Monday, October 31, 2011

GLAM'ONDAY ALERT with IVANKA TRUMP...







Is one of the most recognized, influential young business women today & truly making a name for her self. Although her last name represents lots of “POWER” she is stepping out in a big way with her new collection of Ivanka Trump footwear. IVANKA TRUMP footwear offers a full lifestyle assortment from red carpet evening styles to weekend casuals and modern classic silhouettes to easily transition from day to night.

drezrehersal Tip... There are a few essential accessory pieces every lady should keep in her wardrobe.  And, good quality footwear is one. I much rather spend a little extra so I have longevity for years & years. Below are a few of my favorites from the collection. With the Fall Season coming-up its time to put away those sandals & get glam fierce.




Chelsee Light Gold
$180.00
 A have selected a gorgeous light gold bridal shoe for the bride who is perhaps saying her I Do's... on a wine country estate with the essence of fall as her backdrop.






Pinkette Leopard
$135.00



This is the Cat's Meow and goes perfectly with that LBD (Little Black Dress).






Stepping out for a girls night out, or an evening in with
that someone special . These boots are Chic & Sexy.














Ivaka's footwear collection ranges from weekend, modern classics, red carpet & ivory. This young lady is creating her own destiny. To be inspired  "LIKE" her Facebook page to see exclusive content on her collection for all the
Must Have, Stay updated with the Must Know and get your Must Go exclusive concierge for the Trump Hotel Collection. After you browse the collection, please come back & share your favorite style in the comment section below or post your comments on our Facebook page.  Shh here's a secret~ You just may win that favorite pair.

Until next time live FABULOUS...

Friday, October 28, 2011

WHO ARE YOU???

Individuals who are hurting will
often try to reverse their "MIRROR" image
2U... Don't go for it!  Know WHO YOU ARE.

Life at times will play tricks on you or maybe its a test or even a life lesson. Recently I had to take a step back & remember You Attract Who You Are. I've been giving careful consideration to go back to school to receive a degree in Relationships Psychology. Asking myself is it even possible for me to set time a side to complete a dream ; a passion that has been in my heart for awhile now. In addition to checking off other aspirations I'm currently working on. Absolutely, one by one it shall be done. However, I'm still contemplating & pondering over the additional credential to add to my already full achievements. In the midst of it all I'm being tested & I haven't even started school yet.


You Attract Who You Are... OK let me explain this. As a Virgo I'm a compassionate, nurturing & sensitive to ones needs. A true confidant & support of those close to me and around me whether in business or personal. Its Who I Am. We are givers & when the chips are down & you need a friend we are the ones available during those testing times should you need advice or companionship. This is a positive as well as a negative. Important to know when to turn your light on & off so the forces don't drain Who You Are. I completely know Who I Am & what I will & will not stand for. I've learned early on that the opinions of others are heard but, the one I listen to, the one that matters in the end is “GOD”.


Aha....I had an Aha Moment late last night. Well actually at 1:57 a.m. Thoughts flowing , along with answers being receive by closely listening to the whisper. I immediately reach for my writing journal & put pen to paper. Hints this post. As I continuing writing so I may upload the completion by mid afternoon. I recognize the universe is testing me to make sure this is something I truly desire to do, by sending individuals to me for counsel. The interesting thing was, this was completely different because I mentor & support people all the time. Over the past several weeks I have been hit with an abundance of reverse energy. During this process of me having this Aha Moment. I also discovered I need to take my own advice.


*When people show you who they are.
BELIEVE” it the first time.
Do not give them a second or third time.

Ding~Ding...Aha Moment. After having a conversation with a confidant, I completely got what one of the individuals was trying to do. “Discovery” Wanting me to accept their own disappointments in the cards of life they were dealt. There comes a point where you must stop feeling sorry for your circumstances & have “TRUST” & “FAITH” that God will turn things around. But it starts with you. You must be responsible for the energy people bring to you. At that exact moment I said to myself no more!



WHO ARE YOU?

I no longer know Who You Are... I can continue being a friend from a distance. This individual needs much more than I can give at this time. You can't create an identity for someone else, temporary feeding their soul. They must discover WHO they are on their own. I'm taking responsibility for the energy I desire in my life. As hard as it might be occasionally you will need to exit stage right. You can only be the motivational cheerleader for so long. Then soon that person needs to put their protective gear on & get in the game of life & play to “WIN”.



Food for the Soul...It's the faithfulness in the small things that is key to meeting life's great challenges victoriously.

Philippians 4:13
For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength

Until next time live “FAITHFULLY” FABULOUS...

Thursday, October 27, 2011

GLAM ALERT...RELAX~RELATE~REJUVENATE with CLARINS SPA LIFE...





SPA LIFE
Relax~Relate~Rejuvenate...

 
Ever wonder what it would be like to run your very own spa? Here’s your chance to try it out! CLARINS is bringing you Spa Life, where you can earn virtual money to customize your spa with treatment stations, decorations, and CLARINS products to keep your clients happy. You can even “HIRE” your Facebook friends to work at your spa and share your
Spa Life achievements.


Go ahead and click "ME".


With the Holidays just around the corner you'll have a little free time to "PLAY".  I'm sure this is just the relaxation you need and most definitely would enjoy.  So what are you waiting for? It's time to play Spa Life.

PS: If you like to be the first to know about CLARINS What's New, Giveaways, How-to-Videos and so much more "LIKE"  their Facebook  page. And, please come back to share your comments about the game. I'm sure it will be be your new guilty pleasure on Facebook.


Until next time live FABULOUS...

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

FINDING L♥VE at WHAT CO$T?

 *Disclaimer: This message & video is meant for
 those who or 18 and over. Intense subject matter.



Ladies you aren't alone... There are a few men waiting as well.
"Don't Settle" Wait until God's says proceed.
 
I'm going to share a story with you that  sounds straight out of a Lifetime movie. In life we feel if we follow God's footsteps all our blessings will be meet. If only life would be so easy.

Yes, that's what I learned as a child growing up & I try exceedingly hard to do the right thing. Unfortunately everyone doesn't have that same divine guidance as you. There is a strong chance you could come across many who tip toe through life with not so great intentions.

Getting Real...A big issue lies in the Cinderella story. Times have chance since that story book fairytale was told to me and for a lot of little girls who grasp on to that romantic glass slipper ending. The keyword all along is “FAIRYTALE”. Fairytale Meaning: 1. A story, usually for children about elves, hobgoblins, dragons, fairies or other magical creatures. 2. An incredible or misleading statement, account, or belief.

So, why do we continue to read such books to our children giving them false hope and not real reality? Which brings me to little girls fantasizing early on about their wedding day. The hopes of riding off into the sunset & living happily ever after. In our initial consultation with couples about their special day; one of the questions we ask is: What type of wedding do you envision? The answers we receive are remarkable. The wedding day should signify a day of two joining as one. The ceremony is the most important part, however the reception usually gets majority of the attention. Go into the marriage being real, not fantasizing about living in a magical castle with your fairy godmother granting every wish. Entering the marriage with that mindset & you will be disappointed. The wedding day is about the experience you create, an unforgettable celebration that is everything you've dreamt it would be. If you start it with false hope you will end with a false reality. Once all the guests have said their congratulations and gone home. The real planning of your “UNION” has just began. Will you be prepared?


As a wedding planner, mentor, writer & blogger who often speaks & addresses relationships topics. I'm always interested to see what women & men think about dating & marriage. I was invited to attend the YAM-Young Adult Ministry Relationship Series Part 3. It was only supposed to be one evening. Well the panel discussion was so intense, then headed by a long Q & A. It was fair to say there was a strong interest the YAM's wanted & needed more. YAM as young adults have real, legitimate questions and concerns about relationships and how to conduct themselves according to the word of GOD ...So a Part 4 was scheduled for the following week. OK get ready for the topic... Possible Signs of a Down Low Brother.

Panelists included: Pastor Sheryl Reaves who gave a heart wrenching testimony of the Down Low Brother ; Relationship Coach Ryeal Simms; Sister Sylvia Reid ; Newlyweds Mr. & Mrs. Ferguson-Editors of Impact the Magazine; Professor Precious Umunna and Comedian Ron Gee. OMGoodness Pastor Reaves story left me with my jaw to the ground & that is hard to do. I have heard it all, but this was deep. I truly believe even the other panelists were in Awe to her testimony. Coach Ryeal laid it out from a mans point of view. And let me just say it was a crystal clear view. Sister Reid, with her soft spoken voice that had all the men melting and paying attention closely, but her realness I loved it; Mr. & Mrs Ferguson the newlywed couple who shared there dating experience & just how they work together as a team was refreshing; Professor Umunna the knowledge that flows from her is direct and to the point & last but not least Ron Gee added his comedic touch to ease the room, but surprisingly shared a side of him I'm sure most didn't know was in him. Ron Gee actually, funny on the outside, but all soft & filled with substance on the inside. Yes, ladies he's one of the good brothers. The man you want but often don't give him a chance.
Relationship Series Part 3
Pastor Sheryl Reaves Mind Blowing Testimony
Possible Signs of a Down Low Brother
*Look for Pastor Reaves book in 2012
opening-up in depth about her true story.

~Setting Boundaries~At What Co$t Do You Find or Keep Love?
Prior to marriage there's a courtship. "HopefullyIf not see #3 below. I've personally learned a few boundaries you must possess when courting. It's so important not to get fully engulf in the courtship, that you either miss or ignore the “Red Flags”. Dating is optional. You can walk away at any given time. Marriage is a Union that two people should consider very carefully. Marriage is “CONTRACTIONAL”. I know that sounds extremely business like. Right? Well it is. Before a marriage is recognize you must sign a marriage license. You stand before God, Justice of the Peace, Pastor, Bishop or Rabbi (you get my point) And profess certain agreements as Husband & Wife. Marriage is a lot harder to walk away from &at times can take even longer than the planning of the wedding itself.


I'll never forget at a past Sunday Service at West Angeles COGIC. That particular morning we had a guest speaker- Dr. Cosby. The sermon title was " When God Doesn't Come".  A portion of Dr. Cosby sermon was about Praying Dumb Prayers.  Be careful what you pray for. Because you just may get it.  Dr. Cosby big question to the congregation ; Have you ever prayed a dumb prayer? A job you wanted or a person you wanted to date back in the day. Sometimes " When God Doesn't Come" you should say "Thank You".  If you click the WGDC link you will be able to listen to a portion of the sermon, but he goes into great detail that not only makes the congregation think but laugh with a Aha Moment I'm sure.

You've prayed to be with a certain individual. Prayer is answered... you receive, you court, you than marry. After year's of being with this person you are now praying :How to get rid of. (Figuratively NOT Literally) The congregation laughs. That was an Aha Moment for me. Yes, I did laugh but then reflected back to doing that exact thing in my mid 20's. I'm thankful to God that my prayer was answered because that relationship taught me a great deal. However, even more grateful that he stop me years later in another Aha Moment. Whispering to me,  my child this is not the one. I listen, but at the time really didn't understand Why. I had faith he would bring me through. His plan for my life was different than the plans I was making at that time. That's when I initially learned about seasons. People enter your life at times for a season & others for a lifetime. As I grew closer to the word, I knew it wasn't for me to understand. Just know that he always has my back & now I can face forward & continue to listen for the whisper. I completely understand & get it now & proceeding with my gut. “Always” listen to the Whisper, so you can avoid the Bang. Although I didn't marry that person, I can say we are the best of friends & continue to be there for each other through all seasons.

~5 Tips to Setting Boundaries, that will help you hear the Whisper to avoid the Bang~

1. ASK the right questions when dating. Not surface questions. Get to the hard core substance questions. Dig deep into the individuals character, beliefs, religion, family, future aspirations and past, etc. Yes, the past. A lot of people don't like to go there, but Why. You will learn a lot. What you don't ask you don't know.

Testimony: Asking the right questions, enabled Pastor Reaves to recognize that her significant other had a possible double lifestyle.


2. Don't be a serial dater. If you have a desire to be married, have kids, live out of the country in two years. Seek/Date someone who wants the same. If he/she says 3 months in; that's not what I want. Keep it pushing. Don't settle thinking that person will change their mind or you can change their mind. Revert back to Ques #1. ASK  in the beginning of the courtship.

Statement via Sister Sylvia Reid: I love this statement. You should only raise vegetables & children. Not your Boy/Girl Friend, Husband or Wife.


3. Listen to the whisper. If it sounds to good too soon. “Run”.


4.ALWAYS” be your authentic self from day one. Do not send your representative and most importantly don't change who you are to please that individual. False pretense aren't reality in the long run. Get Real or Get Gone.


5. When someone shows you who they are the first time. “Believe It”. Do not stick around for a second or third time. Keep it Pushing.


Bonus Tip...Before you can truly give 100% love to another. Absolutely essential you l♥ve & know yourself first. If you don't completely know you, its impossible to know what you want or need for a lifetime. And above all "TRUST" God to guide your footsteps. This doesn't mean have your guard up 24-7. Doing so just may block the blessing God is sending to you.

If you like to attend a future YMA-Young Ministry Adult Bible Study. Headed up by Elder Manuel Thomas. It takes place Tuesday's at 7:00 pm at the West Angeles Performing Arts Theater located at 3020 Crenshaw Blvd. Los Angeles CA, 90016

Monday, October 24, 2011

MOCHA WRITER turns MOCHA WIFE...


the drezrehersal...

Jamie Fleming-Dixon
Better Know As
Mocha Writer
I had the pleasure of speaking with Jamie Fleming what seems like now years ago.  She interviewed me for her Blog for colored girls. FCG, a personal development blog inspiring & empowering women to live their most Fabulous lives. Something I truly believe in 24-7. Since than Jamie & I have not only developed a business relationship, but a personal sister-ship. I know how complicated it can be when you're a entrepreneur, daughter, sister, good friend, and girlfriend turned fiancee. All while trying to have quality time for yourself. We'll I'm happy to say she can add “WIFE” to those fabulous list of titles.

the details...

Although I wasn't the planner for her wedding I stayed very close to her as she prepared for this precious day. Just like a mama bear making sure she received all the right things, while trying to enjoy the planning process at the same time. Preparing for a wedding can be a difficult task, when you have many hats to wear. If I saw a Facebook post or Tweet I found alarming. I was on it right away making sure she stayed focused and remembering the real reason for this “UNION”.

drezrehersal Tip... If relationships were easy; we would "ALL" be in one. The easy part is falling in "LOVE". The hard part is "Staying in Love".


Jamie & Christopher's
Engagement Session
A Day of Fun & Falling In Love
all over again
Planning a wedding can be extremely stressful and bring out parts of you, neither of you knew you had. I always recommend before a couple even considers taking that step. You must get real with each other. If you think planning a wedding is stressful,  just think about spending a lifetime with someone you no longer LOVE.

I didn't need to worry about this with Jamie she's a writer and writer's are methodological. Following steps and checking all the fine details. Their “UNION” is solid. As business associate, sister friend and most importantly a Wedding Planner who always wants the details... I'm happy to share a Q & A and a sneak peek into Mocha Writer now Mocha Wife Wedding Day.Enjoy

the I Do's...

1. Mocha Groom & Mocha Bride say I Do...?
Answer: We Do... Mr. Christopher Dixon and Mrs. Jamie Fleming-Dixon.


Ques: 2. Please share with our readers the date, location of ceremony & wedding?
Answer: Both the ceremony and reception were held at the John W. Swails Center at Emmanuel College in Royston, GA.


Ques: 3. Did you two say your own vows? If yes, what was expressed.
Answer: Chris & I decided to go with the traditional wedding vows. Our eyes spoke those un-spoken words that only him & I knew just how much this day meant to us.


Ques: 4. How Will you Honor your Commitment to your Husband?
Answer: I will love him through good and rough times, always be a shoulder to lean on; I will respect him as a man, encourage and comfort him when necessary. I will stay true to him and be the best woman and wife I can possibly be.


Ques: 5. What does LOVE mean to you?
Answer: Love means: being free completely, 100% be yourself, still loving someone when you don’t like their behavior, picking and choosing your battles wisely, letting go, trusting that someone else has your best interest at heart. I also love this quote that I think defines love: "Love is giving someone the chance to break your heart, but trusting them not to."


Ques: 6. What was the most memorable part of your wedding? I like to hear both your answers.  
Jamie's Answer: Both my mom and dad walked me down the aisle; the plan was for my mom to walk until she got to her seat, and my dad would walk me to the altar. Well, apparently, my mom couldn’t figure out where her seat was, so she was talking all the way down the aisle. My dad and I kept shushing her, telling her to be quiet and telling her that she would know when to sit down, but she kept talking. So, basically, we talked the whole way down the aisle, and I was shaking my head…it was fun though. (Brides chuckles after answering).
Christopher's Answer: My nephew (the ring bearer) cried during the whole ceremony, and my brother kept trying to cover his mouth and wipe his nose. (Groom chuckles after answering).


Ques: 7. If you could do it all over again-What would you do different?
Answer: I would not let other people stress me out, and I wouldn’t stress myself out either. I would’ve reminded myself that although my wedding day is one of the most important days in my life, it’s just one day.






Always Follow GOD's Footsteps
for a Blessed Union.
Thank you Jamie & Chris. You both know just how much I love your #5 answer. So my advice to you when times get tough and each of you feel you're right. Think back to that answer and I can guarantee you things won't seem so bad. Better yet write the Ques & Answer down and place it in a frame with your favorite wedding photo. It will become your peace maker.


Congratulations again. Myself and the drezrehersal team wishes you both a beautiful union of eternity. To learn more about Jamie Fleming-Dixon better know as Mocha Writer, please follow her on Twitter or view her inspiring Blog for colored gurls.

Until next time live FABULOUS...

Photography By: Nakeshia Saunders of NakeshiaRenee Photography