October 2019 Issue 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 October 2019 issue of Queen Size Magazine. I recently read a post on instagram (I can’t recall whose page is was to give credit, so please forgive me), the quite said “I asked God, ‘Why are you taking me through troubled water?’ He replied, ‘Because your enemies can’t swim’.” This quote resonated in my spirit and it reminded me that we often have to go through things to learn a lesson. It also reminded me that we have to let go of things and people that we “think” have our best interests at heart. I often read about people complaining about losing “family and friends” as they begin to grow in their businesses and careers. I have been through this and as much as it pains us to move on from people and things, they may actually be the very thing that is holding us back. There are people in our lives that are meant to be with us for certain reasons. Find those reasons and appreciate them. Growing up often means growing apart; and it doesn’t always need to be in negative ways. I was introduced to our cover model, Crystal Alexis, by Jose Pagan. I reached out to him to collaborate with on his recent tour. But then I saw Crystal and was immediately intrigued. I wanted to know HER story because her confidence screamed through her images. I am always interested in learning about people and how they overcome their own personal hurdles; because we all have them. Please check out her story so eloquently told by HER. Be sure to also check out the great articles and spotlights; you may recognize someone you know. As with every issue, I truly thank each and every person that had a hand in making Queen Size Magazine possible. And on behalf of myself and Queen Size Magazine, I would like to thank all of our readers; without you we would not still be here. 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.

Photo by PDrew Photography

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MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director & Director of Photography MEESHA ANN Executive Director & Fashion Editor JOY MORELAND Fashion Editor SHEENA POSTELL Social Media Director LAWANDA SANYANG Beauty Editor SHAWNA P. HAYDEN Lifestyle Editor EYANI COUTURE House Designer

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Crystal Alexis @plusmodelmua Makeup done by model @eyekonikbeauty Red dress | Citi Trends @cititrends Thigh Band | Bandelettes

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CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

CRYSTAL ALEXIS | Talks about where she pulls her confidence from

HEALTH AND FITNESS

7 STEPS TOWARD SUPERIOR SLEEP By FAMILY FEATURES

BEAUTY&FASHION

08 MODEL SPOTLIGHT: LEANNA WHITE By QSM

12 MELANIN QUEENS

MODEL SPOTLIGHTS

OCTOBER 2019 ISSUE

By LAWANDA “LALA FACES” SANYANG

26 HOT GIRL SUMMER By JOSE PAGAN

SPOTLIGHT: RON 38 ENTREPRENEUR COLLINS By THE PLUS ARCHITECT

48 MODEL SPOTLIGHT: LINA SPRUILL By QSM

34 17 30

BUSINESS

52 INSPIRING MEN TO DO GOOD By STATEPOINT

5 TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR CONNECTED

54 DEVICES AND ELECTRONIC IDENTITY By BRANDPOINT

40 44 18

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

7 STEPS TOWARD SUPERIOR SLEEP While it’s fairly common knowledge that quality sleep is essential to overall wellness, there are several factors that can keep you from getting the rest you need. However, overcoming them is well within your control. “A lack of sleep can often be the result of poor habits, environmental variables or a combination of factors,” said Dr. Sujay Kansagra, an associate professor at Duke University Medical Center and sleep health expert for Mattress Firm. “Undiagnosed medical disorders aside, most people find that overcoming their sleep obstacles is very achievable.”

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7 STEPS TOWARD SUPERIOR SLEEP | FAMILY FEATURES

TRY IMPROVING YOUR SLEEP WITH THESE SEVEN TIPS FROM KANSAGRA:

foundation for your mattress. Because of its adaptability, an adjustable base is suitable for sleepers with chronic pain or reflux, as well as the average sleeper looking for more comfort.

Create an atmosphere conducive to sleep by choosing comfortable bedding and setting the thermostat to a temperature between 68-72 F. An ambient noise machine may drown out traffic and other sleep-disturbing sounds. If it’s not possible to completely darken your room, try installing dark-out curtains or wearing a sleep mask.

If your mattress shows signs of age, it may be the reason you have trouble falling asleep. There are several factors that determine the “shelf life” of your mattress, including quality and usage, so it’s important to evaluate your mattress regularly to make sure it’s still giving you the support you need for a good night’s sleep.

Blue light emitted by electronic devices and ambient light may delay or disrupt your sleep. It’s best to remove or limit cellphones and other sources of bright light from the bedroom at least 30 minutes before it’s time for you to fall asleep.

If you are unable to fall asleep after 20 minutes, try getting out of bed and doing something relaxing until you feel sleepy. Staying in bed and watching the clock increases your anxiety and can make it more difficult to drift off.

Establish a bedtime routine and stick to it. At about the same time each evening, listen to soothing music, read a book or take a warm bath or shower. Yoga moves that relax muscles and promote steady breathing can be helpful but avoid vigorous activity that accelerates your heart rate before bedtime.

Remember that good daytime habits promote better quality sleep at night. You may be rewarded with a better night’s sleep by exercising daily, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet and reducing or eliminating nicotine. Avoid naps during the day if possible, but if one is required, limit it to 30 minutes or less and take it early in the afternoon. Get outside during the morning to enjoy the benefits of natural light, which is a strong regulator of the biological clock.

Be conscious of factors that may affect the quality of your rest. If you have reflux or experience frequent back pain, your sleep may not be as restful. Consider upgrading your bed with an adjustable base that allows you to change your sleep position with the simple push of a button. A slight elevation to your neck and head can allow for a more open airway and a quieter night of sleep. Adjustable bases like those from Mattress Firm offer a movable

Not getting an appropriate amount of sleep can be detrimental to your physical and mental well-being and may pose serious health risks. Find more information to help improve your sleep at mattressfirm.com/blog.

article by Family Features

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | LEANNA WHITE

Leanna White

From as far back as I can remember, I have had a passion for promoting change and serving as a source of inspiration for those who feel defeated in spirit. Feeding this passion and my commitment to helping others, I earned a degree in social work, which now allows me to serve as a full time licensed social worker and part time mental health therapy professional. Alongside these roles, I work as a plus size model, where I am able to combine my dedication to making a positive change with my experience in mental health care. During the 2 years that I have spent as a model, it has been my mission to help others fall in love with every aspect of their body, physically and mentally. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s society, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re unfortunately taught to do the opposite and focus on one feature. Whether it is our bust, hips, waist or thighs, only one is what establishes our importance. I know for a fact that we are much more than just one body part! I want to show others that we are whole, and from head to toe, we need to appreciate and honor every part of ourselves. This is why, as a model, I plan to take advantage of opportunities such as speaking at empowerment expos and other engagements so that I can spread this message, while also promoting mental health awareness and body positivity. Not only will it grow my influence, expand my skills in the mental health field, coaching and therapy, but most importantly, I can make an impact that will inspire others to love each and every part of their beautiful, unique selves.

Photographer | Willie Richardson @south_side_photos Model | Leanna White @pearl_lee_white Hair stylist | Liz Cousins @lizblazzin Outfit | FashionNova @fashionnova

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Willie Richardson @south_side_photos Model | Leanna White @pearl_lee_white Hair stylist | Liz Cousins @lizblazzin Outfit | FashionNova @fashionnova

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT | LEANNA WHITE

Photographer | Willie Richardson @south_side_photos Model | Leanna White @pearl_lee_white Hair stylist | Liz Cousins @lizblazzin Outfit | FashionNova @fashionnova

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photography and MUA | @lalafacesmua Model | Brook Davis

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MELANIN QUEENS | LAWANDA “LALA FACES” SANYANG

Melanin Queens Hello Queens, “She’s pretty for a dark skinned women”, is a statement that has resonated throughout African American culture. As if the expectation should be something less. The idea and concept of beauty is far greater than the shade of your blackness. Dark skinned women are naturally rich in melanin. With the evolution of the “Black is Beautiful” movement we have taken steps forward in celebrating and having pride in dark melanin. Reconnecting to the African Heritage empowers women to take pride in the African and Caribbean culture. It is important to understand the wealth and riches of the melanated skin. Darker complexion women are still underrepresented in the beauty and fashion industry but with the onset of social media and Beauty Gurus like Jackie Aina, we making great strides and demanding more representation in the industry. Know that you are valuable and worth more than gold. You are Beautiful Melanin Queens! Love you Queens, Lawanda Sanyang Lalafaces Makeup Artistry

Photography and MUA | @lalafacesmua Model | Mallisha Wright

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Professional Photography Services PORTRAIT HEADSHOT FASHION EDITORIAL SPORTS BOUDOIR MATERNITY + AND MORE

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FEATURED STORY

Photographer | Jose Pagan @ josepaganphotography Model | Crystal Alexis @plusmodelmua Makeup done by model @eyekonikbeauty White dress | Fashion Nova Curve @ fashionnovacurve

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CRYSTAL ALEXIS | QSM

Crystal Alexis Cocoa, Florida native Crystal Alexis had an appetite for fashion and entertainment at a very young age, winning her first pageant at just 21 months old. She performed at local level events throughout her childhood and as a young adult attended a Modeling & Career Center where she received training in professional modeling, image development, and makeup artistry. Crystal continued her education at Eastern Florida State College and later, the University of Central Florida. Since then she has extended her resume significantly by traveling both nationally and internationally, collaborating with networks such as FOX, Aspire TV, HGTV, and VH1 to name a few. Crystalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love of fashion and beauty has since evolved into the fitness industry landing her in position as the Founder/CEO of a global enterprise, EYEkonik Beauty LLC. She quickly gained a reputation for having a heightened skill level in working with

different ethnicities, skin types and facial structures. She has experience with glamour on all levels, however she specializes in Hi-Definition makeup for film, television, and stage. Having overcome struggles of poverty, domestic abuse, and discrimination she dedicates her life to Being The Change that she desires to see in the world. She is an influencer and ambassador for body positivity and self-love, while also advocating for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. She promotes change within society by leading projects as a humanitarian, philanthropist, and social activist. In just 12 months Crystal has contributed her time, talents, efforts, resources and even her finances to raise over $6,500 for school supplies, clothes, shoes, and food for deserving kids in her community. She believes strongly that Success and Greatness is not measured by what you have but rather what you give.

Photographer | Jose Pagan @ josepaganphotography Model | Crystal Alexis @plusmodelmua Makeup done by model @eyekonikbeauty Swimsuit | Jantzen Swim @jantzenswim

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FEATURED STORY

Photographer | Jose Pagan @ josepaganphotography Model | Crystal Alexis @plusmodelmua Makeup done by model @eyekonikbeauty Red dress | Citi Trends @cititrends

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CRYSTAL ALEXIS | QSM

Photographer | Jose Pagan @ josepaganphotography Model | Crystal Alexis @plusmodelmua Makeup done by model @eyekonikbeauty White dress | Fashion Nova Curve @ fashionnovacurve

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FEATURED STORY

*Get to know Me*

Photographer | Jose Pagan @ josepaganphotography Model | Crystal Alexis @plusmodelmua Makeup done by model @eyekonikbeauty White dress | Fashion Nova Curve @ fashionnovacurve

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CRYSTAL ALEXIS| QSM WHERE MY CONFIDENCE CAME FROM. I did my first boudoir shoot about 5 years ago with a local photographer here in Florida. It was my first time wearing lingerie so the thought of me doing a whole photoshoot in it was terrifying. I still remember being completely uncomfortable while trying to pose and I was just A MESS!! All I could focus on was covering my belly, concealing my breasts, and somehow making sure I didn’t look fat. Thank God that she was a female photographer and she empathized with me A LOT! She turned on some of my favorite R&B music and told me “Just Relax… You’re doing fine.” Once I stopped focusing on how silly I must have looked in the lingerie, I was able to let go and just be in the moment. It was an amazing feeling because I told myself that even if I hated the images I felt damned good about myself after that shoot. At worse, I could just delete them and nobody had to know about it. But I was super proud because I had done something for myself that I always wanted to do and I conquered one of my fears. When I received my images, I was completely blown away by the essence of my womanhood that the photographer was able to capture. The mood, the angles, the femininity……. Wow! I looked AMAZING!!! I didn’t recognize myself because I definitely wasn’t looking at the same girl that walked in that studio that day. That was the beginning of my infatuation with showing skin. LOL!!!

PERSONAL EXPERIENCES OVERCOMING STRUGGLES WITH MY IMAGE. I definitely had a few struggles! I was a tomboy growing up. I would only wear clothes that were 2 or 3 sizes too big, sneakers, and jackets in 95 degree Florida weather. I’m sure people thought I was nuts but I was cool as long as all my flaws were covered up. I wore these types of clothes well into high school and never wore a dress nor shorts until my senior year. I got into a relationship with my high school sweetheart at the age of 17 and he was both verbally and physically abusive. I lived through that for 4 years. My next relationship wasn’t abusive but the guy was a douche and he cheated on me for 3 years; in my own house. As you can imagine that did a number on my self-esteem. I finally decided that I needed to get to know Crystal a little better and that being single was the best way to go.

21 I remained single until I learned to love myself. I started dating again at the age of 30. One week after my 30th birthday I was diagnosed with the rare skin condition called Vitiligo. It’s an autoimmune disorder in which your immune system kills off your melanocytes causing loss of pigment and resulting in white patches on your skin. I thought to myself, “This has GOT to be a joke!” It wasn’t. I have been living with Vitiligo now for 5 years and it has forced me to always remember who I am at my core. Every day I am learning things about myself on this quest to live more freely. I discovered that it does not matter how I look on the outside. What matters to me is how I feel and how I make others feel. I can finally say that after 35 years I am in love with Crystal Alexis!

HOW I FEEL WHEN SHOOTING SEXY IMAGES. I love the fact that I can put on a wig and some makeup and turn into whoever I want to be in that moment. Or, I can just be myself. The fun in that, is that my audience really doesn’t know who’s who. Role playing is just so invigorating and empowering for me!

MY INSPIRATION. My Mom’s oldest sister was tall, thin, and fair-skinned. She modeled all over the world when she was younger. Prior to her passing, she would bring over all kinds of fancy coats, hats, and purses for me to wear. I’d prance around the house and practice my runway walk for her. She would give me advice and tips and saying, “If modeling is what you want to do… THEN DO IT! And never give up.” She was the one who promised me that if I took her advice, I would be known around the world. At that time, I thought she was just doing what any Aunt should by encouraging me. I had no clue that I’d later walk runways in the US Virgin Islands and Indonesia and also be published online and in print in the U.S. and the U.K. Her words spoke life into my career and gave me hope. She was my greatest inspiration.

MY BEST ADVICE. My best advice is to JUST DO IT! Approach your fears head on and be true to yourself. Never try to be like or act like someone else. FIND YOUR MAGIC AND WORK IT! One of my favorite quotes is by Zig Zigler who says, “You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.”

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FEATURED STORY

Photographer | Jose Pagan @ josepaganphotography Model | Crystal Alexis @plusmodelmua Makeup done by model @eyekonikbeauty Swimsuit | Jantzen Swim @jantzenswim

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CRYSTAL ALEXIS| QSM

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FEATURED STORY

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

#HOTGIRLSUMMER2019 Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Susan Isham @sueplusmodel

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#HOTGIRLSUMMER2019

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Rachel Green @rachel_g_brown

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#HOTGIRLSUMMER2019 Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Chrissa Janel @ @plusmodelchrissa_j_

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HOT GIRL SUMMER 2019| QSM

#HOTGIRLSUMMER2019

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Tay Lee De Castro @curvy_model_tay_

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

#HOTGIRLSUMMER2019 Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Frankie Tavares @frankietavares

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Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Talee De Castro @curvy_model_tay_

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

#HOTGIRLSUMMER2019

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Ashley Walker @msbeyoudoyou

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ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

#HOTGIRLSUMMER2019

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Malina Rivera @thereal_thickiana

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Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Karol Maracas @maracastica

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HOT GIRL SUMMER 2019| QSM

Photographer | Jose Pagan @josepaganphotography Model | Tricia Campbell @iamtriciacampbell

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Ron Collins Photographer | Alan Wallace @alandub_u Stylist and model| Ron Collins @vintage_redd

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT | RON COLLINS

Velve Doreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Photographer | Alan Wallace @alandub_u Stylist | Ron Collins @vintage_redd Models left to right: Thyme Neal @BestofThyme, Tazah Richardson @Tazahthemodelvixen, Sherita Ivory @Sherita_Ivory, Ron Collins @vintage_redd

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Aubrey: When did you first realize you wanted to pursue a career in Fashion? Ron: For as long as I can remember! I remember my mother and sister shopping for new clothes, dressing up for church and other events! Also When I was a teenager I was over 300 lbs and had the hardest time finding nice clothes. I realized then that I needed to change the world’s perception of plus size style.

Aubrey: Where do you see yourself in the next ten years? Ron: In 10 years I would love to be doing wardrobe for TV and movies. I recently did a wardrobe styling for a stage play and it opened my eyes to another side of fashion.

Aubrey: The name of your business, how did you come up with the name? Ron: I wanted something that sounded interesting and would start a conversation. Velve (Velvet without the T) Dore’ (A doré bar is a semi-pure alloy of gold and silver) I have always loved how velvet feels, I think it’s a luxurious fabric. I also love metallics and anything shiny, so the dore’ bar was perfect, it also gave a play on words Dore’ vs Door!

Aubrey: How do you handle stress? Ron: I shop for myself and travel! I also enjoy spending time with my husband DJ and our new puppy ROC!

Aubrey: Do you see yourself having to explain being an actual fashion designer? Ron: I consider myself a fashion stylist with a designer mindset. I feel I embrace my creativity when I embellish or deconstruct a garment. Aubrey: What role do you think social media plays in fashion today? Ron: Social media is huge for fashion today. It allows people to connect across the world. People can see what their favorite celebrities or influencers are wearing on a day to day basis. Aubrey: What was your biggest fear when going out and starting your own business? Ron: My biggest fear was that I wouldn’t be successful! People have always complimented me on my style and fashion sense, but my concern was would they allow me to style them or would they buy items that I have hand-picked. Aubrey: How do you want men and women to feel when styled by you? Ron: I want men and women to feel like when they walk into a room, no one else will be dressed like them! I also want them to be comfortable and confidant with their look. Aubrey: What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses? Ron: My greatest strength is mixing patterns, colors and fabrics. My opportunity, is maintaining my website and keeping it up to date.

Aubrey: Have you ever looked back on an outfit that you’ve worn and said why? Ron: Absolutely, but I always love my look in the moment.

Aubrey: When planning a showcase where do you get your inspiration from? Ron: Vintage is my specialty so I am always inspired from the 70’s-90’s era. I like to redefine vintage pieces and make them current. Aubrey: How would you describe your personal style? Ron: My style is androgynous, creative, fun and expressive! Aubrey: Define Fashion! Ron: Fashion is a way of life, you are allowed to express your mood and have the freedom to change as you see fit! Aubrey: How do you stay up to date with fashion? Ron: Social media helps me stay up on trends. I personally buy what I like, sometimes it’s on trend and sometimes it not. Aubrey: What next for you? Ron: Next for Velve Dore’ we are working very hard on our online presence. Our new website should be up and running by the end of the year. We want to become very accessible to our customers. Aubrey: Anything else you want to let us know about? Ron: We offer many other services which include -Vintage Pop Up Shops - Personal Styling for events and photo shoots - Fashion Shows - Costume Design -Wardrobe for stage plays Aubrey: How do people get connected? Ron: Please connect with us on Instagram @shopvelvedore or @vintage_redd and by email at shopvelvedore@gmail.com

interview conducted by Aubrey Boyd aka The Plus Architect

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT | RON COLLINS

Photographer | Alan Wallace @alandub_u Stylist and model| Ron Collins @vintage_redd

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Alan Wallace @alandub_u Stylist | Ron Collins @vintage_redd Models left to right: Sherita Ivory @Sherita_Ivory, Thyme Neal @BestofThyme, Tazah Richardson @ Tazahthemodelvixen, Saba Givpour @Sabzeeee

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT | VELVE DOREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Alan Wallace @alandub_u Stylist | Ron Collins @vintage_redd Models left to right: Ron Collins @vintage_redd, Tazah Richardson @Tazahthemodelvixen, Saba Givpour @Sabzeeee, Sherita Ivory @Sherita_Ivory

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ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT | VELVE DOREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

ADVERTISING Rates & Sizes

Founded in 2011, we are a magazine dedicated to Queen Size women. Queen Size is not only about the physical size, but also the mental. We are dedicated to highlighting women of all walks of life. If you are a woman making Queen Size moves, then this is where you belong. We do not limit ourselves to just women; this was the basis of why we created the magazine. We are looking to highlight and promote small businesses owners/entrepreneurs, both men and women. Queen Size Magazine puts out a new issue every month with realistic articles written by real life people. We have writers that cover health and fitness, true life situations and experiences, fashion, recipes and more.

Ad Rates Full Page ½ Page ¼ Page Cover Story Inside Cover Back Cover Inside Back Cover ISSUE December/January February/March April/May June/July August/September October/November

1x $100 $60 $45 $300 $240 $200 $140

6x $570 $330 $240 ////// $1,410 $1,170 $810

12x $1,080 $600 $480 ////// $2,760 $2,280 $1,560

Ad Due Date November. 10th January. 10th March 10th May 10th July 10th September 10th

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Linda Spruill

Photographer | Kyle J Warner @mrkwphotography Model | Linda Spruill @spruill92 Makeup done by model Yellow Dress | Fashion to Figure @fashiontofigure Hair installed by Tamia Osborne Hair styled by Lisa Oliver

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT|LINDA SPRUILL

inda Spruill is a plus size model from Deptford, NJ. She got her start in the field by obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Merchandising from Howard University. She then when on to work with brands such as Hecht’s, Ann Taylor LOFT, and K&G.

She birthed a new love for the industry in 2019 when, she was noticed by Dr. Marquita Williams while shopping in a neighboring Ashley Stewart. This interaction led her to being casted in Philadelphia Fashion Week. Since then, she kept her momentum going by modeling in local shows including: Lov’n My Curves, Philadelphia Storm of Fashion, TriState Fashion Show, Logan Library Fashion Show, Philadelphia Urban Fashion Weekend, Modern Society Fashion Show, 1st Klass Entertainment Fashion Show, and becoming a Semi-Finalist in the Finding Ashley Stewart Competition. Linda has done print work for a list of photographers and designers including: Ethereal and Grace, Love Couture, Michael Abanyie Film Studios, JBMS1 photography, IREFLECT photography, and Perry Black. In 2016, Linda had the privilege of beating breast cancer. She knows firsthand what it is to make it out of a struggle. Now she is on a mission to show that you can be beautiful no matter what the circumstances. She plans to use this platform to empower women to embrace their inner and outer beauty no matter what form it comes in.

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BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photographer | Kyle J Warner @mrkwphotography Model | Linda Spruill @spruill92 Makeup done by model Salmon Dress | Fashion to Figure @fashiontofigure Hair installed by Tamia Osborne Hair styled by Lisa Oliver

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT|LINDA SPRUILL

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BUSINESS

Inspiring Men to Do Good

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|OCTOBER 2019 ISSUE

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INSPIRING MEN TO DO GOOD | STATEPOINT

From activism to fatherhood, moments of good come in all shapes and sizes. ~Tank Sinatra.

With so many negative messages about masculinity floating around these days, some say it’s important to spend some time focusing on the positive. Doing so can help give men the confidence they need to be their best selves. In fact, 91 percent of men agree that it takes more confidence to be a “good guy” than it does to be a typical alpha male, according to research from Men’s Wearhouse, which is on a mission to encourage more men to be good on the inside and out. As part of its “Good on You” campaign, they are highlighting the good works of dads and gentlemen everywhere who have gone above and beyond to show they care about something that makes the world a little bit better. “We believe that good guys everywhere are ready to stand up and be their best selves,” says Tank Sinatra, who after getting sober at 22, decided to surround himself with only positive things. Involved with the nonprofit organizations, Hope House and Bring Change to Mind, he is a social media influencer and founder of Tank’s Good News, which shares only positive news stories. Already committed to identifying, spreading and celebrating acts of good, Sinatra is now serving as the facilitator of the Good On You Initiative and, in this role, is sharing an inspiring story of a man making the world a

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little bit better in his own backyard: In 2016, Rodney Smith founded a lawn care nonprofit, Raising Men Lawn Care Service, in his hometown of Huntsville, Alabama. Raising Men Lawn Care Service helps young men give back to their communities by mowing lawns or doing yard work -- free of charge -- for veterans, the elderly, the disabled and single mothers. Smith sought to establish a program that inspires young men to learn and understand their value in society, and acts as a true father figure to many young boys throughout the country. While founded originally in Alabama, the organization now has a presence in almost all 50 states. To honor Smith’s work, Men’s Wearhouse is donating $10,000 to his organization as a “thank you” for all that he’s doing to help his community. He also received a custom-made jacket and lapel pin, as the brand believes that being your best self, and looking and feeling your best, go hand-in-hand. To learn more about the campaign, which will honor men throughout the year, as well as to get gift ideas to honor the men in your life, visit menswearhouse.com. “From activism to fatherhood, moments of good come in all shapes and sizes,” says Sinatra.

article courtesy of StatePoint

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| OCTOBER 2019 ISSUE

BUSINESS

5 TIPS TO PROTECT YOUR CONNECTED DEVICES AND ELECTRONIC IDENTITY

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|OCTOBER 2019 ISSUE

PROTECTING YOUR ELETRONIC IDENTITY | BRANDPOINT Resourceful thieves and cyber criminals continue to find new ways to hack U.S. consumers’ sensitive personal information. Dumpster diving, stolen or lost wallets and mail fraud should still be concerns, but the digital age of tablets, smartphones, PCs and Wi-Fi networks leaves people even more vulnerable than ever. Think about it: Have you ever stored credit card information on your phone for added convenience to make payments in a checkout lane? Do you ever store passwords in apps to transfer funds between accounts? And what’s to keep hackers from accessing a wireless network you check your email on while you’re grabbing a quick cup of coffee? “More than 15.4 million people a year will experience identity theft, with an average loss of more than $1,000,” said Jane Li, Mercury Insurance’s director of product management. “When one access point closes due to added levels of security, cyber attackers find another. Insurance companies like Mercury provide services that allow homeowners and renters to enjoy the convenience of accessing their connected devices at home and on-the-go, while also helping to protect customers from the potentially devastating effects of criminal infiltration, cyber extortion and identity theft.” Keeping aware of the latest schemes and ensuring members of your household, friends and others you care about have the right tools helps stop criminals in their tracks. Following are five do’s and don’ts to help protect your connected devices, as well as your electronic identity, from hackers. * DO POWER DOWN YOUR DEVICES. This disables the internet connection, cutting off access to any personal information stored on your computer, tablet or phone. Unattended machines, especially if you’re asleep or you leave them at home while on vacation, are easy targets for hackers. * DON’T CONNECT TO UNSECURED WIRELESS NETWORKS. Information accessed on an open network, including email

passwords and sensitive bank information, is fair game for hackers. Don’t make their jobs easier. Turn off Wi-Fi access on your devices unless it’s a password-protected network you trust. * DO MONITOR YOUR CHILDREN’S DEVICE USAGE. It’s a good idea to limit use of computers, tablets and phones to public areas within the home like the living room or kitchen. This makes it easier for parents to keep an eye on who their kids are communicating with, especially on social media or gaming sites, to help prevent the sharing of sensitive information like full names, addresses or other things that can be used for identity theft or other potentially dangerous activities. * DON’T DISCARD IMPORTANT PAPERWORK WITHOUT SHREDDING it. If it has your name and address, it presents an opportunity for thieves to take advantage and open an account using your information. Remember to shred expired insurance documents, vehicle registrations, bills, loan pre-qualifications and other paperwork that would allow someone to call in pretending to be you. Check your credit reports at least twice a year to ensure all accounts opened in your name are valid. * DO INSTALL RECOMMENDED UPDATES. Smartphone, computer, tablet and smart TV manufacturers, among other providers of connected devices, offer periodic software updates to protect against potential security breaches. Chances are, if an update is recommended, hackers have already discovered a way to access your personal property and information, so keep your software up-to-date. Li recommends homeowners and renters speak with their local insurance agent to learn more about the endorsements they may be able to add to existing policies to help safeguard their finances if their identities are compromised or connected devices are attacked. “It can be daunting to try to regain your financial footing if a criminal takes advantage of you,” said Li. “Insurance exists to help protect consumers from unexpected events and, in this case, it’s better to be safe than sorry.” article courtesy of BrandPoint