BSM Magazine - March-April 2021

bsmandmedia.com

BEAUTIFULLY SAID MAGAZINE

from the

editor’s desk Are We There Yet? A question many of us may be asking about relief from the pandemic and ongoing challenges faced. Some on social media have joked that 2020 was teaching 2021 what to do, but all kidding aside, last year, and maybe these first couple of months have not been what you expected.

But “Keep going!” Yes, it reads as an “easier said than done” overused phrase, but its words hold more meaning in the uncertain times we all at some point experience.

Yes, our lives feel as if we’re in the back seat, and the driver doesn’t know which way to go. Best rest assure you can turn your attention away from the confusion that lies before you and look at a side glance to view what scenic route God has you to travel.

Days, weeks, months, and the year before made us sit still and rest. We don’t take life lightly and what it has done to our mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health as we encourage everyone to surround themselves with love and seek the help needed to be well.

Such thoughts bring us to our cover story with actress Holly Robinson Peete. The star of “American Housewife” jokes she “cracked the whip” on her family so that 4 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

VOL. 2 ISSUE 12 PUBLISHER BSM MEDIA GROUP GROUP EDITORS-IN-CHIEF LA TRISHA MCINTOSH LA TASHA TAYLOR GROUP EDITOR BSM TEAM

everyone stayed well inside and out. Would you believe a trampoline was their go-to sports equipment to help them cope with last year’s lockdown?

SENIOR WRITER LA TRISHA MCINTOSH LA TASHA TAYLOR

You don’t have to be a celebrity to know how important it is for you and your family to continue to be safe. We imagine everyone is doing all they can. So take a deep breath. The good thing we can say is the businesses that were and continue to be created from adversity. The resilience of a person or group of people to not give up and instead pivot what they have into something more significant. The respect of frontline or essential workers who keep us going and our new outlook at how necessary is their jobs to our livelihood.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS BSM Team Twins of Media Breana Cosby Madison Neal Amarachi Ede La Tasha T. W&W Public Relations

Trust you will get back to a place intended for you with more calm and purpose. Until that time, know what you see around you from where you’re being driven will take you places where your arrival is expected.

MARKETING EXECUTIVES BSM MARKETING TEAM

Hello Spring!

Best regards,

La Trisha McIntosh and La Tasha Taylor

STAFF WRITERS BSM TEAM

ADMINISTRATION BSM TEAM CREATIVE DESIGNERS Amanda Chapman BSM Media Group LLC PHOTOGRAPHERS VARIOUS (TALENT/PR) UNSPLASH.COM

CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION BSMANDMEDIA.COM

THE ‘ORIGINAL’ TWINS OF MEDIA DIGITAL, PRINT, AND BSM NETWORK. CULTURE: CELEBRITY NEWS, ENTREPRENEURS AND LIFESTYLE.

CONTENTS 26 Evan Agostini/Invision/AP/Shutterstock

34

Photo Credit: Facebook

Photo Credit: Brian Bowen Smith

16

18 COVER STORY

6 KENETIA LEE

Photo Credit: Antwon Maxwell

PopUP CleanUP Entrepreneur for the People

16 Kim Fields and Alexis

26 Eddie mURPHEY 10 FASHION

Top 3 Spring trends from style expert Tijana Ibrahimovich

Coming 2 America Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall reprise their roles 30 years later

34 Vanessa Bryant

Surviving Life after Kobe and Gigi

On Career, Family, and HollyRod Foundation

JOIN NOW

Subscribe Today

Photro Credit: VERY New York

HOLLY ROBINSON PEETE

18 Holly Robinson Peete

10 Photro Credit: VERY New York

Sisterly Bond and Comparison among siblings

Visit bsmandmedia.com for this month’s digital subscription offers BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 5

Photo Credit: Kenetia Lee courtesy of Medley, Inc.

6 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

KENETIA LEE Article By Twins of Media (La Trisha and La Tasha)

When did you decide to launch PopUP CleanUP and connect it to women owning more businesses?

I decided to launch PopUP CleanUP shortly after I bought into a commercial cleaning franchise business in August 2016. I quickly realized how saturated the industry was here in California and knew I needed to create a niche for my company and brand if we were going to make any significant headway. Though this business is extremely male-dominated, I felt the rush of other women entrepreneurs making waves around this same time and knew there was no better time to make my mark.

How were you able to pivot your company in the 2020 pandemic?

The 2020 pandemic was a shock and nearly took away 70% of our business almost overnight. We were able to pivot our on-demand event cleaning services to on-demand cleaning for the real estate industry fairly quickly, given that this was one of the few industries considered to be essential. We also added electrostatic disinfectant servAices to our roster of services which adds extra protection against pathogens, mold, and viruses. All of which requires re-branding, increased marketing, and creating an online booking process to allow for easier and more efficient transactions.

Tell us about PopUP for the People and your reentry program. #PopUPforthePeople came about because I was feeling anger and frustration by the culmination of unfortunate events surrounding George Floyd, Breanna Taylor, the pandemic, and looters. I knew the small businesses in my area were struggling, and no better way to turn a frown upside down by helping our fellow man or woman. We had cleaning equipment and supplies not used, so we organized volunteers to donate their time to clean small businesses (some of which were affected by looters) and churches that had not received much TLC from being on lockdown. We are continuing with the effect in various ways to bring about positive change.

PopUP CleanUP works with our local organizations like Work Source to provide job opportunities for men and women who may be underemployed or disenfranchised. We participate in workshops to prepare them for interviews. We believe that if a person is willing, everything else can be learned through training and development. It truly lights me to know we are helping people to become selfsufficient and grow in their leadership.

Do you find most women are interested in going into the cleaning business as owners?

No, but there are a few, and the couple of women I’ve come across in this business are powerhouses, which is truly inspiring.

What principle holds for women to become successful business leaders no matter the genre?

The principles I feel holds for women to become successful business leaders no matter the genre is drive, vision, and collaboration.

How important is activism as a business leader?

Activism as a business leader is right up there with the importance of air and water. We are at a pivotal time in history where it is not enough that business leaders are in it just to make a profit; as business leaders, we need to be keenly aware of the impact we have on humanity and the planet.

What’s next for you and your business?

We have a lot in-store as we reach milestones of success with our online booking platform. We look to roll out a mobile app version and then pivot from offering cleaning services solely ourselves to becoming a marketplace for small commercial cleaning companies to be part of our network.

What are you most looking forward to in the year 2021?

It is hugging friends, family and shake a few hands with a warm smile that isn’t covered up by a face mask.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 7

ALL THE FEELS OF SPRING! #SPRING2021

Photos: BERY New York

cool stuff

Top 3 Spring Trends From Style Expert Tijana Ibrahimovich Article By BSM Team Celebrity Style Expert Tijana Ibrahimovic talks Spring fashion and some of her favorite trends for the season.

Everything from the latest styles in sunglasses and homegoods to the hottest looks fresh off the fashion week runway.

Spring always brings about a sense of lightness and grace.

One of the ways in which designers are noting this is through the use of sheer and transparent materials. Just last week we saw it in the fabulous Thalé Blanc runway collection at New York Fashion Week. Designer Deborah Sawaf used a lightweight mesh to create a gorgeous tiered maxi skirt which was both concealing and revealing at the same time. On a very similar note we are also seeing this trend in sunglasses like Remo Tulliani’s Trust design with a light pink transparent frame which also plays into the dichotomy of cover and uncover. availableatsite.com

10 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

Watch Out! A sense of transparency is also seen in the watercolor trend which is wildly popular for Spring. Rory Worby, designer and winner of FGI’s Rising Star award for accessories, takes on watercolor in an abstract form with many of her scarfs and loungewear pieces. You can also get this trend directly through artwork for your home or office with the lovely collection of watercolor prints by fashion illustrator Deanna First.

Bold and Shiny

Color of the season

METALS AND METALLICS

Chiffon, Tulle and Mesh “A new season means time for a refresher, a time to lift the weight of winter.

We see this literally in materials like chiffon, tulle and mesh, but also in surface design with painterly prints and more fluid patterns. There’s a softness to it all,” says Tijana.

Another major trend for Spring is surprisingly metals and metallics which are typically associated more with the colder months. But those dated fashion rules are gone. Not only are we seeing these shiny finishes and materials now, but the treatment is also quite bold and unapologetic. In the runway collection of Negris LeBrum we see bold brassy tones used for gowns and jumpsuits.

And in jewelry, we see many statement pieces like the Park Chain necklace by Luz Ortiz, whose collections have been leaning towards more metals in recent years.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 11

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 13

Say Yes to Yourself...

Because You’re Worth It! Article By BSM Team

Deanna First Portraits - Contact for pricing Take your selfies to the next level with a self-portrait.

Okay, so maybe you don’t have the skills and artistic talent to do so, but you can still achieve the same level of self-love by commissioning a portrait of yourself. We love the style of fashion illustrator Deanna First who uses softer mediums likes watercolor and pastels for that dreamy, ethereal look. Say YES to commemorating yourself with some beautiful art.

Remember the great slogan from L’Oreal “Because You’re Worth It” from the ‘90s? Thirty years later it stills rings true and maybe now more than ever. Treat yourself… self-care… whatever you want to call it it’s really all about saying YES to yourself. Here are some fun and awesome ways you can do just that.

Really learn how to relax. One of the best ways to relax and really let go is with a soothing bath. We highly recommend the Herbal Bathing Tea from Shaun Leon, a Black-owned body care company based in Brooklyn. The tea creates a super luxurious experience with an aromatherapeutic formulation of detoxifying salts, skin soothing oatmeal, and dried florals that provide a calming effect, eliminating stress and soothing muscles. Doesn’t that sound so lovely?

Shaun Leon Herbal Bathing Tea - $15

14 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

The YES Frequency - $8.45 Continue on your journey to self-care by learning new habits and focusing on saying YES to yourself daily. Motivational speaker and life coach Gary Quinn outlines his tips and advice on how to best achieve this through his book “The YES Frequency” as well his popular podcast “READY, SET, LIVE” that explores personal development and lifestyle, health, and wellness. His works really show you how to self-care and say YES with your everyday actions.

PARK Accessories Sudbury Gym Bag - $495 Make time for take care of your body.

We know… working out feels like a chore sometimes. In the moment it can definitely feel like punishment more than self-care. But with each workout you’ll be giving yourself the gift of both physical and mental health.

You’re worth the time and effort. Make it easier to say YES by pre-packing your gym goodies – workout clothes, proper shoes, water bottle, and a light snack – in an uber chic gym bag like this one from PARK Accessories. In the AM, for lunch or after work, just grab and go!

Photos: BERY New York

Remo Tulliani Luxury Socks - $19 Take care of your feet. This may seem obvious but if you’re ambulatory, then your feet carry you everywhere. Treat them well with a pair of luxury socks that really offer comfort and support.

These amazing pairs from Remo Tulliani feature a cushioned foot bed, arch support, ventilated side and toe, and a comfort nonbinding top. And all are made from Italian yarns are the are odor and abrasion resistant. With all that they do for you, definitely worth it to say YES to your feet.

Lisa F Pliner Couture Teddy Bears - $400 Embrace your inner child with some fancy toys.

Do you have a favorite childhood toy that always brings about the best memories?

Re-create those moments of joy by bringing some of those objects back into your life.

Artist and host of the hit podcast, “Over 40 and Loving Every Minute of It,” Lisa F Pliner creates the most amazing teddy bears that are both objects of nostalgia as well as works of art. The custom-made pieces are unique and luxurious and evoke those feelings of fun and comfort.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 15

Sibling Comparison?

Comparison?

Sibling Article by La Tasha T.

I recently watched an Instagram video of sisters Kim Fields and Alexis Fields. Daughters of Chip Fields (Penny’s mama from “Good Times”). You know, “Tootie and Regine” and “Diavian” and “Shelia.” Of course, I’m mentioning their television characters from “The Facts of Life,” “Living Single,” and “ROC” and “Sister, Sister,” respectively. The two are close, even with a 12-year age difference. Kim was a guest on Alexis’ IG Live in November 2020. I loved seeing the sisters talk, laugh, and correct a few commenters that immediately started comparing them. Even more, was Alexis’ response to it. “What we not going to do is...”

I don’t know why people feel the need to pit sisters against each other. One person commenting said Kim is “Tamera,” and Alexis is “Tia,” referencing twin sisters Tia and Tamera Mowry, which Alexis co-starred on their 90s sitcom “Sister, Sister.” The youngest of the Fields women swiftly explained no one watching would disrespect her older sister after a few more divisive comments continued.

Kim and Alexis are just two of many that get compared by people who have nothing else better to do with their time. Trust my twin sister, and I have had our share of it as well. We all have to remember we are not entitled but a guest into anyone’s lives.

My takeaway, Wipe our feet at the front door; please don’t track in any negativity and sit and listen as our parents taught us manners.

And should we feel the need to express ourselves, do so knowing who we are, imperfections and all, and if all else fails, stick close to what grandma said. “If we don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say it at all, social media included.

I applaud these two beautiful women who are more than their TV personas for keeping their sister relationship tight. Kim is a wellrespected director, and Alexis, a talented interior designer.

16 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

Photo Credit: Facebook

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 17

COVER STORY

HOLLY ROBINSON PEETE Article By Twins of Media (La Trisha and La Tasha) Photo Credit: Antwon Maxwell

18 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

“My family was sick of me!” jokes Holly Robinson Peete. In Canada, filming her latest television series at the time of this interview, the actress talks about when the country was on lockdown because of the pandemic where she amusingly had to “crack the whip” to keep her family active.

With a career, Holly says, spans over four decades. No, that can’t be right because she looks all of just 30, but it’s true if you count her start in the industry at the age of 4 or 5 on Sesame Street with her dad, Matthew Robinson, who first portrayed the character Gordon on the PBS children’s TV program.

A lifelong supporter of Parkinson’s and Autism advocacy through her foundation, HollyRod, the wife of former football player, Rodney Peete, and the mother of four, shares the reason for her career longevity. Her love for comedy and why the ability to help others is something that completes her.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 19

Q: You currently co-star in the ABC series ‘American Housewife.’ Tell us about your character Tami Gaines and what do you like most about comedy.

I really love comedy. I have loved it ever since “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper” in the 90s. It was such a fun experience. You go to work, and you laugh all day. Cooper was a learning curve for me. I had just come off “21 Jump Street,” which was not a comedy to being on Cooper, and I had to audition very hard and let them (show executives) see that I could do comedy. I felt that I was a naturally funny girl, but there was definitely a learning curve, and I loved it.

I did many more comedies after that, but starring in my latest sitcom, “American Housewife,” is the first time I have done this type of television genre.

It is not a traditional sitcom with a live audience and multiple cameras, but a single-camera that shoots more like a drama though it’s a comedy. Think “Blackish and “Modern Family.” I am really enjoying it! It’s challenging when you join a show that has been on for five seasons, but it was also a reuniting moment for me with two of the other stars, Katy Mixon, who is the lead. She and I were on “Mike & Molly” together, and Diedrich Bader, who plays her husband, was on an episode of 21 Jump Street back in the day.

20 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

Q: You also star as the lead in the Morning Show Mysteries. Tell us more about the series.

Hallmark has several different channels. One is the Hallmark (traditional) Channel, which has many seasonal movies and is well known for its Christmas movies. I’ve been very fortunate to do eight of those (movies). Another channel they have is Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, which has many mystery series that are lighter and not real heavy and gory but are fun to watch.

So, “Morning Show Mysteries” is based on novels by Al Roker, our favorite weatherman. “I mean, there is nothing this man can’t do; he can do everything.” Al

wrote these novels (“The Morning Show Murders,” “The Midnight Show Murders,” and “Talk Show Murders,” respectively), and Hallmark turned them into movies.

It is based on the book character Billy Blessing (who is a man in the novels, but in the movies, the character is a woman thus, changing the name to Billie Blessings).

It is somewhat autobiographical and about a talk show host that gets involved in a murder mystery. We have shot five movies, and now I am in Vancouver to shoot the sixth one. They are fun and tough shoots that we film quickly, but I must say, I really enjoy the character Billie Blessings and working with this ensemble.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 21

22 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

Q: What would you say attributes to

your career longevity in the television and film industry? We were thinking a little over three decades…

We gon add on a couple of more decades like 4 or 5 [laughs] when you go back to when I started on Sesame Street with my dad. At first, I didn’t want to tell people that because it made me feel old, but now I’m like, “Shoot, let me just embrace these little flowers (decades).

So, yeah, I started when I was five on Sesame Street and did a couple of odds and ends with television specials in the 70s and 80s about teen life. From there, I did movies and went to college, and came out and did 21 Jump Street.

My career really didn’t start in the late eighties but in the late sixties.

mantra’s that I’ve used that my mom always taught me.

Q: How has the HollyRod Foundation

helped those with Autism and Parkinson’s during the pandemic?

We have really struggled through the pandemic to serve our people when things shut down. It’s been really hard because most of the things we do are in person or at RJ’s Place, the center we built in Los Angeles. We had to clear out (during the lockdown), and we’re just starting to see people at RJ’s Place again after almost a full year. Mainly what we’ve been doing is checking in on them and providing financial support to help if they lose their jobs or to supplement their income. We have partnered with food banks and other organizations like “Best Buddies” I would attribute my career to being professional and, in every experience, treating and “Special Olympics.” We partner together doing something like “Delivering Jobs.” an people with respect, especially the crew. My organization that helps place people with mom, Delores Robinson, a famous manager special needs into great (meaningful) jobs. who broke many glass ceilings, was also Again, a lot of that has been slowed down extremely instrumental in my longevity. I because of the pandemic. But, I’m excited watched her as a young girl with all of her because I recently talked to my executive clients. I saw what to do and what not to do. director. We talked about how we would start My mom definitely had a lot to do with it. ramping up and getting people to come back She was the one that told me, “Be good to and get our young people with autism to the crew, and they will be good to you. They are the ones that go on to other movies. They come back and get in the mix again. We just don’t want to miss this window of time. We all take with them the experience they had with have to get back up on that horse. you (how, as actors) did you make them feel.” It’s a winning formula. Think, all of the horror stories you’ve heard about people in Q: How did your family stay active the industry and videos of them yelling at the in the pandemic, especially during crew, these are people that get there before the time of the lockdown? you, make a lot less than you, and are there to make you look good, so that’s been one of the We were holding ourselves accountable for

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 23

“That is what I am doing now. I am in Canada in quarantine, and I have one of those baby trampolines, and I put on a little (fitness) program and jump away.” exercising. Like that was the big thing. I was like cracking a whip because I did not want my kids lying around. Our secret weapon is our trampoline. We love our trampoline, and we were always in it. That’s how we got our cardio, and it’s good for your joints, and you know, it helped you with your blues.

We all went through sort of that quarantine blues of not being able to do things and the disappointment of celebrating things fully, like my daughter graduating from college.

And we’ve gone through a full year now, and one of my son’s birthdays is coming up, and we’re like you’re the last Peete to have

24 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

a quarantine birthday. We have all had to deal with birthdays and celebrations in the pandemic. And everybody understands what that’s like to experience.

I keep my family jumping and active, and I have these weekly family meetings (“Peete family meeting” night), and we talk about whatever is on our minds. I was very regimented. My family was sick of me. They were over me [laughs]. I was like, okay, family meeting, and they were like, “Ugh! [Laughs], and I would say to them that it was “Nothing bad,” and the meetings ended up being fun,

and we ended up laughing. I had everybody do activities, so my son RJ has autism; I made sure he did LEGO, and I did something called “Diamond” art, where you paint by numbers I found very therapeutic. My daughter and other sons are musicians and artists, so I encouraged their writing.

For people reading this, those little trampolines, if you can get one, they don’t cost a lot. That is what I am doing now. I am in Canada in quarantine, and I have one of those baby trampolines, and I put on a little (fitness) program and jump away.

Q: What projects are you working on

that you can currently discuss?

Well, I am working on the Morning Show Mysteries that we talked about, and it’s funny that you said what you could currently discuss because there are a few things I can’t discuss that I am looking forward to sharing later. Let’s just say that I really want to take a moment to thank people who have been riding with me during my career, from Sesame Street to 21 Jump Street, Hallmark movies, and comedies. It’s been a blessing even to have work to discuss right now because I am an actress of a certain age. I was talking to another dear friend of mine who is also in Canada quarantining Tisha Campbell. We have been friends for 150 years and have 57 lives [Laughs]. In so many ways, we were giving flowers to each other and ourselves. Saying, “Girl, you up here working, I’m up here working, look at us!” We (my industry friends and I ) are still doing it, and

I don’t want to take that for granted. To have gratitude while going through all the bumps, the highs, and lows. To have people look at us as people, they want to see doing things, and they want to see us on TV. That is a testament to the era of television; we were both involved—in the 90s and the late 80s. We’re dying to see those TV shows and movies again that make us feel good, and I’m really happy to be working and still very blessed and grateful.

Q: You are the voice for your late

father (Parkinson’s), your son (Autism), and your community. How do you take that into perspective?

I take it very seriously. Anytime someone gets an autism or Parkinson’s diagnosis for a loved one, and they reach out to me, I always find the time, and I’m super busy right now.

But it means just as much to me to be able to talk to somebody as they get those diagnoses.

To walk them through it and give them hope because I didn’t have anybody to call (after my son’s diagnosis), and so, it means a lot to me, and the foundation means a lot to me.

It is not easy running a non-profit, being a mom, having a career, and trying to do everything. I feel my philanthropy, HollyRod, is my fifth kid because I don’t know what I would do without it. I am just so grateful for the opportunity to be a lighthouse, if you will, for others, and I know people have been there for me, and I know what that feels like, and the ability to help others is something that completes me.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 25

Eddie Murphy

“She’s your Queen to be!”

Article By Breana Cosby

Thirty years in the making, Coming 2 America, a remake of the classic 1988 film Coming to America, is set to premiere in early March of this year.

Leslie Jones, Wesley Snipes, and Michael Blackson.

The original film follows the story of Prince Akeem (Eddie Murphy) as he ‘comes to The film brings back some familiar faces America’ to find a wife who will love him returning to the cast, such as Eddie Murphy, for who he is instead of his title, while the Arsenio Hall, James Earl Jones, and Shari remake tells the story of a now King Akeem Headley. The film also brings new faces finding out that he has a son in America. to the family, including Teyana Taylor, 26 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

“NOW STREAMING ON AMAZON PRIME VIDEO” to be his eldest daughter, played by Kiki Layne.

Aside from the familial drama, the film looks to bring about laughter around every corner.

Coming 2 America is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime video that debuted March 5.

The son comes from an encounter Akeem had prior to meeting his now wife and Queen, Lisa.

When Akeem finds out that he has a son, he brings him and his mother, played

by Leslie Jones, back to the kingdom of Zamunda. Once there, conflict arises because, before the knowledge of his son, Akeem’s heir to the throne was supposed

Photo Credit: Amazon Studios

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 27

The Hottest (and Prettiest) Trend for Spring 2021 Article By BSM Team Roses are red, violets are blue, have we got some floral trends for you. And we’re not talking just any floral but soft, painterly florals which can be seen on so many designs from runway to bridal, accessories and bath products. We spoke with several fashion and style experts about this upcoming Spring trend and found ways that it can easily and tastefully be incorporated into your wardrobe, your home, and even your self-care routine.

Photos: BERY New York

Though floral designs can be seen in the decorative elements of Ancient Greek life, it wasn’t until the Late Middle Ages and early Renaissance that we start to see floral motifs on fabrics and fashion.

Frequently in the form of a “pomegranate” design of daisies, lily of the valley, lilies, violets, roses, and/or primroses, the fabrics were often velvets with the incorporation of silver and gold threads.

“Because they were intricate and difficult to weave, historically fabrics with flower motifs were only worn by the upper class and aristocracy,” says fashion historian and writer, Vivian Kelly. “Even printing complex floral designs was a tedious and time-consuming task.” The 17th and 18th Centuries saw an explosion of floral motifs in high fashion with the French and English textile manufacturers creating everything from elaborate floral brocades to chintz fabrics which were floral designs printed on cotton material.

28 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

The floral trend can also be seen in accessories with designers like Thalé Blanc creating a luxurious and gorgeous evening clutch using silk jacquard in bouquet designs. The bag is embellished with metal orchids and pearl stones creating a perfect balance of hard materials in soft motifs. With all the colors in the design, this bag pairs so well with many palettes.

In the 20th Century, we see floral designs in almost every decade but most notably during the Art Nouveau and late ‘60s into the ‘70s with “flower power” designs. Today, florals are always finding a way to stay relevant in fashion and this season we’re seeing more fresh, floral prints than ever before. These stylized botanicals can be seen in Gucci’s RTW collection which takes the trend literally to the max with their long dresses.

The collection which uses prints from the Ken Scott archives incorporates a variety of flowers including poppies, pansies, roses and hibiscus, all on a light or white ground colors. Similar designs can also be seen on Keds shoes this season, in their collaboration with Rifle Paper Co.

Recent Fashion Group International Rising Star Rory Worby is also using florals motifs in her hand painted scarves and robes with poppies, peonies, and roses being the most popular. “I definitely see a move towards painterly wild flowers, meadows and blossoms in pale yellows and shades of pinks with grey greens. I’m also looking to add a touch of embellishments such as beading or embroidery to create added textures to my florals,” says the designer about her latest work and direction. There’s really no easier way to get do this trend then with a silk scarf which so beautifully celebrates the design.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 29

Photos: BERY New York Another easy and obvious way to get into florals is through lingerie and loungewear. Online purveyor of sexy lingerie 3Wishes.com has a whole collection of floral prints for Spring.

The sexy and colorful collection has bralettes, bodysuits, bra and panty sets, and teddies. It’s a more romantic look for lingerie and for some, a bit less intimidating than solid black or red lace.

30 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

For those that really want to commit to the trend, designer and Project Runway winner Leanne Marshall offers a gorgeous bridal gown featuring an oversized, abstract watercolor floral. The painterly hand of the motif pairs gracefully with the layers of silk organza material. Celebrity Style Expert Tijana Ibrahimovic says, “Florals are not really even a trend, it’s a classic now. There’s no going wrong with it for any occasion from a weekend picnic, to a night out on the town, and even your wedding day. Floral prints and patterns when done right will always make for an elegant fashion statement.”

And lastly, a great way to wear your florals without having to “wear” them is through fragrance.

Since many floral perfumes can be overwhelming, we recommend using fragranced oils instead like the Softest Ever Body Oil by Shaun Leon. The oil is available in seven different scents including Champagne Rose, English Floral, Lavender and Jasmine.

There are so many ways to bring these blooms and blossoms into your life. Whether fun, romantic, artful or all, painterly florals are sure to make a statement for Spring and without a doubt we are here for it.

Take that elegance and bring into your home with a simple painting or even a photograph. We love this watercolor print from artist and fashion illustrator Deanna First. Her ‘Be Mine’ print of a single rose is an easy way to bring something bright and beautiful into your home that will work in any room.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 31

Get Ready to MARCH 24TH

Get ready, get set, and get ready to raisin! March 24th is National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day. This day celebrates raisins coated in milk or dark

32 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

Article By Madison Neal

chocolate. All across the country, moviegoers have snacked on the sweet, richtasting candy for many years. The most classic and popular combination for a trip to the movies

o Raisin

Made by Nestle, they are the third-largest selling candy in United States history.

Photo Credit: Twitter/ Walmart

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE RAISIN DAY Raisins contain healthy vitamins and minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, fiber, and vitamin B. The fat-free and cholesterolfree, high antioxidants food makes a great snack to throw in with trail mix before hitting the gym.

has been popcorn and a delectable treat box like the chocolate-covered raisins.

Made by nestle, they are the third-largest selling candy in United States history. In

some countries, chocolatecovered raisins are known as Raisinets. In 1927, the Blumenthal Company introduced the Raisinets to the U.S. In 1984, Nestle acquired the brand.

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 33

Photo Credit: Instagram

Pho 34 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

VANESSA BRYANT OPENS UP ABOUT MANAGING HER GRIEF Article By Amarachi Ede Vanessa Bryant will grace PEOPLE magazine’s cover this month for their “Women Changing The World” issue. In the cover story, she talks about her mourning process and her unbelievable strength after losing her husband, Kobe Bryant, and the 13-year-old daughter Gianna. She also opens up about what life is like now.

Photo Credit: brianbowensmith

oto Credit: People

“I can’t say that I’m strong every day,” she tells PEOPLE. “I can’t say that there aren’t days when I feel like I can’t survive to the next.”

The world still remembers the tragic helicopter crash that killed the NBA Legend and eight others in Calabasas, California, last January.

“This pain is unimaginable [but] you just have to get up and push forward,” she says. “Lying in bed crying isn’t going to change the fact that my family will never be the same again. But getting out of bed and pushing forward is going to make the day better for my girls and for me. So that’s what I do.”

Bryant is now head of Granity Studios, Kobe’s multimedia production company that he started to inspire storytelling for younger generations.

Earlier this year, she relaunched the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation, a non-profit organization founded through the legacy and memory of Kobe and Gianna. The organization will fund causes that were significant to Kobe throughout his career and creating an equal playing field in sports for both young women and athletes.

Vanessa gives credit to her daughters- Natalia (18), Bianka (4), and Capri (1) - for giving her a reason to smile and giving her hope. “My girls help me smile through the pain. They give me strength,” she shares with PEOPLE. At the end of the interview, she concludes that all she wants is to make her family proud. @VanessaBryant

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 35

Article By Madison Neal

90s Sitcom Frasier is Underway!

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Frasier, the 90s popular sitcom, is on its way back to television.

Viacom CBS confirmed that Kelsey Grammer would be reprising his role as the Seattle psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane turned radio host in the reboot.

Between 1993 and 2004, the series ran for 11 seasons on NBC. Grammer had been putting in the effort to revive the series before the news was announced. Created by

David Angell, Peter Casey, and David Lee, the show also starred David Hyde Pierce, Jane Leeves, Peri Gilpin, and the late John Mahoney.

The reboot of Frasier comes from How I Met Your Mother writer Chris Harris and Life In Pieces writer Joe Cristalli, who will be executive producing alongside Tom Russo and Jordan McMahan. In association with Grammnet Productions, the series will be produced by CBS Studios.

Grammer commended

36 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

Paramount on their new venture into the streaming world.

“Having spent over 20 years of my creative life on the Paramount lot, both producing shows and performing in several, I’d like to congratulate Paramount+ on its entry to the streaming world.

I gleefully anticipate sharing the next chapter in continuing the journey of Dr. Frasier Crane.”

No date has been announced for the show revival. “Pierce is in talks

about returning as his brother Dr. Niles Crane.

Whether other original cast members will return isn’t yet known.”

Grammar will currently star in an untitled ABC comedy alongside Alex Baldwin from Modern Family cocreator/executive producer Chris Lloyd and Vali Chandrasekaran.

The premiere of the new Frasier will not be underway until 2022. @paramount+

Women’s History Month Article By La Tasha T.

Photo Credit: Facebook

Photo Credit: Instagram

“Our hearts are precious. We have to take care of them..”

The beautiful Lynn Whitfield is a talented powerhouse. From the television drama mini-series “The Women of Brewster Place” to movies like “Eve’s Bayou” and “A Thin Line Between Love and Hate,” Whitfield delivers stellar performances each time. The Baton Rouge, LA native “won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie and received a Golden Globe nomination for her breakout performance as Josephine Baker in the HBO biographical film The Josephine Baker Story in 1991.” Whitfield’s latest and memorable role was playing Lady Mae on the drama series “Greenleaf” on OWN.

followers on social media, like a picture of her in a “Black Hearts Matter” poodle-type skirt.

“I designed and sewed this skirt. I had a vision for these black velvet hearts which I had embroidered with ivory silken thread to read Black Hearts Matter. Our hearts are precious. We have to take care of them,” wrote the actress.

Lynn Whitfield a contribution to Women’s History Month. @mslynnwhitfield

Along with acting, Whitfield has a love for creating fashion that she shares with her BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 37

Photo Credit: Fearless Fund

“Anyone who knows me knows that #Costco is one of my Favorite places to shop..”

Three women are changing the face of venture capital funding through their business, the “Fearless Fund.” General partners; Keshia Knight Pulliam, Arian Simone, and Ayana Parsons recently shared happy news last month that Costco invested 1M dollars into the company.

Pulliam previously shared on Instagram, “Guess who invested $1,000,000 in @fearless.fund ?!?!? So excited to announce that @costco is one of our newest institutional investors!! Anyone who knows me knows that #Costco is one of my FAVORITE places to shop. So it is extra exciting for a business that I have supported for years support us!!

Simone included the trending #JuneBugChallenge in her IG post to share her excitement, saying the challenge “hits a little different!” Now that Costco just invested $1MM into the Ferarless Fund! And “P. S. I love to dance and had to do this tik tok for the culture!”

The “Fearless Fund is built by women of color for women of color.”

Not, that’s Women’s History! @fearless.fund 38 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

Author Unknown

Photo Credit: Taylor Jewell/Invision/AP

“Compassion is the breakdown of barriers between us..”

The Golden Globes have come and gone, but this year’s awards made history with the nomination of not one but three women in the “Best Director” category. Nominees included Chloe Zhao, Regina King, and Emerald Fennell. Zhao who is of Asian descent took home the win for “Nomadland, which also “scooped up the Best Motion Picture Drama award.

bonding. Your pain is my pain is mingled and shared between us,” Adding, “This is why I fell in love with making movies and telling stories, ‘cause they give us a chance to laugh and cry together and they give us a chance to learn from each other and to have more compassion for each other. So thank you, everyone who made it possible for me to do what I love.”

In her acceptance speech, Zhao expressed the following message, “Compassion is the breakdown of barriers between us. A heart-to-heart

Zhao is changing the face of Women’s History! @nomadlandfilm

BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 39

GRAMMY® -NOMINATED ARTIST

KORYN HAWTHORNE WORLWIDE ENTERTAINMENT

Article/Photo Courtesy of W&W Public Relations

The soulful single is being released in celebration of Women’s History Month

40 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

To kick off Women’s History Month, chart-topping GRAMMY®- nominated songstress, Koryn Hawthorne, released a girl power rendition of her chart dominating single “Speak to Me” featuring R&B artist Queen Naija. Premiering exclusively on Rated R&B,

“Speak to Me (Queen Mix)” features powerhouse vocals from both Hawthorne and Queen Naija and is a perfect match up of both Gospel and R&B sound. “Speak to Me (Queen Mix)” serves a refreshing delivery of Black Girl Magic and unity among

TEAMS UP WITH QUEEN NAIJA FOR A GIRL POWER RENDITION OF “SPEAK TO ME (QUEEN MIX)”

genres. The new track is now available on all digital music providers.

“I was honored to be asked to get on the remix of a gospel song being that my foundation started in the church, but I was also excited about getting on a song that I was a fan of already. I think it’s very important for women to support each other in general whether it be in music or any other industry,” shares Queen Naija.

With boundless vocal artistry, the Billboard Music and NAACP Image Award-winning hitmaker continues to deliver fan favorite tracks featuring melodic mixes of gospel, pop, hip-hop and R&B. Coined as a contemporary urban single “Speak to Me,” Hawthorne’s lead single from her sophomore album, I Am, instantly dominated the charts debuting #1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs Chart and continues

to hold that position for 15 weeks. Playing on both Gospel and R&B radio in partnership with Epic Records, the nostalgic track hit top 5 on the Gospel Billboard Radio Charts, top 15 on the R&B Radio Charts, and reigned #1 on the Gospel Digital Sales charts for 10 consecutive weeks.

“Speak to Me” features a sample from gospel icon, Donnie McClurkin’s popular melodic single “Speak to My Heart,” and was co-written by Johntá Austin (Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige), Troy Taylor and Jeremy “TryBishop” Hicks.

“Some of the greatest movements in history have been when women supported each other. I was so excited to work with Queen Naija on this project and hope this track will inspire other artists of various genres to collaborate and support each other, especially women,” echoes Hawthorne.

CONNECT WITH KORYN Koryn Hawthorne: “Speak to Me (Queen Mix)” featuring Queen Naija is available now. https:// KorynHawthorneMusic.lnk.to/ SpeakToMeQueenMixFM!W&W Koryn Hawthorne: I Am is available now. https://KorynHawthorneMusic. lnk.to/IAM!W&W To connect with Koryn Hawthorne, please visit: Website: https:// korynhawthorne.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook. com/korynhawthornemutsic/ Instagram: @KorynHawthorne Twitter: @KorynHawthorne

LIFE CAN BE UNPREDICTABLE BLOOM WITH GRACE

42 | BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM

Embrace The SWEET Moments Life Has To Offer BSM MAGAZINE | BSMANDMEDIA.COM | 43