Huami Magazine Greenville/Spartanburg July/August 2025

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Passion, Purpose, and Expiration Dates

A Letter From The Editor

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

A Letter from the Editor

When the moment arrives and you know that your passion doesn’t align with your purpose, it’s time to move on.

One of the great blessings that God offers to all of His children is the opportunity to choose what we want to do in life. Some may aspire to be a doctor, nurse, actor/actress, musician, teacher, dancer, etc. Whatever our hearts desire, God allows us to decide. With this freedom, I believe that God doesn’t expect us to leave Him out totally. If it’s from God, then in order to sustain it, a connection must be sustained.

What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?

The purpose of an expiration date is to let us know when something has gone bad or has become useless. Who wants to eat food that has expired? We are not supposed to drive cars with an expired driver’s license, so why would we want to show up for an assignment that has passed us by? It doesn’t make sense. Whether it’s a person, place, or thing, or even an airplane, it deserves the best from whoever is in a position to provide it.

Lately, I have noticed that a lack of compassion exists in many places. In the hospitality industry, the healthcare industry, the travel industry, and even at church, people seem to be so disinterested in the feelings of others. Of course, we can come up with a lot of reasons and excuses as to why, again, I believe that it’s due to an expiration date. If the thrill is gone, then the door becomes open to all of the bad habits to walk in.

I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.

The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.

I want to encourage everyone who may read this message to always approach what we are called to with love and excellence. Self-reflection is also something that can help us learn where we are in our calling and assignments. The reasons why we started don’t change; what changes is what happens along the journey, and when the moment arrives where our interests are dull and reasoning has evaporated, that’s when we should walk away. Too many people are depending on receiving the best versions of themselves, and that version may even be connected to their livelihood and survival.

General Inquiries

Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.

Tamara Smith
Terry L Watson Publisher
Dr. Marrissa Dick Writer
Terry L. Watson Writer
Monica Montgomery Writer
Ashleigh Crawley Photographer
Todd Youngblood Photographer
Snuggs Photography Photographer

Spartanburg, SC

Support To Stop Gun Violence

Spartanburg Mayor Rice

Dallas, TX

T. MCK Events LLC

Tierra Henderson

It is time to celebrate those who help make our communities better. The Huami Magazine Community Awards Gala happened in Charlotte. Charlotte, NC She is Huami Magazine’s Cutest Baby. Introducing one beautiful baby. Her name is Mina Alyssa Kennedy

This Is It By CG Courtney Green
Y.E.S. Your Event Specialist Brandie Pearson
Events Consultants Gareth & Linease
BWE NEXT 30 Years Merry Green

Mayor Rice Calls on Leaders, Parents, and Community to Help Curtail Gun Violence

My heart is heavy today as I join with our community in mourning the tragic losses we’ve seen recently in two shootings in Spartanburg city and county due to gun violence. Young lives full of promise, joy, and potential have been taken tragically and senselessly, robbing families of their loved ones and robbing our community of their future promise. To their families, friends, teachers, and neighbors: our entire city grieves with you. There are no words I can offer that can replace the warmth of a young person’s smile or the hope embodied in their dreams, but there are actions we must take, together, so no more families endure this pain.

First, let me speak directly to our young people. You are the future of Spartanburg. You are scholars, athletes, builders, and dreamers. Violence is not your destiny. It is a detour that robs you, and all of us, of what you can become. I implore you to choose another path. Talk to a parent, a coach, a faith leader, a mentor, or a counselor. If you feel anger, fear, or pressure to pick up a weapon, reach out. Your schools and your City are here to help, with programs and safe spaces designed to allow you to discover your strength without a gun in your hand.

To parents, guardians, and every caring adult: we need you on the front lines of prevention. Know where your children are, who they spend time with, and most importantly, how they feel. Ask tough questions and listen closely to the answers. Together we can build the kind of support network that turns kids toward possibility instead of violence.

But we must also talk candidly about the tools that make tragedies like these possible. Our City Police Department reminds us time and again that a heartbreaking number of firearms used in crimes were first stolen, often from unlocked cars, giving thieves easy access to firearms thoughtlessly left in a glove compartment or center console. So far this year, 41 firearms have been stolen from vehicles, and 21 of those showed no sign of forced entry. To be clear, no one sets out to arm a criminal, yet leaving a handgun unsecured in a vehicle does exactly that.

Today I am calling on every gun owner in Spartanburg to take three simple steps: secure it, lock it, store it. Invest in a quality gun safe or lock box. Never leave a firearm inside an unlocked car, no matter how briefly. If your weapon is lost or stolen, report it to the Police Department immediately. Responsible ownership is both a legal obligation and a moral one.

Your city is also doing its part. I will work with our City Council, our leadership team, and our Police Department to use every means at our disposal to reduce gun violence in our community, approaching the issue holistically with both prevention and enforcement.

However, government alone cannot solve this crisis. Faith communities, neighborhood associations, businesses, and nonprofits all have critical roles to play. Host a gun-safety workshop at your church. Offer after-school internships at your company. Volunteer to coach, tutor, or simply listen. Every positive connection we create can become a barrier against violence.

Finally, let us remember who we are. Spartanburg’s people are resilient, determined, and united by a common love for this place we call home. The path forward is the same one that has carried us through past trials. It is empathy for those who suffer, accountability for those who endanger others, and collective action rooted in hope and belief in positive change.

I ask each of you to stand with me, young and old, lifelong resident and newcomer alike. Let us secure our guns, open our hearts, and reach out our hands to guide our youth toward a brighter future. Together, we can ensure that no more memorials are held in this city for children whose lives ended violently and far too soon. As we mourn those we’ve lost, may that mourning strengthen our resolve to see peace take root in every street, every school, and every home in Spartanburg.

T. MCK Events, LLC

Tierra Henderson of Dallas, TX, is not the kind of person who waits for permission; she creates her own doors. In addition to being a passionate creative and a relentless go-getter, Tierra is a woman of faith, a proud mom, and grandmother of five.

Tierra was raised to believe in hard work and excellence. She has already earned her bachelor’s degree and is nearly finished with acquiring her master’s in Business Management. Additionally, Tierra is a Certified Meeting Professional with over 20 years of experience. “I am a visionary with a mind that rarely rests — always building, always imagining what could be better, bigger, or more beautiful. At my core, I am a builder — not just of businesses, but of people, moments, and possibilities. I also take pride in doing things well, and I am not a fan of mediocrity,” she says.

Tierra has also found her way to being a successful entrepreneur, and owns T. MCK Events, LLC, an event planning company that specializes in crafting luxury event experiences that leave lasting impressions. While she began her company professionally in 2020, Tierra has been planning since 2003— bringing people together with intention and elegance.

“What I love most about what I do is the opportunity to create moments that feel like magic. There’s nothing like watching someone’s vision come to life and knowing I had a hand in making it real,” she says. “I also love the feeling of success. There’s a deep sense of pride in knowing I can make things happen by my own ability—on my own terms. I care deeply about legacy, impact, and how people feel when they experience something I’ve touched.”

As she has built her brand and company, Tierra has leaned on a few people for support and guidance. She says, “At the beginning of my career, I was blessed with an incredible mentor—Ray Ferland, my general manager, who truly helped shape my business

mindset and set the foundation for my success in hospitality. His leadership and guidance were instrumental in how I approach service, excellence, and professionalism to this day, and I’ll always be grateful.”

Like most entrepreneurs, Tierra has faced a few challenges along her journey, from funding hurdles to burnout and self-doubt. Still, she managed them by staying rooted in purpose, learning to rest and not quit, and remembering why she started. Through it all, Tierra says it’s the people who believed in her when she was still figuring things out, such as Ray Ferland. These are the ones she says who gave her the fuel to keep going, and their support reminded her that she was built for this journey.

In addition to event planning services, Tierra also offers custom print and design services, of which she says, bring visions to life. “Whether it’s wedding planners, business templates, or beautifully designed memorial keepsakes, my company can do it,” she says. “I’ve had the honor of orchestrating events around the world— from Munich, Germany; Rome, Italy; and Taipei, Taiwan, to cities across the U.S., including right here in Dallas and everywhere in between. These global experiences, paired with the opportunity to immerse myself in other cultures, have been invaluable—not just professionally, but personally.”

Tierra offers some advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs, as well as to those who may follow a path similar to her own. She says, “Start officially. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Get legal, get legit, and get a mentor who’s already doing what you aspire to do.” Moving forward, Tierra plans to grow and scale her business. She also plans to launch her Mindset Coaching program and focus on creating space for women to rise boldly, lead confidently, and live without shrinking. In closing, Tierra shares, “This is more than business; this is personal. I’m not just building brands, I’m building a life that I’m proud of, and I’m just getting started.”

Photos Provided by Tierra Henderson

TojuannaShippy

Creative Elegance & Designs

Tojuanna Shippy of Greenville, SC, describes herself as a woman who builds, leads, and pours into people. She is a mother of an incredible son, a teacher, an instructor, and a successful business owner, and finds joy in inspiring others to become the greatest versions of themselves.

“I’m a business owner, event planner, and an Associate Analyst, balancing purpose with performance. I’m also someone who builds, leads, and pours into people—because I know that growth begins with belief and bold action,”

Tojuanna’s shares. Her company, CED Event Planning/ Creative Elegance & Designs, offers full-service wedding and event planning, along with custom décor design for weddings, special events, and all occasions. Whether planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration, their expert coordination and creative design capabilities help to bring their clients’ visions to life.

Tojuanna shares that her journey as an event planner began in 2012 with a passion for planning and creating themed parties. She adds, “I started by decorating for my home church, which sparked my love for transforming spaces and creating meaningful experiences. After evaluating the local market, I set a goal to become a small business owner committed to delivering high-quality products and exceptional service. In January 2014, I took a leap of faith, followed my calling, and officially launched my event planning business. With a heart for making a difference in others’ lives, I found joy in helping clients bring their wedding and event dreams to life through thoughtful planning and creative décor design.”

“I started by decorating for my home church, which sparked my love for transforming spaces and creating meaningful experiences. After evaluating the local market, I set a goal to become a small business owner committed to delivering high-quality products and exceptional service.”
Photos Provided by

As with most entrepreneurs, there will be a few hurdles and obstacles that one might face along their journey. For Tojuanna, these began to present themselves early on. She shares, “Although I started my business with excitement, about three years in, I hit a wall. I struggled deeply with fear—specifically, the fear of failure. That fear held me back from taking risks and stepping into new opportunities. I had so much creativity, so much knowledge, and so many ideas inside of me, but I was afraid to share them with the world. I constantly compared myself to others and convinced myself I wasn’t enough, I didn’t have enough education, didn’t have the right credentials, didn’t have the perfect words. When I finally gained the education and the experience, fear still had a grip on me. I worried that people wouldn’t receive what I had to offer, that they’d judge me, and that somehow, I’d still fail. I didn’t recognize the power in planting even one seed. If I could inspire just one person, that should have been enough. I wanted to inspire everybody and felt like I was falling short. However, everything shifted when I took the time to truly discover who I am. I learned that I am bold, powerful, and a leader and changemaker. Once I understood my identity and why God created me, everything changed. I realized that the doors I walked through, the people who spoke my name without even knowing me, didn’t happen by chance, but by purpose. Soon, I began to see that I’m here on assignment.”

Economic shifts, staying current with evolving trends, and adapting to the demands of her local market are some additional challenges Tojuanna faces. She has managed these by staying flexible with the economy and keeping up with trends through workshops and networking events. She has also gained new clients through collaboration and by utilizing social media platforms.

While her creative savviness is well substantiated, Tojuanna also boasts some impressive academic accolades on her resume. These include a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing, a Master’s in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing, and a Master’s of Education in Adult Education.

Tojuanna credits her friend, Adrienne Young, for significantly impacting her life. She adds, “I’ll never forget the moment she encouraged me to come up with a business name, a brand; actions that would make what I was doing official. Her push, her belief in me, was the spark I needed. If it weren’t for her encouragement, I honestly don’t know if I would’ve had the confidence to fully pursue my business. She saw something in me before I saw it in myself, and for that, I’m forever grateful.”

Tojuanna also credits her grandmother for teaching her the value of hard work and perseverance. She credits her business coaches, Otescia Johnson, for connecting her to the person who helped Tojuanna discover her true identity and value, and Trina Boyd, who Tojuanna says inspired her to step out in faith, connect, and build her network. “My business coaches’ encouragement keeps me moving forward every day.”

What’s next for Tojuanna and CED Event Planning? She is currently in the process of launching a nonprofit dedicated to supporting new and established women business owners, as well as young entrepreneurs. Most importantly, Tojuanna is focused on leading and being a resource for others, and allowing her past experiences to serve as a reminder of what she is capable of achieving and overcoming. She says, “Now, I don’t ask, “What if I fail?” My mindset has shifted to, “What if I succeed exactly the way God planned?” If I stay in alignment with Him, He won’t fail me—and if He won’t fail me, I can’t fail.”

“Once I understood my identity and why God created me, everything changed. I realized that the doors I walked through, the people who spoke my name without even knowing me, didn’t happen by chance, but by purpose.”

Brandie Pearson Y.E.S.

Brandie Pearson of Boiling Srings, SC, is a wife, mother, educator, and small business owner. She is the owner of Y.E.S.-Your Event Specialist, LLC, a wedding and event planning business. Her company offers several packages for weddings and events, including a full package with catering, decor, sound, cake, photography/videography, and a “day of” services package. Her company also produces community focused events such as Feed the Need, Music Bingo, Galentine’s Brunch, Vision Board Brunches, Sparkle City’s Adult Prom Fundraiser, Food truck festivals, Paint and Sip events, and more.

Brandie began planning events after her wedding in 2013. She says, “I realized how much I love to help people by bringing their vision for their events to reality. In 2016, I prayed and fasted, trying to figure out my purpose and what makes me happy, and learned it was event planning. In 2017, I started advertising my event and wedding planning services as my business on social media. I was always the planner and go-to person for planning dinners, vacations, family reunions, etc. So, I decided to turn my hobby into a business. As of today, I have planned 17 weddings and over 40 events since starting my business.”

Brandie graduated from James F. Byrnes High School in Duncan, SC. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from USC-Upstate in Spartanburg in 2003. While at USC-Upstate, she became a member of the Rho Tau chapter of the prestigious organization of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. in 2002. She is also a member of the Epsilon Beta Omega Graduate Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha in Spartanburg. Brandie has enjoyed 12 years of marriage to Cedric Pearson, a union that has produced two beautiful children, Karma and Kymoni.

As far as events, Brandie shares how she enjoys bringing to the community fun, safe, and creative events that they can enjoy with their family and friends within the Spartanburg/Greenville area. She also loves to collaborate with local businesses. She adds, “I love to meet new people through my weddings and events. I love to see how excited my clients are with the outcome of all our planning and organizing.”

Brandie credits her aunt, Beverly Benson, for asking her tough questions about her future. “I went to her as a financial counselor, and she became more of a life counselor and prayer partner that day. I appreciate her pushing me in the beginning stages of my business,” she says. She also credits her husband, mother, auntie Gladys, daughter, son, and best friends for their support and states she could not do it without them.” Brandie is also inspired by David Tutera, her role model. “I love how he works with a team of professional vendors to bring his clients’ dream weddings to reality.”

Brandie says she has faced and overcome many challenges in business, from bridezillas to groomzillas, to third-degree burns, wrong color cakes, and mutually deciding to part ways with a bride. “I think my toughest challenge was having to mutually decide to part ways with a bride during the middle of the planning process. I have only had to do this once during my eight years of business. To this day, I still don’t understand how we got to the point of doubt and lack of trust, but I learned not to feel like I did something wrong and to continue to put my 100% into every wedding and event that my name is attached to. My response is to begin with building trust and a friendship with my clients.”

What does the future look like for Brandie? She has plans to take her brand to the next level. She says, “I want to open my own venue so I can provide my clients with not only planning services but also an affordable space to host their wedding and events. I understand that venues are a dime a dozen in Spartanburg, SC, but what I have envisioned for my venue is unlike any other. I am also excited to learn about a different aspect of the wedding and event planning business. Although David Tutera earns millions of dollars without a venue, I believe this is something that will take my business to the next level. When I retire from teaching, I plan to have my wedding and event planning business at the level needed to overcompensate for my teacher salary.” h

Merry Green

Love. Legacy. Legendary

Photos Provided by Merry Green

For the last 30 years, Merry Green of Chicago, IL, has dedicated her life to helping and serving others. She is the founder and visionary of the Black Women’s Expo, an annual event that draws thousands of black women and others to Chicago with the sole purpose of empowerment. This year, on Friday, August 1st through Sunday, August 3rd, McCormick Place in Chicago will serve as the host venue for thousands of women from around the United States. This year’s performers include Raheem Devaughn and Marvin Sapp. There will also be a Youth Summit, a fashion show, and seminars featuring Budgetnista, Tiffany Aliche, Sexual Health Expert Ashley Cobb, Community and Sexual Wellness Strategist, Dr. Hareder McDowell, and much more.

In 1993, then named “An Expo for Today’s Black Woman,” the Black Women’s Expo (BWe) was primarily focused on providing an annual event where small businesses and major corporations alike could showcase their products and services to African American consumers in the Chicagoland area. Over the years, BWe, also known as BWe NEXT, has blossomed into an event where Black women and their families can be educated, entertained, and emboldened. The three-day-long exposition is comprised of small and large activations that address the needs of Black women and their families via topical seminars and general sessions presented by subject matter experts, themed pavilions, an Exhibitor’s Marketplace, and corporate activations.

As the nation’s longest-running, intergenerational exposition for Black women and their families, BWe is proud to cultivate a space where ideas are shared, solutions are discussed, entrepreneurs gain insights on growing their businesses, and corporate brands speak directly to brand-loyal consumers.

A native of Nashville, TN, Merry is a mother, entrepreneur, event planner, and in a lot of ways, an activist. She moved to Rochester, NY, at a young age. In Rochester, Merry’s journey began fighting television and radio stations that weren’t hiring blacks. Seeing an injustice take place, she put her gloves on. Her fight would ultimately open doors of opportunity in these industries for Merry. Those experiences would also pave the way to event planning, forming an event planning company.

In Rochester, Merry worked for an ABC affiliate, and in her early thirties, she moved to Chicago, where she began working for NBC in television. Shortly thereafter, she was invited to work in radio, which included promotional and marketing opportunities and event and Expo planning, leading to the creation of her own event planning company. “I didn’t study anything in particular. I was just moved around and that is how I arrived at where I am at now,” Merry says.

In 1995, Merry approached her bosses at the radio station where she worked with the idea of producing an event that focused on African American Women, which made up 60% of the station’s listeners at the time. She put together a team of women that comprised community and health organizations, as well as sponsors and advertisers of the radio station. They began at McCormick’s Place, one of the biggest convention centers in the United States, and have been there ever since.

In the past, the three-day event has drawn attendees and vendors to Chicago from around the United States, including Atlanta, Ohio, New York, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, and more. The Black Women’s Expo is the nation’s longest-running and respected women’s expo. For a period of time, the expo was held in other cities, including Detroit, Orlando, Atlanta, and Biloxi (Mississippi), but Chicago remains its true home. Last year, Merry applied for and was awarded a tourism grant, which allowed her to market and promote the expo in other markets. Their marketing efforts were successful as they saw attendees present from the markets they advertised in.

It’s obvious that Merry is living in her purpose. Even more, the words “community” and “serve” are synonymous with her name. Merry says, “I have always been concerned about the treatment, needs, and concerns of African American women. The Expo was built around that, to create a platform centered around those concerns, which would allow us to showcase our products and services, and have a place to discuss issues that were happening in our communities. As a Black woman, I am committed to the fight for Black women. Even as others try to erase our history or forget what we have created, I will never stop because being a Black woman will never change. Our fight will and must continue,” Merry shares.

When asked what she loves most about her work, Merry says it’s seeing things come together. “The planning of this year’s expo has been a whirlwind of emotions as I reminisce on the thousands of women who have come through our doors, launching and showcasing their businesses as exhibitors while realizing their dreams. I close my eyes and think of icons Oprah, Winnie Mandela and Maya Angelou, and countless entertainers who embraced our vision through their presence at the Black Women’s Expo over the past three decades. Recently, during a staff meeting, I shared with my team that execution starts now. No more ideas, no more creativity. Especially for those who are working with us for the first time, now it’s time to pull it all together and execute on all levels. Seeing a line at 10:00 am on Friday morning when the doors open makes it all worth it. Seeing generations of women in attendance, teenagers, young children, and even seniors. It’s amazing and really touches my heart to see entire families of women in attendance,” she says.

While she has produced the event for the last 30 years, Merry has always tried to maintain a low profile and asserts that actions are always intended for the benefit of others. She also states that this year’s event has a lot of meaning for her. “It took this year to fully understand the impact the Expo has on my community. I’ve had a chance to process the support of countless supporters over the years, all of whom make the event possible. As we faced hurdles, including the loss of funding due to our determination not to be inclusive, we persevered. The reason we have the Expo is that we were not included,” she says.

Being able to produce an event, consistently, year after year, is a testament to who Merry Green is and her determination and commitment to help others. The community of Chicago appreciates her. The country appreciates her, and Black Women are greatly empowered because of her obedience to what she has been called to do. “If anyone had predicted my journey of producing the Black Women’s Expo would last this long — a venerable institution marking a three-decade milestone — I likely would not have believed them. However, poised to celebrate our 30th anniversary as the nation’s largest and longest-running Expo for Black women, I remain immensely grateful for this journey, for every milepost of our story, and chapters yet to be written,” Merry says.

Looking forward, Merry plans to continue to do what God has called her to do, which is to be a pillar and valuable resource for her community and other communities around the country. In addition to the BWE Next, Merry and her team have also established a non-profit entity titled the “Black Women’s Entrepreneurial Fund” to support women who aspire to start and grow their businesses and follow their dreams. With the funds creation, the legacy of the Black Women’s Expo will live on for generations, which aligns perfectly with their theme, “The Legacy Continues.” Merry adds, “Whether as an exhibitor, sponsor, presenter, performer or attendee, I hope you will come and experience this monumental event produced by Black women, for Black women.”

CourtneyGreen

This Is It by CG

Courtney Green has called North Alabama home since 2016. Courtney is a devoted Christian, an entrepreneur, and a mother to Khloe, a vibrant little girl. Additionally, Courtney is an ambitious go-getter who believes in living life out loud and on purpose.

Originally from Salina, Kansas, Courtney graduated from Athens State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. She followed that feat with a Master’s in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management with a concentration in Information Systems. Despite navigating personal traumas and health battles—including being diagnosed with systemic Lupus in 2018, Courtney chose to lead with faith, resilience, and purpose. Her journey is rooted in perseverance, and she uses every experience to fuel her passion for empowering others.

Today, Courtney serves as a full-fledged entrepreneur. Her brand, This Is It by CG, offers stylish, affordable, and expressive fashion jewelry through live sales, pop-up events, and personalized style curation. Every piece is intended to complement her client’s personality and elevate their confidence without breaking the bank. In addition to jewelry, Courtney provides writing services, including resume building, brand storytelling, and custom content for entrepreneurs looking to find their voice and show up boldly in the digital space. She also leads faith-based empowerment initiatives through her involvement with Surviving Sisterhood. There, she advocates for healing and community among women who’ve experienced trauma, illness, or life transitions.

This Is It by CG began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Courtney shares, “I initially started selling jewelry wholesale and reselling it online to help a friend rank up in her organization. What started as a supportive gesture quickly turned into a meaningful venture. I realized the women around me were earning consistent income and enjoying the freedom it provided. I hopped on the train, and before I knew it, I was making an extra $400 a month from going live, attending vendor events, and carrying my “bling bag” everywhere I went.”

As Courtney shares, she is a woman of faith, and stands on the precision and reliability of God’s timing. She adds, “This business came at a time when I was just entering remission from Lupus, and it helped me step out of the shadows. It gave me the confidence to show up again, publicly and purposefully. What started as a side hustle turned into a healing ministry, allowing me to reconnect with people, serve women, and rediscover my voice.”

“This business came at a time when I was just entering remission from Lupus, and it helped me step out of the shadows.  It gave me the confidence to show up again, publicly and purposefully.”

Courtney’s daughter, Khloe, wears the crown of being her mother’s greatest inspiration. Courtney says that every decision she makes is rooted in giving Khloe an example of resilience, purpose, and power. Courtney also finds inspiration in the women she has met through Surviving Sisterhood—survivors, warriors, mothers, and believers who continue to show up every day despite life’s challenges. “These women have taught me that your story has value, your voice matters, and your pain can birth purpose.”

When asked what she loves most about what she does, Courtney shares it’s the opportunity to uplift women in both style and spirit. “Whether it’s helping someone find the perfect accessory or crafting a resume that lands them their dream job, I get to be a part of someone’s “next step.” My brand is not just about jewelry or words—it’s about transformation. Seeing women light up when they feel beautiful or confident again is what keeps me going,” she says.

As her brand has grown, Courtney has faced a few obstacles and challenges. One she says is balancing health, motherhood, and entrepreneurship. She adds that living with Lupus means there are days her body tells her to rest, yet her schedule tells her to go. Courtney also deals with self-doubt, burnout, and the weight of wearing many hats. She shares she has learned how to manage such challenges by prioritizing grace over grind. “Faith is the ultimate anchor. I lean into prayer, Scripture, and spiritual accountability to keep going even when it gets hard. It’s not what’s on me, it’s God working in and through me. I’ve also created systems that allow me to automate parts of my business and give myself permission to rest when needed. My community has also been essential, and having support from other women in business, especially in the Surviving Sisterhood circle, has helped me stay encouraged and aligned,” she says.

Courtney offers some advice to others who may follow in a path in entrepreneurship similar to hers. She says, “Start with what you have and where you are—progress over perfection. You don’t need everything figured out to take the first step. You must be willing to learn, stay adaptable, and surround yourself with people who stretch your vision. Most importantly, don’t hide behind your pain, but instead, use it. Your story can heal others and open doors you never imagined.”

Courtney has plans to expand This Is It by CG into a full-faith lifestyle brand, combining jewelry, writing services, speaking engagements, and digital products that are designed to empower women from the inside out. She’s also working on releasing a leadership memoir that documents her journey of healing, identity, and purpose. Through Surviving Sisterhood, she’ll continue creating safe spaces for women to gather, grow, and thrive. h

Charlotte, NC

Photos Provided by Still Shots Photography
2025 Huami Magazine Community Awards Honorees
Business Leaders Honorees
Community Leaders Honorees

Linese Washington ACA Event Solutions

“God

is a God of Restoration”

Linease Washington of Greensboro, NC, is a child of God, a minister, and a devoted mother. She is also the owner of ACA Event Solutions, a full-service event and planning company that offers a comprehensive range of products and services. These include rentals, floral arrangements, music, décor, catering, entertainment, transportation, and more.

Originally from Alabama, Linease began her journey in 2010 as A Cream Affair Events. In 2019, she rebranded her company to ACA Event Solutions to better reflect her full-service approach. “For us, event planning goes far beyond managing logistics and checking off to-do lists. It’s about building meaningful relationships with our clients—becoming their trusted partner, confidant, and even a calming presence during what can be a stressful process. We listen deeply, inspire creativity, offer guidance, and celebrate the joy of each moment right alongside our clients. Our dedication begins with the initial conception and extends to the final presentation. Whether it’s a corporate luncheon, an intimate gathering, or a black-tie gala, we approach each event as the beginning of a lasting partnership—not a one-time service,” Linease says.

Linease describes herself as a resilient woman whose life story is rooted in strength, perseverance, and unwavering faith. Born in the small town of Koenton, as the fourth of twelve siblings, Linease was raised by remarkable parents who instilled in her faith, the values of hard work, respect, and unconditional love. After graduating from high school, she married her then high school sweetheart, a union that was marked with domestic violence. As her first marriage dissolved, Linease focused on making a fresh

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start for herself and her children. As a single mother, she juggled three jobs and spent countless evenings doing homework with her children. “I have always wanted to show my children that education is the key to opportunity and success,” she says.

Determined to rewrite her story, Linease earned her degrees despite the odds stacked against her. She doesn’t boast of the numerous awards and accolades or her doctoral degree, and at heart, she’s simply Linease. Her journey from adversity to achievement is not only a testimony of personal triumph but also a source of inspiration. Her passion for excellence, creativity, and meaningful celebrations continues to flourish. Today, she is married to the love of her life, Gareth, and together they share a beautiful, blended family of four children, ten grandchildren, and one precious great-granddaughter.

Linease shares that all of her events hold a special place in her heart. Yet, if she had to choose just one, it would be the Celebrating Life Jazz Brunch. She adds, “This event is significant because it honors overcomers—individuals who have faced and conquered unimaginable challenges like cancer, domestic violence, incarceration, and hopelessness. It also brings together changemakers, trailblazers, and everyday heroes who have overcome challenges and continue to make a difference in their families, communities, and beyond. It’s a moment to give them their flowers while they can still smell them.” At the brunch, family and friends gather with expressions of love and support, along with stunning décor, uplifting live music, delicious food, and special presentations. “It’s more than an event—it’s a celebration of resilience, courage, and the beauty of second chances,” she says.

The Celebrating Life Jazz Brunch began in 2011 as a heartfelt, inspirational, and educational Saturday morning breakfast in honor of one of Linease’s dear friends who embodied grace, strength, and a love for music and elegance. Following her passing in 2014, the gathering evolved into a soulful Sunday jazz brunch—a tribute that reflected the very essence of who she was. Since then, it has blossomed into an elegant and uplifting event and most recently, and held its annual event in June of this year. “The Celebrating Life Jazz Brunch was intentionally named as a living tribute— because too often, we wait until someone has passed to honor their life, calling it a “Celebration of Life.” However, we choose to celebrate life now—while the honorees can hear the words, feel the love, and see the difference they are making in the world,” says Linease.

In April 2026, Linease and her team will celebrate 15 years of producing the Celebrating Life Jazz Brunch. She adds, “Over the years, we’ve had the honor of hosting this experience in High Point, NC; Charlotte, NC; Tampa, FL; and Greensboro, NC, meeting countless survivors, thrivers, and everyday heroes along the way. As we step into our Crystal Year, a symbol of clarity, strength, and transformation, we’re filled with gratitude and excitement. This isn’t just a celebration of the past—it’s a declaration that we are just getting started. The best is truly yet to come!”

Linease shares that she draws inspiration from her mother, Ida Lee Dixon. “I’m especially inspired by her strength, faith, and unwavering love, which taught me the true power of perseverance and compassion. She had a deep love for planning, baking, cooking, and creating joyful moments for others. She once owned Ida’s Bakery in St. Petersburg, Florida, where her cakes were as unforgettable as the care she poured into

everything she did. Before her passing, it was her dream that her children would one day become a one-stop shop for events. I am carrying on her legacy of creativity, excellence, and service, and it brings tears to my eyes to know that I’m now walking in her vision. Her passion lives on in everything I do, and honoring her legacy inspires me every single day,” Linease says.

With all that Linease does, oftentimes she is faced with a few challenges, but she doesn’t allow adversity to deter her from her purpose. She also says there isn’t much she would change about the way things have happened along her journey. “Every challenge has shaped me and strengthened the foundation of ACA Event Solutions. The challenges taught me to be flexible, creative, and solution-driven. They’ve pushed me to grow as a leader, build an incredible team, and deepen my commitment to serving with excellence. Each obstacle became an opportunity to innovate, and I’m grateful for every step that led us to where we are today,” she says.

Mina Alyssa Kennedy
The daughter of Christopher and MacKenzie Kennedy

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