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CONTENTS
8 Groove Theory By: Cassandra
10 Fashion N Fitness
By: Coach Vicky Jackson
12 Model/Actress Shnai Arias
19 Pinntsizediva
Children,Dating & Career: All about balance!
22 Model Spotlight Christine Turingia
26 Make-up Tips
By: MarianWilliams
CURVZ Anthony Big Moe Coleman Editor-in-Chief and C.E.O. KL Young Executive Marketing Writers Dawnice Harrison Raven Nest Maria Williams Make-up Tips Tanesha Dewberry Pintsizediva Vicky Jackson Fashion N Fitness Jo Jchell Jones Get Your Style On Cassandra Groove Theory
http://www.visualimpressionz.com
Groove Theory
By: Cassandra
Alex Boyd
A
fter stepping away from the television the other night, I heard something among all the name calling, yelling, screaming, & he said, she said drama of VH1’s Love & Hip Hop that instantly caught my attention & drew me back to the television. What I heard was such an amazing sound that was a mixture of Jon B meets Robin Thicke meets John Legend meets Kenny Latimore, which left me wanting to know more about the song & its artist. Immediately I rushed to Google the song I had just heard, “I Wish I Knew,” & its vocalist Alex Boyd, who is an up & coming artist with the scheduled release of his debut project, “Commit Me,” scheduled for Spring 2013. While reading up on Alex & listening to “I Wish I Knew” in its entirety along with other singles from his album, I was surprised to learn that becoming a soul singer wasn’t a deliberate decision for him. Alex has tried his hand at acting, singing, & dancing, when he appeared on NBC’s fame 2003. He was
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classically trained at Duke Ellington School of Arts in Washington, D.C. & Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan. As a lover of great music, I’m glad that he is one of the newest R&B singers on the scene. “I Wish I Knew” is a great up-tempo, feel good song that deals with falling out of love & wanting to get over an ended relationship, which we can relate to because at some point in our lives we’ve all had that one person we had a hard time getting over because we didn’t know how to let them go. Two other songs from this soon to be released project I’ve been able to listen to are, “Light Up Tonight,” & “One Day At a Time.” “One Day At a Time” is a mid-tempo, laid back song with jazz undertones that capitalizes on the smooth, mellow sound of Alex’s voice. Of the songs I’ve reviewed from this future release, “I Wish I Knew” is my absolute favorite. In an era where it seems good music has died, he is a breath of fresh air that gives hope for the future of music. I definitely expect to hear
more from Alex Boyd beyond his debut album, & look forward to his longevity in the industry. Be sure to cop this cd as soon as it becomes available…you will not be disappointed.
Stay connected with us at Curvz Magazine
Fashion N Fitness Where being fit is always in fashion
By: Coach Vicky Jackson
T
he end of winter is near and summer is right around corner. It’s almost the time of year for weddings and vacations. These events are often shared with friends and loved ones. As a Fitness Coach I encourage you to include working out as a shared experience with the people you love. There are many different support groups that can help you reach your fitness goals. If you’re having some challenges managing your diet and nutrition sign up for Weight Watchers. They have an excellent selection of healthy food and they teach you how to eat right for life. With Weight Watchers it is not a dieting but a way of life. Often times when people diet they gain the weight they’ve lost and sometimes more after the diet is over. Dieting will only keep weight off for a short period of time if you return to eating the foods that caused you to gain weight. Weight Watchers teaches you to eat food in moderation so you can maintain your desired weight.
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Your place of employment may have a gym located on the premises. You can form a workout team with your co-workers, friend, or family. This was one of the methods that I used to get fit. My friends and colleagues and I would go to the gym on our lunch hour to work out for 30 minutes and use 15 minute to shower. This was an excellent support group, each day we would do different exercises. Monday - Cardio Tuesday – Flexibility Wednesday - strength Thursday - Endurance Friday – Recovery When you workout in a group you can support each other’s fitness goals and you can push each other to work harder to increase your strength and endurance. There will be days when you just don’t feel like exercising but with a group they will help keep you motivated and on track. I will also suggest following weight lost , body building and fitness programs, they will show you how to overcome obstacles to fitness by letting you know your
goals are attainable and you’re not the first person fighting to get fit to stay fit. These are some of the tools I used to get fit which help me decide to learn more and to become a Fitness Coach. However the reason I became a fitness coach is to help people live long, healthy and happy lives. The Bible state in 3 John 1: 2 I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul Prospereth. These are words of wisdom so until next month remember being fit is always in fashion.
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Interview
Model/Actress
Shnai Arias Curvz Mag: How long have you been modeling? Shnai: I have been modeling for as long as I can remember, my journey as a model started when I was just 16 years old when I experienced the ultimate rejection for being a curvy girl. Trying to obtain representation I went to a few agencies to see if I had what it took to become a model. Sitting across from me the agent said,” Wow your face is beautiful, but we can find someone with the body to go with the face. I didn’t know what to say, there was nothing wrong with my body, but in her eyes and the eyes of many others hips and breast were not acceptable in the modeling industry.
being accepted as a model by everyone. As a full figured model, we have to use the very familiar phrase, “Plus Model.” I would rather use my name and be recognized for my talent without the Plus or Full Figure Label. Kate Moss or Naomi Campbell is not expected to put Regular size Kate or Naomi in front of their name. That’s one thing that definitely needs to change.
Curvz Mag: If you could change one thing about the plus size industry what would it be? Shnai: I am so proud of the plus industry and how far it has came. We get to rock the hottest fashions from couture to Curvz Mag: What inspired you to become a model and how swimsuit and look just as fierce. If I could change one thing did you get your start? in the plus industry it would have to be that the plus models Shnai: I really decided to pursue modeling after I was at home get compensated just as well as the straight size models. Just watching the Miss America pageant; I remember admiring like men and women pay varies in the workforce, I have seen them saying, “I can do that.” A relative of mine overheard me the same to be true within the plus and straight size modeland started laughing at me like yeah right. After that point, I ing industry. was determined to prove my relative and the agent wrong and went on to become Ms. Nevada in 2002. My experiences made Curvz Mag: What do you do to prepare for a photo shoot me realize that there is a need in the curvy community for or a runway show? motivation and it is my obligation to encourage other women Shnai: Before a runway show a model must prepare physilike myself to achieve success personally and economically. cally and mentally. Making sure that everything is as flawless Curvz Mag: What do you enjoy most about modeling? Shnai: What I enjoy most about modeling is contributing to the change of images of women in the media and social media. I enjoy seeing women like myself ripping the runway, in magazines, and up on billboards as I drive down the street and walk through the mall. Curvz Mag: What are some of the most challenging things being a plus size models? Shnai: One of the challenges of being a plus size model is
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as possible and preparing for displaying the clothing in the best way possible for the client to be satisfied and for me to represent my brand as a model every chance I get.
Curvz Mag: What are some of your interests outside of modeling? Shnai: Outside of Modeling, I enjoy spending quality time with the most important person to me, my little boy. Travel is important me, there is so much world out there to see and traveling opens your eyes to the way others live and makes you as better person as a result.
Curvz Mag: How was it working on the set with the cast of Real Husbands of Hollywood? Shnai: The cast of Kevin Hart’s “Real Husbands of Hollywood was awesome. Kevin is funny and sweet, Boris Kudjo is just as gorgeous on the inside as he is on the outside. I was required to do a stunt, so they were very supportive and concerned about my safety first and foremost. The episode #106 Auf Weisner Mitches was one of the funniest episodes and I am honored to have been a part of it. Anything that Kevin Hart touches is turning to gold, hopefully I have the opportunity to work with him on something else, I would really like that. Curvz Mag: What are some of the most challenging things as a plus size actresses in Hollywood? Shnai: One of the challenging things of being a plus size actress in Hollywood is being type cast. A lot of times the auditions that I am sent out on do not reflect who I am at all. When casting directors see a certain weight some automatically assume that if you are plus size then you must be out of shape and sloppy. Plus size to them means a character like, “Precious”. Although she is beautiful, she and I are nothing alike. I am tall and proportioned but they don’t get a chance to see that on paper and in a headshot a lot of times. Can I get a sexy leading role, please Hollywood. What about a voluptuous spy or assassin role, “what do you think?” Curvz Mag: So what is next for you? Shnai: Auditions, auditions, I plan on becoming a household name and face. I am planting seeds and hoping to enjoy the fruits of my labor very soon. Working hard and preparing for when my big break arrives. God has blessed me thus far. I am currently a model for www.chicandcurvy. com, www.imcurvy.com, www.purplediva.com and www. theseductionawaits.com. Can’t wait to see what the rest of 2013 has in store for me. Curvz Mag: What advice would you give to someone looking to get into the modeling industry? Shnai: To a model just starting out in the industry, you are a business. Educate yourself on what type of modeling is best for you and how you are going to go about obtaining your goals. Being a model is not easy and requires tough skin; very few models make it to the top with endless hard work. Modeling is very rewarding if this is something that you are passionate about. If you go to bed thinking about it and wake up thinking about it, then go for it and don’t let anything stand in your way. Someone told me the other day, “Shnai, I tried and agency and they said no.” If you will give up that easy modeling is really not for you. Don’t get discouraged by the rejection of an agency, they made more than one.
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Curvz Mag: One word that describes your body type? Shnai: One word that describes my body type is Healthy. Having a full-figure does not mean you are not healthy. Curvz Mag: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you or any shout outs? Shnai: I would like to say thank you to everyone that has supported me up until this point. It is very difficult to follow your dreams unless you have a good support system behind you. I would like to thank all the beautiful models, designers and photographers that I have worked with over the years. Shout out to Stan Lathan for casting me in “Real Husbands of Hollywood”. Thank you to Melissa Mc Elroy, she is such a beautiful person inside and out and such a pleasure to work for. I want to thank the chic and curvy team for all of their contributions of making me fabulous for the cover. Wardrobe by www.chicandcurvy.com , Carl Jones of Love Movement Photography, Jillian Bianca of “Make Me Blush and Ashelee for my flowing hair. Keep doing what you are doing Desiree of www.Plusmodel411. com and Pia of www.CurvySexyChic.com
Email for booking? Sarias724@gmail.com facebook.com/shnai.arias facebook.com/pages/Full-Figure-Model-Shnai-Arias Twitter: PlusmodelIconShnai Website: http://sarias724.wix.com/plusmodelshnaiarias Cover photo: Photographer: Carl Jones, Love Movement Photography Makeup by: Jillian Bianca, Make Me Blush Hair By: Ashelee Alex Wardrobe and Styling by: www.chicandcurvy.com
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PintSizeDiva Children, Dating and Career: All about balance!
T
he first thing that people tell you when you find out your going to be a parent is that your life is over but I don’t believe that theory at all. But I do agree that it changes your perceptive about who you allow to be in your home, around your child, and see all aspects of your life.
it. Balancing your life is one of the most complicated things you can ever do. No matter what we do as a single parent these things will always overlap and cause a rift.
Dating is hard enough but when you are a parent it adds another level of expectations, uncertainty, and worry to your life. I find it hard to have any social life let alone a dating life when your job is pullMany women that were raised old ing one way; your kids are a full time job school was taught that you are never 24 hours a day, and trying to date. Once to allow your child to meet anyone you you add being a curvy girl to the mix are dating until you feel that person is finding someone to compliment your life marriage material. With the new gen- and being understanding to your situation eration of teenage parents that theory seems virtually impossible sometimes. has gone out of the window fully. Too Everyone needs love too including single many of our women are introducing parents so find a way to love‌Your way! people to their kids without checking their backgrounds first and putting Email: plusmodeltjackson@gmail.com their family in danger. http://www.wix.com/tjackson28/tcjmodel Sometimes we can put our careers in front of our kids and don’t realize April 2013 Curvz 19
Model Spotlight
CURVZ
Model Spotlight
Christine Turingia Nationality: Canadian with Polish & Italian heritage City: I live in both Windsor & Toronto Ontario Height: 5’7 1/2 Measurements: 36/34/ 47 Sign: Aquarius
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Curvz Mag: How long have you been modeling? Christine: Well I have only been modeling for about 7 months. It is all still very new and exciting for me. Curvz Mag: What inspired you to become a model and how did you get your start? Christine: Truthfully, it just sort of happened. I was shopping in a boutique when the owner asked if I would be interested in modeling for their store, and as I loved their clothes, and I’m not afraid to be in the spotlight I jumped at the opportunity. And after receiving many encouraging words and discovering how much I truly enjoyed the work as well, I decided it would be something I would like to pursue. I’m blessed to have been given the opportunity, as I would never have known how to do it on my own, or that it was even a possibility for myself. So I am grateful for those around me who have helped and encouraged me to continue on this path. Curvz Mag: What do you enjoy most about modeling? Christine: I do enjoy the GREAT clothes and designs I am introduced to, and get to share. But I also love the idea of stepping into these outfits and trying to represent the clothing. Or getting to step into a role and be different character. Also, networking and meeting such wonderfully talented people also in the field, is extremely rewarding and affirming. Curvz Mag: What are some of your goals as a plus size model? Christine: As a plus size model, I strive to teach and help inspire confidence in others. All people are beautiful, and if I can help even one person realize that I feel I have done a great job. Beauty does not come in one shape or size, and I want to help get that message out there, as so many people struggle with this. Curvz Mag: What are some of your interests outside of modeling? Christine: I am also an opera singer. I have an undergraduate and a master’s degree in Opera Performance, so taking the stage and playing a character is something that I Love. My other love is animals. Any and all of them. Haha I volunteer at my local humane society, and have two dogs of my own: Squishy and Colonel. Curvz Mag: Who are some of your favorite plus size models? Christine: Truthfully, my favorite plus size models are the women that I have met through some of my jobs. I was amazed to find such supportive, helpful and friendly women in a field that is often viewed as competitive and “catty”. The women I have had the pleasure of meeting
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and working with have all been truly beautiful inside and out. Curvz Mag: What are some of your favorite stores to shop at for plus size clothes and shoes? Christine: The stores I frequent most often are sexy plus clothing, www.SexyPlusClothing.com Ricki’s, Reitman’s, and H&M. Curvz Mag: So what is next for you? Christine: I continue to pursue both my modeling and opera career, and enjoy life as it comes. We never know what’s around the corner. Curvz Mag: One word that describes your body type? Christine: Unique. We are all unique, and that is a GOOD thing, that we should Love and embrace.
Email for booking? christineturingia@gmail.com Facebook.com/christine.turingia
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Beauty
Make-up Tips By: Maria
Custom Blend Foundation By The Color Box By Maria “NOT YOUR MOTHERS MAKE UP ANY MORE*
H
i everyone my name is Maria Williams the CEO of The Color Box By Maria. We are a full service make Artist Company and make up educational center.
(2) Moisturize: You must hydrate your skin/face prior to make up application. If your face is dry and you apply any make up product, you face will just “drink” the product into your skin.
I found a manufacturer that make a synethic blend that is soft on the skin but gives the maximum coverage. I personally like a medium size brush with a round/flat end. The size is great for hand control and application.
It seems that times have changed in the make-up world and have improved for the better. Today make up is made easier and fun, but one area I find that women seem to struggle with is proper foundation. Foundation is what I call in the business “the basics of beauty and the stage for beauty. You can wear the best eye shadows, great blush and the baddest lipstick but if the foundation is wrong, you just don’t do justice to the makeup nor are you enhancing your true beauty!
(3) Face Primer: face primer is the first layer before your foundation. The purpose of a primer is to even out your skin tone, helps your make up stay on for a longer period of time.
(4) Colors By Maria Custom Blend Foundation: We at The Color Box love our line of foundation. We custom blend liquid and powder foundation to exactly match you skin complexion and undertones. The advantages are that it is created for you. You can also pick the amount of coverage and consistency. You can add any extras to address dry skin, anti aging, matte or pearl/dew finish. All of our custom blend products are natural and hypoallergenic. Ur product is made for all skin types. If you want to know more about foundations, skin care and to get your custom blend foundation send The Color Box Glam quad a e mail @ thecolorbox69@ gmail.com. Our products can be purchased at www.thecolorboxbymaria.com
We have evolved from our so called “mom’s make up” or the two colors of foundation “light and dark”. Now you can find foundation in the standard liquid, cream and cream to powder. Although we have choices I still find that women are still in the struggle for that perfect foundation. So what is the answer? As a Make Up Artist the key things that I find that solve this issue are the following: (1) Good skin care: cleanse your face and eye area prior to your make application
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(4) Have a quality foundation brush whether you use a liquid or powder foundation. Once you have achieved the three above you are ready to apply your foundation. The favorite house pick by The Color Box By Maria are: (1) Colors by Maria Moisturizer with SPF 15: This is a product that I use every day just to moisturize my skin and prior to my foundation application. (2) Color By Maria Face Primer: This primer is so smooth and it comes in a pump bottle. The consistency is in a gel form for easy application. Also a little goes a long way! (3) Color Box By Maria Foundation Brush: In my search for a foundation brush to apply liquid or powder
Remember ladies! Foundation is “NOT YOU MOM’S MAKE UP ANY.
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