On a recent evening, I was invited to sit on a panel alongside a couple of other gentlemen. Our mission was to share our experiences and answer a few questions on the challenges and joys of being a black man and father. Though some questions were shared with us beforehand, I hadn’t prepared much for the event. Little did I know, the night would be full of surprises and lessons learned.
A Letter from the Editor
What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?
One panelist sitting beside me appeared to be great at public speaking. I determined this by how he held the microphone close to his face so that his voice would project throughout the room of people with clarity and precision. He was good. For me, I consider myself to be an average speaker, and I am not often intimidated when faced with the challenge of speaking publicly. Well, all of that was off the table that evening. While I knew what I wanted to share, I felt a little speechless when it was my turn to speak.
I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.
As the evening came to an end, a feeling of regret washed over me. Despite being invited as a panelist to share my thoughts and experiences, I couldn’t help but feel that I had left a lot unsaid. It’s a shame, really, because I know what I felt inside could resonate with someone in that room. After all, isn’t that why we were all there? To share our unique perspectives and shed some light on what being a black man and father is like.
The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.
Terry L. Watson Publisher
Terry L. Watson Writer
Ellen Richardson Writer
Dorjae’ McClammey
Tamara Smith
Todd Youngblood Photography
Howard Gaither Photography
That evening was a valuable lesson in many ways. One of the key takeaways was the importance of preparation before speaking. Another lesson learned was the need to seize every opportunity and own the moment. As the saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Most importantly, I was reminded of the power of sharing my experiences and how it can change someone’s perspective. It was a great reminder not to waste any opportunity to connect with others and make a positive impact.
Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count.
Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.
Imagine that, me at a loss for words.
Terry L. Watson
What does she not do? That is a fair and appropriate question that can be asked about Maryland resident Robin Annette Shipp. On the one hand, the 44-year-old is a multiethnic Creole woman who is an accomplished chef. On another, Robin brandishes a professional career in dance. It is clear that regardless of what arena, she does what is needed to succeed.
Robin says that around the young age of 18, she realized her love for cooking. “I used to watch television cooking programs like Julia Child, Justin Wilson (I Guarantee), and more. As I got older, the watching quickly turned into study sessions of all the famous cooks that were showcased on cooking programs and networks,” she says. By age 25, Robin began freelance modeling and acting in auditions for small roles and commercial print work modeling such as Model Inc, Audition America, and more.
Robin’s connection to food and all things delicious began to take shape in 2018. Around that time, she started a vendor networking and health and wellness umbrella company entitled “MotherShipp Productions”, also known as MotherShipp Global. MotherShipp Global has a focus on black business recognition.
Robin is the mother to her daughter, Harmony. She graduated from Rockville High School in Rockville, MD. She also attended Savannah State University and studied Industrial Psychology. “I thought it was a good fit for me, but it didn’t sit right. When I put myself back into school online for Information Technology in Visual Communication, I wanted something I could be happy with. However, I never finished those degrees. It took years to decide on what I wanted as a degree or certification. In 2022, I successfully registered and finished my certification as a Clinical (Board Certified) Master Herbalist from Trinity School of Natural Health. I returned the following month to obtain my certification as a personal chef from International Professions Career College,” she shares. “I incorporate both into my food as I feel that food is supposed to taste, look, and feel good. It’s healing. It should bring comfort to all levels. Healthier foods can also be comfort food. It’s meant to heal your mind, body, and spirit.”
“I thought it was a good fit for me, but it didn’t sit right. When I put myself back into school online for Information Technology in Visual Communication, I wanted something I could be happy with. However, I never finished those degrees. It took years to decide on what I wanted as a degree or certification.”
Currently, Robin owns Emerald Flame L.L.C. Her company offers catering and personal chef service for all events. These include breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and small desserts. It also has a focus on certain mini catering items and big pot items. Emerald Flame, L.L.C., ships certain food items and seasonings nationwide. The seasoning brand is called Gyrnd Seasonings. Salad dressings and other sauces, and medicinal food products are soon coming.
The Grynd Health offers a variety of flavors such as Garlic Pepper5, Spicy Turmeric, Lemon-Sage, Honey-Butter, Mushroom-Shallot, and Brown Sugar-Cinnamon-Clove. The Grynd Originals include Robin’s Rajun Cajun, Southwest Smoke, White-Hot Garlic Herb, and Creole Royalty Seafood Boil. Grynd Sauces include Creamy Cajun White Wine Sauce and Applewood Mesquite Whiskey. There is also the Cane City Rubs, named after the city sections of Louisiana that the Creole population mostly lived in. The flavors include Flamin Maple, Spikes Brown Sugar, Mesquite Citrus, and Island Heat.
“I love what I do because food brings people together. From birthdays and whatever holidays people celebrate, a celebration of life ceremony, corporate parties/networking parties, romantic dinners, or the cookout, it starts with food. When you break bread with someone, you come to the table to share each other’s presents. Even when it comes to food, just being in the background while a conference or event takes place, food makes everything better,” Robin says. “My slogan is ‘Food for the soul and health for the body”.
Robin shares that most of her challenges have been financially related as a business owner. “I have learned to keep pushing and believing in my dreams. I want to continue to be the best chef I can be and possibly heal those with my culinary and medicinal products and talents.”
As Robin’s future unravels, she says she plans to concentrate on being a traveling chef. “That is my intention. Even further, being a celebrity and semicelebrity chef. I’ve always wanted to connect with motivational speakers for many reasons besides being their chef. I would also like to start my own foundation to give food to those in need. I love what I do, and my journey has been long. Yet, it continues to strive for heights that I haven’t even thought of, but I know it is on the way.”
Robin Shipp
Arieale Munson is a dedicated and compassionate leader who uses her talents to benefit her hometown of Memphis. As a mother of two and a native of North Memphis, she understands the importance of giving back to her community. That’s why she founded and serves as the executive director of Operation Taking Back 901, a non-profit organization committed to providing economic and educational opportunities for the youth of Shelby County.
Arieale’s non-profit offers a variety of programs to support the growth and development of young people in the community. From school visits that cover topics like peer pressure, life skills, mentorship, financial literacy, and community development to events that provide backpacks filled with supplies and coats to students in need, OTB 901 is making a tangible difference in the lives of young people. This year alone, they have adopted two schools and provided students with over 300 backpacks and 60 coats.
The non-profit organization has been making a remarkable impact by mentoring over 185 young ladies, and sharing stories of triumph, such as Arieale’s journey as a teen mom. By going inside schools and speaking to students, Arieale emphasizes that their past mistakes do not determine their future. Her message of hope is particularly significant to the students as she hails from the same area and wants to inspire them that they, too, can overcome any obstacle. Arieale’s success proves that regardless of one’s situation, with determination and hard work, anything is possible.
Operation Taking Back 901, under the guidance of Arieale Munson, recognizes the importance of community involvement and aims to offer various resources to make Memphis a better place. To this end, the non-profit hosts a range of events, such as vision board parties, tea parties for young ladies, food giveaways, and the much-anticipated Back to School Bash. The organization shines a beacon of hope and opportunity by offering attendees free school supplies, food, and valuable community resources. Operation Taking Back 901 endeavors to bring these resources directly to the community, ensuring equitable access for all. Beyond events, the non-profit’s work extends to promoting and supporting business workforce and economic development, mental health education, and social services. By leveraging these resources, Operation Taking Back 901 seeks to make a lasting impact and empower individuals and families to thrive.
Since its founding in 2016, Operation Taking Back 901 has had an immense impact on the Memphis community. To date, the organization has provided services to over 7,000 people, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Through word of mouth, the community has continued to spread awareness about OTB 901, enabling Arieale Munson to partner with other organizations, further expanding her reach. Her hard work has not gone unnoticed, as the City Council and Shelby County Commissioners have recognized her. Her dedication has also led to the receipt of numerous grants and awards, including recognition from the state of Tennessee and former President Barack Obama. Arieale’s commitment to improving the lives of those around her has resulted in a powerful and lasting impact on the community she serves.
Arieale’s unwavering commitment to Memphis and its residents extends beyond her non-profit, Operation Taking Back 901. She selflessly serves on the foster care review board in Shelby County, provides invaluable life coaching and self-esteem-building services, and even authored two books, “When Pleasing Has No Purpose” and “I Am the Change,” which are read in schools across the county.
One of the primary challenges Arieale faced was securing funding for her organization. However, she met this challenge head-on by being resourceful and persistent, continuously fundraising and seeking help from her community of like-minded individuals who shared her passion and vision.
Despite the obstacles she’s encountered, Arieale’s passion for helping young people in her community remains steadfast. She’s deeply moved by the positive impact her work has on the youth in Shelby County, inspiring them to lead with a renewed perspective on life. Seeing the once-uninspired and silent rooms filled with smiling faces after her events, and witnessing the joy and gratitude of students receiving the support they never knew was available to them, continues to fuel her unwavering dedication to her mission.
Arieale’s family is the cornerstone of her motivation and success. Her children have been her constant support system and have always believed in her dreams. “Even when others saw me having a child at a young age as a mistake, my children saw it as a blessing. They have been with me every step of the way, providing me with the strength and inspiration needed to pursue my goals,” she says.
Arieale’s journey as a young mother has given her a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges facing the youth in her community. She often shares her story as a testimony to others, explaining how her early motherhood gave her the determination to help other young people in her area. Her family has been the driving force behind her mission to help others, and she is forever grateful for their unwavering love and support.
Looking ahead, Arieale envisions a future where Operation Taking Back 901 can provide even more comprehensive support for women and children in need. As part of this vision, she plans to establish a dedicated resources center that will offer a range of services, including counseling, educational programming, and life skills training. This center will serve as a beacon of hope for those who have experienced abuse, teen pregnancy, or other challenges, providing them with the resources and support they need to overcome adversity and thrive. By expanding her organization’s reach in this way, Arieale hopes to create a brighter, more empowered future for the people of Memphis.
If you’re looking to follow in Arieale’s footsteps, here’s a piece of advice that might help: remember that not everyone will believe in your journey, but that’s okay. It’s your journey, after all, so own it! Don’t be afraid to promote your business and spread the word about what you do. You never know who might be listening and how they could help you grow. And even if you feel like your biggest critic, try to showcase yourself and your talents as much as possible. Believe in yourself, even when it’s tough. Look in the mirror every day and remind yourself of your goals. Remember that perseverance is key and don’t give up, even when things get difficult.
“Even when others saw me having a child at a young age as a mistake, my children saw it as a blessing. They have been with me every step of the way, providing me with the strength and inspiration needed to pursue my goals.”
Dr. Samenia L. Mayer, a renowned celebrity florist and a proud single parent residing in the heart of Philadelphia, PA, owns Unique Gifts & Flowers. Her company offers delightful floral experiences tailored to each customer’s unique desires.
Dr. Mayer, the creative force behind this thriving fresh floral delivery service, brings her passion for design and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction to every arrangement she crafts. Whether it’s a wedding celebration or a solemn farewell, her expertise extends to all occasions, ensuring that her client’s needs are met and their cherished memories are adorned. “We are very passionate about what we offer our customers, as we aim to exceed their expectations with each experience,” she says.
Dr. Mayer says her journey in business began in October 2005. A seed that would blossom into an extraordinary journey of Unique Gifts & Flowers was planted. Now 18 years later, her heart exudes excitement and gratitude for the countless memories she has helped create. Her company has delivered over 50,000 breathtaking arrangements, each a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence. “When I lost my job working for a construction company, I was left with a sense of failure, and that wasn’t an option for me, especially being a single parent of four children. So as I walked home, I prayed and asked God to diversify my income streams to endless opportunities. God answered my prayers. I’ve never taken out any loans and saved up my money before starting my business. My steps have truly been ordered into this industry.”
When asked what she loves most about her business, Dr. Mayer offers a warm response. “Amidst the shadows of my own personal struggles, including overcoming obstacles in abusive relationships and navigating the challenges of single parenthood, my business has emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience. While meticulously arranging and personally delivering beautiful flower arrangements, a profound rejuvenation takes hold of my spirit. Witnessing the transformation that occurs on the faces of recipients as they are greeted is nothing short of miraculous. It is in those moments that a ray of hope pierces through the clouds, reminding me of what unwavering faith can produce. While serving my clients, I am filled with deep gratitude. As I continue on this remarkable journey, I am eternally grateful that the beauty of floral gifts has become a profound win-win for my cherished customers and myself. Each delivery is an opportunity to ignite hope, spread joy, and remind us all of the transformative power of a single act of kindness. With every floral smile shared, I am reminded that I am living my purpose, and I am blessed beyond measure,” she says.
“So as I walked home, I prayed and asked God to diversify my income streams to endless opportunities. God answered my prayers.”
Dr. Mayer often credits her children with inspiring and impacting her life the most. She says, “The presence of my children has profoundly shaped every aspect of my life and career, leaving an indelible impact that resonates deeply within my being. Their unwavering trust in me as their provider, mother, and protector has fueled my drive to become the best version of myself and be an actively involved parent in their lives.” She also adds, “In my earlier years, I harbored aspirations of becoming a judge, knowing that pursuing a career in law would be the necessary stepping stone. However, the beautiful responsibility of motherhood prompted a shift in my path as I put that dream on hold to embrace the unique gifts and talents that flowed through my veins. The urge to create, to bring beauty into the world, was imprinted in my DNA. The creative arts and crafts became my chosen avenue for self-expression, woven intricately into the fabric of my being.”
Dr Mayer also acknowledges the impact her mother had on life. “I owe a debt of gratitude to my remarkable mother, who, through her nurturing guidance, exposed me to many extracurricular activities. From the tender age of 11, I began the entrepreneurial journey, crafting and selling pillows and cookies made from cake mix. This early experience kindled within me the realization that I possessed the innate ability to survive and thrive, utilizing the unique gifts bestowed upon me by a higher power.”
To learn more about Dr. Mayer and her company, please visit their website.
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www.uniqueflowersandgifts.com
“In my earlier years, I harbored aspirations of becoming a judge, knowing that pursuing a career in law would be the necessary stepping stone. However, the beautiful responsibility of motherhood prompted a shift in my path as I put that dream on hold to embrace the unique gifts and talents that flowed through my veins.”
29Eleven Photography
By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Natasha Hughes
She definitely has an eye for creativity.
Natasha Hughes is the owner and face of 29Eleven Photography LLC. Based in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, she says the meaning behind this name came of her company comes from the scripture in the bible of Jeremiah 29:11 (I alone know the plans I have for you, plans to bring you prosperity and not disaster, plans to bring about the future you hope for.) Natasha says that God kept bringing her back to this scripture. “The whole book of Jeremiah is about being chosen, being selected. It was so fitting for how and why God was using me. He was showing me things far beyond my wildest dreams.”
Natasha is a 33-year-old woman that dedicates her life to helping others in any way possible. No matter who you are, she loves seeing the smiles on other’s faces. She also loves to sing, laugh, and enjoy life, which often involves being around family and friends. While she has no children, she has a heart for children and older adults. She has spent the last ten years of her career working in a nursing home. Natasha has also served in the children’s ministry since age 20.
Educated with a bachelors degree in Healthcare Administration, Natasha says that photography was never a plan for her life. “Never had I thought about it until I began seeking God about my purpose. All my life, I have struggled with identity. It’s like I could speak life into everyone else but myself. Everyone always looked up to me as a role model, but I never saw in myself what others saw in me. In 2020 during a spiritual fast with my church, God began to speak to me about photography. At first, I ignored it, but the Holy Spirit quickly showed me God’s plan. During the fast, He showed me how I viewed myself and how others would be viewed through the lens. God also showed me how He would use me behind the lens to tell my clients’ stories,” she says.
After wrestling with what God has shown her, Natasha finally stepped out on faith and began to serve other local photographers and her business. “Serving her business while putting myself aside at the time is truly why I believe my business is so successful today,” she says. In March of 2022, her brand was born.
29Eleven Photography offers general photography services such as family, wedding, newborns, family, and branding shoots. Natasha says her favorite captures are couples. She also enjoys the different encounters she has with people from all over the world. From young to old, single to married, Natasha captures their stories. “You get to see others conquer things that I never imagined someone would’ve had to face,” she says.
Natasha says her business has been impacted mostly by her Aunt Sherry. This person taught her faith, family, and the value of yourself and education. “Her life alone modeled what I wanted to be as a mother, wife and friend. Her words of wisdom throughout my life are why I am the woman I am today.” She shares that Theresa Brown of T.A.G Imaging has impacted her life and career also. “She took the time to teach me everything I needed to know. No matter how big I get, I will always remember where it all started. Before the name, before the camera, she was there,” Natasha says.
As a photographer, Natasha says she has been challenged with shooting newborns and children. “You must have a special craft for that service. It’s easy to tell an adult to look here and smile, but there’s so many techniques required with newborns. Practice makes perfect and I understand that everyone has to start somewhere right,” she explains.
Her advice to other aspiring entrepreneurs is to just leap! “Stop worrying about all the things you need to have in place. I am a witness that God will send others along the way to help you. I had no camera, but my boyfriend believed in me and surprised me with one for my birthday. I had no name, yet God placed it in someone’s heart to pay for my LLC. I had no clients, but my godsister booked me for the whole weekend for her baby shower and maternity session. I charged a client $60 for a session, but they blessed me with $500. I have been blessed because I took that leap. Don’t worry about who is for you because God will always reveal, remove, and replace. Just Jump!”
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DC Moss and Herbs offer an all-encompassing wellness experience that tends to your inner and outer well-being. This remarkable venture was brought to fruition by the visionary entrepreneur and business maven Denicha Crenshaw, hailing from the vibrant South Phoenix, AZ. With unwavering determination and a bold vision, she has embarked on a journey that transcends boundaries and stretches far and wide. From herbs to holistic remedies, DC Moss and Herbs is dedicated to elevating vitality and enriching life.
Denicha, a woman of many talents, is a proud wife and devoted mother to four beautiful children. After dedicating over two decades of her life to the corporate world, she realized that it was time to prioritize her passions and embrace the path of an entrepreneur. She seized the opportunity to pursue her dreams and established DC Moss and Herbs and her own travel agency. With a fierce entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication, Denicha has transcended the norms and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment.
For Denicha, entrepreneurship has always been a cherished aspiration, and over the past four years, she has transformed her dreams into a stunning reality. However, the path to selfemployment was not always smooth sailing. She parted ways with the corporate world after voicing her concerns against the management, which didn’t sit well with them. Despite this challenge, Denicha perceives it as a fortunate turn of events. As she puts it, “I consider it a blessing in disguise. Being my own boss has always been a lifelong ambition, and now, with the guidance of the Almighty, I am fulfilling that dream.” Her tenacity and resilience in the face of adversity have catapulted her toward a brighter and more fulfilling future.
DC Moss and Herbs is much more than a business venture for Denicha; it is a labor of love that stems from a profound personal experience. With the onset of the pandemic, Denicha, like many others, was concerned about her family’s health and well-being. Her father’s diagnosis with bladder cancer further heightened her anxiety, and she resolved to find an all-natural way to strengthen his immune system. Although Denicha lost her beloved father to the illness, her unshakable drive to help others only intensified. As she reflects, “Watching my dad suffer made me realize that there are cures for many diseases in nature, and I want to make that knowledge accessible to everyone.” Denicha’s unwavering commitment to research and holistic healing has led her to discover that natural remedies can be just as effective as conventional treatments. Her mission is to empower and educate others about the incredible potential of natural medicine in promoting optimal health and well-being.
When Denicha stumbled upon the wonders of sea moss and herbal teas, she knew she had to share the magic with the world. Drawing inspiration from her initials, she christened her business “DC Moss and Herbs” and set out to turn her passion into a thriving enterprise. Her foray into the sea moss market began with a fortuitous encounter on social media, where she saw someone in search of the elusive superfood. After conducting extensive research on its benefits, Denicha was convinced that she and her family needed it in their lives. However, she soon realized that sea moss was an acquired taste, and not everyone could stomach it. With her keen culinary skills and boundless creativity, Denicha found a solution - she transformed the sea moss into delicious apple sauce that would have even the pickiest eaters coming back for more. Her customers are now hooked on the flavorful concoction, and the fact that they’re getting all the amazing health benefits of sea moss is the cherry on top.
Denicha’s heart swells with joy when she hears customers share their success stories. “It’s a blessing to hear someone say, ‘I’m losing weight,’ or ‘my blood pressure has dropped for the first time in 20 years thanks to sea moss,’’ she says. The sheer satisfaction of helping people feel their best is what drives her to keep going and pushing harder.
Denicha is a go-getter who always has a plan. She listened to her mom’s advice and saved up enough money to start her business without any major struggles or challenges. “Thank God, I was able to pay my bills while figuring this out,” she says. Unlike many other businesses that suffered during the pandemic, Denicha’s business actually grew because people were focused on staying healthy. Now that the pandemic is slowing down, she’s shifting her focus to marketing and expanding her product line to include sea moss-infused goodies that customers will love.
If you thought that Denicha’s sea moss and herbal teas were the only things that she sold, then think again! DC Moss and Herbs offer a variety of natural products that’ll have you feeling like a whole new person. From raw sea moss to syrups and hair and body products, she’s got you covered. But if you’re looking for something extra special, then you have to try her sea moss-infused body butter. This incredible concoction was born out of an accident when Denicha suffered a burn while mixing one of her other products. However, what came out of that mishap was something truly special. When she went to the doctors for treatment, they were amazed by how fast her sea moss-infused body butter was helping her heal. So now, you can have the same experience in the comfort of your own home.
Denicha’s family is her rock-solid support system, inspiring her to pursue her passion for wellness. They always have her back, like when she attended a busy event where she couldn’t fully tend to her products. As she scurried around, she was pleasantly surprised to see her daughter pitching in, confidently selling and promoting DC Moss and Herbs. It was a heartwarming moment that reminded Denicha of the unwavering love and support of her family, standing by her and her business without any hesitation.
Denicha is always looking to the future; her next venture is no exception. With her family as her biggest inspiration, she is currently building her third business as a developmental disability provider. Her sister’s disability opened her eyes to the need for better care and support, and Denicha is determined to make a difference. She plans to expand her business by sending out other DDps who can provide the same high-quality services that she does. For Denicha, success is measured not just in financial gain but in the positive impact she can make on the lives of others. As she looks ahead, she is excited about the prospect of continuing to bless her community and improve the lives of those around her.
For anyone looking to start their own business, Denicha’s advice is to never give up. “Follow your dreams even if you have a downfall; keep going.” To learn more about DC Moss and Herbs, please visit their website. h www.dcmossandherbs.com
Located in the southern city of Huntsville, Alabama, an aspiring entrepreneur named Jocelyn Lewis is making waves as the owner of Bamboo Park Consultants, LLC. With a passion for empowering traditional brick-andmortar business owners, Jocelyn’s expertise lies in providing cutting-edge digital marketing services. Her goal is to help businesses enhance their online visibility, boost their bottom line, and maximize their market share. Some of the services they offer are Website Development, Social Media Management, Brand Management, Online Reputation Management, Google Profile, and Email Suite Development and Management, as well as Email and SMS Marketing.
Along with running her company, Jocelyn is committed to meeting the needs of her family. She is a wife and mother of two daughters. She is also a graduate of Alabama A&M University’s School of Business and has a B.S. in Economics.
The inception of Bamboo Park Consultants, LLC happened in 2018. It was then that Jocelyn recognized a pressing challenge faced by business owners, which was juggling their core operations while maintaining a consistent online presence. She wanted to provide a solution, and one was social media marketing and management. “The first client, a dental office seeking assistance with their social media channels and content creation, set the tone for what would happen moving forward with my company,” she says. “Soon, I pursued professional development opportunities, enrolled in courses, and obtained certifications to expand my skill set. With each successful collaboration, my confidence flourished, and things took off from there.”
“With each successful collaboration, my confidence flourished, and things took off from there.”Photos Provided by Jocelyn Lewis
Jocelyn says she loves building relationships and collaborating with her clients. She shares, “I enjoy taking something that they once viewed as difficult or even impossible and helping them better understand to reach their business goals. I also love the fact that digital marketing is always changing. There is always something new to learn; thus, I am never bored. There are always new opportunities to be innovative!”
While Bamboo Park Consultants continues to make strides, Jocelyn shares some things that have strengthened her business acumen. “After college, I started a career in sales. To succeed in sales, you must be tough, resilient, confident, and good at taking rejection. My career in sales taught me a lot about building relationships and their importance. I do believe that has been the most impactful. I embraced roles in sales management and corporate sales training,” she says. “I didn’t realize then that I was building the foundation for my future and preparing for a life of entrepreneurship. My ability to build and maintain relationships has carried me and allowed me to build my dream. I learned the life of an entrepreneur is full of ups and downs, it can be a bit unpredictable. Yet, at the end of the day it is advantageous.”
Jocely shares she finds inspiration in knowing that anything is possible at the end of the day. “If you can conceive it with your mind, then you can hold it in your hand if you are willing to do the work,” she says.
While there have been challenges along her journey, there isn’t a whole lot of which she would change. “I wouldn’t change a single thing. Everything positive and negative has all worked together for my good. Facing challenges head-on has given me the grit and foresight necessary to push forward.”
Her advice to others who may follow in her footsteps is clear. “Value your relationships because they will take you further than any dollar ever will, and don’t be afraid to fail, and never stop learning” Moving forward, Jocelyn says she plans to continue to learn as much as she can and provide her clients with the best service possible while continuing to grow her business. “I want to scale into a full agency digital media powerhouse and serve multiple business sectors simultaneously. I also want to provide them with full digital media coverage while branching out into other media outlets,” she says.
Please visit their website to learn more about Bamboo Park Consultants, LLC.
www.hellobamboopark.com h
By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Alphonso Abbott
Your wedding day is one of the most memorable moments of your life. It can also be one of your life’s most expensive and nerve-racking experiences. From deciding upon the perfect wedding gown, to the venue, to the caterer, to the wedding colors and the decorations, and the number of guests takes a person with nerves of steel to pull it all together and make the wedding day a successful and seamless event. A Certified and Detailed Oriented Wedding Planner manages, coordinates, and designs your memorable day. The wedding planner meets with the couple to discuss the type of wedding they envision and ascertain if their budget meets that vision. Successful wedding planners should be methodical and proficient at handling difficult or stressful situations; they should be professional when dealing with people with unique personalities; they should be abreast of the latest wedding trends; and they should demonstrate exceptional interpersonal communication and organization skills.
In 2023 the average wedding can cost the couple around $30K due to inflation. Let it be known that the fee doesn’t necessarily include the transportation for the wedding party, the rehearsal dinner, the florists, the photographers, the caterers, the entertainment, the cake designer, or even the invitations. Yes, that’s right. So where can you go when you desire a classy wedding but operate on a smaller budget? You can call Father of The Bride, an event planning company based in Greensboro, NC, and owned and operated by Michael Boston and his daughter, Aisha Boston.
Michael A. “Mike” Boston, Sr. is no stranger to the spotlight. Most citizens in the Triad area and beyond already know him from Boston’s House of Jazz, Boston Realty Group, Mike Boston Entertainment, and as the Co-Founder of the Mike & Anita Boston Foundation. These are a meager sampling of Mr. Boston’s thriving business endeavors. For these reasons, he wants to propel his daughter, Aisha, or his “Baby Girl,” as he dubs her into the business world by gifting her with a business of her own. Read on and learn how Father of the Bride was realized.
Mr. Boston shares, “My daughter called and told me she was getting married and asked how much she could count on me contributing to her budget. She said she already had a commitment from her mother and needed to know how much I could contribute because she needed to let the wedding planner know her budget. I thought about it briefly because she’s a school teacher, and we all know they don’t make much money. So, between me and her mom, we gave her $10K. No matter who you are or how much money you have, that’s a lot of money, and I thought that would be enough for her to have a nice wedding. Well, Aisha took that to her wedding planner and was told that wasn’t enough money, and she didn’t do weddings under $18K! When my daughter shared that with me, I thought that woman had bumped her head, but I know my baby girl, so I already knew she wanted something nice and classy, and at that moment, I started thinking about my mother. I’m 70 years old, and I remember her telling me that my grandmother gave her a hope chest with china plates and cups, some silverware, a sterling silver tea set, and some bloomers. I started calling around to inquire about the cost of a wedding planner and everything my baby girl would need, and I discovered that the young lady was right. Shoot, I told my daughter we were in the wrong business, and that’s when the idea came to me. This could be something I could give to my daughter as a legacy. Aisha has always been a supportive daughter and has never given me a bit of trouble. She’s a hard worker, has served this country in the military, is an exceptional teacher, and loves what she does. Even Winston-Salem has recognized her as one of its outstanding teachers, and she’s also an extraordinary mother. I thought she deserved a memorable wedding, and gifting her this business would be a good way to introduce her to being a business owner, so I did this for her. She’s the owner of Father of The Bride. That’s my gift to my baby girl. Her brothers have been in business with me for a while and are accomplished businessmen in their own right. ‘It’s Her Time.’ Now she has her legacy.” Being blessed with a legacy is far from a back-inthe-day hope chest. This is a prime example of generational love and wealth.
Father of The Bride is designed to be an affordable fullservice wedding production and planning establishment. Here couples will receive wedding planning, designing, and coordination under the same roof. At Father of The Bride, couples can create an affordable budget and make their wedding dreams come true. No matter who you are, everyone deserves a memorable wedding day that they can be proud of without worrying if everything will run according to plans. Here the couple shouldn’t be concerned with the logistics and the event’s overall aesthetic. Together Mr. Boston and his daughter, Aisha, will remove the worry and guesswork from the equation. They will maintain your budget, help you brainstorm your theme, assist you with locating a vending site, design and provide the aesthetics and connect you with professional vendors that will work with your budget. They will manage the rehearsal and professionally execute everything on the wedding day. You can come to Father of The Bride when you don’t know where to start when it comes to planning your special day.
The Boston’s have decades of experience when it comes to creating ambiance and hosting sophisticated events. If you are in a quandary about where to hold your special occasion, you can rent their designer venue, fully furnished with tables, chairs, fine linen, furniture, and name-brand flooring. You can also rent king and queen plush chairs that can be delivered to your vending space. Father of The Bride can take your concept and transform your special day into one that will be remembered for years. Finally, as your day approaches, Father of The Bride will leave no stone unturned as they take the reins in making sure that last-minute details have been addressed. They will be the point-person on your wedding day, follow up with your vendors, perform a walkthrough of your wedding and reception spaces and execute all timelines, ensuring everyone is on one accord.
You can trust that these owners understand the importance of detail, organization, and timelines, a skill necessary in the wedding industry. Aisha has been planning her wedding for over a year and is off and running.
She shares, “I’m getting married in June, and I’ve been planning my wedding for a while. I secured my vending space over a year ago, so I know how this is supposed to work, from the planning to the designing to the coordination of it all. I’m fortunate to have parents who can afford to help me have the wedding I desire. My dad has always been one of my biggest supporters, so when I asked if he would contribute to my budget, I already knew he would; I just didn’t know how much. He’s more excited about this wedding than I am. It’s almost like it’s his wedding. I recognize that everyone doesn’t have that level of financial security, but everyone deserves a classy wedding. After my father and I started researching the wedding industry, we reached out to several people and realized that the cost was just too expensive, so now I’m the wedding planner, the designer, and the coordinator of my wedding. My father and I started thinking about the people who can’t afford to put out thousands of dollars for a wedding and reception. Who’s there to assist them? Initially, we were going to be a vending business and just rent the tables and chairs. Still, with more research, we realized we could offer a full wedding production, and since we already own the venue, we could also host special events like anniversary and sweet 16 birthday parties. My father and I decided we would be the ones to provide couples with a full wedding production that they could be proud of on a lesser budget.”
When you see the logo for Father of The Bride, you may be reminded of Rich Uncle Penny Bags from the board game Monopoly. He is depicted as a portly old man with a mustache who wears a morning suit with a bowtie and a top hat. In large parts of the world, he is exclusively known as the Monopoly Man or, simply, Mr. Monopoly. As a daddy’s girl, Aisha has been spoiled by her father, as every daughter should be.
Aisha lovingly shares, “I’m the only girl, so my dad has spoiled me all my life and pretty much gives me whatever I want. He’s always throwing money at me, so that’s where the logo concept comes from. I’m the bride running after my dad while he’s throwing the money out of the bag. At this moment, he is the Father of The Bride. I believe many fathers want to support their daughters by helping them with a classy and affordable wedding production. My dad and I can offer an exclusive experience for an affordable price. I want this business to help those families operating on a fixed budget to have a phenomenal wedding experience by bundling our services. It means the world to me that my father is gifting me with a business that has the potential to become a franchise. Even though I’m a teacher, I do not have the words to describe how I feel working alongside my dad and learning from him. He has so much wisdom and business experience to offer me. He’s a successful self-made businessman and entrepreneur, and on top of that, he’s my dad. Doing this venture with him is priceless. I have the best daddy in the world.”
Though Mr. Boston’s accolades run deep, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention Aisha’s accomplishments. She served in the military from 2008 – 2012; earned a bachelor’s degree in education from birth–kindergarten with a minor in special education from Winston Salem State University; and earned a master’s degree and teaching license from the University of North Carolina – Greensboro. Father of The Bride will open in Greensboro, NC, within a few weeks. Within the next few months, the establishment will also have establishments in Winston Salem, NC, and Atlanta, GA.
1019 Arnold Street Greensboro, NC 27405 336-285-6888
www.fatherofthebride.com
MAGAZINE Zoelle Alaiya Scott
To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com
The daughter of Charita Jackson
