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March/April 2019 Vol. 1 Issue 10 FREE
Teshira Perkins ‘
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Im An Artist. I m Different Memphis - March/April 2019
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There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
Has YourAre Purpose Address? There No If,Changed Ands, OrIts Buts About It! A Letter from the Editor
A Letter From The Editor
A Letter from the Editor
The What journey of a dreamer canarrive? be rewarding and often if tomorrow didn’t All of your plans, hopes andvery dreams wouldn’tThere have aare street to ups parkand on. downs, What ifas times exhaustive. many thatturns you decided toslow put off until tomorrow never welleverything asWhat twists that can you down or speed if and tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes happened? There would reason to save a rainy and dreams wouldn’t have ano street park on. for What if things up. For myself, and I be imagine itto being the same for day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow others, is the challenge of knowing what street to drive never promises. if would your last opportunity expired happened? There beand no reason toseemingly save for atime rainyto upon, knowingWhat when to park, knowing the right today? What would you do? day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making get things moving again. promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired I’ve been that I same often seem do too today? What would you do? in Nothing ever told stays the life,like for Ithey aremuch. always Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm changing, some for good and others for the bad. I think believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. God purposely gave the world a sense of change so that that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would I feel like I am not enough I’m a firm we Honestly, would could experience thedoing beauty of hisand creations, at be if I times chose to sitfrom idle and accept whatput it presented believer in knowing that God wouldn’t anything on me different and different perspectives, neverto tome. be I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity that I couldn’t I sometimes wonder life would complacent. Thishandle. principle also applies to ourhow purpose in is aifblessing that isn’t afforded to what everyone. A challenge be I chose to sit idle and accept it presented to me. I life. to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity If aI do nothing, if I try to I don’t, but instead learn is blessing thatI fail, isn’tand afforded everyone. A challenge Our destiny has but one final destination, though the route something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? to get there is never the same and will change. Many return acquire life. If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn methods and techniques that worked on yesterday may not something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in do the trick onadvice today. Resources and connections will run The best return acquire life.ever given to me happened when someone dry told and me be disconnected. What once provided to make my tomorrow happen today.nourishment In doing so mayI have possibly sicken you. Instinctively we sometimes panic pressed myever way given through doors with a key that only The best advice to me happened when someone during these situations, but we must not waste away there. hopeme provided. have also learned the today. difference between told to makeImy tomorrow happen In doing so I have learned to realize the reason for my dysfunction isn’t blesses and what cana burden with Iwhat haveGod pressed my me waywith through doorslife with key thatme only always my fault, butI have rather it’slearned evidence my work at and as well. I compare it toalso knowing when to be confident hope provided. thethat difference between thatwhat moment is complete, andand mywhat purpose hasquiet, changed whenlife tocan be because God blesses me with burden meitwith address. may get it confused as well. I compare it to knowingsomeone when to be confident and with being when to bearrogant. quiet, because God loves me and this I know. Ifsomeone He didn’t, I wouldn’t may get it confused have purpose. Hisarrogant. navigational Make you tomorrow with being today, but most systemhappen has never misguided me importantly make it count. into a traffic jam oftomorrow despair. So, Make you Lifepurpose is but a whisper and happen today, but most when my relocates, I wefor must putmake ourselves importantly it count. seek God directions to findinit.a position to hear what itnot is Life is but a whisper and If I am connected to God, it’s telling us. wetomust putit.ourselves too hard locate My racein a position to hear what it is can’t be won by me constantly runningtelling in theus. same place, and Terry L. offers Watson the rewards that life can’t be redeemed if I fail to arrive at Editor/Founder Terry L. purpose. Watson the next stop for my
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Terry L. Watson
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Memphis - March/April 2019
CONTENTS
MARCH/APRIL 2019
MEMPHIS EDITION
PatriotOwners.com
Elliott C. Washington Jr.
On The Cover
Teshira Perkins I’m An Artist. I’m Different
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Serenity Richmond
MiLinya Maxey
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14
The Art Lounge
Tequila Canty
Huami Magazine Cutest Baby
Anthony Dillard III
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Also Featured
John Davis Marshall Author and Real Estate Professional from Greenville, SC.
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Kim Cross Meet the face behind Zhi Bath and Beauty from Charlotte, NC.
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Memphis - March/April 2019
Alisha Danielle She is doing nothing but minding her business. From Fayetteville, NC.
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Teshira Perkins By Terry L. Watson Photos by Teshira Perkins
Teshira Perkins describes herself as an artistic, open minded, knowledge seeking individual, with some room for growth. She is also kind, goofy, and has a great sense of humor. Originally from Chicago Illinois, the current Memphis Tennessee resident is always seeking challenges because according to her, they help her grow as a person. Teshira says that when she entered high school, she was a bit shy and nervous. She had trouble understanding and focusing on the lessons, so her mom decided to place her in a classroom setting with a more focused environment. From that moment she worked hard and stayed on pace with the other students. She shares, “I realized I was smart and blessed. I was also wise beyond my years and saw the world differently.” It was during those moments that Teshira realized her gifts as an artist. Her gifts in regard to art encompass visual arts, singing, culinary, writing, and creativity. She states that anyone who knows her, also knows that she can talk about everything. After high school, life began to move along for her. She got pregnant during her second year of college. After giving birth to her son Avery, she had to find a way to support him. “I used my love for food to connect me with a job as a cake decorator at Sam’s Club. I stopped going to a four-year college and enrolled in culinary school. In the beginning, Teshira struggled with being a mother. She shares the loss of her father while she was only four years old, impacted her life tremendously. “I didn’t really know what stress was, but I can remember my mom telling me not to stress over her responsibilities when I was a child. I got connected with Tom Shadyac, one of my professors in college. He taught a film class about life lessons. These experiences impacted me as well and helped to point me in the right direction as a person and mother,” she says. Now as a single mother, her focus is on working to provide a better future for herself and her child. She plans to continue on honing her creative skills and inspire others. She also hopes to return back to college and obtain her four-year degree in art and mass communications. h
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T-N-T BBQ of Nashville Opens New Location
Travis and Tem Davis By Terry L. Watson They are at it again. Travis Davis-Johnson and his wife Tem are the proud owners of T-N-T BBQ in Nashville, Tennessee. For years the couple has owned and managed a fledging food service company from a mobile aspect. They had the key ingredients for success under control; good food, good service, and a sound faith in God. They also had an ever-growing customer base who would follow them to wherever they set up shop. Yet there was something deep down on the inside of them both that nagged at their peace.
Travis enjoys making food that pleases the mouth. He believes that everyone has an appetite for good eats. He is just doing his part by bringing go food to the table. Travis offers some advice to others who may be thinking about starting their own business. “Stay focused and motivated. Even when things don’t look favorable, don’t give up. Always have faith that God is directing your steps and He will never leave you nor forsake you,” he says. h
That nuisance was an actual calling on their lives to expand their business beyond a mobile capacity and open a full-fledged restaurant. When we last spoke with Travis, he said one of the biggest challenges they faced was obtaining a central location that would allow them to serve the masses. Now, they have turned the wheels a little and have opened up shop at 1211 Brick Church Pike in Nashville. There is one prerequisite before sitting down and eating at T-N-T BBQ; you must be able to handle the heat. Like most other restaurants in Nashville that offers hot chicken, they are also famously known for bringing the heat. The Davis’ have challenged many customers to their hot chicken challenge, with few winners. The name of the flavor is intense and just as scary, M22. Try it at your own risk. Travis began his business in June 2017. Both him and his wife had an entrepreneurial spirit. He began by selling food. He was a little hesitant at first, but eventually listened to his wife’s advice to do more.
1211 Brick Church Pike Nashville, TN (615) 678-6548 HuamiMagazine.com
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Men On A Mission PATRIOTOWNERS.COM
For some people, helping others is an occasional, unintentional act that tends to just happen if they’re in the right place at the right time. There are others that have made it their life’s mission to leave their fellow man better than they were prior to encountering them. Elliott C. Washington is one of those others. As co-owner and Chief Operations Officer of Pretty Credit Consulting, Elliott aids his wife, Pretty, in growing their company and handling the commercial side of things. “I deal with business credit education, business credit establishment, and consulting business owners. I specialize in getting our footprint out there with banks, realtors, dealerships, and anyone that needs credit to make a sale. I also go to a lot of networking events to market and promote the business,” explains Elliott. His ultimate goal for the consumer side of the business is to heavily represent the middle class who don’t have as much access as the elite 1%. To service the business owners he counsels, Elliott has recently established First Merchants Financial Services, partially thanks to Huami Magazine. “The owner of the parent company read our cover story and reached out to us with this opportunity.” This branch of the Washington trilogy provides commercial lending and can accommodate all levels of loans, but specializes in six-figures and above. “There is little room to maneuver to get that kind of capital to do commercial projects. So, we’re the people who provide funding for those who have been turned down by the banks or those who have a challenge with their credit, if they pass a feasibility study,” says Elliott. According to Investopedia, this type of study measures the ability and likelihood to complete a project successfully including all relevant factors such as economic, technological, legal and scheduling factors. It determines potential positive and negative outcomes of a project prior to investing. And because enormous amounts of money will be on the line, the studies are reviewed with a fine-toothed comb.
By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Apollo Wonex
Recently, Elliott added another branch to his business tree and it’s already taking off. He became licensed to complete mortgages in December but was so busy with his other two that he sat on this one for over a month. In February, PatriotOwners.com was born and it has been rapidly growing.
“When I was studying the lending program, I realized, that across the board, I could do every form of lending, like, conventional, FHA, USDA, VA, and even manufactured homes, with a minimum 500 credit score. That’s almost unheard of. And because I’m a veteran, retired Navy and disabled, I thought, why don’t I target my own and help them get into a house? Most of us don’t even know our own benefit rights. This is something you should be able to use because you’ve already paid the price. This is close to my heart because I’m one of them. There are too many active duty, retired, and disabled veterans that don’t know what all we’re entitled to.” Elliott says. The majority of veterans know they are allowed to use their benefits to purchase a home with no money down, but they don’t always know what the benefit entails. PatriotOwners.com aims to demystify the rules, clarify the process, and help those who served, obtain what is rightfully theirs. Homeownership is one of the most powerful benefits while it is the crux of the American dream. Rules allow for different counties across the country to offer varying maximum limits, providing the applicant has income to qualify. For example, South Carolina offers a maximum home purchase price of $484,250.00 (if their income qualifies) without spending a dime on a down payment. What also makes PatriotOwners.com special, they reduce the pre-qualification time by several weeks so their client can purchase a home much faster. “I can prequalify them in three to five business days, then submit their information to the lender, and if fully approved, hand them house keys the same month. The reason why my process is different is because most mortgage companies add on more layers of benefits for the company to profit because of the risk they’re taking,” Elliott confirms. Allstate Insurance is willing to take that risk, as they just signed on to be the home and auto provider for PatriotOwners.com.
You can tell Elliott only wants the best for his clients. Minimizing their out of pocket expenses as well as their wait time is what is most important to him. “PatriotOwners.com is one of the only lenders that actually adheres to what the program rules call for. We follow the guidelines of the FHA, the VA, the USDA, and don’t really add anything extra. If the guidelines say this is what you need, and you have it, we can move on to the next level.” For regular active duty, they must serve at least 180 days before becoming eligible for the benefit. For reservists and members of the Coast Guard you’re required to serve at least six years to qualify.
Elliott C. Washington Jr.
Sylvester Golden
To advertise these amazing opportunities, Elliott utilized his connections with local radio stations. He previously heavily promoted his first business, Pretty Credit Consultants, and developed trusting partnerships with the management, personalities, and staff. “I call myself the Jay-Z of this business. My partner and I wrote two spots to do. Once the spots were typed and timed, they saw they were 60-seconds exactly. They fit perfectly. We recorded them and three days later, they were on the air during the Steve Harvey Morning Show,” Elliott laughs. He has also formed lasting relationships with others who value the work he’s doing. Pastor Emanuel Flemming of Royal Baptist Church believes in Elliott’s mission. As a military chaplain with the SC Army National Guard, he understands the meaning of a blessing. He disseminates information about PatriotOwners.com within his church community and to others via social media. He even created a short infomercial on Facebook for the worthy initiative. Pastor Fleming commits his life to counseling and offering spiritually uplifting messages to his brothers and sisters in arms, so this is one more way to serves his God and his country.
Jesse E. Canty
Pastor, Emanuel Fleming
PatriotOwners.com
2007 Woodruff Road Greenville, SC 29607 info@PatriotOwnersProgram.com 864-580-6402 www.patriotowners.com
Two additional entrepreneurs Elliott partners with are Jessie Canty of Chef J Edwards Smoking Wings and Sylvester Golden of Xtreme Lil Boyz Toyz (an auto dealership). They’ve collaborated with Elliott on a monthly event he penned, ‘Wings with Warriors’, dedicated to connecting veterans to services and discounts that can help enhance their lives. The event is catered by Chef J and hosted at the auto dealership. The point is to show unity in the movement and appreciation for veterans who are often forgotten. Elliott and his partners set realistic goals for PatriotOwners. com the first month. If they could help 15 veterans a month, they would be happy. Within the first 13 days, they were already assisting over 25 veterans. Because of the rapid growth, he plans to hire more help to ensure all clients’ needs are met. “One client in particular is a disabled vet and a single father with three daughters. Within seven days we were able to get him qualified and now he’s in the process of looking for a home to purchase. He is renting an apartment now, and was so happy when he found out he was approved that he told his mother. Now we’re working on getting her a house too,” Elliott beams. It’s evident that Elliott and his band of brothers are determined to make an impact on those who keep us free and they’re always seeking out more opportunities to offer them. If you have a service to offer or are a real estate agent, don’t hesitate to contact Elliott. He’ll welcome you with open arms. h
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Tequila Canty
The Art Lounge By Terry L Watson Photos by Keesh Redd
The Art Lounge studio is located in the Eastern Henrico, in the community of Richmond, VA. The dynamic and colorful establishment offers both public and private paint parties in a welcoming, affordable creative setting for the entire family. In 2016, owner Tequila Canty started a traveling sip and paint business and often hosted private parties on location at the homes and businesses of her clients. While doing private parties she was often asked if she owned her own building to have parties. She began to realize the need for a creative space for people to visit. Soon after, The Art Lounge was born in October 2018. Currently Canty offers affordable sip and paint classes for both adults and children as young as seven years old. These include monthly public classes, and she accepts reservations for private parties. Some of the challenges Canty faces with building her business is increasing public awareness. Since opening, she shares there have been a little over 200 customers inside to paint. “Since we’re a new company we are striving to find ways to get the attention of other potential customers. Once customers come inside, they love it, and are excited to book another event. Getting them inside has been a challenge,” she shares. “Our plans for the future are to incorporate not just painting but all kinds of art. Pottery making, drawing, mosaics and more.” The Art Lounge paint studio is the first of its kind in their area. “I love being a part of the development of the community and being able to share my knowledge and love for art with new people. It’s one of the most rewarding feelings ever,” she shares. The Art Lounge has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association of Richmond to raise funds for Alzheimer’s research On June 21, 2019. They also plan to partner with area colleges and universities and allow art majors to intern and learn the “ins and outs” of running an art studio. h
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The Art Lounge 5203 S. Laburnum Ave. Richmond, VA 25231 (804) 205-7942 www.theartloungerva.com
huami MAGAZINE
Cutest Baby
Anthony Dillard III The son of Chandra White and Anthony Dillard Jr.
To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com
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MiLinya Maxey Serenity Richmond
By Terry L. Watson Photos by MiLinya Maxey
MiLinya Maxey is a certified and licensed massage therapist in Richmond, VA. She holds an Associates Degree in Massage Therapy, and has over six years of working experience as a Bodymind Coach, Intuitive Healer, and Reiki Master. Her geniune passion for helping other women live stress free lives helped to inspire to start her very business, Serenity Richmond. Serenity Richmond is a holistic wellness studio that provides Massage Therpay, Energy Healing, Skin Care, and Herbal and Nutritional Health. They will begin offering Yoga in July. At Serenity Richmond, MiLinya combines an intuitive healing and bodywork approach to help break through the physical and emotional aspects of stress. “Creating balance reconnects the mind and the body in a way that helps you tune into the body’s wisdom, so you can live more connected, focused and a fulfilled life,” she shares. Licensed as a massage therapist for the previous seven years, MiLinya has helped countless women access their inner power and develop their strong will through self care techniques. Her practice encourages a more balanced life and assists in achieving great results from set goals and vision. The Richmond native is a mother of three, grandmother to a beautiful baby girl, entrepreneur, intuitive healer, a lover of love, life, and music. “I’m very down to earth, and a fun to be around kind of girl. I’m a introvert, but that doesn’t stop me. I love being comfortable and family means everything to me. I am also a seeker of knowledge, and my head is always in a book,” she says. Life has thrown its share of curves for MiLinya. She experienced teen pregnancy, giving birth to her son at the age of 15. Many counted her out and believed that she would succumb to the stereotypes of young black girls with babies, she shares. “It was tough. I had to work, go to school, and be a mother.” Still there were more challenges that awaited MiLinya. Her youngest daughter was was diagnosed with an abdominal issue causing her to have surgery immediately after birth. The doctors advised her she would be in the hospital for three months. This was shocking news that literally broke MiLinya’s heart. She recalls how she stayed by her daughter’s side, just as any loving mother would do for their child. Amazingly, her daugther recovered very fast of which the doctors credit with her touching and being by her daughters side. She went from a possible three month stay to only two weeks in the NICU. MiLinya knew then she wanted to help others using touch. Nothing about life appeared to be normal for MiLinya. She didn’t fit into the usual crowds and was named “Mimi with the baby”. “I believe that’s what hurt the most. I was so much more than just the girl with the baby. I was labeled and hated it,” she shares. She didn’t allow those words to stop her. With the love and support of her parents, she was able to graduate high school with an advanced diploma.
As life began to settle, she was able to focus on making life better for herself and her new family. In 2011, she took a huge leap to become a massage therapist. She shares that watching how hard her parents worked inspired her to be more. “I’ve watched them work extremely hard for other companies and never pursue their dreams. I often wonder what if they had? What would have been different? I knew nothing about business and still decided to step out there because I saw them overlook their dreams. I wanted to change that,” she said. MiLinya also finds inspiration in seeing other black women crush their goals and be successful. “Seeing them succeed encourages me to keep pushing and become innovative within my career. I’m constantly thinking of new ways on how massage therapy can be approached differently. She shares that her motivation comes from seeing her children grow and tackle daily stressors with compassion and tact. During the hustle and bustle of running a business, she even found time to enjoy some of the things that life also has to offer; love. “Experiencing my true first love at 30 was absolutely amazing. There were some ups and down, but through it all I was able to mature. I reached a point in the relationship where I realized I wasn’t loving myself fully. I began to love myself more. Loving myself fully made me take a deeper look at self and the things that make me happy; music, yoga, journaling, therapy, family, meditation, and friends,” she shares. h
7278 Hanover Green Drive Mechanicsville, Virginia 23111 www.serenityrichmond.com 804-921-1581
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By Tonya Tolson Photos by B Smith Photography
John Davis Marshall is a nationally known author who has written 16 books. He is also a media personality, and Lifestyle Architect (life-coach) and helped people to make life-impacting decisions for more than 40 years. John’s experience extends to marketing and sales and real estate investment. His dedication to serving other paired with a sound work ethic has enabled him to conduct more than 5,000 presentations in 190 cities, and across 30 states. In his free time John enjoys relationship consulting, motivational speaking, reading, writing, publishing, and thinking. A native of Jackson, Tennessee, John is a farmer by birth, a bricklayer, and concrete finisher by trade. He comes from a long line of resilient ancestors whom he credits with his success. This includes two generations from slavery, with his grandfather being a slave. This history gave him the determination to achieve even more than what was expected. “I believe you need heroes in your bloodline and in your eyesight. This helps you to actually see the success that happens around you and through you,” he says. “My father was 50 years old and my mom was 41 when I was born. They set the foundation of which I build my success.” His extensive knowledge and experience afford John a unique view of lifestyle trends through which he helps clients make the best decisions for their needs and desires. Furthermore, he prides himself on accountability, attention to detail, and personal service, all of which assist in building lifelong relationships with his clients. John has studied at Freed-Hardeman University (BS), Theological University of America (MA), University of Memphis, and Southern Christian University. His research paper, “Single-mothering Stimulates a Positive Family Networking within Black Families” was selected and presented at the Annual Graduate Research Symposium at Memphis State University.
“John prides himself on offering realistic solutions to what his clients seek from him.”
Conituned on page 30
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Alisha Danielle Just Minding My Business
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Memphis - March/April 2019
By Laci Ollison Photos by Pharenheit Photography Readjusting to life after the military can be difficult for some veterans. Many experience difficulties readjusting to civilian life, finding a community, and coping with experiences from their time in service. For many Veterans, appreciation comes once a year during the national holiday set aside to honor those who have formerly served in any branch of service. But one Army vet has made it her purpose in life to honor veterans every day of the year by giving back through her businesses. Alisha Danielle is the proud owner of both Me Time Day Spa and Alisha Danielle Hair Studio. The veteran said she decided to open a spa to be able to give back to veterans throughout the year. “I wanted to give back beyond Veteran’s Day,” said Alisha. “I wanted to do more to let veterans know that they were appreciated.” Me Time Day spa offers a variety of services such as facials, massages, and waxes. Alisha says her specialties are eyelash extensions and Brazilian waxes. Through both of her businesses Alisha is able to give back to veterans by offering services at a discounted rate on select days. On Thursday’s, veterans receive 10% off. Once a month, a female veteran is selected to receive a “royal treatment” that includes a full makeover. Alisha’s spa, Me Time Day Spa, also volunteers its time and services to active duty soldiers when they return from a tour of duty. While giving back to veterans is important to Alisha, her time serving in the Army gave her experiences and qualities that have assisted her in becoming a successful business owner. The veteran says that serving in the army taught her a lot about entrepreneurship. “The values that were instilled in me while serving helped shaped me to be the entrepreneur that I am today.” Alisha says that the Army’s core values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless-service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, are all traits that she has been able to use while being an entrepreneur. The army veteran loves being a business owner. “It gives me freedom. It allows me to be a mother and a wife,” she shares. And her entrepreneurial skills are already being picked up by her son. “Whenever he asks for money, he doesn’t just ask. He asks what he can do to earn the money.” Alisha says her son frequently visits her businesses with her and asks questions about being an entrepreneur.
“The values that were instilled in me while serving helped shaped me to be the entrepreneur that I am today.”
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According to Alisha, one of the best parts of being an entrepreneur is having unlimited freedom. The business owner says that being your own boss gives you freedom from restrictions that employers sometimes try to place on you. “I don’t have to ask permission to take a break,” she says. “I can come and go as I please and do what I need to do.” Although entrepreneurship gives Alisha freedom, establishing a business still came with sacrifice. In the beginning, Alisha remembers when she had to manage her business on her own, learning different aspects of how to successfully run a business. “I depend a lot my former assistant/turned partner Zay Williams,” said Alisha. “I started with one dollar and a dream. I manifested 30k in 3o days without going to the bank. It was a hard road, but I made it work. I pushed out my businesses.” She also says that being an entrepreneur requires a lot of drive and determination. “Find your passion,” she encourages aspiring entrepreneurs. “You’re going to have to work to fuel the fire.” She also encourages others to not ask for too much advice. “You shouldn’t ask people for their advice. Everyone is going to have their opinion of what you should do and how you should do it. Furthermore, it is imperative not to let fear slow you down or prevent you from achieving your dreams.” Alisha says that during her entrepreneurial journey, her resources became available to her at each step of the way. “You may not have everything right now. But start focusing and the resources will come.” She remembers how when she first started her business, she lacked some of the resources that she needed. But as she began to focus on making her dreams her reality, she networked, and found resources to help her get her businesses off the ground. “I remember not knowing how I was going to get some things done, but then as I began to work and focus on my businesses, I would meet people who could help me in those areas that I was unsure of.” Now she owns two businesses. Alisha Danielle Hair Studio grew out of Alisha’s passion for hair. “I always got compliments on my hair. People wanted to know where did I purchase my hair from,” said Alisha in excitement. “So, I decided to start my own line, and that’s how I was able to grow my hair line.” Hair Growth Oil
Moisturizing Shampoo
The licensed esthetician first began providing hair extensions at Me Time Day Spa. After several trials she finally got it right. She then opened her first hair studio and hired a team of experts to manage the installs and run day to day operations. Alisha’s hair studio provides hair extension services, eye lash extensions, and waxing. Hair extensions are also available for purchase through the studio’s website. Alisha is married and has h two children.
Me Time Day Spa 7711 S Raeford Road - Suite 108 Fayetteville, NC 28304 910-487-3002 www.metimedayspa.com Deep Conditioning Hair Treatment
2020 HuamiMagazine.com
Alisha Danielle Hair Studio 6900 Cliffdale Road Fayetteville, NC 28304 910-491-3426 www.adrhcollection.com
Beauty Line 1-888-749-5233 IG: iam_alishdanielle Memphis - March/April 2019
Memphis - March/April 2019
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Memphis - March/April 2019
Kim Cross
There is no doubt the cosmetic and skincare industries are both booming. With brands like Rodan Fields, Proactive, and others targeting those with skin ailments, there are many options to choose from.
By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Todd Youngblood
For years, Kim Cross searched for mild products to help with her dry, itchy skin but consistently came up short when reading the list of ingredients. She realized how many irritating chemicals are used and set out to find comparable natural substitutes that would deliver the same or better results. As a former hairstylist, she was introduced to the hair product Carol’s Daughter’ years ago and loved that it used mainly natural ingredients that she could actually pronounce. In 2006, Kim followed that example and began researching essential oils and other liquids that she thought could be beneficial. That led to experimenting, testing, and creating with goat’s milk. She discovered that goat’s milk has fatty acids which has healing properties and is less harsh than many other ingredients. “My aunt suffered with ulcers and the only thing that would settle her stomach was goat’s milk. So the more I researched it, I found that it had the same benefits [when used] inside and out. It’s a lot more gentle on your skin, it moisturizes and it makes it really soft,” says Kim. She started mixing various ingredients with different properties and fragrances and settled on a few things even the men in her house swear by. “I have some girly smelling men in my house and they love it!” Kim laughs. Since her start, she has incorporated men’s products also. The next year, she crafted body lotion, hand and body wash, and soap, each from goat’s milk. Kim began selling her new skincare line, called Zhi (pronounced ‘Chee’) Bath and Body, at a women’s expo. Unfortunately, her sales were disappointingly low but her sample supply had diminished. She knew she was on to something but needed to continue working on it. Since then she has created other products made from organic mango butter, shea butter, cocoa butter and many other natural ingredients. As the line grew, Kim continued to spend hours seeking out the best and most natural products to ensure she was delivering something she could be proud of. She knew that if it didn’t work on her skin, it wouldn’t work on anyone else’s either. In 2011, the entrepreneur was formally diagnosed with psoriasis, a condition in which skin cells build up to form scales and itchy, dry patches. Sometimes the patches are accompanied by blisters. It’s similar to eczema but much more intense, painful, and stubborn.
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“After high school, I enlisted in the Navy and served for eight years as an Aviation Electronics Technician. I had to constantly submerge my hands in engine coolant. Years later, I noticed a dry spot on my hand that progressed,” Kim explains. She believes that is what caused her skin condition. After the diagnosis, the veteran could finally put a name with what she was experiencing and knew she had to continue to work at providing healthier alternatives to remedy the problem. Each time she would notice a synthetic ingredient, she would put forth more effort to find it’s natural equivalent. “My conscious will not let me sell a product that’s synthetic,” Kim confesses. It has taken her nearly a decade to come close to perfecting her list of ingredients and she still explores new ones regularly. She’s currently striving to be certified ‘Organic’, which means at least 90% of the ingredients used must be free of synthetic additives like pesticides, chemical fertilizers, and dyes, and cannot be processed using industrial solvents. The self-proclaimed shaman is currently studying to become an aromatherapist and wants to obtain a Botanical Product Certification. She dreams of incorporating more creams and oils to heal other bodily aches and pains while growing Zhi. As more and more products appear on the scene, Kim tries to faithfully attend at least two or three festivals and shows per year to ensure her products are visible and relevant. She is currently scheduled to appear at ‘Girls Day Out’ in April at Cabarrus Arena and will attend ‘Naturally Me Expo’ at Levine Museum of the New South in May. Her next step is to raise enough money to purchase bar codes that allow her products to be sold in larger stores. She is also customizing products for other companies to sell in their establishments. The majority of her current sales are through her website, word-of-mouth, and regular customers that buy in bulk to gift it to friends and family on special occasions. Kim knows that expanding will take more time and it seems that she’s up for the challenge. Her dedication is unwavering as she sets out to heal one person at a time. h
For Him, For Her, For Kiddos
Butter Magic Nourishing Foot Balm
Ultimate Moisture for Dry Skin
The Jeffrey Soy Candle
Goats Milk Alphabet Soap
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Memphis - March/April 2019
Johnetta
L u t h e r
Praise Is What I Do By Laci Ollison - Photos by Luguzy Atkins
White paint covers the entirety of her face while crisp white gloves adorn her hands. An eager audience sits in front of her, watching intently. The music begins, and Johnetta Luther gracefully articulates the lyrics of the inspirational song through movements with her body. Her audience participates alongside her by humming, clapping, and letting out jubilant “amen’s” and “hallelujah’s.” A Greensboro native, Johnetta established “Silent Voice Mime Ministry” after she began receiving invitations to perform at local churches. At 15 years old, Johnetta became a dancer, ministering to people through mime. 10-years-later, she officially became an artist. “I started out dancing on the dance team at church,” Johnetta said. “My mother was the leader of the dance ministry.” But after other girls on the dance team were unable to attend some of the engagements, Johnetta said she began traveling by herself. “My aunt told me I should put on white paint.” This is when Silent Voice Mime Ministry was birthed. But Johnetta said the decision to dance by herself wasn’t an easy one to make. “I was discouraged at first because I was so used to dancing with a group,” says Johnetta. “I was nervous about dancing by myself.” A conversation with her pastor changed her view and gave her the confidence she needed to launch her solo mime ministry. “My pastor told me that when he preaches, sometimes it’s a full room, and sometimes it’s only a few people there; sometimes his wife is there, and sometimes she isn’t. But he still preaches anyways.” Continued on the next page
“Weeping may ednure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”
Since then, Johnetta has ministered in churches across the triad, and she doesn’t plan on stopping any time soon. “I realized that I have an anointing on my life,” says the mime dancer. “I’m not going to take it lightly.” Johnetta says that any time she gets the opportunity to praise God through the music and lyrics of gospel artists, she will take that chance. “I don’t come up with a routine unless there is repetition in the song,” says Johnetta. “I just go for how I see the song being played out in my life.” The dancer says that she tries to make each performance unique. Typically, when she receives an engagement, she chooses a song that reflects the theme or occasion of the program. She will then spend time rehearsing and memorizing the song. “It’s about knowing the song. From every beat to every ad lib; you have to flow with the spirit or else it will look sloppy.” Johnetta says that she allows the words of the song to minister to her as she is practicing for an upcoming engagement. She tries to apply the song to her life so that it can be symbolic for how she ministers. But there was one point when Johnetta says her praise was all she had. “We found out that my father had cancer and within a few months he passed away; I was eight months pregnant.” For Johnetta, losing her father came as a major devastation. But she continued to give God praise through her dance and mime ministry. “I used my life to praise God,” Johnetta says. “So that hopefully someone will see God through me.”
Johnetta says that she wants to show others how she is able to praise God even while things seem tough, because that is how she is able to cope with the loss of her father. “My father was my best friend. He took care of me and raised me to be the woman that I am today. Losing him and dealing with his loss has been a huge transition.” Johnetta says the birth of her son was the moment that her joy returned. Johnathan is Johnetta’s pride and joy. And at just 5-years-old he is already beginning to carry the legacy of Silent Voice Mime Ministry by ministering alongside his mother. “I want to leave something for him to carry on. I am passing on my passion to my son.” Johnetta hopes to encourage the next generation of mime and praise dancers. She encourages others who minister through dance to “believe in the God that’s in you.” Johnetta says that if you can believe in the God that’s in you, then you can tell someone else about Him. “You have to find God in you before you can show someone else.” She also reminds other to not look for applause from other people. Johnetta encourages other dancers to be authentic in their dance and remember the real reason why they are performing. “I’ve been there when it was entertainment. Don’t make it entertainment, make it a praise. It’s good fun but remember what you’re doing it for. Don’t get carried away with the paint because it has to come off.” For Johnetta, mime is more than a performance; it’s ministry. She even recalls a time when someone received salvation after she was finished ministering at a church. “I had just finished ministering One More Chance by Ricky Dillard. That’s one of my favorite songs. The spirit was so high.” An impromptu altar call was extended, and one young lady gave her life to Christ that night. Johnetta says that her main goal is to let people know about the God that she serves. As she says, “knowing Him will keep you grounded.” h
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John is the CEO of the Solomon Society, a 501c3 Non-profit Corporation, which was developed to educate and nurture Individuals into the practical relevance of the wisdom of God. Solomon Society provides life coaching through teaching, training, workshops, forums, seminars, support groups, and social media. His extensive work ethic and perseverance are unique qualities that he utilizes to help his clients become successful. John remains committed to offer realistic solutions to what his clients seek from him. “I let current and potential clients know that if they don’t follow the plan I prescribe, I will no longer continue services,” he shares. Although John runs several companies and provides several services, the one that brings him the most satisfaction is life coaching. He offers functional and practical life changing. Once, he took on a client with a failing business and charted for him a specific course. With a solution in place, it ultimately helped to turn their business around. “I strategically look at client’s needs and meet them where they are,” he shares. As a result of growing up on a farm, John saw first-hand how his family got everything they needed from their land; the only things they got from outside resources were flour and sugar. This taught him that he could work hard and achieve anything on his own. “Every situation that I had in life led me back to what my father taught me. The relationship I have with my father helps me to show others how to rebuild relationships with their fathers,” John states.
www.johndavismarshall.com 864-484-7290
@John Davis Marshall
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His book titled “Man Handing” was actually written for single mothers as resource to assist with raising their sons. However, it ended up helping men rebuild broken relationships with their fathers. John feels that family relationships are very important; he is the father of three sons and one daughter. Though now adults, starting at the age of 18 he informed them that it they wanted to live with him, they would have to pay rent after graduating from college. This was done as a means to establish independence with them, and what he believes helped them to become eventual homeowners. The lessons he has learned, and what he extends to his clients are worth more than any amount of money. John has several successful paths for others to follow and is determined to make sure he leaves a positive mark in this world. His motto is “Coaching That Builds Persistent Mental Stamina That Empowers You to Enjoy Peace, Passion, and Productivity.” h
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