Couture Living Magazine by Couture Living Magazine

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Volume 2 Issue 4 October 2012

Foundersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Thoughts 4 Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Talk

Founder, Publisher and Editorial Director

Be Encouraged 6 Divine Living 10 The Viewpoint

Lifestyle Design

11 Intellectually Speaking 12 The Beauty Bar 14 Fashion Fit 16 Scene in Fashion 20 Palate Teaser 21 Mature Money 22 Health First, Self First 23 Socially Living

Features

8 Front Cover: Catching Your Eye to Catch Your Attention: Breast Cancer Awareness PLAN & PROTECT

Cover Credits:

Joi McCreary Managing Copy Editor

Janice Howard

Creative Production Editor

Shaletta Fuqua

Acqusitions Specialist Editorial Specialist

Anjanette Brown Felecia Taylor

Spiritual Director

Pastor Patsy Martin

Empowerment Initiative Director

RoShanda Johnson

Intellectual Reviews Specialist

LeAnne Joshua

Domestic Director

Crystal Puckett Tiffany Lockridge

Youth Advancement Director Creative Beauty Director Fashion Image Director Finance Director Health & Wellness Director Travel & Entertainment Director

Keondra Atwater Danisha Greene Lisa Gilliard Tia Grady Nichole Williamson

Marketing & Media Department

Creative Production Department

General Information info@couturelivingmagazine.com

Photographer Andrea Smith Studio 57 Photography www.studio57photos.com

Advertising ads@couturelivingmagazine.com Press & Media media@couturelivingmagazine.com

Submissions & Nominations Photographer, Andrea Smith, Studio 57 Photography. submissions@couturelivingmagazine.com Hair/Make Up, Keondra Atwater, Gifts From a Goddess. Contributor Information contribute@couturelivingmagazine.com

Hair/Make up Artist Ms. Keondra Renee 317-427-3482 mskeondraatwater@gmail.com Wardrobe Stylist Danisha Greene Yours In Fashion www.yoursinfashion.com

Let’s Talk Planning for Change!

Welcome back! We know there has been some delay, but the wait is OVER! We are listening to our readers and will continue to give you what you ask. We hope you enjoy the change! Fall is arriving; the seasons are beginning to change as are many things in your life. Whether its children growing up and graduating soon, you received that promotion you have been working so hard for, or you have started a new journey in your lifestyle. Things are changing. Change brings about growth, something we all need at some point in life. Take time to see how your seasons need to change. Determine what leaves need to fall, letting go of those unhealthy relationships. Learn how to get back to the bare essentials of who you are and have the things you deserve. Find your own happy, don’t live through someone else’s. You deserve personal happiness too! Learn your worth; valuing self is essential to changing your seasons appropriately. When you value something you care for it, you protect it, you make sure those who come in contact with it treat it with the same respect you do. So, take this season of fall to let go and change the things that don’t value you and the things important to you. Shed those old leaves to blossom in the spring with such fresh beauty. . As always I leave you with this…

Always Remember. .......... “Beauty has no boundaries, Self-Love has no limits and Fashion is forever! Be the Best of the best, the greatest of the greats, be confident and build a legacy of which you will be proud!”

Divinely Determined, Joi McCreary Founder, Publisher, & Editorial Director

Live your life couture with

Pastor Patsy and Minister Odis Martin Invite YOU to come worship! 1005 W. 27th St. Indianapolis, IN 46208 Service Time: 9 a.m. every Sunday.

Word of Life is a non-denominational place of worship, “Where the healing presence of God’s love flows freely.”

www.wordoflifeindy.org

Divine Living Author Pastor Patsy Martin,

How do I obtain a winner’s vision when it’s the things I see that hinder my progress? The doctor’s report, my checkbook, bad children, stingy husband, unexpected death of a loved one, cheating spouse, just to name a few, they all have the ability to make us lose focus. Winners feel good about themselves and promote a conquering attitude. I want to challenge you to see yourself with a winner’s vision.

No matter what translation you use, the emphasis is on being a visionary person. Not as the 1st definition but the 2nd and 3rd. In your mind’s eye you must visualize yourself as a winner. The winning attitude starts in the mind. I love to look at sports, in particular basketball and football. It is unique to listen to the sports commentators predicting the outcome of the game. They are never 100% accurate. At half time they either change their prediction or brag

A Winner’s Vision Let’s look at the definition of vision. Webster says: (1) the act or power of sensing with the eyes; sight. (2) the act or power of anticipating that which will or may come to be: prophetic vision; the vision of an entrepreneur. (3) an experience in which a personage, thing, or event appears vividly or credibly to the mind, although not actually present, often under the influence of the divine. The Bible puts a lot of importance on vision. Proverbs 29:18 New Living Translation (NLT) 18 When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful. The Message Bible says it like this: 18 If people can’t see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; But when they attend to what he reveals, they are most blessed. As a child, I learned the King James version, Without a vision the people perish.

about their knowledge in choosing the supposed winner. They are very critical. Isn’t that just like some people? Some have counted you out. Some have called you a loser. Some have counted your marriage dead and labeled your children brats. It’s half time! The game of life is not over! If the enemy can get you to believe his lies, you won’t be able to obtain your goal. You are a winner! No matter what you are going through. Remember, all things work together for the good of them that love the Lord! I imagine the enemy thought he won against Jesus. He had a big surprise and because of Jesus, we can be winners. But thanks be to God which giveth us the victory through Jesus Christ 1 Cor 15:57. The solution is found in 1 Peter 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time. What the enemy means for evil, God will work it out for your good. The fourth quarter has not been played. Keep the faith, We win!

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Catching Your Eye to Catch Your Attention:

Breast Cancer Awareness... Plan & Protect Author: Tia Grady

he most common cancer among women, except skin cancer, is breast cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that in 2012, an estimated 290,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer; however, women are not alone in this fight. An estimated 2,190 men will also be diagnosed in 2012. How do we protect ourselves from this cancer that affects all genders, races, and ages? Early detection is the key. Identifying the different risk factors that may increase the chances of having breast cancer can help to determine how early planning should begin. Risk factors for women that cannot be changed include: gender, aging, genetics, family history, personal history, race and ethnicity, dense breast tissue, certain benign breast conditions, menstrual periods, previous chest radiation, and diethylstilbestrol exposure. Risk factors for women that are lifestyle related include: having children at a later age and/or not having children, oral contraceptive use and progesterone injections (i.e. Depo-Provera), hormone therapy after menopause, alcohol usage, overweight/obesity, and lack of physical activity. For men, risk factors include: aging, genetics, Klinefelter syndrome, radiation exposure, alcohol usage, liver disease, estrogen treatment, obesity, testicular conditions, and certain occupations. Knowing these risk factors gives us a greater awareness of when to start detection testing. For example, the risk factor of genetics would prompt us to get tested earlier than those who do not have a family history.

Photography: Andrea Smith, Studio 57 Photography. MUA: Keondra Atwater, Gifts From a Goddess.

The ACS recommends testing for women should start in the 20’s by performing BSE’s (breast self-exams) monthly. Performing BSE’s is a way for women to begin knowing how their breasts normally feel and look. They can then notify their physicians if they detect any abnormalities. Every three years, women are recommended to have CBE’s (clinical breast exams) by their healthcare professionals with their annual check-ups. Women over 40 are recommended to have mammograms annually, along with a CBE. Women with greater risk (20% lifetime risk) should have a MRI with mammograms annually. For women with 15% lifetime risk or low risk, annual MRIs are not recommended. Men with strong family history may speak with their healthcare professionals about genetic testing for possible risk factors. Mammograms for men have not been studied, and are only performed if a lump is found with careful breast exams. Please consult with your healthcare professional for details on screenings and risk factors. You can also contact The American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 anytime, day or night, for information and support. With proper education, testing, and support, we can all have improved outcomes in the fight against breast cancer. Pass the word on to your family and friends, speak with your healthcare professionals, increase your knowledge, and support the fight against breast cancer. Early Detection is the key to Protection. And remember…Health First, Self First.

The Viewpoint Crystal’s Corner Author: Crystal Puckett,

Power They say the pen is mightier than the sword. You can leave an indelible imprint, either positive or negative, from the words you choose to speak. As adults, we can often discard negative things that have been said to us; however, for a child, the words you speak can set the tone for their self esteem and possibly, their life. Treat the words you speak as seeds and think of their environment as the soil. It is hard to reap a harvest from dry and barren land, but if you start with good soil and seed your harvest will be plentiful. Choose to plant positive words within your children’s minds and create a positive environment that allows them to feel safe and secure. This allows for positive growth within them. When you inwardly feel good about yourself, it will in turn, show outwardly (better grades, positive peer interactions, higher self esteem, etc...). We know all actions begin with a thought.

of the

Tongue

When positive words are given, this allows your child’s positivity to come to fruition. If your child has a test that day, take time to acknowledge how wonderful and smart they are and let them know they will do great on the upcoming test. We as adults seek out acknowledgement, so just think of how great it would feel to your child knowing you have taken the time to acknowledge their greatness. After all, doesn’t your productivity tend to rise when you receive an unexpected compliment from your manager? Steer away from words like “lazy” or “stupid” and other words that contaminate their self image. I remember a time I continually had to remind my daughter to clean her room. One day I said to her, “I will not tolerate a lazy child”. I did not think too much of it. A few weeks later my words came back to haunt me. In casual conversation my daughter said, “Is being lazy part of a person’s personality”? She internalized my words and thought being lazy was simply part of her personality. I told her I certainly did not think she was lazy, but she was not working to her full potential. I’m sure my daughter did not think too much of what she told me, but those few words spoke volumes to me. Also, be mindful of words that can taint their self image. Pick your words as though their lives depend upon it. “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things” Phil. 4:8.

Intellectually Speaking Novel Reviews and more!

Author: LeAnne Joshua, Intellectual Reviews Specialist

Look for Intellectually Speaking in the next issue to give you reviews of Couture Living Magazine favorites, best sellers and newly released novels!

Gain insight on many stories, memoirs, self-help and empowerment novels to get you prepared to dive into the realm of some amazing reads and reviews!

Look for Janice Morris Neslâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Collide novel review in our Novembmer/December Issue

The Beauty Bar Smoky Eyes Don’t Lie Author: Keondra Atwater The “Smoky eye” look has been in style for quite some time. For every look day or night a smoky eye can be applied to heighten your look. Key to a flawless Smoky Eye 1. High pigment eye shadow light or dark 2. Eyeliner (black) and or a color that complements the eye shadow 3. Blending brush and eye shadow brush Optional: To make your eyelids “POP”, add some mascara or false eyelashes for length and definition

Smoky eye as easy as 123… 1. With your eye shadow brush spread nude color over the entire eyelid 2. Apply black or dark shadow to the crease of the eye and outer corners 3. Apply black liner to the inside edges of your eyes, along the top and bottom waterline. Complete your look with your favorite mascara.

Make-up Tips and Tricks Keep your eyelids oil free by using an eye shadow base/primer. This will allow your color to stay in place… and bring the color to its natural hue. While rocking the smoky eye opt for the 3 N’s Nude, Neutral or Natural.

Fact: You can achieve a Smoky eye with ANY color; you don’t have to confine yourself to dark shades or just black. Your color selection is what transitions your look from day to night

MUA: Keondra Atwater, Gifts From a Goddess.

Fashion Fit Author: Yours In Fashion DaNisha Greene

Dapper Dons The first thing that comes to mind when you think about fashion is usually women and girls. It starts by comparing the extremely large size of the various departments in retail stores to the extremely large size of the closets and shoe collections to their male counterparts. However, in honor of Father’s Day rapidly approaching, I thought I’d shed some light on very stylish men across the globe, from European fashion to the strikingly innovative men’s fashion right here in the USA. When I think of European fashion I think of the slim tailored suits, cropped pants that are slightly rolled and paired with either Keds sneakers, boat shoes, or the ever so amazing wing tipped shoes even girls have taken heed to sporting. The androgyny of today’s fashion unfortunately for men is that women seem to be wearing it so well new comers may not realize who it was initially made for. The new dapper man isn’t afraid of color in the wardrobe either. You can start with; from head to toe or toe to head I should say, with bright color dress socks or a bright color tie to give your nine to five suit a pop of flair. The coolest thing to see is when a man dressed to the nine sits down and has on bright colored dress socks. It says a lot about your character. Then there are the skinny ties which are definitely in especially with a well-tailored suit. Bowties, bowties, and more bowties are IN and a definite win. Same as the wing tipped shoes, bowties are being worn by the women who dare to be different. Even your braces also known as suspenders are making your Steve Urkle look super swagg and very fashion forward. Heavenly adorned hats like the fedora and page boy have definitely made their comeback in the fashion world from traditional prints in hounds tooth, plaids, and tweed to light and dark colored straw in various combinations of bright colors and prints. These are also being high jacked by women for this spring and summer season.

Photos Courtesy of Michelle Collins

Legs are in fellas so don’t be shy. Don’t show too much of a thigh, but definitely flaunt off your hard work in the gym with shorts. The lighter the fabric the better; linen and cotton of course for a more dress casual look pairing great with a button down or a sweater and some loafers or boat shoes. Shorts are also acceptable, in some work places, if you dress them up with your sports jacket and tie as well as pair them with some wing tipped shoes. That will certainly polish off your look. Women love men who have nice dress shoes whether for day, work, or play. Investing in your shoes is something you must do fellas. The American iconic image also known as the “Cowboy” has always been cool. So, if you’re into funky thick leather belts, distressed denim, a crisp white shirt, and nice straw fedora, you can modernize that look. You can pair it with traditional cowboy boots or a leather casual shoe. If you’re a more relaxed kind of guy and you’re into sneakers or casual wear the sky is the limit. Whether you’re considering “investing” in a pair of the new $250+ Kanye West sneakers or some other expensive designer kicks, make sure they’re speaking your language which is personal style. If you’re into bright sneakers, high tops, classics like Nike’s, Addidas, loafers, Oxfords, or Sperry’s just have fun with your look. There are many great men’s wear designers such as the classics of Oscar De la Renta, Victor and Rolf, Burberry, John Galliano, Michael Khors, Tom Ford, Calvin Klein, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Dsquared, and March Jacobs. However, we also have a lot of not so well known up and coming designers with an extremely tasteful eye for menswear who I’m sure will be familiar in the near future. So, when you’re getting ready, look for D’Lamont by Derek Hill, Catou by Berny Bartin, EMJ by Eric Jenkins, American Armadillo by James Caldwell Acha Ngwodo, Robot & Brucling, Ollie Life Style by Ty Garth, Liberated Life Clothing by Matthew Simmons & John Donaldson, and House of Fifth. Although I’m unable to mention them all, these are great designers who are able to give you everything from European tailored suits to unique bowties and men’s accessories so enjoy this Dashingly Dapper season in fashion forward menswear.

Fashion Fit

Photos Courtesy of Casey Photogrraphy

Scene in Fashion t u bo

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Photos Courtesy of Nicole Danielle Photography and Yours in Fashion

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel like shopping? Would you like to reinvent your look? Do you have a closet full of clothes but nothing to wear? Yours In Fashion Consultant DaNisha Greene Wardrobe Stylist and Fashion Consultant will teach you to re-shop your closet. Fashion Shows, Photo Shoots, Fashion Editorials, Music Videos, Production & More.

Yours In Fashion Consultant DaNisha Greene is ready to style for you. Email: danishagreene@yoursinfashion.comor go to www.YoursInFashion.comto view & book.

ADVERTISE WITH US...... The Magazine where you can “Be One of Kind, by Design!” www.couturelivingmagazine.com

Palate Teasers Pumpkin Tomato Chili

Go Pink with your Palate

1 teaspoon olive oil 2 lb extra-lean, ground turkey breast 1 large onion, diced 1 red pepper, diced 2 cans dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained 5 1/2 cups no-sodium tomato juice 2 (14 1/2 oz) cans no-salt, peeled and diced tomatoes, with juice 1 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree 2 Tablespoon sugar-free maple syrup 1 1/2 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice 1 Tablespoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Add olive oil to a large pot and cook the ground turkey breast on high heat until brown. Stir meat to cook evenly, and then separate.Stir in onion and red pepper and cook for about 5 minutes. Stir in beans, tomato juice, diced tomatoes, pumpkin puree and maple syrup. Season with pumpkin pie spice, chili powder, and nutmeg. Simmer for 1 hour and serve.

Pasta with Sun Dried Tomatoes 1½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided ¼ cup pine nuts 1 cup sun dried tomatoes, packed dry — not in oil 1 cup boiling water 6 cloves garlic, pressed ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon red pepper, or to taste ¼ teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning ½ pound whole-grain fettuccine 1 ounce crumbled feta cheese (or more, to taste) Fresh basil julienned Salt and pepper, to taste Heat ½ tablespoon oil over medium heat in a small skillet. Add pine nuts and cook, stirring frequently until lightly browned. Place in a small bowl and set aside. Place tomatoes in a small bowl. Pour boiling water over them and let them soak until tender. Drain tomatoes, reserving the liquid. Coarsely chop tomatoes and set aside. Heat remaining oil in small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, chopped tomatoes, salt, red and black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir frequently until garlic is browned. Add the reserved tomato liquid to the mix. Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain pasta and gently, but thoroughly, toss with sauce and stir until liquid is absorbed. Top each serving with equal amounts of pine nuts, feta cheese and basil.

Honey Glazed Salmon

2 Tablespoon minced shallots 1 Tablespoon minced fresh or 1 teaspoon dried thyme 3 Tablespoon honey 1 Tablespoon Dijon Mustard Dash of ground red Pepper ½ teaspoon salt 4 - 6oz salmon fillets Preheat grill or broiler. Combine first 5 ingredients and 1/2 teaspoon salt in small bowl. Brush honey mixture over fish and cook approx 8 min or until fish flakes easily when tested w/ fork.

Mature Money Author Lisa Gilliard, M.B.A., M.A.

For Richer or Poorer: Understanding the Costs of Wedded Bliss According to pop star Beyonce, if a man is ready to settle down then he is willing to “put a ring on it.” In this sense, Beyonce is referencing “it” as being a woman’s left ring finger. As women, we set several life goals we would like to achieve. We challenge ourselves to reach these goals within a certain timeframe or age. Marriage is most often one of those goals. A careeroriented woman may state she needs to find a significant other and marry before her 30th birthday. In her mind, by this age she would be settled into a career, own a home, be well-traveled and ready for the next phase of life. Marriage, then, becomes a top priority, but at what cost? According to www.theknot.com, the average cost of a wedding topped $27,000 in 2011. As the price of goods and services increase, we can expect a surge in wedding expenses as well. Here are some tips to make sure if there is a wedding in your future you can plan appropriately. You should begin with a budget. Since the venue (including food) will take up nearly half of your overall cost, it is best to seek cheaper, non-traditional locales such as community centers or historic buildings. • Shop around for caterers that offer a variety of meal choices. Ask the caterer or venue coordinator if they have or know of places to rent inexpensive tables and chairs. • Cut the guest list. Try to plan for a reasonable number of guests. Remember not everyone invited will show. To guarantee seating arrangements, make sure guests respond by R.S.V.P. Each table you cut will save you money. • Remember those family and friends you have known your whole life will still be there for you after you tie the knot. With that said, limit the number in your bridal party to reduce costs. There is not a rule that states you must have a minimum of six bridesmaids, six groomsmen, two flower girls, and one ring bearer. • Lastly, remember, as women we live for the ultimate wedding, but once it is over you must continue to live. Do not overindulge, overspend, or overwhelm yourself in an attempt to achieve wedded bliss because when the music stops playing and the guests leave, it is back to reality which includes bills, work, and obligations. •

Be prepared. There is a price to put a ring on it. Note: For a wedding checklist, budgeter, and ideas log onto www.theknot.com.

Health First, Self First Author: Tia Grady

Protect the Skin You’re In Did you know approximately 73% of sunscreen wearers still get sunburn? With the hottest months of the summer leaving, many of you will be taking vacations and having fun in the sun. It is time to invest in your skin. Why not protect the only skin you are in? Protecting your skin may require a little research. With the differences in SPF ratings and understanding UVA and UVB, choosing the right sunscreen can be a little confusing.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The higher the SPF factor, the better protection from the sun. The highest factor on the market at this time is a SPF factor of 50+. This means a person can stay in the sun 50 times longer before damage from the sun; however, this protection is from UVB rays. There are two types of radiation: UVA and UVB. Scientists have determined UVA radiation is the radiation which causes deep cell damage, resulting in malignant melanomas. Most broad-spectrum sunscreens that advertise UVA/UVB protection do not fully protect from UVA radiation. Products that contain zinc oxide, avobenzone, and ecamsule deliver the best protection against UVA radiation. Sunblock is a type of sunscreen. This product is an opaque sunscreen that is effective in protecting against UVA and UVB radiation. The two most important ingredients in sunblock are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. So, what is the best way to protect the skin we are in? Sunblock is the most effective measure of protection, preferably with an SPF rating of 35+ and higher. Apply sunblock 15-30 min prior to contact with the sun to give your skin time enough to absorb. The sunblock is not very effective if your skin has not been able to absorb the ingredients. Also, most people probably do not think about other items that have SPF factors. For example, Nylon Stockings have an SPF 2, Hats have an SPF 3-6, summer-weight clothing has an SPF 6.5, and sun-protective clothing has a factor up to SPF 30. The summer months are here and it will definitely be a hot summer, so protect your first line of defense… your skin. And, remember…Health First, Self First!

Socially Living The holidays are getting nearer and near. Take some time to plan your holidays celebrations with cheer!

Photography : Mermaidshoes Photography

Metropolitian Picks and Favorite Finds Planning those winter vacations, breaks, or quick getaways? Always check out our list of Metropolitan picks and our Favorite Finds!

Metropolitan Picks Aspen, Colorado Alberta, Canada Adirondack, New York Savannah, Georgia Cape Cod, Massechusetts St. Petersburg, Florida

We have our selected favorites but we want to know yours! No matter what city, state, or country... we want you to share the enjoyment and help us spread the word about Send us your input on the lounges, clubs, restaurants, historical places you enjoy or frequent! Email us your review today! It may end up on our top 10 places to visit!

YOU-NIQUE SCENTED CANDLES Get away from it all with You-Nique Scented Candles, and create your own little piece of paradise. FRAGRANT 50-60 HOURS OF BURN TIME MADE WITH 100 PERCENT ALL NATURAL ESSENTIAL OILS HAND POURED TO ENSURE AN EVEN AND SMOOTH CONSISTENCY

Anjanette Brown Anjanette46224@yahoo.com 317-225-9496

Looking Forward It’s time for our til’ next times again! So as you grab and embrace your new season do it with excitement! Count it all joy! We are getting close to the end of one year and ready to dive into a new. So let’s get ready to give it all we’ve got to take it home.