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OMG MARRIED I’M GETTING
CONTENTS 24 25 28 29 31
Summer 2016 Edition
LIVE AGAIN Anne Moss Rogers HIS HEART James Ross CEO MIND, BODY & SPIRIT Pain in My Neck! CEO RELATIONSHIP Taking Care of Your Groom BEFORE & AFTER I DO Stylish Wedding Bliss
Video Indicator
CEO’s Partners, Contributors & Team Meet Our Newest CEO Members!
Sharon Oliver
Meet Nicholas Thrower
Editor | sharon@ceosofrva.com
Diane Williams
Editor-At-Large | diane@ceosofrva.com
Chaya Braxton
Content Editor | chaya@ceosofrva.com
Photographer
Angela
Pamela
Chef Darren
Ashley Hewlett
Copy Editor | ashley@ceosofrva.com
Jadien R. Jones
Nicholas Thrower is currently a VCU student majoring in photography. His main focuses are high fashion and fine art. He draws inspiration from his natural surroundings and uses it in his own work whenever possible. He loves to shoot outside and use the natural light and shadows from the environment to challenge himself every day.
Photo Director/Project Manager | jadien@ceosofrva.com
Jonathan Copeland Fashion Editor | jon@ceosofrva.com
Claudia
Tracey
Shanna
Journalist
Lakisha Greene Fashion Managing Editor | lakisha@ceosofrva.com
Adrian Taylor
Ayden’s Lab Design
Designer | info@ceosofrva.com
Jennifer Drummond Editorial Assistant/Staff Writer | jennifer@ceosofrva.com
Meet Heather Dunning
Sharvette
Erin
Seo
Danielle
Tricia
Sharon
Heather Dunning is a lover of life and family. famil For over 15 years, she has been a holistic therapist and soul coach using intuitive bodywork and hypnotherapy. She also teaches an integrative communication style to assist people with building more trusting and loving relationships with themselves and others. Heather believes in fun, freedom, laughter, creativity and discovering what you love and following your heart no matter what! If you're ready to hear your heart song, go to HeatherVDunning.com.
Eric Mohta
Brand Manager | eric@ceosofrva.com
Tiffani Hartfield Staff Writer
Sharvette Mitchell Small Business Expert
4
Nasser & Melanie
CEO MAGAZINE
By Jennifer Drummond
By Chaya Braxton
Candice Smith NBC12 CandiceNBC12
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Wow, can you believe that July has rolled around and you are reading the SUMMER EDITION of CEO Magazine, right now? Time is flying, and I am having a ball. We have received an overwhelming response from our past issues. In the September issue of 2015, we talked about “Unmasking.” In the November edition, we explored the concept of Gratitude. To kick off 2016, we showcased our signature section, “Women Who Do It All,” by featuring influential women. Our spring release discussed how it is possible to re-emerge from difficult circumstances. This summer’s issue is called “ASPIRE.”So I ask you, what do you aspire to do or be? What do you have simmering on the back burner of your mind that you want to take off aspi and get done? Lately, comedian and talk show host, Steve Harvey has been talking about not being afraid your parachute open because if you choose to stay safe, you will never to let know... (yeah, deep). So, we hear that and may feel the urge to open our parachutes, but fearfully, we tip toe to the edge of success and refuse to take the big leap. The other day, a business coach told me that it was time to GET RID OF PLAN B. I was amazed and thought that sometimes it is necessary to rip off that security blanket. The thing that has hurt you might just be the hing that will light the flames of your passion.
6 CEO Publisher’s Letter ] www.ceosofrva.com
It is not over – give yourself permission to do the very thing that your mind is talking you out of doing. I have always been afraid of swimming since I was a child. In fact, the picture you see of me is in the Dominican Republic at a wedding. I only let the water come up to my knees. After meeting with my friend, Seo, we decided that we would conquer our fear of the water and so now, we are taking lessons together. All of us have aspirations. Don’t you owe it to yourself to pursue yours? I have a lot of them, but for now, I will be a skilled swimmer the next time we meet again. In this amazing summer issue, you will meet rising college freshmen whose excellent academic performance earned them scholarship awards. You will hear from one mom who aspired to become an advocate for mental health awareness after tragically losing her son last year and you will read about how one fitness guru entrepreneur, Seo, says you can do and be everything literally, with a calendar.
SPECIAL THANKS TO Midlothian Athletic Club 10800 Center View Drive N. Chesterfield, VA 23235 (804) 330-2222 | www.macrichmond.com Midlothian Athletic Club @MACRichmond
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, 3 0 8 ": $& / 1 -" By Erin Podbielniak
As I write this, I’m still riding the informational and energetic high from the 2016 annual conference of the National Association of Professional Organizers (www.NAPO.net), of which I’m a proud member and local chapter leader. As my organizer colleagues will attest, our field is a beautiful combination of entrepreneurship, systems improvement, and interior design. Our clients contact us because they see and feel a need to improve their spaces, their schedules, and their lives; we provide the path and expertise to make their aspirations reality. However, in addition to helping our clients systemize, organizers also have a reputation for perfectionism. It is true...we want the labels on the shelf to be exactly straight! So where is the balance between aspiring to improve and seeking perfection? The answer came during an unexpected, refreshing conference seminar called, Imperfection Rules! Creative Ways to Run Your Business.
With increasingly blurry lines separating work, play, and life, we accept the complexity of humanity’s hum–and we thrive in it. We express our individuality as we contribute to the betterment of our families, our neighborhoods, and the world. Organizing has become less about creating a perfect afterpicture and more about simplifying the craziness so it works for us: We need flexible systems to match our fluid lifestyles. We’re okay with not being perfect.
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Do you aspire to perfection? It is okay not to! Instead of getting mired in the minutia involved with chasing perfection, choose activities that will move your businesses forward and upward. Choose the 20% of activities that will take you 80% of the way to your goal. As I often tell my clients, 80% is the new 100%. Functionality and progress trump perfection. Let go, lean in, and join me in aspiring to imperfection!
For more mo information about Erin, visit her website: www.theneatniche.com
10 CEO Home & Design ] www.ceosofrva.com
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www.ceosofrva.com ] CEO Home & Design 1 1
E. PENDLETON
Before
CONSTRUCTION
We Design and Build What You Want or Help Maintain What You Have
25
YEARS+ EXPERIENCE
Gene Pendleton PRINCIPAL / VA#2705-060101A
SPECIALIZING IN
Kitchens | Baths & Additions | Renovation New Construction | Construction | Consulting (804) 467-9409 | ECONTRACTOR@AOL.COM
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www.ceosofrva.com ] CEO Home & Design 13
spi r i n g A 4IAȩ-ATTHEWSȩ
By Tracy M. Ross
Meet Tia Matthews. She is the single mother of three who proves that you are not defined by your circumstance. But with the right mindset, you can be propelled by your challenges. Tia grew up in a single parent home with three other siblings. Her mother worked two jobs to make sure Tia and her siblings were taken care of. At the age of two, Tia’s father was killed, and she remembers how determined her mother was to make sure she and her siblings had the best she could possibly offer them. At the age of 16, Tia became pregnant with her first of three children. She recalls people telling her that she would never amount to anything. She often reflected on how strong her mother was and used that as her own strength to prove everyone wrong. Tia dreamt of owning her own home and just like her mom, she wanted to be able to provide the best for her children. The journey to home ownership and making a better life for her kids was not easy. Tia and her children spent years living in public housing, but Tia was determined not to allow her children to become a product of their environment. She kept her kids inside and if they were allowed to go out, Tia made sure she kept a close watch over them. She didn’t let them wander, and even though she worked two jobs and went to school at the time, Tia made sure that her children were always involved in activities to keep them out of trouble. She was determined to stay focused and she would let nothing stop her from reaching her goals. Eventually, Tia would move from public housing to a more stable community in Randolph. She described Randolph as a much better living
14 CEO Parent | www.ceosofrva.com
environment for my family. However, once her rent began to go up from $500 to $900 in three years, Tia made the decision to pursue home ownership. One day, Tia met Terri Jones, a realtor that she says changed her life. With Terri’s guidance and direction, Tia started budgeting and saving in an effort to save enough money as a down payment on a home. She recalls having conversations with her kids about sacrificing flashy shoes and clothes for what she called the bigger goal. She recalls her kids being very understanding and supportive, and in the end, those sacrifices definitely paid off. One of the most remarkable things about Tia is that she did all of this on her own. Tia says that she was never going to allow not having a husband or significant other stop her from reaching her goals. When asked to speak to women who may feel as though they need a man to prosper, Tia says, I wasn’t going to allow not having a man to become my failure because my relationship didn’t work. Tia admits that it was rough, but she remained focused on her goals and continued to push forward despite being a single mother. Faith is what kept Tia going through her process. She recalls always praying that God would provide for her so she would be able to provide a better living for her kids. Her constant prayers began to manifest themselves through visions she would have of leaving public housing, into an apartment and then eventually into the house that she is in today. Even during a bidding war for the house toda she wanted, Tia never lost faith. Tia’s story is one that proves that with perseverance, determination and faith, anything is possible.
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.ICOLE ȩ.AOMI
Nicole Burton was 18 when she lost her vision due to an illness. Today, although she is blind, she is a mother of a 3-year-old and Nicole hasn’t allowed her disability to prevent her from doing the things she aspires to do in life. Watch a video of Nicole to find out the advice she gives to CEO readers.
www.GermikaSpeaksChange.com @Germika Pegram, MSW)
Greetings CEOs! I am Life Coach Brittany. I am a certified international women's empowerment life coach, business coach, author and radio personality for a top talk radio show for women in New York and the Caribbean. I am also founder of The Life Coach Network, a professional membership for life coaches. I have been an entrepreneur for three years. I have 10 years of experience in the field of empowering women through clinical counseling and coaching. Within my years as an entrepreneur, I have created and facilitated entrepreneu two international tours, contributed my writing as a wellness expert for two top digital magazines for women and have been featured in Essence Magazine, CBS and NBC news, Pix 11 and several other major publications as an empowerment life coach. I am beyond excited to provide the readers of CEO Magazine with empowering tools, designed specifically, for women of all ages in need of a mental and emotional boost to jump-start their day or even their lives. Mental clarity and wellness is a major part of achieving and maintaining success. I look forward to sharing motivational resources, tips, and activities that will assist you with getting “unstuck” and recharged to live life as the very best version of yourself.
NG#J
Have you ever witnessed a rain shower on a sunny day? Not only has Germika Pegram seen it for herself, she has mastered the art of dancing in the rain. A Richmond native and graduate of Virginia Union University, Germika has returned to her hometown to help our communities after what she calls her “trauma of blessings.” “I feel like Richmond needs me,” Germika says as she explains her 2-step development program, CIRCLE and CIRCLE +, where groups learn about social issues and how to implement solutions in their communities. Despite experiencing domestic violence, a housing scam, and consequently homelessness, Germika never played the victim. She admits to sleeping overnight in a Starbucks in order to wash up in the morning and using the storage company’s electricity to iron her clothes. It was during these trying times that she apap plied to New York University, using a flashlight to fill out the application. Fast forward, Germika has received her master’s degree with a 3.8 GPA, will soon graduate from the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs AND she is running for a political position. Germika believes that it’s it important for CEOs to see what survival looks like. “As women, we often get too consumed and overwhelmed. If we worry about the intricate details, you won’t make it,” she advises.
Life Coach
MEET BRITTANY GARTH
I t !
www.3inspirations.com @ms_tracyross @3inspirations
Success in the Midst of Setbacks MEET GERMIKA PEGRAM
F o r
www.glamruseventsva.com @glamruseventsva
MEET TRACY ROSS. “Are you crazy?,” “You’re “ about to do what?,” “But you have a dream job.” Those were just some of the responses I heard when I shared my plans to leave Corporate America in pursuit of my purpose. For 15 years, I worked for some of the most recognized companies in the world and represented some of the most noted brands. I always traveled, attended great events and had all of the “perks” one could imagine. I’ve flown in private jets, had expense accounts, company cars, and accumulated quite the collection of goodies and swag. For years, I felt empty; I needed more and for years, I prayed for God to reveal His purpose for me, and when He did, it took me years to finally have the courage and faith to walk in it. My purpose is to help encourage, inspire and empower others to realize their worth. It is my purpose to remind them that we are not limited by our limited thinking or abilities when we serve a limitless God. I do this via 3inspirations (3i), an inspirational merchandise and apparel company where I share the words God speaks to me via items ranging from t-shirts to home goods as well as inspirational posts via social media. Was my transition from the dream jobs with the “perks” easy? No. But was it worth trading in the “perks” to walk in my purpose? ABSOLUTELY! I encourage you to be bold and courageous and walk in your purpose as well. You can do it, as long as you know, trust and believe you can!
W e n t
Glam R Us Events’ founding principles include: Giving back to the community Luxurious and lasting impressions Aweinspiring events & motivating and inspiring women to reach their full potential
From Perks to Purpose
T h e y
Glam R Us
MEET CHRISTIE DURHAM A certified glam girl, former plus size model, and the owner and creative director of Glam R Us Events. Christie’s background in sales and management combined with her love of fashion evolved into a fashion show production. In 2009, her first fashion show, Fierce Curves, debuted with rave reviews, following. Christie quickly became known as the “go to producer” for sizzling exhibitions of fashion, beauty and style. In 2012, a small female mixer grew into Glam R Us Events’ signature Ladies Night Out. Now known as, “Euphoria: The Ultimate Ladies Night Out,” includes not only the hottest celebrity guests (Lamman Rucker and Christian Keyes to name a few) but each event benefits a local nonprofit organization. In addition to their Ladies Night Out platform, Christie’s team specializes in the production of fashion shows, corporate, motivational, and private events and non-profit fundraisers. Since 2012, Glam R Us Events has raised thousands of dollars for charities such as Safe Harbor Shelter, Sisters Network Central Virginia, Dress for Success Central Virginia, and the National Foundation for Transplants.
www.dimensionedwellness.com ww
www.ceosofrva.com | CEO Women Who Do It All 15
Keion - ACT +5 Leah ACT +5 Gage +290 SAT
High School Students Have Success Ashely +350 SAT
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%JNFOTJPO "DBEFNJD 1FSGPSNBODF $FOUFS By Jennifer Drummond Getting a good night sleep, eating breakfast and using the right pencil can help on the morning of your SAT or ACT. However, experts agree that it is with preparation over time that makes the biggest difference in a student’s test results. Dimension Academic Performance Center (APC) of Richmond is in the business of doing just that.
-BLJTIB (SFFOIPX, owner and
CEO, said when students attend Dimension APC at the beginning of their 11th grade year versus at the end, it gives her the whole year to get their scores up, instead of just waiting until the last minute when students are trying to cram for the college entrance exam. “The goal is to get students during their freshman or sophomore year, but definitely before their senior year to prepare for the tests,” said the mother of three. Greenhow believes that what sets her test prep organization apart from the larger competitors is their pricing, location, small class size and her passion for helping students raise their test scores. “I only see 10 kids at a time. I would never turn any child away. I take the child where they are and create progress,” she said. Students enroll in 4-week sessions for two hours each time and work on
specific areas based on an initial assessment given by Dimension APC. A strategic and customized plan is created for each student. In addition Greenhow, who taught in the public schools for 11 years, uses various technologies such as ooVoo or texting to be more accessible to her students outside the classroom. Students come from Richmond, Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover. “I’ve seen students not just perform better on their SAT’s. I’ve seen them perform better at passing their SOLs. I attribute that to our testing ability [to] the strategies I teach,” she said. “A lot of people don’t necessarily know about the SAT or ACT, they just know their child has to take the test. Kids are walking into the test with the wrong pencil, calculator, not knowing the format, or what they need to do to get a great score, just walking in.
So a lot of what I am doing is educating. I’m educating the parents and the students [about] why this test is so important. ”Lakisha Greenhow describes her business of tutoring as a very personal mission. “I want students to be able to go to the school of their choice. I don’t want them to have a low test score and have to go to their fifth college choice. I want them to have the opportunity to go to their number one school.” This August will mark two years for Dimension APC and it’s already making a difference in the lives of many students. Here are a few success stories. For more information, visit their website: www.dimensionapc.com
46$$&44 4503*&4
Success is often planned with no shortcuts even when things get tough. These students had a vision for success and decided to take action by getting help with raising their scores. In the end their hard work, commitment and the guidance of Dimension Academic Performance Center resulted in their SAT/ ACT success.
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Models: Michelle Mines, Dorothy Montague Mary Jones, Brittany Ross Kevin Conner, Morgan Johnson Kristen Martinez, Ciera Martinez Michelle Richardson, Casey Johnson Director: B.Ross Make-up: Nherie Tellado Hair: June Lankford Jewerly Stylist: Marquita Stith, Tracilynn Jewelry
TRACY ROSS Founder and Chief Encourager
w w w. 3 i n s p i r a t i o n s . c o m
3inspirations
Curvy
If ever there was a time to embrace your curves—it is now! No matter what your size or build, consider the following swim wear trends and styles that will empower you.
By: Jon Copeland
C lassic Appeal:
Keeping with the modesty dawned in the 40s and 50s, while still remaining sexy and alluring, try finding a 2-piece high waisted swim-skirt combo. A sarong is another similar consideration.
(suits.swimsuitsforall.com) Model: Kerry Gee
Sporty Spice:
Metallics are a great way to make a modern statement in our tech world. Clever cut-outs and sexy straps add even more sex appeal and edge.
(See our behind-the-scenes video on ceosofrva.com to view the sexy strap detail on the back of this bikini top.)
(Forever 21) Model: Regan Mason
Color
Block Sorceress:
Become an illusionist with color-blocked suits that make onlookers’ eyes dance! A key to remember is that dark colors downplay your imperfection and bright colors accentuate your assets. (Target) Model: Christiana Lee
Hair Stylists: Janese Crisanto, Andrea Trent Make-Up Artists: Celicia Hartridge, Bree Hall, Tekia Britton Fashion Editor: Jonathan Copeland, Nayatoa Jenkins, CEO of Bellissima Modeling & Talent Agency Photograpy: Candice Patrice Photography Photographer Assistant: Nicholas Thrower
Amazonian Vixen:
Neutral colored suits aren’t as boring an option as one might think, especially with subtle features such as fringe, animal print, or ruching detail. They add personality to one’s look as to eclipse aspects of your body you might not be too proud of.
(suits.swimsuitsforall.com) Model: Aliciabeth Bognar
Pretty as a Flower:
Florals and busy prints add visual volume to one’s figure and help to define that ideal hourglass silhouette. By visual comparison, the exposed parts of your body will look immaculate when wearing the right colors to complement your skin tone. (Torrid) Model: Arianna Rose
www.ceosofrva.com ] CEO Beauty & Fashion 19
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My Beautiful Skin
HOW I OVERCAME ADULT ACNE By Claudia Wright
Growing up, I had nice clear skin. So developing acne at the age of 30 was horrifying—to say the least. I had deep inflamed and sometimes cyst-like pimples located right under the dermis of my skin. At first, I thought I was experiencing blemishes from my makeup or my current hair products. I never thought adults could get acne—well, I was wrong. I felt so ugly when people started to comment and notice that my skin was changing. When I looked in the mirror, all I could see were huge dark marks that were left behind. I changed how I interacted socially because I felt like people always stared and were more concerned about my pimples than they were about getting to know me. I would look in the mirror, constantly, and apply more makeup trying to camouflage my ugly face. My self-esteem was at an all-time low; I was disgusted with myself. The girl who once loved to take pictures and be in the spotlight became an introvert and used heavy makeup to camouflage my physical and mental discomfort. I began to use heavy foundations and concealers; however, the dark spots left from the cyst-like pimples just permeated my makeup. I tried different types of low to high-end products. I even used crazy home remedies. I made an appointment with a dermatologist who diagnosed me with adult acne. She prescribed me medication and cream that did not work and the out-of-pocket expense was outrageous.
Once I realized that the side effects of the medications were worse than my current symptoms, I knew I had to seek an alternative solution. I started doing research on skin care, makeup, etc. I read several blogs and tried different products to find one that worked for me. I looked for products that were non-comedogenic (which means that it won't clog your pores,) oil free and water -based. Also, I looked for a product with sunscreen so that the dark spots would not appear darker once my
MY SKIN REGIMEN nutrition, drinking a lot of water and being conscious about your diet.
skin regimen began to clear the rest of my skin. Finally, after doing rigorous research and trial and error, I created a daily routine that worked for me. I was so passionate about skin health that I became a consultant for an international company called Nerium. This true anti-aging cream was just what I needed to incorporate into my regimen to get results with which I could be satisfied. Nerium reduced the appearance of discoloration, enlarged pores, lines and wrinkles. Having issues with your skin can be very challenging. If you are going through a similar thing, it will take dedication, commitment to good
HERE ARE A FEW TIPS FOR MAINTAINING HEALTHY SKIN:
Drink plenty of water (take current body weight and divide by 2.) Drink a minimum of 8 cups per day. Always wash face with cool water 2x per day (no excuses). Purchase a set of face only washcloths.
AM: Cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize with Nerium Day Cream PM: Throughly remove any makeup, cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize using Nerium night cream (use cleansing brush 2x per week if available) STICK to a regimen: it takes about 60 days to know if a regimen is working or needs to be altered (skin will normally have additional minimal breakouts when starting a new product or regimen. Your skin is detoxing).
Always remove makeup.
(407) 879-0297
Clean makeup brushes; don’t share makeup with anyone.
ClaudiaWright
Don’t mess with (pop) pimples.
Thenerium_miracles
www.cwjl.nerium.com
BELIEVE in Yourself Take that LEAP! our comfort zone instead of taking a risk. Don’t get me wrong, that does not mean you just jump into something without carefully doing your homework.
&
question: What if it doesn’t can do everything ourselves; the work?” truth is, that might be what is holding you back from success. When I started FABWOMEN, I We wear all the hats in the was driven by the passion and business from CEO, bookkeeper, vision of empowering women in marketer, sales, etc. If you think all aspects of their lives, not just about it, you are probably not professionally. FABWOMEN is good at all those things and the a community of women that division of your time is taking comes together to learn, laugh you away from your natural and connect for personal growth. gifts. “The common excuse is, I In order to grow and move can’t afford to hire someone.” forward I needed a plan, effective systems and a supportive team to Starting is always easy. Growing carry out my vision. As entre- and sustaining your business is preneurs, we think we where the challenge comes in.
#&-*&7& By Shanna Kabatznick
You will never really be ready to take that leap. There will always be a reason why the decision to move forward is not a good one. We are born with a fear of the unknown and prefer to stay in
Something happens during this process. You get all of the information you need, and it feels right. Yet, you stand on the edge and just freeze! What makes it so difficult to take that leap? We know where to begin and we know what we think will happen, but there is still the
Here are three tips to help you along this journey:
ASPIRING Entrepreneur
By Sharvette Mitchell Are you an aspiring author or aspiring artist? Perhaps you are aspiring to be an entrepreneur, a speaker or a coach. Do you have aspirations to expand your current business? Whatever your aspiration may be, I applaud and celebrate you because the world is your oyster! To connect with Sharvette visit www.mitchell-productions.com
22 CEO Business and Money ] www.ceosofrva.com
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Greetings! My name is Danielle Gilbert, and I wish to introduce myself as CEO Magazine’s new Human Resources (HR) Expert. For the past 15 years, I focused my energy, passion and drive directing Human Resources in the retail and healthcare industry. industr My responsibilities included efforts in employee engagement, employee training, talent management and organizational development. My leadership helped build the organizations into several successful retail stores and healthcare facilities in a highly competitive market. Following my undergraduate studies, I started my career in the retail industry. I graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Later, I continued my education at Strayer University, earning two masters in Human Resources Management and Public Administration. I became certified by the Human Resources Certification Institute as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) in January 2013, and now, I am pursuing my Ph.D. My driving passion to help others be their best led me to start my own organization in 2013. Manifest In You, LLC’s mission is to help individuals optimize their career by offering help with resumes, cover letters, mentoring, thank you letters, and one-on-one coaching. Also, we help small and medium companies maximize Human Resources’ organizational efficiencies. Through my experiences, small and medium-sized companies are very volatile and susceptible to a high degree of risk; therefore, it is imperative for them to address the uncertainty in their environment with the help of the workforce around them. Many companies don’t have the tools and resources to maintain efficiencies in the Human Resources Department. My objective as the HR Expert is to help build, support, provide tips and maximize organizations’ effectiveness. Contact Manifest In You, LLC today to become your Strategic Human Resources Business Partner!
www.manifestinyou.com Email: danielle@manifestinyou.com / Phone: (804) 930-7736
By: Heather V. Dunning
THERE IS POWER IN AWARENESS The Anne Moss Rogers Story
The worst thing you can say is nothing at all. In the aftermath of her son Charles’ suicide, Anne Moss Rogers has been anything but quiet. This mother knows firsthand what an upward battle it is to cope under the weight of depression and mental illness. She was aware that something was different with her sweet boy, even as a toddler and became diligent finding creative solutions to some of the problems he would face. After the 20 year struggle to give Charles a life worth living, heroin came and stole his breath away. In the days and months that followed, Anne Moss’ anger was directed towards the community that had no clue how to support her through this devastating loss. The hardest part was the lack of words people didn’t say during her darkest hour.
24 CEO Live Again | www.ceosofrva.com
Just like any disease, early intervention and proper care can be the best forms of treatment. Sadly mental illness, depression and addiction have become taboo. There is judgement that either the person suffering in the darkness, or the parents who raised this person, have somehow failed. Anne Moss shared about the inequality of reassurance that came from the public, surrounding her son’s “Triple Stigma” - mental illness, addiction, and suicide. In one post from her blog, Emotionally Naked, she points out that “if Charles had died of cancer there would have been a yearly fundraiser and an outpouring of support and contributions." It was this realization that has spurred Anne Moss to educate her community. Whether it’s someone who currently is suffering from depression or a loved one tormented by this illness, Anne Moss believes there is power in awareness
It is almost one year to the day since Charles died on June 5, 2015. To cope with her grief, Anne Moss attends support groups. She chooses not to drink through her pain and wakes up every day with an attitude to live and find joy in the small stuff. Anne Moss passionately serves on the board of directors of the Beacon Tree Foundation, an advocacy program designed to support families raising children with mental illness. She also finds great solace in writing on AnneMoss.com and shares her creative juice and inspiration through her #griefheart project. Each and every one of us has either personally been affected by this tragic disease or known someone who has. Let’s honor Charles’ life by speaking out about mental illness and suicide prevention, rallying around those in need. Share a hug, a smile, a sincere understanding with someone who may be crying out to be heard but is troubled with finding the words and the courage to connect.
The Rogers Family:
Richard, Anne Moss, Charles & Randy
ross James
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Fighting to Fit ME in...
Sometimes it feels like a fight to find the time for ourselves in our busy schedule, doesn’t it? But we all know it’s important to find some me time to stay healthy, happy, and sane. Here are some of my tips on how I create space in a busy schedule. TIPS TO
CREAT SPACE E
26 CEO Mind, Body and Spirit | www.ceosofrva.com
CONTACT INFO: EMAIL: seo@co2fit.com BLOG: blog.kickasslife.biz/
co2fit kickasslifebiz
@co2fit @kickass_girlboss_seo
5SJDJB ,FMMZ Richmond native, Tricia Kelly, is a cook and the owner and operator of Christine’s Place LLC. Named after Tricia’ s late mother, “Christine,” Tricia’ s business offers customers healthier meal options with her meal prep delivery service and food cart. Tricia has enjoyed cooking since she was 11-years-old. While her educational path led her to receiving a bachelor’ s degree in accounting and master’ s in human resource management, her passion is for food, entrepreneurship, and a dedication to helping others which led her to pursue a business revolving around “eating clean.” Tricia believes that some of the food options we have are killing us, literally. She hopes to bring awareness as well as offer food and juice options that will inspire consumers to make better nutritional choices. In an effort to continue her mother’ s legacy of helping others, Tricia will donate 10% of her business’ monthly profits to assist those in need in the community. She is excited to be partnering up with CEO Magazine. Tricia Kelly lives in Richmond and is the proud mother to three wonderful boys, ages 10,12, and 15.
www.ChristinesPlaceRVA.com
Christine’s Place ChristinesPlaceRVA CPlaceRVA www.ceosofrva.com | CEO Mind, Body and Spirit 27
Pain NECK IN MY
By Meloni Staples
Did you know that 52% of Americans suffer from some sort of chronic neck and shoulder pain? The number is rising. This is not surprising as we are experiencing longer work days, laptops, hand held devices and crazy stress levels. Stress alone can exacerbate your neck, shoulder and back pain which will lead to headaches. You can pop pills and risk those side effects, but that is a temporary bandage to the underlying problem. Massage can be the solution to your problem. It is more than a spa treatment for a special occasion. According to the Mayo Clinic, the benefits of massage therapy include relief from: anxiety, digestive disorder, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia related to stress, myofascial pain syndrome, soft tissue strains or injuries, sports injuries, and temporomandibular joint pain. Neck and shoulder pain should be treated holistically and not spot treated. A properly trained therapist should ascertain information about your lifestyle, work habits, medical history and much more to deliver concise treatment over a minimal number of visits. Choose your therapist as you would choose any medical specialist. Ask for certifications, years of practice and locations, physician or clinic affiliations and references. You and your therapist should work as a team. Together you can alleviate chronic pain points like: Neck Carpal Tunnel Syndrone TMJ Migranes Shoulder Repetitive Use Injury Sports InjurySciatica Back Hip
NASSER STAPLES is a medical massage
practitioner with 18 years of hands-on experience. When not providing massage services, he teaches massage and anatomy/physiology at a local college. Nasser is a graduate of VSU where he was a star football player.
MELONI STAPLES S is a certified massage therapist with an additional certification in lymphatic massage. She is also a licensed aesthetician, cosmetologist and eyelash extension technician. When not performing hands-on services, she teaches aesthetics, eyelash extensions and nail technology at a local school and independently.
Waterfalls Salon & Massage Mobile Spa is a home-based business with a fully equipped private studio spa. We are conveniently located in lovely North Run Estates in Glen Allen, VA. We specialize in mobile spa services for individual, big or small events. Waterfalls is completely licensed and insured for every aspect of the many services we provide. You are cordially invited to support and experience the difference of a family-owned business of 10 years and counting.
SOOTHE YOUR BODY RELEASE YOUR MIND FEEL THE PEACE
Do you still want the glorious feeling from a relaxing full body massage?Make it forever memorable by having your therapist incorporate body stretches, hot stones or therapeutic oils and creams. Share the experience with a special someone. A couple’s massage enhances relationships through relaxation and a quiet moment. The ultimate in massage is the synchronized massage. Two therapists in unison perform a full body massage on you. It is sometimes called 4-handed massage. Words can’t describe how you will feel. Regardless if you are seeking pain relief or a soothing quiet retreat, massage is always therapeutic and healing.
28 CEO Mind, Body and Spirit ] www.ceosofrva.com
For more information, contact Mrs. Staples at (804) 651-7536. CEO Readers can receive a full set of eyelash extensions for $99. Up to 70 lashes per eye or a free extra 30 minutes added to your 60-minute massage. Restrictions apply. Contact us for more information.
www.WaterfallsSalonAndMassage.com
TakingofCare Your Groom
By Pamela Parker
Pamela Parker
About Pamela Parker Pamela Parker is the founder and owner of Simply Perfect Weddings and More, LLC. She has been planning weddings for more than 20 years. Pamela started out planning weddings for just close family and friends; however, after retiring in 2009, from an amazing career as a special fr needs educator, she found time to devote to launching an exciting business. With compassion she listens, assesses the needs of her clients and together they create a custom blueprint for what will be an amazing experience (804) 317-9466
Simply Perfect Weddings and More
simplyperfectweddingsandmore@gmail.com
Grooms! You have to love them. Often, they spend months as a silent partner in the planning of one of the most important and expensive events of their lives... a wedding! They navigate through the process with phrases such as “ whatever she wants” when responding to all questions. Not because he does not care, but because he has learned that his opinion is not worth the peace he has come to enjoy. Now, is this fair? Probably not, however, it is where the groom often finds himself—caught between a fiancé, who has spent hours on Pinterest, and a Mother, who spends her day trying to actualize her dreams for her daughter’s“ perfect day.” Does she care that he never liked the color purple and maybe has a few ideas of his own? I would suggest she does care. However, given his silence, she forgets it is his wedding too! Not more than a year ago, I had the pleasure of contracting services with a couple in January 2015 for their March 2015 wedding. The initial consultation was with the bride and her loving mother. The groom for whatever reason was not able to attend. The two of them together had left no stone unturned for what was to be an incredible event from ceremony beginning to reception end. Fortunatel I do require a meeting with the bride and groom at least once prior to the wedding. And Fortunately, so, I met with the couple about two weeks prior to their big day. The meeting went well and the couple seemed to be on one accord. Upon the conclusion, I posed my standard question to the groom: “ Is there anything that you want or would like to see happen?” Not many grooms have responded “ yes” to the question. This was not to be the case. He said, “ Ms. Parker, there is something that I have always wanted to do on my wedding day” . His response surprised us both. The groom, with a boyish excitement, continued, “ since the beginning of our planning, I have been thinking about walking down the aisle alone, having my own moment.” And that is what he did!!
http://simplyperfectweddingsandmore.com/
TIPS for the Partner Planning Process Listen. Listening creates insight as to what both individuals really want. Does he like “ rustic” verses her love for “ vintage or modern ideas.” Typically, once the bride identifies a style, nothing else is considered. Is this fair to the man who will look back on wedding pictures and see no reflection of himself? Value and Appreciate One Another. Nothing says “ I love you” like being valued and appreciated. Respect for the Groom’s opinion and having that opinion reflective in the multitude of decisions made creates a personal sense of ownership both will find rewarding. Compromise Happiness is found in the heart of compromise. Whether the compromise is on the colors of the wedding, size of the guest list, or choice of venue; when both partners walk away feeling good about the possibilities, the road to a happy ending is real!
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Do you aspire to be known among your circle of friends as a powerhouse couple—the definition of love, sophistication and class? In our summer edition of Before & After I Do, we have unique tips that will not only set you apart before your nuptials—but also after you tie the knot.
I SAID YES!
INVITATIONS The first impression of your wedding must be fabulous: chic, sophisticated or intriguing and fun. Therefore, customizing your invitations is a must. Monograms, bold patterns, or striking colors will do the trick. WEDDING FAVORS Wedding favors showcase your taste and show your appreciation of guests. Ask the hotel where you’ve reserved a block of rooms to present your guests with lovely gift bags or boxes with bottled water, a sweet treat (cupcake or brownie), mints or a scented candle upon check in.
I’S MARRIED NOW
MEMORY LANE Send strikingly beautiful images from your wedding to guests as a 12-month calendar. Titles such as “You made our year!” or “Time flies when you’re falling in love” will bring a smile to your family and friends. Ask your wedding photographer for this service or DIY at local stores such as Walgreens or Walmart offering photo services. SIP & SEE SI Show guests that you didn’t didn forget about them after your honeymoon is over by inviting them to your all new marital home. Add a stylish flare to your soiree by placing lovely cursive decals (Etsy is a great place to start) with your new last name on drinking glasses. Serve great low price wines (check your local Kroger for their finds under $10) or purchase enough miniature wines and/or champagnes for guests to take home with a thank you tag with your all new monogram or wedding photo. Also consider whipping up an all new signature dish or handcrafted burger named after you and your sweetheart. Send guests home with your love recipe.
www.ceosofrva.com | Before and After I Do 31