Queen Size Magazine May 2018 Issue by Queen Size Magazine

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

MAY 2018 ISSUE

MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

COVER STORY:

CATHERINE ASHLY

Fashion + Lifestyle

WHEN LUPUS WON’T LET YOU BE GREAT; BE GREATER

WHEN MODELING IS NO LONGER AN OPTION; WHAT’S NEXT?

8 TYPES OF DRESSES THAT SHOULD BE IN YOUR CLOSET

SPRING STRIPES WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY; IS IT A LIFE SAVER OR AN EASY WAY OUT?

MODEL SPOTLIGHTS SHEENA POSTELL TAYLOR TAK WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2018 ISSUE

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

Welcome to the May 2018 issue of Queen Size Magazine.

FROM THE DESK OF

One of the reasons why I remain so humble is because I have had the opportunity to interview hundreds of men and women; I have had the opportunity to learn the stories that they don’t openly share with the world. Often times we think we know a person but don’t really take the time to REALLY get to know the person. In conducting my many interviews, I have learned about so many struggles that people experience behind their smiles. I have learned that every smile does not equate to happiness or worry free. Take my current cover feature for instance. I knew that Catherine Ashly had Lupus but there is so much more to Catherine that I never knew. I have interviewed people that I talk to quite often and learned something about them that I never knew. We all have a struggle; we all have a fight that we are fighting. I have never been one to take life or people for granted (intentionally; because let’s face it, we are all human). But all of these individuals continuously remind be to “not complain” because things could always be worse.

Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Thank you to Catherine Ashley for opening up and sharing her fight against lupus. My take away from this that when one door closes, use the lessons that you learned from that room to open ten more doors.

Photo by PDrew Photography Dress by Juul Couture Makeup done by Brooklyn Tate

As with every issue, I truly thank each and every person that had a hand in making Queen Size Magazine possible. And on behalf of myself and Queen Size Magazine, I would like to thank all of our readers; without you we would not still be here. We would love to hear your feedback. Email us at queensizemagazine@gmail. com and let us know what you like, don’t like and/or want to see in future issues. We value your opinion. WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2018 ISSUE

MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director & Director of Photography ELVIRA ANDERSON Photographer DANA HALL Photographer MEESHA ANN Fashion Editor LAWANDA SANYANG Beauty Blogger ANDREA BLASSINGAME Makeup Artist EYANI COUTURE House Designer FLAVORS OF FULLNESS House Designer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: CRYSTAL CARMEN MICHELLE GONZALVES JOY PITTMAN

COVER IMAGE Photography | Zakiyah Caldwell @kiacaldwellphoto Model | Catherine Ashly @ catherine_ashly Hair & Makeup | Catherine Ashly for Catherine Ashly Beauty @catherineashly_beauty Creative Director and Stylist | Corrinn Chishimba @beautyboxstyle

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CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

CATHERINE ASHLY; WHEN LUPUS WON’T LET YOU BE GREAT; BE GREATER By QSM

HEALTH AND FITNESS

NOURISH THE BODY INSIDE AND OUT

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY; THE LIFE SAVER OR THE EASY WAY OUT

By COURTNEY K. PENNINGTON

By QSM

BEAUTY&FASHION

MODEL SPOTLIGHT: SHEENA POSTELL By QSM

MODEL SPOTLIGHTS

MAY 2018 ISSUE

16 FAQ’S AT THE SALON PART 2 By CRYSTAL LEWIS

18 8 TYPES OF DRESSES THAT SHOULD BE IN YOUR CLOSET

By MICHELLE GONZALVES

32 SPRING STRIPES By MEESHA ANN

34 MODEL SPOTLIGHT: TAYLOR TAK By QSM

BUSINESS

BEHIND THE LENS: ANNA STARNES RILEY

FOR COLORED GIRLS

COURAGEOUSLY CURVY GIRLS FOUNDATION GALA COVERAGE

By LAWANDA “LALA FACES” SANYANG

By JOY PITTMAN

By QSM

34 34 38 18 46

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

Nourishing the Body Inside and Out: With Natural Oils

The topic being addressed is nourishing the body inside and out. I thought I would bring to light some great natural products that can be used in multiple ways such as food and nutrient sources on the skin, for hair, and on the body. One of my favorite natural products is coconut oil, this is such a versatile item. When I’m talking about good for your body inside and out coconut oil is at the top of the list. There are so many uses and benefits of coconut oil. It can be used as an anti-inflammatory and an analgesic salve for pain relief and reduction of redness and swelling. Along with being anti-microbial and anti-fungal. Some people like to use coconut oil for oil pulling. A process that involves swishing /gargling for 15-25 minutes with a 1/2 - 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, cleaning the teeth and pulling bacteria and toxins from the oral surfaces. (I like to polish my teeth with a wet toothbrush afterwards).

Now Avocado oil is great for cooking just like olive oil or coconut oil. It has amazing benefits such as reversing arthritis, hydrates the hair, improves skin, is great as a makeup remover. Grape seed oil is great for skin and hair. It is a great source of vitamin E. If used in cooking it has a higher burning point than most vegetable oils but is probably healthier used topically. Olive oil is great for your heart and brain. It’s a good addition for potassium and vitamin E. It is an anti-inflammatory food helping against heart disease. Olive oil helps fight cancer being a high antioxidant food, olives also contain healthy acids that are anti-cancer.

Other great items for the body are essential oils I use coconut oil in my hair as a moisturizing component and in a step for sealing in split ends and frizz, for rainy days or high precipitation periods like winter. A mixture I make with about 1/2 a cup warm -hot water and 1-1 1/2 Tablespoons of Honey. Adding more water or honey until it’s a thin slightly runny consistency, that coats the fingers. •

• • •

In sections starting at tips of your hair work the mixture up in smaller sections toward the roots, until about 2/3rds up. Cluster the sections, work the honey mixture into the roots of each cluster. Collect the hair into one bunch. Coat outside of hair and tips with coconut oil, almond oil, or avocado oil. Make a bun, tie, twist or braid. If still very sticky, cover with more oil until comfortable. Wrap or cover your hair, sleep overnight. Rinse out in the morning. Style as preferred.

Essential oils are oils that have been extracted and derived from plants, flowers, and roots. Essential oils are different from fragrance oils. While both will have a scent, fragrance oils are usually artificial and cannot be used for remedies and are not reliable or guaranteed to hold any natural properties. Essential oil has a distinct scent from the plant it is derived and has specific properties that give each oil its attributes. I think some great essential oils to start your collection are Lavender, Ginger, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Bergamot, Orange or Lemon, Clary Sage or Rosemary, and Tea Tree. With any of these oils, or any oils that I have purchased, I gather information about the product and determine if they are right for my personal use. When trying a new brand or oil I like to smell it, or test a drop in my diffuser, a tissue or small section on my skin and see if I A) Like the fragrance, B) Have a negative reaction or irritation, and C) Am happy with the overall effects, smell, and results. The main reasons I mentioned those oils is because they are very versatile.

HEADS UP: This process can get messy, use a towel or wear an old tee while doing this. It has been said that coconut oil helps with brain function and may help with Alzheimer’s prevention and treatment, when added to the daily diet. Coconut oil is a great source of Lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, and healthy saturated fats MCFAs. Medium-chain fatty acids are easier to digest, and process for energy faster than being stored for fat. Coconut oil can help prevent heart diseases and High blood pressure by increasing healthy cholesterol and help convert Unhealthy LDL cholesterol into HDL cholesterol in the body. The list for coconut oil is hefty... kidney, liver, arthritis, immune boosting, memory enhancing, increase energy, used in treatment for cancer, kidney stones, UTI. The list goes on. So, coconut oil inside and out? A+!

Lavender is such a calming and relaxing scent, it’s safe to use even for sensitive and delicate skin. Lavender is analgesic (pain relieving), antiseptic, antiviral, bactericidal, decongestant, hypotensive, and sedative. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try misting your pillow and bed with lavender oil and water or rubbing 3-4 oil drops on your palms and then evenly onto the pillows. Lavender is great for soothing and calming, acne, burns, colds, congestion, headaches, insomnia, psoriasis, and sunburn. Ginger is great for muscle aches and pains, it is analgesic, anti-emetic (nausea), antiseptic, expectorant, febrifuge (fever- reducing), laxative, and tonic. Ginger can be very potent in smell, and intense when used topically, it is not recommended to use while pregnant. Ginger is great for bruising, colds, colic, cramps (Muscle & Menstrual), flu, hangover, indigestion, mild depression, nausea, and sinusitis. Eucalyptus is a great oil for opening the sinus, I use this before a vapor rub

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ARTICLE TITLE THE NOURISHING | BYBODY AUTHOR INSIDE AND OUT| COURTNEY PENNINGTON

any sick day. I know my clients with seasonal allergies love this essential oil during our spa services because they feel the relief from the pressure and congestion. Eucalyptus is analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic (disinfectant), anti-viral, decongestant, expectorant (Throat soothing, good for coughs), and Febrifuge. Which makes it great for so many household uses. If you’re an out-doors kind of person you may be happy to know that eucalyptus is great for insect bites, scrapes, cuts, bruises, blisters, burns, can help with skin infection, chicken pox, flu, and colds, it also helps soothe muscle aches. So, I guess it’s also great if you’re an in-doors kind of person. While gathering information for eucalyptus I found a list of precautions I felt inclined to share: Avoid with children 6 years or younger, avoid use if nursing or pregnant, avoid is suffering from epilepsy, or high blood pressure. Avoid if suffering from estrogen-dependent cancer.

Peppermint is an inexpensive oil which is one reason its great for starting a collection, its stimulation in scent and refreshing to the skin. Its great if you have an upset stomach or digestive issues, its also fever reducing. If you’re in a situation where you have the BGs rubbing peppermint and eucalyptus oil around your abdomen could be amazing in getting you to a better place. Just mix several drops to your favorite carrier oil and you’ll have the perfect oil blend for the nights that have you running around.

Bergamot has an uplifting scent and is amazingly considered to be antidepressant and calming. Its antibacterial and antiseptic properties are commonly used on the skin and can be used for cleansing even irritated skin for instance acne, eczema or psoriasis.

Citrus Scents are known for their uplifting and happy inducing attributes. Lemon is a natural astringent and is also a wonderful addition to hair that may be lacking in shine. lime Earthy, Woodsy, & Herb scents like Clary Sage, Rosemary, and Tea Tree are great for migraines headaches mild depression, rosemary is an easy to carry source for mental stimulation you can keep it in your bag or desk for those days that are dragging along or if you want a boost to “kick the butt” of an assignment during the day. Clary sage has been described to induce a euphoric ease and sedative effects. Sometimes used during natural births to ease labor pains, along with helping while enduring menstrual pains, and stress in general. Tea Tree is antifungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, and bactericidal. Wow, right?! I love this for small cuts, household cleaning, burns, colds, cold sores, and sinuses. You can blend different types of oils together to make your own signature scents or to get the benefits of a more than one type of essential oil. However, you chose to nourish your body inside and out make sure the methods and products are right for you, and always take care of yourself.

-Courtney P.

Please take note. The information provided is as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider to discuss if these exercises are appropriate for your lifestyle or medical conditions.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

Weight Loss Surgery The Life Saver: Or The Easy Way Out I wanted to touch on this because this is a pretty important topic for various reasons. We work in an industry filled with plus size men and women. While some of us are ok with are bodies, some are not. While some of us are healthy, some are not. There have been many conversations flying around regarding whether or not weight loss surgery is necessary. There have been some suggestions that maybe people should just exercise more, or change their eating habits. While this may be true for some of us, it won’t hold true for all. Even though we all have curves, our bodies are different. I know men and women who have lost their weight easy and I know men and women who have done the weight loss surgery. Now even though we are all different and things won’t affect us all the same, I think that it is important for people who may be considering any type of weight loss surgery to seek guidance from other people who may have. Take Trojah for instance. We all know Trojah as an influencer in the plus size industry, a serial entrepreneur and the author of “My FAT is NOT a Flaw”. Trojah talked with me about how she is not much of the dieting type but when she was almost 400 pounds, she tried weight watchers in an attempt to lose some of the weight. She found it discouraging when she put in so much work exercising and eating better only to lose a couple of pounds a week. Around this time people were buzzing about weight loss surgery. She had heard so many stories. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Some never lost the weight they had hoped to lose. Some gained their weight right back after the first year. Some could never keep food down. Some never made the change MENTALLY and therefore continued the same behaviors and wondered why they did not obtain success in their process. But after much research, deliberation and praying, she decided to get the vertical sleeve gastrectomy (vsg) which is the process where your stomach is cut from a large pouch to about the size of a banana. Nothing is rerouted and your incisions are microscopic. And although she wasn’t required to lose weight prior to surgery as most people she knows were, she ended up losing nine pounds before her surgery date. Which proved to Tojah that she was ready for this life change. Some of Trojah’s testimony. “Although my book was titled “My FAT is NOT a Flaw” I realized that my HEALTH was and being married with two small boys I could barely keep up with, I knew I had to make a change. All of my life I battled weight issues which translated to esteem and confidence issues but I had finally gotten to a place of loving the skin I was in. I understood that being FAT only described me. In no way shape form or fashion did it DEFINE me! Yet...I couldn’t walk up a flight of stairs without losing breath, I couldn’t play with my kids in the park without taking a seat, and I couldn’t enjoy a night of passion with my husband without pausing a time or two to catch my breath.

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WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY | QSM

How could I be empowering others to live when my own weight had begun to get in the way of my daily life? I knew I had to make a change. And what would my audience think? What would my supporters think? Here I am telling them to embrace their curves but at the same time I’m thinking about weight loss surgery! I was torn for a very long time and almost allowed what I thought OTHERS would say to hold me back from saving my own life! I know...how silly right?! After surgery my weight loss was gradual and I didn’t look “sick”. I got up to losing 107 pounds then BOOM!! One year later 8/2017 I became pregnant! On one hand I was happy because my husband and I were hoping to add a princess to our castle filled with Kings and Princes. But on the other hand I was feeling pretty selfish! Here I was just getting SNATCHED and living my BEST healthy life all to just get pregnant and gain the weight back! It almost sent me into a depression thinking that all I just went through was for nothing! And I can’t lie...my surgeon would ALWAYS warn me that after losing weight it is easier to get pregnant so be super careful! I didn’t listen! With 100 pounds gone sex with my husband had elevated on sooo many levels! Legs were to the sky for long periods of time with NO help. Missionary was no longer part of my vocabulary, and cowgirl was my new name! (TMI) I am truly grateful and will forever honor this tool and opportunity I have been given to save my life! To date I’ve lost 82 pounds since 8/2016 and once my baby girl arrives I’ll be back to being fully dedicated to continuing my journey! I chronicle it all in my new book too “Winning the War On Weight”. Hopefully I’ll be able to publish this summer :-) I don’t take for granted that VSG is STILL working for me.” I asked Tojah where thinks she would be today if she had not gotten the surgery; here is what she had to say. “If I had not gotten the surgery I would be stuck in the same vicious cycle of making unhealthy decisions & overeating all the while hiding my daily struggles & limitations my weight had placed on me. Of course masking them with fabulous outfits & cute pictures. (wink). But still loving every inch of me. Believe that!”

Shaterra Chatman’s story is one that we don’t normally hear about when we talk about weight loss surgery and the why behind it. “Hi my name is Shaterra Chatman I’m from New Haven, CT. I had the gastric sleeve last year June 9th 2017. Before my weight loss process the highest I weighed was 264 lbs; I am currently 198. I had surgery because I suffer from scoliosis, a gun shoot to the back with a 22 caliber (bullet still inside of me), and I also was in a car accident resulting in torn ligaments and multiple disks slipped in my back and arthritis. If it wasn’t for those things requiring me to lose weight for pain, I would have never noticed I was actually tremendously over weight. I’m 5’7 so it was all sitting in my mid-section. I’ve had many ups and downs with the surgery and still have struggles but I wouldn’t change a thing. There are times when I feel down in the dumps and can’t control the tears. Sometimes I just can’t believe where I started from and all the flaws my skin has since losing weight without solving my original problems. And then there are days where I am full of life and cannot keep myself out of the mirror taking pictures.” I had the opportunity to chat briefly with Shaterra about her decision to have weight loss surgery. QSM: Had it not been for your accidents do you think you would have ever gotten the surgery? Shaterra: Yes but I think it would have took me a little longer to realize it; the pain was just a push for it. I didn’t realize I was as big as I was. QSM: Did you already have the scoliosis before your accidents? And they pain you were experiencing; was that a result of your weight or from the accidents? Shaterra: Yes I already had scoliosis; it was discovered when I was in the 5th grade. The pain was all from my accidents. I used to be petite in my younger years and had the same pain. QSM: How did you decide which type of weight loss surgery was best for you? Shaterra: I decided I wanted the sleeve verses the bypass because the bypass has more side effects and can be reversed so I didn’t want to take any chances... the sleeve was more effective in a lot of people and since it was actually removing a part of the actual stomach organ I figured it would be more helpful, and it has.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

Jeanette Eans suffered from Asthma, Sleep Apnea. High Cholesterol, Hypertension, and Diabetes. “I was taking medication like I was an 85 year old lady.” She was constantly on Disability from her job, because of her asthma. She had to take Xolaire shots constantly just to control her asthma. This didn’t help with her weight issue at all since one of the side effects is weight gain. She tried weight watchers, Zumba, diet pills, but nothing seemed to work for her. In 2013 she was advised by her doctor that she need to lose the weight. In July 2014, Jeanette lost her mother to a fatal heart attack. Her mom suffered from diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. She had been medicated for most of her adult life to help control her conditions. After her death Jeanette went into a deep depression, eating like food was going out of style. A month later her doctor had gotten so concerned that he called for an intervention and told Jeanette that she needed to see a counselor to help her to deal with her mother’s death. Jeanette was 4’9”, weighing 223 pounds and wearing a size 22 in clothing. “I was at a lost; I was grieving my mother, displaced from my home, and living in broken-down relationship. My life was dissipating right before my eyes. On October 21, 2015 I made the call that changed my life. I decided to have the Lap band Surgery. The day of my appointment I approached the door and I wanted a run for it, but I knew I needed to make a change for the better. I walked into the office, and I saw so many people who were overweight, and struggling with the same issues. I spoke to Dr. Christine Ren, the Bariatric Surgeon that I was assigned to, she looked at me with a candor voice, and said ”this is not a game, if you want to lose weight then you must put in the work.” I felt like crying, but I knew I had to do this. She gave homework to complete. I had to complete a 6 months of doctors visits with a nutritionist, psychologist and my primary care doctor. I was proud of myself, I completed my homework and now it was time to schedule my surgery. We scheduled my lap band surgery for June 14, 2016 at NYU Langone Medical Center. There was so more work to do, I had to go on a liquid diet for two weeks, no Food just water.” It has been almost 2 years and Jeanette is down to 175lbs and wears a size 12. She says she still struggles every day with trying eating healthy and staying on the straight and narrow. She thanks her friend Cicely Hendricks, her uncle Ernest Eans, Jr and her sister in

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Christ Lynn Farrell for their support during her weight loss journey. QSM: I had the honor of knowing your mom and she was definitely a great woman and supporter. Was there any concern before your mom passed regarding your weight? You seemed to have some of the same health issues. Why did you wait to address the issue? Jeanette: I didn’t have a real concern, because I felt that I was fine. I was in denial about my heath. The doctor was very concerned for me, but it wasn’t until my mother’s passing that I had the wakeup call. I just thought if just I took the medication I would be fine. QSM: What were some of the effects from the surgery that you weren’t expecting to experience? Jeanette: With the Lap band you have to adjust to eating and chewing, or your food would get stuck causing you to vomit. QSM: Why did you choose the lap band? Jeanette: I chose this procedure because it is safe, reversible and effective. The band can be adjusted and removed.

In speaking with these ladies I understand that there people are not just getting help to take short cuts and be lazy; they are getting help to save their lives. Now that doesn’t mean that everyone should run out and get surgery because as they said, if you don’t maintain it you will gain it all back.

WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY | QSM

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photography | Philip Drew @PDrewPhotography Model | Sheena Postell @mspostell African Jumpsuit | Grass Fields @grass_fields Boots | Jessica Simpson @jessicasimpsonstyle

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“

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | SHEENA POSTELL

Always love on yourself first and smile daily! “Without struggle there is no progress” ~Fredrick Douglas

Photography | Philip Drew @PDrewPhotography Model | Sheena Postell @mspostell Jeans | Lane Bryant @lanebryant Sweater/ Shirt: Who What Wear @whowhatwear Shoes | Macy’s @macys

heena Postell is an aspiring model from Hartford, Connecticut. She is currently a senior at University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford, CT where she majors in Social Work and minors in American Sign Language. She is also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated and serves Chi Eta Zeta Chapter in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Her goals are to encourage people, one smile at a time and to utilize those encounters to create lasting experiences. Sheena has been a free lance model since 2015 and has traveled up and down the east coast walking in fashion shows, pop up shops and being apart of countless model competitions. She currently holds the title as 1st runner up of Ms. Kurvacious 2017 and 2018. Not only does she has amazing confidence in herself she has confidence in her community and uplifts youth in the city of Hartford, Ct.

Photography | Philip Drew @PDrewPhotography Model | Sheena Postell @mspostell African Jumpsuit | Grass Fields @grass_fields Boots | Jessica Simpson @jessicasimpsonstyle

Photography | Philip Drew @PDrewPhotography Model | Sheena Postell @mspostell Dress| Eloquii @eloquii Shoes | The Ultimate Shoe Bar @theultimateshoebar

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

WHO IS SHEENA?

QSM: Sheena you have such a beautiful personality. You are humble and caring. And I adore being in your presence. I just wanted to lead with saying that. Who is Sheena? Sheena: I’m an around the way kind of girl that is intrigued by everything but only participates with a few things. I am loyal to people that go hard for me and I laugh at my own jokes. I’m born and raised in Connecticut so I have a kind spirit with a bougie attitude. I love traveling, even though I don’t own a passport yet but I’ve made the best memories on day trips and on 8 hour rides on the train. QSM: Tell us something about Sheena that would surprise us to know. Sheena: I am an April baby that loves warm heat and cool nights. I am a proud woman that is dyslexic and is unapologetic about how my brain functions. QSM: Now, what got you into modeling? Sheena: It was back in 2014, I attended the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated centennial gala and me being a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated, I had to come and slay. I wore a long sleeve floor length gown that had some simple beading around my waist and with a deep V-neck drop in the front. That whole entire night I got so many compliments on my gown and how beautiful I looked. I knew that I was playing it safe with wearing a fully covered gown but I didn’t realize that I was taking all of the attention. My fraternity brother Jean Napol came up to me and said that I should do modeling and I laughed it off. Later that night I went home and found inspiration on YouTube. That was the first time that I heard about Full Figured Fashion Week in New York City and I was amazed on what I was watching. The year of 2014, I researched bloggers, designers, and found who the heavy hitters were in the plus industry. I was inspired and just enjoyed watching videos of women walking the runway until it was time for me to physically do it. My first runway class was with Andrene Williams from Unique Blend Magazine. She was my first runway coach that taught me my foundation of how to walk, move and pose. My second runway coach was Jeannie Ferguson and she taught me how to add sass, control and vision to my walk and pose. Plus, she taught me how to control my bounce and jiggle properly down the runway. QSM: Do you ever find that (in this industry) people try to take advantage of your kindness? If so how do you handle it? Sheena: Any industry is full of pretenders but the only way to be ahead of the game is to be true to yourself. People take advantage of opportunities because it’s in our DNA to thrive to be the best. Yes people have tried to take advantage of my kindness and the best way that I deal with it is being silent. Most of the time I get really upset when I find out when people try to play me and my first response is never the best response. So my first move is silence and ignoring the person when I see them in public. Usually they get the picture and the vibe that I’m no longer dealing with them. At the end of the day, I need to pick and choose my battles but I also have an image to maintain and protecting my brand is important than lowering myself to others foolishness. QSM: What is your overall perspective on the progression of the full figured fashion industry? Sheena: Things are moving very slow to be honest. I see that major companies are adding bigger sizes but they are still not available in the store. That’s another reason why a lot of plus size stores are online now and are making crazy sales that way. It’s hard to have a plus size company located in every city and town because full figured fashion is hard to sale.

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The production takes long and we need special fabric to create amazing pieces that are a size 18 and up. It has come a long way from five years ago and I can now shop mostly anywhere to find a quick outfit. QSM: With the market being so saturated with aspiring models, the competition must be pretty fierce. How do you plan to stay original and relevant? Sheena: The plan is to not lose myself in the process of shining when all others are bright. If I keep a mindset of being kind and classy in everything that I do. I know I will win every single time. Winning is not being in first place but its winning with inner peace, confidents and accomplishing short and long term goals. QSM: Do you come from a family of models or are you the first? Sheena: I am the first model in my family and I’m pretty shocked by that because my mother was a fierce women who rocked the streets of Harlem back in the late 60’s and 70’s. She had a coke bottle shaped body frame and wore creative fashions all of the time. I was never into fashion because I attended private schools so there was always a dress code or uniform to wear. I found fashion very late in life but I still played it safe. I wore a lot of loose outfits and was nervous to show off my shape. Showing my curves would bring unwanted attraction that I was not ready to handle so fashion was on the back porch for years. It wasn’t until my senior prom in high school that I wore a two piece strapless dress and won prom queen. I knew something was coming up out of me but I didn’t discover it until 12 years later. QSM: You are the 1st runner up of Ms. Kurvacious 2016 and 2017; will the third time be the charm for you? Sheena: Ms. Kurvaceous 2016 was my first model competition that I have been a part of and I was overjoyed to hear my name called as 1st runner up 2016. However, I returned with a better strategy, plan and confidence and being crowned 1st runner up for 2017 again was humbling experience but at the same time it opened my eyes wider. About two days after the competition, the scores got posted and to my surprise I was five points away from the title. Days turned into weeks which turned into months and those five points are still on my mind heavy. Yes! Queen Size Magazine, I will be entering into Ms. Kurvaceous 2018 for a third time. This third round is personal! This third round is to push myself outside the box. My biggest challenge is myself and going hard this third time around. QSM: Pageants and model competitions seem to be the big thing now. What is your why behind it and how does it benefit your modeling career? Sheena: Competitions allows you learn what happens behind the magic. Every commercial, fashion show, photo shoot and pop up shop that you have seen always has a behind the scene experience. You won’t learn about the production but the lesson is learning about yourself and how others treat one another. When you enter into a competition, people really don’t understand that you are competing with each other. Yes it’s a great opportunity to learn new faces, network but at the end of the day there is always one winner. The benefit of how to change from a bathing suit with baby oil on, wearing sheer to waist fish net stockings to a full undergarment with strapless bra and a floor length gown under five minutes is the real magic trick. Plus, you are doing it alone, making sure your hair and makeup is still on point with no help is the real experience. It teaches you to handle business in a quick moment without complaining about heat and how small of a space you have to change in. Pageants and competitions are necessary to push yourself to the limit.

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | SHEENA POSTELL QSM: I have interviewed countless models and they all have said they had those moments where they wanted to quit. I know you are just two years in but have you had those moments yet? Sheena: Thoughts go through my head when I need to post on my modeling page, think of an inspiring phrase and keep up with the people I follow. Out of a 24 hour day, I spend a total of five hours on social media. It’s a lot of work and sometimes I get tired of doing it. Yes, I want to quit and put away my phone for a day or two but that’s when you miss the good stuff. There is always an up and coming designer looking for models, a new photo shoot opportunity and the plus industry breaking more walls down for me to walk fiercely through. That pushes me to keep going, keep creating and showing support to the ones that paved the way for me to walk so freely in. Not all at once but….

15 QSM: Congrats on everything so far. We will be watching you. And speaking of watching, please provide your social media channels for everyone to follow you. And your final thoughts Sheena: I invite you to follow my big smile on Instagram @mspostell Hashtag #mspostell Twitter @mspostell and my modeling page on Facebook: mspostellmodel Always love on yourself first and smile daily! “Without struggle there is no progress” – Fredrick Douglas

QSM: You have been a huge supporter in our #iamqueensize campaign. What does that hashtag mean to you? Sheena: It simply means that I consider my life big time. I know my thoughts are bigger than life and my opinion truly shapes who I am as a woman. I AM QUEEN SIZE because I walk the walk and talk the talk of an intelligent woman that makes a difference in my community and the people around me. QSM: How do you manage modeling and being a college student? Sheena: WOW! The best way to say it is “Just Do It”. Balancing college and modeling is very hard because there are times that I want to travel every weekend to auditions but the two things that are stopping me are my classes and money. Education has always been an important aspect in my life and very helpful in my career. Modeling is a type of career that you must go out and grab it now because there may not be another chance to get it. I plan my classes accordantly so that I’m attending my academics every other weekend and on the next weekend I attend auditions, photoshoots and events. Each semester I only skip one class out of each of my courses for modeling because not every big audition will fall on my off weekend so I sacrifice one class. It equals out at the end because I never miss a class, my assignments are always in early and exceed what is expected from me to my professors. So when I do need to skip class, they don’t mind because I’m one of their best students. It requires for me to be very organized and strict about how I manage my time. Everything must be planned down to travel and cost. So far my planning has been successful and has brought me to be a better student which earned me a 4.0 GPA and allowed me to be a smarter model. QSM: Sign language? What’s the story behind that? Sheena: All of my life I’ve had friends that spoke another language and every time I tried to learn to speak a new language I would get tongue tied. It wasn’t until I started to attend private school and on my route to school, there was a student that was deaf on my bus. So for about a year, I communicated with her with a pen and paper. One afternoon while traveling home, we were stuck in bad traffic and she taught me how to sign the alphabet. At that moment I was intrigued and was very interested in ASL but unfortunately it was the last day of school and we were both going to attend different high schools. I never thought about ASL again until I got into college and learned that taking a language class was a requirement for my major. Without hesitation, I registered for sign language class and fell in love with not only the language but the culture. My professor was an older gentleman and never spoke a word, so my classmates and I properly assumed that he was hearing impaired. Months go by and I’ve learned over 400 words, able to sign a full conversation without fear and being nervous. A week before finals, my professor decides to speak to us and not use sign language to communicate. We were all in shock to learn that he was never deaf but made us focus our eyes and body language to not only respect ASL but allow it to be a part of our lives. American Sign Language is the most beautiful culture that I have ever learned because it allows you to focus on people and embrace communication. QSM: What can we expect from you next? Sheena: Expect for me to keep trying until I’m satisfied with it. Expect for me to showcase how God is the head of my life and his mercies endures forever and ever. Expect for me to keep smiling and making dope memories with every encounter.

Photography | Philip Drew @PDrewPhotography Model | Sheena Postell @mspostell Dress| Eloquii @eloquii Shoes | The Ultimate Shoe Bar @theultimateshoebar

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Part 2 Most frequently ask question I have been asked at the salon Hello Ladies and Gents, let’s begin on answering some good questions: I say yes! And remember to drink your water and take your vitamins!

Crystal Lewis

ONE THREE

MY HAIR HAS NO SHINE AND DON’T LOOK HEALTHY: IT CAN BE OF MANY DIFFERENT THINGS THAT MAY BE CAUSING YOU TO NOT HAVE SHINY HAIR AND NOT HEALTHY. SUCH AS: 1. Your diet. Not eating healthy. 2. Stress 3. Conventional Shampoo and Conditioners 4. Toxic chemical treatments 5. Heat damage 6. Lack of sleep 7. Autoimmune issues 8. Environmental damage 9. Excessive alcohol/drugs 10. Excessive coffee 11. Improper brushing

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WHAT IS YOUR SPECIALTY?

TWO YOU NOTICE A BALD SPOT IN MY HAIR, WOULD YOU TELL ME? As a professional it is my right to tell you. A bald spot can lead to other things. Or giving you a sign that can be more serious than just a bald. This is the time as a professional we are to evaluate your lifestyle and maybe it’s time to get a complete physical.

Hair Restoration. Bringing the hair back to its natural healthy state. Whither if the hair is in its natural texture or chemically treated.

FOUR WHO HAS MENTOR YOU IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY? There is so many that I follow and who have been great mentors throughout my career.

FAQ’S IN THE SALON | CRYSTAL LEWIS

FIVE HOW DO YOU STAY CURRENT ON THE NEW TRENDS A- HAIRSTYLES B-PRODUCTS C-STYLING TOOLS Training, Training, and more Training.

SIX

EIGHT WHY DO YOU THINK YOUR CLIENTS KEEP COMING BACK TO YOU? I am a honest stylist. My job is to make people feel better about themselves inside and out.

DO YOU DO NATURAL HAIR CARE? Yes I do. And I love it. I love teaching our guest the basic skills for growing and maintaining the natural hair that you were born with. With my maintenance plan, we can train your hair to be silky smooth without chemicals. My mission is to also get to our children before chemicals are introduced to them to manage, their hair.

SEVEN YOU HAVE A HAIR HYDRATION STEAMER IN YOUR SALON, WHAT IS THE FOR? Steam processors, or hair steamers, are not new to the salon industry but you definitely don’t see them in every salon. A steam processor works with the use of vapor steam and heat, which opens up the cuticle and allows the treatment or chemicals to penetrate 5 to 10 times more. Compared to conventional overhead dryers, hair steamers allow for shorter processing times. Hair steamers can also be used with conditioning and other hair treatments. The steam will drive the product deep into the hair, leaving it smooth and shiny. A hair steamer is also a great treatment for dandruff and itchy scalp. The steam will infuse moisture into the scalp and the heat will kill any fungus or bacteria that is causing the itching.

NINE SHOULD I GET A DEEP CONDITIONER EVERY TIME I COME TO THE SALON? I recommended that my guest gets one each time.

TEN WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A CUT OR A TRIM. DO I REALLY NEED IT? Nothing just different terminology. It is recommended to get a trim every season unless you have a style that you must keep it cut.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

8 TYPES OF DRESSES THAT SHOULD BE IN YOUR CLOSET wrtitten by Michelle Gonzalvez

Dresses are a feminine alternative to pants and are arguably easier to wear than combining separates. They cover a multitude of “flaws” and it is so much easier to find a dress that fits every curve than it is with pants.

THE SHIRT DRESS A shirt dress is a style of women’s dress that borrows details from a man’s shirt. They first emerged in the 1950s. These can include a collar, a button front, or cuffed sleeves and are often made of the same fabrics. They usually need a belt to define the waist but a forgiving fit make this a flattering look for most body types. Variations of the original shirtdress is the T-shirt dress and sweater dresses. T-shirt and sweater dresses are simply elongated versions of t-shirts and sweaters

A quick search of the word dress online reveals up to 41 different dress types! I think we can safely narrow this down to about eight main types though. Here are 8 of the most common types found in women’s closets:

THE SHIFT DRESS A shift dress is a dress that doesn’t hug the body’s curves or cinch the waist. The classic version is sleeveless, knee-length, and features a high collar or boat neck. They were popular in the 1960s “mod” look, when it was worn by such public figures as Audrey Hepburn, Mia Farrow, and Twiggy. It can be dressed up with a jacket and pearls, glamorized with gloves and diamonds, dressed down with comfy flats or sneakers and thrown on over a bathing suit for a day at the beach.

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THE EMPIRE WAIST DRESS An empire waist dress is one that has a fitted bodice, and waistline is placed above the natural waist, sometimes right below the bust. Empire waist dresses evoke images of ladies in Greco-Roman Art. The term “Empire silhouette” didn’t actually come about till the early 20th-century. Napoleons Empress Joséphine de Beauharnais was influential in popularizing the style around Europe.

8 TYPES OF DRESSES THAT SHOULD BE IN YOUR CLOSET| MICHELLE GONZALVES

THE A-LINE DRESS An A-line dress is fitted at the hips and gradually widens towards the hem, literally giving the impression of the shape of a capital letter A. The term A-line was first used by the French couture designer Christian Dior as the label for his collection of spring 1955.That idea was popularized by Dior’s successor, Yves Saint Laurent, with his “Trapeze Line” of spring 1958, which featured dresses flaring out dramatically from a fitted shoulder line.

THE HALTER DRESS First becoming popular during the 1940s, a halter dress is a backless dress that is secured at the back of the neck and the waistline. Halter dresses are a popular summer and evening wear dress choice and can come in varying lengths and fabrics . In most cases the neckline of a halter dress is either sweetheart style or V shaped, because those are the two styles best suited to extended ties. Some halter dresses have full skirts, while others hug the body. A summer halter dress is usually made of soft, cool fabrics such as linen, cotton, and cotton blends. Evening wear fabrics for a summer halter dress might include lined chiffon and lightweight silks and satins. I personally like this style because it provides some natural breast support.

THE SKATER DRESS Skater dresses date back to the 80s where the short dress derived its inspiration from ice-dance costumes. The dress has a trademark cut. It basically comes in fitted at the waistline and then skims over the hips and thighs in the way of a full circle skirt. It is good for showing off your legs and is popular because it flatters most figure types.

THE BODYCON DRESS

THE WRAP DRESS Featuring a design that first appeared as early as the 1930s, a wrap dress is a dress that closes in front by wrapping one side across the other, and knotting the attached ties that wrap around the back at the waist or fastening buttons. This forms a V-shaped neckline and hugs the wearer’s curves. There are faux wrap dresses which look the same except that it comes already fastened together with no opening in front, but instead is slipped on over the head. Whether you gain a few pounds or lose a few pounds, the dress will still fit beautifully. The V-neck line elongates our neck and somehow magically works well with both

A bodycon dress is a one-piece figure hugging garment that clings to the body from the bust to the hem. The name of the dress comes from a contraction of the phrase body conscious. Bodycon dresses are usually made of a lycra and polyester blend, to give them enough elasticity to hug the figure smoothly. These tight fitting dresses are popular as evening wear, but are increasingly worn as day wear when correctly and creatively accessorised. The tight fitting nature of the dress means that it is even more important than usual to wear the right underwear. Bodycon dresses can be accessorised for both day and evening.

small and large bust sizes.

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BEAUTY AND BUSINESS FASHION

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

ADVERTISING Rates & Sizes

Founded in 2011, we are a magazine dedicated to Queen Size women. Queen Size is not only about the physical size, but also the mental. We are dedicated to highlighting women of all walks of life. If you are a woman making Queen Size moves, then this is where you belong. We do not limit ourselves to just women; this was the basis of why we created the magazine. We are looking to highlight and promote small businesses owners/entrepreneurs, both men and women. Queen Size Magazine puts out a new issue every month with realistic articles written by real life people. We have writers that cover health and fitness, true life situations and experiences, fashion, recipes and more.

Ad Rates Full Page ½ Page ¼ Page Cover Story Inside Cover Back Cover Inside Back Cover ISSUE December/January February/March April/May June/July August/September October/November

1x $100 $60 $45 $300 $240 $200 $140

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Ad Due Date November. 10th January. 10th March 10th May 10th July 10th September 10th

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FEATURED STORY

Photography | Zakiyah Caldwell @kiacaldwellphoto Model | Catherine Ashly @ catherine_ashly Hair & Makeup | Catherine Ashly for Catherine Ashly Beauty @catherineashly_beauty Creative Director and Stylist | Corrinn Chishimba @beautyboxstyle

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CATHERINE ASHLY| QSM

atherine Ashly The first time I knew something wasn’t quite right was in 2008. I went on vacation and had a great time, however on my way home from the Bahamas I realized something wasn’t right. I walked off the airplane shortly after I landed in the Philadelphia airport and fainted. I was rushed to the hospital and was diagnosed with what they thought was anxiety. Ten years later, I now realize that it was directly connected to a lupus flare. I remember those moments being so vivid and scary! I felt so alone and as if the doctors weren’t really listening to me. The only thing I could do was listen to the doctors even though I knew they were wrong. I decided to do some research on anxiety and learned how to calm my symptoms naturally by reducing stressors and becoming more active. I started to get better, so I convinced myself that I was wrong and the doctors were right. Throughout the years I would have mild health issues that the doctors couldn’t connect the dots to, or understand why I was experiencing the symptoms. The only thing I knew that actually worked with all stress was to elevate it all together. In 2010 I became very stressed attempting to sort out some behavioral issues with my son. It left me feeling like empty as a mother because I had no idea what to do for my young child; who hadn’t spoken more than five words at the age of two. My spouse and I always argued and it sent me to the hospital many times that year. The arguing became so that I made the hard decision of leaving my husband at the time. He couldn’t understand that the stress triggered something in me to become sick, and I COULD NO LONGER try to help him to wrap his head around it. All I knew was I had to be healthy enough to take care of my son, but I couldn’t do that living there. In June 2010 I left my sons father and suddenly I started to feel better, I then noticed that I seriously was affected by stress and everything in my life had to be connected to positivity and things I enjoyed. I was five years into a career that I loved when I left my husband. As an assistant Special

education teacher, Life was fulfilling, that is until I received the diagnosis that my son too was Autistic. I struggled with trying to figure out what I needed to do. I knew that I would have to apply my skills for my son; I also knew that I again would have to choose between my son and my career. Well like most things, I was forced to choose because my symptoms returned, so I quit the job and started my journey as a cosmetologist. Til this day it was one of the best decisions I could have made. My career brought so much balance and happiness to my life that I stopped having symptoms all together. As the years went by, I began to date and continue to build my career in the beauty industry. I met a great man and began plus modeling. Life was good and we conceived a child. Soon after my baby was born I fell ill, and the doctors had no idea why. My blood pressure was always high and my symptoms continued to get worse. For two years I couldn’t figure out why my body felt so weak, and suddenly my model bestie died with no warning. The stress from her unexpected death sent my health spiraling downhill and fast. I had a really hard time wrapping my head around the idea that she was no longer here. I fell into depression and one day I woke up to no feeling in my hands. This sensation went from one day to one week to one year. I decided to leave my primary physician because no one had answers for me and they only suggested a carpel tunnel surgery, in which the symptoms for that didn’t relate to what I was feeling. A few weeks later I found a doctor and almost didn’t tell her about my symptoms. I was so sick of people giving me a diagnosis and not even listening to me. So I waited until the very end of the appointment when the doctor asked me “do you have any other concerns?” I held my head down and replied, “My hands, I can’t feel them.” Stunned at my response, the doctor began asking me questions that I was never asked before, and within 24 hours I knew I had an auto immune disease.

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FEATURED STORY

CATHERINE ASHLY| ASHLEY|QSM QSM

My current rheumatologist is a winner “for now”. Once he started realizing that the only med that worked for me was prednisone he stopped pushing so many medications my way. He said to me, “listen I don’t know why your body is rejecting every medication given you. I’m scared to give you ANYTHING else because your health is slipping in front of me. “I knew at this point my life was slipping away and the doctors didn’t have all of the answers. I had been in and out of the hospital so many times that year. Couldn’t work and could barely walk. I was on bed rest for almost four months, while I was down I did my own research and found ways to heal my body naturally. I slowly weaned myself off of all medications with the help of ibuprofen and prayer. It was the best decision for me. I now educate people how on a healthy diet and replenishing vitamins and minerals to your diet can help with auto immune diseases. My research has already helped four people in my direct circle of friends. Lupus is a horrible disease with no cure and minimal research! My Story and talking about what I have experienced has and will continue to help people find answers just like I have. If I help one person get advice or a diagnosis so they no longer feel alone, I would have done my job. I want people to know that what you’re feeling is real. It’s not only in your head; it’s a real problem that doctors need to listen to. The more we discuss it the closer we are to a cure.

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Photography | Zakiyah Caldwell @kiacaldwellphoto, Model | Catherine Ashly @ catherine_ashly, Hair & Makeup | Catherine Ashly for Catherine Ashly Beauty @catherineashly_beauty Creative Director and Stylist | Corrinn Chishimba @ beautyboxstyle, Flower body suit |Custom BY Corrinn Chishimba for Beauty box Style @beautyboxstyle

I was told that I needed to see a rheumatologist; there is where I found more answers to the why I was feeling the way I was; and how to treat it moving forward. I jumped from one doctor to another once I realized that they only do one thing; pushing pills. Within the past two years I have been on eight different medications that either helped me minimally, or made my symptoms worse over all. One in which was a chemo pill and I was told I couldn’t ever get pregnant on it. I made an appointment to get a dud and days before the appointment I found out I was pregnant, but my doctor refused to allow me to keep the baby with fear that it will either make me worse or I would give birth to a child with abnormalities and defects. I was in the middle of planning my 2nd annual event “The swim Soiree” and had to walk around carrying a baby that I knew I couldn’t keep. My event was successful and was memorable but two days after, I had to go immediately in the hospital for surgery to terminate the pregnancy; I was devastated. Lupus had not only robbed me of my life, but I also may not be strong enough to have children again.

FEATURED STORY

Let’s get to know Catherine QSM: Tell me about Catherine growing up? What kind of child were you? Catherine: I was always a bright eyed busy child, full of life and very silly. lol QSM: What about your school days? You seem like the cool kid in school that always had the popular kids following behind her. Lol Catherine: I actually was in so many ways, I was known as the goofy girl who knew everyone. I had many friends in my adolescent years and was against bullying. My parents would always yell at me for jumping in peoples fights. I never got into trouble by myself, but if I saw my friends being picked on, I was sure to jump in it lol. I haven’t out grown that trait yet! QSM: What career did you see yourself embarking on when you were growing up? I wanted to be a teacher. Don’t ask me why. lol Catherine: I wanted to be Florist in high school. I attended an agricultural school and majored in floriculture. In high school I did everyone’s bouquet and corsages for proms. I still use my florist skills from time to time, but clearly went in a different direction creatively. lol QSM: Tell me something about Catherine that would surprise people to know. Catherine: I got married at 19. My best friends thought I was an idiot and were vocal about it. I got divorced and was homeless by 25 years old with an autistic 3-year-old. Back then, I wished I had listened and beat myself up emotionally for years. Then something clicked and I realized that my experiences matured me beyond my years. I now use my story of pain and struggle to encourage battered and broken women to push through their trials and tribulations. It does get better if you trust the journey. Its ok to make mistakes, but what matters most is to keep pushing past your pain. QSM: When I see Catherine I see strength and confidence; were you always this way? Catherine: I always had confidence, but I think I had moments in my life when my confidence wasn’t as strong because of my hardships. When life throws punches and all you do is dodge them, eventually you become tired. In my weakness I lost pieces of myself that I had to fight to get back. QSM: Did you know what Lupus was when you were given the diagnosis? Did you think you going to die? Describe those feelings. Catherine: I was very ignorant to this disease, but I feel like we all are really. Even my doctors were ignorant to how the disease works, so yes, I thought I was headed to an early grave because of it. I was overwhelmed with sadness and confusion. I have no one in my family with Lupus SLE, which means I am doing all the research alone. I felt very alone and because my doctors had no idea what to do, I mentally gave up. I had to gather my strength from another close friend that survived cancer. She held my hand as I held hers through her fight. I still have mixed feelings sometimes about this disease even though I feel better, but it’s a normal emotion to be fearful and scared. I acknowledge the way I feel and why so I can move on and have a better day tomorrow.

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CATHERINE ASHLY| QSM

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FEATURED STORY QSM: Describe your flare ups and how they affect you. Catherine: My Flares can range from mild to severe with no warning signs sometimes. A mild flare can consist of muscle pains, joint pains, anxiety, insomnia, mouth ulcers, fatigue, fainting and dizziness. Severe Flares can include all of the above and seizures, heart attacks, strokes, numbness in Limbs, problems with pregnancy, mental illness, IBS, vision loss and much more. I’ve learned to handle them rather well, but it wasn’t always like this, last year was hell for me. I had many horrible experiences with drugs that didn’t interact with body well. The end result was irreversible damage that I have to live with for the rest of my life. After 6-7 bad drug attempts, I decided to treat this disease naturally and have never looked back. QSM: Can you tell people reading this who may not know, exactly what is lupus? Catherine: Lupus is considered a chronic illness/ autoimmune disease, meaning it’s not curable and can be triggered by anything at any time. There are three types; I was diagnosed with Lupus SLE which is when my body attacks itself for NO REASON. LUPUS SLE attacks the major organs like the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys and liver. Through my own research I’ve learned that this disease thrives on inflammation. If there is no inflammation there are minimal symptoms. If there is too much inflammation, you flare and your body will attack itself. Our immune systems register inflammation as harmful, so my body will react negatively every time inflammation is present. QSM: Do you currently work with lupus awareness organizations? Catherine: I do work with organizations by assisting with bringing awareness to the cause and raising funds for research. I openly share my story with other platforms hoping to help others who suffer, seek proper treatment, learn how to treat this disease naturally and advocate for themselves when necessary.

QSM: Now how and why did you get into modeling? Catherine: I began modeling because it was something I always wanted to do, but when I really wanted to start my journey I was in an abusive relationship and he didn’t want me to get attention. When I finally broke free from him, I jumped into modeling and never looked back. I love it! QSM: Tell me about some of the work that you had the pleasure of doing as a model. Catherine: I have worked with brands like Ashley Stewart (Love Your Curves Tour Winner 2015), Ms. Full-figured 2014, Curves Rock Weekend

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CATHERINE ASHLY| QSM

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FEATURED STORY

QSM: Did your diagnosis come before or after you started modeling? Catherine: My Diagnosis was after modeling. I always had mild symptoms that would come and go with no explanation, but wasn’t diagnosed until after I was already invested into my modeling career. QSM: Is that why you stopped? Catherine: I wouldn’t say I stopped modeling completely. I think I changed the purpose behind it. My imagery now is more geared towards my platform. I use to do runway and competitions but last year I realized that my body could no longer tolerate the extreme stress that came with being a working model. I can’t predict daily how I will feel, so running from state to state is no longer beneficial for me. I learned that I can still connect with people and model occasionally by building a platform that motivates and empowers. It has created balance so that I can do what I love without putting stress on my body. QSM: By that time, you were already building your career as a cosmetologist correct? Catherine: Yes, I was in the process of building my modeling career and cosmetology career at the same time. I figured modeling and branding myself as a hair artist would all come together eventually. QSM: Do you think you would still be modeling today if it had not been for your lupus? Catherine: The way I have done in the past, No. It’s a very busy life style and my life has shifted drastically since I began my journey with modeling years ago. Lupus or not, I think my brand has shifted more to empowerment more than just modeling. QSM: I think one of the things that I love the most about you is your perseverance. Through all that has transpired in your life you never give up. When and why did you decide to begin building the PlusSizeMePlz Brand? Catherine: I began PlusSizeMePlz because I felt the need to bridge the gap between for the plus community connecting from the DMV, to the New York region. Though events happen in Philadelphia occasionally and sometimes include plus models, I have never seen an inclusive body positive event in Philadelphia until I began my business. PlusSizeMePlz is an inclusive event business that encourages and uplifts individuals to be their true selves and love their bodies as they are. I feel it is important to have events that spread self-love in the city of Brotherly LOVE. QSM: So even though you were not able to continue your modeling journey, you created your mark in the industry. Your brand provides workshops, networking events and such. Why is this so important to you? Catherine: It’s important for me to help others gain more knowledge within our community. I don’t know everything, but I have learned A LOT through networking and experiences. I want to prevent individuals from wasting precious time

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and money, and support others dreams, as so many have supported mine. This Brand is my stamp that I want to genuinely help support the plus community by being a positive role model. I help sponsor new and established brands often to show that unity is necessary and can be done. QSM: How honest are you with models that ask that infamous question “do you think I have what it takes”? Catherine: I am very honest about what it takes to be a model, sometimes too honest lol. Nevertheless I don’t discourage because that’s not place. I make it very clear what a model should work on and why. I also refer the model to a coach or a brand manager that can assist with direction and the purpose of you want to model to begin with. The question I always ask is “Why? Why do you want to be a model?” It has to be for you. So many models begin modeling because they were told they should. Family members say, “Your pretty you should model.” That’s not enough, being pretty isn’t ENOUGH, it takes a lot of hard work, money, time and energy that goes into this craft. If “YOU”, aren’t sure if you want it, you might need to evaluate your why. QSM: How does it feel to now have people looking up to you and your brand for guidance? Catherine: I’m honored; I never thought I would have the opportunity to share my experiences with as many people as it has reached. I LOVE HELPING PEOPLE; it makes me feel like I’m making a difference. QSM: What branding advice can you offer to aspiring models? Catherine: To always make sure you are starting this journey for the right reasons. If you’re seeking validation you won’t last. If you have something to prove to anyone other than yourself you’re wasting your own time. Let me be clear, it’s perfectly ok to have a platform and a message, but be sure what that is before you start traveling down a road that discourages you from reaching your full potential. Stay clear from edgier photographers who don’t shoot quality images, being cheap will make you lose more than you will gain. Save for the best so you can put your best foot forward. Lastly, stay focused on your journey. It’s ok to be selfish as a model; you can’t always tell everyone what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. What will be for you will always be for you, but involving other models into your journey can make the journey have twists and turns that aren’t necessary. Keep yourself humble, and make sure you clap for others when they win, it shows you have integrity. QSM: What advice can you offer to models that have hung up their heels for whatever reason, but they still want to stay in the industry? Catherine: I would tell them to grab someone and be a mentor. Help or start a brand that will offer guidance so the next group of models will have a head start. We NEED more genuine brands that want to see others succeed instead of competing for thePhotography next coin. | Philip Drew (IG: PDrew Photography) Makeup | Vera Palmer (IG: iamverapalmer) Hair | Flawless Designz by Charisse (IG: flawlessdesignznyc) Jumpsuit | Kabi926 Model | Serenity The Model (IG: serenity_themodel)

CATHERINE ASHLY| QSM

31 Photography | Zakiyah Caldwell @kiacaldwellphoto, Model | Catherine Ashly @ catherine_ashly, Hair & Makeup | Catherine Ashly for Catherine Ashly Beauty @catherineashly_beauty Creative Director and Stylist | Corrinn Chishimba @beautyboxstyle, Purple Trench | Vintage thrift

QSM: As if I haven’t dug all up in your personal business already, I am going deeper now. Lol … Tell us about James. How did you guys meet and how supportive is he in your career? Catherine: James and I met from social media about 5 years ago. We dated cordially on and off and I kept it rather quiet. I was concerned about being too open about my relationship until we had really gotten to know each other. After a year went by, I decided to introduce him to my family and friends. James is the ultimate support system; I honestly didn’t expect that. He literally supports everything I do, even if he can’t be there with me. I couldn’t all of this without him and I’m very vocal about it. I love him very much and appreciate all he is to me. QSM: How are you managing being a wife, an entrepreneur, a mom and all that you are to everyone else without getting flare ups every day? Catherine: It’s tough I can’t lie, my life is very hectic and the slightest bit of stress can trigger me to flare. I have to find balance always and that is very hard to do. I often have to turn the world off completely and be alone to figure out what exactly does my body need at the moment. I’ve learned that I have to come first, because I can’t be anything to anyone if I can’t be healthy for myself. I don’t respond well to medication so I need to attempt to stay a healthy as possible. In order to stay med free, I have to stay stress free, which keeps me FLARE FREE. QSM: What’s next for Catherine and the PlusSizeMePlz Brand? Catherine: I am looking forward to our 3rd annual Swim Soiree and additional events connected to it. Stay Tuned I can’t share it all lol QSM: Thank you so much for granting us this interview. Please provide final thoughts and please tell everyone where they can find you. Catherine: It’s important to do and be your best. Will there be bumps in the road? YESSS! Will life seem unfair sometimes? YESSSS! It always works out though, so push past the pain and stay focused on your goals and dreams. You happiness is your responsibility so be accountable and diligent to do what it takes to move your success to the next level. instagram @Catherine_Ashly, @Plussize_meplz, @Catherineashly_beauty

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Shop

FOREVER21.com Who said plus size canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wear stripes?

Hello there, have you seen these images?

Well, technically, the myth was geared towards horizontal stripes. The myth is based on the notion that this pattern of stripes will make you look wider. As a result, I have noticed that plus size clothing typically comes in vertical stripes. It is also said that horizontal stripes make you look taller while vertical stripes make you look wider. I think we should test this theory. Check out next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue to find out more. In the meantime, shop these looks at forever21.

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SPRING STRIPES | MEESHA ANN

Spring Stripes

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Taylor Tak

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | TAYLOR TAK

Attacking the Stigmas of the Plus Size Industry from South Korea Article by: Jonna E. Capone

recently had the privilege Korea’s only plus size trip to New York City. She personal struggles being that disregards her. Taylor honored to get a chance

After a year in the this photographer in London. spontaneously and he took should be modeling. Back the curve & plus size fashion the States and Europe.”

of sitting down with one of South models, Taylor Tak, during her first shared her story and her own a full figured woman in a culture wanted to share her story and I was to capture it. Netherlands, Taylor came across “He suggested photo shooting some pictures of me. He said I then, I didn’t know anything about field but he said it’s a hot issue in

Taylor made her way back to South Korea, but found that it certainly wasn’t a “hot issue” in her own country. Taylor decided to forget what the people around her were saying and made her own Instagram account “Today might be my last day in my life so I’m gonna just love my body unapologetically and share it with people who can relate to me” Taylor shared. Of course that didn’t stop Taylor from receiving backlash. “I believe Korea is on another level. I would describe Korea as being a country that equates “plus size” to laziness, and that it can often be seen as “criminal”. It is definitely worse for women which reflect the patriarchal structure of this society. I see women who are crazily obsessed with diets, who quite often think, “As long as we are in good shape, we can be treated properly.” Only a slim body can ensure our social acceptance. “Taylor explained. This negativity didn’t stop Taylor however; she began to search outside her country for support and encouragement. Taylor’s latest endeavor brought her here to New York to strut her stuff for the castings for Full Figured Fashion Week. When a snowstorm threatened her chances, she posted about her travel from Korea and it certainly caught the eyes of many in the full figured community. “One of my followers said I should apply for FFFWeek. I found out my last chance was on the 10th of March in NYC so I booked the flight ticket right away!” No matter the distance Taylor has been determined to follow her dreams to be a full figured model. Taylor hopes to bring back some of the ideals she has seen here back with her. “I would love to change two things. First, I want to change the boring beauty standard in Korea, bringing more body diversity. It’s heart-breaking to see those young girls who are completely insecure, with lack of confidence in their bodies. They’re starving themselves to fit the “beauty standard”. They end up going to clinics to get plastic surgery. Even though they’re beautiful as they are. Secondly, I want to show the world that not all Asians are timid, submissive, good at math, nerd, unattractive (These are how Asians have been portrayed in the mainstream media)… that there are also some Asians who have curves. Eventually, I would love people to know that they can do anything regardless of their body type, gender, age, etc.” Taylor is continually inspired by the work of Ashley Graham and Christian Siriano’s, who advocate for full figured women, although she has found many others to be inspired by. Taylor Tak truly is attacking the stigmas of the plussize industry in her own country and is an inspiration for all full figured women across the world. “I have come to learn that I look beautiful, that my body is my own best friend. No one knows more about me than I do. Ask yourself, if I don’t love myself, who else will love me?”- Taylor Tak You can find more of Taylor’s Work and seeing her journey on Instagram, username: beyoutiful_t. Be sure to keep up with Queen Size Magazine’s next issue and remember #iamqueensize and so are you Photography | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography, Model | Taylor Tak @beyoutiful_t, Designs, Accessories and Styling | Charon Richardson, G’Wan by Charon @gwanbycharon MUA | Meesha Ann, Hair Stylist | Blessing Tate

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

QSM: What brought you here to the United States and this chance to work with Queen Size Magazine? Taylor: During my Insta live, one of my followers said I should apply for FFFWeek. I found out my last chance is on 10th of March in NYC so I booked the flight ticket right away. As time comes closer, Nor’easter cancelled my first flight so I had to post on FFFWeek Facebook group page about my situation. Ms. DeVoe shared my post and it was found by Philip and Tawana. That’s how I got this chance to work with Queen Size Magazine :D QSM: When did you first get into plus size modeling and how long have you been doing it? Taylor: It’s been less than a year. So, after my exchange year in the Netherlands, I was travelling around Europe and came across this photographer in London. He suggested shooting spontaneously and he took some pics of me. He said I should be modeling. Back then, I didn’t know anything about the curvy & plus size fashion field but he said it’s a hot issue in

the States and Europe. Coming back to Korea, I couldn’t stop thinking about the sensational feeling of being in front of the camera when I was seeking jobs. I could finally get a job. But I felt like I was a working robot in the office; repeatedly doing same old. Then I made my own Instagram account and posted my pictures thinking that “Today might be my last day in my life so I’m going to just love my body unapologetically and share it with people who can relate to me”. QSM: What’s one of your favorite straight or plus size designers and/or companies? Taylor: I love Christian Siriano’s philosophy and advocacy catering to all women beyond size or age or race. I still need to learn a lot about the fashion industry and designers as an aspiring model. QSM: Who are you idols in the industry? Taylor: When it comes to choosing only one, I’m really bad at it. It’s true that I

got into plus size fashion from watching Ashley Graham at the beginning, but I get inspired by so many beautiful body activists. I get inspired by so many people and I believe my mission is to inspire others as well. QSM: What is the industry like in South Korea? Taylor: I wear a size 14 in US, but I already gave up offline shopping a few years ago. I have very few options shopping online and usually I wear the biggest size they make or that there is, so there is no right size for me. What’s even worse is I can’t find my bra size so I’d rather order it from abroad. I understand body shaming is universal as many societies have adopted similar standards of beauty; I believe Korea is on another level. I would describe Korea as being a country that equates plus size to laziness, and that it can often be seen as “criminal”. It is definitely worse for women, which reflects the patriarchal structure of this society. I see women who are crazily obsessed with diets who quite often think, “As long as we are in good shape, we can be treated properly. Only a slim body can ensure our social acceptance”. QSM: What have been the toughest challenges for you in the industry? Taylor: There are two things that really get me frustrated these days. First one is that I’m sometimes criticized from people that I’m not plus enough. I’m not curvy enough. I’m not tall enough. Secondly, most of the Asians shown on the media are petite and slim. That affects people’s thinking, that all Asian women are small and slim. I think that’s also why many Asian curve models are not really represented by agencies.

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QSM: What are your future goals in the world of full figured modeling? Taylor: I would love to change two things. Firstly, I want to change the boring beauty standard in Korea by brining body diversity. It’s heart-breaking to see those young girls who are completely insecure, with lack of confidence with their bodies. They’re starving themselves to fit for the beauty standard. They end up going to clinics to get plastic surgery. Even though they’re beautiful just as they are. Secondly, I want to show the world that not all Asians are timid, submissive, good at math, nerdy, unattractive and that there are also some Asians who have curves, (these are how Asians have been portrayed in the mainstream media)…. Eventually, I would love people to know that they can do anything regardless of their body type, gender, age... QSM: What advice would you give to those who desire to be in the industry or who are struggling with accepting themselves? Taylor: To those who are struggling with accepting themselves: Hi there, I don’t know you but I know what you’re going through. I used to refuse to look in the mirror. I kept thinking ‘Why don’t I look same as the women in ads?’ I tried diet pills, I seriously considered liposuction, and I used to waste my time photo shopping all of my pictures. I am inspired by so many body activists and curvy models that are quite similar in shape with me. I have come to learn that I look beautiful, that my body is my own best friend. No one knows more about me than I do. Ask yourself, if I don’t love myself, who else will love me?” :D

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | TAYLOR TAK

“

To those who are struggling with accepting themselves, Hi, there. I don’t know you but I know what you’re going through.”Taylor Tak.

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BUSINESS

BEHIND

THE LENS

y Queens Anna Starnes Riley had a dream and she went for it. The birth of Animations Photography in Raleigh, NC proves anyone has the ability to change thier world.

Anna was once homeless and in a domestic violence situation. She knows what it feels like to be broke, hungry and scared. She believes that everyone has the strength to get out of those situations they just have to do it. Ten years she couldn’t even afford food for three days and now here she stands today with her own successful photography business. She is a self taught photographer who believes education is important but if it is not an option it is not the only way. She has only been in business for about 2 years and it didn’t take long for her to capture the attention of up-and-coming Plus Size models in the Raleigh Durham and Surrounding area. Anna started her photography as a donations for families who could not afford family pictures, so she worked with families in the Carolina Care Facebook group and from there she she began to make her mark in the industry. She looks up to and is inspired by great photographers such as Jeremiah Mack, Chris Cheek and Emmanuel Dean.

ANNA STARNES

The Art of Photography is so important because images are important for history, anyone can remember things but it is the images that documents our journey. The most rewarding experiences as a photographer is making women feel beautiful and dealing with women that have never been in front of the camera. People often tell her how comfortable they feel when they’re working with her and they keep coming back to her.

I asked Anna how has social media impacted the Art of Photography, she shared that social media is the only way that she’s gotten business. She does not have a website and social media is a way of connecting with a lot of people and being able to share her work. Social media allows friends and families to share the pictures and their memories with loved ones. When it comes to models makeup, fashion and the desire to get into the beauty industry and do high-end photography publication work, Anna recommends really following up on your connections. Connections with designers, models, people such as plus model like Mallory Richardson are so important. Each model is different, Anna focuses on making sure that the creative set is with the model needs. It is important not to always copy people, but be original and not being grouped in with everyone. People can often times get caught up fashion trends, trends are important too, but try to find a little originality and stand apart from the masses. Find a fashion designer that has been published, and it could be a local designer. Also when it comes to makeup for photography deal with Makeup Artists that are familiar with makeup for photography, which is different from makeup for a special event. Anna is a very natural photographer she lets the models get into the flow and into the music and that’s her style of photography. She finds in 2018 people are being more of themselves in the industry. The Plus Model industry continues to grows focusing more on being natural. She believes in photography it’s good to be yourself. A big tip for those looking to break into the industry is collaborate. The word of the day is collaborate, find some models, designers and makeup artists that have heavy following to work with them even if have to pay them, collaboration is the key. Anna is currently on break from photography but we can look forward to her return and her focus will be on Plus Size Models, Fashion and Beauty photography. Anna Starnes Riley a true inspiration with a heart of gold. Be sure to follow her journey on Facebook at AnnaStarnesRiley and Instagram @ AnnaStarnesRiley

Beautifully crafted Lala Photo credit: ICU Photography by photographer Tomiko Jones. MakeupArtist : Lawanda Sanyang of Lalafaces Makeup Artistry

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BEHIND THE LENS | LAWANDA “LALAFACES” SANYANG

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BUSINESS

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FOR COLORED GIRLS | JOY PITTMAN

FOR COLORED GIRLS, BECAUSE SUICIDE IS NO LONGER AN OPTION By: Joy A. Pittman

So… I am an instructor at a two-year college, and the makeup of my class is predominantly Asian, BLACK and Hispanic. (Sidebar, auto correct capitalized Asian and Hispanic but left black lowercase, so I made it all caps as an act of defiance... smirk). That said as a young, minority BLACK, woman I continuously experience the use of age, gender, and race as reasons to discredit and silence my knowledge, my experience, and my voice. I am expected to know what they hired me to know BUT be ready with at least two or three “credible” sources to validate what I say, because my credibility...no matter how many times my first response has proven to be correct... is always up for debate. I am forced to choose between being a Blecky or an angry black chick because voicing my opinion… again the opinion I assumed I was called into the meeting to share… results on me being deemed emotional, angry, and attacking. And when I respond in kind to the sly comments others feel entitled to make; I am labeled as lacking emotional intelligence, unable to take constructive criticism or referred to as a B!+$# (keeping it PG because my momma reads this stuff) So… as I teach Professional Career Development, Business Communication, Informational Literacy and Critical Thinking to rooms full of students of all ages, races, and ethnicities... I look for the sections explicitly designed for the black and brown women in my classes. You know, the part of the text that tells them no matter how “articulate” they are, interviewers are going to be more concerned with their hair choices, than their substance. The part that tells them not to get excited when you see diversity statements on organizations website because 1. that statement usually only benefits white women or black men and; 2. the intersectional identities of Black women are too complicated (aka inconvenient) for most diversity models to address. I look for the part that tells them not to share their best ideas on the interview because managers will steal their intellectual property, and then hire the “best candidate” who will most likely be Becky or him (insert any male name) and use their ideas as the “best candidate’s” first work project. Or the part that explains to them, no matter how animated everyone else in the meeting is, they should refrain from moving

their heads, necks or hands while communicating because that equates to aggression from black and brown people. I even search through my instructor’s manual for the section that helps me explain to them no level of preparation will negate the fact that their gender and race will fill the room before there words. Or that people will be forced to make a conscious effort to give them a “fair interview” devoid of any biases or assumptions? How do I tell them that other black and brown people won’t want to hire them OR will employ them and will give them a harder time than everyone else to avoid being accused of reverse discrimination, or favoritism or nepotism (because you know we all look alike and are therefore related)? How do I tell them that other groups will also not hire them for whatever reason OR hire them and make them victims of personal biases, treat them like science experiments, ask them invasive questions about their hair, their bodies, their beauty regiments, their upbringing, in addition to using them as the departments personal urban dictionary? How do I tell them the truth and still leave them with hope? Maybe I don’t. Maybe I let them believe they have a fair chance and maybe they will. Maybe this is just me projecting my experiences onto them. Maybe I am assuming causal relationships that don’t exist, and the reasons for my Black Girl experiences has nothing to do with me being Black or Girl. Maybe I can start a support circle or create a blog or some safe space where they can express their feelings without judgment or invalidation or shame. Maybe I should just do my best to equip them for success and be an ear when they have these encounters. Maybe... despite the plethora of maybes, I will continue to explore when pondering this topic, I definitely will not invalidate their experiences or quiet their frustration. I will not allow others to feel comfortable in my presence and or condone, with my silence, aggressions and microaggressions and macro aggressions. And I will not give up on the hope that just maybe, I can be their supplemental text, and that maybe my presence, my voice, my representation as a young, minority BLACK, woman occupying the space in the front of their classrooms will teach them what cannot be found in those textbooks.

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“

BUSINESS

When I dare to be powerful - to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it makes no difference whether or not I am afraid “ - Audre Lorde

Photography | Philip Drew (IG: PDrew Photography) Makeup | DMarie Beauty (IG: Dmariebeauty824) Hair | Flawless Designz by Charisse (IG: flawlessdesignznyc) CEO, Kabi926 | Yashica Russell (IG: kabi926)

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FOR COLORED GIRLS | JOY PITTMAN

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BUSINESS

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CCGF GALA COVERAGE | QSM

Rarely do we get to attend a fundraiser hosted by women of color, filled with a room of women of color, honoring and supporting a room filled with women of color. Kudos to Courageously Curvy Girls Foundation (formerly known as F.A.T.G.I.R.L.) for doing just that. On March 3rd I was reminded that there are some women out here that are still their sister’s keepers. We hear so often of women tearing each other down rather than building each other up. But what I witnessed at Leonards Pallazo in Great Neck was nothing less than phenomenal; a gathering of phenomenal women doing phenomenal things. The guests and honorees were greeted and interviewed on the red carpet by Blessing Tate, the 2018 Face of Queen Size Magazine. During the night we all got to witness TeNesha Barnes being honored as a phenomenal Entrepreneur. Kym Hampton in all her fabulosity was honored for her work as a great woman in Sports. Natalie Johnson was honored for her exceptional work in Education. Wendy McClinton was honored with the Founders Visionary Award. Laneeka M. Ross was honored with the Service Award. Cherub Ruth was honored with the Survivors Award. Brooke Smith was honored for her extraordinary work in Philanthropy. And Tonya Lewis Taylor was awarded for her Excellence and Leadership. This was a monumental day and a huge privilege to witness. Major congratulations to all the ladies on their awards as they are very well deserved. In the fashion industry we usually say “when Gwen DeVoe speaks, we listen”; March 3rd was no exception. We all had the pleasure of hearing Gwen speak on how she got to where she is today and how we too can do so. She is encouraging and eye opening. I have heard Gwen speak several times and each time she speaks I learn more and more. Having her as a keynote speaker, I know for a fact, was beneficial to many. Oh but if you know Gwen she is always filled with surprises; she is a supporter and a giver with a heart of gold. That night Gwen named CCGF Full Figured Fashion Week’s 2018 Charitable Partner, and let me tell you there was not a dry eye in the room. And speaking of giving, CCGF gave away two $500 M.A.C.H. Scholarships to Saraye Hernandez & Noelle Parks. The M.A.C.H. Scholarships were named so in the name of the grandparents of the CEO, Donna Perry; Minnie Andrews and Corine Herington. The event was hosted by Simone S. Gray, and let me tell you, that woman had us laughing so hard; job well done Simone. And the entertainment was great; Dana Burnett wrote a poem dedicated to all the women in the room, all I can say is WOW. And Nicole E. Phifer sang her heart out; that woman can SANG. I wanted more Nicole! It was definitely a night to remember. Great job CCGF, great job Donna Perry; your vision became a reality and it was a blessing for Queen Size Magazine to be there to see it.

Photography | Philip Drew @PDrewPhotography WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2018 ISSUE

BUSINESS

QSM: Tell us about Donna and life growing up. Donna: I am 39 years old. A wife, mother of two (Anaya and Ava), an entrepreneur, singer and founder of Courageously Curvy Girls Foundation in Brooklyn, New York. I am also an MPA Candidate at Baruch College. Growing up, life for Donna was challenging. Particularly as a “plus girl” in the pre gentrified section of Bed Stuy. In the 80’s drugs and violence were quite rampant so being able to engage in outside play was virtually impossible. When you are a girl like myself who struggled with her weight and needed to be able to be as physically active as possible….the cultural combination of “soul food” and the socio economic implications of a sedentary lifestyle equaled a child whose mother would be told that she was “obese” at the age of 9. And to be honest with you, that “diagnoses” changed me in that I often felt this great sense of guilt about being the fat one so I would often use my talent and love for learning and music as my way of escape and achievement. Looking back, I realize now that those experiences actually groomed me and prepared me for who I was born to be TODAY. QSM: Tell us a little bit about CCGF and how it got started: Donna: Courageously Curvy Girls Foundation was originally named Finding Alternatives To Gain Impacting Results for Life (F.A.T.G.I.R.L.) The organization was created about 6 years ago but chartered on March 5, 2013. The mission of CCGF is to combat childhood obesity particularly in girls of color in under served communities by empowering them through health and wellness, physical fitness, scholarship, advocacy and community service. We do this through our #LIVELIFE Walking/Mentoring Program that promotes walking as a primary source of cardio vascular activity while dispelling myths that plus children are incapable of meeting their personal, scholastic and professional goals. Currently, we are shopping the program as a full service after school program to the DOE as well as creating an extended Saturday and summer initiative. QSM: You walked away from a job and decided that this is what you were going to do full time. Did people think you were crazy? Donna: ABSOLUTELY!!! To be honest, sometimes I think I’m crazy. But the more I grow in my own leadership and study the leadership and greatness of others, I realize that some of the greatest leaders of our time were deemed “Crazy”. For example, when Obama first announced his decision to run for President, many people, including many blacks thought “This dude is crazy!! No one is voting for a junior Senator. Let alone a black man.” Yet we saw in our lifetime the first Black man become President of the United States. And he is just one example among many. QSM: Was your family supportive? Donna: My husband was and continues to be super supportive of my decision. As for my mom and siblings, they were supportive yet “cautiously optimistic” as any family would be who cares about you and your ability to provide for your family. But I think that they realize that this was something that I HAD to do.

Photography | Philip Drew @PDrewPhotography

QSM: If I understand correctly, this is your first big production correct? What was the experience like and would you do it again? Donna: Yes, this is the first event of this magnitude that I produced. But I can honestly say, that I used my experiences from church to help me navigate through the process. The experience was both stressful and rewarding. I didn’t have a large committee so there were many tasks that I completed on my own (with my own money). There were aspects of the day like marketing and graphics that I didn’t know how to do and had to ultimately

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2018 ISSUE

CCGF GALA COVERAGE | QSM

outsource to others. That was a challenge for me because I’m not used to “not knowing” how to do something. But to see everything come together and hear so many people commend the work and quality of the production was worth it all. Would I do it again? ABSOLUTELY!! We are actually already talking about what next year will look like. QSM: What were your expectations for this event? Donna: To be completely honest, when I first set out to produce the event I expected to have more support and a bigger team. And when that didn’t happen I was a bit surprised and disappointed. But I knew that the task before me was one that I had been given by God so my obedience to Him outweighed anyone else’s reservations. I also expected more corporate sponsorships, as well as more friends and family buying tickets. Ticket sales were slow initially, so I went from expecting things to go one way to “Lord just please don’t let us go in the red!!” And suddenly, the week of the event, everything that I stressed over began to come together. We went from not having the budget for a photographer/ videographer to three photographers being on site. We went from no media coverage to a full media sponsorship by Queen Size Magazine and LIVE coverage by Blessing Tate for our Red Carpet. Not to mention 140 guests, two scholarships granted and the biggest surprise of all which was being chosen as the 2018 Not for Profit Partner with Gwen DeVoe and Full-Figured Fashion Week. QSM: How did you pick your honorees and why them? Donna: The theme of our event was Courageous, Curvy and Paving the Way. I wanted to honor women in various capacities of sports, business, leadership, service and philanthropy who were dispelling myths that plus/curvy women do not have the ability to own businesses, play sports, record albums, own businesses or even take the tragedies in their lives and impact change in the world. All plus women are not sitting on their couch lonely, depressed, afraid to lead eating, not exercising and allowing life to have its way with us. Our honorees WNBA Legend Kym Hampton (Sports) Tonya Lewis-Taylor (Excellence), Brooke Smith (Philanthropy) Natalie Jonson (Education) Wendy McClinton (Visionary), LaNeeka Ross (Service) Cherub Ruth (Survivor), and TaNesha Barnes (Entrepreneurship). Each of these women overcame their own personal struggles with being “plus” in todays industry with great grace and stride while leaving their own mark on the world. And therefore they were chosen. But more importantly, I’m honored that they chose CCGF. QSM: Being named Full Figured Fashion Week’s 2018 Charitable Partner was a huge surprise for you. What does that mean for you? Donna: Everything!! Full Figured Fashion Week is the breeding ground for greatness in the plus community. This is the week where plus beauties gather from near and far to show the fashion industry that the plus community is here to stay. This is the place where our girls can see that you don’t have to be a size 4 to be beautiful and dope. That within itself is euphoric for even me. So to be chosen by the mogul herself Gwen DeVoe

as the 2018 Not for Profit Partner allows the organization an opportunity to show who we are on a national platform while raising much needed funding to continue our mission and work. QSM: Tell me some of the things that CCGF offers and participates in? Donna: In addition to our #LIVELIFE walking/Mentoring Program, CCGF has partnered with the Black Veterans for Social Justice as participants in their Annual Memorial Day Parade. We host the Urban Olympics in September which is a community day of play in honor of Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, we have partnered in the past with Councilmember Robert Cornegy to host a community forum “The Other “F” Word”: A complex dialogue about obesity in the urban community as well as been guests on several panels. This past summer, we hosted two separate essay contest that awarded a 32” inch television and a loaded book bag. QSM: What do you hope for CCGF to accomplish? Donna: I’d like to see us build a stronger infrastructure with increased board membership and participation, increased youth participation in our Saturday initiative, a bridged gap between our young ladies and the plus industry, as well as taking two young people to Africa this summer. QSM: What did you learn in putting together this Gala? Donna: The first thing I learned is that I don’t know everything and it’s okay to ask for help from those who are willing to help. Second, there are genuine people that will simply want to help because it’s who they are, and they look for nothing in return. Third, folks can give you one or two answers in life YES or NO. But if you are afraid of the NO then you will never get to a YES!! And the YES’ in life will bless you beyond your wildest dreams. Finally, God is consistent, swift and suddenly in all of His blessings!!! QSM: What’s next for CCGF? Donna: Right now, we are shopping our after school program as a pilot, preparing for our spring/summer session, securing funding to take two young adults to study in Ghana this summer, and planning our Urban Olympics Day of Play in September. QSM: Final thoughts and where can people find/support CCGF? Donna: We are just elated and grateful to everyone that has supported us so far. Our website is www. courageouslycurvygirlsfoundation.org.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2018 ISSUE

From our family to yours Happy Holidays