanding that you are so worthy. It does not matter what you’ve done, it does not matter what’s been done to you, it does not matter what you’ve been through—you deserve God’s best because that’s what He wants for you. And what He wants for you is even more important than even what you want for yourself.

To me, this vehicle was an opportunity to hopefully give someone watching the courage to say, ‘You know what, I can step out of this, and I can survive. I deserve that.’ I wanted to be part of creating something that is about shedding light and being transparent, showing there is no shame, and that the only thing that matters is what we do from this point forward.

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cover story It’s a very special project and I hope it encourages, influences, and inspires the way I believe it can. Lifetime is an incredible platform; they’ve been such advocates of creating projects that are meaningful and inspiring. And also in the Black community, they are showing up for us, bringing more opportunity and putting money behind getting the word out—it’s a win across the board.

You made your directional debut this year with the film, “If Not Now, When?” How was the experience?

It was definitely a challenge, but I love directing. For me, having been in front of the camera for almost 30 years at this point, I’m not as excited about getting my makeup and hair done. I just want to hurry up and get on set so I can shoot the scenes. Being able to show up and be creative and not have to think about vanity, but just be there to serve people and serve the project you’re trying to create, and be creative with complete freedom is pretty amazing.

What message do you hope viewers take away from the movie?

I want women to see that they should not settle for less, and they shouldn’t be afraid to put themselves first. Don’t let go of your dreams for a man; your dreams are a part of your purpose, that’s a God thing. Just because you’ve been broken doesn’t mean you can’t be healed; there is forgiveness.

When people truly love you and you’re truly trying to make things right, the right people who are your tribe will see your heart above all else and give you the opportunity to do that. There is redemption in walking down dark paths and turning around and walking toward the light. I hope all of these different themes touch people in different ways, but at the end it comes back to selflove, sincere friendships, forgiveness, worth, and empowerment.

Next up is a half-hour comedy on Amazon, yet to be titled. What is the show about?

Dr. Kari [Williams], a good friend of mine, is a hair doctor, and we created Goddess Locs together. The year I decided I wanted to wear dreadlocks, I thought, how do we create a dreadlock that doesn’t look like everybody else but feels natural and pretty, that I can wear often, and is a protective hairstyle?

When I met Dr. Kari, she asked my inspiration, and I said Lisa Bonet. As I wore them for everyday life, doing certain things like working out or trying to sleep, my hair would get in my face. So I created Good Girl Wraps to protect my Goddess Locs and keep them in place. I started wearing them in my workout videos and people were interested, asking if I could sell them. I had never really thought of the fact that there wasn’t anything created for some of these hairstyles, but there was a real demand for it. The response and support has been pretty great, and the feeling I was able to create something there was a need for, not something that already existed.

I added masks because I didn’t like a lot of them; I thought they looked funny. The shaping was weird and the most complimenting shape was this really cool Bane one (like from “Spider-Man”) that looked bad ass—like a ninja.

How are you using your platform and experiences to help other young women?

My sister and I created a nonprofit called, “For the Greater Good.”

Because of what we do, we’re able to go into different school districts and speak to the kids, mentor them, talk about resources for the career path they may want to pursue. There are several young women I mentor and connect with.

Who has been inspirational in your life?

It’s about four women in their 30s, dating, discovering the things they want in life, careers, families…it’s pretty wonderful. The show is wildly inappropriate, hella funny, definitely has lots of levity, heart, rawness, and honesty, while still just being those real conversations you have with girls that men have no idea you have, just like they do.

My godfather, Jim Brown, has encouraged me. He’s definitely been a force. He’s someone who has inspired me to get into activism, to use my voice and my platform as something greater than myself and to always be vocal in what I believe. He has taught me to pull these things together and use them specifically for the betterment of other people.

I play a college professor of anthropology and love, but she just can’t get her love life together. It’s a cool, fun, and quirky character.

What’s up next for you?

Coming from a close-knit family, what has it been like having this talk show, “Cousins,” with La’Myia and your cousin Dijon?

We have a lot of fun and are so close; we’re pretty much all siblings.

We consider ourselves “partners in purpose.” We have very similar —if not the same—desires of what we believe we were created for and what we want to put out into the world. Getting together is legit fun, but it’s purposeful. We’re always thinking about how can we put something in the world that is meaningful and helpful to someone else because that’s what we all have in common as human beings. We’re all here to help each other.

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You recently launched your own line of hair accessories that includes masks. What led you to start “Good Girl Wraps?”

I start “Shazam! 2” in May, and am excited about that because the older superheroes are going to be in it a lot more. I can’t wait to get back into fight training—I’m excited for that. And after all the craziness of last year, it’s nice to come straight into a job, have a month off, then straight into another job that will take me into September. It’s going to be a good year!

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arts + culture | trailblazer

LGBTQ+ACTIVIST

INSPIRING

FUTURE

GENERATIONS

By Jonathan Calixto

hyllis Lyon, José Sarria, Lucy Hicks Anderson…do any of these names sound familiar? These are some of the pioneers of the LGBTQ+ movement that often times go unrecognized. The movements they led for equality through activism or simply living their truth have paved the way for future generations to continue the work they started. In the mix of upcoming voices that are inspiring future generations, Isis King is one of those leaders.

For Isis, community was built from finding people similar to her who were also ostracized. “To find people in common, we can celebrate each other,” she shares. When it came to being battle-ready, Isis reflects on preparing for a ball and having to put on her “warrior paint” to hide her nerves.

“I feel like I carried that into the real-life too when I went into ANTM, but also in general going out here every day as a Black trans-woman, being strong and confidant,” Isis explains.

Almost 13 years later since her ANTM debut, Isis has paved a path of her own, appearing on popular shows, such as Netflix’s “When They See Us” and HBO’s “EQUAL,” bringing to life other trans stories. These opportunities not only strengthened Isis’ activism but also made her learn new history about Queer culture. “This is definitely a reminder of what our ancestors had to go through.”

When Isis stepped into the spotlight of “America’s Next Top Model” (ANTM) in 2008 as the first-ever transgender contestant, viewers were not as accepting and often cyberbullied and harassed her. Despite the chaos, Isis would soon realize the impact she was having on the Queer community. That first moment came after a young gay boy messaged her on MySpace: “I was about to commit suicide but seeing your story helped me realize there is a light at the end of the tunnel, so thank you.”

In those moments of reflection, Isis also notes its importance: “Our history is just as vital to the equality in our country.”

Being able to portray these characters gives her appreciation to acknowledge where we are with LGBTQ+ history and what we are able to do. “It’s important to remember your past to appreciate your future.”

Years later, Isis continues to receive countless stories of support, especially as new viewers have binged her season during quarantine. This has offered her some renewed hope, “not just for the world but also for myself,” she shares. “It has helped me in times where I felt like this was too much.”

Before appearing on season 11 of ANTM, Isis was in the ballroom scene, an underground LGBTQ+ subculture that originated in New York City.

The balls consisted of events that mix performance, dance, lip-syncing, and modeling, in which people “walk” for prizes and trophies. It was this exposure to LGBTQ culture that not only helped her transition but also taught her two valuable lessons she carries until this day—community and staying battle-ready.

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In looking ahead, Isis continues to speak on the importance of representation. One of the ways she is using her truth to create awareness and encourages others is by “living your life authentically and comfortably.” She also uses her platform to share about the power of being confident, speaking up when you can, and educating those who want to learn.

Just like selecting her name, Isis—“goddess of the throne”— this gives her something to live up to. “I want to make her happy, I want to make her proud.” Despite the long journey she has had, Isis knows this is her purpose.

“I traveled the road less traveled, and it’s all going to make sense when I get there.”

MsIsisKing

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tarotscopes

A

BELLA

Future LIES AHEAD…

Owning your power

By Meghan Rose

Hello, my star seed! Welcome to the tail end of Pisces season. As we feel the solar transition from Pisces to Aries on March 20th, and then from Aries to Taurus on April 20th, expect massive change and ascension for yourself. We will begin magical March with Mars entering into the dualistic sign of Gemini on the 3rd, making it a great time to kick-start a new chapter of your life and manifest what you want with greater ease.

In both March and April, you’ll not only know women of influence you will become one. This is the year to embrace your highest vibrational self and embody her in the ever-present now. What type of influence do you want to have in the world, BELLA babe?

Let’s see what the cards have to say. Read on for your sun, moon, and rising signs!

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ARIES

THE EMPRESS: Like the great Selena or the show-stopping Lady Gaga, we can expect your March and April to be lights out this year, Aries! How do you notice that you are playing small? Now is the time to step into a greater position of power. For some of you, this will be a big raise or promotion in the near future. For others, this signifies you are starting up on a passion project that’s taken a backseat for far too long.

Ultimately, the decision to shine is yours if you give yourself permission.

Take the month of March to lean into self-compassion, and do things that make you feel loved, nurtured, and joyful. By the time April rolls around, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your (internalized) labor. This is the time to set boundaries that work for you—regardless of how much other people want your time and attention. Put yourself first, Aries babe!

TAURUS

THE WORLD: Things are finally falling into place for you, my Taureans. I see a lot of you finding your groove in both your work life and within your personal relationships. It seems like self-prioritization is a theme for March and April.

What does it mean to put yourself first? In order to become your happiest and most successful self, you’ll need to make sure you’re properly utilizing time management—there are only so many hours in a day, and at least one of those hours deserves to be spent pampering yourself! Relish in the relationships you have that feel good, celebrate the progress you’ve already made, and make a toast to a new year filled with big opportunities ahead! Like your fellow Taurus, Cher, said: “I’m really fine with the peaks and valleys. It’s the valleys that make me, force me to reach further.”

GEMINI

EIGHT OF SWORDS: With Mars entering into your sign, Gemini, you’re going to feel a lot of pressure to “be” someone. The key here is to own who you are—quirks and all—before putting yourself out there. When you’re confident in your ability to express yourself, you’ll see improvements in your work, your friendships, and in love.

For those who are single and seeking, I see these two months being a potent time for connecting to new prospects in love.

Try a new dating app, or switch up your profile pictures.

For those who are already committed, March and April will be great opportunities to express your needs more openly.

Allow your heart to sing its own, unique, tune and watch how life begins to improve. As gorgeous Gemini babe, Naomi Campbell, shared, “Anger is a manifestation of a deeper issue…and that, for me, is based on insecurity an loneliness.”

Let’s heal any lingering feelings of not being good enough so we can embrace the one-of-a-kind you!

CANCER

JUSTICE: Expect March and April to be months of balance and harmony for you, Cancer queen. You’ve been battling with your inner critic for far too long, and it’s time to put your weapon down and walk away. If there have been legal battles, qualms within your social circle, or a dream that seems like it will never come true, these two months are here to sing a different song.

Expect an abundance of miracles as you listen to what your fellow royal Cancer Princess Diana suggested: “Only do what your heart tells you.” If you find yourself subscribing to the herd mentality, take a moment and ask yourself what you want.

Let go of obligatory social media posts, family gatherings, and career paths—this year is all about shameless authenticity.

Come out of your crab shell, and let’s make 2021 a year marked with truth!

LEO

NINE OF WANDS: Embrace the hardship, the heavy emotion, and the difficulties that arise. March and April will be months that ask you to put the work in and start to embrace true dedication. Where do you see yourself lacking in commitment? Whether it’s love, work, keeping up with your friends, or making time for family, expect a portal to open for change.

You don’t realize what you’re missing out on because you’ve never had the sweetness that can only be found with the depth, time, and focus of a true commitment. Allow your wild heart to be tamed, and feel how nice it is to be on stable ground. Miss Jackie O. said it best: “We should all do something to right the wrongs that we see and not just complain about them.” Put the self-pitying on the shelf, and let’s get to changing things!

VIRGO

FIVE OF SWORDS: Virgo, Virgo, Virgo…2021 has been off to a slow start, but it’s just the universe’s way of asking you if you’ve mastered patience. Don’t fret, there’s no timeline on what you’re working toward or what you’re calling in. For some of you, you’ve had to carry the heavy emotional burdens for a parent or a partner for a long time. This pattern is coming to a close as you start to put your emotional needs first.

Remember: in order to give fully to your path, you have to have the energy to do so. This energy will come from setting yourself free from unhealthy relationship dynamics, or recalibrating them to work for you, too. If others have been doubting your dreams or goals, it may be time to find a new source for support. Your fellow Virgo babe, Taraji P. Henson reminds us to stay strong with her own story of perseverance: “I never gave up even though others told me I wouldn’t make it. I saw the bigger picture and I went after it.” It’s time for you to do the same, Virgo!

LIBRA

THE LOVERS: The New Moon in Pisces on March 13th is going to be an important day for you, Libra. I sense a progression in your love life, and an expansion of the heart. This may be a growing family, a new step in your relationship, deeper self-love, or finding romantic love if you’re looking for it in the months ahead. All of this presents itself when you sit down with the question: “If no one were around to judge me, what would I truly want out of my life?”

It’s time to let go of any confusion or stagnation in your life; focus on your intention-setting and action plan to bring your dreams to life. For some of you, a move is coming. For others, there’s a freshening up of your existing home space. Remember to let go of the things, people, and thought patterns that are keeping you stuck.

You will begin to reap great rewards once you make room for them to arrive. Embrace and accept your past and where it’s lead you to; now it’s time for a new chapter. As your fellow Libra, Julie Andrews once said: “Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th”—now is your chance!

SCORPIO

WHEEL OF FORTUNE: What goes up must come down, dear Scorpio. Have you been casting judgment on those around you?

Spending too much time focused on quick fixes rather than facing your inner demons? March and April will be filled with exactly what you need, but it may not be what you want. I see things getting much easier toward the middle of the year for you if you can embrace the growth and healing that’s necessary for this new chapter to arrive.

As Nobel prize-winning scientist and Scorpio, Marie Curie said, “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” Go into this new stage bold and courageous by doing the inner work. It’s time to get to the root cause of your pain and truly heal it!

SAGITTARIUS

ACE OF PENTACLES: Your spirit is asking for you to get grounded during the months of March and April, my passionate Sag. Without the proper footing, you’ll never be able to lift yourself off of the ground and fly. Many of you have genius ideas and are true innovators that can see far beyond the restraints of the present moment. Things don’t have to continue on the way that they’ve been going, Sagittarius babe.

This is truly the point in time where you can put your guards down, be shameless about your dreams, and start to turn them into a reality.

Many of you are changing career paths, or switching up something about your current job in order to have more freedom and personal time. A (safe) vacation is on the horizon, and whether or not it makes financial sense, remind yourself that no one has found the fountain of youth to justify your promises to “do it tomorrow.” Fellow boss-babe and Sagittarius, Stacey Abrams, is a great point of reference for going after what you want: “No matter what I do, I ask myself three questions: What do I want? Why do I want it? And how do I get it?” Follow her lead and see where it lands you this year!

CAPRICORN

EIGHT OF PENTACLES: Time to pick up a new skill or hobby, Cap. Your inner child is calling out for less productive time and more time spent rekindling your sense of childlike joy. Play, dance, write, sing, and ultimately—be merry! These next couple of months will birth some of your favorite memories of 2021–you just have to carve out time to make them. Call up old friends and share belly laughs together, put your headphones in and dance around your home. Who says you’re too old to have fun?

Some of you truly need to understand who you are outside of the results that you produce. There’s an awakening that’s happening, and if you allow it to come out with an open mind and an open heart, you’ll be safe. Owning your truth is not as scary as it seems, and you’ll be excited this year to start sharing it with others. As Capricorn queen, Michelle Obama, told us: “Success isn’t about how much money you make. It’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.”

AQUARIUS

NINE OF CUPS: Aquarius energy has the potential to shake the Earth from its core outward. Look at fellow Aquarians Rosa Parks or Oprah Winfrey! Change may not be clearly seen, however, until after it’s been made. March and April are asking you to trust your instincts, follow your heart, and ultimately stand up for your beliefs. Within the karmic cycle of living authentically, you will be blessed with wish fulfillment and positive change if you can stand strong and hold your head high in the face of adversity.

The past few months may have been difficult on you, dear Aquarius.

But the winds are changing; you’ll be met with kindness, assistance, and opportunities in abundance if you can pick yourself up from the ruins and stay optimistic about what lays ahead. For most of you, you will be entering into a new vibration. Greater self-love, self-awareness, and self-worth are waiting for you. Journaling, time in nature, talk therapy or mentorship, and fresh fruit will be helpful as the year progresses.

PISCES

SEVEN OF SWORDS: For my Pisces that have been dealing with family drama, expect that to be cleared out by the end of April. You’re starting to take a clear stance on what you will and will not accept from your family members. Give yourself space from the people in your life who can’t clap when you succeed.

If you find yourself wrapped up in arguments, passive-aggressive behavior, or power dynamics, these next few months will give you an opening to either walk away or stand up for yourself. You are not a doormat; you are the doorway to a new paradigm of reality, Pisces!

Don’t forget your light, and don’t let anyone else around you forget it either. As the powerful Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and fellow Pisces once said: “Real change, enduring change, happens one step at a time.”

It’s time to put one foot in front of the other and start demanding the respect, admiration, and love that you deserve!

a novel idea

fresh reads

Enjoy a spring fling with these

Spring is in the air, and it’s time for a new set of books to blossom on your shelf. We have some incredible fiction picks forthcoming this season—including some breathtaking debuts—as well as a few non-fiction books sure to put some pep in your step.

By Barbara Bellesi Zito

PEACES HELEN OYEYEMI Riverhead Books

Having recently declared their commitment to each other, Otto and Xavier Shin embark on a trip, courtesy of an aunt. Along with their pet This intriguing mongoose, they seem to story will make be the only you think about ones aboard how our past the sleeper experiences train called affect our The Lucky current Day, and relationships. every amenity and offering seems to be personalized just for them. Then Otto meets a woman on the train who has a message that surprises the couple. As the train chugs on, Otto and Xavier have more questions than answers about their past and how it will affect their future.

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ARE YOU ENJOYING? MIRA SETHI

MOLLY FALLS TO EARTH MARIA MUTCH

Settle into this gem of a debut by a young writer from Pakistan.

From the privacy of home to the highly visible arenas of television and politics, This this book of remarkable stories gives us debut is a glimpse of all at once what life is like emotional, in Pakistan. In humorous, one story, best and thoughtfriends make a provoking. marriage pact to hide their true sexualities. A naive actress matures quickly during her first TV production where the drama is not only on-screen. And a young woman suffering with anxiety finds herself in a furtive love affair. The major players in these stories all want to be loved, though they will soon understand to what lengths they will go to achieve their goal.

Molly Volkova, a choreographer, is on a bustling sidewalk in Manhattan’s Washington Square Park when she has a seizure.

During the course of the sevenminute episode, Molly embarks on a journey This book asks through the question: her past.

Memories Why do we float back of continue to her family, search for those we have career, and relationships, lost in our including a lives? past lover, his

Knopf

Simon & Schuster

sister, and the secrets they share. While Molly lay on that sidewalk in New York, she takes us back and forth through space and time to introduce us to the people, places, and events from her past that haunt her present-day life.

OTHER PEOPLE’S CHILDREN R.J. HOFFMANN Simon & Schuster

Gail and John Durbin want to start their family. But after several miscarriages and failed adoptions, Gail’s desperation grows.

This book is When Carli, about love a pregnant and family teen from a and how the nearby town, decisions makes the people make decision to are driven by give up her both. baby for adoption, the Durbins are her choice for adoptive parents. However, Marla, Carli’s mother, isn’t willing to part with her grandchild. All three women are trying to make decisions that are best for their families, but not all of them will be happy with the outcome.

OPEN WATER CALEB AZUMAH NELSON Grove Press, Black Cat

Two young Black people meet in a pub in London. Both were scholarship students growing up in Britain and now they are artists. He is a photographer and she is a dancer, struggling to Though exist in a world where this novel is they are both celebrated short, the and shunned, accepted and rejected for their art story will and the color of their stay with readers for skin. The two fall in love, a long time. and though they seem made for each other, their relationship will be battered by a cruel and angry world.

AUTHOR

Spotlight

STRONG WOMEN LIFT EACH OTHER UP MOLLY GALBRAITH Harper Horizon

Do you celebrate other women’s success and happiness, or do you cave to gossip and cattiness? Do you constantly worry about what other people think? Molly Galbraith is here to say you can turn around those toxic habits. The best part? You’ll feel much better about yourself. There’s room for all women to thrive, Molly says in her book “Strong Women Lift Each Other Up.” Opportunities for success are plentiful, not scarce.

MOLLY GALBRAITH: SUPPORT OTHER WOMEN, FEEL MORE CONFIDENT IN YOURSELF

Molly is the co-founder of Girls Gone Strong (GGS), a health and fitness movement that empowers women all over the world to feel more confident in their own bodies. “We try to help [women] find their version of healthy and their version of strong to understand the importance of autonomy.”

“Strong Women Lift Each Other Up” offers evidence-based advice that you can put to work right away to improve your own life as well as make the world a better place for other women and girls. “We get to make decisions for our own lives in our own body, whether it’s what we do with our beauty, our nutrition, or our exercise,” Molly says.

Molly might be a force to be reckoned with now, but she knows what it’s like to feel insecure. When she finally learned to stop competing with others and start supporting them instead, she found she could feel good about herself, too. She credits her own success to keeping true to her values, a trait she inherited from her late father, Gatewood Galbraith, who was an author, attorney, and political figure.

‘It’s not what they call you,’ he would tell her, ‘it’s what you answer to that counts.’

INDIE AUTHOR

Spotlight

GLAMBITION: KNOCKING DOWN WALLS IN HEELS

by Dee Rivera

Dee Rivera could have given into the haters long ago.

But she knew she was better than that. And if she wanted to go after more of what she wanted in life, work, and anything else, she knew she had to believe she was a strong, capable woman. “Glambition: Knocking Down Walls in Heels” tells the story of how Dee got past the fakes and the naysayers to build a life she loves—and how you can do the same for yourself.

Dee defines “glambition” as “embracing our femininity in a man’s world yet being a boss at the same time.” You don’t have to put aside who you are to get what you want.

“You can love the glam and the ambition. It can co-exist in business,” she says.

Dee’s #1 tip for ditching the haters: “Make sure you surround

yourself with like-minded people who are not just takers, but givers.

In your friendships, it should always be that [your friends] are life givers and are genuine. Sometimes there are people in your life for different reasons and seasons. But the core friends will be for a lifetime. I say the same for business. You will have those you will work with for a short time and those who are long-term.

Discernment is key.”

Want more “Bridgerton”? Read Julia Quinn’s book series

ood Hollyw

Spotlight

Finished season 1 of “Bridgerton”? While you’re impatiently waiting for season 2 (filming is said to start this spring), open up one of the novels by master storyteller Julia Quinn, which inspired the wildly popular Netflix series. You’ll love getting to know all the juicy details of the eight Bridgerton power siblings on their quest for love and living happily ever after. With more than 10 novels dedicated to this family’s affairs, you’ll have plenty to keep you enthralled until you can stream new episodes.

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the love files | women on top?

ALPHA LADIES, BETA GENTS

By Jarrod Thalheimer

W

e live in a period of full-on gender fluidity.

What were once accepted as social standards or common practices, specifically between men and women, are no more. A man holding a door open for a woman? Maybe, maybe not. A woman cooking dinner, dressing up, and having slippers ready for hubby when he comes home from work? Uh, no….just no.

The traditional (or outdated, if you prefer) relations between the sexes are generally gone. Just as the greeting “Ladies and gentlemen” has descended to “Hey guys…how’s everyone tonight?” so too have our personal interactions. No one is privileged or special, and we all must treat each other exactly the same.

There are no real allowances for…well, anything.

Supposedly, this is progress and likely it is. But, in some cases, maybe not. Curious? See what you think.

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CURSING BETTER / WORSE / MIXED Once upon a time, the liberal use of foul language illustrated the depth of your social station. And doing it in front of a lady only dropped it further. Today? Men (and women) could make oldtimey dockworkers blush with the colorful verbiage pouring from their mouths during school pickups.

Are we equals in language? For sure. Is it better? Well…. The coarsening of communication between peoples is always a bad thing. That we have also jettisoned the once tacit understanding that in the presence of a lady a man might make an effort to be “better?” Well, losing that is really losing something, whether we want to %$#*% admit it or not.

DRESSING BETTER / WORSE / MIXED This one is a no-brainer, especially if you’re going to compare tight corsets and massive hoop dresses to the kind of sartorial freedom women enjoy today. Pants, leggings, dresses, and more are all wide open to choose and wear for both sexes. And that’s great. Today’s fashion options truly allow almost anyone to find exactly the clothes and look that suit them best. (Now if only we could assemble some negative social pressure for those continuing to wear sweatpants in public—men and women. Seriously, those droopy, misshapen sheaths are not doing anyone’s figure favors!)

BRINGING HOME THE BACON BETTER / WORSE / MIXED

WALKING WITH EACH OTHER BETTER / WORSE / MIXED Sure, it reads “old school patriarchal” to suggest a man should walk on the traffic side when he accompanies a woman (‘cause that’s where horse poop would splash up and sully frilly lady clothes in the old days…), but doesn’t making a guy have to think about the other person’s general safety seem sort of noble and even…romantic?

Accepting someone doing that for you doesn’t mean you can’t handle a splash in the face, it just means you don’t mind having someone care enough to save you from such a thing.

And that’s nice. Besides, these days there really is a 50/50 chance that the guy you’re with will bolt at the first sign of trouble anyway. This would be a fine tradition to bring back.

OFFERING YOUR SEAT OR STANDING UP BETTER / WORSE / MIXED The idea that a woman could enter a room (or a train, or a stagecoach, or anything really) and always be treated to men immediately jumping up to offer a seat is downright quaint.

I’ve seen guys spread across three subway chairs and the aisle and still not budge when a teetering senior propped up with a cane is listing dangerously on her feet. And forget about manspreading. You think he’s suddenly going to pin his knees together to give you more room out of kindness? Not likely.

This old custom was really not so bad after all.

The late 70s commercial for Enjoli Perfume trumpeted a woman “bringing home the bacon and frying it up in a pan.” This was a direct reference to women becoming breadwinners as much as they still held traditional roles at home.

PAYING THE BILL

Today? I don’t think there’s any doubt that men and women are comfortable with both parties in a relationship contributing to the economic well-being of the family. It can take some of the pressure off each of you when you’re both in it together. And while recognizing such might feel like it’s time for pats on the back all around I might remind folks that when people were living in farmhouses and doing chores every day I’m pretty sure both parties contributed equally to simply survive the harshness of pre-safety net times. Just saying…

Gals may not like having to pay their way as much, at least at first, but as a positive it does remove any sense of “owing” or expectation that may have been unconsciously built into the former tradition (whenever it developed). And while guys might like not having to cover every bill, there still remains a sort of awkward dance when it comes time to split up the tab. (“You had the vegan wings but I had the honey sauce…”)

MARRIAGE AND SEX

BETTER / WORSE / MIXED

No guy likes to look cheap when he’s trying to impress someone. So the obligations might be gone but so too are the positive side effects, leaving a very mixed bag.

BETTER / WORSE / MIXED This one should have been easy. No more arranged marriages, women are able to make their own choices, men marry for love vs. social stature. All things should make this a clear cut “better”—and yet here we sit with a divorce rate exponentially higher each year and legions of serial singles trapped in relationship hell.

We all have more freedom than ever but there are also stresses we never imagined. So while marriage is better, it’s also worse….and somehow mixed. When you think about it, that almost perfectly sums up most traditions from the past we try to hold onto. Time always marches on.

the love files | never settle

3lasting Keys to

love

By Carmelia Ray, celebrity matchmaker and online dating expert

A

1

s busy female entrepreneurs, juggling work life and romantic life can be quite the challenge.

As you build your empire, your love life is neglected while prioritizing work, family, and other distractions. When it comes to success in your professional life, you've got the know-how. You just need to recognize how important your love life is to having success in all areas of your life.

You must never settle for anything less than what you deserve in both life and love.

You have one life to live. The quality of your relationships will profoundly impact the quality of your life. When you play small, you stay small. So when you date someone you’re not excited about, it influences your happiness. Remember, you deserve the best of everything and choosing your future life partner is one of the most critical choices you'll make!

Singles who are dating online and in real life are looking for a compatible life partner.

You often wonder if you are settling when you find yourself in an unfulfilling partnership.

Here are three keys to lasting love you should practice as you're looking for your special someone—three keys to everlasting love for busy femmepreneurs…

Invest in self-development and professional services.

As a professional matchmaker who has matched more than 7,000 couples over 28 years, I’ve learned a lot about what makes a successful relationship.

Your past relationships significantly impact your love life. You develop a belief about love and romantic relationships based on your childhood experiences and “attachment” styles.

There are three primary attachment styles, and knowing them will help you navigate your conversations and behavior around your partner.: • If you have a secure attachment style, you are comfortable with intimacy and tend to be more satisfied in your relationships. You likely had a healthy example of love by your parents who are still married, and you generally feel safe and secure in a relationship.

• If you have an avoidant attachment style, you avoid intimacy and closeness in your relationship. You may sabotage new romances out of nowhere because you fear your new partner will leave you.

You would instead leave the relationship before your partner does.

• When you have an anxious attachment style, you tend to obsess about your relationships and fear being abandoned. Anxiously attached people become depressed and stress about their partner leaving them, and take everything incredibly personally. You tend to be needy or feel like clinging on to your partner when you have an anxious attachment style and fear being alone.

Identifying and knowing your attachment style will help to change the behavior that causes upset and drama.

Create a compelling brand and choose photos to attract your ideal partner.

Many singles who meet someone they’re interested on a dating app or in person will often immediately try to find more about them on social media.

Knowing that your future life partner may discover you on a dating app, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, or the new social platform called Clubhouse, you’re going to want to post your most flattering photos.

In addition to posting a flattering picture, each image should give someone a sense of who you are. I highly recommend you smile in your photos, and you showcase an understanding of your style, energy, and an experience of what it might be like to be with you.

I’ve noticed many photos on digital platforms that are dull, dark, and challenging to identify the person. It takes 3-7 seconds to form a first impression, and your photo is the first thing people will see and judge you on based on what you post. Once they discover who you are, they will go through your social media accounts and any other “Google-able” resources to get an idea of your character, your personality, and whether you’re aligned with one another.

3 the love files | never settle

Have a clear vision and goal of your ideal relationship.

The key to having lasting love is to have the ideal relationship outcome result you’re looking for. Consider what your expectations are in a life partner. Write down a list of qualities and values you’re looking for.

There are “5 Key Life Values” you should have compatibility in: 1. Beliefs about money and finances 2. Beliefs about family and children 3. Beliefs about the role of faith/religion/spirituality 4. Beliefs about the importance of a job or career 5. Beliefs about health and fitness

Knowing your partner’s “love language” is also a great way to ensure you have the keys to lasting love. You tend to give and receive love in a particular way and knowing what you need is important to find happiness in your life. I highly suggest you create a vision for what your partner looks like.

Let us help you discover the

NEW YOU!

We care deeply about your overall well-being and aesthetic goals.

Call us today for a consultation!

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Jeffrey Lin, M.D.

the beauty of giving back

A

Women-owned businesses that give back

s we celebrate spring, and with it, Women’s

By Yolanda F. Johnson History Month in March, I wanted to focus upon a new concept I’m trying to live out in my own Kendra Scott life: The Philanthropic Lifestyle™. This is a term I’ve coined to note the ways This one is a very well-known and highlywe can “connect the dots” between the products and services we use and the respected retail brand of beautiful jewelry, and brands that will support the greater good.

Kendra Scott is also one of the most womenchampioning and charitable brands I’ve found.

I know, it’s easy to sometimes just use or wear what’s easiest and right in front Through the Kendra Gives Back events and multiple of you. But just as we try to choose the healthiest products or items that have other philanthropic initiatives, this brand celebrates paying it forward. I am natural ingredients that are kind to our bodies and homes, what if we also took a huge fan and have personally participated in Kendra Gives Back events for just a few extra minutes to seek out things that are healthy for our soul and that organizations I’ve been a part of, and they were fantastic, fun, and feel-good. help others?

KendraScott.com Let it begin with me! It is my pleasure to share with you a few brands that have really stood out as both women-owned and that are charitable.

Shea Yeleen

Established in 2005 by Rahama Wright, Shea Yeleen International, Inc. is a nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to empowering women in West Africa and the United States through the production, sale, and use of shea butter products. A unique blend of grassroots organizing and business development, Shea Yeleen specializes in manufacturing high quality, organic, fair trade skin care products, utilizing a sales strategy that incorporates women’s micro enterprise development.

SheaYeleen.com

Brave Sis Journal

So many incredible foremothers have forged the path to the opportunities we enjoy today. The new Brave Sis Journey-Journal, created by Rozella Kennedy, will introduce you to Black and other American women of color, notably the lesser-known “sheroes,” whose stories will inspire you to carve out your place in today’s world.

The 320-page, 7x9” linen hardcover book is cozy—and perfect for snuggle time. It’s colorful and inspirational month after month, with quotes, prompts, coloring pages, and commemorations to get you in a reflective, energized, and creative mood throughout 2021. Rozie and the team at Brave Sis have donated more than 500 journals to organizations supporting women and girls of color to keep them inspired this year as well.

BraveSis.com

From beauty products and cosmetics, jewelry to stationery and home office items, there are so many ways to live philanthropically. Just take a few minutes to think about how you use the power of your spending dollars to connect to “good work” and helping make the world a better place. It can all happen, one item at a time.

BELLA insider

5 women

making their mark

By Norah Lawlor

March is Women’s History Month, honoring women’s contributions in America. Every woman has a story to tell and gifts to share with the world. From artists to authors, we’re excited to spotlight five women sure to make a mark in the history books.

THE FITNESS GURU: MARY ANN BROWNING Mary Ann Browning, founder of Brownings Fitness, is one of the most sought-after trainers in New York City and the Hamptons. Celebrities, socialites, and moguls alike train with Mary Ann because she produces results that last a lifetime without sacrificing quality of life.

Mary Ann and her team of elite trainers guarantee they will help you build muscle where you currently do not have it, burn fat where you do, and change the shape of your body. As Mary Ann says, the Browning Method is not just about the exercise, it’s about reinforcing positive body image and a healthy outlook on fitness.

Workouts are offered at their New York City and Hamptons locations (COVID-compliant), via FaceTime and Zoom, as well as virtual and in-person nutritional consultations and training with Mary Ann. With three different nutrition programs, there are options that will allow her to be accessible to you 24/7.

BrowningsFitness.com DIGITAL FASHION ENTREPRENEUR: LARISSA POSNER Larissa Posner, a former fashion model and fintech entrepreneur with a machine learning certification from MIT, assembled U.S. scientists, venture investors, and fashion executives to develop technology at the forefront of augmented reality.

The result: StyleScan, the ultimate virtual fashion apparel try-on software that utilizes machine learning, artificial intelligence, computer vision, and data analytics with body scanning technology to predict a realistic pre-purchase visualization of apparel on the customer.

The innovative technology recognizes the human form and garments in 3D, rendering apparel in any physical pose, rotation, or motion. And soon, Larissa and team’s work will enable consumers to preview apparel on a selection of diverse inclusive models, followed by a debut of the world’s first on-the-customer try-on experience.

StyleScan.App

THE ARTIST TO KNOW: GABRIELA GIL Artist Gabriela Gil connects elements of the immediate present through the use of line, color, and rhythm. This combination of line and organic shapes in her paintings reflect an admiration for both nature’s softness and the human instinct to connect.

Born in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, Gabriela has moved throughout South and North America her entire life. The constant migration has shaped her multicultural perspective and nurtured her interest in art as a way to transcribe her personal experience using a unique visual language. Her first creative expressions were in ballet and modern dance at the age of five, then later photography, sculpture, and painting.

GabrielaGil.com

THE AUTHOR AND PHILANTHROPIST: LEESA ROWLAND Most acclaimed actors have interesting backgrounds, but few are as unique as cult film star and philanthropist Leesa Rowland. She gained a following after being cast as Victoria in Troma Entertainment’s 1992 cult film classic, “Class of Nuke ‘Em High” parts 2 and 3, among others.

Leesa is also well-known for her work as a philanthropist and animal rights activist. A vegan dedicated to healthy eating, she has been active with the national non-profit organization Last Chance for Animals since 1989, and is the president and founder of the New York nonprofit group Animal Ashram.

She is also the author of the bestselling self-help/motivational book, “Discovering the It Factor Within You: Developing Your Charismatic Personality,” and recently announced the release of the sequel, “The Charisma Factor: Unlock the Secrets of Magnetic Charm and Personal Influence in Your Life,” which will hit stores nationwide and electronically this spring.

LeesaRowland.net

THE AUTHOR: ARMINEH HELEN OHANIAN With three novels and a children’s storybook series, “Talking Animals,” author Armineh Helen Ohanian is excited about the opening of the new bookstore, Red Jacket Books, in Westhampton Beach this spring. There you will find one of her books, "The Apple Tree Blossoms in the Fall," a creative memoir about the life journey of Carineh. This chronicle of a child, a teenager, a wife, a mother, and most of all woman of purpose, is a genuine page-turner. The book earned honorable mention in the category of biography and autobiography at the LA Book Festival and was selected for the International Women’s Day celebration in the UK. Armineh was also recently showcased on Author’s Den. Another one of her titles, “Looking for Georges Bizet on Planet Heaven,” will also be on display. The whimsical, thought-provoking novel presents a fantastic vision of how life might look after death.

ArminehHelenOhanian.com

BELLA

CHOW BELLA SPIRITED WOMEN ∙ LEMON BLUEBERRY YOGURT CAKE

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chow BELLA | behind the booze

women SPIRITED

By Amanda Mactas

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M

eet the women paving the way for others in the often male-dominated wine and spirits industry. From distillers to masters of whiskey to alcoholic ice cream pioneers, BELLA chats with the distinguished women of three companies on how they got where they are today and some of their favorite things to sip.

favorite on the brown spirits side is his Lafayette Spiced Bourbon whiskey that he made for his mother Marcia and I while paying homage to his greatgrandmother who added stone fruit to her distillate on the farm.

Sara Sergent

It is very exciting to be a female distiller, and I always enjoy meeting other women in the industry; we are a small but mighty group. As a member of the Women of the Vine and Spirits and the Women’s Distillery Guild, there are a lot of great opportunities for women in the field to connect and discuss the industry.

Co-founder and gin maker Alpine Distilling

Alpine Distilling, Park City, Utah’s only locally-owned distillery, is helmed by a husband and wife duo, who churn out an array of spirits. Liqueur, gin, vodka, and whiskey are all on the menu at Alpine, and due to their award-winning status, it’s become a popular place for locals and visitors alike. In fact, they have even opened up a pie bar where customers can enjoy a casual slice and sip on some of their spirits, or even arrange to distill their own gin.

How did you get into the spirits industry?

My husband, Rob, comes from Kentucky and a long lineage of distillers and moonshiners on their family farm. Corn is perishable and via distillation it can be used for both consumption and cleaning. Years ago, we were on our back porch watching the sunset and we discussed turning the colors of the setting sun on the Uinta Mountains into spirits. Rob has a culinary background and took immediately to the challenge. We created the Preserve Liqueur, which is a Platinum award-winning liqueur with blood orange, black tea, candied raspberry, lemon balm, and ginger, and is a fundraiser for the Swaner Nature Preserve.

Photography by Claire Wiley of @eclecticbrewproductions

Rob is an Executive Bourbon Steward and a Master Distiller, and as I worked alongside him my interests grew in distilling. I made my first gin in Scotland and hold a diploma in gin. One of my favorite days in Scotland was with Geraldine Coates, an expert in gin, as we toured the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh, Scotland discussing gin and botanicals.

You make an array of different spirits. How do the processes for making each differ, and do you have a favorite one that you produce?

Rob and I create award-winning spirits that have been enjoyed around the world. Rob and I work hand in hand on most projects, but his focus is in the whiskey and bourbon, and mine is in gin. We run two different stills at our distillery and that makes us quite unique. We are also OU Kosher certified and a Green Business with Recycle Utah.

I thoroughly enjoy making gin, and it has been such an honor to earn gold medals in both the US and the UK, so it would be my favorite spirit to produce. Rob has made so many delicious, award-winning whiskies, but my

What obstacles did you have to overcome to get to where you are in your career today?

My obstacles are not really any different from most women juggling family and career. My parents taught me early on the importance of hard work and determination, and I feel both have really shaped my life. Each day is an opportunity, and there will always be setbacks and hiccups, but if you can learn from these events you will grow.

What is it like being a woman in the male-dominated spirits industry?

What does your typical workday look like?

Every day is unique as we have both our distillery and the Alpine Pie Bar. Today started with social media photos and posting, prepping botanicals, distilling Bourbon, bottling Lafayette, meeting with guests, and launching a new dessert at the Pie Bar. And tonight after the kids go to bed I will be reading Peggy Noe Steven’s new book—we met in Louisville for a Women in Craft event and she is the best.

You offer visitors a unique gin making experience. Can you tell us a bit about that?

Our Gin Experience is a friendly introduction to our copper pot stills, handmade in Portugal by a 10th generation craftsman. We discuss, smell, and select botanicals for your gin. While distilling, we then walk through the history of gin, the art of distillation, and the science of aroma sensory.

Once your gin is complete, we label and seal your bottle and you have now crafted your own gin.

Tell us a bit about the botanicals that go into making your gin.

Our Alpine Gin is a 100% vapor extracted botanical spirit with no floral elements. We use only roots, fruits, and berries. Our botanicals include juniper, coriander, angelica root, cardamom, ginger root, orange peel, and lemon peel. Our gin is Kosher certified, gluten-free, and 45% ABV - 90 proof.

Why did you choose these particular ones?

Our selection in botanicals came from a great deal of research and knowledge in distilling. Rob comes from a culinary background, and I hold a diploma in gin. I feel we have dialed into something special as we have earned multiple double-gold medals in London (highest ranked US gin), New York (highest ranked and only Double Gold medal), and California (Consumer Choice award), to name a few.

What’s it like working with your husband?

I enjoy working with Rob—we are each other’s biggest supporters and there is always a lot of laughter; he is my best friend. We are constantly researching, learning, and exploring as we strive to be the best versions of ourselves.

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chow BELLA | behind the booze

Melissa Tavss Founder and CEO Tipsy Scoop

Melissa Tavss is the brains behind Tipsy Scoop, a booze-infused ice cream company. Perfectly crafted to bring the best flavor, texture, and consistency to its range of ice creams and sorbets, Tipsy Scoop also packs a punch, sometimes with as much alcohol content as a beer.

What does your job entail?

My job is a little different every day—especially now! I am the founder and CEO of Tipsy Scoop, and I also just started another small company, On The House Gifts. For Tipsy Scoop, we sell our ice cream wholesale, in our stores, on our website, and for catering and custom orders. I work on the flavor and production schedule, custom orders, and manage my team.

We are about 15 people now!

What’s your favorite part of your job?

It’s coming up with cool cocktails and sundaes. I love scouring Instagram and Pinterest for inspiration. Our newest cocktail with ice cream, champagne, and french fries was particularly fun to put together!

What’s been the experience with bringing alcohol to the market in a whole new way? What was the biggest challenge?

Since our ice cream is infused with alcohol and actually contains up to 5% ABV, that has definitely been a key differentiator for us and has enabled us to stand out in the market. But that is also a major challenge.

Distributors aren’t sure whether to categorize us as ice cream or alcohol. It

makes it a harder sell because the logistics are a bit more complicated and we have had to define what it legally means to be a liquor-infused food rather than an alcoholic beverage.

Have you always had a love for spirits?

Yes! I have always loved to experiment with making cocktails and using alcohol as an ingredient in cooking.

What obstacles did you have to overcome in your industry to get to where you are today?

There have definitely been many legal challenges with producing and selling a liquor-infused food that have been challenging to navigate. I remember when we first got our product on the shelves at Whole Foods, we were immediately pulled because we hadn’t figured out how to have the product scan so the staff was alerted to card customers to ensure they were 21 and over. We figured that out quickly and updated the bar codes to scan like a beer or wine, but there are always little things that come up like that!

Do you have a favorite flavor?

My favorite flavor is the Cake Batter Vodka Martini—it’s made with a whipped cream vodka and amaretto, and is the one flavor I cannot not take a bite of if it’s in front of me! I always forget how good it is.

How do you stay creative in coming up with new flavor and alcohol combinations?

That is definitely my favorite part of the job. There are so many cool new things people are doing in the industry, and it’s so fun to follow everyone’s journey on social media. We are constantly inspired by new flavors liquor brands are coming out with and fun candies and fruits, etc.

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Deb Juergenson Director of winemaking Apothic Wines

The wine brand known for its unique and unusual releases, helmed by E. & J. Gallo Winery, Apothic Wines’ witty and creative branding sets it apart from many other notable wine companies. From the Apothic Inferno red blend aged in whiskey barrels to the Apothic Brew, a red blend mixed with cold brew coffee, you won’t find your run-of-the-mill flavors in their bottles.

What does your job as winemaker at Apothic Wines entail, and how did you come to be the winemaker there?

I first joined E. & J. Gallo Winery in 1995 as an analytical technician.

In this role, I learned about the chemistry of wine and the importance of monitoring for quality. I analyzed wines daily, and through that experience had the chance to interact with the winemaking teams. I was so captivated by the passion they brought to their job and right away knew I had to find a way to become a winemaker. I eventually transitioned into a research role at Gallo, where I spent four years discovering how oak barrels interact with wine—something I’m passionate about and a technique I continue to use as the Apothic winemaker.

Before joining Apothic, I was a part of Gallo’s Coastal winemaking team, where I had an opportunity to work more with blending. I have always had an adventurous and inquisitive spirit, which lends to some unique and fun wines and led me to become the winemaker for Apothic.

As the winemaker at Apothic, every day is different! We have a full winemaking team, so my day-to-day responsibilities vary as there are so many different elements that go into crafting our blends. There are days I find myself choosing grapes from vineyards for the different vintages, and there are days dedicated to experimenting with different blends. We like to say there’s always mischief in the making with Apothic, as we set out to be anything but ordinary with our wines. That applies to the initial grape selection to the final blend of each wine and intricate label design.

What obstacles did you have to overcome in your industry to get to where you are today?

It can sometimes be challenging to be innovative in an industry that is grounded in a very long history of tradition. I’m a forward thinker and am always trying to tell a story with the wines I create, while also making them unique. If I’m going to make a varietal wine such as cab, I want Apothic’s Cab to be unlike any other that exists in the market. So while this can sometimes prove to be a challenge, there is so much reward to creating something so unique, yet approachable. In my experience, these challenges have given me such a great perspective on being true to the winemaking craft, as well as allow me to create wines that are innovative and exciting.

What is your favorite part of your job?

The wine (kidding, but not really!). As Apothic is such a unique brand, we strive to tell a story with each blend and varietal, whether it’s one of drama, intrigue, or romance—the wines of Apothic are truly original.

Why would I want to make something that’s the same as what someone else is making? My favorite part is being able to have the opportunity to challenge the conventional way of doing things by crafting bold wines that are unlike anything else on the market.

What do you think sets Apothic Wines apart from others? Do you have a favorite vintage or blend?

Our blends really are unlike any wines you’ve had tried before, and that’s exactly what we’re looking for. What I’ve found works really well for Apothic is that we build our blends first and then we find the oak that complements and enhances that particular taste. When I set out to make a wine, I identify notes and flavors that I want to come through that don’t appear in other wines. For example, we have Apothic Inferno, which is aged in whiskey barrels for 60 days. And, our Merlot (which launched in February) is really unlike any Merlot you’ve had before, with notes of coconut and cherry.

My favorite would probably be the new Apothic Merlot because I’ve always had an affinity for Merlot, and I think it sometimes doesn’t get the credit it deserves. It’s near and dear to my heart, and my goal was to create a Merlot that was different yet approachable.

Have you always had a love for wine?

My initial interest in wine started when I began to study intricate soil compositions. It’s a little more unconventional than most winemakers to start with a love of soil, but eventually my interest in soil nurtured a passion for wine grapes, which sparked a lifelong journey in the winemaking business.

When I first started on this journey, I had the goal of crafting bold blends that were unlike anything on the market, and Apothic is a wine that does just that. My love for winemaking has continued to grow and with Apothic specifically, there is a sense of curiosity that fuels my passion as we continue to set out to craft wines that leave a lasting impression for our consumers.

What has it been like being a female winemaker in an industry dominated by men?

I’ve been in the industry for quite some time and thankfully, I’ve seen it advance in the last few years to where there are more women that are leaders in winemaking. When you look at how many females hold roles in the wine and spirits industry today compared to what it looked like 15 years ago, there has been a significant increase in both the number of women working and the types of roles women are hired for.

There are more women than ever before making, educating, selling, marketing, and conceptualizing wines of all kinds, which is encouraging and exciting to see. While great strides have been made, I’m looking forward to seeing the wine industry continue to diversify and challenge the status quo so we can continue evolving.

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chow BELLA | yum

Lemon blueberry

yogurt cake

By Kimberlee Ho of kickassbaker.com

How about we incorporate some of the healthiest foods for women into a delicious loaf cake?!

Lemon, blueberries, and Greek yogurt give this cake brightness, tang, and richness that’s unmatched.

Use fresh or frozen blueberries so you don’t have to wait until peak season to enjoy this treat.

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Yield: 1 loaf Prep time: 15 minutes Bake time: 1 hour INGREDIENTS: Lemon Blueberry Yogurt Cake • 1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen (if frozen, do not thaw) • 1 cup + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, divided • 1 cup granulated sugar • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 medium lemons), divided • 1 ½ sticks (12 tablespoons) butter, room temperature • 3 large eggs, room temperature • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about ½ one medium lemon) • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • ½ cup cake flour • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder • ½ teaspoon baking soda • ½ teaspoon kosher salt • 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt Lemon Glaze • 1 ¼ cups confectioners sugar • 2-4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 1 medium lemon) INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Spray a 9x5 inch loaf pan with nonstick spray then line with parchment paper, allowing some parchment overhang. Set aside.

2. In a medium bowl, add the blueberries and 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour. Stir gently to coat blueberries and set aside. In a separate bowl, place the granulated sugar and with your fingers, rub in 1 teaspoon of lemon zest to release the oils.

3. In the bowl of a mixer, add the butter and lemon sugar, beating on medium speed until light and fluffy, scraping down the sides as needed. Add eggs one at a time, allowing each to incorporate fully before adding the next. Once all are incorporated, beat on medium speed for one minute until light in color. Mix in vanilla and lemon juice.

4. With the mixer off, add in 1 cup all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Turn mixer on low and mix slowly while adding the greek yogurt, a little at a time, until fully incorporated. Do not overmix. With a wooden spoon or spatula, gently fold in the blueberry mixture and remaining 2 teaspoons lemon zest with as few turns as possible.

5. Spread batter into prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes then cover loosely with foil to prevent the top from overbrowning and bake for another 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then gently lift out of the pan using the parchment overhang and allow to cool on a wire rack until completely cool.

6. Make the lemon glaze by whisking together the confectioners sugar and lemon juice. Pour over the cooled cake, slice and serve.

NOTES: Store cooled cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature up to three days or in the fridge up to one week.

For more recipes, visit kickassbaker.com or @kickassbaker on Instagram and Pinterest.

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travel | socially distant sightseeing

Pandemic travel

bingo

You never thought you’d start to miss those cramped airplane seats, yet as the pandemic continues, many of us would give just about anything to hear those crying babies and get those leg cramps brought on by air travel. When you start to get antsy, just remember that a new dawn is on the horizon. In the meantime, there’s plenty of ways to “travel” while staying safe. Check off as many as you can on our pandemic bingo board!

By Amanda Mactas

Take a road trip

Do a tourist activity in your town that you’ve never done before

Go camping, even if it’s just in your backyard

Make an aroundthe-world playlist

Try wines from around the world

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Have a staycation in your city

Bake something new Try Kimberlee Ho’s Blueberry Lemon Cake on page XX!

Begin learning a new language

Take a virtual tour From safari livestreams to museums tours, there’s plenty of ways to see the world from home

Watch a travelrelated movie or TV show

For more creative not-yet-traveling ideas, head to BELLAMag.co.

Have an at-home spa day Take it to the next level with Estala Skincare’s Bath Relaxation Bundle

Have an at-home night at the movies, complete with buttered popcorn and tickets

Go for a hike or walk in a new area of your town

Spend a day taking photographs

(Or hit up a drive-in movie)

FREE SPACE Purchase new loungewear

Have a shopping day

Send postcards to friends and family

Make a scrapbook or photo album of a past trip

Learn a dance from another country

Try your hand at travelthemed trivia

Take a virtual cooking class from another country Read a book that takes place in another country

Start mapping out your travel bucket list

Do a paint night, and choose a scene from a trip you’d like to take

Take a day off of work for no reason

BELLA

MIND & BODY

ARROGANCE VS. CONFIDENCE ∙ TRAITS OF INFLUENTIAL WOMEN (AND HOW YOU CAN BECOME ONE) AWAKEN THE LIGHT ∙ FROM THE INSIDE OUT ∙ CREATING WELLNESS FROM PASSION ∙ COMBATING THE ZOOM EFFECT

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mind & body | let’s get real

Arrogance vs. confidence =

influence

By Vanessa Coppes

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A

few years ago, I blogged about “13 habits that can ruin a first impression,” which prompted a reader to ask me to write more specifically about arrogance vs. confidence.

At that time, I had started reading Elizabeth Gilbert's book, “Big Magic,” which basically featured an entire chapter about this very topic.

Before I get into it, I want to be very clear with you in understanding that it truly is all about belief: belief in yourself, in others, in what you value, and in how you want others to value you.

In my opinion, believing is what gives you the confidence to keep at whatever you've set out to do, to pursue, and to accomplish. Arrogance comes into play by interpretation, by perception, by assumption, by someone else's belief about you and what you are doing, by what you believe someone else thinks about you, etc. Make sense? Let's get to it...

Gilbert begins the chapter by explaining the negative connotations of the word “entitlement,” but that there are times when we really need a bit of entitlement and that it can be put to good use. You will never be able to create anything interesting out of your life if you don’t believe that you’re entitled to at least try. Does that make sense?

If you don't believe you have the right to try, you've already lost.

According to Gilbert, David Whyte has a fantastic name for this sense of creative entitlement: ‘The Arrogance of Belonging.'

"Without 'the arrogance of belonging,’ you will never be able take any creative risks whatsoever. Without it, you will never push yourself out of the suffocating insulation of personal safety, and into the frontiers of the beautiful and the unexpected."

Gilbert asks the following questions, and I’d like to challenge you to sit with them a bit and ask yourself:

1

How entitled do you feel to exist?

2 4 6

How entitled to do you feel to create, to invent, to change, to engage with this world, to move, to grow, to take risks, to have a voice and a vision of your own?

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Has there been a particular moment in your life when you stood tall and brave in your own existence at last?

Was there a moment in your life when you finally allowed yourself to embrace the arrogance of belonging?

If you’ve never claimed your existence— never claimed your belonging—what would it take to do so?

What would you do with your existence if you ever allowed yourself to fully take ownership of it?

What would you be (and what would you make) if you were allowed to fully exist?

Arrogance by definition means exaggerating or disposed to exaggerate one's own worth or importance. Confidence is the feeling or belief that one can rely on someone or something; firm trust. Do you see the difference? Why wouldn't you rely and/or have firm trust in yourself?

Arrogance compels you to bully others, and to seek to dominate and control. It’s actually a reflection of the fear of being controlled.

Arrogance finds it hard to admit being wrong; it attaches itself to false beliefs. Arrogance does not allow you to experience life because it closes you up to new experiences.

Confidence, on the other hand, allows you to get to know yourself. Begin by listening to your thoughts and to speak kindly to yourself. Journaling is a great self-discovery tool and can help you analyze your thoughts.

This belief is not about arrogance, egotism, or self-absorption. It’s exactly the opposite, in fact. It's a force that will take you out of yourself and allow you to engage more fully with the world.

Confidence focuses on the good things about yourself, the things you can do well, the things you like. If you dig deep within yourself, you’ll find more good than you ever thought possible. And that alone powers influence.

What often keeps us from living our most creative, adventurous, and expressive life is our self-absorption (meaning: self-doubt, selfdisgust, self-judgment, and that crushing sense of self-protection).

When you place your value on the opinions and beliefs of others, more than on the ones you have about yourself, try to remember what Terry Cole wrote: "What you think of me is none of my business."

The arrogance of belonging pulls you out of the darkest depths of self-hatred—not by saying, “I am the greatest!” but merely by saying, “I exist.”

You have a God-given right to happiness, wealth, and success. Liberate yourself from false beliefs and you will discover your own path—the route to your talents and limitless potential. Your time is now!

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mind & body | influence yourself

Traits of

influential (

women 4

)

and ways you can become one!

By Geraldine “Gerry” Viggiani

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H

ow might you identify a woman who is an influencer? Is it the way she looks and acts, the words she says, or is it something else?

There are many great women who are identified as influencers, such as Rosa Parks, the Suffragists, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jacqueline Kennedy, Gloria Steinman, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Beyonce, and Oprah Winfrey, to name just a few. Influencers can be businesswomen, politicians, artist, cultural icons, scientists, and activists. Let us discover what qualities and characteristic these women possess that lead them to become influencers.

Women who are influential are often found to possess traits of creativity, vision, passion, and most importantly—persistence. They are outside-theboxers, possessing the ability to see a path and a vision that may not be the norm. They are often considered revolutionary, or in some cases even downright dangerous. They not only believe in their ability to make change, invent, or create, but they also live and breathe it. Many face failures along the way, but they remain committed despite those failures, critics, and roadblocks.

Let us break down the above traits even further.

When we talk about creativity in an influencer, we identify that these women can step out of the norm and see another vision. Society often dictates a herd mentality that is evolutionarily programmed.

Belonging breeds acceptance and acceptance feels good. Cooperation with the majority feels safe as nonconformity is usually met with strong resistance.

What happens though when the status quo marginalizes minorities, resources become extinct, or we are simply feeling bored and unmotivated?

Conformity will eventually lead to a stifling and stagnation of the group.

Creativity and vision are what helps to advance insight and the spark that eventually motivates a person to bring about change. Take Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who spent a lifetime working toward her dreams and goals of becoming a Supreme Court Justice. She envisioned using her position to advance gender rights despite strong opposition. First though, she had to envision a future that defied gender roles, then she had to create an agenda with goals and action steps. Always inspired by her vision, she kept her eyes on the prize. In 1993 Bader Ginsburg was appointed to the Supreme Court and served until her death in 2020.

Passion is what takes an idea and spark and turns it into a fire. It is what moves you to persevere at something despite fear, unhappiness, or pain. It is the determination and motivation to push through suffering for the sake of an end goal. It is the “why,” and is often based on values or a moral compass—but not always. This passion can often be contagious and

spill on to others who have like-minded thoughts.

Emmeline Pankhurst, for example, was a passionate feminist who dedicated her life to the promotion of women’s rights. Alongside her three daughters, she created the “woman’s social and political union,” better known as the Suffragettes, an army of women who fought to win women the right to vote in the UK. So much was their passion, that her army used violence and was often persecuted and even jailed.

Lastly, there is persistence—despite all, it’s having the will to fight on, over and over, until your goals are met. Oprah Winfrey is a dazzling example of persistence. Born in abject poverty, shipped from grandmother to mother and eventually her father, Oprah was often neglected, and starting at age 9, was raped and sexually assaulted by many different men.

Despite this, Oprah found her spark, leaned into her resilience and strength, and persisted. She believes, “Where there is no struggle, there is no strength.” She also believes in the power of mistakes and what you can learn from them to take yourself to the next level.

Oprah’s persistence and the belief that she was going to be successful continue to drive her even today.

Do you want to become an influencer? Whether it is in business, socially, or through advocacy, there are some steps that can start you on your journey.

1

FIND WHAT INSPIRES YOU

2

What is your spark? Journal, vision board, make lists. Discover you.

IDENTIFY YOUR COMMUNICATION STYLE

Are you more the director type who uses expertise to get your needs or goals met? Then become an expert.

Do you find you are more of a collaborator? Then find your village. Does your style utilize persuasion?

If so, start convincing! Is your strength inspiration?

Use emotion to inspire those around you.

3

DEVELOP A REPUTATION THAT IS IN LINE WITH YOUR GOALS

Reputation is based on your interactions with others.

Behave, talk, and surround yourself in ways that enhance the way you wish to be perceived.

BECOME RESILIENT

Compartmentalize through mindfulness. Take care of your mind, body, and spirit. Learn the power of saying no or yes when it serves you and your goals.

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mind & body | awakening

Jewelry designer, light path visionary, and life design coach

“Awaken shares her journey to

the

Light”

By Jennifer DeCillis

K. Ay’Nea is a self-taught jewelry designer, light path visionary and life design coach, whose passion and love of crystals ignited an inner pathway of inspiration, clarity, and transformation. This has become the foundation of her spiritual artistry, as well as her life’s contribution and heart’s offering in her work.

K. Ay’Nea’s greatest joy is supporting others in bringing forth their individual uniqueness and innate intuitive gifts, as this becomes the gateway, she says, for activating their unlimited human potential. As K. Ay’Nea explains, there is a “light spark” of inspirational energy that is deep within everyone and teaches that as this spark of life activates, a timeless inner beauty emerges to illuminate the path of the soul.

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It was through her desire to experience and understand herself more deeply and spiritually that her personal spiritual awakening began. As most journeys, this became a most extraordinary experience of self-remembrance of the sacred self, says K. Ay’Nea. Through the process of awakening to her own natural intuitive creative potential, the Aurora Krystal Pendant Designs came to life. Her holistic endeavors, services, and creations continue to serve and inspire her community locally and nationally.

BELLA got to know K. Ay’Nea and learn more about her ongoing journey to enlightenment…

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mind & body | awakening Let’s start at the beginning and talk about your journey to becoming a jewelry designer and light path visionary.

I believe our personal journey has always been unfolding. We exist beyond all matter, space, and time, so from this perspective I share that I have always been aware, conscious, and awake just within varying degrees of knowingness.

I grew up in Staten Island, N.Y., and became a young mom at the age of 18, which changed the course and direction of my life forever. I spent the next decade on a journey of discovering love, marriage, and adventure, only to be met with deep sorrow as I found myself a divorced, unemployed single mom at the age of 29. The year following my divorce was one of the most challenging and exhilarating times of my life and taught me that as life seemingly appears to be falling apart, something far greater than myself is guiding me toward something better, bigger, and brighter.

At the time, I was determined to prove to myself and my daughter that I could accomplish anything I put my heart and mind to, and over the next few years I put my heart and soul into my professional career in the medical industry. Along the way, I found love once again, and my life began to shift gears, opening up a powerful time of unraveling and deconstruction.

The funny thing about this human life is that we often think we have it all figured out, when in reality, the secret to life is learning to let go of all that we desperately try to hold on to with as much grace and ease as we possibly can. In 2007, my family and I relocated to the sunny shores of Florida. It would be there, and through a series of synchronicities, that I would be led to the right place at the right time, and meet a woman who served as a powerful catalyst of awakening for me. The life I once thought I loved so much, I began to question, and the truths I held onto so tightly began to loosen. This divinely orchestrated meeting of souls would blow open the doors of how I perceived the world and what my role in it was to be.

I soon discovered that once this inner gateway was opened, there was no looking back. In fact, I discovered that deep within me was a link to an unlimited and abundant source of infinite potential that I could have never before even dared to dream existed for myself.

Tell our readers how your beautiful jewelry brand, “Awaken The Light,” was born.

Awaken the Light was born from an inner desire to experience a life of deep fulfillment and purpose. What started out as a personal journey of self-discovery quickly became a passageway of creative expression and art.

As I began to shed all the inauthentic layers of beingness, something very new emerged, both internally and externally. It was through the awakening of my own inner beauty that the jewelry began to take on a life of its own.

Creating jewelry is an expression of my soul. My early days of wire wrapping were a bit daunting, as I could not seem to mimic other popular wrapping techniques that some creatives used. I would come to understand that I was, in fact, being guided toward unfurling an essence of beauty deep within me that could not be taught—a unique expression of my inner beingness.

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Awaken the Light illuminates the innate part of you that is eternal and infinite. It is a vibrational gateway of inner discovery and remembrance, and a journey home to the sacred self.

The brand, which officially launched in 2011, has served the local community in the tri-state area by offering hand-designed jewelry, reiki healing, and crystal gemstones.

My husband and I also ran a holistic center in Manalapan, N.J., which offered classes, workshops, and special gatherings on various wellness topics.

A few years later, life guided me toward creating and hosting holistic expos with my beloved husband, which has brought the wellness community together in such exciting, expansive, and collaborative ways. It’s been one of our greatest joys to collaborate with so many beautiful souls.

The Aurora Krystal Pendant Collection is stunning. How did this line come about, and what is the meaning behind these pendants?

The pendant collection is a truly transformative line of high vibrational sacred jewelry that is designed to support the rising of the feminine divine within these momentous times of embodied empowerment and achievement. Now more than ever, women are coming into their own power and rising into positions of influence, initiating a collective shift of consciousness across all levels of being and doing. My pendants are created with the intention and knowing that “her” time has arrived. As women, it is this holy exchange of recognition within one another that will shift the very fabric of our society.

The collection was named in reverence of the aurora borealis lights, which invoke feelings of wonder and magic in everyone. Most importantly, it was named after my beautiful grandmother, who infused my childhood with unconditional love and acceptance.

Each pendant design is uniquely different in its vibration, color, size, and mineral content, bringing forth an experience that is always deeply uplifting and inspirational. One of the greatest parts of this work is that I get to hand select each gemstone, crystal, and andara, which adds such intimacy to the creative process. I love knowing there is a profoundly meaningful story behind each crystal that I get to share with my customers.

“

It is a privilege to be here, alive, on planet Earth at this time. Together we shift, rise, and rewrite the future of our civilization.”

- K. Ay’Nea

In addition to jewelry designer, you are a life design coach and a light path visionary. Share with us what that means and how you have impacted the lives of others.

I believe I have always been a light path visionary, long before I could identify myself as such. I have always felt throughout my life that I was able to see clearly into the future beyond perceived distortions and disharmony in society. I always had a deep understanding and knowing that I was part of the solution in life. As I have cultivated this natural ability, I now assist others in discovering that they too are the solution in their own lives.

As a light path visionary, I have the privilege of witnessing the light switch being turned on. As a life design coach, I’m able to guide others in unlocking and discovering all their hidden talents and desires, and offer a foundation of support and momentum that helps them turn dreams into reality.

Over the years, I have had the joy of meeting and working with so many beautiful women whose inner radiance at times leave me speechless. I feel such joy in knowing that they have unlocked doorways of their own inner potential.

{

Kaynea.co AwakentheLightwithKAynea AwakentheLightwithKAynea Etsy.com/shop/AwakentheLight k.ayneadesigns@awakenthelight.org

}

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mind & body | better health

From the inside out:

Supplements, drinks, and powders are aiding in our

wellness journey

By Jennifer Walsh

In the past year we have seen the skyrocketing rise in drinks and ingestibles that do everything from aid in sleep and digestion, to boosting collagen, and of course building immune health. From powders to pills to tinctures and gummies, which ingestible is best for you?

According to The Benchmarking Company, 82% of people surveyed believe the best way to obtain their beauty and wellness objectives is to take an inside-out approach.

At BELLA, we couldn’t agree more!

These are a few of our favorites that have not only caught our eye, but also have tempted our taste buds. While these are some of the most popular items in the market right now, we always suggest speaking with a doctor before you begin any supplement program.

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Cure Hydration: Deterring daily dehydration While we are told to drink more water every day, many people are also working out and losing electrolytes (which are mostly sodium). Replacing these electrolytes is a key part of staying hydrated. Cure Hydration is made with organic coconut water and pink Himalayan salt to provide your body with the daily hydration it needs without the usual added sugar in many drinks. The powdered packet has four times the electrolytes than most leading sports drinks and comes in six delicious flavors.

14 individual packs start at $16.79, CureHydration.com

Routine: Daily probiotic made specifically for women Take these daily for improved gut health, lowered stress and anxiety, better vaginal health, strengthened immune system, and weight management. These probiotics are vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-free. A month’s supply comes in a compostable mailer, and you are given a glass jar with your first order so you can continue to use again and again. $29.95 and up, DailyRoutine.co

Olly: Healthy gummies for the entire family Olly gummy vitamins offer an assortment of products for children and adults. These gummies not only taste delicious, they are also loaded with healthy, good-for-you ingredients that are backed by science. The correct form and dose is based on clinical studies to ensure each offering is of the best standards, and are without artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. $13.99 and up, Olly.com

Tohi: A very berry booster Tohi offers four drink options that serve as immune-boosting antioxidant wonders. The key ingredient throughout is aronia berry, which boasts four times the antioxidants of blueberries and two times that of acai berries! These non-carbonated drinks are low in calories and contain no added sugars.

12 pack: $28.99, DrinkTohi.com

MUD\WTR: The new anti-coffee way to start your day This powder is loaded with a mushroom blend, as well as organic cacao, pink Himalayan salt, turmeric, and other healthy ingredients. With one-seventh the amount of caffeine as a regular cup of coffee, it delivers natural energy without the jitters and tastes very similar to a delicious turmeric latte. Some people add a little sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness.

Prices start $40.00, MudWtr.com

Welleum: Eastern medicine for a Western world Welleum’s four all-natural herbal tinctures help with digestion and sleep, and offer a daily boost and an immune boost. The company is founded upon the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, which believe patients should be treated before they are sick in hopes of warding off illness with prevention.

Prices start at $29.95, Welleum.com

Hush & Hush: Better skin starts from the inside Their newly launched SkinCapsule Collection is a hyper-concentrated nutraceutical capsule to Clear+, Brighten+, or Hydrate+ the skin. All three offerings are vegan, plant-based, and designed to be taken daily.

Prices start at $40, HushandHush.com.

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mind & body | women of wellness

Creating

wellness from passion

By Jennifer Walsh

“Wellness” has become a sort of buzzword over the past few years. There are, however, a few women who have been in the field of wellness long before the term ever became buzzy. Two in particular have found a way to not only continue to grow their businesses, but to thrive and flourish in the midst of the pandemic.

We spoke to these incredibly talented, smart women about their practices and what makes them so passionate about what they do.

Crystal healing Dr. Elizabeth Trattner has spent the better part of the past 25 years helping patients heal. Based in Miami, FL, she has been practicing Chinese medicine for nearly 24 years, and integrative medicine even longer.

In her early 20s, an autoimmune disease and asthma sidetracked her career dreams and aspirations. Fortunately, her personal path to wellness lead her to Dr. Andrew Weil, who not only became her personal doctor but a lifelong mentor and guided her to a career in traditional East-Asian medicine.

Not only do people come to Dr. Trattner for integrative medical reasons but also for her use of gemstones and crystals during acupuncture, which is showcased on her wildly popular Instagram page @DrElizTratts.

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“For more than 15 years, I used stones on my patients without mentioning it to anyone. Several years ago, someone convinced me to come out and share my gemstone acupuncture facial with people. It is a beautiful treatment; more importantly, it works and I have great results.”

This treatment, which uses cupping, gua sha, acupuncture light, gemstones, and eco luxury beauty products, is highly comprehensive and works together to create a beautiful result.

As Dr. Trattner explains, “gemstones are healing tools that help direct energy in the body.” Most people use stones right now because they are trending, she points out, “but crystals and gemstones have a long history in the healing arts, dating back more than 5000 years.”

Dr. Trattner also spent most of the last year working on a very intense labor of love—a brand new space for her patients. “It had to have the right bones, right location, and right energy. This

process is the hardest thing I have done in my career. Building a completely non-toxic, high-vibration space was a huge challenge, but worth it.”

She explains that one out of 20 people have multiple chemical sensitivities, which is why this type of healing space is so important. “It’s much more than a green building; it’s a nontoxic building. After what we have all been through in the past year, being in a positive healing space is more important than ever. I am excited to be able to help more people get well in the true essence of a healing space.”

Dr. Trattner will also utilize her new space to teach her gemstone acupuncture facial to students by this summer or early fall.

ElizabethTrattner.com

Proper movement for better health Based in New York City, Patricia Ladis has been practicing holistic physical therapy for more than 20 years and behavioral breathing analysis for six. She began as a professional dancer in her teenage years, and while at Fiorello H. LaGuardia School for the Performing Arts in NYC, she became fascinated with physiology and anatomy classes, in which she could learn about injury and how the body healed.

Since 1999, Patricia has been helping professional athletes and dancers get back after injury or pregnancy. Many dancers, Olympians, and pro athletes used to retire once they decided to get pregnant. That all changed about 20 years ago when women realized they could come back—sometimes better than before, she says.

Patricia shares, “I’m working with Dr. Sergio Pecorelli [an Italian academic, obstetrician/gynecologist, and surgeon] on new guidelines around pregnancy considerations for athletes under the International Olympic Committee.” In addition, her work with the Women’s Tennis Association, which specifically supports more female tennis players on their motherhood journey, has been extremely fruitful.

“We had four mothers in the quarterfinals of the US Open in 2020!”

When you speak with Patricia, you can hear the passion in her voice to help a person throw a ball, pick up their baby, run a marathon, or heal after surgery. She truly loves what she does, she explains. During the pandemic, she not only opened a brand new practice, WiseBody Physical Therapy, she also wrote and published a book, “The Wise Woman’s Guide to Your Healthiest Pregnancy & Birth.”

At her New York City-based practice, each patient spends 45-50 minutes with a physical therapist in a clean, private treatment room. “They are great healing spaces with large windows that offer beautiful natural light. Especially during these challenging times [they serve as] an escape for people to receive the treatments they need to feel good and rise to the challenge of the current sedentary times.”

PatriciaLadis.com

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mind & body | medical advisory board

F

or the past 12 months our lives have consisted of Zoom meetings, FaceTime calls, and an overabundance of visual screen time. While modern technology has made it possible to stay connected, especially during these unprecedented times, it has also created something referred to as the “Zoom effect.”

COMBATING the

ZOOM EFFECT

WITH NON-INVASIVE

COSMETIC PROCEDURES

By Alexandra Anastasio

And no, we’re not talking about an app or an effect that can be added to TikTok videos in an effort to make the face stand out in a close-up shot.

The “Zoom Effect” refers to the dissatisfaction people have with certain aspects of their facial features because of the extended time spent looking at themselves on screen. Things like wrinkles, eye bags, sallow skin, and double chins have all become common complaints. In essence, virtual connections have forced us to critically analyze ourselves way more than we should.

“FaceTime and Zoom have a way of magnifying what you’re looking at,” explains Dr. B. Aviva Preminger, one of New York City’s top plastic surgeons.

As a result, many specialists, including Dr. Preminger, have seen a rise in demand for aesthetic procedures.

“I have seen an increase in new patients who maybe thought they wouldn’t consider doing this before but are now looking at themselves all day, along with an influx of patients of mine who are being vigilant about staying on top of their treatments,” points out Dr. Preminger.

We sat down with the in-demand surgeon to learn about some of the non-invasive procedures in high-demand along with how she is helping patients regain their confidence as they continue to navigate their lives through the virtual lens.

With so much focus on the face, especially the eyes and forehead, how can you help patients achieve a softer look?

I’m doing a lot of Botox, eyelids, fillers, and laser resurfacing.

These are all areas that are really being seen and because people are working from home, they have the downtime needed for any type of recovery and there is less worry about sun exposure. Any time we do any kind of skin resurfacing treatment, whether it’s laser or a peel, you want to let the skin recover and keep it out of the sun. Peels and lasers are different technologies but they often work in the same way– to take off the top layer of the skin, which allows for tightening, removal of pigmentation, and to treat fine lines.

Filler works well on areas like the tear trough, the lower eyelid, the nasal labial folds, the smile lines, marionette lines, really any kind of areas with lines that people want filled in.

As we age our faces tend to lose volume. If you look at old photos you’ll notice your face was fuller; even if you weren’t heavy, the face was full. So the other restoring thing filler works really well for is adding more facial volume. It’s not just about filling in but rejuvenating what has been lost.

What are the pros and cons to fillers and Botox?

The good and the bad thing about them is they’re not permanent.

It’s good in the sense you can try something, and if you don’t like it, it’ll go away. The downside of it is that it is a continued investment. What I generally tell people is that it’s an investment in themselves.

I have a new laser in my office called the Deka, which is a fractionated C02 laser. It allows for something called a “cool peel.” Unlike a traditional laser procedure, there is hardly any redness and a lot less downtime. It gives the patient a fully ablative treatment without the heat damage of the surrounding tissue.

How long will each typically last?

Botox usually lasts approximately three to six months. As soon as the lines start to come back, some people are in my office, while others do it twice a year. Nothing happens if you wait other than the fact that you go back to your previous state.

When we focus on the eyelids we do something called a blepharoplasty.

Some people have upper eyelids that bother them, some have upper and lower [issues]. Often it’s a combination of extra skin that causes the puffiness underneath the eye. I can remove the fat that’s pooching out, and fillers can also be used to fill in an indentation or tear trough in the dark circle area.

When it comes to fillers, some are thicker than others and tend to last longer than fillers that are thinner.

Dr. B. Aviva Preminger Different types of fillers are used in different areas; for example, you’ll want a thinner filler in the lower eyelid. Thinner fillers typically last six to 12 months, and the thicker ones, 12 to 18 months.

As we age, sometimes the position of the brow will start to There’s been some talk in the news about fillers and the COVID-19 vaccine. fall, and what helps many people is doing a lift on the brow Should patients be concerned? and removing the extra tissue on the upper eyelid; it really There were some incidents of patients who had fillers in the past and now, after rejuvenates the upper eyelid area. This can be done through receiving the Moderna vaccine, had a bit of swelling. But it was a very small the same upper eyelid incision as the blepharoplasty so it leaves number with minimal severity and no long-term complications. Anyone who no extra scars. has a history with dermal filler shouldn’t refrain from getting vaccinated, and When can fillers vs. Botox be used on the face? they should not be afraid of getting fillers if they had, or plan on getting the Botox is a neurotoxin that gets injected to paralyze the muscles vaccine according to both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the and stop motion. The lines we have in our foreheads, the crow’s American Academy of Dermatology. feet around the eyes, and those 11 lines between the eyes— they’re where we would use Botox.

Has skin care become a big issue as a result of wearing a mask?

Filler is a substance used to fill in a crease; in most cases it’s made of hyaluronic acid, which is a substance we have in our bodies but lose as we age. What we’re filling in is with a naturally occurring substance and how effective it’s going to be is dependent on how much of it is used.

PremingerMD

Skincare has become a really important part of what we’re doing because wearing these masks are causing breakouts and skin irritation. It’s another area people are paying close attention to. They can’t afford to just let these things go now. Don’t neglect an area of the face even if it’s covered up sometimes. Doing so can actually make mask breakouts worse!

Preminger Plastic Surgery

PremingerMD.com

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BREASTS

ENHANCE, LIFT AND SHAPE RESTORE FULLNESS

AFTER

AFTER

BEFORE

BEFORE

INCREASE YOUR SIZE

BREAST AUGMENTATION

By Dr. Aviva Preminger

BREAST REDUCTION & LIFT

By Dr. Aviva Preminger

“Enhancing your breasts can provide balance to your figure and greatly boost your self-confidence.” - Dr. Preminger Do you think your breasts are…Too small? Too large? Asymmetric?

Do your breasts droop? Have you lost fullness?

Some women have never been happy with the appearance of their breasts, while others have experienced significant changes over time.

Whatever your concern, there is a solution.

If you want to increase breast size and fullness, a breast augmentation may be the procedure for you. Three dimensional imaging can even help you visualize your result and find the breast size you desire.

Some women have enough volume, but it’s all sitting in the lower part of the breasts causing sagging and drooping. This is particularly common after pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight loss. A breast lift may be the key to restoring fullness in all the right places.

Breasts that are too large, however, can cause back and shoulder pain and interfere with exercise and weight loss. If that’s your issue, a breast reduction may be the solution.

At your consultation, we will discover what you like and dislike about your breasts and create a customized surgical plan that will address all of your breast concerns, leaving you looking and feeling your best - a more confident, beautiful you!

FIND YOUR IDEAL SHAPE

Call for your Personal Consultation

212.706.1900

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

B. Aviva Preminger, M.D., F.A.C.S. 969 Park Avenue, #1E New York, New York 10028

ELIMINATE SAGGING

around town

PEOPLE, PLACES, PARTIES

BELLA MAGAZINE

TM

ARTS + CULTURE COVER PARTY BELLA MagazineTM celebrated its November/December 2020 Arts + Culture Issue with a safe and intimate dinner party at the La Peer Hotel in West Hollywood, California.

BELLA welcomed cover star Choyce Brown, along with team and VIP guests, who sipped Prosecco DOC and 1907 Water. Presenting sponsor, Souley Vegan, served delicious, vegan bites, and MEO Air provided guests with stylish face masks. Swag bags, provided by Greentop Gifts, included products from Estala Skincare, Dune Jewelry, GoodWipes, Supersmile, K-Skin, Celestial Silk, Naturally Africa Haircare, Nena’s Organics, Aloisia Beauty, Flaunt Body, Azzizah’s Vegan Popcorn, Unstoppable Products Skin Masks, Shanti Creations Candles, Ultima Health Products, L’OR Espresso Pods, Peet Bros., Power Bites, and Sterling Forever.

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around town

PEOPLE, PLACES, PARTIES

TIMES SQUARE

FASHION WEEK

For New York Fashion Week 2021, the founder of Times Square Fashion Week™, Dee Rivera, took the opportunity to showcase a digital fashion show throughout Times Square, featuring designers and their collections in the FALL IN LOVE COLLECTION AW21.

Press and designers experienced Times Square NYC and this unique digital show on a doubledecker NYC bus. Designers included Kimberly Pucci, JUS10H, Blinded by Color Project, CAFTANS X HUMANITY, and House of Barretti.

Photography by Eric Vitale

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Flying Solo’s show at NYFW took place on February 13th at an outdoor location, Soho Rooftop.

Flying Solo showcased 83 brands from 18 countries, including clothing, jewelry, shoes, bags, and other accessories. Flying Solo is an innovative company that gives brands a platform to succeed through membership-based retail stores, leading-edge PR showrooms, and Fashion Weeks in New York, Paris, and Milan.

Photography by Ilya S. Savenok, Getty Images.

MIASHAN with MAALICIOUS JOYCE LI, BETH AIMEE JEWELRY

MASISA DESIGNS, AFLÉ BIJOUX JEWELRY

J’AMEMME with MAALICIOUS

AARA BY SANA

MONZLAPUR DESIGNS, NEON HOPE JEWELRY

TATTVA TRUTH DESIGNS, VENA CANDY BAGS

PREY PUBLIC HALA AL MAMARI, TREND JEWELRY

CODY CHRIS COLLECTION, EATMETAL JEWELRY

BING

ALEXANDRA POPESCU-YORK

MORPHINE FASHION

AKS MATHUR DESIGNS, BETH AIMEE JEWELRY

NYFW Flying Solo

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around town

PEOPLE, PLACES, PARTIES Painter, sculptor, and former dancer Gabriela Gil celebrated her first New York solo exhibition. The Honduras-born, NYC-based artist showed her “Time and Space” series at a private showing in Soho, next to MarieBelle New York. ©Neil Tandy

Gabriela Gil

Robi Ludwig

George Wayne, Jin Kim, Min Kim, Cygalle Dias

Guests viewing Allen Hirsch’s art

Allen Hirsch, owner of Handl, the newest accessory for your cell phone, showed off his art collection at his private Soho residence. ©Heather Olker Photography

Allen Hirsch 116

Kyle Wool, Anthony Hayes

Philanthropist Jean Shafiroff was honored at the 2020 Power Women of Long Island presented by Schneps at St. Andrews Church in Southampton, NY. Jean was honored with the Philanthropist of the Year Award. ©Rob Rich Society Allure

Jean Shafiroff

Julia Davis, Loretta K. Davis

2020 Power Women of Long Island Honorees