Memphis Edition
WEEKLY ISSUE
O N L I N E M A G A Z I N E
NOTES FROM NIKKI
"The Balancing Act"
STYLE
"Christine by Shelton Clothier"
Whew, diva, how do we get it all done? We are often made to feel that we must choose between career and family, our love life and social life, our dreams and aspirations, and our to do list. From the things we want to do and the things we have to do. It can be so overwhelming to keep it all together on a daily.
If you're anything like me in your struggle to balance it all often times things get dropped, neglected, overlooked, you're overbooked and you feel defeated. For months I have struggled with the "balancing act" and have failed to accomplish many important things...I had "fallen off".
Often times life can feel like that tightrope you're trying to walk without falling. And if you're life is heavy and filled with to many things it forces you to losee focus and makes you too bogged down to lightly tred the thin line of progress.
I had to lighten my load and focus on a few things to gain some wins after a season of off-balance produced losses. Next, I prioritized and embraced the things in my life that were truly important. Last, I dropped my pride and my need to do it all and asked for HELP! These simple steps got me back on track.
So offer you this issue as I embrace a newly balanced life, and I pray that it is a win, that you enjoy it. For it is the fruit of the greatest lesson in the road to progress...even if you "fall off" have the courage to get back up again.
"Chrisitine is the chic little boutique with fashions that will take you from work to happy hour any day of the week," exclaims Shelia, a regular to the new retail store located on Main Street in Downtown Memphis.
The store is brought to you by the owners of Shelton Clothier, who is known for tailored and stylish menswear the same commitment to quality and customer service that has given them a loyal customer base is woven in the fabric of Christines, making it a delightful place to shop.
Christine by Shelton Clothier
119 South Main Street
901-791-2192
www.sheltonclothier.com
SPIRIT
"Proverbs 31 Woman"
by
LoTarsha Lee
CEO, Divine Diva Designs
Imagine if we allow of the characteristics of a Proverbs 31 woman to work together daily to destroy the enemy’s tactics of jealousy, envy, hatred, animosity, drama and ignorance that happens in our lives daily. The key word in our daily walk should be transformation. The word tells us to transform our minds daily. We must do this on a regular basis throughout our busy schedules in order to love the “She in ME”.
I must say transforming into the being the elite lady in which you are destined to be at times can be similar to a roller coaster ride. Things can seem to go from one extreme to the next; some days feel like riding the wave of the high of joy into the clouds and others you feel like climbing in bed and hibernating. There are times when you feel so distant and alone, as well as days you feel loved by many. But every day we have to learn how to have patience, tenacity, character, trust, loyalty, and also learn to become independent.
Nevertheless, women wear so many hats on a day to day basis we at times we wonder, “Who is she?” while looking in the mirror. Woman Hiding Obvious Issues Secretly Someone Help Expeditiously…WHO IS SHE? We must honestly take the masks off daily, create an atmosphere of release and deal with life’s daily spiritual, physical, emotional, financial and mental experience we subject ourselves to daily. Our days are usually planned to the T. We are busy as mothers, mates, careers, educational trainings courses, team moms, artists, entrepreneurs… and so on and so on we forget to remember the SHE from within.
The key word is our lives daily should be balance. We must learn to balance our home life with our career; then our career with education; education with children; children with time management; time management with money management and all with our spiritual being. We tend to try to be everywhere for everyone and we can’t not do that alone. This is why God gives all of us gifts and talents. We must utilize our interdependent being and say to one another I need you! As we need to learn how to be there for one another to become our sisters’ keeper.
When we take a look at the proverbs 31 woman we think about the characteristics she possessed inwardly and then those that had to mature in time. She did not exhibit every characteristic at once God equipped her for the call on her life but education, awareness, empowerment, and loving the she who was inside of her allowed her to be the virtuous woman she was. My sisters this is a balancing process similar to that of the caterpillar that goes thru a transformation from inside out to become that beautiful butterfly. Just wondering on are you ready to fly?
MODEL MUSE
"In A Sentimental Mood"
Model
Tanesha "Pintsizediva" J (Plus Model)
Photography
KDep
Fashion & Makeup
Models Own
Accessories
Diva Closet
Location
City Hall in Downtown Memphis
BIZ
"Networking Tips"
by
Niki-Smith Brown
CEO, Nu Age Netwkring
Nu Age News
http://www.nuagenet.org/
Determine your target market. Pinpoint the people or business that would best benefit from your product or service, or the companies that offer employment in the career you have chosen. Once you have done this, you can be more strategic in your approach to make valuable connections.
Be equipped with a business card at ALL times. Chance meetings happen all the time, in the store, while out with friends, or running errands. You never know when you may meet someone interested in what you have to offer. These small encounters could lead to big results, so be prepared and have your contact info readily available.
ALWAYS follow-up with those that you receive a business card from. 24-48 hours is a great time period in which to send an email reminding the person of how you met, how glad you were to make their acquaintance, and a way to collaborate or connect soon. Follow-up with a call to set-up a meeting and count that connect as an addition to your network.
Set an attainable goal as to how many new prospects you would like to meet daily. Remember its not just what you know but also who you know that can help you make strides in your business or career. Be sure that you are expanding your network. Take the initiative to meet people and start the conversation. Get out of your office and into your community to expose the great things going on in your business or career.
Establish a database. As you are making connections and building your network be sure to create a database so that you can communicate with all of them through email, text, etc. Keep them informed of the developments in your world that would interest them. Be a resource, even send them things that could help them reach their personal and professional goals.
BEAUTY
"The MAC Attack "
by Carren McNeal, beauty editor
We recently sat down with Ms. Jara Robinson, owner of the Stiletto Bar, located in the Hickory Ridge Mall. This diva has high fashion dreams, and even higher business potential. With a love for Memphis and a passion for fashion, this is definitely a diva you need to know.
What motivated you to open your own boutique?
I always loved fashion, so this is my dream. I worked for MLGW for seven years, and tried my hand as an entrepreneur in the check cashing industry but it was not my passion so it didn't’ last. I expect to build a long career in the fashion arena.
In your opinion, what constitutes stellar style?
It’s not about what you have on and how much it costs. It’s really about how you feel in what you wear.
How did you arrive at the name Stiletto Bar?
I love stilettos so the name just stuck with me. Every woman loves the feeling of walking out for the day in a great pair of shoes, I know I do. They can make your whole outfit. When a woman wears heels she feels sexy and wine compliments that vibe. That's how the concept of the Stiletto Bar came to be.
COVER STORY
"The Stiletto Star"
by Nikki Diva, editor-in-chief
FIT
"Rubdown Rescue"
by
Isaac L.E. Lias
CEO, Vybrant Lyfe Wellness
Women are often times take care of everyone else's needs instead of making the necessary time to nurture and care for themselves. Busy schedules and the stresses of life can lead to discomfort and overall physical decline. A great way to ensure that you are caring for your body beyond working out is to get regularly scheduled massages. Here are five tips to know when you need a rubdown rescue:
Anxiety. This is clear sign you need to relax. When sitting still if you notice small things like being overall fidgety, twitches, or the constant need for movement, your body is telling you that you are overall stressed and are in need of rescue.
Pain. This obvious sign of muscle discomfort could suggest that overall stressing your body has lead to knots and soreness in your muscles that are screaming for a rubdown rescue.
Bloating. Massage is a great way of releasing the toxins in your body that lead to bloating and excessive waterweight. If you have had a really good massage chances are you will have to use the bathroom directly after.
Headaches. These are a clear sign that you are stressed to the max. Migraine suffers can attest to the relief that comes just by taking a nap. Your body is built on the need for balance. Headaches are a clear sign that something is off. Instead of continually taking pain relievers get your rubdown rescue to address the root of the issue, which is stress.
Fatigue. Can't figure out why you are always tired. Perhaps your body is requesting rest. Often times a massage can relax you and create the peaceful environment in mind body and spirit to encourage great sleep, and after the proper release of stress, increased energy.
Click any pic to view the image gallery
Candy colors are huge right now and are a great way to add a new dimension to your look. Create the Barbie doll effect by pairing these bright vibrant colors with very simple understated style. The cutest color hues can be found at one of my personal favorites, the MAC store.
Under a recent MAC attack myself, I journeyed to the Nashville store in Greenhills Mall and discovered an array of gorgeous colors. Here are my tips to come our with the products that will work for you every time....
Trust the professionals. Ask, ask, ask! From colors that compliment your skin tone, to the latest color combos they can tell you. They are delighted to help you create a unique look and often can encourage you to buy or try things outside of your normal purchases.
Try color palettes on your hand to determine if they are right for your face. See how your skin embraces the color: does it glow, create warmth, or completely clash. Chances are if you don't love it in the store, you wont wear it when you get it home.
Trust the layout of the store. They couple complimenting colors together to make the shopping experience easier for you. Remember to have fun, and try color combos that inspire the wardrobe you already own. You'll be more likely to actually wear the products you purchase and be sure to take another Diva along to get a second opinion!
Until next week.....be beautiful you!
COMMUNITY
"The Stone Awards"
Memphians can vote for their favorite politician, tv anchor, leader, minister, hero, entertainer and more. "It puts the voice in the hands of the community that these leaders say they are here to serve. It is setting a system of accountability.", remarks the originator of the event Stanley Campbell who just received a key to the city last year.
You can cast your vote online, making it accessible for everyone to do from the comfort of their own home. The annual awards ceremony will be held at the Cook Convention Center this year on October 16, 2010 and promises to be a very elegant awards gala featuring the who's who of Memphis and the community.
"That's what makes our event so unique. It brings the dignitaries and the community together in the same room. it is the beginning of conversations that can change our community. " explains Mr. Campbell. "We are hoping this ceremony becomes the official awards ceremony of Memphis."
With your help it will . Vote now, get your tickets, and connect to other events and news regarding the Stone Awards by visiting their website today. www.stoneawards.org
Nikki Diva
Editor in Chief
thedivabydesign.nicole@gmail.com
Lounge
"Gi Gi's Cupcakes"
So it's been a hard week and you're looking for a special treat, one that will celebrate your individuality and free you from counting calories if only for a minute....
I invite you to enjoy a delicious cupcake from Gi Gi's. Let me assure you, this is not your regular bake sale size dessert. Imagine if a gourmet bakery prepared your favorite cake with couture icing in a size just enough for you to enjoy, no coworkers or girlfriends needed, this is your moment and your treat!
A Nashville delicacy for many years, we can now enjoy this simple and unique excuse for a smile. I mean really, how can you frown while enjoying a delightful piece of cake with a mound of icing. Careful, Diva. Try not to get any on your nose, but if you do, we won't tell....we won't tell.
by
Sheena Clark
Lounge Editor
" It’s about embracing and celebrating who you are, whetever color, size or style. Even on a bad day that confidence should come from within...."
Jara Robinson
Carren McNeal
Thank you for taking the time to read this online issue!
Check back next Monday at noon for a new issue.
Until then check out some of our web exclusives!
ADVERTISING SPONSORS
Vybrant Lyfe Wellness
Diva by Design Online Magazine is an online publication. Our issues are published weekly by Manifest Marketing & Media. All Rights Reserved. New issues are released every Monday. Deadline for article and ad submission is every Friday by noon.
Please submit letters to the editor to divabydesign@yahoo.com. For questions or concerns regarding the weekly issue, web exclusives, or our women's initiative please call 901-399-0893.
Notes from Nikki
"The Balancing Act" Nicole Jackson
Style
"Christine by Shelton Clothier"
Nicole Jackson
Beauty
"The MAC Attack"
Carren McNeal
Spirit
"Proverbs 31
Woman"
LoTarsha Lee
Biz
"Networking Tips"
Niki-Smith Brown
Confessions of a Diva Blog
Diva Daily Blog
DivaVision Online TV
Photo Gallery
Diva Datebook (Local Events)
DivaZone Podcasts
Links We Love
Fit
"Rubdown Rescue"
Isaac L.E. Lias
Community
"Stone Awards"
Nicole Jackson
Model Muse
"In A Sentimental Mood"
KDep Photography
Lounge
"Gi Gi's Cupcakes"
Sheena Clark
IN THIS ISSUE...
Cover Story "Stiletto Star"
featuring Jara Robinson
The Stiletto Bar (Hickory Ridge Mall)
DIVA BY DESIGN ONLINE MAGAZINE
Tanesha J (Plus Size Model)
Model Mondays
Dowtown Memphis, City Hall
Even the dressing rooms carry a chic essence that makes you feel sexy and sophisticated. Merry, the on-site style consultant asserts, " We have classic lines, with trendy style". She and the staff are delighted to help you find items that compliment your life-style.
Grab your girls and visit the chicest new address on Main Street. They currently have some summer merchandise 50% off to make room for the fall line. Join them during this month's Trolley tour for the shops and restaurants at Main and Peabody, Thursday, August 19th. Check out the latestest items they have in store plus check them out in Facebook!
What do you offer in your boutique?
Our shoes are for any woman, regardless of the name we carry more than just stilettos. You can find flats, wedges, and various other styles here. In addition we have fashion and accessories. This store is not just for the young girls, we have something for every age, especially the young at heart….
Your boutique is gorgeous. Why did you bring this class and elegance to the newly re-opened Hickory Ridge Mall?
The look of our boutique is glittery and glam, yet very homey and comfortable. It is reminiscent of a gorgeously designed closet fit for a diva. We wanted our customer to feel at home and laid back as she shopped for herself. We wanted the feel of an upscale boutique available to women in the urban neighborhood of Hickory Hill.
We chose to get on board with the renewal and the effort to keep the economy of this area alive. We hope the traffic of a mall will be great for us to, since we are a brand new store. We think it’s a good fit and a great way to make an investment in the community.
In your opinion what celebrity has stellar style?
Kelly Rowland always looks fashionable, really cute and well put together. Her style is trendy yet classy and never too overdone. Even when she has on jeans she is fashionable.
What defines Diva Style for you?
Feeling good with who you are. It’s about embracing and celebrating who you are, whatever color, size or style. Even on a bad day that confidence should come from within and inspire you even with a hat, jog pants, and a T-shirt, to throw on some gloss.
You only have about a month left to cast your vote for the nominees of the 15th annual Stone Awards. Candidates are in the running for awards that promote and encourage activism in our local community.
Notes from Nikki
Cover Story
Style
Beauty
Spirit
Fit
IN EACH WEEKLY ISSUE
Model Muse
Community
Lounge
Biz
