FEMI MAGAZINE MAY/JUNE 2022

MAY/JUNE 2022

THE BRIDAL ISSUE

M/J 2022

AVAILABLE UNTIL JUNE 30, 2022

Patrice Johnson Joi Kyles Shaquin Thomas Brandi Yvonne Precious Stevens Mafi Wolf

www.FEMIMAGAZINE.com

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PTANISHA DAVIS ublisher’s Note

There’s an old saying that April showers, bring May flowers! Well we know between the months of May and June, many engaged couples are headed to the altars to say “I Do” to the one they love! I truly believe that black love is such a beautiful thing and even in a society that tends to promote infidelity and sneaky links, we can still find those who are loyal to their vows! In this Bridal issue of FEMI, we will be showcasing stories on those who help make wedding days special! You will also get to see some beautiful images of brides and more! Are you ready to say I Do? FEMI is!

Photography By: Calvin Howard Make-Up By: Breana Tyshe Scott

Tanisha D. Davis

Tanisha D. Davis, Publisher

CONNECT WITH ME @TanishaDDavis

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Photography By: Giuseppe Messina

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Photography By: Orione Conceição

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Image: Asad

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CONTENTS Patrice Johnson

8

Joi Kyles

13

Shaquin Thomas

20

Brandi Yvonne

23

Mafi Wolf

31

GIFT IDEAS For Mother’s Day!

36

Precious Stevens

38

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CONTRIBUTORS Managing Editor LaTrice Strong

Debbie Stokes Tyrane Hughes Amanda Miller Victoria Moulterie Parissa Randle JaBraun McKenzie Chaiquan Wingfield

Founder/ Publisher Tanisha D. Davis Email info@femimagazine.org Website FEMIMAGAZINE.com Instagram | Twitter | TikTok @femimagazine Facebook @officialfemimagazine

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Written By: Debbie Stokes

Many experiences will come to test your strength.

Patrice Johnson, a native of New Orleans, and a survivor of Hurricane Katrina used her experiences to propel her forward. After that epic flood, Johnson and her family were blessed with an opportunity to leave New Orleans and start over in St. Louis, Missouri.

While there, she found her love for sewing. After sewing thingshere and there, Johnson shifted her focus to wedding gownalterations and making custom pieces. She loved the idea of creating a beautiful look for a woman’s special wedding day.Hence, the idea for her full-service bridal salon was born.Johnson converted a twobedroom house into a bridal shop, and she is the first black-owned bridal shop in St. Louis. She has recently expanded to a second shop.

Here is my conversation with Patrice Johnson, owner of Patrice J. Bridal.

Tell us about yourself―the woman, the wife, the mother, and the business owner.

I'm Patrice, a 41-year-old native of New Orleans who now calls St. Louis home. I have been married 22 years to my husband Ian and have two little boys, Ian Jr. and Eli who keep me busy.Patrice J. Bridal is a true faith walk for me as I left my accounting career to pursue fulltime entrepreneurship.

You are a Katrina survivor. Can you share a little about your experience and how your life changed when you left New Orleans?

Hurricane Katrina significantly changed my outlook on life. My husband and I bought our first house the Wednesday beforeKatrina made landfall. We spent two days in the Superdome, onenight in a parking garage, and one day on the floors of Tulane Hospital before we were airlifted out of New Orleans. St. Louisbecame home because of a job opportunity that allowed us to settle down and establish roots.

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For those thinking about getting married, what tips can you offer for brides-to-be about what they should look for in a gown?

Stay off of Pinterest. Seriously though, shop with an open mind, limit your crew, ignore the size of the dresses and choose the dress that looks good and makes you feel better. Set a budget and stick to it. Your wedding is one day, your marriage is forever!

Spring and summer are the two prime wedding seasons. Can you talk about what’s trending?

My brides are loving transitional gowns (2-in-1 looks) and have been fawning over lace embellished gowns with subtle touches of bling. They are also loving dramatic capes.

You have a yearly giveaway. Talk about that, and then what made you decide to do it?

My annual Christmas giveaway was an opportunity to get my kids involved in philanthropic activities. I grew up in the lower 9th ward of New Orleans so I understand lack. Growing up without builds a certain set of character traits. Because my kids won't have those life experiences, I'm creating opportunities for them to learn empathy. Patrice J. Bridal will also be hosting a prom giveaway in late April 2022.

What’s next for you?

Outside of growing Patrice J. Bridal, my biggest goal is to create the largest minority-led and attended Bridal show in the Midwest.

How did you get into sewing and when did you know it was more than a hobby?

I learned to sew as a kid helping my grandmother. However, following Katrina, I picked it up as a hobby to channel some of the anxiety I was experiencing. I found an awesome online community that kept me motivated to grow my skills. I have made everything from skirts and jeans …to bras and panties.

Instagram: @patricejbridal

Website: www.patricejbridal.com

You made history being the first black to own a bridal shop in Missouri, and you now have two shops. How does a little black girl end up owning a bridal shop? What did it feel like knowing you made history? And does your husband help you with your business?

I still have to pinch myself because it doesn't seem real that I'm living out something I once dreamed. But here I am! I was several months into ownership before learning that I was a part of St. Louis history, so that was lagniappe.

My husband was God sent. He is the receptionist, building manager, personal assistant, etc. He speaks wedding dresses fluently and I could not do any of this without him and his undying support.

What’s the most gratifying thing about being a business owner?

Getting to set my own rules for what work looks like, and how the bridal industry will change because I exist.

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Photography By: Rodrigo Feksa

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Newlyweds Mr. Dekontee & Mrs. Shanae Allen Photographer: Cezar Moffatt Artofficial Photography FEMI MAGAZINE | 12

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JOI KYLES

South Carolina native, Joi Kyles of Joi-Filled Delights, is using her pastry-making skills to evoke decadent desires in her customers. Her delicious, eye-catching, one-of-a-kind cakes, especially wedding cakes, and her cupcakes are causing people to go crazy.

Kyles enjoys not only pouring her heart and soul into making custom-designed pastries but also creating an experience for her customers. And that she has accomplished. It makes her day when she hears her customers rave about her products.

Meet Joi Kyles as she shares her story.

What has the experience been like providing services in the Columbia area of South Carolina?

It’s been amazing. I’ve been baking since I was 13-years-old and have gained clients that I view as friends. Columbia is my home, so it’s been absolutely incredible to create cakes for clients in the city that I love. I’ve been blessed with so many different opportunities to share my talents with so many people.

How has being able to compete on award-winning networks like the Food Network and the Cooking Channel helped increase your stamina?

Oh man, a dream come true! Ever since I was young, I knew I’d compete on these networks. It was absolutely surreal, and I can’t wait to do it again. I learned so much that I’ve applied to my business. It’s 100% increased my stamina and motivated me to continue to perfect my craft, so I’m able to keep competing. I am truly looking forward to more opportunities to be showcased on a national level as a competitor and an influencer/ambassador.

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Above Images Courtesy of Joi Kyles What do you enjoy most about designing bridal cakes and how do you handle the pressure of bringing their vision to life?

My favorite thing about baking and designing a bridal cake is being able to play such a huge part in a special day. I love “love”and I get to experience it all over again with each couple as we go through the process from the initial cake tasting to the wedding day. I love getting the photos back from clients watching them cut their cakes or exchange bites. It’s an indescribable feeling. Definitely a lot of pressure. Something that you DON’T want to mess up.

What tips do you have for anyone seeking a good pastry Chef for their special day?

Research! Ask your local Facebook groups about their favorite cake artists - that’s how a lot of my clients have found me. Once you’ve found a couple of potential cake artists, request a cake tasting. Not only will this create a special memory with your partner, but you will be able to try before you buy in a sense.

Not only is presentation important, but so is flavor. And you’ll get to try lots of cool flavors.

Do you offer any training for those seeking your line of work?

Yes! I have done one-on-one classes; however, COVID put a pause on that. But I plan to resume in the future. I love teaching and seeing the progress of those that I have been able to help along the way!

What do you feel is the secret to a good cake that will keep people wanting more?

Texture …100%. I’ve never met anyone that is a fan of a dry cake. A moist cake paired with a light and fluffy buttercream will definitely have me going back for seconds.

Any funny or embarrassing stories in the kitchen that besides telling FEMI Magazine, you wouldn’t share with anyone?

In my early years of baking, I was making a birthday cake for my grandmother, who I lived with at the time. We were in the kitchen together and I went to grab the cake out the fridge, it slipped out of my hands onto the floor. She encouraged me and let me know it was okay if she didn’t have a cake that year.

But I was in there all night baking a new one for her. I’m so glad that I did. She loved it!

Connect with Joi Kyles on Social Media!

Instagram @joi.kyles Website: www.joifilleddelights.com

What’s next for you in the upcoming months?

I’m a new mother so getting into the swing of balancing baking and the SAHM life. In addition to bridal cakes, I also love creating custom cakes imitating food and trends so I am creating some new and fun cake content on my social media pages. Be sure to follow me to stay up to date on all of my new creations. I will also be on the lookout for opportunities to participate in baking competitions.

Experience what everyone is raving about.

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Photography By: John Ray Ebora

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Photography By: Deffo Manizo

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Photography By: Calvin Howard

Mr. Charles & Mrs. LaTanya Austin Wedding Anniversary on May 30th Celebrating 43 Years!

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Photography By: Calvin Howard

Mr. Charles & Mrs. LaTanya Austin Happy Anniversary! May 30th!

Celebrating 43 Years!

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SHAQUIN THOMAS FEMI MAGAZINE | 20

SHAQUIN THOMAS, CHEF AND OWNER OF SOUL TO TABLEIS PASSIONATE ABOUT CATERING FOR WEDDINGS, HER CLIENTS AND HER COMMUNITY Written By: Debbie Stokes

I spoke with Shaquin Thomas, owner of Soul To Table. She’s also an author and community activist who enjoys catering tasty dishes for her clients and giving back. This is our chat.

Tell us about your company, Soul To Table, and about your inspiration for writing your cookbooks.

While my father used to help me cook, he used to always ask the ingredients or the recipe and I never had a recipe; I just naturally combined items, and the dishes were amazing. I promised him that I would one day create an abundance of cookbooks with all my recipes. I would combine all the spices in my cabinet and he said you need to come up with seasoning like Mrs. Dash. I laughed it off and said, “Yes, I’m gonna have cookbooks and spices on the store shelves one day.” I spoke those words into existence it seems; it happened in 2020.

The name of my company, Soul To Table came to me out of thin air, the name used to be Catering To All Your Needs. I used to work in corporate America and I always said I would one day take a leap of faith to have my own catering business full time,but never took that step. When my father became ill, I took a leave of absence and my job let me go saying, “You could reapply if he passed away.” I watched my father take his last breath while I was in the middle of cooking. For me, it was a life and death moment. My business, Soul To Table was birthed, and he gave his life for my dream of owning my own business to come to fruition.

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You once catered a 200-guest wedding, served home-cooked meals to police, firefighters, EMTs, and veterans, and have given free hygiene kits to the less fortunate. CNN and your local news spotlighted your generosity, what inspires you to give back?

Giving back definitely goes back to my childhood. My grandma used to always show me a closed fist and she would tell me that if my hand is closed that blessings can’t flow in and blessings can’t flow out. She planted that seed in me.

Then, I would watch my daddy give to the less fortunate on various corners asking for money. He would always tell me that you never know if you are the answer to someone’s prayer or if Jesus was disguised as a man and this was a test of his heart. My daddy would sometimes give people his last. This made a lasting impression on me. My father was my best friend and I had always hoped he would see me be successful. He told me that if I ever got to meet Tyler Perry, then I officially “made it” and that he would tell all his friends about me. That is my inspiration and I will continue until I reach that goal.

For chefs, what advice would you give about getting into the catering business, and for brides-to-be, what advice would you give about choosing a catering company?

To be a chef, you have to be patient, consistent, and INNOVATIVE. If cauliflower is the new trending food item, you just get in your kitchen and create new recipes and give people something they have never seen before. Eating the same thing can easily become mundane and it is our job to create dishes that make people want to eat their phone screens.

For brides-to-be, choose a company that fits your family’s palate. If your family loves southern food, make sure it is your caterer’s expertise. Choose a company that someone recommends because word of mouth is the best advertisement.

Tell us about your upcoming projects and how to reach you?

I just landed a role as a food contributor for The City Magazine and my first article is due to be published in April, so that is extremely exciting for me.

What are you most passionate about when you cater weddings and what is it like living the life of a chef?

Catering weddings is so fun because every little girl dreams about the perfect fairytale wedding and someday marrying Prince Charming. Food is what brings people together or breaksbread so to speak. My goal is always to create beautiful, appetizing dishes that make their wedding day memorable.

Living the life of a chef means there is never a dull moment. There is no set schedule, and unbeknownst to most, it’s most definitely art because we get to create different dishes on a daily. There are many aspects to being a chef―meal prep, movie sets, intimate dinners, weddings, brunches, and more.

Connect with Shaquin Thomas!

Instagram @soultotablecatering Website soultotablecatering.com

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Images Courtesy of Brandi Yvonne

Images Courtesy of Brandi Yvonne

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Images Courtesy of Brandi Yvonne

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BRANDI YVONNE: FABRIC OF A LOVE STORY WRITTEN BY: TYRANE HUGHES

Most little girls dream of meeting their “Prince Charming”, being swept off of their feet, and having that fairytale love story. The beautiful “Happily Ever After”. The thing is, most of the happily ever after stories show the Princess living “the life” in a big, beautiful castle, going to fancy dinners, and getting all dolled up to be the belle of the ball. That’s great, but that’s it. And there is so much more to a great love story. Who says you can’t have it all? Or at least strive towards building your version of “it all”.The good news is there are fairytale love stories that go beyond the same old same old. There are love stories with a lot more meaning to them, purpose, and structure. Love needs a foundation. Otherwise, how else would it be able to stand the test of time? Another thing, who says the Princess has to be some damsel in distress? There is absolutely nothing wrong with a “Knight in shining armor”. Nothing at all. A King is supposed to be able to protect his Queen.

However, a Princess is just that, a Queen in the making. Which means she has more to bring to the table than a pretty face, and a sparkly dress. And she also has her own way of protecting her King. She not only brings something to the table, she plays a part in building that table, the chairs that go with it, and the castle that it belongs to as well. That’s why I love Brandi Yvonne’s love story. Brandi and her Fiance Jared are a power couple. They met doing one of the things they love most-shopping. They got to know one another, fell in love, and put in the work to build an empire.

That is what a King and his Queen are supposed to do. Brandi and Jared are not only building an empire, they are adding to the structure of their adoration, bond, and love for one another. The best part about it is they are doing what they love, with the one they love. I believe we truly were knit in the womb, and the fabric of our essence has the perfect match out there. When the two essences become one, they become this garment that can’t be torn apart. It can’t be stained, as if it’s scotch-guarded by all of the love and devotion that was and will be put into it. The blood, sweat, and tears give the garment strength as well. It’s hard work that is worth more than words can express, so you have to express it through life. How can you do that? By joining in marriage of course. So that’s exactly what Jared and Brandi decided to do. Here is their love story:

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BRANDI YVONNE

Interview Continued…

One of my favorite parts of any love story…How did you and Jared meet?

(She laughs before answering). “We actually met in the mall. How ironic is that? And now we have stores together IN the mall! We were both out shopping one day, ran into each other…and the rest is history!”

There comes that moment when you realize that you have found your person…When did you realize that you’d found your person?

“I knew he was my person when he remembered every single detail about me! He remembered my favorite shows, candy, food! Would do the smallest big sweetest gestures, like driving to me from 2 hours

You had a surprise engagement party. Tell us about that beautiful and special event.

“It was absolutely like something out of a fairytale. I was completely surprised. He had every detail about my life included in it. From my favorite food, drinks, movie theme (I’m a movie person), and just went above and beyond to make sure that day was special! We have the entire video on our YOUTUBE page “Building An Empire”.”

You are planning your dream wedding, and soon to be married…What are you most looking forward to in the chapter of Happily Ever After?

away if I wasn't feeling well, and bring me what he thought I would need and want. He pays attention to detail and is super loving, and that’s how I always envisioned my person to be.”

I am sure that you both have had plenty of special moments before the engagement…What is one of your most favorite special moments prior to your engagement?

“My most special moment prior to the engagement was opening up our retail location. It was something we both love and are passionate about. And to be able to open up a retail store in the mall TOGETHER is pretty dang special.”

You two are not only lovers and friends, you’re also business partners….What’s the best part of running an empire with the love of your life?

“The best part is being able to be creative and work alongside your partner. We bounce ideas off each other, we are always thinking of new business ventures, and we’re always dreaming. Nothing better than dreaming a life with your partner, and then watching it come to life.”

What would be your advice to two love birds building a nest of love and financial success together?

“KNOW WHEN TO TURN OFF “work mode”! You have to have a healthy balance of work and love life. So complete your work day, and then dive into your relationship. Still date, still travel, and keep falling in

“I’m looking forward to the celebration of the both of us deciding to “do life together”, and allowing all our closest friends and family to witness that and be there… and then after that, honestly- married life! I’ve always wanted to be a wife! (She laughs). So living in that moment forever is going to be super special.”

I may not be hopeless, but I am such a romantic. I know what it feels like to be so in love that you sometimes wonder if you’re at the point of the dream where someone is going to wake you soon. Life and societal opinions/focusing can make people stop believing this exists, but it does. Is it perfect? No…but it is their version of perfect. Customized just for the two. So to see these beautiful black lovers come full circle with their dreams and passions to the point of a vow for an eternal union is beyond satisfying. We celebrate Black Love and Black Success, because we were told nothing was meant for us but hate and failure…That our men and women couldn’t possibly love one another faithfully and truly. That type of love doesn’t exist, and if it does it’s fraudulent…And that is the furthest from the truth.

We can bond, build, create, heal, love, be joyous, devoted, conquer, and prosper in the promises of all that is and always has been truly meant for us. I am happy for Brandi and Jared, and pray nothing but the best for them (respectfully).

You can keep up with Brandi and the empire here: Instagram: Brandivonne YouTube: Building An Empire

love with each other every single day.”

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Photography By: Vincent Wasswa

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M MA AF FI I W WO OL LF F

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Imagine being so gifted that your talent aligns with your purpose and your ultimate goal is to share it with the world.

Mafi Wolf gravitated towards his gift and immersed himself in it becoming the fashion artist he is today and he is still growing. He understood his calling and his mission was to share his fashion. In that quest, Wolf chose to be different and to set himself apart from the pack. In doing so, his passion for creating fashion has propelled him to create original pieces that exhibit an enduring vibe and speak volumes without him saying a word.

Wolf has broken boundaries to produce pieces that are original and unique, and which have people including celebrities calling on him to get their pieces of his fashion art garments. His brand focuses on quality over quantity and its ideal purpose is to provide an experience; and in that he delivers. Through Wolf’s brand, he has built Mahsyian, his collection of hoodies, tops, and other outerwear.

Meet Mafi Wolf, a fashion artist making a name for himself in the Street Fashion Industry.

Define fashion and why it’s important to set your own trends?

To me, I think it’s deeper than setting your own trend but more so just being yourself. Like your true authentic self is the best asset that any one person has. We were all born original, so why would you want to die a copy is how I look at it. And once you blaze your path―your way, your style, your “trend,” the doors that are made just for you to walk in will begin to present themselves and open up for you.

You’ve been on quite a journey to get to where you are today, what do you feel helps to keep your head above water?

Yes, the journey has been rough but beautiful at the same time. Operating any business has its times of difficulty, especially in the earlier stages or times of ramping up the growth of your business. But in those times, I lean harder into my faith and know that I’m going to come out on the other end victorious, but also, a better version of me for all I’ve endured reaching my goals while on my journey. All you need is faith and you’ll never find yourself drowning.

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What’s your creative process like and how do you handle challenges?

I like to think of myself as a natural creative so the process of coming up with concepts and designs comes very easy, all I need is a fire playlist normally. I listen to one of my curated playlistson Apple Music (@mahsyian), and from there, I just let the vibes flow and create how I’m feeling at the moment. Fashion is art to me. I look at blank garments the same way a painter does a piece of paper and I believe that’s what makes each and every piece from Mahsyian different, unique, and unlike the garments,you can currently purchase in the main market.

Far as challenges go, I take them head-on, most of them are self-created by myself striving to push the boundaries on what I know I can do versus what I’m capable of doing, but even for unforeseen challenges, I don’t let them knock me off my game because nothing great is made without a little resistance.

What sets your brand apart from others in the fashion world?

I believe there is a great collection of garments available in mainstream fashion right now, but more so, within the underground community. So, competition in this industry is at an all-time high. In my opinion, I believe several factors separate me from the pack. But the biggest one would have to be that my members know that if they’re getting something from the wolf, they don’t have to worry about seeing somebody else in that same piece unless it was mentioned that it was a promo item or something from our BWC catalog (Black & White Collection). And we pride ourselves on that. But as far as the other reasons, well they will just have to purchase a mystery bag or box and get an experience to figure out the rest. #lonewolfmafia What’s the next expected launch for your new gear?

So, as of July 2021, we have had a lockout on our website not allowing any public purchases with a few minor exceptions for our prime celebrity members. And honestly, I don’t have a set timetable on when we will open back up the site. We are very blessed to be in a situation where we don’t have to sell in a certain season or by consumer demand and that we get the freedom to create and drop pieces at our own Devine timing. So, for updates or hints on when new garments will be available, you’ll have to follow @bigpoppawolf or @mahsyian to be in the know. #lonewolfmafia Who is your fashion icon, and why?

I don’t really have a fashion icon, or person who I just adore their style of making or putting on garments. But, if I had to name a few fashionable people who are gonna give you a variety of styles, I would say: Chris Brown, Pharrell, Wiz Khalifa, Offset, ASAP Rocky, and Teyana Taylor & Iman Shumpert of the world are the people I feel never miss when it comes to fashion.

When did you first discover you had a gift to do this?

Since a jit, I’ve been artistic in some type of fashion. But actually, applying my artistic gift to garments came in 2015 in a vision on a flight back home to Cali. Since that moment, I have been dedicating myself to my craft and what I now realize to be one of my purposes while here on earth.

What’s next for you… any upcoming events?

We don’t typically get involved in traditional fashion stuff like fashion shows, trade shows, and things of that nature. We like to do more raw and organic approaches to reach our target audience. We have a few very fun and exciting campaigns that we will be rolling out this spring and summer to help stimulate our loyal members who have been locked out for a while from getting new gear.

What’s the meaning behind the name of your brand?

So, the entire brand has a meaning for both the Mahsyian and Lone Wolf Mafia.

Mahsyian stands for royalties in oneself, meaning the empowerment in which we as individuals take control of our lives by tapping into our creative talents that differentiates us from society in an effort to create a better quality of life.

Pronunciation: (Muh - sigh - an) Lone: To achieve success solely on my own wits and abilities to align oneself in the right situations to win.

Wolf: Stands for “Warrior of Life Failures” or to champion and overcome all obstacles life throws your way.

Mafia: Solidarity / Family - an act in which you stay committed and loyal to those who have helped you along the way in achieving your success. #lonewolfmafia To keep up with all the excitement around Mafi Wūlf and Mahsyian, they can be found on Instagram: @bigpoppawolf & @mahsyian.

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EDITORIAL PICKS

GIFT IDEAS FOR MOTHER’S DAY! Self-Care Box A self-care gift box is always an amazing choice for Mother's Day. Put together a nice box filled with luxurious products that can help her relax and refresh.

Because we know all moms tend to have stressful days so help her relax a bit!

Tile Mate Tile Mate - 2 Pack If the mom in your life has a habit of misplacing everything from their keys to their wallet, Tile Mates are a must. They'll know exactly where they left their lost item with the use of an app. It'll save mom a lot of time and frustration.

Get it on Amazon for just $48

Apple AirPods Pro If your mom hasn't made the jump to wireless headphones yet, treat her to the best of the best with the Apple AirPods Pro. With travel picking back up again and many people returning to office, the noise cancellation feature is the true gift here, whether for a morning commute or a cross-country flight. Buy It! Apple AirPods Pro, $174; Amazon.com

Photography By: Kobylinsk

Mother’s Day is May 8th and every mom is different so we hope these ideas help you in your search for the perfect gift!

If all else fails then don’t feel bad for loading up a gift card and giving it to your mother with a card!

FEMI Magazine also understands that this time of the year can be difficult for so many who have experienced the loss of your mother.

So this may be a day for you to sit back and reflect on all the beautiful memories you had with your mom. Remember they are always by your side in spirit.

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Photo: S&S

Precious Stevens

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Have you ever gone to an event that was so beautifully put together, it actually made you fantasize about when your day would come to have such an event? Maybe you had an event coming up, and the inspiration made you that more excited to lay out the plans. Or maybe the event made you realize that event planning was something you actually wanted to do. Either way, events take creativity, intricate planning, a keen eye for details, and patience, to say the least. Precious Stevens does more than just design events, she’s a certified boss who has shown and proven that she knows the ins and outs of the business. She has the fundamentals, skills, and strategies to be successful in the field, and she wants to show other women of color how they too can be successful in the event designing business. Precious gave us a little insight on her event designing business and The Posh Academy.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

“I am Precious Stevens of The Posh Academy. I am a creative influencer who enjoys empowering others to turn their passions into profit. I am the mother, sister, daughter, auntie, best friend, coach and mentor who has the formula to living your best life.”

You’re not only an entrepreneur, you’re also a business mentor, motivational speaker, as well as an author. What made you decide to become an event decor specialist? “ It was a split minute decision that was made while attending a wedding. Not only did I fall in love with the transformation, I also was inspired that it was designed by the wedding party. I instantly knew this was something not only I could pull off, but also enjoy it in the process. This was my selfish moment to finally do something for myself without a plan, agenda or desired outcome. So I jumped…..”

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There aren’t many African American women leading successfully in this industry. What would you say helps you to remain successful in this field?

“The support of thousands of other creative African American women that believe in my brand, and who are inspired by my short, successful journey that awakens the giant within themselves.”

What advice would you have for someone trying to get into this business?

“Do it scared, but prepared!”

You offer courses with The Posh Academy Drape & Design Learning Community. Can you tell us a little about the Academy?

“The Posh Academy's sole purpose is to empower through education. We use premium draping as the main avenue to introduce marketing strategies and personal development to transition creative businesses to the next level.”

You’ve designed quite a few luxurious events. What would you say has been your favorite experience thus far?

“My favorite experience was one of my very first events where I designed a backdrop and event decor for a client. Not because it was fabulous, but because it was the complete opposite. It was my favorite because although my client was pleased with the turn out, I was disappointed, and felt it in my spirit. This was not only a life changing experience, but a very pivotal moment in my entrepreneurial journey.”

What does Precious Stevens want out of this entrepreneurial journey that she has decided to embark on?

“I want to create a dynamic impact for new and existing event professionals that feel like they will never get to the next level in their business. I desire to create opportunities for those who are ready and willing to scale their businesses to 6-figures and beyond. I want to transition 1,000 African American women to full time successful business owners, who turn in their pink slip after a 1 year completion of my CAMP. (Client Attraction Mastery Program).”

Precious has helped hundreds of women, and is now looking to help women succeed by the thousands. I love the fact that she is down to earth, but willing to reach for the stars when it comes to being successful. Even better, is that she wants to share the knowledge to create business opportunities for other women, and empower them for financial success on a higher level than they may believe or be aware that they are capable of reaching. If you’d like to keep up with Precious Stevens and her adventures in event design, or even join The Posh Academy, then be sure to follow her!

Instagram: @theposhacademy

FEMI MAGAZINE | 40

Photography: RareMagicPhotography

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