Issue 3: You Grow, Gurl

25

MEET DOMINIQUE BROADWAY

Award-winning Millennial Personal Finance Expert & Founder & CEO of Finances Demystified

#BLACKGIRLFOLLOWTRAIN Over 110.2 Million Women Join #BlackGirlFollowTrain Breaking The TikTok Algorithms

GRIND PRETTY

&

of

Mia Mimi Johnson

about

60

MEET CHEF MAVERICK Meet Los Angeles native Aaronique “Maverick” Kelly; The Wolfgang Puck caterer turned private chef and rooftop event owner

CONTENTS

MEET TIA COLEMAN 76

109

78

BLACK GIRLS HEAL

Meet your Relationship Coach, Shena Lashey , Founder of Black Girls Hea

82 YONIVERSITY ONLINE TRAINING ACADEMY PARTNER WITH WOMBILEE

86

88

WHY EMAIL IS THE KING OF COMMUNICATION FOR ENTREPRENEURS

Author,Founder & CEO of Manifesting Over Mimosas to create a Feminine Health & Hygiene The PreReq Mommy & Me + Wombilee course!

SISTAH GIRLS BOOK CLUB

A digital space where initiative meets literature

105

GRYL WONDER

A Bacon Magazine premiere community of 2023 that's shaping the next generation of Gyrl Leaders

107

OLUDARA ADEEYOAFFIRMATIONS FOR BLACK WOMEN: A JOURNAL

Meet Oludara Adeeyo , psychotherapist and author of Affirmations for Black Women: A Journal

BLACK GIRLS WHO WRITE 117

A community organization that provides a space for Black women entrepreneurs to write and publish their books about their businesses.

123

CREATE AN INSPIRING VISION BOARD SCREEN SAVER FOR YOUR PHONE GRL POWER LA 137 6 WAYS TO MANAGE STRESS; WHEN YOU HAVE A BUSINESS 141 PLANT KWEEN

Bacon Magazine: Issue 3 Cover Girl-Christopher Griffin, Plant Kween Exclusive Interview

OPTIMIZING YOUR TIME WITH A SCHEDULING SYSTEM

Contributions

Bacon Magazine

Editor-in-chief Andrea Harris-Walker

Creative Director

Staff Journalist Staff Journalist

Staff Journalist

Contributing Writer

Contributing Writer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Andrea Harris- Walker

Ingrid Moerno

Antoinette Davis Genell Reynolds Briana Ross

Carole Davis, MSW, LICSW

Tony Bowen Photography Johnathan Adjahoe

Diamond & Spikes Spikes Contemporary Eliza Alves, Base Image Jacob Lund

Ariana Smith Daniel Dash

Aji Gallery & Finn Whenlen Alena Shekhovtsova Syda Productions SHEVETS production LEPETTET TUBARONES

PHOTOGRAPHY

EDITORIAL OFFICE

333 Washington Blvd #653, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

IG: @thebaconmagazine | contact@thebaconmagazine com www.thebaconmagazine.com

Donate Today

Bacon is a nonprofit organization and leading authority for Black Women entrepreneurs. We amplify their ventures, narratives, successes & provide insights & business resources.

Your donation will help us to provide access to resources, tools, mentorship, and networking opportunities to aspiring and current Black Women Business Owners.

editor's note

To kickstart the movement towards success in this arena, invaluable advice - from those who have achieved their goals - has been shared alongside helpful tools that will prove essential for thriving businesses in years to come

Each issue of our publication brings us closer to understanding what creates successful entrepreneurs, with every cover girl and headliner offering wisdom & inspiration along the way.

Our Cover Girl Plant Kween, radiates charm and enthusiasm with her sweet fragrance I literally cried, laughed, leaped, and beamed with childlike joy after experiencing The Kween’s grace She is an inspirational figure admired for being a Plant Mama, Educator, Entrepreneur, LBGTQ Advocate, Fashion Icon Yoga Master - and delightful smile creator! Her undeniable presence can light up any room she enters

In 2023, we ' re committed to empowering Black Women Entrepreneurs through education and support

Bacon Magazine is honored to present You Grow, Gurl: an issue dedicated to the perseverance and brilliance of every melanated business owner Together with our allies, we aspire for a world where all are celebrated for their distinctiveness and passion. Leading this endeavor is Plant Kweena captivating force whose presence will bring joy to each page.

Andrea Harris- Walker

7NEWYEAR RESOLUTIONSFOR BUSINESSWOMENIN 2023

BY ANDREA HARRIS-WALKER PHOTOGRAPHY BY EL ZA ALVES, BASE IMAGE

A t start thinking about what they want their companies and teams to accomplish in 2023 Those goals include launching new products or continuing to build on the success of existing ones. As an entrepreneur, your ambitions veer toward reinventing your business's brand and online presence.

While 2023 has yet to unfold, current economic predictions and market conditions have shifted many owners' priorities. Finding ways to attract leads, retain customers and employees, and improve wellness and efficiency, are at the top of everyone's list. Despite the challenges, the following year may bring, establishing goals now can set your team and company up for success. Here are some resolutions for you to consider as a businesswoman.

Set Progressive Goals:

As a business owner, it's important to set progressive goals to help you stay motivated and on track With a plan and measurable goals, you can strive for success Setting progressive business goals can be like marathon running: You may be tempted to start running at full speed, but you'll want to pace yourself for the long haul. Set realistic yet ambitious goals to help take your business further without compromising quality or burning yourself out. Set checkpoints throughout the journey that challenge your team to go above and beyondwhen you've hit each target, set another one that is even more inspiring! It takes proper planning and an actionable plan to make sure these progressive business goals become a reality.

Your business is a series of reactions rather than proactive decisions. Set realistic yet ambitious goals that reward you for continued hard work, as every stone unturned will eventually lead to something bigger and brighter. As the saying goes, "the journey begins with one small step," so start setting your progressive goals today!

Leverage Social Media Channels:

Leveraging social media channels for business can be a great way to increase your bottom line -- if you're willing to do it right

Leveraging channels like Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and others require creative content and strategic thinking. Consider treating them all the same: each platform is unique and should be treated accordingly. The right recipe can unlock an abundance of success – just don't forget the secret ingredients! From building a brand reputation to acquiring new leads, leveraging Social Media Channels offers ample potential – so why not try it?

Networking & Authentic Connection:

Networking is often the key to building business relationships and expanding your client base, but true success comes from creating an authentic connection Networking isn't simply a matter of having an extensive personal network or attending an endless number of events; instead, it's about building absolute trust with the people you want to continue working with throughout your professional life. When it comes to solid business connections, understanding the nuance of developing an authentic relationship is the secret ingredient that can make all the difference.

FIND YOUR FLOW:

Business can be overwhelming; there's no question about it. Not only is it stressful to find yourself amidst complicated legal documents and intimidating meetings – but it can also be hard to find pleasure and fulfillment amidst all that! However, see your flow in a business, and you'll realize what a wondrous place this world of the hustle and bustle truly is Your passion will quickly supersede the pressures of getting things done Making strides toward what you want to becomeprofessional, reachable goals - will give you an exhilarating sense of accomplishment, creating enough drive to keep going throughout all the seasons of negotiating, developing, reviewing and strategizing There are high tides and low ones in businessfind your flow before both arrive!

7 NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESSWOMEN IN

7 NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESSWOMEN IN 2023

Incorporate Wellness:

Incorporating wellness and self-care into your business routine sounds like a luxury and something you simply couldn't fit in, but making time for is the smartest move you can make when striving to reach success. Incorporating time for yourself makes you more productive and ensures that you operate at peak performance. Plus, taking care of yourself shows that you value yourself as much as everyone else within your organization - setting an excellent example for everyone to follow! So don't procrastinate; make sure to build in some personal "me-time" moments throughout your day –maybe treat yourself with a coffee break, lunch outside, or a quick yoga session after work Your organization (and YOU) will thank you for it

Reading & Personal Development:

Reading and personal development are like peanut butter and jelly they're an unbeatable combination Although many entrepreneurs may not think of personal development as the first priority in their business endeavors, it could be the key to taking their company to a higher level of success Reading more often gives you knowledge that can further your skill set and expand your capabilities. Personal development is key to staying ahead of the competition while increasing your entrepreneurial savvy. Doing both will create a strong foundation for your business, taking it from an aspiring start-up to a successful enterprise. So make sure you give Reading & Personal Development equal billing when it comes to growing your business!

Meditation and Refelction:

Meditation and reflection should be seen as entrepreneurs' mise en scène of success It's not all about the hustle and grind; sometimes, you have to take a second to sit back and reflect on how you want your business to develop Meditation can help rejuvenate your creative drive and empower you with the vision of where you want to see your business expand Without taking the time to meditate, visualize and reflect, it may be difficult to propel your business forward because you won't be sure exactly what direction it should move in. Meditation is also a fantastic way for entrepreneurs to recenter themselves and stay grounded, leaving no room for doubt about their businesses. If entrepreneurs can clearly define their focus by meditation and reflecting, nothing will stand in their way when taking their business up a notch - or two!

Meet DominiqueBroadway

Founder & CEO of Finances Demystified

Remember when you learned all those financial tips at school? No, we don’t either. Dominique Broadway, a personal finance expert, did not only realize this issue but took the matter into her own hands and founded Finances Demystified

Dominique Broadway has had an entrepreneurial mindset since she was a young girl She went from selling handmade beaded bracelets to being the Vice President of her dad’s vending machine company when she was only 13 years old At 15, she became the Chief Operating Officer of a friend’s company that taught children how to use computer software

Aside from creating startup ideas and running businesses, she spent time learning about finances, including how to make money and the ins and outs of the stock market Dominique even gave advice on the matter to her friends

“I was always intrigued by money, the way it works and the most efficient ways to earn it and most importantly how to save it.”

–Dominique Broadway

But for Broadway, her drive and curiosity were not stopping there

Financial Demystified came to life a few years later when she started working at a major brokerage firm after college While she was amazed at the tactics the wealthy used to create their legacy for future generations, she also realized that the firm only focused on high-net-worth individuals, leaving aside those who weren’t there yet. By 2012, Dominique founded Finances Demystified, intending to educate others about personal finances.

Written By Ingrid Moreno

Award-winning Millennial Personal Finance Expert.

The company ’ s mission is to demystify finances and bring others’

Dreams2Reality As the founder, Dominique expands her knowledge to clients from different backgrounds but reserves a special spot for entrepreneurs and young, creative professionals She offers planning and coaching sessions and writes a blog that shares many tips and tricks on personal finances

Since founding Finances Demystified, the award-winning personal finance expert has been named Top Money Expert by Go Banking Rates, Top Financial Advisors in the United States for Millennials, and nominated for the Changemaker of the Year, thanks to her work with Financial Literacy

Broadway’s financial expertise has allowed her to teach others and transform personal finances into a social experience Her presentations make complex financial topics engaging and easy to understand Some of her signature topics include Financial Literacy & Money Education, Entrepreneurship & Personal Growth, and Women & Entrepreneurship

Dominique Broadway founded Finances Demystified to provide the financial knowledge we didn’t have at school and to fuel her mission to make wealth attainable for everyone.

Learn more about Finances Demystified’s coaching program visit:

https://www financesdemystified com

Over 110.2 Million Women Join

#BlackGirlFollowTrain Breaking The TikTok Algorithms

By Andrea Harris-Walker Photography By: Reese Miller

After far too long staying in the shadows, Black Women are leading a modern revolution - and they're using digital transportation to make it happen! Boats, planes, Amtrak trains, and ships have been carrying 110.2 million of these phenomenal ladies worldwide; with more joining their ranks daily as each embarks on her journey for autonomy within relationships, career opportunities, or simply creating new memories online without men degrading them. Ready your passports, everyone: this is an adventure you won't want to miss out on!

Do you need to take advantage of the train of success? Don't worry; you'll hear it blowing its whistle from miles away - tens of thousands of followers just in a few days is an unmistakable signal that Black Women are riding high!

Black women are ready to take the world by storm! No longer content with being overlooked and dismissed, they're uniting together in an unstoppable sisterhood that even 'Karens fear Always having provided strength within their communities, these influential ladies now demand recognition for all the fantastic things they can do. The #blackgirlsfollowtrain movement is paving a path towards true acceptance - it's time everyone steps aside and lets them thrust forward into success!

Ready to captain your social media ship? All you need is a "cut template," the hashtag #blackgirlfollwtrain, and an eagerness to follow those that show their support! Let's set sail

What have we learned by joining the train?

Black Women Are Open to Be Loved. Joining the train has proven to be an eye-opening experience! Black women have united in unprecedented unity, turning around outdated stereotypes of "mad black ladies "

Restoration & Connection:

Women on TikTok have something special to be thankful for - #BlackGirlFollowTrain allows them to make genuine connections without the usual anxiety of online socializing. This hashtag provides a muchneeded sense of restoration and hope, creating relationships between like-minded women who may feel lonely or overlooked in their digital journeys!

Jump on the train or be left behind - that's what some users have discovered as they receive a surge of followers; while those who've joined the ride have reached over 10,000 fans, others are still inching along their journey. With consistent content and social presence, however, even though you didn't join early, the party-goers will see your worth!

"If you stay ready, you ain't got to get ready."

Challenges While Traveling On The Digital Train:

Breaking the TikTok algorithm was a wild ride! We gained nearly 2,000 followers over two days - but there were unexpected bumps along the way. Users reported being "locked in TikTok jail" for daring to follow 50 accounts within an hour (slow and steady wins this race!). It just goes to show you: riding on trains always has its own set of rules... so watch where you step!

We noticed our followers dwindling, most likely from folks looking for a follow-back To maintain the integrity of our brand and keep things professional, we followed Business owners and pages instead. But don't worry - everyone was still invited to join in on all the fun! We offered free digital access to issue two no matter if you followed us; simply click that link in our bio!

We were hoping for a surge in new followers, but our numbers stayed as-is talk about deflating! We're trying to uncover why this happened

From the #BlackGirlFollowTrain to recent conversations on gender inequity, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: some white women just don't get it. Sure, they're asking why their clan isn't invited along for this progressive ride - little did they know that Black Women have been trying to board a train of equity and support since before…well, forever! Meanwhile, onlookers wonder if these faux-concerned critics will ever wake up from their slumber when faced with overwhelming evidence that systemic racism in America still exists? We'll see

Skin Folk who Aint Kin Folk:

You know the type: they don't understand why we should climb aboard this 'train' when it doesn't seem to fit our values. But luckily for us, there's a way to join in without losing sight of what matters!

Business owners and coaches who serve Black Women can leverage challenges like trains as an opportunity for massive exposure - not just a chance at more followers. So put on your marketing hat and jump onboard- you'll be glad you did!

Goldman and Sachs recognize what Bacon Magazine already knows: "an exclusive economy is achievable when we invest in, listen to, and learn from Black Women."

With the hashtag #Blackgirlfollowtrain as a starting point for understanding their needs and pushing them forward, these brave ladies have promised that if they don't get heard-they'll make sure the world listens!

Other users report that they have been on the train for over a week, and higher numbers are accumulated by those who are constantly posting the train daily.

We are on day three, and our account has reached over 2k.

We will continue to watch and report any changes to our account

Will you be joining the train?

Be sure to follow Bacon Magazine on TikTok.

https://www tiktok com/@thebaconmagazine

Grind Pretty

A Premier Community For Women In Business

Written By Genell Renoylds

Grind Pretty holds a unique space in the beauty industry Since 2017, women have come to freely pursue their dreams; it is a community, a magazine, and a subscription box of beauty products The Founder and CEO of Grind Pretty, Mia Mimi Johnson, has made it her mission to cultivate women on their grind As a makeup artist, she has worked with celebrities and gained notoriety The success of being an MUA led her to open a brick-and-mortar in Atlanta, Georgia Once opened, small businesses reached out constantly, hoping to promote their beauty products in her store Although COVID-19 has taken her brickand-mortar, her company has only taken upward strides

TheSubscriptionBoxes

Johnson uses her subscription boxes as a beckon for small businesses Customers ultimately get the same experience they had in her store The box comes with a celebrity on the cover and the magazine cover Inside the box, customers will find smaller black beauty products The box themes range from seasonal to mystery Johnson says that she simply started an inspirational and resourceful blog, which evolved into a subscription box catapulting brands into fruition

“Grind Pretty connects its audience with business experts, influencers, and other entrepreneurs, to motivate women to build their own empires”

Founder & CEO of grind pretty, Mia Mimi Johnson

Mimi Johnson is a celebrity makeup artist and brand architect with over 15 years of experience She is the owner and CEO of The Glamatory Makeup Line & Grind Pretty When she's not creating long-lasting vegan makeup in the lab, she fulfills her duties as the Creative Director of Hype Hair Magazine

Click HereTo Follow Grind Pretty On Instagram

##YOTa YOTa

The Membership

The membership for Grind Pretty allows women to “find their tribe ” There are two membership options, and both are priced affordably Membership includes building a solid network, gaining exposure, receiving newsletters, exclusivity, and so much more Clark Atlanta University graduate, Johnson, earned her B A degree in marketing and currently has over 40,000 followers on Instagram

“Anything is possible with faith, hard work, connections, balance, education, and a supportive tribe ”

The Magazine

The Festival

GrindPrettyFest2023

On April 22, 2023, Johnson will host the 3rd annual Grind Pretty Fest 2023 There is a $5,000 grant competition, interactive demos, live DJs, VIP brunch, and more Tickets are now available for this Atlanta experience, and there is also an option to attend virtually This event spans two days and will be a 90’s themed party

Click the click to visit the website and learn more about what Grind Pretty has to offer https://grindprettycom

Financial Fitness

C H E C K L I S T F O R E N T R E P R E N E U R S

WRITTEN BY: ANDREA HARRIS-WALKER PHOTOGRAPHY BY SYDA PRODUCATIONS

The new year brings with it a feeling of renewal and focus. Gyms are buzzing, Pelton classes abound, and individuals everywhere are dedicated to their personal development goals. For entrepreneurs looking to make an impact in 2023be sure your mental well-being is prioritized alongside learning the ropes in an ever-changing market landscape and keeping finances on track for success!

After the pandemic-induced economic downturn, savvy entrepreneurs are taking the appropriate steps to establish a firm foundation and financial stability for their businesses. With comprehensive planning and thoughtful execution, you can be well-positioned to weather current market uncertainty while propelling your venture toward future success.

It can be easy to get distracted by all the possibilities, but having a checklist is vital to keeping you on track. We've put together 8 areas of focus and opportunity so that you can make 2023 your most financially successful year as an entrepreneur yet!

“I deserve to be financial confident and fit”. -Affirmation

A F F I R M A T I O N

I release all resistance to attracting money.

mind and work ethic is a powerful magnet for

"My

wealth and abundance.

"

MATTIE JAMES AND HER Everyday MAGIC.

Find the Magic in your everyday life

Written By Ingrid Moreno

Talking about a true role model, Mattie James achieved all her dreams regardless of the life difficulties thrown her way. She went from reading her mother's favorite magazines (Family Circle Woman's Day InStyle ) to becoming a well-known blogger and full-time influencer There were a lot of ups and downs for her, but that did not stop her from starting a family to turning her blog into a six-figure business

After Mattie became a full-time entrepreneur, blogger, and YouTuber, she wrote her first book, Everyday MAGIC. James was inspired to write this book based on her found a balance between her business and her family She highlights how you handle life before you can handle a business.

Everyday MAGIC encourages you to go after what you want and create a life that fulfills you with joy, tranquility, and love Mattie remarks that she did not write the book to "tell you who you aren't. It was written to remind you who you are and that you're more than enough."

The book constantly empowers her readers with guidance, self-care practices, and boundaries that allow them to focus on what matters most. She also brings up in the book the importance of a life where perfection is not essential but rather the willingness to commit and remain present

James mentions that becoming a mother brought new challenges to her life in ways that her business did not, but somehow the lessons learned from motherhood prepared her to face some difficult and inevitable situations in her career

"Magic is something I needed to hold onto as my business and my family grew" - Mattie James.

MAGIC is how she made it all work Mattie's book wraps around how to do the daily routine, from incorporating self-care activities into your everyday life to making time for special moments with the family. What her readers should take from her book is that you must do what will fulfill you with pure happiness

This mother of three, wife, full-time entrepreneur, blogger, and the author made it work! She is now happily married with three beautiful children and has magically balanced her personal and professional life Mattie achieved everything that mattered most to her and made the impossible obtainable.

Now, grab a copy of Everyday MAGIC - The Joy of Not Being Everything & Still Being More Than Enough and find the Magic in your everyday life

Instagram: @themattiejames Blog: Mattie James

3Questionsto

Bacon Magazine

Wrrtten By Andrea Harris-Walker

3 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF FOR DEVELOPING YOUR BRAND IDENTITY

When it comes to developing your brand identity, it is important to take a step back and ask yourself three key questions By asking yourself these questions and taking the time to answer them with thoughtful consideration, you can gain clarity on who your core audience is and how to market to them Let’s explore what those three questions look like

Who Am I?

This question may seem obvious but it is important to take the time to really think about this Who am I as a brand? What do I stand for? What do people know me for? How do I tell my brand's story in a unique way?

Who Do I Serve?

Who are you serving? Are they mothers? Are they college students? Are they entrepreneurs? It's important to take an honest inventory of who you are serving so that you can create content that speaks directly to them

How Do I Serve Them?

Once you know who your core audience is, the next step is figuring out how best serve them. How do you help solve their problems? What value do you provide? This can be anything from providing free resources or offering a membership program with exclusive discounts or tips Taking time to understand the needs of your target customer will help inform how best serve them

Your brand should communicate the value that you bring and why people should choose you over another business or product in the same space You want customers to have an emotional connection with your brand so they recognize it when they see it again and remember why they chose it in the first place Think about what makes your business unique and different – use this information as part of your branding efforts

Developing a brand identity requires more than just having a logo or color scheme – it requires understanding who your core customer base is and how best serve them, as well as communicating what makes you unique from others in your industry Taking time answer these three key questions will help give clarity when creating content that speaks directly to those customers and solidify their trust in your products or services With strong customer service, great branding, and thoughtful marketing strategies, there’s no limit on where you can take your business!

Local Highlight

Meet Los Angeles native Aaronique “Maverick” Kelly; The Wolfgang Puck caterer turned private chef and rooftop event owner.

Written By Andrea Harris-Walker

In 2018 Chef Maverick developed Mav Sauce and Mav Snacks, gourmet cannabis-infused snacks, an edibles brand specializing in handmade gluten, soy, and GMOfree products, and now they're we are adding more to the menu. Maverick, the Chopped 420 season 5 finalist and entrepreneur, has been in high demand flying all around the world from Puerto Rico to New York, serving VIP clients a luxurious experience they will remember.

Now this Chef is coming in 2023 hot, looking to spread the love with their newly opened event and private space, High Tower Cloud Lounge.

At the Hight Tower, you can host anything from your next game night, wedding, private dinner, or photo shoot. They offer several services to assist with curating high-end intimate experiences.

The space is a 1600 SQ Foot 2 bedroom penthouse with a private rooftop deck turned into the dopest, HIGHest vibes of DTLA.

The location features a private rooftop deck, two rooms that can be used as lounge or event space, 2.5 bathrooms, a full commercial kitchen, and HIGH-end finishing touches.

The High Tower assists in creating customized menus, graphics, and marketing, offers catering services and helps with event staffing, servers, security, and event rentals.

It's obvious Chef Maverick aims to provide a stellar dining experience, and the menu and ambiance serve "a California dream."

visit: http://www.chefmaverick.com www.hightowerdtla.com

What Are Your Wildest Dreams For Your Business And Your Personal Life For 2023?

By Carole Davis, MSW, LICSW Photography By Alena Shekhovtsova

Write Them Down and on them Reflect Weekly.

As women, we tend to shrink ourselves into small places, especially when we are not yet comfortable with our success You have already done a remarkable job making your mark last year by stepping out of your comfort zone and starting or growing your business As you move into ‘23, you will be busy maintaining current successes and planning the next steps

Yet, it is also important to develop a greater, overarching set of Dream Goals you desire to achieve This next-level thinking nourishes ‘The Sky’s The Limit’ inspiration that can keep your vision fresh while you focus on day-to-day operations

Schedule Time Each Week to Nourish Elevated Thinking

Dreaming big also helps you see things around you differently You are surrounded daily by opportunities, some of which could open doors to your dreams Yet, you may not recognize them if you have not taken the time to think about and envision future goals or if you are only focused on your next steps or quarterly goals

This kind of intentionality can set the stage for trying something new, accepting a unique offer, or exploring new collaborations and partnerships that may set the stage to elevate you and your business to be the next big thing

Daily Action is the Engine of Progress

Keep your attention focused on yourself and your business. Limit your exposure to negativity and people who do not believe in your vision. Make a list of any actionable steps you can take toward your dream personal and professional goals. Divide the list into four and make each list a goal sheet for Q1 through Q4 over the year.

Commit yourself to doing one small thing toward your business and/or professional dream goals each day The consistency of actionable steps builds momentum and paves the way for dreams to become a reality

The workbook, Elevate to a New Path: Reworking Life After the Pandemic, will be available for download on January 17th, 2023 Pre-order your copy at wwwTheMochaCupcom

Carole Davis, MSW, LICSW is a masters level Licensed, Clinical Social Worker and founder of The Mocha Cup, an online Life Coaching and Therapy Service Specializing in teaching women how to live healthier life both mentally and emotionally

MEET BLACK GIRLS GRADUATE

Written By Andrea Harris- Walker

A Premier community and ultimate career and finance resource.

Black Girls Graduate is an online resource dedicated to inspiring and empowering black girls to change the narrative of black women and advocate for educational attainment and professional careers among women of color.

"We envision a resource to help provide opportunities for women of color to be equally empowered to achieve higher education and job and economic security."

Located in Chicago Illinois, this community and campus offer an exceptional virtual experience for women of color looking for opportunities for expansion. From internships to jobs, and events to advice from others in the game, bacon magazine considers Black Girls Graduate a premier community and network for our readers.

To learn more about membership, resources, and internships visit

https://blackgirlsgraduate com

Red Love

Written By Andrea Harris-Walker Photography By: Aji Gallery & Finn Whenlen

Valentine's Day is right around the corner,

And it's time to start thinking of the perfect gift for your special someone With so many options, deciding what to buy for your partner can take time That's why we ' re here to help! Whether you ' re shopping for a traditional couple, a same-sex couple, or someone who loves them both, this guide will provide you with a few unique gift ideas sure to make this Valentine's Day one that won't soon be forgotten

Gifts for Him

Consider thoughtful gifts like personalized cologne sets if you are shopping for an all-male couple. You can find custom colognes online with notes of sandalwood, citrus, and other scents explicitly designed for men Another idea is an excellent shaving kit with all the essentials, like razors and shaving cream. Consider including some complimentary aftershave balm as well!

Gifts For Her

Is your partner female? Then go the traditional route by buying chocolates and flowers! Chocolate is always a classic Valentine's Day staple, and there are countless options available depending on her preference from dark chocolate truffles to gourmet truffle boxes filled with delicious flavors like raspberry and caramel Surprise her with candy hearts or gummy bears in pink and red packaging if she has more of a sweet tooth! And don't forget about flowers roses are always beautiful but don't forget about other types of blooms like hydrangeas or lilies too!

Gifts For Them & They

Finding the perfect gift can be tricky when shopping for couples who don't identify as male or female not to worry, though, because there are plenty of great options! An easy option is getting them something they can enjoy together, such as dinner at their favorite restaurant or tickets to an upcoming movie showing Or, if you want something more personalizable, consider customizing items like mugs or candles with their initials or inside jokes Only the two of them would understand No matter what you choose, make sure it reflects how much their relationship means to you and how much joy they bring into your life daily!

No matter who you ' re buying gifts for this Valentine's Day a traditional couple, a same-sex couple, or someone who loves them both we hope this guide helped spark some ideas on what kind of presents would make your loved ones smile this year! Whether it's personalized cologne sets or custom mugs emblazoned with inside jokes only they understand, these gifts will show them just how much love you have for them this holiday season! Happy Shopping, everyone!

BACON MAGAZINE

TIA COLEMAN PRIZE I AM THE

WRITTEN BY ANDREA HARRIS-WALKER

Meet Tia Coleman, Founder of Manifesting Over Mimosas and author of I Am The Prize.

Coleman, a 2016 graduate of Florida A&M University, founded a networking event for North Florida women professionals and entrepreneurs of color after discovering the lack of resources and representation within her community.

This passionate and fiery entrepreneur helped women establish over 100 new businesses after her first event (talk about a trailblazer, whew)! And now, she's expanded her reach but incorporating her number 1 selling book, I Am The Prize.

About the book:

I Am The Prize is an excellent confidenceboosting book for any entrepreneur who wants to hone authority, practice living their authenticity, and change their worth.

Coleman states, "You can't afford to doubt your greatness because if you're too busy doubting it, you'll never work to manifest it I wrote this book for the winners who know that they can create opportunities for others and contribute more to their communities when they win. This book is a guide to help dreamers maintain a winning mindset, discover their worth, AND demand it. It's a manifesto for gogetters to pursue their goals with deliberation, intent, and focus. It's an inspiring reminder to let their light shine because YOU ARE THE PRIZE!"

To learn more about Tia, Manifesting Over Mimosas, and I Am The Prize, visit:

Black Girlsheal

Premiere Community

Written By Ingrid Moreno

Meet your Relationship Coach, Shena Lashey , Founder of Black Girls Heal

Based out of Houston, Texas, Shena Lashey is a woman of many talents. She is a Relation Trauma and Attachment Specialist, Licensed Professional Counselor, Love Addition Coach, podcaster, and founder of Black Girls Heal.

Shena’s private practice focuses on helping women heal from unresolved childhood relational trauma, love addiction, and changing relationship patterns.

Her dedication to the cause led her to create Black Girls Heal, an online community that helps women of color break cycles of unavailable relationships and low self-esteem through a group coaching program. The goal is to assist them in overcoming unresolved childhood traumas as they learn to be more open and vulnerable to others.

BLACK GIRLS HEAL

Black Girls Heal also hosts a podcast in which Shena shares her knowledge on attachment, internal healing wounds, and intimacy. Lashey uses a mixture of personal stories, real-life examples, psychoeducation, pop culture, and research to speak to relate and connect with her audience

Lashey is a “lifelong learner and student” and a well-respected speaker. Her powerful and influential voice and expertise have expanded her message across the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, and many more. She has spoken at communitybased events, online summits and platforms, and several radio shows and podcasts.

Shena Lashey has not only changed the lives of many women but also empowers them every day while teaching them the power of vulnerability and self-love. She prides herself in providing practical tools for these women to make way for the love they want and live their best life.

Lashey is the voice of wisdom you can’t miss. Learn more about her recovery school program on the website and tune in to her podcast on all available platforms.

To learn more, visit https://www.blackgirlsheal.org

WhyEmailIsTheKing OfCommunication ForEntrepreneurs

BY ANDREA HARRIS-WALKER Photography By: SHVETS production

Despite the rise of social media, email remains the most effective way to market to customers and potential customers. It's a reliable, costeffective way to reach an engaged audience without worrying about algorithms or other obstacles that may arise from platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Let's explore why email remains the king of communication for entrepreneurs.

WHYEMAILISTHEKINGOF COMMUNICATIONFOR ENTREPRENEURS

Emailisstilloneofthemostcost-effectivewaystocommunicatewithyouraudience, and there are various free and inexpensive options available if you ' re on a tight budget.Plus,emailmarketingallowsyoutotargetyourmessagetospecificgroupssuch as existing customers or prospects in certain geographic areas - so you can focusyoureffortsonthosemostlikelytobeinterestedinyouroffer.

Emailalsooffersbettertrackingoptionsthansocialmediaplatforms,soyoucaneasily measureeachcampaign'ssuccessandadjustaccordingly Thisallowsentrepreneurs to save time and money by focusing their efforts on working movements instead of spendingtimeandmoneyonineffectivestrategies.

Finally, email offers more personalization options than social media does. You can tailoremailsbasedonage,interests,purchasehistory,etc,whichwillhelpyoucreate content that resonates with each person Personalized emails have higher open and click-through rates than generic messages sent out en masse, so this is an essential factor for entrepreneurs who want to optimize their efforts for maximum return on investment(ROI).

Overall, it's clear that email remains the king regarding effective communication for entrepreneurs Not only is it cost-effective and customizable, it also offers better trackingoptionsthanitscompetitorssoentrepreneurscanensurethey'regettingthe best ROI possible from their campaigns The next time you ' re looking for an effective way to reach customers or prospects, consider leveraging email as part of your marketingstrategy!

www.thebaconmagazine.com

Yoniversity Online Training Academy partnered with WombILee to create a Feminine Health & Hygiene The PreReq Mommy & Me + Wombilee course!

Written By Genell Renoylds

"From orgasms to pregnancy to period cramps to infertility, women are clueless We live in these bodies most, if not our whole lives, with little knowledge about our anatomy and how to keep ourselves healthy Typically, we are told a few truths about our reproductive system at the time of our first menstruation, and the rest is up to us to figure out The daunting reality is we don't know where to start and what is true"

Kim Morris, owner and founder of Yoniversity Online Training Academy, decided to create a space for women to understand their own bodies In 2017, Morris birthed this powerful idea targeting woman ' s overall health Now in 2023, she's gotten the attention of Wombliee to educate and create a PreReq course for mothers and daughters ages

Wombilee, the natural menstrual pad company, was founded in Dallas, Texas, USA, by entrepreneurs C Nichole and Raffinae LaJuan

The founders of Wombilee believe, "Women must take their health into their own hands, and it's only recently that menstrual pads are being made with cotton and fewer chemicals, toxins, and dyes "

Wombilee is 100% women-owned, so the public knows that the founders behind the company understand womanhood and that they, too, have menstrual cycles Both founders of Wombilee are of African descent and understand the history of the lack of care given to bodies regarding women of color, and they want to help change that From 7 layers of protection to the Graphene strip that helps keep one ' s pH balanced while inhibiting bacteria, "it's time to heal our wombs." Wombilee officially launched on March 13, 2022

These entrepreneurs have created a PreReq course combining their knowledge and expertise to help mothers and daughters

"Our goal at YOTA is to provide women with alternative feminine health care options, education, and resources globally We hope that our training with your daughter/s fosters a divine connection, a memorable experience, and empowers you to reclaim your womb health"

All mommies who join us will get 50% off the regular enrollment fee of $197, and all daughters are free!

Written by Ingrid Moreno

We'resizzling,baby!

SizzleBlog

Photo Credit: Benjamin Romero

Sistah GirlsBook Club

Theyearof reading

Sistah Girls Book Club comes together to celebrate black authors and bring them closer to their readers An online community dedicated to promoting books written by Black authors from the Black diaspora.

It all started with a simple online conversation about books, where the founder Sharee Hereford, posted pictures of the books she was reading on Instagram and other women began asking about them They eventually bought them and discussed the books in her comment section

Sharee saw this as an opportunity to create a digital space where all these women “could connect, converse, and share their love for reading” From then on, the Sistah Girls Book Club was born.

The power of digital media and word-ofmouth allowed them to grow the community further and engage with other talented Black women across all age groups who share a passion for Black literature They have used innovative marketing campaigns to elevate the visibility of Black authors and the community.

Sistah GirlsBook Club

discussions, giveaways, contests, and an editorial team

Now, the club hosts many book discussions, giveaways, and contests for its members, including their black independent author signing, Behind the Pen. In New York City, the event is an authentic literary experience where readers can meet the authors who inspired them face-to-face. They also have an editorial team that produces monthly content featuring books by Black authors, bookish content, and news happening within the literary community

Sistah Girls Book Club @SistahGirlsBookClub

The first signing back in August 2017 included 20 authors and sold over 250 tickets, selling out four months in advance.

“I wanted to physically recreate our online book club A day to celebrate black authors and bring our community of readers together.”

- Sharee Hereford about Behind the Pen

All this hard work comes from the Sistah Girls Book Club’s brilliant leaders: Sharee Hereford - Founder, Lissa Marie - Brand Ambassador, Saida Gordon - President; and Alexis Moore - Brand Ambassador & Book Reviewer

Sistah Girls Book Club

But their creativity continues beyond there

You can also listen to their Sistah Girls Podcast and subscribe to their Sistah Girls Newsletter to receive the latest content from author interviews, book releases, and more.

Don’t forget to stay tuned for their upcoming Behind the Pen in 2023. Instagram: @sistahgirlsbookclub

Sistah Girls Book Club

BRANDING WITH BRIANA WHERE SHOULD YOUR FOCUS BE THIS YEAR?

By Briana Ross Hello Briana Consulting

The New Year typically starts with high energy, and it has us super excited about everything in store. Other times we can feel overwhelmed and even unsure about the direction we should take. No matter where you lie on the spectrum I want to dive into where your focus should be this year as you take action to grow your business.

I recently had an interesting conversation with a client about how things are shifting in the online space. There’s a lot of conversation about launching, what is no longer working, how to pivot, and so much more.

BRANDING WITH BRIANA

I’mheretotellyouregardlessofwhatanyonesays, youhavetostaytruetowhatfeelsalignedwithyou.

Many of us coaches and consultants in the online space share what has worked for us and our clients, but as we know the field of entrepreneurshipismassiveandthejourneycan lookdifferentforeveryone.

Becauseofthis,youhavetobeconfidentinthe avenue you choose, especially if it aligns with how you like to do things It doesn’t matter if someone is saying it doesn’t work because we know that everyone’s life and business are differenteveniftheydohaveafewsimilarities.

BRIANAROSS,FOUNDER&CEO, HELLOBRIANACONSULTING

Nowyoucanrestassuredthatthingsaredefinitelychangingintheonline space. People are tired of being sold to all the time, they’re vetting products and services more in-depth, and they’re tired of the super polishedunrelatablebrands.

Now, this is new to many, but I have seen this shift happening all along I personallythinkthepandemicputus inaninterestingspace.Peoplespent more time online, were more readily spending, and some even had a lot more time to themselves. Although we aren’t “post-pandemic,” we’re definitelygettingtoa“newnormal.”

Withthisinmind,therearefourareas Ibelieveyoucan’tgowrongfocusing onthisyear.Readytodivein?

Nowisthetimetobuildcommunity.

We can look at this from two perspectives. Not only do I want you to think about how you can create a private community for your audience, but I also want you to join communities, and surround yourself withlike-mindedpeople.Someofmy most successful seasons in business occurred when I had a private Facebook group, a membership program, and a group cohort for my 12-WeekProgram.

Now, I do believe in practicing what I preach, so here’s how I am expanding my network: In the summer of 2021, we relocated from Georgia to Orlando, Florida. I have honestly never been happier, but despite me being really sociable, movingturnedmeintoahermit.

ovebeingathome,butIrealizedthat it’s time for me to get out more Because of this, I decided to join a networking community of professionalsandentrepreneurs.

Although I have just recently joined, I am excited about the connections and friendships that will develop. Think about how you can not only build your own community, but also join communities that allow you to growandpourintoothers.

Expand your mindset and actively taketimetolearnmore.

Most of the growth we desire lies in mindset work rather than strategy. Building your mindset is an ongoing journey, because you have to shed the beliefs that were passed on to you and even picked up throughout your life.Everyone starts in a different place when it comes to mindset work, but anyone that I have known to really take the time and do the work has seen such beautiful growth in their personal and professional lives. Uncover those subconscious limiting beliefs, and consistently take time to rewire them It will take time, but when you learn to appreciate and enjoy the journey it can really makeadifference.

I also don’t want you to be afraid to invest, but I do want you to make sure youvetthebrandsyouwanttoworkwith to ensure their style works for you. When you decide to invest in anything be sure to give it your all, so you can maximize your results and get the best return on investment. If you aren’t in a place to invest money yet, a low-cost way to invest is by researching books that align with your goals, buying, and reading them. Now, I can personally say that I’ve learned some of the best strategies through reading books about personal development, business, branding, and marketing. This does require time, however, when you are investing it’s important to remember that you will always have to invest either time or money,andsometimesboth.

Getcomfortablesharingyourexpertise, positioning your brand, and allowing youraudiencetogettoknowyou.

Who you are as an expert is at the core of your brand, especially if you have a service based business. Even with a product based business, if you can highlight you expertise around the products you sell, you can definitely set yourself apart. Get comfortable putting yourself out there This can look like simply showing your face on social media and talking to your audience, going live, attending events, hosting events,andsomuchmore.

Whentheimpostersyndrometriestokick inrememberthatyoudoknowyourstuff. Whatseemstobecommonknowledgeto you isn’t to your audience, so don’t hold back. Even your way of sharing your expertise can give people new insight and a new perspective. This allows your audience to start to get to know you. In my opinion, teaching makes it easier to start being more transparent with your audienceandstorytell.

Diversify your content and marketing strategy.

The online space is shifting, but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. In fact, I inviteyoutoembracetheshiftandmake the most out of it. Creating content can be overwhelming especially when you’re a solopreneur or have a service when you’re actually working in the business with your clients. Because of this I want you to take a different approach to content creation. Instead of feeling like youalwayshaveto“create,”whynotstart documenting more? Document what you’re working on in your business, how you’re supporting your clients, and what yourdaytodaylifeandbusinesslooklike. Thistakestheoverwhelmingstructureout of content creation, it allows you to get more video content, there’s less thought around what to say because you’re simply talking about what you’re already doing, and I’ve noticed this type of content spark a lot of engagement. Diversifying your content can look like creating or repurposing different pieces of content across one or multiple platforms, but ultimately it’s about creatingcontentindifferentforms.

Some content may be video based or audio based, or it may be a series of graphicsorpictures.Iencourageyouto test things out to see what type of content you enjoy creating the most and what your audience engages with. When it comes to diversifying your marketing strategy, I want you to think outside of the box You don’t have to solelyrelyonsocialmediatogetclients or customers. Start building or utilizing yourmailinglist,leverageyourwebsite, and get out there and meet people. There are so many ways to grow your business, but you have to be willing to trythingsoutinordertoseewhatworks.

Nomatterwhereyouareinbusinessor your professional career, remember that you are capable of seeing the growth you desire. Get clear on what you want to accomplish and how you want to approach your goals Don’t obsess over the how too much though, because sometimes it’s when things don’tgoasplannedthatthingsactually work out for the better. Simply take action as best as you can, continue to pour into yourself, and remember that youarecapable.

A Bacon Magazine premier community that's shaping the next generation of Gyrl Leaders

ByAndreaHarris-Walker

Gyrl Wonder is an innovative professional pipeline 501c3 initiative giving rise to ambitious young women of color ages 1723

Rooted in professional development, access and opportunity, and mental and physical health & wellness, Gyrl Wonder exposes and prepares mentees for the careers and opportunities of tomorrow today

“The mission is to empower through social impact and career development while producing incredible and quality talent ready to take their careers to the next level.”

Gyrl Wonder equips the young woman who has found her passion with the toolkit necessary to turn her interests into a career They work with their incredible brand partners to provide support through entrylevel career opportunities and their programming, community service, mentorship, and flagship initiative, the Gyrl Wonder Leadership Academy, which introduces young gyrls to purposeful exploration aligned with their passions and skillsets.

Gyrl Wonder also offers internship placement for college girls within their program, career development for recent college graduates, and resume and interview preparedness workshops to all!

To learn more about Gyrl Wonder visit: https://www.gyrlwonder.org

MEET GYRL WONDER

OPTIMIZING YOUR TIM WITH A SCHEDUL SYSTEM

Written by: Andrea Harris-Walker Photography By: Daniel Dash

Being an entrepreneur is a challenging task, and it takes dedication, hard work, and, most of all, effective time management. With so many tasks on your plate daily, it's important to stay organized and prioritize your activities accordingly One way to ensure you can manage your time in the best possible way is by implementing a scheduling system into your daily workflow. Let's explore why scheduling systems are so beneficial for entrepreneurs and why they work

What Is A Scheduling System?

A scheduling system is an online tool designed to make managing your calendar easier and more efficient It allows you to organize meetings and events, set reminders for upcoming tasks, keep track of deadlines, plan projects, and much more. Automating specific functions within the system, such as sending out meeting requests or setting up reminders for essential tasks, eliminates the need to perform these actions manually. This means less time spent on mundane tasks and more time focused on getting things done!

Benefits Of A Scheduling System

Using a scheduling system has many benefits for entrepreneurs For one, it helps streamline organizing meetings and events by automatically sending out invites and confirming responses.

Additionally, it allows you to plan out longerterm projects quickly by adding multiple tasks into one timeline view, which can be easily adjusted as needed. Finally, a scheduling system also provides an easy way to set reminders for upcoming deadlines or tasks that need to be completed - helping ensure that nothing gets missed or forgotten about!

Using A Scheduling System Effectively

It's important to remember that while a scheduling system can make managing your calendar easier and more efficient, it's still important to use it effectively to get the most out of it! To do this, make sure you're taking advantage of all the features available such as setting up recurring meetings or events in advance; creating different timeline views so you can easily adjust them when needed; setting up automated reminders for upcoming deadlines; syncing with other calendars if necessary; and utilizing any additional tools or integrations available (such as Google Calendar). All of these features will help maximize the effectiveness of your scheduling system!

An effective scheduling system is essential for entrepreneurs who want to optimize their time management skills It automates mundane tasks like sending meeting requests or setting reminders and allows you to create timelines for long-term projects quickly and efficiently. Knowing how best to utilize all the features available will ensure that you are getting the most value from your scheduling system - helping take some of the stress away from managing your day-to-day activities! So go ahead and try it today - you won't regret it!

O l u d a r a A d e e y o

Psychotherapist and Author

Interview By: Andrea Harris-Walker

Photography by: Johnathan Adjahoe @jcka photo

MEETOLUDARAADEEYO, PSYCHOTHERAPISTANDAUTHOR OFAFFIRMATIONSFORBLACK WOMEN:AJOURNAL

Oludara Adeeyo is dedicated to advocating for Black women's wellness, having established herself as a psychotherapist and author. She first made her mark on the literary world as an associate web editor at Cosmopolitan Magazine and managing editor of XXL. Based out of Los Angeles, California, Oludara has recently released Affirmations For Black Women: A Journal, further cementing her commitment to helping empower those she cares most about.

Affirmations for Black Women: A Journal offers 100+ Positive Messages and Prompts to Affirm Your Self-Worth, Empower Your Spirit, & Attract Success.

Adeeyo states, "In a world that perpetuates negative stereotypes about Black women, it's more important than ever to affirm Black women for their power, brilliance, and bravery. With Affirmations for Black Women: A Journal, Black women will find more than 100 affirmations from their emotional, mental, and physical well-being, to the practical, professional, and social aspects of their lives. You'll also learn why affirmations are essential for Black women to heal from misogynoir effects, build up their confidence, build a selfcare practice, and much more. You'll discover how to apply affirmations to your daily life and use them in order to manifest what you desire and deserve".

Oludara had a moment to catch up with Bacon Magazine for an exclusive interview to speak briefly about her work, mindset, and second book, Here's the 411:

As a psychotherapist and author of SelfCare for Black Women, what led you to create your second book, Affirmations for Black Women: A Journal?

In Self-Care for Black Women, I introduced practical ways for Black women to begin and maintain a radical self-care journey. This is because I believe that the best way to improve your wellbeing is to start practical until it becomes instinctual. Affirmations for Black Women: A Journal felt like the proper follow-up to put into action what readers were taught with the first book.

Additionally, affirmations and journaling have been such an important part of my self-healing journey. Through these two practices, I found my inner confidence to create a life I love. Affirmations for Black Women: A Journal is all about asking Black women to love on themselves by removing the negative distractions in their lives and look within so that they can manifest their life goals.

How important is positive messaging and prompts to improve one's self-esteem?

Very important. The way we talk to ourselves matters the most because our thoughts impact our behaviors. If you are constantly drowning your mind in criticism and judgments about yourself, you will internalize these messages and develop very low self-esteem.

Low self-worth can lead to a poor quality of life because it means you are disconnected from your true self your intuition. Your inner voice is your guiding light in this world, but sometimes, it gets muddied up by life. Thus, you must use positive messages, like affirmations, to help you unlearn the negative beliefs you have attached to yourself. The more you lean into positivity, the more you build up self-trust. And the more selfconfidence you have, the more decisions and actions you make that are aligned with your life goals. Sometimes, seeing is believing; ultimately, as you begin to hit your accomplishments, you increase your self-esteem.

What is your mental process when facing a complex matter or day?

What do you say to yourself first? What is your follow-up action?

THE EXCLUSIVE

"I often try to attack whatever may be causing me anxiety.

I identify what has triggered my anxiety, whether it be a false belief about myself or something I need to do. This is done by asking myself, "What am I worried about? How can it be resolved? Is there anyone that can help me with this issue?"

I ask myself these questions because I know that hyperindependence is a trauma response of mine, so I often slip into the thinking that "No one wants to help me. No one can help me. I must do everything on my own." And so, I counteract this thought by telling myself things like: "I am loved." "Everything always works out for my good " "I can ask others for help." This, along with breath work (such as deep breathing), usually helps me move through my anxiety to complete whatever I need to do for the day.

What's on your calendar for 2023? Where can we expect to see you next?

I'm truly embracing what I call my Cozy Era. I am choosing to not allow things in my life to stress me out to the point of burnout. I was burned out in 2022 and refuse to be the same in 2023. So where can you see me next? On social media, in my robe and bonnet encouraging other people to embrace a life of rest.

To learn more visit: https://www.oludaraadeeyo.com

BLACKGIRLS WHOWRITE

PREMIER COMMUNITY

Written By Antoinette Davis

Well, look no further. Black Girls Who Write (BGWW) is a community organization that provides a space for Black women entrepreneurs to write and publish their books about their businesses. Within this community, Black women can produce and self-publish their books and bring notice to their companies. BGWW gives Black girls in the entrepreneur field a chance to join a community that motivates, enlightens, and celebrates them as authors and business owners.

The company was created and founded by Tamika, who also produced and founded Aquarius Creative Agency. Through the creation of the businesses, Tamika aspired to create a community organization for sisterhood, networking, implementing enrichment, and celebrating Black indie book authors. Being an actual Aquarius, Tamika's Aquarius Creative Agency focuses on marketing, social media curation, event production, and much more to help black creatives and authors promote themselves.

Are you looking to join a community designed for black female authors in the entrepreneur field?

BGWW focuses on the rise and promotion of black authors in the self-publishing industry. This sisterhood-driven community allows black women to gain experience networking through the development and fostering of meaningful relationships with fellow entrepreneurs and authors like themselves. This sisterhood consists of local and national authors that come together to develop their brands and provide a support system for one another.

"We create safe and supportive spaces for independent authors, writers, and content creators to publish best-selling books, build a loyal readership, and grow a recognizable brand," said BGWW in their mission statement.

BLACK GIRLS WHO WRITE

"Black Girls Who Write exists to disrupt the status quo for independent authors, writers, and content creators whose voices NEED to be heard," Tamika said.

Their mission is to dedicate a place for independent Black women in business who write to have a supportive and uplifting environment for their brand to grow. BGWW encourages women in business to grow and elevate as writers by amplifying their global voices. Through their in-person and online events, BGWW provides resources and a safe community that empowers Black women to grow as writer-entrepreneurs. They also work to elevate their voices globally. They recently hosted a Girl's Night with Selva Rey Rum, where Black women writers could partake in their book club while getting massages, drinks, dancing, and just having fun.

BLACK GIRLS WHO WRITE

To learn more about Tamika And Black Girls Who Write visit: https://www.blackgirlswhowrite.com

Now more than ever, it is essential to have inspiring images that lift our spirits and remind us of our goals and ambitions. Vision boards are a powerful tool for self-reflection and help keep us motivated to achieve our dreams. Creating a digital vision board as your phone's screen saver is a great way to stay inspired Here's how to make one using the popular design platform Canva.com.

Step 1: Sign Up for Canva.com

The first step is to create an account on Canva. You can skip this step and login if you already have an account. It's free to sign up and use, so don't worry about paying for anything until you want to purchase some additional features or images if needed. You will also need to download the app on your phone you can find it in either the Apple App Store or Google Play store, depending on your mobile device type.

Step 2: Gathering Photos & Quotes For Your Vision Board

Now comes the fun part inspiring, gathering photos, quotes, and words that resonate with what you would like to accomplish this year!

This could be anything from pictures of places you want to visit someday, a meaningful phrase that motivates you, or even a photo of yourself doing something extraordinary (like when you achieved a big goal!). Be sure not to overwhelm yourself by including too many pictures; 8-10 images should do it!

Step 3: Create Your Vision Board On Canva

Once you have gathered all your material for your vision board, it's time to create it on Canva! You can start by selecting "Create A Design" from the main menu at the top of the page, then clicking "Create Design" from the dropdown menu that appears. From there, choose "Phone Wallpaper/Screen Saver" as your design type and click "Create New Design" at the bottom right corner of the window that pops up next.

Now comes the fun part it's time to get creative! Start by dragging and dropping each image into its designated place on your canvas (make sure each image has plenty of space around it) You can also add words or phrases in different fonts if desired by clicking on "Text" in the left-hand menu bar under the Elements & Icons tab and adding other elements like shapes or lines if desired!

NOIRE BEATUE

COLLECTION

ONCE FINISHED WITH ALL EDITS, CLICK "DOWNLOAD IMAGE" IN THE TOP RIGHT CORNER AND SELECT EITHER .JPG OR .PNG FILE TYPE BEFORE DOWNLOADING ONTO YOUR DEVICE!

CONCLUSION: WITH JUST A FEW EASY STEPS USING CANVA'S ONLINE PLATFORM, CREATING AN INSPIRING VISION BOARD SCREEN SAVER FOR YOUR PHONE WAS EASY! HAVING THIS VISUAL REMINDER EVERY DAY WILL HELP MOTIVATE ENTREPRENEURS AND KEEP THEM FOCUSED ON THEIR GOALS THROUGHOUT 2021. SO GO AHEAD GET STARTED TODAY, MAKING YOURS NOW!

"Life's too short not to do everyone you want."

PROFILES LIFESTYLE

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The Bacon magazine is a digital publication that celebrates the success of ambitious & innovative Black Women entrepreneurs through thought-provoking content & stories.

CULTURE

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G R L

P W R

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ALooking for a supportive and empowering space for women? Look no further than Grl Pwr LA! This womenonly group is devoted to helping each other grow and succeed Whether you're looking for advice, collaboration, or just a group of like-minded people to chat with, Grl Pwr LA is the perfect place for you. With a focus on personal and professional development, this group is ideal for anyone who wants to improve her life and reach their goals!

GRL PWR LA

Grl Pwr LA began as a Facebook group founded by Catherine Parks to help women discover genuine friendships and authentic connections, but it soon became much more.

In 2020, Grl Pwr LA became a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization geared towards helping women discover community while fostering personal and professional development Even though Grl Pwr LA began in Los Angeles, we are just getting started. Grl Pwr LA looks forward to one day expanding its workshops and services outside of LA and eventually abroad

"With the support of our community and powerful tribe of women, we know anything is possible, and this is just the beginning We are a community of gogetter-positive women who go after our goals nonstop to make our vision a reality; When you join us, our mission is to help you become all you were created to be and embrace your purpose Every queen needs a tribe; we are more powerful together",

Learn more about Grl Pwr LA Location: Los Angeles, CA grlpwrla com Twitter grlpwrla Facebook Grlpwrla Instagram grlpwrla info@Grlpwrla.com

6 WAYS TO MANAGE STRESS; WHEN YOU HAVE A BUSINESS

WEITTEN BY INGRID MORENO Photo Credit: Ariana Smith

Weallknowtheperksofowninga business,likefreedom,butonlytheone inchargeexperiencesallthestressthat comesalongwithit Itcanbefrustrating totacklealltheresponsibilitiesandeven meetyourexpectations Ultimately,you maybelackingmotivationand productivity.Toavoidreachingthat point,youcanlearnhowtocopewith stressinthesesixways:

Let it out 1

The first step is to just let it out Frustration usually comes from all the thoughts and feelings you have accumulated inside

Something as simple as phoning a close friend or a family member, who is willing to listen, can ease that stress considerably and take some weight off your shoulders I can almost hear the deep breath you took after finishing that call

2 Unwind

It's time to relax and disconnect from the world, ladies Make some room for an activity or hobby that you enjoy I know you probably feel like "having fun" shouldn't be a priority, but there is no better way to release stress than treating yourself It not only takes your mind off things but can also stimulate productivity, better decisions, and even workflow with your team

6 WAYS TO MANAGE STRES; WHEN YOU HAVE A BUSINESS

3. Listen to your body

Your body takes in a lot of that negative energy and frustration without you noticing it. Muscles tense up as a reaction to stress and could affect all the systems of the body if it's overlooked. Meditating and exercising are great ways to show some love to your body, and being active can boost your endorphins and act as a stress reliever.

4 Sleep, sleep, sleep

I couldn't stress this enough - you need to rest, and sleep restores your body and brain for the following day The three benefits of napping are reducing stress, improving your mood, and increasing productivity As a business owner, it is crucial to be fully present to make the best decisions possible Remember, a clear mind is always sharper

5 Tackle the issue

Now that you are more relaxed, you need to figure out the source of that stress It may be a particular problem you can fix, or several little things pile up over time Please sit down and write down everything that could be causing stress and next to each a potential way to fix them

6 Plan it out

Make a plan to solve the obstacles you encounter and create small tasks that can easily be accomplished before reaching the ultimate goal You can also build a solid schedule for the upcoming week to prevent any future stress Having a routine to follow gives you a sense of what to expect from work, making you feel more in control and less stressed Don't forget to add "me time" to the schedule; you still need a break once in a while

Bonus: Give yourself credit

Yes, give yourself credit for how far you have come Sometimes, you can be too hard on yourself, and you must be reminded of your progress Recognizing your hard work boosts your confidence and allows for more effective strategies

So go on, boss lady, release your stress, and take control back!

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MEET CHRISTOPHER GRIFFIN: THE PLANT

KKWEEN WEEN

WRITTEN BY ANTOINETTE DAVIS INTERVIEW BY: ANDREA HARRIS-WALKER PHOTOGRPAHY BY TONY BOWEN PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.TONYBOWENPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

You Grow, Gurl!

Griffin is a proud plant parent based in Brooklyn, New York, passionate about exploring the creative ways in which plants can be used as vehicles for encouraging conversations dedicated to Black joy, resilience, and LGBTQ+ advocacy The Plant Kween strives to open the eyes of others and expand their viewpoints of representation and empowerment of QTPOC (Queer and Trans People of Color) in the amazing world of horticulture Their social media presence has been rooted in a journey of self-care, joy-sharing, and community building, all through the wonders of those little green creatures we call plants

Christopher

Griffin enjoys the life she lives as a plant parent, setting up her oasis of an apartment In Brooklyn, she leads a series of initiatives involving Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and belonging in the tech field, along with priority care for over 200 plants in their gorgeous oasis

Kween strives to build an online community through her Instagram account with many fellow "plant Kweens, daddies, mamas, and everyone in between," said Griffin Plant Kween's presence on social media is based on her self-care journey, spreading joy and light to others, and building a community

started her Instagram account (@plantkween) as an educator at heart in 2016 to share the many lessons, lush adventures, and simple joys that come with being a plant parent

Issue 3: COVER Gurl

Plant Kween

Griffin is a dedicated community builder and author of "You Grow Gurl," a fantabulous self-help guide to becoming a plant parent and keeping their little green gurls healthy and thriving

Through this guide, she expresses the lush lifestyle of being a plant parent while inspiring and encouraging others to sustain a nurturing plant parent. The guide motivates others to grow and maintain a healthy garden and have a little fun.

"Plant Kween aspires to continue serving lush lewks and new growth realness alongside her green gurls, have fun with it all, and bring folks along for the wild botanical ride"

Come alongside this beautiful icon, Christopher Griffin as a master of plant parenting Christopher encourages all to read her book and learn about her lifestyle by being authentic and having fun in her element.

Plant Kween: bacon magazine

Editor-in-Chef, Andrea Harris-Walker had the pleasure iof interviewing Plant Kween for a Bacon Magazine Exclusive and this is what we learned about the ICON, Plant Muva, and Cover girl:

What led you down the path of being a botanist?

Like all the Black women in my life, my grandmother was full of magic, soul, light, and life You'd ride down her street in southwest Philadelphia and easily spot her house because her yard was always lush, green, and in bloom It was no debate, dahling, her garden was the best garden on the block

She is, was, and will forever be the original plant queen in my life When I was about six years old, my grandmother and I would take day trips out to her favorite nurseries in Philadelphia She would hold my little hand as we stepped inside and wandered around what seemed like a beautiful, endless, lush fairy-tale jungle of a nursery to my young lil aspiring plant kween eyes I became fascinated by the idea that we could take a small piece of the jungle home with us, nourish it, and watch it grow She'd sometimes let me pick out the plants we'd take back with us She'd welcome them into her plant fam, and whenever I was visiting her green oasis of a home, she'd remind me to water the green gurls I'd picked out she was nurturing the nurturer she saw in me

I thought of her when I bought my very first plant seven years ago

What type of plants do you grow and why?

Most of the 200+ plants I have in my home are a mix of tropical and succulent plants that, with time I have come to learn, grow quite well with me Most of the green gurls in my plant fam are plants that enjoy a lot of light, as I have south facing windows that are flooded with sunshine throughout the day

What's your perspective on having a green thumb? Is there a parallel between skill and being spiritually lighthearted?

As an educator, I am always fascinated by the history of common phrases, their origins, and how they came to be, because language the words we use is important! Whether you have plants or not, you've probably heard the expression "having a green thumb" This notion of inherently having or not having "an exceptional aptitude for gardening or for growing plants successfully" is simply anxiety provoking, and frankly, this kween just ain't got time for that kind of lingering pressure

So I did some research on when, where, and why this phrase came to be According to The Old Farmer's Almanac, it has two possible origins: It is said that King Edward I developed a love of green peas and kept a dozen of his servant gardeners shelling them

Apparently, the most proficient sheller, judged by the green stains on his fingers, was richly rewarded You'll notice that this story is not only silly but doesn't really have anything to do with gardening More plausible is the observation that repeatedly handling clay pots encrusted with algae often rubs off and stains a gardener's thumb (and probably fingers) green

After doing this lil word-history research, I knew that it was time for me to redefine what having a green thumb meant for my own botanical journey, just as it had been redefined throughout history

What does happiness look like to you?

Happiness is love Want to share a lil story here:

I was about 5 years old, it was a Saturday afternoon and I was exploring one of my fav places at my grandmother's house her closet My grandmother was a church-going woman, and if you know anything about Black churches, hunny they be a fashion show! So you know her closet was FAB-U-LOUS, glamorous sequin dresses, elaborate church hats that defied architecture, and a chic collection of church heels, hunny There was a particular pair of white church heels that she always wore, and I was always obsessed with them I slid my tiny feet into the heels, put one of my fav church hats on and made my way downstairs where my family were gathered, laughing and chatting amongst each other As I reached the bottom of the stairs, my family grew quiet once they saw me My grandmother looked at me and said, "well, isn't that just precious!" She let me keep the heels on until it was time for us to head home

That day, in that moment, my grandmother validated my youthful desire to explore and blur gender norms, to be unapologetic, expressive, and creative with how I wanted to show up in this world Her light, her embrace, her love continues to inspire me every single day

This is love, this is happiness

How do you achieve joy? What's your mental process?

Achieving joy is a process for me Sometimes it's taking a pause from the world and taking time to rest in my own solitude and tend to my garden Other moments it's creating, diving into my various passions, and sharing these passions through storytelling And sometimes it's embracing the love from the community of loved ones I am blessed to have in my life

My mental process is honestly just listening to my body, my spirit asking her what is going to bring you joy today and seeing to it that I allow myself that experience

What are your top 3 priorities regarding running your business?

1 2 3

Existing unapologetically in my Blackness, my queerness and my gender fluidity perpetually Using this platform to empower QTPOC representation in green spaces Being booked yet balanced, because I will not sacrifice my rest for success

Everything about you glows; what self-care practices do you indulge in?

Self care looks different for me every single day Some days it's a cup of tea paired with a moment in bed, letting some soft instrumental jazz carry me back to sleep Other days it's prancing around my apartment with a face mask on as I clean, reorganize, and tend to my green lil kweens And hunny, other days it's not having no plans or expectations for the day and letting my bawdy, mewd and heart lead me into the moments I need for myself Giving my being a buffet of options when it comes to what she needs it be an adventure, dahling

How important is work-life balance? What do you do to shake the stress of life away?

Booked and balanced is the motto! I will not sacrifice my rest, my well-being for the sake of meeting the expectations of this capitalistic culture we have to navigate every single day And as my mother and grandmother taught me, 'you do what you do well and then you rest well" So for me it's about being intentional where I put my energy yes, I work hard when the time calls for it, but I also know when to say no and allow myself the time to rest, so that I am able to show up fully when the time calls for it

What can readers look forward to in "You Grow, Gurl "?

You best believe those pages are filled with that Black queer non-binary plant parent joy! Think fun + quirky gardening guide meets fabulous + fierce fashion meets the sharing of personal experiences of that plant parent + personal growth, hunny!

What's on your schedule for 2023? Where can we find you next?

Oh dahling, I'm working on some fun partnerships and collaborations this year that I am quite excited about, so stay tuned for those deets! I am also going to be diving a bit more into the world of fashion and holistic wellness, cuz hunny she's a multidimensional kween!

to learn more about Plant Kween and where to snag a copy of You Grow, Gurl visit: https://www.harpercollins.com /pages/YouGrowGurl