PREMIERE ISSUE Delorean Hogan, Founder of Dream Girls at Fallbrook
AVID MAGAZINE Publisher/Editor Nancy Jackson Co-Editor Cecilia Smith Photography
Finding Me Everything that happens in life; happens for a reason. This project has been on my heart since a little girl. In the midst of starting AVID magazine life happened. I kept putting it off and second guessing myself. Everything else in life became more important than this magazine. It seemed as though everything and everybody else's problems, dreams and projects became mine. But in everything there is a lesson. "Build your own dreams; or someone else will hire you to build theirs." -Farrah Gray
Graphics and Design
I admit most of it was me; we can become our own worst enemy because the pressure of being gifted is very hard. Sometimes you just want to BLEND. But blending in is not in you; you are extraordinary. But Steve Harvey said it best; "If you don't jump; you will never soar."
So Artistry Graphics
In all of the challenges that we face there is a lesson and when life happened I had to learn somethings.
SAG Photography
1. Make decisions out of faith and NOT fear.
Online Magazine
IN THIS ISSUE
Published in Houston, TX
3. Never forget why you started doing what you are doing. 4. There is growth in your trials and tribulations.
FEATURING Yellow Bandit Media Cortney’s Sweet Creations Dream Girls at Fallbrook Carista’s Kreations Enhancing Massage and Body Works Simply Cecilia Unique Interactions Meagan Phillips Makeup Artistry 1080 Photoz Total Precision Shooting Sold by Ja’tonia
2. Don't hold grudges! Forgive and move on.
5. Stay Humble and everything give praise.
ON THE COVER
6. Ask 'what I am supposed to learn' during your struggle instead of 'why is this happening to me. ' 7. Learn from your mistakes. 8. No one has ever became successful without the help of other people. Lastly, success comes with a price that all of the money in the world could never afford. The price is not monetary; the price is the struggle. Honestly, the struggle is real! Struggle makes you hungry and fearless because you don't want to be in that state longer than you need to be. In your struggle it is important that you find your purpose. "The purpose of life is to find your gift; the meaning of it is to give it away." Picasso. Remember to always be Ambitious, Victorious, Inspiring and Determined! BE AVID! Nancy Jackson Editor in Chief
Photo Credit: J. Willis Photos 2
GIVE YOUR IDEAS WINGS
YELLOW BANDIT MEDIA CONSULT. CREATE. SOAR So what is Yellow Bandit Media? We are a Media Consultant Company. We help other people EMPOWER themselves so that in the long run they are able to reach their goals easily.
Why did you start Yellow Bandit Media? With my experience in Journalism since 2009, I wanted to be able to put writers into a team in which we could all work together. Houston is not a big media city but with combined experience within a team we are able to offer a faster way to get connected in the media circuit.
What services do you offer?
Press, Media & Event Consulting for Creative Professionals
www.yellowbanditmedia.com
We offer Press Releases, Biography Writing, Website Content, Article Writing, Ghost Writing, Online Content, Digital Brochures, Business Cards, Marketing Designs and Social Media Management.
What are your specialized services? EDITING & WRITING: From newsletters to song blurbs, our versatile writers get the job done. Services include: Blurbs, Event Recaps, Film/App/
Music Reviews, Artist & Professional Bios, Website Content, Digital Brochures, Newsletters, Proofreading, Email Reviews, LinkedIn Editing & more.
MEDIA & PRESS: Using a network of creative professionals and network of publications, we develop tangible press strategies. Services include: Press
Releases, Save the Date Announcements, EPKs, Social Media Creation/Management, IG/Facebook Live Broadcasts, Twitter/IG Marketing, Snap Chat Filters, Email & Online Marketing Campaigns & more. CAMPAIGNS & EVENTS: From finding a venue to writing your press release, we're here to make sure that your event is a success. Services include:
Event Planning, Day-of Event Assistance, Event Photography, Vendor Referrals/Management (Catering, Rentals, Venue), Venue Sourcing, Digital Fliers, Eventbrite Management, Corporate Luncheons/Galas, Hashtag Creation, Album Releases, Stage Management (Concerts, Festivals, Showcases) & more.
So tell us about the team? We currently have 6 people on the team who all bring something different to the table. The team consists of Cecilia Austin as the Creative Director. Brandon Caldwell is a Writer & Editor, Bradford Howard is the Editor-In-Chief, Joan Nwami is our Marketing & Event Specialist, Kelsey McDaniel is a Writer & Event Specialist and Brittany Rodgers is the Public Relations Specialist. Our team has written for publications such as Complex, Ebony, Essence, Noisey, Vibe, Sway's Universe, AllHipHop.com, Houston Style Magazine, Houston Press, Houston Trend Magazine and Dayandadream.com.
What makes Yellow Bandit Media different from every other Media Consultant Business? We provide the tools to be successful and we educate our clients. We provide a list of editors, publicist and producers in Houston. We take care of the advertisement of your business in which we market and highlight during the month on all social media streams. We find that tight line for our clients that other associated businesses do not provide. Our business is structured to help Creative Professionals as well as Corporations.
How involved is Yellow Bandit Media in the Community? We are very active in the Houston Community. We help with events such as #businesseswelove, Laugh for a Cure, Simply A Smartie Pants, #lunchbag, Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaways and Charity field day. If you had some advice to give to dreaming entrepreneur’s what would it be? 1.
Relationship Building opens doors.
2.
Do good business always.
3.
“Find a way to merge your creativity and get paid for your craft.”
“Everybody needs a writer.” -Cecilia Austin
Small Business Loans
W
hen starting a small business most entrepreneurs face the same question, “Should I apply for a Small Business loan or not?” Before considering to take this route for your business there are several things that you MUST have in order. Understanding how to properly approach the lender can help aid in your approval. Here are some MUST-HAVES before applying: 1. Patience. Applying for a loan can be a very stressful and long process. Be prepared to get denied, laughed at or told NO several times before someone says YES. 2. A Business Plan. What goals do you have for your business? Where would you like to see your business in 5 years? This is your ultimate vision board and roadmap to success written out. 3. Credit Score. “Money makes the world go round, “ has been a trending statement heard for years but actually “Credit makes the world go round.” Credit is in the center of just about everything in society. Check your scores and get your report. www.annualcreditreport.com offers 1 report a year for free. Also, consider joining www.creditkarma.com 4. A Business Checking or Money Market Account. Most financial institutions DO NOT offer business loans to businesses unless your business holds an account. 5. Rapport. Get to know the employees at the financial institution that holds your business account. Make sure you go inside and are friendly at all times. 6. The purpose of the loan. What are you specifically going to do with the money that you are requesting? Loan officers will ask you several questions about your needs and might request a business plan. 7. Collateral. When considering a loan make sure you have some type of collateral. Lenders for Small Businesses want to ensure that if the business is struggling that they will still receive payments. 8. References. Lenders will need contact information of individuals who are aware of your business. This would not be family members but it should be partners, customers, a team of employees, or other business owners in which your business collaborates with. Have this information ready to give to the lender. Also contact all references to let them know that lenders will contact them. Being prepared when considering a Small Business Loan is very important. Research all avenues as it relates to applying for a Small Business Loan and it will help in speeding up the process of your approval.
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Cortney’s
fter going through a difficult turn in life, mother and wife Cortney RossDavis turned to baking, transforming a hobby into a small business overnight. After slanging cakes and cookies for the past year this boss not only increased her business, she even added to her menu. “I’m able to make everything from scratch and it tastes really good,” she teased. As her business continues to expand, Cortney has ramped up her marketing efforts, rolling out a new website and a growing tshirt line; allowing customers to order everything from desserts to Boss Shirt tees online, which she hopes will empower others to support not only the vision, but the brand.
Photo Credit: S.P.I.T.ing Image Photography
Sweet Creations
For Cortney the vision is clear, “Don’t just be bossy, be a boss that builds an empire.”
Who is Cortney Davis? First and foremost I am a Women of God, a wife, a mother and Owner of Cortney’s Sweet Creations. I am a GROWN WOMAN because I HANDLE AND RUN MY OWN BUSINESS! #BEYOU
What would you say is your best dessert? I make everything from scratch and I would have to say my buttercream is a banger. People love my Italian Crème Cakes.
What makes your business unique and sets you apart from any other business in your area? “Don’t just be bossy be a boss that builds an empire.”
-Cortney Ross-Davis
I pride myself on my work and I am able to appeal to different eating communities based on their preferences.
Since you have started in business what has been the biggest highlight? The day that I officially made it a business. I remember waking up one morning and I told my husband, “I’m going to get my DBA today.” It was one of the best days of my life. I was so proud of myself that I actually took a leap of faith to take a step to operate as a business. By far it was the best $16 I invested.
What types of sweet creations can be ordered from Cortney’s Sweet Creations? I have a variety of creations everything from cakes, cupcakes, tea cakes, cake pops, mini bundt cakes, cookies, cheesecake, pies, dipped treats, candy apples, infused candy apples, chocolate covered strawberries and infused chocolate covered strawberries. If there is anything that is not listed just contact me.
What has been a highlight for Cortney’s Sweet Creations? Success! Everybody helps to make Cortney’s Sweet Creations a success. People acknowledge the growth. Customers always write reviews and spread the word about the business. This has helped so much. My family plays a huge roll in the success as well. Everyone has been very supportive as well as free creation tasters. An lastly, my son feels like I made it and that means the world to me! Cortney Ross-Davis, creating a legacy and building a brand one cupcake at a time. Call Cortney at (832) 655-5375. Like and view her page on facebook @Cortneyssweetcreations.
10 Business Tools To help your Small Business Living in a very innovative time period has offered several different avenues for businesses especially Small Businesses.
Here are 10 business services that you should be using for your business. 1. Google Wallet A fast and free way to send and receive money by just using an email address or phone number. The best part is that they do not have to have the wallet app. The money is deposited into the account of your choice. However, you will need a google account to access your money. 2. Wave Create and send professional invoices, estimates, and receipts with a click of a button. Track your income and expenses without hassle. You are also able to pay your employees and provide online pay stubs. Using Wave is free invoices, accounting and receipts. However, if you choose to accept credit card payments or pay your employees it is on a pay as you go basis. www.waveapps.com 3. Square This service has been around for a while now but it keeps getting better. With Square you are able to get a free Square mag-stripe reader to swipe credit cards anywhere with
the use of your phone or tablet. Now the latest readers are chip enabled. Square has also added Square Point of Sale for businesses and Square Stand for Ipads. The fee is per swipe or keyed in transaction.
within the site to get answers, watch, listen, play, do more with google devices, stay connected across several screens, stay in touch, organize stuff, work smarter and grow your business. For more information on all the great supports that are offered by google . visit. www.google.com
4. PayPal With PayPal you are able to make purchases, send money, receive money and keep record of all transactions. The easiest thing is to skip entering payment details. PayPal also offers a link to text or email so that you can get paid directly. To sign up visit. www.paypal.com
10. Acuity Scheduling A client scheduling database that allows clients to book their own appointments as well as pay for the services online. This self serve scheduler is very user friendly and at your fingertips. www.acuityscheduling.com
7. Wix Offers a way to build an online presence for your business. Wix is a simple drop and drag process that includes all the necessary tools needed to run a business. For more information please visit www.wix.com. 8. Mailchimp
5. Square Cash Get paid instantly with Square Cash. It’s offers fast deposits, it’s easy for customers, has affordable pricing as well as quick cash.me profiles for cashtag. Available online at www.cash.me.
Provides a free email campaign and professional marketing automations. The free account allows for up to 2,000 subscribers and 12,000 emails sent per month. Visit www.mailchimp.com. 9. Hootsuite Hootsuite is a dashboard that helps you manage all of your social media accounts in one. It’s safer, faster and smarter. Several plans are offered including a free plan for up to 3 social profiles. www.hootsuite.com
6. Google Google has transformed their entire brand becoming one of the top free email providers. This new google platform offers applications
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Look for more tools to help your businesses in our next issues. Be sure to follow us on Social Media!
If you have tips or you would like to contribute any information please contact AVID Magazine.
“Girls Dreaming God Sized Dreams”
Dream Girls is a mentoring ministry for grades 6th—12th grade that is currently held at Fallbrook Church. This ministry is designed to mentor and empower girls in grades 6th-12th to live out their God given purpose, help build selfesteem, develop leadership skills, and live a life that brings honor to God. The vision of Dream Girls was given to Delorean Hogan and with the help of 6 visionaries on the leadership team and Fallbrook Church it became a reality.
Monthly sessions are held in areas that are catered to helping all of the Dream Girl participants in their daily spiritual walk,
Hogan. Dream Girl was placed on her heart because she wanted to help girls avoid the bumps in the road that she had hit. In April, 2016 Dream Girls was -Jeremiah 29:11 started and through this ministry Hogan and other members of the leadership team have been able to help mold better women of sexuality, purity, as well as God for the future. being prepared for College and Career Readiness. Sometimes God places us in positions in order to give testimonials to help others along the way and that’s what happened to
Having a very diverse
The sessions have opened their eyes to new things and they finally have someone to talk to.” Hogan stated. The girls are able to see adults that have a similar background to their current reality. By hearing the leaders stories it offers these girls a relatable experience in which they are see that they are able to overcome situations no matter what. The support that we receive from Fallbrook Church and Fallbrook’s Women Ministry has been such a big help in our goal of helping Girls Dream God Sized Dreams. Dream Girls offers a chance to connect with God and how to address the needs
of girls on a spiritual level instead of the worldly advice they receive from peers. Different events are offered for the girls every first Sunday along with other events. Some of the events that Dream Girls host are Pajamas and Girl Talk, Teen Holiday Brunch, Walter’s Road Clean-up, 100 Toys to Families in which the girls partner with Officer Hogan and the HPD Blue Santa Drive, Bullying and SelfEsteem, Nursing home visits, and a school supply drive. The Leadership Team has many new and exciting things that they would like to
The Fallbrook Dream Girls are proud to present the 2017 Debutante Class. This two-month program prepares girls in the 12th grade for their entrance into society as they journey into the next chapter of their life. Participating in the Dream Girls 2017 Debutante Class means the girls will be exposed to women of God who will work with them to strengthen their abilities in various aspects. They will also develop relationships with the other young ladies in her class, and grow closer to being the young lady who God created her to be. The Debutante committee will support them through their journey to ensure that each young lady gets the most out of this experience. After successful completion of a two-month program preparing high school senior women for their entrance into society as they journey into the next chapter of their life, they commence with a ball before family and friends. By the end of the course, each girl will have attended classes and participated in activities that cover curriculum related to purity, etiquette and manners, poise and self esteem, communication, college preparation, goal setting, and community service. At the ball the girls waltz with their fathers and junior escorts before showcasing their last dance. At the end of the night the girls participate in a vow of purity ceremony where they commit to living a pure life and waiting to have sex until marriage. Their fathers present them with a ring to wear as a constant reminder. Lastly, they Photo Credit: Sylvester Creations are awarded various awards that represented them during their Deb class. Each girl received a scholarship and 2017 Miss Dream Girl was announced, Debutante Kristney Bishop Senior at Westfield High School. Other Debutantes were Geranae Jones and Poitia Holbert.
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N
o one ever said creating an avenue to success would be easy? Mae Jemison once said, “Never limit yourself because of others’ limited imagination.” When it comes to business, Cartista Ward - owner of Cartista’s Kreations - has no limits. “Why be plain and simple when you can be Kreative and Out-the-Box!!!” - Carista Ward
A Houston native, Carista Ward has always had a passion for computer technology, acquiring new skills and fancy gadgets along the way. Motivated in part by her parents, both entrepreneurs, what started out as a high school hobby eventually turned into a craft. Completing small projects for family and friends, Carista was soon working on everything from business cards to greeting cards, invitations, flyers and more. As her talent and knowledge base grew, so did her creativity and drive to do more.
Attending Lamar University, Carista continued to learn the latest technology as she pursued a degree in Management Information Systems. As doors began to open, she wondered whether her hobby could be turned into a viable career. Carista’s first major project would be a website for her mother’s beauty salon, which would lead to inquiries and referrals pouring in. Later, she would earn a Master’s in Business Administration. Feeling compelled to do more, Carista continues to expand her popular print and interactive portfolio. Feel free to explore just what Carista’s Kreations has to offer!
that we offer. Carista’s Kreations also has an event planning side that can assist you in making your event ‘one to remember’. As most people like to plan events based on a particular theme, we can help you tie that theme into
What services and products does Carista’s Kreations offer? Here to bring your vision to life, we create materials such as logos, websites, business cards, fliers, New Logos, Websites, Flyers, Personalized Invitations, Custom Programs and Favors, Wedding details (invitations, programs, Menus, Save-the-Dates, etc), Funeral Obituaries, Memorial programs.
From helping small business owners, putting together unforgettable events to creating customized corporate business products; Ward takes pride in being able to get inside of her clients heads by having constant dialogue throughout the entire process. A method she explains as “I put my all into every project that I am working on. I want to make sure that the client loves the project, not just like it. I always pride myself on quality.”
Whatever your marketing and advertising needs, we are here to work with you from start to finish bringing your entrepreneurial vision to life!
So what exactly is Carista’s Kreations? Carista’s Kreations is a creative design company that is here to serve all of your creative business and personal needs. Though marketing and advertising for businesses is a major focus for Carista’s Kreations, this is not all
Quality, Attention to Every detail, Unique events completely different. “Customized just for YOU!”
your event from the invitations, to the party favors, to the thank you cards and much more.
What makes your business unique and sets it apart from other similar businesses in your area?
For more information on Carista’s Kreations call (832) 434-4795 or visit www.caristaskreation.com Follow her on Social Media Carista’s Kreations @caristaskreations
Editors Pick This quarters Top 10 places to eat in Houston that are owned by Small Business Owners Who doesn’t love a good food spot? If you are looking for good food and a bang for your buck, be sure to visit the following: 1. Krab Kingz (832) 667-8799 6600 Antione Dr. Houston, TX 77091 Try the Krab and Shrimp Tray Spicy, Cajun, Lemon Pepper! 2. All Seasonz Grill/ Mobile (832) 491-6449 1 (800) 691-2795 Currently Located at Zum Barrel Also a Food Truck Service. 13101 Kuykendahl Rd Houston, TX 77090 Try the Lobster Mac and Cheese, Chicken Wings, Seafood Dressing and Seafood Potatoes!
3. Oh My Gogi Food Truck 5555 Morningside Dr. Houston, TX 77005 Check out twitter for daily truck times and locations! Try the OMG Fries, Korean Beef and Chicken! 4. Burn’s BBQ (281) 999-5559 8307 De Priest Houston, TX 77088 Try the Ribs, Sausages, Chopped Beef and 3 meat Baked Potatoes! 5. Vibe Sports Bar (281) 874-3003 12510 N. Freeway
Houston, TX 77060 Try the Fried Chicken Wings with Extra Seasoning, Pizza and Fried Fish! 6. Swamp City Seafood and Wings (832) 802-4890 300 W. Little York Rd. Houston, TX 77076 Try the Fried Fish, the Mini City Pack
and a Passion Fruit Smoothie! 7. Broke Ass Pizza (832) 548-0471 1323 Rosewood St Houston, TX 77004 Try the Vegan Style Classic Cheese Pizza! 8. Lotus Seafood and Wings (281) 447-8881 10092 Veterans Memorial Dr. Houston, TX
77038 Try the Loud Pack! 9. Victory Eatery (281) 820-7443 2213 S. Victory Dr. Houston, TX 77088 Try the Turkey Burger, BBQ Baked Potatoes, Cajun Fried Fish Sandwich and the Cheeseburger! 10. Yoyo’s Hot Dogs (713) 839-6207
*Hours may vary so please contact the business for more information. You can follow them on all social media sites.* 10
5555 Morningside Dr. Houston, TX 77005 Try the “All of the Way” Tasty Hotdog Spicy or No Spicy!
Enhancing Massage and Body Works, LLC
Enhancing Massage and BodyWorks, LLC strives to help clients continue to enjoy life in the midst of dealing with chronic pain. All massages are customizable according to the clients needs. Enhancing Massage and BodyWorks, LLC. Philosophy is to assess and plan individualized techniques based on the clients needs. This is not your typical relaxation spa massage, Owner Tameika Byrd focuses on clients dealing with work related injuries and chronic pain. After Byrd felt the healing benefits of massage firsthand, she decided to enroll in Avalon School of Massage taking over 500 hours of training. In November of 2012, Byrd decided to embark on the journey of becoming a licensed massage therapist who focused on getting clients results they needed every session. She focused her practice on two types of massag-
Alleviating pain while rejuvenating the body
www.enhancingmassage.massagetherapy.com
es Deep Tissue and Sports Massage to help clients who are suffering from chronic pain. Enhancing Massage and Body Works strives to help clients live a life of comfort while enjoying their active pleasures or dealing with unfortunate issues that we sometimes just can not avoid. Either through Deep tissue or Sports massage, great results are achieved to improve range of motion and/or release pain and tension in overworked muscles. The massages at EMB (Enhancing Massage and Bodyworks) are always customized according to the clients needs. However, if relaxation is all that’s needed, a lighter but firm massage is what’s provided. Though a massage every now and then is all we feel we have time for, tremendous results are achieved through consistent sessions.
Founder and Creative Director Cecilia Austin, for Yellow Bandit Media; a Press and Media Consulting Company that emphasizes on helping small business creative professionals. Yellow Bandit Media and Simply Cecilia has helped to host events like South by Southwest, working with Houston Trends Magazine, the UNICEF Audrey Hepburn Society Ball and etc… Yellow Bandit Media will be celebrating it’s one year anniversary this year and it is going to be epic! Be sure to stay connected with AVID Magazine for more details. Smith plans to expand Yellow Ban-
dit Media by providing more services and planning more community service events for the City of Houston. Smith plans to starting a mentoring program within the Houston and Surrounding Areas School Districts that focuses on helping students who are interested in pursuing a career in Communications with any emphasis. Of course the ultimate goal for Yellow Bandit Media is to become a full service media company, but hey who said dreams can’t come true. With Simply Cecilia and Yellow Bandit Media, Austin has a very busy schedule, but that doesn’t stop her from volunteering, participating in her social organization, as well as covering and hosting events. Request a rate sheet or schedule a free consultation by email at simplycecilia510@gmail.com. For more information on Press and Media Inquiries email: brittlrodger@gmail.com. Be sure to follow Simply Cecilia on Social Media : Instagram: @simplycecilia
Twitter: @simplycecilia
Facebook: TheSimplyCecilia
www.simplycecilia.com 12
THE WRITER. ENTREPRENEUR. PHILANTHROPIST. EDITOR. BANDIT
S
an Francisco native, Cecilia M. Austin has embraced the Houston Media market like a wrecking ball. Over the years she has created numerous platforms for young professionals in Houston. Being a black journalist in the city of Houston can be very difficult since it is not a huge media circuit,
Paramahansa Yogananda said it best,
“Opportunities in life come by creation; not by chance.” Austin has been creating avenues of success for her and others as well since 2009. Since, earning her undergrad from the University of Houston in Print Journalism and a minor in Political Science, she has ventured into several different markets for writing. From being a writer in several publications, hosting a radio show and her current columns, “Conversations with Cecilia” and “Follow the Bandit” published in Houston Style Magazine every month, Austin has developed a well put together resume. She has written for publications such as Sway Universe, Allhiphop.com Hip Hop DX, Houston Trend Magazine, Dayandadream.com and much more. Austin focuses heavily on music, film, charity and social justice. Television appearances on Fox 26, The Isiah Factor as well as “Small Hands, Big Dreams.” Host of radio show “Yellow Bandit Media” and “The Roster Live” on 90.3 GMT.
Photo Credit: J. Willis Photos
Who ever said you can’t give back to a community that you are not from? Although she hails from the west coast, it has never stopped Austin from giving back and supporting the Houston community in which she currently resides in. She has helped with numerous charity organizations in Houston and surrounding areas as well as creating her own Charities. Simply a Smarty Pants is a Annual back to school bash that provides school supplies for 50 grade school girls grades 3-8. The girls are able to receive back packs with loaded school supplies, prizes and giveaways. She also provides high school seniors with resume writing and college essays. #Followthebandit for more upcoming events and adventures of the Yellow Bandit.
www.simplycecilia.com
Sold by Ja’tonia
Read, Lead, Succeed
As a little girl Ja’tonia Youngblood always had an interest in houses. Driving through the neighborhoods she would hunt houses and imagine herself in these dream homes. One day that changed for the wife and mother of two children. While managing an apartment building a woman asked her one day, “What makes you happy? What can you do to make people happy?” Well Youngblood, has taken those two very important questions and she has incorporated them into her business. She realized that a dream home is a happy place and also residue income. After 13 years in real estate Youngblood understands that real estate is built off of relationships of trust. If you are looking for a real estate agent who is not in it for what they can make then Ja’tonia Youngblood is the realtor for you. Her business is based on making her clients happy and their dreams come true. Exceptional customer service skills and knowledge is very important when choosing a real estate agent to guide you through the home buying process. “It’s an emotional process when you are helping clients fulfill their dreams.” stated Youngblood. Sold by Ja’tonia is more than just a business, it’s a representation of who Ja’tonia Youngblood really is; it’s a legacy for her family and children. Youngblood is currently a realtor under the Champions Real Estate Group.
And thrive as an Entrepreneur “A book is a device to ignite the imagination.” ― Alan Bennett We were all created to live life and live life more abundantly. Ask yourself one question, “Are you living the life that you were created to live?” Sometimes we just need a push to remind us of our self-worth. Reading has always had a way of motivating entrepreneurs to the best me. The books list below are MUST reads for every owner. 1. The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene 2. Black Privilege: Opportunity Comes to Those Who Create It by Charlamagne tha God
3. The Power of Broke by Daymond John 4. The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren 5. I’m Judging You: The Do-Better Manuel by Luvvie Ajayi 6. Jump: Take a Leap of Faith to Achieve Your Life of Abundance by Steve Harvey 7. The Power of I am by Joel Osteen 8. Destiny: Step into your Purpose by TD. Jakes 9. I Can’t Make This Up: Life Lessons by Kevin Hart
10. I’m Changing the Game by Dr. John R. Adolph
For all of your real estate needs big or small contact Sold by Ja’tonia. Her contact information is (281) 966-6756. Like her page on facebook
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How did Unique Interactions all come together?
What are you most proud of in regards to your business?
I originally came up with the concept in 2008 to be a mentor that would help bring the youth together. I was working for the Local government planning city events for the community. I planned everything from conferences, workshops, and etc… I had someone ask me why not go into event planning, so Unique Interactions was made official in 2012. I prepared myself for this business by researching, training and earning credentials.
I have been able to maintain stability and growth. My team and I am driven , focused and we operate from the support of our friends and family. “It feels good when people say, Christian Mukes the Wedding Planner.”
What makes your business unique and sets it apart from other similar businesses?
What is Unique Interactions main event focus?
We plan events with a precise and exquisite attraction. We are Event-a-holics! We put in overtime for our clients so that every encounter is a Unique Interaction.
We specialize in Weddings, although that is not the
Who is Christian Parker? I represent all the little girls who lived in 5th Ward, faced low socioeconomically adversity, but had dreams & goals and family who pushed me. Where I'm from, I've seen more than anyone would imagine. I can remember using a water hose attached to Mr. Eddie's house to fill the tub to take a bath and all I could think was that when I grow up this is not how I want to live. It was then that I realized that there's no need to emulate the past. Years later, a successful woman--- two degrees, over 10 certifications, a business owner of Unique Interactions Event Planning & Consulting, I'm happy to say nothing can stop me. I grew up to be a woman with purpose so that my children will live a life of purpose...that's the motivation.
only area that we service. Our packages are customized for the needs of the clients. Our prices usually start at $595. We also offer Destination Weddings.
Recently, we started an event “Before I say I do.” We share hidden secrets to help get more for the clients. Monthly trainings for the team are available and the employees believe in the vision.
How is your business involved in the community? We volunteer at several different events throughout the year such as Beauty Mentoring and an event to welcome the troops home. Unique Interactions helped to plan Career Day at a local middle school. We always look for a good cause to be a part of and give our support.
What is your philosophy statement? “We create memories that last a lifetime and exceeds expectations.”
Has your business grown, expand- If you could give any advice to a ed or changed recently? future business owner, what would Business has grown and new partnerships have it be?
What would you say is your best business qualities? I am a budgeting guru, the attorney of Event Planning and I always get my clients what they want and more by keeping them under budget.
been built. The website has been revamped. We have a team of 3 to 7 ladies who work exceptionally hard for every event. Business has increased allowing us to cater to 2 events on the same day dividing our team based on the demand for the events. It can be hard for some events because people always request Christian for their wedding and it’s not just me; it’s a team of us.
What is Unique interactions? Unique Interactions is a Certified Event Planning that offers Event Consulting, Planning and Coordinating a variety of events as well as Decor and Design. 16
I would say write it down on paper, have a tablet with all of your ideas, create a vision board and JUST DO IT!
Total Precision Shooting offers License to Carry (LTC Training) class for the State of Texas. Our Instructors hold Texas LTC Instructors Certifications as well as NRA Instructor Certifications. Total Precision Shooting Goal is for everyone to be safe and enjoy their shooting ex-
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We are dedicated to providing excellent firearms training, while ensuring a safe environment for our customers. Total Precision Shooting goals is to offer each customer with the basic tools, and knowledge to protect their love ones and self should it become necessary. We pledge to do so at the lowest possible cost. Our instructors have extensive firearms experience and are: » NRA Certified Training Instructors. » State of Texas LTC Instructors » Certified Range Safety Officers Contact us at 832.567.3142 or info@totalprecisionshooting.com.
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