,
EXALTE
‘
Exalte Publisher/Editor
Kymberly Soule’ Kymberly@exaltemagazine.com
Associate Publisher
Michael Soule’
Creative Design
Kymberly Soule’
Advertising
exaltefashion@gmail.com
Contributing Photographers Andrew Thompkins, Jr. Dan Domenzain Eduardo Benitez Michael James Davis Ron Howard Sarah Demuth Toni Riales
On the Cover
Photographer:Toni Riales Model: Katie Watts
Inside Cover
Photographer: Eduardo Benitez Designer: Soule’ Couture
NYFW COASTAL FASHION WEEK
2020 FEBRUARY 8, 2020 SEPTEMBER 5, 2020
MODELS SUBMIT ONLINE
www.coastalmodelcasting.com
MIDTOWN LOFT & TERRACE 267 5TH AVENUE NEW YORK, NY www.coastalfashionweek.com
Photography by Frank Roberts
Photography by Toni Riales
Katie Watts is Miss Alabama Teen USA 2020. The Baker High School honors student looks forward to competing in the Miss Teen USA pageant later this year. She is dedicating her solo routine to her grandmother who passed away at 59 years of age. The experience of helping her grandmother and a friend has inspired Katie's passion for helping children and elderly cancer patients. In early spring, she will showcase her dance talent as she hosts a fundraiser benefiting The Mitchell Cancer Center and the University of South Alabama Women’s and Children’s Hospital. This dynamic young lady also runs cross country, loves to participate in pageants, and pushes herself as she practices personal contortionist moves. After graduating from high school in 2023, Katie hopes to enroll at the University of Alabama with plans to work at a cancer institute in marketing and development. To become the next Miss Alabama Teen USA, visit www.missalabamausa.com/apply or contact the pageant office directly at 803.648.6220 Instagram: msalteenusa
Photography by Joanie Bass/Astriya Photography Fashions by Runway Couture & Vintage by Trena Make-up by Lexi ResterPhotography & Anne Ziegenhorn/Hair by Dameione by Sarah Demuth
DefineStyle your
Personal style is an elusive beast at best. Besides the fact that it’s ever evolving, I’m
sure you also appreciate a handful of different styles. But which one truly speaks to you? We’ve nailed down the steps to discovering the particular look that speaks to your most fashionable self.
Find Your Style Spirit Menagerie
The likelihood of finding a single style icon that defines you? Kinda low. To figure out who your main influencers are, start by doing a Pinterest search of “style icons” and save the images you are drawn to. You’ll start to see a collection of repeat people (your style menagerie) who you can look to for inspiration.
Put a Label on It
Take a second pass at your inspiration photos, look beyond the names, and focus on the outfits. Pick a few words to describe the vibe of the looks. Are they classic, modern, eclectic, bohemian, or trend-forward? Settle on a handful of words that feel true to your style, write them down, as they will help you clarify & define your look.
Choose a Signature Piece
Audrey Hepburn had her cropped pants and ballet flats, Jackie O. had her oversize sunglasses, and Edie Sedwick had her statement earrings and mod minis. All fashionable women own a signature item or two that becomes part of their style identity. Yours can be as simple as a personalized piece of jewelry or as memorable as a leopard coat.
Take Note of Repeat Offenders
Have a closet full of striped tees or ankle boots? There’s a reason your closet has an excess of a certain item. You purchase these items again and again because they make you happy and feel comfortable. They are your style sweet spot if you will. As long as the item is flattering and works for your current style, we say to embrace these repeat offenders. It’s not a bad thing to rely on a signature staple.
Play to Your Strengths
Is there something people compliment you on? Whether it’s your amazing footwear game or your ability to style dresses like no one else, wearing clothes that play up your best style strengths will always look stylish, no matter what is currently trending. Find out more about which pieces successful women wear to feel powerful.
Know Thyself
Trust your instincts, and wear what makes you feel like the best version of yourself. If you have more of a classic style, wearing the season's most out-there trend pieces is going to look unnatural. Similarly, if you align with Rihanna’s tough-meets-glamorous appeal, a floral maxi dress might not be your best bet. Chancesentrepreneur.com are you’ve likely already got a winning sense of style, so embrace it, refine it, and don’t fight it.
Be yourself, but always your better self.
Photography by Sarah Demuth Designer Soule’ Couture/Gwen Hawkins
Traits Of A
Confident MAN
We all know men who are confident. But when we think of confidence, many of us are not sure how to define it. Confidence can come across in many ways. Some want to project confidence and come across as arrogant, others are obviously just pretending to be sitting on the throne of confidence in an attempt to mask their insecurities. True confidence is a rare trait, and those who have it are immediately recognizable as well as more likely to be successful. In business, in relationships and in life, men who are confident always have an advantage over those who are uncertain of their abilities. The simple fact is, confident men make more money and do better in the dating world than those who do not. So how does one learn to be confident? What habits and routines does one employ to reach that place of ultimate grace and true faith in oneself and abilities? After interviewing 10 confident men which habits they employ to be so self-assured in the first place. Here is how they stay on top of their game.
1. They Trust Their Instincts 2. They See Everything As An Opportunity 3. They Focus On What They Want 4. They Take Risks 5. They Learn From Their Mistakes 6. They Show Empathy 7. They Act As The Prize Is Already Theirs 8. They Have A Strong Sense Of Self 9. They Accept Change 10. They Take Care Of Themselves
Photography by Sarah Demuth
"People will stare. Make it worth their while."
—Harry Winston
Designer/Stylist: Jeanne-Claire Benton Brunette Model: Lauren Domingue Blonde Model: Amber Burks Make Up: Pilar Miranda Hair: Kourtney Parker Photographer: Eduardo Benitez
Art Shown: Kaleidoscope Dreams Tennessee Whiskey Say It Shot Through the Heart Contact Information: Emily L Alford EmilyAlfordArt@gmail.com
Where Poetry Meets Art Where poetry meets art is where you will find Emily Alford. She’s a small-town girl with a BIG imagination and she’s got a lot to say! With her new collection, “Say Something,” Emily has created raw and gritty pieces that are inspired by personal experiences and others stories that have affected her. Her work exhibits everything from addiction, heartbreak, and confusion to happiness, being in love, and finding hope again. “This collection is much darker than my usual vibrant work, but my art is my therapy, and there were emotions I needed to express.” Emily expressed that a lot of her emotions stemmed from saying goodbye to her two foster daughters last year as well as a lot of changes in her personal relationship. One piece in particular is based on a friend that went through a horrific tragedy that led him down an ugly path of depression and alcoholism. Fortunately, that friend fought hard and came back strong and ready to live life! Emily shares that although she has created many pieces on commission, she simply enjoys pouring into her art as a therapeutic hobby. She stays super busy being a mother, working her day job at Mobile Infirmary Medical Center, and serving on her child’s school PTO committee but you can often find her covered in paint and working in her home studio. Emily is from Satsuma, Alabama, graduated from the University of South Alabama, and has a ten-year-old son, Judson Bailey. In her piece, “Kaleidoscope Dreams,” a sweet little poem is attached to the back: I didn’t dream in black and white like the movies; I dreamt in color. My dreams were more like kaleidoscope glass; a reflection of colors and symmetrical patterns ever changing with new adventures, my mind constantly spiraling like salt water taffy and someone always watching the show. We are so thankful that there are people like Emily who create such amazing beauty.
#RISEUP Photography by Sarah Demuth
Next time things don't go your way, will you wallow in your misery or will you change the way you think about the situation, learn from it, and fearlessly face your next challenge? Disappointment is a normal aspect of life, and it doesn't discriminate. Disappointment happens and it knows no bounds. What you do in the wake of such disappointment can set you up for success or failure, should you find yourself in a similar situation down the road. Without such emotion we wouldn't be able to truly savor the taste of victory or bask in the glow of accomplishment and success when it happens. In many ways, it keeps us real, true, and humble -- and can also keep us motivated.
Here's how you can rise above the agony of defeat and keep moving forward:
.. .. .. .
Give yourself a break. Step back and gain some perspective. Don't personalize it. Don't define yourself by it. Be a problem solver. Think about your strengths. Surround yourself with positive people.
So, next time things don't go your way, will you wallow in your misery or will you change the way you think about the situation, learn from it, and move on and fearlessly face your next challenge?
Expression through Fashion While most of us look to fashion for the light-hearted fun of it, did you know the importance that it's self-expression has on us? Our individuality is vital to society, as it impacts our identity and stimulates innovation. It's important to dress for yourself. Each day is an opportunity to embrace your individuality and reflect your personality through your style. Remember to not limit yourself to trends. This is why finding investment closet pieces you love and that represent your unique style is so important to curate a perfect wardrobe. Dress yourself in what makes you feel good. Let your style boost your confidence and listen to your mood. Science has proven that when you practice self-awareness, you can learn how leaning on your fashion choices can help to uplift your state of mind and spirit. Whether it is a certain color, style of clothing or an item that is of particular meaning, these are the type of wardrobe pieces that can immediately affect your expression.
Photography by Eduardo Benitez/ Revelry Nola Event Space/ Designer De’Andre’ Beverly/ Makeup by Pilar Miranda/ Hair by April Derokey/ Styled by Tracee Dundas
Queens with Dreams www.queenswithdreams.com
Making a Difference in the Community
The inspiration is gives to women of all ages who may be struggling to find a style that works for them. When you take part in and support self-expression, you support the idea of independence and having the right to be DIFFERENT!
"To me, clothing is a form of self-expression. There are hints about who you are in what you wear." Marc Jacobs
Photography by Eli’s Vision/ Ron Howard
HAS “No one
ever become
Poor by giving.”
-Anne Frank
Photography by Toni Riales
Photography by Sara Demuth Designer Soule’ Couture/Gwen Hawkins
Breaking the Barriers of your typical Fashion Week CFW is an affiliation of independent fashion designers, models and philanthropic organizations. CFW, a Christian organization, was created to increase awareness of local charities, encourage development in the area of fashion design and modeling, and to enhance the visibility of the Gulf Coast as a center of Southern Fashion. With the addition of NYFW and other cities across the United States we have officially broken the barriers of the traditional Fashion Week.
Coastal FW Summer Tour Lrem ipsum June 10-14, 2020 Virginia .Washington, DC . Maryland .North Carolina Casting NOW @ www.coastalmodelcasting.com
CHECK OUT EVENTS ON FACEBOOK & WEBSITE www.coastalfashionweek.com
"You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it." —Edith Head Ralph Waldo Emerson
Photography by Sarah Demuth
Photography by Sarah Demuth
Photography by Sarah Demuth
Photography by Michael Davis
3
calm
WAYS TO
CHAOS
Photography by Andrew Tompkins, Jr. Model Kristin Krepps McCormack
Have you had a whirlwind of a week, one that has followed a stressful, chaotic, and incredibly busy whirlwind of a month. Have you felt like you are being pulled in a hundred different directions all at once, wanting to be there for all the people who need you right now, and still take care of all the normal responsibilities that come with being a wife and a mom and possibly even a small business owner. If you feel like you’re burning out, stressing out or overwhelmed maybe it’s time to step back and take a break. Do you have this overwhelming feeling that you just can’t catch your breath. As you move through your daily activities do you feel like you are screaming inside? The reality of life is that no matter how productive we intend to be, there will always be seasons of crazy. Your mom or your child or your husband gets sick. You move cross country, or even just cross town. You lose a key member of your team at work and suddenly have to take on a whole new set of r esponsibilities. You get asked to help out at church or your child’s school and although you don’t really have time, you feel like you just can’t say no. You get blindsided by a legal battle or stressful conflict with a friend or family member. Sometimes all at the same time. If you are feeling like you just can’t catch your breath, here is a quick summary of what you can do to EXHALE.
1. PRIORITIZE
When you are busy & overwhelmed, it is hard to even know what to focus on first, and that’s when we end up spinning around in circles. The last thing we FEEL like doing is stepping back and assessing where we are at and where we need to go, but hat is exactly the moment when you MOST need to take a step back! Set the timer for 20 minutes and do a brain dump of everything in your head. It’s amazing how getting it out of your head and onto paper will help create more clarity. Then, once it is out there, it’s time to evaluate—give every single thing on your brain dump sheet a number in order of priority. The reality is that not everything can be important so you have to choose. Give EVERY SINGLE ITEM a number. There can be no ties.
2. PLAN
Once you are clear on your priorities, it’s time to start planning. The first thing I would do is rewrite your list so that it is in order and then draw a line between the top 20% and the bottom 80%. So if there are 20 things on your list, you would draw a solid line between the top 4 and the bottom 16. And then (and this is the important part) make your plan for just those four things! The rule of 80/20—also known as Pareto’s principle—says that 80% of our results will come from only 20% of our actions. This means that if you can cross off the top 4 things on your list, so you will solve 80% of your stress. So block out time on your schedule as soon as possible to get those top 4 things done. A planner is the perfect way to get your affairs in order and it will totally help reduce your stress.
3. EXECUTE
This is where the rubber meets the road! Once you’ve blocked out your time and created your plan, you need to implement it. That means buckling down and getting serious and reminding yourself, sometimes over and over WHY this is important. When you execute, try to work in focused time blocks of 60-90 minutes. Set the timer if you have to, and give yourself a break. But while you are focused, BE FOCUSED! Turn off your phone, messaging, etc. Turn off the Internet. Get off Facebook. Give yourself the gift of no distractions, and then give yourself a time limit to get it done. Mother Theresa once said “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” Along those same lines, Ashley Ormon once pointed out that “You can’t make up for lost time. You can only do better in the future.” In other words, no matter how stressful or busy our week or month has been, we have the opportunity to turn things around, starting right now. My challenge for you, if you’ve been feeling busy and overwhelmed, is to take some time TODAY to follow these three steps. Get all those tornadoes out of your head and onto a piece of paper, where you can prioritize them and create a concrete plan of action. I promise you’ll feel much better!
FIND
YOUR
Photographed by Dan Domenzain Concept by Larisa Dixon Model Leah Ziegenhorn
You know how you’ve got this image of a creator as a somewhat crazy, slightly unbalanced person lost in his or her own head? I have great news. You are one, too! Everyone – adults and children alike – has a creative streak. But while most of us have a spirit of invention, major or minor, for too many of us it lies dormant even though it can be awakened with the simplest of acts. Follow these steps to find your inner writer, composer, finger painter, chef, lyricist, entrepreneur, filmmaker, comedian, politician or professional Tweeter.
HOW TO BE CREATIVE! First, Give Permission. Tapping into your thoughts, dreams and imaginations is the first step to finding your inner creativity. Give in to what your mind is trying to tell you. Let yourself find your creativity even if it means you get out of your comfort zone.
CREATIVE SIDE
Be Audacious. Feel confident that whatever you create will be amazing. It is 100 percent O.K. In fact, it is the price of admission. You are allowed and encouraged to give in to this feeling of happiness. In fact, if not you, who? And if someone else, why not you? Boldness Is a Virtue. There is a moment in each creative flight where you need to become convinced that, “Yes, yes, I have something profound and wonderful to give to the world, and it’s going to be great; it not just deserves, but needs to be heard or seen.” Keep at It. You might have those days where you feel like it didn’t work and you may want to give up. Feel confident and know that tomorrow is a new day, next month is a new month and next year is a new year. It is ok to put you dreams down for a minute but pick them back up and try again. Be Imperfect. You can’t improve on something if you don’t let it exist in an imperfect form. Perfectionism is creativity’s biggest foe. Perfectionism is public enemy No. 1, the axis of evil when it comes to letting ideas take their natural course. Your own impulse is perfect in one way: It’s perfectly you. If you don’t sound, act or present yourself like everyone else thats a good thing. Thank goodness. You are not them. Have the courage to leap headlong into creating works that would never delight anyone if they were stopped for want of perfection. Take a Nap. Any type of time away from your project gives your brain room to process your work. So many wonderful scientific experiments have been done to show us the value of downtime for creativity, memory and learning. Pay it Forward. Paying it forward can be as simple as inspiring someone who may be walking down a path that is similar to yours. Giving your time is just as important to the other person as it is to you. You will feel refreshed and ready to conquer the world one creative thought at a time.
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
D E K O O H
S R O O D T U O E H T N O Why go outside?
Recent studies have exposed the benefit—even necessity—of spending time outdoors, both for kids and adults. Most of the studies agree that kids who play outside are smarter, happier, more attentive, and less anxious than kids who spend more time indoors. While it’s unclear how exactly the cognitive functioning and mood improvements occur, there are a few things we do know about why nature is good for kids’ minds.
It builds confidence. The way that kids play in nature has a lot less structure than most types of indoor play. There are infinite ways to interact with outdoor environments, from the backyard to the park to the local hiking trail or lake, and letting your child choose how he treats nature means he has the power to control his own actions. It promotes creativity and imagination. This unstructured style of play also allows
kids to interact meaningfully with their surroundings. They can think more freely, design their own activities, and approach the world in inventive ways.
It teaches responsibility. Living things die if mistreated or not taken care of properly, and entrusting a child to take care of the living parts of their environment means they’ll learn what happens when they forget to water a plant, or pull a flower out by its roots. It provides different stimulation. Nature may seem less stimulating than your son’s violent video game, but in reality, it activates more senses—you can see, hear, smell, and touch outdoor environments. As the young spend less and less of their lives in natural surroundings, their senses narrow, and this reduces the richness of human experience.”
It gets kids moving. Most ways of interacting with nature involve more exercise than sitting on the couch. Your kid doesn’t have to be joining the local soccer team or riding a bike through the park—even a walk will get her blood pumping. Not only is exercise good for kids’ bodies, but it seems to make them more focused, which is especially beneficial for kids with ADHD.
It makes them think. Nature creates a unique sense of wonder for kids that no other
environment can provide. The phenomena that occur naturally in backyards and parks everyday make kids ask questions about the earth and the life that it supports.
It reduces stress and fatigue. According to the Attention Restoration Theory, urban environments require what’s called directed attention, which forces us to ignore distractions and exhausts our brains. In natural environments, we practice an effortless type of attention known as soft fascination that creates feelings of pleasure, not fatigue. So while screen time is the easier, more popular choice, it’s important to set aside time for outdoor play.
Model Brock Anthony Sheldon
The Taboo of Suicide If I were to ask you what’s more common in the U.S., homicide or suicide, what would you say? Homicide is certainly a lot more prominent; it’s constantly in the headlines and in our public consciousness. But the fact is that suicide is more than twice as common as homicide. The numbers for 2019, the most recent year for which we have data, show there were roughly 47,173 suicides in the U.S. So why don’t we hear more about suicide? In part because it is a very different type of tragedy. Murder represents a fractured promise within our social contract, and it’s got an obvious villain. Suicide represents –- well, what does it represent? It’s hard to say. It carries such a strong taboo that most of us just don’t discuss it much. The result is that there are far more questions about suicide than answers. Like: Do we do enough to prevent it? How do you prevent it? And the biggest question of all: Why do people commit suicide? Nearly 800,000 people die by suicide in the world each year, which is roughly one death every 40 seconds. Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death in the world for those aged 15-24 years. Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.
Suicide Prevention is Possible Suicide is a complex public health issue that requires coordination and cooperation among health care providers, individuals and family members, treatment services and the community. Suicide is preventable. If all of us work together, we can increase the public’s awareness of this public health issue and get people the support they need.
.. .. .
Here are a few ways to reduce the number of suicides: Have Meaningful Social Connections Know the Warning Signs Identify Whether You or Someone Else Has Specific Mental Health Needs Reducing Access to Lethal Means of Suicide Seek Help for Yourself or Someone Else
You can get Help... 1-800-273-8255 Call 24/7
www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
Photography by Sarah Demuth
Photography by Eduardo Benitez Hair by April Derokey/Makeup by Pilar Miranda Designer Soule’ Couture together with Gwen Hawkins Lift your Spirits with Bright hues that we're calling "PAINTBOX COLORS”. Even though pastels will likely always be sticking around, both high-end designers and fast-fashion retailers are also starting to go all-out with statement shades and these bold shades go BIG and will definitely make you smile. Pair all shades together as there is no right or wrong with these BOLD colors. Many designers are setting the example to go big or go home with your rainbow-bright statement pieces. - Pink has reigned supreme for some time now, but rather than reaching for those ubiquitous softer hues try focusing on fuchsia this time around. - Pow! Red-to-toe has been gaining momentum for several seasons now, so don't be afraid to go even bolder and louder. - Most people tend to shy away from Orange, but we say tangerine is new color to try sooner rather than later. - In case you missed it: Yellow is the new millennial pink. Sunny days are here again! - It's electric — Blue, that is, and if there's one color that works perfectly with your all-black wardrobe, it's this.
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” – Harriet Tubman
Photography by Sarah Demuth
"Looking good isn't self-importance; it's self-respect."
—Charles Hix, Author
A funny thing happens when a guy dons certain garments. Slip a black leather jacket on him, and watch the milquetoast gather a bit of tough-guy swagger. Put a prep-school product into a pair of overalls, and watch him start dropping his “g’s” and saying “howdy.” Put either one of them in a tuxedo, and watch his inner gentleman — whether of the James Bond or Jimmy Stewart school — emerge. That’s the effect of a tux. In the end, when a man puts on a tuxedo, he feels special. He feels dressed up. I don’t think there’s a man alive who puts on a tux and doesn’t think he looks great. Putting it on sends confidence through the roof and leads to a fun-filled night. The look puts even the average guy into a mindset of, “Hey, there were a lot of iconic gents who have sported this same look.” Those ranks include Cary Grant, Frank Sinatra, Sean Connery and in more recent years figures such as Sean Combs, George Clooney, Denzel Washington and Jay Z. The tuxedo’s history is rooted in the dinner-jacket tradition that emerged in Great Britain and the United States in the late 1880s, in the wake of the Prince of Wales popularizing a tailless smoking jacket. The name is derived from Tuxedo Park, a rural enclave in upstate New York that was a playground for Manhattan swells. It is the look that men who survived high-school proms in the 1970s wish their fathers had forced them to wear, rather than the powder-blue and frilled-shirts recorded in photographs long hidden in the depths of closets.
Photography by Michael James Davis Styled by Metzger’s
,
EXALTE
Couture cou.ture /koo’toor,-’tYr/
The design and manufacture of fashionable clothes to a client’s specific requirements and measurements. Photographed by Eduardo Benitez and Sarah Demuth
Coastal Fashion Week 2019 Winners
God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. Hebrews 6:10
Photography by Michael James Davis Coastal Fashion Week Model Winners
a·ware·ness (əˈwernəs)
Knowledge or perception of a situation or fact. "We need to raise public awareness of the issue." Synonyms: consciousness, recognition, realization; More concern about and well-informed interest in a particular situation or development.
Get the Stories:
Learning from the
ELDERLY
By: Chaney Scott McCorquodale
“Passion! You’ve got to have a passion! Dream big or it’s not worth dreaming.” Those were the words of my next-door neighbor, Mr. Roy Benton. I grew up living beside an elderly, native Mobilian couple. They became surrogate grandparents that I visited daily for “Four o’clock Tea”. Mr. Benton would regale me with stories about growing up in the Deep South and fighting in World War II. His grand tales and advice inspired and fueled my devotion to the elderly. Mrs. Benton passed seven years ago and Mr. Benton two years ago at the age of 97. In his memory, I created Get the Stories, a program that encourages people of all ages to spend time with the elderly. In the US, 58% of the population is over the age of 65, with 24% over 80. Citizens are living longer, making elder care awareness commonplace. Adult children have become caretakers. However, the Census Bureau also reports 11 million, or 28% aged 65+ live alone. A Place for Mom, which matches elders with senior living facilities, notes that loneliness increases mortality, depression, physical ailments, cognitive decline and dementia. Through the efforts of volunteers, much of this progressive rate of deterioration can be eliminated with simple, regular interaction. Not only does our older generation need the physical contact and mental stimulation but everyone from children to adults can learn from the knowledge, wisdom and experience they are eager to impart. Over the past five years, I have volunteered over 300 hours visiting nursing homes and assisted care residences throughout Southwest Alabama. Leading charitable drives through school and bible study groups, I have collected books, magazines, fidget blankets, toiletries and food items. Through my partnership with Alacare, a home health organization, these items are distributed. This not only provide tangible items but ensures distribution occurs in the form of personal visits where younger generations “Get the Stories” and leave imparted with a bit of insight into life. Eliciting the aid of local media, public relation efforts and word of mouth are core marketing strategies to see this program flourish and educate the public about a critical issue facing our society. As a future broadcast journalist, the title of my program is quite apropos. Get the Stories is not only a unique concept, but benefits all regardless of demographics. Most importantly, it echoes the guidance of Mr. Roy Benton, “Dream big!” and be passionate. That is what will make a difference.
Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. Isaiah 46:4
You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you. Song of Songs 4:7
Photography by Dan Domenzain Location Times Square, NY
Exercise BeneďŹ ts of
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Exercise is defined as any movement that makes your muscles work and requires your body to burn calories. There are many types of physical activity, including swimming, running, jogging, walking and dancing, to name a few.
Being active has been shown to have many health benefits, both physically and mentally. It may even help you live longer.
It Can Make You Feel Happier - Exercise has been shown to improve your mood and decrease feelings of depression, anxiety and stress. It Can Help With Weight Loss - Inactivity is the major factor in weight gain and obesity. It Is Good for Your Muscles and Bones - Exercise plays a vital role in building and maintaining strong muscles and bones. PhysicaL activity like weight lifting can stimulate muscle building when paired with adequate protein intake. It Can Increase Your Energy Levels - Exercise can be a real energy booster for healthy people, as well as those suffering from various medical conditions. One study found that six weeks of regular exercise reduced feelings of fatigue for 36 healthy people who had reported persistent fatigue. It Can Reduce Your Risk of Chronic Disease - Regular exercise has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular fitness and body composition, yet decrease blood pressure and blood fat levels. It Can Help Skin Health - Your skin can be affected by the amount of oxidative stress in your body. Oxidative stress occurs when the body's antioxidant defenses cannot completely repair the damage that free radicals cause to cells. This can damage their internal structures and deteriorate your skin., exercise can stimulate blood flow and induce skin cell adaptations that can help delay the appearance of skin aging. It Can Help Your Brain Health and Memory - To begin with, it increases your heart rate, which promotes the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain. It can also stimulate the production of hormones that can enhance the growth of brain cells. It Can Help With Relaxation and Sleep Quality - In regards to sleep quality, the energy depletion that occurs during exercise stimulates recuperative processes during sleep. Moreover, the increase in body temperature that occurs during exercise is thought to improve sleep quality by helping it drop during sleep. It Can Reduce Pain - Chronic pain can be debilitating, but exercise can actually help reduce it. In fact, for many years, the recommendation for treating chronic pain was rest and inactivity. However, recent studies show that exercise helps relieve chronic pain. A review of several studies indicates that exercise helps participants with chronic pain reduce their pain and improve their quality of life.
The Bottom Line I
Whether you practice a specific sport or follow the guideline of 150 minutes of activity per week, you will inevitably improve your health in many ways
Photography by Sarah Demuth
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Photography by Sarah Demuth
Why Fit in When You Were Born to Stand Out?
What does "Cause Awareness" Mean? Cause Awareness means taking a stand! It means wearing an
awareness ribbon during any given Awareness Month to show support. For friends or family members living with a disease or illness, for a loved one in whose memory you're fighting on, for a colleague for whom you're a fierce warrior, for the millions and millions of people worldwide whom you've never met yet with whom you share a common bond – to uplift, educate and advocate in the search for help and ultimately, a cure! Every effort, big and small, brings us one step closer to our goal of eradicating an illness or supporting a loved one's struggle. Cause awareness ribbon meanings vary by color, such as blue and purple, and have a multitude of causes associated with them. Other colors, such as pink and black, have only a few. This is because awareness ribbons are part of the public domain, and there is no way to trademark a color to a particular awareness ribbon or cause. While some, such as the pink ribbon for breast cancer, are more recognizable and many people tend to think of pink ribbons only for breast cancer, there are other causes associated with pink, as well, such as women's health.
How You Can Make a Difference!
No matter whether you're attending a Breast Cancer Awareness event where you pin a breast cancer ribbon to your shirt, a team walk for Parkinson's Disease, a Bike MS experience or a fundraiser for Lupus Awareness or Animal Welfare or Elder Care or whichever cause means something to you, when you proudly sport your awareness ribbon or colors you're showing the world you care! From pink breast cancer ribbons and pins for Breast Cancer support to multi-colored puzzle ribbons for Autism Awareness to blue and white pinstripes ribbons for ALS to Lime Green for Lymphoma to so many, many more, you can make a difference! These iconic symbols speak a language that crosses borders and transcends cultural divides.
Photographer: Dan Domenzain HMUA: Dan Domenzain
The Benefits of
Playing with Dolls. Dolls are some of the oldest toys that children have ever played with. They are a representation of the child themselves, and allow for a child to gain a greater understanding of themselves as well as those around them. Here’s how playing with dolls can help you child’s development: Social Skills Playing with dolls solidifies social skills that are gained in a child’s early developmental years. When children play house, they learn to communicate with one another kindly and cooperate. By taking care of a doll, they learn how to take care of one another. Responsibility By learning important social skills at an early age, children are learning responsibility as well. They learn how to take care of a doll by playing with it. Learning this skill can help children learn to care for their pets, or older siblings more readily understand how to care of their younger siblings. Empathy & Compassion Another important social skill that children learn when playing with dolls is how to process emotions such as empathy and compassion. Just like caring for their doll teaches responsibility, it teaches them to empathize with those around them and allows them to grow up into caring people. Imagination Dramatic play, the kind of play that happens when children play with dolls, helps develop a child’s imagination as they encounter creative, imagined scenarios with their dolls and other children.
Model Brielle Drew Sheldon
Language Playing with dolls as well as their friends, children run into new and unique situations for their games. Communicating between one another can strengthen their vocabulary by filling it with practical language. By communicating in this way with their friends, children gain insight into home routines that may be different from their own. In this way they discover the world around them.
-Soule’ Couture
Dan Domenzain Photography
6207 Cottage Hill Rd Suite B Mobile, AL 36609 251-665-3003
Your one stop shop for: • Wedding Cakes • Birthday Cakes • King Cakes • Pies • Brownies • Cookies • Cheesecakes • Cake Pops • And more! simplysweetmobile@gmail.com www.simplysweetmobile.com
Sarah Demuth Photography Instagram: sarahdemuthphotography
Michael James Davis Photography mjdpho.com
Let Your Dreams Run Wild
I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13
Photography by Eli’s Vision /Ron Howard
MotivateMe The Movement MotivateMe The Movement is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to changing the world. Over the past 3 years MotivateMe The Movement has carried out a vision of faith and love through action. This action includes but not limited to: empowering the youth, aiding the homeless, and giving back to the people of Haiti. As world changers we realize the importance of unity and a passionate support system. Thank you to all our partner ships, benefactors, and followers for your generosity and contribution. We line up with motivated individuals to strive for our dreams and strengthen our craft with great force and passion. We want to help revive dreams and motivate those who feel as if they don't have anything left to strive for. With your support the movement has expanded, welcomed more members, and more importantly changed the lives of many. As a team, the movement will continue to build each other up through the power of love and service. Our plan is to bring everyone together by sharing God’s gift with the world. Together we can make a positive impact, together we can be the difference. We must recognize with one person, there is only so much we can accomplish, but with a team, full of visionaries alike, there is nothing we cannot achieve.
Photography by Sarah Demuth
Every day
IS A
FASHION SHOW AND THE WORLD IS THE
Runway
Let your Kids have a Fashion Input.
While it’s tempting to think of them as your “little dolls” let your kids participate in what they wear. If they’re toddlers between the ages of 2 and 4, start by letting them pick between two options. “Which shirt would you like to wear today? This one or this one?” Making decisions at this stage is very empowering and builds their confidence. It also makes them active participants in their morning routine. If you have a picky dresser, you can employ the same tactic when you’re shopping for clothes. Let them choose between a few pre-selected options, depending on their age and comprehension levels. As they get older, let them branch out even if they select a combination you wouldn’t necessarily choose. If they combine pieces into fun and wacky outfits, ask them why they made that choice in a non-judgemental way. See if it’s the way the fabrics feel or the color combinations that they like. Sometimes their answers will surprise you. Our kids are exposed to fashion with early access to devices like smartphones and screens of all sizes. They are more aware of trending styles than we were because of our increasingly connected world. While they are our little dolls, they are people with their own tastes and preferences. By asking them questions, you’re helping them articulate their opinions and learning more about in them in the process.
I praise you God, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14
Photography by Eduardo Benitez
Healthy Snacks
Eating clean foods is an important way to stay healthy throughout life. It’s always best to teach your child at a young age that eating healthy is important. Healthy snacks don’t have to be boring or tasteless. Ditch the chips and soda and try these healthy alternatives. •Yogurt: Greek yogurt is always a healthy go to snack. To make it more appetizing for your child, sweeten the yogurt with berries and honey. •Cheese and apples: Cheese and apples always pair well together. Cut pieces into fun shapes to make this snack a little more exciting. •Fruit smoothies: A refreshing smoothie can be healthy to. Mix your choice of fruits with almond milk or coconut water for a healthy substitute for dairy. •Sweet potato chips: Chips are so delicious, but not so healthy. Make your own (healthy) chips with sweet potatoes. Cut the sweet potatoes into thin, circular slices and bake in the oven. •Hummus: Hummus is a great snack. Dip with your choice of carrots, red peppers or even spread on a sandwich. •Celery and peanut butter: This snack is an oldie but goodie. Sometimes our kids don’t necessarily care for the taste of celery, so spreading some peanut butter on it will make it more appeasing.
Coastal Fashion Week Winners 2019 Photography by Eduardo Benitez
Style on a Budget By Ellis Jayne
Our last article focused on choosing your personal style. Whether it be vintage, classic American, bohemian, chic or avante garde there is a style that will speak to your inner goddess. You know you have found your style when you look in the mirror and feel confident in the image you project. When you are comfortable not only in your clothes but in your own skin! Step one was finding your style. Step two is transforming your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Since you have found a look that speaks to who you are as a woman, chances are you already have a basis for a fashionable wardrobe hanging in your closet. Take a deep breath and focus on really examining your wardrobe basics. Ask yourself 4 questions about each piece: •Have you worn it within the past year •Do you love it.. or did you buy it just because it was on sale? •Does it fit and flatter your current figure? •Does it suit the vision of a new you? If the answer is no to any of these questions, set it aside to donate to a worthy cause and let the fun begin! Start matching separates! What items pair well? Like magic, coordinated outfits will emerge. Take inventory in your mind or even snap some photos. This will allow you to effectively build on the looks you already have. Especially take note of unmatched items. If it fits your body and your new style, keep it and remember to be mindful when shopping that these orphan items need matching pieces to finish the outfit. Don't forget the importance of shoes, handbags and accessories. The good times can now begin! I have friends that hate shopping! I just can't even fathom not shopping! it is literally my cardio. I live to shop especially bargain shopping. Bargain shopping is an art. It certainly helps if you have a strong knowledge of fashion history and designer names. I have literally had women ask me at estate sales if a pair of vintage Ferragamo shoes would be worth $8. The answer is never, ever turn down Italian leather in your size. So where to shop? Discount stores can be excellent sources for wardrobe staples, but rarely will you find truly unique or high end designer clothing, which is the true goal of thrifting. Finding WOW statement pieces that turns heads is what makes my little black heart beat faster! You will find last year's department store items at slightly less than you could have purchased them at the end of the year close outs. If you absolutely refuse to shop thrift stores, you have my condolences! Online shopping maybe your answer. Neiman Marcus last call can be real resource for high end merchandise deeply discounted. I learned to shop the third floor discount area of Neiman's when I was just starting out in my career in Houston. There are also a number of online resale sites, such as poshmark, that sell new and used clothing at a fraction of the price of new. If you have a favorite brand sign up for updates. I can't tell you have many times I have gotten popups from my favorite vintage clothing companies and snagged great pieces at 50% of the already discounted sale pieces. Four dresses for $100! Yes, Please! Estate sales are my absolute favorite when seeking out unique items. I love vintage clothing for a number of reasons: classic style never goes out of fashion, the tailoring is superior to anything you can purchase in a department store today, fabrics are often more luxurious, and the prices are phenomenal. I have purchased Louboutin and Chanel shoes for $8 a pair! I have Victor Costa Evening gowns I purchased for $10. I love Victor Costa! If you are familiar with fashion at all, you know Victor Costa made a fortune making knockoff dresses of haute couture. But, they are beautiful garments! Well tailored, duchess satins, velvets.. oy vey! Estate sales are also great places to find outerwear. Fake furs are great statement pieces and can be purchased for less than $10. Coats and matching hats, so chic! I have several coats and many hats. Gloves are another estate sale bonanza! Everything from opera length formal gloves to driving gloves can be purchased for less than $5. I am also totally obsessed with vintage lingerie! I love vintage girdles and waist cinchers... of course, as I have mentioned I am a vintage fashionista. I therefore, love the madmen, hourglass figure which I do not naturally possess. However, proper foundation garments allow me to achieve my desired look. Who cares if I look like a can of biscuits at the end of an evening when I get home and start unlayering..I was absolutely fabulous during the event. Now, let's be honest, most estate sales are liquidating the belongings of the dearly departed. Not everyone is comfortable wearing dead peoples clothing. I personally, love wearing someone's history. But, then again, I am not your ordinary girl. Thrift stores.. How do I love thee, let me count the ways! Thrift stores are truly hit and miss and require frequent repeat visits. Shoes are so much fun to purchase at thrift stores. I love cardigans and thrift stores are a great source of classic cardigan sweaters. There are various thrift stores in every town, some nicer than others. I have found in Mobile, Penelope's Closet to be a favorite; the ladies who work at Penelope's are wonderful, they have gotten to know me and are like my personal shoppers! Check them out..beautiful clothes at great prices for a good cause. I could write an entire book on adventures in thrifting alone! I hope this helps you on your journey to a new and improved you for the new year! Until the next issue.. peace and happy thrifting.