twenty
TWENTY ONE
HAPPY MOTHER’S
SUNDAY APRIL NINETEENTH
Mama was my greatest teacher, a teacher of compassion, love and fearlessness. If love is sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love. - Stevie Wonder
ESTABLISHED FEBRUARY TWENTY 16 Grace has a way of hitting you just right We couldn’t be more excited and humbled by the grace that we’ve received in developing and sharing this publication for the past five years. LMP - the Review is more than a highlight reel of some of the best and brightest couples, business owners and community leaders. It’s a shared vision to edify positivity, purpose and partnerships. Join us in the celebration of all that was, will be, and most certainly is Love, Marriage & Partnership - the Review. Happy 5th!
LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
IN HONOR OF
25 ISSUES IN 5 YEARS
SOW A SEED INTO LMP | THE REVIEW MAGAZINE TODAY
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LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW is a monthly publication sponsored by MR & MRS KING that focuses on married couples that are in partnership with each other through service and/or business to their communities and abroad. The goal of the LMP | THE REVIEW is to inspire readers to look at the essence of partnership in marriage as shared by exemplary couples, ultimately moving readers to actively define, develop,
and
devote
purpose as a couple.
to
their
It’s a New Year! We encourage you to look at where you are and where you decided to be at the beginning of the year, and truly celebrate the goals that you set, take responsibility to stay on track, and simply be grateful for it all. As we honor the excellence in the achievements in Black culture and share love across many platforms, we charge you to be a history maker and embrace the journey of self-love. IN THIS ISSUE OF LOVE, MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP THE REVIEW, be inspired to use a few new things, get organized, or take your love experience to a new level of being, giving and having. COUPLES IN PARTNERSHIP This feature is the heart of the publication, so become acquainted with phenomenal couples from all over that are building businesses and serving their communities through a loving partnership. DATE NIGHT IDEAS Do more than flirt with the idea of Date Nights, make a commitment. These sweet notions will spark dedication for that much desired QT whether you’re single, just having fun, or in a committed relationship. ON THE LOOKOUT Consider yourself well informed of this set of business owners and public figures that are impacting their respective fields with grace, style and so much more. The views expressed by featured individuals are independent of LMP and its publishers.
CARLOTTA TAYLOR is not just a survivor of child abuse, but has grown into what we come to know as our thriver against all odds who no longer flinches at adversity, but overcomes with authority. Despite growing up in and out of foster care homes and shelters, Carlotta has adapted, persevered and overcome her circumstances. Decades later, by deciding to say “Yes” to herself, Ms Taylor has piece by piece faced her biggest adversary - the brokenness. She has healed not only herself, but thousands through her outreach and influence.
CARLOTTA
TAYLOR Getting to the heart of the matter has always been what Carlotta is about. With fifteen years of law enforcement experience, that desire to find the unadulterated truth burns in her like an unquenchable fire. She holds a Bachelor’s in Social Services, a Master’s in Science and Leadership, and is the founder of a nonprofit organization for foster youth, Somebody Step In. Carlotta is also a certified speaker, trainer, and coach with The John Maxwell Team, and the author of the best-selling book No More Flinching. Everyone is encouraged to become apart of The Heart of the Matter community, because it’s where people bond worldwide, sharing powerful stories, prevailing over adversity.
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H T T P S : / / L I N K T R . E E / L E G A C Y N A T I O N
Dismiss every misconception that you have about dating, Be open-minded, and expect to have fun! Who says that Dating has to be anything other than what you want it to be? No one- it’s up to you how creative you want your predetermined moment of eminence to be! It is also important to note that Dating is for anyone: married, engaged, and yes, SINGLE.
LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
IDEAS
BY: MR & MRS KING
TAKE A CLASS FOR SOMETHING NEW There are tons of places that have classes. You can often find them at the local library, a community college, a community center, or even at a craft store or hardware stores. TAKE A DANCE LESSON You don’t need to hit the club to dance, you can take a dance class! Bonus points if you take a dancing class with a type of dancing that you both haven’t tried. RENT A CONVERTIBLE SPORTS CAR OR LUXURY CAR AND CRUISE AROUND ALL DAY The heightened sense of ambiance isn’t reserved for you fragrance and your destination, but how you get there. Just make sure to check the weather before you get the convertible. GO TO A LOCAL FUNDRAISING EVENT Do a little good on your date and have fun in the process. There are always groups running fundraising events, and they can be a lot of fun.
NATASCHA D.
WILLIAMS Personal Trainer and Life Coach, Natascha has earned her honor when it comes to fitness and the beauty of healing. She was head trainer and a wellness coach at Quest Fitness Club and Lady Quest for 5 years. In December 2018 she stepped out on faith and opened her own gym called GiJan3 StudioX in Ridgeland, Ms. Now in 2020 she and her husband have just opened an eatery/CBD lounge called MIND BODY & SOUL FOODZ... two doors down from her gym. Natascha was born in Zweibrucken, Germany February of 1989 and raised in Jackson, MS. She graduated from Jim Hill High School and attended The University of Mississippi graduating in May 2014. Determined, Natascha occassionally carried her daughter (now seven years old) to class to meet her graduation requirements. She also has a group called “Project Rose” for young ladies 12-21 committed to grooming them, uplifting them and shaping them into future Queens. Natascha’s mission is to help young ladies not go through the abuse and dark phase that she did and/or to help them rediscover themselves and take back their strength. She also want to shine a positive light on female Bodybuilding because it saved her life! “Every time I get on stage I tell my story and it’s another piece of me healing. I’ve been victimized, but I’m not a victim. I’m a Survivor.”
To love her is to educate the commanding post that will educate a nation!
I want to encourage women to embrace their own uniqueness. Because just like a rose is beautiful, so is a sunflower, so is a peony. I mean, all flowers are beautiful in their own way, and that's like women too. Miranda Kerr
LSHERIE
DEAN
FOUNDER OF THE LSHERIE ALERT, LLC | COMMUNICATIONS, MARKETING & PR CONSULTANT In 2012, LSherie launched the positive media platform, www.TheLSherieAlert.com, to promote and advocate for networking among professionals, artists, authors, and other creatives. Advocacy for strengthening business connections and inspiring others to push forward to their own purpose, LSherie not only created a platform for exposure, but an online space to build lasting business relationships and learn from the successes of others. LSherie has over 15 years of Communications, marketing, public relations, radio, and customer experience. She has successfully used her diversified skills to inspire thousands all over the nation. For over six years she’s honed her talents within the aviation industry and is currently the Director of Communications, Marketing and Public Relations for the largest metropolitan airport authority in the state of Mississippi. She’s also had the honor of working as the social media manager for the Medgar & Myrlie Institute during the 60th Commemoration of Medgar Evers’ Assassination. Her passion has even led her to interview and even build friendships with celebrities and publicists. Her work has opened doors to be featured in Delux Magazine, National SCLC Magazine, Boom Jackson, The Pull, and The Clarion Ledger.
“You don’t have to be famous to be relevant. Do something positive” continues to touch the hearts and minds of aspiring entrepreneurs.” W W W. T H E L S H E R I E A L E RT. C O M
FEATURED FEATURED FEATURED
Christopher& Cynthia
FELDER
Christopher and Cynthia D. Felder are the ultimate “Power Couple.” Alongside sharing the same initials, CDF, their unique love story combines their love for one another and business. With passion, patience and persistence, the couple is not only living out their PURPOSE together, but they have built an empire spanning more than twenty years resulting in a legacy that will live on for years to come. When Cynthia and Christopher met, the two were both successful in their own right. Christopher had found success working for himself as a barber/entrepreneur and Cynthia had her own successful career as she worked her way from processing loans to an Underwriter for Wellsfargo, as well as being a creative event planner, where she ventured off to open up a successful beauty salon. They put their passion of appearance enhancement and skill together and formed their biggest business venture to date: Long Island Barber Institute, Inc DBA Barber & Beauty Institute of New York (BBINY). Today the couple run several businesses together alongside BBINY including: The Felder’s Institute, Stylekeeping Mobile App and their Men’s product line, Tonsorial Solutions. Amongst their businesses, they are also upcoming authors of several books. In addition to running several successful businesses together, the couple always makes sure to have family time with their two daughters, Jazmine and Arielle, who are aspiring entrepreneurs themselves. Through their business and their family, the Felders continue to live their lives with intention. As the Director of BBINY, Christopher is able to combine his passion of teaching and barbering at the Institute, working closely with students. Christopher is also a lover of history and while he has since retired his clippers as a professional barber, he continues to teach “The History of Barbering” class at the school. Cynthia is the Director of Administration and continues with her passion of helping others. When she isn’t working, she puts all her time and attention into organizations that empower and mentor young women with the intent to add value to their lives.
COUPLE With more than fifteen years together Christopher and Cynthia have built more than a business together. They’ve built an unbreakable bond, an established empire and a limitless legacy.
the
REVIEW
WHAT IS THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE TO YOU? Marriage is about learning how to commit and give your all to someone besides yourself for the rest of your lives. In a marriage, you don’t only learn about your partner and how to fulfill their wants and needs, you also learn about who you are. This magic isn’t something that just happens. It takes time, respect, love, patience, and care. Marriage holds power in a way that makes your relationship seem like a weapon against any struggles that may come your way and makes you feel like you can accomplish anything. WHAT DOES "BECOMING ONE" MEAN TO YOU AND WHAT DO YOU DO TO WORK TOWARDS IT? A whole consists of two halves. Becoming one in a relationship means to join your partner and combine your halves to make a whole. Whether it be personality wise or business wise, we think differently from each other, one half is quiet and laid back while the other is outgoing and high-strung but we complement each other. Having this balance in a relationship is great as it allows for complete oneness. What we do to work towards becoming one is being intimate in all we do physically, emotionally and spiritually. When you and your partner are in alignment you can overcome obstacles and face challenges with less stress. It inspires you to be your true self as a couple. You're all one beautiful entity, sharing the same ideals, exploring imagination, and creating your lives together. Sharing our lives together as husband and wife is central to being one flesh. You'll discuss your triumphs and setbacks. Having this connection with your significant other makes you both stronger not only in the relationship but as a person. WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING THING THAT YOU HAVE ACCOMPLISHED TOGETHER? The most rewarding thing we’ve done together is starting BBINY which is a nationally accredited and licensed proprietary private trade school. The school provides training for licensure in the appearance enhancing industry and we have graduated over 1250 students to become licensed master barbers and that is such a reward in itself. Since the opening of our school, our family has become way larger than just our daughters. Getting to witness the impact of our graduates in our community is amazing. We see graduates who turn into instructors and entrepreneurs and knowing that we helped them get to that point and having them come to us for advice whether it be in starting their business, or having their own product line. We are extremely grateful that we are blessed to help so many individuals.
HOW DO YOU GROW YOURSELVES WITHIN THE RELATIONSHIP? HOW DO YOU GROW THE RELATIONSHIP First and foremost, we pray together, and that we put The Heavenly Father first. We also grow our relationship by supporting each other no matter what. When you’re in a relationship you have to trust that your spouse will make sound decisions with any personal or business goals even when you are not around. This is where communication plays a big role. If you do not explain to your partner your wants and needs and be fully transparent, then it is hard for them to fulfill these things. In a relationship you have to push each other to be strong not only for each other, but also for yourself. We stay committed and grow together by sharing small adventures, setting goals together and keeping track of them. By doing this we get to have fun and appreciate our time together and our relationship overall. A major thing we do is practice words of affirmation, with this we get to show thoughtfulness towards each other and towards our relationship. HOW DO YOU NOT FOCUS ON THE SUBJECTIVE AND RELATIVE STUFF AROUND YOU AND FOCUS ON THE TRUTH? Trusting only on positive and encouraging things, not to feed into negativity. Being selfless and being only concerned with positivity and enhancing the growth of our marriage and raising our family. WHO DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU SEE YOUR SPOUSE? Cynthia: I see my other half as the person who completes our “power couple,” a leader, an educator, a family man. He is our protector and my safe place. Having a person who you can trust and who is extremely gifted and powerful yet humble is heartwarming. I admire how spiritual my husband is and that helps to strengthen our relationship as he is my prayer partner. Christopher: I see my LORD’S gift to me. I see my Soulmate, Helpmate, my Love, and my Wife! My confidence as a Man is upheld by her beauty, her talents, her creativity, and her strength. I admire her unwavering desire to make ALL things easier for us in her commitment to the values of our marriage. I am truly, truly blessed to have a wife with so much grace and is worth more than any gem in this World.
WHAT ARE SOME BENEFITS OF HAVING A SHARED VISION? Two minds are better than one. When we come together on an idea, we always bounce off each other as we both get ideas that the other may not have thought about. When my husband and I are thinking the same and have the same alignment, the outcomes are unbelievable. Shared vision leads to growth and common interest leads to common goals. It improves the relationship by allowing us to gain a better understanding of each other in business and how to use each other’s strengths for mutual benefit. It unites us in the relationship and has great significance.
the
REVIEW continued
HOW DO YOU SOLVE PROBLEMS/ BRING SOLUTIONS IN THE RELATIONSHIP? Communication is one of the most important parts of our relationship. We try to get to the bottom of the problem by tracing its origins and determining where the issue started then we talk it out. Arguments are ineffective in resolving issues which is why we never go to bed angry. When we talk about the problem and get to the root, it is less likely for arguments to happen especially when we listen to each other’s point of view and come to a mutual agreement. We turn to God for help. We pray and fast together which helps our relationship grow. To avoid problems in our marriage, we consider our faults and don’t take each other for granted because we understand that none of us are perfect. We respect each other for who we are. WHAT IS A QUOTE OR SCRIPTURE THAT YOU BOTH USE AS YOU FUNCTION IN PARTNERSHIP? We have three scriptures: “Therefore shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Genesis 2:24 “A friend and companion never meet amiss: but above both is a wife with her husband.” Ecclesiaticus 40:23 “In three things I was beautified, and stood up beautiful both before God and men: the unity of the brethren, the love of neighbors, a man and a wife that agree together.” Ecclesiasticus 25:1
“Marriage is superior to all relationships and that bond between you and your significant other is astounding, rewarding, and a blessing from The Most High.”
givingFLOWERS
“May the flowers you receive be the same ones you give and vice versa.”
from the
DESK OF
FROM THE DESK OF
JAMES & NATASHA KING
MR & MRS KING
LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
You were fitted for this. Every stitch of joy, frustration, humbleness, growth, brokenness, separation, mending, love, abundance, loss, prosperity, confusion, hustle, strength, and persistent faith has become the very fabric of your beauty. No one carries the crown like you, and no one ever will. You are a mother. That gifted responsibility that instantly made you a cheerleader and a championed fighter is what gives grit to your grace and sexiness to your stretch marks. Own it all. You were fitted for this. Consider not how things will happen. Gird yourself with truth; you are blessed. The persistence of your faith sets an expectation from God that He will deliver to you the plan, the favor, the miracles, the wisdom, and the strength needed. Believe that you are worthy of receiving the good that has already been given to you, see yourself with it, and be adamantly grateful now. Be still and unprovokable. Peace, Joy and Perfect Harmony are well-earned jewels in your crown that cause pure turmoil in those that mean you no good. Be discerning in your actions when you respond to others, especially those closest to you, that can be used as tools to loosen the prongs on your crown. Bring the moment, thought or action into obedience with God’s word. Cover your sin and theirs with love, overlook the offense with love, and pray for them and yourself. Have the capacity to receive and to give. It is perhaps one of the most challenging and surely one of the most fulfilling things to do. You must have the perpetual desire to empty yourself of doing all the things that you think God wants you to do and truly be at His feet, attentive to Him and what He wills. The law of reciprocity is activated when you surrender. It becomes a loving relationship where you communicate what you want, why you want it and what you are willing to sacrifice to have it. You grow in the realization of what He wants, why He wants it, and what He sacrificed to have it. As you do this, your partnership becomes one where you are receiving and giving based on the question “What shall I do for thee?”
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ANDREA
BLACKLEY W W W . G E T S I T U A T E D . S H O P
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SIMPLY AMELIORATE
Simply Ameliorate has natural, handmade skincare products. They are made of pure and raw ingredients to promote healthier skin. After learning that many skincare manufacturers use chemicals and other ingredients that harm the body in their products, this dynamic founder was driven to effectively and organically relieve dry skin and eczema in her family. From this, Simply Ameliorate was created. Simply Ameliorate is a healthier alternative to cleaning, toning, exfoliating, and moisturizing your skin. Try their products like body butter, face cream, body scrubs, and more to come! S I M P L Y- A M E L I O R A T E . M Y S H O P I F Y. C O M
SHAQUELLA
STOKES FOUNDER & CEO
DR. STEVEN D
KELSIE Dr. Steven D. Kelsie is a transformational leadership impact developer, with an insightful awareness on how people can succeed, and empower their lives spiritually, naturally, physically, financially, and socially, altogether collectively. Dr. Kelsie has received his Doctorate of Christian Education and Masters of Biblical Studies from the Tampa Bay Bible College in Tampa, FL. He has been in the industry of network marketing for 20 years and he’s been retired for 15 years out of those 20. Dr. Kelsie is one of the Legacy Initiative Team (L.I.T) educators and mentors under the leadership of multi-millionaire mentor Bass Grant He has helped multiple people become 5 figure earners on this platform and is looking to help others be as successful as they desire.
DOMINIQUE N.
KELSIE
“You’re dreams are possible as long as you believe and have the right vehicle to carry you through.” Dominique N. Kelsie is a working single mother with a gift of administration. She has helped oversee a multi six-figure entity with her father in ministry and entrepreneurship. She has been in electronic e-commerce and distribution for over 13 years. Dominique has a Practical Theology degree from Tampa Bay Bible College and is pursuing her Associates Degree in Biblical Studies. She has her own mentoring program called “Age and Beauty Rap Session” that caters to women of all ages. As a team leader within the Legacy Initiative Team (L.I.T.), she assists brand new customers with navigating their back office and getting started on their journey of learning the skill set of trading. She believes that people should find their niche to get rich, fall in love with the process of success, and always focus on the end in mind.
FATHER & DAUGHTER A DUAL INTERVIEW
D R.
S T E V E N
D
&
D O M I N I Q U E
N .
K E L S I E
HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE BUSINESS PARTNERS AS DAD AND DAUGHTER? It’s a beautiful dynamic that allows us to grow together as father and daughter. We push each other knowing we have each other’s back. Which in turn strengthens our bond.
WHAT ARE BENEFITS TO WORKING TOGETHER? A great benefit is the fact that we know each other well to where we can flow together. Whether it’s presenting or teaching we are able to back one another up to bring a togetherness and unified front to the team and those we meet. We are also able to build off each other’s strengths.
WHAT PRINCIPLES HELP YOU DAILY AS YOU GROW TOGETHER IN LEADERSHIP? Although there many great principles we are using for leadership, the one that we stand on which is the foundation for all is the Word Of God. The Law of Love Christ laid down for His disciples really assist us in knowing how to interact with people and each other. Becoming servant leaders helps to set pride aside and remain in a state of humility.
WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU WANT TO LEAVE WITH EACH OTHER ? It’s not about where you start but how you finish. Working together for a common vision and goal should be the focus. Life will happen but if there is love, respect, belief in one another and encouragement then success is inevitable.
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H T T P S : / / L I N K T R . E E / L E G A C Y N AT I O N
RACHEL
RUSSELL
the lioness woman
Rachel Russell started her entrepreneurship journey at the age of 16 years when her father allowed her to revamp a branch of his organization which saw a 500% growth during its launch year and remained one of the company’s top income generating services for the 5 years that she remained with the company. On venturing on her own, she founded Full Quiver Services Ltd in the islands of Trinidad and Tobago in April 2008 and has sat as the Visionary on the Board of Directors spearheading the strategic direction of the company leading it to be at the top of its industry for the last 7 years. Since her migration to the US in August 2018, she has started Impact! The Family Company, whose mission is geared towards bringing families and communities together, and The Lioness Woman Corporation whose mission is to help HEROS and SHEROS DISCOVER and ACTIVATE their hidden superpower so that they can DOMINATE through a multi-stream income strategy. With 19+ years of entrepreneurial experience, it is her passion to see individuals enjoy the fruit of success while maintaining a healthy lifestyle in their body, soul and spirit.
the lioness woman the interview
WHAT IS THE LIONESS WOMAN, AND WHAT WAS YOUR DRIVING FORCE BEHIND PRODUCING IT? The Lioness Woman began as a journey to embracing my strength as a woman. For many years, I rejected who I was wishing that I can be more sweet and gentle. But it is through the adversities of life that I formed this connection to the lioness, observing that while she may be seen as strong to the world, she is a faithful wife, a caring mother and fiercely loyal to her family. Her story became my story, and I was able to embrace my ferocity and beauty through the representation of who she is. WHAT IS ONE CHALLENGE AND ONE VICTORY THAT YOU’VE EXPERIENCED IN CREATING, SHARING AND GROWING THIS PLATFORM? The biggest challenge was definitely having to overcome me. A lioness hunts in the night and like her, I prefer to stay in the shadows than being seen by the masses. But my biggest challenge became my biggest victory because in me having to show up I got clarity on who I am and the message that I had to share with the world. ARE THERE UPCOMING PROJECTS THAT READERS CAN LOOK FORWARD TO? IF SO, WHAT ARE THEY AND HOW CAN READERS PARTICIPATE? There are several projects coming up over the next couple of months that are designed to help people discover, activate and monetize on their superpower. Persons can join The RAD Universe Facebook Group to keep up to date with these projects or follow me on my social media platforms.
ASHLEE
MOSS
young black
QUEEN
My name is Ashlee Moss and I’m 27 years old living in Tampa, FL. I work in the title insurance industry as my 9-5. My passion is being a influencer and marketing for different business and making connections. I’m in a season of life where I am making that leap to achieve all my dreams and goals.
STEPHANEY COOK
Hello, My name is Stephaney. I’m originally from Maryland, but lived in Tampa Florida most of my life. I was raised in a big family, so I’m very family oriented. I enjoy motivating and helping others to succeed in every goal they set for themselves. I also give my ears to others, so they can vent and relieve stress that was built up within them. I’m a calm, outgoing person and can be a positive influence to someone in need
givingFLOWERS
A Taste of
Melanin
A Taste of Melanin is a bi-weekly podcast hosted by Ashlee and Stephaney discussing lifestyle, relationships, business and more. Their goal is to uplift and motivate black women and men to live and be the best version of themselves. Also, to bring awareness to what young black women deal with in the dating world. Lastly, to shine a light on being authentic and how you shouldn’t feel guilty for wanting the best for yourself. They are also really big on getting the males perspective on everyday life situations.
You can find A Taste of Melanin live on Apple and Spotify.
I truly believe that everything that we do and everyone that we meet is put in our path for a purpose. There are no accidents; we’re all teachers - if we’re willing to pay attention to the lessons we learn, trust our positive instincts and not be afraid to take risks or wait for some miracle to come knocking at our door.
- Marla Gibbs
I
AM
the affirmative
AIS
HA STEELE
I am a single mother of two boys. I am an aid to my high school alumni football booster club. I am an overcomer of eviction and now in my first home. I am an overcomer of repossession and now own multiple vehicles I am an achiever who once gave up whenever times got hard, but I stayed and now it’s my time to show the world who I really am. I am someone who knows the struggle, but I love helping people get to where they need to be hoping that by sharing my story will help someone to not quit. I am destined for greatness. I am loving. I am blessed.
VIRG DR.
I am first, a woman who loves the Lord.
I am a wife, a mother of 4 sons, a Nana, a GiGi and a licensed evangelist. I am owner of Teach the Children Academy, a school for students with ADHD and other medically treated illnesses. I am a professional photographer at Inspired Fotos Photography. I am a health problem solver with Total Life Changes. I am a provider of food to seniors, single parent households, or anyone needing assistance through They That Hunger Food Pantry! I am so happy and grateful that I am a conduit for God to bless others. I am God-fearing. I am grateful. I am generous.
INIA JAMISON
SHAN
I am a mother of three beautiful daughters. I am a proud alumni of Jim Hill High School University (Psychology).
and Jackson State
I am in pursuit of my Masters in Clinical Psychology. I am an administrative assistant at my alma Mater in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering where I have become a mentor to the engineer students, following them even after they have graduated and moved on the next chapter of their lives. I am an independent business owner in Total Life Changes as a Rising Star in a community where I have developed life-long friendships with some amazing people. I am a goal seeker of one day opening my own family practice that will serve as a rehabilitation program for underprivileged individuals in the community who can’t afford health insurance and provide job readiness and trade programs that will hire those individuals once the program is complete. This practice will also curve the prison rate to help rehabilitate versus incarcerate our young black youth to give them a better chance at making positive decisions in life. I am love. I am friendship. I am Compassion.
ETTA CRISLOR
I am a mother of four and grandmother of seven. I am an AFAA certified personal trainer and an Xtreme Hip Hop Step trainer. I am a member at Pleasant Grove East McComb Baptist Church under Pastor Hilton Harrell where I am a member of the choir and youth department. I am excited about training my associates at work to reach goals and excel. I am passionate about training people on their health journey to reach fitness goals. I am a reader, a movie lover, and a workout enthusiast. I am a lover of people.
LATI COACH
CELY BRYANT
My favorite things in life don't cost any money. It's really clear that the most precious resource we all have is time. - Steve Jobs
YOUR it’s
TIME
COACH MYKEIA
a woman that wears many hats
MYKEIA
THOMAS
COACH mykeia
has become a transformation coach of the mind, body, and soul. Her journey started with her being over 200 pounds and losing 70 pounds in a year. Throughout that time she continued to coach volleyball, mentor young girls, inspire the masses, and build a brand that will leave a legacy. She’s coached volleyball for almost 20 years and has encountered a kid of every kind. It has become her mission to help each kid that she coaches become more aware, responsible, accountable, confident, and able to access the gifts they hold within. Coach MyKeia is 38 with a mission to tell her testimony about how great her God is and how he saved her out of a life of darkness. She truly believes that God is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all we can ask, think, or imagine!
MELANIE
SANDERS FORMER AMERICAN IDOL AND MISS ATLANTA MELANIE SANDERS HAS CREATED A COMPANY THAT BLENDS HER EXPERTISE IN ENTERTAINMENT, SALES, AND PUBLIC RELATIONS INTO ONE BOUTIQUE FIRM THAT CLIENTELE HAVE GROWN TO LOVE AND TRUST. As a teenager, Melanie appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show alongside her family in a segment entitled “Viewer’s Favorite Rooms”. Melanie’s mother, LuxeLife Firm VP and Interior Designer Deborah Sanders, was encouraged to submit their home to the show where weeks later Oprah personally picked the Sanders family to be featured. That experience motivated Melanie to reach for the stars. Though her talent was different from her mother’s, she learned that merely ‘trying’ would be the only tool needed to begin working towards success. A few years later, it was Melanie’s singing talent that led her to soar through a successful run in pageantry, placing her runner-up in both the Miss America and Miss USA organizations; and later chosen as a finalist on Fox’s American Idol where she performed for millions and was invited to perform at the MGM Grande in Las Vegas. As time progressed, Melanie also toured with the nationally acclaimed Spelman Jazz Ensemble. In 2003, she graduated from Spelman College and continued to work in entertainment, later starring in two independent films. Never to rest on her laurels, Melanie created LuxeLife, LLC (aka The LuxeLife Firm) after her reign as Miss Atlanta in 2005. She acted as a spokesperson and ambassador for the city of Atlanta and was recognized in proclamation by the Georgia State Senate for her work in the community. “Melanie Sanders Day” was given in her honor. In addition to building LuxeLife, Melanie’s presence in the community allowed her to work in an array of spokesperson and luxury sales positions, closing millions of dollars in sales and working with some of the countries most notable business pros and celebrities.
She became a well-known and respected personality in the Atlanta community and nationally. She took her business experience and people-skills behind the camera and began to utilize her marketing and imaging expertise. She worked as assistant and manager for NeNe Leakes of The Real Housewives of Atlanta; brand strategist and event director for several well-known NFL and NBA players; and was honored as a special guest of Atlantic Records for the opening of JayZ’s Magna Carter tour in London, England. The LuxeLife Firm has acted as production manager for The Kings of the South concert tour featuring Rick Ross and has produced special events in London, England for the NBA Global Games. Though this is a mere glimpse of Ms. Sanders’ experience and relevance in the business and entertainment world, it is evident that Melanie Sanders is no stranger to hard work, dedication and amazing luck in these ever-changing, yet fabulous industries.
LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
Currently, Melanie can be seen on the Oprah Winfrey Network’s new hit reality TV series Belle Collective. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and is a member of various civic and community organizations and Boards. She is also a state representative for the Publication Relations Association of MS (PRAM). She is also the Circuit Court Administrator for the 9th Judicial District of MS under Judge Toni Walker Terrett, the District’s first female judge.
W W W . L U X E L I F E P R . C O M
YOUR Uniqueness
IS YOUR Greatest
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Shavannah SPEAKS
MOORE
Shavannah Speaks Moore is a Life Development Coach, Speaker, Corporate Trainer & Master NLP/ CBT & Hypnotherapy Practitioner who specializes in helping High-Achieving Women & Leaders use their mindset to achieve specific goals and overcome obstacles to personal growth. Shavannah has been featured on The Rachael Ray Show, Dr.Oz, Tamron Hall, CBS, Amazon Prime, and so many more media outlets around the World. She has worked with Top Influences who have appeared on The OWN Network, Tyler Perry, Food Network & NBC. Coming from a World of poverty, being sexually abused as a child and being a highschool dropout who was told she would never amount to anything, Shavannah is now a woman on a mission. A mission to KILL the status quo for women and what we've been conditioned to believe for generations. She has set out to Empower & Inspire women by helping them find their voice, and become the best version of themselves in their career/business. She has transformed her own personal and professional life by embracing her calling to teach, coach, heal & LEAD on Purpose.
HTTPS://LINKTR.EE/SHAVANNAHSPEAKS
Through her Personal Development and Lifestyle company and her non profit, One Big Heart Corporation Shavannah will continue to change the lives of many women & families around the Nation one Leader at a time!!!
7 STEPS TO Creatively K I L L
P R O C R A S T I N AT I O N A N D
S T R E S S
Creativity is like a wildfire - it can start as a small spark but has the capacity to spread into every area of your life and others! If you’ve been in a stale place for any length of time, we encourage you to get moving. May we suggest something aggressive yet fun to fire up some intrinsic motivation that we believe will ultimately push you towards the realization of a truly worthy ideal. Set your mind on creating 30 New Things within a specific timeframe. These things can be 30 new outfits/hairstyles, craft projects, letters to a loved one, implementations of an investment strategy, live videos or food dishes. YOU DECIDE! Check out the guidelines below to get yourself creatively moving towards action and peace.
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Determine what area you are setting your goal in: fitness, learning a craft (i.e. cooking, make-up, sports, gardening), studying, finances, doing something special for your significant other, etc.
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Decide on an investment amount between $25 - $200 to cover supplies.
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Decide if you’re going to focus your efforts for 30, 60, or 90 days and set aside a time that’s best for you to implement what you’ve learned and try out your 30 New Things. Spend 5 -30 minutes on actually doing that thing.
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Search for new ideas from pictures, videos, books, or other people. Save them, so when you’re ready for the next “thing” you already have a pool to choose from. Take pictures to chart your progress, and share your results at the end of your 30, 60, or 90 day adventure. #30NewThings Once you decide on your next “thing” implement it immediately. Follow up with your next new thing within 1-3 days. This guards against boredom, and stretches your creativity.
Determine what things you will HAVE to do daily. Also identify what things you’ll have to give up or go without doing. The idea behind #30NewThings is implementation, and not perfection. You want to spark your curiosity and creativity by actively engaging in something new and fun. Do not become so focused on accurate execution, and leave room for spontaneity and uniqueness. Make a decision to get moving towards something new; in this case, 30 new things! happy adventures
HEY
MOM I LOVE YOU!
Celebrating moms with stories you’ll love!
AUTHORESS
TEKENYA K
BEING A MOTHER IS ONE OF THE GREATEST HONORS THAT GOD HAS ENTRUSTED TO ME! My story of motherhood started on June 1, 1998! I gave birth to a 9 pound 14 oz beautiful baby boy! 10 fingers/10 toes and beautiful eyes to see!! My husband and I welcomed him with open arms! He had a head full of cold black hair that flowed down his back! All the nurses couldn’t believe how long his hair was! When he turned 6 months one day I noticed his lips turning blue and I rushed him in to one hospital for them to say he just had a cold! It didn’t sit well with me so I headed to another hospital for them to say, I made it just in time he was almost dead. They admitted him and ran test and he was diagnosed with meningitis which he was treated for with several doses of vaccine and little did we know it effected one of his limbs! We stayed in the hospital for a total of 6 months!! He got a chance to see the Easter bunny and Santa Claus! Haha Lamar Jr. has had to have a total of 12 surgeries since the beginning of 6th grade through out his high school years due to spinal meningitis. We have had to travel from state to state for specialist to do surgeries on him! All the while caring for baby Joseph! My children are 2 years apart! Imagine not being able to keep a job or being forced to let several jobs go because our children take priority in our lives. I’m thankful that God allowed my husband never to get laid off or fired but he did lose a lot of sleep driving us on the Highways from state to state and then returning home some days just in time to head straight to work! God has always been the source for me as mother and wife because it gets very hard sometimes but he has given me beauty for ashes! I know God doesn’t make mistakes and Lamar Jr was given to me for a beautiful reason!! We both grew together learning how to become warriors!
Ida Mae
FRAZIER
A TRUE MATRIARCH Indianola, Mississippi
THESE HANDS These hands raised not only a family, but a community. These hands cooked and cleaned while siblings worked in cotton fields These hands fed multiple generations These hands corrected in loving discipline These hands welcomed many who needed a safe haven These hands continuously offered God praise These hands made the best yeast rolls, pies and greens... to name a few These hands ran a cafe These hands adjusted impeccably styled outfits and hats
These hands put countless babies to sleep These hands joyfully completed crossword puzzles These hands frequently caressed the pages of God’s word These hands gave directions to carry a plate to countless people These hands held the phone every New Year’s morning to hear a male’s voice as her 1st call for the year These hands were held by her pastor as he prayed with her and shared communion These hands were present through the service of sixteen US presidents These hands clapped to the gospel songs being played from the radio in the dining room These hands accomplished a lifetime of service, love, joy and strength. May these hands rest well, and tenderly be laid upon the hearts of all of us that had the joy of being a part of you.
NOW THESE HANDS HAVE BECOME A PART OF OUR OWN!
JESSICA and
AUSTIN
Motherhood has been a high speed rollercoaster experience for me. I truly found out what love was when I became a mother. I didn’t get to enjoy a wonderful pregnancy like some mothers may visualize, instead I experienced prenatal depression from being abused while pregnant. My traumatic experience lead me into postpartum depression and into my purpose of uplifting and inspiring in the mental health profession. I now have a great source of wisdom and undeniable love for my son. My son and I have been fighting concurrently since he was in my womb and now we fight against a world full of preconceptions for a little black boy . We win against all odds and he is my greatest joy. I am so honored to have the position of a mother and proud to be actively raising an astonishing little black boy.
Kimberly
STRAUSS
I thought I was running the show. That my happiness, success and failure simply depended on me making a plan and working it. That it was all just a matter of selfdiscipline.
Being a mother is the greatest ego check of my life. While I absolutely loved every second of being a home mama, I can confirm motherhood completely changed me.
AND THEN I HAD KIDS.
There are many times as a mom we feel like we failed. I believe the biggest parenting fail is letting the “perfect mom” ideal make us feel like we failed at it all. Moms work so hard, and sometimes it gets overwhelming trying to manage everything and everyone. We are a housekeeper, chef, teacher, nurse, life coach, chauffeur, story teller, monster killer, planner, organizer, decorator, crafter, financial director, etc. In other words we are one person doing the work of 20 for free. Trying to serve all those roles perfectly is impossible!
There’s nothing like children to help you stay humble. It happened all at once. A great deal of my joy and personal satisfaction was wrapped up in someone other than myself. I was responsible for two tiny people who didn’t share my desires at every point along the way. People who stretched me, exposing all the rough edges of my own heart, all the shortcomings that I’d been able to gloss over in other areas of my life.
Motherhood is a choice we make every day, to put someone else’s happiness and well being ahead of our own. It is about teaching the hard lessons of doing the right thing, even when we’re not sure what the right thing is. Motherhood is about forgiveness. Forgiving ourselves over and over again for doing everything wrong. Forgiving our past and not allowing it to control our future. Forgiving our mothers where they may have fallen short. Honestly, with motherhood we learn as we go with the tools we were given. We operate the best we can with those tools. The reality is some us us have more tools in our tool box to handle life. That’s ok. It’s just the way it is. Being a “REAL MOM” is being emotional, exhausted, worried, impatient, and overwhelmed. The truth is a good mom has had bad days, and great days, and normal days, and overwhelming days, and perfect days, and trying days, and supermom days, and a whole lot of LOVE and REAL and CRAZY motherhood days. The bottom line, kids don’t want a “perfect mom” they want a happy mom. Happiness in motherhood is letting every situation be what it is, instead of what we think it should be. Some days we will have no idea what we are doing, or how we will do it all. That’s OK. Some days, doing the “best we can” may still fall short of what we would like to be able to do, but life isn’t perfect on any front-and doing what we can with what we have is the most we should expect of ourselves and anyone else. We should not let bad days, or insecure feelings make us believe that we are anything less than an extraordinary mother. We can take care of the possible and trust God with the impossible. Keep in mind friends, our greatest contribution to the kingdom of God may not be something we do, but SOMEONE WE RAISE.
Happy Mother’s Day
She is a woman who is designed to receive, incubate, produce, nurture, and encourage.
She is a woman, a lady, a queen.
20 TOUGH QUESTIONS WITH A HIGH RETURN Of the tens of thousands of choices that you make during the day, consider your current position and ask yourself “Am I answering the right questions?” Your results are a direct reflection of your choices, and those choices are based on the questions that you answer. Take time to answer the following questions. Allow yourself to be honest. What you give in response will yield an even greater return.
1 - WHAT DO YOU WANT? 2 - WHY DO YOU WANT IT? 3 - WHAT ARE YOU WILLING TO SACRIFICE TO HAVE IT? 4 - HOW BIG DO YOU WANT TO DREAM? 5 - HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO ENVISION? 6 - HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO SERVE? 7 - HOW MUCH DO YOU WANT TO BELIEVE? 8 - HOW MUCH ARE YOU WILLING TO FORGET? 9 - WILL YOU BE MORE AFRAID (WITH REVERENCE) OF LOOSING THE OPPORTUNITY THAN FEAR OF THE OBSTACLE ITSELF? 10 - WILL YOU REFUSE TO GIVE YOURSELF A PLAN OF RETREAT? 11 - WILL YOU REFUSE TO DIE IN THE PRESENCE OF RESOURCES? 12 - WHAT RESOURCES WILL YOU CHOOSE TO HONOR? 13 - WILL YOU EMBRACE TIME AS THE GIFT THAT IT IS? 14 - WHO DO YOU NEED TO FORGIVE? 15 - WILL YOU FORGIVE YOUR OFFENDER AND COVER THE OFFENSE WITH LOVE 16 - WILL YOU EMBRACE FAILURE AS A GIFT? 17 - WILL YOU CHOOSE TO BELIEVE THE TRUTH ABOUT YOURSELF? 18 - WILL YOU CHOOSE TO LOVE AT ALL TIMES? 19 - WILL YOU KEEP GOD AS THE SOURCE? 20 - WHAT IS YOUR RESPONSE TO GOD ASKING, “WHAT SHALL I DO FOR THEE?”
LOVE MARRIAGE & PARTNERSHIP | THE REVIEW
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EVERYONE HAS A STORY OF HOW THEY MET THEIR BELOVED. IN ITS OWN UNIQUE, SOMETIMES QUIRKY WAY, THE LOVE STORY HAS THE ABILITY TO PENETRATE ANY HEART. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING TO BE MARRIED OR ALREADY VESTED, SHARE YOUR STORY WITH US! OUR TEAM WILL CHOOSE THE TOP FIVE SUBMISSIONS. YOU WILL BE FEATURED IN AN UPCOMING ISSUE.
REQUIREMENTS: - Submit a summary of your story in 700 words or less. Let us know why you feel your story is beautiful. - Send your full name(s) - Send a serious picture and a fun picture of you both. - LMPTHEREVIEWMAGAZINE@GMAIL.COM
WHY DO WE DO THIS PUBLICATION FOR FREE - to shine a light on husbands and wives positively working in partnership - to edify others in business, community, ministry etc - to provide readers with real-life examples & tools to apply in their own lives
Candace Harris, a photographer based in Jackson, MS, who always loves to share with people how photography changed her life and was truly a gift from God. Candace has been doing photography professionally for about 3 years and it started as a simple hobby but God had other plans. Going from a stay at home mom to a full time photographer, life has taken an interesting turn. Harris shared “I got a camera at the age of 29 and I can't believe how far this thing has taken me so fast.” she went on to share that she loves connecting with people and giving them room to celebrate themselves and the beautiful chapters in their life. “It’s truly a mnistry.” Candace shares that it’s so amazing how people are able to open up to her during their sessions. CANDACEHARRISPHOTOGRAPHY.COM