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The Wedding Event Planners African Wedding Parisian Wedding Wedding Q & A

June 2021

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The True Significance Of A Christ Centered Wedding 7FIGURE$ / ISSUE 07 / JUNE 2021

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he word “significance” has been re-occurring in my spirit for the past month and here’s one reason why. We are significant to God and we have importance, an exponential meaning of love personified. Jesus sacrifice on Calvary made us significant by offering Himself and giving us the promise of His return for us, His Bride. This is the epitome of significance. So let’s combine the significance of the month of June - the month when there are many marriage unions occurring and the month we celebrate Father’s Day.

So, what’s the significance of a true wedding tradition?

A wedding ceremony is directly related to Jesus Christ our Lord and loses it’s true meaning otherwise. Mankind has twisted and changed the true meaning of this awesome covenant and we should be knowledgeable concerning it. The traditions of a Christian wedding is derived from the covenant relationship God made with Israel and the relationship Jesus made with the believer. God uses the Jewish wedding to to illustrate redemption and Christ’s relationship with the Church.

Let’s look: Jewish Wedding- The prospective bridegroom travels from his father’s house to the home of the intended bride. The Relationship to Salvation: Christ left His Father’s House and came to earth to secure His Bride.

Ephesians 5: 25-32 - Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.

For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

The Jewish Wedding - The father of the woman engaged then negotiated with the prospective bridegroom the price that must be paid to secure his bride.

The Relationship to Salvation: Christ had to pay the price of His own precious Blood.

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I Corinthians 6:19-20 - What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

The Jewish Wedding: When the bridegroom paid the allotted price to the father of his intended bride to be, it then became an established marriage covenant. It was at this juncture that the man and the woman were regarded as husband and wife without any physical union originating.

Relationship to Salvation: The believer is declared sanctified, set apart exclusively to Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 5: 25-27 - Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

There’s so much more to be obtained from the discovery of the true significance of a wedding. Explore the importance of the family being seated properly, the dynamics of the ring, color of the bridal gown, reception line and so much more. Be a part of this discovery in our 7figure$ Virtual Fall Bridal Conference - October 2, 2021 at 10am -11am CST. SAVE THE DATE AND REGISTER NOW!

Dr. Brandy F. Gibson

Editor-In-Chief The UncomMAN Magazine & 7figure$ Christian Women Magazine

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Contributors

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CHASE WILLIAMS: CREATIVE DIRECTOR

ATTORNEY JAHAN BERNS: EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

SHERESE COLEY: EVENTS & VENUES CONSULTANT

Correspondants

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NDP PRAYER CORRESPONDENT: DR. GWENDOLYN BRADELY

GHANA CORRESPONDENT: MINISTER JOSEPHINE AISHA

Social Media

WEBSITE WWW.BFGIBSON.BIZ WW

INSTAGRAM @BFG7FIGURES TWITTER @BFG7FIGURES

MSW MIND CONNECTIONS: KENDRA DIXSON

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Table of Contents

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EDITORIAL CO-PASTOR CHARLOTTE WILSON CATHERINE WILLIAMS AFRICAN WEDDINGS PARIS & CONGOLESE WEDDING MR. & MRS. KEEBAUGH MICHELLE JEFFERSON MRS. BROOKE STUCKEY WEDDING Q & A DO I NEED A BRIDAL CONSULTANT CHANEY BENFORD APRIL JOHNSON 7FIGURE$ AUTHOR’S CORNER

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Let Me Tell My Story CO-PASTOR CHARLOTTE WILSON

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was born in Birmingham, Alabama the third of seven siblings. As a child I hungered for the deeper things of God and had compassion for others. Being the third eldest I had the responsibility of my four younger siblings. This is where I noticed God had given me a nurturing spirit as I cared for them daily. I accepted Christ as young child and the hunger increased within me for God and I was lead to seeking my calling. Being led by God, I left my home church which was very traditional in nature and was led to Rhema Church (formerly GIFT Ministries). It was there I experienced the prophetic gift in operation, healings, signs, wonders and deliverances. I was truly amazed and hungered even more. Although I had never experienced anything like this, it felt so familiar. I began seeking God fervently through study of the Word of God and being under anointed teaching at the church which matured and prepared me to start teaching Sunday School.

My time with God became in-depth and I realized there was a flow of greater works in me. I discovered discernment became keener, wisdom increased, and God begin to identify to me my gifts and calling. I became a licensed minister in 2004 and was ordained in 2005 where God has me operating in the gift of administration with a prophetic anointing.

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God later promoted me to the office of Co-Pastor of Rhema Church and many doors began opening in my behalf such as my professional career. I embarked upon the marketplace as CEO of Balloon Studio and More LLC, and engaged into Mary Kay as an Independent Consultant. I have been blessed and honored to lead Rhema Church as Co-Pastor in a servant leader capacity. Having passion, care and authentic love for God’s people it’s an easy and such a rewarding effort. Through ministering the Word of God to people from all walks of life; especially woman and children, I have seen God move in miraculous ways. This was because of the nurturing spirit I developed with my siblings that God could use me with the women and children predominately.

In 2017, God led me to birth a women’s ministry called Spiritual Midwives with the objective of assisting women in the birthing and discovery process. Training them to discover their God-given purpose/identity and repossessing what the enemy stole. Countless lives have been changed, redefined, reclaimed and restored.

My corporate background is working as a professional leader at one of Alabama’s largest public employers for over 15 years that has been very rewarding. This role enabled me to create extensive value through employee management engagement, collaboration and systems administration. The ability to empower staff with knowledge and provide training that creates skilled proficiency initiated greater confidence in them independently.

My company Balloon Studio and More LLC is simply the intended manifestation of God. I awoke one morning in 2018 and God spoke to me clearly to open a balloon business. I could not question God, I obeyed Him by researching the balloon industry before embarking into this venture. The scripture says: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” John 10:27 KJV

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I knew God had spoken. We opened the physical location October 2019. As a new start-up business little did I know I would be facing an oncoming pandemic year in 2020. God said to start it and He blessed it in the midst of a chaotic pandemic.

Having the gift of administration, God showed me how to pivot and change the business model to doing contactless outdoor balloon décor. I became a Certified Balloon Artist (CBA) through Qualatex in 2020. The Qualatex Certified Balloon Artist (CBA) program is the only certification program for balloon professionals worldwide.

As an event planner and consultant I have created amazing balloon designs for many events, individuals and corporations; some to mention are: Amazon’s Mascot for the BHM1 location, T-Mobile, car dealerships, grocery stores, schools with various themed balloon décor requests, Graduation balloon arches and homecoming décor and sports events. Among the countless retirement celebrations, birthday parties, baby showers/gender reveals, grand openings and home-going tributes God caused us to thrive. We service Birmingham, Alabama’s Jefferson County and parts of Tuscaloosa County.

As CEO and in my ministry role, my objective is to bring into manifestation the clients vision; by doing so the blossoming of beautiful and creative balloon décor is revealed.

As a Mary Kay Consultant, I help men and women with selfcare by introducing the amazing line of skin care products. I often remind them to take time and minister to the body; we are a tri-part being: Spirit, Soul and Body and each needs to be nourished and cared for.

My prestigious role as wife and mother is my joy. I am a Proverbs 31 woman who has brought much success and wholeness in our home.

Proverbs 18:22 “He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD” KJV. The love I have for my husband, children and granddaughter is something greater than my ability to verbally describe. After God, they are my joy, strength, zeal and motivation. As the scripture declares about love: 1 Corinthians 13:13 “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love.” KJV. Out of all my achievements, honors, and roles, the greatest is Wife and Mother.

To contact Pastor Charlotte Wilson in obtaining balloon décor or Mary K cosmetics call (205) 436-2730 located at 806 19th Street, in Bessemer, Alabama 35020. Her website is: www.balloonstudioandmore.com. Like her on Facebook and Instagram.

Beulah Cooley Showroom 8325 E. Jefferson Detroit, MI. 48214 (313) 835 - 3685

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Marriage 7FIGURE$ / ISSUE 07 / JUNE 2021

B Y: C AT H E R I N E W I L L I A M S

Marriage is a most honorable estate, created and instituted by God. Life is given to each one of us and yet we must learn to live in marriage together as one.

The BIBLE teaches us that love is the principal thing! We learn to love by being loved.

The Bible teaches us that God first loved us!

The shared goal of married life, despite the unique qualities each individual brings to the marriage, is that they grow in love and unity, first with God and then with each other.

Someone once said, “If 10 years from now, you look back and this day is the happiest day of your married life, then something is very wrong.

For you should grow more in love with each other and not less!

Yes this should be listed as one of the happiest days, but love should grow!”

Love is what maintains a marriage.

Mankind did not create love!

Love comes from God for He is Love!

The measure of true love is a love that is both freely given and freely received, for this represents God’s love for us all, which is unconditional and free!

Catherine Williams 4/8/21

“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine;...”

Song of Songs 6:3

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African Weddings

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n Africa, despite some westernization, it is important to stick to the local traditions during celebrations. This is the case, for example, with the celebration of a marriage in which traditional practices are still carried out today. Below are examples of some African wedding traditions from 10 different countries.

Morocco The Moroccan wedding is a festive event that is celebrated in several stages. For many Moroccan couples, marrying according to tradition is essential to respect religion, parents, and the local culture. That is why, the most important moment in a Moroccan marriage is the meeting of the families of the bride and groom. But, before getting married and arriving at the wedding ceremony, it is necessary to know that there are several things to celebrate, and that can last from two to six days, according to the families.

In Morocco, the first phase of the Moroccan marriage begins with the betrothal, also called the “Khetba.” It is the father and mother of the future husband who must come and ask the hand of the young woman to the in-laws.

It is only once the agreement is total between the two parties that can begin the preparation of the marriage ceremony.

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In Morocco, the first phase of the Moroccan marriage begins with the betrothal, also called the “Khetba.” It is the father and mother of the future husband who must come and ask the hand of the young woman to the in-laws.

It is only once the agreement is total between the two parties that can begin the preparation of the marriage ceremony.

According to the pure Moroccan tradition, there must be a day of “Henna.” For this ritual, the bride is dressed in green, and a “Nekacha” will tattoo her hands and feet. This tradition marks the prosperity and happiness in Morocco. Then, after dinner, the groom and his family often offer the wedding gifts with the presence of sugar to symbolize the happy life, milk to signify purity and caftans that the bride will wear during the evening.

During the wedding ceremony, the bride will be like a queen. She will parade throughout the evening with several dresses and traditional outfits. Later, with her diadem around her neck, the bride will enter the room, dressed in white, in “Ammarya,” to take a tour of the entire room, which is a sort of sublime cortege carried by her relatives. Then, dinner begins and, of course, the menu is composed of three dishes: A pastilla, a dish of meat (Tajine, Méchoui, Couscous), and a dessert.

Senegal In the Senegalese culture, marriage is, above all, an alliance between two families. There is a lot of emphasis on family education. There is a whole ritual to prepare the bride. It is a very important day for her, the passage from the world of adolescence to that of an adult. The bride is washed according to a specific ritual before the gathering of women. She wears a “Gris-gris”on her neck to protect her from evil spirits. The celebration of the religious marriage takes place after the prayer of the Asr (third prayer of the day, in the middle of the afternoon). All the men go to the mosque, pray, and then the chosen “marabout” pronounces the marriage. Later, the fathers of the bride and groom will give their consent before witnesses. Till now, the bride is not present because she has the right to see the groom only at night. She stays with the women in the house; it is the moment during which she is prepared.

Once the consent given, blessings for the bride and groom are made, and the kola nut is given. It is a fruit that plays an important role in African celebrations; it is a sign of union, of rapprochement, of forgiveness. In all important situations, there is cola nut. The women, surrounding the bride, head for the groom’s house, forming a procession. All along the way, songs are sung to praise the bride and her parents. After the mosque, the men join the women in the groom’s house. There, all guests share a meal, the Thieboudienne, of course, which is the dish of festivity par excellence.

The party then continues all night: Songs, music, and dances animate the marriage. For seven days, the wedding festivities continue at the same rate, but the “Walima” remains the most important day. It is the day after the wedding in which an ox is slaughtered and the meat is distributed, but the bride and groom should never eat this meat as it is believed that misfortunes could happen to them.

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African Bridal By: Sharon Mitchell

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African Bridal By: Sharon Mitchell

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Madagascar The traditional Malagasy marriage starts with the visit of the suitor’s family to the bride’s house in order to ask for permission to come another day to ask for the girl’s hand. For the Malagasy culture, it is very important to obtain the blessing of the parents to be able to marry.

The two families then make their acquaintance and talk about the details of the wedding ceremony.

Then, the “Vodiondry” comes. It is a phase of “negotiation” (often symbolic) between the married families during which the groom gives a gift to his future wife. Formerly, the groom had to give a sheep to his future in-laws, but today, no more sheep are given. It is replaced by a dowry given to the future bride. The fiancés are considered legitimately married in the eyes of Malagasy Society and, therefore, not having made the vodiondry, it is a shameful act in the eyes of the community.

Later comes the wedding ceremony in which all attendees enjoy a meal served on the “Fandambanana,” or on a clay plate, which symbolizes a wish to live a long and healthy life. The groom and the bride must eat from one spoon carved from black horn. Additionally, the couple are sprinkled with cold water to protect themselves from the “evil eye,” as it is believed in the local culture.

Nigeria Traditional marriage in Nigeria never begins the same day as it is fixed, but long before.

First of all, the bridegroom and his family must introduce themselves to the family of the future bride. The groom’s family designates a spokesperson for the Olopa Iduro (the one who presides them), and the bride’s family also names a spokesman for the Olopa Ijoko (the chairman who sits). The groom’s family officially demands the hand of the bride.

Normally, everything goes well and there is no rejection because the marriage was agreed earlier before the ceremony. Then, there is a symbolic exchange of food. A kola nut is eaten by the “olopa” of each family and passed to each member. Then, a local prayer is said wishing the new couple a happy life.

The ceremony continues with songs, dances, and words of blessing are exchanged between the two families. Finally, one or several large suitcases are given to the family of the bride with traditional clothes, jewelry, and all kinds of gifts.

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Egypt In Egypt, families are ready to spend countless days and money to make the wedding day unforgettable.

Depending on the social class of the couple, ceremonies take many forms. Big weddings take place in large hotels in the capital; the others often take place in the courtyards of houses and in the street. A wedding breaks down into several stages. First of all, the suitor offers a bracelet to the bride as a sign of engagement.

Then, one day before the wedding feast, the “Henna ceremony” takes place. This is an opportunity for the women of the family to get together and prepare the future bride for her wedding night.

On D-Day, a traditional music group or DJ provides entertainment, and a cameraman follows the bride and groom step-by-step. It is very common for men and women to be separated. It should not be seen as a religious rite, quite the contrary. Once united, men do not deprive themselves of celebrating. As for the women of the family, and the dancers of the belly, they are unleashed to the rhythm of the nagging music. Once the party is finished, it is the “Leilat al-dukhla,” the wedding night properly so called.

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Gabon According to the Gabonese tradition, each wedding must go through a celebration in great pomp. First of all, the man, accompanied by his parents, must consult those of the girl before asking her hand. After family consultation and the acceptance of the parents, the date of the engagement is fixed by the family of the man. Informed by her future husband, the woman, in turn, informs her family that the date is fixed.

The betrothal, or “Ekulu dzangane,” is the first public appearance of the future spouses. At that time, the woman dresses wonderfully in traditional ways with masks of kaolin, red and white, and coal. At the arrival of the man’s family, a clan leader, or an important man on the side of the woman, welcomes them and asks them for the purpose of the visit. Then, a representative of the man’s clan answers and offers a certain amount of money to the woman’s family. It is not yet the dowry. The daughter’s family then has to make a decision and tell the visitors.

It should be noted that the fiancés do not yet appear throughout the negotiations. In case of agreement, this is where the fiancé is presented to the in-laws. The woman appears only after convocation. Then, visitors are invited to a feast before returning home with the bride.

Finally, before leaving, the man’s family offers a dowry, or “Nsua,” to the woman’s family to compensate for the daughter’s departure, and a small ceremony of ritual blessing of the couple is organized by the aunts of the married.

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Democratic Republic of Congo The Congolese marriage is marked by human warmth, humor, prayers and enriching exchanges. It goes through different stages and practices to make the marriage ceremony a special one.

The first formal protocol is when the “rites” are read to the bride and groom by the mayor’s delegate. Then, the guests are invited to try a cocktail and a meal prepared by the groom’s family and some friends. All are well-dressed and have a heart in the celebration. It is during this occasion that people are invited to eat the beautiful juicy caterpillars, a true delicacy of Democratic Republic of Congo.

Later, the groom deposits the dowry to his in-laws. Generally, it is a present offered to the in-laws to honor the woman who will become the future wife as proof of love and commitment. Throughout the day, a group of women gather to cook and prepare for the evening ceremony. They are all colored with their loincloth, gathered behind the house to prepare an incredible variety of dishes; turtle, crocodile, mutton, salted-boiled-braised fish, shrimp, chicken, beef, rice, potatoes, plantains, beans, cassava leaves, etc.

Every moment a woman begins to sing or dance, the others follow her or encourage her with cries of joy. Most of the activities organized by Congolese people are accompanied by music and songs.

In the evening, there is also a party that ends only in the wee hours of the morning. In order for the spouse to enter, he had to disburse money to the bride’s aunts to demonstrate his good faith towards the new wife and her family.

The bride then arrives majestically acclaimed by all, and then she tries to fetch her husband to dance with her.

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Sudan Marriage in Sudan is very different and special. When a young man wants to get married, the girl’s family asks for two weeks for consultation. After this period, the mother of the young man visits the mother of the girl to know her consent, and then she gives her some money. These manners are called (Fatih Alkeshum) or (Gulet Kir). The family of the young man sends money, gold, clothes, perfumes and food to the other family. After they make an appointment for the wedding, the girl does not go out for up to three months.

The first day of the wedding is Alhina: The girl makes the special hina, the same with the young man. The second day of the wedding is called (aged Algeran). In the morning, the girl’s family prepares the breakfast, and then they send it with 20-30 friends to the young man’s house to eat together. In the evening, many people are invited for dinner. The young girl wears her hair and get dressed in a long white dress with a veil. All guests dine and dance with traditional music.

On the third day of the wedding, the bride dances for her husband wearing traditional clothes. Friends of the groom sit down at the left and the bride’s friends sit at the right, while the bride dances in the middle. Traditional music doesn’t stop at all!

The fourth day is called (Aljertiq). The bride and her husband wear traditional clothes with a necklace composed of sweets. Then, there is a custom called (Geth alrahet), in which the groom pours milk on the body of the married and distribute sweets for all people. This custom is very interesting because it means, in the local traditions, that marriage will last.

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Cameroon As a general rule, marriage isn’t happenstance in Cameroon. Everything must be well-organized, and people have to be informed. Initially, the future son-inlaw must meet the girl’s family. Is meeting is primarily concerned with meeting the father of his future wife.

There is a presentation ceremony known in the local culture as “Toquer a la porte.” The future husband must be accompanied by his family and friends who bring food and refreshment indulge in dining with the bride-to-be’s family. After exchanging introductions with each other they enjoy the meal together. It’s at this time the bride’s father gives to the son-in-law “The Sorrowful,” which consists of a list of things needed for the dowry. The list is of a two part nature: The first part is for the ceremony of demand of the hand, and the second is necessary for the ceremony of the dowry.

On the day of the request for the hand, a family member goes with a copy of the list that has already been handed to the groom to verify that nothing is missing.

If it is good, he has, finally, the right to ask for the hand of the girl. Then, the head of her family addresses her by saying, “Here is a man who came here to ask to marry you. If you agree to the wedding, take a few bottles from those he brought and give them to me.

If you do not want him, take bottles down there and hand them over to him, let him go with his things.”

Therefore, if the girl chooses to proceed with the marriage plans, her parents and grandparents would be given some goats by the groom. A dowry would be determined by her father, and after the marriage ceremony, the bride will be escorted by her relatives to her new home. Generally, to welcome the new wife, the groom’s father will throw water on the couple’s feet before entering the house. These traditions and practices differ from one tribe to another.

Angola In Angola, there is a custom of a fairly strong tradition around the demand for marriage, called “Alambamento.” “Alambamento” consists of a myriad of rites, one being the delivery of a letter of request for marriage written by an elderly man hired to compose it. This marriage demand usually takes two weeks to receive a reply, which is often written, indicating the date for the husband and his family to visit the bride’s house.

Upon the official agreement, the party celebration begins with Angolian music and food of their native culture.

Information from Africa.com

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Paris & Congolese Wedding

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Military Wedding MR. & MRS. NOAH KEEBAUGH

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Naval Wedding Party

Keebaugh Brothers Noah & Scott

Noah Keebaugh

Cameron Keebaugh

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We Create - You Celebrate Enstyle Event Designs 7FIGURE$ / ISSUE 07 / JUNE 2021

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MICHELLE E. JEFFERSON

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ichelle Elaine Jefferson, is the entrepreneur and visionary of Enstyle Event Designs, LLC. Her creative designs reach far beyond what you can see. It’s what God has placed inside her. Her versatility is far reaching in the industries of fashion, make-up, event designs, and yes, even home improvement and landscaping.

Michelle’s multi-talented skills has brought her before many high-level celebrities. She handled Fred Hammond’s make-up for several of his album covers and provided make-up for actress, Sheryl Lee Ralph and NBA All Star, Magic Johnson for TV appearances to name a few. As a top-notch fashion model she was exclusively requested by the famous designer Adolpho and works with Yve Saint Laurent. Her resume includes numerous articles from the prestigious “W” Magazine and other media publications and TV commercials.

In each area she has reverenced God. She enjoys being used by God in her day-to-day business endeavors when opportunities arise. By making herself available to be used by God marriages have been restored, healings have taken place with people that pursue her business endeavors. She is truly being used in the marketplace. She arises early and makes God her priority in study and worship to Him and joins in on the weekly “Marketplace Mondays” teleconference at 6am CST for business insights and practical business applications to enhance Enstyle Event Designs, LLC God’s way.

When knowing God as your source nothing is impossible or withheld from you. This Michelle experienced with her husband Bernial when they were believing God for children. She was told she couldn’t have children, BUT GOD!!! Her persistence in prayer along with her husband and the agreement of her Pastor, Bishop Keith A. Butler she later birthed two attractive and gorgeous daughters whom she named Promise and Hope because of her faith in God.

Michelle Jefferson (middle) with daughters Promise (left) & Hope (right)

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Her business Enstyle Event Designs, LLC is one of the top event companies in the State of Michigan and has far reaching demand. Her guerrilla marketing approach in striving for excellence in each job she undertakes is initially met in prayer to God for the unique design for the specified occasion and the budget of each client.

Word of mouth has spread like wildfire concerning her expertise. Her designs and videos are displayed on social media and quite fantastic to view. Her ability to harmonize the event to flow with personalities, event type, music, color palettes, budgets, and more is truly exquisite.

Michelle takes time to train others regarding event designs and allows them to see her in action. This behindthe-scenes view helps to launch individuals into their own business start-ups. Her ability to sow into others with a right heart keeps her on top of her industry niche and God continuously pours out more and more designs to her. A good event production company has a cadre of suppliers and venue locations that she works with, and Michelle only works with the best to make your event memorable. Her major event request is for elaborate weddings, whether inside or on the beach her designs are impeccable. Her specialty is linens, florals, lighting and piping. Events such as birthdays, baby showers, graduations, anniversaries of all types, corporate events, along with rentals, you name it she’s the event design extraordinaire.

To contact Michelle for an event or consultation call (248) 221.1870 and visit her on social media. While viewing don’t forget to like Enstyle Event Designs on Facebook and Instagram.

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Being In The Right Place At The Right Time MRS. BROOKE STUCKEY

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There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven— Ecclesiastes 3:1

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rooke Jenkins is an alum of Samford University, Birmingham, Alabama where she received BS in Business Administration with a Marketing Major and Concentration in Sports Marketing and Professional Sales. Samford was her designated location for a season that enhanced her educational preparedness. A Christian based university that has risen to insurmountable heights in its Sports Marketing Program under the auspices of Professor Darin White. Samford is also high on the totem pole in job placement after graduation.

Brooke had applied herself in assuming invaluable internships and projects throughout her time of preparation at Samford. She’s applied her skill-set towards Brand Positioning Research for the Israeli Football League and Minor League Baseball targeting Generation Z, Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl Revenue Generation Research Project, MLS All Star Futures Games, Samford Softball 2019 Marketing Plan to name a few all led to her being positioned for employment.

Her employment positions were all designed by God because her footsteps are ordered. In obtaining these strategic positions she arose to prominence and recognition in a short span of time. Positions with Samford Athletic Department, Yahoo Sports Radio/ SB Nation Radio and ESPN Radio, Rawlings Sporting Goods, Atlanta Falcons, and currently with the Houston Texans. I highlighted numerous positions but one franchise I intently left out in order to highlight how her footsteps are being ordered by God. That franchise is the Houston Astros. Yes, God is in the baseball business because His people are there.

In 2017. Brooke was with the Houston Astros as a Retail Merchandise Intern where she analyzed projected and actual sales, developed spring training buyers reviews, produced internal company newsletter, worked on the major League Baseball investment fund, as well as assisted in team stores.

Then all of a sudden – The Houston Astros win the World Series! You may be asking why am I informing you of this? It’s because Brooke being in the right place at the right time received a World Series Championship ring just like the players! Did she catch a ball? Was she a relief pitcher or the shortstop? No, but if she had been the maintenance worker she was still eligible for receiving the championship ring.

Why? Everyone connected is family and everyone connected is on the team, all in position at the right time.

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Today, Brooke has received the most tremendous gift to date far more valuable than her gifted World Series ring.

That gift is her newly covenanted husband, Samuel who sought her out and found her. Samuel has found his good thing and obtained favor from the Lord.

In Proverbs 18:22 you notice the word “findeth” is spoken twice. The Hebrew word - matsa which means to meet, encounter, to learn, to be recognized, attain, acquire, to gain and to be secured. Samuel obviously applied his efforts towards Brooke and found her in the right place at the right time and because of it Samuel has attained favor from God. Favor in Hebrew is ratsown meaning delight, acceptable, will, desire, and pleasure. This is a culmination of attributes of the marriage union wrapped in love.

Congrats to Mr. & Mrs. Samuel Stuckey positioned to do great exploits together !

Engagement photos taken at Samford University by Jay Barr Photography Wedding photos taken by Emily Figurelli Photography

Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD. Proverbs 18:22

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Wedding Q & A

Q - Why does the groom enter the sanctuary first?

A - When the groom enters the incur first he symbolizes that he is the covenant initiator for a pending marriage covenant. This is very important because whoever initiates the covenant assumes the greatest responsibility for seeing it fulfilled.

God initiated covenants with Noah, Abraham, and David. Jesus Christ initiated the covenant of salvation with us.

I Thessalonians 14-18 - For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

Q - What is the significance of the white runner in the aisle?

A - It is a symbol of walking on holy ground. A covenant is not merely made between two people and their witnesses.. It is made in the Presence of God, and He is actively involved in the agreement, since it is God that joins them together.

When Moses was in the Presence of God he was told to respect that command: Exodus 3:5 - And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.

Matthew 19:6 - Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

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Do I Need A Bridal Consultant?

B Y: D R . B R A N D Y F. G I B S O N

A

s a blessed and to be envied bride to be the question rises in your mind intermittently - “Do I need a bridal consultant?” If you desire to remove the stress, maintain your sanity and have someone pay attention, you need the wedding consultant. The removal of all the details from your shoulders is a priority and definite necessity, especially on the day of the wedding.

You want your wedding to have perfection, the creative and up to date persona that projects an exclusive and well thought out event. You also want the exclusive for the most minimal cost unless money is no object, the consultant can provide you excellent advice and articulate planning. Let’s stop pondering the need and contact your consultant to put you at ease.

Having a wedding consultant/planner handling your specific details you will save invaluable time and money. Insomuch that, your consultant’s fee should pay for itself. The focus for you should be to have products and services that will be inexpensive and of high quality. This is the result of an experienced coordinator.

There will be questions after contacting a wedding consultant such as what services do you provide? How much will your services cost me and how will you handle my arrangements? This should be discussed in your consultation because cost is predicated on your overall wedding package.

Some of the benefits the bride-to-be will enjoy is seeing the consultant maintaining the proper wedding etiquette for you. Your wedding plans goes smoothly and your plans are in order and on time. The consultant will work within your budget, making your dollars increase in value towards maximizing the potential of your desired event. Also, you will be provided a detailed outline report of your expenses, payments and balances due as well as timelines.

Did you know that the wedding consultant can act as a peace keeper between family disagreements. If you’re interested in pre-marital counseling this can be provided you especially if your consultant is a minister, as is the case with B. F. Gibson & Associates, LLC. How blessed is that?

The consultant has a reservoir of suppliers, vendors, venues, entertainment, photographer, videographer, limousines, and caterers. The invaluable input towards suggesting an elegant meal within you budget, china, linens, and other rental items is all within the consultants realm and expertise.

After all, you want to look beautiful, at ease, fresh and confident the day of the wedding. Prior to your dream wedding you want to continue to look good for your fiancee and spend more time with him.

My advice to you is to contact a professional bridal consultant months in advance for a free consultation. Consider BF Gibson & Associates, LLV for Event Solutions that makes your event, memorable and uniquely designed for you.

Contact us for a free consultation at 205.407.8632. We await you with a cadre of services.

Love Is The Answer

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Bridal Gowns from ICAD formerly in Greektown Detroit

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Bridal Gowns from ICAD formerly in Greektown Detroit

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Bridal Gowns from ICAD formerly in Greektown Detroit

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Bridal Gowns from ICAD formerly in Greektown Detroit

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Beulah Cooley Showroom 8325 E. Jefferson Detroit, MI. 48214 (313) 835 - 3685

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Meant To Be DRAE & CHANEY BENFORD

“I am my beloved’s, and my beloved is mine.” - Song of Solomon 2:16 Some may say it was fate for Chaney Williams and Drae Benford to live happily ever after. God brought these two together and always knew the plan that he had for them.

Drae was always in love with Chaney he even remembers asking her with a note in 2nd grade if she would be his girlfriend, however, he sadly lost the letter and does not remember her response. Chaney and Drae were moreso classmates than friends from elementary to highschool, however, Drae always knew that Chaney would one day be his wife.

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Chaney focused more on school and knew that God would send her a husband when the time was right. Her and Drae did not begin their relationship until the summer after her sophmore year at Auburn University.

Chaney always knew that she wanted a husband who had his own relationship with Christ and Drae was that man. Throughout their entire relationship they both prioritize Christ and are diligent in attending Church and being examples of Christ to others.

Chaney and Drae got engaged in June of 2020. A week after Chaney’s graduation from Auburn University, her and Drae got married on December 18, 2020 at Highlands Chapel. It was a beautiful wedding filled with family, friends, love, and laughter. Chaney now works at an accounting firm and Drae is a firefighter. It has been an honor to watch their personal and spiritual relationship grow.

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All Engagement and Wedding photos taken by Katie & Cindy Photography Contact: katieandcindy.com

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Petite Bowtique APRIL JOHNSON

I

am April Johnson –a wife to the love of my life Amos Johnson for almost 16 years.

A mom of two beautiful girls Pria and Malia. A licensed and ordained minister, entrepreneur, co-pastor of Church for Entrepreneurs and the owner and founder of Petite Bowtique. I was born and raised in the city of Detroit.

I attended Catholic school as a child, where I developed a knowledge and budding love for God. My faith was solidified on the campus of Oakland University, where I attended nursing school. One night during campus bible study, I gave my life to the Lord. I never imagined what the Lord had in store for me. I just knew that I needed Him and could not go on without Him. I finished college with my Bachelor of Science in nursing.

I thought I was done with school and was ready to begin my new career as an RN. But something in my heart was unsettled. The Lord said, “you are not finished.” This was not just a feeling. This was an unshakable knowing that I was called to do something more for Him. After a time of fasting prayer, the Lord confirmed in my heart that I was called to minister to children. In obedience to Him, I entered the Word of Faith School of Ministry in Detroit, Michigan under the leadership of Bishop Keith A. Butler. Before I finished my second year of Bible school, Bishop Butler sent me on assignment to become the children’s minister at his Atlanta church.

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My time in Children’s Ministry has spanded over 20 years. During that time, I have served as a full-time minister, part-time minster, volunteer, consultant, and now a mentor to other children’s ministry leaders. I had the privilege of leading and watching thousands of boys and girls give their lives to the Lord.

In 2020, the Lord led me to focus on developing other children’s leaders and entrepreneurship. My primary entrepreneurship project is Petite Bowtique (a handmade crafting business), which started 9 years ago with a desire to make stylish hair bows for my firstborn daughter, who was three at the time.

Although I enjoyed making hair bows, life happened, and I didn’t pursue the business fully until four years ago when I was inspired by a crafty friend of mine. I started making personalized gifts for friends and family again.

However, I noticed that one client kept coming back again and again. Her repeat business gave me the spark I needed to relaunch fully into my crafting business. Petite Bowtique was reborn with a vision to create unique and personalized gifts that inspire, empower and wow – from T-shirts, tumblers, and tote bags to a specialized line of products to nourish your skin and pamper your body. We recently launched our custom curated signature candle line.

Entrepreneurship has taught me many things, and I have learned some tremendous lessons. First, to be led by God. Second, to be consistent. Third, to strive for excellence and not perfection. Fourth, to be confident in with what you are called to do; and finally, not to give up.

Too often in business, we think the road will be easy and we want to be an overnight success. As great as that sounds, reality may be a bit different. Success is a journey, not a destination. There are many obstacles you will face; some from poor decision making, others from lack of experience. Do not allow those down moments to define you or dictate your future. Purpose in your heart to keep pressing, keep learning, and keep growing.

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“The UncommonBran In The Marketplace” Public Relations, Fashion & Sports Marketing, Business & Event Solutions

www.uncommonbran.com email: uncommonbran@gmail.com

Join “Marketplace Mondays” 30 Minute Teleconfrence each Monday for Buisness Start - Up Connect with us at 6am CST by calling in at (515) 604.9000

Access Code: 501675#

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7figure$ Author’s Corner The Making Season

By LaTonya R. Jackson Available at: themakingseason.com Barnes&Noble Amazon Successfully You! Reversing Your Misfortunes

By Leigh Valentine Available at: Barnes&Noble Amazon SheCEO Let’s Go!: Remove The Excuse & Stand In Your Power

By Yakinea Marie Available at: sheceoletsgo.com Amazon

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Who’s That Sleeping with Mr.Cooper

Sunless Skies

By Rosetta Archer

By Rosetta Archer Available at: sunlessskies.com Barnes&Noble Amazon

Something Greater: Finding Triump Over Trials

By Paula White - Cain

Go Manifest 30 - Day Challenge

By Vanessa D. Pettway

Available at:

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Barnes&Noble

Barnes&Noble

Amazon

Amazon

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The Uncommon Woman of Faith In The Marketplace

By Dr. Brandy Gibson Obtain this Best Seller from: Amazon and Barnes & Noble Hard Copy: $14.95 Kindle: $9.95 Ebook: $9

Go to: www.UncommonBran.com

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Beulah Cooley Showroom 8325 E. Jefferson Detroit, MI. 48214 (313) 835 - 3685

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PORTRAY. PRESENT. EDUCATE. For more information: linda@hatmoments.com or call 248.426.

HATS For class information visit: www. needleartistsandcrafters.org Website: www.hatmoments.com Facebook hatmoments Twitter: lindahannah@hatmoments Instagram: hatmoments

Leigh Valentine Beauty Available At: ValentineSpa.com

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If you’re a licensed/ordained minister interested in becoming a part of this TV Broadcast contact me NOW! Email:

uncommonbran@gmail.com

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Become an “UncommonBran” Marketplace Coordinator in your area.

Help to promote The Kingdom of God in Buisness, Arts, Sports, Religion, Family, Government, Education, Media, Economy, Entertainment, and Technology Sign up for this leadership role at:

uncommonbran@gmail.com

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MARKETPLACE MONDAYS” 6AM CST TELECONFERENCE CALL: (515) 604.9000 ACCESS CODE: 501675#

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“MARKETPLACE MONDAYS” WITH HOST: DR. BRANDY F. GIBSON @ 4 PM CST ON FACEBOOK & YOUTUBE “MARKETPLACE MONDAYS” WOMEN IN MINISTRY TV BROADCAST YOUTUBE & FACEBOOK HOST: DR. BRANDY F. GIBSON EVERY THURSDAY @ 7PM SPONSORED BY: GIBSON GLOBAL MINISTRIES, INC. WOMEN IN MINISTRY TV PRESENTS HOST: DR. BRANDY F. GIBSON @ 7 PM CST EVERY THURSDAY GIBSON GLOBAL MINISTRIES

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BF GIBSON & ASSOCIATES, LLC 950 22nd Street North, Suite 705 Birmingham, AL 35203

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Australia/Belgium/France/Ireland/Israel/Italy/ Kenya/Nigeria/Philippines/USA

BALTIMORE, MD HQ: BIRMINGHAM, AL 205.587.4734 PASTOR REGINALD W. GIBSON CO PASTOR BRANDY F. GIBSON