Queen Size Magazine June 2016 Issue

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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MAY 2016 ISSUE

MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

CHARLOTTE ROGERS-BROWN 2015 FACE OF KURVACIOUS FAKING IT!

By DARSHI N. SHAH

DATE NIGHT CONCEPTS

BY MEESHA ANN

STAND YOUR GROUND AS A BRIDE TO BE

BY CARRIECE JEFFERSON

ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT PURPLE KA TOY KREATIONS

FEATUREDMODELS IV MERCEDES LA THE MODEL BETSY REYES MALINDA BELL NATIA JENKINS WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| JUNE 2016 ISSUE

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to the June 2016 issue of Queen Size Magazine. This issue is packed with great articles. We have a little bit advice for the Bride to be, the Prom Queens, and our everyday Queens looking to relief some everyday stress. Each release feels like the first for me. The excitement never goes away. It brings me so much pride to be able to put out an issue every month that I know will actually help people. When I look back at when I first began putting Queen Size Magazine together I am proud of the growth. Passion and dedication will lead you to where you need to be.

This issue is dedicated to all those that believed in themselves when no one else did, when everything seemed to be against them; the ones that go out on faith because they know their destiny and are not afraid to get it wrong and try again.

Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Photography | PDrew Photography

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MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director NATALIE DAWN Assistant Editor CRYSTAL CARMEN Beauty Editor SHIRLEY BEALE Assistant Editor CARRIECE JEFFERSON Assistant Editor DUANE JONES Director of Photography for N. Carolina DOUG SWAIM Director of Photography for the DMV area KENDALL REED Photographer DIONNE REEVES-GRUBBS Model Recruitment Manager

GUEST WRITERS DARSHI N. SHAH

Cover Model | Charlotte Rogers-Brown Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography

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CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

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CHARLOTTE ROGERS-BROWN MS. KURVACIOUS 2015

HEALTH AND FITNESS

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FAKING IT

By DARSHI N. SHAH

FEATUREDMODELS

JUNE 2016 ISSUE

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08 TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTION

By SHIRLEY BEALE

BEAUTY&FASHION

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DATE NIGHT CONCEPTS

By MEESHA ANN

PROM BEAUTY SURVIVAL GUIDE

By CRYSTAL CARMEN

PURPLE KA TOY KREATIONS

By QSM

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BUSINESS

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STAND YOUR GROUND AS A BRIDE TO BE

By CARRIECE JEFFERSON

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PSBFW FULL FIGURED FASHION SHOW RECAP

By QSM

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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FAKING IT

STUDIES SHOW IT’S HEALTHY FOR YOU

Right about now you are smiling as you are reading these words. Good for you! Studies show that when you are smiling, the whole world benefits from your simple smile… even if you are faking it. These days women have herculean tasks of bringing home the bacon, cooking it up, tending to the home & hearth, and still wearing a smile at the end of the day for their family and friends in need of some love. But some days are more difficult than others, and we just don’t feel like smiling. Right? How much is that smile worth, if you fake it…

It turns out that a smile has incredible benefits to your mood, stress, anxiety, pain tolerance, and even immunity. In fact, many smiling faces are perceived as being more trustworthy, or a great leader. Latest studies indicate it makes NO difference if you are feeling it or faking it.

Here are some of the details.

IMMUNE STRENGTHENING.

Studies show that smiles seem to increase our lymphocyte production and promote other immunological changes that boost our overall immunity. So especially when we are sick or struggling with a health issue, smiles can be recovery-inducing.

STRESS AND ANXIETY LOWERING.

While you may know that laughter can break tension, you may not realize that smiling (whether forced or not) is associated with lowered heart rates during stress recovery; compared to not smiling.

MOOD ELEVATING AND ENDORPHINRELEASING, which allows more stress and pain

tolerance. Finally a non-workout way to release those magical endorphins… all for the cost of a smile!

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PERCEIVED AS MORE ATTRACTIVE AND TRUSTWORTHY. It’s perceived that smilers are more

personable, easy going, and empathetic especially to those they are smiling at. Smilers also make us feel safer and less afraid. Smile at the ones you love today, and watch their fears melt away.

PERCEIVED AS MORE FRIENDLY.

This non-verbal communication of smiling becomes an invitation or the lack of one, a rejection. That said, it is important to note what your face is communicating when you are performing your everyday activities.

Benefit-sharing. Smiling is contagious.

When you smile; others feel happier and smile. As they smile, others get added benefits of smiles. Their smiles can even lengthen yours. It becomes a perpetual domino effect that makes your environment feel good.

FAKING IT | DARSHI N. SHAH

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Darshi N. Shah, CNT, CPT, INHC Nutritional Therapist & Health Coach

With all the benefits of a mere smile, it makes sense to keep wearing a smile when with others. And especially when stressed or feeling down, even if you are not feeling like smiling, fake it! We won’t tell! You’ll be doing yourself and others a big healthy favor.

Darshi is a Board-Certified Nutritional Therapist & Health Coach. In addition to writing and speaking on health & wellness topics, she provides health coaching to groups and individuals seeking insights on different paths to greater health. Darshi writes articles and news-letters for a variety of organizations and apps on health of body, mind, and soul for her followers.

She specializes in auto-inflammatory issues having recovered from her own illness, and holds a signature RESET detox quarterly, which combines eastern and western philosophies of achieving health equilibrium. She is author of RIGHT Diet for Autoimmunity, a guide to strengthen immunity via diet and lifestyle with recipes free of gluten, dairy, and refined sugars. It is available on Amazon.com.

Follow her at www.darshishah.com.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

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QUEEN SIZE MAGAZINE PRESENTS

“To Answer Your Question”

By SHIRLEY BEALE

NEED TO KNOW INFO Question: Hello Shirley. Okay, so here’s the deal. I’m separated. I caught my husband cheating and told him he needs to find somewhere else to stay. It is very difficult to talk to my spouse about anything because everything is so new. I have reason to believe that he has a girlfriend based on things the kids tell me when they come home from visits.

He won’t tell me where he is staying, has little contact with the kids on weekends, and when I call him, he has very short answers when I ask him questions. I have a right to know where he is staying, who he is staying with and who he has around my kids. Can I get the information through the court system or through the law? Signed: Need to know

SHIRLEY’S RESPONSE: Greetings Need to Know. To Start, I can relate to your feelings and this can be a very difficult time emotionally, physically, mentally and financially so I’ll try and give you insight into what helped me. If you and your spouse are not trying to work things out and reconcile, who or if he is staying with is not relevant to your well being or healing. If you want to reconcile and work on the infidelity or other issues of your marriage, it is IMPORTANT to seek a qualified counselor, your pastor or spiritual advisor to give you insight into the appropriate process. Seeking this counsel will also assist in the healing of your emotional and mental state. The realization of cheating can be devastating and from your comment above, you reacted immediately and told him to find somewhere else to live. Whether that decision was hastily made or well thought out, the results are still the same: he’s no longer in the home.

The reason he will not share with you where he is residing could be because he is living with someone or he may be trying to make you pay for the decision to put him out.

However, you cannot and should not get caught in a game of cat and mouse with him. If you find out he is staying with someone, what difference is that going to make to your finances? To your emotional, mental state? The realization that he has a girlfriend and has her around your children, how does it make you feel and how do you plan to deal with it in a healthy way? You must concentrate on you and raising your children as a single parent just in case the two of you do not reconcile.

I also recommend you seek the guidance of a lawyer to become educated in your rights regarding custody, healthy parenting behavior and lay ground rules for visitation

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dos and don’ts. Do you want to know EVERYTHING that is going on with your spouse even though you’re under separate roofs: Yes! Do you need to know? Not necessarily!

Focus on YOU and taking one day at a time. Rome wasn’t built in a day so take your time and find out what you want first and that realization will give you a direction in which way to proceed: i.e., reconciliation, legal separation, and divorce. Whatever your decision, take your time and think it out carefully.

TITLE OR NO TITLE Question: Hi Shirley. Is it true that if a man doesn’t give you a title or label when being introduced to his friends, that means he’s not serious about you?

SHIRLEY’S RESPONSE: Not necessarily however if you’ve been together for quite some time and he still refuses to put a handle on your name or label you as his girlfriend, etc., then I would ask. Men who have nothing to hide and are proud to be with their significant other will quickly let people know exactly who you are and what you mean to them. They become territorial and want to make it known especially to their friends that you are off limit.

Alternatively, maybe a guy doesn’t know this information.

My recommendation is that you have a talk with him, share your feelings. If a title is what you want, tell him. Decide which title you want, see if it’s okay with him, if he agrees, then the next time introductions are handed out, if he forgets, then you do it.. Example, “Hello, I’m Jane Doe. I’m (your guy’s name) girlfriend” or whatever title you’re comfortable with.

NEW BOO TABOO? Question: It’s been 6 months and I became involved with a very nice and interesting man. We have fun together, do a lot of things together and he makes my life “Good”.

We are both in our mid and late 50’s so a lot of the usual “younger” dating issues are not a factor. We met through a mutual organization we are members of and as we got to know each other better, we discovered we had mutual friends or acquaintances. The more we talked; I noticed

TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTION| SHIRLEY BEALE

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the mutual friends and acquaintances increased. Lo and Behold, he is the ex-husband of one of my girlfriend’s friends. I am not a friend of his ex-wife but my girlfriend is. When we have been in the same circle, I have heard this woman talk badly about her “ex” husband, make comments about how small his “manhood” is, how he is a terrible lover, he’s cheap, was a terrible husband/ father and man. She said he can’t keep a job and basically, she says he is a bum. She has proclaimed how her life is so much better without him and she attributes her new look to a New Outlook. The same way she has talked bad about her ex, as girls do, I was asked how things are going with my new relationship. I was not ashamed to say I was involved with a great guy and am satisfied with him in every way.

Since I recently came to the realization who his ex is, I shared this information with him. He found it amusing. It doesn’t bother him one bit that I’m in an organization that his ex is also a part of. Additionally, I have no proof of any of the things she has said about him, especially the small manhood part. As a matter of fact, I found that area to be completely opposite of what she indicated. Not only is he an EXTRAORDINARY lover but he is Very Very blessed in that area. He is very generous to me financially, says he loves his children, and always answers when they call him, has his own business and goes to church with me. When he told me he was divorced, I asked him why the marriage ended. He basically said things just didn’t work out but never said anything negative about his ex wife. I shared this information with my girlfriend and she said she had no idea my new honey and her other friend’s ex husband was the same person. I really really like this man and could see myself possibly spending the rest of my life with him. In the beginning of meeting his ex, I had no relationship with her, didn’t care for her too much but now, I really don’t care for her. Somehow she found out about me and her ex husband and has been trying to buddy up with me and begin to ask questions like, “so how is everything going with your new guy”.

We have an upcoming event very soon. I’m feeling a little uneasy about him being my escort because I know his ex is anxious to see us. I don’t feel guilty because I didn’t know him when they were together and I am not friends with her. Why is this bothering me?

SHIRLEY’S RESPONSE: Well New Boo, you have NO TABU. You should enjoy the relationship you have with your man. The fact that you know of his ex, etc., should not be your concern.

By all means, I would take him to the upcoming event if he is interested in going. Be proud to be on the arm of this man that you say is soooo good. Since everything this woman has shared about him seems to be untrue, I would disregard or even excuse myself when she begins to talk negatively about him. The chances that she knows you are with her ex are highly likely but you didn’t have anything to do with their breakup. This is not a taboo relationship because the two of you got together after he was divorced from his ex wife. Enjoy your man, enjoy your relationship, and enjoy your life.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE SEE PAGE 49 FOR MORE INFO FOLLOW US

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IV MERCEDES

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PHOTOGRAPHY | PHILIP DREW, PDREW PHOTOGRAPY MUA | CHANELLE ANGELIQUE KEMP

MODEL| IV MERCEDES 13

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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DATE NIGHT

CONCEPTS

by Meesha Ann

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

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The butterfly feeling you get when have a date with that special someone. A million emotions and thoughts running through your mind, but honestly the most important thought; WHAT AM I GOING TO WEAR! This can be overwhelming, especially if you do not know where you’re going. Here are a few tips when picking that perfect outfit: • My number one rule of thumb, it’s better to over dress than under dress. So never hold back!!

• In the midst of finding the prefect outfit, make sure you’re comfortable. You don’t want to be pulling and tugging on your outfit the entire time. You want to at least have fun.

• Pick a color that wears you well. A color that compliments you. When in doubt you can never go wrong with black and white.

• Don’t show too much skin! Yep you heard me. You don’t want to give the wrong impression.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

DATE NIGHT | MEESHA ANN

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THE CHILL LOOK On one of those where you are going to hang out at the movies or someplace very casual, you don’t want to overdress for the occasion; but at the same time you want to make an impression. This is a quick look to put together. Pair up your favorite fitted jeans with a nice blouse and blazer, throw on your of your favorite comfy pumps and get ready to hit the town.

TAKING IT UP A NOTCH We are all about being sexy and comfortable; so this second concept I found this cute pair of pants with an attached train. Matched it with a comfy blouse and my sexy pumps and I was ready to go.

Don’t forget to follow through with your theme by adding accessories. I added a nice black and silver clutch that tied in well with my outfit and shoes; it really pulled everything together. With this look you can pretty much go from the opera house to the waffle house and fit in just fine.

Photography | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography Female Model | Meesha Ann Male Model | Hair, Makeup and Styling | Meesha Ann

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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• Illuminating moisturizer like Jergen’s Glow Daily for Medium/Tan skin for skin that is just radiant. Recommended for every deep skin tones to help camouflage discolorations.

BEHIND THE GLAM

POINTERS: • Rest well the 2 nights before. Lack of sleep can wreak havoc on the body and that can show on your skin and your mood.

• Buy good fitting support garments so you look and feel comfortable in the dress. Go too restrictive and you may not have fun at all. Too loose and your dress may not lay the way you would like. Shoot for comfy but effective.

• Stay away from tanning beds. This is not worth the cancer risk. Find a fab self tanning lotion or get organic spray tan on 5 days before.

• Dyes, Eyebrow waxing and/or relaxers should be done 3 days before to allow for corrections.

• Carry a Prom Emergency Kit, Back up lipgloss, 2 Band Aids, Clear Nail Polish (the doubled sided ones with clear on one end are great) 2 Large Safety Pins, 1 Small Safety Pin, 2 Pieces of Hem Tape , Breath Mints and a Tide Pen for Stains.

Here are some fab product suggestions to help you look and feel you’re (her) best.

• Highlighting powder-Shimmery sheer powder for your cheek bones and décolletage like Tarina Tarantino or Pink Stiletto Cosmetic’s Pretty Powder • Nude Gloss or Vibrant Fuchsia Lipstick- which is all the rage right now. Try MAC Lip Glass in Underage or Lip Whip by Pink Stiletto Cosmetics In Bam Bam. • Gentle Facial Scrub like Earth Science Gentle Facial Scrub or make your own with a little bit of raw sugar and your cleanser.

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• Neutral Nail polish like Essie in Pink Glove Service and Buy me a Cameo Soft Peach Blush such as Pink Stiletto Cosmetic’s blush in Peach Diva

FOR MOMS AND TEENS

Prom is fast approaching and you (or your daughter) are super nervous. You have been dreaming of this day since grade school. Now just weeks away you are fumbling to find the perfect dress, the perfect shoes and you are silently praying your anxious skin doesn’t break out the night before.

No need to worry, I have you covered! Proms can be nerve wrecking for teens and moms alike. Whether you are a mom or a teen Queen Size has you covered so that with proper preparation and lots of rest you (or your baby girl) can be the Belle of the Ball.

PROM BEAUTY SURVIVAL GUIDE

By CRYSTAL CARMEN

• Prescription Strength Deodorant -Secret Clinical Strength to make for super dry event.

• Breath Mints-Violets are pleasantly scented and taste really good without anyone knowing you are freshening up your breath.

• Trendy Eye Liner-Kat Von D Tattoo Liner for a flawless winged liner.

• DIY Aloe Vera Gel, Mix 3 Parts Aloe Vera and 1 part conditioner. This can be used for natural hairstyles and help get perfect ringlets, any brand will do.

• To Use: Wash and condition the hair as usual and then slick some through the hair and finger curl or comb through. Frizz Free Heaven!

Perfect Prom Skin!

• Drink plenty of water leading up to Prom. Water helps keep the skin supple, nourished and polished and less likely to turn on you.

• Use products geared to sensitive skin leading up to your day. The last thing you need is an allergic reaction.

• Get at least 8 hours of sleep. The phrase “Beauty sleep” has some truth to it.

Sleeping helps your body restore itself and generate new skin cells.

• For blemished skin keep your face clean. Washing with a Salicylic Acid based wash and following with an Oil-Free noncomedogenic moisturizer will keep you prepped.

• If you are not allergic to Aspirin and water and aspirin mask often helps reduce redness and size of acne. While the effects may not last forever, it will last through prom.

If you are a teen, ask a parent or guardian for permission and for help before creating the mask.

PROM BEAUTY SURVIVAL GUIDE| CRYSTAL CARMEN

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LA THEMODEL

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PHOTOGRAPHY | PHILIP DREW, PDREW PHOTOGRAPY

MODEL | LA THEMODEL

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Ms. Kurvacious 2015 Charlotte Rogers-Brown WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|JUNE 2016 ISSUE

CHARLOTTE ROGERS-BROWN

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all images in this feature | Philip Drew, PDrew Photography

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Charlotte Nicole Rogers-Brown, the fifth child of eight, was born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey. Known to her family and close friends as Nikki, she’s a wife, a singer, a youth mentor and educator, but her passion has always been in modeling since she can remember. When she was little girl, she would look through fashion magazines such as Vogue, Ebony, Jet, and Style, as her mother was checking out at the register in the grocery stores. In awe of all the fashions, the models and styles, she admired the women in the magazines and wished, so badly, she could be just like them. She attended an Ebony Fashion Fair show with her aunt when she was younger. Something in her ignited, the light in her eyes and energy she felt was like waking up on Christmas moring and getting everything thing you’ve ever wanted.

Charlotte decided she’d have to keep her desires to be a model a secret, she thought a girl her size could never be successful in the fashion industry.

She then continued on to high school and still kept her love for fashion and modeling in her heart. She often thought to herself, ”who would take my dreams and aspirations for modeling

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seriously?”. She went to her high school’s fashion shows and imagined herself on that stage with the vibrant fashions and confidence beaming down the runway. However, Charlotte was never able to muster up the courage to audition.

Ready to embarked on the next chapter of her life after completing high school, Charlotte went on to college. Her desire of becoming a model never diminished or faded and it was evident in her own personal style and sense of fashion. During this time in her life, Charlotte began to really get to know herself; her wants and her desires. She realized that while inspiring other women to love themselves and live out loud through their own style, she in turn inspired herself and found her confidence.

Charlotte was finally able to strut, head held high, in her college’s fashion show, this new confidence sparked something in her; that secret she kept hidden for so many years became the driving force to propel her forward in the fashion industry as a plus size model today.

CHARLOTTE ROGERS-BROWN

In 2014, Charlotte attended an event to help a friend; there she met Lateffaney Scott, owner of Kurvacious Boutique in Rockland County, New York. In a casual conversation about plus size clothing, Ms. Scott encouraged Charlotte to attend a casting for The Best of Both World’s Fashion Showcase which was coproduced by her, and Mr. Vershawn London of Fashion House. This was Charlotte’s first ever professional casting for a fashion show.

She went on to the casting and to her surprise; landed the job.

After so many years of doubting herself and lacking the courage to chase her dreams because of her size, this opportunity evoked a passion she suppressed since she was a child. Networking with Ms. Scott opened a door to so many opportunities Charlotte never thought she would have, like meeting Petite Plus Supermodel Jeannie Ferguson, whom Charlotte has both grown and learned a great deal from.

Charlotte has come a long way from the little girl flipping through the pages of fashion magazines. Over the last two years, she has done over a dozen shows. Graciously and confidently walking on the runway of notable fashion shows such as Circle of Sisters Expo Fashion Showcase at the Jacob’s Javitis Center, Kurvacious Model Competion, Curves Rock Fashion Weekend, Brooklyn Night Out and Ms. Full Figured USA Fashion Showcase just to name a few. She has also worked with plus size companies and designers like Ashley Stewart, Big Girls United, Eyani Couture, Tru

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Diva Design, 710 Fashions and Jordan Valois Fashions. Charlotte currently holds the title of Ms. FACE of KURVACIOUS 2015. Winning the Face of Kuravious competition has allowed her to step out of comfort zone. She stands as the brand ambassador for Kurvacious Boutique who exudes the Kurves, Klass and Konfidence to inspire women who were just like her to go after their dreams and make it their reality.

Charlotte has a strong family and tight circle with her close friends.

She attributes all her success to her faith in God and the support of her family and friends who have been there to encourage her ever since she gained the confidence to tell her secret to the world when she stepped out on her first runway. Looking back at her life, she sometimes wonders why she didn’t find the drive to pursue her passion in modeling even during her high school years or prior. She would come to the realization that there’s a time and season for everything. When she wanted to give up or seemed to be going through difficult times, God always put some good grace or positive situation in her path.

Charlotte continues to learn and grow and is looking forward to contributing to making history in this illustrious fashion industry. She finds solace and strength by telling herself daily, ”I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”; this is her mantra. Look out for more from Charlotte Rogers-Brown Ms. FACE of Kurvacious 2015!

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CHARLOTTE ROGERS-BROWN

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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LaToya Battle

LaToya Battle, also known as LaBatz, is the creator and founder of Purple KaToy Kreations. Her journey began in 2010 when she lost her beloved mother, Denyse Hugee. To help get her mind off the emotion pain, she reached out to one of her co-workers, Ms. Rosalind Lacy, and asked her if she could teach her how to crochet. This proved to be very therapeutic for Batz. Ms. Lacy bought LaBatz her first set of supplies and everyday during their lunch break they would work on the basics until Batz got the hang of it.

LaBatz spent a lot of time practicing at home; one, because it really took her mind off of things and two; she actually enjoyed learning to crochet. She was a quick learner. After learning several different crochet techniques, Batz was ready to make something. Her first try at making a scarf wasn’t the best, but she tried again got it right. She immediately graduated to making baby hats, blankets and booties.

Her and her co-worker work, teaching them how credits this big step in her

then began a crochet group for the other ladies at to crochet and how to use it therapeutically. She career to Ms. Lacy.

In the summer of 2012 This was surprising to as something that only Mr. Renfore challenged a step further and try to she took on that challenge

she met Robert Renfore who also crochets.

LaBatz because she’d always seen crocheting women take up. Needless to say she was wrong; her comfort zone by suggesting she take her skills make adult clothing. With the help of Mr. Renfore, and over time excelled in it.

Mr. Renfore gave her business advice on how to turn her hobby into a business. He advised her on pricing her products and looking into vendor opportunities to sell her products.

2014 she met a makeup artist by the name of Iesha McNeil, with whom she worked with on a photo shoot. Ms. McNeil was impressed with her craft and them introduced her to Andrene Williams, Founder & Executive Director at Unique Blend Models Fashion Week, CEO & Founder at Ladydoves Self Enrichment Org. Ms. Williams helped LaBatz along in her career by providing w=her with different vending opportunities at shows he hosted. She also provided her with opportunities to showcase her work on the runway.

LaBatz has really made a name for herself and her Purple KaToy Kreations line in a very short timeframe.

You can follow LaBatz on FB under Purple Ka Toy Kreations for more info.

Interview QSM: What a success story. Do you keep in touch with all of the Ms. Lucy, Mr. Renfore, Ms. McNeil and Ms. Williams currently?

LaBatz: Yes I do keep in contact with all the people I’ve met. They mean a great deal to me and I admire their opinions and friendships.

QSM: Have you always been into fashion? What exactly if your personal fashion style?

LaBatz: Yes I always love fashion when I was a little girl. I use to dress up my Barbie dolls in different outfits but, I wouldn’t use the clothes that were in the package. I would make up my own creative style for them. My own personal style would be a funky unique glamour girl who loves to be creative in different types of patterns or prints with a splash of color.

QSM: Do you wear your own clothing? How often?

LaBatz: Yes I do when I have events or vending. I would say twice a month or less because sometimes it could get a little hot wearing them darn I would use.

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LATOYA BATTLE | QSM

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Purple Ka Toy Kreations QSM: What is your specialty?

LaBatz: My specialty is making two-piece chevron outfits for adults.

At first I didn’t like using the chevron pattern it was so difficult for me to get it but, I love doing this fabulous pattern. Also, I love making tube dress, two-tone sexy dresses and cardigans for the children.

things that get factored into pricing your items?

LaBatz: Well I usually go online market research, the cost of yarn, time & labor and my hourly rate.

QSM: What type of items do you make and sell?

LaBatz: The items that I make and sell are cardigans, hats & scarf sets, cowls, the 5 way scarf (its different ways you can wear the scarf), mesh tops, ponchos, sometimes baby clothes, skirts and crop tops.

QSM: Do you consider yourself a fashion designer?

LaBatz: Yes I do consider myself as a fashion designer because I love to work with different types and textures of yarn. I love to see people in my handcrafted clothes; it makes me feels so good and happy just to see a smile on their faces. One day I would love to see it in stores but that hasn’t happened for me as yet. LOL.. But it will I can see this in my future.

QSM: How do you stay on top of current design trends?

LaBatz: I usually Google what’s hot for the year or last year and the colors they are using.

QSM: Do you design for plus size and/or straight size? Men and/or women? Adults and/or children?

LaBatz: Yes I design for all sizes and ages.

QSM: Who are some of your design heroes?

LaBatz: Some of my design heroes are Ken Laurence, Dom Streater, Layana Aguilar, Asha Daniels, Kini Zamora and Valerie Mayen (Project Runway All-Stars) just to name a few. I love this show, I’ve never seen a person who crochets clothes on there before maybe I might be the 1st.

QSM: You have done vending, pop up shows, runway shows and photo shoots. What is next from you? Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

LaBatz: what’s next for me is to continue to promote my business online, word of mouth, family and friends to get my beautiful creative work of art. I see myself having my very own boutique clothing store or have my handcrafted clothes sold in various stores.

QSM: In terms of crocheting; do you use different yarn for different seasons?

LaBatz: Yes I do, Acrylic yarn is for the winter and fall because it keeps you warm for those cold nights and it washes very well. Nylon and polyester is also good to work with as well. Soft acrylic, silk, cotton, linen and rayon yarn is for the spring and summer because they are light weight and very soft on the skin.

QSM: Any final thoughts and advice you would like to leave us with?

LaBatz: Yes I would I like to thank you Tawana Blassingame of Queen Magazine for giving me the opportunity to display my creativity of work in your magazine. Also, Mr. Philip Drew for my fantastic photos and photo shoots. Love both of you dearly.

QSM: For people that don’t understand cost; please tell us all the

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

MODELS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT | ALEXANDRA CASTRO, DOMINIQUE DAKOTA, MEESHA ANN, NICOLE FRANTZ

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LATOYA BATTLE | QSM

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PHOTOGRAPHY | PHILIP DREW, PDREW PHOTOGRAPHY

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BETSY REYES

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MODEL | BETSY REYES

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PHOTOGRAPHY | PHILIP DREW, PDREW PHOTOGRAPHY

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BUSINESS

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STAND YOUR GROUND AS

A BRIDE TO BE They proposed.

You accepted.

After the tears have stopped flowing, and you are done sharing the good news with everyone, reality now sits in. Some will happy for the upcoming nuptials while jealousy from others will rear its ugly head. Planning a wedding can be a stressful process if you try to do everything yourself or if you listen to suggestions and opinions of others rather than standing your ground.

Remember this is your day and things should be done your way!

Wedding season is officially in full bloom. The average cost of such a joyous occasion (in the United States) is slightly under $33,000.

We know that’s a substantial amount of money and while many would argue that the average cost of a wedding event can’t be as such….. it is important to understand that the cost can add up quickly. Wedding costs consist of attire, venue rentals, rings, invitations, cake, food and beverages, event planners, musicians, flowers, attendant gifts, decorations, favors, minister fees, license, photography, videographer and honeymoons.

It has been reported that many couples go into serious debt over wedding costs. Even more disheartening is most brides are still paying “wedding debt” which was used to finance the event long after the marriage has gone sour.

Weddings are beautiful and unique, meaning that the event should exemplify the couple’s personality. Weddings can still be elegant, elaborate and look expensive without the hefty price tag.

Things to do during engagement: • Decide if you will use a planner – this is critical because the level of responsibility of wedding coordination is HUGE. Choose a planner that is certified and don’t be afraid to ask for references.

You want your day to run as smoothly as possible and a planner can make or break it.

• Prepare a budget – include all possible costs associated with your special day and be realistic about the cost. Most research can be done on Google and visit vendor websites to get an idea of the market rate for items such as floral arrangements and photography. The highest cost of the budget should be allocated to venue rental, food & beverage, flowers,

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and photography. Remember budgets aren’t set in stone so if adjustments to line items need to be amended, feel free to do so.

The goal is to stay within the allotted bottom line cost.

• Decide on what type of event you and your spouse to be want to have; destination wedding (which would reduce cost), reception only event, traditional or contemporary.

• Carefully plan your guest list – this is important because you can’t invite everyone. Relatives often interfere with guest list invitees. If they suggest people that you and your fiancé personally prefer not to be in attendance, simply tell them that this is your day and your guest list is your business. If they love you, they will respect you for it.

• Size of wedding party – the same as guest list, you can’t have the entire universe part of your wedding. Consider those who are reliable and able to afford the cost of being in the wedding.

The last thing you want is to have people who can’t afford attire, they go along for the sake of doing so and relationships are ruined as a result of it.

• Decide on a date and season – the peak seasons for weddings are spring through early autumn. If you decide on a Friday or Saturday evening, cost of rentals and food & beverages will be at a premium. Cost for venue rentals and food tend to be lower on Sundays, afternoons and off-peak season.

• Choose a good photographer and videographer – these are the two costs that you don’t want to skimp on. These are memories that you hope to share with children, family and friends.

• Consider purchasing decorations during clearance sales. If your wedding colors are red and your wedding isn’t until fall, don’t wait until fall to purchase all things red. It’s better (and cheaper) to purchase items the day after Valentines Day when items are marked at a clearance.

• Consider DIY invitations and favor gifts. Printing can be expensive and when you factor in invitations, RSVP cards, thank you cards and such, the cost can easily go over $500. Local office supply stores have templates where you can design and print at your own leisure. If the bulk of your guests are tech savvy, you can create a wedding website and have guests to RSVP online. It reduces paper and postage.

STAND YOUR GROUND AS BRIDE TO BE| CARREICE JEFFERSON

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Carriece Jefferson

Designer | IRIS Bridal Wear Photography | Robert O’Neill Model | Tammie Starr Hair & Makeup | Paul Mitchell Team Temecula Fashion Week 2016

Carriece Jefferson is author of Love Theories Short Stories Collection, correspondent, lifestyle blogger, playwright, speaker and writing consultant.

Carriece was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. She has been writing since the age of nine. She obtained her MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management and studied abroad in London, United Kingdom while attending undergraduate school. Mrs. Jefferson can be followed through her website www. dawritediva.com, Facebook: C Clark Jefferson, Instagram @ cclarkjefferson and Twitter @ cclarkjefferson

• Choose a honeymoon destination immediately. The earlier you book travel arrangements the better, especially if it’s during peak travel season. Advance planning allows for changes and if you decide to travel internationally, you will have more than enough time to either apply for or renew your passport.

• Attend bridal expos – check wedding sites and bridal magazines for complimentary passes. This is a great way to meet vendors, ask questions, and view their work in person.

Depending on the vendor, they may offer special promo offers.

• Purchase your gown during off season – most bridal stores markdown gowns when the style is being discontinued or the season has passed. This is better if your wedding isn’t until another year. Dresses can be marked down as much as seventy-five percent.

There are tons of tips on cost reductions when tying the knot. Winter weddings tend to cost less but if you insist of saying ‘I Do’ during peak season, just know that it’s going to cost more so it’s better to be prepared so that you can have the day you dreamed of.

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MELINDA BELL

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BUSINESS

MODEL |MELINDA BELL

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Photography | Jaime Jasso MUA | Shebe Lady Blue Jewelry & Styling | Audrey B. Baptist

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BUSINESS

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Philadelphia Small Business Fashion Week Full figured Fashion Show Recap A special thanks goes out to Philadelphia Small Business Fashion Week for providing a platform for full figured women and designers to showcase plus size Fabulosity. On April 6, 2016 Queen Size Magazine produced the first ever plus size fashion show during PSBFW. The production was sponsored

by Mercedes Benz and benefited the Darby Foundation.

Everyone involved in the organizing of this show from beginning to end did so with one goal in mind; and that was to make this show memorable.

We had designers and boutiques come from as close as Philly to as far as Virginia to showcase their designs. They all have a great variety from urban to formal wear; a little something for each occasion.

TNT Unique Designs came with her mobile boutique. Yes you heard me correct; the boutique is a truck that was decorated and converted into a real boutique. Pure brilliance! They have everything from clothing, jewelry, makeup and handbags. She creates a one stop shop by partnering with Samella Shoez by Bootz.

House of Love Lace came in and blew the crowd away with her one of a kind pieces. This designer can create designs that make you the center of attention when you walk into a room. And I assure you that no one will be wearing the same outfit as you.

My Closet Vault is another boutique that creates one of a kind pieces. There were some things that I just had to have myself.

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PSBFW FULL FIGURE SHOW RECAP| QSM

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Debuting their collections that night was: Ruby Couture from New Jersey. This cousin duo started their boutique from their personal love for clothing. They have been styling people for some time and decided to make it into a business.

Chrisie Styles also made her debut that night. Chrisie also has some incredible styles in her boutique. She gave us a small taste at the show of what people can expect to find when they shop with her.

It was definitely great to have a male designer in the mix. Chukwu “D” Designz is a company created by Derrick Okeke. He designs and creates ladies shoes and matching purses. Let’s just say that I am addicted and am anxiously awaiting my order. It’s a good thing he is in North Carolina because I might have bought the house next door. LOL

I should add that these designs were not showcased on mannequins during the show; therefore I have to shout out the incredibly professional models that slayed the runway and sold these designs. It was truly a pleasure working with these ladies.

Eloise Garcia traveled all the way from California to walk in the show. She worked very hard and I could not be more proud of her. She asked for help by submitting videos to me and asking for suggestions on perfecting her walk; how could I say no to providing her an opportunity. Leslie Flores was a doll; she came in, rolled up her sleeves and helped out with whatever was needed.

Dreena Beena was just such a beautiful soul; so soft spoken and timid. But when she hit that runway she transformed into this supermodel that looked like she had been modeling her whole life.

MODELS!!!!! (THAT WAS AN INSIDE JOKE), now you all know it is just way too many of you to name; I appreciate your professionalism and you all can walk for me again any day. Thank you.

The makeup team and hairstylists were on point. Photographers were simply amazing. What can I say? The whole team made this a night to remember. Even our guests that came out to support us; some traveled near, some traveled from far; we appreciate you all just the same. Thank you.

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BUSINESS

PSBFW FULL FIGURE SHOW RECAP| QSM

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all images on pages 28-41 by Jay Matthews Photography

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NATIA JENKINS

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MODEL| NATIA JENKINS

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PHOTOGRAPHY | PHILIP DREW, PDREW PHOTOGRAPHY

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MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES MAY 2016 ISSUE

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LAKISHA & LAILA REESE ELLIS 4 NATURAL BEAUTY MYTHS BUSTED

BY CRYSTAL CARMEN

WAYS THAT WOMEN CAN MAKE EXERCISING FUN

By SARAH NAVELLO

NY FFFWEEK CASTING RECAP & TIPS

BY STEPHANIE BRUMSEY & ALEXANDRA CASTRO

YOU CAN PHOTOSHOP THAT RIGHT?

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MOTHER & DAUGHTER MODEL TEAMS FEATUREDMODELS SOPHIA T. NEILLE NIA T. SMITH JATAWN WILHEMENIA AVANT