BUSINESS. ENTREPRENEURSHIP. INSPIRATION. COMMUNITY. EDUCATION. TECHNOLOGY.
Founder’s
Celebration Month Women Entrepreneurs of America, Inc.
Volume 1
Issue 3
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Happy Birthday to our Founder, Yolanda Lamar-Wilder!
Genesis Jones-Genesis Virtual Solutions Lisa Johnson-Youngevity Wellness Daisy Curtis-Global Administrative Professional Services Bahiyah Shabazz-Shabazz Management Group Lynette Rucker-The Fizz Bizz Tiffaney Sims-Events by Tiffaney Angela Lott-Angel Cakes
NWIWEA@gmail.com
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Contributors
Managing Editor, Angel Regis-Felix Photographer Editor, Gwen Bochmann
Volume 1
Contributors, Sheila Hawkins Delisher Bankole Angel Regis-Felix
Issue 3
Public Relations Representative, Keisha Destini Griffiths Social Media Managers, Sharon Evans Crystal Ervin Tracey Waugh Advertising, advertising@facesofweamagazine.com
Women Entrepreneurs of America National President, Yolanda Lamar-Wilder www.womenentrepreneursofamerica.org
Faces of WEA Magazine info@facesofweamagazine.com www.FacesOfWEAMagazine.com
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Contents
In This Issue
10 Business
16 Entrepreneurs 36Inspiration
8Finance 16 Entrepreneurs
Spotlight 30 Technology
32 Lifestyle 36 Inspiration 39 Book Club
Congratulations!!!
Happy Birthday to the Founder of Women Entrepreneurs of America, Sis. Yolanda LamarWilder www.FacesOfWEAMagazine.com
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Financial
Everything You Need To Know About Business Loans By Cameron A Parkin
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Business loans are important for businesses in multiple aspects. Whether it is for funding a company, boosting the company or using it as funding for an acquisition, these loans can be described as the bread and butter for businesses. With the 2008 Banking Crisis and the immediate aftermath slowly fading into memory, a variety of companies are now looking to business loans in numbers once again.
-Some loans are secured and some unsecured. Most lenders will seek security if available to make their loan rates more competitive and reduce their risk.
What do you need to know about business loans? Here are a few things which are important for business owners to be aware off.
Business loans are valuable for companies and should be considered in any funding proposition. Much has been made of the economy at the beginning of 2014. Some negativity remains as the world prolongs its exit from the 2008 banking crisis.
-Business Loans are widely available. Banks are generally the first calling point for business owners when he/she applies for the said loan. But, banks are not the only body that can offer this support. In fact, it is more likely that company owners will have a far greater chance of securing a loan with a non-governing body instead of a bank. -There are different types of loans. Different lenders have different products available and different criteria. If an organisation fits within the criteria then they can move to the next stage of credit assessment.
get help outside of the banks in securing funding for their business.
-If the company have specific funding needs: buying a business, buying a building, stock purchase etc -and then this will often determine the best source of finance.
But confidence is renewed and has increased for the economy. Towards the end of 2013, these companies have expressed sincere confidence with the economy in 2014 and also confidence in securing the necessary support. Banks have come under fire for not doing enough to help banks secure the funding in which would help them progress in tough economic times.
It is also important to note that the loans have different purposes in which target different areas of funding and business development such as commercial mortgage as an example. Yet, business loans at its core is a valuable form of funding for businesses in which would help them develop. Businesses can now get business loans far easier with QR Ventures. Where the banks aren't so willing to lend, QR Ventures are ready to fill the gap and provide funding. Visit the link to apply for a business loan or contact QR Ventures by either calling 08456346283 today. Article Source: Everything You Need To Know About Business Loans
But the availability of business loans -through companies and non-Governing bodies means that business owners can
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Business
Critical ‘Must Haves’ When Starting A Small Business By: Gerard Cassagnol
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tarting a business has been an integral part of the American dream for hundreds of years. This is the segment of the business world that has helped this country grow during its infancy, and it has been a mainstay in helping to keep the American economy afloat ever since. With all of the changes that all of this growth during the years has brought, the most important thing a person needs when starting a small business is knowledge. The amount of training and assistance that is available is staggering to say the least. What you need is to focus on what type of business you plan on operating, and find the assistance and training that is applicable to that field. The time involved to get trained will depend on the type of business you want to have, and whether
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you plan on having someone train you or you plan on training yourself. Either way, you want this to be comprehensive in that it should cover everything from starting your business, maintaining it and then possibly selling it out when you want to retire. Everything involved may seem overwhelming at first, but it will all be worth it when you see the success starting to overtake the hard work you put in to make it a success. The training you get and any assistance that comes with that training is going to be the foundation on which your business is built. From here, what you will need to get is a business plan. You can keep the plan in your head and just do it, or you can write it down in a professional manner. The latter of those 2 options is preferable for at least
2 reasons. One, having it all written will keep the ideas you have fresh for years to come. Your business, be it large or small, is going to be complex because it involves so many things. From where the business is going to be, how many employee's you plan on starting with, advertising, marketing, and the list goes on.
have one location. Some people though, when starting out, will have their main offices in one state while having another portion of the business, like a distribution center for example, in another state. With this being the case, you need to register your business name in the state where the business originates from.
The second, and possibly most important reason, is that a professionally written business plan is key to getting a loan to help get your business up and running. Now, if you have your own capital this isn't going to be necessary. Nor would writing down your plan for the purpose of securing a loan, but again, writing down your plan is beneficial. There have been many times when people start their own business with certain things in mind, only to have those certain things change in time. The business world can be very fickle and your own plans may have to change to keep up with the external changes that have a direct or indirect influence on your business.
Your business name needs to be filed for the obvious legal reasons, but it also needs to be filed because it would be rather hard to advertise and market your business without one. Hopefully, this aspect of your business is a part of your plan because, without it, no other part of your plan is likely to work. This should also be a part of the budget that was included in your start-up loan. The main reason new businesses fail is because they fail to get the word out. Focusing on the best ways to do this should have been a part of the training you received at the outset.
Having all of the applicable business licences is a legal necessity and something you definitely need to plan on getting. The reason this fact is being pointed out after the financial aspect is that some people tend to put the cart before the horse. Securing a loan is typically not contingent upon having the required licences to legally operate the business. However, getting the required licences would be pointless without the cash to get the business up and running. If need be, if the licensing procedures are costly, you can always take out 2 separate loans. One to get the licensing you need, and then when that is taken care of, secure a second loan for the business itself. With small businesses though, this is typically unneeded as many licences can cost as little as ninety-nine dollars. Once you have the capital and the legal obligations taken care of, you need to come up with a name for your business and register that with the state where the business is head-quartered. When starting a small business this is kind of a nobrainer because you, typically, will only
Adding to these musts when starting your new business, is to actively retain legal advice. You will want to do this to get advice on contract and documents, as well as ongoing consultation and representation as you build and protect your business. One way to do this, without enormous cost, is to purchase a small business legal plan. You can usually find one that will provide the essentials for a start-up business, as well as ongoing advice as your business matures.
a livable profit. If this all sounds like a lot of work, well, it is. But with education, planning, organization and patience it doesn't have to be hard. The rewards of owning your own business and being your own boss far outweigh the time and effort it took to become successful. There are many places online and, you can go to get testimonials from people who have "been there, done that", and succeeded. I wish you good luck and much success with your new business. Gerard Cassagnol is a professional writer and marketer of legal plans and identity theft plans for individuals, families, and small businesses. He has subscribed to a legal plan for more than 15 years and has been an advocate of affordable legal representation and coverage for families and small businesses in the USA and Canada. For more information about Family and Small Business Legal Plans, please go to Legal Protection . For more information on marketing legal plans and identity theft plans, please go to A 21st Century Biz Op.
Aside from the training, the business plan, the loans, the licensing, and the small business legal plan, perhaps the most important thing you need to start your own business is patience. The old parable about the tortoise and the hare is true. Especially in the business world. No one gets rich quick, at least not legitimately, so slow and steady really does win this race. The rule of thumb to go by is to expect to be in business for 5 years before turning enough of a profit to live comfortably on. This is why many financial institutions that give out loans to small businesses like to see a 5 year plan. They know as well as anyone that 5 years is typically how long it takes to turn
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Business
SBA Launches 2014 Emerging Leaders Initiative Entrepreneur Training Initiative Sparks Small Business Growth, Job Creation
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration has launched its 2014 Emerging Leaders (formerly e200) executivelevel intensive entrepreneurship training initiative for small business owners in 27 cities and communities across the country. Entering its seventh consecutive year, the initiative has trained more than 2,000 promising small business owners in underserved communities, and continues to expand its impact helping small businesses grow and create jobs. This year our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., has been added along with Miami, Wichita, and Newark. “Emerging Leaders has a proven track record of helping small businesses in underserved communities,” said SBA Acting Administrator Jeanne Hulit. “Graduates of the program have increased their revenue, created jobs and helped drive local economic growth in their communities. Adding new locations this year builds on this success and provides even more entrepreneurs in underserved communities with the support, resources and skills to succeed.” The Emerging Leaders initiative has been a catalyst for expanding opportunities for underserved communities. Surveyed Emerging Leader graduates have created nearly 2,000 new full-time jobs have been created since the program’s inception. These graduates also reported having secured more than $73 million in new financing for their businesses, and an increase in confidence when competing for government contracts. After participants in the Emerging Leaders training graduate, companies have reported they were awarded federal, state, local and tribal contracts, worth more than $1 billion. Sixty-two percent of surveyed participants reported an increase in revenue while 72 percent of those surveyed reported maintaining or creating new jobs in their communities. In 2013, the initiative graduated nearly 400 small business owners, representing the largest graduating class since it began in 2008. The seven month executive intensive entrepreneurship education series includes approximately 100 hours of classroom time per participant and provides the opportunity for small business
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owners to work with experienced mentors, attend workshops, and develop connections with their peers, city leaders, and financial
communities. Local recruitment for the 2014 training cycle is underway at selected SBA district offices, and classes are scheduled to begin in April. Information on how interested small business owners can apply and on the eligibility criteria can be found at www.sba.gov/ emergingleaders. The cities hosting Emerging Leaders initiative classes in 2014 are: Albuquerque, N.M Atlanta, Ga. Baltimore, Md. Boston, Mass. Chicago, Ill. Dallas, Texas Denver, Colo. Detroit, Mich. Fresno, Calif. Honolulu, Hawaii Newark, N.J. Los Angeles, Calif. Memphis, Tenn. Miami, Fla. Milwaukee, Wis.
Minneapolis, Minn. New Orleans, La. Oklahoma City, Okla. Philadelphia, Pa. Phoenix, Ariz. Portland, Ore. Seattle, Wash St. Louis, Mo. Syracuse, N.Y. Washington, D.C. Wichita, Kan. Youngstown, Ohio For more information about Emerging Leaders, or to contact the respective local SBA District office in that area, go to www. sba.gov/emergingleaders.
You're invited to the Women Entrepreneurs Of America Official Meet n' Greet Las Vegas and California Chapter "Viva Las Vegas & LA Lights" Weekend
Please join us for 2-days of Networking, Fellowship, Luncheon, Dinner, and Membership Drive to celebrate the New Chapters Implemented Las Vegas and California Chapters of WEA
When FRIDAY and SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 1, 2014 From 3pm ~10pm
Where EXCALIBUR CASINO HOTEL 3850 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, Nevada Register
http://www.eventbrite.com/e/viva-las-vegas-and-la-lights-weekend-event-tickets10103825815?aff=efbevent
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Entrepreneurship
Divine Modeling Agency { Divine Modeling Agency signifies the best in style, fashion and in modeling, to bring the fashion industry in the Caribbean to a professional and international level. It is the passion and dream of two young, aspiring individuals who entered into a partnership to focus on discovering new talent and transforming individuals into superstars. } 1. DMA, tell us a little about your company.. Divine Modeling Agency was established in 2007 by Carlene Joseph Ettingshausen (owner) and Frank Ettingshausen (director) with the aim of helping the youth of St. Lucia. The name "Divine" was chosen because of what it stands for; everything pure. DMA held its first audition on November 27th 2007. The models worked at various hotels and events on the island. The road we started on was a very rocky one but we made it with determination and perseverance. 2. When did you realize that your agency is more than just an agency representing models, but rather a staple in the St. Lucian and Caribbean fashion communities setting a standard and pioneering a much needed movement within the Caribbean fashion industry? Divine has always been a cut above the rest. We have been a force to reckoned with from the get go. Our drive to succeed shows in the way we manage the agency. Our main priority is making sure that our models are properly represented. We set our standards high and we deliver only the best.
Divine Modeling Agency
St. Lucia, W.I. www.divinemodels.net frank@divinemodels.net Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/divine.modeling.agency
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3. What have been some challenges, within the Caribbean fashion industry, that you have encountered along the way? We encounter challenges every day; our biggest challenge is trying to change the mentality of our people. Many see the modeling/fashion industry as something negative. Another challenge is trying to undo the damage done by other so called agencies that scam the models. Trying to clean up the mess and gain the public’s trust. It is an ongoing task to bring the local fashion industry to an international level. It's been a tedious and winding road trying to bring about a successful agency here in the Caribbean. The lack of resources and opportunity within the industry here in the Caribbean was a huge hindering factor. Also the mentality of the society is also hard to get a successful industry growing as modeling is not regarded to be a. Wise career choice. As a result it tends to take the back seat and come second in most situations. 4. Could you provide some “nuggets” or inspired words of wisdom that you have learned that has helped to shape your agency today? Don't be afraid to dream big. Stay humble and believe in yourself. 5. What can sort of advice can you share with entrepreneurs about pursuing their passions even if the platforms or resources might not be readily available? Firstly don't be afraid to dream big. If you can dream it then you can make it a reality. Set goals and follow them step by step. Do your homework; keep yourselves up to date on information about whatever your career choices may be. Stay focused. Don't hesitate to seek assistance and advice. 6. Can you share with us some decisions that DMA has made recently that reflect the importance of taking a leap of faith in some endeavors with a “No Limit” attitude? Going to LAFW would have to be the biggest leap of faith that we ever took, we were riding on faith. Nothing was guaranteed nothing was certain. www.FacesOfWEAMagazine.com
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reality of the global fashion industry. It was a door opener not only for DMA , Saint Lucia and it's models but also for the wider Caribbean. It almost felt like a beginning of a takeover by the Caribbean of the fashion industry. Aside from Jamaica Caribbean talent in modeling is rare and LAFW opened a new market within the industry. As for success some of the models who attended LAFW are currently in paperwork to be signed on to agencies abroad. The industry with Saint Lucia seem to be getting more attention from media thresholds and the wider public which is a positive aspect as it is a eye and mind opener that there is truly a career as a supermodel. And of course an opportunity to be a part of the long standing and influential WEA magazine.
7. Since your return from a successful presence at the LAFW, what sort of shift have you noticed within the local fashion industry? Since our return from a successful presence LAFW, we have noticed a change in the way St. Lucians see the fashion industry. The LAFW was an eye opener for many. We have gotten an increase in model applications. We are being approached by businesses with job offers for the models. They are now realizing that the fashion industry is a business that can be very profitable. Since LAFW things
are looking brighter for the local fashion industry. 8. Could you share with us some successes that you have experienced since returning from the wonderful experience of LAFW? Since LAFW many doors have been open in the international market. The models that went to LAFW are now in the process of being signed by international agencies. LAFW was just the start. As previously stated LAFW was a leap of faith and in entirety the trip was a great success. DMA as an agency got to experience front hand the
9. What sort of support mediums such as ours can provide in elevating and promoting the Caribbean fashion scene and companies such as DMA to bring more awareness and aid in entrepreneurship within this growing industry? Support from the media is much needed in order to elevate and promote the Caribbean fashion scene and companies like DMA. The mediums can assist by offering their services to companies like DMA. Doing interviews, and publicizing events hosted by the company will help bring awareness within the growing industry. When we receive opportunities such as interviews on platforms such as those by your magazine, it will definitely help make DMA a household name. The media is a key part of the industry on a whole and is an even greater key to a small agency like ours which is just starting to get off the ground. Media forums like this aid in elevation and opening greater doors in order to market Caribbean talent especially theses of young women. It's also acts as an eye opener that with determination and hard work dreams are possible and no Caribbean youth should limit themselves to just a dream. Continued on Page 22...
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10. What are some future collaborations (domestic and internationally) that DMA would consider making to grow your market share and subsequently your company footprint within the ever-growing Caribbean fashion industry? DMA made some great friends and connections through the LA trip. We are hoping to keep in touch with those connections made and to in the future carry on more projects with them. Regarding domestic projects, we at DMA are not focused on only extracting St. Lucian talent but talent from the wider Caribbean. We are currently recruiting models from the other islands. Our upcoming event is actually Dominica fashion week and next year we are looking on the wider horizon to conquer MBFW in New York and possibly a future takeover of
the European fashion market by the DMA models. 11. Inspired words of advice from our burgeoning entrepreneur Model Ms. Kurzelle Albert. Speak from the heart and share with our aspiring and even active entrepreneurs your journey as an aspiring entrepreneur/model/Spoke person and even ambassador to your island home of St. Lucia ;-)... Share if you would the importance of staying true to your calling (passion, purpose) and being driven, fearless, faithful and aggressive enough to demand your success through your determination in spite of the presence, lack or absence of the platforms or re-
sources‌Lesson being learned is staying mobile, actively involved in your own success and working hard at keeping your dreams and visions close enough that it compels you go out there and pursue it. As a child I've always struggled to figure what my talent really was. At school I would have friends who were excellent at music, singing and other arts. My vocals and acting skills however were never what I considered to be outstanding. I always had a passion and love for fashion and the industry. I was always urged to get involved in athletics as a child due to my height and frame, but not modeling. I really do think that dismissive mentality about modeling existed in our culture because no one really recognized modeling as a fully-fledged career where one could truly become quite successful. I remember being obsessed with fashion TV sitting at home on Sundays Trying to catch up on all the runway shows and designer documentaries. After high school (secondary school) I decided to take my love for modeling to another level and subsequently several model agencies began to approach me for active modeling work, thus I embraced the privileges of participating in several local shows. I became addicted to the runway it was like morning coffee, a boost, an adrenaline rush. The support from family and others encouraged me to partake in my biggest local show where I was scouted by my current agency: Divine Model Agency. The Divine Agency I would say is the best thing that happened to my model career to date. My perseverance earned me a dream opportunity to go to Los Angeles and to be a part of style / LA fashion week. It was a surreal experience and just thinking of it brings the biggest smile ever. It was the real deal in LA. I actually became one of the back stage models I used to watch on Sundays. What a rush! Big designers, lights, cameras, and ohh lala - the runway!
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It was an opportunity not only for me and my fellow model colleagues but for all Caribbean youth with a dream. It broke the walls of thinking that we're bounded by our chain of islands and that there is a
world of opportunities out there. It was a representation of Caribbean talent. This is why I'm an advocate for dreaming big and living up to your dreams. Here in the Caribbean it's more difficult to pursue dreams as opportunities and resources are limited. We have a strong culture and mindset of what defines success and tends to lean toward academics maybe because it's a safe place. However, to any aspiring models or any entrepreneurs I would say: don't and never give up on your dream. Don't give up on what makes your soul happy and glow. This is what being on the runway feels like. It's like food for my soul, while I’m growing into my calling. I would say remain positive as it may become tedious to handle the struggles of everyday life and still try to pursue your dream. Always devote 100 percent of positivity in your journey and not negativity. Devise a plan B to overcome the hurdles because strategic planning such as these will help take you one step closer to where you want to be. One lesson I have learned is to always be on your “A� game. It's a tough world out there and every single person wants an opportunity to grab their dream and make it happen faster. Always try to remain humble and be cognizant of the realization that the world is not always sunny like Caribbean life it could get dark and cold, so to overcome this darkness you need to stay one step ahead put in the extra research and time into your career. One needs to understand that no one will be waiting for when you're ready, but you need to be ready for when the opportunities present themselves in other to make it happen. Tolerance, perseverance and discipline were the words of my late uncle to me and I truly believe with these three core values anything is possible. Tolerance aids in practicing humility and not adopting toxic and/or bad attitudes. Perseverance helps one to stay strong and teaches you to not ever giving up while the discipline component helps you to remain focused and true to yourself and your dream. I would consider myself lucky and extremely blessed to have this opportunity granted to me. I dreamt of being on a huge runway and it became a reality. I finally found my calling my true talent on the runway and I completely immersed myself in the characters (actress, singer) that I was called to portray on the runway. Being featured in this magazine is another surreal part of my career story. My career is continuously developing as I continue to remain focused on my dream: A dream of becoming a Super model!
Visit The Official Website for the Faces of WEA Magazine to purchase your printed magazine, subscribe to our digital issues, and more Faces of WEA Magazine www.facesofweamagazine.com
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Entrepreneurship
Small Business: WOW My Events & Design WOW My Events & Design is a full service wedding/ event planning company owned and operated by Dawn Newton. WOW My Events company started as simply a vision or wishful thinking, but once I got engaged in 2012 and as my wedding grows closer (July 19,2014 YAYYYY!!!) I realized that I needed to stop dreaming and take action, that was my WOW moment and my company was born. WOW My Events & Design help you celebrate life sweetest moments, while giving it that WOW factor. We believe that a celebration should be just that a celebration with no worries or wonder. Everybody WOW needs as well as budget are different. Therefore, WOW My Events offer our clients a variety of services that is tailor just for them.
Owner, Dawn Newton
Our purpose is to transpire your vision into reality whether it’s for your wedding, birthday or celebrating with your love ones. Above all you are able to become a guest at your own affair because WOW My Events & Design will manage every detail of your event leaving your guest in amaze and the only word that can describe it is WOW!!! WOWunique Experience for Any Occasion Every event or business gathering should always have that WOW and unique element. Whatever you want to celebrate no need to hunt, we will bring the WOW, the glam and the fun. Your search is over. WOW My Events & Design cater to all your events needs for a variety of occasions including but not limited to the following: -Weddings - Birthday Parties -Anniversary Parties -Corporate Events -Children Parties -Baby Showers -Bridal Shower -Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties
-Holiday Parties - Grand Opening/ Product Launches - Graduation - Bar/Bat Mitzvahs - Fundraisers - Fashion Shows - Reunions - Just because I feel like celebrating party
Services we offer: Wedding Planning Day of Wedding Coordination Wedding/ Events design and décor Custom Made Centerpiece/Party Favor Candy/Sweet buffet design and artistry Wedding/Event Consulting Event Budgeting Make –Up Services Wedding/Event Products More…… Let us WOW you and take the stress away and give you the event you have envisioned
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Entrepreneurship
Introducing The Relationship Guru...
XAVIA FOX
Contact Info Facebook & LinkedIN as Xavia Fox! Twitter: @XaviaFox Email: xaviafox1@yahoo.com Phone: (708) 926-1059
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avia is the Founder & CEO of Fox Finders Matchmaking Service and “Word to the Wise” Relationship Workshops and Consulting. She’s the host of the most controversial, inspiring, instigating, inquisitive and humorous popular internet reality talk show, “Xavia Fox Talks” on YouTube. And if that’s not enough, catch her on “What’s Going On with Xavia Fox” which can be heard on FoxTalk on BlogTalk. Xavia is a widow and mother of 2 adult daughters and 1 stepson. She is currently in a relationship and planning her “Destination Wedding”! Relationships have been her focus since 2002. Her goal is to help men and women understand each other better and function in harmony despite their differences, but more importantly because of their differences! Xavia also believes that there should be a “Sisterhood” amongst women. She believes that operating from a place of “Respect” for others and “Integrity” should not only exist amongst our inner circles, but for every woman. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you should not be the “exception”, it should be the rule! EXPERIENCE IS THE BEST TEACHER! Being a “Daddy’s Girl”, the only female in a singing group, and having a guy as a best friend through high school has given Xavia a perspective on men that seems to be “different”, and has given her an edge in relationship throughout her life. She is now determined to share that edge! “Cracking the Code” and taking the guess work out of understanding men & relationships. Giving women their power back so they embrace their accountability for their happiness and their choices.
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Xavia was in a relationship before she really started dating, so her experiences with relationships began at the age of 15 1/2. Because of her close relationship with her father, he was always available to confide in and guide her through a lot of the challenges that surfaced in relationships over the years. He taught her to maintain her “Femininity” while not allowing her emotions to rule her decisions. This has proven to be invaluable. Though not all of her relationships progressed to marriage, there was an opportunity to learn from each of them, from the shortest of 2 years to her marriage which ended when her husband died in 98. She is now sharing that knowledge/experience of relationships with people who seek help and understanding in that area. She also shares her understanding of men with women who may not have had a father or male influence growing up, who have problems relating to and understanding men. Xavia has thoroughly enjoyed dating during the times she was single and remains friends with all of her ex’s. Xavia emerged onto the relationship “circuit” by accident. After her husband
Testimonials... Candid, Controversial & Real Conversation is what I appreciate most about Xavia Fox & her show “Xavia Fox Talks” along with the education provided via exploring various perspectives without judgment. I’m entertained by the creative topics week to week & diverse conversations. While looking forward to the next question proposed as it will be anything but typical…Thank God, Great Job & Keep Conquering!!! Coach Da-Nay Macklin Glenwood, IL
died, she was single & celibate for quite a while before deciding it was time to move on with her life. At the time she was a successful Independent Corporate Event Planner and figured she could make money AND meet men by organizing singles events. She coordinated a discussion style event called "Chat & Chill" that brought singles together to discuss the dating scene. The event was a huge success with people pouring their hearts out monthly. This lead to a "Chat & Chill" radio show on WNOV in Milwaukee, several appearances on FOX news and a Yahoo Group with over 800 members. She listened, learned and began giving her insight not only based on her experiences, but the experiences of others. One of her beliefs is, “You don’t have to learn from your own mistakes, you can learn from the mistakes of others." Xavia experienced a broken heart once in her life and wants to help others avoid and/or heal from “broken hearts”. She realized that the pain that can come from the relationships that go wrong is the catalyst for the lack of trust between men and women. This lack of trust has I’ve been aware of Ms. Xavia Fox for 5 months. During these five months, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in her Morning "Stat chat" discussions on Facebook. This discussion encourages male and female opinions/ comments and also her (Xavia Fox) views. Ms Xavia Fox showed me that women are equal to men in everyday life struggles, views, strength and stability (might be more). Her views are of our daily life encounters, situations, family struggles, jobs, relationships, marriages, parenting, etc.. My level of thinking grew during my participation in the "Stat Chats". The participants level of intelligence exceeds the stereotypical view, and we can voice our opinion w/o contention. I applaud her for being an intellectual person, a leader and the best Talk/Radio show host I've ever seen! I will always be a fan and participant of the morning "Stat Chat" and a follower to a great leader. Eldridge Garland-Hanchell-DJ/EXTREME Watersports Owner-1649-441-5512, Turks & Caico’s Islands
impaired our ability to become vulnerable again and engage in truly healthy loving relationships. Unfortunately, some of that mistrust is actually passed from our parents, family & friends as well. Xavia's goal is to empower women and bring more accountability. Since women tend to bear the biggest burden when relationships go wrong, she is an advocate for women being the most accountable for the choices they make. She doesn't view relationships from the standpoint of just wanting to hook people up. Xavia wants to rebuild families and put marriage back on the map. We NEED strong families in our communities. Statistics show that the current state of our communities is a product of the lack of love, marriage and family. With over a decade invested into studying the nuts & bolts of what makes strong relationships, and what makes them last, Xavia has touched the lives of many in many ways. We don’t need statistics to tell us that our community is in trouble, and Xavia has a passion for the mission of making a difference!
I learned of Xavia from my friend Talisia. I have attended the F2F for seasons 1 and 2, watch the you tubes, and of course read the Morning Stat Chat on FB. One of the things that I appreciate is her determination to create her own thing. In listening and reading the comments and opinions of others sometimes I'm optimistic about the future for Black couples and other times I'm a bit dismayed. Most all times I'm entertained. There are times in the comment threads where an opposing opinion is made that isn’t the status quo answer when I think myself and others have a light bulb moment. One thing that has been made clear for me is some of the reasons there is a divide between the sexes, people don't pay attention, show respect, and follow through. Most of all I do enjoy that someone is getting the necessary conversations started!
Cynthia Holden Chicago, IL www.FacesOfWEAMagazine.com
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Norma’s Bath and Body Valentines Day is February 14th. what a "Sweet and very Romantic Day" of the Year! Norma's Bath & Body has Tons of Handmade, and unique and sweet smelling Valentine Soaps to Strawberry Bath Salts to relax the body. to Creamy Shea butter Body lotions.. Whatever you decide to use, it is Heaven on earth. Something for the little ones, to the Busy Moms on the go. Try not to eat it.. We live once. why not Indulge and take a little time for you. makes wonderful scentful Gifts. Norma's Bath & Body has handmade bath products made in Unscented" for you sensitive skin Lovers out there. We're Women.. we love beautiful Things. We love to pamper ourselves. we love to Feel Good. Smell Good. there is never such a thing as Over pampering yourself! we're moms, and we're dads. We're Nurses.. We are everything in today's world. we run to Ball Games, or school Functions etc. we are Busy, Busy, Busy. treat your body well. it's the only body that we will ever Have! as we get older, our skin screams for more moisture. and you'll get that in my whipped shea butter body lotions. your skin will thank you for it!
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In the Beginning of our day. Bathe or shower in Luscious Bubbles. grab a thick bath sponge and "Take me away".... At the End of our Day. Bathe in Some Luscious and addic tive Bath Goodies.. who can go wrong with that? and Kids will love bathing in these fun Valentine Lollipop soaps! My Fragrances are Mouth watering. I truly wish that I can invent a scratch n' sniff magazine, or a scratch n' sniff computer Screen. I really Do!! Because once you try the products. have it in your hands, you'll never want to go back to the store bought brands again. great for party favors and More. I even make and carry Valentine's Day Stress Ball. great for the stressed! You'll just have to trust me on this one. First time Buyers receive 15% off your purchase. Happy Valentines To all of you! and have a prosperous 2014! -Norma's Bath & Body normasbathandbody.artfire.com normasbathandbody@gmail.com
Evolution of GAPS -
Daisy Richmond Curtis, VA/CEO
After publishing a Gary’s Home-Based Business Directory – 1988 (13 years before), the time had come to utilize that experience to assist small businesses market their services and maintain their loyal customer followings by publishing The Home-Based Business Directory of Northwest Indiana - 2011. For the Business Owner’s Directory of NW Indiana – 2014, Daisy realized she needed to rebrand GAPS. She enrolled in the Urban Entrepreneur’s Institute of Gary and needs your assistance in fulfilling a requirement by completing a VA marketing research survey. She is offering a 10% discount off the $12.00 cost of the 2014 directory if you complete and send by Saturday, February 22, 2014. The link is her website: http://globaladministrativeprofessionalservices.vpweb.com/. Contact her at bridgegaps@sbcglobal.net for more information
2014 Coming Soon!
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www.FacesOfWEAMagazine.com Creative Consultant Michele Renee Curtis Indianapolis – 317.319.9453
Technology
The Problems With A Cheap SEO Services Company By Ador Talukdar
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ealistically there is nothing that an SEO service does that we cannot do for ourselves. The thing that makes us hire an SEO service to promote our pages is the lack of time to properly devote to the selling of the pages. SEO Service is the services of a company that has every intention of making the search engines think your pages are more important than the pages of other businesses that sell the same, or similar items. The search engine wants to suggest to people browsing the internet the most likely sites according to the information they type in. As a company you want the search engine to suggest your name before the name of any other company. Cheap SEO Services are more concerned with their bottom dollar than with your bottom dollar. These companies will do as little work as possible in order to get the monthly amount of money you promise them. Most cheap SEO services are concerned with their situation and not necessarily with what is best for your situation. When you hire a company to provide search engine optimization you want a company that is on their toes, and ready to do the things it takes to make your traffic increase. All companies can write articles and place them on your pages to increase the chances that when one keyword in used your pages will be recommended.
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The trouble is that when these articles are written you want them to have a keyword density of not more than two percent. Less than two percent will not get the attention of the search engines, and more than two percent will look like you were simply stuffing the keyword into the article. A good search engine optimization services company will know this fact and will not provide articles with greater than a two percent density of the keyword. Cheaper companies might provide you some technical support, but the better companies will provide you with technical support twenty four hours per day. The higher level companies will see to it that you have your links established to other sites that have complete relevance to your site and the materials it contains. The cheaper company may connect you to a site that is closely relate, but not absolutely relevant in connection. Search engine optimization requires you to attract the attention of the spiders, and use that attraction to cause the search engine to think more highly of your pages and the content they contain. Contact us for cheap SEO services. Article Source: The Problems With A Cheap SEO Services Company
“Choose a job that you like, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
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Lifestyle
5 Easy Ways to Enjoy Where You Work By: Phil Swindle
I
t's no secret that companies like Google and Pixar have money to spare when designing their office spaces. There are those out there who spend their whole education racking up the credentials just so they can spend a career in a cool oceanthemed cubicle and take breaks in a nap pod, which is probably why trying to get a job at either place is next to impossible. Sure, working at these companies is definitely a sweet gig, but that doesn't mean your job can't be. If your workplace is still rocking beige walls and 1980s cubicles, it's probably time for a change. A dull
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office environment is not only takes a toll on business and the way customers view it, but it can also attack employee health, causing physical and mental deterioration. Don't let your employees get the monday blues when they leave the office on fridays. Here are a few great ways to spice up office life and bring in some fun!
Let Some Light In We've all seen those commercials for depression meds with the victims sitting
Faces Of WEA Magazine - February 2014
in dark rooms ignoring their pets. One has to wonder, perhaps if they opened a window and let some light in, maybe they wouldn't need the meds. Unfortunately, most people don't realize how important light is to the body. Yes, poor lighting can strain the eyes, but it can also leave employees feeling trapped. In an office environment, repetitive menial work coupled with bad lighting is practically a recipe for depressed, unproductive employees. Plentiful natural lighting has been shown to improve outlook and increase productivity in all sorts of environments. Lack
fish have been known to live comfortably in one gallon bowls with plants to oxygenate the water. However, buying a quiet filter such as an Aquaclear or a Cascade 300, instantly increases your fish options, and you won't have to do much more than feed them twice a day. If you can convince your boss, plants and fish make adorable nonintrusive additions to the workplace that guests are sure to love!
Have Some Fun Obviously, work is for work, but that doesn't mean you can't have a bit of fun on the job. Sometimes small things like regular games during breaks or lunchtime is a great way to bring employees together as a community. Instead of letting things get stagnant at work, change things up a bit. Have activities going on after work some days that employees or office guests can take part in. A running game of Kill the Stickman or Trashbin Basketball with scores kept on stylish presentation boards for office use can go over the course of several days. They are easy and fun on days when there aren't any meetings and the board isn't in use. Additionally, silly things like "Weird Hat Day" or a day for harmless pranks will bring much needed laughter to a drab workplace, making employees want to do good at their job because they value it. In short, always remember to get your work done, but there's nothing wrong with having fun in your down time!
Change the Walls
of natural light has a negative effect that increases over time, so many people don't even realize it causes depression. If you've got a dull office, one of the best ways to liven things up is by opening a few windows. If that's impossible for whatever reason, amping up the artificial lighting for office use is a good substitute. Just make sure your aren't living in the dark!
Explore Your Wild Side Believe it or not, a little touch of the out-
doors can have a tremendous effect on the appeal of an office space. Not only do a few plants make interiors feel more homey and inviting, but many of them can actually purify the air, improving employee mental health! Some of the prettiest easy-care office plants that do this are aloe vera, chrysanthemum, gerber daisies, and red-edged dracaena. Additionally, colorful, easy-care fishes set on the edges of office desks with glass tops will definitely liven up any space. They have become super popular in recent years. If you're in need of a cute, quiet cubicle friend, beta
One of the biggest signs of a boring workplace is boring walls. If you're employees look like they might be about to grind cheese graters against their foreheads just for a bit of color, its probably time to say goodbye to the boring cubicles and white walls. Not all cool cubicles with modern design are super expensive. Nowadays, cubicles come with designs that offer both privacy and windows to view the world through. If you find functionality of cubicles helpful to your work environment but want a way to bring down the walls, office workstations for multiple users make wonderful alternatives. Finally, tossing a bit of color on the walls or someplace else in the office really brings a room back into the world of the living. Consider adding some artwork for employees to rest their eyes on when the computer light is getting to them. Views of the outdoors are extremely
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beneficial to those within indoor environments for extended periods of time.
Modernize The workplace blues aren't only caused by drab looks. Gaudy old office furniture can take tolls on both business perception and employee's physical health. The best way to solve this is to step into the 21st century! Modernization can work wonders for an office if done right, and it doesn't have to cost the boss an arm and a leg. Simply adding mesh back chairs with ergonomics can drastically improve circulation and decrease back pain for users, and the best part about them is the affordable price. Hiring interior designers with specializations in office applications may be one of the best decisions a boss can make for their business. Most office designers are aware of which furniture is the most conducive to a productive, attractive work environment and they won't hesitate to get the best for the best deals.
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“Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere.”
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Inspiration
e h T ei : Sh y B
k aw H la
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ow you start each year sets the tone for it. So how did your year start? Did you set your goals? Is there a plan in place to carry them out? Are you committed to them? Maybe your year didn’t start off like that and if that’s the case, you started the year without any focus and without preparation. Honestly, that’s the way that about 92% of people started their year. Statistics show that only 8% of people actually achieve their goals every year. If you happen to be among that 92%, it’s not too late to get the ball rolling. In my experience, I have found that many people end up not only starting their year without any goals, plans or commitment, but they also end up making excuses for why they haven’t taken on what they said they would, and they regret not having taken action. I know that you’ve had days where you felt as though you got up on the wrong side of the bed or you find yourself saying that you want a “do-over”. Typically people find themselves in that space because they’ve started their day on the wrong note. In these instances, they didn’t create the space that allowed them to set the tone for their
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day and to have the right mind set that it would take to get through it. We’ve all been there and we know exactly how that feels and we know exactly how those days go and how they end. They end with excuses and regret. People end up having that experience simply because they didn’t make the time to set the tone, to prepare for their day properly. The same is so with the first 100 days of the year. It’s a crucial period and your entire year rides on it. If you don’t prepare and set the tone and the stage for your year, what’s it going to look like? Furthermore, what’s it going to feel like? When you look back 100 days into the year, which will be April 10th, what will things look like for you? Will you be well on your way to the income that you want to make in your business this year or another goal that you’ve set or will you be feeling like you didn’t get started right and wanting a do-over and have an excuse for why you haven’t started to forge the path toward the summit? Excuses and regret won’t get you anywhere, but getting focused definitely will. Just knowing your goals doesn’t have any value at all if you don’t reach them. You can’t get results without execution, and expecting better results, or to get to the next level is ludicrous at best. Doing things the way that you’ve always done things will have you sitting in the exact same place you started, continuing a vicious cycle. The only way to get where you want to get is to get focused, create your plan, commit
yourself to it and go for it. If your execution is in play you perform and continue to get better and over time can master greater feats than those before you now. So right now, what do you need to do to get focused, set your goals, create the plan and commit to carrying it out through to fruition? The ball is in your court and the clock is ticking. 100 days into this year are you going to have excuses or results? ©2014 Sheila Hawkins, Third Eye Group. All Rights Reserved. Sheila Hawkins is President/CEO of Third Eye Group based in Detroit, Michigan. Sheila has been helping professionals and entrepreneurs organize their time and increase their productivity for the last 21 years. She's a coach, speaker, media personality and author. Her new book Wielding Time, shares her personalized approach to productivity that has been called "revolutionary". Hawkins provides customized services tailored to the needs and personality of the client, creating order and peace, transforming environments, initiatives and lives. Services include office organizing, productivity training, coaching, and workshops. Learn more by visiting www.thirdeyegroup.net and pick up more productivity tips at her blog www. timeandspaceblog.com.
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Faces of WEABookClub Entrepreneur Extraordinaire By: Yolanda Lamar-Wilder
Read more about Entrepreneur Extraordinaire and purchase book at:
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www.amazon.com Faces Of WEA Magazine - February 2014
Get Your Head Out Of The Clouds This Is Business By: Ivy N. McQuain
www.theblistore.com www.FacesOfWEAMagazine.com
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