Whitney Nic James

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#WNJInspired | 5 Ways to Practice Gratitude + 5 Scriptures on Gratefulness

June 29, 2016 by Whitney 12 Comments

It’s so easy to be grateful when things are going well, but what about when things aren’t so great? Sometimes I have trouble practicing gratitude when things don’t go my way. This practice takes time and it’s continuous hard work. Thankfully I have been doing the work. As a result, this practice has become a little easier for me. While I still struggle from time to time, I can share at least 5 ways to practice gratitude. I’ve also included 5 scriptures on gratefulness that you may find helpful.

11 Scriptures on gratefulness

1. Keep a daily gratitude log. | I’ve been devoting the first 25 minutes of my day to gratitude and prayer. It’s taken me months to make this a habit, but I can’t imagine my mornings any other way. Each morning I write down 3 (different) things I’m grateful for. Taking the time to acknowledge certain things I’m grateful for helps set the tone for my day.

2. Send a handwritten thank you card. | I’ve been a fan of handwritten thank you cards for years. Taking the time to write and mail a thank you card is a simple way to show you care. Never underestimate what a handwritten and sincere note can do; taking that extra step goes a long way.

3. Be present and grateful in the moment. | This is probably the easiest way to practice gratitude, yet the most difficult to do. Why? Because we’re constantly thinking about what’s next. Stop thinking about what’s due two weeks from now or the appointment you have later in evening. Whatever you’re doing, be grateful that you’re alive and well enough to experience the moment. The deadlines, appointments and due dates can wait – be present and take a moment to be grateful.

5 simple ways to practice gratitude. #wnjinspired

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4. Say, “thank you.” | People are not always kind enough to say “thank you”, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t say it. I’ve noticed that people often stop and look at me like I’m crazy when I say “thank you.” It’s like for that moment they stopped and realize that people aren’t always so mean and nasty. Don’t allow someone’s sour attitude to rub off on you. Be an example and show them that gratitude isn’t dead.

5. Practice random acts of kindness. | Last month I came up with a list of 12 Random Acts of Kindness for my Fearless Woman Facebook Group. I was inspired to do so after learning about a mission in downtown Baltimore called, Selfless Saturday. Over the past few months, the couple spearheading the program have become friends of Darrius and I. Rich and Erika are on a mission to serve the homeless in the community, in cities around America, every second Saturday of the month by providing them with nutritious cooked food prepared by volunteers. I was inspired to challenge myself and my group to practice random acts of kindness for the month of May. Doing something for a stranger with pure intentions, without expecting anything in return, is the most selfless thing you can do and it’s an excellent way to practice gratitude.


So tell me, what do you think about these 5 ways to practice gratitude? How do you practice gratitude? Let me know! 

Thanks for reading and feel free to share your tips or scriptures below. You can even tweet them using the #wnjinspired hashtag; I’d love to see gratitude tips and scriptures go viral! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: gratitude, inspiration, lifestyle

#WNJPlaylist | 5 Motivating Podcasts

June 7, 2016 by Whitney 6 Comments

Aside from my morning playlist I also have a lists of motivating podcasts that I listen to everyday. It’s no secret that I’m always looking for ways to be inspired and uplifted, especially on-the-go. Therefore I often listen to these podcasts during my drive to and from work. I also listen when working at my desk or even while cooking. The 5 motivating podcasts I’m sharing today have without a doubt helped improve my life and business, for the better. Let’s take a look…

* See Also: 5 Podcasts About Career, Spirituality & Lifestyle 

Motivating Podcasts

1. VOUS Church | When I need a quick does of spiritual inspiration, this is my go-to. The messages/sermons are given by Rich and Dawncheré Wilkerson, lead pastors of VOUS Church in Miami, FL. After watching their reality show on Oxygen I was intrigued by how this young Christian couple is able to build (and lead) a church, maintain a healthy and Godly marriage and serve so many. Even if you’re not a (regular) churchgoer, I’m sure there will be inspiring takeaways and practical applications you can take from this podcast.

Listen to my favorite VOUS Church episode.

2. The Lively Show | “Adding a little extra intention to your everyday” with each episode is something the host/founder Jess Lively is very adamant about. With over 3 million downloads, this must-listen podcast is perfect for female entrepreneurs and females in general! Jess interviews a diverse and well-rounded group of women, and men, and offers transparent and relateable advice during her personal “favorites” and Q&A episodes.

Listen to my favorite Lively Show episode.

Looking for a dose of inspiration? Subscribe to these 5 motivating podcasts. #wnjplaylist

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Motivating Podcasts

3. Hashtag + Stilettos | Being the Twitter fanatic that I am, I remember finding out about this podcast from one of Mattieologie‘s retweets. Mattie was actually a guest on the podcast that day and of course, I had to click the link to listen. After listening to that interview, I found several other interesting episodes to shuffle through! Founder Sakita Holley covers several topics including career, business and travel. It’s the perfect podcast for on-the-go millennial women looking to succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors or at their 9-5’s.

Listen to my favorite Hashtag + Stilettos episode.

5 motivating podcasts you should download ASAP. #wnjplaylist

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4. Mostly Mom | I recently started listening to this podcast last month. I was scrolling through Instagram one night, as I often do, and I saw that Tia Mowry had a new podcast episode. “I had no idea she even had a podcast,” I said to myself. I clicked on the link in her bio and saw a few interviews posted; one with actress Chloe Grace Moretz and the other with husband Cory Hardrict. That evening I listened to both and have been hooked ever since! It’s a podcast mixed with celebrity interviews as well as Tia’s take on fashion, social media, life as a mother and wife and other lifestyle topics.

Listen to my favorite Mostly Mom episode.

5. The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes | Recognized as one of the 100 entrepreneurs in the country under 30, Lewis Howes is probably one of my favorite people to follow online. This former pro athlete is a master at delivering well thought out and proven tactics to improve your life and business. He is truly one of the most motivating, passionate and ambitious entrepreneurs I’ve come across in a while. Listening to his interviews from inspiring and well-known people like Amy Purdy, Daymond John, Tim Robbins and Stacy London always puts me in “I can do anything” mood. He’s very well connected with some of the world’s most thought provoking and successful entrepreneurs and influencers. I’m also a huge fan of his 5-minute Friday episodes! What he’s created with The School of Greatness is phenomenal and I’m truly grateful that I found this podcast when I did.

Listen to my favorite Lewis Howes episode.


So tell me, what do you think about my list of motivating podcasts? What are some of your favorite podcasts? Let me know!

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Style Tagged With: Entrepreneurship, motivation, podcasts

#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. 

Know Your Worth

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

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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.

Know Your Worth - Fearless Woman I am

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!

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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.

Fearless Woman I am - Know Your Worth

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

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8. How can we keep up with you?

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Style Tagged With: #FearlessWoman, LifeStyle Features

#WNJPlaylist | The Morning Playlist You Need to Have an Amazing Day

May 23, 2016 by Whitney 12 Comments

What’s one of the first things you do in the morning? For me it’s listen to music. I actually have a morning playlist entitled “Wake Up” on Apple Music. I listen to it while I’m getting ready or during my morning car rides. Because my taste in music is pretty diverse, the playlist is broken up into genres. I usually start off listening to my favorite Gospel/Christian/Inspiration songs, then I press shuffle. Whatever comes next, I roll with it.

* See Also: 7 Practical Ways to Deal with Stress

I’m a firm believer that music has the power to change and set your mood and like Dick Clark once said, “music is the soundtrack to your life.” After carefully selecting my Top 40 songs from my morning playlist, including songs from 4 genres, I created the Ultimate Morning Playlist. These songs are guaranteed to inspire, motivate and get you fired up for an amazing day! Take a look and let me know if I’ve included any of your favorites.

Morning Playlist

Gospel + Christian + Inspirational 

  1. Break Every Chain | Tasha Cobbs
  2. Brighter Day | Kirk Franklin
  3. The Anthem (Live) | Planetshakers
  4. Blessin’ Me | Avery*Sunshine
  5. Struggle No More | Anthony Hamilton & Jaheim
  6. Hold On | James Fortune, Fred Hammond, Monica & FIYA
  7. By the Grace of God | Katy Perry
  8. Say Yes | Michelle Williams ft. Beyonce & Kelly Rowland
  9. Thank You Lord | Tamar Braxton
  10. So Pray | Stacie Orrico
40 songs you should have on your morning playlist! #wnjplaylist

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R&B + Jazz + Neo Soul

  1. Outrun the Sky | Lalah Hathaway
  2. Zoom | Lionel Richie
  3. Hypnotic | Boney James
  4. Ten Foot Stilettos | Chrisette Michele
  5. Kiss of Life | Sade
  6. Illusion | Najee
  7. I Wanna Be Down | Brandy
  8. Voyage to Atlantis | The Isley Brothers
  9. Make Me Happy | Surface
  10. 4 Leaf Clover | Erykah Badu

Morning Music Playlist

Hip Hop + Rap

  1. I’m Goin’ In | Drake, Lil Wayne & Young Jeezey
  2. Nickels & Dimes | PJ
  3. Never Let Me Down | Kanye West
  4. Win Again | Nicki Minaj
  5. Keep Ya Head Up | 2 Pac
  6. Days Go By | Rico Love
  7. Do It | T.I.
  8. Encore | Jay Z
  9. Alright | Kendrick Lamar
  10. Commas | Future
The ultimate playlist you need to have an AMAZING day! #wnjplaylist

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Pop 

  1. Be Alright | Arianna Grande
  2. Bad Blood | Taylor Swift
  3. Trust | Justin Bieber
  4. Show Stopper | Danity Kane
  5. Don’t Hold the Wall | Justin Timberlake
  6. Do it Well | Jennifer Lopez
  7. Schoolin’ Life | Beyonce
  8. Glamorous | Fergie
  9. Good for You | Selena Gomez ft. A$AP Rocky
  10. Purpose | Justin Bieber

So tell me, what do you think about my Ultimate Morning Playlist? What’re some songs you’d put on your playlist? Let me know!

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Style Tagged With: inspiration, music

#WNJInspired | 25 Life Lessons Learned from My Mother

May 9, 2016 by Whitney 8 Comments

My mother and I have always been very close. I cherish our relationship and I’m extremely grateful that we’ve maintained a healthy and loving relationship all these years. It’s not something I take for granted. I’ve watched her play the role of a daughter, mother, wife, business owner and friend. During the past 5 years, I’ve especially paid close attention to how she manages to juggle it all while running a business. I’ve pretty much been a sponge. Working with her has allowed me to witness first-hand the in’s and out’s of being an African-American woman entrepreneur/business owner. Whenever I have a question, idea, or thought about a business she’s the first person I turn to.  

Having a healthy & loving relationship with your mother is a blessing. #wnjinspired

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life lessons learned from my mother

I marvel at how she talks to and encourages both my sister and I. Raising two daughters, one 29 and the other 13, isn’t always a walk in the park. But she does it effortlessly while making sure we each have access to her whenever we need it. Watching her as Mrs. James, the wife, is always inspiring. I’ve actually become a more understanding and loving wife because of how I see her treat and interact with my father. Her patience and kindest towards my grandmother, her mother, has also taught me how to be a better daughter.

25 lessons from @whitneynicjames’ Mom about life, love, business & more! #wnjinspired

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Mary’s daughter, Dennis’ wife and Taylor and Whitney’s Mom has taught me some of the most important life lessons. And do you know what impresses me the most? Through all the lessons, she’s remained humble, impeccably stylish, and above all, graceful. Take a look at the top 25 life lessons learned from my mother.

life lessons learned from my mother

Faith + Family

  • Always say your grace and always say your prayers.
  • Have kids when you’re ready.
  • In everything, give thanks.
  • Family First.
  • Have Faith.

Life + Love

  • Don’t hide the gifts God gave you to; figure out how to use them to help others.
  • Everyone is not your friend & everyone is not going to like you.
  • Independence is always attractive.
  • You teach people how to treat you.
  • Experience life & travel often.
  • Sometimes love isn’t enough.
  • Keep the spark alive.
25 life lessons from @whitneynicjames’ Mom about faith, family & more! #wnjinspired

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Business + Money

  • You have to spend money to make money.
  • Have more than one bank account.
  • Loan money wisely, but not often.
  • Everything is negotiable.
  • Love what you do.
  • Work hard.

Health + Beauty/Style

  • Understand your body and listen to what it’s telling you.
  • Wearing makeup every day is not necessary.
  • But always wear lip gloss or lipstick.
  • Wash your face before bed.
  • Sleep on a silk pillowcase.
  • Don’t buy cheap shoes.
  • MOISTURIZE.

* More Beauty + Style Tips HERE *


So tell me, what do you think about the 25 life lessons learned from my mother? What are some lessons your mother has taught you? Let me know! 

When I was a child I never wanted to be “just like” anyone, except my mother. After reading this I’m sure you can understand why. I can’t wait to pass down what I’ve learned to my children one day.  If you still have your mother in your life, I encourage you to show her some love (in your own way) while she’s still around. Life is short and each day we’re blessed with, we should show those we love just how much they mean to us. Until next time, stay safe and be blessed…XO!

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Style, Uncategorized Tagged With: family, inspiration

#WNJInspired | Why Your Vision Board isn’t Working

May 4, 2016 by Whitney 4 Comments

Before the clock struck midnight, I already had in my mind that 2016 was going to be an AMAZING year! My top 3 goals were to travel A LOT more, save and make (more) money and become more active. Of course I got right to work and started creating my vision board. However, by the end of the first quarter things just weren’t adding up. I was frustrated because I created this grandiose visual plan for the year, but things weren’t jumping off.

I beat myself up about it for days, but I finally came to my senses. After getting real with myself and talking things over with my Starting 5, I realized the issues(s). If you’re anything like me this post will help get you back on track and help make 2016 a productive and prosperous year. Here are 5 reasons why my vision board wasn’t working and why yours may not be working either.

Why Your Vision Board isn't Working

1. You can’t see it. | You need to place your vision board somewhere you can actually SEE it. We take hours, sometimes days, gathering images and quotes for our boards. So why not show it off? I placed mine above the wall over my desk, but moved it to the closet when we rearranged the room. I had every intention to hang it back up, but as time went on it stayed leaned against the wall in the closet. Vision boards need to be somewhere visible. Period. If you make a smaller 8 1/2 x 11 version, you can even put it in a picture frame on your nightstand. Think about it, how can you achieve something if you don’t even know what the goal is?

2. The images are boring. | Vision boards are probably the best visualization tool we can create. Our minds are wired to respond to visual stimulation. Therefore choosing powerful and intriguing images to represent our goals is vital. Let’s be honest, no one wants to look at boring and drab images everyday. My first vision board wasn’t well thought out and the bland images proved that. Get creative and make your vision board come to life with exhilarating imagery!

3. It’s not specific enough. | If you’re not specific about your goals they’ll be harder to achieve. On my 2014 board I had a phrase that read, “work out at least 30 minutes 3 time a week”. That is very specific. Unfortunately I didn’t live up to the phrase, but it wasn’t because the goal wasn’t clear. It was because I didn’t take enough action to make it happen.

5 reasons why your vision board isn’t working for you. #wnjinspired

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Why Your Vision Board isn't Working

4. You’re not taking action. | Vision boards don’t work by themselves. Once they’re created, that’s when the work really stats. We’re responsible for making our boards work for us. How do we do that? By taking action! It’s great to have pretty pictures on your board, but if you don’t do the work to achieve the goals that’s all you’re left with – pretty pictures. Do the work and take action; you’re worth it!

5. You don’t look at it enough. | In this post I mentioned the importance of looking at your vision board everyday. I now look at mine every morning and every night before bed. If I’m working from home, I look at it several times throughout the day. One year I actually took a picture of my board and made it my iPhone screen saver. It was a great reminder for me to keep my daily actions aligned with my vision.

Be specific with your goals and take action. Make your vision board work for you! #wnjinspired

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So tell me, did you create a vision board this year? If so, how are you making your vision board work for you? Let me know!

Don’t be afraid to reevaluate your goals, recreate or tweak your vision board and start taking action. If you need more inspiration on how to create your vision board, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. I’ll be sending out an extra dose of vision board inspiration, pretty pictures included, in a few weeks! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Style

#WNJInspired | 5 Things You Must Do to Prepare for the New Year

December 9, 2015 by Whitney 12 Comments

In order to prepare for the New Year there seems to be a laundry list of things to do! While this process can be overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. Take a few moments and figure out what it is you need to get done before 2016. What’s at the top of the list? It can be something as simple as cleaning out your pantry. In case you need help figuring out where to start, here are 5 simple things to prepare you for 2016!

Prepare for the New Year

1. Schedule Time for Self-Care. | Scheduling time for self-care is something I’ve starting working on already. I’ve made 2 spa appointments, a facial and a massage, for next year. Take time to schedule a few self-care related appointments for 2016. Once a month is very realistic to make time for a facial, massage, hair appointment, or even a yoga class. You can even set aside time to read, catch up on your TV shows or do an at-home spa day for yourself monthly. Whatever you consider a self-care day, make the time.

** Related Post: The Importance of Self Care 

2. Clear Out. | It’s time to clear out your closet, pantry or bathroom cabinet(s) – out with the old, in with the new! If you still have spring or summer clothes in your closet, I won’t judge you. However, I will say it’s time to switch to your late fall/winter wardrobe. If you can’t fit an item, it’s time to get rid of it. When it comes to your pantry, check the expiration dates on all of the canned goods and packaged items.

3. Donate. | If you have you clothes, shoes, accessories or even books that you no longer want, head to your local Goodwill (or thrift store) and donate those items. If you find that you need a few more items to replace some of the things you’ve donated, try thrifting those replacements first. It’s a great way to save money and you’d be surprised at the affordable and useful gems found at the thrift store.

** Related Post: Thrift Shopping Tips 

Prepare for the New Year

5 things you must do to prepare for a productive 2016. #wnjinspired

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4. Unsubscribe. | Throughout the year we all subscribe to certain stores and blog newsletters/email lists. At the time it seems like a great idea, but once your inbox becomes full of sale announcements and unrelated/random messages it becomes junk. My rule is this – if I haven’t shopped at a store or visited a blog/website in the last 60 days, it’s time to unsubscribe. Keep your inbox clean and clutter free in order to see those important messages that come through.

5. Reevaluate. | Reevaluating your wardrobe, habits, lifestyle and even your circle of friends is an important step to take when preparing for the New Year. After you reevaluate you may find that somethings and people don’t need to trickle over into 2016. That’s OK. With each season in your life it’s natural to let somethings go. Don’t be afraid to sit down and really think about what and who needs to stay and go.

** Related Post: The Importance of a Solid Starting Five 


So tell me, what do you do to prepare for the New Year? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and following. I truly appreciate the support here on the blog, through social media, and even by sending emails. Until next time, stay blessed and be safe…XO!

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Filed Under: Inspiration, Lifestyle, Style Tagged With: inspiration, self care

#WNJHome | Home Decor that Makes a Difference with Macy’s Heart of Haiti

November 30, 2015 by Whitney Leave a Comment

Hubs and I are constantly trying to get our new place in order before the New Year. We’re doing a great job and really, there isn’t much left to do or purchase. However when I was gifted this beautiful handcrafted vase from Macy’s Heart of Haiti line, I knew it’d be the perfect home decor addition for us. Created by one of Macy’s 550 Haitian artisans, this vase is stunning in person. It’s also very well made and fits the aesthetic of our home perfectly. Thanks to hubs idea, we decided to place the vase near our entrance and add a few branches inside.

 

Macy's Heart of Haiti

Purchase HERE

Macy’s Heart of Haiti collection has several price points and product selections to shop from. There’s an under $30 section as well as an array of candles and other home decor items. One of my focuses in 2016 is to purchase more items (clothing, home decor, etc.) from small business owners, as well as purchase items that makes a difference. Ethical purchases can do so much good for so many people and I’m determined to continue supporting certain artisans and merchants in the New Year.

Ethical purchases do so much good for so many people. #GiftsthatGiveHope

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After researching this product, I found out that Haiti has an estimated 400,000 artisans who rely solely on handcrafted goods as a source of income. After the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Macy’s began carrying this product line. Macy’s Heart of Haiti now employs 550 artisans, providing economic support to their 4,500 extended family members and others. Only available at select Macy’s locations, here’s where you can shop for your very own handcrafted item:

  • Herald Square
  • Downtown Brooklyn
  • Downtown DC’s Metro Center
  • Chicago’s State Street
  • San Francisco’s Union Park
  • Downtown Seattle
  • Dallas Gallaria
  • Downtown Portland
  • Atlanta’s Lenox Square
  • Dallas Galleria Mall
  • Miami Dadeland 

Macy's Heart of HaitiOur home is decorated with several meaningful items, photos and other memorabilia that we hold very close to our hearts. We purposefully decorated this way and the addition of the handcrafted Haitian vase was absolutely perfect! From the family photos, to the picture I took in Egypt with my grandfather’s camera (that he sits on top of a stack of his old books), to the couch passed down from our grandmother, to our family Bibles, most of the items in our living area have a meaning and purpose. We couldn’t be more pleased; the space is warm, inviting and very “us”.

Macy's Heart of Haiti


So tell me, have you seen Macy’s Heart of Haiti collection? Have you made any ethical purchases this year? Let me know!

Be sure to take a look the collection and browse the items. Many of the sections make great Christmas gifts! Regardless of your purchases this year or next, be sure to give some thought to making more ethical and meaningful purchases to support local artisans and small business owners. Until tomorrow, stay blessed and be safe…XO!

P.S. For even more information on Heart of Haiti, watch the brief video below!

** This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all thoughts and opinions express are my own.  **

Filed Under: Inspiration, Style Tagged With: Macy's

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