July 2021 by Queen Size Magazine

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

FROM THE DESK OF Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Welcome to the JULY 2021 issue of Queen Size Magazine. I know that we release our issues one month in advance, but in real time, we are kicking off Pride month. A few months ago, I reached out to my good friend Aubrey and asked him if he would be interested in sharing his story with you all. And of course, he said yes (because Aubrey NEVER tells me no lol). We brainstormed on the angle, and I am extremely pleased at the outcome. In this issue Aubrey shared some very intimate parts of his life that many knew nothing about. We hope you enjoy and are inspired by his story. Can you believe that we are halfway through the year? Can you believe that we are on the brinks of getting back to some level of normalcy? There are many parts of the world that are still struggling. Please let’s all remember to stay safe and remember that we are not out of the woods yet. Take the time to love yourself and love your family. Take the time to think more about your business and your future. If we didn’t all learn one thing, we definitely have learned that life is short and can change in the blink of an eye. Thank you all for continuing to support Queen Size Magazine. We would love to hear your feedback. Email us at queensizemagazine@gmail.com and let us know what you like, don’t like and/or want to see in future issues. We value your opinion. Be blessed and remember to be a blessing as well.

Photo by Philip Drew @pdrewphotography

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MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director & Director of Photography

Photographer | Brian Tru IG: @Braintru Production Assistant | Kissi B Tru IG: @Katoriae Creative Director/Model | Aubrey Boyd IG: @ThePlusArchitect Hair Shelette Wright | IG: @iamshelettewright Make-Up | Tazah Richardson IG: @MUATazah Wardrobe Stylist | Ron Collins IG: @Vintage_red Designer: Jon Marc By ZaK IG: JonMarc_Collection

MEESHA ANN Executive Director SOCIAL DEPARTMENT SHEENA POSTELL Social Media Correspondant BEAUTY DEPARTMENT LAWANDA SANYANG Beauty Editor / Makeup NATHANIEL JAYE’ Beauty Editor / Hair CRYSTAL D. LEWIS Beauty Editor / Hair FASHION DEPARTMENT ASHLEY WALKER Fashion Editor LIFESTYLE DEPARTMENT Janelle Simmons Lifestyle Editor Nyemade Boiwu Lifestyle Editor

Celebrating PRIDE Month WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JULY 2021 ISSUE

CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

AUBREY BOYD TAKE A WALK IN HIS SHOES By QSM

HEALTH AND FITNESS

A TRULY MEMORABLE SUMMER MENU By FAMILY FEATURES

3 TOP STRATEGIES TO KEEP BONES STRONG By FAMILY FEATURES

BEAUTY&FASHION

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | QUEEN GABRIELLA PARKER By QSM

WHERE ARE MY EDGES GOING?

BUDGE PROOF MAKEUP

I’M STILL MY SISTER’S KEEPER PRESENTS “I AM LIGHT” - EVENT COVERAGE

By CRYSTAL D. LEWIS

MODEL SPOTLIGHT

JULY 2021 ISSUE

By LAWANDA “LALA FACES” SANYANG

By ASHLEY WALKER

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | ASHLYNNE GORE

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT | ZAK SECRET BELL - JON MARC

By QSM

BUSINESS

EMBRACE GETTING OLDER

LOVE AND LIFE INSPIRE SUCCESS ........... ENTREPRENEURS

By NYEMADE BOIWU

By BRANDPOINT

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

A Truly Memorable Summer Menu S

FAMILY FEATURES

ummer days are often spent with family and friends, soaking in the sun’s rays and enjoying outdoor living with warm-weather activities. Complement this year’s summertime excitement with food that matches your enthusiasm for the season. Your menu can start with a fruity dip and a salad before diving into steak for the main course and a kidfriendly treat to top it all off. These recipes make the most of what summer has to offer with fresh fruits and veggies, bright and refreshing greens, tender cuts of meat and frozen treats that celebrate those memorable moments together. Find more summer recipe inspiration at Culinary.net.

Dip Up a Good Time

Whether your summer days include planning extravagant meals or your on-the-go lifestyle calls for quick and easy recipes, simple snacks can fit a wide variety of menus. Dips are a perfect solution for afternoon pick-me-ups or evening appetizers when the whole family comes together. This Apple Guacamole can be made in mere minutes, making it an ideal shareable among loved ones, by combining mashed avocados and seasonings with chopped Granny Smith apple pieces. Visit Culinary.net for more snack ideas.

Apple Guacamole

Recipe adapted from the Meredith Corporation Prep time: 10 minutes Servings: 8-10 3 ripe avocados, halved and pitted 1/2 cup finely chopped Vidalia onion 1/2 cup snipped fresh cilantro 1 lime, juice only Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Apple Guacamole

Go for Satisfying Summer Greens

Many summer meals start with a simple yet satisfying appetizer: salad. This year, make sure you set the table with a bright, delightful bowl of greens that sets the tone for an enjoyable and festive meal with loved ones. This Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad calls for an array of fruits, including a homemade blueberry dressing, paired with Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix for a fresh and flavorful base with pecan halves to add crunch. The salads are thoroughly washed, rinsed and gently dried then sealed in Keep-Crisp bags to maintain freshness. Find more salad inspiration at freshexpress.com.

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bottled hot pepper sauce, to taste 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and finely chopped kosher salt, to taste tortilla chips In bowl, use fork to mash avocados, onion, cilantro, lime juice and hot pepper sauce to desired consistency. Stir in apple and season with salt, to taste. Serve with tortilla chips.

Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6 Blueberry Dressing: 2 cups fresh blueberries 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 cup olive oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste 2 large apples 2 packages (6 ounces each) Fresh Express 5-Lettuce Mix 1 pint strawberries, cut in half 1 pint blueberries 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted blueberry dressing To make blueberry dressing: In blender, process blueberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste, until smooth. Set aside. To prepare salad: Cut apples into 1/4-inch thick slices. Using 1-1/2-inch diameter star-shaped cutter, cut apple slices into stars. Place lettuce mix in large bowl; add apples, strawberries and blueberries. Sprinkle with pecans. Before serving, drizzle each

cilantro 1 lime, juice only Photo courtesy of Getty Images

and season with salt, to taste. Serve with tortilla chips.

Apple Guacamole

A TRULY MEMORABLE SUMMER MENU | FAMILY FEATURES

Go for Satisfying Summer Greens

Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6 Blueberry Dressing: 2 cups fresh blueberries 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons honey

Steak Banh Mi

Savor a Bite of Steak

A hearty flavor profile and perfectly prepared, high-quality meat can make a summer meal truly spectacular, especially when paired with fresh veggies in a protein-packed sandwich. Inspired by Vietnamese tradition, this Steak Banh Mi recipe – which features tender grass-fed flat iron steak, pickled carrots, bright lettuce and crunchy cucumbers – is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next summer gathering. Take your taste buds to new heights with Silver Fern Farms natural cuts of 100% grass-fed beef from New Zealand, which is minimally processed with no added growth hormones or antibiotics. There, the animals roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures, resulting in lean, flavorful, nutritious meat that tastes just as nature intended. Visit silverfernfarms.com for more inspiration.

Steak Banh Mi

Prep time: 2 hours Cook time: 15 minutes Servings: 2 10 ounces Silver Fern Farms New Zealand grass-fed beef flat iron steak 2 teaspoons hoisin sauce 2 teaspoons soy sauce 2 teaspoons honey 1 teaspoon fish sauce 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon, plus 1/2 cup, rice vinegar, divided 1/8 teaspoon five-spice powder 2 tablespoons sugar 1 pinch salt 1 small carrot, cut into matchsticks 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/4 cup water 2 Vietnamese baguettes or dinner rolls

1/4 cup mayonnaise 4 Batavia lettuce leaves 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped 1 Persian cucumber, sliced Remove steak from packaging and set aside 10 minutes. Once steak reaches room temperature, place steak in deep plate or storage container. In small bowl, combine hoisin sauce, soy sauce, honey, fish sauce, garlic, 1 teaspoon rice vinegar and five-spice powder; pour over steak. Cover and marinate in fridge at least 2 hours, or overnight. In small pot over medium heat, heat remaining rice vinegar, sugar and salt. Cook and stir until sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat and let cool. Place carrots in deep plate or storage container. Pour cooled pickling liquid over carrots. Set aside to marinate. Remove steak from marinade and pat dry. Reserve marinade. Heat oven to 325 F. Heat heavy-bottomed pan over high heat and add oil. Once oil begins to smoke, add steak. Sear both sides, about 1 minute per side. Lower heat to medium. Add reserved marinade and water to pan. Cook, covered, 3 minutes, removing lid to flip meat occasionally. Remove lid and let sauce reduce 1 minute, or until slightly thickened. Transfer steak and sauce to large plate and let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Toast baguettes in oven 5 minutes. Let cool 5-10 minutes. Slice baguettes along middle without cutting through. Slice steak into thin pieces. Spread mayonnaise on baguettes and add 1-2 lettuce leaves to each. Layer steak on lettuce leaves followed by cilantro, cucumbers and pickled carrots. Slice baguette into two sandwiches.

Apple, Strawberry, Blueberry Salad

Sweet, Summery Treats

After some fun in the pool and time spent in the sun, a cooling treat is often the perfect way to cap off a summer day. Fresh fruits make those sweet eats even tastier and easier by making dessert in the morning and letting it freeze while you enjoy the warmth outdoors. These Watermelon Berry Frozen Pops make dessert about as simple as possible by blending watermelon, blueberries, raspberries and honey before adding to ice pop molds and freezing throughout the day. With the addition of refreshing watermelon, you’re opting for a flavorful fruit that includes just 80 calories and no fat while providing an excellent source of vitamin C (25%) and higher levels of lycopene (12.7 milligrams per 2-cup serving) – an antioxidant being studied for its role in sun protection – than any other fresh fruit or vegetable. To find more summertime snacks, meals and treats, visit watermelon.org.

Watermelon Berry Frozen Pops

Servings: 8 6 cups watermelon 1 cup blueberries, divided 1 cup raspberries, divided 3 tablespoons honey In blender, blend watermelon, 1/2 cup blueberries, 1/2 cup raspberries and honey until smooth. Press through fine mesh strainer to remove pulp and seeds. Fill ice pop molds 3/4 full with liquid. Add remaining whole blueberries and raspberries to molds. Insert sticks and freeze at least 4 hours, or until completely frozen.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

3 TOP STRATEGIES TO KEEP BONES STRONG

Healthy bodies need healthy bones. Bones support our weight, protect our internal organs and provide a platform for our muscles to work. Unfortunately, we don’t always treat our bones right. There are many common behaviors or attributes that weaken the skeletal structure, including: * Smoking * Drinking alcohol in excess * Lack of exercise / sedentary lifestyle * Too much exercise * Diets low in protein and high in salt * Genetics

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While bad habits aren’t good for anyone’s bones, they are particularly concerning for people with osteoporosis or those who are at higher risk for the condition. Osteoporosis is a general weakening of bone structure that leaves a person at a much higher risk of fracture. It’s typically associated with postmenopausal women; however, osteoporosis can affect men as well. While the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports 24.5% of women 65 and older have the disease, the same is true for 5.1% of men in that age bracket. Essentially, everyone reaches peak bone development around age 30, and bone mass slowly declines as you age.

3 TOP STRATEGIES TO KEEP BONES STRONG | FAMILY FEATURES

“Healthy bones come from the right exercise and diet,” says Leslie Bonci, registered dietitian and consultant for the California Prune Board. “The good news is, the ‘right’ exercise can be fun, and a bone-friendly diet is loaded with delicious things to eat!”

prunes provide boron and manganese, they’re also rich in Vitamin K - another nutrient fundamental for bone mineralization. In fact, California Prunes have been of interest to bone health researchers for several years.

Here are three simple strategies for keeping bones strong.

“We’re seeing an exciting ‘prune effect’ on bones,” reports Dr. Bernard Halloran, bone health researcher and Professor Emeritus at the University of California San Francisco. “In a variety of unique research scenarios, California Prunes are consistently associated with a favorable bone response.”

1. Moderate exercise The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends a moderate regimen of weightbearing exercise to support your bones. While the emphasis is on moderation, overdoing your exercise can lead to injuries that leave your bones in worse condition. Popular weight-bearing exercises include walking, hiking, jogging, stair climbing and dancing. The NIH also recommends resistance exercises, or more often referred to as strength training. Every time you lift a weight, a small amount of stress is placed on your bones by your muscles. This stress essentially encourages bone-forming cells to hurry up and get to work. 2. Modify your diet Even with the right exercise a bonesupporting diet is important. Calcium and Vitamin D are the most familiar essential nutrients, and they are certainly a powerful combination, but, other nutrients are also needed to effectively build bone density. For starters, you need between 0.4 and 0.9 grams of protein per pound of body weight per day. You also need plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in bone-forming minerals like boron, manganese, magnesium, potassium and zinc. It is important to focus on getting these minerals from veggies and fruits, as mineral supplements are generally less beneficial. One fruit particularly rich in bone-building minerals is California Prunes. Not only do

Bonci agrees, explaining that prunes are a whole food approach to healthy eating, as well as being readily available, economical, safe and - by all indications - effective in supporting healthy bones. They’re also an easy-to-carry snack, and a versatile ingredient perfect for both sweet and savory recipes. 3. Maintain a healthy weight Keeping your weight at a healthy level is particularly important for bone health. A low body mass index score (BMI) is considered a significant risk factor for bone loss, particularly in older people. This is because when a person is underweight, their body has fewer available resources for repairing bone. Conversely, a high BMI due to excess body fat has also been shown to be detrimental to your bones. The risks with high BMI are potential strain and fracture due to an overtaxed skeletal structure. To best determine what a healthy weight is for you, talk to your doctor. Anyone’s bones can weaken over time, but, through healthy habits you can limit your risks of potential bone damage. So, the next time you go for a pleasant walk through your neighborhood or enjoy some sweet California Prunes, be proud of yourself. You’re on the right track for keeping your bones strong.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Mickey Armstrong @plusmodelphotography Model | Queen Gabriella Parker @mizgabby9791 MUA | MUA: Lauren Mason @vlsmakeupartistry Hair and Styling done by model Red Dress | Sydney’s Closet @sydneyscloset

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | QUEEN GABRIELLA PARKER

GABRIELLA PARKER MS. FULL-FIGURED D.M.V. PLUS QUEEN 2020 PLATFORM: “I AM ENOUGH” PROMOTING SELF-LOVE, SELF-CARE, AND SELF-WORTH. A lifelong DMV native, Gabriella Symone Parker was born and raised in Alexandria, Virginia, and began modeling in fashion shows at 3 years old. Throughout her life she has advocated for more options in plus size fashion; in 2013 she was featured in an award-winning George Washington University story outlining the disparities in straight-size vs. plus-size clothing in department stores. When she isn’t working, she enjoys watching (and performing!) musical theatre. She currently resides in Fort Washington, Maryland with her wonderful husband Mark.

As Ms. Full Figured DMV Plus, 2020 Queen, Gabriella seeks to inspire people of all sizes to go after their goals. Her platform, “I Am Enough”, encourages full-figured women. and men to have body confidence and own the spotlight. As a true believer, that size has no barrier on beauty, she hosts empowerment seminars that teach people how to have a healthy relationship with their bodies by promoting self-love, self-care, and self-worth.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

QSM: Congratulations on winning Ms. FullFigured D.M.V. Plus 2020. I always like to start from the beginning. I like to get to know who people were before they became who they are. Tell me about life for you as a child. Gabriella: As a child, I was always the girl with the big hair and even bigger personality. I remember being in kindergarten and having kids complain when they had to sit behind me and my tall curly buns. Growing up I was always plus size, but I never let that stop me from doing whatever I set my mind to. I played volleyball, basketball, and softball for a while. A lot of my favorite adolescent memories, however, came when I was on stage. I was heavy into choir, drama, and musical theater. It is hard to explain, but I was a different person when it was time to perform. I came alive on stage; I was fearless. I am trying to get some of that back. QSM: Is anyone else in your family working in, or have worked in the fashion industry? I am curious about when the fashion bug bit you. Gabriella: My family was not in the industry, but they taught me a lot about fashion and style. My grandmother taught me a lot about good fabrics and proper garment fit. She can tailor anything. My mom is a true fashionista; she can style anyone. She taught me about coordination and “completing the look”. They loved playing dress-up with me as a child. I was the pre-schooler (yes, pre-schooler) in three-piece suits and glittery gold Mary-Jane shoes. Despite that, I would not say the “fashion bug” hit me until I was grown and able to explore my own personal style. For me, style is about more than just buying the clothes; it is about knowing how to put them on in a way that complements who YOU are. I am incredibly grateful for the fashion foundation my family gave me. QSM: What challenges would you say you have faced so far on your journey?

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Gabriella: I am brand new to the model industry, so I am learning everything as I go. After preparing and competing for a pageant in 2020, it is fascinating to see the differences between pageantry and modeling. There are some similarities but many differences. So that has been one of the biggest challenges; keeping my pageant training fresh as I prepare for Nationals while switching gears as I explore the plus modeling world. I am so grateful for every opportunity that I’ve received thus far.

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | QUEEN GABRIELLA PARKER responsibility is to be the best, most authentic version of myself I can be. It is not my job to diminish myself so others can digest me. I am worthy of love and respect just the way God made me. QSM: How are you carrying out your platform during your reign as Queen? Gabriella: I am now the proud owner of I Am Enough LLC, and now that the worst of the pandemic is hopefully behind us, we have got some exciting in-person platform events coming soon. I am most excited about a fashion show that we are planning that’s going to highlight models that are size 20+. Because even in the plus industry, there’s still discrimination against fuller figured models. I feel that it is my duty to show that true plus models have style and confidence and can slay the runway.

QSM: Has the fact that you won sunk in yet? What were you feeling when they called your name? Gabriella: Winning the crown has sunk in for me. Our amazing director Lorrine ColemanRoss does not let us hide in the shadows as Queens. She is always giving us a platform, and I am so thankful for her. I cried when they called my name for Ms. Full-Figured DMV Plus 2020. I am a private person by nature, so people do not understand my journey. There were so many times in the process that I wanted to give up. I walked into the audition for the pageant in the middle of a monthslong depression. Then the pandemic took an even bigger toll to my mental health. Even though I am so grateful for this crown, coming out of this process with a healthier relationship with myself means more to me than winning the pageant ever could. QSM: Tell me a little bit about your platform? Gabriella: My platform is titled “I Am Enough: Promoting Self-Love, Self-Care, and SelfWorth”. This was birthed through my personal journey up to and throughout the pageant process. In the past, I felt like certain people might love and accept me if I were a little smaller, a little quieter, a little less confident in who I am. What I realize now is that my only

QSM: Who are YOUR plus icons? Modeling or pageantry Gabriella: The “O.G.” Fashion bloggers absolutely played a huge role in my personal development. Marie Denee (The Curvy Fashionista), Gabi Gregg (GabiFresh), and Chastity Garner Valentine (GarnerStyle), to name a few, were instrumental in helping me figure out my place as a Black plus size woman in this world. I did not have many, if any, real life people who looked like me in my everyday life, so seeing them killing the game was such an inspiration for me. I appreciate these industry pioneers more than they will ever know. QSM: What is the best advice you have gotten so Far? Gabriella: “Do it scared.” Sometimes you are not going to be 100% confident in your abilities. You WILL question why they picked you. You WILL feel imposter syndrome. Do it anyway. There is a blessing on the other side of your fear. QSM: Where can people follow you? Gabriella: You can follow my journey on Facebook at Gabriella Symone Parker, and on Instagram at @mizgabby9791.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Where Are My Edges Going?

By Crystal D. Lewis 28 years as a Licensed Cosmetologist, Beauty Expert, Educator/Trainer, Philanthropist and Owner of I Say Yes Salon and Spa, LLC (Cinnaminson, NJ) Email: Isayyessalonspallc@gmail.com Website:Isayyessalonandspa.com Join the I Say Yes Community follow, like and share us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @isayyessalonspa

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen: As a licensed cosmetologist this is a conversation that I am so passionate about because when a client comes to me, it is an embarrassing subject and a lot of people start off by covering up the problem sometimes for months or years. When I researched the statistics, it shows that 35 million men and 21 million women are facing this challenge in their life. The American Hair Loss Society reports that 40 percent of all thinning and hair loss sufferers are women. Thinning edges are a result of one or two things: genetics, or the constant application of tension styling. You can’t control genetics, but you can certainly control aggressive styling, or any hair style that pulls your strands too tight and too far from where they naturally fall. Be careful of braids, twists, relaxers, weaves, wigs, tight and protective styles that cause tension and pull on your scalp. Sometimes wearing your hair in the same style, like putting your hair in a bun or wearing a ponytail can affect your edges. I know that you have heard the term “snatched edges”’ being thrown around amongst your family, friends, and in the media, describing thinning edges in a friendlier way. But if you are WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JULY 2021 ISSUE

experiencing hair loss near your temple area, there’s nothing funny about the struggle to grow them back. Common Causes of Hair Loss What is alopecia? The medical term for hair loss is alopecia, regardless of the cause. ● Age. Almost everyone will notice hair loss and hair thinning as they age ● Genetics ● Pregnancy ● Facial cleansers, moisturizers, and makeup near your hairline ● Chemotherapy treatments ● Chronic illness (Lupus, and other illnesses) ● Hormonal changes ● A stressful life ● Nutritional deficiencies ● Autoimmune disease ● Medications ● Infections ● Using glues and adhesives when applying wigs and weaves ● Wearing wave caps and wig caps for long periods of time

WHERE ARE MY EDGES GOING? | CRYSTAL D. LEWIS Regrow Your Edges and Avoid a Thinning Hairline ● Be gentle with styling (we want baby hairs-not breakage) ● Change up your everyday styles occasionally to avoid constant tension on your edges ● Regular shampooing of your hair, we really became lazy during the pandemic ● Don’t skimp on moisturizing/caring for your edges--in fact, give them even more love ● Deep condition regularly ● Try a protein treatment ● Good old fashion head massage because it increases blood flow to your hair follicles ● Let your scalp have a chance to breathe ● Essentials oils like castor oil and coconut oils as a monthly treatment for your scalp I want to end this article by saying that you need to have a conversation and a consultation with a licensed cosmetologist like myself as soon as you notice any hair loss or thinning edges because there is a difference between breakage and shedding of your hair. This is what licensed stylists are trained to do. A licensed stylist like myself will examine your scalp because “ Where Blood Flows, The Hair Grows.” The licensed stylists will develop a treatment plan for you to follow. I have spent my career helping all of my clients to have a healthy hair journey no matter what type and texture of hair that you have. I care more about your hair care

Photo by Liza Summer from Pexels

than your hairstyle because: ● Our natural hair is our CROWN ● There are no magic tricks to grow your edges back. Hair growth can take 3 months or more. ● Have Patience and Trust the process. ● I am blessed to work with a team of professionals where I can refer my clients to a PCP (primary care physician), a Dermatologist (scalp & skin specialist), Trichologist (hair loss specialist) and a Nutritionist (what are you eating?) What we put in our bodies will show on your scalp. We work together to help the clients with solutions, so you don’t have to do it alone. Going for Bloodwork is the first thing I ask everyone to do because that is your blueprint to show us what is going on inside your body. The human body is amazing. If you have any questions, reach out to me and I will be honored and blessed to speak to you. I will be interviewing some of the amazing professionals that work with me because they are as passionate as I am when it comes to talking about our edges and hair loss. So make sure you keep reading my articles because I have some good topics coming up. Remember to Drink your Water and Take Your Vitamins! I SAY YES! Crystal D. Lewis

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Budge proof makeup By Lala Sanyang Hello Queens, The summer heat is around the corner and Hot Girls are always looking for ways to maintain a flawless finish in the summer heat. Here are a few tips to help preserve and give you budge proof makeup. First tip you will need a face primer, waterproof foundation, and a setting powder. First apply a face primer such as Becca ever matte poreless perfecting primer. Once you have applied the primer spray the face with a setting spray such as Crown Cosmetics Set All day. Next apply the waterproof foundation, this will help especially if you have oily skin. One notable brand is MAC Cosmetics Prolong Wear. After the foundation application spray the face again and then set the face with a setting powder such as MAC Mineralized Skin Finish and spray the final layer of setting spray. Lastly apply a budge proof liquid lipstick to the lips as Lala Faces Cosmetics and you are good to go. I hope this technique helps you beat the heat this summer. Take care Queens and stay safe. xoxo, Lala Sanyang

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

I’m Still My Sister’s Keeper Presents “I Am Light”

by Ashley Walker

I’m sure you’ve heard of the saying, “I’m my sister’s keeper”, but you may have never seen it presented through fashion form. We are still on a high from the amazing event that happened Mother’s Day weekend!! We can all probably say we have been starved from our usual connections in the industry due to Covid, so this outdoor Mother’s Day tribute was a very special way to dip our toes back into the fashion event scene. I’m Still My Sister’s Keeper was created and spearheaded by none other than the amazing LaTonya Baker, founder/producer and owner of #ISMSK and also CEO of Tyresia’s Boutique Too. How did “I’m Still My Sister’s Keeper”, come to be? Latonya Baker took a really rough time in her life and channeled her depression, eventually turning her pain into her passion. She has always had a love for fashion, but after her mom’s untimely passing, she and her sister creating Tyresia’s Boutique in their mother’s honor. LaTonya was later inspired to create Tyresia’s Boutique Too. It was befitting for a fashion show to launch her new boutique. “Sister’s Keeper” introduced the Boutique to the world in Memphis that year. The following year LaTonya decided to have another go at her new found passion after having much success the first show. With the help of loved ones and her right-hand woman, Shaterri Dotson, LaTonya moved and brought part two, “I’m Still My Sister’s Keeper” #ISMSK, to Atlanta for a sold-out show. This year the theme was bringing Awareness to Depression and women’s struggles with things like selflove, and low self-esteem. After two very successful events, LaTonya decided to make this an annual affair.

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This year’s theme was “I Am Light”, and super appropriate for the occasion. Year five represents the start of something new for LaTonya and #ISMSK. LaTonya’s first few years were very different as she started with little to nothing. Since year one, generational struggles have been broken. Financial strains are gone, weight-loss surgery helped her gain control of her health, she learned to love herself completely, and worked to become an example for empowering women by promoting a true positive sisterhood. This year LaTonya was able to build an amazing team to assist her in bringing her vision to light. The #ISMSK team shined brightly this weekend and definitely made their Mother proud. If you were not present, you missed a real treat. You can definitely count on #QueenSizeMagazine to keep you in the loop. image by Philip Drew PDrew Photography

ISMSK | ASHLEY WALKER

Designer: Gayla Rogers

Designer: Livi Rae Lingerie

Latonya Baker and the entire #ISMSK team, made it possible for us to experience an amazing event with non-stop entertainment, empowerment, and accolades given to honor those making an impact within the community. From a show-stopping host, jamming DJ, talented entertainment, impactful honorees, great food and drinks, on trend vendors, to worthwhile giveaways, we absolutely couldn’t have asked for more. HOST: Event Hosted and Co-produced by: The Beautiful MSNICKEE #MsNickeeTheBrand all one word, no spaces no period, brought the house down with her full of life commentary, wit and charm, and her ability to keep us all engaged at all times. Her spot-on sense of humor and lively personality had us all locked in no doubt!! She fancied attendees with her amazing presence and carefully thoughtout presentation. Her skill to command a stage while working a crowd was wonderful to watch. She was definitely on point ensuring a smooth flow for the evening. Also, in the roles of co producer and model coordinator, MSNICKEE truly outdid herself with a production that flowed like wine. MSNICKEE is also the owner of @ divadayinternational and @youseeitneyeware, as if she doesn’t already wear many hats. Make sure to check out all she has to offer when you leave here.

Designer: House of JDijon

We also had a very heartfelt poem recited to exemplify the importance of true sisterhood. A finale closed the show with presentations of the gorgeous models draped in garments fit for queens, and Queens the absolutely were. MODELS: How can I describe the #ISMSK models without sounding down right bias? Oh, what the heck!! They were ALL amazingly awesome! How often can you get that many different diva personalities larger than life together and it flow as perfect as it did? I’ll tell you how!! MSNICKEE of @ divadayinternational. The team did a superb job in casting and getting this crew prepared. The level of professionalism and class was unparalleled!!! All models came ready to work and slayed the runway like it was just another walk in the park!!!!

ENTERTAINMENT: For entertainment we had a vocal tribute of I Am Light”, by India Arie which was part of the inspiration for the theme of this year’s event. Designers Livi Rae Lingerie w. Host MSNICKEE all images by Philip Drew PDrew Photography

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

DESIGNERS: There is no great fashion show without new and fresh designs. The designers for the evening were unparalleled. This group of designers included TMC the @ TheresaMarieCollection, CXS Fashion by Natasha Caira @cxsfashiongroup1973, The Gayla Rogers Collection @ gaylarogerscollection, House of JDijon by Cynthia Adams @jdijon_inv, Livirae Lingerie @ liviraebras1, and last but certainly not least, Tyresia’s Boutique Too @tyresiasboutiquetoo for the finale. These names lit up the runway with their unique and inspiring designs from casual wear to evening dresses on to lingerie, quenching every individual’s thirst for a variety of fashion and style. Our senses were literally heightened each and every time a design took the top of the runway and posed in that frame. If you ask me for my favorite designer of the evening, I could not choose just one, which speaks volumes for this amazing lineup. VENDORS/SPONSORS: Without vendors and sponsors it is pretty difficult to put on a great event. Successful events are never a one man or woman’s show!!! ORS Atlanta www. orshaircare.com, made sure each bag was fit for VIP. There will definitely be some happy hair after attending. Vendors consisted of House of JDijon @jdijon_inv, My Sistas Keepher @mysistaskeepher, You See It Eyewear @ youseeiteyewear, Tyresia’s Boutique Too @ tyresiasboutiquetoo with The Vanity Veagan, Bailey’s Bartending, Snap 360 Studio @ snap360.studio, and Herbal Life Please check out these amazing brands when you have time and are looking for a little something for yourselves or others. HONOREES: The amazing honorees were women with totally different stories and journeys yet every one of them are all working toward some of the same goals. Each recipient that graced the stage was deserving in their own right. Among the honorees were Designer extraordinaire Bev Wilson, Molly Hopkins of Livirae Lingerie, Pastor Sequanna Taylor, and Smiley. Their body of works proved them to be at the top of their game in their respected area and industry. It was a perfect mixture of beauty, class, style, passion, and drive, that graced the stage so kudos to them for all that WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JULY 2021 ISSUE

they do for others and their communities. The show was an absolute success!!! It could not have been done without the entire team and crew behind and in front of the scenes. All of the hours and hours put in to make this event a success definitely does not go without notice. Covid19 may have delayed some things, but definitely did not stop the light. LaTonya and the #ISMSK team outdid themselves no doubt. The location was perfect for the event and still allowed for social distancing while we enjoyed everything the event had to offer. So, what is next on the horizon for #ISMSK? Pack your bags because #ISMSK is going on tour!!! There will be three stops, Milwaukee, Memphis, and ending in Atlanta. A Designer will be chosen from each city as a winner to then compete for a grand prize in Atlanta. These will be two-to-threeday events with vendor shopping, panel discussions, and ending with an amazing fashion show to close the event. After five years takeaways for LaTonya are an amazing team and support system to help keep things on track and the ability to delegate. Looking forward to year six!! Designer: Therese Marie Collections

all images by Philip Drew PDrew Photography

ISMSK | ASHLEY WALKER

Tyresia’s Boutique Too - La Tonya Baker Collection

CXS Fashion Group Natasia Caira

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Who is LaTonya Baker Everything was perfect to anyone looking from the outside in. Was it though? Lol LaTonya: The show and the activities leading up to the show from the healing retreat, pre party, fashion show and Mother’s Day Brunch was everything I imagined and more! I was beyond proud of the outcome! lol QSM: Let’s talk about the talent for a minute. You had some great models that hit that runway. Were they handpicked or did you go through an intense casting? LaTonya: Right! The models did an amazing job! We conducted a virtual model call and picked from the videos and pictures they submitted.

QSM: Congratulations on an amazing event! How did the names Sister’s Keeper and I’m Still My Sister’s Keeper come to be? LaTonya: Thank you so much, the name came from me originally doing my first show in Memphis TN back in 2015 with just myself and my sister “Sister’s Keeper”. The show was so amazing that I decided to put on another show “I’m Still My Sister’s Keeper. QSM: Let’s get into this location! A whole Mansion? What made you want to host in a mansion? LaTonya: The idea to host the show in a Mansion my host/sister’s MsNickee suggestion. I had mentioned to her that I wanted to do something different and intimate. The Mansion was just that! QSM: The ambiance, the talent… WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JULY 2021 ISSUE

QSM: Your theme this year was about bringing Awareness to Depression. Can you tell us about your personal connection with depression? LaTonya: Yes, and sure. This whole journey started when my mom passed unexpected Feb 28, 2012. I was hurt, depressed, distraught and all the above. I didn’t understand why this had happened but the more I asked about my mom’s upbringing, her parents and childhood. I learned that my mother, grandmother and great grandmother all passed in their sleep from hypertension, obesity and clogged arteries between the ages of 50-55. I knew then that I had to break that ugly cycle and get my life together, mentally, emotionally and physically. I grew up in a household where I saw my mom struggle financially and go through life putting everyone else before herself, not even doing what she was passionate about, but doing what other’s felt like she should do and I could no longer live that way (I was exactly like my mom). It took me years to unlearn that and understand why losing her when we did, was a part of the process and it made me who I am today! all images by Philip Drew PDrew Photography

ISMSK | ASHLEY WALKER QSM: How do you go about the process of choosing your honorees? You had an amazing group. LaTonya: I ask others who they feel we should choose, I follow their social media pages, and I speak with them directly to get an understanding of the work they do in the community and/or within their organizations. I love transparency and I love to see people take their pain and turn it into their passion. QSM: Can you tell us a little bit about your mother? LaTonya: My mother was the most giving person I have known my entire life. She had a huge heart and loved her family sooooo much. My mother was the glue of the family, she was the 3rd oldest out of 14 children. She grew up in Mississippi and from what I understand, experienced a lot of poverty. My grandmother (her mother) passed when my mother was 17 and pregnant with me. Per her journal, my mother didn’t have much of a childhood because she had to look after her siblings. My mother had a daycare and took such good care of the children, I also learned (from her journal) that she opened a daycare because this is what she knew how to do, take care of people. But this is not what she was passionate about. Two days after my mother passed, I found a letter on her laptop, addressed to The Department of Human Services, stating that she would be closing her daycare, as of Feb 28, 2012, my mother never sent the letter off and passed the morning of Feb 28, 2012.

services are covered by the state Medicaid. I also own a transitional living home called GOE House of Purpose. I love it! We believe in Building Better Tomorrow’s Today! QSM: You like to stay busy I see. Do you have children or are your businesses your children? LaTonya: Lol yes I do. I have 2 biological sons, 3 stepchildren from a previous marriage and 4 grandchildren. I try my best to make time for family they are my biggest supporters. QSM: What’s next for you? LaTonya: I’m currently working on a 4-city fashion show tour and I’d like to plan another healing retreat to Africa and somewhere tropical. QSM: BUSY BUSY BUSY! Please do keep us posted and congrats with EVERYTHING!!! I can’t tank you enough for your hospitality and for an amazing & meaningful show. I thank you for your time because I know how valuable it is!. But most importantly thank you for being your sister’s keeper. LaTonya: You’re very welcome. I’m excited about the future plans of the show and the movement and I’m very interested in working with more designers and models all over the world. My goal is to impact others and provide more than a show, but more of an experience. The tour will be a challenge but I’m definitely up for it!

QSM: God bless her. I don’t know that pain and my whole heart goes out to you. Before we both start tearing up, let’s get back to business lol! Does your boutique cater to only plus size? LaTonya: No, my boutique caters to all sizes. QSM: You also have another business that you run. Can you tell us about it? LaTonya: Sure, I also have a Prenatal Care Agency, Generation of Excellent Trendsetters, we assist women who are pregnant and/or who has children (recently delivered or under 2 months to qualify) up until 7yrs old. We provide personal and moral support. Job training skills, housing resources, focus group sessions, household items and/or clothing for the clients and their families. The all images by Philip Drew PDrew Photography

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ADVERTISING Rates & Sizes

Queen Size Magazine is an award-winning print and digital publication Founded in 2011, we are(QSM) a magazine dedicated to monthly Queen Size women. Queen Size is notdedicated only about to servicing the full-figured industry. We are a voice for today’s women and men; simply sending the the physical size, but also the mental. We are dedicated to highlighting women of all walks life. Ifon message that we exist, and we will be heard. Queen Size Magazine publishes articles thatof focus you are a fashion, woman and making Queen Size Our moves, then thisatis QSM, whereis you belong. We do not ourselves lifestyle, beauty topics. focus here to bring our readers thelimit latest news toand just women; this was the basis of why we created the magazine. We are to highlight and trends surrounding the fashion industry. From eye-catching images tolooking controversial articles; we capture all every month without missing aboth beat.men Additionally, we pride ourselves on providing promote smallitbusinesses owners/entrepreneurs, and women. Queen Size Magazine puts a platform for every both established up &articles coming professionals in our industry. At Queen Size we out a new issue month withand realistic written by real life people. We have writers that believe and promote that women and men of all shape, size, height, and color are equal. cover health and fitness, true life situations and experiences, fashion, recipes and more.

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Aubrey Boyd

Aubrey Boyd is an Educator, International Fashion & Event Producer, and Brand Consultant. He is a 2012 graduate from the Great Bethune-Cookman University with a Bachelor of Business Administration and Mass Communication. Aubrey is currently pursuing his Master’s in Fashion at LIM College. In 2013, Aubrey was appointed by ZaK the designer as the Senior Vice-President of Operations and Planning of Jon Marc Collection. An Award-winning International Fashion House that specializes in out of the box designs for a show-stopping piece. It was while working together with ZaK in 2015

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when they noticed the lack of exposure and celebration of body diversity; it inspired them to create the 501c3, National Curves Day, Inc. NCD is an officially recognized day by the National Day Calendar celebrated the second Wednesday of October with the color red and body-positive hashtags to Embrace. Encourage. and Empower. the community. photo credits: Photographer | Brian Tru IG: @Braintru Production Assistant | Kissi B Tru IG: @Katoriae Creative Director/Model | Aubrey Boyd IG: @ThePlusArchitect Hair Shelette Wright | IG: @iamshelettewright Make-Up | Tazah Richardson IG: @MUATazah Wardrobe Stylist | Ron Collins IG: @Vintage_red Designer/Brand | Amazon Fashion IG: @Amazonfashion Hat | Jon Marc By ZaK IG: JonMarc_Collection

TAKE A WALK IN THE SHOES OF AUBREY BOYD| QSM

He has worked with some notable brands Ashley Stewart, Bandelettes, One Bond, MVP Collections, Queen Size Magazine, BTFL Magazine, FFFWeek, Full Figured Industry Awards, BRAG, and Fashion Group International just to name a few. One concept Aubrey made known was the theory everyone has God-given attributes to make them marketable it’s finding the niche to accentuate them that finds the purpose in continuous research and metamorphosing. Aubrey is going on a continuous elevation, and he has found a means of tastefully fulfilling his mission and purpose. His successes and hard work resulted in the birth of BlvK Consulting Group, a boutique firm that supports brands in Fashion & Event Management, and Brand Consulting. Aubrey lives by the say “VISION WITHOUT ACTION IS JUST A DREAM; if you act upon your VISION it will no longer be a DREAM but and REALITY and that you should always BE Fearless”. Photographer | Brian Tru IG: @Braintru Production Assistant | Kissi B Tru IG: @Katoriae Creative Director/Model | Aubrey Boyd IG: @ThePlusArchitect Hair Shelette Wright | IG: @iamshelettewright Make-Up | Tazah Richardson IG: @MUATazah Wardrobe Stylist | Ron Collins IG: @Vintage_red Designer/Brand | Velve Doré IG: @ShopVelveDore

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#AubreyBoyd #NCDHonors

#ThePlusArchitect

#NationalCurvesDay #BlvkConsultingGroup

#Educator

#2m1V

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THE EXCLUSIVE QSM: Let’s get into the theme for this cover Aubrey!!! Hell to the YES! I love how your mind works. What was your inspiration? Aubrey: Well, Thank you! The inspiration was blending my two favorite Avant Garde designers Thom Brown and Alexander McQueen with my take on Ballroom culture (Pose, and Legendary). QSM: What is the message that you wanted people to receive when you saw these images? Aubrey: When they see the images I want people to see a portrait of peace! I want people to admire the aesthetics, but I also want my audience to have lingering thoughts about the narratives behind the garment, the setting, the poses, the posies. Everything in the images are intentional, and I want people to feel all of the intentional messages encouraging individuality, purpose, and peace. QSM: Let’s take it back to how it all began for you. When did you realize that you had a passion for fashion? Aubrey: The time frame was in the early 2000s, fashion in my community appeared to gravitate to urban wear. I remember being in High School (shout out to Eastern Senior High c/0 2006) where I really decided to dig deeper in my dreams and passion. I participated in my first fashion show for Emore J, a local fashion designer of the District of Columbia. I was super scared because I knew fashion was my passion and I had a genuine interest. I love designing, styling, colors, patterns, trends, and so on. But, I also knew there was more I had to know than an interest, I also had to navigate exploring an unknown territory alone. During this time, considering indulging in fashion as a career was unorthodox to my family and friends for many reasons. I then went on to college (The Great Bethune-Cookman University under the leadership of Dr. Reed), joined the Epicurean Modeling Troupe, and produced an Annual Homecoming Fashion Show. It was at that time I knew I wanted a career in fashion and was hungry for more. QSM: You have been a huge supporter in the

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plus industry, but one would ask how you related to the plus and big & tall industry? What do you say to that? Aubrey: I honestly believe this was fate! It is so natural to me for many reasons. This industry has allowed me to look into the deeper sides of myself to serve others and learn and grow as a compassionate member of a national community. Several of my family members as well as close friends identify with being a member of the plus community (special shout out to my sister Secret and my dear friend Jeannine). Throughout the years we have had many experiences and hard conversations about self-esteem, perception, and styling from a trendy and aesthetics point of view. Watching my loved ones navigate the world being “thick or plus” without many resources truly gave me purpose. I know style, I know affordability, I know how to create, I know how to market. This industry helped me to focus on the people who I learned I identify with the most in some areas as it relates to fashion. This is why I gave birth to “The Plus Architect.” QSM: I have seen the support firsthand; you and the NCD brand make sure that brands feel supported. Why is this so important to you? Aubrey: Well, if 2020 has not shown us anything, it has shown us the importance of time, intention, execution, and purpose. My Team and I have committed to being the change we want to see. We have devoted our skills and leveraged our connections to help people navigate being a member of the plus community more seamlessly. The goal is to create a space for people to feel embraced and unapologetic about their body type and shape. We make this happen by communicating with our audience in the local, national, and international plus communities. We educate, we provide resources, and we are consistent with our stance against body shaming in any capacity. These initiatives were all influenced by the Founder of National Curves Day (Zak) as well as our close family and friends who have shown the need for genuine support.

TAKE A WALK IN THE SHOES OF AUBREY BOYD| QSM QSM: Now you know I am about to dig all up into your personal life right? I mean, this is the whole idea of an exclusive interview, right? Lol. So let’s get into it. After the NCD show a couple of years ago, you had a health scare that landed you in the hospital. Are you open to sharing the details of that? Aubrey: Yes, I feel like I was running on fumes and not sleeping or eating that entire week. It’s just what I’ve been doing for years so I really didn’t think anything about it and boom I collapsed on the floor. I can’t remember anything but right before I collapsed my heart was beating extremely fast. This has happened before but only lasts for about 30 second to a minute. When I woke up there were paramedics and my sister (ZaK) and brother-in-law (John) behind them making sure I was okay and lupdup lup-dup my heart was beating fast again my chest was in so much pain. The paramedics stops my heart with an injection which did a reset. This was one of the scary times of my life because I didn’t know what was happening to my body. They took me to the Emergency room and at that time I found out that I had Wolff-ParkinsonWhite (WPW) syndrome which is a condition in which there is an extra electrical pathway in the heart that leads to periods of rapid heart rate. I had the option for it to keep coming back or have surgery to burn off the extra electrical that outside my heart. After it happened on one more time around 3am I decided just to have the surgery because I really didn’t want to have that feeling again. QSM: What was your takeaway from that experience? Aubrey: This was a very enlightening experience and to be honest, it is one I am continuously working through. That forced me to reflect on how I was truly managing my self-care. As a Black man, we are taught to exceed expectations of the world and to work until tasks are complete for the sake of our name. They say “your name is all you have.” I did this. I worked many years, since high school in different capacities, with one goal and that was to exceed expectations. I worked to make myself proud, to make my family proud, and to make my hometown of DC proud. This experience taught me the importance of selfreflections, research of family history, self-care, the importance of nutrition, rest, mental health, and last but not least, the concept of embracing the only life you will ever have.

From my research, I found out that several men in my immediate family have heart problems and they become more prevalent when they reach the age of 30. When I learned of this, I was a little upset in the beginning because I felt that this medical history should have been presented to me earlier on in my life. This also allowed me to consider the communication gaps in my family and perhaps families of my friends. I continued to research, my Step-father passed away due to heart disease, one of my good friends’ mother has heart disease, I have several friends and relatives who are battling with stress and anxiety, which through my research leads to heart disease. I am now more intentional with self-care and self- preservation. I am intentional about relaxation, meal prepping nutritious meals, creating social calendars, learning, and growth and development. QSM: Touching on that experience a bit more; what was that like for your family? Because I know for me, when I wasn’t able to reach you after a week, I got worried and reached out to your sister. Because you know me and you kiki it up on a regular basis! Aubrey: Honestly, they are all still shaken and navigating this space with me. While the focus is on self-preservation as well, they have been intentional about conversations about health and wellness. QSM: A lot of people don’t know this, but you also just went through a bad break up from your husband. Can we talk a little about what caused that breakup? Aubrey: This is true and this is still a delicate topic for me. Because of this experience, I am planning on writing a memoir. The basis of my narrative is of this former love story. The basis of the break-up was two people who fell in love based on a fantasy. There were many things we did not know about each other. We were unequally yoked. Our philosophies regarding life differed from all sorts of ranges and this ended in brutal heartbreak. Literally. I am a little over one year out and I am recovering from emotional abuse. I would encourage everyone who is interested in finding love to one create a strong village who will uplift and encourage you. This village will help you to rationalize when allusions of love confuse and conflict you. Pray and be intentional about defining what loving you looks like for you. WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| JULY 2021 ISSUE

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“Remember to embrace what makes you unique. To challenge the status quo and to be unapologetic about growth and development”

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TAKE A WALK IN THE SHOES OF AUBREY BOYD| QSM QSM: You were in a really dark space from that breakup; how did you find Aubrey again? Aubrey: It’s a trip for me! LOL! I honestly had to remove myself from what was comfortable for me. I have taken several trips in the states and outside of the states that allowed me to see me from a different setting. I will admit the pain was so unbearable, I had to seek therapy (shout out to the best Therapist in America). I started with changing my setting. I changed the conversations I allowed myself to be a part of and I changed the way I started eating. I started spending time learning and creating exotic meals that looked good and tasted even better. I started only giving myself the best of the best. I learned how to be more financially literate so that I could adapt to a one-person household financially and I truly began to rebuild. QSM: Have you gotten back into the dating scene yet? Aubrey: What is dating in 2021? Let’s just start there! Yes, so I did try dating and simply enjoying great company and conversation. Today’s dating pool seems to consist of individuals not really taking the time to date and get to know one another. After what I have experienced, I am simply not into that. I enjoy people really getting to know me for me. People who take the time to learn my favorite meals, vacation spots, triggers, and my desires. I have been on a few dates and talked to guys off the popular dating app, Tinder, but It began overwhelming and just too much to keep up with to be honest. I am single, but not available. I am focusing on myself. Now, if someone comes along who is bringing all the right character traits and is equally on a quest of self-improvement and elevation … my not available status may change! Stay tuned… QSM: Alright, I am going to get out of your personal business now. Your moniker is The Plus Architect; how did you come up with that name? Aubrey: I know I touched on that a little earlier, but that’s Bae! The Plus Architect is a brand I created to support the plus community. As I mentioned earlier, I have been working since high school! This is literally almost three decades of work. I have a huge network of a range of career professionals, and I am very skilled and talented myself. I have produced several professional fashion shows, helped to build several companies, and serve as the Operations/ Production Director in many of the projects I commit to. The Plus Architect is intentional about extending these connections as a blueprint for

the plus community. QSM: Tell us about the Blvk Consulting Group and its services. Aubrey: Sure! Blvk Consulting Group works in conjunction with The Plus Architect. Blvk Consulting Group is the go-to spot for business formation, planning, and execution. Blvk seeks entrepreneurs to make their dreams come to life. We walk hand in hand with our clients to ensure that a solid marketing plan is created, a network is formed, and businesses can sustain themselves from our ongoing professional development. We assist with show production, sponsorship, and event management as our key element of service. QSM: What do you want people to remember about you? Aubrey: I want people to simply remember to embrace what makes you unique. To challenge the status quo and to be unapologetic about growth and development. I want people to know that turning pain into power is a real thing. One day, my memoir will describe more personal parts of my life, that I will leave with the world as a guide to self-love and self-preservation. I would like to send a special shout out to my A-Team! The A-Team has been with me through the good, bad, and the ugly. There were moments when I did not even recognize myself and the A-Team came through as a first line of defense (literally because they pull up for me!) Thank you to the family Twins Aunt Deborah and Aunt Desi, my Mother, my Father, my big sister Tina who always shows up and support, my dear friend Miss. Stunning Woman of Plus Jeannine, Darrell, the brother that always keeps me on my toes Jason, my brothers from another mother Raheem and Kyle, she is my heart Rhonda and my Trio (Besties) Shanice, Jefferey, Brian, and Curtis). Last but not least my Slay team who helped pull my vision together for this shoot Brain Tru, Kissi B Tru, Zak (Jon Marc Collection), Ron Collins, Shelette Wright and Tazah Richardson). Waitttttttt….. Now, I must shout out my Sister-Mom ZaK (Secret) she has been my rock and really keep me grounded. It’s the #2m1V for me which is our hashtag that means 2 Minds 1 Vision. QSM: Thank you for all you do for this industry. Please tell everyone where they can follow you. Aubrey: You are welcome! You can find me on Social Media: IG: @ThePlusArchitect , @ BlvK_CG, Facebook: FAubrey Boyd, and website: BlvKConsultingGroup.com WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| JULY 2021 ISSUE

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TAKE A WALK IN THE SHOES OF AUBREY BOYD| QSM

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Ashlynne Gore

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Ashlynne Gore @mixxed_melanin2021

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | ASHLYNNE GORE

Originally born in Northern Virginia, Now considered a native to the Hampton roads area Ashlynne adjusted to a less city-like surrounding at the age of 12. Her mother Carol moved her and her 2 younger siblings to the area in 2001. Ashlynne began Middle school and soon was diagnosed with several learning disabilities. This was not a showstopper, but it caused a shift in her confidence level. Already being very tall for her age as well as being plus sized with freckles caused many kids to bully and pass judgement. Ashlynne was no stranger to being an outsider in her own skin. At 13 years of age doctors would announce that hormonal imbalances and fertility abnormalities would be a long road of heartbreak. Determined to not allow anyone to write her story except the faithful God she serves, Ashlynne went to hair school after receiving a Standard High School Diploma. Later became a master stylist and colorist winning several awards and contests for her achievements. In 2016 a terrible car crash would leave her with several life changing injuries. All glory be to God however, life was now different but not over. Looking forward and not back Ashlynne had a dear friend who saw an abundance of potential in her to enter and persevere in the modeling industry. In January 2020 she and Ashlynne would cross the country to be photographed and coached by The Celebrity Photographer Matt Sayles. While at the event Ashlynne would be approached by the agency Part and Parcel. Although the agency soon after collapsed with the crash of COVID-19, The connections made during that trip encouraged her to continue to pursue her newfound passion of paying it forward through modeling. Re-entering the swing of things now that Covid-19 has begun to settle, the opportunity to shoot with and be coached by the Nationally Noted Photographer Jose Pagan reignited Ashlynne’s desire to step into the limelight as a new fresh face on the modeling scene. There is only one goal, Pay It Forward. Paying forward the confidence and courage that was stripped from her as an adolescent, giving many women younger and more mature the encouragement that the world tends to diminish. As a model Ashlynne will overcome her own diversities as well as help others through the many challenge’s life throws at us as women in a man-made world. I will continue to be Unapologetically Imperfect striving daily to be the most perfect version of myself I can be.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Ashlynne Gore @mixxed_melanin2021 WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JULY 2021 ISSUE

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | ASHLYNNE GORE

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Ashlynne Gore @mixxed_melanin2021 WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| JULY 2021 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

ZaK Secret Bell

Photographer | James R. Johnson III IG: @JamesJohnsonIII Model and Designer ZaK IG: @JonMarc_Collection

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT | ZAK SECRET BELL - JON MARC

ZaK Secret Bell is CEO, Founder, and Creative Director of Jon Marc. She prides herself on being a devoted and loving wife to John and Super Mom to her daughters, Brianna and Sydney and Son King KSecret’s passion for fashion began at the very young age of two when she insisted on dressing herself. She developed curves early on and but was but it oversized clothes to hide them. When she thought no one was looking she altered them to fit. As a young woman, she quickly discovered the lack of options for women who looked like her and other curvy/ plus size women. KSecret discovered the “women’s” section was boring, the junior’s section was too small, and the proportions in other places just didn’t fit her curves. This eventually inspired her to open a brick and mortar in Temple Hills, MD and an online boutique. Although successful, she wanted more. She soon attended school and obtained a degree in Fashion Design and Marketing. It was there she rebranded from Totally Secret! to Jon Marc. Addicted to learning, she immediately Photographer | James R. Johnson III IG: @JamesJohnsonIII Models | (left to right) Tazah Richardson IG: @TazahtheModelVixen ZaK (Designer) IG: @JonMarc_Collection Karrnett Danielle IG: @KarrnettDanielle Amina Jennifer

pursued a dual Mater’s, which is where she obtained an MBA to develop her businesses. As she grew in knowledge, she grew in creativity which led her to be label as the avant-garde of Curvy and Plus Size Fashion. Since she’s been in the curvy community, she’s had the privilege to show at Plitz NYFW, DOC, PNO NY, London, Pulp Paris Fashion Week, Walk, and a host of other amazing shows. Her first year in rebranding she landed the cover of Curvysta 2014. Her work has also been published in Queen Size Magazine, Smooches, and BTFL to name a few. With all this, believe it or not, she still struggled with her body shape. For 120 weeks, she posted things on Jon Marc’s social media to inspire her and ended up encouraging other women. This led to the birth of National Curves Day. It’s now National Curves Day, Inc COED, a nonprofit organization, founded with her business partner and SVP, Aubrey. Her Jon Marc Collection initially was designed for women size 6 to 18. Now her custom pieces are for all sizes as her motto has always been, “Because Every Curve Is Beautiful!”

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

QSM: Who is Zak Bell? ZaK: lol,...This is so funny because I know it’s like, “who is she?” Really, from Secret to K to KSecret to ZaK. But I am them and they are me. To be clear, I never cared for K or KSecret but Kelly Cutrone gave me the nickname. Now to answer your question ZaK is short for a name given at birth that I did not like because it was such a big name for a little person. I could not quite get the entire name on my green piece of paper in Kindergarten, which meant no recess. I also thought it was a bit cultured and I could not find it on keychains like my friends could with their names. I did not like it until recently because it gave me something to hide behind to a degree. I mean if you knew then you knew. If not, you thought of a guy, which to me was mission accomplished. QSM: Well we are going to leave that full first name a secret (lol see what I did there? LOL) Which leads me to my next question. You named your brand Jon Marc; you do realize that people who didn’t know you thought that Jon Marc was a man right? Lol. Where did that name derive from and why Jon Marc? Better question: Who is Jon Marc? Lol Zak: Ok so Jon Marc is me.. and at times it could be a collaborative effort. However, my business name was Totally Secret! All things me, right. Simple, I loved it. My professor, not so much! In a Branding class [that I needed to pass] our final project was creating a brand book. I had mine but she would not accept it. And said, “Well, Honey, IF, you do not create a new book just for this class you won’t pass, which means you won’t graduate! How about that!” I had to think fast, I remember telling my brother [Aubrey] a year or so before, “tell your friend John-Mark his name is dope and I’m going to use it one day. That day came when this project was required and just in case, I loved it I changed the spelling to Jon Marc so it would be my own. As well, Marc spelling is intentional, my favorite living designer is Marc Jacobs. My favorite of all time though is Ann Lowe. Other than that, the name sounds strong, confident, and it fits well with the other big designers. WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JULY 2021 ISSUE

Photographer | James R. Johnson III IG: @JamesJohnsonIII Models | (left) Karrnett Danielle IG: @KarrnettDanielle (right) Amina Jennifer Designer | Jon Marc IG: @JonMarc_Collection

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT | ZAK SECRET BELL - JON MARC QSM: CLEVER!!!! Why did you decide to choose fashion designing as a career? Zak: I chose a career in fashion because I could not find what I needed in the market and I knew I was not alone. I wanted something edgy, different, and would speak to my personality. I discovered a problem and wanted to be a part of the solution.

QSM: FACTS!!!!! Let’s talk Project Runway what do you think about the show and do you think you will ever want to be on the show? Zak: I love to watch Project Runway! It’s an amazing show, me on it, I don’t think so! Those people are so brave! It’s one of my favorite shows though.

QSM: How would you relate past and present fashion trends? Zak: Present fashion trends are more than likely refinements of the past. It’s like a recycling system. Keep almost everything in your closet, it’ll be back and if you have style you’ll know how to keep them all fresh by.

QSM: Where do you see yourself in the next ten years? ZaK: I see my brand on the red carpet and in stores. I see myself continuing to do what I love, which is to empower people, especially women by helping them embrace who they are. If it’s a garment I create or a story I share about my journey, I just want my footprints/ legacy to be remembered as one of service to the people. I love to encourage others as it helps me be my best self and push through adversity. In addition to that, hopefully, I will continue to share my gift in a school teaching business and/or fashion. I mean we can’t take it with us so why not pass the baton.

QSM: Do you scope out the competition, or are you so tailored in your aesthetic that it isn’t necessary? Zak: I’m always watching the customer and listening to what’s needed. They tell me what’s going on as far as “the competitor”. Aside from that I only compete with what I did last, you’re only as good as your last hit!

Photographer | James R. Johnson III IG: @JamesJohnsonIII Model | Amina Jennifer Designer | Jon Marc IG: @JonMarc_Collection

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

QSM: Tell us about National Curves Day! When is that and what is it all about? ZaK: National Curves Day is my other baby. I always struggle(d) with my shape, most days I hate(d) it. The d’s are with purpose because it depends on the day you ask, it’s still a battle. Finding something to wear was the worst and making my clothes everyday was not exactly realistic as a Mom and student. But anyways, I started encouraging myself by posting on Jon Marc’s social media because that’s where most of my time was spent and I wanted to see body positive images. I was battling society views of curvy/plus, I did not know where I fit in (not quite juniors or woman’s), some people in the curvy and plus community still don’t see how I relate or connect. Yet it’s bigger than them and me. I wanted to use what was a burden to be a blessing because I knew it wasn’t just me and it was proven when I missed my weekly Wednesday post. Women were in my DM asking what happened and shared how much they counted on and looked forward to the post. Wednesdays became Curves Day and one Wednesday in particular became National Curves Day. The inaugural year it fell on my birthday, October 14th 2015 and the rest is CoED! *wink* QSM: You are the Creator and Executive Producer of NCD and NCD Honors! But you love to stay behind the scenes. Why? Zak: I’m the Founder and a few other things they call me but who’s checking for it. It’s The People’s Organization. I’m not big on titles, especially when it’s a bigger picture. The bigger picture here is Embrace. Encourage. Empower. I just want people to love who they are, where they are on their individual journeys to their ideal self. So, who I am in the brand really isn’t always important; It is our mission, vision and purpose for me! QSM: Well SNAP SNAP and SNAP!!!! On that note, please tell us how we can support Jon Marc and NCD please. Zak: As for Jon Marc, experience the brand. Share, Shop, Post. @JonMarc_Collection on IG. Embrace. Encourage. Empower. The curvy/plus size community NationalCurvesDay @IG and attend this year’s event. We are turning Seven this year!.

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT | ZAK SECRET BELL - JON MARC

Photographer | James R. Johnson III IG: @JamesJohnsonIII Model | Tazah Richardson IG: @TazahtheModelVixen Designer | Jon Marc IG: @JonMarc_Collection

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BUSINESS

EMBRACE GETTING OLDER Written by Nyemade Boiwu (African Butterfly)

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EMBRACE GETTING OLDER | NYEMADE BOIWU

I am in my 30s now and I must admit - I love it. When I was younger 30s seemed so old but now that I am at that age, I feel like I still relate more to the teen version of me than what I previously perceived older people to be like. There is something about aging that makes me feel more and more comfortable in my skin that I just love, and don’t mean on just a physical level either. My mind, body, and spirt feel like they are getting more in touch with who I actually am as an individual, rather than who the world has always told me I should want to be. It’s interesting how much emphasize society places on youth. We’re raised being asked what we want to do for the rest of our lives when we’re just teenagers. Then immediately after school we’re expected to find someone to settle down and have children. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that timeline if that’s really what you want to do. However, if you’ve been following the blueprint someone else gave you for navigating your life how do you know that’s really what you want to do? I am a huge advocate of taking some time to figure out who you are as an individual separate from the expectations of your family or friends. What fuels your passion? What brings you joy? Is it something you can make a career out of? If not, is it something you can incorporate into your daily life to add some happiness to it? It’s okay if your life flows along like a path like a river or if it has distinct sections. What matters is how you feel about the direction it’s going.

We put so much pressure on the shoulders of people in their twenties to find a career and start a family. It’s no wonder that most of us have a quarter life crisis in our mid-20s. When you get into your 30s you realize how over hyped your 20s were. Don’t get me wrong, I live a lot and learned a lot in my 20s. However, I always felt like I was playing adult instead of feeling like I was actually one. In my 30s I feel like I’m on my “grown woman” stuff and it feels great. My 30s feel like what I thought my 20s would but it never quite did. I didn’t magically start to feel more comfortable with myself just because I got older. One of my favorite quotes is, “If you don’t like something change it. If you can’t change it change how you feel about it”. In my late 20s I decided to put this quote into practice. My mentality today is the result of me starting to focus on self-love towards the end of my 20s. Affirmations helped with this a lot. For me saying “I am” repeatedly helps to train my mind into believing the words. I firmly believe it’s one of the best ways to change your mindset about things. I broke it down and worked on a couple areas of my life at a time to help it not be overwhelming. I’m still working on tweaking a few areas of my life so I continue to say affirmations regularly. Your life is always what you choose to make it. Instead of being worried getting older think of each stage as a different form of leveling up. Decide what you want to leave in the past and figure out what you need to do to live your best life in your next stage.

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BUSINESS

RICH HERITAGE AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES INSPIRE SUCCESS FOR THREE ASIAN-AMERICAN ENTREPRENEURS Three Asian-American entrepreneurs who have channeled their rich heritage and unique experiences into success are now using their voices, creativity and care to give back to their communities in inspiring ways. In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Target is lifting up the voices of the Asian community by spotlighting Andrew Lee, Priscilla Tsai and Vincent Kitirattragarn. The retailer is also helping guests easily find and shop for Asian-founded brands through Target Finds. After a near-death hate crime against registered dental hygienist and entrepreneur Andrew Lee in 2008, Lee rose above his harrowing experience to give back to members of his community that faced similar challenges. The attack left Lee with intense anxiety and PTSD that led him to develop bruxism, a stressinduced condition that caused him to clench and grind his teeth. To ease this condition, Lee created OTIS Dental, an accessible, affordable WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JULY 2021 ISSUE

solution to bruxism that provides the quality of more expensive night guards at a more accessible price. “As a child of South Korean immigrants, I saw my parents endure countless racially charged attacks,” said Lee. “They rose above the hate and taught me to live by the principles of hard work, endurance and integrity.” His parents reminded him of difficulties they had overcome, telling him he was not a victim, but a survivor. They motivated him to work his way through graduate school so he could fulfill his dream to take a more preventative approach to oral care. “Every person should have a solution to fit their needs,” said Lee. “Having access to something affordable that actually works will help anyone with bruxism experience more peace and happiness.” His tips for entrepreneurs?

RICH HERITAGE AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES...... | BRANDPOINT

* Have a supportive group of people around you. * Due diligence is key. Research, and pay a bit more for quality results. * Take personal time throughout your day. Asian culture has had a profound impact on modern skincare and on entrepreneur Priscilla Tsai, who built her beauty brand, cocokind, with higher standards for ingredients, environmental impact and customer transparency in mind.

Vincent Kitirattragarn took his passion for food and turned it into a career, working at Thai restaurants and studying the food truck business to build his company from the ground up. After he told his mom he planned to start a pop-up restaurant at a San Francisco nightclub, she gifted him her recipe for Miang Kum, a Northern Thai snack made with toasted coconut. “I made it, then immediately called my family in Thailand because it tasted so good,” said Kitirattragarn.

“Being Asian has inspired so much of who I am and what I do, both in terms of values as well as my inspiration for skincare,” said Tsai, a Taiwanese American born and raised in Michigan.

The brand has developed several tasty snacks including coconut chips, Thai rice bars and nutrition bars featured at Target under their brand name, Dang - Kitirattragarn’s mother’s name.

After struggling to find skincare products that worked both for her skin and her values, Tsai created a conscious beauty brand designed for everyone. She began building a digital presence, then partnered with Target to introduce cocokind to its guests with great success.

“We believe East and Southeast Asian food is healthier because it’s plant-based, has less sugar and is less processed,” said Kitirattragarn. “Our purpose is to share our culture for a healthier and more flavorful world.”

“Seeing our brand come to life at Target has been one of the most rewarding experiences of starting cocokind,” said Tsai. “It’s the culmination of many dreams and challenges.” Priscilla credits her success to the example of her hardworking, determined parents and her own resilience. Her advice? * Don’t wait for perfection to get you going. * Understand that failure along the way isn’t avoidable; it is necessary to succeed. * Take action - the best ideas in the world are nothing without action behind them. Dang Foods is the first and largest AsianAmerican snack brand, created by ThaiChinese brothers Vincent and Andrew Kitirattragarn.

His tips? * Seek others who share your values. * Be bold. * Trust yourself. These three entrepreneurs credit much of their success to their unique heritage and experiences, understanding that their brands give them the opportunity to elevate and inspire others in the Asian community. Another way to support Asian-owned brands? Look for the Asian-owned badge when shopping on Target.com - a new feature just in time for Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.