December 2020 Brown Sugar Box Mini Magazine

DECEMBER 2020 $125 RETAIL VALUE

Set Realistic Financial Goals for 2021

WINTER PLAYLIST

THE PURGE: Start 2021 on a Bright Note

by Tossing These Items

WINTER Chic Fancy That!

4 Style Upgrades For Winter Wear

edition

SEIZE THE SEASON

4 Ways

TO MAKE THIS WINTER WONDERFUL

Inside the

WINTER Chic H

ave you pulled out your favorite fall sweaters and boots?

Well, we are definitely feeling good about the changes in the seasons (and other changes in the world). If you’re anything like us, you look forward to rearranging your closet, putting your cute boots on the frontline, and pairing your warm sweaters with sassy leggings. We see you, and you’re looking GREAT! For many of you, November through February (and March if you’re in Chi-Town) is the best time for them to show off your maroon and mustard colors while layering your scarfs and leather jackets to make for the boldest outfits during the coldest months.

Winter weather doesn’t stop you from being fashionable, fly, and oh so chic.

In this Winter Chic Edition, we will bring you the cutest sweatshirts, the warmest soup ideas, and clearest ways to prepare for the new year. We know 2020 has shown us what it means to “be ready so we don’t have to get ready”, and we’re preparing for 2021 now. There’s nothing more exciting than knowing you can bring your A Game to the new year in Izzy & Liv style. Keep It Chic, Sis!

Se pte mbe r

Affirm YoSelf Script Bracelet, $15 (1 OF 5 DESIGNS) ​

You are a beautiful queen, brown sugar beauty, and unapologetic Black girl! Wear your affirmations on your wrist with these Affirm Yoself Script Bracelets. Available in 5 wording options: ​ Brown Sugar, Blessed, Brown Skin Beauty, Queen or Unapologetic. 8 ​ " long chain link bracelet with adjustable/extra length to accommodate all wrist sizes. Real gold plated or real silver plated. Check our site for complimentary necklaces.

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Black Girl Magic CALENDAR

Operation Plan 2021 Wall Calendar, $5

​Start highlighting your special dates now and preparing for what you want to accomplish in 2021. The Operation Plan 2021 Wall Calendar is perfect for having all of your important dates at a glance.

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DECEMBER 2020 We Promise You: 5-6 Items at an $85 value

This month’s value:

Drippin’ Sweatshirt, $38

$125

​The cold weather can’t stop your drip. Pair this chic oversized sweatshirt with your favorite leggings and boots for the perfect relaxed fit. ​ 100% Cotton/Machine Wash Cold. Air Dry, Do not Tumble Dry, Do not Iron.

Layered Up Infinity Scarf, $22 (1 OF 7 PRINTS)

Protect ya neck with this chic layering option.

Keep warm while looking fashionable. The Layered Up Infinity Scarf is great for adding color and depth to your favorite holiday sweater. Available in 7 styles. 1​ 00% VISCOSE. Machine Washable, Cold Water. Do not bleach.

Air Dry, Low Iron.

Weekend Vibes Ring Clutch, $30 (1 OF 6 PRINTS) ​

Even in the coldest weather, you have to get out and run errands. Do it in style with the Weekend Vibes Ring Clutch. It’s the perfect size for your phone, lipstick, and wallet. Available in 6 prints. ​ Printed PU - 85% PU, 15% POLYESTER. Satin lining or similar. Magnetic Closure, NOT Snap Closure.

Toe to Toe Stretch Footsies, $15 (1 OF 10 PRINTS)

Whether you’re cuddled by the fireplace or making a warm cup of tea, keeping your feet warm during the cold months is absolutely necessary.

The Toe to Toe Stretch Footsies are great for staying inside and getting cozy. A ​ vailable in 10 prints. ​One size fits most. Sherpa Lining -85% Polyester, 15% Spandex. 92% Polyester, 8% spandex.

Machine washable. Tumble Dry Low.

clutch when unfolded

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Seize The Season

4 WAY S T O M A K E T H I S W I N T E R WON DE R F U L

By Saeeda Ruffin

I

t’s beginning to look a lot like...winter! As colder weather makes its way into our daily lives, some will start to layer up with reckless abandon. They will cover everything up! But, what are they covering up with? Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t continue to be your normal sensational self. Nope. If anything, winter is a time when you can really show off, so try not to hold back.

Everyone knows that it’s tempting to just throw on a big, shapeless sweater or even just to hide out when it’s cold outside. Well, Sis, not this winter. Let’s do things differently this time around. Instead of letting the winter weather slow you down, seize the season!

Here are 4 ways to make this winter wonderful:

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Sprinkle Black Girl Magic Like Snowflakes 1

It’s cold and it gets dark early. This change causes some people to suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder during the winter months.

They get sad, lonely, and depressed. Sis, that’s why you want to keep positivity on deck. Bring warm smiles, an awesome attitude, and of course, some holiday cheer with you everywhere you go. Your mood could help uplift others, and make the entire environment feel more happy and bright. Hit them with that Black Girl Magic and let your inner glow shine.

DECEMBER 2020

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Stay Warm And Stay Cute

Whether you are home alone or chilling with your partner, winter nights are perfect opportunities for rocking your comfy gear. From head to toe, you want to be warm, but not at the expense of looking good. Your soft Izzy and Liv stretch footsies will definitely compliment any chic robe or pajamas. They are super cute and you will be, too, when you’re sporting them.

Create Your Own Winter Oasis 3

Ring in the holiday season in a space that you curate with all of the things that bring you comfort and joy.

If you want to go all out, then, deck all of your halls.

If not, choose a spot that you feel will be the place of respite this winter.

Candles galore, shimmery winter or holiday themed pillows, soft blankets, and songs that give you life on repeat, and you have the makings for a fabulous, and personalized winter oasis.

Make Your ‘Fit Even More Fabulous 4

If you haven’t pulled them out already, Girl, go on and get your leather wear and furs. They do not have to be real. Faux is fun! What matters is that they look good and that they make you feel fabulous. When you show up for those winter holiday events, put on the glitz with those statement leather and fur pieces.

You can make the look uber chic with embellishments and by layering them with really elegant textures. Satin or sequin blouses will bring sparkle, and add a layer of interest to your outfit. Complete your look with your Izzy and Liv Infinity Scarf and and matching clutch. They are gonna be jelly, for real. Uh, OK! Sis, experiment with your look and be bold with your ensembles. That’s the real way to make this season bright!

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Fancy That!

4 Style Upgrades For Winter Wear

By Saeeda Ruffin

B

ring. It. On. It’s about that time to make your winter holiday event debut, and when you do it, Girl, you are gonna do that thing up! There is something kind of breathtaking about those gorgeous wintery events. Is it the snow or the lights from all of the holiday decor?

Whatever it is, it can make you want to really put on the glitz and glam.

A queen should always be ready to shine, anyway. So, yes, Sis...Get into it!

A lot of winter gear is not really “divalicious” and requires a bit of styling effort to get it looking fairly decent.

Everybody knows the normal coldweather outfits that seem to be a mainstay everywhere you look.

From the baggy, monochromatic sweaters and tops to those saggy, sometimes lifeless looking sweatpants, people like to bring their most dull looks just because there is a little chilliness in the air.

Uh, not today, Sis. Let’s commit to bypassing the blahs and let’s go all in with giving our winter ‘fits some season-worthy sophistication.

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DECEMBER 2020

Here are 4 style upgrades for your winter wear that will give you all of the fancy vibes:

1.

You’ve Got To Coordinate

Instantly take your ensemble up a few notches when you add in coordinating statement pieces to it. You could have on the plainest sweater ever, but it can go from basic to banging when you pair it with the Izzy and Liv infinity scarf and clutch set. Yes, Queen, that’s a winning combination and others are sure to notice, also.

2.

Make Your Own Statement

So, everybody will be rocking all kinds of Christmas-y and holiday inspired sweatshirts. You, of course, will have your Izzy and Liv Drippin’ sweatshirt to sport. Ok, so, people get a little dubious about whether or not a sweatshirt can be fancied up. Well, YES, they can! Put that sweatshirt on with a little pencil skirt. Tuck in the front of the shirt into the skirt or create a cropped look by rolling and tucking the hoodie up, and wear with your favorite tights and booties. Add some funky accessories and you have now created a real statement look. Trust and believe that you can take that shirt from simple to simply fabulous!

3.

Belt It Out!

No matter your size or shape, there is a belt out there that will take your outfit to the next level, for real! When you have just “the right” belt, you can really give your outfit a more finished and classy look. To create the most elegant look, opt for a belt that has a bit of shine to it. It doesn’t have to be sequins or anything too flashy, unless you want that look...cause that’s YOUR business, like our Sista Tabitha Brown likes to say. Regardless of what style of belt you choose to compliment your ensemble, be confident while you rock it!

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Shoe Game Has To Be On Point

Sis, sometimes, the only thing that you need to take your outfit up some notches is some fab footwear. Your shoes say a lot about the overall “feel” of your outfit. But, your shoes don’t always have to be fussy. You could very easily glam it up by adding some really pretty Doc Martens or designer sneakers to your evening wear. Fancy is as fancy does, and you are the queen of your own style destiny. The most important thing to remember is that when you show up to an event, it’s alright if your outfit does some showing out.

This winter, give them something to talk about!

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THE PURGE: Start 2021 on a Bright Note by Tossing These Items

By Girl Tyler

T

he big holiday rush has come and gone, now the final week of 2020 is here and you have a moment of solace prior to the hustle and bustle of the New Year. Before you get carried away with writing out extensive New Year’s resolutions, make decluttering your home a top priority. The pathway to a truly fresh start requires a healthy purge.

Clutter can negatively impact your mental health causing stress and anxiety. So what is clutter? The shoes you purchased on clearance three years ago because you just had to have them but never got around to wearing them outside of your home.

The stained tupperware with missing lids. And of course, there are the unopened birthday and Christmas gifts. You love the gift giver but hate their gift. It’s their thoughtfulness that keeps you holding on, right? Let it go, girl.

Sorting through personal items, whether you’ve developed an attachment or forgotten that you even own them, is no easy feat. In fact, decluttering requires patience and a chunk of time, however, the payoff is worth it. Don’t attack it all at once. Organize one room at a time and reward yourself in between.

Here are a few items you should immediately purge: Ill-fitting clothing

Expired meds

You purchased these items with good intent, but hey girl, if more than a year has passed by, you’re not going to wear it. Be honest with yourself.

Part ways with the “I’ll wear this later” clothing in your closet. Try a clothing swap with your girlfriends, sell them online, or take them to a contactless donation drop-off near you.

There's a bit of wiggle room after medications expire, but don't push it.

The longer they're sitting around, the potency will wear off which diminishes its effectiveness. Use your best judgment.

The fridge Toss those holiday leftovers and the moldy items that you keep pushing to the back. (Check the freezer, cabinets, and spice rack too for expired products!)

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DECEMBER 2020

Old makeup and beauty products Makeup isn’t always good down to the very last drop especially when you’ve had it for an extended period of time. In fact, old makeup can irritate your skin causing bacteria build-up and an acne breakout.

Although there isn't an expiration date on certain products, a general rule of thumb is to toss powder and foundation every 12 months. Mascara is only good for 90 days. Eyeshadow and eyeliner should be replaced every six months to a year.

And the list continues: •

Dry nail polish

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Wire hangers

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Spare change (cash it in)

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Travel-sized toiletries from your last hotel stay

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Old phone cords and remotes to the TV

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Ratty towels and linens

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Halloween costumes you’ll never wear again

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Perfume bottoms with only a few drops left

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Outdated paper files and receipts

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Matted wigs and hairpieces

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Rusted tools and broken appliances

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Random water bottles

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Old toothbrushes

Transition into 2021 with clarity and a renewed state of mind by doing away with non-essential items cluttering your space. Pretty soon you’ll breathe a bit easier. Moving forward, aim to do a declutter once a quarter to save time and space for new items that you may acquire over the year.

SET REALISTIC FINANCIAL GOALS FOR 2021

by Girl Tyler

T

he impact of the global pandemic hit individuals and families in a variety of ways. Some are better off than they started while others are experiencing a troubling financial crisis. Saving for a rainy day is an understatement because these days it rains a lot. There’s no way to predict what the economy will look like over the next six months. No matter who you are, everyone is moving into the New Year with a renewed perspective on money.

Whether you want to build a healthy savings account, buy your first home, or slash your credit card balance in half, it all begins with setting workable goals and implementing a realistic strategy.

Marsha Barnes, Financial Social Worker and Founder of The Finance Bar passed along a few gems to help you plan ahead for the upcoming year. She says the key to reaching your financial goals starts with your language. How do you speak to yourself when it comes to money?

“Replace ‘I’ll try’ with ‘I will.’ Listen, if 2020 taught us anything it’s to not put meaningless words out into the universe and to stick with what we know we can accomplish,” Barnes said. “Yes, it’s time to get our financial homes in order.

Verbalizing words like ‘I’ll try’ or ‘You only live once’ or ‘I don’t like the word budget,’ are all internal excuses that keep us from not making progress.

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Your financial goals are less about your annual income and have more to do with your financial outlook. We’ve carried the emotional burdens of money passed down from our grandmothers, moms, and aunties. You have the ability to fix the cycle. Do the innerwork and check your money attitudes at the door.

“We often set out with great intentions to accomplish a financial goal; however, what we overlook is who we are at the core and what mental strength comes with taking us outside of our comfort zone,” Barnes said.

Know your triggers. Do some soul searching and aim for goals that fit your lifestyle.

Barnes added, “If you’re accustomed to using your credit card for random splurges consistently, remove getting out of debt or reducing debt from your 2021 financial to-do list. Recognize who you are (at this moment) with where you desire to be. Progress over perfection is the goal.”

Here are 7 ways to make your money work for you throughout 2021: • Reduce spending and track every penny • Set aside funds to pay off debt • Monetize your passion • Start investing • Do a quarterly check-in with your goals • Don’t get discouraged • Reward yourself

DECEMBER 2020

Cold Out, Warm In

Soup Ideas to Warm You this Winter

by Jarius Edens

T

he winter weather makes us wanna SOUP! Whether it’s tomato basil or broccoli cheddar—warm dishes are calling our names this winter. If you experienced the sudden weather changes like many of us, you’re preparing your favorite dishes to keep the cold out and the warm in. You can be a chili girl or a soup sista, either way, the best bowl dishes are the ones we make from our hearts to share with our families and friends. Here are some soulful dishes to “dump” in the crockpot and serve on a cold Winter day: • White Chicken Chili (www.dariuscooks.tv) • Vegan Taco Soup (itdoesnttastelikechicken.com) • Spicy Ginger Pho (www.dariuscooks.tv) • Loaded Baked Potato Soup (allrecipes.com)

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beauties Izzy & Liv customers truly are THE BEST! We LOVE seeing your social media posts sharing your boxes each month. Here are a few highlights from October 2020.

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DECEMBER 2020

Congratulations to last month’s WINNER! Ebony (IG: @ebonyadedayo) was randomly selected from sharing Brown Sugar love on social media to WIN her free box.

Thank you to everyone who shared! Stay in it to win it and don’t forget to share this box using hashtags #brownsugarbox #izzyandliv for your chance to win next month’s giveaway.

BONUS: Join our Facebook Group: The Brown Sugar Lounge, for a SECOND CHANCE to win a free box.

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Winter Playlist

By Girl Tyler Although it has been one hell of a year, you don't look like what you've been through, sis. You’re still here and that’s something to celebrate. The holidays will look a little different as we close out 2020, but the sense of wonder and joy at Christmastime can never be canceled.

Gather round for one final playlist of 2020. The Sleigh Girl Sleigh Holiday playlist will give you all the feels with a joyous spin on Christmas bops of the past.

Turn up the volume, singalong and dance around as you whip up your favorite desserts or simply sit and reflect on what this time of year means to you.

No matter where you go or how you choose to spend it, have the happiest of holidays filled with all the love and joy in this season.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Sleigh Ride by TLC 8 Days of Christmas by Destiny’s Child Santa Baby by Eartha Kitt What You Want for Christmas by Quad City DJ’s, The 69 Boyz and K-Nock All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey Soul Holidays by Sounds of Blackness Jingle Bells by Ella Fitzgerald What Christmas Means to Me by Fantasia Someday at Christmas

by Stevie Wonder and Andra Day Joy to the World by Whitney Houston ft. The Georgia Mass Choir Every Year, Every Christmas by Luther Vandross Let It Snow by Boyz II Men ft. Brian McKnight Winter Wonderland by Emeli Sandé Hark! the Herald Angels Sing

by Aretha Franklin Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

by Monica Do You Hear What I Hear

by Gladys Knight and The Pips Silver Bells by Brian McKnight Mary, Did You Know? by The Braxtons What Do the Lonely Do at Christmas?

by The Emotions I Want to Come Home for Christmas

by Marvin Gaye Silent Night by The Temptations

DECEMBER 2020

Frequently asked questions

1

Can I change my size preference for future boxes?

Yes, you can do so inside your Brown Sugar Box account on izzyandliv. com, or you can email us at support@izzyandliv.com to update your preferences for you.

2

When will I be billed for next month’s box?

You will be rebilled on the 1st of the month for the next box. You will not be billed for the next box until after the box from the current month has been shipped/ delivered.

3

What is your cancellation policy?

Your subscription can be cancelled at any time in your Brown Sugar Box Account Settings at izzyandliv.com. If you’ve already been billed for the next box (1st of the month), your cancellation will take affect the next billing cycle.

To cancel your subscription, login to your account and click on the Subscription tab, then click “edit” next to your subscription. You can also email us to request that we cancel for you.

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Can I exchange or return items in my box?

We cannot accept returns at this time for Brown Sugar Box items, but we welcome your feedback to improve.

Email us at support@ izzyandliv.com to share your thoughts. We value your feedback and our mission is to make every Brown Sugar Box more than worth your while! Your feedback will help us to make sure we make this box amazing and valuable as it can be.

As far as the item(s), you can always gift them to a friend, coworker, or family member- these items make GREAT gifts!

Can I skip a month without cancelling?

Yes, you can skip a future month delivery and not be billed for it, without having to cancel your entire subscription. Once logged into your Brown Sugar Box account at izzyandliv. com, you will need to open the “Delivery Schedule” tab. There you will see all upcoming deliveries for your subscription. To skip a delivery you just need to click “Skip” to the right of each relevant delivery.

This will only skip that one delivery. To skip multiple deliveries you will need to click “Skip” next to each relevant one. Alternatively, you can email to have us skip deliveries for you.

How can I share photos or unboxing videos with you?

Yes! We live for customer feedback & reviews! Just post your pics or video on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube etc. and hashtag #brownsugarbox, #izzyandliv and @izzyandliv. You can also leave a photo review on the Brown Sugar Subscription page! If you make a blog post email us with the link. If your social media is private we will not be able to see your post, so feel free to email us to let us know where to check it out!

Something went wrong with my order/ delivery what should I do?

Should you have an issue with your box items (damage, received wrong size, etc) you must notify us at support@izzyandliv. com, with photo(s), within 7 days of receipt of your package. After 7 days, we will not be able to process requests related to this month’s box. If your box was returned due to consumer error, please reach out to customer service for reshipment at an additional cost.

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I have feedback or questions, who do I contact?

We can be reached at support@izzyandliv.com

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ARE HAPPENING IN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP Y o u s h o u l d b e t h e r e … M e m b e r s O n ly L o u n g e w w w.faceb ook .c om /group s/ iz z ya ndl i v