November 2018 Issue

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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FOLLOW US AND STAY IN THE KNOW facebook.com/queensizemag

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

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FROM THE DESK OF Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Welcome to the November 2018 issue of Queen Size Magazine. Sweet November, with the beautiful cool weather. It’s my favorite time of year because layer up season is here! Boot season! Chilly NOT cold weather. I love it. In this issue we featured some fabulous fall finds that won’t break your pockets. With all the options we have these days, there is no excuse NOT to look oh so fabulous.

This month we have highlighted more industry professionals in this issue than I think we have ever done before in one issue; especially the men. We love our Big and Tall Models.

I am very proud of the direction we are going as a publication and the direction that we are going in as an industry altogether. I am seeing more and more collaborations. Collaborations are crucial in growing because not one person or brand can do this all alone.

We are looking forward the more and more collaborations in the future.

Allow me to remind you of something. Don’t worry too much about the brands that are not “here for us”. But yet, place more focus and support on the brands that are.

Please enjoy this issue and feel free to send us an email to queensizemagazine@gmail.com and let us know what you would like to see added.

Photo by PDrew Photography Dress and Kimono by Pretty B Inc.

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MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director & Director of Photography MEESHA ANN Executive Director & Fashion Editor JONNA CAPONE PR/Fashion Director SHEENA POSTELL Social Media Director CRYSTAL LEWIS Beauty Editor (Hair) LAWANDA SANYANG Beauty Editor COURTNEY PENNINGTON Health and Wellness Editor ANDREA BLASSINGAME Makeup Artist EYANI COUTURE House Designer FLAVORS OF FULLNESS House Designer

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: CRYSTAL CARMEN AUBREY BOYD NANTHALE COLLINS

Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography models listed from left to right Model | Crystal Renee @1crystalrenee Model | Tyla Inaani @tyla_inaani Model | Sharinna Luna @sharinnaluna Designer | Hanna Caroline Couture @ hannahcarolinecouture

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CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

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HANNAH CAROLINE COUTURE: The Journey The Struggles The Success

By QSM

HEALTH AND FITNESS

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BACK TO SCHOOL MEALS IN MINUTES

BEAUTY&FASHION

08 MODEL SPOTLIGHT: JENNIFER BUTLER

By QSM

MODEL SPOTLIGHTS

NOVEMBER 2018 ISSUE

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12 RAINBOW: FALL FASHIONS

By QSM

14 DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT: DLANG DESIGNS

By QSM

MODELS YOU SHOULD BE 18 MALE FOLLOWING

By QSM

SPOTLIGHT: SHARONDA 30 MODEL GRANDBERRY

By QSM

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BIG AND TALL IN THE BIG APPLE

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By AUBREY BOYD

COSMETIC BRANDS WE RECOMMEND 40 10 YOU TRY

By QSM

42 FASHIONOVA BIG AND TALL FASHION

By MEESHA ANN

FALL FASHIONS FROM 44 FABULOUS ELOQUII

By QSM

46 MODEL SPOTLIGHT: KIMBERELEY REESE

By QSM

STYLE PHOTOGRAPHY DURING 50 STREET NYFW

By NANTHALE COLLINS

46 38 18

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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Back-to-School Meals in Minutes Mexican menu ideas for simple family dinners

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FAMILY FEATURES

hen the school year is back in full swing, families often find themselves battling the mealtime crunch. Mexican-inspired meals bursting with flavor are known family-friendly picks that can be easily prepared and put on the table on those frenzied weeknights.

These simple ideas from the experts at Ortega can help make “taco night” and other Mexican meals better than ever.

Encourage kids to get hands-on. It’s no secret that kids like finger foods, and many Mexican dishes are best enjoyed by hand. Tacos are an obvious favorite, but other options like quesadillas, taquitos and Ortega Fiesta Flats are also easy to enjoy sans silverware.

Step outside of tradition. If you’re looking for something that makes mealtime feel extra special, skip the basic taco and choose a meal kit that lets you serve up a restaurant-style experience at home. For example, Ortega’s Bakeable Tortilla Bowl Kits bring a new and simple way to change up your Mexican meals. Just bake and fill with your favorite ingredients.

Offer a variety of ingredients. One of the benefits of a Mexican meal is all the ways each family member can customize plates to their own tastes.

Try setting out a wide range of ingredients and encourage the kids to experiment with toppings they may not have tried before, like olives and guacamole.

Don’t forget the sauce. Taco sauces can bring unique, unexpected flavor to recipes. One to try is Ortega’s line of bold and creamy Flavor Craver Taco Sauces. Varieties include Taco Ranch, Chipotle and Jalapeno Lime, all perfect for tacos, taco salads, dips, burgers and more.

Find more recipes and ideas to add a unique twist to any Mexican meal at Ortega.com.

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Steak Fajita Burrito Bowl

Makes: 4 bowls 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 pound skirt steak 1 red pepper, sliced 1 yellow pepper, sliced 1 package instant rice 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice 1/2 packet Ortega Original Taco Seasoning 1 Ortega Bakeable Tortilla Bowl Kit 3 cups green leaf lettuce, sliced 2 avocados, diced 1 cup corn kernels 1/2 cup cotija cheese 1 bottle Ortega Green Taco Sauce, to taste Add 2 tablespoons oil to skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook skirt steak 5 minutes on each side. Remove steak from pan and let rest. When cooled, slice into strips.

Add remaining olive oil to skillet over medium-high heat. Saute red and yellow peppers until cooked through.

Prepare rice as directed on package. Add squeeze of lime and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.

Prepare tortilla bowls as directed on package. Fill with rice, shredded lettuce, sliced steak and peppers. Top with diced avocado, corn and cotija cheese. Finish with taco sauce.

BACK TO SCHOOL MEALS

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Poblano Ranch Tacos

Makes: 8 tacos 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 poblano peppers, sliced 1 yellow onion, sliced 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional) 1 box Ortega Yellow Corn Taco Shells 6 radishes, sliced 1 cup corn kernels 1 cup cotija cheese 1 bottle Ortega Flavor Craver Ranch Taco Sauce, to taste Add olive oil to skillet over medium heat. Add sliced poblano peppers and yellow onion to pan.

Saute until cooked through. Add squeeze of lime to pepper and onion mixture, if desired.

Bake taco shells according to package directions. To assemble tacos, add poblano and onion mixture to base of taco. Top with sliced radishes, corn and cotija cheese. Finish with taco sauce.

Southwest Chicken Salad

Makes: 4 bowls 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 chicken breasts 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 Ortega Bakeable Tortilla Bowl Kit 3 cups green leaf lettuce, sliced 1 can Ortega Black Beans 1 cup corn kernels 2 avocados, diced 1 tomato, diced 1 cup cotija cheese

1 bottle Ortega Flavor Craver Ranch Taco Sauce, to taste Add olive oil to skillet over medium heat. Coat chicken with chili powder.

Cook chicken 8 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove chicken from pan and let rest. Slice chicken into strips when cooled.

Prepare tortilla bowls as directed on package. Fill with shredded lettuce, black beans, corn and sliced chicken.

Top with diced avocado, tomato and cotija cheese. Finish with taco sauce.

Stock Your Pantry for Mexican Cooking You can enjoy the flavors of a Mexican cantina in your kitchen anytime if you’re stocked up with the right goods.

Pantry and Dry Goods 1. Keep dried or canned chiles of all sorts on-hand.

Dried chiles include ancho, chipotle, guajillo, negro and mulato.

2. Expand your spice rack with Mexican staples like chili powder, cayenne pepper and paprika, as well as oregano and cumin.

3. Buy white rice in bulk so you can create Spanish rice to accompany any dish.

4. Stock up on canned refried beans, black beans and pinto beans for use in your favorite Mexican dishes.

Refrigerator and Produce 1. Keep ready-made salsa and spicy sauces chilled and serve them alongside chips, tacos and other Mexican dishes.

2. Always have garlic, onions and fresh cilantro handy. Keep lemons and limes within reach to add bright flavor to your dishes. Also, buy fresh chiles like jalapeno and pasilla to spice up a variety of dishes. If possible, grow them yourself.

3. Store flour and corn tortillas in your cupboard or refrigerator to create burritos, tacos, enchiladas and wraps.

4. Keep Monterey Jack, queso fresco and cotija cheese on-hand to include in enchiladas and burritos.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

JENNIFER BUTLER

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Jennifer Butler | @jcurvyone MUA | Powered by Nicki @powderedbynicki Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee Hair | Alexia King @Lexithespicy1 Dress: Lovelywholesale @lovelywholesale_official

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | JENNIFER BUTLER

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training for younger parents to bond with their children through infant massage.

Since then Jennifer had found her new passion which is acute rehab, much joy and fulfillment is gained with seeing the progress of her patients. Assisting patients return to real life following various life changes such as a car accident, stroke or a case of pneumonia is what drives Jennifer.

In January of 2018 Jennifer embarked on a new journey, Plus Sized Modeling. At this time, she attended Drops of Chocolate Modeling Academy. Upon completion of her training and receiving her certificate of completion Jennifer went on to pursue her newest passion.

Jennifer has walked the runway in several shows such as: “Saints Slay Too, Queens of Curves and her most recent, “Ripping the Runway 40 Ways”.

In July of 2018, Jennifer was signed as a petite plus sized model to “Diva Day International modeling agency based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Jennifer has also taken part in several magazine shoots for Queen Size Magazine and Industry Chicago Magazine. She is one of the first brand ambassadors for SDL Photography, a Chicago based photography company. Jennifer is continuing to pursue her new career with aspirations of becoming a brand ambassador for several companies but not limited to skin care products, fashion boutiques, hair extensions and makeup.

Jennifer is also an aspiring actress. She has played a main character in several full stage productions in which her characters ranged from a woman with a secret drug addiction to a disgruntled ex-wife.

Jennifer Butler is a petite plus sized model, occupational therapist and motivator. Jennifer graduated from Chicago State University with her Bachelor’s of Science in 1998 and from there she began her career as an occupational therapist.

Over the past 20 years Jennifer has directly impacted the lives of people ranging from ages 2 months to 102 years of age. As an OT, she has practiced in numerous settings such as pediatrics, geriatrics, home health, schools, travel therapy, outpatient, acute care and inpatient rehab. Her first love as a therapist was pediatrics, which lead her to practice in that setting for 8 years. “Connecting Through Touch”, a home health therapy company was established by Jennifer in 2002.

Jennifer started CTT as a company that provided in home OT services to children ranging from ages birth to 3 years. Her company was birthed out of her love for helping families learn to celebrate their children’s abilities and not focus just on their disabilities. In addition to OT services, CTT also provided

Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Jennifer Butler | @jcurvyone Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee MUA | Powered by Nicki @powderedbynicki Hair | Alexia King @Lexithespicy1 Polka Dot Dress: Gayla Rogers Collection @gaylarogerscollection Image shot at Diva Day International’s Doll House

Jennifer believes in giving back and is very involved in her church. She currently serves as a greeter, a member of the drama team as well as the announcement team. Jennifer’s goal is to assist her locate church in spreading the love of Christ through outreach, prayer and giving.

One more talent that Jennifer possesses is baking. Jennifer uses baking as a stress relief; therefore if her stress levels are high her co-workers will be picking up a few extra pounds. Jennifer believes in expressing her love through baking, so if you are a recipient of any of her baked goods, know that you are loved.

Be on the lookout as Jennifer continues to work toward her professional modeling goals including brand ambassador, gracing the runway all over the world, photoshoots in exotic locations, being a positive influence in the plus size community and most of all fulfilling her God given destiny.

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Jennifer Butler | @jcurvyone Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee MUA | Powered by Nicki @powderedbynicki Hair | Alexia King @Lexithespicy1 Polka Dot Dress: Gayla Rogers Collection @gaylarogerscollection Image shot at Diva Day International’s Doll House

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | JENNIFER BUTLER

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Jennifer Butler | @jcurvyone Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee MUA | Powered by Nicki @powderedbynicki Hair | Alexia King @Lexithespicy1 Block colored dress: Lovelywholesale @lovelywholesale_official

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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Fall Fashions Plus Size Floral High Low Top Plus Size Graphic Hooded Top

Plus Size Lace Up Sleeve Striped Dress

Plus Size Hooded Long Sleeve Dress

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RAINBOW FALL FASHION

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Plus Size Long Sleeve Scoop Neck Tee

Plus Size Plaid Hooded Top and Leggings Set

Plus Size Ruffled Long Sleeve Top

Plus Size Printed Faux Wrap Dress Plus Size Varsity Stripe Sweatshirt and Leggings Set

Plus Size Tie Front Chambray Shirt

Plus Size Striped Faux Wrap Top

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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Denisha “Dlang” Ferguson Denisha is the founder and creator of Dlang Designs and UnZIP the Runway. Dlang started sewing as a teenager. She produced her first fashion show at the age of 16 to create a platform for creators to showcase their work and the rest is history. She is still producing fashion events and workshops to curate educational and business opportunities for creators in fashion.

Dlang’s love for design and research have fueled her to develop a line that’s tailored to the curvy figure. She immediately found more women who shared the same frustrations with clothing, so she was inspired to create designs that would accentuate the wearer’s curves.

Dlang’s goal is to create beautiful designs and social projects that incorporate entrepreneurship, sustainability and body positivity.

Dlang is also author of Amazon Best Seller, You Can, and has been featured on Forbes, NBC, ABC, CBS and Indy Style.

Website |www.dlangdesigns.com Facebook |@dlangdesigns Instagram |@dlangdesigns

Photo credits | The Orange Portrait @the.orange.portrait Model and Designer| Denisha “Dlang” Ferguson @dlangdesigns

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Photographer | Lacoiya Reed - No Expiration Photography @instagram.com/no_exp_photography Featured Models LaKisha Williams @instagram.com/thedigitaldoll Cortney Atwood @instagram.com/cort_21 Tsepiso Ngazimbi @instagram.com/tsepo_april Serena Lynn Cuba @instagram.com/serena_cuba Agency | LModelz @instagram.com/lmodelz/

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT | DLANG DESIGNS 15

DLANG DESIGNS

Photo credits | The Orange Portrait @the.orange.portrait Model and Designer| Denisha “Dlang” Ferguson @dlangdesigns

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Lacoiya Reed - No Expiration Photography @instagram.com/no_exp_photography Featured Models LaKisha Williams @instagram.com/thedigitaldoll Cortney Atwood @instagram.com/cort_21 Tsepiso Ngazimbi @instagram.com/tsepo_april Serena Lynn Cuba @instagram.com/serena_cuba Agency | LModelz @instagram.com/lmodelz/

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT | DLANG DESIGNS

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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JUST A FEW OF THE MALE MODELS BREAKING BARRIERS THAT YOU TOO SHOULD BE FOLLOWING

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MALE MODELS TO FOLLOW | QSM

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

MALE MODELS TO FOLLOW | QSM

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BEAUTY AND BUSINESS FASHION

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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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

6x $570 $330 $240 ////// $1,410 $1,170 $810

12x $1,080 $600 $480 ////// $2,760 $2,280 $1,560

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

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FEATURED STORY

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HANNAH CAROLINE COUTURE Model/Designer | Hannah Nodskov (Olson) @hannahcarolinecouture Photographer | Nathaniel Jensen @ nathanieljensenphotography

Thinking back to the first time I met Hannah Nodskov (Olson), it was a few years ago at Full Figured Fashion Week. There was an expo organized by Plus Model Magazine that week called Celebrate My Size. Hannah was over in the corner with some of the most beautiful bridal gowns I’ve seen for curvy women.

On my way over to check out the gowns, it didn’t occur to me that she was the designer of these gorgeous pieces; I thought she may have just been accompanying the designer. She was so young; I was blown away when I overheard her mention to someone else that they were her designs.

Speaking with her and learning her story of having to learn how to make her own clothing because there weren’t many plus size clothing available to her, was one that sounded all too familiar. I know many of us could relate to that story, but how many of us said “I will just make my own”!

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In 2016 Hannah graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO). In 2017, she married the love of her life.

In one of her previous interviews with Omaha Magazine, Hannah talked about feeling burnt out and had to take a small hiatus. I mean after all, she did make all the, bowties, bridesmaids dresses, mothers’ dresses, and her bridal gown for her wedding. All while building her brand and working as a marketing manager for a startup company in Omaha.

She took the time during her break to work on herself and figure out what was next for her brand. But guess what? She’s back and ready to take the world by storm.

Check out the sit down discussion to learn more of Hannah’s inspiring story.

HANNAH CAROLINE COUTURE | QSM QSM: Young, beautiful and talented. Tell us about the story behind why you began designing clothing.

Hannah: As with many entrepreneurs, I didn’t set out to start a business. Instead, I started learning to sew as a junior in high school simply because I hated going to the mall with friends and leaving with no cute clothes while my smaller friends left with tons of cool pieces to wear to school. I had always been interested in art and fashion since I was a kid, always sketching designs, but I never really intended to be a designer. Even in high school when I was simply making clothes and accessories for myself, it was just so I could express my unique style like my friends could. Once I started wearing my designs to school, friends, teachers, and family members starting asking if they could have their own Hannah Caroline Couture Original and I started making pieces for them. Once my family and teachers encouraged me to try making it into a business, I got more serious about my craft and began looking for ways to announce my new business to the community, which I did through my self-produced fashion show in 2012 (more info below). From there the support I received encouraged me to really get the word out and let plus women know there were more options for them now and that they didn’t have to compromise on fashion anymore.

QSM: How on earth did you teach yourself to sew? I can’t even figure out how to fix my hem on my pants right.

Hannah: I learned the basics in a sewing class at my high school, but I learned more advanced techniques (and still learning!) by using YouTube videos that covered certain techniques, as well as illustrated blogs on Pinterest. I also studied pre-made patterns for different types of garments, like tops, pants, skirts, and gowns so I could figure out what the standard shapes of pattern pieces would be. Now I avoid using pre-made patterns and create all my own patterns for my clients using adjustable dress forms that span across a full size range from 00 to 28+.

QSM: Have you always been a plus size beauty?

Hannah: I’ve been plus-size my whole life and I was definitely a bigger child as well. It used to be a point of insecurity that caused me to get bullied extensively throughout elementary school and middle school, but now it’s a point of pride and it also gives me unique insight into how to design effectively for plus-size women – I know what bothers me about clothing on the market, like small arms, where things hit, what types of fabric cling to plus-size bodies more than others, etc. I make sure to channel these frustrations into designing more comfortable and flattering clothing for women of all sizes.

QSM: You are a couture designer correct? Can you explain to people what it means to be a couture designer?

Hannah: I am a couture designer, and to me that means that I make everything in my studio custom to my clients’ bodies and preferences. It’s a relatively hands-on process which I absolutely love because I feel like I really get to develop a relationship with my clients throughout the process. I don’t do any manufacturing and it’s not something I’m really interested in for the foreseeable future, though I would be interested in potentially hiring some assistance for sewing and garment

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construction so I can focus on the design, client relations, marketing, and back-office processes.

QSM: Where are you from again?

Hannah: I am from Omaha, NE, born and raised. Omaha is an amazing place to be a young professional in terms of the cost of living, the music, art, and fashion scenes here, and the support I have received from my community and in the age of e-commerce, I plan to keep my business based here for the foreseeable future because I can ship my designs all over the world from here.

QSM: What is the plus size fashion market like out where you live?

Hannah: The offerings for plus-size fashion were pretty dismal when I started my business, which was a main reason why I started making clothes for myself and then for others through my business. When I first showcased in Omaha Fashion Week, I was the first designer to show a full line of exclusively plus-size models. Other designers had included maybe one or two plus models in their collections, but I made it very clear that I was dedicated to the plus-size market. Now there are a few other plus designers in the local area and designers are starting to incorporate more plus designs, but I am proud of how present and unapologetically vocal my brand is about being the go-to designer for size-inclusive formalwear and bridal in my area.

QSM: Do you design for all body types? Non-plus included?

Hannah: Yes, I do custom bridal and formalwear designs for women of all sizes. However, I target my marketing, advertising, imagery, and the majority of my copy to plus-size women. I feel that non-plus women have plenty of representation in this industry, so I make sure my plus customer knows I’m here for her! I also make all my samples for fashion shows and photo shoots in plus sizes to increase that representation on the runway. My thought process is that it’s significantly easier for women to envision themselves in a design if it’s shown on a model that is larger than them, but not so much when the model is smaller than them.

QSM: What was your very first show and what made you decide to start showcasing in fashion shows?

Hannah: My very first show was actually a self-produced fashion show that I put on in my high school auditorium as a senior in high school in 2012. I have over 20 of my friends model for me and I had other friends serving as the emcees, DJ, photographers, and greeters. That was my first announcement to the community that I want to make clothes for people.

After that show, one of my high school teachers helped me make a portfolio from those images and write a pitch for my application to Omaha Fashion Week. From there I showcased in local fashion weeks as well as other shows in other parts of the country to spread my brand’s mission and work with customers all over the country. Now I have a great mix of about 40% local customers and 60% e-commerce customers and custom orders from other parts of the country and even other countries!

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Tyla Inaani @tyla_inaani Designer | Hanna Caroline Couture @ hannahcarolinecouture

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FEATURED STORY

HANNAH CAROLINE COUTURE | QSM QSM: Now you have an interesting story about your first time showcasing in FFFWeek; can you share how you were able to make that happen?

Hannah: My first year showcasing in FFFWeek I raised the funds to cover the designer fee and other costs like fabric, airfare, hotel, and transportation by running a successful crowdfunding campaign. I used Indiegogo as my platform and garnered support via my local newspaper, all three news stations, and through friends and family sharing my story. I got an amazing amount of support from friends and strangers alike and I am always astounded when people still remember me as “that Omaha girl that shows in New York.”

QSM: How many shows have you done so far?

Hannah: So far I have shown in Full Figured Fashion Week three times, Omaha Fashion Week 6 times, Kansas City Fashion Week twice, Portland Fashion Week, the TCF Style Expo, my first self-produced show in 2012, and a few local shows for a total of at least 15 fashion shows.

QSM: Who are your customers and where do you find them?

Hannah: My formal wear customers are women of any size that attend many events like galas, fundraisers, and other events requiring formal wear. She is a powerful, self-assured woman who has a unique taste in fashion and who knows what she wants when it comes to the design as well as her life in general. My bridal clients tend to be women who want an alternative style, such as a colorful wedding gown, a short wedding dress, or a wedding gown with other unique features. She tends to be plus-size but I work with brides of any size who want a unique design. Lately I have worked with a bride who wanted a short, pinup-inspired dress; a bride who wants a black wedding gown; a bride who had a colorful, nature-inspired gown full of beautiful floral embroidery; and a bride who wanted a Princess Leia-inspired gown for her Star Wars-themed wedding. I reach all of these customers via social media, especially Instagram, by featuring my customers on my page and sharing their experience, journey, and testimonials. I also reach these women through my website by optimizing my website imagery and copy to attract these customers through search engines. (I am a full-time marketing manager for a local technology startup during the day too, so the marketing piece is a huge passion of mine for my business and my job!)

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everything I know about fashion design has been selftaught. I am very business-minded and I feel like I have struck a great balance in my career by having a successful company, a creative outlet through that company, as well as having my dream day job as a marketing manager for a local, innovative technology startup that is extremely supportive of my entrepreneurial endeavors and my community involvement. I really feel like I have the best of both worlds even if it can definitely get tough to balance my job with my busy production seasons.

QSM: Do you see your pieces in stores in the future?

Hannah: Maybe someday, but I had some pieces in three local boutiques when I was doing casual ready-to-wear and it wasn’t the setup I preferred. I feel like it became just another piece of clothing whereas one of the big things I love about the couture formalwear process is building a relationship with my customer as she’s leading up to a big event like her wedding or a gala that supports an organization she’s passionate about. I also like the control of producing my own pieces to make sure the quality meets my high standards – with manufacturing for mass retail, I’m worried about cheapening my brand with less consistent quality. And finally, my clients tend to be very drawn to the idea that their garment is just for them and no one in the world will ever have the exact same piece. I try to have some type of unique difference between each garment. So for now, I’d like to stick with custom bridal and formalwear and that amazing customer relationship I get to build in the process.

QSM: We at QSM are super proud of you and all of your accomplishments. Please let people know where they can find you and how they can one day wear a Hannah Caroline Couture Original.

Hannah: You can find my latest collections at www. hccdesign.co as well as highlights of my custom work, announcements, and other content on my Instagram (@hannahcarolinecouture) and my Facebook page (facebook.com/hannahcarolinecouture).

QSM: Looking back, did you ever think that this would be a career for you? Did you ever think that you would be HERE? Hannah: When I was a kid, I wanted to be everything from an author to a computer scientist to an astrophysicist. I was always sketching and being artistic, but I didn’t intend to be any sort of artist or creative professional. Once I started learning and honing my craft through the end of high school and into college, I knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur and that I wanted to build this fashion design business. I am proud that I went to college for business administration, entrepreneurship, and marketing, because

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Sharinna Luna @sharinnaluna Designer | Hanna Caroline Couture @ hannahcarolinecouture

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HANNAH CAROLINE COUTURE | QSM

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Crystal Renee @1crystalrenee Designer | Hanna Caroline Couture @ hannahcarolinecouture

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Sharonda Grandberry @foreverfashion24_8 Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee MUA |Naja Alston www.beautebynaja.com Leaf Dress | Labreka Burwell –LandLBoutique @landlboutiquellc Image shot at Diva Day International’s Doll House

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT| SHARONDA GRANDBERRY

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Sharonda Grandberry @foreverfashion24_8 Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee MUA |Naja Alston www.beautebynaja.com Polkadot Dress: Majestic Plus Boutique @empresstia_majesticplus Image shot at Diva Day International’s Doll House

Sharonda Grandberry Sharonda currently resides in Madison (Huntsville Alabama) area.

She is a wife, mother, sibling, and friend to many. Sharonda has a dual Bachelor’s Degree in Management and Logistics. When she is not participating in modeling or fashion she is employed with the Army Corps of Engineers as a Government Contracts Specialist.

She is also an Army veteran who strongly believes in the acronym LDRSHIP, short for Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. She believes, “Character is who you really are when the lights are not shining on you”. Always remain ready and humble.” Sharonda desires to travel the world inspiring others to be the best at being themselves no matter obstacles they’ve had to overcome. Self-love and personal growth of others through educational resources is a definite priority of hers.

Sharonda thoroughly enjoys modeling, fashion, and art. She has walked the runway for several stores, designers, and boutiques.

She is a Brand Ambassador, Instagram Influencer, published model, co-author, and inspirational speaker. October 2016, Sharonda was also announced as the overall winner in the Curvy and Fabulous model of the month on all social media sites belonging to Cynthia Bailey, star of Real Housewives of Atlanta. Sharonda was crowned “Miss Alabama Black Expo 2017. As the winner, Sharonda was allotted the opportunity to represent the community and participate in something she absolutely loves and that is “giving back”. Recently, Sharonda was named a top eight contestant in

the 2nd Annual “Finding Ashley Stewart contest.” Although she didn’t take home the crown, she took home an experience that she will never forget.

Sharonda isn’t a stranger to giving and strongly believes in giving and helping others. Sharonda hosted her first annual “SHOP FOR TOTs” event in Huntsville Alabama on November 19, 2016. SHOP FOR TOTs is a non-profit organization that provides a systematic approach for people to purchase items with toys via tickets. An event designed to strengthen the community.

Sharonda is the Co-Author of “Diary of a Ready Woman”, which introduces the world to the struggles she faced and overcame growing up. To survive without living isn’t survival at all but to survive and live again shows resilience that’s undeniably a mystery of our faith. Sharonda has arrived at a point in her life where she fully understands that we are not the result of the circumstances we go through in life but the strength used to get through those circumstances is what defines WHO we are.

Love the skin you are in and be authentically you, Sharonda Grandberry is a firm believer of this phrase. She decided to let go of all the negative words that had been spoken over her life and now she wants to help other women do the same thing.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Sharonda Grandberry @foreverfashion24_8 Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee MUA |Naja Alston www.beautebynaja.com Leaf Dress | Labreka Burwell –LandLBoutique @landlboutiquellc Image shot at Diva Day International’s Doll House

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT| SHARONDA GRANDBERRY

Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Sharonda Grandberry @foreverfashion24_8 Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee MUA |Naja Alston www.beautebynaja.com Polkadot Dress: Majestic Plus Boutique @empresstia_majesticplus Image shot at Diva Day International’s Doll House

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Photographer | Curt Sanders Designer | MVP Collections @mvp_usa Model | Raphael Lopez @iamrelopez

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Photographer | Curt Sanders Designer | MVP Collections @mvp_usa Model | Kavah King @gentlemenscurb

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Photographer | Curt Sanders Designer | MVP Collections @mvp_usa Model | Andre Byrd @phoenix.captured

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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Photographer | Curt Sanders Designer | MVP Collections @mvp_usa Model | Elijah E.Scott Lewis @EScott_Music

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BUSINESS

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE SEE PAGE 23 FOR MORE INFO FOLLOW US

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10 COSMETIC BRANDS WE RECOMMEND YOU TRY

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www.jay-jillcosmetics.com @jayjillcosmetics

10 COSMETIC BRANDS TO TRY | QSM

www.mentedcosmetics.com @mentedcosmetics

www.kissablelipscosmetics.com @kissablelipscosmetics

www.phoenixspeakscosmetics.com @phoenixspeakscosmetics

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www.cdiamondscosmetics.com @cdiamondscosmetics

www.becausecosmetics.net @becausecosmetics

www.imbeautymarked.com

www.revealcosmeticsonline.com @revealcosmetics

www.weareuntamedcosmetics.com @weareuntamedcosmetics

www.lynecosmetics.com @officiallynecosmetics

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Hey Dolls and Gents, Am I the only one that didn’t realize that FahionNova now carries plus size for Men? I am here for it all day. I really appreciate this movement and encourage you all to go check out their fall collection.

Here goes a few of my favorite pieces.

FASHION NOVA BIG AND TALL WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|NOVEMBER 2018 ISSUE

xoxoxxo Meesha Ann

FASHIONOVA BIG AND TALL| MEESHA ANN

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Fabulous Fall Fashions from Eloquii Faux Leather Tie Neck Dress

Boucle Teddy Coat

Puff Sleeve Plaid Dress

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Cardigan Sweater Dress

Striped Sweater Dress

Printed Blouse with Bow Cuff

Striped Sweat Tied Puff Sleeve Fit & Flare Dress

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Kimbereley Reese @Facebook Kimbereley Reese Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee Peplum Sweater | Ashley Stewart @byashleystewart Skirt | CeeCee&Co Boutique (2419 Oakwood Ave Huntsville, AL) Black Heels | ShoeDazzle.com @shoedazzle Accessories | Burlington @burlingtonstyle

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT| KIMBERELEY REESE

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Kimbereley Reese For as long as Kimbereley Reese can remember she’s always thought about modeling. When she was younger she often wondered how models got discovered, and now she I knows that, (for her that is), modeling is really about discovering herself.

endured in her youth, struggles with infertility, two military deployments, an abusive marriage, financial setbacks and enough bumps, hiccups and bruises to warrant a front row seat at a Shirley Caesar, Patti LaBelle and Fantasia concert.

“But as our dear Celie said, I’m here”.

Kimbereley is a doting daughter to two parents who, after 48 years and counting, have shown her the power and grace of redemptive love; a beacon, caretaker, cheerleader and big sister to the other half of her heart; and a nurturer who’s driven countless miles to cook for, nurse, hug and help many a friend.

After serving her country for 22 years in the Army (let’s give them woman a round of applause!), she retired and found herself unable to secure a civilian or contractor position within the Federal Government. Feeling a bit lost but determined to do something she felt good at; she followed her curiosity and took a cake decorating class at her local Hobby Lobby. Thirteen months later, she completed the Baking & Pastry Program and ecstatically began her new career as a pastry chef at Marriott. That lasted until an old military-related injury brought her budding pastry career to an abrupt end, and she once again found herself unemployed and desperately trying to work through her major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Today, she is walking, living and breathing her truth. Having bilateral flat feet, multiple knee and foot surgeries and degenerative arthritis means she has to work a little harder on her walk, but she’s walking. There were so many days when she couldn’t find anything to smile about; now as soon as the cap pops off that lens or someone angles their phone in her general direction, she can’t stop beaming.

Her mission is to be a beam of light for herself and for others.

Life is about many things, but for her right now it’s about putting one foot in front of the other … and choosing to do it again and again every single day. She’s stridin’ and pressin’ forward — living her best life.

“So, c’mon: take a deep breath. Let’s put our chins up, shoulders back and, to paraphrase Lil Duval, let’s ‘start this thing off right …’”

By June 2015, she was feeling low. She suffered a major depressive episode that required hospitalization, and she was struggling to rebuild her life. She was still reeling from her divorce and trying to figure out how to make ends meet as she’d just become the main caretaker for both of her aging parents. She was in therapy, but as many of us know (‘cause it’s just like working out) some days you’re doing great and then one day you’re just like, well, f*ck it. She stumbled across a listing on Facebook for Dionne Reeves Grubbs’s Walk Like Her Confidence and Modeling Class, and she texted her sister about it. For the first time in a long time, her sister had heard hope in her voice. Before she could even ask, her sister sent her the money for the class and the rest … well, you know it!

Kimbereley is proud of the many things she’s accomplished thus far. She’s as much at ease disassembling, cleaning and reloading a Glock as she is at piping rose after rose on a tray of cookies and cupcakes. She is the loving owner and mama to her real ride or die, her rescued Blue Pit, Blaze. She loves to drive and have broken her foot off in everything from a yellow school bus to a Ford Escort, Humvee, zero turn lawn mower, a few luxury cars and then some. If you can catch her, you’ll find her blazing her own trail and movin’ traffic in a left lane near you.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

I am a Survivor

Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Kimbereley Reese @Facebook Kimbereley Reese Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee Dress | Rue 107 @rue107 Slingback Heels | Nine West @ninewest Accessories | Sassy Jones Boutique @sassyjonesboutique

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | Kimbereley Reese @Facebook Kimbereley Reese Stylist | MSNICKEE @msnickee Dress | Rue 107 @rue107 Slingback Heels | Nine West @ninewest Accessories | Sassy Jones Boutique @sassyjonesboutique

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STREET STYLE PHOTOGRAPHY DURING NEW YORK FASHION WEEK

BEAUTY AND FASHION

by Nanthale Collins

photograper | Tyeshea campbell @AFROVOCATIVE

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photograper | Tyeshea campbell @AFROVOCATIVE

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Street style has always been a thing during fashion week. Photographers love to take photos of people entering and leaving fashion shows. But there is just one problem; street style photographers usually pass up plus size people going or coming from these fashion shows.

We’ve seen diversity inside Fashion Week increased with the use of plus size models so why hasn’t the same trend happened outside of the show?

More and more plus size bloggers and influencers attend fashion week as more and more designers are making plus size collection as well as plus size collaborations. So why are they passed over by street photographers. We want to show that plus size women also have amazing street style and attending these fashion shows as well. Here are some plus size street styles we captured during fashion week.

photograper | Tyeshea campbell @AFROVOCATIVE

photograper | Tyeshea campbell @AFROVOCATIVE

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photograper | Tyeshea campbell @AFROVOCATIVE

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photograper | Tyeshea campbell @AFROVOCATIVE

STREET STYLE PHOTOGRAPHY | NANTHALE COLLINS

photograper | Tyeshea campbell @AFROVOCATIVE

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image submitted by Maxey Green @maxeygreene

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STREET STYLE PHOTOGRAPHY | NANTHALE COLLINS

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image submitted by Lisa Mustang Sally @mustangsallytwo

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Photographer | Philip Drew @pdrewphotography Model | IV Mercedes @ivplus Dress | Pink Ladybug Couture

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From our family to yours Happy Holidays

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