L U X U R L U X
D R E A M E R S
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B E L I E V E R S
F E M A L E
M O D E L ,
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A C H I E V E R S
E N T R E P R E N E U R
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G I R L
B O S S E S
M A G A Z I N E
J O R D A N E M A N U E L E N T R E P R E N E U R , H U M A N I T A R I A N I S S U E 1 4
All you need to know is that anything is possible
Who we are Luxur Lux Magazine is a female entrepreneur magazine, which is offered in digital and print. This is for readers that would like to get the latest fashion trends, business tips, and female entrepreneur interviews. Luxur Lux Magazine is for women of all backgrounds, cultures, and races. I wanted everyone to feel included, that's what Luxur Lux is all about.
Luxur Lux Magazine is published independently by Luxur Lux magazine LLC. All rights reserved. American Copyright 2021 by Luxur Lux Magazine LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the permission from the publisher.
Keep going, no matter how far the road may look
EDITOR'S NOTE Luxur Lux Magazine is back after a long 2020 year. In 2020 we made the decision to place a hold on publishing new issues due to the coronavirus pandemic, and the inability to travel for our cover shoots and lifestyle sections. We want to thank you for your patience. We are so thankful for our loyal readers. On the cover of this issue, we have the beautiful, Jordan Emanuel. Read Jordan's interview on how she balances being an entrepreneur, model, and humanitarian. The biggest highlight of this issue is our feature on the Black Girl Magic photo shoot. Enjoy!
Angela Brickley Founder & Editor-in-Chief
LUXURLUXMAG.COM // @LUXURLUXMAG
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Founder & Editor-in-Chief Angela Brickley Copy Editor Yalda Kazemi Assistant Editor Lauren Colder Associate Editor Intern Kristal Lambert Digital/Print Marketing Director Avery Mitchell
EDITORIAL CONTACT INFORMATION Luxur Lux is published bi-annually For advertising please email | info@luxurluxmag.com www.luxurluxmag.com Luxur Lux Magazine is published independently by Luxur Lux magazine LLC. All rights reserved. American Copyright 2021 by Luxur Lux Magazine LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any manner without the permission from the publisher. Issue 14 | 5
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Jordan Emanuel
Fashion & Beauty Ready-to-Wear Autumn Trends 2021 Autumn Accessories of 2021 Top 10 Fashion Online Stores
Interviews Jordan Emanuel - Model, Entrepreneur, Humanitarian Julie Gray - Visual Artist, Creative Director Khaliah Guillory - Entrepreneur, Speaker Elizabeth Potts - Founder, Creative
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69
Lifestyle Char San Pedro- Editorial Look Good And Feel Even Better Black Girl Magic - Editorial Pur Noire Wine Marcel Atlanta Restaurant Miami Beach Edition Hotel
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READY-TO-WEAR AUTUMN TRENDS 2021 THE RIGHT PIECES YOU NEED FOR THE SEASON Issue 14 | 7
'70s STYLE
Etro Paisley Print Shirt $316 farfetch.com
Jejia Corduroy Flared Pants $93 farfetch.com
Reformation Leopard Print Wrap Dress $348 farfetch.com
Who said that we can't dust off our old bell bottoms? This year you can enjoy the '70'S FASHION.
FAUX LEATHER
Geovana Leather Jacket $1,680 dancassab.com
Kitri Jacqueline Vegan Leather Shirt Dress $217.11 harveynichols.com
Hi Lo The Label Biker Jacket $549 hilothelabel.com
Leather jackets are always a winter staple. opt for ones with more detailing to give your look a little more spunk.
PUFFER JACKETS
Rains Black Puffer Jacket $415 net-a-porter.com
Perfect Moment Houndstooth Ski Vest $550 matchesfashion.com
Moncler Fitted Puffer Jacket $2580 farfetch.com
look stylish with a little puff. adding volume to your outfit instantly creates a fun and chic vibe.
VELVET
Norma Kamali Velvet Blazer $247 farfetch.com
Nicole Miller Velvet Bell Bottoms $295 farfetch.com
Alice + Olivia Velvet Mini Dress $330 netaporter.com
Velvet gives casual outfits a more fashion forward look. grab a velvet jacket to achieve these simple, yet trendy looks.
JORDAN EMANUEL Model, Entrepreneur, Humanitarian
Photographer & Stylist: Pierre @prlphotos Hair: Nini Fleming @styledbynini_ Makeup: Andre Love @alovewashere
BUSINESS TALK Tell us about what you do as an entrepreneur? I co-founded a women’s non-profit organization called Women With Voices. I also have a swimwear line coming out in the spring, and a few other surprises up my sleeves. I like to stay busy, so I have my hands in a few different pots. What is your favorite thing about being an entrepreneur? I love being able to monetize my interests, and the fact that everyday is a different experience. Who or what inspires you to chase your dreams? I inspire myself to chase my dreams. There are elements of life that I want to experience and haven’t gotten to yet, so that’s inspiration in itself.
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Why did you decide to be your own boss? I've tried the 9-5 life and it simply was not for me We love that you are an advocate for empowering women, can you elaborate on what role you play? I am a co-founder and we each have roles and responsibilities. My role involves mental health awareness, sexual education, and liberation; so my role is to create a program around those elements. The role of our entire organization is to bring together those who work towards empowering women, through our workshops and other initiatives.
What does your current business model look like? For the most part, I’m a one woman band. I do have a great group of women I bounce ideas off of, and who help me facilitate aspects of my business. Talk us through what your typical day looks like. I don’t think I have a typical day, which is great. I like that each day is very different. For the most part, I’ll wake up early, make a ton of calls and answer emails, go to bed late, and those are often the things I do on a daily basis. How do you juggle being a model and running your businesses so well? This year it’s been easier to do so because I haven’t booked many modeling jobs. But I’m a planner, so I have a to-do list every day which helps me organize my time and thoughts in order to get everything done.
MORE ABOUT JORDAN What's next for your business? I have an e-book coming soon, working on swimwear, and working on some other partnerships around products I enjoy. What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out? Just go for it! Sometimes getting stuck in the thought of doing what you want to do holds you back from starting it, or thinking it needs to be perfect. Just do it. Just do it. Where can people find your website & social media channels? jordanemanuel.me @jordy_jor on Instagram
"Just go for it!
Sometimes getting
stuck in the thought of
doing what you want to
do holds you back from
starting it, or thinking
it needs to be perfect.
Just do it."
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What celebrity would you love to have dinner with? Stevie Nicks What is your favorite vacation location? Haven’t been there yet
What is one thing on your bucket list that you would like to complete by end of the year? Traveling to Africa What does your current workspace look like? My studio apartment
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AccessoryTrends WE ALL LOVE
1.
1.
4.
2.
5.
3.
6.
Gorjana- Jagger - JaggerAdjustable AdjustableCharm CharmNecklace Necklace2.2.Women's Women'sKris KrisNations NationsZodiac ZodiacCharm CharmNecklace Necklace 1.1.Gorjana Women'sBaublebar BaublebarAcrylic AcrylicState StatePendant PendantNecklace Necklace4.4.Women's Women'sUncommon UncommonJames JamesByByKristin Kristin 3.3.Women's CavallariCrescent CrescentNecklace Necklace5.5.Flawless FlawlessLarge LargeCross CrossDiamond Diamond& &14K 14KYellow YellowGold GoldPendant Pendant6.6.Women's Women's Cavallari Bp.Heart Heart& &Crystal CrystalLayered LayeredNecklace Necklace Bp.
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Bag Trends WE ALL LOVE
o o b bam
Bamboo Luna Bag $218.00
Cult Gaia Small Acrylic Ark Bag $300.00
Zaha Bamboo Bag $337.04
Stevie Top Zip Crossbody Bag $225.00
Kepi Round Crossbody $228.00
Mini Cupola Bamboo Bag $240.00
e g n i fr
Darren Fringe Messenger Bag $325.00
Balenciaga - Bazar Fringed Striped Textured Tote $2190.00
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INFLUENCER INSPO: VYDIA
Instagram // @vydia
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TOP 10 FASHION ONLINE STORES Written by: Lauren Colder Eight months have passed since lockdown measures were put in place to stop the spread of the coronavirus, causing sales for the fashion and retail industries to plunge as stores closed for months on end. In the midst of a pandemic, most people have no choice because of their health to shop online as well. In fact, fashion’s worst quarter ever was also its best for online sales. Prada’s online sales doubled. Bottega Veneta’s tripled. And Farfetch, the digital marketplace that allows upmarket vendors to sell their goods online, reported last month that it had seen a 60 percent surge in traffic for the second quarter compared with the same period last year — and 500,000 new customers. So let's get into the top 10 online stores to shop at for fashion.
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Collaboration
over
Competition
Editor's
PICKS
MAISON MICHEL Any outfit looks instantly puttogether when you top it off with this wide-brim hat. Available on farfetch.com $730
BLACK JEN Why carry a basic bag when you can carry a knotted bag? Available on netaporter.com $285
AMINA MUADDI Spice up your look with slouch boots. Available on farfetch.com $1295
BOTTEGA VENETA Sqaure sunnies for any season can make a lady look chic and sophisticated. Get yourself a pair! Available on netaporter.com $440
PACO RABANNE Complete your look with a gold draped necklace, you can't go wrong with this beautiful piece. Available on farfetch.com $380
ANDERSON'S The perfect way to add detail to any outfit: a classic crocodile embossed belt! Available on farfetch.com $160
BE
You
TIFUL
TOP BEAUTY PICKS: THE WINTER EDIT
MOISTURIZING LOTION
TINTED MOISTURIZER
DIOR PERFUME
This is a dermatologist-developed face moisturizer that softens, smooths, improves, and leaves skin glowing. Available on sephora.com $28
Helps increase the skin's moisture levels long-term for up to 24 hours of hydration, while reducing the signs of visibly dry skin. Available on sephora.com $47
A sparkling floral eau de toilette with an abundance of colorful grasse rose petals brightened with dewy citrus notes. Available on nordstrom.com $107
EYESHADOW AND HIGHLIGHTER A cream-to-powder formula designed for eyes, cheeks, and lips Available on sephora.com $25
HUDA LIPSTICK Metallic Lip Glosses—from sheer to full coverage Available on narscosmetics.com $18
FACE SERUM A juice serum with over 480,000 nutrient-rich microbubbles Available on nordstrom.com $68
JULIE GRAY
VISUAL ARTIST,
CREATIVE
DIRECTOR
Interviewed by: Lauren Colder Photography by: Jay Green
Tell me about yourself and your career so far, what made you want to be an entrepreneur? My family were first generation immigrants from Vietnam, in which I take great pride in my culture and background. I am driven by a desire to make a change. So I decided that I wanted to pursue a career in arts and entertainment. I built organic relationships with others within the industry sharing like minded goals. While making my mark in the world, I continued to pursue my dreams of creating in hopes of building my empire one visual at a time. My first creation and major milestone was “PLAYHAUS”, known as a street art gallery located in Houston, TX. The Gallery allowed me to expand outside of my comfort and creativity. Shortly after, I appeared on Nike’s campaign as “Day in life” filming behind the scenes of my murals and paintings around the city of Houston. Other memorable appearances include event coordination for Hip-Hop Artist Fabolous for “Summertime Shootout 3 Release Dinner.'' In Houston, I produced and curated an intimate and elite guest list while guests enjoyed conversations amongst Houston’s finest in the industry. In addition to my love for art, I've been on many panel discussions and taken part in speaking engagements regarding entrepreneurship and brand partnerships.
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What advice would you give an up and coming creative like yourself in becoming an entrepreneur? Just go for it and make sure whatever you do, do it with passion or don't do it at all.
What has been the most memorable moment of your career, so far? Moving to Houston and curating PLAYHAUS. The city inspired me in countless ways. The culture, food and music has so much history behind it. I’ve always been unique in my own way; style, art and my entire vibe.
"Just go for it and make sure whatever you
do, do it with passion or don't do it at all."
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What challenges do you have as a creative director and owner of Playhaus?
Talk us through what your typical day looks like.
Staying consistent and organized throughout my business adventures are always my top priority.
Throughout the gallery days, I would be on site daily for 10AM, at the door waiting for guests to arrive and enjoy the experience. Loved to hear their reviews and feedback. Some days we are hosting events and photoshoots, PLAYHAUS is the breaking ground for all creatives.
What does your current business model look like? Staying motivated and inspired through my daily life helps me curate the artwork. It’s completely an organic touch, which makes it raw and unique.
What do you want your brand to ultimately be and do for others?
How do you choose what creative elements are added to Playhaus?
I wanted to create an innovative company that highlighted art in a more cultured way, and be able to help other people and companies expand their portfolios with curating events, spaces, ideas, and bringing them to life.
Creativity and diversity is implemented heavy.
What do you want people to feel when they visit Playhaus?
Where can people find your website or social media channels?
It’s uniqueness, and bringing blank spaces to life with color and creativity.
IG: @districtonehtx Web: www.districtoneinc.com
How would you describe your personal style? Unmatched & chill
What goals do you wish to achieve in the future? I’ve always been driven by my own uniqueness and artistic abilities. Creating and expanding my platform that others can experience and enjoy.
Fun
s t c Fa What is the one word that you live by?
What's the best style advice you've received?
Chill
"Throw on a good sneaker and call it a day."Jules
What is your favorite item in your closet? So many great pieces to choose from, but my sneakers hold a special place in my heart. If you could choose a celebrity closet to shop in, who's would it be? Teyana Taylor
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Who is your favorite designer? Karl Lagerfeld
LET
IT
AND GO!
FLOW
LET
WHAT
MEANT YOU,
IS
FOR
WILL
FOR
IT
BE
YOU.
Model: Char San Pedro Photographer: Carmin Davidson
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Model: Roneishia Ray Dress: The Modern Day Collection Make Em Stare
KHALIAH GUILLORY Interviewed and Photographed By: Angela Brickley
What is one of your favorite things about being an entrepreneur?
Why did you decide to leave your corporate career and go full on with your businesses?
The thought that generational curses will die with my parents and through my company I will birth wealth for generations to come.
After climbing the corporate ladder, which has afforded me the position of becoming a vice president of a Fortune 500 company, I realized I will never reach the intersection of maximum contribution that meets satisfaction because my ladder was leaning against the wrong building.
Who or what inspires you to chase your dreams? My mother, Cynthia A. Guillory, she sacrificed way too much for me to play small.
ENTREPRENEUR
& MOTIVATIONAL
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SPEAKER
BUSINESS TALK
What is your dream-level goal for your brand and businesses? Having a global enterprise mindset. This means, sleep deprived humans will be able to take power naps at their corporation on campus in a Nap Bar in-suite, with co-working stations across the globe. This will offer overworked day dreamers and night dreams a curated space for rest and creativity. Travelers will receive intentional rest not in the waiting areas at the airport, but in a designated safe haven to recharge in between flights. Finally, Nap Bar will offer creatives with a desire to own a business and the opportunity to do so. What does your current business model look like? My role is currently the founder and CEO. My main focus in this phase of the model is to work on the business generating partnerships and relationships that our children will carry the torch of, all in the name. Talk us through what your typical day looks like. Networking, conference calls, and meetings to learn how to up-level the napper’s experience. What is your brand's mission? Our mission is to offer a white glove napping experience that turns sustainable rest into sustainable productivity for health conscious professionals, entrepreneurs, travelers and stay at home parents.
What's next for your career? Endless possibilities! What advice would you give to someone who wants to go full-time with their business and leave their 9-5? 1. Create your business plan now. 2. Form partnerships and relationships now. 3. Assemble your advisory board now. (First hires should be an attorney that specializes in business contracts and trademarks, and a business focused CPA/Accountant.) My motto for this phase is: Why duplicate mediocrity when you can borrow genius. 4. Minimize personal debt to improve debt-to-income ratio. 5. Build credit in your business name while you still are gainfully employed. Go by my motto: Get credit when you don’t need it because when you do you won’t get it. Where can people find your website or social media channels? Website: www.napbarnow.com IG/FB: napbarhou Twitter: napbarnow LinkedIn: Nap Bar
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Be the Deep Beauty Inside and Out
ELIZABETH
POTTS OF THE
MOONSTONED Interviewed By: Kristal Lambert
What advice would you give an up and coming jewelry designer or creative? Focus on the people, the ones you want to speak directly with your business. How can you communicate your dreams and connect them to a physical item. All of the other bits and components will fall into place. Don't worry about the things you aren't good at in business and relish in the things you ARE great at. It will carry you so far.
Tell me about The Moonstoned? The Moonstoned is a sustainable Jewelry company focused on antique and vintage tokens from the past. We focus on the story, the symbolism, the romance and the magic behind each piece. I started this journey when I was a girl in New Mexico; collecting shards of pottery and dreaming about the hands that made them.
FOUNDER
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& CREATIVE
BUSINESS TALK
What is the biggest misconception people not working in your field have about your business? Because I sell high end jewelry I must have a lot of money (HA!) I wish that were true. What has been the most memorable moment of your business, so far? A little over a year ago I was running late to meet a friend at a cafe in NYC. It was hot; I can remember carrying my bags with me that seemed to get heavier and heavier with each quick step I took. I dodged people in the street, turning this way and that. I finally got to Cafe Select and slumped down into the bench, dropping everything on the floor. My friend Liz looked at me beaming with excitement, “I haven’t seen you in ages! How is The Moonstoned doing, tell me!?” My face went hot. Beet red. And right there in a busy cafe in the busiest city in the world, I burst into tears. I hadn’t made a sale. The week before at a trunk show I was the only one who didn’t sell a single item. I waited, smiled and kept swallowing the lump in my throat that grew bigger and bigger as the day went on. I had taken a huge leap, not knowing anything about business and I felt like I was failing. Desperately, deeply failing. Liz sat there and let me cry, just holding space for me until I got it out. I looked at her and said “I don’t know what to do. I don’t know why I thought I could do this. I want this so, so bad and it feels impossible.” I went home, head down and bone tired. I looked at my bed, where I wanted to curl up and just feel sorry for myself. And damn, that self pity was running deep. Instead I pulled up my chair, took a deep breath and got to work. Today, we ship worldwide to thousands of jewelry lovers just like me. Who have had moments of doubt and sadness. That moment was a real turning point for me.
What challenges do you have as a jewelry designer? The most challenging part is my favorite, which is sourcing and researching historical pieces of jewelry. Especially during a pandemic, which made it impossible to travel. We had to get creative on how we were connecting with people from dealers and buyers and in between. What does your current business model look like? It’s myself, my Business Manager, Catherine; who is the only reason I have any organization, Inventory and Shipping mastermind, Jessie, my brilliant photographer and husband, and Pottsy and Research/Copy Writer, Leah.
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MORE ABOUT ELIZABETH Talk us through what your typical day looks like.
What goals do you wish to achieve in the future?
Hectic. Between a newborn, Covid-19, multiple businesses and life in general, I'm lucky enough to remember pants let alone have a schedule.
I'm already living the dream, every day. More of the same, ever evolving.
What do you want your brand to ultimately be and do for others? Honestly? I just want to connect people with items and tokens that make them FEEL good. There aren’t enough of those simple pleasure effects out there. What do you want people to feel when they wear your jewelry? I want people to remember how beautifully, powerfully unique and deserving they are.
How do you choose what jewelry works for each individual client? I never choose the pieces. The clients fall in love with each piece that they choose on their own accord. I'm just a supporter.
"I want people to remember
how beautifully, powerfully
unique and deserving they are."
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How would you describe your personal style? A loose, vintage shirt and boots. All day every day! What is the one word that you live by? BESTDAYEVER What is your favorite item in your closet? My skeletons
If you could choose a celebrity closet to shop in, who's would it be and why? My husband's. He always has the best button up shirts. What's the best style advice you've received? If you are comfortable in your own skin it doesn't matter what you wear. Where can people find your website or social media channels? www.themoonstoned.com and follow the adventure @themoonstoned
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Hello l u f i t u Bea
LOOK GOOD AND FEEL EVEN BETTER! Written by: Yalda Kazemi
What if I told you that fashion and style can help to uplift your mood? What if your attire can let you look good and feel even better? Would you think I’m completely out to lunch? or a brilliant mind? Well, I like to think it’s the former. In fact, so much that as the founder of the company stylEsteem (@stylesteem) and co-founder of Style Squared with my business partner Aldona B, (@stylesquaredstylists), the premise of both companies is to combine elements of mental health, wellness and fashion to help clients look good and feel even better, all backed by proven research in psychology. One’s self-perception, at times influenced by attire and appearance, can be excellent tools in helping to uplift one’s mood and build confidence. Both of which can not only help an individual feel better and more confident about themselves, but also aid in improving one’s mood, cognitive processing, and even affect performance.
In fact, it can be such a mood booster, than currently during the difficult time of social distancing and self-isolation brought about by the global COVID-19 pandemic, one of the number one suggestions we make to our clients and followers is to still dress up, even when you’re just at home.
This advice is not only based on research, but also from personal experience overcoming a mental illness and utilizing attire and appearance to aid in the creation of a more positive mood. Whether it’s something as simple as putting on a bright and bold lipstick, accessory or jewelry, to going as far as wearing beautiful and colourful articles of clothing, you will notice a positive difference in your mood on the days that you put that extra effort in. This is particularly effective when you use colour as a means to elevate your mood. Yes, getting out of the comfy PJs and sweats alone can also help, but pairing that with the use of colourful attire can elicit various psychological responses and feelings as well. For example, wearing colours such as yellow or neon green can help to bring about feelings of happiness and immediately uplift your mood, particularly on days when you’re feeling a bit anxious or experiencing a lower mood. Colours like blue and pink can elicit feelings of calmness, whereas a bold and vibrant red is perfect when you want to appear confident and passionate. @cristinasurdu
In addition, ensuring that your attire is suitable for your individual body shape will also go a long way in allowing you to feel good in what you wear and create a sense of confidence in your overall appearance. This increased level of confidence can in turn help you feel more positive in other areas of your life, such as relationships and work; also contributing to better performance. So this season, whether you’re indoors and at home, or finally able to leave your home post pandemic, have fun with your wardrobe and take the time to dress up and use fashion as a way to express your unique personality and uplift your mood.
@girlwithcurves
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Here at Luxur Lux, we target the female community. Females who are dreamers, believers, achievers, and girl bosses. Females from different backgrounds all unite as one in this magazine. The business gal, the fashionista, the traveler, and the list goes on. We celebrate diversity and inclusion of all women from different walks of life. Each issue allows you to experience the true beauty of women from cover to cover.
ADVERTISE WITH US for advertising rates contact us Luxur Lux is published quarterly  info@luxurluxmag.com www.luxurluxmag.com
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The Women: Khaliah O. Guillory - Speaker & Founder of Nap Bar. Joy M. Hutton - Founder of Joy of Consulting & on the go GLAM. Nneka Kanu - Attorney & Creator of Queen of Sleeves. Carissa Stephens - Creator of She’s Charissmatic & Owner of Pur Noire. Kye Sampson - Real Estate & Travel Advisor. Ashleigh Chanel - CEO of Make Your Mark & Founder of Mind Your Biz. Dajonnie Hooks - HR Manager & Creator of Hooked on Homes. Ashley Cockrell - Nurse Practitioner & Creator of My Living Spree. Morgan Sheppard - Founder of Dear Readers. Mulube Mapande - Style Expert & Creator of Akello Chic. Roneisha Ray - CEO of The Modern Day Queen Collection & Founder of Miss Ultimate Beauty of America. Susie Depusoir - CEO of Kiss Runway.
BLACK GIRL MAGIC TO BLACK POWERFUL WOMEN Written By: Chigi Ohanele Photograpahed by: Angela Brickley For as far back as I can remember, black women in America have been hyper-sexualized. From the days of slavery to the era of the music videos, our beauty and bodies have been talked about, sang about, monetized and capitalized on. And even now, the narrative of black women in mainstream media is mainly to be the object of a man’s attention or to be used. Therefore, we are still waiting to get the full respect and recognition we deserve, because like everyone else, we are so much more than our bodies. In a society where minority groups like black people and women continue to fight in order to create a space for themselves, and be truly heard and seen, black women are often the most marginalized, underserved and underrepresented group of people in this country. But despite all the odds we face, obstacles we experience, and burdens placed on us, both personally and professionally, we continue to persevere and thrive. Issue 14 | 63
There is no limit to what women can accomplish if we set our minds to it. As Michelle Obama said, “when they go low, we go high” and that’s what we as black women have been doing. The beauty of black women is our ability to turn a lemon into lemonade. We are so resourceful, we can create something so beautiful from what we have and maximize it to care for ourselves and families, even when resources may be limited. Black women are constantly working harder, smarter and more creatively at elevating themselves and their families because according to the Center of American Progress, most black women in this country are the main or sole winners of their households due to multiple factors. But this also shows that when girls are educated, women are empowered and families are supported, our countries and economy are more prosperous, stronger and stable. Therefore, in the last two decades, black women have become the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs and they are also the most educated demographic in the United States. According to The 2018 State of Women-Owned Business Report commissioned by American Express, the number of businesses owned by women grew by 58% from 2007 to 2018, but businesses owned by black women grew by 163%. But despite their education, qualifications and ability to work, create, excel, lead and succeed in life, black women have been limited by systemic barriers and lack of support when compared to other groups of people. Black women like other groups of women have complained about discrimination, less likely to be promoted, being undervalued and under-appreciated in the workplace. Also, we have a higher rate of unemployment, long-term unemployment and a much greater gender and racial pay gap as compared to other groups, which is also why black women become entrepreneurs to improve that gap. So, we start businesses to have more autonomy, to make more money and create more opportunities for our community without jeopardizing our health. We are also creating better workplace environments for ourselves, making ourselves heard and seen, all while providing for our families. But, as black women in business, we are most likely building that business with limited finances and resources. Therefore, I’ve become an advocate for businesses owned by black people and women, and you should too. Use your position, power and platform to create more opportunities for minorities, most especially black women because we matter.
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Another reason black women are so powerful is because as consumers we have a buying power of about $1.2 trillion, which helps grow our economy. Hence, we need to learn to use that power in the right way by being a more socially conscious consumer, using our dollars as a form of activism by buying strategically and supporting businesses that value, support and build up our community. We need to actively invest in ourselves, in issues that matter to us, in building generational wealth in order to create a better future for our children. According to Cheryl Grace, “Being a girl is great. Being a black girl is magic. But being a black woman consumer is pure power.” Finally, it’s beautiful and so powerful how black women can rally together, support one another and build a sisterhood. There is the narrative that most women, including black women, don’t support one another because of jealousy, however, this is not true. Personally, and professionally, I’ve met so many amazing black women who are so supportive and want to see you succeed. When I decided to collaborate with Angela Brickley, the photographer and editor of this magazine, we decided to bring together a few dynamic black women, who were also serial entrepreneurs, and we were so proud of the outpour of love. All these women who have been a part of our entrepreneurship journey all showed up, and the energy was pure magic. The authenticity of our connections, love, respect and support for one another was so refreshing that even so many collaborations and friendships have blossomed from this one project. So remember, that behind every black woman is a tribe of other black women encouraging her, praying for her, mentoring her, learning from her, fanning her flame, fixing her crown and celebrating her, because we know that when one of us wins, we all win and through that our community and culture is elevated. For me, it’s all about collaborating to build a community instead of competing, because we are stronger together and when we shine together, we make the world a brighter place.
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Black women are brilliant, strong, bold, beautiful, hardworking, badass and resourceful. We are creative, innovative, dynamic and just dope. We need to know our worth, learn from our history and use our power. Also, being a black woman in business is revolutionary because we have the power to change the world in a different way. We get to serve through leadership and create something that transforms the lives of people. We are also in a position to change the narrative about black people and how we’re treated, through storytelling to share our experiences and through excellence to elevate our community because our voices, lives, ideas, perspectives, creations, families and our future matter.
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MARCEL ATLANTA| MARCELATL.COM| A RESTAURANT BY FORD FRY
The restaurant's sliced rib-eye steak — look for the phrase L'entrecôte on the menu — is served with french fries and an herb-infused sauce verte.
Marcel recreates the classic New Orleans dish oysters Bienville, topping the bivalves with traditional items like mushrooms, peppers, sherry, cheese and bread crumbs.
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The Porterhouse steak at Marcel weighs in at 30 oz. and is intended for two to share. Optional additions like bĂŠarnaise sauce, lump crabmeat, roasted mushrooms and more are available.
A shaved beef, horseradish and cheddar sandwich, served with a French onion jus, shows up on Marcel's lunch menu, which strays from large steaks but is no less indulgent.
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Veal Parmesan is breaded and pan-fried, and baked with San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
The "Marcel Stack," a sandwich of pan-fried bologna and American cheese, shows up on both the lunch menu and the late-night weekend menu.
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MARCEL ATLANTA| MARCELATL.COM| A RESTAURANT BY FORD FRY
TAKE RISKS. INACTION IS AS MUCH OF A RISK AS ACTION. ALEC ANTOINE
The Miami Beach Edition ESCAPING THE COLD FOR SOME SUN
By: Lauren Colder
It's that time of the year again! When it is cold in the city of New York, which is where I currently reside. All that I can think about is escaping the winter months to a close tropical destination. That close tropical destination just had to be Miami beach. Why not? I've always found that when I travel to Miami, it reminds me of the Caribbean, but of course here in the states. What keeps me coming back to Miami is the hidden gems that I stumble across, just from being a foodie and loving to explore interesting finds in any city I travel to.
That is when I stubbled across this beautiful hotel. I found the Miami Beach Edition hotel from my last trip with friends. We decided to have brunch somewhere near the beach and with a nice view. Everyone was on board for being a bit fancy for brunch on the last morning of our trip. Well, when we walked up to the entrance I just fell in love with the modern traditional hotel decor. The lobby makes you feel like you are walking through a tropical garden somewhere at a villa in the Caribbean. I knew this would be a place to add to my list of places to stay, even if it was a bit pricey. I've always liked to pick hotels that make me feel like a goddess. And this pick did just that.
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If you are looking for a beautiful, traditional, modern, and eco-friendly hotel in Miami, visit The Miami Beach Hotel for lunch, brunch, or dinner and then you will be sure to be booking reservations soon.
Lobby
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Lobby & Entrance
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Moroccan Inspired Spa Issue 14 | 78
Ocean Front Balcony King
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Premiere Bungalow
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Premiere Bungalow
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Metador Terrace
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