Tough times ...

"Faith gives us the understanding which leads to our break through during tough times"

Having a business can really test your strengths and weaknesses as an individual, if not bring out the best in you. There is that one moment in time that can determine the destiny of your career, good or bad. That idea sometimes scares me. Because I`ve come to realize when you put so much work into something you love, you don`t want to see it fail.

My business has been in the fore front for the past 9 months, and this is the most work i`ve ever put into it. I know that every step I take can either be great or detrimental to the growth of my company. My company failing is the last thing I want to see happen. As money draws tight, business is slowing down a bit, and things just aren`t coming as I want them to, I slowly begin to feel my hope dwindling. I`m looking at the way things are going in the natural realm and it`s looking crazy. I run my business full time, no other income- so now that things aren`t flowing they way I need them to be I start to panic. Empty pockets can make a person go crazy! Especially when you don`t like to depend on others. Things aren`t looking so good. I need other alternatives.

The dark hour is upon me. I have come to realize that this may be my point of break through. This may be that test that we all get to see what our faith level is. Being human, it is hard to come to a point to step aside and TRUST that God is going to do what he says he will do. 'Never leave you, nor forsake you'. But how can we let him prove himself as Omega, the almighty in our life if we don`t take that leap of faith. I struggle to do so, and I know this- but I don`t want that to get in the way of my prosperity. So I feel it`s that time to let God take the reigns. I am scared - but I know he knows the best for me.

They say that when things get the toughest, that`s when the best in you shows through. Because it will cause things to happen inside of you that will exude out of you. Things you didn`t know you had. But that`s why you always hear people say, 'If I hadn`t went through this I would have never known that I was capable of doing this...' It is so simple- but so true. I have come to a point where I am not going to let the enemy steer me to a path that I am not supposed to be taking. I have to keep my eye on the prize, or how else will I win? You can never get where you are going if you are letting distractions waiver you from your predestined greatness. It`s time to put my faith to work, because as the bible says, "faith without works is dead"

"Don`t let your tough time get the best of you, get the best out of the tough time"

We are crazy about Pirate Romance

The top things that all women love are clothes, shoes, make-up, and accessories (handbags, sunglasses, and jewelry) All women may not be a huge fan of everything I just stated but there is at least one item that all women go goo-goo-ga-ga over. That one item that they will go out and cash out on every season. For me it`s all the above. When you enjoy every aspect of being fashionable you can`t get enough of just one, you enjoy them all.

Of recent, I have had a craze over accessories. After becoming my mom`s secret stylist our focus has been on 'accessories' namely - jewelry. It`s always those final touches that can either make or break your outfit. I was recently introduced through a mutual friend to this super creative jewelry designer. I was told I should check out her work, so I followed the advice and fell in love! From the recent spring collection there were many statement pieces that I felt would go awesome with any kind of outfit and reach many different customers. So I felt it only right to talk with her about this outstanding line of hers.

What`s your name, and where are you from?
My name is Joi French I'm originally from Newark, NJ and Brooklyn, NY.



What is your background in design? Did you always have this passion when you were younger, did you go to school for it?
I am a self-taught designer but I have always done this since I was younger. I used to make outfits for my stuffed animals out of my mom's hosiery! My educational background is communications and PR.


What`s the one piece of jewelry you own that is like your prized possession. One that is not of your own brand.
Honestly I don't have one sad to say. My family used to buy me so much nice jewelry, fine jewelry and I would always lose it! One earring would go missing, a necklace. They and I gave up! I think that's why I make fashion jewelry versus fine.


If you could wear one piece of jewelry for the rest of your life what would it be?
Probably this simple silver lariat I made. It has a feather on the end. It's versatile like me.


Do you remember the first day you decided you wanted to create your brand? What was that day like, and how long ago was it?
I always knew I wanted my own line/brand, even when I was in corporate America. I started it officially January 5th, 2010

* EARRINGS *

 

How did you come up with the name 'Pirate Romance', is there a story behind that?
I wanted something catchy and memorable of course. It's also a nod to one of my favorite brands, Australian line, Romance Was Born.


When you design your items where do you base your inspiration from?
My inspiration comes from everything and anything virtually. I am an extremely visual person so I can see a color, a shape and want to translate that into something wearable. I am also very much inspired by pop art.



What message do you hope to bring to women through your jewelry?
My message is to essentially not to be a sheep. You can wear custom and exclusive pieces without breaking the bank or wearing what everyone else is wearing. Be bold, don't be afraid to have people look at you.


Do you plan to expand your brand past just jewelry?
Yes, I am launching menswear with tee's and crew necks that line is called Crimes Against Thugs. Also a women's dress line entitled MANNEKIN (mannequin). Both will be available in August for autumn, winter collections.



Where can people contact you (facebook, twitter, ect) , and purchase your jewelry from (online, stores, ect)
My company's twitter is www.twitter.com/inpiratewetrust and you can also like us Facebook at www.facebook.com/inpiratewetrust.
I have an online store at www.inpiratewetrust.com and you can find my pieces there and also at various retailers such as Karmaloop (online), House of Adrene (Atlanta, GA), and Number-A (Los Angeles, CA)


                RINGS                  BRACELET                  NECKLACE

 

Getting personal PT.1

Sometimes I wonder how far I would be in my career if I would have eliminated the guys who came along and distracted me from my path. When the enemy knows your weakness, he will continue to always put those temptations in your path. You may not realize it at the time of occurance, but you will in your time of reflection. You will never come to realize your weaknesses until you sit back and analyze yourself thouroughly & TRUTHFULLY.







We will always come up with some excuse as to why we do the things we do, why we act the way we act amongst other things. However, in the end that`s all they are - excuses. They never amount up to anything but a figmented image we try to portray as our truth. When you can be truthful to yourself- then I believe that you can be truthful to others. But on a greater level when you can open up and be truthful with GOD, you can`t help but be truthful to then yourself & other people.






Many times the lies that we try to create as truths become our greatest enemy. More times then any WE are the ones in a fight with ourself; we are our own worst enemy. Because in the end it is US who determine the outcome of our life. So you can either stay in your own way, or move over. A choice that is said so plainly and simple - but I bet you people won`t catch it and make the change.






WILL YOU?

Pressing towards the Mark; Close & Personal pt. 1

So, I`ve been on this pursuit of happiness. Trying to find that comfortable balance between my personal life and my business life. Something that I`ve found to take time, patience, and above all God`s unchanging hand. It`s always funny when you see how much better life can run when you keep God involved. A realization I`ve come to many of times after I try to do things my way. However, after you are proven wrong so many times you finally just come to a point where you give in, and surrender. I`ve waved my white flag - and am trying things differently this final time around.

Personal Life: 'If you don`t take care of yourself, what good are you to anyone else?'

     When it comes to the end of time, all you have is yourself. The decisions you make determine the life you will live. Ultimately, you have to know how to manage your life. A statement that may seem so simple - but in reality it`s not. You are the ruler of your own mind so you must know how to control it. Otherwise, your mind will be the ruler over you.
     Taking control of my life is the most liberating thing I have ever done. So many times I`ve found myself letting others influence me, which led to wrong decisions being made. You can say it set me back, but there were lessons to be learned indefinitely. I have been taking time out to see that life is all about your perspective. When bad situations come I no longer dwell on the fact that it`s something bad, but instead I try to look at what is the good from it? Which has helped me be able to deal with things that have been happening in my life.

Business Life: 'If you want something of great value, you have to invest time to get it"

     Nothing will come easy in the world of business. Whether if it means that you have to spend years in school accumulating the education you need to fulfill the position, spending endless nights working on projects, or dealing with unbearable people. It all comes with the territory. You have to know your purpose, be ready to put up a fight (if need be), and be willing to put in time.
     Beautiifash & Co - is my business. Ever since July of 2010 this has been my full time hustle. A business that has been running for almost 3 years now. But, when it came time for me to figure out what my next path was going to be, the only clear answer was that I start putting time into my future. The way I seen it situations panned out the way they did because it was already preordained to happen. Things are working out awesome! I`ve been able to reach more people, linking up with other great networks, and sending out a message that is truly touching people.
     I`ve had more people telling me how they`ve been keeping up with my blog (me not even knowing) and how what I have said, or what I am doing is awesome and inspiring to them; or that they have gotten a word that is helping them. To hear that, is such a blessing. My business is my life, and to know that my vision, my words, and my work are making a difference in peoples lives makes all the 'time' I put into this company worth it!



Image ; Je`Torr Original piece worn by me

"United Virtuoso Presents; Where is Hip-Hop -- Cypher Competition VOL. 2"

When you think of Hip-Hop most times you think of the

main stream artists. But before they became the artists that we know with the money, the cars, and the fame they all started at the bottom. Where they had to put in extended amounts of hard work, endless hours, and probably had to sacrifice things just to get to the dream of 'making it'. Before it all they were looking for exposure, looking for that next possible fan, looking for that one moment that would change their life. February 12th, 2011 MC's came out to The Alexandria in Downtown Los Angeles to get that recognition.

The event was hosted by none other then Mr JOJOISKINGSWAG aka JoJo (some may know him as Justin`s best friend from BET's Baldwin Hills). The Judges of the competition consisted of VOL 1 cypher competition winner Buggsy Capri, Audio Push, Kentmoney & B.Carr of Surf Club as well as some other rising artists and known names within the industry. The competition was one that you had an idea of who was going to be out, and who it was going to come down to. When it was all said and done there could only be one winner; and it came down to a 3 round battle between "A-Dog & Verbs". When it came to the last few bars before the judges had to crown the newest winner the choice was clear - A-Dog came out victorious. His flow was dope, his punch lines were on, and he had energy behind what he said that made you that made you say 'OOOOOOOH'. Personally I thought he had it after the second round, but when he was done with his third round it was definitely clear as to why he was dubbed the winner. 

Judges Circle

The Host ; JOJO

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The event was put on by United Virtuoso, KS Consulting, and Lasia Lynnai. United Virtuoso is a management company that manage artists, book shows, and photo shoots amongst other categories. KS Consulting is a Fashion Consulting company that helps with branding, marketing, and image consulting for all things fashion. Lastly, Lasia Lynnai is an artists who is managed under United Virtuoso.

The event not only consisted of the Cypher Competition, but it was also a forum for other talents to come together and network. There were also other designers who came out and set up as featured vendors. Lucratif Clothing, 1TWO Clothing, Snap Back Shack, and BLOW. All of which are doing awesome things with their companies. I had the pleasure of speaking with all but one of the companies, and plan to get some personal features of each company.

The over all event was great and an experience that couldn`t be missed. With guest Performaces by Sophia Fresh, Jay Are Kay Dance Krew, TIU, and Buggsy Capri. The energy the whole night was nothing but positivity and support for all forms of creativity. This being a monthy event that is held, I recommend everyone to come out to the next one and get in on history.

FOR MORE PICTURES FROM THE EVENT VISIT (( HTTP://BEAUTIIFASH.TUMBLR.COM ))

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THE TEAM;

Jeantel ; myself (Fashion Designer/Blogger/E-magazine/Beautiifash & Co Business owner) @Beautii_FASH

Brandon ; (Photographer/E-magazine/Designer) @AzuritaV3

Gina ; (Music|Fashion PR, radio Personality)

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My Letter to Mr Valentine

Dear Mr. Valentine,



February 14th is a day when u bring out the true emotions of every individual that tries to mask it the other 364 days of the year. This is a day when you can see those who truly aren’t happy being alone, and depend on someone to bring them happiness. You deceive them to believe that- in order to have special things done for them, and let alone to feel loved they need ‘someone’ to have it.

 I don’t find myself to be one of your victims this year. I have served time in that prison many years past - but not this one. I’ve come to realize that before someone else can make me happy, I have to know what makes me happy. I’ve found that putting all my hopes in any individual to give me an emotion that I can get ahold of myself- is a waste of time.

 Mr Valentine … God is my happiness. No man can ever give me the happiness he gives me. I always know I can trust him, that he knows what’s best for me, and will never do anything to hurt me or steer me wrong. I’ve come to realize Mr. Valentine that in this time of my life, this season - I am growing to find love. Not just for myself but for him. I’ve spent so much time trying to find love with a man, that I forgot about finding love with him. A love incomparable to that of a man. In this time and in this season I am looking for a different kind of love. I don’t want a man to love me just enough to get what he wants, I want a man who will fall in love with me without measure. That’s something I can’t rush and I’ve learned that now. So in this time and in this season I’m learning to love God so that one day when its truly meant to be, a man will come along and fall in love with me.

 So I didn’t succumb to you today Mr. Valentine I was happy on this day. Because I have a heavenly father who loves me, my natural father who loves me, mother, brother, family, friends, and most importantly me. This girl isn’t lonely nor sad - so I’ll be taking my happiness back!

53rd Annual Grammy Awards - Worst Dressed

I have no words - I just want to get to the photos.

So she`s pregnant - and this is what she decided to wear. I`m sorry - but this was a major miss. There have been many occurrences of pregnant celebs on the red carpet. There are definitely a list of things to wear and not to wear. This was a major situation of what NOT to wear. It`s not flattering, or appealing to the eye. The design of the dress alone didn`t even make the cut. Maybe next time the person behind this look should do some homework.

So I love the bra top. I felt that was the only part of the gown that I enjoyed, the rest of it was a train crash. I understand the artistry of things that celebs try to portray sometimes. On the other hand, I feel like this wasn`t the time to be experimental with that. Even so, this wasn`t a very good choice to do it with on top of that. If this look would have been executed a lot better, this could have been a flawless look. Better luck next time.

I just don`t know about this. I think this is more of an MTV awards kind of look. Has a hint of glamour/spunk - but eeehhh I don`t know about this one for the Grammys. It was one of those looks where you had to cock your head to the side and squint your eye, and double look it. Just wasn`t right.

No Nicki, why? I always love to see what she is going to wear to different events because she is an artist of experimentation. Maybe not on the same level as Lady Gaga, but she likes to be daring. However, this look made me shake my head in disappointment. It was seriously just overdone with the Leopard. The shoes, leggings, dress, gloves, hair. It made me want to scream. Flop!

I seriously want to talk to the person who styled this woman. There is such a thing as confidence, but there is such a thing as knowing what your body type can and cannot wear. This my friends is an example of the importance of knowing this critical rule of thumb. This was a major fail to me, on so many levels that I don`t even know where to begin. So I won`t. I advise for her to get a new stylist or have a major talk with him/her.