May 2022 Brown Sugar Box Mini Magazine

MAY 2022 $141 RETAIL VALUE

WHICH TRAVEL

s Girl P TRI S VIBYEL I S T

Friend

PL A

ARE YOU?

THE BLACK GIRLS TRAVEL CODE

TRAVEL IN STYLE WITH IZZY & LIV

Girl Trippin'

Edition

INSIDE THE

Girl Trippin’ EDITION

The time to travel is now! We’ve been cooped up for the last two years but say less sis. The world belongs to the traveling aunties, the single and ready to mingle, the baecationers, and the girls with no strings attached. Fun is the connective tissue for work-life balance. The Girl Trippin’ Edition of the Brown Sugar Box is bringing back the carefree travel vibes! Find your inner childlike spirit of adventure and plan unforgettable trips. The PTO has been approved, see you outside!

MONEY MOVES ZIP AROUND WALLET $26 (1 OF 3) Put all your cards securely away in this sassy wallet designed with Black girl luxury in mind. You have plenty of spots to hit up, and the travel budget is ready for you. Run it up, sis! You’ll receive

1 of 3 prints: Aquatic Goddess, Melanin Girl Talk, or Hey Sis!

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FINDING ME: A MEMOIR BY VIOLA DAVIS $30

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

This month’s value:

$141

We’ve got the perfect travel read for you. Finding Me: A Memoir

by Viola Davis is a must-read inspirational journey that highlights Viola's ascension from poverty to our leading lady. Spoiler alert: You'll have a hard time putting it down!

BLACK GIRL ILLUSTRATED ALL OVER PRINT BLOUSE $35 (1 OF 2) It’s travel season and leisure is a must. Throw this on over a crop top, tank, or bralette.

Buttoned or unbuttoned, twisted in the front, wear it with jeans or shorts. Lightweight for carefree days and spontaneous nights, its drop shoulder short sleeves, button front, and notched collar are waiting for you to style and profile in. You’ll receive 1 of 2 prints:

Melanin Faces or Vibrant Queens.

GIRLFRIENDS SQUAD GOALS TEE $25 Hello vacation,

ART DECO LUGGAGE PACKING CUBES SET $25

season! This is your

You've watched that one TikTok 15

time to keep it

times, and you're following all the travel

cute at the airport

gurus, but your packing skills are still

and during quick store runs for last-minute

awful. It's okay, girl. Help is on the way!

personal items. You never know who you'll run

This super functional travel organizer

into. We have a shirt for that. The Girlfriends

will take the stress out of packing for

Squad Goals tee is a melanated representation

your trip and help you stay organized

of our camaraderie.

when you arrive.

May 2022 |

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TRAVEL IN STYLE WITH

IZZY&LIV

BY MALLORY GREER & RACQUEL PARKER

Travel season is upon us and putting looks together is the best part of getting ready!

We don’t know about you, but we’re ready for some much-needed R&R! All the vacations are calling our names and we mean girls' trips, family trips, and baecations!

When it comes to looking fly on the go, tapping in with Izzy & Liv is a no-brainer.

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| May 2022

Accessories Having the right accessories and keeping your skin protected while traveling is key to setting off your look. Sun hats are your best friend when you’re spending all day at the beach -- and they’re fashionable. Our Throwing Shade Hat pairs well if you’re going for a classic black and white aesthetic.

Add a pop of color while rocking our Must be the Melanin Sun Hat. When in doubt, think pink with our Queen Things Sun Hat. If neutrals are your thing, then our Brown Skin Beauty Sun Hat is perfect for you. Keep your eyes protected with a pair of our Coral/Yellow Ankara Print Sunglasses and don’t leave home without your African Seed Bead Drop Earrings and Queen Bling Charm Bracelets because a lil’ bling bling ain’t never hurt nobody!

Beauty & Wellness Keeping your skin glowing and moisturized while traveling is a must so don’t forget to pack the sunscreen sis! Your Island Citrus Creamy Dreamy Whipped Soap and your Glow and Moisturize Dry Body Brush are the perfect duo to keep your skin looking flawless at all times. Our Ginger Peach Body Butter will keep your skin nourished with a combination of feelgood ingredients such as shea butter, avocado oil and more. Now that your skin is glowing, it’s time to beat your face with our Pretty Brown Eyeshadow Pencil Set and Issa Vibe! 12 Piece Lipstick Set.

Swimsuits + Apparel The weather is getting warmer and it’s time to pull out those swimsuits that pair oh so well with our kimonos, and pajama pants. No one has to know they’re pj’s sis! We’ve got tons of classic prints for you to mix and match to create endless looks. If you’re a diva who loves blue on melanated skin, you’ll love our Soul Sisters print.

Our Patchwork Queen print is a combination of feminine and abstract prints that create a beautiful patchwork effect that’s also available in a scarf and satin pj's. The Animal Instinct print is for the ladies living on the wild side who want to serve up some snakeskin vibes. Finish your day

with our Safari Queens Satin Cami + Shorts 2-Piece Set. Whether you’re hopping into bed or having dinner, this lightweight set is perfect for any vibe.

At the end of the day, you deserve a vacation, so book that vacation and show us how you coordinate as you rock your Izzy & Liv, sis! Tag us @izzyandliv, use our hashtag #izzyandliv, or share your photos in the Brown Sugar Lounge Facebook Group.

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THE BLACK GIRLS

When girls trippin’ is on the agenda, the squad will absolutely keep the SHE-nanigans going. That’s why it’s so important to have a Girls Trip Code in place. While it has been scientifically proven that Black women can have full conversations without saying a word, there are a few housekeeping reminders that every sista-set needs to know for their safety and enjoyment. Everybody’s gonna be on the same page from the jump! This Izzy & Liv

Travel Code

Girls Trip Code is an (un)official playbook that will keep you united and 100% in sync at ALL times. Here are the rules of the game sis!

STAY SLAYING

BY SAEEDA RUFFIN

This trip is NOT the time to dress like you’re

Packed, money stacked, and itinerary mapped…

running to the local grocery store for toilet

you KNOW what time it is! Can you say, “Black girls

paper. Everybody’s outfits must be on point, at all times. Yes, you will be expected to be

gonna travel!?!” The idea of planning an adventure

absolutely fabulous regardless of the activity.

with your closest crew can be so exhilarating. As

Yes, it’s going to take a little bit of effort.

soon as the squad assembles, the magic starts to happen. It’s an automatic bond that makes everyone in the group love and appreciate what they have together. There’s just something super special about being sista-friends, and when you’ve been friends for so long you’ve forgotten how you even met -- well that’s sista-hood at its finest.

Hey, it just is what it is.

KEEP THE FAMILY TIGHT When queens travel together, you are all royalty and, therefore, related by default.

Be committed to each other throughout the trip. Misunderstandings can and will happen but squash any squabbles with a quickness.

Keep the “family” tight. In the words of Jay Z, “Nobody wins when the family feuds.”

LEAVE YOUR COMFORT ZONE AT HOME

COORDINATE

Ain’t nobody got time for you sittin’ around,

to have on the same outfit, same pajamas,

not wanting to try new stuff, or do fun things.

same hairstyle, same something. Why not

Uh, this is not just your trip, it’s the Girls’ Trip,

level up and even coordinate your dances?!

and doing the most is to be expected – no

Have at least one group dance routine for

questions asked.

Instagram or TikTok. Coordination takes

HIT LISTS, NOT SIT LISTS

At some point on the trip everybody is going

time, so have that stuff already set up.

You know we’re talking about those playlists!

SHARING IS CARING

The music has got to be bumpin’ and mood

Surely you want everyone to look, smell,

appropriate. Give the queens what they like.

and feel her best, right? Play nice and don’t

If you can’t do it, step aside and let someone

hold back. Let your girl have a spritz of that

else control the tunes. If you need ideas,

perfume or wear that cute hat that matches

check out Izzy & Liv’s channel on Spotify

her fit. Love lends!

for inspiration.

NEVER ALONE

BE IN IT TO WIN IT When it comes to playing games or

Love your girls, but trust no one outside

participating in dance competitions and

your circle. No sis left behind or rolling

such, winning is always the objective. Yes,

alone. No drinks left unattended. Act like you

it is about the fun, but…it’s also about the win.

know! Nobody traveling alone. None of that.

Sis, just know that everybody in the crew must

SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED Uh, there are times when you just need to send a discreet message to each other.

go ALL IN. That trophy, title, and maybe even that money, has your squad’s name written all over it!

Get your signals together BEFORE the trip.

BE YOUR SISTA’S KEEPER

Whatever your squad decides, it needs to

Keep each other fixed, adjusted, and looking

be universally understood.

fly. Wig not straight? Edges not laid? Curls need fluffing? Tighten it up for your sis. Lips looking ashy? Pass the gloss, the lipstick, or even the Carmex. You don’t want to be the one who let your sis get caught out there lacking. Look checks are essential, but absolutely no body shaming. Let your sista break free and be great!

LOOSE LIPS SINK TRIPS Ok, so that’s not exactly how the saying goes, but it’s still the truth. Don’t talk too much or tell all your business while you’re on the trip.

Everybody doesn’t need to know your life story or mine! Some of the sistas may even want to be incognito, so do your best to respect that – and MOST DEFINITELY do not spill the tea afterward! This adventure is about fun, friendship, and tomfoolery… for the GIRLS. No data leaks allowed.

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WHICH TRAVEL FRIEND ARE YOU?

BY GIRL TYLER

There comes a time in your life when you must face a harsh truth: you can't travel with everybody. Whew. Let's unpack this. Remember the box office hit Girls Trip?

The comedy starring Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Tiffany Haddish, and Regina Hall, could easily have passed as a documentary. Although the girls survived the weekend getaway in one piece, there were some bumps and bruises along the way and their bond was tested. Vacations can make or break a relationship.

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| May 2022

You like your friends for various reasons, but there are times when it is evident that you each approach life differently. You have

Believe me, that word has a different meaning for different people.

Then, there's the mixing of friend groups.

the ride or die types, and then there’s the

In short, plan your getaways wisely with the

"I'm not in it" girls. You need to know who’ll

peacemakers and the peacekeepers. That's

have your back if something pops off while

what vacationing should be all about, the

you’re thousands of miles away from home,

ruthless pursuit of peace in a new environ-

so choose wisely. If you want to truly know

ment. To be fair, you may be someone's

someone, take them out of their natural

"can't take her nowhere" friend. Yeah, you

habitat. You'll find out everything you need

think you have it all together, but some of

to know, like how they problem solve,

your friends think you could loosen up a bit.

how they interact with people from other

Review this list and see if any of these feel

cultures, and their definition of a vacation.

familiar. If so, adjust accordingly!

THE "I'M READY TO GO" FRIEND This girl turns into a whiny six-year-old in the

THE "I DON'T WANT TO GO ANYWHERE" FRIEND

blink of an eye. She gets all fidgety in the

This person just wants to relax and get away

car, complaining about every little thing. She

from her current reality—no harm in that.

doesn't like to try new restaurants. Outdoor

Unplugging from the day-to-day hustle

excursions make her queasy. She's ready to

and bustle is essential, but she didn't tell

go home by the end of day one.

you that upfront. She was down for the

THE "CAN I PAY YOU BACK LATER?" FRIEND

cause until it was time to execute the travel plans. Her idea of a vacation is staying in

Most people are forced to pinch pennies in

the room watching TV, which is all well and

this economy, while others just live beyond

good for solo travel, but it doesn’t work for

their means. This person is always down for

group travel. She's also the expert napper

whatever, but never seems to have the funds.

who may or may not cause everyone to

You've covered her many times when she was

miss a reservation.

short a few dollars because she’s your girl, but at times she’s ducked and dodged with no intention of repaying what she owes.

THE "LET ME SEND ONE MORE EMAIL" FRIEND This person is always in grind mode.

THE "I FOUND SOMEWHERE REALLY CHEAP, Y'ALL" FRIEND

Whether they're building a new company

Everyone is looking for a deal. An all-inclusive

you can always expect them to be glued

trip is always a bonus for any vacation, but

to their devices. Problems arise when

the goal is to be comfortable. Sometimes you

she expects the group to wait until she's

need to be willing to pay a little extra for com-

finished working, or when she gets upset

fort. Not this girl. She'll find a janky Airbnb in

because the group made decisions without

a sketchy part of town to save a few dollars or

her (even though she was too busy to make

opt for the complimentary breakfast buffet at

her wishes known). This situation is most

a spot with bed bugs and negative reviews.

of us, especially when we're trying to

She’s cool but never trust her with planning

low-key vacation and still work remotely.

because you might get got!

Guilty as charged.

or holding down several hustles at once,

May 2022 |

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VEL TRA NOW!

T he World Needs To See Your Beautiful Blackness

BY SAEEDA RUFFIN

Outside is calling! Yes, Sis, it’s time to put on your traveling shoes and get gone. Most of the world has been cooped up for far too long because of the pandemic, but thankfully, that is changing and a world full of adventure awaits. Your Afrocentric representation has been absent for far too long! Black queen, your essence attracts, and your enthusiasm and allure are infectious.

Plus, you know you serve looks wherever you go! The world is your runway, sis!

It may have been a few minutes since you

Travel provides you with educational

stepped foot outside your local area, and

experiences you simply cannot get other-

you may be a little hesitant to venture

wise. You will create life-long memories.

beyond your new norm. We can’t have that. You are inquisitive, exciting, and a true

The reality is, whether you go 200 miles

vision of loveliness. Keep all that melanin

away or 2,000 miles away, there will be

goodness to yourself? No way! Time to

things for you to enjoy that you normally

make tracks, make your presence felt,

wouldn’t have access to or have time to

and explore.

enjoy. Do it all and have fun!

The world absolutely needs to see your

You can strengthen your friendships or even

beautiful Blackness. It needs to know that

make new friends. If you are traveling with a

there are melanated, educated, and success-

squad, getting away can bring you together

ful Black goddesses out there who enjoy all

and reinforce the positive aspects of your

the things that traveling affords them.

friendship, but travel also opens your life up

Embark on your journey with the confidence

to a world of new people! You may make

of a queen. You need to boldly appear in

a connection with someone or even start

places that may have, only rarely, been

a new relationship.

blessed to see a Black woman. Truth is, the world may not be ready for you, but don’t

You will surely experience feelings of

let that stop you. The time is now for you to

happiness, contentment, and accomplish-

stretch your comfort zone and travel.

ment when you travel. Remember, travel is supposed to be a respite from the daily

You can learn a lot about who you are when

grind so take time to unwind, reflect, and

you travel. Coordinating travel can be very

relish in what you have accomplished. You

exciting, but it can also be challenging.

create your own happiness, so go ahead,

There are many things to consider when

set your travel goals, and take the world by

planning your trip and while traveling.

storm. You deserve all the special moments

Being exposed to new cultures, languages,

life has to offer!

foods, and different ways of life is priceless.

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Embark on your journey with the confidence of a queen. You need to boldly appear in places that may have, only rarely, been blessed to see a Black woman.

May 2022 |

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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 March 2022.

WINNER

Congratulations to our March WINNER! Maria O. 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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| May 2022

Hey Brown Sugar Babes!

Throughout this year, we plan to highlight members of the Sisterhood in a new series: “Brown Sugar Babes: Her Story”.

Interested? Tell us a little about yourself, for a chance to be interviewed and featured in the future.

SCAN THIS CODE TO LET US KNOW THAT YOU’RE INTERESTED

May 2022 |

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Girls’ TRIP VIBES Playlist

BY RACQUEL PARKER

One thing every girls’ trip needs is a bomb playlist! If you don’t have all the hits on your phone, no need to worry, we’ve got you covered, sis. Girls' trips are about fun, sisterhood, and singing songs at the top of your lungs with your best girlfriends. Whether you and your girls are road tripping, playing music while getting ready, or catching flights, you need music to get the party started. Adding a soundtrack to your trip is an unforgettable way to capture all the good vibes. Let your hair down and get ready to have fun with your girls as you blast this Girls’ Trip Vibes Playlist.

SCAN HERE TO LISTEN TO THIS PLAYLIST & MORE!

1. Party by Beyoncé ft. J. Cole 2. Hot Girl Summer by Megan Thee Stallion ft. Nicki Minaj, Ty Dolla $ign 3. Get It Girl by Saweetie 4. Golden by Jill Scott 5. Act Up by City Girls 6. Wild Thoughts by Dj Khaled ft. Rihanna, Bryson Tiller 7. Good as Hell Remix by Lizzo ft. Ariana Grande 8. Before I Let Go (Homecoming Live) by Beyoncé 9. Party for Me by Jhené Aiko 10. Karaoke by Big Freedia ft. Lizzo 11. Poke It Out by Wale ft. J. Cole 12. Cheers (Drink to That) by Rihanna 13. Nice for What by Drake 14. Friends & Family by The Isley Brothers ft. Ronald Isley, Snoop Dogg 15. Big Energy by Latto, ft. Dj Khaled, Mariah Carey 16. WKND by Ledesi 17. Best Friend by Saweetie ft. Doja Cat 18. Everyday Is a Party by TT The Artist 19. We Outside by 27 Delly, Willie, GAL 20. Back to the Streets by Saweetie ft. Jhené Aiko

Frequently asked questions

1

Can I change my size preference for future boxes?

Yes, you can do so inside your Brown Sugar

5

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Yes, you can skip a future month delivery

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your entire subscription. Once logged into your

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tab. There you will see all upcoming deliveries When will I be billed for next

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3

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Your subscription can be cancelled

6

How can I share photos or unboxing videos with you?

Yes! We live for customer feedback & reviews!

at any time in your Brown Sugar Box

Just post your pics or video on Instagram,

Account Settings at izzyandliv.com.

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#brownsugarbox, #izzyandliv and @izzyandliv.

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so feel free to email us to let us know where to

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check it out!

to request that we cancel for you.

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Can I exchange or return items in my box?

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

Should you have an issue with your box

We cannot accept returns at this time for

items (damage, received wrong size, etc) you

Brown Sugar Box items, but we welcome

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your feedback to improve. Email us at

with photo(s), within 7 days of receipt of your

support@ izzyandliv.com to share your

package. After 7 days, we will not be able to

thoughts. We value your feedback and

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our mission is to make every Brown Sugar

If your box was returned due to consumer

Box more than worth your while! Your

error, please reach out to customer service

feedback will help us to make sure we

for reshipment at an additional cost.

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!

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I have feedback or questions, who do I contact?

We can be reached at support@izzyandliv.com

May 2022 |

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MAGICAL THINGS ARE HAPPENING IN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP YOU SHOULD BE THERE...

MEMBERS ONLY

SCAN HERE TO JOIN!