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#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.

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

Our 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”.

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. **

Personal Style | Fall Style Recap

November 30, 2015 by Whitney 16 Comments

Happy Monday, friends! I hope you all enjoyed your Thanksgiving holiday. I sure did. It was quite the struggle to get out of bed and off to work this morning, LOL. But I made it! When I realized we were almost in the last month of the year, I actually got excited. I can’t believe the end of the year is literally right around the corner. I cannot wait to to see what 2016 has in store for ALL OF US!

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Casual Wear // Printed Set

That said, I figured I’d do a brief fall style recap of some of my favorite outfits. Style-wise it has been a GREAT season. I’ve pretty much loved every outfit I’ve worn on the blog and “in real life”. I’ve truly come into my own this season/year in many ways and my style is a reflection of that.

Your personal style is likely to change, for the better, once you come into your own. #wnjstyle

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This fall I’ve played with faux leather leggings, various hats and beanies, bold accessories and even colorful dresses. It’s been SO MUCH FUN getting dressed this year! I’ve also figured out where I like to shop for certain items. Of course I’ll always be a fan of thrifting, but I now understand that shopping for my body type and shopping for quality items is key.

Faux Leather Leggings

Oversized Sweater // Capes & Sweatpants

So tell me, what has your fall style consisted of? Any capes and oversized sweaters? Let me know!

Thanks for reading and be sure to link your recent fall outfit to my Personal Style Link Up below; can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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** Linkups: How I Fall, Sophisticated Style, Let it Shine **

#WNJBeauty | Typical Wash Day + Irresistible Me Flat Iron Review

November 26, 2015 by Whitney 2 Comments

Happy Thanksgiving to all my readers celebrating! Hubs and I are in Delaware with his family and all I can think is, let’s eat! LOL. Before you go and enjoy the day with family and good food, I wanted to talk about my latest beauty product that I believe is a must have, especially for ladies with a short cut like mine. It’s the Diamond Flat Iron by Irresistible Me. I actually used this product to do my hair for today’s festivities. Check out my video review below!

As I’ve mentioned several times before on the blog, I’m a huge beauty product junkie. That includes hair products as well! Of course I was more than thrilled when Irresistible Me reached out in hopes that I’d review their product. At the time I’d just cut my hair short and was actually in the market for a new flat iron, so I said what not?!

The @IrresistibleMeO Diamond Flat Iron is a wash-day must have. #wnjbeauty

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I can honestly say I’m very pleased with the Diamond Flat Iron. My favorite feature is being able to set your own temperature. I don’t like using too much heat on my hair, so being able to set the iron temperature to the lowest setting is perfect for me. Here are all the features that impressed me:

– Multiple heat settings

– Does not cause hair to smell burnt

– Flat iron glides smoothly over the hair

– Easy to use & compact/easy to store

– Multiple heat settings

– Heats up quickly

– Easy to handle

So tell me, have you ever tried the Irresistible Me Diamond Flat Iron? What do you use to style you hair? Let me know!

Again, I wish you all a happy and fun-filled Thanksgiving! Until next time, be blessed and stay safe!

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Personal Style | Styling Oversized Sweaters for a Casual Holiday Season

November 23, 2015 by Whitney 18 Comments

This week hubs and I will be traveling to Delaware to spend Thanksgiving with his family. I’m excited to see my in-laws, nieces, nephew, Godson and everyone else, and of course, I can’t wait to eat some good food. I can taste the mac n cheese, mashed potatoes, greens, MMPH – I can’t wait! With all the eating I plan to do, I know for sure that I will be dressed as comfortable (and stylish) as possible. This means leggings or some kind of pants with an elastic waist, a tunic and an oversized sweater to complete the look. Here are two outfit ideas that show how easy it is to style oversized sweaters during the holiday season.

Oversized Sweater: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue // Tunic: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue // Flats: Aldo Brand, Nordstrom Rack (Similar) // Earrings: Target (Old)

Necklace: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue // Purse: Forever 21 (Another Option)

Our drive is about an hour and 45 minutes so dressing comfortably is a must. With plans to relax, watch TV, eat and chat, either one of these options is perfect. Whenever I visit the in-laws I’m always presentable, of course, but I also make sure I stay true to my personal style. That means animal print, leggings and prints in general are usually incorporated in the outfit. I like wearing at least one conversational piece whatever I get dressed – the black embellished tunic definitely fits that criteria

One conversational piece per outfit is a must! #wnjstyle

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Sweater: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue // Pants: American Rag, Macy’s // Blouse: Nordstrom Rack (Another Option)

Flats: Nordstrom Rack, Tesori (Cute ON SALE Option) // Purse: Thrifted, Goodwill

So tell me, what are your plans for Thanksgiving? What will you be wearing? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and be sure to link your recent fall outfit to my Personal Style Link Up below; can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! I’ll be back to showcasing my favorite linkup in December. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Dress with Pockets & a Matching Set

November 19, 2015 by Whitney 8 Comments

Wearing a dress with pockets is every girl’s dream. Well, it’s a dream for me. I absolutely adore dresses with pockets. Especially if the dress is already flowy and has a pretty print. So it’s safe to say today’s outfit is a dream, lol. Of course, there’s a story behind the outfit. Now that I think about it, pretty much all my outfits have a story behind them. Want to hear this one? OK, here goes…

Dress: Sejour, Nordstrom Rack // Cardigan: Sejour, Nordstrom (Another Option) // Heels: Kenneth Cole, DSW (Very Similar)

Remember when I purchased this kimono on a trip to Nordstrom this summer? It was back when I was searching for summer items that could easily transition into the fall. This one was perfect! I was so smitten with the print and fit I knew it would get a lot of wear. Fast forward to a few weeks ago, hubs and I ventured to Nordstrom Rack to return a few things. I was looking through the sale dresses and found an item that looked familiar. It was a dress with the exact print as the Sejour kimono! What are the odds? Without hesitation I found my size and threw it in the cart. Hubs chuckled when he saw it and asked, “don’t you already have that?” I explained everything to him and proceeded to purchase the dress.

Every girl loves to wear a dress with pockets! #wnjstyle

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I didn’t think to style the items together until one Sunday, I started looking for a dress to wear to church. Because it was a short sleeved dress I wondered what I could wear to make it appropriate for the season. Reluctantly I pulled out this kimono, tried it on, and the outfit was complete! I’m not oppose to wearing items that are “matchy matchy”, but I thought wearing them both together would be TOO MUCH. I was wrong – the prints blended perfectly. In the end I was able to wear a dress with pockets and my favorite kimono. Go, me!

Clutch: Thrifted, Goodwill // Bracelet: Monet, Macy’s (Affordable Option)

So tell me, are you a fan of the dress with pockets trend? What about styling and layering the same print with the same outfit? Let me know!

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

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Lifestyle | 11 Ways to Have a Better Day

November 18, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

Since the move, I’ve been trying to get my morning routine down pat. It’s been about 3 months in the new place and I’m beginning to get better with it. Although I can go with the flow, I’m such a stickler for routine. I’m much more productive when there’s a set routine in place. I’ve been working on ways to make my mornings and days a bit easier and I think I have a good grasp what works for me. Here are 11 easy ways to have a better day and a great morning!

1. Pray and express gratitude. | As soon as I open my eyes, I whisper or say “thank you, Lord”. Expressing gratitude for a new day is the least I can do. My husband and I also pray together before he heads to work. It sets the tone for our day and I’m so thankful we’ve made this a morning ritual. Afterward, I take a few moments to myself and say a personal prayer as well. Some days I’ll read a scripture or my Daily Bread instead. Either way, I start each day with prayer and expressing gratitude.

2. Find and repeat a positive affirmations/quote. | Every morning I find an affirmation or quote that fits my mood and I repeat it 3 times. I sit with it for a moment and if it’s something I feel compelled to share, I’ll post it to my Instagram. Positive words make me feel good and if I can share a small piece of that positivity with others, I do it.

3. Drink cold water or a cup of hot tea. | Depending on the day, I’ll opt for a cold glass of water or a warm cup of tea in the a.m. If I need a burst of energy, I go with the ice cold water. It’s a great way to jump start and wake up the rest of your body. If I know I have an easy-going day ahead, the hot cup of tea does the trick. It calms, soothes and gets me ready to for a nice relaxing day.

11 ways to instantly have a better day! #wnjinspired

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4. Eat something. | I haven’t always been the best at eating breakfast, but I now make it a point to eat something about 30-40 minutes after I wake up. Even if it’s a piece of fruit or a 1/2 a bagel, I make sure something is on my stomach soon after I wake up. Nowadays I usually make eggs, grilled peppers and a piece of toast or a bowl of oatmeal. Both meals are hearty and keep me full until lunchtime.

5. Take a cold (or lukewarm) shower. | I usually shower after eating and I LOVE those moments. The bathroom is like my sanctuary. All my ah-ha moments and brilliant ideas happen in the shower, lol. After I wash my face and complete my morning face/teeth brushing routine, I hop in the shower. At first, I make sure the water is warm, but a few minutes before I get out I turn the water to cold or lukewarm. That burst of cold definitely wakes me up!

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6. Take a moment. | After my shower, I like to take a moment to myself and sit on the side of the bed. Here I usually just sit in silence to gather my thoughts. It’s moments like this I just breathe and try to pay attention to my breath. I’m trying to ease into meditation so this helps get me used to sitting still, if only for a few moments.

7. Listen to Music. | Still on my bedside, I’ll reach for my phone, scroll through my music and turn on my Morning Playlist. I may even turn on an audiobook or podcast, depending on my mood. Mostly, music is my #1 choice. I listen for a few moments, while still sitting on my bed, hook the phone to the speakers, then continue getting ready.

8. Stretch. | While getting dressed, I stretch a bit in between putting on my clothing. Moving and stretching help continue to wake up my body. I’m the worst at stretching, so I try to do this while listening to music. I’m usually already moving and dancing around so it’s perfect!

Do these 11 things and instantly have a better day! #wnjinspired

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9. Make your bed. | My grandfather drilled this in my head at a young age and thankfully, I carried this good habit over into adulthood. Making the bed every day creates a calm environment in your bedroom. Plus, it looks nice! When I come home after a long day the last thing I want to look at is an unmade bed. Seeing the bed made and neat gives me peace of mind. In our household, it’s a must. Being the passionate hospitality professional he is, hubs really appreciates that I’ve made this a habit and he too makes the bed if he leaves after me. #TeamWork

10. Leave a few minutes early. | This is something I constantly work on, but leaving the house a few minutes early eliminates a stressful commute to work. Leaving early leaves time for those out of nowhere traffic jams or unexpected accidents. It also allows you to arrive a few minutes early, giving you time before you head to work to breathe, say a quick prayer, and get ready for whatever craziness might come.

11. Smile. | Throughout the day I smile, at strangers, those I work with, and even myself. It’s just so much easier to be pleasant and flash a smile every now and then. You never know who your smile may uplift during your day.

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So tell me, what are some things you do to ensure that you have a great day? Let me know!

Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Tunics and Capes for Fall

November 17, 2015 by Whitney 4 Comments

The weather here in Maryland has been so strange. One day it’s 50 degrees and the next it’s pushing 70. I can’t keep up, but luckily my wardrobe can handle the change. One of my go-to styles for networking events, church and some dresser family functions has been tunics and capes. This combo works like magic when I’m trying to be chic and not that overdressed. I find that wearing tunics, a sensible pair of heels and a fall cape add an element of sophistication and elegance to my personal style. Can’t beat that, right?

Tunic: Nic + Zoe, Nordstrom (Another Option) // Pants: Sejour, Nordstrom (Another Option) // Heels: Kenneth Cole, Bloomingdales (Another Option)

With this particular outfit, I decided to dress up the same pair of sweatpants as yesterday a bit more. The nude heels add that “something extra” to the outfit, perfect for those occasions mentioned above. During networking events I like to be comfortable, of course, but I want to be taken seriously. After all, I’m usually attending such events representing both WNJ and #FearlessWomanIAM. That said, I have to dress the part. Looking presentable, fashion forward and approachable is a must because that’s what both of my brands represent in a nutshell.

Tunics and capes are the perfect addition to any fall wardrobe! #wnjstyle

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This outfit is one that also makes me feel really good and rather empowered. When it comes to personal style it’s important not only to look good, but to feel good as well. Regardless of the event, whatever you wear should make you feel amazing. Feeling this way instantly boosts your confidence and makes others take you seriously. As stated in my recent Brown Girls Love Brunch recap, first impressions are crucial. Make yours a good one by being confident when introducing yourself. Being confident with what you’re wearing is the start to making a good first impression.

Cape: Thrifted (Another Option) // Purse: Forever 21 (Similar) // Earrings: H&M

Being confident with what you’re wearing is the start to making a good first impression. #wnjstyle

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So tell me, are you a fan of tunics and capes this fall? What’s your go-to look for networking and other events? Let me know!

Thanks for stopping by and don’t forget to link your recent outfit to my Personal Style Linkup HERE. I can’t wait to see what you’re wearing! Also if you haven’t already, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Upcoming events, services offered and other good stuff will hit your inbox very soon! Until tomorrow, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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Personal Style | Dressing up Sweatpants for the Weekend

November 16, 2015 by Whitney 23 Comments

Happy Monday! I hope you all enjoyed your weekend. Mine was fun, productive and relaxing. I was out and about spending time with family and of course, I wanted to dress comfortably and stylish. I decided to reach for my comfy (sweat) pants and found myself asking, how am I going to dress up sweatpants? A pair of fresh sneakers and a decorative hat would do the trick, but I wanted something a bit more feminine. Plus, I’d just done my hair so I wanted to show it off!

Tunic: Lord & Taylor (Another Affordable Option) // Pants: Sejour, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option) // Flats: Aldo Brand, Nordstrom Rack (Another Option)

I decided against a cap, wore my freshly washed and flat ironed hair out, and paired a colorful tunic with the pants. As I continued to get dressed, dressing up sweatpants became less of a challenge. I realized adding a pair of flats, cute accessories and my new Forever 21 purse would make the outfit cute, still comfy, and feminine. That’s exactly what I was going for and it worked out perfectly!

Dressing up sweatpants is possible. Just add cute flats, accessories and the perfect top! #wnjstyle

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