Huami Magazine Houston Jan./Feb. 2022

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Jan./Feb. 2022 Vol. 1 Issue 6

Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha Houston - Jan./Feb. 2022

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My Expectations and The Truth A Letter From The Editor

I would have to say that I grew up poor by world standards.

I never felt like it because my mother constantly poured unconditional love into my other siblings and me. Her love wouldn’t allow me to focus on what I didn’t have or anything I could be missing. However, as life happened, I realized that when compared to others, my experiences were more complex. Even still, I had the opportunity to overcome them.

One of the most important things I learned from my upbringing is that the truth will always override my expectations. The very first car that I owned, I purchased for myself. It wasn’t a new vehicle, but it was mine. It had a few dents, and the tires didn’t match either. The heat or air conditioning didn’t work, and the exhaust pipe would shake like a leaf when I started the car, probably because it was being held in place by the wiring of a close hanger. With all of its imperfections, my car was a beauty in my sight, and I was very appreciative to own it.

Though it seemed like I drove that car for all eternity, it only survived one year with me. I didn’t keep gas in the fuel tank, and I never changed the oil either. I drove it fast, and on cold mornings I didn’t allow it to warm up. Rarely did I bathe it or even provide it with routine or preventative maintenance, and before I knew it, my first and only method of transportation slowed down and shut off in the middle of the road.

See, I expected my car to run forever, but the truth is I never did anything to ensure that it would. I expected my car to go when I needed it to but never considered my thoughtless and erratic treatment’s impact on it. I expected to ride forever, but the truth is I never invested in my cars’ future.

I’m saying that we will only get out of life what we put into it. How will we ever expect to know God if we never spend time with Him? My goal in life is to win. For this to happen, I must be willing to do what is necessary to win and align myself with what is true, which is God’s expectations.

Terry L. Watson 4

www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson

Publisher

Terry L. Watson Writer Arielle Kilgore Writer Ellen Richardson Writer Dorjea’ McClammey Writer Tamara Smith

Santana B Photography Photographer Demese Black Photographer Todd Youngblood Photographer Howard Gaither Photography Still Shots Photography Photographer

For General Inquiries huami.houston@gmail.com

Greensboro, NC 2021 All Rights Reserved

JAN./FEB. 2022

HOUSTON EDITION

CONTENTS

Cherished Occasions Catering

Theresa Graves

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On The Cover

Drink 2 Shrink Coach LaKesha Spencer

Ideas Unlimited Events LLC

Sade and Stefanie

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The Paperwork Guru

Marrissa Dick

Huami Magazine Cutest Baby

Railyn Kate

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Also Featured

Brian K. McNeill He is known as the Confidence Coach. Learn more about what he has to offer.

Charlotte, NC

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Brian K. McNeill He is known as the Confidence Coach. Learn more about what he has to offer.

Charlotte, NC

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Nykisha Banks For her, it’s more than just teaching her young students the art of dance.

Atlanta, GA

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Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha HuamiMagazine.com

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By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Lakesha Spencer Drink 2 Shrink sounds almost unheard, yet the concept is a reality for Coach Lekesha Spencer. The fitness enthusiast has transformed her life simply by addressing her health needs head-on.

The Detroit, MI native, says her company, Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha, was born in 2020 through her millionaire mentor, Stanecia Graham. LaKesha says Stanecia was the movement’s visionary, which allowed each partner to personalize and brand themselves in business. The concept is much like a franchise, minus the milliondollar startup cost.

“It all began when I went to the doctor for a routine physical. My doctor prescribed me four medications to go along with the six prescriptions I already had. As a nurse, I knew the effects of drugs and the side effects. I had to make a change, so I got my mind right and lost 45 lbs. The rest was history. To this day, all 10 of those prescribed medications have been discontinued,” LaKesha says.

For the most part, LaKesha shares her life is one of resilience. After several failed marriages, she learned how to bounce back and become the person she always knew she was. “After committing myself to better my health, I changed my mindset around food and unhealthy behaviors. As a result, I have released 45 pounds, and I look and feel amazing. I now walk with conviction about the products I offer. My ultimate goal is to help others who are serious about losing weight and becoming healthier,” she says.

LaKesha describes herself as a devout woman of God and a beacon of light to her family and friends. She was reared as an only child by her loving mother, whom she describes as her best friend. Growing up, LaKesha shares she was taught she needed to go to college to get a good education to become a teacher, doctor, lawyer, or nurse. So that’s what she did. She studied hard, and I obtained her Bachelor of Science

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degree in Nursing. After three years of working as a nurse, she knew that it wasn’t for her. “I often questioned if it was even my calling at all,” she says. That doubt led her to dabble in entrepreneurship. “April 2020, I had an emergency surgery. During that time off work, I realized that my Drink 2 Shrink business was more than a hobby, it really pays. After 28 years of nursing, I relinquished my safety net and became a fulltime entrepreneur.”

LaKesha shares that entrepreneurship has afforded her the freedom and flexibility to do exactly what she wants. It also provides her with a chance to take care of her parents. “We have the opportunity to travel the world and enjoy one another,” she says.

She shares what she loves most about her business: the results her clients obtain when they follow the designed regime she provides. “I love knowing their results put them in a happier place where they feel so much better about themselves. There is nothing like a girl being able to fit into her favorite pair of skinny jeans again, or her going into the backside of her closet and grabbing her favorite dress that she refused to give up after many years.”

In addition to the positive results from her clients, LaKesha says their testimonies of overall improved health inspire her to keep pushing. “I am inspired because I am a product of the product, and I know firsthand the feelings I have from my transformation.

I know that I am transforming lives, not just selling a product,” she says.

As a coach, she offers this advice to anyone who wants to achieve their goal in life and in health. “Be very persistent and never give up on your goals and dreams. Be yourself and know that you can fulfill your heart’s desire if you don’t give up.”

Coach Lakesha Spencer www.healthylivingwithcoach.squarespace.com Coachblings@gmail.com 8

Her plans for 2022 are to stay consistent and build upon the double digits of the year with the expectation of doubling the number of clients that she can help. She also plans to double her income which she says will allow for her to help her family and people in her community.

To learn more about Drink 2 Shrink with Coach LaKesha, please visit their website. h

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Delectable

Delights By Tarolyn

By Terry L. Watson Photos by Christopher Fails Sr.

It’s one thing to have a sweet tooth, but to have it satisfied is where the real pleasure comes in. If you happen to be in the Pensacola community of Florida, there is one company that is sure to meet your delight. That company is Delectable Delights by Tarolyn Inc., a home-based cottage bakery.

Delectable Delights offers both traditional and custom cakes, as well as a wide variety of treats. Owned and founded by Tarolyn Street, they can create anything for such occasions as baby showers, birthday parties, weddings, and more.

Tarolyn is the true definition of a savvy businesswoman. She launched her company with a determination to succeed and set an example to her children of what hard work will do for them. She has been married for 12 years to her husband, David, who she describes as her business partner, prayer warrior, best friend, and counselor. Together they shepherd a blended family of six children and seven Godchildren.

Tarolyn says the truth is she did not want to launch her business. “I enrolled into culinary arts school right out of high school, but I had so much going on in my life, including being homeless, that I did not finish. I would make cakes for family and friends, but I wasn’t interested in making cakes and treats full-time. My focus changed, and I enrolled in school to become a licensed massage therapist. I was running from my calling. I was scared. Scared of failure and scared of not being accepted. I was also scared of not knowing what to do. I had these emotions even after winning third place in the state of Florida VICA Commercial Baking and Pastries Competition. However, things changed one day when I heard God say, “I gave you a talent, so what are you going to do with it?” I told God if He’s pushing me out here, I know I have no choice but to move with His plan, and so I did,” she says.

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On February 11, 2015, her company opened for business.

Tarolyn says she was referred by her classmate, Shirley Johnson, to a customer who needed her services. Shirley was already familiar with Tarolyn’s sweet creations, and things took off once the connection was made. “From that weekend until this very day, I have soared beyond what I could ever have thought,” she says.

Tarolyn says what she loves most about her business is being able to touch the lives of others with something as simple as a cake or treat. “To be able to build relationships and bonds with people and see the looks on their faces when they see what my hands have created. Their faces light up with excitement. This makes it all worth it.”

With all that she has endured in life, Tarolyn continues to credit God with being her source and strength. “God is my biggest inspiration. Without Him, I’m absolutely nothing,” she shares. Tarolyn credits her husband and kids for pushing and motivating her to be the best every day. “On days when I need that extra push, they give it to me. They provide the drive and the confidence I need to go further.”

Additionally, she acknowledges Derric and Valiencia, a couple in her community who she says exemplifies what genuine love for community looks like. “I have seen them effortlessly care for the children on the dance team as if the members were their own kids. I’ve witnessed them take money out of their pockets to make sure no one is left behind,” she says.

For those who may be considering starting a business like Tarolyn, she offers the following advice. “Be confident in yourself and know your worth from the beginning. Even in knowing your worth, remain humble and learn something from every avenue of your life.”

850-375-3417 delectablesbyt@yahoo.com Facebook @ Delectable Delights by Tarolyn

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As the future continues to look bright for her and Delectable Delights by Tarolyn, she hopes to become more involved in her community by giving back and serving. One way Tarolyn plans to accomplish this is to shine a light on more small businesses and help them grow and become more successful. That is what love looks like.

To learn more about Delectable Delights by Tarolyn, please visit them on Facebook, or contact them directly. h

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Cherished Occasions Catering 14

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By Terry L. Watson Photos by Santana B. Photography Scripture frequently mentions food in various contexts. In eating our daily bread, God encourages His followers to nourish their bodies and souls with nutritional and spiritual food. One way people can gain that nutritional food is through catering. The responsibility of a caterer is to prepare, deliver, and serve bulk meal orders to clients for special events such as conferences, celebrations, weddings, birthdays, and baby showers. People who need assistance with making their celebration a cherished and memorable event often seek outside help. One caterer frequently sought after for her nutritional value and creative ambiance is Theresa A. Graves, owner and founder of Cherished Occasions, Incorporated.

Read as Theresa shares how she overcame homelessness to establishing herself as a sought-after catering entrepreneur.

“I have been cooking for a very long time, especially since I am the mother of four children. I had to cook because it was too expensive to go out to eat, so cooking was something I had to do. Everyone from my grandparents, my dad, and my mom cooked, so I was fortunate to learn how to prepare good food from scratch. When my children were younger, they would bring friends home to eat, and they would always show up around dinner time. We were always asked to bring extra dishes during the holidays, I thought because I had a larger family, but that wasn’t the case. I noticed that every time we brought a dish, they were the first to go. It didn’t matter what type either. It could be my homemade yeast rolls with honey butter or one of my baked goods; it didn’t matter. Then someone asked if I would cook for their event. I was hesitant at first, but then I realized if I could cook enough for my children and the neighborhood kids, all I had to do was think of the event as though I was cooking for a large family. I was already doing it without realizing it. From that one event where I had cooked for 20 people soon turned to 50 people, and the next one turned into 100 people, and the rest is history,” Theresa shares.

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Photo by Bay Mitchell

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So how did a single mother of four become a well sought-after caterer? Theresa says, “I can truly share that starting Cherished Occasions was not easy, especially when you have four children with four different personalities to deal with. This business is a second chance at life for me, and it is also a legacy for my children. I am an African American woman who struggled with domestic violence and lived in a domestic violence shelter twice. You know, being homeless gives you a different type of drive. I mean I had four children, so I had to figure out how I would provide for them. They looked to me for safety, shelter, and food. When I tell you all of that was motivation enough to make me get up and make it happen.

You know Romans 2:11 says, “For there is no respect of person with God.” If God can take me from homelessness twice, give me a wonderful and supportive husband, Lou, take care of my children and give me a catering business, then anybody can do it. He is still the same God. What He did for me He can do for you, too.”

“If God can take me from homelessness twice, give me a wonderful and supportive husband, Lou, take care of my children and give me a catering business, then anybody can do it. He is still the same God. What He did for me He can do for you, too.”

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Theresa, who is a native of Greensboro, realized for Cherished Occasions to be successful, she needed to refine how she organized her business.

By accepting advice from her team and mentors, she soon realized that she needed to become a better listener, possess good energy, accept responsibility, and work through adversity. It suffices to say that Cherished Occasions has cultivated these essential elements. She shares, “I’ve been very fortunate to have all my children working with me at some point and time - - they don’t have a problem pitching in. Cherished Occasions was born out of necessity so it has always been hard work, but we have persevered and made it happen together. You must have good energy in your business. Energy is neither created nor destroyed, it’s simply transferred from person to person, so we try to make sure that we always have positive energy, especially when cooking.”

Theresa says there were some mistakes made, and they still have some challenges, but says they have all been neccessary. “My own son who had been with us from the beginning had to walk away from the business because it was too much. I was too much! I had to learn how to talk to my people.

I’m used to multitasking, so I expected everyone to operate like me. I expected everyone to have my mindset, my heartbeat, my pulse, and my work ethic, but that wasn’t happening. I didn’t realize that I was causing my children stress, so their way of telling me that I was causing them stress was to tell me, “Mamma I quit”! That’s how I knew I had to change things. I had to learn how to talk to my children as adults and employees and listen when they voiced their opinions.”

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Theresa shares she had to come out of mamma mode and go into employer mode. She had to learn how to switch those hats and found support from her husband, Lou. When things became tensious with her children as employees, they often reached out to him for assistance. It was then Lou realized he needed to step in and offer support. “Hey baby, listen I know you want to do this, but you have to listen to your team. You have to hear your staff. You’re working them to hard and you’re not working smart. Let’s see if we can do this differently,” Theresa states how Lou helped her. “How can I not listen to that advice, especially since he has over 26-years of restaurant experience.”

While Theresa attempted to operate Cherished Occasions solely by herself, she was wise enough to embrace God’s support. “I listened to my people; I listened to my mentors, and now I understand how important communication and listening are to having a successful business. I’m also grateful that I have my church community, too. I have a spiritual mentor, a business mentor, and I have a Sista Girl who checks me when I’m out of place. It’s important to have people in your life who care enough about you to tell you the truth and help you look at things from a different perspective. When you have a client down on the books, they don’t want to hear that life showed up. For example, my sister passed away on a night we had a catering event. We were very

Photos by Bay Mitchell

close, and I was devastated. I just wanted to give in to my emotions, but one of my mentors told me there’s nothing I can do for her now. I decided to channel that energy and make that event happen for her. In doing so, my work ethic went to an entirely different level. Now I don’t see excuses. If I can get through that, I know I can get through anything.”

There are many catering options available for people to choose. What makes Cherished Occasions stand apart? According to Theresa, “You know I don’t think people realize that they eat with their eyes, first. It’s that initial introduction to the food that makes your tastebuds water. We specialize in Soul Food cuisine and decadent desserts. I believe our black excellence makes us stand out, too. People don’t expect black businesses to be punctual, professional, or have staff with pleasant attitudes. I knew I wanted to show the world that Cherished Occasions is different,” she says.

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It was important for Theresa that her brand didn’t look like anybody else; She says it was equally important that her food didn’t taste like anybody else’s either. “We are not your ordinary caterers because we have persevered through some adverse conditions to honor our obligations to our clients. These moments include catering for a wedding when a tornado came through Greensboro in 2018. The wedding was not canceled, and I kept thinking about how we were going to pull this off with no power. The only lights that were working were the chandeliers, and those were running off a back-up generator. Soon I heard a voice say, “Trust Me” and I said, “Okay, God”, He showed up for us and we rocked that wedding out for 100 guests!

When we think God is saying no, it’s not Him saying no, it’s the devil trying to keep you from where you’re supposed to go. To me, adversity just lets you know you’re close to where you’re supposed to be.”

Another thing that makes Cherished Occasions stand out is their ability to prepare nutritious Soul Food. Their clients rave about their macaroni and cheese, and their honey butter is made from scratch so when you put it on cornbread, it’s just a party in your mouth. Their roasted and fried chicken is often a big request, along with mashed potatoes and green beans. They’ve also added a delicious vegetable medley to their menu.

“We’re tickled when people who don’t eat vegetables compliment us on that dish,” Theresa says. They also have infused water for people who don’t like drinking water. Their desserts are very good as well. “The way we make our peach and apple cobblers with a caramel shot takes those desserts to the next level.”

Theresa says that when a room goes from chatter and laughter to the sound of forks scraping plates until they’re empty, it is all worth it. That’s love to them.

Photo by Bay Mitchell

Theresa and Lou Graves Cherished Occasions Catering

336-455-5746 cherishedoccasions2018@gmail.com 20

So, what can we expect from Cherished Occasions in the future? “I think I’m happier about where we’re headed because we know the future is bright for us. Like the song says, “Your future is so bright that you gotta wear shades” that’s where we are. Due to COVID-19 we had to restructure some things, which really worked out for our good. From adversity came Cherished Occasions To Go, and we now offer private and more intimate parties. I am very fortunate that my husband has been there for me this entire time, never taking a paycheck. He sacrifices his time off to help with the business and is right there with me in the trenches, shoulder to shoulder,” Theresa says.

Her advice to those who may follow in her footsteps is to believe in yourself and trust what God has given you. “You must be willing to think outside of the box and not be like everybody else. Cherished Occasions invokes happy memories. The Word of God shares in Ecclesiastes 9:7, “Go eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do,” she says. It is clear that Cherished Occasions has received God’s stamp of approval. h

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In The Key of Dance Studio Photography by Bricen

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By Dorjea McClammey Photos Provided by In The Key Of Dance Studio

New Orleans, LA native Nykisha Banks loves to dance. Dancing has been in her blood since she was three years old. She shares, “As a child, I was one of those kids who cried on stage. That didn’t sit too well with my instructor, and my mother was told not to bring me back to participate until I was ready.” That time didn’t come until she was age eight.

From there, Nykisha found her footing and continued to dance and flourish. She has danced in many productions, all the way to high school. After graduating, she worked with a dance company where she traveled, continued her training, performed, and ultimately became a dance instructor.

Today, Nykisha owns In the Key of Dance Studio based in Conyers, GA. She also has founded a nonprofit organization, In the Key of Dance Performing Arts Inc., and published a book, A Dancer’s Leap Into Accountability. Her book details her 22 plus years as a dancer and dance instructor.

Nykisha teaches ballet, tap, jazz, modern, lyrical, and musical theater dance with her studio. She also offers a thorough stretching and conditioning regime, starting at age three up to eighteen, and it’s available for some adult classes. She also takes every health and safety precaution to ensure a safe, covid-free environment for her students.

Nykisha’s success as a dance instructor and business owner is rooted in her ability to connect. She is very imaginative, loyal, and, most importantly, an effective communicator. Her success in the small things translates to everyone else’s success, while her goal as a business owner is to be prepared for whatever the day may present. Nykisha takes pride in being a very hands-on, proactive leader.

Her loyalty has gained a lot of respect from both her students and parents. “I’m held accountable every day, all day. As a dance instructor and studio owner, I hold the parents accountable, especially when it comes to having their kids ready to perform,” she says.

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Nykisha founded In The Key of Dance Studio in 2011. That was during a period when she was often hired to train girls and boys in various locations. She ran her company as such until the opportunity for a brick-and-mortar location presented itself.

She holds registration twice a year, once in the fall, and another registration session in January immediately after the holiday season. That session is open until March.

She also offers summer dance camps.

Photography by Bricen

Nykisha has always found a way to give back, and it made sense for her to launch her nonprofit. In the Key of Dance Performing Arts Inc. sponsors children in need after a thorough interview process. “I am committed to nurturing my community by providing art enrichment through dance. With the nonprofit, our mission is to provide lifelong tools that will aid in building a disciplined lifestyle from a solid technical foundation. There are many ways to reach our youth; we just happen to do it through dance,” she says. Nykisha also partners with another nonprofit, SelfDiscovery: Pain, Positioning, & Purpose Inc. The mission for connecting with them is to promote mental wellness, and they also gifted Nkisha’s company with BuildA-Bears for each dancer that registers. All proceeds Nykisha receives from her book and donations go directly back into her nonprofit.

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Nykisha’s gift speaks for itself. They have won several awards, including the World Dance Championship for a lyrical piece, and received The World Dance Championship Choreography award for that same production.

When asked what she loves most about her business, Nykisha shares, “I can do the creative work without push back or constraint.” As someone who used to work in corporate America for years, dance was always her place of escape. Now that she is a full-fledged studio owner, she can do the work that she desires.

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Photography by Bricen

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“I love teaching my young students major life values such as working independently or as a team, holding themselves and others accountable, and presenting themselves in front of others without any fear.”

Nykisha also values the impact she has on the lives of those she trains. “I love teaching my young students major life values such as working independently or as a team, holding themselves and others accountable, and presenting themselves in front of others without any fear. For me, it’s bigger than dance,” she says.

Nykisha says her inspiration comes from seeing her dancers grow as individuals. “Seeing them no longer calling their parents feeling upset or wanting to give up because they felt like their teacher was too hard on them shows growth to me,” she shares.

While Nykisha has enjoyed her journey, it has come with a few challenges. The Covid 19 pandemic has been one of them. After having to stop teaching & training as a result of the pandemic, Nykisha held a brick-and-mortar soft opening last June. She outfitted her facility with new mirrors, floors, ballet barres, fresh paint signs, and a sound system.

She says, “It was a faith walk. I opened the doors knowing it was a possibility that no one would show up, but I had to try.” Her faith paid off as In The Key of Dance Studio has enjoyed constant growth, even during the pandemic.

As for what the future holds, Nykisha’s plans are very clear. “ I want to grow and produce bigger and more positive memorable experiences for my community,” she states. One thing is for sure; she will continue to dance her way into the lives of others for many years to come.

To learn more about In The Key of Dance Studios or purchase a copy of Nykisha’s book, A Dancer’s Leap Into Accountability, please visit their h website. Her book is also available for purchase online at Amazon.

Nykisha Banks In The Key Of Dance Studio 1910 Georgia Highway 20 SE Conyers, GA 30012 678-806-5168 www. inthekeyofdance.com

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Ideas Unlimited Events LLC

By Terry L. Watson - Photos Provided By Ideas Unlimited Events LLC

If you require event planning services, Ideas Unlimited Events LLC is here to help. Owned and operated by Stefanie Crawford and Sade Adkins of New Jersey, this versatile design company prides itself on exceeding clients’ expectations with one-of-a-kind party setups. They provide customized productions such as backdrops, floor wraps, centerpieces, and more and can take any event, big or small, to the next level.

Stefanie and Sade combined their skill sets to form Ideas Unlimited Events LLC in 2016. In the beginning, their focus was making custom cakes and treats. “Our cake business quickly grew, and eventually, we began decorating our own children’s parties. After we posted our work on social media, people started calling and asking us to decorate for them.

Soon we were producing small-scale events and eventually grew into larger ones,” they said.

Things have changed a little since the beginning. Their focus is exclusively on decorating parties and digital creations, which can be ordered directly from our website.

Some of the other products and services offered by Ideas Unlimited Events LLC are custom party favors, backdrops, banners, yard signs, name and number tables, themed tables, balloon décor, complete party decorations, throne chair rentals, 360 Booth rentals, and more.

What separates Stefanie’s and Sade’s business model from other companies? Their approach and commitment to providing their clients with the best experience possible.

Many event planners do amazing work in their area, but they aren’t deterred. Instead, they are determined to succeed. “We have to make sure we have fresh and new ideas so we can stay relevant.”We get to know our client’s wants and needs and aim to go above and beyond to bring their vision to life. We feel like artists changing a blank canvas into a beautiful, decorated room. We go above and beyond to customize our client’s event to ensure it’s not like anything anyone has already done. Furthermore, our event decorations can’t be purchased at a local party store,” they share. This year, they are planning to launch the Ideas Unlimited Design Academy. The new addition will allow them to teach techniques to up-and-coming event decorators or parents wanting to learn how to spice up their own child’s party or event.

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Stefanie’s and Sade’s love for helping and serving others has proven to be vital for the success of their business. They both have always been creative, so this business only enhances that it gives them a platform to showcase their talents. Stefanie is a mother of four beautiful children and has three sons and one daughter. Stefanie has a Bachelor’s Degree in Writing Arts and Education and has been teaching for 11 years. She is currently grooming second graders in the Salem City School District. “I enjoy teaching, but my true love is event design and digital designing, and being my own boss,” Stefanie says.

Like Stefanie, Sade has a genuine nurturing spirit and a love for family. She is a mother to seven beautiful children, three of her own and four stepchildren. She is currently a full-time student majoring in education and still finds time to work on their business to ensure the needs of its clients are met. “I have always been creative and can make almost anything I put my mind to,” Sade says.

They both share how their children inspire them. “We didn’t have the best foundation growing up. We didn’t have a support team and pretty much raised ourselves and our younger siblings. We both had a child before we graduated high school, but we weren’t going to let that stop us. We used our struggle to motivate ourselves because we wanted more for our children and ourselves. We love watching our children witness our lives as bosses. Yet, they are also hands-on in the business and help when they have free time.” Stefanie and Sade have recently started a business for their children called Poppin Playsets where they set up bounce houses and toddler soft play areas at events.

For others who may follow in their footsteps, Stefanie and Sade offer some advice that may help along the journey. “Invest in yourself, and don’t be afraid to take constructive criticism. We have grown so much in the last few years because we are not afraid to learn something new and take advice from others in this business that we aspire to be like.”

Moving forward, in addition to their plans of Launch Ideas Unlimited Design Academy, they also hope to continue to decorate and transform rooms and open a venue of their very own one day. To learn more about Ideas Unlimited Events LLC, please contact them directly or visit their website. h

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Houston - Jan./Feb. 2022

The Sales Confidence Coach

By Terry L. Watson Photos Provided by Brian K. McNeill Brian K. McNeill of Charlotte, NC, is Brian K. McNeill is a true champion in the arena of “how to sell”. He has accumulated over 30 years of study and practice of professional selling. By his own count he has read over 700 books on Sales, Sales Management and Self Development. Brian has produced coaching programs, published several Best-Selling Books, and is committed to helping and serving others. The loving, caring husband and father is also a proud veteran of the US Army.

Brian is the founder of The Sales Confidence Academy. In this capacity, he provides training and certification for entrepreneurs. He is the current president of Virtual Team Network, a global online networking organization.

Brian exhibited signs of effectively communicating with almost anyone at an early age. He shares, “I entered the wonderful world of professional selling at the age of 23. That was 31 years ago. I soon came across some books about selling. After reading the first book, my interest grew, and before long, I had read several hundred books about sales. Some of the other topics were about Sales Management and Personal Development. The more I read, the better I became at selling. I eventually became a sales manager and my job. Sales and the knowledge and understanding of sales seemed easy to me, and soon I decided to start my own sales training company. Over the years, thousands of salespeople and entrepreneurs have benefited greatly from my sales training workshops, classes, and platform.”

Today, he is recognized as Brian K. McNeill, the Sales Confidence Coach. In this role, he teaches entrepreneurs and salespeople what to say and do, to ensure they are confident and prosperous in selling themselves and their services. His services include Sales Coaching, Sales Training, Sales Speaking, and Sales Workshops.

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Some additional products include personalized and on-demand/self-paced sales training programs. He also has the Basic Essential Sales Training (BEST), a recorded seven-session curriculum covering the basic essentials entrepreneurs must know and the seven reasons why a client will say yes to you and your services. After completing the course, the entrepreneurs will have the correct language and confidence to sell their services successfully. There is also Get Profitable/Stay Profitable (GPSP), which includes everything in (BEST) plus a curriculum that teaches the entrepreneurs what to do with their time. Then finally, there is the Sales Confidence Course, the complete and updated course on How to Sell Your Services in today’s marketplace.

One of the books that Brian has published is The Shortcut! - The Fastest route to Selling You and Your Services so that you earn more money than ever before! Another book he has published is Asking for the Money - How anyone can close more Sales, even you!

Another publication is a children’s book, Why Rhinos Make Great Sales People - Featuring Mr. Randall the Rhino.

Many of Brian’s typical clients are service-based entrepreneurs, Coaches and Consultants, Insurance and Financial Services Professionals, Attorneys, Accountants, and Bookkeepers.

Brian has also founded the M.E.N (Male Empowerment Networks of Charlotte). This organization is a Support Discussion group that meets virtually twice a month and has been doing so since August 2013. “We know that men need men, and teenage men need men. So we provide a safe and transparent space for men to talk about anything.,” he says.

Brian K. McNeill The Sales Confidence

www.briankmcneill.online

Brian says he loves it when people take what he teaches them and earn more money as a result. “It brings me joy. I believe that God has uniquely gifted and qualified me to help people sell themselves and their services.

My work is a ministry, and I honor God by helping people sell better,” he says.

Moving forward, Brian shares he will continue to make his workshops available, especially through online courses, so that people can take the training on demand.

To learn more about Brian K. McNeill, please visit his website. h

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Houston - Jan./Feb. 2022

MAGAZINE

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