Search Results for: fearless woman

Personal Style | I am a Fearless Woman + OOTD Linkup

June 8, 2015 by Whitney 31 Comments

If you’ve been following along with me for a while you may have seen the #FWIAM hashtag floating around. I actually introduced the series back in March to celebrate Women’s History Month. To my pleasant surprise the series was a hit! Since then I’ve been asked when I’m going to do another series like that. Well, the wait is over. I’m bringing back my #FWIAM series for this summer! I have a plethora of women entrepreneurs, bloggers, educators, mothers, wives and single women lined up and ready to share their fearless stories with you all. I cannot wait!

Dress: Junarose // Hat: Flea Market // Flats: Steve Madden (similar)

Why is this movement so important to me? I feel it’s imperative to celebrate, uplift and inspire women, as well as show that being fearless in today’s society is the only way to achieve your goals and reach your fullest potential. Ever since I turend 28, I’ve really been embracing my fearless journey. The journey has been paved with many bumps, u-turns and lessons, but I’m fearlessly determined to continue living a life full of purpose. I want to be an example to all women that adapting a #FealressWoman attitude does wonders for your confidence, productivity, and others.

As women, it’s our responsibility to uplift, celebrate and inspire other women. #FWIAM

Click To Tweet

I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by such amazing women growing up. My mother and grandmother are the source of my fearless inspiration. They’re women of faith and distinction, but above all they’re women of purpose. Watching them throughout the years has helped shape me into the woman I am. I only wish I can be half of what they’ve been to me to my children one day. My younger sister is also one of the main reasons I’ve vowed to live this #FWIAM lifestyle. I want her to see me as an inspiration. I want to show Taylor that living a purpose driven life is the only life to live.

Watch: Charming Charlie // Studs: Target // Bless the World Armband: Bridgeway Community Church (Columbia, MD)

Speaking of Fearless Women, meet Sandy of Sandy a la Mode. She and her adorably stylish mini-me were my favorite linkups from last week! I’m a sucker for leopard print and gold, so their outfits stuck out to me for sure. I love seeing Sandy’s outfits and when her little princess gets in on the stylish action, I love it even more. How cute are they?!

Sandy a la Mode

So tell me, what is your definition of a #FearlessWoman? Let me know below!

Feel free to join the 300+ Fearless Woman Private Facebook Group, here. We’d love to have you! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

Loading InLinkz ...

Linkups: How I Spring, Monday Mingle, Sophisticated Style, Lisa a la Mode, WIW, Let it Shine, Style Me Wednesday

#FearlessWomanIam Interview | Erika Akwo of Know Your Worth

May 30, 2016 by Whitney 4 Comments

With the Fearless Woman I am website being developed, I decided to wait until it’s completion to post any new FWIAM Features. Today, however, I knew I had to introduce this Fearless Woman – I just couldn’t wait to share her story! Erika Akwo, Founder & CEO and author of Know Your Worth, is someone I truly admire. Over the past year our friendship has blossomed into what I believe is a divine friendship. We discuss our business ventures, our everyday lives, attend the same events but most importantly, we pray together. Erika is a fearless entrepreneur with a heart of gold and a passion to serve others. As a wife, mother, daughter, big sister, friend and business owner she navigates her way through life effortlessly, all while keeping her faith in tact and purpose in mind.

1. What’s a typical day like for Erika?

Depending on the season I’m in, my days change. However, there are a few things I do on a daily basis. At least 2 hours before my son Joshua gets up, I like to have time with God. During that time I meditate, pray, listen to sermons online, etc. I also check and respond to a few emails. Once Joshua is up, I’m in “Mommy Mode”. Usually between 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. I get him washed up and fed, we make time for lessons and play time, then maybe run some errands.

In the evenings I’m usually preparing dinner – this is after Joshua has had a nap and I’ve been able to rest a bit. By this time my husband Rich is home and he’s able to help get Joshua washed up and ready for bed. Once he’s is sleep I start working on my brand. I’m one who loves to work through the night – that’s when I do my best work. I try not to stress about what didn’t get done that day. Like Steve Furtick says, “do what you can and leave the rest up to God to fill in the gaps.”

2. What inspires you & what makes you happy?

Meeting and engaging with everyday people inspires me. Being able to connect with others and share those “me too” is something I love! When I’m able to step outside of my comfort zone, that’s when I find myself intrigued and inspired as well. What makes me happy? My passion and purpose. When God can elevate me and when I’m able to use my purpose for a greater good, that too makes me happy.

Do what you can & leave the rest up to God to fill in the gaps. – @StevenFurtick

Click To Tweet

3. As a wife, mother and an entrepreneur you’re constantly serving others. How do you make time for yourself?

Lately I’ve been getting back in the gym. Self-care is a must and being able to workout feels great! I also make time to read, listen to music and make time for my faith. My faith is my foundation and what keeps me going.

4. What inspired you to create the the book and the company, Know Your Worth?

I honestly feel that God has used my pain to birth my purpose. While reading Steve Furtick’s book Sun Stand Still, he talked a lot about having audacious faith. After I finished reading the book, I realized that I was living in darkness. I kept a lot to myself in my 20’s and spent a lot of those years in darkness. The book made me face my insecurities and made me want to start living life outside of my comfort zone. Stepping out of that comfort zone, I booked a speaking engagement for a women’s empowerment event. It was after that event that I knew I wanted to start writing the book, so I began.

During this time I was pregnant with Joshua and to my surprise, I ended up being hospitalized during my pregnancy. While in the hospital my son was born prematurely. Joshua’s birth signified to me that which is born prematurely (my book) will not prosper. Therefore, I knew it wasn’t the season to write my book and although I had the vision, I had to be patient. I had to focus on being a mother.

Once I was ready to start writing again, I realized I’d lost everything prior – what took me a year 1/2 to write was deleted. But I knew God had a different story He wanted me to share. Once I started writing and it took me 2 1/2 months to complete, Know Your Worth. Releasing the book felt like the launch of something greater, so I decided to brand Know Your Worth and turn it into a company. I’m now able to connect with women by sharing my story and allowing them to do the same through hosting my Girl Talk events.

Entrepreneur Erika Akwo’s interview is truly an inspiring must read!

Click To Tweet

5. Tell us a little about the Girl Talk events. Who should attend & why?

I wanted to start conversations about topics that connect all women together, which lead to the creation of my Girl Talk events. These events give women a chance to get out and interact with one another. The upcoming event will allow these conversations to take place. It will also give women a chance to experience those “me too” moments I mentioned earlier. These moments allow me to connect with women on a deeper level and reaffirm that we’re not on our journey’s alone. We all go through the same things and we need to talk about it. Our stories deserve to be heard. Therefore, I think all women should attend.

6. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned thus far as an entrepreneur?

Understanding that your network is your net-worth. The relationships I build are intentional. As an entrepreneur strategic relationships are a must.

7. What is your definition of a Fearless Woman?

A Fearless Woman is one who is confident, yet not without fear. She sees beyond the fear and is driven to achieve greatness. It’s OK to have fear and to acknowledge it, but don’t stay stuck in it. In life, you have to feel the fear to produce. Lastly, a Fearless Woman knows that she is enough, but can always get better. She is content, but not complacent.

As an #entrepreneur, understand that your network is your net-worth. – Erika Akwo

Click To Tweet

8. How can we keep up with you?

Instagram // Website // Facebook

Giveaway | Prepare for the New Year with #FearlessWomanIAM

November 7, 2015 by Whitney 13 Comments

Happy Saturday, friends! I usually don’t post on weekends, but I’m so excited about this giveaway that I had to make an exception. As you may know, I’ve created the #FearlessWomanIAM movement a few months ago. It’s mission is to highlight and inspire fearless, stylish and encourging women of today!

I’ve published several #FearlessWoman interviews here on WNJ and its been truly an honor to share the wisdom of so many amazing and inspiring women. There’s so much in store for this movement in 2016 and my prayer is that support and embrace this inspiring and life changing movement.

With the new year quickly approaching, it’s important that all fearless women have a stylish and useful calendar/agenda on deck, in order to help them be successful in 2016. As mentioned here on the blog, writing down your goals and plans is one of the keys to success and productivity. That’s why I’m giving away one of my favorite planners, along with a matching journal and the latest issue of Essence Magazine. These items will surely motivate you to prepare for an amazing and productive new year. I’m committed to seeing you succeed, which is why I am extremely passionate about #FearlessWomanIAM. Be sure to enter below – best wishes to you!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#FearlessWoman Feature | Kéla Walker of Kela’s Kloset

August 12, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

There are some people I instantly gravitate to online and usually, it’s because of their undeniably amazing personalty. That’s one of the many reasons I started following New York based style authority and TV Host, Kéla Walker, on Instagram and Twitter (and now Snapchat). This feisty, intelligent and delightful New Yorker is a joy to keep up with via social media. She produces valuable and timely (style and beauty) content on her blog Kela’s Kloset, shares great fashion and real life insight on Twitter, and invites us into her day-to-day life over on Snapchat. She’s the quintessential fashionista who’s down-to-earth and possesses real human qualities.

This #FearlessWoman is also an award winning TV Host and producer and can often be seen on the side of a red carpet, chatting with the hottest celebs about style, fashion, and life in general. I’m very inspired by the positive and go-getter outlook Kéla has on life. Always uplifting and purposefully going after her dreams, Kéla Walker is certainly a #FearlessWoman to watch. Enjoy her interview and be sure to keep up with her on social media!

A #FearlessWoman is a one who moves forth and braves the elements. – @kelawalker

Click To Tweet

What’s a typical day for Kéla?

I work in media so every day is different for me. One day I’m at my desk researching or producing elements for a segment. The next, I’m on location hosting said segment and then the day after that I’m editing the segment and crafting it into something for air. That’s during the day. At night, I’m likely covering some cool event for a major television outlet/ network (often up to three nights a week) or on the flip side I’m attending an awesome event which is always fun. Along the way I get dressed and document it all on KelasKloset.com

What inspired you to create Kéla’s Kloset?

A bunch of things inspired me to start Kelaskloset.com. For one, I didn’t see anyone who looked like me AND spoke to my style aesthetic in the blogosphere. I was already looking for a new challenge and something to inspire me so I thought why not try it. Also, I was bored with myself at the time and had a “kloset”‘full of clothes I wasn’t wearing because I wasn’t inspired in any way. Kéla’s Kloset ended up being just the jolt I needed to reinvigorate, giving myself and my “Kloset” a new sense of purpose.

Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

My mom, Johanne Walker. Duh. I watched her consistently turn water into wine, making the impossible, possible. She’s the ultimate hustler and provided a great blueprint for my life.

Michelle Obama She’s such an awe- inspiring First Lady, on so many levels. She a shining example of how much black girls that rock turn into black women who rock.

Joslyn Walker- my little sister. Who I have admired since she was a toddler (I’m 11 years her senior). It sounds strange but ever since I can remember she has always marched to the beat of her own drum. She doesn’t care what you think of her or what the consensus is, she is unapologetically herself. That’s so awesome to me, because I know a lot of grown women who still can’t do that.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Don’t knit pick your dreams and goals or get over occupied with perfection. Move forth in action. Learn and grow as you move and you’re sure to arrive at a place bigger than you ever dreamed. Also it’s so cliche but JUST DO IT and stop waiting on the right time. There’s no better time than the present.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

A #FearlessWoman is a one who moves forth and braves the elements (good or bad) to accomplish the goal at hand. That’s not to say she’s not scared or completely without fear but it’s will not deter her from moving forwarding and accomplishing said goal.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Happy. I don’t like to do that whole 5 year 10 year thing. Of course I have goals and visions but those are my plans which are no comparison to the ones God has for me. I learned a long time ago his are better so I like to say I see myself happy in 5 years because ultimate that’s all that really matters. If a few million people know my name by then and can watch me on national television, I’ll take that too.

7. How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Instagram // Twitter // Facebook // Snapchat (KelaWalker)

#FearlessWoman Feature | Patrice J. Williams of Looking Fly on a Dime

July 29, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

You may remember Patrice J. Williams from last week’s 8 Thrifty Bloggers You Should Follow post. This New York based #FearlessWoman is a style blogger, entrepreneur, TV Host, author, and all around inspiring woman. Her blog Looking Fly on a Dime provides readers with helpful style and thrift tips, as well as an in depth look at Patrice’s fashion-forward style. But that’s not the only place you can find her thrift and style tricks. Published in 2014, Patrice also has a book on Amazon entitled, you guessed it, Looking Fly on a Dime! It’s like the thrifting Bible; a definite must read!

Another useful and must have item is her I Don’t Pay Retail canvas tote bags. I carry mine at least once a week while grocery shopping, thrifting, or to work. Lucky for my WNJ readers, you can purchase this awesome tote for 20% off (now – August 5th) by using the WHITNEYJAMES coupon code at check out. Be sure to grab one ASAP! I know you’ll love and use it, and I’m sure you will enjoy reading the rest of Patrices’ feature. Read on and be inspired!

1. What’s a typical day for Patrice?

I wear so many different hats, so I don’t have a typical day. It all depends on what projects I’m working on and what’s the top priority. If I have an on-air segment I’m prepping for, my day is usually consumed with contacting publicists for samples, picking up clothes from stores or showrooms, securing models and emailing my producer back and forth. Other days I’m researching future blog posts and ideas for YouTube and even reaching out to brands I would love to work with.

2. What inspired you to create Looking Fly on a Dime (blog and book)?

I created the blog after being laid off from my job at a fashion magazine. I wanted to use my style experience in a way that was relatable for the average woman who loves to look her best but doesn’t have the type of cash to drop on all designer everything. Last year I released the book Looking Fly on a Dime: How to Find Fabulous Fashion at Any Thrift Shop & Make the Cheap Look Chic, because I wanted to compile everything I’ve learned over the years about thrift shopping and even fashion tips. I’m all about taking the intimidation factor out of fashion and that’s exactly what the blog and book are about.

3. Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

I love Tina Fey. She’s funny, ballsy and has succeeded in the sexist world of comedy without taking her clothes off or taking low blows at marginalized groups. She’s not afraid to poke fun at the boys and call them out.

Hillary Clinton: You either love Hillary or you don’t. I don’t always agree with her politics, but I respect that she’s always made her aspirations clear. Her husband was the Commander in Chief, but we all knew she wanted that role, had the chops to do it and she just might make that happen in the near future.

My grandmas: My first time walking in a pair of heels was when I tried my grandmother’s {my mom’s mom} shoes on. She loved ladylike dresses and a gaudy fur coat. And while I wasn’t close to my father’s mother growing up, she had a serious flare for fashion. Her closet was full of sequins, bright colors and beaded handbags, some of which are now in my closet. They both had tough upbringings, but they loved to dress their best, I think fashion was their expression of individualism and freedom.

4. One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

Don’t be embarrassed by your mistakes, learn from them. It’s inevitable you’ll stumble and make bad business decisions or sometimes in spite of doing everything right, stuff just falls apart. That’s where you learn the lesson. If you just beat yourself up, that’s only a pity party. But when you can take a step back, see where things when wrong or what you could have done better, that’s when you find the lesson and even preparation to do things better in the future.

5. What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

A #FearlessWoman feels the fear but she does it anyway. There’s nothing wrong with being afraid, but the fearless woman keeps moving because she sees her goal ahead of her. I always get a bit nervous before sending off proposals or approaching people for big meetings, but I take a deep breath, say a little prayer and make it a point to wow them!

6. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years I’d love to have released a style book through a major publisher and have a successful fashion show where I help women look their best without spending a ton. I’d also love to be happily married and maybe have another cat. Chauncey needs a playmate.

7. How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Twitter // Instagram // Book // Tote Bag

#FearlessWoman Feature | Shanna of Because Shanna Said So

July 22, 2015 by Whitney 6 Comments

Today’s #FearlessWoman is style blogger Shanna of Because Shanna Said So. I was immediately drawn to Shanna’s fashion-forward and relatable style, but as I started following her even more I found myself falling for her fun and down-to-earth personality. I also admire a woman who loves her husband and kids and Shanna definitely fits that to a tee!

Shanna has been blogging for a while now and although in her latest post she let us know that she’s taking a well needed blogging break, I still had to introduce her to you all because the content that is up and live is great. I appreciate her honesty in letting her readers know that it was time for her to take a timeout – I respect that and totally understand the need to take a breather here every now and then. Enjoy this interview and be sure to catch up on her latest posts; I’m sure you’ll be inspired!

What’s a typical day for Shanna?

Right now, because we are in the summer months, I am running around to different camps for my girls, having breakfast/lunch dates with my girlfriends in between, pool time, spending weekends with friends and family and squeezing in work/blogging. This is a busy time, but my favorite. I am enjoying every single crazy & chaotic moment.

What inspired you to create Because Shanna Said So?

One of my IRL life friends mentioned that I should start a blog four years ago to share my style and affordable finds. I truly started it on a whim and as hobby when I was still working full time in marketing. I am mostly self taught and have grown on my own by making friends in the blogging community.

Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

My mother, grandmother and best friend from elementary school because each have distinct characteristics of being both nurturing and strong minded women. They have always been there for me and believed in me no matter what.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

There is a LOT of competition out there. Find your voice and believe in yourself. If you love what you do and stay humble things will work themselves out. Don’t give up if you have a passion. And remember, it does take money to make money.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

To not worry about what others will think and just be YOU!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I definitely don’t see myself still blogging. Hopefully, a full-time stay at home mom watching my girls excel in academics and sports. This “blog” world is short term. What matters most to me is my family and being mom.

How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Bloglovin’ // Instagram // Twitter // Facebook

#FearlessWoman Feature | Glenda Harrison of So What to Twenty

July 15, 2015 by Whitney 9 Comments

It’s time to meet another #FearlessWoman! As always, I’m very excited to introduce you to today’s feature. However I’m particularly thrilled about today’s #FearlessWoman, Glenda Harrison. I’ve been a So What to Twenty blog reader for months and I always leave Glenda’s blog with style and life inspiration. She is the true definition of a style blogger being more than “just clothes”.

Glenda, a mother, wife and entrepreneur living in California, does a great job of seamlessly intertwining real life inspiration into her stylish posts. Her style is feminine, fun and refreshing. She enjoys being a lady and loves to dress like one; I LOVE that! Enjoy her thought provoking and colorful interview below and don’t forget to visit her blog. Be inspired!

What’s a typical day for Glenda?

I wake-up about 6 a.m. and I lay in bed listening to quiet mediation music for about 30 minutes. This is my way of ushering the day in gently. Then I rise to have a tall drink of water and a nutritious snack to give me fuel for my workout with Fitness Blender. I believe there is a definite connection between the mind and body, so after I workout, my mind is completely clear. I use this time to journal and write my goals for the day. Once I’m done with this, I shower and have a healthy meal. If I’m not posting on the blog and promoting the post for the day, I’m working on my upcoming book called, A Place Called Peace. I typically dedicate the entire morning and early afternoon to writing, whether it be for the book or the blog. On some days I use this time to also respond to email request from marketing and PR that represent clothing stores and designers. By mid-afternoon, it’s time to be Mom, so I commit the rest of the day tending to my son’s school activities; one son is a senior in high school and is involved heavily in music, and my youngest is an athlete. Then there’s the cooking of dinner, the nagging to get homework done, etc. After a full day, I look forward to a long, hot candle-lit bath, and then crawling into bed with a good book.

Since I have to switch gears during each day from entrepreneur to writer to mom and wife, it is important for me to have times to myself throughout the day. Sometimes I’ll treat myself to lunch out with a girlfriend or alone. I enjoy my time alone. I like to sit and people watch or just spend the time in my own thoughts without the interruption of social media.

This is a typical day, however during Southern California’s many fashion weeks it’s an entirely different ball game. Then I have several shows to attend – some in Orange County, others in Palm Springs and then of course, Los Angeles.And, on occasion, I attend and report on events which take place at or in conjunction with my college Alma mater – the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising.

What inspired you to create So What to Twenty?

I had just been through a very difficult experience in my life with an illness, while simultaneously working for a place that I loathed. I don’t want to give too much away because it’s in A Place Called Peace, but after praying, God answered my prayer and I was freed from bondage. I decided it was time to re-entered the fashion world as a writer. I use to write for a local So Cal newspaper as a fashion and lifestyle columnist and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of writing, but I gave it up to start a non profit organization to support women fighting cancer. To make a long story short, I started So What to Twenty because it was an outlet for me to write again and to write about the field I have always loved.

Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

#1: My mother. She spent the last 6 months of her life fighting pancreatic cancer. She had such a gentle and quiet spirit. She was so very brave. She is my hero.

#2: Esther in the Bible. I think about what her uncle Mordecai spoke to her during her time as queen…“Perhaps you have been made queen for such a time as this.” That is such a profound statement. It makes me stop and wonder about my position in life and what more I can do to help any given situation. I love how Esther used her lot in life, and the favor with the king to save her people. Her story of making an unwanted life circumstance work in her favor resonates with me in a very deep way.

#3: The new Glenda. I know that sounds extremely conceited, but let me explain. The Glenda prior to 2014 wasn’t fully developed into the woman she needed to become. It wasn’t until recently, I discovered my value and worth as a woman. I found this out by delving deep within into a place where many of us don’t want to venture. Yes, there was a great deal of hurt and pain, but when it was all said and done…once I removed all the gunk, I found out I am one heck of a woman. I can say it proudly. Before I discovered my value, I allowed others to place their determined sum on me, and often that sum was worthless. Unfortunately, prior to 2014, I believed I was worthless. I don’t any longer. Now I know I am BLESSED, A TRAILBLAZER, PROMISING, BEAUTIFUL, INSPIRING AND UNIQUE.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

To thy own self be true. I can truly say I’m operating in my gift in writing and fashion. Both have been passions of mine since I can remember. Though I began strictly as a fashion writer, my life experiences have allowed me to take So What to Twenty in a deeper direction. I often speak of life situations but I use fashion as a visual. That is why my tag-line is, Where Life and Fashion Intersect. Fashion is so much more than clothing, it is a true life experience. Fashion is a part of your overall style. In my opinion, you can’t talk about fashion without intertwining life experiences. In essence, your endeavors should be in alignment with your own gifts and passions. If you’re doing what you are truly passionate about, people will know it immediately because your verve will spill over into everything you do.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

A #FearlessWoman / brave woman is one who isn’t afraid of being vulnerable. We all hurt, cry, laugh, need support, need companionship, guidance, etc. It is good to voice these things. This society constantly tells us otherwise. Fearless to the world is acting like you are always on your A-game…that your stuff doesn’t stink. Right? Well guess what, I’m not to proud to ask for help and I’m not to proud to say that sometimes things are fairly middling. There is amazing and uncompromising strength in being real. I totally dig being around people who are just being themselves without that iron curtain being drawn around them. Dig?

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself sitting at my desk, which over-looks a garden, in my beautifully decorated home, while cranking out my next book. It is my desire to be a successful, full time book author/writer. The End.

How can we keep up with you?

Blog // Instagram // Google+ // Twitter

#FearlessWoman Feature | Leslie Hendricks Young of Bloggers Like Me & Fashion Du Jour

July 8, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

When I started blogging there were a handful of bloggers I leaned on for advice, tips, and just regular everyday inspiration. Leslie Hendricks Young, founder of Bloggers Like Me (BLM Girls) and Fashion Du Jour was one of those few people. She’s still someone (and one of the few bloggers) I can call a friend to this day. The BLM Girls is a collaborative of women sharing ideas, building relationships, and celebrating each other through blogging, social media and meet ups. Leslie is not only the head of this ever-growing community, but she’s also the mother of 4 beautiful children, the God-fearing wife of a preacher, freelance writer, blogger, and stylish women entrepreneur on the go living in California.

Leslie is truly a woman of God and lives her life with purpose. She’s done an outstanding job of bringing together a community of female bloggers and given us a platform to talk and grow through the world of blogging, business and much more. I’ve worked with Leslie on several occasions and she’s always full of wonderful ideas and is ready and willing to help others at a moments notice. She loves being a mommy and a wife and I’m forever grateful for her advice on how to maneuver through life as a young newly married Christian wife. She is without a doubt a #FearlessWoman and it’s a pleasure to introduce her to you all. Enjoy the interview and be inspired!

What’s a typical day for Leslie?

A typical day begins with getting out of bed, washing my face brushing my teeth and drinking a bottle of water. I make myself a cup of coffee, say a short prayer and begin waking the kids up.

What inspired you to create Fashion Du Jour and Bloggers Like Me (BLM)?

I was inspired to create Fashion Du Jour because I’ve always enjoyed dressing up and I wanted to begin documenting my outfits. I also wanted to share spiritual tidbits with women and thought using fashion as a vehicle would make sense. I started Bloggers Like Me because I found that there were so many successful bloggers who I could not relate to. From what it appeared, they had money to blow and no responsibilities. I could not relate. It was a struggle to find other bloggers who were living my reality so one day I decided to start a group for bloggers like me.

Who are your top 3 women inspirations, famous or non-famous, and why?

I am inspired by many women for different reasons. I am inspired by Michelle Obama for her courage to be herself even when the whole world wants her to conform to be and acting like someone she’s not. Case in point, her appearance on Black Girls Rock. I am inspired by mothers/wives raising families with 4 or more kids in a loving and patient way! Period. There’s nothing more to be said. Third, I admire my mom. She got saved in her latter years and has changed her life. I am proud of her and I thank God that she now knows in whom her trust and faith should lie.

One piece of advice you have for women entrepreneurs?

A piece of advice for women entrepreneurs is to never stop learning and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s power in setting your pride to the side.

What is your definition of a #FearlessWoman?

My definition of a #FearlessWoman is someone who knows who she is and where she’s going.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years from now, I see myself in better shape in every area of my life. I will have a strengthened family, faith, healthy and purpose. I will continue to put in the daily effort it takes to get there.

How can we keep up with you?

Blog // BLM Girls // Facebook // Twitter