Holiday 2019
COURTNEY WARREN SHARES HER COST SAVING TIPS FOR HOLIDAY DECOR
JENNY KELLER
EASY COOKIE RECIPES FOR THE HOLIDAYS
THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: OUR PICKS FOR 2019 RACHEL ROFF
URBAN SKIN RX FOUNDER SHARES HER WINTER SKIN CARE TIPSÂ
SALLI RICHARDSON -WHITFIELD
ON HER TRANSITION FROM LEADING ACTRESS TO TOP DIRECTOR
LIVE YOUR MOST GOLDEN LIFE WITHOUT APOLOGIES www.mixiavenue.com
CONTENTS 05 FROM THE EDITOR Holiday 2019 is here! It not only marks the end of a year, but the beginning of a new decade. Let's Envision greatness for ourselves while we celebrate the season.
06 MEET RACHEL ROFF OF URBAN SKIN RX Rachel shares her top 3 tips for taking care of your skin during the cold months and discusses how she revolutionized the skin care industry for women of color.
18 SEVEN THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT TAKE INTO THE NEW DECADE It's hard to believe, but it is a new decade. Let's focus and embrace our visions.
42 MEET JENNY KELLER Celebrity baker, Jenny Keller, shares her famous sugar cookie recipe with us along with a few cookie decorating tips.
20 MEET SALLI CEOMOM | 3
FAMILY. FUN. FOOD. Editor-in-Chief Vonna Matthews
Contributing Designer Photo Editor Cover Photography Dominique Sensabaugh Photographers
Taly Melo Krystal Jackson Rowan Daly Photography Kristen Gordon K. Marie Photography Charmekia Bias Char Marie Photography Contributing Photographer Gateway Photos Contributing Photographer Photography by Crystal Chatmon
Editorial Office Little Elm, Texas 75068 +1-972-302-9150 | info@ceomommagazine.com CEOMOM Magazine is published by For Her Media Little Elm, Texas 75068 | +1-972-302-9150 www.ceomommagazine.com
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
NEW DECADE. NEW OPPORTUNITIES. NEW LIFE. It's hard to believe, but we are entering a new decade. Ten years have passed, and there is a lot to reflect on and remember. For CEOMOM Magazine, this past decade has been about growing a brand that celebrates, features and inspires women who are redefining balance and living the best version of themselves. From Bottles, Bibs & Pumps Conference & Expo, to two national publications, For Her Media has seen incredible growth not only as a brand, but as an influencer in the mompreneur and kidpreneur spaces. I am excited about what the next decade has in store, and I am even more excited to share it with you. 2019 brought about the first official Dallas Power 15 White on White Luncheon at the Lincoln Experience Center in Frisco, Texas. CEOMOM Magazine honored 15 women who are changing the landscape of Dallas, Texas. We launched the "Moms You Should Know" Directory which will allow us to highlight more moms in business across the globe. From new partnerships to new ventures, 2019 was our year of the Glow Up. 2020 will be about expanding our reach and creating high touch opportunities across the nation and the world. Look for the Power 15 to enter a new city, a national membership program and more.
Editor-in-Chief VONNA MATTHEWS
Vonna Matthews
CEOMOM | 5
RACHEL ROFF
URBAN SKIN RX FOUNDER REVOLUTIONIZES SKIN CARE FOR WOMEN OF COLORÂ Photo Courtesy: Urban Skin RX
Rachel Roff is not one to take the advice of naysayers. Despite some struggles starting out in her career, she has successfully created a best-selling skincare line that caters to all skin tones. She saw a gap in the market and used her education, business savviness and personal life experiences to fill it. Now, Urban Skin Rx is an award winning and innovative clinical skincare brand that is revolutionizing the beauty industry. Her philosophy in business, “Ask for what you want.” This single mother and licensed medical aesthetician shares how she built a mega successful beauty brand and her top three skincare tips for cold weather. Who is Rachel Roff? I am a single mother to the sweetest seven-year-old in the world, Rosie. I’m a licensed medical aesthetician, and the founder of Urban Skin Solutions Medspa and Urban Skin Rx. What inspired you to develop, Urban Skin Rx, a skincare line for women of color? When I first started as an aesthetician back in 2004, I discovered the inequality and lack of offerings of services and products for tanned and darker skin. I come from a diverse family and have friends with deeper skin tones, so this appalled me. Regardless of not having darker skin myself and getting some push back from people about my idea, I knew that my life calling was to serve a neglected demographic that was dealing with the same issues I had growing up. Walk us through your educational and professional journey to become the beauty innovator that you are today. When I was younger, I experienced intense bullying due to a large nevus mole on my face. I also struggled with acne, and my weight. Growing up with those issues, I realized I wanted to help others feel beautiful by becoming an aesthetician and owning my own medspa. Starting out as an aesthetician, I saw a lack of education and services available for darker skin tones and that pushed me to make products that will promote inclusivity for all. Now, as my company grows more popular, we continue to make sure that our products can help those with diverse skin tones and skin issues which truly helps us keep evolving. Describe some of the opposition you’ve faced as a founder in a highly competitive industry. I feel like people don't acknowledge the fact that you can be really passionate about helping others without personally being from the same background. Starting out, I encountered a lot of pushback. People would say things like, ‘How will people take you seriously? You’re not black.’ But I knew my intentions and my skill set, so in 2006 I opened my first medspa. There wasn’t a lot of exposure to different skin types and I wanted the ability to help my friends of all different races. I'm happy that there has been a major shift in today's market and it’s great to know my company was there from the beginning.
The saying I use, “closed mouths don't get fed,” truly applies. If you want something, you have to ask for it. You were recognized as one of the “Latest Innovators in the Beauty Industry” by Forbes and 50 Forward Thinking Executives by WWD. What makes Urban Skin Rx such a unique and innovative brand? I created my line, Urban Skin Rx, to treat troubled skin concerns that I saw firsthand in my North Carolina med spa, Urban Skin Solutions. As a brand, we’re all about inclusion and making products that are targeted, but not limited to, melanin-rich skin. We listen to demands and create products for everyone that are tailored to specific concerns and skin types. You are a well-educated and experienced medical aesthetician with your own medical spa, Urban Skin Solutions Medspa and Laser Center. What advice do you have for a woman who wants to develop her own beauty brand? Don't be afraid to be assertive, aggressive and speak your mind. Yes, sometimes women are unfairly labeled a “bitch” when they do this as opposed to a man, but you can’t let that injustice hold you back. The saying I use, “closed mouths don't get fed,” truly applies. If you want something, you have to ask for it. I recently read an article about Steve Jobs and what he thought was the most important quality that successful people have, and that's to ask for what you want. You would be surprised how often smart, educated people get passed by because they are too intimidated to ask for what they want or need. What are your Urban Skin Rx must haves? I'd have to say our Cleansing Bars. If I have a customer who isn't sure what to start with, I always suggest our Cleansing Bars. They are a “treatment bar in a jar” that also work as a daily cleanser, mask and exfoliator. My favorite is the Combination Skin Cleansing Bar. It works for both dry and oily skin types and helps reduce the signs of aging skin by smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also exfoliates to prevent a dull complexion and provides extreme hydration. What are your favorite family holiday traditions? We love going to Aspen for Christmas and New Year’s. I take a vacation with my whole family. I love hitting the slopes and going skiing with my daughter. What are your future plans for expansion for Urban Skin Rx? Our plans for expansion in the near future include selling our mass line: Urban Skin Rx and our prestige line: Pro strength by Urban Skin Rx in Nigeria. To learn more about Rachel Roff and Urban Skin Rx at https://urbanskinrx.com.
CEOMOM | 7
Rachel's Top 3 Skin Care Tips for Winter Use sunscreen. Just because it is getting cooler doesn’t mean you should stop using sunscreen. Don’t skip out on spf!
Use retinol. Winter is a great time to use retinol for correcting skin damage while the sun and outdoor activities are less intense.
Use a heavier moisturizer. Switch to a heavier moisturizer or oil like our new Pro Strength by Urban Skin Rx Mega Moisture Illuminating Night Cream or our Hydranutrient Radiance Restore Oil.
CEOMOM | 8
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DOMINIQUE SENSABAUGH
HELPING OTHERS TO LIVE AN INSPIRED LIFE
When you ask her who she is, Dominique Sensabaugh tells you, she is a woman who uses her platform to ‘reach while she climbs.’ From her creation of the “Happy Birthday Dominique” community service project to her work with Food for the Hungry to provide clean water for people in Haiti, Sensabaugh has dedicated her life to serving impoverished and under-served communities around the world. Elegant, classy, sophisticated and impeccable describe the Dominique Sensabaugh Lifestyle Brand (DSLB), and Dominique Sensabaugh the woman. This wife, mother, award winning philanthropist and entrepreneur, has built a life synonymous with empowerment and service. CEOMOM Magazine chatted with Sensabaugh about how her journey as a philanthropist began, and future plans for DSLB to provide a seat at the table for women whose passion is matched only by their ambition. Who is Dominique Sensabaugh? Dominique Sensabaugh is a woman on a mission. My goal is to positively impact and serve under-resourced communities both domestically and abroad. I am a woman determined to use my platform to “reach while I climb” and empower others, especially women, to tap into the greatest version of themselves. Dominique is a devoted philanthropist, determined to use every resource I have been blessed with to help those in need. Dominique is a kind, loving wife and mother who thrives off of caring for her family while showing the world that motherhood is beautiful, yet imperfect. Dominique is a storyteller- sharing with her audience the powerful narratives of mission makers and power players. Tell us about Dominique Sensabaugh Lifestyle Brand. What is your brand’s focus and mission? The Dominique Sensabaugh Lifestyle Brand (DSLB), is dedicated to Motherhood, Philanthropy and Empowerment. My focus and my mission with DSLB is to encourage individuals to step outside of their comfort zone and always trust their instincts. How do your roles as an artist and writer play into Dominique Sensabaugh Lifestyle Brand? My roles as a curator and writer are all encompassing and one in the same. The Dominique Sensabaugh Lifestyle Brand recently published Inspired V.1., a beautiful compilation of the stories of entrepreneurs, mission makers, fellow philanthropists, and unconventional artists. You are an award winning philanthropist, who has done a lot of work with organizations such as Soles 4 Soles and Food for the Hungry. Tell us about these organizations and the work you’ve done with both? What inspired you to get involved with these organizations? Each of these organizations have a global imprint in the world. I am inspired by encouraging my peers to apply critical thinking and ignite problem solving towards addressing this humanitarian crisis in which we are currently living. For example, one of the most abundant resources in the world is not available to everyone and
my family is committed to changing this daunting fact through our work with both Food for the Hungry and Soles for Soles. Clean water and basic necessities such as a pair of well fitting, comfortable shoes should not be considered a luxury. It is a fundamental right that every person on this earth deserves. You created the "Happy Birthday Dominique" community service project as a way to impact under-resourced communities. How would you describe your impact with "Happy Birthday Dominique?” As the Creator of this mission-based project, I utilize the weeks leading up to my birthday month (December) to spearhead a series of community service projects. My partnerships have ranged from raising funds for local food banks to hosting holiday parties for at risk youth to providing gifts to women in substance abuse programs. Our reach has extended to Nashville, TN, Pittsburgh, PA, Charlotte, NC and Columbia, SC. How did your journey as a philanthropist begin? Why is philanthropy so important to you? My mother and grandparents laid the foundation for my heart of service. Growing up, they instilled in me a tremendous work ethic and the awareness that it is my job to help others and put the needs of others before my own. That desire only increased throughout my years in undergrad at Clemson University where I met my husband, Coty Sensabaugh. As time progressed, we quickly learned that it is our job to lead and serve our community with confidence. It is our joint purpose to use our resources to show other young couples that they too can have an impact. What advice do you have for someone who wants to start doing philanthropy? Grassroots effort can have a significant and profound impact on an organization. Because time is one of the greatest resources, donating your time is one of the most impactful ways you can serve an organization. Also, what skills do you possess that could benefit an organization? Nonprofits need your skills. If you are an artist or good at social media, donate those skills. You have received several awards as a philanthropist including the 2017 Points of Light Tribute Award and Magic Johnson’s 32 under 32. What does getting awards for philanthropy mean to you? It is exciting and a true honor, but the greatest reward is knowing that we inspired our peers and have left a legacy for our children. Our son participated in his first mission trip at six months old! What are your family’s favorite holiday traditions? The Happy Birthday Dominique Community Service project is a tradition that has united my family in love- we all look forward to opportunities to serve. We also host our annual Ugly Sweater Christmas party, and we have a decorating day where we decorate and arrange all of our Christmas trees. Each person in my house, including the dog, has his own tree. I'm a little obsessed with Christmas decor to say the least.
CEOMOM | 11
Issue 27 | 234
My focus and my mission with DSLB is to encourage individuals to step outside of their comfort zone and always trust their instincts.
Photo Credit: Japhet Odigie JAO Photography
One of our most coveted projects include the DSLB Inspired Dinner Series, which is a unique opportunity for women to dine and unite with other like-minded power players who are inspired by greatness. What’s next for Dominique Sensabaugh? There are so many amazing entities in the works for DSLB. One of our most coveted projects include the DSLB Inspired Dinner Series, which is a unique opportunity for women to dine and unite with other like-minded power players who are inspired by greatness. The goal is to cultivate an experience to connect a tribe of women who are equally as brilliant as they are beautiful. It’s a movement for the woman who conveys passion and ambition. A movement for women who believe, there is a seat at the table for all, to win. We launched this phenomenal evening in November in Nashville, TN and will later host similar spectacular soirees in other cities like Charlotte, Miami, Atlanta, LA, and hopefully Dallas. To learn more about Dominique Sensabaugh and the DSLB brand visit https://www.dominiquesensabaugh.com.
CEOMOM | 14
DSLB Inspired Dinner Series
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7 Things You Should Not Take Into 2020 By Vonna Matthews
It's hard to believe, but we are now entering a new decade. As we reflect on the last 10 years, we are reminded of things that helped us grow, decisions that held us back, and what areas require improvement. Not everything needs to enter the new decade with us. To reveal the best version of yourself in 2020 and beyond, here are 7 things that you should leave in 2019.
I
1. Self Doubt. You are a super star. Everyone knows it except you. Now is the time to acknowledge, embrace and leverage your worth. 2. Toxic Relationships. One way to practice self care is being selective about who you allow in your inner circle. Maintaining healthy relationships is vital to your mental, emotional and physical health. Identify relationships that aren't conducive to your growth and leave them in 2019. 3. Lack of Gratitude. Having gratitude allows you to appreciate and leverage the space you're in- your current situation. It also shifts your perspective and positions you to see opportunity for growth rather than defeat. 4. Procrastination. Do something today! Don't be overwhelmed by the destination. Every journey consists of hundreds of small steps. Remember, you can do this.
5. Lack of Faith. Believe in what others say is impossible. Believe that there is nothing you cannot do. Believe in your capabilities to do more than you have ever imagined. Believe in all that God says you are. 6. Overworking. As women, we wear several hats. This often lends itself to having a schedule that is packed from sunrise to sundown. Though being busy is celebrated, in 2020 let's focus more on productivity and projects that help enhance our lives and our brands rather than doing too much. Reduce the workload to reduce stress. 7. Fear. I once heard that fear is "false evidence appearing real." Fear keeps you from moving forward with false notions of the unknown. Fear tells you that something bad may happen if you make a certain decision. Although not all fear is bad as it sometimes protects us from harm, a lot of it prevents us from experiencing our fullest potential. In 2020, do it scared!
CEOMOM | 19
Photo Credit: Rowan Daly Photography
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
SALLI RICHARDSONWHITFIELD
ON HER TRANSITION FROM LEADING ACTRESS TO TOP DIRECTOR
CEOMOM | 21
Photo Credit: Rowan Daly Photography
The
I want to win in the business. I want to be better than anyone who comes before or after me. I want to win in my marriage and as a mother. If you ask her what feeds her soul right now, Salli Richardson-Whitfield will tell you, it’s directing. She’s been in the acting game for over thirty years, but has found a new passion behind the camera. RichardsonWhitfield made her directorial debut in the science fiction hit show, Eureka in 2016. She’s been directing for three years, but boasts the talent and intuition of someone who has been doing it for decades. Her directorial career includes Ava Duvernay and Oprah Winfrey’s hit series Queen Sugar and the controversial episode of Black-ish, where she tackled colorism. Known for her candor, this wife and mother believes in the power of a woman to influence and motivate action both at home and at work. CEOMOM Magazine talked to Richardson-Whitfield about her meteoric rise as a top director and how she manages family and career in Hollywood. Who is Salli Richardson-Whitfield? Salli is honest, maybe too honest. I am not the best liar which gets me in trouble. I think it makes me a great friend and good at my job. It makes me honest about what I see and people appreciate that.
As an actress with a diverse career, you’ve done theatre, television and film. Which are you most passionate? Does one feed your soul more than the other? Directing right now really feeds me. I have started to miss acting a bit now that I am working with some really amazing talent and big actors. I can see the craft happen in front of me. Right now, making a beautiful picture and helping actors find a great character gives me this really great peace and calm in my life. To what do you attribute your long-standing career in Hollywood? I haven’t done things just for money. I have never done anything where I thought, I really don’t want to do this show, but I need the money. Being choosy has helped me have longevity. I have respect for my work. I am willing to try new things and grow, which is part of having a new life as a director. As I grow as a director, and I go into these bigger shows, I am willing to feel uncomfortable. That has helped me grow.
I am a mother, a working mother who struggles with it a lot. I never thought I would have that mother guilt, but I do, because I am gone a lot. I am a committed wife. Both my husband and I come from families of divorce, but we made a commitment to stay together and weather the storm.
You have transitioned from being a successful actress to working behind the camera as a director. Describe your transition into directing. It has moved quickly. There’s a big difference between acting and directing. I have always thought of myself as a really good actress. However, you can be a great actress, get an Emmy and an Oscar and still not work for a while. But as a director, if you are good at your job and people like you, you are going to work.
Salli is a competitor and an athlete of life. I want to win in the business. I want to be better than anyone who comes before or after me. I want to win in my marriage and as a mother.
I was given my first shot as a director on Eureka. While doing Queen Sugar, I was called by some producers I had worked with before as an actor to direct. I've built relationships where people enjoyed working with me.
Director
CEOMOM | 23
I have respect for my work. I am willing to try new things and grow, which is part of having a new life as a director. As I grow as a director, and I go into these bigger shows, I am willing to feel uncomfortable.Â
Photo Credit: Rowan Daly Photography
A lot of the showrunners know each other, and they talk. It’s a little different from acting. People want to know, “Can she do a great job? Can we trust her with our baby and millions of dollars?” They are also giving more women and people of color opportunities to direct. That has made a huge difference. You have an extensive television directing resume from “Queen Sugar” to “American Gods” to “Scandal.” How has being an actress impacted your approach to directing? Everyone has their own approach as to what they need, to do their best work. I am really good at studying people. This person needs silence. This person can be difficult if you do something without letting them know beforehand. I inherently know what the actors need. I am able to relate to actors and access their needs. Other actors trust other actors. If I give them a note, they listen. They trust that I know what I’m talking about. They want feedback. They want encouragement from directors. Ninety-five percent of the directors I’ve worked with will not give you instructions. That can be very frustrating at times. Actors don’t like that. They want to know if we are moving on or did we get everything we need. How does being a mother impact your perspective as a director? You have all these babies that you have to coddle and manipulate to do what you want them to do. We have raised actors to the point they are used to being taken care of. Being a mom, I can shift into certain gears. I can be calm or if needed I can change my tone of voice to be more firm. People can tell the shift, and they are ready to listen. I am very much a mom on set at times. I would also say, just the general micromanaging of life. Women are very good at that. You’ve said that women directors are sometimes afraid to bring their womanhood to work/set. Please expand on that. Women get afraid. We feel like all of a sudden we need to act like men. At times, I bring myself as a mother. That is a tool that I have that I use. I have tools of manipulation that men do not have. How do we deal with our husbands? It’s really about using all of the tools that we have in our bag. Every woman knows what tools that they have. Don’t throw them out at the same time, but use them. Both you and your husband have long careers in the entertainment industry which we know is demanding and full of ups and downs. How do you balance a career in Hollywood with being a mother? We get a lot of help. We are not the parents who have our kids at every Hollywood event. I am not trying to keep them out of the spotlight, but not necessarily trying to put them in it. They are very humble and grounded. They are just normal everyday kids figuring out their Halloween costumes. They are not trying to do YouTube channels or get the spotlight. We try to keep them very normal. Juggling parenthood and directing has become very hard for me. I get help from my parents when they come in town and my cousin whom I trust. We are trying to still do what we do for our lives and be good parents. As the saying goes, you can not do this without a village. What are the Whitfields’ favorite holiday traditions? Thanksgiving is with my husband’s mom and then Christmas is with my family. At Christmas time, I always have a big annual dinner at our house with friends. We are vegetarian, but I still fry a turkey. We have about thirty people over with children running everywhere. Learn more about Salli Richardson-Whitfield and her work at https://sallirwhitfield.com. CEOMOM | 25
PRESENTED DALLAS POWER 15
WHITE ON WHITE LUNCHEON
JUNE 25, 2019 The CEOMOM Dallas Power 15 celebrated 15 women in Dallas, Texas who are making moves and blazing trails. The event was held at the Lincoln Experience Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. The 15 women consisted of doctors, philanthropists, artists, counselors, lawyers, executive directors, tech entrepreneurs, and more. For the second year, CEOMOM Magazine has hosted a luncheon that allows women to come together and show support for each other while celebrating sisterhood. There was so much love in the room. Thank you to Lincoln Experience Center for allowing us to use their space for this unique event. Thanks to our sponsors including Park Cities Petals, Cozy Wicks, CURLS, Scream Your Dream, This Is It TV, Samsung, Make Your Life Sweeter, The Mtoto Agency and Professional Speakers Concierge Service. Dr. Melanie Ross Mills, our keynote speaker, did an amazing job of reminding moms that they are not alone. Dr. Mills encouraged us all to embrace connection. There was a candid panel discussion with the 2019 cover moms, Elizabeth Scrivner, Kathy Fielder, Amber Gregg and Shantaquilette Carter about what being a mother really looks like. Awards were presented to the 15 women by the luncheon emcee LeTitia Owens. Honorees: Elizabeth Scrivner, Dr. Jessica Shepherd, Jenny Anchondo, Courtney Caldwell, Yasmeen Tadia, Tammy Meinershagen, Kim Jones, Shantaquilette Carter, Kathy Fielder, Denita Lacking-Quinn, Anita Hawkins, Kim Olusanya, LaToya Jones, Bree Clarke and Amber Gregg. Photo Credit: Krystal Jackson, Gateway Photos
Photo Credit: Krystal Jackson, Gateway Photos
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NATASHA AUGUST: CREATING A SPACE FOR GENERATION Z WITH PARCEL22
P
arcel22 is unlike any wardrobe rental service, because they cater to a group that is often overlooked by similar companies, Generation Z. Parcel22 founder, Natasha August wanted to create a service that made comfort, affordability and style priorities. Inspired by her travels and love for fashion, Parcel22 was born around the time she had her first child. August says, “I think my business got me through my pregnancy… “
recommend pieces for users who would rather get a subscription and allow us to pack the parcels for them, based on our recommendations.
CEOMOM Magazine talked to August about birthing a company and growing a family at the same time, why it’s important for her to target Generation Z, and where she thinks the clothing rental economy is headed.
What was the defining moment that inspired you to start Parcel22? I was at another startup and I was just at that transition point in my life where I’d rather be working for myself. It just all came together where I was able to start Parcel22. It was the transition in my life that I was like, “Okay, it’s time.”
Who is Natasha August? I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. I have been lucky enough to be able to travel all throughout my twenties. It’s where I’ve been able to gain a lot of my experiences not only in fashion, but in life. My travels have allowed me to come into who I am today. I went to Southern Methodist University for college where I studied finance, economics and Spanish. That led me to work for Accenture, the consulting firm. Accenture bought me to San Francisco where I met my husband, and then ultimately bought me back to Dallas. Those life experiences led me to start Parcel22. Briefly share with our readers what Parcel22 is. How does it work? Parcel22 is a wardrobe rental service. Our target customers are Gen Z and early millennials. The clothes that we offer are very fun, and vibrant. We offer a platform that is more accessible to young girls and women who wouldn’t necessarily have fashion trends at their fingertips. We offer three plans with parcels starting at $55, so it’s the most competitive rate in the market to date. With these three plans you can get three articles of clothing with two accessories; with the Simple Plan, or four pieces of clothing and no accessories with the middle plan. The largest plan is five garments and three accessories. We allow our users to go onto our site and pack their parcels with whatever items they like. We do
We send the parcels, and the users are able to wear their clothing as much and as long as they’d like to, and send them back once they’re ready. Then, they can pick out their new pieces. It’s an unlimited wardrobe service for the month.
Parcel22 stands out as a subscription box clothing and accessories rental service, because you cater to Generation Z. Why was it important to you to appeal to a younger audience? For a younger audience, there was no clothing rental that was accessible to them, not only at their price point, but for their style. A lot of the other clothing rental companies or online businesses have more conservative clothing that is geared towards thirty plus, the working woman or primarily going out to galas or events. I wanted to be able to provide clothing that was everyday wear for somebody who didn’t have access to fun styles at their fingertips. We noticed we were receiving a lot of subscriptions from towns there weren’t near a mall or they don’t have access to these retailers that city girls might have. It’s really just being able to provide the accessibility to girls who don’t necessarily have it on a regular basis. Why do you think clothing rental services have become so popular? Do you think this trend will continue beyond the next five years? Why or why not? I think this is a trend that is going to stay for the long run. With the shared economy and just the rental economy in general, everybody has become so adept at having everything at their fingertips, and having things that are so accessible like Uber. I compare the wardrobe rental service to Netflix. Wardrobe rental services are so popular and readily available that if people don't jump on
CEOMOM | 33
I wanted to be able to provide clothing that was everyday wear for somebody who didn’t have access to fun styles at their fingertips.
Photo Credit: Alexa Vossler
the bandwagon now, they are going to miss the boat. I do think the trend of rental services will continue beyond five years, especially with the growing popularity of social media. People are not wanting to wear the same thing twice. Along with that, people are living a greener and more simple life. People are becoming more conscious and aware. Rental allows not only girls and people to be able to recycle their clothing, but be able to keep up to date with the latest trends in fashion. It’s kinda living that more simple life and not wasting as much clothing. Tell us about your partnership with Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support. Why did you choose to support Genesis? In high school, I used to volunteer at the Genesis Shelter. I think from an early age they resonated with me and had a place in my heart. I knew that when I was able to give back to this community, I would definitely want to contribute to Genesis. Their cause and mission is very important, especially for women. Genesis supports women who have experienced domestic violence and don’t necessarily have an outlet or means to go anywhere else. They are able to empower these women through their different support services such as counseling, shelter, or tutoring their children. I just love the cause and that they empower women. Through Parcel22, we also want to empower these young girls and women. Through our proceeds we donate money to the charity as well as clothing. Once our clothing surpasses its life cycle we donate the clothes to Genesis. Other than time management, what are your biggest challenges as a mompreneur? How have those challenges influenced the way you run your business? I’m a new mom. My son Luca is now three months old. It’s been an interesting ride. I actually started Parcel22 right when I became pregnant. It’s gone hand in hand. I think my business got me through my pregnancy and helped it go by really quickly. I was so busy trying to launch the business that I didn’t have time to think about the symptoms and all of the awful things people say go with pregnancy. I was actually trying to launch the same day I went into labor. The new website was delayed so I think it was a blessing in disguise. The ability to multitask has become second nature to me. I’ll be putting the baby in a swing and steaming clothing for the parcels at the same time. It’s important as a mompreneur to be able to multitask, but also to be able to prioritize. Of course, your child always needs to come first. You need to know how to organize your day to be able to achieve both. What are your favorite family holiday traditions? In Dallas, there are trolleys that go through Highland Park to go look at Christmas lights. We currently do that every year. We either rent a car to go see the lights or go on a trolley to look at Christmas lights. Hopefully we continue to do that with little Luca. We also love watching Christmas movies like The Holiday. That’s a tradition that we do every year. Learn more about Natasha August and Parcel22 at https://www.parcel22.com.
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Photo Credit: Captured By Tosha
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r. Catrina Pullum
THE CHAIN BREAKER: HELPING OTHERS MOVE FROM HURTING TO HEALING Dr. Catrina Pullum’s mission is to transform lives and inspire women to walk in their destiny. Her life has been defined by overcoming adversities that have helped make her the phenomenal woman she is today. She is the epitome of survival, overcoming domestic violence and sexual abuse, and even a brain injury. Called "The Chain Breaker," Pullum shares her story of survival to help women heal from their own pain and trauma to realize their purpose. CEOMOM Magazine met with this wife, mother, philanthropist, film producer, author and entrepreneur to discuss her role as a “Chain Breaker,” how transparency has changed her life, and how she is extending her love for philanthropy to her children. Who is Dr. Pullum? People call me “The Plug.” I’m just a young lady from Louisiana who comes from humble beginnings. I’m walking in my purpose, on purpose, and teaching others to do the same. Tell us more about your role as a film producer. I am a visual person. I write a lot of books. I’m a storyteller with a very hands-on approach. One day, I received the opportunity to work on a major film. Previously, my business focused on producing PSA’s, because I love outreach, and documenting. I love taking people’s stories and bringing them to life, not just to highlight them, but to inspire and encourage others. Initially, I was doing this through PSA’s. Each month we were doing different themes and documenting events I produced or attended. That work eventually transitioned into filmmaking. You are the owner of PullCorp Media & Business Consulting Group. What is the company’s mission and who do you serve? Our goal is to have our clients reach beyond their limits. We want them to remove the limits and do whatever they
put their minds to. PullCorp Media & Business Consulting Group is a PR and management luxury boutique firm. We serve individuals in the entertainment industry from actors to authors to producers. We also do business consulting for corporations and nonprofits. Our company is focused on taking care of people and giving them the hands-on approach and support they need. In your book, Breaking the Chains: From Hurting to Healing you share your story of triumph over sexual abuse, teen pregnancy, divorce and more. Your story has also become a part of your platform. What was the defining moment that inspired you to be so transparent? How has transparency impacted your life and career? In 2012, my spiritual brother approached me and said, “It’s time for you to share your story.” At the time, I felt like I didn’t have a story, and if I did, I didn’t have time to write it. A year had gone by. Immediately following the deadline my brother had given me, one of my best friends/clients called me. She said, “I have to be obedient to the Holy Spirit. God told me to let you know, “It’s time to share your story with the world.”” That’s when it truly resonated with me. After praying about it and talking to my husband, I told God that I would write the book so that people could be healed. I wanted people to be empowered and know that no matter what your circumstances are, or what you’ve been through, you can be successful. I questioned what people would say about me after reading my story. I am Dr. Catrina Pullum; who am I going to lose in this process? At that moment, it did not matter, because if you’re for me, you are still going to be for me. So many times, we bottle up, or we hide. So many of us are living behind the mask, not really showing who we really are. I connect with people when I am transparent. The book came out in 2014. My CEOMOM | 37
Being able to open up in this book has taught me the value of transparency. It started the chain breaker movement.
Photo Credit: Tia Kirby
family embraced me. I didn’t get any backlash. The only question they asked was, “Why didn’t you say something?” My family is very protective. Being able to open up in this book has taught me the value of transparency. It started the chain breaker movement. People began to call me the “chain breaker” at my first book signing. From there, it stuck, and it’s still here two plays later. When I get on social media and I receive messages that say, "I’m going back to school, because of you, or you helped me to not give up," I can see that God’s work has been done. People have been inspired by the book, and that’s all I’ve ever wanted. Tell us about your latest book, Journey of the Chain Breakers. What is it about? What is the inspiration behind it? I gathered young women who I consider to be “chain breakers.” These women are living their lives in spite of what they have been through. This anthology gives women the opportunity to share their stories with the world. The chain breaker movement is not about me, it’s about celebrating others who are breaking chains, and putting them on a platform. I believe God’s calling on my life is to work with others no one else wants to work with, to work with the diamonds in the rough. It’s my job to pick them up and give them encouragement to move forward. I’m your cheerleader. I’m your coach. I’m a P.I.M.P., Push Into My Promise. What is it that God has for you? I’m going to push you into what God has for you. In 2017, your husband saved your life from a brain injury which forced you to slow down. You are a multifaceted woman who wears many hats. What has slowing down meant to your life? What advice do you have for other moms who aspire to do the same? I came to a surrendering point. Slowing down has meant as my doctor says, “You are living a new normal.” I look good on the outside, but on the inside, there are days you may be talking to me, and I don’t know your name. There are moments I am like, “What am I supposed to be doing?” I have to write down everything or I will forget. The stroke affected my memory. There are days that I may have a speech delay. The left side of my body is still partially paralyzed. These are some of my ongoing challenges. I used to be on the go a lot. Now, you don’t see me on the Dallas scene as much. This is my new normal. I’ve had to adjust my life, and adjust who I am. My husband makes sure my kids have everything, from getting them to school and special activities to preparing meals. I also see a psychiatrist. We, as women, have to take care of ourselves. We have to listen to our bodies. We can’t do everything. What are some of your family’s favorite holiday traditions? If we’re in town on Christmas Eve, we go to the movies. The kids pick what movie they want to see. Of course, I start cooking. Every Christmas Day we find an organization to support. We either feed the homeless or go to group homes for foster kids. We give back to those individuals by spending time with them celebrating Christmas. In the afternoon, we continue our family celebration. I cook a lot of food. The afternoon is when we celebrate with family, and the morning we dedicate to community service. What’s next for Dr. Pullum? In 2020, our plan is to begin pre-production for the movie based on my book, Breaking the Chains: From Hurting to Healing. We are also working on opening a university online as a part of my mentorship program called, Unleash Her. It’s a yearlong program. You have access to me via video. Sometimes we walk into a room and we are in the room, but we are not in the room. We hide who we are. Unleash Her came from my desire to encourage women to reveal their excellence. It will launch in 2020. Learn more about Dr. Pullum at https://www.pullcorp.com. CEOMOM | 39
2020 EDITION
YOUR GLOBAL SOURCE FOR WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES
MOMS YOU SHOULD KNOW BUSINESS DIRECTORY ceomommagazine.com
CONTACT US Contact us to be a part of the premiere issue of the "Moms You Should Know" business directory. Phone: 972-302-9150
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Email: info@ceomommagazine.com Website: ceomommagazine.com/moms -you-should-know
2019
Photo Credit: Kelly Clare Photography
Jenny Keller
CELEBRITY BAKER HAS AMERICA FALLING BACK IN LOVE WITH SUGAR COOKIES WITH HER POPULAR TIPS AND NEW BOOK! Who doesn’t love sugar cookies? When done just right, they are the perfect combination of soft and flavorful. Jenny Keller, author of Cookie Class and owner of Jenny Cookies Bake Shop, has reinvented this favorite classic. Her secret, combine delicious flavor with innovative decor. Her creative designs and expertise have caught the attention of several notable publications such as Country Living, Better Homes & Gardens, People, Brides and more. This celebrity chef creates cookie designs that mimic everything from mini pies to unicorns to popcorn. Whatever the occasion, Keller has the sugar cookie to match. Who is Jenny Keller? Jenny Keller is the author of the popular cookbooks, Eat More Dessert and Cookie Class, and owner of the destination bakery, Jenny Cookies Bake Shop in Lake Stevens, WA. From desserts to everyday entertaining, Jenny lends inspiration and encouragement to others for their own events and everyday celebrations. Her style, designs and expertise have been seen in Country Living, Better Homes & Gardens, People, Us Weekly, Brides and More. When she’s not creating for JennyCookies.com, Jenny styles and creates content for brands such as Wilton, Pottery Barn Kids, Warner Bros, Fresh, Bath & Body Works, JOANN and more, to connect consumers with their products. She is also known for her work with numerous celebrities such as Tori Spelling, Tiffani Thiessen, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Lisa Rinna and many of ABC’s The Bachelor & Bachelorettes.
Before becoming a self taught baker, you owned an espresso business and then became a stay-at-home mom. Describe your transition from these vastly different roles to being a highly sought after celebrity baker and shop owner. I opened my espresso business fresh out of college. My dream job at 21 was to run my own coffee business. For four and a half years I ran it successfully as I got married and had my first baby. Shortly after Ally was born, I sold the business and settled in as a stay-at-home mom. It wasn’t long after I sold the business and began baking at home. Sugar cookies quickly became my signature and friends, then friends of friends were asking for cookies. I began teaching classes and sharing my recipes. The sugar cookie can be considered one of the most loved, yet basic cookies. What makes your sugar cookie so unique and such a crowd pleaser? In 13 years of making my sugar cookies, I’ve never met someone who didn’t like them! They’re classic, traditional and easy to replicate for any reason and any occasion. I’ve created countless flavor combinations and decorating designs so there is always something new to try, though my basic sugar cookie topped with my vanilla buttercream will always be the favorite! What are your favorite dessert recipes to make with your kids for the holiday season? What is the key to making cookie decorating easy and kid-friendly? My kids love to make cookie jars for the holidays. We fill mason jars with dry ingredients for our favorite homestyle cookie recipe, add a label with the recipe and gift to friends and family. If we bake cookies, I try to limit the amount of
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My kids love to make cookie jars for the holidays. We fill mason jars with dry ingredients for our favorite homestyle cookie recipe, add a label with the recipe and gift to friends and family.
Photo Credit: Kelly Clare Photography
shapes we make and select a color palette for the icing so we aren’t making a million different colors. With little kids, you want to be sure to tie ends of icing bags with rubber bands to eliminate an icing explosion! You just released your second book, Cookie Class. Give us your top three tips for creating the best holiday themed dessert table on a budget. The dessert table is the centerpiece of any party, no matter what the budget. Three key elements for creating a fantastic dessert table are: 1. Choose a theme and a color palette. Outlining the colors of the dessert and the table display pieces will keep everything in line and looking cohesive throughout. 2. Use different heights in your cake plates, trays and vessels to create a visual display. 3. Keep desserts simple! Around the holidays we are all running short on time. Make one dessert yourself and fill in the remaining desserts from the grocery store or local bakery. Tell us about The Big Cookie Give initiative. How can our readers get involved. I launched The Big Cookie Give to inspire others to think outside of their own lives and do something as simple as giving a sugar CEOMOM | 44
cookie to show kindness. It started in my hometown community Lake Stevens, WA where I spread cookie joy throughout the town, stopping at the Fire Station, Post Office, Senior Center, Starbucks drive through, and more to celebrate their roles in our community, and thank them with a box of buttercream sugar cookies. After the first week of cookie giving, I invited my social media audience to nominate where I should deliver cookies next. I was flooded with hundreds and hundreds of nominations of deserving people in the Seattle and surrounding areas. I have been giving cookies weekly ever since! The goal of The Big Cookie Give is to encourage my audience to look around in their own communities and where they see a need, fill it. It doesn’t have to be a cookie; it could be a cup of coffee, a handwritten note expressing thanks and recognition, a box of donuts, or a loaf of freshly baked bread. It’s the gesture that makes the biggest impression. It’s about the acknowledgement that you see them working hard, or maybe even falling short and lifting them back up to say “I see you”. Is there a single mom, a military family, a hard working garbage man, someone struggling with an illness, or a fantastic coach or teacher in your community? Taking time to acknowledge and recognize them is a game changer. It will brighten their day and encourage them, with something as small as a box of cookies! Learn more about about Jenny Keller and get more of her delicious cookie recipes at https://jennycookies.com.
Happy NEW YEAR AS WE LOOK BACK AT 2019, CEOMOM MAGAZINE WISHES YOU AND YOUR FAMILY THE BEST IN 2020. HERE'S TO A NEW YEAR AND A NEW DECADE.
JENNY COOKIES (SUGAR COOKIE) INGREDIENTS 3 Cups All-Purpose Flour, Plus More for Rolling 2 Tsp. Aluminum-Free Baking Powder 1 Cup (2 Sticks) Salted Butter, At Room Temperature 1 Cup Sugar 1 Large Egg 2 Tsp. Pure Vanilla Extract
INSTRUCTIONS
WE HELP YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED IN LIFE.
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1. Into a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside. 2. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on medium speed, beat butter and sugar for about 1 ½ minutes, or until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. 3. Turn the mixer speed to low and carefully add the flour mixture a little at a time, occasionally stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl. Once all the flour has been incorporated, the dough should form a ball around the mixing attachment and feel soft but not sticky. 4. Wrap the dough ball in a piece of plastic wrap and press down to form a 1-inch-thick disk. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before rolling or store for up to 7 days tightly wrapped. 5. Preheat the oven to 375 ° F. 6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured flat work surface to about ¼ -inch thickness, using additional flour as necessary to prevent sticking. Use light bulb shaped cookie cutter to create light bulbs, and carefully transfer with a cookie spatula to a nonstick baking sheet, placing the cookies about ¾ inch apart. 7. Bake one sheet at a time in the middle of the oven until puffy, about 7-8 minutes. Allow the cookies to rest for 2 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. 8. Repeat with the gathered scraps and remaining disk until all the dough has been used.
Photo Credit: Kelly Clare Photography
BUTTERCREAM FROSTING INGREDIENTS 1 Cup Imperial Margarine Or Butter (2 Sticks) 1 Cup Crisco Vegetable Shortening 2 Pounds Confectioners' Sugar (About 7 1 / 2 Cups) 2 Teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract 3 Tablespoons Whole Milk
INSTRUCTIONS
WE HELP YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED IN LIFE.
Photo Credit: Kelly Clare Photography
1. Combine the margarine and Crisco in the bowl of an electric mixer; using a paddle attachment, beat on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes. 2. Add half of the confectioners ’ sugar and continue beating on low speed for an additional 2 minutes, or until the mixture is creamy, scraping the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Add the remaining confectioners ’ sugar, vanilla and milk, and beat until the frosting is creamy and fluffy, about 2 minutes more. Add any food coloring at this time, if using, and beat on low speed until light and fluffy. 3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 30 days.
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HOLLY DANIELS CHRISTENSEN Dune Jewelry: Capturing Memories
If you’ve never heard of experiential jewelry, it’s with good reason. Dune Jewelry is unlike any other jewelry brand, taking sand and various elements from all over the world to create commemorative pieces that are as sentimental as they are beautiful. From the Greek islands to Apalachicola Bay in Florida, Holly Daniels Christensen has transformed her love for nature and the beach into a jewelry company defined by rapid growth and one-of-a-kind designs. Christensen spoke with CEOMOM Magazine about her passion for capturing memories for her customers and her key to managing a successful jewelry brand as a wife and mother of two. Who is Holly Daniels Christensen? I am a self-taught, bootstrap entrepreneur and mother to two awesome little girls. I am an extremely hard working and creative individual. I love to work. I love to be a mom. I am really excited about my life 90 percent of the time and when I'm not it's because I let the Mom/Work life balance get a bit out of control. I believe there's more great work to be done within the Dune brand, so much more is possible, and that is very exciting to me!
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I believe in quality over quantity. I can spend all of the time in the world with my kids, but it doesn’t matter if I’m not present. I want my kids to know they are the most important people in my life.
Photo Credit: Samantha Robshaw Photography
We create all of our designs with sand and natural elements from all over the world. Tell us about Dune Jewelry and what makes it such a unique jewelry brand. We are the one and only experiential jewelry brand. We create all of our designs with sand and natural elements from all over the world. If you had a special vacation with your family or simply a beautiful place you’ve visited, we can use a little pinch of sand from those locations and incorporate it into a custom piece of jewelry. You can customize your design by choosing sand or natural elements from our Sandbank™, or you can send in your own element for a truly unique experiential design. For example, to honor your wedding, we could use pressed flowers from your bouquet. We’ve even used crushed granite from the Rocky Mountains and crushed corn from farms in the Midwest that have been in families for generations, so they have a lot of sentimental value. You worked in the Boston real estate market for years before becoming a jewelry designer. What was the defining moment that inspired you to change careers and start Dune Jewelry? I really loved real estate. I love working with people and working with different properties. I funded my business through selling real estate. My husband inspired me to make the decision to pursue designing jewelry full time. While working in real estate, I was crafting and creating all of the designs myself and I was scared to let someone else do it for fear that they wouldn’t take as much care as I did. My husband
put it into perspective in his brash Bostonian way, “People train other people to perform brain surgery. You can train people to make your jewelry.” I’m glad I listened because now I’ve built a wonderful team around me that truly do care as much as I do. Dune Jewelry is described as Experiential Jewelry. What does that mean? In this day and age, everything is on our phones, it’s all digital and stored in a cloud somewhere. It’s very different from when I was growing up, where we would print our photos and place them into photo albums so we could reminisce about family trips, summertime adventures and special holidays. For the most part, people don't do that anymore and I think that Experiential Jewelry fills that void. It gives you a tangible reminder of your favorite places and moments in time. I love it when customers come to visit our studio and they bring soil from their daughter's softball field or flowers from their cousin's wedding. Our customers tend to get very creative when thinking about how they're going to create their Dune designs. It's special, and we're building this amazing community of people who are sentimental about particular moments in their lives. We help them capture each and every experience. Your collections are inspired by the beach, using sand and other elements reminiscent of the ocean. Why is the beach such an inspiration for you? I think the beach is an inspiration for many people. The complete wonder and enormity of the ocean can put things into perspective for all of us who lead such busy lives. We realize there's a whole world out there to explore and appreciate.
Photo Credit: Samantha Robshaw Photography
be present when I’m home. I am lucky to have a supportive husband and happy kids. I believe in quality over quantity. I can spend all of the time in the world with my kids, but it doesn’t matter if I’m not present. I want my kids to know they are the most important people in my life. What are your favorite family holiday traditions? We love hanging fresh Christmas wreaths on the outside of our home. The entire family gets involved and it takes about an hour. It always looks so festive when we’re done. We also love decorating the Christmas tree together, but the most fun is when we embark on our indoor snowball fights. It’s not with real snow, but these little white stuffed snowballs that someone gave us a few years ago. The girls love to chase each other around the house and keep score on who gets hit the most. See the 2019 CEOMOM Holiday Gift Guide to see more of Dune Jewelry. Place your order at www.dunejewelry.com. Describe your process for creating new designs and collections. I listen to our customers, pure and simple. Our community can call or email me to let me know what they’d like to see next season and I take it to heart. I think that was a big lesson evolving from artist to business owner. Staying true to your art is crucial, but if you want to create a business that will thrive, it’s just as important to listen to your customers and allow them to inspire you.
Follow Dune Jewelry on Instagram: DuneJewelry Like Dune Jewelry on Facebook: /dunejewelry Follow Dune Jewelry on Twitter: @dunejewelry Follow Holly Daniels Christensen on Instagram: Sandy_hands
What are some of your favorite Dune Jewelry pieces for the holidays? We have a brand-new design that just came out last week called the Christina Necklace. It’s this chunky statement piece that I love. I go through phases from simple & delicate to large & chunky. It’s always something new. I also love the Veronica earrings which are part of the Camille Kostek Collection in partnership with Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover model Camille Kostek. They’re perfect small and large hoops that have a touch of Swarovski crystal alongside the sand and natural elements. It’s this perfect juxtaposition between a touch of sparkle and pure nature. Dune Jewelry partners with a lot of non-profit organizations such as the Joslin Diabetes Center and the P.A.W.S. Project Foundation. What causes are the most dear to your heart and why? Preservation and ocean conservancy is so important to me. We need to keep our oceans clean; and our sea life healthy. It is our life source. Joslin Diabetes Center is another one that is close to my heart. When I was only eight years old my father passed away from Type 1 diabetes so it’s a cause I’m very passionate about. They are on the cutting edge of diabetes research. Dune Jewelry was named the Inc. 5000 2018 Fastest Growing Independently Owned Business. What lessons have you had to learn related to managing a successful jewelry brand with a family? I have to make sure that I am present in every moment. I try very hard, and it’s not always perfect, but when I walk through the door at home, I put my phone in my purse and my laptop away. I engage with my family on a focused level. I travel and work a lot so I try to CEOMOM | 51
KNOW THEIR STORIES FIGHTING TO END MODERN DAY SLAVERY Help us raise funds and awareness to end human trafficking around the world BE A PART OF THE CHAIN REACTION
www.willyoureact.org
MOM WITH IMPACT “Nothing is impossible if you work hard everyday and believe in yourself.” This is the mantra that Lalanii WilsonJones runs her business and her life by. This Dallas-based mogul runs several businesses across Texas under her parent company, Mogul247 Enterprises, including a home health care business, a skincare line, a chain of daycares and more. Her mission, use her slew of businesses to increase opportunities in her community in the form of economic growth, social justice and mental and emotional health.
Lalanii
Wilson-Jones Dallas-based Mogul Uses Business to Transform Her Community
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CEOMOM Magazine chatted with Jones about her passion for entrepreneurship, why she believes in the power of embracing change and the key to managing several businesses. Who is Lalanii Wilson-Jones? At the end of the day Lalanii Wilson-Jones is a hard working woman who loves family, friends and making a difference in people’s lives. You have businesses in both the healthcare and beauty industries, from home health care to a beauty line and spa. How did your career begin in these industries? In the healthcare industry, I grew up with my mother who was a registered nurse. I saw her at an early age start her own business. We partnered in the 1990’s to start a home health care business. It was just a natural fit. Both the daycare industries and beauty industries were new to me.
Photo Credit: Kauwuane Burton
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At the end of the day Lalanii WilsonJones is a hard working woman who loves family, friends and making a difference in people’s lives.
Photo Credit: Kauwuane Burton
What inspired you to create Kanvas Skincare? Kanvas Skincare was created out of a need to have a base product line for the spa. It needed to be something women of color could relate to, afford and was of great quality. What are your top three tips for rejuvenation and beauty during the holidays? For rejuvenation and beauty, the winter time is making sure you are protected. I definitely recommend anti-aging products. We have great products in the Kanvas Skincare line. I recommend good exfoliants, because the winter can be harsh on your skin, and sunscreen. You need sunscreen all year long. The sun is still active; people forget that. To get through stress during the holidays, honor yourself. It doesn’t have to be a big honor. Take time out to de-stress; it can be as simple as a hot bath. As a serial entrepreneur, what is the key to managing several brands? Put people in place that are just as good as you are, if not better at managing their specific tasks. For example, for my home health care business, I need people who know the healthcare regulations. Having the right people is key. With such a diverse business portfolio, what have been some of your biggest challenges as a mogul? How have you overcome those challenges? I have had a lot of challenges, and they have been diverse. There is not one thing. I have a very broad business sense. When I identify a problem, I break down the elements of that problem including the cause. I then determine the options for the solution. Everything is not cookie cutter. Every situation is unique so you have to address it from a unique perspective.
You have to seize the lessons learned and be keenly aware in the moment. Being a mother, you have to manage the mother role differently than how you run the business.
What lessons have you learned from managing your role as a serial entrepreneur and a mother? I have definitely learned that you don’t know everything, and everyday is different. You have to seize the lessons learned and be keenly aware in the moment. Being a mother, you have to manage the mother role differently than how you run the business. I’ve also learned to be aware and accepting of change. Change doesn’t have to be challenging when we learn to embrace it. Learn more about Lalanii https://www.lalaniijones.com.
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Courtney Warren TRANSFORMING THE LANDSCAPE OF DALLAS INTERIOR DESIGN
Photo Credit:Â Jarrod Estes
T
he holidays are a time of family gatherings, gift giving, special treats and festive decor. Courtney Warren has one philosophy when it comes to holiday decor- keep it simple. She knows how to maximize your time, current holiday items and budget to create a festive look fit for any occasion. What started as a hobby has evolved into an illustrious career that has landed her on TLC’s Four Houses Dallas Edition, in notable publications and news shows, and in numerous Dallas homes. Warren talked to us about her transition from social work to interior design and shared her three tips for doing your own holiday decor. How did your career as an interior designer begin? I graduated from Baylor with a license in Social Work and had always been creative. I started decorating our social work offices and friends’ houses for fun. I eventually landed on a TLC TV show. From there, my schedule filled up with people asking me to help them in their homes, and I turned my side hustle into a thriving business. I truly never thought I would be making a living doing what I love so much. How would you describe your interior design style? I would describe my style as refined rustic with a side of glam. I love to use the client’s personal, special mementos to give their decor meaning and joy. Dallas, Texas has an array of interior designers with impeccable and eclectic style. What makes Courtney Warren Home stand out from competitors? When I survey my clients, I hear feedback that they love my friendly approach, timely and dependable communication, and easy to follow process from start to finish. I truly believe design should be fun, and I set out to make the process enjoyable and relational. It is important that the clients I take on feel that we are on the same team, working towards a common goal- to help them love their house! I also believe it is important to offer options for every budget. I have DIY and full service packages to fit every lifestyle and budget because I don’t believe only wealthy people should have beautiful homes. What are your must haves for holiday decor? I have a growing collection of vintage Santa Clauses. There is something sweet and special about the high quality of things made decades ago.
What are your top three tips to save time and money on holiday decor for busy moms? Enlist help. Decorating is a team sport- get the whole family to pitch in. When everyone expects mom to do it alone, it feels overwhelming and lonely. Teenagers may complain, but they will have the memories to look back on (and perhaps discuss in therapy! HA). Keep it simple. You do not have to rival Martha Stewart to have a festive home. Give yourself grace in this busy season. That might mean that some years, putting up a tree is as good as it gets while your kids are small. Christmas comes every year.—You can do it big next year. Do not stress. Let the joy of the relationships be what you remember this year- not the need to outdo your neighbor on their outdoor lights. If you do it right, a little can go a long way and leave you more time for what really matters. What are your favorite family holiday traditions? I have two- I love the Christmas Eve candlelight service at church, and reading the Christmas story from the Bible on Christmas morning with my kids. I like the things that help me remember what the season is really about and keep me focused on the meaning of what we are celebrating. Where do you see Courtney Warren Home in five years? In five years I would love to have my TV show, helping people achieve their biggest dreams, while living in their dream home. Combining people’s passion for life with the place they raise their families would be a dream for me. What advice do you have for a mom who wants to start her own interior design business? Start small and don’t compare. You will not be perfect and you will learn just as much from the mistakes as the successes. The biggest lesson life has given me is there is no such thing as overnight success. It’s like a diet- you might lose a pound a week and feel like it’s nothing. But if you can chip away bit by bit, suddenly 15 pounds are gone and you are in a smaller size dress! This lesson has been a tough one because I want all my hard work to produce results now! I have to remember the quote, “Most people overestimate what they can do in a year and underestimate what they can do in 10.” To learn more about Courtney Warren and her holiday decor ideas, visit her at https://www.courtneywarren.com/.
In my holiday arsenal, I rely on several pieces. I always collect many Christmas trees of every size, beautiful ribbon, fresh garland, monogrammed stockings and of course, the handmade ornaments my kids make! As long as I have those items, I can make any room look ready for the most festive party.
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Esé Azénabor Photo Credit: Photography by Crystal Chatmon
Esé Azénabor Stuns with the Debut of The Paradise Collection Over 350 attendees admired 85 intricate creations at Esé Azénabor's 3rd Annual Woman X Power Fashion Show This past Sunday, Nigeria born designer Esé Azénabor showcased her most elaborate Spring/Summer collection entitled "Paradise" in front of a sold-out crowd. As the name already indicates, fashion lovers were in heaven when extravagant one of a kind pieces graced the runway. The inspiration for this series of luxurious garments was the love for her 6-month-old daughter Elah. "She brings me so much joy, I'm in paradise when I'm with her" the designer shares smiling. Over 350 attendees admired 85 intricate creations in colors ranging from black to white. Esé Azénabor's 3rd Annual Woman X Power Fashion Show was one to be remembered with 35 Bridal Couture and 50 Evening Couture pieces adorning the catwalk. The Paradise Collection created a whimsical yet edgy look. It wouldn't be Esé Azénabor without the sparkle and extensive incorporation of hand detailing such as hand-beading and hand-embroidery. All garments were hand sewn with custom fabrics exclusively created for this collection in the Fashion House's Atelier based in Dallas, TX. Esé Azénabor stepped into new terrain once again turning a vision into reality. As most of Esé Azénabor's events, the 3rd Annual Woman X Power showcase was tied
to a local charity, for the second time. it benefited Action With Compassion Dallas, Inc. a non-profit which combats domestic violence. The designer wasn't solely focused on showcasing beautiful garments but also wanted to leave guests with a deeper message. It was very dear to her heart to demonstrate women empowerment and that beauty and fashion come in all sizes, shapes, and colors. Therefore she included 45 powerful influencers from all walks of life as models. Among those were: Good Morning Texas Host Alanna Sarabia, Radio Personalities DeDe Mc Guire & Claudia Jordan, Social Media Influencers Jenna Jenovich & Khloë Terae, Philantropist Kim Olusanya, Fitness Guru Donna Richardson, Entrepreneur Mahisha Dellinger, Real Housewives of Dallas Star LeeAnne Locken, and many more. The 3rd Annual Woman X Power was not your typical fashion show, it was a Fashion Experience that started with a Cocktail Hour Sponsored by Hennessy transitioned into an extravagant Fashion Show with a cause, and ended with guests feeling empowered and mesmerized. For more information about garments contact Stephania@eseazenabor.com or visit https://eseazenabor.com/.
Photography by: Crystal Chatmon
She brings me so much joy, I'm in paradise when I'm with her . CEOMOM | 67
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GlamCon 2019: Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors & Fighters October 11-13, 2019 at The Study USA in Irving, Texas was filled with beauty, encouragement, hope, and love The atmosphere was uplifting, joyful, supportive, encouraging. and loving. Each woman there was either a breast cancer survivor, fighter, or supporter of someone in the fight for their lives. On that day, women came together to show breast cancer that it will not win. For the past three years, GlamCon founder, Shantaquilette Carter of Style Follows Her and The Pink Peppermint Project, has made it her mission to help women living with breast cancer find courage and joy through their own beauty, and embrace who they were before their diagnosis and who they are now as a fighter and survivor. The day is filled with educational workshops that address health from a holistic perspective, beauty makeovers, vendors for shopping, beauty packages with natural and safe beauty brands, lots of laughter, dancing, and most importantly love. Speakers this year included Mama Sophia, Health Evangelist & Radio/TV Host, who shared her story regarding her battle with breast cancer. The doctors kept telling her that they knew more than she did and that the options they gave were the only options. They shut down her suggestions and feedback. After refusing to take "no" for an answer, Mama Sophia, found a female doctor who was kind and compassionate. She listened. The doctor told her, "You've been in your body longer than I've known you.” With the doctor’s help, she battled aggressive cancer and WON! When the original doctors refused to listen, she remembered that she had already heard from God. She stayed focused on what He said. “Fight ‘til you die. Make up in your mind that you are going to LIVE until you die and fight until you die.” Priya Patel, Yoga and Certified Meditation Instructor, led the group in a meditation session and Dr. Grace Bernard, Money Mentor, got real about money management, presenting the Seven Commandments to Unlock Successful Money Habits. Bernard encouraged the audience to think about how they view their finances. "What is your relationship with money? Are you where you want to be? If you are not, do you have a plan to get there?"
Photo Credit: Krystal Jackson, Gateway Photos
The keynote speakers were Dr. Jessica Shepherd, OB/GYN and Women's Health Expert, and Michelle J. Lamont, Manifestation Coach. Lamont delivered an empowering message that encouraged women to realize their divine right to pursue greatness. “You have a divine right to manifest the best version of yourself." Lamont inspired the audience to complete a 5 Day Challenge to manifest a beautiful life. Think about what you want to manifest over the next five days. During that period of time, work to eliminate negativity in your ear gates and your eye gates. Decide to make one of those things forgiveness. GlamCon presents the ultimate makeover for any woman who wants to be more than a conqueror. Look for next year's event, October 11-13, 2020!
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