Fearless Life Magazine Holiday Edition 2021

Holiday EDITION 2021

TODD DULANEY DISCUSSES

DULANEYLAND MUSIC & MORE

DON’T MISS

AUNT NIECY’S HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

10 TIPS TO REDUCE HOLIDAY STRESS SURVING THE HOLIDAYS AS A COUPLE

Married At First Sight’s BLENDED FAMILIES ROCK Marrying A Stranger, The HOLIDAYS and Being Fearless

Photo credit: LaJoy Photography FEARLESSLIFEMAGAZINE.COM

Holiday EDITION

2021

CONTENTS 03

Editor’s Note

04

Entrepreneur Spotlight Cassandra Krah CEO of Faith on Loc

05

Holiday Eats Cooking with Chef Phill

07

10 Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress

08

Blended Families Rock with Charmaine Broome

10

Ask Aunt Niecy’s Holiday Gift Guide

12

Intentional Men Men We Struggle Too Carl Cox

13

Everyday Inspiration Evolution of a DOPE Blazer

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18

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Cover Story Life After Married at First Sight with Vincent & Briana

Cover Story

Fearless Faith Remembering Jesus This Holiday Season

Photo credit: LaJoy Photography

19

Money Matters Estate Planning for You and Your Family

20

Marriage, Fatherhood, and DulaneyLand Music with Todd Dulaney

22

Living Lux 8 Tips to Design Like a Pro This Holiday Season

23

The Elements of Marriage How to Navigate the Holidays as A Couple

24

MasterPeace by Iyanla Vanzant

Life After Married at First Sight with Vincent & Briana

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Learn how Blended Families Rock is bridging the gap between biological and nonbiological parents to make living situations more comfortable for children in blended families.

Photo Courtesy of Blended Families Rock

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Holiday EDITION 2021

E

DITOR’S NOTE

Teneshia D. Phillips

from My Carrot Cake ink my Granny th I . ng vi gi Thanks d. would be prou

It is my prayer, that in this issue, you find ways not to just survive but to thrive through the holidays!

I can’t believe the holidays are here! Where did the time go?

2021 is winding down and we’re approaching the time of year where most people slow down to reflect on the year and celebrate the holidays with friends and family. As I think about this time of year I think about the importance of family. You see, earlier this year I lost my maternal grandmother, Marian Blow. This was one of the most devastating losses that I have suffered and there are so many things I miss about her.

And while this may be a bittersweet time of the year for many of us I’m choosing to be grateful for the time I had with her. My granny was one of my best friends and as I was processing her lost in therapy one day my therapist challenged me to find ways to honor her and continue her legacy. One way that I have decided to honor her legacy this holiday season is to work on duplicating her carrot cake recipe.

See, her carrot cake brought our family together. I have so many memories surrounding her carrot cake: watching her make the same cake year after year for as long as I can remember, grating carrots and bruising my knuckles on the grater (small sacrifice to pay for my slice), watching certain family members try to hide slices as soon as it was cut, as well as all of us playfully (and sometimes seriously) arguing over the last piece. The last time that I can remember granny making her carrot cake, I was tasked with making sure she followed the recipe… I failed! In her forgetfulness she added more of this and more of that and of course the cake was not the same but we ate it anyway! So, I challenge you all to think of the holidays with a grateful spirit. Think about the things that you can do to continue a holiday tradition or honor your loved one’s legacy. For me this means trying my hand at my granny’s carrot cake. For you it may mean sharing

stories about them with other family members or friends.

I am so excited to share with everyone the contents of this Holiday Edition; we were blessed with the opportunity to interview Vincent and Briana Morales from Season 12 of Married at First Sight.

What is more fearless than marrying a stranger on national TV?! We discuss this and more inside.

We also had the opportunity to speak with Iyanla Vanzant about her next chapter-MasterPeace, the importance of legacy and self-care.

We also have a phenomenal interview with former professional baseball player, gospel singer and CEO Todd Dulaney about his new venture, DulaneyLand Music and how it is creating accessible, professional, affordable services for independent artist to record songs, consult with industry professionals and more!

Charmaine Broome of Blended Families Rock discusses her newest book, The Big Fight as well as her family’s journey to healing and their commitment to help other families working through the blending process.

Don’t miss our 10 Tips to Reduce Stress by guest writer Benita Campbell, Ask Aunt Niecy’s Holiday Gift Guide, or our suggestions for decorating your home and surviving the holidays as a couple.

It is my prayer, that in this issue, you find ways not to just survive but to thrive through the holidays! The Baptist in me will not let me close without saying, Jesus is the Reason for The Season.

As Always Be Fearless, Teneshia D. Phillips Editor in Chief

Connect With Me @tpmgmtgroup

@tpmgmtgroup

www.tpmgmtgroup.com Holiday EDITION 2021

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Entrepreneur Spotlight Meet

Cassandra Krah CEO of Faith on Loc

Would you please tell our readers about Faith on Loc? Faith On LOC is a faith-based brand committed to the empowerment of the loc community. Faith on Loc is dedicated to emphasizing the beauty of black hair. This brand challenges the societal norms of “appropriate” hairstyles with its loc specific apparel.

We encourage our customers to wear our brand and their gorgeous locs with great pride and honor.

What inspired you to loc your hair?

I wanted to try something different with my hair. I was tired of the enegalese twists, crochet braids, and blow-outs. I wanted a style that would let my natural hair breathe and flourish without the constant manipulation. I thought about traditional locs (both my mother and sister had them at the time), but after research, I discovered sisterlocks and decided that was the best route for me. It was truly the best hair decision ever! I have learned so much about myself throughout this loc journey.

How has your loc journey paralleled your faith journey?

My loc journey has paralleled my faith journey in knowing that I must trust the process in both! I actually have a shirt in my FOL collection called Trust the Process, which has a dual meaning of trusting life’s process and the loc process. I’ve learned patience, and with patience comes growth; with growth comes understanding, and understanding yields unimaginable possibilities. As long as I trust the process, greatness lies ahead of me.

I’ve recently decided to loc my hair. I went back and forth about it for years because someone once said that it wasn’t professional. As a loc enthusiast, what would you say to that person?

I would first say your hairstyle does not define pro-

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fessionalism; your behavior determines it. Far too often, society tries to dictate what is and what isn’t appropriate as it relates to black hair. However, I believe our locs are whatever we make them!

What motivated you to become an entrepreneur?

I had various career aspirations and would always tell myself, “Oh, well, I’ll start my business once I have xyz.” However, I realized the longer I waited, the longer my dream would be deferred. It was up to me to define my career and not allow my career to be defined by others.

My success as an entrepreneur is predicated on the time, effort, and sacrifices I make, and I dare not quit something I dreamed of starting.

Describe a time that you had to be fearless? How did you overcome the situation?

I was fearless when I decided to

leave higher education (a stable career), become a realtor, and focus on my businesses. It was a risk, but I knew I had to step out on faith and trust God. I thought about my livelihood and how it would be affected if I made this career switch. I had just purchased a house and wondered what would happen if this career decision fell through. But then, I realized that this was a decision I prayed about, received a clear-cut answer on, and would be disobedient if I didn’t move the way God told me to move.

And it was truly a decision that impacted my life for the better.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

Everyone can keep in touch with me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and my website. My social media handle is @faithonloc on every platform and my website is www.faithonloc.com.

HOLIDAY EATS

Photo Cour tes

yo fC f he

Ph

il l

Cooking With Chef Phill

SMOKED GOUDA MAC & CHEESE 8-10 Servings

Directions

Ingredients 1lb. box of Elbow Noodles 1 Stick of Butter 1 pt. of Heavy Whipping Cream 8 oz. block of Gouda Cheese (Diced into Cubes) 2- 8 oz. bags of Sharp Cheddar Cheese 1-8oz. bag of Mozzarella Cheese 1-8oz. bag of Monterey Jack Cheese 2 Tbsp. Minced Garlic Garlic Powder Onion Powder Liquid Smoke Salt Black Pepper

1. Preheat oven to 350°C. 2. Bring a large pot of water, 2 Tbsp. Minced Garlic, 1 Tbsp of Salt and ¼ cup of Olive Oil to a boil. Once water comes to a boil, add the noodles and cook to al dente (done but still firm). Drain and rinse with cold water. Place pasta in 9 by 13 dish and add 1 Tbsp of Olive Oil to prevent sticking.

3. Add 1 handful of each of the cheeses to the noodles. Be sure to leave enough Sharp Cheddar to cover the noodles prior to going into the oven. Season noodles with ½ Tbsp of Salt, Onion Powder and Garlic Powder. Then, add ½ Tsp of Black Pepper. Mix the noodles and seasonings well.

4. Melt butter in a saucepan and add Smoked Gouda Cheese on medium high heat. Stir frequently. Add 2 Cups of Heavy Whipping Cream and cook until it begins to simmer.

Then, add a ½ cup of Mozzarella and Monterey Jack Cheese to the pan. Next, add a tsp. of Salt, tsp. of Black Pepper, ½ Tbs of Onion Powder and Garlic Powder and a Tbsp of Liquid Smoke. Stir until it is creamy.

5. Once it is a creamy consistency, add the cheese sauce mixture to the noodles. Mix well.

6. Sprinkle with remaining cups of Sharp Cheddar cheese.

7. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly, and the top is golden brown. Enjoy!

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WHISKEY YAMS 4-6 Servings Ingredients 2lbs of Sweet Potatoes ½ Cup of Whiskey (I use Uncle Nearest) ¾ Cups of Dark Brown Sugar (or Light Brown Sugar) 1 Cup of White Sugar 2 tsp Cinnamon 1 tsp Nutmeg ¼ Salt 2 Tbsp Vanilla Extract 1 Stick Butter 4 Tbsp Frozen Orange Juice Concentrate (Thawed)

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Directions 1. Clean, peel and slice your yams into ½ inch rounds. Combine the sweet potatoes and the rest of the ingredients in a pot over medium high heat. Stir well until all the sweet potatoes are covered in the sugar and butter mixture.

2. Let it come to a boil. Cover then simmer for about 50 minutes until the yams are tender.

3. Remove the top then turn heat down to medium heat. Let the syrup come to a boil. Stir often until the liquid reduced (about 10 minutes) or until the syrup coats the yams well.

4. Remove the pot from the stove.

Enjoy!

Coping with Holiday Stress and Anxiety

By Benita White-Campbell, LPC As we enter the holiday season, this time can be a time of joy and incredibly stressful and anxiety-provoking. Anxiety tends to intensify when people start having thoughts about holiday expectations (family gatherings, spending, and personal demands) that we put on ourselves. These things and the added stress surrounding Covid and what that means for this time of the year have left people feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the holiday season. In addition, the holidays increase feelings of grief such as losing loved ones due to Covid or other reasons or just the inability to be with those we love can increase the stress level 10xs more than usual.

Stress affects the body in several different ways: physiologically, emotionally, and behavioral. Some of the physical symptoms of stress are aches and pains, headaches, muscle tension, trouble sleeping, increased or decreased appetite. Emotionally it can make you feel anxious, restless, irritable, sad, and lack motivation. Behaviorally, you may experience angry outbursts, drug or alcohol misuse, social withdrawal, and decreased exercise. According to the Mayo clinic, if these things are left unchecked, they can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes (mayo clinic, March 2021). Therefore, it is essential to recognize these signs and even more so during the holidays.

10 Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress 1. Let others share in the responsibilities of holiday tasks.

Have others pitch in to assist with the holiday cooking and shopping.

2. Make a list and prioritize the critical activities, as this can make holiday tasks more manageable.

3. Try something different. Instead of doing traditional holiday stuff, try something new (culturally themed Christmas, winter BBQ, vacation, or cooking something different).

4. Set a holiday spending budget and stick to it. Remember, the holidays do not last forever, and you still have bills to manage.

5. Volunteering. The gift of your time can go a long way.

6. Exercise. Exercising increases dopamine and serotonin, which improves mood.

7. Take time out for yourself.

8. Acknowledge your feelings. Realize that it is normal to feel sadness and grief and that it is ok to cry and express your feelings. Acknowledging your feelings helps to get things out as opposed to holding everything in.

Don’t let stress and anxiety take hold of you during the holidays. Take the proper steps needed to prevent feeling stressed during the holiday season.

Recognizing your triggers can help you combat these negative feelings and avoid meltdowns. With a little planning and positive thinking, you can have peace and remain stress-free

Benita Campbell is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Clinical Supervisor with over 14 years of experience in the Counseling and Psychology field. Her background is working with adults, children, and adolescents in the mental health and substance abuse field. She currently serves as a Clinical Supervisor for UHC and supervises clinicians working toward licensure. She is a native of South Carolina and is married with three beautiful children. Her greatest accomplishment has been to take her knowledge and experience and use it in every capacity that she has worked in. Her greatest passion is to help others by meeting them where they are.

9. If you are lonely, seek out community, religious and social events. There are many online websites and support groups out there to keep you connected.

10. Have a realistic outlook. Everything is not going to be perfect or the same as it was previous years before.

Understand that holiday plans may change, but you can always celebrate in diverse ways.

Don’t let stress and anxiety take hold of you during the holidays. Take the proper steps needed to prevent feeling stressed during the holiday season. Recognizing your triggers can help you combat these negative feelings and avoid meltdowns. With a little planning and positive thinking, you can have peace and remain stress-free.

Holiday EDITION 2021

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Blended Families Rock with Charmaine Broome

B

lended Families Rock’s mission is to help blended families across the world find the tools needed to help obtain better unity in their homes, learn the importance of proper communication, as well as getting along with each other. We help bridge the gap between biological and non-biological parents to make living situations more comfortable for children in blended families. We do this by offering tips, tools, literature, hosting conferences, workshops, and other events. It’s through these resources we help enlighten and equip blended families with what they need for success.

Photos Courtesy of Blended Families Rock

What do you love most about the work that you are doing?

What I love most about the work we do here at blended families rock is the help we are able to offer blended families around the world. We get to see first-hand how our transparency allows other families to reach their blended family goals. We are blessed to show blended families they are not alone, and they have help. We prove blended families can work. Blended families do work.

It just takes work. We find great joy and take pride in helping them do their work.

When did things begin to change for the better for your family during the blending process?

Things began to change for my family after my husband took my bonus daughter’s mom and I out to dinner for a talk. He sat us both down and we all laid our differences out on the table. He led the conversation which allowed room for much needed dialogue, and it offered hope that things could turn around for the betterment of our family.

Describe your family in three words?

If I were to describe my family in three words it would be CRAZY, FUN, TRANSPARENT. What inspired you to write your newest book, “The Big Fight.”

Many people don’t know that my bonus daughter’s

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mother, my husband, and myself had a fight. It was the most embarrassing moment we’ve ever experienced as a family, but it taught us so much. The most embarrassing thing about the whole incident was that our daughter was a witness to what happened. That moment came with so many different consequences, and we were challenged to help her overcome what that moment did to her emotionally. I began to wonder how many children there are in this world are who are part of a blended family and have experienced what we experienced? Many children don’t have an outlet for these types of experiences, so our situation inspired me to create one. This children’s book collection is a soft reality of what our daughter has been through, and what we’ve overcome as a family.

I love that you offer Blended Coaching Sessions. These are resources that people need to know exist because we can often feel so alone in our situations. Will you please share with our readers what they can expect once they schedule a Blended Coaching Sessions?

We are so excited about offering our “one on one” counseling sessions. We have a variety of sessions for our clients to choose from. Be it 1st time clients, or repeated clientele. Our 10-minute 1st time sessions are ONLY for new clients looking to book with us. This time will allow us to connect with each other, for their story to be heard, and needs accessed. After the call, if a “Oneon-One session is desired/booked, I will begin to develop a plan of attack to help solve the described issues so they

Reader Questions

We are blessed to show blended families they are not alone, and they have help.

We prove blended families can work.

Blended families do work. It just takes work”

can begin accomplishing their overall blended family goals. We offer 30 min, 60 min, and 90 mins calls. As well as “Urgent Advice” calls.

Our “Urgent Advice” One-on-One sessions are only for current clientele experiencing an unforeseen challenge that needs immediate attention. All sessions can be booked via our website. www.blendedfamiliesrock.com What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

One thing people would be surprised to know about me would be the fact that I am a singer.

I have been a part of Kirk Franklin’s ministry for the past 16 years as a core Alto. I have been blessed to traveled all around the world and helped record 4 studio albums with him and his team.

How is it possible to get the Bio parent on board with the blending process? For example, my fiancé and I work hard to blend our families, but his child’s mom makes things difficult for us because their son prefers to be with his dad. She will purposely take him somewhere when we’ve scheduled family outings. She’ll then act as if she forgot that we already had plans. FYI- we’ve already been to court.

My first suggestion would be to communicate. Don’t be afraid to communicate. Communication is your strongest most powerful tool. Sometimes there’s nothing that you can really do to change a person’s mind, but there are things that you can do to change a person’s heart. It will take some time, but you must continue to do what you do.

Love hard, be yourself, and kill with kindness. Cover your bonus son by letting him know every chance you get that he is loved, and he is forever welcomed into your home and space. With the mother purposely taking him somewhere else when you all have scheduled family outings you just have to let karma take its course, and let the courts do what the courts do best.

How can we get the kids on one accord when we weren’t raised the same? There are things I see as a problem, and he doesn’t. When I see things as a problem, he doesn’t see it as a big deal and he often feels that I overreact.

Honestly, it’s hard to get your spouse to parent their biological child the way that you would like for them to parent. There are many factors that may lead them to parent a certain way. For example, the way your spouse may have grown up. Or if your spouse deals with guilt for whatever reason, it may cause them to parent a certain way. My advice would be to seek family counseling to help you both get on one accord, or you yourself seek individual counseling to see if you can learn how to implement certain things that will help you deal better with your reality.

How do you define fearless?

To me being fearless means to be bold. It means to be brave and courageous despite what a situation may look like. Mind over matter at all times, and 100% trusting the process.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

Blended families rock is on all social media outlets. Our I website is www. blendedfamiliesrock.com. Our Instagram handle is blended families rock, As well as our Facebook, tick tock, and YouTube page.

Holiday EDITION 2021

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ASK AUNT NIECY’S HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

PURITY OF SAGE Purity of Sage features all natural bath products, soy candles and so much more.

They strive to make products that helps you relax and unwind. Their bath salts calm and detoxify your body, while the sweet smells of our potpourri fills your room.

WWW.PURITYOFSAGE.COM MILA EVE ESSENTIALS Mila Eve Essentials products are designed with your mind, body and soul in mind. They eliminate harsh ingredients and replace them with essential oils and other natural elements that provide a variety of wonderful benefits. These benefits enhance physical and spiritual wellness, amplify positive, emotional well-being and will redefine your health routine.

WWW.SHOPMILAEVE.COM

QUENCE & QUAN Quence & Quan is an all-natural hair brand for multiple hair types. Provide the freshest vitamins and nutrients directly to hair, skin and scalp for the healthiest new growth.

All products are made fresh per purchase, directly from the seed.

WWW.QUENCEQUAN.COM

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Holiday EDITION 2021

T MOODY CUSTOMS T Moody Customs is a custom tumbler brand. While they specialize in decorating tumblers with various paints and glitter they also create other pieces of resin art.

Facebook AND IG @ TMOODYCUSTOMS

THE LIP BAR The Lip Bar is a vegan and crueltyfree beauty brand that exists to help change the way you think about beauty.

WWW.THELIPBAR.COM

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Staruday IVORY ESSENTIALS Ivory Essentials is a massage spa that also sells vegan scrubs and lotions.

Their mission is to promote self-healing and improved wellness.

KEY OCCASIONS Key Occasions is a luxury travel agency that strives to open doors to new destinations and experiences for individuals and groups seeking upgraded celebratory travel experiences.

WWW.KEY-OCCASIONS.COM

OWINGSMILLSMASSAGESPA.COM

JUVIA’S PLACE Created to celebrate the rebels, rulers, and queens of the African kingdoms who honored beauty through their innovative and soulful techniques that we still use today.

WWW.JUVIASPLACE.COM

invinSHEble was created by a wife/ mother who wanted to be able to provide families with a way to protect themselves and their property. invinSHEble provides information and tips on how to remain aware of our surrounds. They also offer products specializing in personal, home and child safety.

WWW.INVINSHEBLE.COM

Holiday EDITION 2021

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Men We Struggle Too! Carl Cox

F

rom the beginning of time, all men have experienced some form of struggle. Am I enough?

Do I do enough? I wish I could be better. Have you ever had those thoughts? Be honest with yourself.

When the fall of Adam and Eve took place in Genesis 3, man was sent to work by the sweat of his brow (verse 23). In other words, he felt the pressure of his decision and the responsibilities that would come with it. So the lesson for you to take away is that you are not alone. Since the beginning of man, this has been the case; it will be ok; you are normal.

Adam. Adam’s issue doesn’t take us off the hook as we are responsible for our actions and how we lead our families. But we can now identify the struggle and begin resolving the solution. Ready for the answer?

Be the Man! Be the man who stands up, leads, loves, teaches, and calls right, right and wrong, wrong. Take a stand against those things that will cause you to struggle. If it is mentally, physically, financially, or spiritually... Identify it. Call it out and shut the struggle down.

Never be afraid to make tough decisions for you and your family.

Over the next month, take time to identify where you struggle and begin to do these three things.

Pride comes

The way this struggle looks currently will be mortgage payments, grocery bills, making sure the cars are running correctly, ensuring everyone has clothes, and taking care of our families’ emotional and spiritual needs. No, it’s not the biblical days, and you probably aren’t tilling the ground; however, the responsibility and pressures are still the same...

Making sure those we love are taken care of at all costs keeps us up at night, if we’re being honest.

The self-doubt of if you are doing enough or providing enough. The constant wonder if those you love are happy and doing the best you can in life. As a 40yr old husband and father, I can say I know this all too well. I’ve had those sleepless nights, the anxiety-filled moments where I don’t feel I’m enough and wonder if I’m failing as a man. Do you still feel alone?

before the

fall

As men, what we must reflect on is the proof that we didn’t create this feeling; it is the result of the sin of

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1. Search for the solution before acting. What are the answers to your struggle? For example, spend less money, start eating better, begin to talk to God, etc.

2. Call it by name and take its power away. Remember, what we don’t claim we can’t contain.

3. Tell someone so they can help keep you accountable. We all need someone to help us. Pride comes before the fall (Proverbs 16:18).

Father, thank you for the man reading this article right now. I ask that you strengthen him as he begins to change in stopping those struggles in his life. May he be the man you have called him to be according to your word in Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Evolution of a DOPE Blazer Stephanie Hill

I

mean, who does not love a good ole blazer?

Blazers date back to the 1820s as they were worn by St. John’s College boating team members. Back then, blazers did not have darts, shoulder pads, vents, or any lining in the back. Women adopted this fashion trend around the late 1990s and early 2000s. They added their twist with colors and patterns. Blazers continue to be a staple and versatile piece of clothing for both men and women.

When shopping for a blazer, there are a few things to keep in mind. A blazer should fit nicely on the shoulders, as this is the key to looking sharp.

Oversized blazers continue to be a modern trend.

Remember, there is a thin line between oversized and too big. The material and season is also a critical factor when determining the right blazer. Blazers made from wool or flannel are deemed most appropriate for the late fall and winter months as they are usually thicker and weather-appropriate.

Since the evolution of blazers, the material options have changed as well. Cotton or lightweight silk blazers are generally more appropriate for the spring and summer months. Having a plethora of blazers will allow you the opportunity to wear them during all seasons.

As blazers continue to evolve, so should YOU!

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Photo Credits LaJoy Photography

Life After Married at First Sight with

V

incent and Briana. Everyone’s favorite couple from Married at First Sight Season 12 sat down with Editors Antonio and Teneshia Phillips to share their experience on MAFS, talk about life after the cameras are gone, their holiday plans, and what’s next. So, let’s get into this interview and read what’s it’s like to marry and fall in love with a stranger on TV.

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On Being

Fearless You will more so s regret the thing that you didn’tsdo than the thing e you did. You hav to put yourselfe out there and b da fearless. It’s kin e a way of life, mor so than a word or action”.

Briana

The question that all of our readers want to know is, how was it marrying a stranger on national TV? Vincent: It’s extremely nerve-racking. You can’t explain it. It’s just all these uncertainties, and you don’t know what to expect. You hope the experts did a good job. You don’t want your time wasted, and also, you don’t want to embarrass yourself. It’s a lot of pressure.

Briana: It was very scary. You don’t know who you’re about to marry. You don’t know what the outcome will be. You don’t know the ins and outs of television.

We’re regular people, and we’re trying to adjust to it all. It’s definitely hard, and it’s a lot of pressure on you.

But if you do it right, give it your all, and do not hold back, you may find your forever.

That answered our next question. How was it having a camera following you around?

Briana: It’s our real life. They aren’t feeding you lines.

We are coming up with things, and they (production) are like it will be nice if you hit on that topic. It is not scripted. Everything is real. Last season is no doubt that it was real.

How has the transition to everyday married life been?

Vincent: It’s a little less pressure now that the cameras as gone, and we can have privacy when we need it. We get to communicate better. We also had our regular jobs as we were filming, so it was a lot of stress. Now, we are getting used to people walking up and trying to get a picture, and (it’s ok), but we’re trying to get used to that.

Briana: Filming and trying to grow our relationship on camera versus off-camera is very different. I can honestly say that. On camera (and even now), we’re still trying to learn each other, but there (on camera), we don’t really get space to learn one another.

We had to have those conversations, really hard conversations then and there. It’s not like you get a long time because you’re trying to get to know this person in a short amount of time, and you’re trying to get to know this person before decision day. After decision day, it’s like you’ve made your decision, and true colors start to come out, and you really get to learn one another. I’m very cool, calm, and collected, but I’m a bit more feisty in real life (without the cameras around), and I have a mouth. Vincent was like Woah, Woah, Woah (laughing), this is what I got. Ok! He had to learn these things about me, but he’s used to that. They always say the first year of marriage is the hardest. I will say our first has been hard, but it’s rewarding, it’s been fun, it’s been a lot of travel, a lot of learning, and trying to get to know each other’s families. We’re still learning about each other, and we love it.

What’s one thing you learned about yourself within marriage that you did not know?

Briana: I learned that you can’t have conversations when you’re ready to. You have to take into consideration someone else’s pace. Although I can come up with the words right then, and I know what I will say. I think of things right off the rip. He’s not the same way. I have learned that he has to think about things. He has to process whatever happened. I can’t force him into a conversation before he is ready to have it.

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On Being

MARRIED

make the You have to tryato y. Not just other person h pp lf but for the think for yourse well to try to other person as ’s constant make this work. It mise.”. work and compro Vincent

Vincent: I agree with what she said. I do sometimes need my own space where I can process things. I learned that it is good to do so that you can work on your words so that you don’t end up saying something you don’t mean.

What has surprised you most about marriage?

Briana: That it’s constant work. It’s fun, rewarding, and great to have someone around all the time that you can talk to someone that’s there no matter what, but it’s constant work.

Vincent: Yeah, it’s constant work. You have to try to make the other person happy. Not just think for yourself but for the other person as well to try to make this work. It’s constant work and compromise. So you can keep each other happy.

You know, when you care for someone, you want to do what’s right. So it’s always going to be a work in progress. It’s neverending.

Have you all created any holiday traditions yet, or do you have plans to later?

Briana: Not necessarily. It will be our second Thanksgiving together. So maybe we’ll start to create those traditions.

Right now, we don’t have any. Last year we saw my family, but this year I don’t know. I told my mom we would come to see her because she loves to wear matching pajamas (laughing), but we’ll see what his family wants to do as well.

We have a friend, Melissa that makes us Coquito each year for the holidays, and I asked her if this was a Dominican drink, and she shared it’s a Puerto Rican drink. When I asked about how her family in the Dominican Republic celebrates, she shared it is a continuous celebration with family and friends. So, Vincent, what are some ways that your family celebrates the holidays in the Dominican Republic?

Vincent: Back in the DR, our Christmas day is the 24th, and Christmas Eve is on the 23rd. Then, in January, we also

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celebrate Three Kings. We get prizes on the 24th. It’s like a party.

Briana: I didn’t know that Dominicans celebrated on the 24th, but when we went to his family’s house, I found out the holidays involved a lot of drinking and food. It was a huge party! I had never experienced anything like that before. I really enjoyed it.

What are you looking forward to in the coming year?

Briana: I’m looking forward to more travel. We want to experience so much together. Also, both of us will be turning 30 next year.

Vincent: She will be 30 first (laughing).

Briana: I’ll be 30 first. Whatever! So, we’ll be 30 next year, and it’s a big milestone year, and we’re trying to live it up! We’re trying to travel as much as we can and have a good time.

Maybe start some new business ventures. So, I’m calling it the year of new.

Vincent: Next year, I definitely want to travel more. I haven’t been to DR since 2016, and I want to go back. So hopefully, she can come.

Briana: What do you mean hopefully (laughing)? I’m going. I’ll be there! (laughing) Vincent: I just want to do more traveling and hopefully run into more business ventures. I’m hoping next year will be fun for us because we’ve been really busy.

What does being fearless mean to you?

Briana: For me, it’s just literally putting everything out there.

You will more so regret the things that you didn’t do than the things you did. You have to put yourself out there and be fearless. It’s kinda a way of life, more so than a word or

action. It’s definitely a way of life. Getting married at first sight is… of course now it’s a way of life.

We’re married, and we’re in this space together. So I think it’s just putting yourself out there and letting whatever comes to you just happen.

Vincent: For me, I operate by faith, so it’s not necessarily being fearless. My approach the entire time was if I get chosen, it is because it was meant to be. So, I never thought that this was supposed to happen. I was just myself and just kind of nonchalant.

I actually wasn’t taking it too seriously, but I understood that if I was selected, it was because this person and I were supposed to get together, and we would somehow, someway make it work out.

Briana: Or if it didn’t work for other couples, it was for learning purposes. You’ve learned something about yourself for sure.

This or That Relaxing Vacations or Action Vacations?

Vincent: Relaxing Briana: Action Night Out or Night In? Vincent: Night In Briana: Night In Comedy or Drama?

Vincent: Comedy Briana: Comedy Clean As You Cook or Clean After You Eat? Vincent: Clean as you cook Briana: Clean as you cook Call or Text?

Vincent: Text Briana: Call… Facetime Me! How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

Vincent: @vincentjmorales Briana: @blmyles

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I want to offer you another perspective. Matthew 1:21 reads; “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.” It’s important that we remember, “Jesus is the reason for the season.” Without Him, there would be no Christmas!

In my opinion, there is nothing wrong with giving and receiving gifts, but we should be focused on The Gift, Jesus Christ, not the gifts under the tree! John 3:16; “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Jesus is the best gift of all!

Remembering

Jesus This Holiday Season

D

uring this season of COVID, there are a lot of uncertainties. The one that is now being discussed by American citizens is supply chain issues. People are stressing over the news reporting that people should go ahead and purchase all their gifts, or they may not receive them in time for Christmas (I guess that’s one way to give the economy a boost). Another report states that food, gas, and other consumer prices, are being driven up by the shortage of workers along with supply chain issues.

These reports add another level of stress to those who find the Christmas season the most depressing time of the year.

Let me share a little humor with you. (paraphrased) I once read a story that went something like this: There was a married couple once that really didn’t try too hard to get along with one another. So, one Christmas, she gave him a burial plot for Christmas. He was stunned, but he didn’t say anything about it. The next Christmas she didn’t get him anything. This was more than he could handle, so he just told her that he was quite hurt that she didn’t get him anything. She said, “Why should I? You didn’t use the one I got you last year.” If we are honest, we don’t always like the gifts we receive and many times they end up being regifted. I want to challenge you to find someone or a family who is struggling and be a blessing to them by giving them a gift. That gift can be something as simple as providing them Christmas dinner.

Isaiah 9:6; “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

Jesus is Love. And love isn’t love until you give it away! Have a very Merry Christmas and Remember Jesus This Holiday Season!

Merwyn K. Smith

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Estate Planning For You And Your Family

By Marcus Gold, MBA

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n estate plan is not just for high-net-worth individuals.

It is for anyone single, has a spouse, has a partner, has dependents, owns a business, has investments, has retirement funds, owns the property, or has material possessions of value such as a car. An estate plan may reduce estate taxes and shield your beneficiaries from having to go through probate. Estate planning ensures your last wishes will be heard. You can name a guardian for young children and even direct how you wish a beloved pet to be cared for after you are gone. Having an estate plan can also prevent a mess by clarifying your beneficiaries, as it can protect assets from unforeseen creditors.1

The estate plan2 may contain a will or living trust, the names of your beneficiaries, the appointment of an executor, a letter of intent that tells a beneficiary or executor what you wish to be done with specific assets, funeral details, and special requests. The estate plan should contain a healthcare directive with a power of attorney appointing a trusted person to make medical decisions for you when you can no longer voice your opinion. It should also include a durable power of attorney appointing a trusted friend or relative to make financial and legal decisions for you if you become incapacitated. It may also contain a trust or trusts for passing on assets to your beneficiaries. Life insurance can be an essential component in the overall estate plan.

You should update your estate plan whenever a significant change occurs in your life, such as purchasing a home, moving in with a significant other, getting married, having or adopting a baby, or selling your business. Also, getting a divorce, retiring, or having a beneficiary die before you do are reasons to update your estate plan. Be sure to review your plan when federal and state laws on estate taxes change.

Marcus Gold, MBA If you should die without a will (called “intestate”),3 the state and federal governments will have standard procedures for distributing your assets, and they may not be in line with your wishes. Your beneficiaries may have to pay more in estate taxes, and probate may take considerably longer than it would if you had a will in place.

Consult a professional financial advisor on tax and estate planning. Trusts can be complicated to set up, so consult a professional trusts and estates attorney or certified public account before you begin.

This educational, third-party article is provided as a courtesy

by Marcus Gold, MBA Agent, (CA Lic# 4054898) New York Life Insurance Company. To learn more about the information or topics discussed, please contact Marcus Gold at 910.3202793 or Mgold01@ft.nyl.com. Visit www.marcusgoldnyl.com Julie Garber, “5 Reasons You Need an Estate Plan,” The Balance.com, September 18, 2020. https://www.thebalance.com/top-reasons-why-you-need-an-estate-plan-3505444 Glenn Curtis, “6 Estate Planning Must-Haves,” Investopedia.com, September 29, 2020. https://www.investopedia.com/articles/pf/07/estate_plan_checklist.asp 3 Julia Kagan, “Intestate,” Investopedia.com, November 30, 2019.

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Marriage, Fatherhood, DulaneyLand Music and more with

Todd Dulaney

By Quencia Mangum

DulaneyLand Music is committed to giving the world affordable music production. DLM boasts top-tier producers who have worked with some of your favorite artists’ music and productions. Their team of producers are skilled professionals knowledgeable about their craft and dedicated to serving in excellence. They provide top songwriters (including Todd Dulaney) to help assist in writing or writing for you. DLM services also include dedicated project managers that assist with streamlining projects which is a priority to them. They offer unique arrangements and ensure that no production sounds the same. DLM marketing services are customized for each artist with custom marketing plans, rollouts, and strategic plans.

Learn more about DulaneyLand Music at www.dulaneylandmusic.com and follow them on social media at @dulaneylandmusic.

Photo via www.dulaneylandmusic.com

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Holiday EDITION 2021

Photo via todddulaneyland.com

Out of everything you’ve accomplished as a former professional baseball player, an artist, a man/family man, worship leader, businessman, what makes you the proudest or makes you stick your chest out the most?

Todd: FATHER! Father! Without a doubt, it’s father. I mean, marriage is one of the hardest things in the world to maintain so I mean I’m proud of that, but fatherhood is something different; it’s like you get a chance to leave greatness behind so even after you’re done, depending on how much you’ve sown, they can carry on legacy and that’s essential. And not just that, but as men, we are multipliers; it’s what we love to Family man, friend, mentor, CEO, worship do. So, to see my sons, my daughters carry leader, world traveler, creative; HOW do around traits and attributes that I know you do it all?? come from their dad… Just recently, my son Todd: You know, every day is a juggling was having a little trouble at school where act. You have to pay attention to what’s his teacher said, “he’s got to be the center being neglected and then tend to that. I of attention, etc.” and I told her I’m going to don’t always get it right. I’m not always the have a talk with him and settle him down; best husband, father, worship leader, or I said, but if that doesn’t work I’m going CEO; it just depends on the day. I nurture to pull him out of school, and I’m going to one thing because it’s only one me, and I home school him. She was stunned because nurture what I feel needs to be nurtured she doesn’t usually get that response. I said at that time; that way, everything gets the I know what he needs, and one thing I’m not proper attention it needs. There are some going to allow is for the systems of this world days that the company absolutely needs to stifle his creativity and who he is. So, I my attention, and so I have to really dig said if you say he’s the center of attention, into that and engage in that. Then I put that there’s a place for that in this world that on autopilot, and I move back over here makes a lot of money, and because you can’t to being a husband because she allowed find a way to nurture that, now you want me me that space to be like, “OK, I see you’ve to shut him down, and I’m not going to do got to really focus there, and then the kids that. So, I will settle him down, but I’m not same thing, so that’s kind of the way I do it. going to shut him down, and if that doesn’t I’m doing this with the best interest at heart work, then I’ll have him traveling all over the for my family so that one day when I leave world with me, and I’ll be pouring into him this earth, my kids will be able to live off the and showing him exactly what to do with wealth that I create here on earth, and my that. wife don’t have to think when she swipes

her card.

Please tell us about the Song of Solomon album you mentioned on your Facebook LIVE! Is this going to happen? Can we look forward to this? We need this!!

Todd: (Laughing) If I do something like that, it’s going to be authentic. I’m going to ask Tank to do it with me. I’m going to tell him, “We’re going The church has this whole heavy to sing these scriptures, but cloud that sits over the body that they’re talking about all almost tries to relate humility with the things you sing about.” (laughing) It has crossed being broke and poor, and the my mind. It can happen. moment that I decided to fight against I’m wide open to anything, that mentality and that thought process anyway God can expand my reach and maintain and said, “No! I’m gonna be wealthy, my heart because my I’m gonna be extremely rich, and heart is always His, but I love that He allows me I’m still able to walk in humility. The and trust me enough to moment I embraced that was when God go outside His church gave me this idea for this company that walls to actually have real conversations provides music production for people that with people. So, it As we know, you are a former professional baseball player, and the Braves just won the world series. Were you thinking anywhere in your mind, “that could have been me”?

Todd: (laughing) No, I think I’m past that.

I went through that for about 5-6 years, and I regretted leaving it (baseball) behind until God showed His hand. But, when He showed me what I was going to become for Him, I left that feeling alone because now look at my life! I can’t complain. My life is everything that I imagined it would be and then some.

have no idea where to go”.

could be in the works!

Ok, let’s talk about DulaneyLand Music.

What inspired you to create Dulaney Land Music?

Todd: You know I went through this phase of breaking away from religious thinking.

That was the first step before I really became an owner of myself. The church has this whole heavy cloud that sits over the body that almost tries to relate humility with being broke and poor, and the moment that I decided to fight against that mentality and that thought process and said, “No! I’m gonna be wealthy, I’m gonna be extremely rich, and I’m still able to walk in humility.

The moment I embraced that was when God gave me this idea for this company that provides music production for people that have no idea where to go. The company is one of the best ideas He has ever given to me. In the first three months, month one, we grossed over a half-million dollars in sales.

Month two, we grossed over a half-million dollars in sales. Month three, we’re on the verge of grossing over a half-million dollars in sales. So we’ve already as a company grossed over 1.5 million dollars in sales.

And it wasn’t until I said, “God, yes! You can make me wealthy. I receive it!”

First off, let me say that for someone who is falling in love with intercession, I am so excited to hear that DulaneyLand Music will be coming alongside intercessors to help produce a sound in the earth that I believe is so vital right now, and I feel that, that is one thing that sets this production company apart from the rest. In your opinion, why should a Hip Hop or R&B or even Rock or Country artist choose DulaneyLand Music as their home base for creativity and production, and what makes DulaneyLand music so different from other music production companies that have been established for a while?

Todd: I would say the access that we allow people to have as far as top tier musicians, top tier producers, and A-list artists. You get access to them through this company. Not only that but the prices. It’s hard to beat the prices that we offer.

Before we end, is there anything you would like to share with our readers about DulaneyLand and any breaking news you want to share with the magazine first?

Todd: I think I gave y’all everything, but you can tell them just to go to DulaneyLandmusic.com, and there’s more info there. I’m an open book, so I gave y’all everything. This has been good; this has been solid. I love open conversations. I’m over the religious talk, and I want to tell people something to help them live their lives.

Follow Todd on social media at @toddulaney1.

Holiday EDITION 2021

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DESIGN LIKE A PRO: 8 Tips For This Holiday Season

Designed By: Christina Owens | www.iamcrenee.com |IG: Iam_C.Renee

T

he holidays are here, and I want to offer you a few solutions for bringing the holiday spirit into your home this year. Before we get into my design tips, I want to remind you to spread the love. Don’t forget to buy a few small emergency gifts for those who may not be able to gather with their family or friends. While the holiday season is a happy time for most people, it can also bring some individuals a lot of sadness and loneliness. Be mindful of those around you. Invite a friend or distant family member over so they’re not alone. Spread the love a little more this year.

Most importantly, let’s not forget the reason for the season, Jesus! Jesus is the reason for the season, and before you go crazy trying to meet everyone’s gift expectations, remember the greatest gift of all! Happy Holidays! Now, let’s get into these design tips….

1. Layering.

Now is the time to add those nice soft plush cozy throws to all room spaces, sofas, beds, chairs, and ottomans during the holiday season. Many pillows with different textures and patterns and of all sizes add more warmth and depth to any space. Pillows allow your home to feel cozy for your guests instantly.

décor to the space to boost your holiday spirit. Be extra; go for two Christmas trees this year.

4. Create Magic.

Make your tree magical and well-lit with two or three different size lights.

5. Have Fun. Add a fun element to your gift wrapping. This year ditch the gift name tags and add pictures to your presents. Adding photos is sure to bring smiles, laughs, and much-added care to each gift.

6. Mix Metals.

Mixing metals for the holiday season is entirely ok! Silver, gold, chrome, metallic are all nice touches for dining table décor, mirrors, and accent décor pieces around your home.

7. Set the Mood.

Adding aromas to your home sets the mood. One way to add scents on a budget is to try adding clove and cinnamon to boiling water on the stove. This will make your entire home smell holiday-ready on a budget.

2. Add Greenery.

Buy some fresh garland and add it to your fireplace, dining table, staircase, foyer, or front door. The fresh scent it is sure to give you will put you in the holiday spirit.

3. Be Extra!

It’s been a long year for everyone just trying to adjust to our new normal in this pandemic; feel free to add some extra

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8. Dining Table Décor!

Setting your table for a holiday early is a sure way to put everyone in the Holiday spirit. Go ahead and buy that unique holiday set you saw. Go for the fancy napkins, placemats, table linen. And don’t forget to add those mixed metals for a touch of bling.

How To Navigate The Holidays As A Couple James and Monica Miller

F

or many couples, the holidays are some of the happiest, joyous times of the year. Reuniting with family and friends can be so refreshing. However, holidays can also be one of the most challenging times of the year. Couples usually stick to their traditions.

Buying gifts for the kids, parents, and others may become stressful, and spending time with parents, siblings, and other loved ones can also. In many marriages/ relationships, large amounts of money are spent to get the perfect gifts for loved ones.

Most of us think of how our parents raised us and expect the holidays to be the same way when celebrating holiday traditions with our partner’s. Yes, even when individuals are married, parents may believe their children will celebrate the holidays as usual. Husband and wives even expect the same. The issue is, this may add some stress to the new couples or even the veteran couples. Whose holiday celebration will be attending. Will one of you miss out on your family’s holiday tradition? How will this make you feel? How will this make your family feel about your absence?

Here are a few helpful solutions for couples who may struggle with making difficult decisions during the holidays. Have the difficult conversations. Write down the important factors of the holidays, considering cost and how you individually feel about the holidays and where they are spent. Additionally, write down your family traditions so that your partner will clearly understand what happens during the family traditional holiday gathering. Explain to your partner what these traditions meant to you as a child and what parts you enjoyed the most. Blended families will need to consider the other parent and where the children will be during the holiday. For example, if the children will be with their mother on Thanksgiving, how will that affect where you and your partner celebrate Thanksgiving. Couples must also consider culture. Does your partner celebrate the upcoming holiday? What does the partner who doesn’t celebrate the holiday usually do on this day? Even if the partner does not mark a specific holiday, the other partner needs to understand and be willing to include the other partner’s usual activity on the particular holiday. Even if

that includes doing nothing. Suppose the partner attends a family holiday gathering that they do not celebrate to support you. In that case, you will need to be present with your spouse as they do their routine, not celebrating the holiday. Compromising is key!

Remember to be open to the wishes of family members— but NOT controlled by them. Decide on how you as a couple would like to establish your own holiday traditions.

Work for balance and fairness. Many couples choose to alternate locations for the holidays. For example, last year they went to one partner’s parents’ home for the holiday.

This year they will go to the other partner’s parent’s home for the holiday. Flexibility is also essential as the weather, health challenges, and other unforeseen circumstances may change your plans. Converse with your partner and have a Plan B and Plan C. If you and your partner decide to host a family gathering during the holidays, you will want to take the same approach but with a little more detail. Again, plan out your event and write it down with your partner. Write down the pros and cons of having family in your home during the holidays, considering the children and each other’s feelings about hosting, in-laws, overnight guests, and even pets. Yes, pets are a part of the family and should be considered as well. It is important to be very honest with your partner about how you feel about each family member you invite into your home. Set ground rules for your guest as well. For example, if you are not keen on family members bringing individuals who are not a part of your family to your home, they will need to discuss this with you and your partner, not just one of you. You and your partner will need to decide together on whether or not you approve or disapprove of the family member bringing a guest. Never allow a family member to manipulate you into doing something behind your partner’s back that will cause discord within your relationship and home.

Holidays should be fun. To keep these days’ worth celebrating, remember to make the times spent during the holidays enjoyable and memorable. Create traditions within your own home and work together to focus on spending these blissful days together.

Holiday EDITION 2021

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EXCLUSIVE FEATURE

IYANLA VANZANT

MASTERPEACE

Photos Courtesy of Iyanla Vanzant and the MasterPeace Team

J

oin me as I catch up with Iyanla Vanzant as she discusses her next chapter. Known for teaching others to master their peace, Iyanla has created a line of luxury bath soap called MasterPeace.

MasterPeace is Iyanla’s humble offering to the world to help others find peace, calm, joy, and rejuvenation; to help them clean their body while cleansing their energy. Please keep reading to hear Iyanla’s words of wisdom on The MasterPeace movement, furthering her daughter’s legacy, self-care, why men need to master their peace also as well as why we all need to be intentional.

MASTERPEACE. The MasterPeace Body Therapy products line was created in honor of her daughter, Gemmia, who passed away in 2003 following a battle with colon cancer. MasterPeace products tap into centuries of wisdom that define how to facilitate good health, equilibrium, and well-being. Cultures around the world have harnessed the power of herbal medicine and aromatherapy for millennia, and these practices are at the very root of modern medicine.

MasterPeace blends are made with pure plant extracts and natural mineral ingredients. Each blend is uniquely formulated and carefully curated by Iyanla’s own hands. Over the years, crafting these blends has helped this highly soughtafter spiritual leader maintain a state of grounded peace.

THE MOVEMENT. Beyond just the body products, this is a movement for me.

MasterPeace is becoming a movement of really teaching people and sharing with people how to master your energy and how to have peace. Because if you don’t have peace of mind, if you don’t have peace in your heart, if you don’t have peace in your life, everything else will be chaotic.

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Holiday EDITION 2021

The next chapter for me is creating a movement where people do a couple of things. Number one, they become conscious and responsible for their personal energy because it impacts your money, relationships, career, and health. So many people have had health challenges since the pandemic because of their thinking and how they were feeling. Now I’m not going to tell you that a bar of soap (or lotions) can help you take all of that away, but it can help you manage it. Imagine if when you put your lotion on, you’re affirming to your body and your energy what it is that you want to think and feel.

We’ve created our first three luxury body bars, and this is not just a bar of soap that you could get at the Dollar Tree because of the combination of the herbs and oils. We’ve created these first three; the latter is divine, the scent is divine, and they all come with an affirmation on the side. So, you can cut that out, write it down, and keep it with you.

For me, it’s not just the product itself. It’s also the teaching that I’m doing. But my goal, my purpose in life, is to facilitate the evolution of human consciousness, one mind, one heart, one body, one spirit at a time.

LEGACY. As a descendant of Native Americans, I am just aware of how denigrated and how diminished and devalued Native American culture is in this society. This is not our land, and we walked this land, and the Native Americans lived here and supported themselves and took care of themselves. The legacy of my history as a descendant of Native Americans is another part of why I wanted to bring MasterPeace to the forefront. Because no matter where you study, Native American culture or history, you will see that they, for the most part, were very peaceful people, they fought to protect themselves, and they fought for their culture.

As a mom losing my child, it really altered who I am. And usually, it’s the children that want to advance the parent’s legacy. And in my case, I’m the parent that wants to advance my child’s legacy. You know, Gemmia was just an unnamed Angel; I don’t know what else to say, not because she was my child. But anybody who knew Gemmia knew.

There was never an ill word that came out of her mouth. And she was the most courageous and bold person that I knew. She taught me everything that I know, particularly about how to dress, saying don’t mix your metals and don’t mix your patterns. This is my legacy. Carrying on her legacy for her daughter, which my mother didn’t get to do for me and her mother didn’t get to do for her. My grandmother died when my mother was eleven, and my mother died when I was two. Gemmia died when her daughter (Niamoja) was nine. I don’t have a legacy from my mother or my grandmother.

So, I want to create this legacy for Niamoja to see that her mother’s presence and her mother’s life made a difference in the world. And this is not just a body product. This is self-care education. It’s about legacy. It’s about culture. And it’s about radical, conscious, and energetic self-care.

But if you have a mean mindset and do negative self-talk, you’re still not practicing self-care. So what about if you start your day with an affirmation? Let’s take (MasterPeace luxury bar) Clearing and Releasing; (Affirmation) I bless him and release all things seen and unseen, known and unknown, that block delay, hinder or deny my highest good. Imagine putting that on your body and releasing everything and everyone now.

MEN. Some men need to clear and release some things, particularly the ideas about what a man is. Most men need peace and calm because they are programmed and indoctrinated that their value and worth are attached to their doing and not their being. So, if a man has something to do, he feels valuable and worthy. But what about those times in periods where men, just like women, have that place where they’re just a little confused. I don’t know what my next step is. I don’t know where I’m going. I don’t know what makes me feel good. Most of them don’t know what makes them feel good from the waist up. They know what makes them feel good from the waist down.

So, the herbs that are in our products will help them. Men need to exfoliate their skin to cut away dead skin cells that are generated by mental and emotional energy and just the physical operation of the body. They still have needs, men have been abused, men have been violated, men have been betrayed, and they need Clearing and Releasing.

INTENTIONALITY. Do you have a self-care ritual? Do you have a selfcare ritual beyond your nails, your hair, your barber that you do for yourself? Imagine putting on body butter, and instead of just slathering it on, you are affirming. You know, I’m calling forth my highest and greatest good. I’m attracting all things that are good for me. I’m moving toward an experience and expression of peace, intentionality in how you care for yourself. And that’s the goal behind masterpiece products. That’s why every single product comes with an affirmation and is intentionally made with the combination of herbs and oils we use.

This is not just a body product.

This is self-care education. It’s about legacy. It’s about culture. And it’s about radical, conscious, and energetic self-care”

SELF CARE. To me, self-care is the conscious awareness of mind, body, and spirit moment to moment. Then, taking the actions or engaging in the practices that support you in having the highest energetic vibration possible. So that, to me, is self-care. It’s not just about your nails and a nap and eating healthy food, because you can do all of that.

Holiday EDITION 2021

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