May 2023 Brown Sugar Magazine

NAVIGATING TRIGGERS DURING REUNION SEASON

11

DATE NIGHT IDEAS

WE ARE FAMILY

Playlist

WHICH COOKOUT

ATTENDEE ARE YOU?

Kickback

edition

Here’s a phrase you’re bound to hear come this seaon: We Outside! Summer is officially on the horizon, and it’s time to pop out with big energy like never before. Whether you’re hitting The Renaissance World Tour, attending family functions, or planning some much-needed PTO with friends, start the season on a high note. The Kickback Edition has you covered! Inside your May Brown Sugar box, you’ll find cookout essentials, tips to navigate uncomfortable moments with certain relatives at family gatherings, and ideas to bring romance to the great outdoors. Go the distance this month and bring us along for the ride!.

Sitting Pretty Travel Picnic Mat (1 of 4 Prints) - $38

Let’s take it outside! This multiuse mat is great for a beach day or any outdoor event. Perfect for traveling mamas, booked and busy divas, and aunties on the move. You’ll get 1 of 4 prints.

Strut your stuff in this relaxed tee and represent the Brown Sugar Babe tribe.

Beauty, Radiance & Strength and Who Made the Potato Salad? (1 of 2 Tees) - $25

This month’s box offers up two different brown sugar tees. The Beauty, Radiance & Strength tee is an ode to your sweet resilience baked to perfection with a scoop of brown sugar. The most pressing question of the season goes without saying, so you might as well wear it, “Who Made the Potato Salad?” You’ll get one of two designs.

She Ate Paper Dessert/SnackPlates (1 of 4 Prints) - $12 Comfy tank tops rule Party decor is all about the details. Bring your very best Black girl aesthetic to the function. These 8 in. paper plates are sturdy enough for your first round and dessert. Comes in a pack of 8. You’ll get 1 of 4 prints.

4-Pack We Are the World Reusable Food Storage Baggies - $15 Sandwich bags get pricey! These eco-friendly reusable storage baggies will help you save a few bucks in the long run and reduce your carbon footprint. You’ll get a set of 4 with different designs.

Pour It Up -Pack Paper Cups Set (1 of 4) $10

Gloss or matte? Decisions, decisions. You Printsdon’t have to pick! Go from day to night with a few swipes. This set includes three individual duos that include lipstick and lip gloss.story, and this necklace is the

20-Pack Wipe Me Down Cocktail Napkins - $10

The only thing sweating this summer is the drinks! Bring on the cocktail napkins. Single use, absorbent, and brings a touch of elegance for entertaining. Comes in a pack of 20. You’ll get 1 of 4 prints.

WHICH COOKOUT ATTENDEE ARE YOU?

by Girl Tyler

Asummer approaches, your calendar will likely fill up with invites to cookouts and family events. Before you go, better check yourself. You don’t want to be THAT guest. Either you suck the life out of the party, or you’re the life of the party. Truth be told, most of us fall somewhere in the middle. TAke this quiz to determine which guest best describes you

1. The function starts at 7. What time are you showing up?

a. You pull up at 6:47 p.m. because you’re not staying long.

b. You’re just getting in the shower at 7:10 p.m. (They’re never on time. What’s the rush?)

c. 7:30 p.m. (Not too early because they’ll put you to work, but not too late because there will be no food left.)

2. You’re asked to bring an item. What are you pulling up with?

a. Dessert

b. You are a member of the paper products ministry

c. The spirits

3. one side gotta go

a. Macaroni & Cheese

b. Potato Salad

c. Collard Greens

4. It’s time to eat! Who gets a plate first?

a. The cook

b. Me

c. The kids

5. The DJ plays Just Wanna Rock by Lil Uzi Vert. What do you do?

a. Who is Lil Uzi Vert?

b. You do a little two-step trying to learn the dance.

c. Pull out your phone and show Tik Tok that you can “keep up with the kids”.

6. You’re called over to play spades. What’s your first move?

a. Out the door. I don’t play spades.

b. Pull up a chair. You’re willing and eager to learn.

c. No one is calling you over. Playing spades was your idea.

7. You received an invitation, but the new person you just started

a. They’ll have to sit this one out because you only RSVP’d for one.

b. Call the host and ask for a +1 to give them a heads-up.

c. I was supposed to RSVP???

Mostly A’s: Who All Gone Be There? Guest

You’re here for a good time, not a long time. Your attendance is always a pleasant surprise. Everyone knows you’re all about making appearances. You were flattered by the invitation, but the truth is, you just came to show your face and make your move to the next spot.

Mostly B’s: The Soft Life Guest

Everyone knows you’re there for some good food, to snap a few photos, and to tell fabulous stories about your fabulous life. You like to be in the mix, but you also make it a point to stay out of the mix. You won’t be caught in the kitchen or fixing anybody’s plate.

Mostly C’s: Professional Cookout Guest

One thing about you, you are going to have a GOOD TIME! With your role as favorite auntie and/or cousin, you are the vibe of the function. You’re known to shut the party down because your energy is just that infectious. As quiet as it’s kept, you’re the guest of honor.

navigating triggers During Family Reunion Season

by Girl Tyler

Memorial Day is on the horizon, kicking off a busy season of reunions and family gatherings. While Memorial Day is a time of remembrance to honor the lives of fallen veterans, painful memories tend to resurface at the thought of having to be around people who’ve hurt you in the past. You may experience heightened anxiety, or your energy may take a dip during conversations involving toxic family members.

Family reunions can feel more like family stress if you grew up in a chaotic or abusive environment. Whether the hostility is toward a distant cousin or immediate family member, it’s easy to understand why you feel reluctant about the occasion. Emotional triggers are real and tie us to the past. A photo, event, location, or even a comment can take you back to a painful moment you thought you’d buried long ago. Subconsciously,

the pain is fresh. An insult from a stranger is easy to shake off, but unpleasant words from a loved one can cause a lifetime of hurt. Rather than ignoring your feelings, acknowledge and honor them.

Respect your boundaries by refusing to let anyone cross them. Plan to stay for a limited amount of time. Leave the room if necessary. There will be moments when you cannot avoid a toxic relative or situation. Triggers can get the best of us, causing destructive behaviors and old habits to resurface. This time, you get to choose how this thing will play out. Confront their toxic behavior in a way that doesn’t upset you. You can’t control how others behave, but you’re in control of you.

Once the event is over, pat yourself on the back! You survived! Even if family time didn’t quite go your way,

you can focus on inner peace. Blocking relatives on social media is a form of self-care. You don’t owe anyone an explanation about how you chose to protect your peace.

Healing doesn’t have a timetable. Give yourself grace. Take deep breaths. The first step is deciding whether you want to attend the family function. Fun fact: You don’t have to attend. Reunions are meant for reconnecting with the people you

love, but there is nothing wrong with loving your loved ones from a distance. The worst thing you can do is suppress your emotions for the sake of a “good time”. Do what works for you and not what is expected of you

Perfect Date Night Picnic Ideas

By Girl Tyler

The most memorable date nights are often the simplest. Less is more. Instead of making an expensive production out of date night or replicating social media trends, wind down the divine springtime weather with an outdoor picnic. A peaceful evening alone with the one who has your heart: Priceless.

Location is everything! Choose an intimate park setting, plan for an evening by the beach or find a botanical garden. If you can’t get away for the evening, take it to the backyard or the balcony. Get creative in spending intimate time with your partner. Pack a cooler, bring a blanket, and spring for mini decorations to set the mood.

Here are 11 ideas to set the mood:

1. Skip traditional picnic snacks and pack breakfast foods, then watch the sunset.

2. Spice it up with Mexican-inspired foods, go for Asian fusion with bento boxes, or pack your soul food favorites.

3. Keep it light and simple with wine and a charcuterie board.

4. Make a playlist of your favorite songs.

5. Grab takeout from your favorite restaurant or fastfood joint, then sit in a park and devour!

7. Skip the planning and opt for a potluck. Each of you can put your culinary skills to the test by bringing a surprise appetizer, main course, and dessert.

8. Turn the evening into game night with your favorite card and board games.

9. Once you’ve finished eating, go for a nature walk.

10. Plan ahead, and set up a romantic scavenger hunt.

11. Crazy schedules? Pull up for a quick midday picnic with coffee and scones from your favorite local cafe.

planning a kickback on a budget

By Girl Tyler

Going out is expensive. Eating out here and there adds up. Concerts, even the cheap seats, are pricey. Adulting comes with a hefty price tag, especially when you are a social butterfly. Sometimes you must bring the party to you! Planning for a night in with friends can be the most cost-effective way of maintaining relationships; however, the expenses can quickly add up. You can plan for a memorable kickback without losing quality or breaking your budget.

Check out these frugal ideas to bring your crew together:

CREATE A BUDGET AND STICK TO IT

Create a budget and stick to it

Be realistic by setting a cost that won’t cause you to break the bank. Allocate enough for food, entertainment, decorations, and a cushion for surprises. When it’s time to make purchases, you’ll be inspired and influenced by items you don’t really need. Turn the other cheek. Budgets are meant to be followed. Track your expenses by hand or with a budgeting app.

ENLIST HELP

There are plenty of people in your tribe who love event planning. Call on them to lend a hand and their expertise.

LOOK FOR DISCOUNTS AND COUPONS

Look for discounts and coupons

Many retailers offer special discounts and coupons. Do your research before buying a bunch of supplies. Compare savings. Shopping around may take a little time, but it will save you more coins in the long run.

KEEP THE KICKBACK INTIMATE

More people. More money. More problems. (JK! But seriously!) A guest list of 20 or fewer is great, 10 and below is the sweet spot.

MAKE IT A POTLUCK

Homemade snacks, DIY sweets, and themed drinks are always a crowdpleaser. Ask your guests to contribute a dish to compliment your theme. Identify a low-cost menu whether you choose to cater or do all the cooking yourself.

BYOB

Alcohol can be the most expensive item on your shopping list. Provide nonalcoholic beverages and have your guests bring their favorite wines and spirits.

PLANNING FOR ENTERTAINMENT

Are kids in attendance? Is this a sports crowd? Music lovers? Scour the internet for playlists or make your own. Set up a projector to broadcast a live event or film. Make space for a game station. Know your audience, so plan the entertainment accordingly.

KEEP THE DECORATIONS AND SUPPLIES SIMPLE

You can find cute, functional, and sturdy decor on the low. Once you have a head count, buy enough for your guests and any extra surprises, like plus ones. Take inventory of what you already have. Repurpose items from past events.

REMEMBER THE BIG PICTURE

Although you may feel pressured to throw the biggest party of the year, you don’t have to. Your friends and family love you no matter how much you spend to bring everyone together. Is your goal to plan the most extravagant kickback or to be the glue that connects everyone? Keep that in sight while planning.

WE ARE FAMILY Playlist

by Girl Tyler

Cookout season is on the horizon! Grilling out with your favorite humans is best achieved with good food, great stories, lots of love, and a thoughtful soundtrack. The We Are Family Playlist is a nod to those who know how to really turn up the funk at a summertime function. The youngins don’t know a thing about these bops! Show ‘em how it’s really done. This playlist is meant to be enjoyed among blood and chosen family. Turn it up at your next kickback, blast it with the fam during a road trip, or just enjoy the vibes at the crib.

• We Are Family by Sister Sledge

• Get Down on It by Kool & The Gang

• Best of My Love by The Emotions

• I Want You Back by The Jackson 5

• Car Wash by Rolls Royce

• Juicy Fruit by Mtume

• Outstanding by The Gap Band

• Back in Love by L.T.D.

• And the Beat Goes on by The Whispers

• For the Love of Money by The O’Jays

• I Like It by DeBarge

• Love You Down by Ready for the World

• All Night Long by Mary Jane Girls

• Groove Me by Guy

• If It Isn’t Love by New Edition

• There’ll Never Be by Switch

• Slow Jam by Midnight Star

• Ready or Not by After 7

• Voyage to Atlantis by The Isley Brothers

• Anything by SWV ft. Wu-Tang Clan

• Just Kickin’ It by Xscape

• Too Close by Next

• Candy Rain by Soul for Real

• Come & Talk to Me by Jodeci [Remix]

• No Diggity by Blackstreet

• Where the Party At by Jagged Edge ft. Nelly

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Frequently asked questions

1 Can I change my size preference for future boxes?

Yes, you can do so inside your Brown Sugar Box account on izzyandliv. com, or you can email us at support@izzyandliv.com to update your preferences for you.

2

When will I be billed for next month’s box?

You will be rebilled on the 1st of the month for the next box. So you will be billed for the October box on the 1st of October; for the November box on the 1st of October and so on... You will not be billed for the next box until after the box from the current month has been shipped/delivered.

3

What is your cancellation policy?

Your subscription can be cancelled at any time in your Brown Sugar Box Account Settings at izzyandliv.com. If you’ve already been billed for the next box (1st of the month), your cancellation will take affect the next billing cycle. To cancel your subscription, login to your account and click on the Subscription tab, then click “edit” next to your subscription. You can also email us to request that we cancel for you.

4

Can I exchange or return items in my box? We cannot accept returns at this time for Brown Sugar Box items, but we welcome your feedback to improve. Email us at support@ izzyandliv.com to share your thoughts. We value your feedback and our mission is to make every Brown Sugar Box more than worth your while! Your feedback will help us to make sure we make this box amazing and valuable as it can be. As far as the item(s), you can always gift them to a friend, coworker, or family member- these items make GREAT gifts!

5 Can I skip a month without cancelling?

Yes, you can skip a future month delivery and not be billed for it, without having to cancel your entire subscription. Once logged into your Brown Sugar Box account at izzyandliv. com, you will need to open the “Delivery Schedule” tab. There you will see all upcoming deliveries for your subscription. To skip a delivery you just need to click “Skip” to the right of each relevant delivery. This will only skip that one delivery. To skip multiple deliveries you will need to click “Skip” next to each relevant one. Alternatively, you can email to have us skip deliveries for you.

6 How can I share photos or unboxing videos with you?

Yes! We live for customer feedback & reviews! Just post your pics or video on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube etc. and hashtag #brownsugarbox, #izzyandliv and @izzyandliv. You can also leave a photo review on the Brown Sugar Subscription page! If you make a blog post email us with the link. If your social media is private we will not be able to see your post, so feel free to email us to let us know where to check it out!

7 Something went wrong with my order/ delivery what should I do?

Should you have an issue with your box items (damage, received wrong size, etc) you must notify us at support@izzyandliv. com, with photo(s), within 7 days of receipt of your package. After 7 days, we will not be able to process requests related to this month’s box. If your box was returned due to consumer error, please reach out to customer service for reshipment at an additional cost.

8 I have feedback or questions, who do I contact?

We can be reached at support@izzyandliv.com

Izzy & Liv customers truly are THE BEST! We have LOVE seeing your posts sharing your boxes each month. Keep tagging us! Here are a few highlights from the April 2023 Edition!