Twenty Something Magazine - April 2012

Twenty Something April 2012 Anniversary Issue

DCMGMT Creative, Inc Video and Photography Production Services PH 405.503.4120 info@dcmgmt.com

facebook.com/dcmgmtcreative

Lil Doescher Hair & Makeup Artist Salon 9309 405.607.4247

Angela Hamilton Hair Designer Elevation Salon 405.659.5212

Sharon Tabb Hair & Makeup Artist The Makeup Room Agency TheMakeupRoomAgency.com

Sherree Chamberlain Feature Writer

Kealey McIntire & JaNiece Cranmer Feature Writers

Luke Stephens Feature Writer

Alex Mendez-Kelly Makeup Artist Feature Writer

Steve Clausen OneHealthyBod Monthly Workout

We are so honored to be celebrating our one year anniversary issue with everyone listed on this p all played a vital role in developing the identity of this magazine, and we could not be more proud many more to come.

CONT

Bethany Young Editor-in-Chief Co-Creative Director Photographer

Kelsey Self Fashion Director Co-Creative Director Stylist

Sarah Ethridge Music Writer

Denver Duncan & Taylor Upchurch 30 Before 30

Meagan Owen Feature Writer

Chad & Melissa Cosper Guest Photographer Videography DCMGMT Creative, Inc.

Jeff Ragan Health Writer

Jacob Peregrin Feature Writer

Whitney Lynn Feature Writer

Emily Davis Decor Writer

page. Without each of you, Twenty Something Magazine would not be what it is today. You have d to have you in the Twenty Something Magazine family. Cheers to a successful year one, and

TRIBUTORS

Twenty Something Girls Kelsey Self & Bethany Young Creators of Twenty Something Magazine

Photographer: Melissa Cosper Hair: Lil Doescher Makeup: The MakeUp Bar & Lil Doescher Clothing & Shoes: Blue Seven, Shoe Gypsy & Vintage Styling: Kelsey Self Location: The Dollhouse

I am a twenty-five year old girl who feels like she is still 16. I was blessed to grow up in a very loving and supportive household. My parents always pushed my brothers and I to be the very best at whatever it was we were doing. While they were playing sports, I was always dancing. I loved dance so much that the older I got the less involved they even had to be, because I was always up at the studio on my nights off, on weekends, begging to go out of town to extra competitions, flying here and there to take from famous choreographers. My mom always said she was glad I danced because it kept me from being boy crazy like all of the other girls my age. I remember a few valentines days I would tell whoever my boyfriend was at the time, sorry I have dance and we would exchange our teddy bears and boxes of chocolates in the parking lot. I always knew that dance was what I supposed to be doing. After high school, I went to the University of Oklahoma and continued dancing on the side as well as evolving more into a choreographer as I completed my studies in Public Relations.

I loved the Gaylord College at OU. It was there where I was able to see that I could do more than just one thing with my life. I do a very wide range of things each and every day and I think that stems from my belief that you don’t have to grow up and find a job... you can grow up and still do every single thing you have ever wanted to do. I believe somewhere down the road, as teenagers grow into adults they forget that there are insurmountable opportunities and ideas, and those dreams you had as a little girl don’t have to get tossed out with your old jeans from high school. I act as the Co-Creative Director, Fashion Director and Stylist for the magazine. I am also a professional dancer and choreographer. My favorite thing to do in my free time is really anything involving tortillas and queso. I have 3 cute dogs, Frederick aka freddy, Plato and Chino and my favorite things to buy are shoes!

Why did you want to start a magazine?

I have always loved magazines - Reading them, tearing out the pages, etc. I never knew what this job was called but I knew I wanted to create the pages in the magazines. I wanted to come up with the ideas and bring them to life. After traveling to New York City with OU’s Magazine Interest Group, I realized my aspirations weren’t at all far fetched.

Not long after, I spent the spring semester of school living in NYC and interning for Hearst Publications in the fashion closet at Seventeen Magazine.

I learned so much about the importance of Public Relations in the fashion industry. When I returned

home I connected with Bethany, who had just started her photography business, and we realized we had many of the same ideas. Both loved New York, magazines, people, journalism and it seemed like we could be great collaborators on something one day. I no longer wanted to move to New York however. After loosing my 21 year old brother, Jason in 2010, I realized that family is what I want to be able to surround my self with every day, and Oklahoma was where I needed to be. I was working for another local publication at the time Bethany and I decided to start our magazine and I think our vision was too large to be directed by anyone other than ourselves. We wanted control and the chance to do exactly what our minds created. We needed to start our own magazine so it could be everything we could dream of. And it has been just that and more. Starting Twenty Something Magazine was the best thing we could have done.

Being great at so many creative things, do you have one that’s your favorite?

I think dancing will always be my favorite. I love the feeling I get when I teach - I love creating new routines, and mostly I love the adrenaline I feel when I perform. It is unlike anything else. This is my second season dancing for the Oklahoma City Thunder as a Thunder Girl and it is so much fun.

The style of dancing is different from what I do in the studio but to me that makes it better - keeping my contemporary style for the studio and stage, and doing Thunder for the amazing fans in the arena. Also, I am entering my 5th year as the coach for Southmoore High School’s Varsity Pom Squad.

They keep me young. I absolutely love teaching them. Dance has also allowed me to travel and do really cool things like choreograph for Universities such as Louisville, Kansas and Duke. I have also been able to experience the Las Vegas round of So You Think You Can Dance 3 different times, and now dancing in front of over 19,000 Thunder fans on a weekly basis - It’s amazing! I think when you do something for 21 years, nothing could ever be as great. I would love to choreograph a commercial and also a music video for a local artist or two.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

The best part about my job is meeting new people every day. I get to meet the coolest, nicest, dedicated, inspiring, artistic, beautiful people every day. Whether they are doing the hair and makeup, modeling, the subject of a story, or own a boutique - the quality of people I now have amazing

relationships with is unlike anything I could have expected on this journey. It truly is the most amazing part. We have the greatest team of contributors, all of whom have come to be wonderful friends to Bethany and I. We could not do any of this without them.

Have you always loved fashion? How would you describe your personal style?

Since I can remember, I have always loved fashion.

I remember organizing “plaid shirt and pig tail day” with all of the girls in my third grade class.

In eighth grade I matched my eyeliner to my shirt every single day. In 9th grade I remember begging for a shirt from Armani Exchange for my birthday.

As a dancer my wardrobe consists of sweats, high top sneakers, sports bras, and t-shirts. If you see me after a class, I literally look like a homeless person. I think dance, even though it sounds so very unfashionable, really opens up your mind to come up with a different esthetic than others. I often say my style is eclectic or eccentric. Like I said, I could look homeless after dance, or rocker-edgy then the next day be dressed super girly. I honestly just wear whatever I want. I will spray my hair pink on a random Saturday for the heck of it. I wear the tallest heeled, highest platformed, most obnoxious printed lace up boots almost every day. People will see these items and think “OMG can you believe someone would wear that?” Well that’s what I have on. Then that same person says, “I wish I could pull that off.” It makes me laugh because all it comes down to is confidence. If you like it, wear it, hold your chin up, and work it out! I love to reply - in a very cheesy tone - “All you have to do is believe in yourself.” It really is true. In my opinion, the majority of commercial dancers have great style, and I know for a fact its because they aren’t scared, they are confident. I would definitely say I am more of a Marilyn, less of an Audrey. More Carrie, less Charlotte. I am definitely more Jenni, less Blair or Serena.

If you could style anyone, who would it be?

I don’t know actually. When I think about styling celebrities or icons, I get really nervous and scared.

I think what I would like to style most would be a runway show for collections by Alexander McQueen, Marc Jacobs or Chanel.

Who are your fashion icons?

Gwen Stefani is my ultimate style icon hands down. Hair, lipstick, wardrobe, her designs - just

everything. She is flawless. Sarah Jessica Parker - as herself and Carrie Bradshaw. She takes risks and always comes out on top. Lastly, Kate Bosworth. She is classy with a hint of an edge. She is so beautiful and makes the right fashion choices consistently.

Did you ever feel scared about starting something so big from the ground up?

I felt more excited than nervous. It seems I am always taking on new adventures, and this really felt like the next step. Everything seemed to fall right into place and here we are, an entire year later. The most fun part now is thinking about how much more will develop by the time we reach 5 years. I will be thirty - yikes.

What has been your favorite shoot that you have styled?

That’s a tough one. I will always have a love for our first shoot, Flashback to Edie Sedgwick. Once I saw those photos it was a surreal moment. It was our first shoot for our first issue and the first time we all worked as a big team. Plus Edie is one of my favorite style icons. I also loved a shoot we did at Norman Music festival. The wardrobe was obnoxious and our model, Maygen, was fantastic. It was also my first time to work with Bohemian Spirit Vintage and I just love Amie, the store’s owner.

Lastly, I am a sucker for the 40’s and 50’s era, so I will have to go with another Flashback - this one to 1954 where I was inspired by model Jean Patchett.

These photos were in our May issue and are absolutely to die for. Our model Kendall could not have been more perfect, and the hair and make up Lil created was dead on.

What has been your favorite memory from the last year at Twenty Something Magazine?

My favorite memory, without a doubt, was my front row seat at the Oscar de la Renta show during New York Fashion Week. It was surreal. It was about so much more than clothes for me. I was surrounded by fashion’s most important decision makers. People whose names I’d read on the mastheads of magazines for years. The people I always wanted to work for, I was seated next to. I remember having goose bumps. I will always remember that - and calling Bethany right after it finished freaking out!

I am a twenty-three [almost twenty-four] year old girl, who feels like anything is possible in this world. I am lucky to have a very supportive family – they always listen to my crazy ideas and extensive plans, and tell me to go after them. Our journey has not been easy by any means, but we are all closer and stronger because of the obstacles life has thrown our way. I graduated from a very small high school, with just 22 people in my class.

I absolutely loved it – we were like a family, and I still consider many of them to be some of my closest friends. I was the lead in several of our high school plays, Student Council President and the designated party planner. After high school I went to the University of Oklahoma and received a degree in Journalism with an emphasis in Advertising. I loved the Gaylord College at OU. One of my favorite professors, David Tarpenning, took us to New York to visit the leading advertising agencies there and I remember feeling like I could do anything I set my mind to after that trip. Something I’ve learned over the years is that your dreams aren’t meaningless ideas – they are your goals, and life is too short not to go after them. I love old movies, Broadway shows, Marilyn Monroe, going to concerts and traveling. I am always planning a trip… Usually to New York. I am a self-proclaimed dreamer, and I intend to see them all become reality.

How did you get into photography?

What do you love most about it?

I have loved photography for as long as I can remember. My mom was the one who was always taking a million pictures at every birthday, field trip, dance recital.. you get the picture. So, it felt like a very natural thing for me to be interested in from a very young age. I think it was my fourth Christmas, when I woke up and ran into the living room to see what Santa had left me. I looked at everything laid out in front of the fireplace, and saw that there was a Polaroid camera on the far left corner. I remember being confused, because surely I was too young to be responsible enough to have my own camera, and I knew my parents were too old for Santa to be leaving them gifts.

I picked it up, walked over to my mom, and sat down beside her – trying my best not to get my hopes up. I looked at the camera, and then looked up at her and asked who Santa had left this gift for. She laughed as if the answer was obvious, and said, “For you.” I think I carried that thing with me everywhere I went for a long time – I still have an album of the Polaroids I shot from it! I had to grow up and be responsible very quickly, so the things

I dreamt of doing with my life became silly and unrealistic to me. I thought I needed to be a lawyer – it sounded impressive and I knew I could live a happy and stable life with a career like that. But, no matter how hard I tried to make “impressive” and non-creative careers fit me, I knew how wrong they were for me. My senior year of college I took an intro to photography course to fill my last elective hours. I was so excited about this class. I think I showed up like 15 minutes early. I quickly discovered by going through the syllabus that it was going to be extremely expensive – none of the supplies or equipment were going to be available, we had to provide our own. I was so bummed out about it, because I knew that I wouldn’t be able to stay in the class. That same night, a good friend of mine called out of the blue to see how my semester was starting off. I told her all about the photography course and how I was really let down that I would have to drop it. We eventually hung up, but 20 minutes later she called me back. Her father was very appreciative of art, especially photography, and he wanted to supply me with all of the equipment I would need for the course. I was so shocked – I think I told her no a million times, but she insisted. I’ll always be so grateful to him and to my friend for providing me the opportunity that led me to becoming a photographer professionally.

What I love most about photography is it lets me express myself in a creative way. Anyone who knows me well could tell you that I love films, music and the theatre – not like, love. If I was talented enough, I would do all of them! But my niche, what I feel I excel at most, is photography. It’s like a release – being able to have an idea in my head and make it a visual reality. On top of that, I get to be with amazing people all the time! I love how every day is different, and every shoot is unique.

Why did you want to start a magazine?

I guess you could say I’m a bit of a dreamer. I like to say entrepreneur, but I realize that to most people starting your own magazine falls under the “dreamer” category. I can never do anything half way, and I always want to be the best. For example, I was always drawn to journalism and thought that I might go in to news broadcasting – but to me, with my personality, that means moving to New York and taking Katie Couric’s seat, not moving to the smallest town possible and reporting the news to a populations of 200. When I have a passion, or idea, or goal it’s never small – and oddly, it never seems unreachable. So, when I decided to

be a photographer I knew I wanted to do editorial photography, I wanted to make my ideas appear on the page. I had an incredible opportunity to move to New York a little over a year ago, but when I started to reconnect with Kelsey and we began talking about our dreams and goals, I knew that I had to stay. I believed in us, and in our ambition so much that I knew we could make our dreams happen right here. I also knew that it needed to happen right here – I wanted to be a part of the artistic renaissance that is happening in Oklahoma right now. And I wanted to do that with Kelsey.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

The people. Obviously I love doing the photo shoots and creating fun concepts, but ultimately it would all be meaningless without all of the people that help bring it to life. I have been able to meet so many incredible people while building Twenty Something Magazine, and strength relationships that were already there. Everyone who has been a part of making this magazine work is truly amazing, and I feel so honored to have worked with them.

Aside from the magazine, what would be your ultimate dream job as a photographer?

Definitely to be the photographer for Saturday Night Live. Mary Ellen Matthews has been their lead photographer for 13 years, and who can blame her! Also, it would be a dream to work with Annie Leibovitz on a project – she is my favorite photographer.

Who is the person you would like to interview and photograph most?

Marilyn Monroe. I realize this is impossible on many levels, but I have always been so intrigued by her. I grew up watching her movies, which led to a fascination of who she was as a person off screen.

I know there are a million different opinions about her, so the only book I have ever read about her life was the one that she herself wrote. [“My Story” – it’s fascinating] I have always wished I could have known her – seen who she was off screen, and been a friend to her. A more realistic answer would be the following: Gwyneth Paltrow, Marion Cotillard, Michelle Williams, Emma Stone, Adele and Bernadette Peters.

Who or what inspires you?

It’s hard to explain, but most of my ideas start with a feeling. Like I said, I absolutely love music and

film and the theatre – when I see or hear something that evokes a feeling in me, I let that feeling kind of take over and then ideas just start flowing through my head. It may sound ridiculous, but that’s how it happens.

Did you ever feel scared about starting something so big from the ground up?

I didn’t feel scared at all. It’s funny because growing up I was so scared to have an artistic career, because of the stigma of instability. But, once I decided to let that fear go and accept what I was meant to do with my life, no other task has seemed to bother me – in fact, it really only encourages me to continue to grow and create new things.

What has been your favorite photo shoot?

This is so hard for me – they feel like my children! I agree with what Kelsey said about the Edie Sedgwick inspired photo shoot. I love those photos, but also what was happening when they were created.

It was our very first shoot for the magazine and I loved everything about it. I also really love the desert shoot we did last summer – it was so hot on that sand, but we had a blast driving those buggies around! The Marilyn, Audrey and Almost Famous shoots were also some of my favorites because they were so spot on.

What has been your favorite memory in the last year at Twenty Something Magazine?

Wow, there are so many things I could say. Probably the moment that has had the greatest impact on me was in New York this February when we were able to attend the Zac Posen show during Fashion Week. Just walking into the room I felt this overwhelming feeling of accomplishment – like all of our hard work was meaningful. And then Anna Wintour was seated in front of me. I couldn’t breathe. I just looked at Kelsey, and then back at Anna, and realized that we have accomplished so much. I felt really blessed and happy that we took so many risks to end up where we were – next to the most powerful woman in the magazine industry. It was a really humbling and surreal experience.

Success

In light of this being the magazine’s one year anniversary, we decided to reflect on the amazing success that all of the contributors have had this past year.

Then we got to thinking… how do we measure success? According to dictionary.com, success literally means, ‘the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts, endeavors.’ Whatever that’s supposed to mean! So, with this definition in mind, how do we define if and when we are successful?

We measure success in various forms.

Most of the time, we give it a number; in currency, pounds lost, grade out of 100, time spent and time saved, etc…. But what if the realm of measuring success was no longer a number derived from society’s perception, but more a feeling.

What if success was measured in the amount of love you have for someone or something. Well, then the question becomes how do you measure love? Isn’t love measured by happiness? This question we have proposed seems to be a revolving door, being opened by more questions, all of which we can’t find a definitive answer. So, we are thinking everything is all relative. We decided to take a more literal approach to the question and give our own definitions: JaNiece- I measure success by stability and happiness. I don’t require material things in life, but find it extremely amazing that I come home to a house every night that I own, drive a car that I paid for, and never go hungry. My happiness is most important. If I’m happy with a

guy I’m dating, the amount he spends on me, the pace at which the relationship moves, and the duration for which we spend time, doesn’t matter. My job is filled with smiles. If I go a single day without laughing and being completely engulfed in a show I’m producing, then I have failed.

Kealey- The small and intangible things spell success for me. I have a husband who I love and who makes me laugh. We are happy and rarely argue which, to me, means a successful marriage. I have two beautiful young children who are always smiling and have never gone without life’s necessities, so, to me, that means I’ve been a successful mother… so far!

At work, I’m a little tougher on myself.

I don’t measure success by ratings, but by how much I continue to challenge myself. If I have taken myself out of my comfort zone on the air, completed a task I’ve been putting off, or taken on a new responsibility altogether, it’s been a successful day. If I don’t do any of those things, I go home feeling deflated. I literally take life one step at a time. With each small victory builds confidence and character that will carry me through the days, months and years to come.

We hope this blurb challenges you to define what success means for you!

Written by KSBI All About You’s Kealey McIntire and JaNiece Cranmer

Timeless Items

The little black dress. The classic white shirt. A great pair of pumps. What do all three of these fashionable things have in common, you ask? They are all considered to be timeless items of fashion. Season after season, trend after trend, these items have managed to stay in style. We see the crowds of fashionistas rocking those ever-so trendy sunglasses.

We take notice of the woman who clicks her heels as she takes a confident walk. Our attention focuses in on the chic lady who carries that Birkin bag on her arm. When we see a timeless item, we know that it is timeless because we have seen it before in the past. So what makes an item of fashion timeless? If an item of fashion is considered timeless, that item has the power to still look modern year after year.

One of the most iconic timeless pieces in fashion history is the little black dress. Women across the globe want their hands on a little black dress because they understand the status of this iconic item. Actresses past and present like Rita Hayworth, Audrey Hepburn, and Natalie Portman have all sported an LBD. Our current First Lady, Michelle Obama, has even worn a little black dress for her official White House portrait. The great thing about a little black dress is that you can style or accessorize it any way you want. Whatever your art, the LBD is your canvas. It has been since it was first introduced by Chanel. Need an example? Take a look at images of women in LBDs from any past decade. Whether wearing them with pearls in the 20s or belting them in the 80s, women still wore their LBDs decade after decade. Avril Graham, the Executive Fashion and Beauty Editor of Harper’s Bazaar, said it best. “That dress can be worn decades later and still look like it was designed yesterday.” That, my chic friends, is what a timeless item of fashion is all about.

When you think of jeans, you may not think of timeless fashion. Jeans are typically perceived as a “casual” part of fashion. While jeans are considered to be casual, there is actually a timeless aesthetic to those denim delights. As Kate Lanphear, Style Director of Elle, puts it, America was built by people wearing jeans. When jeans first hit the mainstream, they were intended for western wear. Years later, they became synonymous with American culture. Hollywood stars like Marlon Brando and Brigitte Bardot were now starting to wear jeans in their movies. Famed designer Yves Saint Laurent even expressed that he wished he would have invented the blue jean. Levi’s of the past had the same popular appeal that 7 For All Mankind has in the present. Jeans are timeless because they have been accessible and universally worn by almost everyone in each decade. They provide a sense of comfort and familiarity season after season, which is why they have become a multibillion dollar industry.

The LBD and jeans are just a couple of timeless items in the fashion world. There are many more items that have become timeless in the industry. Sunglasses are still in style like they were decades ago. Crisp, clean white shirts have been go-to items for years. More than likely, a great pair of pumps can be found in the closet of both a vintage and modern day fashionista. Although they might not be similar in design throughout each decade, timeless items of fashion have definitely been influential both in the past and the present.

Written by Whitney Lynn

Pinup Makeup

I am not afraid to admit that I have a girl crush on Adele. And I am a pretty big fan of all those “Mad Men” and 1940’s pinup looks ala Betty Grable. As women, we gravitate to these looks because women look most feminine with these cosmetic tricks. Bright red lips, full and lush. Long and heavy lashes, as if everything in her wake she desires deeply. Soft cheeks as if to say, innocence. Touch of blush, just enough of a whisper. Or as my colleague reading over my shoulder is saying, I sound like a beach read for the elderly. Oh well!

ow all over with a light to medium brown along the bone of your eye. Start at the end of your lashes up towards the bridge of your nose. Use a crease brush to help blend back and forth, using your natural bone structure as your guide. I like to use a dark charcoal shadow along the top lashes to use as a guide as well as depth for the liquid to follow.

Along the apples of your cheeks (smile real big, the fleshy part) apply a soft yet bright color. Right now I am obsessed with Frisky

by Tarte. Be sure and swipe a little bit of I find in my industry that many, not all, powder along the face before the blush, and but many women want to imitate this look. without adding more powder swipe again Even fewer I find will try it in public, but to blend your blush seamlessly. resort to private practices of vanity playful- Soft beige gloss (Butter London’s Yummy ness and experimentation. With the masMummy) for the Adele look and Sinner sive amounts, and I mean massive, of media red from the Lipstick Queen herself for the surrounding Adele and Mad Men the resur- Mad Men look!! (Actual brand) And don’t gence of liquid eyeliner is front and center. forget using a pencil for that definition!

Red lips, and flawless skin is always in! So here, for all you closet foxy ladies, are some Lastly, the piece of resistance! Liquid eyehelpful hints and how to’s! liner. My favs right now are T.LeClerc and Tarte liquid pen. They make it almost foolLike a good painter will tell you, good walls proof. Start small across the lash line and means good prep. Same here. The better build on top of each other following the the canvas is prepared, the better anything dark eye shadow you placed there earlier. you do cosmetically will look. Make sure Keep building till you feel Winehoused! you have exfoliated your skin and have Wing it, literally, to where you desire. Masbeen good about adding the right amount cara and lashes and voila sista! You are the of moisture. Be not afraid of creams! The foxy hot pinup you always fantasized about! more moist your skin, the more beautiful your foundation/tinted moisturizer/powder will look. Eye cream too please!

Secondly, make sure you match your foundation flawlessly. Use a sponge (beauty blender) or foundation brush (MUB Beauty) for an even and well blended look. Prep the eyes too with No Brainer from MUB Beauty. Place a light shimmering eye shad-

Written by Alex Mendez-Kelley Owner of The MakeUp Bar

Trendy Trends

I absolutely, positootly, cumquat soupley, do not understand the high-waisted pant thing going on right now in our fashion world. To me high-waisted pants or skirts, and I might be alone in this assumption, were the universal sign for ladies to judge when they are too old to be on Facebook or drive a car. Again, I could be wrong. The line is so blurred for me at the moment. I actually tried to help an “old lady” in high-rise, sea foam green polyester pants and a floral print shirt/blouse to her car with her grocery bags. I politely walk up behind her in a NON-creepy way and said, “Excuse me ma’am, would you like some help with those”? (Imagine me saying it in a southern accent.) She was obviously struggling with the weight of the bags. She looked weak. When she turned around I instantly realized why she was weak. I’m guessing she was between the weathered old age of 17 to 19. Her muscles and bones aren’t fully developed. The silver lining in this story is, I was able to convince her rather quickly not to mace me! (Again, imagine me utilizing a southern accent. I owe Matthew McConaughey my eye site) I’m not saying that I disapprove of this trend. Not that people even care what I think. I’m just trying to understand it. It actually works for some gals. Here is where I think some people go wrong though. If you don’t want a non-creepy man to mistake you for nana, buy these so called high-rise pants new. I think the newer model of pant is a whole world of different from your everyday thrift store unintentional high-waisted pant. Bonus: I have yet to see a new pair that has elastic in the waistband. Always go with the buttons.

How high is too high? It seems that they are getting higher and higher. Just like the Devon Tower. After a certain point you are just showing off. I think in this situation calling on nana’s expertise will suffice. If you have to manually lift up your boobs to buckle your belt... TOO HIGH! Or watch the high rise queen herself, Zooey Deschanel. She seems to not only pull it of gracefully, but in my opinion has a mutual respect for her waistline and ribs. There is no property line quarrel there, if you know what I mean.

So if you’re going to hike ‘em up, just do it right. And remember who started the whole thing. No, not nana. M-I-C, see ya real soon. K-E-Y, M O U S E!!! Now how gansta is that!

Written by Denver Duncan

Hair & Clothing: The Velvet Monkey Salon Makeup: Ashley Smith Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young

Plaza District Ladies

Lindsay Zodrow has

been involved with the Plaza for almost as long as me now. She is a sweet, warm hearted girl and her shop, Collected Thread, portrays that as well. You can always count on Lindsay to have on a cute outfit, sporting her products! She always has a smile on her face and I always feel good around her.

-Ashley Smith

Amanda Bradway is not only

the greatest neighbor and friend a girl could ask for but she is the champion for emerging artists and the local underground art scene.

Amanda is the owner of DNA Galleries, an incredible gallery that promotes and supports talented, fresh artists.

She goes beyond simply showing an artist’s work, but encourages and pushes them to proudly step into who they are as an artist.

Amanda and her husband, Dylan Bradway, are super talented artists themselves and I, very much, expect to one day tell my children that I knew them once before they were famous.

-Lindsay Zodrow

Estrella Evans is such a

fun and kind person. She is the owner of Velvet Monkey Salon and Vintage Boutique in the Plaza, and has been very involved in enriching the community that surrounds us. She is a truly talented woman. When you walk into Velvet Monkey, you know you’ll be leaving looking your very best.

Ashley Smith is an amazingly

talented artist. Skin, paper, bike frames - they are all the canvas for her unique personal style. Four years ago, the Plaza District not only gained No Regrets Tattoo, we gained the talent and kind-natured goodness of Ashley. While always down to grab a drink and enjoy life together in our community, she’s definitely a hustler when it comes to work. Tattoos, art, bikes, the Plaza District - she’s working hard to connect the dots and building a unique culture in Oklahoma City.

There’s going to come a time when I’m ready for some ink, and she’ll be the first to know!

-Kristen Vails

Kristen Vails is the

Executive Director of the Plaza District. Kristen has brought in several awesome local businesses to our district. She has also organized super fun events like Live on the Plaza, which has contributed to the overall quality of life and culture of Oklahoma City.

P.S. Did I mention she is an amazing artist herself?

We love our Plaza mom!

-Estrella Evans

We absolutely love the Plaza District, and all that it is doing to enrich the community of Oklahoma City. With unique boutiques, salons, tattoo parlors, locally owned restaurants and people who embrace you warmly every time you visit, you’ll want to keep going back. Head down to 16th Street - you wont regret it. www.PlazaDistrict.org

In Case You Were Wondering...

Written by Meagan Owen

Wedding season is vastly approaching and you, being a twenty-something reader, probably play a part, be it the bride, MOH, bridesmaid or just attendee. Actually, in this season of life, you are more than likely a bridesmaid in two, house party in one, and attending three more… isn’t that how it always happens? Well, through the year, I have been asked random wedding questions and so, this month, before prepping for Wedding Season 2012, I am equipped to answer some wedding FAQs. In case you were wondering if you can wear white to a wedding…

I say no, if you can help it. I know over time it has been less of a wedding “rule” and more of a suggestion, but I think white is still reserved for the bride and, regardless if your dress or ensemble isn’t going to steal her focus, I think it is more polite to just choose something else. So many other colors in the rainbow, trying to find one other than white shouldn’t be a daunting challenge. Plus, save your great LWD for an event where people will be looking at YOU in it!

In case you were wondering how many presents you actually need to give the bride…

As is the case in many wedding situations, the bride and groom may have several shower opportunities. You, as a bridesmaid or close friend, might be invited to multiple.

Do you have to bring a gift to each one? Not at all! I think showing your support to them in the form of a gift can be done either at any of the showers or in private. Your bride will understand that money doesn’t grow on trees and that, in the event of multiple showers, you will shower her with lots of love, instead of lots of presents. Plus, having you by her side is really a gift in and of

itself! I stick to a standard wedding present and bachelorette present (if applicable) in most situations. Just make sure not to get the two confused!

In case you were wondering how to fancy up your hair and makeup for the big day...

In these cases, I tend to go more with a dark purple, blue or brown smoky eye or a really bold lip. I typically stick to these colors because weddings aren’t usually a formal, dramatic event but, rather, cocktail attire and elegant. These colors add some drama without adding so much vamp. My personal favorite smoky eye combination is MAC makeup’s “Blackberry” for blending in the crease and “Sketch” for the lid, along with smudging a great black pencil to really solidify the eye shape. However, if you aren’t great with a makeup brush, a bold lip is always in. Or even if you don’t have a ton of time, a crisp, brightly colored lip will definitely pull some focus to your face. My personal favorites are bold reds like MAC makeup’s “Russian Red” and “Ruby Woo” or bold pinks like any of the ones from Make Up Forever. Don’t forget to line those lips; nothing is less chic than a bleeding lip.

In case you were wondering about being considerate when throwing wedding or bridal showers…

If you have been in this situation before, you know how uncomfortable it can be… to start off with a plan and the women ultimately in charge of the shower take off and tell you your share of the bill, and you are left with no alternative but to pay it, because, after all, it IS for your friend.

Most of the time, this happens when mixed generations come together to throw the celebration. Although this is a wonderful way to bridge an age gap, be polite and direct up front when discussing the bud-

get of the parties, and commit to a certain dollar amount that you are comfortable with. Likewise, always be considerate of the budget of those around you. There is always that old saying,“everyone’s got something going on” and this can be true in these cases; other people in your planning committee might not feel comfortable voicing their financial situations to a group. The best etiquette you can always practice is to be understanding and to be flexible. You are all working for the common goal to shower your best friend in the end!

Film certain parts of her pre-wedding that she might have forgotten. For example, grab a flip cam and take some videos of her trying on dresses, her retelling the engagement story, her at her showers, etc. Mix it all together with some great music and you have just given her a present she never could have imagined!

In case you were wondering, this is a great time in a friend’s life, so the only advice you really need is to support and celebrate her!

Happy wedding season to all!

In case you were wondering of a few unique gifts to give the bride…

Some of the greatest gifts have been the most personal gifts, aka the non-registered ones: Stationery from Stationery Studio always has great sales and makes for a very personalized present, and a handy one too, since the new Mr. and Mrs. will be writing those thank you notes for a while!

Has your bride lost a very special loved one? See if you can find a special charm for her to carry on her wedding day.

(This has been one of my favorite presents to give, as the bride and I chose the charms together.)

Photo by Aaron Snow

Photo by Bethany Young

Written by Emily Davis

Shopping at thrift stores can sometimes be overwhelming- clutter, dirty stuff, over eager shoppers, the list goes on… Fortunately for me, I have thrifting in my blood and have been doing it practically my whole life. Because everyone likes saving money and having unique things in their home, you should make thrifting a priority! Here are some tips to help the process be something you can enjoy!

1. Don’t wait! If you find something in a thrift store that you like- GET IT. 99% of the time, if you go home to think about it, it won’t be there when you come back for it. I have learned this lesson the hard way. This is why it is super important to be prepared when thrifting. Carry a measuring tape, paint swatches of your house and measurements/pictures of your rooms with you. That way, when you find an item you will already have a pretty good idea of if it will work in your space.

Also, take the tag off any furniture piece and carry it around with you while you shop. This way, no one else will swoop in and take it from under your nose!

2. Be patient with the thrifting process. If you are looking for something specific, you probably won’t find it on your first (and sometimes second/third visit). You can’t go into a thrift store expecting to find exactly the item you are looking for. Finding certain things takes time and dedication. But the dedication makes it THAT much better when you finally find something you have had your eye out for.

3. Don’t pay too much, but don’t insult either. Thrifting is great for finding bargains, but expect to pay for good quality items. Knowing how to recognize furniture that is well made, or having knowledge of what price items from certain periods go for will help you to know if you should try to lower the price.

4. Ask the store when they put out their merchandise. Knowing if they use the weekends to price things, the best day to come would probably be Monday will definitely help you get the good stuff. Get to know the store owners and if you are looking for a specific item, ask them to call you if something similar comes in. Just like in every other aspect of life, relationships are important!

5. Remember- be creative. If you find a dresser that you like the design of, but hate the color, consider painting it! Or adding new pulls. Switch out the lampshade on a cool old lamp to give it a modern update.

For more fun interior ideas, visit me at www.mainstreetchic.blogspot.com Image credits: Dayka Robinson Designs and Gemma Booth

Foundation of a Winning Food Strategy

Looking to improve your health and appearance but still haven’t fully found or mastered an eating plan that gives you what you desire? If so, you aren’t alone. Most people find eating healthy is very challenging for various reasons. One main reason is people don’t understand what comprises a successful eating strategy. To make matters worse, when people diligently seek a solution they are misled or even more confused as every media outlet, health magazine, and so called industry expert proclaims a different diet as the only way to get results. You hear 6 meals per day, 1 meal per day, Paleo diet, Atkins diet, Intermittent Fasting, and Gluten Free all as the lone solution to losing weight or maintaining your ideal physique. No wonder people are so confused. Just like there is more than one way to skin a cat (I do not approve of this in the literal sense) there is more than one way to eat successfully. Check out the rules and considerations below for a clearer understanding of how to create a winning eating strategy.

There are 2 major rules for successful strategies. The first rule is food quality. Focus on 90% or more of your foods being wholesome, all natural, or from the earth foods such as fruits, veggies, nuts, whole grains, or lean meats. These foods provide a plethora of vitamins, minerals, and vital nutrients that your body needs to function optimally. Limit heavily processed or non nutrient dense foods to less than 10% of your weekly calories.

Our second rule is calorie control. Understand your daily caloric requirements for weight maintenance. Then, determine your goal and adjust your calories accordingly. Lower to lose weight and increase to gain. Not every calorie is created equal. 2,000 calories of candy bars isn’t the same as 2,000 calories of fruits and veggies. Remember our first rule and eat as many high quality foods you can.

Once those rules are understood you need to carefully consider what formats are best for you and your lifestyle. Lifestyle eating is key as diets are not long term solutions. Personalized plans tailored to your needs, situation, and preferences are always the most effective.

Focus on finding what you can do consistently to fuel your body and sustain success over time. Too many people try and do things that aren’t realistic for them to maintain.

Meal frequency is another key consideration. This is something people choose incorrectly often. For example, many people try the 6 meal per day method but aren’t in a work situation where it’s possible to achieve this every day or don’t take the necessary time to plan and prepare their meals. Another downside to the 6 meals is the control food has over you. People are so worried making sure they eat every 3-4 hours that they let their food control them instead of the other way around. Find a meal frequency that provides flexibility and puts you in control.

Closely tied with meal frequency is meal size. Usually the more meals you eat the smaller their size. Fewer meals are usually larger. Decide what situation works better for your schedule and leaves you feeling the best. Some people excel on 1-2 larger meals a day while this is troublesome for others because they have a hard time consuming very large quantities of food in fewer sittings.

The last thing to consider is experience. Much like anything in life the more experience you have the better and more prepared you are to succeed. Food is no different. Try to experience as many different ways to eat until you find the best plan for you. Have fun and enjoy!

Written by Jeff Ragan

Faces of Twenty S

Something Magazine

Hair & Makeup: The Makeup Room Agency - Amber Fike, Toni Marlo, Chelsi Romero, Jamy Green, Jenny Hausam Clothing: Bad Granny’s Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Models: Jessica Bohne, Damaris Pierce, Meagan Owen, Maci Cameron; Anthony David Models - Alex E, Lauren L, Brooke T, Trang C, Kendall H; Tabb Models - Heather Carter Location: Rosebrook Vineyards

Since it is our anniversary issue, we wanted to do a photo shoot featuring many of the ladies who have been a part of what we have done over the last year. These gorgeous models have become a part of the TSM family, and we want you to know just how incredible they are.

These are the ladies behind the faces of Twenty Something Magazine.

Lauren Lundeen has been modeling for 1.5 years and is a full time student at the University of Oklahoma, majoring in Modern Dance and Human Relations.

Lauren’s current life goals include winning Miss USA [she is the reigning Miss Oklahoma USA], working at a nonprofit organization and teach dance to underprivileged children.

Lauren likes to model because she loves being able to show a different side of her personality with the different themes of photo shoots.

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: I love how it incorporates new styles with fashion here in Oklahoma! Every time I read a new issue online, I reread it about 2 or 3 times because there is something I always miss!

We love Lauren’s genuine and sweet spirit. She is a true friend, and a truely talented model.

We could not be more proud of her to represent Oklahoma in the upcoming Miss USA competition.

Jessica Bohne graduated in 2009 from Oklahoma City University with a degree in Dance Perfor-

mance and is currently working as a legal assistant, while also being an Oklahoma City Thunder Girl. Jessica’s main goal is to be happy - no matter what she does professionally. She is living one of her goals right now by dancing for the Oklahoma City Thunder, and she strives to constantly push herself towards new experiences. Jessica loves to model because she loves dressing up and getting her hair and makeup done.

“A girl can never get enough of that!”

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: I love how the magazine highlights different events and people in the Oklahoma City area, and of course, I love the fashion tips and awesome photography!

Jessica is a blast to work with - as sweet and she is fun. No matter what we ask her to do [even modeling with a python] she is always up to the challenge.

Brooke Taylor has been modeling professionally for 9 months, but has been passionate about it her

entire life. Brooke’s main goal is to pursue modeling and travel the world - enjoying the art, culture and food of the world. She loves to model because it helps her to be confident with her body and the way she carries herself, while also participating in an art form that allows her to be imaginative and creative.

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: How creative everyone involved in the magazine is!

Every issue is so wonderfully pieced together, I am so impressed each and every time!

We love how passionate Brooke is about modeling - she is always full of great ideas!

Alex Eppler is about to

graduate from the University of Oklahoma, will be starting a job at OU Children’s Hospital and plans to go to medical school next year.

Ultimately, Alex would like to work abroad serving in medical missions.

In addition, she hopes to have her own practice in the states and partner with a team to serve internationally.

Alex loves the diversity and creativity of modeling. “I also love getting to make new friends and in the modeling world, you get to know so many new faces quickly. From makeup artists, to stylists, from photographers to other models...there is always something new, which keeps it exciting and fun!

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: I love the creativity that Twenty Something bring to Oklahoma. Literally creativity and inspiration is oozing from this magazine. From the concept shoots to movie remakes, this magazine has it all. I feel inspired when I read it!

Alex is beautiful inside and out. With such a kind heart, you can’t help but love this lady. We enjoy getting the opportunity to work with her because she is always full of encouragement and love.

Kendall Harris has been modeling for

1.5 years and is a student at the University of Oklahoma, majoring in Broadcast Journalism.

Kendall’s goals include moving to New York to pursue modeling, getting married, traveling and never having any regrets. Kendall loves to model because it is like playing dress up. “You get to be another person, and work with truly amazing people.”

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: The crazy fashion shoots, music, and the twenty something girls! It’s so cool to see girls in Oklahoma doing amazing things and living their dreams!

Kendall has been with us from the very beginning, and has a special place in our hearts.

She is a very diverse model, always willing to try new ideas and allow us to transform her into everything from a 1950’s beauty to a Bond Girl.

Trang Cao as you may remember, was one of our Twenty Something Girls. She was

born in a refugee camp in Malaysia [but is of Vietnamese heritage] and raised in Oklahoma. Trang works for the Muscular Dystrophy Association where she is the Healthcare Service Coordinator for their nonprofit clinic. She is also the director of the muscular dystrophy camp for pediatric patients, which is why she loves her job so much.

Trang’s goal, in general, is to always continue to grow. She always strives to be a better person than she was the day before. “I don’t want to be perfect, I just want to be perfectly genuine to help others.

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: It embodies what and who you are and were in your 20’s. The style and culture of the magazine is universal for all generations. It’s refreshing to see a magazine that unifies local and national pop culture fashion.

We always love working with Trang - or just being with her in general. You will never lack of laughter when Trang is near. She truely lights up every room she enters, and lets everyone she meets feel like a person of worth.

Maci Cameron has been

modeling since she was just 12 years old. She currently works for Scott Sabolich Prosthetics where she is a financial counselor. Maci will be getting married soon, and hopes to be a great and loving mother one day.

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: Its a local magazine that feels big league. Its nice to know that it doesn’t take New York to produce a fashion magazine of worth. And with Twenty Something Magazine, you feel like family.

We have such a great time when we get to work with Maci. She is such a fun person - you just want to be near her because you’re guaranteed a few laughs and promised to feel loved.

Meagan Owen is an event planner by day, professional

makeup artist by weekend and freelance writer [including for TSM] whenever possible. She plans to visit all the countries in Western Europe at least once, give an unrepayable gift to someone, adopt a child, write a book, perform on stage in one more musical, establish a successful blog and convince her husband that they need a husky.

Meagan loves to model because she loves performing. “Modeling is like performing for pictures. You get to be a new character or you get to tell a different story at each shoot.”

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: Its ability to allow me to do everything I want to do creatively that I woudn’t otherwise do. I wear many hats in the TSM family: model, writer, makeup artist, What We’re Wearing columnist... It’s ever changing and always getting better! I’ve never been good at just doing one thing, so I am grateful I don’t have to choose! Happy One Year TSM! Meagan has been a part of TSM from the beginning, and we are so lucky to have her. She is always a blast, always stylish and always a lot of fun to be around. As she says above, she wears many hats for TSM and we are so glad they all fit her so well.

Heather Carter has been

modeling for 12 years. She loves modeling because she gets to pretend to be someone else.

“Sometimes life gets so tedious, its nive to just pretend for a while.”

Heather works at an oil company, and will be starting school in the fall for fashion. Before that, she will be spending some time modeling in Miami. Heather plans to travel the world, act in a movie, style for a fashion magazine and have her own jewelry or clothing line.

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: I love working with you guys. You always have such fun concepts and everyone is so nice to work with.

I love Kelsey’s styling, and I love how the pictures turn out. It by far is the best magazine Oklahoma has! You make Oklahoma look good!

We enjoy working with Heather because she easily grasps what we’re after - constantly moving, while taking direction very easily.

We love her style [she has been featured on our Chic of the Week page], and her fun-loving personality.

Damaris Pierce has been modeling for 5 years, and loves to do so because

it gives her the chance to take on a character or personality different from her own. “Its always fun to play dress up and pretend!� In the fall she will be pursuing a Masters Degree in Human Relations and Human Resources from the University of Oklahoma.

Favorite thing about Twenty Something Magazine: It truly captures the essence of a twenty-something and involves all aspects of life that include health, fashion, food and fun times!

We love how genuine Damaris is - she is always honestly interested in people and easily makes those around her feel loved and appreciated.

All Time Favori Artist: U2 Album: Poses by Rufus Wainwright Song: “Left Side Drive” by Boards of Canada

Let me preface this by saying the past really does make the future and what we listened to yesterday influences what we listen to today. In honor of our one-year, I decided to write about what I listened to growing up and what I still call my favorites. Thanks to my oldest sister Jen, I would not have the love for music I have now and would not know about any of these masterpieces.

My favorite artist, bar none, is U2. I was raised listening to them because my sister loved them and always had them playing. I had an appreciation for Bono before he refused to remove his beloved Versace shades and dedicated half of his time to the kids in Africa with AIDS. Regardless, I formed this sentimental attachment to his voice and that guitar that has seemed to maintain its distinctiveness over their 30-year life span. I had an unusual attachment to this band from the start and could not get enough of them. The album Achtung Baby was and is my favorite. (“So Cruel,” “Tryin’ to Throw Your Arms Around the World,” and “Ultra Violet” are the best.) It will change your life if you have not yet listened to it. I will admit, I do like U2’s older recordings better than their more recent music, but I will always stand by Bono’s work and be a fan because of what his music has contributed to my life. I vowed to myself in the eighth grade that I would see them live, and I have been fortunate enough to have seen them three times since then. I have never been so starstruck. I know their stage setups have been a little intense and can be seen from a mile away, but at the end of the day, U2 delivers and has delivered over the span of most of our lives. Even if all you think of is ridiculous sunglasses, superfluous spending, or just four old guys who should probably call it a day, U2 has truly set a standard for songwriting, most definitely influenced my love for Rock music and will always hold a special place in my heart.

ites...

A very influential album for me is Poses by Rufus Wainwright. If y’all have not heard of Rufus, he is a very talented singer/songwriter and released this sophomore album February of 2002. He has the most truthful lyrics and his voice sounds unlike any other.

Deep and thoughtful, Wainwright’s voice evokes storytelling and it’s so easy to sing along to. When you listen to his lyrics, you know it is experience and emotion spilled onto a page. Poses is candid and coy and it allows the world to get to know Rufus Wainwright in that same fashion. I heard this album for the first time in Junior High. Jen had his CD and we put him in our rental car on our trip to Hawaii and my Mom still knows his voice. That’s impressive for someone who doesn’t care about being in the loop. She’s sharp, but to tell you the truth, I’m not sure if she knows who Adele is. Rufus Wainwright is memorable and every song on this album fits together like puzzle pieces making a fantastic picture that is seen once you listen to Poses in its entirety. From the steady grooves of “Shadows,” to the humorous and telling “Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk,” and of course the album’s title track “Poses,” Wainwright’s style and story is laid out plain and simple and is waiting to be absorbed by listeners. This is talent, people.

Choosing a favorite song is like Sophie’s choice. I truthfully don’t know if I have a favorite. I decided to choose one that simply means a lot to me. When I have a rough day, or just need something to calm me down, I listen to this song. It has depth, intelligence, and allows room for imagination. And of course, it doesn’t have words. It’s “Left Side Drive,” by Boards of Canada. I don’t know if I’m the only one, but for someone who loves music, sometimes songs without words are so refreshing and can mean more to you than even the most brilliant lyrics that have been recorded. Instrumentals are open translation and have infinite room for interpretation. Boards of Canada is a brother duo who creates electronic music ranging from hip-hop beats to new-age sounds that still manage to capture me every time.

“Left Side Drive” is a layered electronic masterpiece. It doesn’t get good until about 30 seconds in after an intro, and then you can really dive into the bass and syncopation that shine in this track. BOC was a big part of my college career, being constant background music on my laptop, as well as contributing to my study playlist that was listened to well over 300 times. It’s the kind of music that allows you to appreciate and think at the same time. They say music can brainwash us, but this song proves it can do the opposite.

Written by Sarah Ethridge

Other Lives & Radiohead Dissonance. Crazy time signatures. Drums and loops.

Strings and synths. Layers upon layers of symphonic, acoustic, electronic brilliance. Just some of the reasons we like Other Lives… and Radiohead.

From the broad instrumentation to the delicate intricacies, Oklahoma’s Other Lives were the perfect opening act for Radiohead in Dallas last month. Their introduction prepared the listener for everything that lie ahead, making the overall show the most succinct, intentional musical initiative I have yet experienced. Since ‘94, Radiohead has been in my top 3 favorite bands to listen to, much less on my wish list to see live. And March 5 in Dallas, my wish came true.

Some people may call new music “inventive” but all ideas come from somewhere. Radiohead, I believe, is one of the greatest foundations of some of the music we like today.

Ironically, King of Limbs could not be a more appropriate title for the way I see Radiohead’s relationship to current music - they are a tree rooted in the good stuff that feeds the rest of us limbs branching off of their genius efforts.

The classical and jazz roots of Radiohead are what feed the many branches of musical efforts we enjoy today. If you like music today, you love the music of yesterday, probably without even knowing it. So give them a listen. In some ways you already have.

Photos & Article by Jennifer McQueen

Baby Town

Sweet sweet readers – Snooki is pregs. Kristin Cavillari is with child. Hillary Duff* is taking a trip down to baby town, and I am petrified.

Not terrified because they’re crazy skanks whose children have a doomed future, but because I always thought myself to be more “together” and a bit more “mature” than the average reality TV starlet. I always dated boys older than me, had plenty of adult friends, and managed to switch my major 3 times while still graduating at the fresh age of 21. I always thought I pretty much had my shiz together… until I didn’t. Somewhere along the lines I started dragging my heels on this whole “growing up” thing. Slowly but surely things got freakier and deakier. First there came the slew of engagement ring and wedding pics on facebook, then the whole weird sonogram profile pics. And NOW… girls I used to BABYSIT are blossoming into beautiful new moms while I’m still running around with greasy hair, eating week old gummy bears that I found in the floorboard of my car.

Please understand – I love me some babies, but there’s a huge difference between ooing and cooing at them for an hour or two and being the sole human responsible for their survival. Could I do that again and again, every single day until they grow up to be teenagers who want nothing to do with me?

In order to quell my fears and ignite my curiosity of this whole “motherhood” concept, I happily agreed to babysit my 1-year-old niece and 2-year-old nephew for an entire day last Saturday. After suffering through a wretched 2 day hangover (it’s spring break – chill out) I awoke at 5:30 a.m., blindly drove to my sister’s house, only to find that the 2 tiny children were already up, around, and PLAYING AT FIVE IN THE MORNING. Need I repeat myself? I hope not. It pains me too much to utter the words. Ok fine – PLAYING. This was the beginning of a hazy series of events that included begging my nephew to “make a brown”, chasing them all over the zoo, and perhaps catching a tiny snooze in the front seat when they finally took their car seat naps. I suppose the most incredible redeeming moment was at the end of the day when my nephew said his prayers, and I made the exclusive prayer list in between cowboys and barns. My heart hurt so much over these tiny sweet utterances, I almost cried on the spot.

My mom, my sister, and every other mom-jeans wearing biatch in the land assures me that there is a magical secret part of you that instantly opens up whenever you become a mom. But there’s still the hint of the echo of children past whose wailing voices used to beg to have my sister come back as their babysitter instead of me.

What about you my readers? Am I alone in my paralyzing fear of motherhood? Any moms out there that can vouch for the “secret miracle” that gives you super powers? Help a sister out. Tweet to me @sherreejane and tell me your thoughts. Until then, I’ll be looking to Snooki for maternal advice. *I concede that Hillary Duff isn’t a reality TV skeeze, but let’s get real. The girl fought with Lindsey Lohan over Aaron Carter. This chick has a little more craycray going on than we may think.

Written by Sherree Chamberlain

Makeup: The MakeUp Bar Hair: Angela Hamilton Clothing: Lush Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young

Meet Claudia Wiliamson, Miss Black Oklahoma USA. As an infant Claudia was taken away from her mother, split apart from her siblings and placed into foster homes. Her grandmother later adopted her, while her father died of AIDS when she was just 7 years old.

At 15 Claudia ran away from home and lived with different friends until she turned 18, when she was able to get her own apartment.

“I like to share my story to let people know anyone can be successful, but it is a choice.

It doesn’t matter where you come from. Everyone will have stones in their life but we can choose to stumble, throw, or build with them. I chose to build.”

How did you get involved with the pageant world?

I did my first pageant my sophomore year in highschool. My friend’s mom asked me if I wanted to be in it and I said sure, so she signed me up. It just so happened that I won, so I had to go on to state where I got 2nd runner up. This sparked an interest, and when I got to college and the opportunity came around again, I took it. Miss Black USA will be held in August 2012 in Washington DC and this will be my 7th pageant.

What was your experience like throughout the Miss Black Oklahoma USA pageant?

I had great experiences throughout the competition this year. My favorite part is always building new relationships with the girls. Preparation challenged me in many

ways but it payed off at the end! Winning was the best feeling - suceeding at something you worked so hard for.

Now that you are crowned, how are you using your title?

As Miss Black Oklahoma USA I implement my platform “I Am Royalty”. This is a program I designed that focuses on life skills, sex education, and healthy relationships in teens. I have been fortunate enough to have had many invitations to speak to youth groups and schools. I have partnered with Goodwill Goodguides as a mentor, Star Spencer Highschool where I started a girls group, and Teen Empower which is a nonprofit that teaches sex education in 7th grade science classes. Since crowned in September I have already completed over 100 hours of community service and still have many more planned.

What are your plans for the future?

After my reign I am hoping that I will win Miss Black USA, but if I don’t win I will be pursuing motivational speaking full time. I graduate in May with a Bachelors in Marriage and Family Life Education and I am also engaged to the love of my life. I look forward to getting married, settling down, and pursing my dreams as a speaker and author.

Its obvious that Claudia is more than deserving of everything she has accomplished.

We wish her the best of luck at Miss Black USA, and are excited to see what the future holds for this strong and admirable lady.

30 Before 30

April Showers bring April procrastinators. It’s coming down to the wire and the closer we get to 30, the less we want to do. Send us some encouragement on Twitter or Facebook.

Anyone is welcome to join us as well! These are the adventures of Taylor Upchurch, a beloved high school science teacher, husband, and music enthusiast and Denver Duncan, a local musician, husband, and father of two. Friends since childhood.

#15a Thank our First Educator

Taylor: We only made it halfway through this one.

Taylor: It was good seeing Mrs. Davis, all my other teachers at Will Rogers Elem., and Mr. Greteman at G&W’s.

Denver: Yeah, my kindergarten teacher was on vacation. Or she is avoiding me?

Taylor: Oh, Mrs. Davis. I had not seen her in a long while. I haven’t even been back to Burns Flat in 10 years.

Denver: Small town America is great. Time does not exist there!

Taylor: Mrs. Davis can cook up a hearty breakfast; homemade cinnamon rolls, biscuits, and a breakfast casserole. I’m still full thinking about it.

Denver: That made it difficult to stay awake on the way home. I wanted to nap so badly.

Taylor: I did nap a little.

Denver: You were driving! I’m glad I-40 is pretty straight.

Taylor: We are alive. Don’t fret now.

Denver: Daxx (my son) got to go with us on the road trip. His favorite part was getting to pet the cows.

Taylor: That was fun until it slobbered all over me.

I’m glad we had already eaten.

Denver: My favorite part was asking about you getting in trouble. Who knew you liked to pee on trees while at recess?

Taylor: There was no time to go inside. I had to make it to the tire swing quickly.

Denver: This was fun. I’m glad to have visited your hometown.

#16 Drive Route 66 in Oklahoma Denver: Roadtrip!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Taylor: I couldn’t get that excited when we were leaving OKC at 4:30am.

Denver: Redbull and no-doze, plus random slaps in the face helped.

Taylor: The worst part is that we live smack in the middle of Oklahoma.

Denver: Ha ha! we had to drive three hours to Texas just to start!

Taylor: Once we got going it was actually pretty fun. I liked starting the drive listening to “Route 66”!

Denver: We actually got our kicks!

Taylor: Ha ha! Thanks Chuck Berry. You got our blood boiling.

Denver: The highlight for me was seeing that cowboy riding a horse. A REAL HORSE!

Denver: I feel like we were pretty close to Olympic caliber ourselves.

Taylor: Can you legally do that?

Taylor: We were getting hang of it, but I feel that my confidence was blown when those geese started fighting on top of us.

Denver: Apparently so. I think we should get a horse, or add a horse related thing to the list to replace playing bball with a Thunder player.

Taylor: Yeah, I don’t see that happening.

Denver: Maybe when the Thunder from Down Under guys are in town we could play them in some two on two!

Taylor: No. Absolutely not!

Denver: Ha ha! The trip was fun. I recommend everyone do it someday. Just to say you did.

Taylor: I concur.

Denver: That would be a good test for Olympic hopefuls. Make them row through a goose brawl.

Taylor: Is a goose fight called a kackel?

Denver: I about kackeld in my pants. Which nobody would have known due to the color of the water.

Taylor: Someone really needs to police the amount of dirt being thrown into that river. It’s training ground!

Denver: Even though the water was freezing, it was really fun.

#17 Kayak the Oklahoma River Denver: I didn’t really realize how big of a deal it was down there.

Taylor: You mean down on the Oklahoma river?

Denver: Yes. We have Olympic athletes training and working down there!

Taylor: We had an Olympic sprint kayaker show us the ropes.

Denver: Dude she was so ripped. She could have killed us in a fight!

Taylor: Yes she could have. I won’t debate that.

Time is sneaking up on us. It’s already April. We have 12 more task to complete. No problem, unless you add in a game of 1v1 with a Thunder player and a bike ride with Mat Hoffman. We are a little nervous, but what is life when you are not living dangerously? This month’s shout-outs go to the BF-DC posse, the Rt. 66 Museum in Clinton, Base Vines and Cattle (Geary, OK), the blue whale on Rt. 66, the Chesapeake Boathouse, Humpty from Digital Underground, and our newest road trippin’ photographer, Daxxon Michael Duncan (age 4).

Follow us @denverduncan, @taylor_upchurch, and @20SomethingMag.

A League of Their Own When the boys are away, the girls get to play.

Inspired by one of our favorite movies, the ladies of A league of their Own are all about strength, power and showing those boys who is boss.

This classic shows how women can really do anything men can do - and look cuter.

Hair & Makeup: The Makeup Room Agency Shelly Price, Toni Marlo, Amber Fike, Carolyn Webster Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Modles: Katy Foley; Tabb Models: Kayla Bond, Victoria Jameson

Spring Break Chronicles

Dear Twenty Something Readers, I have successfully returned from my SEVENTH Spring Break. I was seemingly the oldest person in Destin, Florida, but I had a great time nonetheless. I thought I’d share with you my journey through seven spring breaks and some thoughts about each.

Freshman Year of College

Sophomore Year of College

Freshmen year I traveled to Gulf Shores, Alabama with several friends. The most noteworthy thing about this trip was that Gulf Shores had recently been hit by a hurricane months before and the beach was completely disserted. I did not see a single female the entire spring break.

Sophomore year of college I began my love affair with Destin, Florida. I also found out that I look damn good in denim. This picture is kind of bittersweet because I remember how much I loved those flip flops.

Junior Year of College

Junior year my friend Robby and I met some old people at McGuire’s in Destin and talked to them for most of the night of St. Patrick’s Day. The drink we are both holding is called an Irish Wake and they are delicious. I think I had about 8 this particular night.

Senior Year of College

Senior years spring break was a blast. I think this was the year I drank solely Keystone Ice, which is what I blame on not being able to remember a lot from this particular week. I do remember being surrounded by people I loved a whole lot and would go on to miss, post college.

1L Year of Law School

This spring break was also known as the one year I didn’t go to the beach. After a few days of skiing, which included falling and really hurting my shoulder, I missed the sunny skies of Destin.

The group I went with consisted of three couples, two girls with boyfriends, and myself. There was no romance this spring break.

2L Year of Law School

THIS YEAR

Photos from this spring break became harder to track down because I didn’t know near as many people, and thus no one wanted to take a picture with me. I just started jumping into the backgrounds of pictures. This spring break stands out because it was the only spring break that I went on where both my brother and sister were in Destin as well. It was a blast.

I was the old guy that no one knew who was passed out on the couch. ‘NUFF SAID.

Thanks for joining me on this walk down memory lane.

See you next month.

LUKE STEPHENS

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