11 TAKEAWAYS from "2011"...

As “2011” comes to a close, take a step back & think about whats important for you to add or takeaway to have a better, brighter next year. Hold yourself accountable to make a change & take the necessary steps to move forward. To explore the unbelievable possibilities that life can exist by walking in peace 24-7 365 a days year. Although most make promises and vow to change things in the New Year. It can be quite difficult to do so without a plan of action. I suggest making a vision board and place all your goals, aspirations you desire to achieve that year. Placing images, photos , quotes down & visually reviewing each morning. Makes you accountable to work the plan with actions. You'll be more aware of & what you see daily will motivate you to push yourself a little closer... The platform is yours. Take hold of it.

My Personal 11 “ Takeaways” from 2011...

1. Giving people the benefit of the doubt is your gut saying let the whisper lead & direct you. “TRUST”.
2. Keep trying that's your GLORY. “GRACE”
3. It's impossible to please God without FAITH. “MERCY”
4. All relationships are like traffic lights. Pay attention to the signals. Green-Go; Yellow- Yield; Red-Stop. “HONOR”
5. I love days when you can take a deep breath while exhaling & embracing the small pleasures of life. “GRATEFUL”
6. Nothing is to hard for God that created the Heavens & the Earth. Faith small as a mustard seed, but powerful in return. “TRUST” & “FAITH”
7. The moment you realize you're having a feeling of peace & that certain things just don't matter. “ WISDOM”
8. Joy & Laughter is what I live for. Your inner life is your real life. “PEACE”
9. No!!! Two letters that can make a huge difference for your peace of mind. "HONOR-SELF"
10. Let Go & Let God. “SURRENDER”
11. Its OK to leave some people in "2011" The price may be too much to carry in "2012". “SEASONS”
    
    
    
    

And a Bonus takeaway for “2012”

12. Have a theme song for the year. A song that will motivate you or shine light on you when your spirit is broken. Play it after meditating in the morning. Music is definitely Food for the Soul and experiencing your favorite artist on occasion will lift your spirits , soar your dreams and provide you that vitamin C to keep you going. I'll share my Theme song for “2012” on New Years Day via Twitter. “Food for the Soul”

Food for the Soul... The best way to renew your spirit is by feeding it. Start your day each morning by developing a relationship with God's word. Reading daily scripture's to guide you & feed your spirit is the perfect nourishment to get you through any obstacles. Trust! You will be able to block the reverse energy that is thrown your way. Developing a shield of faith will provide you a better direction in following God's footsteps & walking in obedience with him.

We wish you a blessed and safe New Year. Take Into 2012. Honoring your calling feeds and fuels your passion. When you encounter an obstacle or disappointment, please keep in mind. What you may think is a disappointment,  just may end up being your greatest gift from God.

Until next year live FABULOUS...

SURRENDER to LIFT YOUR SPIRIT...

Ask, Seek, Knock

This week has definitely been a cleansing week. The Holiday Season can be a stressful time for many. If you're not careful you could be pulled in many different directions & at the end of the day that rope that has been pulling you is just about to snap. Over the years I have learned to not let the big or small details of life get the best of me. The Universe will test you at every cost just to see if you are paying attention. With just one blink what you you thought was under control is complete chaos. Its so important to listen to the whispers that surface within you. Often comes like a swift breeze, a shiver up your spine or just a faint kick in the gut.

The Holiday Season is one big festive invitation, don't feel obligated to attend everything you receive an invite for. Unfortunately even I can't attend or participate in everything. 

drezrehersal Tip... You absolutely should respond to the hostess thanking them for the personal invitation; If you're able to attend or not.

I always mention to people every chance I get, especially during this time of year to be mindful of your words. What is a season you may look forward to all year long could be a turning point of despair for others. The expectations of what most think the season is about is a bit much. "SURRENDER" to being your authentic self & staying grounded. Don't go above & beyond to make others happy and in the coming year you're stressed out & spirit is broken. I had several conversations this week with individuals who are looking for that bright light to shine at the end of tunnel. Sometimes in order for your breakthrough to happen you must “SURRENDER”. Get down on bended knee & ask GOD for exactly what you desire. Not pleading or begging. Be humble with your words. Have a conversation with him throughout the day, make it your daily routine to engage in a relationship with him. Go to him in faith & trust that your breakthrough is coming. Surrender all the negativity into the universe so the energy you are projecting will return with the bright light your spirit is longing for. This may include releasing bad toxins within your circle. In order to move forward sometimes you need to leave a few behind. It's OK to say I love you, but I love me more. GOD's  greatest gift is his authentic unconditionally love for you. You must faithfully believe you deserve better. Hold On & Surrender to GOD to lift your Spirit for an abundance blessing he desires for you to have. GOD sometimes has to send you through what you don't enjoy to make you better.

YOLANDA ADAMS~HOLD ON

Ask, Seek, Knock...

Matthew 7:7 Jesus tells us, "Ask and it will be given you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

As a Closing Reminder~Food for the Soul...Be mindful not only to the words you speak to others, but the words you speak over your life. If you speak words of encouragement you're more likely to put positive energy into the universe. If you speak negativity; than that's exactly what will happen around you. 

I'm aware of the energy that is brought to me. I will STOP it dead in its tracks & let that individual know if you are about to share something sad or negative. I don't want to engage in this conversation. Its one thing to be there for your friends, but there comes a point where you must cut the rope & let them figure it out for themselves. I am learning to “SURRENDER” being the comforting friend. Before you seek me seek GOD.

Until next time live FABULOUS & Blessings for a Peaceful Holiday Season

I DO "CYBER MONDAY" DREZ ME at THE ALTAR...

drezrehersal Event Planning & Lifestyle Co. is spreading the "I Do" LOVE. We're offering our drez...Me at the Altar Wedding Decor Package.



Put Your EVENT in the hands of a PROFESSIONAL!
drezrehersal can get you started...
Photography by: SIPPER Photography

Includes...

Wedding Producer for the Day of Event (Max 4 hrs)

1 Bridal Bouquet, 1 Throw Bouquet,
1 Maid/Matron of Honor Bouquet, 4 Bridesmaid Bouquet,

1 Flower Girl Custom Floral, 2 Mother's Corsages, 
8 Boutonnieres, 2 Med Size Altar Arrangements,

Consultation for Honeymoon Arrangements
 from our Concierge Lifestyle Division

Contact Us for $pecial ++ Pricing  (plus tax & service charge)

* Selected Florals that can be use as decor 
will be discussed w/client at the time
of your one-on-one consultation.

The option to upgrade or add additional decor is welcome.

Contract the Drez...Me at the Altar Wedding Decor
Package & receive 20% OFF your Reception Decor
* Special doesn't apply to already contracted services.

$pecial Starting on Monday, November 28th, at 9:00 am PST until Monday, December 5, 2011 11:59 pm PST. The first five Brides to secure our Drez...Me at the Altar Package will  receive our custom floral keepsake box that includes a It's My Day Bridal Tank Top. Call Us now at: 818.355.7951 to schedule your consultation for this 7-day only Brides $pecial.  drezrehersal also works with some of the finest Bridal Salons who are ready to design a Haute Couture gown just for you.  Your special day should be an experience of a lifetime, not an event. Let "US" drez your day and create memories that last a lifetime.

Cyber "It's My Day" Monday

It’s My Day Tank in a Keepsake Floral Box
Style #247-896Price: $36.95



Make her feel loved on her wedding day, birthday or any special day! This delicate keepsake flower box holds a fitted tank top that reads it's my day! In glittering pink letters. She can wear the tank to celebrate any day and use the beautiful floral box to store accessories or special keepsake items.

The tank is 100% cotton & available in white or black (shown above). The floral box will also include a special drezrehersal message. The tank is also available with more drezrehersal messages. If you're the Bride you may also want to purchase this one of kind keepsake gift for your Bridal Party. We invite you to call…on Cyber Monday & receive a special price of $36.95 plus tax & delivery. To place your order, please email us for an order form.

A LOOK INTO GLAMOUR'S WOMEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS...

Glamour's Women of the Year Awards Turns 21. Every year GLAMOUR Magazine honorees a host of intriguing women who visualizes success, expresses her emotion and realizes you don't need to be a Princess or President to make a difference. Congratulations to these 13 phenomenal ladies for making a differences.

GLAMOUR Women of the Year Honorees:
Jennifer Lopez, Tory Burch, Arianna Huffington, Laura Bush, Barbara Bush, Jenna Bush Hager, Chelsea Handler, Withelma "T" Ortiz-Macey, Gabrielle Giffords, Lea Michele, Cindy Sherman, Esraa Abdel Fattah, and the Lifetime Achievement Award: Gloria Steinem

The Most Memorable Moments from
GLAMOUR 2011 Women of the Year Awards.

Photo: WireImage

the details...the drezrehersal...the I Do's... Despite the powerful list of honorees and presenters along with the many gorgeous dresses that could be considered bridal attire. No wonder the topic turns to weddings, marriages and proposal tidbits about a few of the award-winners. I hear it was a stellar evening.... Since the show doesn't air live you get to view  who was on the red carpet, exclusive interviews with some of the presenters and of course drool over the Glamorous Fashions. The one important take away of the evening was "SUPPORT". Women we must make a conscious effort to encourage & support each other more.

Until next time live FABULOUS...

GLAM'ONDAY ALERT IT'S A PARTY at BEBE and YOU'RE INVITED...

You're Invited to grab your best girls & head out for a evening of GLAM~ FABULOUS~FUN at your local bebe store. That's right bebe is hosting a Girl's Night Out on November 10th at 6:00 pm at all bebe stores nationwide!


That's not it... Since I have the inside scoop on the event, I'm sharing a GLAM ALERT exclusive special discount for you & all your go-to-girls. If you like to attend, please complete the email sign-up on our Facebook page & make sure to leave the following keywords (GLAM~FABULOUS~FUN) on our wall. You'll receive by email your VIP exclusive savings, that you will be able to use until November 13th.

The perfect opportunity to get your
 Holiday fashions in a
Joyful, Merry, Fa-La-La spirit. 

drezrehersal Tip... You can't go wrong with purchasing a LBD (Little Black Dress) and place your focus on key accessory pieces to mix & match throughout the Holiday Season. Turning one outfit into several fabulous ensembles just by changing out earrings, necklaces, belts, shoes , purse & a top piece; broaches.  You will be amazed at what I can do with a broach. Like to know my inside tip. Send me a twitter message and ASK KIMBERLY.


Until next time live FABULOUS...

"EMPOWERED" BY BLACK GIRLS ROCK...

I truly look forward to watching Black Girls Rock. Its not so much about the title of the non-profit organization that is now a 2 hour celebration on BET. Celebrating a list of phenomenal women who just happen to be black. This year's BGR hosted by two exceptional women in their own right. Trace Ellis Ross & Regina King. I have a bypass opinion towards  Regina King, because I have seen her evolved into a beautiful woman all while keeping her true identity. And Miss Trace Ross known for her independent roll on Girlfriends.  Both women continually making strives and placing their footsteps in the sand.

Black Girls Rock

B~Beautifully

G~Gratifying

R~Remembrance

that "WE" Matter...

~Kimberly~

BGR- Inspires me to look deep within the essence of not only myself , but also the power of other women. POWER isn't just about leadership. Understanding that each one of us is in control of turning that power within on. Owning the inner essence of who you are ; who you want to be and allowing yourself to have a support team that guides you all the way.

These women are unique, fierce, intelligent, gifted, strong and carry a spirituality full of love dancing to the tune of their own drum. A recipe that consist of vanilla, caramel, caramel latte, mocha, chocolate, and dark chocolate. A complete melting pot of girls rocking to the beat of passion and success. Cultivating the I CAN do anything attitude. Attitude a word that seldom is use in a negative context, however the POWER of the attitude keeps you focused to strive to do better. OPRAH's quote “When You Know Better; You Do Better”. And having a group of women such as these to give you a boost of empowerment that “WE” can do better. I only ask for one thing to those who are reading this post. That women  learn to support each other more, than we tear down. And only then we can all rise to the pinnacle of our destiny. However, ladies you CAN NOT do it alone. It takes support, mentoring & loving each other. Not the side eye, turned up lip, stank attitude that you are better.

This year I'm empowered by all the Black Girls Rock honorees, presenters and talented group of women. Owning your power is about sharing your successes & failures with others. I prayer that one day we can truly be authentically supportive of each other success & triumphs to make life better for ourselves, our families and while keeping in mind there are young women watching our every move.

Regina King & Beverly Bond
Fierce & Fabulous

A rocking shout out to Beverly Bond for creating Black Girls Rock. A positive reminder such as this is just what we need. Giving praising & thanks to the many women who are setting the path of life, that you to can achieve. Regardless if you walk in the footsteps of acting, music artist, producer, entrepreneur, leader & YES, the first woman president. There are many footsteps for you to follow or be unique & create a new destiny. Achieving goals in life isn't easy & if it were easy you wouldn't appreciate the blessings. 

Let this be a present reminder to Never Give Up.

P.U.S.H {Push, Pray Until Something Happens} . And when it doesn't happen when yo expect it, know deep down in your heart that God knows & understands the vision for a life of abundance.

In closing if you give yourself any gift. Give yourself the gift to surround yourself with like minded individuals that will authentically uplift & support you un-conditionally. If this show doesn't light a fire under you . There's only one additional gift that will. "GOD". Trust, believe & under no circumstance do you give up! Continue rocking while pursuing your dreams & desires. Each day is a new day to be Empowered, Encourage & grab hold of your Equal Opportunity as a Woman.

Trust & Believe and Under No Circumstance

"Never Give Up"

Last year's I ROCK...I ROCK for many reasons but the one I live by is: Living everyday like a FABULOUS Party~not just through living, but loving "ME" and most importantly loving "GOD".

This year's I ROCK:

I ROCK... by God's grace & mercy, that I know through him & him only living in “JOY” is possible. By any means necessary I'm grabbing hold of and not letting go. This means in order to move forward if I must leave a few behind then so be it. On a new navigation of   “JOY”, “GRACE”  “SERENITY”. I will keep driving until I hear his whisper saying my child you have arrived. 

Black Girls Rock: Since 2006 dedicated to the  healthy development of young women & girls. Black Girls Rocks seeks to build their self-esteem and  self-worth by changing their outlook on life and broadening their horizons all while helping to empower themselves. 

The BGR 2 hour show that airs on BET is a format for African American Women to be recognized for their tremendous gifts & talents. However, all women bring special talents to the table and I would love for you to share your I Rock... Please place in the comment section below or place on our Facebook wall.  Remember, please be mindful in the future that we all need support in order to move forward. You may also show your support, by donating to Black Girls Rock.  That would definitely be a I Rock... moment.

Until next time live FABULOUS...

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...

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...

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...

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. "Hopefully” If 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

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