August 2021 Brown Sugar Box Mini Magazine

AUGUST 2021 $123 RETAIL VALUE

Fall

ALL OUT ’80s

Playlist

REFRESHER edition DRESS FOR

Success

How to

Fight Zoom Fatigue to Handle People Questioning Your Education and Ability

QUIZ

How Much Do You Actually Remember About A Different World?

Inside the

Fall

REFRESHER 2021 is halfway outta here. What’s the rush, sis!?! It feels like we just got here! Time flies when you’re finally getting back outside after a year of quarantine. We hope you were able to live it up this summer and make the sweetest moments to keep you going throughout the second half of the year. You’re entering a new season that calls for new goals, renewed vision, and bolder aspirations. The Fall RefresHER Brown Sugar Box is filled with all the positive charm you’ll need in the month ahead. Whether you’re studying to pick up a certification, prepping to negotiate a major deal, or mastering a new skill at home, we’ve got your back in making sure you feel supported and look good while you do it. Be fearless in your pursuit of claiming everything that belongs to you this month!

Issa Vibe! 12-Piece Lipstick Set, $50

This is the one!! Say hello to your new favorite lippie!

Pucker up to the Issa Vibe 12-Piece Lipstick Set. A bold color for every occasion.

You'll get 12 glossy & matte lipsticks: Indiglow, In My Bag, Act Up, Brunchin' Caramel Sunday, Grown Folks Business, I'm On the Way, Left on Red, SINammon, Send Nudes, Mood Forever, admd Merleaux Tales.

2

AUGUST 2021

Sophisticated Educated Melanated T-Shirt, $30 You got a good head on your shoulders, sis! Nothing can bring you down.

The Sophisticated Educated Melanated varsity v-neck compliments your brains and beauty.

Schools the people on who you are and what you stand for!

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

This month’s value:

$123

Give Her Props Phone Stand, $10 (1 OF 5 COLORS)

The category is CONVENIENCE. You’re a multi-tasking diva and need handy gadgets to bring a little ease to the table. The Give Her Props Phone Stand is sturdy and efficient in accomplishing everyday tasks on your phone. Prop it on your desk, sit it on the countertop as you scroll new recipes, or simply post it up for your next genius video session. Great angles, suitable height, hands-free perfection. You’ll get 1 of 5 colors.

Something to Smize About Bluelight Glasses, $18 (1 OF 3 STYLES)

Take the stress off of your eyes and try on these stylish specs.

The Something to Smize About Bluelight Glasses is an essential accessory for all of your digital browsing. The blue light lenses are handy in reducing the harmful effects of extended screen use.

You'll receive 1 of 3 styles with a soft string pouch case.

Throw it in the Bag Versatile & Compact Tote, $15 (1 OF 5 DESIGNS)

We have the bag for you, Sis! Rolls down super-small to carry with you anywhere. Open it up when you need it, to 27 inches wide , able to carry up to 33 lbs (15L)! Whether you’re headed to the beach, grocery shopping, hitting to the gym or office, you can slay your days with convenience and style.

Features a heavy duty zipper, strap and polyester taffeta body. Water repellent. Available in 5 designs: Cultured Queens, Glam Goddesses, Botanical Beauty, Confident Words and Mother Africa Beauty.

3

Dress for

Success

By Saeeda Ruffin

W

hen people see you, what do they see? Do they see an accomplished Black woman who exudes confidence?

If your answer isn’t a resounding “YES!” and confident isn’t the vibe you give off on the regular, don’t worry, it may just be that you don’t look the part. That’s going to change right now — for the better!

Accomplished women with healthy self-esteem have a certain air about them. Regardless of where they are or what they’re wearing, they always seem to look and feel good. That doesn’t mean they are flawless at all times. It’s the selflove that shines through and lets the world know they are a force to be reckoned with. Yes, Honey!

How can you be sure you are exuding confidence in your daily life? We have you covered, Sis. Our dress for success tips may be just what you need to get your style aligned with your goals and boost your confidence level. Start here:

4

AUGUST 2021

Dress Your Tech. Don’t just get your fit right. Get your

gear on point with covers that protect your devices and allow you to show some style, too. The world is messy. A little rain or spilled coffee and your laptop can be destroyed. Nah, Sis, that won’t even work. Your devices need to be shielded as much as possible to keep all your stellar work safe. Your Izzy and Liv Laptop Sleeve is a perfect way to express yourself and protect your device.

Keep Your Eyes On That Prize. Girl, those computer lights can blind a Sista! Folks are constantly in front of their devices for work, school, and even entertainment. You already know that isn’t the best thing for our eye health. Well, now, you can reduce some of the more common complaints associated with long hours of computer screen exposure with your Izzy and Liv Blue Light Frames. These stylish frames are giving more than just “Yes, I’m cute” vibes. They may just be instrumental in keeping your vision together while helping you take your look from basic to Madam Executive in an instant.

Make It Write. Some of y’all know all about walking

around with a gorgeous pen in your hand. As quiet as it’s kept, the right pen can grab attention and let folks know that you have not come to play. It’s serious business when you’re holding a beautiful writing instrument and successful women won’t often be caught without a nice pen. Make sure you keep one in your desk, in your purse, and with your work as a constant reminder of your Boss Lady status and Sis — they will, most definitely, see them.

Wear It Well. There was a time when women used their

clothes to hide their figures. In fact, they would be criticized if their clothes fit to closely. Baggy and unflattering ruled.

Thankfully, those days are gone! For the most professional look, you want to choose styles that compliment your body. Whether you are a size 2 or a size 22, your clothes can and should make you look and feel fantastic. Dress things up when you are trying to make a lasting impression and try to find pieces that move effortlessly from work to dinner/date night.

While your job may offer “dress down” days, don’t take that thing too far. You never want to come off as too casual and relaxed.

People won’t say it, but they will have an even harder time taking you seriously in the workplace. Dressing for success is about more than just nice clothing. It’s about presenting yourself as a total package of skills, poise and professionalism.

5

How to Fight

Zoom Fatigue

By Girl Tyler

W

hile Zoom fatigue isn’t listed in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) yet, it’s a real thing that’s causing serious mental health issues for remote workers. The term surfaced at the height of the pandemic and it isn’t just limited to Zoom. The emotional tax of nonstop video conferencing using all platforms can be too high.

Energy is everything. Meeting after meeting, we become more and more exhausted staring at our screen. The mental gymnastics of having to read social cues through a Wi-Fi connection, when people are hard enough to read in person, or trying to decode body language in tiny boxes, is a chore in and of itself. There are some companies with strict Zoom policies in place including

6

dress codes or no meetings in the bedroom (word to Silk!). You can follow the rules while giving a gentle push back.

Minimizing the number of video calls during the week may be a challenge, especially if you work in a collaborative position. Focus on the factors that you can control and try these 4 ways to reduce Zoom fatigue:

Request an Agenda

Reclaim your time by knowing early on which items will be discussed during the meeting. While they may have good intentions, there is always that one oblivious coworker who loves to share personal stories. An agenda will minimize side chatter and help you (politely) keep everyone on task, which will ultimately shorten the meeting.

AUGUST 2021

Turn Off Your Camera

This one is up for debate. On one hand, you may come across as being anti-social, and on the other hand, having your camera off may signal disinterest. One solution is to pop in, greet everyone, give the host a chance to rundown the topics for the meeting, then turn off your camera. Use your mic when you can to remind everyone that you are present and interested in the discussion. (Pro tip: if you’re going to turn off your camera, be sure to stay near the computer in case someone calls on you.)

Just Say No

Get Dressed

Recurring Zoom meetings can feel stale and monotonous. Splash some water on your face, moisturize, put on your favorite top, and make the best of the situation. Remember why you do the work that you do and present your best self. When you look good, you feel good.

If all else fails, take a minute to remind yourself just how lucky (spelled: B-LE-S-S-E-D) you really are to have a job that allows you the flexibility of working remotely, warts and all. If the pandemic has taught us nothing else, it’s taught us to count our blessings.

Send an email and ask your team if the scheduled Zoom can be replaced with an email or a quick conference call.

Enough said.

7

4 Ways

to Handle People Questioning Your Education and Ability

By Saeeda Ruffin

I

t’s a shame, actually. No matter how much we achieve as a people, others still find a way to question our ability. For most Black people, it’s pretty commonplace.

In fact, you’ve probably gotten so used to it that, at this point, it barely fazes you.

Even if doesn’t necessarily get you amped, it’s annoying and so beneath you, Queen.

Don’t they know that royalty ain’t got time for foolishness? Well, they are gonna learn today! Here are 4 ways to handle people questioning your education and ability:

Speak Up

Contrary to popular belief, being uber humble (or staying quiet) is not always the best way to deal with doubts others have about you. It’s easy to get overly anxious or intimidated.

Well, uh, no ma’am. Open your mouth and set some things in order. Use discretion, as the conversation may be better had one-on-one, but definitely speak your peace. You have the right to speak up so don’t be shy about it. Put it on blast with confidence and still be professional.

8

Find Out Who You Are Working With

You can learn a lot about a person by doing a basic Google search. Check out their LinkedIn profile and get better insight into who you are dealing with.

Just knowing that someone actually brings less to the table than you can boost your confidence and reinforce your self-esteem. But, don’t be intimidated if they have more experience. That’s good for them. Remember, everyone on your team has something to contribute and the fact that YOU realize that puts you leaps and bounds ahead of those who think differently.

AUGUST 2021

Showcase Your Talents

First of all, be sure to hang ALL of your certificates and degrees in your office or workspace. Yup, every single one that you want the world to see. Why not? You earned them, Sis. Next, interject, correct, and problem-solve like a BOSS! Oftentimes, someone’s ability is questioned because people feel that person isn’t making significant contributions to the team. Be seen and heard. It’s nice to stand in the wings and watch people bring your ideas to life, but it feels even better when you bring them to fruition YOURSELF! That being said, the better you are, the more OTHER PEOPLE will praise your work and speak up on your behalf. So, do your thang, Sis!

Be Positive

The energy you project can work miracles when it comes to being on a team. Your positivity overshadows the negative vibes that others bring.

Not only can other people feel your positive vibes, they also can see it in your work. So, be confident.

Know who you are and dismiss the haters and all their ignorance. Don’t give negative people and their comments too much real estate in your brain. They don’t deserve it. Instead, fill your life with good things, awesome plans and possibilities, and elevate beyond miserable people. One day, they just may be working FOR YOU!

A Different World Quiz

By Girl Tyler

A

Different World left its mark on TV history as one of the most influential sitcoms for Black youth. Debbie Allen was in her bag when she stepped in during Season 2, changing the entire look and feel of the iconic show. Whitley, Dwayne, Ron, Kim, Jaleesa, and Freddie will forever remain our besties (in our head, of course)! How much do you actually remember about A Different World?

Time to put your Hillman knowledge to the test. Take this quiz to see if you’re a true alum of the most elite fictional HBCU! Each question is worth 1 point.

1. Who was Freddie’s cousin?

A. B. C. D.

Ernest Quincy Matthew James

2. What was Adele’s nickname for Whitley?

A. B. C. D.

Whit Whit Bunny Miss Thing Sweetheart

3. What was Lena cooking that caused a fire in the dorm?

A. B. C. D.

Shrimp & Grits Catfish Spaghetti Gumbo

4. What is Dwayne’s favorite dessert?

A. B. C. D.

Prune cobbler Apple pie Ice cream Oreos

5. Which actress played the woman Dwayne went out on a date with that caused Whitley to break off the engagement?

A. B. C. D.

6. What did Dwayne say to Whitley when he crashed her wedding to Byron?

A. B. C. D.

“I’m sorry.”

“Meet me at the altar in your white dress.”

“You are my forever.”

“Baby, please!”

7. In the series finale, what song did everyone sing in The Pit during Whitley and Dwayne’s going away party?

A. B. C. D.

10

Kim Wayans Vanessa Williams Robin Givens Debbi Morgan

It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye to Yesterday End of the Road My Girl What About Your Friends

8. What did the sign say on Charmaine’s back?

A. B. C. D.

Digit Ho Loud Mouth Je m'appelle I’m gone fail Baby Got Back

9. What class did Ron fail preventing him from graduating with his friends?

A. B. C. D.

Calculus Western Philosophy European History Art History

10. What was the name of Tisha Campbell’s character in the “If I Should Die Before I Wake” episode?

A. B. C. D.

Tasha Nina Josie Maggie

AUGUST 2021

11. Which rapper played Piccolo?

A. B. C. D.

Rakim LL Cool J Dr. Dre Tupac

12. Which A Different World character was saving himself for marriage?

A. B. C. D.

Shazza Ron Terrell Dorian

13. What is Gina Deveaux’s favorite song?

A. B. C. D.

Jesus Loves Me When the Saints Go Marching In Around the Way Girl Now that We Found Love

14. Who is Mr. Gaines married to?

A. B. C. D.

Bernice Velma Ella Janice

15. Where was Kim headed when her father was shot?

A. B. C. D.

Woodstock Home The Pit Freaknik

16. Who was Whitley’s best friend in season 1?

A. B. C. D.

Denise Maggie Millicent Jaleesa

Bonus: Who is Dwayne’s ex-girlfriend?

A. B. C. D.

Kinu Kinusabe Kekoko All of the above

ANSWER KEY: 1. Who was Freddie’s cousin? C. Matthew 2. What was Adele’s nickname for Whitley?

C. Miss Thing 3. What was Lena cooking that caused a fire in the dorm? D. Gumbo 4. What is Dwayne’s favorite dessert? A. Prune cobbler 5. Which actress played the woman Dwayne went out on a date with that caused Whitley to break off the engagement? D. Debbi Morgan 6. What did Dwayne say to Whitley when he crashed her wedding to Byron? D. “Baby, please!”

7. In the series finale, what song did everyone sing in The Pit during Whitley and Dwayne’s going away party? B. End of the Road 8. What did the sign say on Charmaine’s back?

A. Digit Ho 9. What class did Ron fail preventing him from graduating with his friends? C. European History 10. What was the name of Tisha Campbell’s character in the “If I Should Die Before I Wake” episode? C. Josie 11. Which rapper played Piccolo? D. Tupac 12. Which A Different World character was saving himself for marriage? D. Dorian 13. What is Gina Deveaux’s favorite song? B. When the Saints Go Marching In 14. Who is Mr. Gaines married to? B. Velma 15. Where was Kim headed when her father was shot? D. Freaknik 16. Who was Whitley’s best friend in season 1?

C. Millicent Bonus: Who is Dwayne’s ex-girlfriend? D. All of the Above

SCORE HOW DID YOU DO?

11-17 points: HILLMAN SCHOLAR 6-10 points: DEAN’S LIST 0-5 points: ACADEMIC PROBATION (Good news...school is in session! A Different World is currently streaming on Amazon Prime!)

11

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 June 2021.

Congratulations to last month’s WINNER! Akila 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.

13

All Out ’80s

By Girl Tyler

R

Playlist

emember how you felt the first time you watched the Thriller music video, or how many cassettes you played out because the songs were just that damn good? 2021 is cool and all, but the ‘80s gave us hit after hit with no skips!

No matter how much the world changes, good music stands the test of time. This All Out ‘80s playlist pays homage to the last of a dying breed in music. There’re so many classic jams to choose from, we just had to make this playlist a little longer than usual. We guarantee you’ll feel a positive energy shift from start to finish.

• Da Butt by E.U. • Just Got Paid

by Johnny Kemp • I Wonder If I Take You Home by Lisa Lisa & Cult Jam & Full Force • Love Come Down

by Evelyn “Champagne” King • The Pleasure Principle

by Janet Jackson • Saturday Love

by Cherrelle & Alexander O’Neal • Spread My Wings

by Troop • Groove Me by Guy • Rock Steady

by The Whispers • The Glamorous Life

by Sheila E. • Crush on You

by The Jets • Rock with You

by Michael Jackson • The Bird by The Time • Square Biz

by Teena Marie • Secret Rendezvous

by Karyn White

14

• Outstanding

by The Gap Band • If It Isn’t Love

by New Edition • Juicy Fruit by Mtume • Make it Last Forever

by Keith Sweat & Jaci McGhee • Between the Sheets

by The Isley Brothers • You Are My Lady

by Freddie Jackson • Love You Down

by Ready for the World • I Like It by DeBarge • Computer Love by Zapp • Sexual Healing

by Marvin Gaye • Roni by Bobby Brown • Don’t Disturb This Groove by The System • Before I Let Go by Maze & Frankie Beverly • Never Too Much

by Luther Vandross • Don’t Stop the Music

by Yarbrough & Peoples • Candy by Cameo

AUGUST 2021

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.

4

6

5

7

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.

8

I have feedback or questions, who do I contact?

We can be reached at support@izzyandliv.com

15

MAGICAL THINGS ARE HAPPENING IN O U R FAC E BOO K G RO U P

You should be there… Members Only Lounge • www.facebook.com/groups/izzyandliv