Brown S ugar STAND UP TO
Box
OCTOBER 2017
Cancer
4 Survivors Who Beat The Odds
Black Women
CEO’s You Need to Know
Treat
Yo’self 4 Things You Should Do For You!
What To Do When The Cubicle’s Not For You
4 Ways To
Get Excited About Your
Goals
Again
$109 BOX VALUE WWW.IZZYANDLIV.COM www.izzyandliv.com
INSIDE YOUR OCTOBER This month’s box has a $109 retail value!
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GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO HUSTLE MUG - (RETAIL VALUE $28) Shout to all my boss ladies wifing business! Start your hustle in complete boss lady fashion with this mug. Perfect for the “but first, coffee” hustler or your daily cup of tea to unwind after the grind. - Not dishwasher safe - Do not microwave
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SHE IS WORTH MUCH MORE THAN RUBIES & PEARLS GOLD FOIL TEE (RETAIL VALUE $30) How many of us can relate to measuring our worth by the amount of things we have—or don’t have? We’ve been there too sis. Let this tee be your reminder that worth extends far beyond gold, rubies, and pearls combined. - Machine wash cold, inside out - Never iron directly on foil
BUTTER DEPOT WHIPPED VEGAN BUTTER (8OZ) - (RETAIL VALUE $20) We’re just as excited as the next girl for boots and sweater weather but we’re not gonna pretend this season can’t be tough on our skin. Moisturize your melanin with The Butter Depot’s whipped butter and keep your skin (and hair) flourishing all season long. - All natural ingredients - Great for your hair or body and safe for little ones or those with sensitive skin. - Find this and other natural products at www.butterdepot.com - Follow them on social media @butterdepot
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS GIRLFRIEND 5-PACK POSTCARD SET - (RETAIL VALUE $5) When it comes to the ones that mean the most to us, we aren’t shy when it’s time to get real. This month, send the women in your life a reminder to take care of herself with these chic Breast Cancer Awareness cards. - Cards by mystitaylor.com
www.izzyandliv.com
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ER BOX
A WOMANS WORTH
05 DREAM IT, WORK HARD, GRIND TILL I OWN IT TOTE - (RETAIL VALUE $22) Okay ladies, now let’s get in formation. Whatever those dreams you’ve been holding, it’s time to make them happen. Toss your laptop & planner in this motivational tote and go get what’s yours.
06 SHE BELIEVED SHE COULD ENAMEL PIN (RETAIL VALUE $8) Wear this motivational pink ribbon enamel pin with the words “she believed she could so she did” engraved, to not only show support and call attention to breast cancer awareness, but to remind yourself and other of the importance of hope and strength and perseverance and confidence. Speak it unto to existence!
Edition
Hey girl! So, you know that real friends check in not only for the fun stuff -“when’s the next time we’re going to lunch?” -- but for the serious stuff too. With it being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we thought it was important to remind you of how valuable you are to us and those around you. As women, sometimes we tend to put ourselves last, while taking care of everyone else first. We hope that this month’s items remind you to make yourself a priority! Whether it be chasing your dreams and achieving your goals; making a long over-due change in your personal or work-life; treating yourself to some “metime”; or most importantly, taking care of your health. Please take some time this month to schedule an annual exam and ask your doctor if an when you should also start receiving annual breast exams as well. Encourage another woman in your life to do the same!
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DONATION IN HONOR OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH $1 PER SUBSCRIBER DONATION TO PAINTED PINK (RETAIL VALUE $1) In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, we’re donating $1 on behalf of every Brown Sugar Box subscriber to Painted Pink; a non-profit organization empowering millennials to take charge of their breast health (see magazine for more information about ths organization). www.paintedpink.org IG @paintedpink4bc
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Stand Up to Cancer
4 Survivors
who beat the odds
O
ByJouviane Alexandre
ne in 8 women in the
month and you might see advocates for the
United States will be di-
cause hold walks to raise money. You might
agnosed
invasive
even notice your favorite sports team wear-
breast cancer in her life-
ing pink. In honor of Breast Cancer Aware-
time. Every year, there
ness month, we’re highlighting 4 strong
are over 250,000 cases
women who have come out as survivors
of breast cancer diag-
against breast cancer.
with
nosed. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Robin Roberts What many do not know about Robin Roberts is that she first got her start on ESPN. From 1990 to 2005, she was a sportscaster before joining “Good Morning America.” In 2007 during a live broadcast of “Good Morning America,” Robin Roberts announced that she had breast cancer and would undergo surgery. She also announced on the show that she would undergo chemotherapy and after 8 weeks, she went through 6 weeks of radiation. After surviving breast cancer, Roberts received another diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome, a bone marrow disease, in 2012. Since then, she has had a bone marrow transplant. In 2013, Robin Roberts received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPYs.
Although there are medical advances occurring every day, breast cancer is increasingly affecting the population AND IS THE MOST COMMONLY DIAGNOSED CANCER AMONG BLACK WOMEN. The best way to fight against it is by catching it in the earliest stages. Be sure to do your own self-exams! www.izzyandliv.com
Diahann Carroll There is a great chance that you’ve seen Diahann Carroll in one of her many roles. One of her first major roles was in the TV show “Julia” as the title character. This show was one of the first in its time that didn’t depict a black woman in the stereotypical subservient role. Carroll went on to star in the popular soap opera “Dynasty” from 1984-1987. In 1990, Diahann Carroll was diagnosed with breast cancer after a routine mammogram. On an episode of “Oprah’s Master Class,” she discusses her difficulties with battling breast cancer. Since then she has appeared in the TV show “A Different World,” “Soul Food,” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”
Hoda Kotb In 1998, Hoda Kotb started as a correspondent for “Dateline NBC.” Ten years later, she became a co-anchor for the “Today Show” alongside Kathie Lee Gifford. Shortly before her start as a co-anchor, Kotb had two procedures (mastectomy and reconstructive surgery) to remove the breast cancer. In 2011, she appeared in Martina McBride’s music video for the single “I’m Gonna Love You Through It.” The song is about a woman who is battling breast cancer with the support of her husband. After her battle with cancer, she wrote the novel Hoda: How I Survived War Zones, Bad Hair, Cancer, and Kathie Lee. The book went on to become a New York Times Bestseller.
Wanda Sykes If you’re ever in need for a good laugh, you can always turn to Wanda Sykes. She got early recognition for working as a writer for “The Chris Rock Show” in the 90s. She appeared in the TV shows “The New Adventures of Old Christine” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” She is also known for appearances in the films Monster-in-Law, License to Wed, and two Ice Age films. In 2011, Sykes revealed a ductal carcinoma in situ diagnosis on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” Although this level of breast cancer was non-invasive, Wanda Sykes chose to have a bilateral mastectomy as a precaution.
www.izzyandliv.com
Treat Yo’self
4 Things
expensive things that will brighten up your day/ week/month, make a plan to gift yourself once in awhile with something that tickles your fancy. I started buying myself fresh cut flowers weekly. It brightens my mood plus adds a little joy to my home.
You Should Do For YOU!
N
By Julie Thomas
o one can look out for you the way
you can look out for yourself; after the man upstairs of course. Ensuring that we take care of ourselves is essential for our health and psyche.
Pamper Yourself
We have to show up for ourselves ladies! Here
When you look good, you feel good. Take some
are four things that you should do for yourself to
time to pamper yourself at least once a week.
keep your mood bright and your spirits up.
Whether it’s a standing appointment at the nail salon for a fresh mani and pedi or locking your
Take Yourself on A Date
kids out of the room to relax with a 20 minute
I often see people on social media express how
at-home facial set with your mud mask and cu-
they wish they can go here or there but they don’t
cumbers; pampering yourself makes all the
have anyone to join them in the activity, so in
difference in you feeling your best. It’s the time
turn they decide to stay indoors. Your happiness
where you can de-stress and rejuvenate yourself.
should not rely on someone being right beside you. Go for a walk in town and find a new coffee shop to unwind with a book, treat yourself to a matinee movie and eat all the popcorn, slide into that art show on your solo dolo, along the way. Treat Yourself to Small Gifts We’ve all had that time where we tried to convince ourselves we deserved that thing we absolutely didn’t need because- we work hard. So that inner voice cries, girl Treat Yo’Self! While this is very true, it doesn’t mean go shop ‘till you drop and max out your credit cards. If there are less www.izzyandliv.com
Practice the Power of Saying No Being a ‘Yes Woman’ can be draining and ain’t nobody got time for that! While it can be empowering to check everything off your to-do list and take on additional tasks to crush, you have the power to say nope, not today. There’s no reason you should run yourself down to the ground. If you aren’t good to yourself, you can’t be of any good to others. Don’t shy away from saying no every now and again to take the time that you need to reset. You will be glad you did.
I
f I could trade the confinement of a 9-5 for the freedom to come and go as I please (without the burden of bills of course), I would do so immediately. And I have a gut feeling that I’m not the only person who feels that way. For as much as the road to traditional employment has been promoted, there’s a growing segment of people who just aren’t about that cubicle life. In fact, a Fortune study found that black women are the fastest growing segment in entrepreneurship. If you’re like many of the countless women who are itching to break free from the confines of their cubicle, here are some of the steps that I’ve taken and I’m currently in the process of, that I think are universal when the cubicle’s not for you: If you’re a creative, start creating! Don’t wait until you’re out of that corporate job before you pick up that paint brush or start writing that book. Take at least an hour a day for your creative passion. You don’t want that unique spark in you to fade. I find that when I take time out of my day to write, I start feeling like myself again. It gives me hope as well; that I’m that much closer to my goal. If you’re not a creative, learn to think outside the box! If you’re reading this and you aren’t the creative type, chances are you still have an itch for freedom and independence in your personal life. Whatever it is that you are currently doing for a living may be going well, but you long for more. Think about your career and the aspects of your current job that you do like. Think in specific terms and try to envision yourself doing it
What To Do When The
Cubicle’s
Not For You By Valerie Edwards
as a small business. Don’t take the company you work for and try to do exactly what they do ( you could be breaking a contract and you want to start out small). Instead, think of an aspect of your industry that interests you and brainstorm about how you would turn that into a business. Research like-minded people who have successfully turned their passion into a living. One of the best ways to reach your goals in life is to watch someone who has already accomplished those goals. They can provide insight into how to go about making a living for yourself and also some of the pitfalls that come with your chosen path. Don’t give in to distraction! Our existence is filled with distractions in this new era of social media. We are constantly bombarded with “things” that really don’t mean anything at the end of the day. The sad part about it is that they are MEANT to distract you; keep you from realizing your full potential and becoming a positive contributor to society. Don’t let it. When you’re roaming through Instagram, just remember that. Don’t allow what everyone else is doing keep you from doing what YOU are meant to be doing. www.izzyandliv.com
Playlist
Breast Cancer Knowledge is Pow In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, $1 for every Brown Sugar Box subscriber was donated to Painted Pink Inc. Learn more about this organization:
P
ainted Pink, Inc. is a 501(c) 3
Painted Pink, Inc. raises funds and awareness
nonprofit dedicated to edu-
for women affected by breast cancer.
cating millennials on breast health. We provide programs
The money that money Izzy & Liv donates will
and events to show young
be used to directly impact women that are
adults how to live a preventa-
undergoing chemo and need care packages
tive life. We also offer financial
with items that will alleviate the uncomfortable
support and survivor kits to young women
side effects of chemo.
diagnosed with breast cancer through a partnership with Piedmont Hospital. Our 501(c)3
This donation from your subscribers will also
nonprofit’s mission is dedicated to positively
help with our Painted Pink moms. We have
influencing millennials by providing knowledge
a few moms who are pregnant and fighting
on breast health and wellness lifestyle; we
breast cancer. We put together virtual baby
also partner with oncologists to support wom-
showers to provide items they need for baby.
en battling breast cancer and our goal is to
As you can see, each dollar can truly go a long
educate, empower and restore. Through our
way within our organization.
yearly initiatives, including our October brunch,
www.izzyandliv.com
ower ABOUT PAINTED PINK Mission - Painted Pink is dedicated to educating every millenial on breast health. Vision - A world where every millennial will know their genetic history, advocate for themselves and feel financially supported if affected. Values - Painted Pink seeks to ENGAGE its millennial audience with entertaining and helpful ways to live a purposely pink and preventative life. Painted Pink will INSPIRE millennials to take action in knowing their genetic history as well as taking preventative measures with fitness, nutrition, and beauty practices.
www.paintedpink.org
www.izzyandliv.com
Black Women Ceo’s You Should Know
s
By Valerie Edwards
ometimes we need to be reminded
that there are women out there who look like us who are calling the shots in major ways. These ladies are the epitome of #blackgirlmagic. And yes, we know there are way more black women CEOs than are featured here, but let’s take a look at a few who are changing the face of power.
Angela Benton
Benton is the founder and CEO of New Me Accelerator, helping hundreds of entrepreneurs launch businesses and raise over $25MM in funding since its launch in 2011. She is also a breast cancer survivor, and published author. Her debut book, Revival: How I Rebuilt a Life for Longevity After Cancer, Burnout, and Heartbreak, is available in bookstores nationwide .
Ursala M. Burns
Ever heard of a little company called Xerox? That’s right, Burns has moved up the ladder from an intern to the CEO of this global corporation in just a few short decades. She even received an invitation from Barack Obama to sit on the President’s Export Council.
Rosalind G. Brewer
Brewer is the first female and first African American CEO of a division of Wal-Mart: Sam’s Club. She also serves on the board of her alma mater, Spelman College and Lockhead Martin. www.izzyandliv.com
By: Tyshia Ingram
s
w
-
e
n
Tracey Edmonds
Ava DuVernay
self when she started her own production
dependent distribution company a pro-
company called Edmonds Entertainment.
duction company that focus on women
After having years of experience in the en-
filmmakers. Ava is mosty poularly known
tertainment industry, Edmonds decided
for her award winning on-screen work
to create her own company and has been
as an director, screenwriter, film market-
thriving ever since. Edmonds is also the
er, and film distributor for films such as
COO and president of Our Stories Films,
Selma, 13th, the highly anticipated film,
a creative company that focuses on pro-
A Wrinkle in Time. DuVernay’s next film, A
jects for people of color.
Wrinkle in Time, reportedly has a budget
This beautiful CEO made a name for her-
exceeding $100 million, making DuVernay
,
,
y
s
DuVernay is the founder of ARRAY, an in-
“I got my start by giving myself a start” - Madam C.J. Walker
the first black woman to direct a live-action film with a budget of that size.
Debra Lee
BET just wouldn’t be what it is today without an influential black woman leading the charge. If it weren’t for Lee, we’d still be subjected to watching music videos on that network that degrade women of color. She has been working to change that stigma and incorporated programs such as Black Girls Rock! that have a message. www.izzyandliv.com
// BE A U TI E S\\ Izzy & Liv customers truly are THE BEST! We LOVE seeing your social media posts sharing your boxes each month. Here are a few highlights from last month’s box.
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Thank you to everyone who shared! We appreciate you! Don’t forget to share this month’s box #brownsugarbox #izzyandliv) for your chance to win next month’s giveaway BONUS: Join our Facebook Group: The Brown Sugar Lounge, for a SECOND CHANCE to win a free box.
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By: Julie Thomas
4 Ways t o g e t e xc i t e d about your goals again Can you believe we are already in the final quater of the year? Have you been getting stuff done? Are you feeling accomplished? If yes, you deserve rounds-of applause yaasss sis. And if you’re like the rest of us and haven’t revisited your goal list for 2017 since the first week of January, here’s a few ways to use the upcoming downtime to get back in the swing of things to knock your goals out of the park.
BREAK YOUR GOALS INTO STEPS
We’ve all heard the saying, “Rome wasn’t built in a day”, so start small and build up to completing your goal. It’s no use in trying to attain an astronomical goal overnight; because it will more than likely not happen. In order to begin any task, you first need a starting point. We often look at the big picture and get overwhelmed and somehow come to a halt or put that goal on the back burner. Breaking up your goal into smaller steps helps you achieve more faster and makes the finish line easier to attain. Take a look at the goals that you haven’t even started to work out and start there.
VISUALIZE YOUR GOALS It’s not too late to whip out the poster board
and old magazines to create a vision board if you haven’t gotten around to it already. Having a tangible visual of your goals is a great daily motivator. Take a look at your vision board each day before heading out the door each morning for a fresh dose of “I got this”. Seeing is believing and having a visual layout of your goals will fuel the drive for you to make them happen and come to fruition. And if you have a vision board already, this is the perfect time to give it a little refresh. Add in some new ideas or highlight things that you’ve already brought to life this year. www.izzyandliv.com
GET AN ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER
A good way to stay on top of your goals is to tell a trusted friend what’s up your sleeve and what you have planned. Your friend will follow up with you to see how you are progressing with said goal. With an accountability partner, there’s no time for slacking off and dare I say-quitting. They will make sure you are on your A-game and will push you to pursuing your goals and dreams. Accountability partners are also great for recognizing and celebrating your victories as you go. So many times we’re so focused on the big picture that we don’t acknowledge the progress we’ve made. A good accountability partner will help you recognize and appreciate the baby steps that are part of the process and keep me motivated!
LISTEN TO PODCAST
If you feel like you’re in a rut and don’t know how to motivate yourself, try feeding your soul with a few inspirational and motivational podcasts to lift your spirits. Hearing testimonials from real life people who took a chance on themselves and made their dreams a reality, is a sure fire way to get your head back in the game. You’ll want to feel that same excitement and witness the fruits of your labor by stepping out and getting ish done.
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