SEPTEMBER 2021 $125 RETAIL VALUE
15
BEDTIME RITUALS to Achieve a Restful Sleep
How to really
STRESS
Less
BOOKS
We’re Curling Up To THIS FALL
30-Day
SELF-CARE CALENDAR
ON CHILL MODE
Playlist
Relaxation
Inside the
Relaxation A
chieving inner peace is the ultimate flex because it takes work. Now, more than ever, because our schedules and responsibilities are ever more demanding, carving out time to relax is becoming increasingly challenging. Sometimes the only “me time” you get is in the shower, and even then, your mind is constantly replaying the day’s events or what’s ahead on your lengthy to-do list. But no more excuses! Lighten your load by putting the rest of the world on pause while you indulge in relaxation as a daily practice. Relaxation and happiness go hand-in-hand and, too often, both are derailed by high-stress environments and anxiety-inducing activities. Tap into your emotions and realign with a peaceful state of mind. Let’s get there together. One thing about us, we don’t play about you! This month’s Brown Sugar Box is packed with tips and must-haves to design a relaxing oasis in your space. From comfy loungewear to advice on achieving better nightly rest, the road to clarity and renewed mental health is on the way. We’ll be there with you every step of the way.
Poppin’ Print Pajama Pants, $35 (1 OF 5 DESIGNS)
These pajama pants are giving TLC “Creep” music video realness!! Stay fly between the sheets with your new wide-leg satin pajama bottoms. The adjustable drawstring makes for smooth all-night comfort and breathable early morning lounging. Available in 5 designs: Safari Vibes, Boho Goddess, Patchwork Queen, Brown Skin Queen, and Soul Sisters.
2
SEPTEMBER 2021 We Promise You: 5-6 Items at an $85 value
This month’s value:
$125 Melanated Queen Stationery Set, $22 (1 OF 4 DESIGNS)
These mini notebooks were crafted to affirm your innermost thoughts. The Melanated Queen Stationery Set is derived from our divine connection to the earth. Keep this under your pillow, on your desk, or inside your purse. Pull it out when you’re feeling vulnerable and/or inspired. Available in 4 designs: Sister Queens, Boho Chic Queen, Curl Queen, and Wildflower Queen.
Crowned Queen Satin Scarf, $25 (1 OF 6 DESIGNS)
Wrap Queens, this one goes out to you! Protect ya neck, ya edges, and style it your way. These exquisite satin scarves are a sign of Black girl royalty delicately designed to amplify your unique aesthetic. Wear them proudly at home or on the go. Available in 6 designs: Patchwork Queen, Boho Goddess, Hey Sis, Wave Dreams, In Her Glory, and Nefertiti.
Self-care Tee, $25
Self-care is an act of resistance when you choose to prioritize your wellness over the demands of others. The SelfCare Everyday tee is a bright reminder that your wellness takes center stage. Pair it with your favorite sweats or with jeans and a light jacket.
Throw It In the Bag Versatile & Compact Tote, $15 (1 OF 5 DESIGNS)
We have the bag for you, Sis! Rolls down super-small to carry with you anywhere. Open it up when you need it. It’s 27 inches wide and can carry up to 33 lbs. (15L)! Whether you’re headed to the beach, grocery shopping, to the gym or office, you can slay your days with convenience and style. Features a heavy-duty zipper, strap and polyester taffeta body. Water repellent. Available in 5 designs: Cultured Queens, Glam Goddesses, Botanical Beauty, Confident Words and Mother Africa Beauty.
3
Stress Less
How to really
by Saeeda Ruffin
E
veryone on the planet has experienced stress. It’s universal! It’s also super unhealthy for you, mentally and physically, and it can — literally — eat at who you are. No one wants to deal with stress, and yet, it’s an unavoidable part of life that we all deal with at some point. That being said; how you handle stress can make the difference between whether it conquers you or whether you conquer it. Obviously, the hope is that you are equipped to deal with it and not let it take over your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. Stress can be life-threatening and Queen, you deserve a great life, so you want to do everything possible to keep stress at bay. These strategies for a more peaceful journey may be just the thing that you need to show you how to REALLY stress less.
4
SEPTEMBER 2021
›› Learn To Laugh It may seem basic, but the reality is that much of life’s stress comes from taking things way too seriously. Uh, it’s just a thing for some folks, but it doesn’t have to be YOUR thing. You can overcome it by simply learning to laugh. Whether it’s learning to laugh at a situation or at yourself, laughter can have a transformative and cleansing effect. If you are struggling with finding the “funny”, check out some crazy videos or even go to a comedy club. Laughter is powerful.
›› Stop Expecting Perfection All the Time All too often, people become extremely stressed out when plans fall through. Whether it’s on the job or in their personal lives, things just don’t always work out as they had hoped, and they have a hard time dealing with it. This leads to a tremendous amount of anxiety and, more importantly, unrealistic expectations. Well, Sis, nobody's perfect. To offset these feelings, try not to always expect perfection from yourself or from others. People make mistakes and things happen. Adjust your expectations accordingly and your stress level should significantly decrease.
›› Grant Yourself Grace Things won’t always be just right and there may be times when you must accept that. When that happens, extend some grace to yourself. Don’t beat yourself up. Consider the situation, reflect, then RELEASE it. What’s done is done, and the past can never be changed. Give grace to yourself and you may find that you do the same for others a lot more freely.
›› Make Relaxation A Life Requirement Taking time to come down from your day or life’s stressors should be a definite part of your life. You need to make relaxation a required activity. Doing so can change your mindset, transform your outlook, and help to restore your inner peace. A great way to relax is by scheduling self-care days. Quite frankly, most women don’t designate enough self-care days, but never fear, we got this Sis. In this month’s Brown Sugar Box, you have the perfect ‘fit: a super - “Self-Care” T-Shirt, satin pajama pants to lounge in, and a beautiful headwrap to wear on your selfcare day. So designate the day, set the atmosphere and do what you need to do for your inner peace...stress less.
5
6 BOOKS
We’re Curling Up To This Fall By Girl Tyler
A
s temperatures take a dip and the aroma of pumpkin spice fills the air, we’re welcoming sweater weather with open arms and a good book in hand. One thing about Black women: we love a good story. Escape from your current reality and immerse yourself into a world of fascinating reads from the brilliant minds of black women authors. Awaken your imagination to an enticing journey between the pages. From flirty and romantic to gritty and raw, this list has a little something for everybody. Here’s a roundup of 6 critically acclaimed books we’re curling up to this fall.
6
1. The Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris
From Goodreads: Get Out meets The Stepford Wives in this electric debut about the tension that unfurls when two young Black women meet against the starkly white backdrop of New York City book publishing.
SEPTEMBER 2021
2. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
From Penguin Random House: From The New York Timesbestselling author of The Mothers, a stunning new novel about twin sisters, inseparable as children, who ultimately choose to live in two very different worlds, one black, and one white.
3. When No One Is Watching by Alyssa Cole
From HarperCollins: Rear Window meets Get Out in this gripping thriller, from a critically acclaimed and New York Times Notable author, in which the gentrification of a Brooklyn neighborhood takes on a sinister new meaning…
4. Somebody's Daughter: A Memoir by Ashley C. Ford
From Macmillan: Somebody’s Daughter steps into the world of growing up as a poor Black girl in Indiana with a family fragmented by incarceration and explores how isolating and complex such a childhood can be. As Ashley battles her body and her environment, she embarks on a powerful journey to find the thread between who she is and what she was born into, and the complicated familial love that often binds them.
6. While We Were Dating
5. Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
From HarperCollins: USA Today bestselling author Talia Hibbert returns with another charming romantic comedy about a young woman who agrees to fake date her friend after a video of him “rescuing” her from their office building goes viral...
by Jasmine Guillory
From Penguin Random House: Two people realize it’s no longer an act when they veer off-script in this sizzling romantic comedy by New York Times bestselling author Jasmine Guillory.
7
30-Day
Self-Care Calendar
By Girl Tyler
Y M O AN D
TUESY AD
WEDNESY AD
THURSDY A
beicrsuUn aSt art wen
aetir W ko b
arg istledu
ame anlsi d actnsuoc
FDARE Y
an lsi
d l ro w
atidMe et
af etirov mo-r moc
24 -aicosruh l
Maae k wen aidem af st
apl ylist
apeR 4t
1 n o e g rS u pl
afamr nsoit
anrofG ae ylr awgnirom kl
aeludSch asp ad y
anruoJ l
u ot w e n
ro i m e h t n
Buyaeltbo yoof ru af /eniw trov arevb eg
8
e h t n i o sr p
aW yocht ru
aP yotni ru
FDARE Y
Cayol ru af etirov
se l u m o r f
andebotG aeruoh ylr
SEPTEMBER 2021
S
elf-care is the best care. Period. Our lives are busier these days and, inevitably, our personal needs take a backseat to the demands of the world. No more excuses. Self-care is no longer negotiable. Make it a habit. Challenge yourself to prioritize your well-being. Follow this 30-day self-care calendar to achieve a renewed sense of self and relaxation. The FREE DAY indicates space for an activity of your choice.
FRIDY A
Take a bubble bath / long shower
SATURY AD
Do Yoga
SUY AND
Meal prep
Make your favorite comfort dessert
Invite friends over
Binge a new TV show
Buy yourself some owers
Treat yourself to a new restaurant
FREE DAY
Enjoy a cup of tea
Sleep in
Try a new recipe
9
15 Bedtime Rituals
to Achieve a Restful Sleep By Girl Tyler
H
ave you ever met someone who abides by the toxic grind culture mantra “I’ll sleep when I’m dead.”? Well, a lack of sleep can kill you, so put that work away and surrender to Mr. Sandman. Experts recommend seven to nine hours of sleep each night for adults. This is a safe space, so be honest. You're lucky if you get six hours. Right? Sleep deprivation is bad for business, and it can lead to serious health issues down the road, so get your rest by any means necessary Sis! Falling asleep and staying asleep is easier said than done. With constant interruptions and feelings of anxiousness, it's challenging to nail down a routine especially when your circadian rhythm is out of whack. Adopting a solid bedtime ritual will help you wind down and allow your body to relax, which will leave you feeling energized and ready for a more productive morning. The only way to boss up is to REST UP! Here are 15 rituals to try before bedtime.
10
SEPTEMBER 2021
1. Set a bedtime and go to bed each night at the same time — and stick to it. 2. Squeeze in 20 minutes of yoga and meditation to relax your mind and body. 3. Incorporate a nightly beauty routine. Wash your face and rinse away the day’s troubles. 4. Take a warm bath and release any lingering stress or worrisome thoughts. 5. Write out your tasks for the next day. Instead of tossing and turning in bed with the existential dread of your lengthy to-do list, jotting it down the night before will ease your mind. 6. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb (DND). Hear me out because this one is controversial. Go through your phone, add starred contacts, and update your settings. These important individuals will be able to bypass DND and reach you in case of an emergency. (The rest of the world can wait until tomorrow.) 7. Tidy up your space. Clutter = stress. 8. Listen to calming music. Put on your favorite relaxed playlist. 9. Try aromatherapy. Lavender and chamomile essential oils have calming properties to help you achieve quality sleep. 10. Change up your pajamas. 11. Go for a walk. 12. Journal. What are your intentions for the next day? The next week? Do a mental purge! 13. Enjoy a light meal and wait at least two hours before going to bed, allowing your body time to properly digest the food. 14. Enjoy a cup of tea. 15. Close your eyes and imagine positive spaces.
11
beauties 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 August 2021.
SEPTEMBER 2021
Congratulations to last month’s WINNER! Norma M. was randomly selected from sharing Brown Sugar love on social media to WIN her free box. Thank you to everyone who shared! Stay in it to win it and don’t forget to share this box using hashtags #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.
13
On Chill Mode Playlist By Girl Tyler & Racquel Parker
T
he unread emails in your inbox can wait. Your to-do list isn’t going anywhere. Everyone’s requests of you simply do not matter currently. The next few hours belong to you and only you. Set the mood and take it easy. The On Chill Mode playlist sets the tone for your idea of relaxation. Whether you’re going for a long drive or letting your hair down for an intimate evening, the destination is beautiful if you’re leading the way. Enjoy a delightful mental escape to alternative R&B sounds. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Coastin' by Victoria Monét Get Away by Asiahn Roses by VanJess Lovers in the Parking Lot by Solange In Your Eyes by Snoh Aalegra Hectic Love Week by Lauren Dukes At Your Worst by Femme It Forward & Baby Rose Pink + White by Frank Ocean Time Machine by Willow Me Time by Heather Headley W.A.Y.S. by Jhené Aiko Golden by Jill Scott Comfortable by H.E.R. Sacred Space by India.Arie Naked by Ella Mai Cranes in the Sky by Solange Soulmate by Lizzo Feelin Myself by Nicki Minaj & Beyoncé Garden by SZA Slow Down by VanJess & Lucky Daye Focus by H.E.R. Just Fine by Mary J. Blige At Your Best by Aaliyah Brown Skin by India.Arie Shea Butter Baby by Ari Lennox Me by Summer Walker Rise Up by Andra Day Whipped Cream by Ari Lennox Good Days by SZA Self Care by Savannah Cristina
14
SEPTEMBER 2021
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. 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
6
5
7
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! 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.
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! 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
15
MAGICAL THINGS A R E H A PPE N I N G I N O U R FAC E BOO K G RO U P
You should be there… Members Only Lounge www.facebook.com/groups/izzyandliv