Publisher’s Corner
Editor in Chief Renee’ Dawkins Managing Editor Martin Dawkins Copy Editor Drusilla Dunn
Layout Diamond Diva Ad Designer Angela Coley Staff Photographer In God’s Image Photography
Happy New Year! With every new year you always have higher expectations than the year before, and this year is no exception. We have hit the ground running in this new year looking to take Diamond Diva Magazine to a whole new level. This year we will be bringing you great articles with a full all around awesome group of writers. Advertisers that are looking to enhance their business and find people just like that will enjoy everything that they have to offer. Just like last year we are still finding women about their business and not afraid of telling anyone of the struggles that it took to get where they are today. During this issue you will have the opportunity to meet a phenomenal woman who has definitely stamped her mark on the world. She is a business women, mother, woman of God and truly a Diamond Diva to the fullest definition of the word. We trust that you will enjoy her life story and all that it has to offer.
Diamond Diva Renee’
divastatus007@gmail.com
3|Diamond Diva
Diamond Diva Magazine is published monthly. Any reproduction of any part of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Diamond Diva Magazine does not accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication should be submitted to the e d i t o r b y e m a i l a t info@diamonddivamag.com
Our Team Ashlee Rowell-Williams (Durham NC) Administrative Assistant
Stevii Mills (Greensboro NC) The Shepreneurs Best Girl Friend Contributing Writer Karen Moore (Clinton NC) Bridal/Love Contributing Writer
Kimberly Knight (Raleigh NC) Konvos at Knight Contributing Writer Kimberly Hodges (Raleigh NC) Voice of the VisionHeiress Contributing Writer
Dena Bruton (Durham NC) Beauty & Fashion Contributing Writer
Michelle Roberts ( Jonesboro GA) Travel Contributing Writer Diamond Diva|4
This is “Just Stevii� and I look forward to helping you turn your dreams into reality by giving you practical steps to help you along your journey! Stevii A Mills Community Relationship Coordinator 949.208.4352 www.steviiaishamills.com Turning Dreams Into Reality
Truth Is the Foundation of Who We Are
A
s we launch 2014 it is
important that we start on a clean slate. It is imperative that we all learn to live in truth and transparency. Why? Because when we learn to let go of what we think should be, we begin to live in what really is. We have to embrace who we are and love our truths. My story is one of lack of self identity, rejection and abandonment. I have always been a high achiever, but the main reason why is because I felt a need to be accepted, to be mainstream and to make my parents proud of me. I was born and raised an only child by a single mother who. I wanted to make sure knew that she was doing a great job of parenting. My father was in the picture but not in the house because my parents were divorced. I have memories of getting gifts instead of affection from my father. This set me on a quest to find someone to love me instead of just shop for me.
7|Diamond Diva
Don't get me wrong, I know my dad loves me, but he had a different way of showing it than the way that I wanted to receive it. I wanted quality time and he often gave me presents. I also felt a need to strive harder in life because my dad is a well known musician in the state of NC. I felt that I had to live up to a standard of what I thought his daughter would be. I also went through a time when I felt that people wanted to be around me because they were looking for free admission and not friendship. I often would gain accolades so that my parents would be proud. These included graduate school, important internships and a great job. The turning point for me was being on a job that even though it was great, it wasn't the right job for me. I became severely stressed and as a result I had to quit the job. After I quit I went through a battle that included my system shutting down for several months, going from a size 14 to a size 0 rapidly, having 3 colonoscopies within 30 days and having shingles. I learned what my purpose, mission
and vision are through the trials and tribulations of my illness. I learned that my parents love me for me. I am now an entrepreneur and I have become The Shepreneurs Best Girlfriend. I empower, inspire, educate and motivate Shepreneurs by equipping them with the tools to succeed. I continually work on stopping the process of comparing myself to others and instead I walk into being the custom designed original that was created by God. Shepreneurs, I encourage you to tell your authentic story. You don't have to share it on a public platform like I have, but the process of writing your story is highly therapeutic. Just ask Maya Angelou and Tyler Perry. I look forward to growing with you this year as we embark on this journey together. Take note of where you are and where you desire to go. I am here to help you. Sisterly, Stevii Aisha Mills The Shepreneurs Best Girlfriend
Know
Karen Moore 9|Diamond Diva
Photo by George Porter Photography
Ge tting 2
Name: Karen Moore Hometown: Rose Hill, NC (Duplin County) Profession: Event Planning Title: CEO/Lead Planner Company: Tailored Events, LLC Length of time in business: 4 years (5yrs. In 2/2014) What is your greatest accomplishment about the business you are in? My greatest accomplishment about the business I am in is that I became a published author in April 2013. With great determination and perseverance I was able to write "Event Planning for the K i n g d o m : T h e 1 0 Commandments of Event Planning. This book was birthed out of my desire and passion to share with the world all of the knowledge God has shared with me. I believe wholeheartedly that God blesses us to bless others and I intend to fulfill that by blessing others with the knowledge I've learned along the way concerning event planning and how to plan with ease knowing ten simple principles. Tell us about you, what motivates you, who is she, mother, wife, business entrepreneur? My family motivates me! My wonderful husband of 9 years, Cornell Moore motivates me to keep striving and exercising my gift. He encourages me and helps keep me on track. When I get frustrated or out of sorts about things he is the calm that helps me settle myself and continue to think things through rationally. Being a wife is very important to me and my ministry
at home. I take g r e a t pride in providin g all my husband needs... a home cooked m e a l , c l e a n home, children w e l l t a k e n care of, wife who takes care of herself and a wife that makes sure she satisfies her husband on all levels, spiritually, emotionally and physically. Now, our two beautiful daughters keep me super motivated because they are the reason I work so hard and push to go to where God has already established for me to be. I adore being a mother to these two precious gifts. Being a working Mom who works an 85, manages my household, actively participates in ministry AND runs Tailored Events, LLC is not a small fete by any stretch of the imagination. But looking at those two beautiful faces of my babies helps Mommy to push a little harder and a little longer. I have the desire and I am determined to leave a legacy for my daughters.
n o t b e n e a t h . . . (Deuteronomy28:13). When He reminded me that greater is He that is within me than he that is within the world (1 John 4:4). I realized that nobody can love me like Jesus! And He absolutely adores me so much so that He has already ordered my steps. Sometimes I may stray from the oath, but with such a living Father, He directs me back to where He has for me to be. What is the best advice you've ever been given? "Business is business!" My husband always reminds me of this because there are times that others and even myself will allow things to get a little personal in business when you are working with individuals that are not only business owners but your best friend or acquaintance. Keep the main thing, the main thing and clearly draw that line that keeps business business.
What is your inspiration and driving force? You know, God's love is my inspiration and driving force. When I truly realized how my much God adores me and how He feels about me and what He has in place for me...it got super What do you do to relax and serious at that moment. When unwind? He told me that I am the head I hang out with my family and not the tail, above only and Diamond Diva|10
cont. from pg. 10
and laugh until it hurts! Laughter is good for the soul and I realize that taking a break from everything is important for me to be revived and rejuvenated. Tell us something about you that people would be surprised to know. Karen is SHY! If I am in unfamiliar territory I can freeze up, but the longer I am in that space and become acclimated to where I am and who I am around I eventually loosen up. What advice would you give to a young woman just starting out or have a design to go in business but have no idea what to do with her hopes and dreams? Write it down! Whatever your idea or vision is write it down and then go to God about it. Write it out step by step. This way you have a plan to follow and take it one step at a time. Also, everyone is not a part of the dream or the process so be very careful about who you share your dreams and visions with. Guard them because there are dream stealers out there. Is there anything in particular that was not asked that you would like my readers to know about you? I am passionate about my passion. I am not just a wedding planner or decorator but I am an event planner and designer. I take it very seriously and although I don't know it all I know what I know and with God's continued guidance I will be a blessing to someone and to the Kingdom!
Konvos at Knight A Brand New Kind of Me! Happy New Year and welcome to an opportunity to a fresh start! The New Year not only brings chances to start new things but also a time of reflection on the years past. We then create a list of “New Year's Resolutions” and evaluate current routines. So what will you do different in 2014? Many of us will seek new career paths, family plan, further our education, or increase our travels. Whatever your pathway may be just be sure that it is in line with the path God has set for you. Many times we lose o ur s e l v e s i n o ther p e o p l e 's ambitions or we make resolutions that are unrealistic because we may not want to put forth the efforts. I was at home with my favorite gal pal or as I like to call her my sister I always wanted. We were eating Chinese food because of lack of desire to break out the pots and pans. One of my favorite things about eating Chinese food is the fortune cookie after the meal. So I cracked open mine to find a profound statement that I will always keep. It said, “If you want the rainbow, you have to tolerate the rain”. I love it! I've definitely endured some storms in 2012 and 2013 but I'm proclaiming 2014 is the revealing of my rainbow. Also on the paper were a few numbers that did not win me or anyone else the Mega Millions Lottery or else I would be watching rainbows in Tahiti with my sister (her dream vacation). But I hope this little token gives you much insight to seeing your own rainbows as the New Year moves forward. I wanted to leave you with a few housekeeping rules to think about when your creating your
resolutions list. 1. Social Media- It's time to define why you have your Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or other social media outlets. If it's to connect with family then make sure you add family and delete those that distract you from that connection. If its friendships delete enemies or keep them as motivation. Whatever your purpose is de-clutter your page because that's a public advertisement of you! You are your own brand! 2. Diets- This is one I have struggled with at times and I realized the best diet is to not diet. It's to realize that eating healthy is a lifestyle change and in the New Year not a quick fix. Find foods and exercise methods that you enjoy so it's not a chore but a bonus for you! I found new recipes online and joined fitness groups on Facebook for motivation. Needless say I love my new life plan! Remember we are not all meant to be a size 2 but a size healthy is the key!
but I'm thankful for the experiences”. Be sure those around you are a positive influence for the path you have in life. Being an HIV/AIDS Awareness advocate I loss many friends and family but impact I've made for my community made me realize God is pruning me so everyone is not meant to share in my journey. So as you go into this New Year with love, joy, happiness, devotion, dedication, and focus remember to keep that spark all year long. One of my resolutions this year is enjoying being Kimberly. For many years I have accomplished goals for others or assisted others in living their dreams. Honey, this year Kimberly is going into 2014 with a spirit of simply being Kimberly! Have a blessed New Year and I would love to hear your resolutions! Feel free to email me at kimberlymknight97@gmail.com
3. Friendships & Romantic Interests- During this time of year many people evaluate the circle they have around them. Whether it's their girlfriends or love interest, as we evolve so do those relationships. The threads that held us together in the past may or may not be beneficial in 2014. A saying I've had for years stays true to this. “Some will and some will not go into the New Year with me
Blessings, Kimberly K.
Diamond Diva|12
Voice of the VisionHeiress™ “Exposure Expands You” Since the first time I heard my beloved pastor, Bishop Rosie S. O'neal, use the aphorism, “exposure expands you”, my mind never stopped swirling around how brilliant those 3 words are in the mind of a believer. I'll never forget how eloquently they rolled off her lips and into the atmosphere in the sanctuary and how it gave me a whole new perspective on how I could move forward in Christ, in my personal life, and even professionally. As a believer hearing those words were like unto a passport for me to travel deeper into the word of God exposing myself to more of Him, His Word, as well as learning to enjoy the world He created and many of the things in it. After hearing the lesson she shared I was ready to have my passport stamped! I began to embark upon new things expanding my spirituality and exercising my natural abilities to do something new, to do something more while I was able to. So now that I have a few spiritual and natural stamps on my passport I'll share some things you can do to be exposed and expanded.
set your feet upon lands and grounds your mind could never fathom.
be of service to others. Obviously, it's very helpful to others but it can also be a very gratifying experience for you, Go back to school. Education is too. a wonderful source of exposing Join a network. If you love one's self to new things. An education is something no one doing something in particular can take away from you. One is find a group of people in your never too old to learn. If you don't area or somewhere near by desire to go back to school or to that enjoy doing it too. start school consider taking some Connect with them. Be openadult or continuing education minded to learning from them courses at a local community/city and be willing to share your college or an online program to knowledge as well. keep your mind elevated and Make a list. Make a list of your interests peaked. the things you want to do after Travel. Whether locally or far you finished checking off what away it's always great to see and you have already done. This is do new things; and to meet new the best way to continue people. Step out of your comfort expanding yourself. Don't be zone and be willing to open your afraid to repeat the things on mind to new things. Make plans, your list that you like doing the establish an agenda, budget most. You can always learn accordingly, and do what you something new in whatever can with what you can with what you do.
you have but, be willing to open the door to something new.
These are just a few of the things I've done to expose Take a line dancing, fitness, or myself and in return my horizons wellness class. Let's get moving! have been expanded. I've Not only is dancing to music for met some exciting new people fitness healthy but it's just down and learned a great deal right fun! It teaches coordination, about lots of things. But, more You've Been Exposed r h y t h m , a n d a n u n s p o k e n importantly I've learned more communication in the language about the God I serve and Get to know more about your of body movement. A little sweat myself than I ever knew. Take faith. Open your Bible and study never hurt anyone! time out to make some of your the Word of God in order to get dreams come true by leaving maximum spiritual exposure. Volunteer. There is always a your comfort zone. You'd be Reading, studying, meditating on need for volunteers at local senior surprised what's waiting on the the Word along with implementing c e n t e r s , f o o d b a n k s , a n d other side. Believers have fun, some fasting and prayer into your organizations like the Boys and too! regular routine will take you further Girls Club, Salvation Army or than any aircraft or vehicle ever Goodwill. Take the steps to find could. God will order your steps, out how you can get involved to
Diamond Diva|14
A New Year...A New Look...A New You! By: Dena Reveal Bruton pull all the new looks off then by all means Go get um!!!! A business woman wouldn't need a closet full of distressed denim, but adding a pair of funky jeans to her closet is a plus. They could be worn to a concert or a casual get together with one of her blazers and pumps or flats from her day time look. This is also an easy way to have a change of clothes on the go.
Fabulous tips to help you start the New Year with ease. *Remember to start small and build up to goals that could be overwhelming. To avoid burn out, start small and gradually add on. If your goal is to lose weight, but you haven't worked out in awhile, maybe you should start out by walking. You wouldn't start out by lifting heavy weights or using equipment that you aren't familiar with would you? The same rules apply to hair, fashion and makeup. *Get plenty of rest! It gives your body time to renew cells that cause your skin to look younger and refreshed. Getting the proper amount of sleep makes even a bad day go more smoothly because you are focused and alert. Schedule it into your day so you have no excuse. Find a quiet place; wear ear plugs if you have too. Dedicate at least 5 minutes to closing your eyes and refocusing your thoughts. Do this regularly and your mood will improve as well. * If working on your wardrobe is at the forefront of your mind, figure out what you are willing to change and go from there. Sometimes it's a simple as a new pair of comfortable yet stylish shoes for work or maybe you need to find a few staple pieces (blouses, skirts, blazers, and chic accessories) to accent what you already own. I recommend buying only a few trendy pieces and everything else should be all your own style. If you're that trendy Diva that can
*Make a clothes shopping list of what you need and stick to it! This ensures you only buy what you need and don't take home a bag full of pieces that do not help you create that fabulous statement outfit. What's worse is that you may become frustrated and never create that fun fashionable outfit you had in mind. Stick to the list! Now if shopping isn't your thing, hire a fashion stylist. They aren't just for the rich and famous. Even if you are on a tight budget you may want to hire a fashion stylist. Wouldn't you rather spend money on a pro and get the job done right, rather than wasting countless hours at the mall and still coming out with a less than flattering outfit? Some department stores and boutiques have a stylist on staff to assist you. The difference between the two are; your hired stylist is there to focus on assisting you only, a department store stylist may need to make a quota (which means she/he may not be able to focus just on you and your needs but everyone around you.
*Pick up several accessori es in your favorite c o l o r . Bangles, rings, and necklaces can be stacked or layer to give a different texture and feel to any outfit. Mix these with jewelry you already have to make the look you are looking for. *If you are ready to start changing your makeup routine keep in mind what colors are most flattering on you. This time of year darker shades are very popular but you don't want to lose who you are for the trend. You may want to do a variation of a look. Instead of a dark smoky eye and a bold red lip, do the smoky eye with a nude lipgloss. Or do the bold lip with the eye being toned down to a sheer wash of eye shadow or eye liner and mascara only. Make sure you properly cleanse and moisturize twice daily to keep your skin in tip top condition.
No matter what you wear be bold, and confident. A lady that walks with confidence can pull off any look.
*Add a fun print or color. Hound's-tooth is really popular and trendy, but it's a classic as well. Pick up a fitted coat or a cropped jacket with this fab print in black and white and it will become one of your favorite eye catching pieces for years to come. The basic color scheme makes it modern and allows more versatility. Pair it with a hat and scarf set in your favorite color and you're ready for whatever the weather brings.
Diamond Diva|16
5
Exotic Places to go without a Passport By: Michelle Roberts
Longing for a long-distance
United
These Micronesian islands
getaway but don't have a
States Virgin
have been governed by
passport? No problem! We've
Islands
many in their long history:
The U.S.
first by Spanish colonists in
Virgin
the 16th century, then
Islands lie
Japanese forces during
found five faraway places overseas where, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, you won't need to bring a
mere minutes away from Puerto
WWII, and finally, the United
Rico by plane. Made up of three
States since the Battle of
Puerto Rico
main islandsSt. Thomas, St. Croix,
Saipan in 1944. Nowadays, the
The island of
and St. Johnplus a scattering of
islands rely heavily on tourism
Puerto Rico
smaller isles, the U.S.V.I. see some
from their northern neighbors
(officially an
2.6 million visitors each year. In
Japan and Korea as well as
unincorporated
fact, tourism and rum (things we
the United States. History buffs
territory of the
think go very well together) make
will find much to see in Saipan,
United States)
up the majority of the islands'
the largest island of the
has long been
economy. Each island has its own
Marianas, which is home to
a favorite of travelers from the
unique appeal. St. John, with its
several war memorials and
contiguous 48. Inexpensive airfare
national parkland and legendary
museums. Adrenaline junkies
from Spirit, Southwest, and JetBlue
diving, will charm true escapists. St.
can dive the Grotto, a
makes Puerto Rico an economical
Thomas is a shopper's dream, with
limestone cavern whose 70-
option for East Coasters. And its Isla
countless boutiques and jewelers,
foot-deep waters are home to
de Vieques, a Trip Advisor Travelers'
as well as two bustling cruise
sea turtles and reef sharks, or
Choice 2013 winner for Best Island
terminals. And Dutch-flavored and
take a boat to the nearby
in the Caribbean, offers visitors a
diverse St. Croix is a favorite of
lagoon surrounding
bioluminescent bay to kayak and
luxury-seeking honeymooners. Find
Managaha Island. While the
unspoiled beaches to explore. In a
accommodations of every stripe,
Mariana Islands are relatively
2012 referendum on the territory's
from St. Thomas' smart Ritz-Carlton
remote, several major hotel
political status, a record 61% of
to the luxe and immersive Caneel
operators, including Hyatt, run
Puerto Rico's voters were in favor
Bay resort on St. John.
four- and five-star properties on
of eventual statehood, so we may
Note: Travelers will need to have a
one day welcome the island as
passport to visit the neighboring
passport.
the 51st. Even so, right now,
British Virgin
you can explore its wonders
Islands.
without a U.S. Passport.
Northern
Saipan.
cont. on pg. 19
Mariana Islands
Diamond Diva|18
cont. from pg. 18
Guam Much like the Northern Marianas, Guam to the south was colonized by the Spanish, changed hands during WWII, and is now a tourist destination for Japanese and U.S. nationals. (Its second-largest source of income is the U.S. military, whose Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force bases make up about one-third of Guam's total land area.) Military aside, there is much to do on this vivid island: Tumon's beaches are known for great snorkeling, and Guam's teeming seas are famous among divers for visibilities up to 150 feet. Two Lovers Point, a cliff-side lookout, offers some pristine panoramas from 400 feet above the Philippine Sea (plus a dramatic legend of star-crossed lovers). And while flights to Guam don't come cheap, accommodations do; resorts in Tumon and nearby Tamuning average around $200 per night. American Samoa Rounding out this list is the unincorporated territory of American Samoa, a collection of five volcanic islands and two atolls between Fiji and the Cook Islands. A truly off-the-beaten-path destination, there are only a handful of hotels on Tutuila and the neighboring islands, scant tourism infrastructure, and, beyond the fastfood restaurants, few commercial distractions to remind you of home. Find coral-filled waters, craggy coastlines sculpted of lava, and untouched beaches whose only other sunbathers are the seabirds. And unlike highly trafficked Polynesian destinations, the native Samoan culture is still undeniably authentic here. In the village of Alega, drop into Tisa's Barefoot Bar for a drink, a meal (the chef will grill your fresh-caught lobster for you), or a night's rest in the fale (a traditional Samoan hut). American tourists can fly into Pago Pago via Hawaiian Airlines.
ADVERTISING IS ESSENTIAL TO ANY
OPERATING BUDGET Advertising in YOUR Future...... WE have a package for that! With the unlimited reach of the world wide web, we assure our clients the exposure needed to getting their business recognized. We know that exposure is the key to obtaining new business and maintaining your current business. With this ever changing economy, Diamond Diva Magazine has created advertising packages to fit every need. Contact us Today to learn more and take advantage of our great Package prices.
info@diamonddivamag.com
-21Diamond Diva
July 2011
Diamond Diva -22-