Simply Bowie September Publication 2021 by Simply Magazines

SEPTEMBER 2021

The Return of Festivals (& Festival Outfits!) The Hottest Colors

For Your Home This Fall

Cooking With Color

with Chef Anthony Thomas

Open House

301-246-0012

Full-Service Wedding Photographer Events & Fashion Photography Owner Sheldon Johnson ShelshotPhotography.com sheldon.johnson@verizon.net @shelshotphotography Sheldon Johnson Shel Shot Photography

301-213-5187

September 2021

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6

PUBLISHER’S CORNER

Fall In Love With Fashion

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Colorful Joy

THE RETURN OF FESTIVALS (& FESTIVAL OUTFITS!)

SIMPLY HAPPENING September Festivals

FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE HOTTEST COLORS FOR THE SEASON Serenity Interiors by Trenell, LLC

16 4

September 2021

22 28 22

COOKING WITH COLOR

Chef Anthony Thomas

OPEN HOUSE

Realtor Tekiyah Ward

CHECK OUT THESE GORGEOUS HAIR COLOR TRENDS IN 2021

Unicorn Hair, Mermaid Hair, and More!

PUBLISHER Veronica Fountain Veronica@simplymagazines.net

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ro Moreno Sheldon Johnson

EDITOR IN CHIEF Alyson Turner Alyson@simplymagazines.net

LAYOUT & AD DESIGN Natthaphon Foithong

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alyson Turner On The Back Cover: Chef Anthony Thomas Back Cover Photography: Ro Moreno

September 2021

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Veronica Fountain Veronica@simplymagazines.net

LOVE

With

It’s Time FALL IN

FASHION I

PUBLISHER’s

CORNER

t’s the time of the year when we say goodbye to Summer and hello to Fall. Are you ready to add color to your life? Welcome to our Fashion issue! The Simply Bowie September Issue is all about Adding COLOR to your life. Serenity Interiors by Trenell, LLC opens up her home to showcase color themes, and will show you how to prepare your home this fall by adding color. Chef Anthony Thomas who hosts amazing private dinners, shows you how to cook with color and add color to your meal preps. And, exciting news is that the Washington DC Metro area is back hosting the biggest and brightest festivals! If you are wondering what to wear to these festivals; check out the “Return of Festivals (& Festival Outfits!)” for some of the hottest fashions. We also have a list of festivals that you do not want to miss! Whatever kind of style you’re into this season, back to school or back to work fashion, we hope this issue inspires you to enjoy the finer things in life. Stay stylish, Bowie.,

Veronica Fountain

Hair By Divine Hands by Olivia Photography By Sheldon Johnson

Publisher

September 2021

Colorful

JOY W

elcome to our September issue, we wanted to highlight our favorite fashions and bring a bit of light and joy with a magazine full of color. Whatever your favorite hobby is, you can jump right in to a look at fierce, fantastic festival fashions, redecorate your home for Fall, or satisfy your cravings when you learn from Chef Anthony.

Letter EDITOR

From the colors of the falling leaves to the colors on the runway, we are amazed by the beauty of it all. We hope that you enjoy all of the great stories we have put together this month and enjoy a little pop of color in your day.

from the

Be Good to One Another! Light & Kindness,

Alyson Turner Editor In Chief

September 2021

The Return of

FESTIVALS (& Festival Outfits!)

September 2021

Rock these great looks and express your true style It is Festival Season once again and the return of exciting, vibrant, joyfully attended festivals has brought back something even more wonderful than live entertainment and amazing food. Now that festivals are on again so are the most colorful, eye-catching incredible festival fashions.

September 2021

Photo @BurningManFashion_

The Return of Festivals (& Festival Outfits!)

While 2020 was the year of virtual events, 2021 has been host to a series of great festivals including Lollapalooza Chicago. Festival culture is unlike anything else. It is not just events or food. It is a chance to show off your best looks as an expression of your true self. For people who haven’t attended festivals, it can seem overwhelming at first. There is a unique experience of sights, sounds, and smells, but most of all you can feel the emotion of excitement and happiness. Traditionally, festivals are a way for a community to get together; some are for celebrating an event usually of cultural or religious significance. These festivals then 10

September 2021

Photos @Pinterest

The Return of Festivals (& Festival Outfits!)

become a tradition that occurs every single year. Other festivals focus on the aspect of community, art, and entertainment such as live music. One of the most infamous festivals is Woodstock, and currently some of the world-renowned festivals include Coachella and Burning Man.

• High Fashion Headwear: From stylish hats to jeweled crowns to pompom head bands. If you want to stand out don’t forget to customize your outfit from head to toe.

Festival attendees go all out and take this time to shine with everything from gorgeous neon colors to gracefully flared pants, creative headwear, exotic body suits and body jewelry. Stylists, media outlets, influencers, and those with a love of fashion can’t wait for festival season each year to discuss (and show off) their favorite looks.

• Stylish (Yet Sensible) Shoes: Sometimes the best bet is to wear your favorite chunky boots or leather sneaks so that you can dance all day and night without worrying about blisters or a heel break. There are so many unique styles from traditional combat boots to rhinestone and glitter covered ones.

Some of the hottest trends for the 2021 festival season are

• Body Jewelry: Not only can you wow the crowd with colorful necklaces and bracelets, but you can adorn the rest of your body with rhinestone chains and jewels.

• Bold Colors: After staying home for over a year, it’s time to let your colors go wild. Neon, iridescent jump suits, bright mini dresses or flared pants.

The most important thing to remember about festival fashion this year is to make it your own, create your best looks, grab your friends, and enjoy.

September 2021

Simply Happening

September Festivals The Annual Caribbean Food & Wine Festival SEPTEMBER 4, 2021 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM Howard County Fairgrounds This is a family affair that will feature live music performances from Guyana, Premier, One Man Band along with Saxophonist Walter Tates and Local Reggae Bands and Singers. The festival is featuring wine from Linganore Winery, Society Wines, and more. There will be several food booths to try. More information and tickets can be found online. EventBrite.com

The Locust Point Festival SEPTEMBER 11, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Latrobe Park Baltimore The Locust Point Festival is a community festival with food, entertainment, and fun for the whole family. Fund raised from the Festival benefit the Locust Point Civic Assocation. There will be cornhole tournaments and live performances for everyone to enjoy. Facebook.com/LocustPointFestival

Stanstock Music Festival: 2021 SEPTEMBER 11 & 12, 11 AM River Watch Restaurant & Marina

DC Jazz Fest SEPTEMBER 1-5, 2021 The Wharf & Other Locations The lineup for the 17th Annual DC JazzFest features an eclectic and diverse cast of Grammy winners, burgeoning jazz superstars and a slew of DC’s finest talent. There’s something for everyone at the immersive “jazz takeover” of DC in September! This year’s 2021 DC JazzFest Lineup includes Regina Carter, John Scofield, D-Nice, Maria Schneider Orchestra, Lakecia Benjamin & Pursuance, The Spanish Harlem Orchestra and so many more. There will also be special presentations. All performance locations can be found online. DCJazzFest.org

Stan Gibson, a local musician, fan and compassionate humanitarian created a Facebook page called, “Baltimore Bands from the 70’s 80’s 90’s,” with the intention of bringing together musicians, fans, music venues and members of the vibrant golden age of LIVE music in the Baltimore Metro area The first live music event was in 2013. Stanstock patrons, musicians and volunteers continue to support two Baltimorebased charities by donating 100% of net proceeds to the Nicole Van Horn Trust Fund and Catch A Lift. Come enjoy 2 stages with continuous music all day. Stanstock.org

September 2021

Afro Soca Love: DC Live Music Show SEPTEMBER 18 & 19, 2021 10:00 PM – 03:00 AM Karma Soundstage The largest multicultural celebration of love in North America. Dance to Soca, Afrobeat, Reggae, Dancehall, Salsa, Reggaeton, Merengue, Zouk, Kompa, and yes Hip Hop and RnB! The After Party is Strictly 21+ with Live performances and DJs from across the world. Bring your outfits, dancing shoes and masks. TicketBud.com

EDITOR’S PICK The Maryland Renaissance Festival SEPTEMBER 4-6, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 The Village Revel Grove – Crownsville Road

The Maryland Wine Festival returns to the Carroll County Farm Museum for the 37th annual celebration of Maryland wine. Wine enthusiasts are invited to enjoy the beautiful grounds of the Farm Museum while exploring delicious, local wine, shopping from juried artisans, and dancing to live music! There are several different types of passes that give access to the various areas. Entertainment includes Foreplay, Half Serious, Amish Outlaws & The 19th Street Band. There will be a variety of food vendors as well. Children under age 12 are free with a paying adult. Shuttles will be available from the parking area. CarrollCountryFarmMuseum.org.

Baltimore Mimosa Crawl SEPTEMBER 12, 11 AM Power Point Live! The largest mimosa crawl is coming to Baltimore! VIP Admission includes: Admission into the festival, drink specials, concert access, two drink tickets and one t-shirt. General Admission includes: Admission into the festival, drink specials and concert access. This event is for ages 21 and over. Purchase your tickets online. PowerPlantLive.com

September 2021

Photo @ellie.paisley

The Maryland Wine Festival Carroll County SEPTEMBER 18 & 19, 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M. Carroll County Farm Museum

This family-friendly festival has a little bit for everyone. From this year’s storyline, “Unique among most festivals, including renaissance festivals, the Maryland Renaissance Festival utilizes a story line and progresses each year forward in the timeline of Henry VIII, through all his reign and all six of his wives. Set in the Village of Revel Grove where visitors can find all manner of amusement, feasting and shops galore. More than 200 performers fill ten stages and taverns as well as the streets of the village with continuous entertainment. A three thousand seat jousting arena host authentic combat joust thrice daily as well as other large exhibitions. More than 140 merchants fill their shops with their predominately handcrafted wares by the artisan in the shop, as well as various demonstrating shops creating treasures before your eyes. Forty-two food and beverage emporiums and five taverns create a feast throughout the village to sate your appetite and quench your thirst.” Tickets are available for purchase online only and sell out quickly. Purchase yours today! RennFest.com

ADVE RTISE

Events

W IT H US

Mobile Editorial Digital Media Local Community

MAGAZINE

Website

veronica@simplymagazines.net

PH: 301-346-5634

Podcasts Social Media

@Simply Bowie & Simply Alexandria @SimplyBowieMagazine Simply Magazines

September 2021

E-Newsletter

HELPING YOU GET YOUR FINANCIAL HOUSE IN ORDER

SUREN G. ADAMS ATTORNEY AT LAW

ESTATE PLANNING (Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney, and Advance Directives/Living Wills) ELDER LAW (Asset Protection, Medicaid Planning, Long-term Care and Nursing Home Planning) PROBATE/ESTATE ADMINISTRATION BUSINESS FORMATION (LLCs, Corps, S.Corps, Non Profits) STRATEGIC DEBT ELIMINATION (Chapter 7 and Chapter 13)

www.adamslawoffice.net CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

(301) 805-5892 4201 Northview Drive, Suite 401 • Bowie, MD 20716 Serving all of Maryland and the District of Columbia

“I have attended a few seminars on Estate Planning, and I was aware that I needed to start this process sooner than later. I was fortunate to attend an Estate Planning seminar presented by Suren Adams. I was very impressed with her professionalism, her impeccable knowledge of the subject matter, and the ability to present the information in an understandable language. Suren’s noteworthy credentials speak for themselves, and her service costs are comparable to others in the area. I would highly recommend her service to anyone who is interested in the Estate Planning process. I guarantee that once you attend Suren’s seminar, you will not delay in starting the process today!” - C.H. (Upper Marlboro, MD)

“Mrs. Adams: We want to thank you very much for the diligent work your office has done in finalizing our Trust package, to include notifications to our investment organizations and trustees. We could not be happier for the great legal work you and your staff has done for us. Again, many thanks for bringing everything together in our Trust.” - R.G. & D.G (District Heights) 15

September 2021

Bring

Colors Into Your HOME This Fall

Hear from Interior Decorator, Trenell McCauley, Of Serenity Interiors by Trenell, LLC (SIT) on how to make your home, your sanctuary. Article by Alyson Turner Photography by Ro Moreno

September 2021

renell McCauley wants someone to be able to look in a room and before a word is spoken, see the style of the room and learn a little bit about you and your style. Serenity Interiors by Trenell, LLC (SIT) is an interior decorating company that will bring your vision to life and invite serenity into your home. “Every room in your home should bring you serenity not anxiety. The last thing you want is for your home to be a place where you are always anxious and cannot get away. It should be a place for you to feel relaxed that gives you comfort and peace. We try to do everything we can to do that for our clients, to bring serenity. It brings my heart joy and love when clients call us and say they love their space,” Trenell says. We asked Trenell to share with us some ways to incorporate colors into the home while still creating a space that feels welcoming. “Things have truly evolved from styles you may have seen in your grandmother’s house. Some people are scared of colors. When I talk to my prospective clients, I say ‘Do you have color in your home? What do you want to see in your home? What kind of mood do you want in your space? “Trenell tells us, “Some colors should be in a bedroom like a blue or green because blue is very calming, and green is very fresh and calming, it encourages stability. That is really good in a bedroom, you want to be calm. You want your first thoughts [when you wake] to be calm and stable. Purple is more a spiritual color and full of passion. That may be in the dining room when your friends and family are coming over and you break bread together with them. “With red, we put red in our basement, the entertainment area. Red is bold and brings a lot of excitement. In the Fall, we are watching football and we put red in the basement to bring excitement in the room. Yellow or Gold helps your thinking process and clarifies your thoughts and helps you to focus. My wallpaper in my office has gold accents to help focus. You also have your base colors like gray, white, and black. White is clean and simplistic, Black is more power or control. Gray is for wisdom. You can put that on your walls and doors.” With more people than ever buying new homes or renovating their current homes, Trenell tells us that one of the most asked color questions is, “Will gray ever go out of style?” Her answer: No, not truly. “Gray is not going to go out of style completely, but whites are coming back

September 2021

really strong as a base color. Purple, red, green, some shades of blue are going to be the main colors from this Fall going into 2022. You should throw in a little black as well. It is popular and is going to remain popular with all of those colors. Don’t be scared of color because color is your friend. Don’t be afraid to mix things up. Sometimes you have to step outside of your comfort zone to realize that this was in you all the time, you just have to pull it out. I have done that a lot with every last client that I have had. I do a lot of research to see what is up and coming. I follow a lot of influencers in the industry and some of our more popular home interior magazines and networks that specialize in interiors. I go to a number of events as well to learn trends.” Trenell has had a passion for design for most of her life. She would always help decorate rooms and homes for her family and friends. When she decorated her own home, she received many compliments and requests to help decorate their homes as well because of her love and passion for it. “This is a God given talent I didn’t go to school for design. I read a lot. I ask a lot of questions and connect with people quite often. I

go to a lot of workshops. This is what I love to do. The strong encouragement and the candor of our daughter, Arnajah, who is 25 and my husband, Mark, who both said, “You need to do this [as a business], Trenell says, “I learned from my mom and my paternal grandmother as well. My mom would find old furniture and refurbish it. She would create things so pretty and I never understood how she could do that. You couldn’t even tell it wasn’t brand new. My parental grandmother was very affluent. I grew up with humble beginnings and I would go back and forth from my home to the eastern shore of Virginia where my grandmother lived. They had an immaculate house and I loved it. I would love to help her pick the things from her house and that inspired me to do it for my own house. Serenity Interiors by Trenell, LLC was officially opened in 2019 when Trenell began to share her talents with the rest of the world. She stands out because she puts together things that most people wouldn’t consider doing. Her inspiration comes from her mother, grandmother, and her grandfather who was a successful business owner. She says, “I would be in the office

September 2021

Contract Trenell McCauley today by calling (301) 264-5150, emailing trenell@sitrenell.com, or visiting SerenityInteriorsbyTrenell.com. You can also see her work on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

learning from [my grandfather] on the business side. I was inspired knowing he was giving other black people and other people of color jobs in his position when most black men couldn’t even own a business. I had the opportunity to be in that entrepreneur environment and it stuck with me. He was my absolute hero. He only had a 6th grade education. He would tell myself and my cousin, ‘You can do this. If I can build this business like I have, YOU can do it. It was in my blood.” Trenell started Serenity Interiors, but just one year later the world was hit with the pandemic which caused a lot of clients to cancel and business to slow down. With her faith and determination, Trenell continued on to a successful 2021 to help clients find their own serenity. “My clients trust me so much so that they say do what you need to do within budget. I have been blessed that I have not had any clients that have had an unhappy with the final result. People don’t understand what we go through to get the end result and we are going to wow our customers every single time. We always tell them to trust the process. You might not understand at first even during the discovery call, or prior to our consultation and

contracting our services. A lot of people don’t even know the colors they like and what the trends are. My way is to mix things up. A lot of people may not know what their style truly is so we discuss that and they tell me what they truly mean. It is always going to be relevant,” she says, “We charge a consultation fee because we take measurements, we take pictures and videos, and we make suggestions so that our client will have a vision of what to expect. In some cases, our clients choose to DIY our suggestions.” “ I am giving this to you step by step with things that you can put in the room. I also do e-design where we do it all virtually. You purchase everything, you set it all up, we will just give you the layout of how to put certain items and pick out all of the furniture for you. We have a secure back office client site for everyone that houses your information only. We have a full-service team available for people. We do the full gambit, we have painters on our team, a handy man, and a general contractor in addition to the decorating side. We are on Houzz, Pinterest, Instagram and all social media. We often upload different inspiration for the home.”

September 2021

Trenell keeps her family and faith close to her heart as she connects with clients and hopes to inspire other entrepreneurs. “Every day we know and trust that God is going to guide us along the way, regardless of things that may happen or how they happen, it will happen. I couldn‘t do my business without my husband, we are a duo. I have a vision board in my office, I look at it every day. I manifest everything that goes on in my life. It may not always come to pass and I know that if it doesn’t happen it wasn’t meant to happen God has something better for me. I am working to create a whole line of Serenity Interiors products like candles, customized pillows, and eventually some bedding as well. I am looking forward to the future.”

SerenityInteriorsByTrenell.com trenell@sitrenell.com 301-264-5150

Every Room In Your Home Should Bring Serenity Not Anxiety Serenity Interiors by Trenell

Serenity Interiors by Trenell, LLC (SIT) is driven by a passion for beauty, and serene environments. SIT is a full-service interior decorating firm that prides themselves on creating bespoke, client-focused spaces with innovative solutions that complement the personalities of both the home and its owner. We love to encourage our clients to step outside the boundaries of design/decorating while maintaining the functionality of their space. We give attention to detail to every project to ensure our services far exceeds our client’s expectations.

September 2021

Lisa Cho

| Neuro Linguistic Programming | Master Practitioner Specializes In: • Self Awakening • Solution Driven Therapy • Couples • Women’s Issues • Family Dynamics Offering 60 and 90-minute therapy sessions as well as telehealth sessions. Call Lisa today to discuss life, relationships, careers, and mental health.

240-480-5173

MyWayWellnessandLifestyle.com

Lisa@mywaywellness.net

@MyWayWellnessTherapy

Chef Anthony Thomas

Chef Anthony Events | Author | Personal Chef Services | Catering

ChefAnthonyThomas.com ChefAnthonyThomasDC@gmail.com 301-524-4449 @ChefAnthonyDC

Chef Anthony Thomas is a private chef and healthy lifestyle advocate who offers the following: • • • • •

Personal Chef Services Healthy Food Orator Catering Meal Prep Juice Cleanse

CA L L T ODAY FOR Y OUR CON S ULTATIO N 21 | September 2021

Cooking With Color Washington DC Chef Anthony Thomas turns passion into purpose as a personal chef and healthy lifestyle advocate. Article By Alyson Turner Photography by Ro Moreno

September 2021

s someone with a natural ability when it comes cooking, Anthony Thomas didn’t consider cooking or creating recipes to be anything more than a hobby until he was in college. “When I was in my sophomore year, I had developed a brain issue called Arteriovenous Malformation, and that led me to have surgery. I ended up changing my diet and began cooking for myself. I was eating a lot of fast food before that, which had a lot of calories, sugar and sodium which sent my blood pressure sky high. I began to study lots of recipes that were low sodium, vegan recipes and staying on top of my health,” Chef Anthony tells us, “Here we are 15 years later, I am not on any medication, I drink a lot of celery juice and beet juice, which are good for your liver, good for those with diabetes and good for your blood pressure. For about four years I was vegan and then began reintroducing myself to meats. I eat most meats now but I don’t believe that meat belongs with every meal. After all that I was around 20 years old and I moved out on my own. I would always cook for my dates, and try to sweep them off their feet by recreating their favorite dishes from their favorite restaurants. I started making videos of me [recreating] my recipes. It was a source of entertainment and education for my Facebook friends.” Still, Chef Anthony just enjoyed people trying his food and falling in love with his recipes rather than starting a business at first. Many people began asking for more videos especially when he would skip posting for a few days. He also would make food for family and friends. “I didn’t want to charge people who I cared about. I wanted to prepare food for family and friends, I didn’t want it to be the business aspect. Moving forward I realized that I am good at what I do so I could definitely make it a fulltime business. I met my wife in 2009 and I really started showcasing my recipes for a larger audience. I am creating recipes that you can’t get anywhere else but from me,” Chef Anthony says, “One thing that I really like about creating recipes is when people make them at home. I am giving them a piece of myself. From spicy spinach dip to sweet and spicy crab dip. When I create recipes, I try to make it simple so people will say “You make it look so easy.” That is me really putting my foot forward if I can do it so can you. I want people to recreate and try these recipes.”

September 2021

Photos @ChefAnthonyDC

What types of services do you offer?

Photos @ChefAnthonyDC

The bulk of what I do is in-home personal chef events. I also do one on one chef consultations (with other chefs) for those who want to break into the culinary world. I do it with the intention of helping the next chef take it to the next level. I had no guidance, no mentor. I want to help someone. I do all this by myself. I have done 88 events in the first half of 2021. I am a naturally organized person. I don’t have an assistant, but I am doing an event every other day. I did 5 events in 5 days in July. I am just ready to tackle these events. I can show people how to be organized and how to get ready for your event and what should be on your checklist. I [show the importance of] seeing everything before I get to a customer’s home, I teach chefs how to be organized and teach etiquette on events such as how to meet everyone in the house, to make sure to ask if there are any allergies, how to offer tips for success and sometimes this doesn’t come naturally to people. I teach them how to be professional.

You make fresh juices for a juice cleanse. How does it work and why should people consider doing one? To get the best results you only consume water throughout the day. If you have to eat anything it’s raw fruit, vegetables, black coffee, or herbal tea. Nothing processed or cooked during the day. What these juices do is reset your appetite, your blood sugar, and your mind giving you clarity and self-control. You can lose weight in the process. Mine are so natural that they have an expiration date of 6 days. Everything is customized and made to order. I have studied different vegetables and how they combine with one another to create the juices. I put a bunch of health benefits in one bottle. For example, beets are the most underrated vegetables, but they have the most health benefits. They are nature’s candy, but most people don’t like them.

You have written 6 books so far. Can you tell us about your books? • The first one is a cookbook of fun cuisines I created called #ChefAntWOW: Volume I A Collection of Recipes. • Ashlyn Eats is book about my first daughter being born from when she started eating and all of her favorite recipes. • Mommy, Daddy, What is this? Is one of those books that can be so educational. It is an alphabet [learning tool] and cook book. • Meal Prep is the New Leftovers is a selfhelp book on meal prep from beginning to end based on your food goals. • The Little Vegan Chef is a collection of fun vegan recipes that came out during the early part of the pandemic. • The latest one came out in 2021 – The Kitchen Kids Activity Book for kids from ages 1 to 8. There are different math problems based on fruits and vegetables.

What do you hope to teach those who come across your social media or books?

Contact Chef Anthony for your consultation at (301)-524-4449 or at ChefAnthonyThomasDC@gmail.com. To learn more you can visit ChefAnthonyThomas.com or scroll through Facebook @ChefAnthonyThomas and Instagram @ChefAnthonyDC for videos of events and more.

September 2021

I just hope that people take something from my work, a recipe they love or even a skill from a video. I try to help and educate my audience because I am constantly learning. I am not afraid to educate myself and try things that are completely new. I add a smoke effect to my drinks because it is fun and it looks really cool. It engages with the clients and they look forward to it. My mind is always running a hundred miles an hour. I like to do presentations with my food and table scaping at events. It all is in the mood that I am feeling that day and the house that I am in. I like to try things I haven’t tried before; something different that you don’t see every day.

PROFESSIONAL EVENT AND PR PHOTOGRAPHY (301) 346-1914 ro@ctmphotographybyro.com www.ctmphotographybyro.com/clients

CORPORATE | PORTRAITS WEDDINGS | FAMILIES Free Consultations • Prompt Service • Reasonable Pricing •

Spring Special:

Headshot Photography Sessions - We’ll Come to You!

Discover the impact, value, power and difference a great headshot brings to your brand or image! CONTACT US!

For more information & pricing COVID-19 Statement At Capture The Moment Photography, the Preservation of Your Health and Safety During Your Session Is Our Top Priority. We Strictly Adhere to all COVID-19 Precautions, Safety and Sanitation Practices as Prescribed by the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

At Capture The Moment Photography by Ro, LLC., we specialize in: Branding photography for promoting your business or personal imagery on social media or marketing materials! Events and Portraiture aimed at capturing all of those special moments to savor forever! Our certified digital artists have a keen eye for great composition and utilize the latest, state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to provide you the highest quality images. Whether on-location, in your home, or in our studio, we provide the setting that is convenient for you. Whichever venue that you select for your digital photography needs, our certified digital artists will ensure you have a pleasant and comfortable experience. All at an affordable cost.

T h e r e i s N o t h i n g L i k e F i n d i n g Yo u r D r e a m H o m e

Tekiyah Ward, Realtor, MS, Keller Williams Preferred Properties As a buyer or a seller, you want your real estate transactions to go smoothly. That means finding the exact home you’re looking for, or selling your home promptly and for the best price. That’s where I come in. The agent you choose will help you make many important decisions and no one will work harder or more professionally. I offer: • • • •

Trusted Home Service A Hassle-Free Experience Top Marketing Tools A Proven Track Record of Success

Tekiyah@twardproperties.com TWardProperties.com

Mobile: 240-513-7996 Office: 240-737-5000

1441 McCormick Drive, Suite 1020 Upper Marlboro, MD 20774

OUR NEWEST ISSUE COMING SOON IN OCTOBER RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY

FEB

VERONICA@simplymagazines.net

202 RY

RUA

02 RY 2

1 FEBRUARY 2021

HOW DESSERT CAN HOW CHANGE LIVES

CAN SERT S DES E LIVE ts NG eet Trea Alexis Streets, A H C r & Sw Streets

301.346.5634

Emb

is eu r nof The Dessert Alex Owne isio pren Entre rdinaire ctable v Junkie shares her o le a ExtraLeh r de r e table vision n delec all t Fs share

rac

EVERY AD PACKAGE INCLUDES A COMPLIMENTARY EDITORIAL FEATURE. Featuring: • DELECTABLE PIES & FALL DESSERTS • WATER & WOODS – EXCITING FALL ACTIVITIES

HAP

PY N

Loca l Sha Busines re s Reso Their N Owners lutio ew Y ns ear’s

h L re T Sha lutions o Res

JAN

UA R

Y 20 21

YEA

Art In The City

PPY HA W NE R! wners A O E Yocal BusineiresNs ew Year’s

Gorgeous Murals Across the Metro area s

t duc CsBofDCBD Pro e n I c t t ls fi a ra ne n mbArthe be rofesisioty

P ll ede E earn aT t rush

ls L mT Mura o area eous tr Fro Gorg s the Me s ro Ac

Simply Magazines @SimplyBowieMagazine

e CB

h rom Trus e benefi ts ted P rofe of CBD ssion Prod als uc

@Simply Bowie & Simply Alexandria 27

September 2021

Local Community • Social Media • Digital Media • Events • E-Newsletter • Podcasts • Website • Mobile

Open House Realtor Tekiyah Ward, MS with Keller Williams Preferred Properties Article by Alyson Turner Photography By Sheldon Johnson After purchasing a new construction home without a real estate agent and facing several obstacles, Tekiyah Ward realized that she wanted to be able to help people who were looking to purchase real estate to not have to deal with the problems that she had to. “Prior to working in the non-profit industry, I worked in the mortage side of real estate from 2005 to 2008. During that time, I actually

September 2021

purchased my house and I didn’t know that I needed an agent to work with me in new construction. I didn’t know that I should have a home inspection and I didn’t have anyone to look at the documents. If I would have had an inspection there would have been someone to point out some issues, we also weren’t told that there would be two association fees to pay, but I didn’t have any agent to look out for these types of things. After working in the nonprofit industry, I realized that I wanted to be able to help people get into their home and not face the issues I had to face. I then started on the real estate side and got my license in 2014,” Tekiyah says. Tekiyah graduated from University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and went on to earn a Master of Science in Management with a Concentration in Marketing. She started in real estate to help people and continues to guide her clients through the process. “What I hear from most of my clients is that I am very patient with them and explain the process very well. I don’t mind answering all of their questions and even if they ask the same questions over and over. I don’t make them feel like they are bothering me or that it was a crazy question. [My clients compliment] the systems that I have in place and that I streamline the process for them. They also appreciate the communication making sure I am in touch with my clients and let them know what is going on every step of the way,” she says, “I work with first time homebuyers, new construction services including going with them to the home site and the design center, and I work with investors. I also dabble in investment myself. I am able to give my clients ideas such as being able to pinpoint how things would look and if that would match their vision for their investment property. I like to keep my clients on top of what they are really looking for.”

Tekiyah’s guidance and organization helps clients understand what is happening during the buying or selling process. “I do a consultation and have them fill out an intake form. That intake form gives me a lot of information with what they want and what they are looking for. Then I go over that form with them and highlight what they want. I ask why they really want these features and I get a better understanding of why that is important to them, of what they truly want. I find that clients may find a house that looks nice online, but doesn’t have the features they truly want. I like to keep my clients on track and make sure they don’t deviate from what they are looking for. I tell them, ‘Don’t settle, we will find your home. Let’s not settle for something because you are not going to be happy down the road. ’A lot of people are starting to feel tired because the market is a tough with being outbid, but something will come available,” she says. “I also work with sellers. I help them with moving out. I recommend a packing service if they need it. I also help with staging consultations so we can maximize the property especially if they have space that someone wouldn’t necessarily know how to use and give an idea for the future buyer. I am a certified short sale and foreclosure resource professional and for the military clients - a certified military resource professional (MRP).” Tekiyah hopes that every client feels that they have received excellent service after working her. “I hope that clients feel that every time they put the key inside their door that they got a good deal. I am building life-long relationships. I still have clients that invite me to parties or events that they have been having or to get an opinion on an update for their house and it is a relationship that I have built and maintain with them.”

Contact Tekiyah Ward for your Real Estate needs at 240-513-7996 or visit TWardProperties.com to learn more. 29 | September 2021

Tekiyah Ward, Realtor, MS Keller Williams Preferred Properties 1441 McCormick Drive, Suite 1020 Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 Mobile: 240-513-7996 Office: 240-737-5000 Tekiyah@twardproperties.com TWardProperties.com

September 2021

Veronica is a Real Estate Strategist working with Sellers, Homebuyers, and Investors. She uses her 18+ years experience and training to ensure “Positive Solutions to your Real Estate Needs”. Veronica provides you top notch Customer Service, caters to your specific needs, educates you on the questions you don’t know to ask, and focuses on RESULTS to ensure you make the most informed decision possible.

Is e s u y o a H w xt k A e N lic r u eC o Y n O

VERONICA BLAIR

Realtor® Washington DC & Maryland Location: 7701 Greenbelt Rd Greenbelt, Maryland 20770 @veronicagetsitsold

Certifications/Designations

Mobile: (301) 758-4308 Office: (301) 459-5040 Website: VeronicaGetsItSold.com Email: ASKVERONICA@VERONICAGETSITSOLD.COM

Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE), Seller Representative Specialist (SRS), Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI), Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA), Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource 31 | September 2021 (SFR), Certified Real Estate Team Specialist (C-RETS).

Craveables Catering Chef Cris

Craveables Catering LLC is dedicated to providing quality service and delicious food for your special event. We specialize in small to mid-size private events, such as birthday parties, anniversaries, and brunches, as well as meal prep services that will save you time and money!

Services: Meal Prep Catering for Private Events Contact us today at support@craveablescatering.com or call 786-453-4601. CraveablesCatering.com

I believe wholeheartedly in the unique, personal nature of real estate. You will see that revealed in how I follow through on what I promise, as I carefully guide you through the many steps and decisions along the way. My first priority has always been helping people get what they need. Careful listening provides the motivation to work hard and create outstanding results for my clients.

MyAgentRegina.com

6911 Laurel-Bowie Road

Cell: 240-832-9313

Bowie, Maryland 20715

Office: 301-970-3535

Regina Parker, REALTOR Serving Maryland and Washington DC

September 2021

VIP YACHT Charters USA

TH E

ADVENTURESBEGIN!

Experience the DMV the way it was meant to be experienced — on the water VIP Yacht Charters USA offers you the opportunity to join us for a relaxing day cruising along the Potomac. Whether you want to celebrate a special event, dine, and cruise—you’ve come to the right place.

Fun and Adventure Awaits!

Affordable Yacht Charters

VIP Yacht Charters USA has put together many affordable charters for your cruising adventure. We offer 2, 3, and 4 hour charters. Whether you are looking to celebrate a Birthday, an Anniversary, Bachelor or Bachelorette party.

Our all-inclusive pricing includes your Captain, Host and fuel for up to 10 guests. Look at our website for online price specials. To customize your cruising adventure, call us today. We want our guests to have a stress free experience!

We are open 7 days a week 8 a.m. until 3 a.m. We offer corporate charter with concierge service. Give us a call for details! Serving the DMV area 703-989-226533 |

www.VIPYachtChartersUSA.com in Washington D.C.

September 2021 Located

Crazy Colorful Hair? Yes, please! From Unicorn Hair to Mermaid Hair to Rainbow Hair, multi-colors are a trend that we love! Today coloring your hair doesn’t have to be a quick trip to the drugstore for a box or only dropping into the salon to hide your roots. It is an hours long experience that is comparable to sitting for a portrait by an artist. Your hair is the Canvas and the stylist is the master. With the rise of work at home and more relaxed work cultures, people are more willing to express their love of bold colors and creative hair styles. These days the dress code doesn’t include boring hair. From Instagram to TikTok, everyone is eager to reinvent themselves with a rainbow of colors, but expert stylists warn that there is a lot more to the process than there may seem. It can often take several hours or several appointments to achieve the desired colors. It is a process that cannot be rushed. The true art of hair color is not quick, easy, or cheap, but it is worth the gorgeous end result. These style masters have presented their work for the world to see and we couldn’t be happier.

September 2021

SEPTEMBER 2021

Fill Your Home

With

the Hottest Colors

This Season

Cooking With Color

with Chef Anthony Thomas