beautifully being u! magazine issue 1

2 BeautifullyBeingUmagazine.com | February-April 2014

CONTENTS Volume 1 | Issue 1

February– April 2014

On the Cover Who are the Beauties of the TBLG? BBU! Founder Shunte Davis introduce the

Total Beauty Ladies Group members and

the group’s mission.

Behind the Lens 7 This Issue’s BTL Team Get to know the team that made our

cover photo shoot simply beautiful!

Beautifully Being Me 9 Industry Spotlights

Fashion Blogger Shalanda Turner

Runway Coach Jesus Walks

Vendor of the Month Florence Cruz

BBU! Style 20 Make Me Over– Bring Out Your Inner

Bombshell

22 Getting Gala Ready

24 We Want That! Editor’s Pick

25 Gifts for Him Editor’s Pick

The Whole U! INSPIRATION, TRAVEL & RELAXTION,

HEALTH & WELLNESS, CONNECTING

28 Live Life by Faye Carter

29 4 Staycation Ideas

30 8 Purse Exercises

31 Reader’s Lounge

32 How to Get the Party Started– Super

Hostess Tips

In Every Issue 3 BBU! Staff & Contributors

4 In the Community

6 We Asked You Answered

14 A Visual Story– Editorial

33 Connecting OVER Food-5 Ladies &

a Fork

34 W.O.W Moments by Shunte Davis

35 Vendor Directory

Advertise in Beautifully Being U! Magazine Our publications reach a diverse audience of readers through our print and digital distribution,

websites, and social media channels. [email protected]

22

29

12

14

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BBU! Magazine

Founder & Editorial in Chief Shunte Gamble-Davis

Founder & Editor at Large Wendell Davis

Publisher My Beautiful Family Inc.

Beautifully Being U! Magazine

P.O. Box 2294

Stafford, Texas 77497

Beautifully Being U! Magazine is published four times a year as a

digital download or as a printed copy and is purposed to be a

great tool for beautifully living. Although BBU! Magazine strives to

ensure the accuracy and correctness of the information published,

we do not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies

or missions. The views expressed by authors of publications or event

presentations, published in BBU! Magazine, do not necessarily repre-

sent the views of BBU! Decisions or actions based on the information

and publications provided by BBU! are at your own risk. Reproduc-

tion in whole or in part without prior written consent is prohibited.

Trademarked property of My Beautiful Family Inc.

CONTRIBUTORS This issue’s talented crew of contributors sharing their expertise and life experiences.

Be Featured! Beautifully Being U! Magazine loves to spotlight

outstanding industry leaders.

Join the BBU! Team Beautifully Being U! Magazine wants to hear from

you! We welcome submissions for publication.

We provide inspiration and reliable information

that helps women balance their lives.

● ● ● ●

Submitting a Full Manuscript

Visit our website

www.beautifullybeingumagazine.com ● ● ● ●

Click on the link “Submit Items” ● ● ●

Complete our Submissions Form ● ● ● ●

If selected, we will email you instructions on

how to submit your full manuscript.

Amburlee Price Beauty Expert

“Make Me Over”

Page 20

Faye Carter Life Coach

“Live Life”

Page 28

Jesus Walks Runway Coach

“The Bolded Beauty”

Page 14

Edrina Newman Fitness Guru

“8 Purse Exercises”

0

VISIT US ONLINE AT BEAUTIFULLYBEINGUMAGAZINE.COM


In the

Community

EVENTS Look no further for fun events in and around the city of Houston. Our

event production company, the Total Beauty Ladies Events, has an entire

roster of events to support our 2014 Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign.

April 12, 2014

Black & White Masquerade Ball 2nd Annual Gala

An evening filled with mystery and entertain-

ment dedicated to raise funds for Breast Can-

cer Awareness. Test your luck at our casino

tables and raffle box!

Tickets are advance sales only for this event

and available online at www.TotalBeautyLadiesEvent.com

Sponsorship opportunities also available

*All guests will receive 15% discount code for a

Custom Mask by our sponsors VIVO Masks *Mask Shown Above is made by VIVO Masks

♠

Vendor’s Corner

Black & White Masquerade Ball

Luxe Swag Bag Advertising

Dessert Auction Item Donation

Silent Item Auction Donation

Event Sponsorships

Showcase your company at our upcoming events.

Visit Us Online at www.TotalBeautyLadiesEvent.com

4th Annual TBLE– October 25th

Beauty & Fashion Extravaganza

Beauty Bag Advertising

Raffle Prize Donation

Exhibit Booths

♠

♠

Gala Highlights

Fashion Show

Best Mask Contest

Casino After Party

VIP Lounges

Live Dessert Auction

Silent Auction

Gala Prizes

50” Flat Screen TV

Custom Mask

PLUS MORE!

Limited Seating Available

Join us today!

5

In the Community

TBLG

With a full calendar it will be hard not to spot the beautiful

ladies of the TBLG. If you have a non-profit organization

and you are in need of volunteers, email us at info@tbl-

group.org. Join for FREE at www.tbl-group.org

UPCOMING OUTINGS FEBRUARY The Spot: BBU! Launch Party

Purpose: Group Outing

Celebrate our TBLG Mem-

bers and the launch of BBU!

MARCH The Spot: Loaves & Fish Soup

Kitchen

Purpose: Community Out-

reach to help feed the

homeless.

Ph

oto

Bom

bed!

January The Spot: Boudreaux’s Café

Purpose: 2014 Meet & Greet Brunch with the ladies was awesome.

I must say we got 2014 off to a great start!

I had a great time listening to the ladies share their stories of how they started with their business: they had an interest, they researched, they learned, and

they executed their plan. Awesome! Thanks to Alana, I even learned how to email pictures from my iPad and

make a dropbox. Today was a good day. -Carla


We Asked U Answered

What Is One thing You

Love About Yourself?

THE NEXT QUESTION: “What’s your spring wardrobe must have?

Tell us at www.beautifullybeingumagazine.com/we-asked-you-answered or email us at edi-

[email protected]. Your response could be featured in the next issue!

Follow Us Online

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BeautifullyBeingUmagazine WWW.INSTAGRAM/BBUMagazine

“I love my willingness to accept who I am, flaws and all. I love my inner beauty and my strengths to know

that deep inside of me there is a spe-cial place that no one can touch. I

protect my self-esteem!” Jessica Wren Austin, Texas

“I love my hair. It is the natural me and I love my free flowing hair.”

DeNeka Dove Houston, TX

“I love my heart and positivity in all situations.”

LaJean Perry Houston, TX

“I love my "humble confidence"; it highlights and makes everything from spoken words to my actions shine! It's contagious and helps to

motivate others.” Tasha Armstead Houston Texas

“I love my personality. I get

along with everyone and just love meeting new people.”

Lisa King Houston, Texas

“I love my dimples...my dad who passed away when I was eight,

gave them to me and they make my smile just a little brighter!”

Mary Williams Clinton, MS

“I luv my shape. I believe my

shape can inspire others to get in shape & stay in shape.” {Smiling}

Drexel Long Houston, Texas

“I love my ambition, my got get it attitude.”

Dee Moore Houston, Texas

“I Love my southern charm. It al-lows me to be fierce with a smile on my face and love in my heart,”

Tracy Oats Bell Beaumont, TX

“I love my strength. The strength to overcome obstacles and not

become another statistic.” Liz Marie

Houston, TX

“I love my legs.” Erselette Baxter Houston, Texas

“Inner strength to push forward positively, smile, sense of humor, oh and dancing….homegirl can

get down lol!” Xo

Jenny Lynn Hickle Houston Texas

https://www.facebook.com/deneka.dove

https://www.facebook.com/deneka.dove

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Behind the Lens

Make-Up Amburlee Price Hair by Amburlee

Center Stage

M y Beautiful Family Inc.

founders, Shunte Gam-

ble-Davis and Wendell

Davis, took a bold step

late last year as they proceeded to

follow their vision of publishing Beauti-

fully Being U! quarterly in replace of its

yearly debut. With their ladies group

growing strong, they made sure the

first cover photo was the perfect in-

troduction for their movement, Beau-

tifully Being U!, by spotlighting two

very inspiring Total Beauty Ladies

Group members DeNeka Dove and

Erselette Baxter. After make-up, hair,

and wardrobe styling the ladies

made every moment count even in

between looks. -BBU! Magazine

Right to Left: Erselette, Shunte,

and DeNeka

Enjoying the

Moment!

Photo Shoot

Stylist Liz Marie

knew this was

“The One” from

the moment

Editor in Chief

Shunte tried on

its black coun-

terpart. Get this dress page 35

How did you get your start? I have always known I wanted to be in the beauty industry. I naturally had a love for styling hair and doing makeup. I love the creativity in it all. After receiving my cosmetology license in Santa Monica, California, I was hired at Carlton Hair Internation-al where I started my extensive cut, color, and styling training, and assisted 2 master stylists. Carlton for me was like hairstylist boot camp. It really shaped the professional perfectionist I am today! I later moved on from Los Angeles to San Jose, California where I was promoted to Master Stylist at Alchemy Hair Studios. On November 2013, I opened Hair by Amburlee - The Ultimate Beauty Lounge. What advice would you give someone starting out in your pro-fession? My advice would be to get as much education as possible. The industry is always changing and evolving so you need to stay updated. Practice your craft often and always push yourself to the limit because that is how we get better. What one trend are you liking? The crimson matte red lip! How do you define beauty? I think a woman is most beautiful when she is confident and happy. She glows from the inside out. She is comfortable in her own skin. Website: www.hairbyamburlee.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/hairbyamburlee

How did you get your start? I wanted to be a hair stylist since I was a freshman in high school. I was ALWAYS complimented on my healthy, uniquely styled coif. Because I attended a college prep high school, I was unable to pursue my cosmetology education at the local voca-tional school. When I finally did enroll in a cosmetology pro-gram, I was working full time, which meant I had to attend school only part time. It took me two years to finish the program, but I have been active in this profession for almost 20 years now.

What advice would you give someone starting out in your pro-fession?

My advice to aspiring cosmetologists is to do your research first! With that said, it is crucial for an up and coming stylist to stay at the top of his or her game via continuing education. Also, find-ing a niche (something that you are great at and can specialize in) really helps when you are marketing your business. Finally, I would say to learn and exhibit the best time management skills you possibly can. This will be yet another way to set yourself apart from stylists who keep their clients waiting for hours on end.

Definition of Beauty

I define beauty as an inner experience. It is inspired by a per-son's own positivity and can be seen outwardly and become a powerful asset. Website: www.bridalandbeautylounge.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bridalandbeauty

Hair Manya Posey

Inspire Bridal and Beauty Lounge


Behind the Lens

How did you get your start? My business started just based on my fashion sense when it came to jewelry and handbags. I started buying bags for myself whole-sale and every time I went out someone would ask where I pur-chased my handbag. It happened so frequently I would order multiples and sale to friends and a business formed. What advice would you give someone starting out in your profes-sion? Don't give up and continue to push. How do you define beauty? Beauty comes from within. What one trend are you liking? I am liking the faux leather trend a lot right now and also the bright and airy colors that are being used in makeup.

Website: www.x-quisitedesign.com

How did you get your start? One day I just decided I wanted to turn my childhood dreams into something real. Growing up I used to draw sketches and had aspi-rations of becoming a fashion designer. I never took advantage of pursuing a career so by opening my own boutique I created an outlet to disperse my vision on style and fashion.

How do you define beauty? I believe beauty starts within oneself. When you feel good about yourself it reflects in your attitude. This can be contagious. When you do things out of the kindness of your heart, you inspire others. When you treat people with respect, those around you take notice. What advice would you give someone starting out in your profes-sion? Don’t wait for permission to follow your dreams. You must first believe in and support yourself. Don’t let others discourage you, this is not their journey. What one trend are you liking? Colored lips. I like the fun new colors all the cosmetic companies are coming out with. I personally am not bold enough to wear the black, blues or oranges. I tend to stick to a nice red glamorous lip or a deep vixen berry.

Website: www.lmarieonlineboutique.com

Clothing Elizabeth

Dimopoulos L Marie Online Boutique

Our Favorite Piece! Galore Necklace

Accessories JoAnna Miles-Jones X-quisite Designs

Tell us about your company. RL Studio incorporates a passion for photography and an understanding of light and composition to create stunning images for every client. How did you get your start?

Through the shooting Music Videos. What inspires your photography? The beauty, creativity and uniqueness of the uni-verse. In the world of photography, how do you define beauty? That which invokes pleasure as its defined by the absorption and deflection of light.

What advice would you give someone starting out in your profession? Find your passion. Realize your shortcomings and more importantly your associated genius.

What photography services do you offer? Although, we specialize in fashion and beauty pho-tography. Our company offer services to three as-pects of the Visual Arts including; Graphic Design, Video, and Photography. How can our readers contact you? www.rlstud.com

Photographer Roderick Lightfoot

9

Beautifully Being Me!

Spot lighting Inspirational Industry Leaders

“We all have a gift that can enrich this world.

When we share our gifts we all benefit.” Shunte Gamble-Davis


SHALANDA SHASIE TURNER Company: Live Life in Style

Tell us about your company. “I actually own 2 companies. I’m the content

creator for my personal fashion blog, Live Life in

Style and I’m the founder of Houston Fashion

Bloggers. Live Life in Style was created in 2010 as

an outlet for me to showcase my personal style

through outfit of the day (OOTD) posts. I was

inspired by Jessica Quirk’s What I Wore blog, and

thought it was a neat idea to dedicate a site to

outfits to talk about why I chose to wear certain

pieces and how I put them together.

Before I started my blog, friends and family al-

ways came to me for style advice, so I thought

why not blog about it? Since then, my blog has

evolved to include coverage of local & national

fashion events, interviews, & product reviews; in

addition to my OOTD posts. I have taken up the

position of Style Editor for FashionMingle.net and

for Hat Trick Magazine.

I created the Houston Fashion Bloggers back in

December 2011 on accident. For a long time I

didn’t know other fashion bloggers in Houston

existed but near the end of 2011 I started to run

into a few more at fashion events. “

“At the same time I saw that a group of fash-

ion bloggers in New York had organized a NY

Fashion Blogger picnic and I thought,

“Wouldn’t it be nice if all the bloggers I’ve

met could get together for coffee or some-

thing?” So I organized a little coffee shop

gathering and that was the start of Houston

Fashion Bloggers. We are now in our 3rd year

and close to 90 members. The members con-sist of women AND men who blog on fashion,

beauty, hair, & lifestyle in and around the

Greater Houston area. “

What is your personal style? “It’s hard for me to definitively describe my

personal style. My tastes change as I evolve

and get older. However, I do have a base

style that would be my default fall back and

that’s Modern, Classic, and Trendy (MCT). I

tend to steer away from vintage clothing and

I stick with modern cuts and designs. I do con-

fess that every now and then (ok, more like all

the time) I wear fun fascinators & even mod-

ern cuts that are inspired by clothes past

(think drop-waist dresses). I would also say

classic, because I keep in stock classic, ward-

robe stables that every woman should have in

their closet: Black pumps, cardigan, pencil

skirt, LBD, white button down, knee-high boots

etc. And last but not least, I would say I’m

trendy, because I do incorporate trends into

my outfits if I like them. I’m not a slave to

trends, but if I like something, and it flatters my

shape, then I’ll wear it.”

We love your Blog and fashion knowledge!

How can our readers follow you?

Website: www.live-life-in-style.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/

livelifeinstyle

Instagram: www.instagram.com/

livelifeinstyle

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/

shasie

How do you define

beauty?

Beauty is in the eye of the

beholder, but I also define

beauty as someone with a

beautiful soul and

personality.

What is your wardrobe sta-

ple item?

“Vests. I love adding vests

to ensembles. Not only do

they add a big of edge to

my look, but they also help

mask unflattering areas,

and for me that would be

my stomach!”

What is one thing most peo-

ple don’t know about you?

“ I’m a Chemical Engineer

by day and I work as a Pro-

ject Engineer in a regular 9-

5 during the week. “

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How did you get your start? “I walked shows as a little boy and as a high school stu-

dent, but it was all fun with no grasp of what I could ac-

complish as a model. Showtime came, I got on stage

finally taking the idea of modeling rather seriously at an

adult level for the first time and I haven’t turned back

since!”

We love your work. Tell us about your career as a

runway coach. “I have been recognized as Houston's leading Runway

Coach having been credited for over nine agency

signed models in the Texas, and United States market,

two locally aired commercial models in the Houston

market, one agency represented model in the New

York City market, two models that are or have ap-

peared on major network television in the United States

market (including an Emmy nominated show). I’ve also

been credited for one agency signed model in the Los

Angeles market, one winner of the Miss USA Pageantry

system, one Houston contestant featured on America's

Next Top Model, dozens of Houston Models who made

Houston Fashion Week runway model appearances,

and countless other models that have transitioned all

throughout the national grid since 2001!”

What ONE word best describes your style?

“Passionate”

What is the best fashion advice you have ever re-

ceived? “There was a point when I was a little kid growing

through an identity crisis. It seemed everything that I

wore and did just was not socially accepted. A saying

my mom always told me then, sticks with me even till

today: “You can’t please all of the people, all of the

time. You can only please some of the people, some of

the time.” That basically said, each time I get dressed,

or do anything in life, it’s recommended that I face the

facts that everyone is not going to like or accept what

you are doing or have on. When you can accept that

fact, and stop trying to impress them all, you save your-

self from great disappointment and energy. “

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: www.facebook.com/

iamjesuswalks.RunwayCoach

Instagram: @iamjesuswalks

How do you define beauty? Beauty relates to strength,

determination, independence,

persistence,, faith and love.

JESUS WALKS Runway Coach

Extraordinaire


Who are the Beauties of the TBLG? The Total Beauty Ladies Group is a community of over 100 female members founded by BBU! Magazine Editor in

Chief Shunte Gamble-Davis. This group is on a mission to give back. The TBLG would like to spotlight DeNeka

Dove and Erselette Baxter for their commitment to community outreach and for being a source of positivity and

leadership within the group.

TBLG Member Spotlight

Erselette Baxter Hometown Houston, Texas

Words to Live By Shoot for the stars!

Tell us about you I am the newly elected Glam Ma of one beau-

tiful grandson and a dynamic mother of three.

My educational background consists of a

Bachelor's in Accounting in 1994 from Gram-

bling State University and a MBA from the Uni-

versity of Phoenix in 2005 with a concentration

in Human Resources.

What is the best advice you've ever re-

ceived? The tenets that have molded me into the wom-

an I am today:

1. How not to use my tongue when someone

offends me, but use my paper and pen. 2. How

to be a lady all the times and not sway my

morals for a season or for someone else ‘s rea-

sons 3. Planning is very important so I can max-

imized my time (career, extracurricular activi-

ties, kids, education etc..

Why is giving back to the community

important to you?

While I was growing up, it was my

community that helped me go fur-

ther in life. Now, I see it as my call to

duty to enrich the lives of those

around me, so that they may pay it

forward.

What is the best beauty advice

you've ever received?

Less is Better, Drink Water, and Basic

skin care

How do you define beauty?

BEAUTY originates in the heart. It is

your compassion for others and your

strength to empower others. Beauty

is genuine and a mirror of your integ-

rity. Beauty transcends status, but it is

a microcosm of humility, sharing your

knowledge and kindness around

you.

Throughout my life, numerous mentors

and supporters have guided me in the

right direction, which in turn has in-

spired me to have a eager spirit to

serve and work in the community.

What is the best beauty advice you've

ever received?

Minimal is always better. I accentuate

some of my best features. . I have a

love for fashion and beauty, but I nev-

er want to overdo anything. Just

enough is just the touch versus overkill.

{Laughs}

How do you define beauty?

I have a shirt that says, “Beauty is de-

fined by me”. I create my happiness

and beauty. It comes from within. My

spirit and attitude definitely plays a big

part in how I dress and garment my-

self. If I feel happy and vibrant, it is

reflected in how I walk, talk as well as

how I dress myself. Beauty to me is

within reflected outward.

DeNeka Dove Hometown Austin, Texas

Words to Live By No matter how big

or small no one person can do it all!

Tell us about you

I am a mother of one daughter who has

matured me greatly. I enjoy learning,

promoting community involvement,

and seeking enlightenment. I enjoy at-

tending church at Higher Dimension

where I serve in ministry opportunities. I

am an advocate of positive mental

health, self-care, beauty, and building

relationships.

What is the best advice you've ever re-

ceived?

Do what you can with what you have

to bless those who can not.

Why is giving back to the community

important to you?

I have always had a giving heart and

loving spirit as a child. others.

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BBU! Vendor Spotlight

Her Story

“I was born and raised in upstate NY. I relocated to Houston 8 years

ago with my family. I am a full time Nurse and the proud owner of

Tru’ Essence Oils for the last three and a half years. I am a devoted

Woman of God, wife, mother and business woman. My husband

and I have a combined total of 7 children and 4 beautiful grand-

children. I am very active in my local church where I am the direc-

tor over the Business Ministry and Mime dance Ministry. I have a

great passion for helping others and I believe that is how I connect-

ed with the TBLG because I adore what they are doing.”

Her Company

“Tru’ Essence Oils was birthed out of a desire to smell and feel

amazing without the harshness of chemicals and skin irritation that

can come from using perfumes with alcohols.

We offer uncut body oil fragrances for men and women, we also

carry nourishing body butter, moisturizing body wash and foaming

bath salts in every scent that we carry. We do favors for weddings,

birthdays or any special event.”

Her Vision

“Our goal is to expand by starting create your own perfume mixing

parties, where family and friends can get together and create their

very own unique signature fragrances. “

FLORENCE SMTIH Company: Tru’ Essence Oils

Favorite Fragrance Cashmere Mist by: Donna Karen

●●● Definition of Beauty

“Beauty is being totally

confident in the person

God created you to be

flaws and all!”

●●●

Find Tru’ Essence Oils Online

Instagram: truessenceoils101

Website: www.tru-essenceoils.com


The Bolded Beautiful A Story of Alana The visual story of Alana and the security she finds in the beauty and strength of her bold.

15

Model: Sanya Ismail Editorial provided by The Whole IX- Houston's Elite Fashion Photography & Portfolio Development Team Photography: Jared Pierson of Full Frame FX Designer: Viet Kent Nguyen Collection: 3D Votex Jewelry: Rasheeda of Golden Divine Touch Jewelry Make-Up: Sasha and Simone of Double Dutch Inc. Hair: Jarad of One Touch Glam Squad Stylist: Chris of Chris Avery Styles Videography: Qasim of Q Shot You Photoshoot Manager: Ashlee of Full Frame FX


Beautifully Being U! Magazine Proudly Supports Breast Cancer Awareness

Thank You To our wonderful 2014 BCA Campaign Sponsors

● ● ●

TASC Corporation

● ● ●

Live Life in Style ● ● ●

Kid’s 1st Academy ● ● ●

LAMIK Beauty ● ● ●

Join the cause at www.totalbeautyladiesevent.com There’s a Fundraising Event Just for You!

19

BBU Style !

Be Bold, Be Beautiful, Be U! Bring Out Your Inner Bombshell

Getting Gala Ready We Want That!

Gifts for Him

“Fashion is a voice that can be used to express the inner you

without saying a word.” Shunte Gamble-Davis


BBU! Style/ Make Me Over

Bring Out Your

Inner Bombshell Love is in the air and Beauty Expert Amburlee Price

has you covered for this season of romance.

Whether you are going out with your new beaux or

the girls, these 5 beauty tips are sure to bring out

your inner bombshell.

Flirty Falsies Longer lashes are the biggest trend

right now. It’s no wonder Lash Bars

are popping up all over Houston. To

get your vanity lash fix for your big

night DIY style, try brushing on 2-3

coats of Rimmel Lash Accelerator

Mascara on the top and bottom of

your lashes in Blackest Black. It also

has a proven Gro-Lash Complex to

help your lashes grow faster and

longer. For best results, apply mas-

cara starting closest to your lash line

and wiggle the brush back and forth

as you go up.

(Shop www.us.rimmellondon.com)

Winged Liner Finish your flirty lash look with winged

liquid liner. This look is still dominating

the runways this season. Winging it

out will elongate the eyes and give

the effect of longer lashes. Start with

a thin swipe of liner from the inner

corner of your lash line to the center,

then slightly angle up to create a

thicker line towards the outer lash

line extending it out about ¼ of an

inch. I recommend trying Sephora’s

Smart Liner. Its super fine felt tip also

features an ergonomic shape that

makes it comfortable and simple for

anyone to master the winged look.

(Shop www.sephora.com)

21

The Perfect Kissable Pout Whether you are a natural minimal-

ist or a makeup addict, the perfect

pout is the finishing touch to your

makeup look. I love lip colors in rose

and fuchsia pink, raspberry, orange,

and crimsons this season. For a light

and sexy glossy pout, try Victoria’s

Secret lip glosses in Heartbreaker

and Too Hot. For the perfect longest

lasting red lip, try Sephora’s cream

lip stain in Always Red. It dries very

matte and wont crease. If matte

isn’t your thing, swipe on Cole Colors

Lip Jubilee in Fire Engine and your

seductive pout is bound to get no-

ticed all night long.

(Shopwww.sephora.com)

After a long night of wining and dining or

partying, we have all been guilty of falling

asleep with our makeup on. Your skin will

thank you when you remove your makeup

with all the additional dirt and oil

accumulated throughout the night. My

current love is pore purifying Pineapple

Enzyme Hawaiian Facial Cleanser by Alba

Botanica. This gentle cleanser easily washes

away dirt oil and the most stubborn makeup.

As a backup plan, have Neutrogena

Cleansing Towelettes handy. These wipes will

remove your makeup and leave your skin

refreshed. You can find both of these items at

your local HEB.

Model Blair Francois

Make-Up & Hair by Amburlee Price

Photography by Priceless Photos

Sexy Skin

Sexy skin is smooth, soft, and toucha-

ble. To remove dry dull skin and bring

out your natural glow, exfoliate with a

brightening sugar scrub from head to

toe. No need to make an appointment

to the spa. Try a homemade Honey Cit-

rus Sugar Scrub and pamper yourself at

home. Mix 1teaspoon of honey and ½

cup of olive oil. Then add 1 cup of sug-

ar and 2 teaspoons of fresh citrus zest.

Mix well and massage gently in circular

motions a small amount onto the face

for 30 seconds. Leave on for 15 minutes

and apply the remainder of scrub over

the body. Rinse with warm water to re-

veal smooth glowing skin. You can also

use this as a lip scrub for the softest

most kissable lips.


BBU! Style/ Fashion Guide

Getting Gala Ready We are back on our mission of creating the per-

fect Gala outfits fit for a fashionista.

Bold vs. Gold Everything that Glitters IS gold!

23

Bold vs. Gold


Our picks for the perfect Saturday look!

We Want That!

Not your

Boyfriend’s Jeans ($198; lagarconne.

Com)

Tender Reminder

Expressions Bracelet ($15; JustKjewelry.com)

Grown yet Girlie

($49; uniqlo.com)

Total Knock Out!

MAC Lipstick (Shop macys.com)

Slip into Something Sexy ($98; nastygal.com)

25

BBU! Style/ We Want That!

Take the guessing out of gift buying this season! Buy him the gift he really wants!

GIFTS FOR HIM

By Wendell

Jean Paul Gaultier Cologne

Talking about grown and sexy, Jean Paul Gaultier has been keeping is sexy since its

debut in 1995. It is an audaciously masculine cologne thanks to the rich smells of

mint and Artemisia, the ladies love. In fact the ladies love it so much, their making it a

unisex cologne for them to wear too! With its multifaceted bouquet, it can be worn

appropriately as a evening cologne for the distinguished male (Shop macys.com)

The Pebble Smart Watch More than just a watch, it’s the first smart watch for the sophisticated gentlemen. Its slim and

sleek that blends seamlessly and actually looks like a watch. The pebble supports both iOS and

Android, but how that support works is wildly different on each platform. It manages everything;

emails, text, music, games, you name it. With more apps coming, it will definitely be the do -it-

all watch that packs a bang with a little punch on your wallet.

($150; bestbuy.com)

The Beats by Dr. Dre Wireless Bluetooth headphones $249

I have used both in-ear and over-ear headphones, but Beats by Dr. Dre wireless Bluetooth

headphones are by far the best I have used. These headphones offer exactly what I was look-

ing for. It has no wires allowing me the option of having my phone in my pocket or charging

yet still able to control the volume and track song selections from the headphones. A few

great also include, a long battery life, an optional wire you can use, easy to pair to any blue-

tooth device. These make a great gift.

($249; bestbuy.com)

The PS4 is my pick of the next-generation consoles

The gift that keeps on giving, that’s right the PlayStation 4. Not only is it a hundred dollars

cheaper than its rival, has beautiful graphics, a blazing interface, and near-perfect controllers

makes it a worthy successor to the PS3. With its 500GB hard-disk drive and front loading 6x blue

ray drive you won’t be missing out on any entertainment. With more and more titles coming out

along with streaming game play available, one can only say WOW!!!

($399; bestbuy.com)


WIN A MASK!!!! One lucky Gala Guest will win a

custom mask from our sponsor

VIVO Masks!!

? Did you know that you will

receive 15% off your mask

from our sponsor Vivo

Masks? Receive your dis-

count code when you purchase

your Black & White Masquerade Ball

Gala tickets.

Get your tickets online at

www.totalbeautyladiesevent.com

Hashtag

#TBLEGalaReady

27

The Whole U!

Inspiration | Travel & Relaxation | Health & Wellness | Connecting

“Live Life to the fullest, for you only get one to live.” Shunte Gamble-Davis


The Whole U! /Inspiration

Millions of people throughout the world made New Year’s

resolutions in hope of solving their problems or bettering

their situations, but most often resolutions are short lived and

all hope is gone.

Does that sound like you?

What would happen if we exchange the term res-

olution for lifestyle?

When the word resolution is substituted for the word lifestyle

our actions become a daily way of living. This daily way of

living, will in turn mirror our attitudes and values. When we

strive to exercise love, offer forgiveness and live life to the

fullest, we plant the seeds of lifestyle we are striving to have.

● Love ●

One might ask “What’s love got to do with anything?” Eve-

ryone needs love. The true essence of love offers patience

and kindness to others. It does not envy, does not disre-

spect, hold grudges, nor is easily angered.

Love protects and trusts. Love hopes and perseveres. Sound

familiar?

Well it’s true! Love produces a joy that material things can-

not offer. It is a choice that yields great return. It creates

spaces within our lives to be loved, it renews hope, and can

positively affect ones outlook on life.

Live Life ● Forgive ●

Forgiveness is yet another powerful tool for us to truly live

life! I’ve come to realize, when we forgive we literally set

ourselves free. When we have unforgiveness embedded in

our hearts, we are the one’s who become imprisoned.

Have you ever notice that the person we are holding a

grudge against are happy go lucky?

Most times, it’s because they have moved on from the situ-

ation, while we are all bent out of shape. Can you see the

picture now? Forgive and be set free!

● Live ●

Live life to the fullest! This year take risks and be adven-

turous. Dine at restaurants other then the norm. Take a lei-

sure cooking class or a wine tasting class. Get a degree.

Visit new places out of your city or state. Married couples,

you too can spice-up your relationships. Single people be

whole in yourselves and live life. If you’re facing cancer

know that you’re not alone; your Maker will never leave or

forsake you. 2014 is the year to get going, get out, and live

life to the fullest.

Faye Carter

29

W hat is a staycation? Glad you asked! As self proclaimed “The Traveling Duo”,

we absolutely LOVE the chance to tip-toe away from our busy lives. Between

full-time careers, 3 kiddos, and long to-do lists any time to unwind and recon-

nect is priceless. Staycations are our first vacation must. A staycation is a trip

planned in your very own city or within short driving distance. This makes it the perfect get-

away. No plane tickets to buy, no planes to catch, no time spent waiting for your luggage,

and definitely easier on the wallet. Here’s a few of our favorite staycation ideas.

2 The Getaway The Spot: The Hotel Valencia

The Details: The esteemed Hotel Valencia is an

impressive choice among San Antonio hotels.

This contemporary luxury hotel, located on the

River walk, is hip and fun. With 213 luxury rooms with com-

plimentary internet, designer Egyptian cotton linens, eb-

ony credenzas, faux mink throws, 42” flat-panel televi-

sions, and a spa on site, this top of the line hotel will have

you rested and rejuvenated,

The Website: www.sanantonio.com/hotel-valencia

The Whole U! /Travel & Relaxation

4 Staycation Ideas

1 Lover’s Lane The Spot: Myer Bed & Breakfast

The Breakdown: If a peaceful and romantic getaway

is what’s been missing, look no further. Centrally locat-

ed between San Antonio and New Braunfels, Meyer

Bed and Breakfast includes private cottages overlook-

ing Cypress Creek which makes perfect for fishing, ca-

noeing, and picnicking. Lounge along the poolside or

find a nice cozy spot under a nice shade tree, there are

unlimited relaxing options just for you.

The Website: www.meyerbedandbreakfast.com

3 Fun in the City The Spot: Magnolia Hotel

The Details: Located in the urban core of down-

town Houston this spot is the pure definition of a

staycation. With accommodations like a billiards

room, library, full bar, and food from Magnolia's

signature restaurant, it will be hard to become home sick.

With complimentary American breakfast buffet, evening

reception, and bed time cookie buffet; you’re sure to

feel like VIP.

The Website: www.magnoliahotels.com

4 Never Left Home The Spot: The Houstonian

The Details: Right in your back yard! When talk-

ing about a resort or hotel, there’s nothing like

the Houstonian. With first-class comfort along

with casual elegance and attentive service not only will

this spa and fitness club make you feel brand new but will

offer you an unforgettable experience. The Website: www.houstonian.com

By Shunte & Wendell


The Whole U! /Health & Wellness

W omen you don’t always need to

stand up or use weights to

workout and burn calories! Most

of us carry big purses weighing

an average of 7-10 pounds filled with things

such as keys, jewelry, make-up, and more. Fit-

ness Guru Edrina Newman shares a few tips on

how you can utilize your purse to help you burn

calories while you sit and look cute.

8 Purse Exercises

1 Purse Arm Curls– Hold your purse by the

straps in your hand and curl the purse up and

down on each arm. Do 3 sets of 12 on each

arm.

2 Purse Throw-Ups- With both hands throw your

purse above your head and catch it. Do 3

sets of 12.

3 Purse Crunches. Place your purse on the

ground in front of you. Fold your body over in

front of you and grab your purse with both

hands and put it on your lap. Once you

placed it on your lap, reach both hands above your

head, bring your arms back down, grab your purse

and place it back on the ground and start over

again. Do 3 sets of 15.

4 Purse Side Twists- Sit on the edge of your

chair, grab the ends of your purse, twist your

waist by taking your purse from the left to

right sides of your hips. Do 3 sets of 20.

5 Purse Leg Lifts- Place the handles of the strap

around your left ankle and lift your leg straight

out, up and down for 10 on the left and

switch for 10 lifts on the right. Do 3 sets of 12

on each leg.

6 Purse Circles- Take your purse and make big,

full circles above your head with your purse.

Do 10 circles to your left and 10 circles to your

right. Do each side 3 times.

7 Purse Triceps Dips- Take your purse to the

back of your head, grab the straps with both

hands and your elbows as close to your face

as you can. Lift the purse up and down for 2

sets of 12.

8 Purse Chest Pass- You will need a partner for

this exercise. Sit about 5 feet across from your

friend and chest pass your purse back in forth

20 times. Do 3 sets.

Let’s Get It! Edrina Newman

CEO and Fitness Guru

Lady of Essence Fitness

(713)271-LADY

www.LadyOfEssence.com

Burn Calories

While You Sit and Look Cute!

31

The Whole U! /Reader’s Lounge

Reader’s Lounge

Road to Restoration Through the Di-

agnosis of Breast Cancer and Walk-

ing on by Faith provides hope, new

perspective and insight into ways of

overcoming the many challenges of

living with cancer. It touches mind,

body, spirit and soul of everyone who

reads it. Road to Restoration also in-

cludes an effective reference guide

containing informative resources and

educational information.

As a learning tool, it gives powerful

information to enlighten and edu-

cate women regarding a cancer di-

agnosis. Road to Restoration is one

woman's testimony of determination

and perseverance. It provides inspira-

tion by offering personal reflections

from a 26-year breast cancer survivor

and 14 other courageous survivors

and their families and friends about

how the cancer diagnosis affected

their lives.

Available At: Amazon.com

Author Janice Workcuff

Road to Restoration


The Whole U! /Connecting: Super Hostess Tips

SUPER -Hostess- Tips How to Get the Party Started!

S tart a Guest List. Sounds like a no brainer huh? Guest lists

are so important. I love to go BIG including my guest list but

sometimes a big crowd isn't the best.

Tip: Tailor your guest list to the theme and location size.

P ick your theme. Let your creativity flow on this one! Your

theme will set the tone of the party.

Tip: Know your guests. Invite those who will enjoy your

theme. Grumpy guests are the quickest way to shut a

party down.

F ind your venue. Make sure to pick a place that will offer

enough space for your guests to feel comfortable.

Tip: Small venue, small guest list. Big venue, Big guest list.

P ick your menu. Yummy food and tasty drinks are a sure

fire recipe for happy guests.

The Golden Rules: Having more than enough won’t hurt.

No time to try a new dish, try catering from your favorite

restaurant or host a pot-luck.

D o something special. Let your know that you appreci-

ate their attendance. Offer them handmade favors on

their way out!

My Favorite: Personalized Wine Glass Tags

G et the party started! You’ve done all the work now it’s

time to enjoy yourself and your guests.

Tip: Start preparing the week of your event (or sooner).

This will alleviate stress and anxiety as you work to

have everything perfect.

By Shunte

33

CAKE INGREDIENTS 2 ½ cup All-purpose flour

2 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground allspice

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup vegetable oil

1 ½ cup sugar

1 egg

1 cup of 2 large mashed ripe bana-

nas

2 tablespoon lemon juice

1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk

CREAM CHEESE FROSTING 3 ounces reduced fat cream cheese, softened

2 teaspoon milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar

Beat all ingredients together, until well blended.

Can also add nuts to this recipe, and eat without the icing

as bread! Yum

O ne bite and I was HOOKED. Ok!

Truth moment, I was actually

hooked before my food even ar-

rived. My first visit to Max’s Wine Di-

ve was amazing! From the moment I walked, in

the atmosphere reminded me I was in deed

on a mommy break. Complimentary valet,

beautiful people, a huge selection of wine, fin-

ger licking food choices, and a friendly wait

staff made this visit well spent. SO it was only

right to share this fab restaurant with the bes-

ties AKA“5 Ladies & a Fork”. Since I had al-

ready dined there less than 2 weeks before, I

was able to share yummy details about the

dish I tried. We enjoyed our meal SO much, we

decided we would get together every other

month and try a new restaurant. They joked

about me adding our outing to the maga-

zine...hee hee I DID!!! -Shunte

Connecting -OVER- Food

Banana Cake By Celeste Gordon Celeste’s Cakes –N– More

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Coat a 9’’ x 12” baking pan with

non-stick baking spray , and line with

wax paper.

2. Sift flour, baking powder, baking

soda, cinnamon, allspice and salt

together, in a medium bowl.

3.In a large bowl, cream oil with sug-

ar and egg: beat until creamy.

4.Beat in mashed bananas, lemon

juice and vanilla.

5. Add buttermilk, alternately with

flour mixture to banana mixture;

beat until well blended.

6. Pour batter into prepared pan.

7. Bake for about 45 minutes or until

lightly brown. Test with a cake tester

or toothpick in the center, should be

clean. When cool remove from pan

and wax paper, and its ready for

icing!

5 L

adie

s &

a F

ork


W.o.W. Moments

N ever be afraid to be the person you

were created to be. I am often

asked how do I do it all. Though

the seasons in my life change, my

response is always the same. “God.” With a full-

time career, three kiddos, and a hubby my

hands are pretty full, however I constantly strive

to unearth new treasures within myself. Look-

ing back the journey has been full of challenges,

set-backs, ups & downs, but looking forward the

journey is a blank canvas for me to design.

My steps are ordered yet my forward

movement is what enables me to move closer

to my vision. When I feel myself becoming fear-

ful, I know it is time to stop, reflect, and pray.

Most times, I can find worry lingering around

and weighing my soul down with fear. Other

times, I understand I am wired to naturally feel

concerned when faced with new situations.

However, never do I let fear stop progress.

Over the years, I have made mistakes,

excelled, discovered new talents, and capacities

to preserve. I have learned to push through my

fear and rely on faith. I challenge you to be the

person you were created to be; positive, pur-

posed, destined for greatness. When you feel

fear slowing your steps of progress, use that

time to stop, reflect , and access.

Shunte Gamble-Davis

W.O.W. Words of Wisdom

““Never be afraid to be the person you were created to be.”

-Shunte-

Photograph by RL Studios

35

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