DC & Northern VA Archives - Whitney Nic James

Events | Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital Keys to Leadership Conference

December 8, 2016 by Whitney 4 Comments

Last Saturday, I had to opportunity to check off one of the last items on my 2016 vision board. I was invited to speak on the Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital Keys to Leadership Conference Blogger’s Panel at American University. We discussed blogging and entrepreneurship to a group of excited, intelligent and entergetic young women. When I was presented with the opportunity I didn’t hesitate. I’d been preparing and praying for an opportunity like this all year, so I knew it was meant to be!

The panel included women from all walks of life, which was very refreshing. Despite its diverse nature, it was evident that each panelist was extremely passionate about her craft. Throughout the afternoon, we explained to the girls the importance of being yourself, setting realistic goals and being safe while socializing/posting online. Because it was a leadership confrence, I was sure to include my famous “Dare to be Different” speech. Thanks to my father teaching me that very important lesson in high school, it’s one I’ll never forget and always live by.

When you unapologetically walk in your purpose, it feels amazing! #wnjinspired

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I was unsure how the girls would respond to the message of daring to be different. Let’s be honest, talking and getting through to middle and high school girls can sometimes be a challenge. However when I brought up the topic during a breakout session, they were all ears. One young lady even asked for examples on how to be different when posting on social media if the message she was trying to convey was the same as someone else. Great question, right?!

So tell me, what are some of the goals you’ve set and met for 2016? Let me know!

All in all, being part of this event was truly an honor and a blessing. For me, there’s no greater feeling than unapologetically walking in your purpose and positively shaping the minds of today’s young women. Be sure to visit The Girl Scouts Nation’s Capital Facebook Page and website for more information and to find out how you can get involved. As always thanks for reading and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Events | Virginia Girl’s Summit Recap

December 22, 2015 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Back in October I had the opportunity to attend the Virginia Girl’s Summit at George Mason University. My 13-year-old sister Taylor joined me and I was thrilled! Because of our age gap I don’t get to bring her with me to most of the events I cover. However this was the perfect event to bring her along. Not only did we both enjoy the summit, but we also had a chance to tour of the University. Although she’s been on several college campuses, this was the first time Taylor took an actual campus tour. Being able to experience her first college tour together was indeed a special moment for me, thus making it my favorite event of the year!

The theme, Own Who You are and Rock the World, immediately caught my attention. I’ve been all about owning who I am and representing myself in the best way possible since I can remember. Showing my greatness to the world is something that was instilled in me as a child. Taylor knows and understands the importance of this message as well.

Watching her navigate through the event, on her own, all the while making conversation and connections with her peers (and adults) was awesome. I was so proud of the way she handled herself. Taylor also attended some really great sessions including the following:

We’re in this Together | This session focused on time management, dreams, passion, stress, fun, joining clubs/sports teams, and expectations from teachers and parents.

Bad Blood | The topics covered in this session included what does a good friendship look like, how to get out of a bad friendship, how to change groups of friends and how to deal with losing your friend to her new boyfriend. Not to my surprise, this was Taylor’s favorite session. 😉

I Want Candy | Stress, eating, nutrition and exercise were the topics of discussion during this session. Taylor learned so many great tips on healthy eating and many fitness tips!

Before, after and in between the sessions, Taylor (and I) had a chance to listen to the incredibly inspiring panel of speakers. News Anchor of Good Morning Washington and ABC7 News at Noon, Autria Godfrey, was the emcee and welcomed the audience with an uplifting and heartfelt speech. She spoke on social media and pointed out that “everyone posts the best of the best on social media” and reminded the audience “not to compare our real lives to someone’s highlight reel.” Now that was a word, indeed!

Don’t compare your real life to someone’s highlight reel. – @ABC7Autria

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Below are the names of the panelists, and the keynote speaker, as well as a few motivating and inspirational nuggets they shared.

– Bethany Mota, Keynote Speaker (YouTube Star) | Self confidence doesn’t happen over night. You have to train yourself to be confident; it takes time. Focus on the passion and the content, not the views, and don’t let your fears hold you back.

– Ashley Graham (Body Activist, Designer & Supermodel) | Words to my 17-year-old-self? It’s ok, calm down. You won’t get everything you want right away.

– Willa Doss (Teen Entrepreneur and Creator of Willa Skincare) | You don’t need to be older to make an impact on your community.

– Pooja Chandrasheker (Founder of ProjectCSGirls) | See and know where the gaps are and fill the need.

– Rachel Hankers (Singer and American Idol Contestant) | Discover who you are and run with it!

Taylor & Ashley Graham

Bethany Mota Signing Taylor’s DIY Sneakers

So tell me, have you ever heard or attended the Virginia Girl’s Summit? What’d you think about the recap? Let me know!

All in all the event was absolutely amazing! From the speakers, sessions, swag bag and attendees, I was beyond pleased. Taylor and I cannot wait to attend the next year’s event. The Virginia Girl’s Summit did an excellent job and I applaud them for creating such a needed and uplifting event for today’s young girls. For more information visit their site HERE. Thanks for reading, sharing and commenting and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Events | 3 Things I Learned from the Brown Girls Love Empowerment Brunch

October 28, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

A few weekends ago I had the pleasure of attending the Brown Girls Love Empowerment Brunch at Aredo + Bardeo restaurant in Washington, DC. The event was hosted by the founder of Love Brown Sugar (LBS), Christina Brown. The New York based blogger is the first blogger I followed when I started my journey. I was drawn to Christina’s warm online presence and also very intrigued with her impressive resume.

I remember reading that Christina worked for Honey and Vibe Magazines and I immediately got excited. As a former journalism major with an extensive internship/work background in print media, we had a lot in common. Once I found her blog it was evident that Christina was not only an excellent writer, but she also shared my love for fashion and style. Of course, I had follow! Attending an LBS event and hearing her speak in person was truly a dream come true. Here are 3 things I learned from Christina at the Brown Girls Love Empowerment Brunch.

Love Brown Sugar Founder, Christina Brown | Photo Credit: Heart, Print & Style

1. Be Fearless | Simply put, “get over your fear and step outside of your comfort zone.” When Christina spoke those words I felt like she was literally talking to me. I’m all about being fearless and going after what I want, but there are times I’m a little nervous to step outside of what I know. Lately I’ve been ignoring the fear and going for it anyway, hence the creation of my #FearlessWomanIam movement. It’s natural to have fear, but the key is not allowing that fear to cripple you or hold you back from pursuing your purpose.

2. Be resilient | Christina stressed being flexible and being able to shift. Things don’t always go as planned and in those instances, we have to be ready to shift and change direction. In doing this, it shows that you’re capable of bouncing back from a setback. Staying the course, no matter what comes up, is a definite key to success. Christina candidly shared a few of her setbacks and to see how resilient she’s been despite those challenges is inspiring.

3. Be Confident | I think exuding confidence, in any field or industry, will take you very far. Being able to introduce yourself at an event or gathering is something Christina feels immediately showcases confidence. Something as simple as an introduction says so much about a person. It says that you take yourself seriously, you’re about your business, and it instantly makes others respect you and what you have to say. First impressions are everything.

First impressions are crucial. Make yours a good one by being confident when introducing yourself.

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DMV Blogger & Friend, Vivi of Heart, Print & Style

VIP Swag Bag Goodies (Details HERE)

So tell me, which lesson resonates with you most? Let me know!

I thoroughly enjoyed myself at the brunch. Meeting Christina was a lovely and insightful experience and I’m so thankful that I was able to sit down and chat with her one-on-one about my career/blog goals. She provided a wealth of knowledge and I walked away feeling inspired, equipped and excited for my future endeavors. Be sure to keep up with Christina at LBS, Instagram (and HERE), as well as her Twitter account for more information on this and many more events. Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Event Recap | Macy’s American Icons Fashion Event

May 20, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

Last Thursday I made my way to Northern, VA for the Macy’s American Icons Fashion Event. From snapping my #AmericanSelfie to trying on the seasons hottest trends, I had such an enjoyable time! I was thoroughly impressed with the styles Macy’s had to offer and even more impressed with the different shapes and sizes of the models. This variety provided shoppers with a realistic vision of how certain clothing items fit.

Photo Booth Fun! #AmericanSelfie

Another plus? The fashion show included menswear too! I got so many great ideas for hubby just by taking in the different styles. As I mentioned in this post, Macy’s also partners with veterans who served with Got Your 6. Stephanie and Melissa, both Got Your 6 activist, did a great job representing this cause and explaining in more detail what it’s all about.

Plus size, straight size AND menswear!

Stephanie & Melissa

After the event there were mini makeovers and tons of socializing. There were also great snacks, including my new favorite soda from Jones. Their cream soda hit the spot! I shopped around a bit and used my $10 Macy’s gift card they so graciously handed out to the attendees. It was the perfect excuse for me to grab a few summer wardrobe pieces for my upcoming trip to Charlotte.

Mini makeovers, & snacks!

Spring and summer’s latest trends, and GREAT shoes too!

So tell me, did you attend one of the Macy’s American Icons fashion shows? What do you think about these summer looks? Let me know!

Always a fan of Macy’s, it was an honor to attend and cover this event. Can’t wait to share my next fashion show recap with you tomorrow! Until then, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: Shoe & Tell **

I am a member of the Everywhere Society and Everywhere has provided me with compensation for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Style + Events | Macy’s American Icons Event

May 11, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

If you’re looking for a free style event with a great cause, join me this Thursday, May 14th at 6 p.m. at the Macy’s Pentagon City in Northern Virginia for the Macy’s American Icons event. As part of their salute to all things that make us proud to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave, Macy’s is hosting a party and you’re invited! This fashion event is perfect for the entire family. I mean, what kids don’t love taking selfies? They can do plenty of selfie snapping with the Macy’s patriotic photo booth. Just snap away and share you self with the hashtag #AmericanSelfie!

Macy’s partners with veterans who served with Got Your 6. Melissa Fitzgerald, actor of the West Wing and Got Your 6 activist, will be there for talk more about this cause. Beauty blogger Stephanie Telford of All Things Beautiful XO will also be there to join in the conversation. Of course there will be a fashion show filled with the hottest fashion and beauty trends of the season afterwards. Lite bites, mini manicures/makeovers, and a chance to snap those selfies at the photo booth will also be included.

If you’re unable to attend this event in the Northern, VA area here’s a list of a few other locations:

5/14 New York, NY (HSQ)
5/16 San Francisco (Union Square)
5/16 Miami, FL (Dadeland)
5/16 Fayetteville, NC (Cross Creek)
5/16 Atlanta, GA (Peachtree Mall)

So tell me, will you be attending the Macy’s American Icons event in VA with me this Thursday? Will you check out the event in your area? Let me know!

Every event will be different and for a full list of locations and dates, check out this site! All in all the event is perfect for families, our military heroes and lovers of fashion and beauty. Come join the party snap a few selfies, learn more about Got Your 6, and enjoy the latest fashion and beauty trends at the same time. Hope to see you there!

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Event Recap | 5 Things l Learned During Blogger Week 2015

May 6, 2015 by Whitney 8 Comments

I spent time in D.C. this weekend with some of my fellow bloggers and creatives at the Blogger Week conference, held at the Impact Hub on 7th Street. Last year I served as an ambassador and was pleased to serve in the same capacity this year. It always excites me to be surrounded by like-minded people; conversing and networking with other bloggers is such a treat! Although I was unable to stay for the entire day, I made the best of my time while there. Here are 5 things I learned during Blogger Week 2015!

1. Share. I’ve always been good at building relationships, but the older I get I find it more difficult to trust people with certain information in regards to my vision/goals. Attending Blogger Week allowed me to not only meet new people, but also continue working on cultivating relationships with other creatives. Listening to their goals and sharing bits and pieces of mine allowed room for growth. I was able to connect with the right people and I honestly felt we were on the same page. Sharing your visions with others can be scary, but in times like this it’s necessary. You never know who knows who and you just may be surprised how someone can help point you in the right direction.

2. Keep Writing. After listening to Danielle Belton of Black Snob it was clear that ~~I must keep writing~~. Memorable content is key and figuring out how to fit certain topics and trends into your posts is very important. You have to stay relevant and you have to keep writing. Writing for free? Well, Danielle says nah. I have different views on that, but I understood her point. To me writing for pay (or not) is a personal choice and at times, the exposure you get from writing is payment. Do what works for you, just keep writing!

3. Be Social. Social media can be intimidating, but being social on social media is a must. DC Fab creator Joi-Marie McKenzie suggested that bloggers pick 3 social media sites and stick with them. I agree wholeheartedly with this advice. Sticking to 3 sites and mastering them is better than being on 6 sites and barley engaging on any of them! Know your strengths and work with that. I’m good with Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

4. Be Open. Being open to new blog topics will help your brand grow. Collaborating with other bloggers/writers is a good way to get this started. During the How Bloggers Can Help Each Other Drive Traffic panel, 5 bloggers (GG Renee, Erica Nichole , Tyece Wilkins, and Shefon Nachelle) articulated this point extremely well. Working with other bloggers is an excellent way to further connect with your readers on other topics that you may not be too familiar with. Open up and allow those bloggers to share something new with your readers. Bridge the gap and grow, together.

5. Ask Questions. Never be afraid to ask questions. There were so many bloggers and so many different sessions to learn from, so of course people had questions. I for one was so happy to see people ask! How will you ever know if you don’t ask? The panelists were open and honest with their responses, which made the Blogger Week environment comfortable and safe. I had a few questions jotted down in my notebook under each session I planned to attend. Being prepared with questions helps keep me on track and 9 times of of 10, the speakers end up answering those very questions during their speech.

So tell me, what are your thoughts on what I learned during Blogger Week 2015? Were you able to attend? Let me know!

Huge thanks to Jessica for allowing me to be an ambassador once again this year. And shout out to my BLM Girls Jonna and Kim for serving as speakers at the event. You ladies are inspiring…keep it up! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…xo!

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Event Recap | Spring Fashion Trends at Macy’s Destination Spring Event

April 14, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

Spring fashion trends have arrived at Macy’s! I had the pleasure of attending Macy’s Style Destination Spring event last Thursday in D.C. The style event, hosted by D.C. bloggers Fashionably Broke and Style MBA, served up much style inspiration for the season. Attendees sat and watched the top trends grace the stage and runway. Some of the trends included fringe, festival wear, sporty chic, maxi dresses and colorful/bold prints.

There were several looks, styled by both DC blogger hosts, that caught my eye. The dresses and jumpsuits were among my favorite looks; very springy, comfortable and lightweight. I also swooned over the accessoriesThe jewelry and handbags, all available at Macy’s, were great picks!

Of course an event wouldn’t be complete without cute snacks, pretty drinks, stylish bloggers and music. I’m pleased to say Macy’s delivered just that! I mixed and mingled on in the Women’s Department throughout the event and had a great time! The mini cheesecake and grilled cheese sandwiches were my favorite! Another favorite moment was hanging with fellow DMV blogger and friend, Vivi. When we go to an event together, it’s always a good time.

So tell me, do you like the spring fashion trends Macy’s presented? Which look is your fave? Let me know!

There’s still time to catch this event in your area. Below are a few shows and cities you can still see! For a full list, you can check here. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

Macy’s Citrus Park (Tampa, FL) – April 18, 2pm

Macy’s Ross Park (Pittsburgh, PA) – April 25, 2pm

Macy’s West County (St. Louis, MO) – May 2, 2pm

I am a member of the Everywhere Society and Everywhere has provided me with the compensation for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Events | Macy’s Destination Spring Event

April 7, 2015 by Whitney 3 Comments

I am a member of the Everywhere Society and Everywhere has provided me with the compensation for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

I know it wasn’t feeling too spring-like these last couple weeks, but it’s here. Springtime has arrived and I’m excited to celebrate the season with Macy’s Destination Spring Event in DC on April 9th at the Metro Center Macy’s! DC bloggers Natalie Pinto of The Fashionably Broke and Sara Azani of Style MBA will be hosting this extravaganza, which will include a spring runway show full of everything you’ll need for your next vacation destination.

Oh, but there’s more! During the even there will be mini-makeovers, music, and a chance to win a consultation with Style Experts; they’re sure to take your style from drab to fab! Also, while supplies last, purchase anything in Women’s fashion department for $75 or more and receive a personalized Macy’s garment bag. Nice parting gift, right?!

If you’re in the DC area, come join me! Here’s a look at a few other locations too. For the full location list, see this list!

Macy’s Metro Center (Washington, D.C.) – April 9, 5:30 p.m. (REGISTER HERE)
Macy’s Perimeter (Atlanta, GA) – April 11, 2 p.m.
Macy’s Friendly Center (Greensboro, NC) – April 11, 2 p.m.
Macy’s Citrus Park (Tampa, FL) – April 18, 2 p.m.

So tell me, will I see you at Macy’s Destination Spring Event at the Metro Center Macy’s in D.C. or do you plan to attend at another location? Let me know!