​ Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:

My name is Ayo Thomas Founder and Editor in Chief of WOE (Women of Excellence) Magazine

What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?

I have always had a vision to launch my own publication since 2001. However fear of the unknown and failure delayed my process. In 2005, I launched a women’s ministry called WOE Fellowship to Educate, Empower and Encourage women to live a lifestyle of excellence. After several years of meeting in small intimate spaces, I decided to increase my platform by stepping out on faith to pursue my life long dream. I launched WOE Magazine in partnership with Nordstrom in Annapolis MD July 2016.

 What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?

My advice for anyone who desires to launch  a magazine is to do your research to determine niche, create a solid marketing plan to gain exposure, and be confident in your vision The magazine industry is very competitive so you will have to think creatively on how to stay relevant.

Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:

My professional challenge was overcoming fear of the “unknown” and fear of failure. I had a great vision but feared failing by mentally falling into the statistical survival rate of magazines in the first year. Also I feared not knowing enough to even step out on faith to pursue my dream. Until one day I realized that fear is a destiny destroyer hindering me from chasing after my dreams. So what if I failed, at least I will gain life lessons to apply for future endeavors. Also I decided not to focus on my weaknesses or what I did not know by partnering with others who strengths were my weaknesses to fulfill my vision.

What is next for your brand/business in 2016?

We are currently working on our 2nd issue for Fall/Winter 2016 and planning an amazing event to kick off in January 2017 called #NoFilter Girl Talk Experience. An event bringing women together sharing real and raw stories about their journey to success.

 How can readers connect with you online and through social media?

Readers can connect with me online via social media IG (Iamayotthomas)  
Facebook Ayo Thomas and my website is www.ayothomas.com
To connect with WOE Magazine via social media:
IG and Facebook (WoeMagazine), Twitter WOEMag

​On Saturday, October 29th, at the Balzer Theater, in downtown Atlanta, Book Publisher and Playwright - Ardre Orie presented her newest episodic stage play, Lipstick Monologues: Traces of Her Lipstick, in front of a sold out audience. Traces of Her Lipstick, was the final installment of the Lipstick Monologues brand series, written and produced by Ardre Orie. The series began in 2014 with the original Lipstick Monologues, followed by Love & War(2015), A Heroine in Heels (2015), and finishing this weekend with Traces of Her Lipstick (2016). 

The final installment, Traces of Her Lipstick, wove together the heart-rending story of a 20 year marriage filled with love, lies, betrayal, and lust.  Ardre Orie, created "Traces Of Her Lipstick" to reveal the inner most thoughts of women within troublesome marriages. Her hopes are to start coversations that lead to emotional healing and provide courage to women dealing with these scenarios. 
Continue the conversation on social media with @LipstickMonologues @IamArdreOrie and #TracesofHerLipstick #LipstickMonologues


Additional Photos Available HERE. Visit LipstickMonologues.com for updates.

Photo Credit: Lifestyle Blogger, PRIIINCESSS

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:
Hey Glambitious readers!  My name is Evelyn Cooke and I am the CEO of Gingerbread Trimmings which is a holiday company specializing in hand-crafted decorations with twists inspired by cultures from all over the world.  Each item is made with love, and each purchase helps fund the growth of the Evelyn Cooke Dream Big Scholarship Program.  This program, founded in 2014, focuses on financial support and mentorship for college-bound high school minority seniors and while we currently serve a local need, it is our goal to expand nationally and to international students.

What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
I have always been a creative and artistic person.  I focused primarily on drawing and painting from childhood all the way till high school where I even got some of my work in museums around New York.  After burying that part of me while I studied marketing and worked, the one time a year where I found creative release was at my family's annual Christmas Tree trimming party the day after Thanksgiving.  It was tradition here that each family member hand-make their own ornament for the tree to mark that year and each year I become more competitive to have the best ornament (though some of my nephews' works gave me a run for my money).  Holidays have always been the time of year where my family felt normal and just happy to be with each other, so it all just made sense to try to share that feeling with the world.

What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?
Just start.  Whatever it is that you like doing or making, just do it and put it out there.  It doesn't need to be perfect, and you don't even have to know 100% for sure if someone would buy it but if you start now, and you take everyday as a new opportunity to improve your branding, work, plan etc. in a short amount of time you will blossom into a whole new force to be reckoned with.

Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
My biggest challenge has been a battle of believing in myself without the permission of others.  I took a stable path into Corporate America after I graduated. After a year of struggle to feel grounded and deep depression, I realized that no matter how great of an environment they may have, that I would never be fulfilled if I relied on another company to own my passions. I decided I needed change so I started by finding each and everything that brought me joy, and I did it every day.  From that, I found out so much about myself, what I loved and was I was good at but didn't necessarily want to do forever.  One thing that did stick however, was crafts, especially for holidays - thus Gingerbread Trimmings was born.

What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
For the rest of 2016, Gingerbread Trimmings is moving full steam ahead in new item creation and filling orders so that we may ultimately become a one-stop shop for everyones holiday needs.  Our goal is to increase our social media presence, brand recognition within the black community and diversify of offerings.  By Christmas, we hope to double our current amount of listings based on customer and community feedback and see consistent sales.

How can readers connect with you online and through social media
Readers can check out my shop at www.etsy.com/shop/GingerbreadTrimStore 
 To stay connected to the latest GT updates, they can also follow us on
Instagram (@GingerbreadTrimmings) and Facebook (@GingerbreadTrim)

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers: 
Greetings! My name is Hillary Berry and I am a professional makeup artist based out of South Florida. I am also a licensed Esthetician with licenses in Eyelash Lash Extensions and Body Wrapping. Makeup has been my passion and my ministry for so many years! Feels like forever! I started my business, Berry Beat by Hillary Berry - a subsidiary of Berry Enterprise, LLC, in 2015, and I am so grateful for God placing this purpose in my life. Being able to minister to women on their natural beauty while accentuating their outer beauty, is a feeling that I cannot put into words. I am more than fulfilled and overwhelmed with joy to see the reaction on my clients' faces when I am complete with their beauty sessions.

What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
God is who inspired me. He sent an angel to my baby shower on my birthday, with a VERY powerful message that would resonate within me for the rest of my life. God spoke through the young lady and told me that this is what I was CREATED to do. This inspired me to go after this dream FULL FORCE and I have not looked back since. It's funny because I was always into makeup since I was a very young girl but never knew that I was going to become a makeup artist. It's amazing how God turns life full circle!

What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?
My advice to those who are just starting: DON'T STOP!!! No matter where your skill level is, there is always room for growth. (I AM STILL GROWING!)  Remember, you have to fail in order to win, so keep pushing, keep your eye on your dream and KEEP GOD FIRST!

Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it: 
I was scheduled to do makeup for a fashion show, which was a charity event. This meant this was a unpaid event for me. I was very excited to meet the ladies and I was so grateful to be apart. In my experience, whenever I have participated in fashion shows, I would always end up doing more than I bargained for. This fashion show was no different. I was actually fine with it though. However, after doing the fourth girl, I became feeling extremely light-headed and nauseous. I did not know what came over me. I was even leaning on the makeup chair, while doing makeup, to support the weakness I was feeling. Amidst me feeling the worst I have felt in years, I pushed through and finished the last girl because they depended on me. There was a room full of people waiting on these girls to give their most confident selves, and I could not let them down. I did not give up and I did not give in! I am so grateful that I pushed through and finished the job to the best of my ability.

What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
The next level for my brand in 2016 is the launching of my website. I have worked so hard to put this together and to finally see my dreams become a reality is truly a blessing. I anticipate selling different types of merchandise with my brand's logo on them, as well as showcase my work.

How can readers connect with you online and through social media? 
Please Connect with me! I would love to meet you all!
Instagram: @Berrybeat_byhb
Facebook: Hillary Berry MUA and Berry Beat by Hillary Berry Makeup Page
YouTube: Berry Beat by Hillary Berry
SnapChat: BerrybeatMUA
Website: www.BerryBeatBeauty.com
​

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:
Hello Luvs, I’m fashion designer, Charla Ruschelle, clothing brand CR Clothing Co.(CRCCo.) and shop owner of Concoction theWork_Shop, where I clothe, create and consult…keeping women and men Fashionably Fly!

What inspired you to pursue this area of interest? 
I was blessed to be gifted with the skill of sewing ,and being able to pursue my love further in fashion designing, as well as, fashion merchandising. My skills in sewing were passed down to me at the age of seven. My grandmother was a home economics teacher and  my mom also knew how to sew, as it was something that was part of a skill women should have… I guess our domestication. When it came to needing a costume or a performance garment, my mom would be the one to make it. I also had major influences from my next door neighbor and her mother-in-law, who both were seamstress.  I had all these women of color exuding the skill my way, along with, them all being well sophisticated women always put together from head to toe. Sewing is my go to for meditation and therapy, and designing has always been an outlet for me to be originally independent when it came to style. 

What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit? 
I speak often to students, as well as, adults interested in the fashion and apparel industry. I ask them, what are they interested in and what have they started doing to pursue their interest? I always tell them figure out what you are good at, learn more about fashion, because there are more options in the fashion industry then just being a “Fashion designer.”  I give them that common phrase, “ the starving artist” ,because it’s an art and you have to love it. It’s definitely a financial investment and you having to be willing to take on the expense. You have to be willing to invest in your talent, recognize your strengths, weaknesses and being real with self. Once you are able to figure that all out, then you set your goals and ensure that you have efficinet education that can take you to higher levels and provide an assortment of opportunities. 
 
Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
I think I’m still going through the challenges and getting closer everyday in overcoming what may present itself. I’m still not where I want to be with my businesses. As a fashion designer, my goal is to be in closets of women who love to find small brand designers and love the story behind the brand , as well as, love that the clothes they wear represent them, and that the actual designer, me, literally put my hands to work in creating something they will keep forever, because it’s timeless. From marketing, to production to running a physical shop, it’s all me. So with that, the challenge becomes managing it all. I’m not one to give up, especially because I know my talent, there are people out there who already have me in their closets and many more will want it too. Just don’t give up… I live by my alma mater from Clark-Atlanta University, “ I’ll find a way or make one", and that’s what I do.

What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
For my clothing brand, Charla Ruschelle Clothing Co. (CRCCo.), I’m working on a luxe collection. This collection will be my renewed and rebranding, so I may submit to participate in the 2017 Essence Festival StyleMarket. And with my boutique shop, Concoction theWork_Shop, I’m just continuing to market to Atlanta as an authentic  boutique by a fashion designer, who sews for her own clothing brand, takes custom re-make request for CRCCo., provides wardrobe consulting, minor alterations, quarterly sewing classes, as well as, host monthly shop and sips highlighting other local creative businesses. A hidden treasure with so many gems to offer, #GetConcocted.

How can readers connect with you online and through social media.
​For the shop, Concoction theWork_Shop, Facebook and IG @concoctionccc, shop address 1102 Airline Street, Atlanta, GA, Shops @ West Inman Lofts. And for the clothing brand , CR Clothing Co. (CRCCo.) Facebook and IG @crcco. Website: www.clothecreateconsult.com

​Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:
Hello All! My name is Darnica Gordon and I’m the Owner & Editor of Christ It Up Magazine.
 
What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
I’ve actually always loved magazines, but never in a lifetime would I have thought I would actually run one. God basically showed me this is what He wanted me to do. At first, I thought it was a vision for me to pass on to my husband, but God said no, no.
 
What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?
Don’t be discouraged. It is hard getting past the basic information the internet provides. A lot of other magazine companies don’t want to help in fear of competition. And it makes it a little more difficult when you have no background in the area. (Raises hand)
 
Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
One of the professional challenges I face is providing a quality product with a small budget. I use low budget tools that allow for my product to showcase at the quality it deserves.
 
What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
Making it to 2017! No, on a serious note, to expand our horizons. I would love to be more accessible for our readers i.e., in stores, beauty salons, etc.
 
How can readers connect with you online and through social media?
Readers can connect with us through our website: christitupmagazine.com
Facebook: Christ It Up Magazine
IG: @christitupmagazine
Twitter: @chrisitupmag
 

Introduce yourself and tell us about your company Exclusive Xscapes:
I’m Carla Stevenson, owner of Exclusive Xscapes, LLC and CEO of The FLY Bellas Travel Group.  When I was growing up in Baltimore, MD, I always felt drawn to life beyond my own borders; whether those were the boundaries that existed in my environment or those that existed in my own mind.  In my early adulthood, I was fortunate enough to have the experience of living abroad and the experience was life changing.  Learning about other cultures and their way of living was transformational for me and sparked me to want to know more.  That’s when I really began to indulge my interest in travel.  The experiences have been so transformational for me that I decided to help other women stretch beyond their own borders and through that desire my company was born. 
 
What inspired you to create the FLY Bellas Travel Group? 
I had already formed the Exclusive Xscapes brand and several of my clients from that business shared with me that they would love to travel and to visit the exclusive locations that were available, but didn’t like to travel alone.  I get it, traveling abroad alone can be intimidating.  Still, the idea of these women missing out on the experience of a lifetime for lack of travel companion wasn’t something I could ignore.  From that, the idea of connecting these women from all walks of life (The women of FLY Bellas are single, married, have families, no children,  professional, fashionable, have jobs, entrepreneurs, introverts, social butterflies and much more)  together in friendship and in fun; the added bonus of traveling together came into focus and FLY Bellas was born.  We don’t want for the first time you meet your FLY Bella sisters to be on an Xscape. We create a sisterhood so you never have to fear creating memories alone.  FLY Bellas is both a Travel and a Social Group. We work as a team to plan monthly social events so that we can build and maintain our FLY Bella bond   To sum it up, we are FLY women of all walks of life but share one definite thing in common, the passion of Travel.
 
What advice do you have for females that want to travel more but have budget restrictions?  
​The first thing is to commit to yourself! You’re committed to your job, your family, your church and or education.  Make the commitment to do something for yourself and dream big – dream beyond your borders.  Once you identify a trip that you would like to take, explore the many payment options that we have available and budget and commit to making that monthly investment toward yourself and your dreams.   
 
What would you say are the most popular travel destinations for female entrepreneurs?  
Many of the FLY Bellas are female entrepreneurs who, like myself, are dedicated to the success of their businesses despite their need to unplug.  With that said, the goal here is to provide them a rich and empowering experience that allows them to Relax, Relate and Release.  Whether it’s relaxing in the Hot Springs in Sedona or on the beach in Fiji; the pampering in a luxury suite and spa, that we consider a staple, or the enlightening and meaningful experience of relating to other cultures when we travel to Dubai, Cuba or South Africa for example; our destinations are designed to provide enough variety to accommodate and offer needed respite from the busy schedules of the female entrepreneur.
 
Are there any upcoming travel events with FLY Bellas? 
We have lots of exciting trips coming up at the suggestion of our members and through our own research on the most fabulous and luxurious destinations that offer exotic locations and unique experiences to make our Xscapes truly unforgettable!  2017 will be exciting for FLY Bellas!  Domestically, we will attend Jazz in the Gardens, the BET Awards and the Essence Festival among many others.  But our International Xscapes are truly magical. In Late 2017 we will travel to Fiji, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Jamaica and Cabo San Lucas with a few other amazing Xscapes in the wings.  We are extremely excited about the trips themselves, but the outings and experiences that we go the extra mile to include really make these trips once in a lifetime experiences.
 
What is next for your company and brand in 2016?  We are embarking on a number of initiatives including increasing our membership base within existing chapters and establishing new ones, Launching a group for more mature women, launching our clothing and accessories selection, increasing our web presence and of course there are the TRIPS!
 
How can readers find you online and through social media? 
Website. www.flybellas.com
Facebook and Twitter: @FlyBellas
Instagram: @Fly_Bellas
Join FLY Bellas and join our Private page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/FLYBellas/

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers: 
 
I am Nefateria F. Robinson, a Certified Professional Coach, and the Owner of Go Get It, Inc.  and I inspire women to A.C.T.; activate their faith, commit to their financial plan and take action so they can so they can invest in their dream of entrepreneurship. 
 
What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
 
 I was taught the importance of being a good steward over your finances and how important good credit was at a very earlier age.  I learned how to balance a checkbook and the importance of balancing it in the 4th grade. One of the first scriptures I learned was "Owe no man anything, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law."~Romans 13:8  When, I wanted to leave my full-time job to become a full-time entrepreneur I knew the best way to make that transition less stressful was to get my finances in order.  I don't want anyone's financial issues to prevent them from pursuing their dream of entrepreneurship  
  
What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit? 
 
To A.C.T.!  Activate their faith, by studying and meditating on the word of God.  Commit to their financial plan, whether that is eliminating debt before going into full-time entrepreneurship or knowing what you want to make once you are a full-time entrepreneur and doing what it takes to make it happen.  Take action, it doesn't matter, how many scriptures you know, how many blueprints you have if you do not act on those scriptures and blueprints you are just wishing and not living your dream. 
 
Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it: 
 
Becoming overwhelmed with the workload and ideas I want to implement.  To deal with the overwhelming feeling, I pray and recite scripture.  Then, I ask God what idea/s I should pursue.  The ones I get the green light on, I go ahead and  write everything down that has to be done to complete the idea.  Then, I only focus on step 1 until it's complete and then move on to the next. 
  
What is next for your brand/business in 2016? 
 
An official launch in January 2017.  I am coming out with all guns blazing!  I will be completing everything I have started and implementing all strategies I have studied. 
 
How can readers connect with you online and through social media?

website: www.nefateriarobinson.com
Social Media FB, IG and Periscope @NefateriaRobinson
​

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:
Hey Glambitious readers!  My name is Evelyn Cooke and I am the CEO of Gingerbread Trimmings which is a holiday company specializing in hand-crafted decorations with twists inspired by cultures from all over the world.  Each item is made with love, and each purchase helps fund the growth of the Evelyn Cooke Dream Big Scholarship Program.  This program, founded in 2014, focuses on financial support and mentorship for college-bound high school minority seniors and while we currently serve a local need, it is our goal to expand nationally and to international students.

What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
I have always been a creative and artistic person.  I focused primarily on drawing and painting from childhood all the way till high school where I even got some of my work in museums around New York.  After burying that part of me while I studied marketing and worked, the one time a year where I found creative release was at my family's annual Christmas Tree trimming party the day after Thanksgiving.  It was tradition here that each family member hand-make their own ornament for the tree to mark that year and each year I become more competitive to have the best ornament (though some of my nephews' works gave me a run for my money).  Holidays have always been the time of year where my family felt normal and just happy to be with each other, so it all just made sense to try to share that feeling with the world.

What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?
Just start.  Whatever it is that you like doing or making, just do it and put it out there.  It doesn't need to be perfect, and you don't even have to know 100% for sure if someone would buy it but if you start now, and you take everyday as a new opportunity to improve your branding, work, plan etc. in a short amount of time you will blossom into a whole new force to be reckoned with.

Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
My biggest challenge has been a battle of believing in myself without the permission of others.  I took a stable path into Corporate America after I graduated. After a year of struggle to feel grounded and deep depression, I realized that no matter how great of an environment they may have, that I would never be fulfilled if I relied on another company to own my passions. I decided I needed change so I started by finding each and everything that brought me joy, and I did it every day.  From that, I found out so much about myself, what I loved and was I was good at but didn't necessarily want to do forever.  One thing that did stick however, was crafts, especially for holidays - thus Gingerbread Trimmings was born.

What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
For the rest of 2016, Gingerbread Trimmings is moving full steam ahead in new item creation and filling orders so that we may ultimately become a one-stop shop for everyones holiday needs.  Our goal is to increase our social media presence, brand recognition within the black community and diversify of offerings.  By Christmas, we hope to double our current amount of listings based on customer and community feedback and see consistent sales.

How can readers connect with you online and through social media
Readers can check out my shop at www.etsy.com/shop/GingerbreadTrimStore  To stay connected to the latest GT updates, they can also followus
​on Instagram (@GingerbreadTrimmings) and Facebook (@GingerbreadTrim)

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:

Hi,  I'm Hermanita Huffman from Atlanta, GA. I am a Jill of many trades with a background as a tradeshow model and brand ambassador. I have a license in real estate,  license, property and casualty insurance license, life and health insurance license and insurance adjuster license. I am also inventor of The Nose Cozy™, a hypo-allergic pillow made from organic cotton used to protect c-pap patients face from irritation and injury caused by ill-fitting full-face c-pap masks. 


What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?

I had a friend who was a respiratory therapist who was having difficulty their c-pap patients compliant with using their machines to help th sleep at night and treat their sleep apnea.  The patients complained of pain on their nose from the mask and I suggested we make something to protect their noses and The Nose Cozy™ was born!

What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?

When inventing something, I would advise people the obtain a provisional patent then immediately contact a patent attorney to discuss how to obtain information on what the next step of putting the right kind of patent on your invention. 

Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
Because this isn't my field of study,  it was a challenge to get word out about the product other than social media. Starting this year, we have started a commission program where certified and registered respiratory therapists can earn commission as independent contractors by selling The Nose Cozy™ to their patients who are having issues with irritating c-pap masks.  The therapists love it because they can make extra money without adding any additional hours to their schedule. They also love having a unique product to show their patient to help them continue to use their life-saving c-pap machine.  

What is next for your brand/business in 2016?

We look forward to expanding to other states near the end of 2016 or the beginning of 2017. Our goal is to get each c-pap patient who uses a full-face or nasal mask to use The Nose Cozy™ to prevent indentation and irritation from ever occurring in the first place. 

How can readers connect with you online and through social media:

We can be reached through the website, www.nosecozys.com or 404-850-0889.
​ We have facebook page and can be followed on Instagram @bestrestinc.

Grounded Scents owner, Delia Washington, has been making her own personal skincare regime for several years and within the last year turned her passion into a business; making quality, natural products for women on a budget. Everyday women deserve beautiful, glowing skin and the
main mission of Grounded Scents
​ is to provide that and relaxation to hardworking women around the world. For women looking to start a business or get more involved in making natural skincare affordably, do your research, learn what ingredients are right for your skin type and always know what you are putting on your skin. 

Grounded Scents is currently
establishing themselves in the
Charlotte area and can be
found at www.groundedscents.com or on instagram @groundedscents. They will be at several upcoming events including CIAA and women conferences in the Charlotte, NC area. To keep up with Grounded Scents, follow them on Instagram for new products, scents and upcoming sale events.

Two college friends that both have a passion for fashion set out to combine their talents that created Delá De la Mode. With one bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and one MBA we have the tools it takes to run a successful business! 
 
Brionna Spells, Co-owner
Originally from Queens, NY and now enjoying the southern living in North Carolina always has a genuine love for fashion. She holds a BS degree in Business Administration and currently pursuing her Masters in Public Administration. Her experience extends from retail jobs to her undergrad experience where she designed and created a production for a plus size pageant/ fashion show on the campus of Johnson C Smith University for two years. It was then she realized that not only can she create wonderful pieces for what she calls Double Digit Beauties, she can style them and make any women feel amazing! Delá De La Mode is very important to her and her customers are number one! 
And to all my double digit beauties make sure your following us and our journey because I'm creating an exclusive line just for us! 
 
Tazekqua McIntyre, Co-owner,
Born and raised in Charleston SC and graduated from Johnson C Smith with a bachelor in psychology and Is currently studying to receive my masters in business administration. She has always been a lover of fashion. She has always believed that fashion gives a certain amount of freedom to people and allows them to be who they want to be. 
 
Delá De la Mode mission is to build a connection with all types of women using the power of fashion. We strive to help women express their individuality and personality while standing out. We want to show women that it's beyond fashion it's a way of life.
 
What inspired your pursuits in this industry?
 
We were inspired by a small thought: Being able to provide a fashion outlet to all women. Sometimes the hardest thing to do is feel confident and beautiful in clothes. We wanted to provide a way for woman to express themselves confidently and free through our clothes. We also consider ourselves personal stylists, when our clients purchase from us we give them full outfit choices it’s like a small look book tailored for the client because we truly believe it’s beyond fashion, it’s a way of life!
 
 
What advice would you share with readers interested in pursuing a similar profession?
 
The advice we would give to readers that are interested in pursing a career in the fashion industry is to do your research and find out what’s already out there. Never be afraid to take chance and make mistakes. The most important thing to remember is figure out your niche and what makes you different from everyone else.
 
 
What has been your biggest professional challenge, and how did you conquer it?
 
One of our biggest professional challenges we had to face as a new company is making our self visible in this market. In this completive and ever growing industry buyers have a wealth of choices, and makes it tough for any one retailer to stand out. To conquer this challenge, we focused on four major things: trendiness; pricing; quality; and customer experience. Once we figured out how to perfect these areas we built an awesome brand name for our self which in return gave us the visibility we wanted.
 
What is next for you in 2016?
 
For the remainder of 2016 we are working very hard for our fall/winter launch scheduled for November 1, 2016. We are planning to do a couple of shows and vendor opportunities to market our brand. This gives us a chance to connect with our current clients and also gain new clients. Every encounter we have we look at it as a new friendship rather than a client. We want to build long lasting relationships. We know that 2017 will be a wonderful year for us because we are always working hard to better our brand.
 
How can readers find you online?
 
Please feel free to check out or website deladelamode.com and go follow us on Instagram @shopdeladelamode and Facebook @deladelamode

 Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:
My name is Shay Jackson-Turner and I am real estate specialists with Jackson Signature Realty. Real estate is my passion and I love assisting people with buying and selling their homes.  I am also a credit restoration consultant. Because I received so many questions about credit and approving for a mortgage, I decided to become a credit restoration consultant. My goal is to help rebuild my client's credit and help them become homeowners.
What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
What inspired me to pursue this line of work was when I bought my first investment property with my brother in my early 20's. My brother and I relied on someone that wasn't ethical through the process. I realized at that moment I should understand how real estate works for myself so I wouldn't find myself in another bad situation. As I learned more about real estate, I wanted to sell homes myself. I've had a passion for it ever since.
What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?
The advice I have for someone who  wants to pursue my line of work is to  must be patient. Real estate is not as easy as it looks on the reality shows and popular home networks. You must find a broker that will be there when you need them in your first couple of years. Having good support during the beginning of your career is very important. I can't stress that enough. Learn as much as you can about working in real estate because real estate school, in a nutshell just teaches you how to stay out of jail. When you finish the class you will feel like a fish out of water so you need to have good support.
Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
The professional challenges that I faced was how to set myself apart from the many others in my field. To overcome that, I realized I have to think outside the box, be my authentic self, and walk in the purpose God laid out for me and no one else. I also had to trust and accept that what God has for me is meant for me.
What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
What's next for my business is putting out real estate educational books and downloads. I love talking about real estate so I decided to share my knowledge with people. An informed and educated client is a happy client. I also plan on building my brand by doing a lot more marketing outside of social media. I want to expand my brand to another network of people.
How can readers connect with you online and through social media.
​Readers can connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Facebook. I also answer questions live and give advise on Periscope. @MzATLRealtor is my handle for all of my social media pages. I also give good real estate advice/tips on my real estate blog www.MzATLRealtor.com. Please subscribe to receive an update when I post a new topic.

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:

Hi everyone! My name is Jaisa Minor, and I am a motivational speaker specializing in empowering young women to develop the skills they need to lead. My mission is to provide aspiring female leaders with the tools and strategies to respond to the unique challenges they face during the transition from adolescence to adulthood. 


What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
As a student, I had the chance to be inspired by phenomenal speakers who encouraged me to become the best version of myself through their dynamic stories of perseverance and commitment. Now, there is a new generation emerging, and I want to pay it forward by using my experiences to help them fulfill their potential. 


What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?
Know why you want to do this. Be patient, but be persistent. Don't be afraid to follow up. Build relationships, create value for your clients, and be confident in what you have to offer.    


Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
I have dealt with the difficulty of not being able to find a professional mentor with a genuine interest in my career aspirations. I would like to have a consistent relationship with an established speaker who believes in my mission and can provide insight and guidance when I am facing challenges in my journey. I am continuing to work towards overcoming this by seizing opportunities to network in the speaking industry and meet new people. 

What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
I'm not sure where to begin. . .My website is launching in November, and I'll be continuing to partner with organizations that share my passion for helping girls succeed. On my site, I will be sharing insightful content on leadership development, as well as the inspiring stories of young women who are shaping the new generation of change agents. However, what I'm most excited about is the time I'll be spending making preparations for the relocation of my home and headquarters to New York City.

 How can readers connect with you online and through social media?
You can connect with me on Instagram @jaisaminor to network and stay updated on my website launch and all upcoming speaking engagements. Starting in November, you can find me at www.jaisaminor.com. 
​Please feel free to reach out and connect with  me. I'd be more than happy to hear from you.

​Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:

Hello Glambitious I AM readers! I am AJ Seng, and myself along with my daughters are the owners of Ellemired Couture, a company of Fashion Designers who are Courageous Conquerors of Low Self Esteem! We use Fashion as a way to advocate for young girls, and women who have the potential to influence young girls, by teaching them to own their beauty and discover their Superpower through Fashion.

What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?

Sketching clothes has been a passion of mine for years. When I was a young girl, there were times I couldn’t get the clothes or shoes I wanted because of our household finances, so I would sketch designs and look at them daily. Doing this helped me to grow an appreciation for my own style. Today, my inspiration comes from being a Mom, a Woman, an Auntie, and a Mentor because as a young girl on into my adult years, I dealt with Low Self Esteem. I didn’t realize the brilliance in myself and this carried over into my adulthood. 
When my oldest daughter experienced bullying, it brought up some old wounds. I saw her as my younger self and did not want her to ever feel like she wasn’t great enough or pretty enough. I didn’t want her to feel as if she had to be placed in a box based on how others feel she should look or act and end up forgetting herself while trying to live up to their expectations. These things were all too familiar for me because of my own experiences dealing with them. It led to me realizing that in order for my daughters to Rock their own lanes and love themselves I had to first set the foundation and love ME. As I helped her, I helped myself, and we both started to discover our Superpower. It also began to spread to my other daughters! 
While teaching them, I understood the importance of starting our girls at the foundation so they can grow into their limitless potential (Superpower)! 

What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?

Advice for those interested in a similar pursuit as me? Well, I had this all planned out for seven years and took no action until I finally decided to jump out there and do it! I tell my kids all the time live your dreams, fulfill your purpose, and have faith, but I was too afraid to operate in the same things I was telling them! 
While I attended college to pursue a degree in Fashion Design and Marketing, I saw how overwhelming the industry is and became engrossed in fear because there are Fashion Designers everywhere, but it all boils down to being true to yourself and OWNING your truth. I connected fashion with something I am passionate about which is helping girls to discover their Superpower. Once I tapped into my true self, the overwhelming sensation I was feeling was replaced with Peace and MY vision became clearer! So I tell you, if you have been sitting and dreaming about something, get out there and do it! Yes, there will always be another Fashion Designer or another online boutique, but who are YOU? There is not another you out there. Discover your unique fingerprint or God Given Purpose and get out there and do it! 

Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it? 

Sometimes, we can get so caught up doing what everyone else is doing instead of doing what we are called to do. This was a professional challenge I encountered when first starting my business. I was not operating in my niche or being true to my purpose. In an effort to help everyone, I was leaving behind those I was meant to reach. I thought I could help everyone, but it lead to me being exhausted and I confused a lot of people. So, I went back to the original vision and mission of my company, decided who I was serving, and began to make more of an impact by reaching out to those in my lane. We cause ourselves pain and stress trying to fit a mold we were never meant to fit into, so stay true to yourself. 
What is next for your brand/business in 2016? For 2016, our business will continue offering the line of empowering T-shirts and expand it to a full collection for girls 
Sizes XS-XL! Our love for fashion will continue to shine through as we host more of our “Beauty and the Masterpiece” events, help Non-Profit organizations, and get another High School Senior to Prom by awarding a Prom Dress! 

How can readers connect with you online and through social media?

You can connect and keep up with Ellemired Couture on our
website: www.ellemired.com or
across Social Media at the following: 
Instagram: @ellemired
Twitter: Ellemired
​Facebook: facebook.com/ellemired 

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:
Blessings!! My name is Lizann M. Destin and I am a Brand Manager, and a full time entrepreneur. I own a health and wellness company called Fitness As A Lifestyle, LLC. I manage my client’s brands, making sure the brand is where it needs to be for what they want out of their businesses/brand. I make sure its organized and I create opportunities for my clients, all while making sure they are positioned properly in every way. From marketing to organization.

What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
I am a Navy vet, ex federal employee, Clark Atlanta graduate in Mass Comm, I got my then dream opportunity, working for a news station right after college. I mention all of that to say that I wasn't fulfilled and my ultimate dream was being an entrepreneur. Communications and business have always been passions of mine. I wanted to be happy and truly take a chance in life. Leaving corporate America was by far one of the biggest risk I've taken! This area of interest chose me, and I've been making sure to do right by the path God put me on. I live for it! 

What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?
Take any fear you have and throw it away! Take risk and just make sure that you love what you’re doing. Don't worry about obstacles they will be there always and research, research!!

Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
The financial part of my journey has always been a challenge. Coming from knowing where my income was coming from and that it was coming every two weeks! To never knowing when that next big pay day is coming. Lol but you know one thing, God always provides! Prayer has helped me in so many ways, and when you truly believe in what you do, people will take notice of your hard work and the money will be there. I pray, I meditate, I grind, I believe and I do it all over again!

What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
Revealing the brains behind the operation! I will showcase more of what I do for my clients, building a website primarily on my brand management services. I am also adding a new element to my business providing personal assistant services as well. All while continuing to help my clients reach new heights. 

How can readers connect with you online and through social media?
You can follow me on Instagram: @ThePeoplesPublicist
Email me at Lizann@faalifestyle.com
and check out my business partner and major client @iamCoreyTaylor
Business site: Fitnessasalifestyle.com

Please introduce yourself and business to our readers: 
Tiffany Barnett, 30, Mommy of a 4-year-old Princess (Peyton) Property Management Professional by day and Event Planner/ Serial DIY'er by night
​
What inspired your pursuits in this industry? 
I was kind of just tossed into the industry, I had a cousin that was getting married and he told me that I had an "eye" for this type of thing so I was planning his wedding. It ended up being a lot of fun but I didn't pursue it. Fast forward a couple of years to my daughters 1st birthday, I wanted it to be EVERYTHING, so I picked my planning cap up, dusted it off and got to work. It was the most fun and rewarding experience ever.

What advice would you share with readers interested in pursuing a similar profession? 
Event planning can test the boundaries of your patience. I quit the day after every wedding, lol. But I come back for more each and every time because I love it.  As long as you are passionate and patient you can go far.
 
What has been your biggest professional challenge, and how did you conquer it? 
The biggest challenge that I've faced is the fear of letting down a client in any way. They trust me with the most important events of their lives so if it isn't the best day ever I would feel horrible. I had a time that I was so busy with my day job that I had a client feel that I wasn't "present" in the process. I felt horrible to say the least and it pushed me to execute their day in such a way that they told me that I exceeded their expectations, and I now make sure that I balance my "job", and being a mom by maintaining a very strict schedule (my calendar on my phone is my BEST friend).
 
What is next for you in 2016? 
2016 is just the beginning. I start a new decade of living, and I'm inspired to make this and every year going forward way more amazing than the last. The goal for the rest of the year is to rebrand and market myself more.
 
How can readers find you online? 
www.TiffanyBeeDesigns.com / IG : @Tiffanybeedesigns @Teebeepluspeyton

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers.

Hello, my name is Candice Coulter. I am an associate licensed therapist in North Carolina and the owner of High Maintenance Boutique, an online retail space that offers fashion forward, affordable clothing and accessories for the woman on the go. In short, one can call me a retail therapist. I believe that women should dress the way they want to be addressed and clothing is a powerful form of self-expression. One's style is a way to introduce yourself to the world without speaking.
 
What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?

I have always been passionate about fashion. I grew up in Charleston, SC where King St, a major retail location exists with rows of fabulous boutiques. My ultimate goal is to have High Maintenance Boutique on King St. Fashion has always been an outlet of self-expression for me and I believe the same for others as well. Nothing compares to seeing a woman's face light up when she tries on a dress or even a piece of jewelry that compliments her.
 
What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?

I would have to tell someone who is interested in pursuing a career in fashion to stay true to their personal style and do not attempt to conform to what everyone is doing or selling. Your unique style will always appeal to someone else.
 
Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it.

One challenge I overcame was learning the business of fashion and retail. I love fashion and know that I can put together fabulous looks, however having a business is more than cute outfits. It’s important to learn about the business aspect of your passion because it’s not a business if you aren't making money.
 
What is next for your brand/business in 2016?

For the remainder of 2016, I plan to prepare for 2017 by reflecting on all that I accomplished this year and how I can do things bigger and better in 2017.
 
How can readers connect with you online and through social media?
​
Readers can connect with me via
​Instagram @highmaintenancelife
Website: www.highmaintenancelife.com
Facebook: facebook.com/highmaintenancelife

Introduce yourself and profession to our readers:
Hello, my name is Aris Rhodes. I am currently a young professional and CEO of Inspire IT L.L.C. The parent company presenting PICK ME UP, a multi-faceted inspirational brand.
 
What inspired you to pursue this area of interest?
While going through some dark times and challenges, I took to my natural comfort zone of writing. I started writing affirmations and uplifting content in my notebooks. PICK ME UP was birthed as something solely for me and my personal growth. Then I thought, If this is something that I am doing for me, who else may need this too? Who else can I do this for?  How can I share inspiration with other people? 
 
It is not just for me anymore, it is intended for anyone and everyone who may need a PICK ME UP. I wanted to offer more than just an inspirational word or quote, I wanted to offer a product alongside that, something in the physical. After receiving a cool business card tacked onto the back of a mirror, it sparked something in me. I looked and researched and studied everything to the best of my ability. From the market to the design down to the manufacturing. I got busy. I decided to offer these handmade beauty mirrors containing my free-styled inspirational themes or messages on the backside. The idea was that someone will have this product, and on one side is the mirror where they see themselves and the other side is the inspiration that they may need. Inspiration is the heart of PICK ME UP, but I also offer the products (mirrors, buttons, magnets) custom tailored to clients for different purposes. The business being focused on inspiration helps because while working at it I am engulfed in it, I am surrounded by it, and so it literally does what I initially started it for, to PICK ME UP.  
 
What advice would you share with those interested in a similar pursuit?
Work from the inside-out! My biggest qualm is to offer something that I do not truly represent. So my advice is to primarily, work on the inside of you (your mind, heart, soul etc.) and strive for the best version of yourself. What you pour into you is what you will also pour out. Knowing that, I always consider myself a work in progress because I know that I am constantly building the best version of me. There are and will always be moments when I fall short, but that is where inspiration comes in. So make sure that you stay inspired as well, in whatever ways you can.
 
Discuss a professional challenge and how you overcame it:
To be completely honest, my most recent professional challenge that I still have not figured out completely, is connecting myself with my business. What I mean by that is, though this started for my own peace of mind, once I actually did start the business, I didn't want it to be about me. Not only am I an introvert by nature, but I never want to be pre-judged or even drown out the purpose and deflect from what this is all about. So that challenge is always in the back of my mind.
 
For instance, currently on my business page, I have not revealed exactly who I am. I have not posted one picture of myself. In my mind, my business page is solely for business and my personal page is for me. I always wanted my business to be a separate entity all together. So, outside of some nervousness or reservations about it, I've been very reserved about tying myself or other personal factors into my brand. I also felt that if there ever was a time to tie myself in, that I needed to have everything pristine and perfect before doing so. Idk, it could just be an excuse. lol I know that people do it successfully, but I just found it difficult for me.
 
Until today, I overcame that challenge by taking part in this interview. It was something that would require me to share from a more personal perspective. And also link together myself and my business. So simply put, in order to complete this, I had to give more of ME.
 
 
What is next for your brand/business in 2016?
Currently, I am working on new orders. In November, I will be providing custom mirrors as favors for a wedding design expo. It's pretty cool because I like to experience different avenues and potentially expand my clientele. In the long haul, what's next for PICK ME UP is whatever is in God's will. That is how I've operated, by just letting it flow, I keep learning and growing in this. I started small but I do have bigger dreams and bigger visions. My interests are ambidextrous and they range from inspiration to interior design. In the present, I just really hone in on the short term tasks and try to remain open to the future's promises. I will go as far as it takes me.
 
How can readers connect with you online and through social media?
currently alternate website is instagram.com/pickmeupsforyoutoo
My Instagram pages:
business page: @pickmeupsforyoutoo
personal page: @embracesbeauty
Facebook business page: Coming soon!