UPLOADER UPLOAD ER CONTENT BY CREATORS
JANUARY 2020 MAGAZINE
Kyle Thomas TALKS ASTROLOGY
Sassy, Sexy and Seriously Funny
ANDREA
Rappaport
Fashion Week Trends
&
5 PAGE
HOROSCOPE
Welcome to the NEW DECADE
Special
ISSUE 02
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9 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR BEAUTY 13 Editors Winter Beauty Tips Skin & Hair 18 Hair Trends ON THE COVER 20 ANDREA RAPPAPORT Andrea talks comedy, struggles as a actress, and the Me Too Movement 34 PANTONE HAVE SPOKEN SELF LOVE 37 REBECCA SCHUSTER What is self love 48 CONTENT CREATOR CALENDAR BOOKS 49 MICHAEL MAISEY Young offender to successful businessman 56 VALENTINES GIFTS 20 ideas for under £30 MOTHERHOOD 59 ANNABELLA DAILY Instagram and staged motherhood FASHION 74 DEBBIE SAVAGE Passion for fashion 82 FASHION TRENDS FASHION TIPS FOR FASHION WEEK 90 NEW YEARS RESOLUTION ASTROLOGY 91 KYLE THOMAS Why Atrology matters SPOTLIGHT 101 LOLA OBAMEHINTI HOROSCOPES 106 January 2020 by Kyle Thomas
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CHERYL DE MARCO @cherylandmore CONTRIBUTORS
Andrea Rappaport @theandrearappaport Rebecca Schuster @lovebecca26 Michael Maisey @mistermaisey Annabella Daily @annabelladaily Debbie Savage @debbiessavage Kyle Thomas @mrkylethomas Lola Obamehinti @ohthatslola
PHOTOGRAPHY
Martha Abelson Vanity Studios Phil Goldman Apostolos Vamvouras Matheus Ferrero Bernard Lee Cottonbro Cleyton Ewerton Godisable Jacob Jessie Hearn Photography Michelle Cox Photography Frank J. Gallio @cherryblossomphoto @mikeost @annaliisanixon @bleudogfotography @nikkiphotography_ @ronaldleonhale Seth Oberle @whats_the_gaffer
GET IN TOUCH hello@uploadermagazine.com www.uploadermagazine.com @uploadermagazine Publisher Uploader Media Limited
Photography: Martha Abelson
Photography: Vanity Studios
letter
FROM THE
EDITOR T
his edition will mark my second publication, and I am forever grateful to everyone that believes in me, and the magazine. By taking the time to really listen and understand what the magazine is about, and where I want it to go, together we can help this idea grow into something amazing. This month I had the opportunity to meet and talk to the most amazing and aspiring people and being able to share their stories is truly a privilege. In this issue Michael Maisey talks about his journey from a young offender to a successful businessman. Rebecca goes into detail about self love; Annabella discuses staged motherhood on social and how important it is for change. Debbie Savage talks her love for fashion along with tips, and our spotlight section goes to Lola. Our main features Andrea Rappaport who also graces our cover talks her love for comedy, but also discusses some serious subjects. She talks about her childhood, the struggles she faced during her 20’s, and how the Me-Too Movement helped get her back on track. Kyle Thomas our second main feature goes into why Astrology matters, and also gives very detailed horoscopes for January. Although this is only my second publication to date, I am learning so much, and thus this month I felt that the publication needed a little more content as well as features. I would love to know what you all think and what you would like to see in future publications. HAPPY NEW YEAR TO YOU ALL!
o c r a M e D l y r Che UPLOADER MAGAZINE
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BEAUTY Photography: Courtesy of Primark
s or t i Ed winter
Beauty Tips Whilst skin and haircare is important year-round, the winter months certainly cause havoc if you don’t take necessary steps during your beauty regime. I have listed some of my go to products that I use religiously during the colder months, as well as tips to keep your skin and hair looking their best. This year I have put my hair through a lot, taking it from its natural black color to blonde within a 2-month period, then back to black a month later. As most of us know, going to blonde from a much darker color, means stripping the color from your hair by means of bleach so to give it a blank canvas so to speak, in order to then apply your desired color. If your locks are dark, then this should be done over a couple of months in order to reduce hair damage. It is almost certain than you will experience dry, brittle hair during the bleaching process, so finding the right products that helped get my hair through the transformation in the best condition possible was a must.
e ar c ir a H
I LOVE masks, they are not just for the face, but also for hands, feet, and hair. So to keep my locks in good condition during and after the transformation, and now during the colder months I have found a winning combination of 14 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
3 products, that I alternate along with hair repair serum. This doesn’t effect the shampoo or conditioner you use, I tried changing that up too, but in the end, the results were the same, so I would say use the shampoo that you are most comfortable with and change up the masks. When my hair was really damaged due to coloring, and during colder months when I find my hair becomes dry, I do 2-3 treatments a week, then 1 treatment a week when your hair has that glow and shine back just to maintain hair health. These three products are my favorites and prove to work every time leaving your hair looking and feeling great!
Living Proof Restore Mask - $43 for 8oz
This is definitely my favorite of all the products. It is fairly pricy at $43 for 8oz but it lasts! Leave on for 10 minutes and rinse, it’s as simple as that.
Coco & Eve Hair Mask - $44.90 for 7.2oz
Just like most people, I came across Coco & Eve on Instagram, sadly I did not receive a free product to try, but the feedback from those trying was enough to push me to give it a go. Am I glad I did, ABSOLUTELY!! This helped my damaged hair like no other product. It’s MAGIC! (However the price is on the high side and I found it didn’t last as long as Living Proof.) You can use in various ways, leave for 10 minutes like most masks and rinse, leave for 2 or more hours, and rinse, or my preferred way would be to leave in overnight and then rinse first thing.
rinse and then shampoo and condition as normal. If you haven’t tried Olaplex, I definitely recommend it!
Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil - $28 1oz I LOVE LOVE LOVE this!
It repairs, strengthens and protects, restores, and improves shine and luster; and if used on damp hair it reduces the drying time. If used on dry hair, it minimizes fly-aways and frizz and provides heat protection against your favorite styling tongs or curlers.
Olaplex - $28 for 3.3oz
I believe that Olaplex was available for professionals in salons only, that is until now... that’s right, it’s available to buy in store, and I’m all over it!! They have a range of 5 products including shampoo and conditioner, so make sure that you speak to someone that has an understand of Olaplex to find out which is best for your hair type and what you want to achieve.
I use this almost daily and can’t recommend it enough. The price point is also affordable at $28 (but please note that you only need a couple of drops so the bottle lasts forever).
I use Olaplex Hair Perfector No. 3 as it gives me exactly what I am looking for. It helps repair, strengthen and give my hair that much needed shine. Don’t be fooled by the size of the bottle, you don’t need to use a lot. I purchased mine about 3 months ago and still have about another 2 applications, although I do only have shoulder length hair. The only downside I find with this is that it means in and out of the shower, and then in again before the treatment is complete. Apply to unwashed towel dried hair, leave for a minimum of 10 minutes (I usually aim for 20-30) UPLOADER MAGAZINE
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e ar c n i Sk
For the face I am obsessed with this cream, it is very moisturizing and can be used day and night which is a bonus!
Just like clothes, your skincare routine also requires a little change, since the harsh colder weather can cause your skin to dry out and crack.
I’ve listed my top 5 tips for skincare this winter.
Be gentle Your skin drys out during cold weather, so the last thing you want to do is strip it of it’s natural oils. Make sure to use a cream cleanser which will be gentle on the skin and help maintain that moisture.
PHILOSOPHY Purity Made Simple Cleanser - $24 for 8oz This is hands down one of the best cleansers I use, and it is very very gentle.
PHILOSOPHY Amazing Grace Whipped Body Cream - $36 for 8oz
For the body I’m in love with this whipped cream, it goes on so well, moisturizes and leaves my skin feeling fabulous. I also love the slight fragrance.
Moisturize well Moisturizing is important year-round, but for the winter months I try to moisturize twice a day. It’s also important to swap your lightweight moisturizer for a richer one which will provide your skin with a much needed moisture boost. This also applies to your body moisturizer!
BELIF True Cream Moisturizing Bomb - $38 for 1.68oz 16 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
Use lip balm like it’s going out of fashion And I really mean it... Lips are one of the first things that show the signs of winter damage. They don’t hold up well if they aren’t taken care of, and to take care of them is easy and affordable. I don’t really keep track of how many time I apply lip balm during the day, but I do know its every couple of hours minimum. I use a mixture of 2 products to keep my lips smooth
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask - $20 for 0.70oz
There would have to be a pretty magical product out there to replace this. It really is THAT GOOD!
Laneige Lip Glowy Balm - $15 for 0.35oz
A perfect partner to the Lip Sleeping Mask but for the day.
Undereye treatment When your skin looses moisture, your eyes show it in the form of darker circles, and fine lines becoming more apparent. Make sure to apply eye cream day and night. I realize I am about to list another Laneige item but the thing is that their products are AMAZING!
Laneige Eye Sleeping Mask - $34 for 0.84oz For evening use 3-4 times a week.
Suncream
Suncream isn’t just for those hot summer days, it should really be used everyday. The UVB rays may be weaker meaning that you won’t get sunburned like you would during the summer, however the UVA rays are still going strong, which causes premature aging, and wrinkles.
Coola Full Spectrum 360° Sun Silk Drops SPF 30 - $46 for 1oz I really like this product, as it’s lightweight, absorbs really well, and you can mix it with your moisturizer, serum or foundation.
Michael Todd Sonic Eraser Duo - (on sale) $18 for 0.5oz
I use this in the morning and 3-4 nights a week in the evening when not using the sleeping mask.
UPLOADER MAGAZINE 17
2020 t ar t S
WITH BANGS Top Hair
Trends
Often with the start of a New Year, many of us like to also make a few changes and hair tends to be at the top of the list. If you looking to change out your style this year, adding bangs is just a small chop that makes a huge difference, and you can always grow them out! Bangs are going to be red hot this year, and we wanted to share some of our favorites.
Curtain Photo by Apostolos Vamvouras on Unsplash 18 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
Blunt Photo by Matheus Ferrero from Pexels
Whispy Photo by Bernard Lee from Pexels
Long & Straight Photo by Cleyton Ewerton from Pexels
Short Photo by cottonbro from Pexels
Curly Photo by Godisable Jacob from Pexels UPLOADER MAGAZINE 19
E H T N O VER O C Andrea Rappaport
Photography: Phil Goldman Photography
ANDREA
RAPPAPORT Sassy, Sexy and Seriously Funny Chicago based Comedian, Actress, Singer and Entrepreneur talks about the werk wives podcast, her love for comedy, the struggles she experienced as a young actress, and how the ME TOO Movement helped change the vision she once had of herself.
T
he birth of The Werk Wives was really out of necessity because when you are doing something like entrepreneurship there is no one there to motivate you besides yourself, there is no one there to hold you accountable, you don’t have a built in cheerleader, I wanted to have that with Alyssa, so we started this podcast. We make it fun and silly, because I know if I’m going to listen to a podcast, I want something that’s light and something that is going to make me feel better about my life. I’m not an expert, I’m not here to tell people how to do things the right way or the wrong way, I’m just telling people how I’m doing it. So the intent of the podcast is that we want people to feel like there is someone right alongside you in the car on the way to work. We are just your friends in the front seat, in the back seat, the trunk, just telling you about what we are doing, how we are doing it and making you laugh along the way, and that’s it. That’s all I want it to be with my platform, as you know I lead with a funny foot, that’s my comfort zone. I use the humor as an icebreaker to talk about the real stuff because funny people are usually funny because of something very unfunny. And I’m comfortable talking about the unfunny, which I lived most of my life not. I lived most of my live what I refer to as notoriously fine, I was always fine, there was never a problem with Andrea, and then once I fell apart after I had my second son I suffered from massive postpartum anxiety, and it never went away. I was sick for months, physically sick, uncontrollable vomiting, nobody knew what was wrong with me and then finally I learned that it was the way my body was manifesting this anxiety, this
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pain that I was keeping inside of me for so long and it just erupts; and so I decided that it was time to talk about it, so that’s why I launched the platform. I wanted a place where I could be me. I grew up performing, I went to a high school for performing arts, I went to a conservatory for musical theatre, I did the second city conservatory after school which is a very challenging cut-throat comedy, it’s the hardest place to go for doing sketch comedy, and I completed that program. I was on this path to be a funny girl and then I was involved in this musical sketch comedy group in Chicago that was run and directed by a man who mentally abused women, and I was one of his victims and had no idea. He wanted more out of the relationship rather than just being a professional you know, I do your show, you are my director thing, but then when I rejected him, he fired me from the show and told me that he was firing me because he had misjudged my talent, and that I wasn’t at the level that he thought I was. He then went and told other people who were interested in me for really big projects that they should not make the same mistake that he had made, and then everything came to a crashing holt. I was around 22 or 23. I went for about 15 years thinking that I wasn’t working because I wasn’t good enough to work, and it wasn’t until an article was released about this man roughly 2 years ago, where plenty of other women came forward and publicly announced that he’s an abuser, a sexual predator. It was all during the ‘me-too’ movement, then it dawned on me that, that is what happened to me and that I AM GOOD ENOUGH, there is nothing wrong with me. (Continued on page 26)
Photography: Jessie Hearn Photography
Photography: Michelle Cox Photography
I used to listen to everyone. “You’re too pretty to be the funny girl, but not pretty enough to be the pretty girl” and “there is no place for you”. “You’re not thin enough to be a leading lady”, and “you’re not quite heavy enough to be the fat friend, but if you just gain 10 pounds, you can be the fat friend, so what do you want to do?.” I didn’t have a very high view of myself, I was confused and unsure what to do; I didn’t want to be a waitress, and I didn’t want to work at Starbucks. So when I started acting I got into makeup as I thought, this is something that I can do. Then I quickly learnt that I didn’t want to work for anybody, that I wanted to have a business because I wanted to feel proud of something. So then I got into this business and the next thing you know, I’m this small business owner, I run this hair and makeup company but every time that someone referred to me as Andrea Rappaport the makeup artist, part of me died inside. That is not who I am, there is so much more than that; that is a very small facet of what I do; and then one day I just said I’m going to do it! I’m going to start performing, and for whatever reason, I decided to do it on a public platform. I’m going to write, I’m going to talk, I’m going to do videos and we are going to see where this goes, and it’s been an incredible experience. I’m on the path to doing some really great things, I have a couple of really exciting opportunities that are in line for me. I’ve always steered clear of the doing ‘traditional influencer’ marketing stuff, I don’t want to be a traditional influencer who poses and talks about the product they are trying to help advertise, that is just not me. But I would love to do more video content, I really want to work on television, and I would love to do more television hosting. I would love to do something where I can just be me, be myself, and make other people feel like they are not alone. I have gone through some REALLY HARD and DARK times, and I always turn towards comedy. When I was in my 20’s, I didn’t have cable, I had DVD’s of TV shows that I loved, and I would watch them over and over and over again, because I didn’t want my house to be quiet because it made me feel scared and lonely, and also because I desperately needed that comedy, that laughter in my life; and knowing that I can be a very small version of that now for someone, there are no words, that’s all I want. So when people write to me and say “you don’t know me, but I’ve gone through this and that and your stories are the first time I have laughed in a few days”, it makes me so happy, like what else can you possible want, just knowing that you are able to give something to others that I value as so important, it just makes me so happy that I can do it, and keep doing it. I have grown up idolizing women who were like comedic geniuses, so when someone says to me “you remind me of so and so” I’m happily surprised, and that is what I love. 26 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
Photography: Phil Goldman Photography
“
“
Why strive for perfection, when you can be nailing imperfection?
Photography: Jessie Hearn Photography
Questions EIGHT with You do a lot of daily Instagram stories from your car, do you also do work on other platforms? Yes, so I am starting to write music parodies. I wrote one music video which I did over the summer, that one is YouTube. My friend Alyssa and I had a YouTube series for a while, and I also wrote a parody spoof series on ‘The Real Housewives’ called ‘The Real Housewives of Instagram’. It was sort of a hodge-podge project, I wrote each episode, the girls would individually shoot their stuff and then send to me, and I would edit it together. For casting, I really wanted people that truly understood The Real Housewives, so I dug around, DM’d everyone and then went from there. I watched them, and loved it… I actually thought that the series was part of your podcast that you did with friends as part of a reality show. Oh my goodness.. you are giving me such a good idea right now. I wonder if there is a way that we could write a show that was like a podcast reality show. WHERE IS A PAD, WHERE IS A PAD! That would be so funny. If you did this, I would definitely sign up and watch. I have so many ideas for series; oh I really want to do a series with my Bubbe; Bubbe is Yiddish for Grandmother, she is 93 years old and she is so. so. funny, and I really want a series with her and I on webcam (she lives in Texas). I do have a couple of videos with her, which are just gold in my opinion. You are currently going through a rebranding process right now, are you changing much? So, here’s the thing, the “Andrea doesn’t give a duck” slogan was starting to get in the way of me booking some larger television spots and things like that, because it sounded a little aggressive. Initially I was fine with the slogan, you know since I lead on a funny foot, but every so often we have to reevaluate everything we are doing and eventually we grow out of things. “Andrea doesn’t give a duck” served a great purpose, and now I am in a bit of a different place, and the truth is that I actually really do give a duck. You know that was maybe just insecurity screaming, and we do care, there are somethings I really don’t care about, but there is a lot of stuff that I do care about; and walking around saying you don’t really care is not being your authentic self. If there was a quote that sums you up, what would it be? Right now it would be “Nailing Imperfection”. 30 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
a e r And
Who are your comedic idols? My biggest is Gilda Radner, that was the person I looked up to the most, and then I’m also a huge fan of Joan Rivers. Would you ever go into standup? Yes, I did stand up for a while and I am toying with doing it again. What do you think to British humor? Ok, so here is a funny story; when I was growing up my family would watch Fawlty Towers, (it’s one of my favorite tv shows of all time), so every Sunday night we would watch an episode, and when I was in my early 20’s I adopted a dog from a shelter, and decided to name him after a childhood memory, so I named him Basil Fawlty. I feel like I relate to British humor as I have a dry sense of humor, and I enjoy quick wit. I enjoy the way that things are said, and the physical comedy like the way that John Cleese falls over chairs, and you have to be smart to get British Humor, unless you are British. It’s quick moving, and I love it! I still walk around quoting that show. What are you biggest frustrations and hates? I hate when people on Instagram say they are ‘popping on’ in their Instagram stories, and I also hate how influencers say things like “I’m getting so many questions about my… conditioner” for example. You know what, no one has asked you about your conditioner, you just want to tell us about your conditioner. I hate the phoniness, and I hate filters, they are so disturbing. Off social media, I don’t like making small talk, I’m really bad at small talk, and I don’t like large social situations. I hate mint, bananas and yoghurt. What do you love? Laughter, I love laughing to the point where you are trying not to pee-your-pants. I love inside jokes, I love hour long conversations with friends, I love red wine, tomatoes, and spending time with my girlfriends. I love one-on-one time; I am much better at one-on-one than groups. Home renovation projects, and hair extensions. In need of some laugh out loud moments? Make sure to follow Andrea. You can thank us later! Instagram: @theandrearappaport The Werk Wives: @thewerkwivesofficial Facebook: Andrea Rappaport YouTube: Andrea Rappaport
Photography: Martha Abelson Photography
Photography: Phil Goldman Photography
Pantone Have Spoken
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TKMaxx (Envelope Clutch) £49.99
Very (V by Very Embellished Headband) £20 Cult Furniture (Haines Cut Out Dining Chair) £89
CLASSIC BLUE
Oliver Bonus (Monro Curved Metal & Textured Resin Fan Drop Earrings) £19.50
Pantone’s color of the year for
Debenhams (B by Ted Baker) Geo Jacquard Balcony £26, Geo Jacquard Hipster £14
2020
Very (Michelle Keegan Premium Faux Fur Coat) £75
UPLOADER MAGAZINE
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WHAT WE
e ov L Now that Pantone has announced the colour of the year as
Classic Blue
We are on the look out for deals that won’t break the bank And when you are looking for designer - we say head over to the outlet stores! 36 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
SELF LOVE Frank J. Gallio @ Cherry Blossom Photo
“
“
Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you. – Katie Reed –
Frank J. Gallio @ Cherry Blossom Photo
WHAT IS SELF LOVE?
I
know you have heard the words ‘Self Love’ a lot lately and you might be wondering exactly what that means. Self Love means an array of things that can start by simply taking care of our bodies and getting more sleep. It also can entail removing toxic people from our lives and positive thinking. It can be about connecting with spirit and figuring out our path. One thing is for certain... it is all of the above and so much more. So much more that it is actually a journey, a commitment to oneself. It is also one that is not easy to start for a lot of people, but once you do, you never want to stop. It all starts with a question... Do you value who you are? It’s a tough question because most people do not value who they are and this is when they make wrong choices. Granted we are all born into different circumstances, but even so, we all have the power to choose ourselves. This is where valuing yourself comes into play. When we value our self worth we make good choices, and when we do not value our self worth... well, that is where all the bad choices come into play. I do not know about you, but Lord knows I have made many bad choices in my life. So many, I try not to think about them. But all those bad choices came about because I let my circumstances define me. I did not recognize my value. We get so busy comparing ourselves to other people that we fail to recognize the value in ourselves. Because the truth is, the only person that has to value what you
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By Rebecca Schuster
do is you. And this is why self love is not something you can do in a day, a week, a month, or a year. It is a life long journey of discovering the great value of who you are. (CONTINUED ON PAGE 44)
“ How you feel about yourself when you look in the mirror says a lot. So many of us are at war with our bodies and too busy beating ourselves up.” Instagram: @lovebecca26 Facebook: lovebecca26 Website: www.lovebecca.com Email: becca@lovebecca.com
Frank J. Gallio @ Cherry Blossom Photo
Frank J. Gallio @ Cherry Blossom Photo
Frank J. Gallio @ Cherry Blossom Photo
There was a time when looking for happiness within yourself came easier. This was before the Internet and social media came into play. When life was a lot simpler. Fast-forward to today and it can seem as if one’s life is lacking if we try to compare to all the beautiful pictures we see on social media. We get mixed up in the judging and comparing and forgetting that we are all flawed. We are all perfectly imperfect, otherwise how boring would life be if we were all the same. We get so focused on the end results that we do not take into consideration the journey it took people to get there. But what would it be like if we stopped looking outside for happiness, because it is just temporary, since happiness comes from within. Just like the excitement is soon over when you buy a new car or a new dress, because all physical items bring us joy, but they are always feelings that go away because material things are temporary. Once we understand that, we realize that our true value does not have anything to do with the outside world and everything to do with us, the whole us. Because the body, mind, and soul work in beautiful harmony when they are perfectly balanced. When we place the weight of our happiness, not on a scale, but instead on how we feel we create perfection.
“ Your soul will never be fully nourished by anyone’s love but your own.” – Dominee – How you feel about yourself when you look in the mirror says a lot. So many of us are at war with our bodies and too busy beating ourselves up. I know I’ve been guilty of it. What we fail to remember is that our body is not our enemy, but our friend, so we should treat it like one. It’s a loving beautiful piece of art that was created, not just to carry your soul, but give life. Women are blessed because we have the ability to carry a tiny human in us, and we are overjoyed during pregnancy, but once we have our child we tear our bodies down because of what it’s been through. Instead, we should be proud of every stretch mark, our waist size never being the same, and not worrying where our abs went to because once you give life your own life will never be the same. Why on earth would you expect your body to be? I’m not saying don’t take care of yourself, I’m saying don’t tear yourself down in the process. You are a super hero, a warrior, and a mother. Love your body for all its miracles and treat it like a friend.
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Frank J. Gallio @ Cherry Blossom Photo
As women, we compromise a lot. As mothers, we comprise so much of whom we are, that we easily lose ourselves. We put everyone’s needs before our own, we procrastinate, forget to take care of our bodies, we forget our voice, we overextend ourselves, and accept less than we deserve. So how do you find yourself again? You make time to explore who you are, what you like, what you do not like, what makes you smile, makes you cry, what your favorite foods are, what it feels like to dive into a book and lose yourself in the story, to be one with nature, to meet new people or encounter new places, to look in the mirror and see yourself as a perfect soul instead of a body, to connect, and to show gratitude each and every day. I can tell you when you decide to choose yourself you will never want to go back, no matter your age. When you recognize your value, you will notice a change in how you speak and treat what you say with value. You will discover yourself all over again and will start to choose yourself each and every day. It is a beautiful thing and you so deserve it. Decide today to choose happiness. Choose you!
“
a c c e B e v o L
“
I’m a single mama, to a teenage daughter, doing my best living in LaLaLand. If anyone knows the pressure of trying to look perfect it’s me, as I am surrounded by beautiful women every day. At 52, with years of life experience under my belt, I have discovered the importance of living a happy and well-balanced life. That true happiness is only achieved when you treat your mind, body, and soul with love…Self Love. If loving yourself, discovering yourself, accepting yourself, or finding yourself is a challenge I invite you to do my FREE 21-Day Self Love Challenge at www.lovebecca.com. You Got This!
And I said to my body softly, “I want to be your friend.” It took a long breath and replied, “I have been waiting my whole life for this.” – Nayyirah Waheed –
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UPLOADER MAGAZINE
Frank J. Gallio @ Cherry Blossom Photo
CALENDAR LOOKING FOR UPCOMING CONTENT CREATOR EVENTS
Don’t Worry, We Have It Covered February VidCon (London)
February Podcast Movement Evolutions (Los Angeles) March Playlist Live (Orlando) March SXSW Conference and Festival (Austin) March Streamcon Asia (India) March Social Media Marketing World (San Diego) April Influencer Marketing Strategies Summit (Chicago) June VidCon (Anaheim) Aug/Sept iStream Congress (India) October VidSummit (Los Angeles) We will constantly be updating our calendar, so please let us know if we have missed anything that should be listed here by sending an email to: hello@uploadermagazine.com 48 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
BOOKS
from
YOUNG OFFENDER toSUCCESSFUL BUSINESSMAN HOW ONE MANS ABUSIVE PAST HELPED SHAPE HIS FUTURE Actor, published author, award-winning speaker, and businessman Michael Maisey talks openly and honestly about his time behind bars, his struggle with the law and how sharing his message of hope with the nation can lead to change
M
ichael grew up in Isleworth in South West London, his mother from a romany gypsy background battled alcoholism and his father a heroin addict. As a child Michael experienced some serious cases of neglect and both physical and sexual abuse. At the age of 12 Michael found safety in the ranks of a local gang, he later went on to become one of London’s most wanted criminals being arrested for Armed Robbery and possession of firearms at the tender age of 15. Michael spent most of his teenage years locked up in Feltham Young Offenders, in a cell for 23 hours a day. However upon release just before his 19th birthday Michael decided he was going to change his life, but he didn’t know how. He had no education or qualifications, or real support from his family. He read books and went to self help seminars, before eventually getting sober at the age of 25. Michael has been sober ever since, 12 years in total which falls on the 15th December 2019. During these 12 years Michael went on to set up a successful business, get married and have two children that have never seen their dad drink or use drugs. But the best part of his work was done voluntarily in prisons, homeless shelters, and detox clinics; he has given hundreds of talks and run many of his workshops which
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encourage people to look within for the answers. He was awarded for this in 2014 by none other than the chief superintendent of the Metropolitan Police and the London Borough of Hounslow. Michael recalls that evening as one of the most surreal but also emotional nights of his life. In that moment he knew he really had changed his ways. Today Michael runs workshops in prisons and schools up and down the UK; he has his own podcast called The CIP (change is possible) Podcast, he runs mens retreats on his land in Devon and has also appeared various times on TV and radio sharing his message of hope with the nation. Michaels story is an awe inspiring and brutally honest account of a young man’s life, and his battle to turn things around. Learn more about Michael by purchasing his best-selling book Young Offender. Instagram: @mistermaisey YouTube: Mister Maisey Facebook: @mistermaisey Twitter: @mistermaisey Website: www.michaelmaisey.com Podcast: The C.I.P Podcast IMDb: Michael Maisey
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y dream is to transform the way we rehabilitate men and women which are locked up in prisons up and down the UK.
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Photography: Ivan Capelli
A quote I live by is a simple two words which I believe can change how we all live our lives “Love MORE”
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Motherhood Photography: @mikeost
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nnabella Daily is a journalist, serial entrepreneur, mom of two boys, wife, and mom wellness inuencer. After spending the last decade in New York City, this Finland-born globe trotter decided to swap her Brooklyn condo to a house Westport CT, to seek a more wellness-oriented lifestyle with her family.
ends without a struggle. Annabella is now on a mission to make mommin’ easier by creating moms tools to turn times of stress into moments to enjoy with their kids, with first products launching in the summer of 2020.
Follow along @annabelladaily as she tests tips and tactics to in an effort to transform from one-day-at-a-time survivor to a wonder While motherhood is beautiful and filled with woman mama. love, Annabella also knows daily routines or doing something special with your kids rarely Instagram: @annabelladaily
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Photography: @annaliisanixon
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What makes staged motherhood on social so problematic, is that it is often communicated to the audiences as a naturally occurring moment.
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Photography: @annaliisanixon
THE PERFECT, STAGED, MOTHERHOOD ON INSTAGRAM
and what we can do about it by Annabella Daily If you never want to bribe your kids again to get the pic, I might have just the solution.
I
News reports and studies keep flooding in that Instagram makes us feel bad. That includes the Insta-mom world. And it’s no wonder: as the images have become more and more staged in the last decade, Instagram has changed our perception of what motherhood should – or could – look like. Yet, however much we wish it would be so, motherhood doesn’t look like that, and kids don’t behave like fashion accessories. No one has yet pinpointed what exactly caused the shift to staged motherhood on social, but my one theory is that when the first fashion and beauty influencers became moms, they - in an effort to keep up with their visual styles – just added the babes, and then kids, into these beautifully staged squares. As their popularity kept soaring, the newcomer moms kept mimicking their styles – as after all, that seemed to be the recipe for success. As I had a second son, and my boys grew from babies to kids, my life got only more chaotic, and nothing in my real life seemed to resemble those serene moments of picture-perfect moms and kids on Instagram: my life was messy, intense and exhausting – and I was completely burnt out. As someone who loved creating content, first for YouTube, then for Instagram (while leading audience development and programming in media companies including Conde Nast, Hearst and YouTube) this seemed especially 64 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
Photography: @annaliisanixon
stared at the images in shock. Scrolling through the Instagram feed of an influencer mom, I couldn’t understand why my life looked so different. Some of it was inspiring for sure: I wanted that chic outfit for my baby too; and if the baby just slept a bit longer, nursed a bit quicker, I could put myself together, my apartment together, and my life could look a bit like that too (because that life certainly looked a lot more dreamy than mine). This was six years ago. It took me a little while to fully grasp that these images were not exactly a moment from real life. They were staged photos, set-up with attention to every detail, often shot by a professional, beautifully lit, and edited into perfection—just like an ad or a magazine editorial. Or an image by a fashion, beauty or interior design influencer, just this time, the priced accessory was the baby.
troubling! I should clearly just stop, I thought, because my #momentstoremember – or anything anyone seemed to want to view anyhow - were almost impossible to produce. What makes staged motherhood on social so problematic, is that it is often communicated to the audiences as a naturally occurring moment. Unlike in fashion, beauty or interior design content, where the stunning images or video are clearly staged, and meant to be so - Instagram motherhood and lifestyle became not about “my fun photoshoot with the littles!”, but rather about the “fun morning of play we had!” – which are two completely
different things. Occasionally, a staged motherhood photo is paired with a caption that includes a dose of reality - of a small struggle perhaps - but it hardly ever describes the picture as a carefully manufactured moment. And that’s where the lines of “real” and “staged” get too blurry. As I continued to engage with my “micro” audience of about 25k, getting questions like “do you ever have any challenges?”, I realized that I was part of the problem. In my effort to share a happy, inspirational feed, which felt standard, I too left out what could actually be beneficial, and inspire my audience: the struggles and the solutions
- for wellness after kids. So I changed course. While any content production is always inherently staged (you do have to pull out your your phone or your camera, and think about what you will shoot, edit and share and brands need to plan out their key messages and best ways to get the word out), there is a more realistic way to communicate about motherhood on social. And it doesn’t mean skipping filters (which can be god-sent for perpetually tired moms, especially when you don’t have time to put on any makeup) or even losing your visual style. It means having an honest communication with our audience and understanding the impact these images and videos make. UPLOADER MAGAZINE 65
Photography: @mikeost
FIVE
EASY CHANGES
1 2
by Annabella Daily
WE CAN MAKE, ON HOW WE SHOW UP ON SOCIAL
I PROMISE, IT’S A LOT MORE FUN AND SUSTAINABLE THIS WAY
Let’s communicate staged moments as staged, and real ones as real. Both can beautifully work together, but the moms who are wondering why their lives never look like the staged versions would love to know.
Let’s tell more beautiful stories – of real life. When you let things unfold naturally, you will be surprised of the images you get. Consider this tip: unlike portrait or family photographers, sports photographers with a long lenses and high shutter speeds are able to capture moments as they actually happen (like you riding a scooter with your kids.) The smartphone’s high shutter speed function can also do the trick. Or, imagine attempting a family pic with “can I snuggle with you?” instead of “look at the camera and smile”. No bribes are needed, and one of the impromptu shots will tell the best story.
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Let’s befriend video. Video allows for much more authenticity than photos; because it captures a period of time, not a fraction of a second, and because it’s much tougher to retouch (and few would go through that trouble). You can shoot as things unfold, and edit and even filter the frames that most powerfully tell the story. That said, the action in videos can be staged too, and you are starting to see more of that on influencer moms’ feeds – let’s be aware of turning video into another form of the staged photo.
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Let’s consider our content from the kids’ point of view. Once it’s posted, it’s out there. When kids see this content later, at different stages of their lives, how would they feel and how would it affect their lives then? Do they enjoy creating the content, and seeing the finished product with you? Is it enhancing, not taking away from the real-life connection – that in return will give you the best emotions on film?
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Let’s rethink sponsored posts and partnerships. Brands often understandably find it too risky to have influencers create authentic non-scripted content, so the ads geared towards moms often perpetuate the myth of the “staged motherhood as real”. If branded posts are what you are after, let’s pitch more authentic content as storytellers and filmmakers, instead of as spokespeople and models – authenticity is bound to resonate more deeply with audiences – in return driving the much coveted engagement and growth. 68 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
Photography: @mikeost
Photography: @mikeost
If you are a content creator, let’s get creative. If you are a content consumer, comment your favorite feeds and ask for a dose of reality. If you are a brand, let creators do what they do best, and allow them to go beyond the script and the staged photo, and to authentically engage. Let’s change what motherhood looks like on social media in
2020 You know what they say, real life is always better than fiction. Let’s make
#myownreallife TREND!
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FASHION Photography: courtesy of Miss Selfridge
ION
PASS for FASH M
y passion for fashion started when I was young. I grew up with little and took care of the few possessions I had. My favorite pieces were a faux fur coat and pink cowgirl boots from a thrift store. As money was tight, my mother would hand-sew Bermuda shorts and dresses or buy second-hand clothes. Either way, I loved showing them off! Everything about fashion, beauty, and shopping made me exhilarated. Amazingly, I get paid to share my passion. The journey to this point was not easy. But it was necessary for my growth and self-confidence. It was a calling in my life I could no longer ignore.
I am a first-generation American. My mom came from Cambodia for a better life. She raised my little brother and me and is my rock. She taught me hard work, ingenuity, and determination; these traits helped me, as I am the first to attend college in my family. I earned a bachelor’s degree in family consumer science and a master’s in community health education. I then worked for the American Cancer Society as a health educator and loved teaching children. Today, I am a wife and mother to three beautiful children. My heart is full, and I understand God has blessed me. However, I yearned to express myself. Thus, I thought having a blog to share fashion tips would 74 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
By Debbie Savage
help conquer my shyness. It was my experiment and therapy. Despite all the setbacks — I lacked writing skills, computer skills, and the time — my blog To Thine Own Style Be True blossomed.
I have never felt more fulfilled. Sharing my creativity and unique beauty is a gift. Having this platform healed parts of me that were stifled. I learned to stay true and not fear my light. I inspire women to become the best versions of themselves because they are worth it. We all need this reminder from time to time. My message to women is to kindly put yourself first and remember you are more powerful than you think.
Instagram: @debbiessavage Twitter: @debbie_savage Facebook: @tothineownstylebetrue YouTube: To Thine Own Style Be True www.tothineownstylebetrue.com Email: debsavage@gmail.com
Photography: @bleudogfotography
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Debbie’s TIPS FOR
2020
don’t follow fashion trends Choose articles of clothing that suit your body type and colors and patterns that compliment you and reflect your individual style. When you dress this way you are always in fashion!
prioritize skincare Learn how to care for your skin both morning and night. Enjoy this important self-care habit that is essential to graceless aging.
smart luxury Splurge in one luxury item whether it be a handbag, a pair of shoes, a coat, or piece of jewelry. They have a timeless allure that you will enjoy using time after time. It will be a smart cost per use piece.
shop for style You don’t need to buy expensive things to look stylish. Look for classic well-tailored pieces at vintage and consignment shops or off-price department stores.
five minutes for makeup Learn an easy 5 minute makeup routine to get you out of the door in a flash while looking put together. For
me, a bit of concealer under my eyes, loose or pressed powder foundation for my face, a swipe of blush and eyeshadow and a couple quick coats of mascara...I am ready to go. Make time to look your best even with days with little time.
prioritize heath and wellness Make exercising a non-negotiable task. Schedule this time in your planner, phone or online calendar. Prioritize your health and wellness. Looking great and feeling great begins with moving your body. 76 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
Photography: @bleudogfotography
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Amazingly, I get paid to share my passion. The journey to this point was not easy. But it was necessary for my growth and self-confidence.
y t l s e n b e w t r u o e e n i h to t
Photography: Erin Dudley @sewstratton
Photography: @nikkiphotography_
fashion Inspo Beauty Tips Home Life Body Positive
Photography: Vanity Studios
Zara Lace-Up Leather Ankle Boots £59.99 (On Sale £39.99)
Victorian Style
19th Century with a Modern Twist
I’m sure you’ve seen the lace-up boots, they seem to be everywhere this fall/ winter and the selection is both unique and modern. Hop on the victorian trend train if you haven’t already (we won’t judge)!
V by Very (Polka Dot Waterfall Dress) £70
Office (Affection - Lace-Up Boots) £95
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M&Co. (Polka Dot HIgh Neck Blouse) £26.99
River Island (Jacket)
Miss Selfridge (Jeans) £40
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Miss Selfridge (Platform Sneakers) £25
ARE YOU
y d a Re For FASHION WEEK Miss Selfridge Top: £18 Skirt: 25
Almost anything goes when it comes to Fashion Week, but if you’re looking to stay on trend and stand out then we have picked a couple of pieces that are ready to buy now from the S/S2020 collection, but gives enough cover up to keep you toasty during the February Weather! Here are just some of the trending items this Spring/Summer:
- Neutrals - Statement Jackets - Hints of Victorian Style - Booties - Long Leather Jackets and Dresses - Platform Sneakers - Neon Bright Colors - Country Cowboy/Cowgirl Boots - Safari Style - Pant Suits - Waistcoats - Feathers - Ruffles - Fringes - Polka dots... (that’s right you heard us, polka dots have not left yet, in fact they are making a bigger and bolder appearance, and we love it!!)
Miss Selfridge (Platform Sneakers) £25
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E S I D A R A POLKA DOT P Dorothy Perkins Forest Green Polka Dot Dress (IN STORE JANUARY) Cream ‘Aldous’ Dome Heeled Boots Was £40 Now £20
We Love Dorothy Perkins Short Leather Skirt and Polka Dot Sweater (IN STORE JANUARY) Cream ‘Aldous’ Dome Heeled Boots Was £40 Now £20
MEETS SA A F RI MODE RN Hobbs Lara Roll Neck Ivory £79 Eva Shirt Blue £110 Linen Nicole Shorts £69 Lila Coat £249 Darcie Court Shoes £159 Olivia Belt £69 Ashwell Tote £129
s or t i Egdo-to Look
Miss Selfridge Blazer £59 Jeans £40 Shoes £32
ar e Y w e N
New
WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED
Resolutions HERE ARE A FEW THAT WE RECEIVED BUT WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR MORE To Stop Tying My Hair Up Meet New People Grow My YouTube Channel Appear In A Magazine Lose The Beer Belly And Get Fit in 2020 Be Calm And Smarter Travel More Learn Something New Every Week
Stay True To Myself 90 UPLOADER MAGA-
Be More Eco-Friendly
I Am Not Going To Be Depressed, I will Be Life Loving And A Good Functioning Human Being In 2020
My New Years Resolution Is Not To Have One
Love What I Do And Be The Best Version Of Myself
Be Consistent On My YouTube Channel
Put My Health Before My Paycheck
Write Every Day Do What Motivates You
Connecting And Reconnecting With People
Become Verified On Instagram
Try Hot Yoga
Learn To Love Myself
Be Honest With Myself and Others
Eat More Fruit And Vegetables
Break Down Big Goals Into Smaller Ones Better Banking Do What Brings Me Joy And Happiness
Buy A House Use My Phone Less Learn A New Language Drink More Water Be Punctual And Plan Plan Plan Ahead
ASTROLOGY
K
yle Thomas is a globally recognized pop culture astrologer who has been featured in Cosmopolitan Magazine, Bustle, Elite Daily, House Beautiful, Marie Claire, YahooNews, MSN, and more. He is known for his cosmic guidance for celebrities, business executives, and prominent influencers. His work harnesses the power of the stars in regards to entertainment lifestyle and trends affecting people worldwide. His writing and horoscopes have been translated into multiple languages. Kyle has been astrologically gifted naturally from a very young age and teaches how to use the Universe to manifest the life you’ve always dreamt of. With over a decade of professional experience and clients all over the world, he currently resides in Los Angeles where he works as a professional astrologer, celebrity life coach, and author. Currently, he is the official astrologer for @ Horoscopes + @Horo.ScopesDaily (4.6 million followers). Kyle received two Bachelor of Arts for Psychology and English from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and integrates these degrees into his growing research of psychology, personality, and the human condition.
Photography: @ronaldleonhale
Why
Astrology atters M I By Kyle Thomas
n the ancient Mesopotamian world, mankind stood beneath a vast, magnificent sky. His wonder, his fear, his guidance all were dominated by the great powers from the Heavens above: thunder, lightning, stars, eclipses, the Sun, and the Moon. The idea that a celestial divinity existed to guide them fascinated mankind. Over thousands of years, they found patterns that repeated themselves and developed a record of how all of these events in our lives were seemingly connected.
The modern day has witnessed a resurgence of astrology within pop culture because, at our core, we as human beings still are at the mercy of our mortality. While we have evolved through the ages, many areas of our lives have remained the same: we grow, we learn, we fall in love, we crave intimacy, and we mature. This is why we are still fascinated by events beyond our control, such as knowing when we could meet get that big new job or when we could again heal a broken heart to love again. Astrology is not a system of new age magic, as many pop culture magazines may have some believe. Instead, it is a tool for planning that allows us to better control our lives. While some things in life are out of our control — things that are “destined” to happen — we still have the ability to actively improve our circumstances and build the lives that we want. Astrology gives us access to this ancient wisdom by watching how the planets move throughout the sky and create a stunning pattern that opens doors of possibility in tangible ways here on Earth. Through our own actions during these times, we hold the power to create the future. While it may seem strange to consider that these distant planets and stars actually do affect us, we must reflect on the age old wisdom of “as above, so below.” Mankind placed themselves within the stars, and in effect, the stars placed themselves inside each of us, too. Through my insight into astrology, I hope to bring enlightenment, happiness, and inspiration to all who read it — and with a little lucky timing — I hope that you take at least one step closer to the life you’ve always dreamt of, as well. 94 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
Photography: Seth Oberle @whats_the_gaffer
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Kyle Thomas We asked globally recognized and astrologer to the celebrities Kyle Thomas a couple of questions
How did you get into astrology? Ever since I was a young child, I have been fascinated by the great world beyond us. I often looked up to the sky and daydreamed about all the people who came before me, who looked up to those exact same stars over thousands of years. I wondered about their lives and how I might be similar or different from them, across time. We all share very simple human desires: love, passion, power, safety, nourishment, and beyond. I’ve always possessed a natural gift for understanding complex and vast concepts. I was drawn to mythology, history, and spirituality. Over time, those interests evolved as I noticed powerful patterns occurring not only within my life but in the world. I had many questions, but sought an answer that wasn’t based on religion. I wanted something I could chart and see. This is how I found astrology. Astrology unlocks a doorway to the human psyche. It is also the art of strategic timing. Is there a particular question you get asked the most? Everyone wants to know about their love lives and their careers. I find that these patterns are common themes worldwide, but especially in Hollywood and with celebrities. People want to know about their romantic possibilities as well as how to advance their careers and to manifest the life of their dreams. What area of astrology do you prefer? Astrology is a multi-faceted art form and has deep 96 UPLOADER MAGAZINE
history intrinsically embedded within the evolution of humanity. I find I absorb new techniques and visions all of the time. My favorite area of focus in astrology is that of transits. By watching the movements of the planets, we can not only predict specific patterns that affect our lives in tangible ways, but also harness strategic timing to get what we are seeking to achieve. If a door is open to love, success, or opportunity, you should take it. If you don’t, the doorway will close. Building the life you’ve always wanted isn’t just about luck; it’s about knowing when to wait and when to strike. What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into astrology? There is always something new you can learn from astrology because it is such a vast field and diverse art form. I would suggest watching how the movements of the planets first affect your life and the lives of the people around you. When you begin to see the patterns, you can better grasp the more complex techniques. Above all, have fun with it. Learning the astrological power of the stars is a tool to truly enrich your life. Looking to predict and plan your life with guidance? (Kyle Thomas can be hired for personal Astrology and Tarot readings, bringing over a decade of skill and insight to people, entrepreneurs, businesses, and campaigns). Website: www.kylethomasastrology.com Instagram: @mrkylethomas
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Astrology unlocks a doorway to the human psyche. It is also the art of strategic timing.
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Photography: Seth Oberle @whats_the_gaffer
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2020
January Horoscopes W Kyle Thomas
elcome not only to a new year, but also to a new decade, stargazers. 2020 will be a pivotal year when you embark on a new journey to tangibly create the life you have always wanted. However, hard work and perseverance will be required throughout the entire year in order to bring the long-lasting results that you desire. While there will be a period of time when you can move all of your plans and relationships forward fairly easily (when all the planets are direct, see my entire article here), the rest of the year will be riddled with retrogrades. This means that not only does 2020 mark the culmination of a great cycle, but we will face the past to learn from it, bring it closure, or reignite the pieces that we will carry forth into the rest of our lives.
January 2020 begins in the center of eclipse season: the time when destiny strikes our lives and we are spinning amidst cosmic storms. Eclipses are the Universe’s fastest way to ignite change for us and to shift our direction rapidly. There are two types of eclipses – Solar Eclipses, that take place on a New Moon – as well as Lunar Eclipses, which take place on a Full Moon. Solar Eclipses are when the Moon moves and masks the Sun, while Lunar Eclipses are when the Earth’s shadow is cast upon the Moon. Eclipses come in a pair of zodiac signs six months apart usually twice a year. Solar Eclipses bring massive new beginnings, while Lunar Eclipses usher in huge culminations and conclusions. Solar Eclipses are highly energized while Lunar Eclipses are always very emotional. Whenever eclipses take place, it is best to keep your eyes and ears searching for what the Universe is about to bless you with – suddenly, change is here and we must accept it and be ready to take it. Solar Eclipses are three times as powerful as a normal New Moon, while Lunar Eclipses are three times more powerful than a Full Moon. They are often the moments we reflect back upon throughout our lives that made us who we are. In the weeks between eclipses, we also notice stillness – as if we are in the eye of a storm. That stillness will be when we cross into the New Year. At the end of December we had a majestic Solar
Eclipse, openings doors to us, but as we near January 10th, 2020, we will feel as if we are stepping further into a tempest. This Full Moon Lunar Eclipse marks a profound moment for us and will come with weighty and heavy realizations. Lunar Eclipses often bring mighty and irreversible news for us to face. This will be an intense time, so take the information the Universe is giving to you and process it. The door to your old life is closing. You must walk onto higher ground.
On the 20th, the Sun will dance into Aquarius, where it will be causing us to look at the world from a more communal and expanded perspective. For a month the Sun will be here, and anyone actively involved in communities will find extra enjoyment and pleasure during this time. Humanitarian goals are also favored, so tap into your heart for the common good or even just donate something to a charity. Your efforts will help people who need it and bring you radiant karma, as well. The New Moon in Aquarius arrives on January 24th, opening a door for us to expand in these arenas. Anything futuristic and technology-focused also can shine well for you if you begin it now. Aquarius is ruled by Uranus, the great liberator and inventor. The actions you build at the end of January will culminate in August of 2020. The month ends on a romantic and sweet note as Venus, planet of love, stands beside Neptune, planet of imagination. This will be a lyrical and fantastic time, so mark January 27th as a special day for romance and beauty. Plan an important first date or use it to embrace your very special someone. While January will bring some days that reveal shocking or frustrating news (12th, 13th, 14th, 18th, 23rd, 26th), we do have gems amongst the terrain. Watch for joyous and sweet moments on the 2nd, 7th, 15th, and 27th. Remember: the final weeks of January and into February will be the best time of the year to advance your most important plans, projects, and relationships because we will be free of retrogrades, so use this time now. May the stars ever be in your favor. UPLOADER MAGAZINE 107
HOROS A
RIES (March 21st - April 19th)
You will be highly focused on your ambitions and rising power at the very beginning of January, especially with the mighty Solar Eclipse at the end of December setting the tone for your 2020. Do everything that you can to lift yourself in a public way so that the world knows your face and your name. If you would like to launch your career or shift direction, this is a truly wonderful time to do so, as well. This is a destined moment in your achievements—and to build to them—so do not sit back and wait for it to come to you. Use your fiery Aries courage to storm the castle. Highly emotional news will arrive at the Lunar Eclipse near January 10th, which may relate to a
T
home or family-related issue or the fact that you may be worried about the stability and security in your life. You will need to buckle down, shoulder responsibility, and carry on if you want to reach your greatest goals. The month’s New Moon on the 24th could bring you thunderous news regarding your social life and you may need to pivot as soon as it is revealed. Attend important events to build your network like a wildfire taking over a mountain.
AURUS (April 20th - May 20th)
It’s time for flight, Taurus! Many Taurus will be focused on how they can expand their reach and knowledge of the world due to the Solar Eclipse at the close of December. You’re not known for your adventurous side, but ever since Uranus, planet of surprise, entered your zodiac sign in 2019 for several coming years, you are pushing yourself past your comfort zone. Embrace this vibrant spirit and fly higher and further, whether in travel, education, or media. The major opportunities that present themselves at the start of the year will ultimately lift you to a higher echelon in your life, especially because your career is going to become a major factor in the years ahead.
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The Lunar Eclipse on the 10th could bring a contract or communications-related project to closure and you may realize it has long-term ramifications for your future. Read the fine print before agreeing to anything, because it will affect you significantly. The New Moon on the 24th, though, has powerful news arriving about your greatest ambitions and career. You are on the upward rise and very quickly. Fame, success, and prominence are in your sights, so show the world why you’re the best at what you do.
EMINI (May 21st - June 20th)
Gemini has been having a serious focus on partnerships as of late and that trend continues. An energized Solar Eclipse in December shows great promise that all of your important oneon-one relationships will grow to a more equal and supportive level than you’ve been used to. If looking for a loan or capital, it could come to your aid for a project important to you. Mid-month a financial issue will be on your mind. This could be either a large bill that will require you to buckle down and pay it off or a luscious check. For Gemini looking for a new job or raise, it could arrive in the beginning of the year but with increased responsibilities. Finally, the month
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ends with a happier New Moon for you in a fellow Air Sign, pushing you to shake off all the routines and just do you. Education, media, and immigration matters will be favored. If you are involved in any of these, you will find this time extremely fortunate and can make progress when you break into new territory.
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ANCER (June 21st - July 22nd)
You are on the fast track to the happiest partnerships in your lifetime, Cancer, so dust off your bruised heart. You value someone who will show up for you and lift you to increased levels of happiness, and that’s exactly what the stars have for you. If single, get out there to find the partner of your dreams—they could be just around the corner. However, know what your non-negotiables in a partnership are: how will they treat you, what will they value, and what would your shared priorities be? If looking to tie the knot closer, early January is tremendous for getting engaged, married, or moving in. Find ways to pull your spirits more closely together. However, you will feel that you have come to
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an important and defining decision around the 10th, as you stand up for what you want and deserve. You will realize that the choices you make now carry ramifications that will echo throughout your life. However, as soon as the New Moon arrives later in the month, you will be considering what you receive and give in your partnerships and if you need to think about things from a different perspective. New ideas on union can bring you spontaneity and even a little bit of fun.
EO (July 23rd - August 22nd)
Work and employment are lit up splendidly for you, Leo! You will be very busy at the beginning of 2020 and this will echo on throughout the entire year. Take on more responsibility at your job or look for another one in your industry—you could find something with even better benefits for you! Health matters are also in favor, so if looking to improve your routine here, you can do so with pleasant results. An important karmic issue appears to be popping up near the 10th, though, and you could find that it is time for you to lie low and heal. Sometimes we must be front-and-center, but other times we must lie low. This is your time to retreat. The focus on “me” will shift to “we” at the New Moon on
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the 24th, though, as there will be a great deal of energy in your partnership, marriage, and collaboration sector. Consider how you can improve your important relationships and build memorable plans for the future. If single, you could find someone magnificent who brings more adventure to your life.
IRGO (August 23rd - September 22nd)
Romance has never looked so sweet for you, Virgo, and it will be as if the Gods finally allowed your heart to ignite after a long time of loneliness. Single Virgo can find sweet romantic options and possibly even one who completes their soul. Passionate love has your name on it, so to take the initiative. Don’t wait at home swiping or lurking. Open your heart, go after someone, and say hello. Creativity and art are also highly favored, so allow yourself to be inspired. Mid-month you will be attending a very important event with people who can help your life for the long-term. However, you may have a falling out with a friend or find out some unfortunate news regarding an acquaintance. If this is
the case, realize that it cannot be changed and you must move forward. Life comes with highs and the lows. Lucky for you, 2020 will be one of those highs.
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IBRA (September 23rd - October 22nd)
Your home, safety, and security have been major themes for you since 2017, and you’ve been wondering why you’re on such rocky ground. However, this improves significantly in 2020 because of the blessings of Jupiter, now residing here to bring you optimism and hope. The Solar Eclipse at the end of the year opened you up to new opportunities and you could find that your relationship with your family improves. If looking to move or buy a house, you’re very much in luck to find the perfect spot in January. However, mighty career news arrives at the 10th, and you could be rising significantly but also taking on more responsibility. If a large promotion or job offer arrives, you
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should take it if you’re ready to embrace the hard work. You will find the career move as a turning point in your life. Yet, as soon as the Sun moves into your romance and creativity sector in the last third of the month and the New Moon arrives on the 24th, you will feel as if your heart is aflame. You have had a less than vibrant love life for a while, but the sparks of passion will be sprinkled all over your 2020. Single Libra should be looking to meet someone. The Universe wants to align you with that kindred spirit now. Committed Libra can bring increased affection back to their connection or conceive. Embrace the sweet moments to come. You will enjoy 2020 but 2021 will be even brighter for you.
CORPIO (October 23rd - November 21st)
Communication has been a major focus for you, Scorpio, and it’s going to continue. You’ve been trying to figure out how you can better increase your skills in writing, speaking, sales, or negotiating. Some Scorpio could also be improving their social media presence or certifications. All of these are highly favored due to the blessed Solar Eclipse at the very end of December. You again will be very busy mid-month when the Lunar Eclipse brings forth an opportunity for you to grow: whether through travel, international connections, or involvement in education or media. If the opportunity presents itself, take it because it could actually grow your impact in the com
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ing years ahead. The end of the month will see you focused on your home and family, so it is a great time to move or update your space. Make sure your home always feels like your perfect sanctuary.
AGITTARIUS (November 22nd - December 21st)
Money and higher stability is on its way for you! Get ready for prosperity to knock at your door in the beginning of January. You could be starting a new job, receiving a higher wage, or taking on more freelance clients. Mid-month, though, has you focused greatly on what you give and receive in your partnerships. If they are not balanced, you may decide to walk away. However, face your karmic issues related to relationships— your fears from the past do not mean that they will manifest in future connections. If going through a divorce or settlement, the news could come forth now. However, as
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soon as the New Moon on the 24th arrives, you’ll feel a lighter vibration catch the flow beneath your wings. You will be urged to pursue how you can communicate a highly important message to you—whether through writing, speaking, or negotiating. Contracts could also be on your mind. If open to learning new skills and gaining certifications, they could help you in the coming months ahead so begin them now.
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APRICORN (December 22nd - January 19th)
Birthday season has you feeling especially vibrant this year because Jupiter, planet of miracles and luck, now resides within your zodiac sign. This only occurs once every 12 years and will shower you in blessings in every area of your life. Many Capricorn will fall in love, get engaged, or married over the coming year, as well as begin many plans and projects close to their hearts. You will still be euphoric from the powerful new directions that entered your life due to the Solar Eclipse at the end of 2019. You are ready for a major decade ahead. The 10th, though, carries a very significant decision regarding an important partnership in your life, whether in love or
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business. If you are truly fulfilled, you may decide to get engaged or make serious plans together. If you are not, you will walk away and realize that it was the final chapter in your relationship. The decisions you make now carry serious ramifications and will affect you forever. They may feel heavy because they’re so large, but realize that anything worth having is worth building. All will work out for you, so do not worry. The New Moon on the 24th sees more prosperity coming into your life. Money will definitely be arriving, but you should consider how you could build even more. No one became wealthy without first reaching for it.
QUARIUS (January 20th - February 18th)
The beginning of 2020 has you focused on closing the past decade and assessing what you have built. Are you truly fulfilled? What has grown for you, but what has died? What do you want to build in the coming decade ahead? Your mind will be abuzz with ideas for the future and you could also be healing important patterns that no longer serve you. Mid-month, though, an important work and employment issue could be reaching resolution or you may be choosing to move in a new direction. If you’ve been grinding on a project, it’ll likely be very hard and grueling—or if taking one on, it will be with great responsibility. A health matter is also likely to
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boil up if there is something that needs to be handled beneath the surface. You must act rapidly because the actions you take now carry lifelong ramifications. Get onto the best health routine that you can. The end of the month, though, brings forth birthday season, and you will be feeling the urge to start new things. The New Moon on January 24th is your official green light from the Universe to reset your goals. Don’t just think about the coming year, though; think of the rest of your life. 2020 will be a slower year where you are healing and planning, whereas 2021 will be the one that redefines your life in miraculous and tremendous ways.
ISCES (February 19th - March 20th)
Life is vibrant for you now, Pisces. Embrace your most adventurous side and get out and about! Your social life is promising spectacular fun at the beginning of 2020 and will likely echo on into your entire year. You are noticing that you are reaching important milestones in your life—not just in career, but in your personal life, as well. You are reaching toward many of your hopes and dreams, and this luck will continue to prosper for you abundantly as long as you know what you truly want. However, mid-month carries some very important news for your romantic life because you will realize the responsibilities that love carries. Single Pisces will have great opportuni-
ty to find a passionate lover—perhaps even someone a bit older or someone who fascinates them. This person will likely help shape and transform you in ways no one else ever could. Some Pisces will give birth or conceive at this time. Others will feel their creative sector highly activated at this time, too. Create something fueled from your heart and expression. Finally, when the New Moon on the 24th arrives, you will be ready for rest and relaxation. It’s time to recharge your batteries before birthday season arrives a month from now.
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