Style Archives - Page 18 of 45

#WNJInspired | 7 Things I’ve Learned After 3 Years of Marriage

May 17, 2016 by Whitney 8 Comments

Last week Darrius and I celebrated our 3 year wedding anniversary! This past weekend we continued the celebration with a 3-day staycation at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace. We lead a pretty active lifestyle, together and separately, so the time spent relaxing, shopping and just being alone with one another was perfect. One thing we like to do each year is “review” our marriage. We sit and talk about our highs and lows, things we’ve improved on and certain things we need to continue working on. I want to share of the lessons I’ve learned so far, so check out the top 7 marriage lessons I’ve learned over the past 3 years.

1. Have Faith | There have been several times throughout our 3 years of marriage where Darrius and I have had to rely on nothing but God to get us through certain situations. Our unwavering faith has helped us get through sickness, unexpected financial setbacks, deaths and so much more. I’ve also learned that having faith doesn’t make the tough times disappear; it makes those times easier to get through.

2. Pray Together & Individually | I’ve become what they call “a praying wife” and it’s something I’m very proud of. I pray for my husband and our marriage daily. We also pray together every morning before work and in the evenings before bed. It’s made our bond even stronger and our connection to God even deeper.

3. Make Time to Talk About Money | I’ve become more aware of our financial situation and I understand what needs to be done in order to reach certain financial goals. When you know what’s going on with your money, and when there are no secrets about who makes what and who has what, things tend to flow much better. And at least for me, I feel more at ease knowing what I/we can and cannot afford.

In marriage, it’s OK to say ‘I’m sorry’ first. Push your pride to the side & just say it.

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4. It’s OK to Say ‘I’m sorry’ first | This is one lesson I’ve had to learn over and over again, lol. Putting your pride to the side and staying sorry first doesn’t make you weak, at all. Sometimes it’s necessary to take the first step in order to resolve a certain issue.

5. Give Eachother Some Space | There’s nothing better than spending quality time with my husband, but I also value “me time”. I also enjoy spending time with my family and girlfriends. It’s OK not to be together 24-7. Time apart is a good thing, even if that means going into another room of the house. Spend a little time a part and give yourself time to miss one another.

Don’t let others rush you into having kids. That decision is between you, your spouse and God.

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6. Take the Initiative | Just like saying I’m sorry first, it’s OK to take the initiative and act first. If your husband usually takes out the trash and you see that the trash can is overflowing, take the initiative and empty the trash yourself. Want to go out to eat at a fancy new restaurant? Pick up the phone, call and make reservations for two. You don’t always have to wait for your husband to make the first move, plan a date night, or do certain chores. I’ve found that when I move first it (sometimes) makes him more eager to make the first move next time, and vice versa.

7. Do Not Be Rushed into Having Children | We’ve gone back and forth on when we should start trying to have a child. I even had a health scare that brought up the discussion of possibly starting the process earlier. But through prayer, talking to our doctors and discussing it with one another, we’ve made the decision to stick to our original 5-year plan. Granted, things happen when God says so, but we’re both OK with our decision and we trust that God will give us the desires of our heart. We absolutely children, but right now we’re enjoying the freedom of not having that responsibility. And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. Period. Plus, we have my little sister, our nieces and nephew, our godson and our friend’s babies/children to practice with. We’ll be just fine; God’s got us!

So tell me, what are your thoughts on my 7 marriage lessons? Any tips or advice you’d like to share? Let me know!

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#WNJDrives | 2016 Mazda CX-5 Car Review

May 13, 2016 by Whitney 2 Comments

I don’t know about you, but I am SO happy it’s the weekend! The dreary weather we’ve been experiencing here in Maryland has put a slight damper on my mood, which has made me extremely tired lately. It’s literally been grey skies and rain for weeks, with a few peaks of sunshine here and there. However, as much as I miss nice weather, there’s still a lot to be thankful for. Speaking of thankful, I was extremely grateful to Drive Shop for allowing me to test drive the 2016 CX-5 Mazda a few weekends ago. My family and I attended an event that called for lots of trunk space, so this Mazda crossover came in very handy!

The trunk was able to hold more than 100 donated canned goods and non-perishable items. It was also the perfect companion while navigating through D.C., thanks to the touchscreen navigation display. I was able to connect my iPhone to the Bluetooth and have the directions come through the speakers. I also used that function to listen to my iTunes playlists, as usual. Take a look at a few other standard features for the 2016 Mazda CX-5 below:

– 7” Color Touch-Screen Display

– Audio & Bluetooth Controls

– Push Button Engine Start

– Blind Spot Monitoring

– 5 Passenger Seating

– Heated Front Seats

– Power Moonroof

– Rearview Camera

– All-Wheel Drive

The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is affordable & comes with great features. Check out this @MazdaUSA review!

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I figured driving the car everyday back and forth to work would be a breeze, especially since I’d just tested another Mazda a few weeks prior. The ride was extremely smooth ride and I had no trouble fitting into parking spaces. During the week I drove the car in and around Howard County, back and forth to D.C., and even back and forth to Baltimore. Thanks to the 26 MPG fuel economy guarantee I didn’t have to worry about stopping at a gas station once.

So tell me, what do you think about the 2016 Mazda CX-5? Have you ever driven a Mazda? Let me know!

Priced at $29,470 with the standard features only and $32,340 for the optional features, this 4-door crossover is a great option for just about anyone. Thanks again Drive Shop for providing me with yet another spacious, stylish and safe ride. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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* Drive Shop provided me with this vehicle to test drive. All opinions are my own. *

Personal Style | Minimal Wardrobe Update + (More) Minimal Wardrobe Options

May 11, 2016 by Whitney 25 Comments

As I continue building my minimal wardrobe, I’m very pleased with my progress. I’ve donated and sold several items that no longer serve a purpose and will continue to do so throughout this process. I’ve created a list of specific items to add to my wardrobe and I’ve started buying only those items. Talk about self-control! I’ve also started wearing what’s left in my closet more often, which helps create even more minimal wardrobe options. Styling the pieces differently has allowed me to become more creative with accessories, shoes, and jewelry.

Tunic: Bobeau, Nordstrom Rack (Different Color) // Pants: Sejour, Nordstrom (Similar & Similar) // Flats: Steve Madden (Similar)

Earrings & Necklace: Macy’s (Similar & Similar)

It’s no secret that I’m a fan of wearing black, gray and other neutrals. Bright colors and prints also have a place in my wardrobe; however, I stick with a neutral color palette for most of my work outfits. The gray tunic and black pants, worn in the outfit above, are two of my favorite items to style. Each piece can easily serve as a base for several outfits.

Remember the ‘quality over quantity’ rule when purchasing items for your wardrobe. #wnjstyle

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As I search the web for wardrobe additions, of course, I’ve found several options from Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack. Both stores carry multiple brands that fit several plus size body types. They also sell quality clothing. The price doesn’t always dictate the quality of an item, but when shopping at these stores that’s sometimes the case. While rebuilding and adding to my minimal wardrobe, I’m all about quality over quantity. Therefore, I’m willing to spend a little extra to make sure I stick to that rule.

Pants: Carlson, Nordstrom (same) // Top: Sejour, Nordstrom (same) // Sneakers: Converse, Nordstrom (same)

So tell me, what do you think about my latest minimal outfit? Are you a fan of the 3 minimal wardrobe options from Nordstrom? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#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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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.

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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#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.

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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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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Lifestyle | What to Expect this Season

May 2, 2016 by Whitney 7 Comments

It’s been awhile, huh?! Let’s just say the past few months have been extremely b u s y. Despite the business, I’ve been preparing a lot of content to share, as well as putting most of my energy into completing the Fearless Woman I am website. I’ve also used the past few months to spend much needed quality time with my family. As I mentioned in this post, the 1st quarter of the year was all about preparation for me. With the 2nd quarter in full swing, I’m now ready to spring into action and continue sharing and inspiring!

Photography Credit: Greg Hindman

During my brief blogging hiatus, I realized that I really enjoy sharing with you. I’ve created this online space and it feels like we’re family. Moving forward, I want you all to feel like you’re sitting around the kitchen table with me when reading my posts. Whether it’s providing tips on how to create your own personal style, sharing some of my favorite beauty products or books, showing you the latest affordable car on the market, or providing a bit of inspiration/motivation to help you through the day, sharing with you, my audience, brings me so much joy.

Plenty of useful style, beauty and inspirational content over on whitneynicjames.com! #wnjblogs

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Sure, there will be sprinkles of sponsored posts here and there, but my main focus is to connect and engage. If you’re signed up to my mailing list, you already know that starting this month I’ll be trying a Monday, Wednesday and Friday posting schedule. There may be weeks I post on a Wednesday or Thursday and there may be days I don’t keep up with the posting schedule at all. Life happens. But for the most part I plan to do my best to stick to the 3-day schedule. No worries; the content will continue to be useful, visually appealing and uplifting. This new schedule will allow the Fearless Woman I am project to flourish and fulfill it’s purpose, while I continue to serve you, my loyal WNJ Readers.

I’ll continue to update and engage daily over on social media. To make my content easier to find and share, I’ll be using the hashtags shown above. Some may look familiar, since I’ve been using a few already. As far as the newsletters, they’ll be arriving in your inboxes on a bi-weekly basis starting September 1st.

So tell me, what are you look forward to seeing on Whitney Nic James this spring and summer? Let me know!

Thank you for keeping up with and supporting the blog thus far – I’m extremely grateful! If you have any suggestions as to what you’d like to read, let me know. I’m here for you, so feel free to contact me anytime! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#WNJInspired | 5 Ways to Get Motivated

April 12, 2016 by Whitney 24 Comments

I’ve been talking about seasons quite a bit lately – see post HERE and HERE. As I’ve shared before, this has truly been a season of preparation in many ways. For months I’ve been planning a lot of (great) content and coming up with amazing ideas for the blog and for FWIAM, yet I had no concrete plans on when to share. I basically got stuck in preparation mode.

While I do think taking time to prepare before sharing or releasing something new is necessary, it’s importation not to stay there. Unfortunately, it happened to me. I became so caught up in preparing that I lost the motivation and desire to share. Thankfully I learned how to P.I.V.O.T. my way through this season. This allowed me to feel motivated again. You’re probably thinking, “what does P.I.V.O.T. mean?” Allow me to explain while sharing 5 Ways to Get Motivated.

Trying to get motivated? Learn how to P.I.V.O.T – Pray, Ignite, Vent, Omit and Take Action!

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1. Pray | When you’re feeling uninspired and unmotivated, pray. Be specific – ask for exactly what you want. Don’t be scared. Prayer not only calms me down, but it also gives me a chance to listen to what I’m being told.

2. Ignite (Internal Conversation) | Our internal dialogue is so important when trying to get (and stay) motivated. The way we talk to ourselves is a clear indication of how we feel about ourselves. Learn how to spark a positive dialogue with yourself. Self-talk should always be positive, uplifting, and honest.

3. Vent | We can often find motivation just by venting and talking to others. Of course, you don’t want to confide in just anyone, but having a few inspiring, trustworthy and honest people to vent to is very helpful. Let them know why you feel so unmotivated and trust they’ll help you get you back on the right track. Having those few “go-to” people has been such a blessing during this season.

Don’t waste your greatness – TAKE ACTION and share your gifts with the world! #wnjinspired

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4. Omit Distractions. | Get real with yourself and remove distractions. Sometimes the reason we’re so unmotivated is because of who we’re spending time with, what we consume on social media, and even the TV shows we watch. Once I started getting rid of certain distractions, I noticed a positive shift in my attitude. I was finally able to get back to my positive and happy self once again. Protect your peace and eliminate those distractions.

5. Take Action. | There is nothing wrong with preparing, but you must have a plan take action. What good is it to plan so much greatness, that has the potential to inspire and motivate others, if you never share it? Don’t waste your greatness and good ideas – take action and share those gifts. The world needs it!

So tell me, how do you get and stay motivated? What do you think about my P.I.V.O.T. method? Let me know!

Thanks for taking the time to read and I hope this has inspired you to take action. Getting and staying motivated during certain seasons is tough. We get complacent, stuck and we just don’t feel motivated – life happens. However, we don’t have to stay there! Stay positive and motivated and always keep the end goal in mind. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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#WNJDrives | 2016 Mazda6 Car Review

April 8, 2016 by Whitney 5 Comments

From wifely duties at home, to working a 9-5, updating/managing content on WNJ and FWIAM, taking little sis to a pageant appearance or an acting/modeling gig/audition, to meeting up for a brunch or dinner date with hubs or friends, it’s safe to say I have a pretty active life. And let’s not forget about my weekly me-time activities, going to church and spending time with the family! Thankfully I love (all of) what I do. However, these activities keep me on the road quite a bit. So of course anytime I have the opportunity to test drive a Drive Shop vehicle, I’m all in and very grateful! Not only does it save me some gas, but it also gives me and hubs a chance to test different car models, as we’re thinking about purchasing a new car in the next year or so.

Last week I had the pleasure of test driving a 2016 Mazda6. I’ve never driven a Mazda so I was excited to get behind the wheel and give it a go! At first glance I loved the color, which was surprising because I’m usually not a fan of white cars. I was also very impressed with the interior. The leather-trimmed heated (front) seats, along with the rest of the inside, was gorgeous. Of course the first thing I did was connect my iPhone to the car; I must listen to my Apple Music playlists while driving. Here are some other features worth sharing, as well as a breif video for an even closer look:

– Bluetooth Hands-free Phone/Audio

– 7.0” Color Touch-Screen Display

– Bose 11” Speaker Sound System

– Blind Spot Monitoring

– Heated Front Seats

– Power Side Mirrors

– Rear-view Camera

– Power Moonroof

– Key-less Entry

Looking for an affordable, safe and stylish car? Check out the @MazdaUSA Mazda6! #wnjdrives

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This compact and sporty Mazda6 was the perfect companion during a busy week! The trunk had plenty of space to pack and deliver a food few (Heart of Charity) non-perishable donations, as well as store groceries and clothes from the cleaners. Priced at $30,195 with the standard features, and $33,715 for the optional features, the car is reasonably priced. It’s the perfect purchase for anyone looking for a stylish, compact, 4-door vehicle.

The 2016 Mazda6 is stylish, safe and has amazing features. Check out this @MazdaUSA review!

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