While walking in the train station last night, I noticed a man staring at me. Now, this was not something that is new to me, I get stared at often.....maybe its my cute hair, who knows. This mans stare was different. It was like he was hypnotized, transfixed on something, barely blinking, and whatever it was, just happend to be something he saw in me. At first, I stared back, wondering what his next steps were going to be, whether he was going to walk over and say anything to me, or do something crazy like I always manage to see on the subway in NYC. But, he just stared.
After awhile, I felt his gaze, and that sly smurk on his face wasn't amusing anymore. I got up to go leave the train at my stop, and I noticed him getting up as well. I was really beginning to think this guy was a complete and utter creeper, but I maintained my composure. He followed me onto the bus I had to take to get to my house.....and the hypnotized stare began again. This time he said something to me: "you are so beautiful". His voice was a light whisper....I could barely make out what he was trying to say to me, so I simply responded with a "thank you". I assumed the escapade was over.
I waited until my stop to get off the bus at the very last minute, to try and avoid the man from the subway attempting to get off the bus to follow me. I bolted towards the door, and let out a sigh of relief after I had gotten off the bus. I looked back to make sure that he was not there....I thought I was done with the scary train dude.
I walked about 15 steps, then I heard the voice from the bus say loud and clear: "excuse me miss, I hate to bother you, but is it possible for me to get to know you?" My first thought after his last word was "oh my goodness, we are very close to where I live, I don't want this fool following me, I don't want him knowing where I live". I played it cool. I told him in a very matter-of-fact tone that I was involved, and that I was meeting my man at the corner. He asked if I lived in the neighborhood. I told him my man did, and I was visiting. He said "ok, well, tell him, if he ever does anything to hurt you, someone will be waiting right here to right what he ever does wrong".............and he walked away.
I waited for him to walk out of my sight. And I entered my home. Hopefully, i'll never see the creepy subway dude again.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Harlem Diva takes Las Vegas by Storm.........
It takes a lot to impress me. I am not easily fascinated with flashing lights, having been born and raised in New York City, im no stranger to flashing lights.
I will admit, I wasn't expecting much from Las Vegas, not really being big on gambling, and not at all psyched about going to a party (unless i'm getting paid to host it)....I wasn't sure that I was going to be excited about the sites that I was going to see at Las Vegas......
Boy was I mistaken!!!!
I have never (in my life) been so entertained. It was absolutely amazing, from the time I arrived at Las Vegas International Airport, until it was time to leave. Even the cab drivers were interesting and entertaining.....I have fallen in Love with Las Vegas!!!
I arrived at Las Vegas at 9am, after a non-stop flight from JFK airport, excited and not plagued with jet lag at all. I stood online for almost 10 minutes for a cab (whew)......there were people from ALL walks of life headed my way.
This is what my hotel looked like from the Cab.....I stayed at the Luxor, it was in the shape of a Pyramid......
also connected to the hotel was:
that was in front of the hotel....at night!!! how incredible!!!
One thing I learned about Vegas is that you don't even have to leave your hotel to have an awesome time! You can shop, play slot machines, or gamble at one of the table games, you can eat at an assortment of restaurants, or the hotel's buffet dining, you can go clubbing inside the hotel, or get drinks at one of the bars or for free from the women on the gambling floor! You can see a one of the famous Vegas show's which are located within the various hotels, order room service, or go to the pool (weather permitting). Vegas is one big sensory stimulator, and there is so much that you can do, without ever having to leave your hotel.
Enjoying the beautiful view
The New York, NY Hotel from the Cab...not bad for a replica (and yes that's a roller coaster wrapped around the hotel)!
Getting ready to try these good luck charms on the slot machines!
Ceasar's Palace.....
Enjoying the view of the fountains at the Bellagio Hotel
Exploring all that Vegas has to offer in style!
Stay tuned for more pics from my Vegas trip coming soon.........
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Goddess...
god·dess
noun \ˈgä-dəs also ˈgȯ-\
1: a female god
2: a woman whose great charm or beauty arouses adoration
3: a woman of superior charms or excellence
A lady's best accessorie is her smile and her unique style.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Models and Bottles: A Networking Affair for Plus Size Women!
Rarely do I attend a plus size event that is inspirational, informative, and just plain old fun! Yesterday, however, I attended a very inspirational network event for aspiring plus size models, full-figured women, and people interested in other business within the world of the plus size multi-billion dollar industry. The event was called :Models and Bottles: A Plus Size Pow Wow"
The even was held by Elite Plus', founder and creator, Trojah Irby-Morgan and her team of fabulous ladies. The group was created to celebrate women with curves, and to provide positive representation for full-figured women. Held at the beautiful Shelter Studios on 54th Street in Manhattan.
The line up of guests was very impressive, and there was different aspects of the Plus Size industry present, to provide feedback, encouragement, and solutions for full-figured women who want to be models, or who just needed some inspiration!
Here is Trojah giving her opening statements:
The line up of speakers included: Jeannie Ferguson, a fit Plus Model who has graced the BET's Rip the Runway, and Full Figured Fashion week. She talked about the realities of being a plus size model, and how she came to be a model in the first place! She explained that she used to be 325lbs, but she had to work hard to get her body measurements where they are today! Her knowledge of the industry comes from the extensive work that she has done on and off the runway, and her background in fashion merchandising, and styling.
She is absolutely stunning and poised, and she is able to communicate with an elegant gracefulness that is very wonderful to see in a plus size model.
She has her own clothing line that she said goes “up to a size 6X”, which I am very excited about checking out. Stay tuned for more information about her clothing line, and pictures of me donning some of her pieces! She was truly an inspiration to me and the other young ladies present at the event.
Here is a picture of Jeannie and me networking after the event:
The next presenter was the fabulous Mrs. Shanda Freeman, Co-Star of MTV's Man and Wife (along with her husband, Fatman Scoop). She is also an expert fashionista and vlogger, and an interior designer, who shares my passion for making homes look beautiful! Mrs. Freeman was also the host of Full Figured Fashion Week 2011!
Shanda discussed the importance of image as a plus size woman. She began by asking the audience a question about whether or not we made an impression about her when she first walked in the room. She asked if we could tell a lot about her personality and style, just by looking at her. Everyone answered "yes".
Shanda explained that image is everything, and before walking out the door in the morning, we should make sure that we have a few solid things in place. #1: a high quality, supportive bra, which has full coverage, and support, even if it creates the appearance of cleavage. #2: a flexible (and easy-to-breathe-in) girdle, to hold everything in place and make everything smooth! And #3: plus sized women should "play up their strengths". If you have an hour glass shape, you should wear things to accentuate your waistline and curves. If you have a bigger bust, with a larger stomach, you should wear things that accentuate your bust, but take away from your larger mid-section. That information is very important. As a woman with an hour glass shape, it's important for me to wear clothing that accentuates my 33 inch waistline!
Shanda was dressed beautifully in a beautiful Black wrap dress from J-Lo's Signature line at Kohl's, and she had on a pair of the most fabulous Diane Von Furstenberg sandals ever! Her hair is clearly her signature, and although she wouldn't give up her secrets on how to achieve the body and fullness, she says that women should find a hairstyle that defines them, and to experiment with color to give your look a sexy edge!
Here is a picture of Shanda Freeman and me networking after the event:
:
On the panel of presenters was Ms. Gwen Devoe, a former plus size model and party promoter, who now specializes in model training through The Plus Academy, founded in 1998, with trainings held in over 15 cities. She is owner of Devoe Signature Events, which has produced some of the best plus size fashion shows, party’s and events. Ms. Gwen Devoe is also the Founder of Full Figured Fashion Week, a Plus Size Only Runway, filled with events for the full-figured and fabulous, and those who love them!!!
Ms. Devoe had a wonderful and inspirational message for the young women aspiring to be models. She told how she got into the industry, and how she realized that she had more work to do behind the scenes after she worked the runway! She began producing shows, and working with the best plus size models in the industry.
Ms. Devoe told the young ladies that they should find out where their strengths are, and find their place within the industry, because there is so much work that still needs to be done for the plus size community. She told everyone that they should be very careful when it comes to posting personal status updates on facebook, and lewd or lascivious pictures on social media sites, because it can be detrimental to one's success in the industry. Be professional at all times! Sexy doesn't always have to be trashy! She is an icon in the plus size industry, and her words of wisdom were very inspirational!
The next Speaker was Edwinna Gregg, a dynamic fashionista that currently balances her spare time between being a Plus Model, Freelance Writer and On-air Radio Personality. She hails from Baltimore, Maryland, but since moving to New York in 2008, she has pursued her passion for all things couture. She has strutted down the catwalk during Full Figured Fashion Week in the Full Figured & Fabulous Runway Competition; she was a finalist in the Goddess by Juanita Kelly Model Search, and has appeared on the Tyra Banks Show. In addition to her new role as a contributing writer for Curvy Magazine and Parle Magazine, she also co-hosts an online radio show, Chocolate Sundays.
Edwinna talked to audience about angles, and making sure that you're posture and poses are photo ready. She talked about lines and angles, and making sure that every photo is not just a "wonder woman" photo, with your hands on your hips. Edwinna says that she finds inspiration for a photo shoot by tearing pages with pictures of models posing out of magazines for easy retrieval when she needs ideas for some new poses. Edwinna had some very good information to share with the ladies.
Here is a picture of the beauitful Edwinna Gregg in one her her gorgeous photos:
Up next was Michael Belgrave, Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of BiggerAnd Better Thangs Entertainment, Inc. ("BBT"), a New York based entertainment company that was formed in May of 2003 and provides the New York tri-state area's plus size community and businesses with the opportunity tomix, mingle and network through various avenues that include parties, weekend getaways, a social website, a FB social page, a live internet radio show and various charity events.
Born in California raised in South Jamaica Queens, NY, Mike is known to be a scholar from the School of Hard Knocks. Mike was able to see first hand the lack of plus size friendly social events in the New York tri-state area. So, armed with street smarts and the heart and soul of a true entrepreneur, Mike set out to make a change for the plus size community by creating his own social network - Bigger and Better Thangs Entertainment,Inc.
Mike discussed the 'business aspect' of the plus size world, and he stressed the importance of having a great team who "share your vision" for success. He talked about being an entrepreneur, and how you have to prioritize and ensure that you are constantly working towards your business goals. BBT is having the first only Plus Size Masquerade Ball in NYC in October, and a ski trip in March of 2012. Michael also has a radio show in New York City entitiled Chocolate Sundays.
Here is a picture of me and Michael Belgrave networking after the event:
The last presenter was the
Crystal
Crystal
For the event,Crystal
Here is a picture ofCrystal
This is a picture of me and Crystal networking after the event:
Crystal even graced me with one of her make-overs. I normally don't wear a lot of make-up! I like to have luxurious lashes, a little black liner, and some lip-gloss for sheen, but Crystal dared me to take it up a notch, and to accentuate my sexy outfit with some sexy make-up! Here are the before and after pictures from my make-over with Crystal Carmen:
The even was held by Elite Plus', founder and creator, Trojah Irby-Morgan and her team of fabulous ladies. The group was created to celebrate women with curves, and to provide positive representation for full-figured women. Held at the beautiful Shelter Studios on 54th Street in Manhattan.
The line up of guests was very impressive, and there was different aspects of the Plus Size industry present, to provide feedback, encouragement, and solutions for full-figured women who want to be models, or who just needed some inspiration!
Here is Trojah giving her opening statements:
The line up of speakers included: Jeannie Ferguson, a fit Plus Model who has graced the BET's Rip the Runway, and Full Figured Fashion week. She talked about the realities of being a plus size model, and how she came to be a model in the first place! She explained that she used to be 325lbs, but she had to work hard to get her body measurements where they are today! Her knowledge of the industry comes from the extensive work that she has done on and off the runway, and her background in fashion merchandising, and styling.
She is absolutely stunning and poised, and she is able to communicate with an elegant gracefulness that is very wonderful to see in a plus size model.
She has her own clothing line that she said goes “up to a size 6X”, which I am very excited about checking out. Stay tuned for more information about her clothing line, and pictures of me donning some of her pieces! She was truly an inspiration to me and the other young ladies present at the event.
Here is a picture of Jeannie and me networking after the event:
The next presenter was the fabulous Mrs. Shanda Freeman, Co-Star of MTV's Man and Wife (along with her husband, Fatman Scoop). She is also an expert fashionista and vlogger, and an interior designer, who shares my passion for making homes look beautiful! Mrs. Freeman was also the host of Full Figured Fashion Week 2011!
Shanda discussed the importance of image as a plus size woman. She began by asking the audience a question about whether or not we made an impression about her when she first walked in the room. She asked if we could tell a lot about her personality and style, just by looking at her. Everyone answered "yes".
Shanda explained that image is everything, and before walking out the door in the morning, we should make sure that we have a few solid things in place. #1: a high quality, supportive bra, which has full coverage, and support, even if it creates the appearance of cleavage. #2: a flexible (and easy-to-breathe-in) girdle, to hold everything in place and make everything smooth! And #3: plus sized women should "play up their strengths". If you have an hour glass shape, you should wear things to accentuate your waistline and curves. If you have a bigger bust, with a larger stomach, you should wear things that accentuate your bust, but take away from your larger mid-section. That information is very important. As a woman with an hour glass shape, it's important for me to wear clothing that accentuates my 33 inch waistline!
Shanda was dressed beautifully in a beautiful Black wrap dress from J-Lo's Signature line at Kohl's, and she had on a pair of the most fabulous Diane Von Furstenberg sandals ever! Her hair is clearly her signature, and although she wouldn't give up her secrets on how to achieve the body and fullness, she says that women should find a hairstyle that defines them, and to experiment with color to give your look a sexy edge!
Here is a picture of Shanda Freeman and me networking after the event:
:
On the panel of presenters was Ms. Gwen Devoe, a former plus size model and party promoter, who now specializes in model training through The Plus Academy, founded in 1998, with trainings held in over 15 cities. She is owner of Devoe Signature Events, which has produced some of the best plus size fashion shows, party’s and events. Ms. Gwen Devoe is also the Founder of Full Figured Fashion Week, a Plus Size Only Runway, filled with events for the full-figured and fabulous, and those who love them!!!
Ms. Devoe had a wonderful and inspirational message for the young women aspiring to be models. She told how she got into the industry, and how she realized that she had more work to do behind the scenes after she worked the runway! She began producing shows, and working with the best plus size models in the industry.
Ms. Devoe told the young ladies that they should find out where their strengths are, and find their place within the industry, because there is so much work that still needs to be done for the plus size community. She told everyone that they should be very careful when it comes to posting personal status updates on facebook, and lewd or lascivious pictures on social media sites, because it can be detrimental to one's success in the industry. Be professional at all times! Sexy doesn't always have to be trashy! She is an icon in the plus size industry, and her words of wisdom were very inspirational!
The next Speaker was Edwinna Gregg, a dynamic fashionista that currently balances her spare time between being a Plus Model, Freelance Writer and On-air Radio Personality. She hails from Baltimore, Maryland, but since moving to New York in 2008, she has pursued her passion for all things couture. She has strutted down the catwalk during Full Figured Fashion Week in the Full Figured & Fabulous Runway Competition; she was a finalist in the Goddess by Juanita Kelly Model Search, and has appeared on the Tyra Banks Show. In addition to her new role as a contributing writer for Curvy Magazine and Parle Magazine, she also co-hosts an online radio show, Chocolate Sundays.
Edwinna talked to audience about angles, and making sure that you're posture and poses are photo ready. She talked about lines and angles, and making sure that every photo is not just a "wonder woman" photo, with your hands on your hips. Edwinna says that she finds inspiration for a photo shoot by tearing pages with pictures of models posing out of magazines for easy retrieval when she needs ideas for some new poses. Edwinna had some very good information to share with the ladies.
Here is a picture of the beauitful Edwinna Gregg in one her her gorgeous photos:
Up next was Michael Belgrave, Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of BiggerAnd Better Thangs Entertainment, Inc. ("BBT"), a New York based entertainment company that was formed in May of 2003 and provides the New York tri-state area's plus size community and businesses with the opportunity tomix, mingle and network through various avenues that include parties, weekend getaways, a social website, a FB social page, a live internet radio show and various charity events.
Born in California raised in South Jamaica Queens, NY, Mike is known to be a scholar from the School of Hard Knocks. Mike was able to see first hand the lack of plus size friendly social events in the New York tri-state area. So, armed with street smarts and the heart and soul of a true entrepreneur, Mike set out to make a change for the plus size community by creating his own social network - Bigger and Better Thangs Entertainment,Inc.
Mike discussed the 'business aspect' of the plus size world, and he stressed the importance of having a great team who "share your vision" for success. He talked about being an entrepreneur, and how you have to prioritize and ensure that you are constantly working towards your business goals. BBT is having the first only Plus Size Masquerade Ball in NYC in October, and a ski trip in March of 2012. Michael also has a radio show in New York City entitiled Chocolate Sundays.
Here is a picture of me and Michael Belgrave networking after the event:
The last presenter was the
Crystal Carmen, owner of Pink Stiletto Cosmetics, an independent cosmetic brand started in 2010. Crystal
For the event,
Here is a picture of
This is a picture of me and Crystal networking after the event:
Crystal even graced me with one of her make-overs. I normally don't wear a lot of make-up! I like to have luxurious lashes, a little black liner, and some lip-gloss for sheen, but Crystal dared me to take it up a notch, and to accentuate my sexy outfit with some sexy make-up! Here are the before and after pictures from my make-over with Crystal Carmen:
Me looking glamorous and sexy afterwards:
The kissable red lips were a very nice addition to the look. I felt very sexy and sultry after my make-over!
Overall, I had a very fun and exciting time, and I learned a lot more about the plus size industry, and I met some incredible people. I also learned a few things that will help me to help others! I'd give this event the Harlem Diva seal of approval!
Here are some more pictures from the event:
Ladies preparing for the catwalk!
Me taking a Diva Break to shop with some of the vendors at the event:
After a day of networking and shopping, this Diva made her way to Times Square in New York City, for dinner and drinks, and socializing!
Stay tuned for more social events and plus size friendly activites and businesses, bought to you by Ms. Harlem Diva!
Saturday, July 9, 2011
New York vs. LA
-If you dont have a car in Los Angeles, or the surrounding areas, you may as well just forget about having a decent life of any kind in this region. It's transportation system, although somewhat advanced, is nothing comparable to the mass transit system in New York City. If you're visiting the area, a car, and a gps or a person familiar with the area are completely necessary.
-If you're thinking about bringing your flashy NYC glitz and glammer to LA....think again....it seems to be the land of Jeans and graphic tees, so skip out on the shiny Versace P.Diddy pants, and opt for your favorite Levi's and some Vans....you'll fit right in with the locals.
-There were no tolls on the higways and thruways.....now, coming from NY, this was the first thing I noted about driving on the different higways....NO TOLLS! No wonder Cali is over 50 Billion dollars in the Red!!! But who's complaining?
-Plastic surgery is like drinking water in Cali.....essential to all life's functions.
-Hollywood is not as glamorous as you think......especially the surrounding areas.....ewwwww.
-While driving through the hood in Englewood (yes, the hood....I wanted an all encompassing tour), I noticed that there weren't any people outside......how can this be the hood if people didn't hang out on the streets, or chill outside, like they do in many hoods throughout NYC? I was baffled by this phenomenon.
-People have fabulous homes in the mountains in LA......in NY, people live in man-made hi-rises....one for LA!
-I loved the fabulous Atmosphere of LA, the beauty of the beaches, the mountainous regions, and the element of freedom that I possessed while becoming one with nature, and other people who were just chilling.....when I got back to NY, I wanted to cry....it was cloudy, rainy, and filled with miserable people!!!!
Overall, New York is better than Cali if you don't drive. But if you have a car, and you make a living doing something culturally relevant, and you have some money to burn......move to LA!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Preparing for California...Diva Does Cali
Countdown to California....
My flight leaves in the morning, and I am excited about this being my first time on the west coast.
On March 21st, 2011, I posted on facebook "I'm thinking about moving to Cali".....
so, quiet as its kept, this vacation is more than just me wanting to get away to a place i've never been to before...it's more about me scouting the California territory to get a better feel of the environment, and to determine if its a place that I could see myself living.....
I've heard stories about Cali, but it's time for me to check it out on my own.....stay tuned for pictures of my beautiful California Vacation!
My flight leaves in the morning, and I am excited about this being my first time on the west coast.
On March 21st, 2011, I posted on facebook "I'm thinking about moving to Cali".....
so, quiet as its kept, this vacation is more than just me wanting to get away to a place i've never been to before...it's more about me scouting the California territory to get a better feel of the environment, and to determine if its a place that I could see myself living.....
I've heard stories about Cali, but it's time for me to check it out on my own.....stay tuned for pictures of my beautiful California Vacation!
Wonder Woman, Queen of the Amazons...
Underneath my corporate clothing, I wear my Wonder Woman outfit. I have to save the day at work, rescuing innocent individuals from the woes of the world, and at home, I have to save the world from total annihiliation, on a daily basis.
But, I do it with style, grace, and sexiness.....
It's a hard job, but someone has to do it.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Friday, June 3, 2011
Welcome
Welcome to Harlem Diva World!!!! Please subscribe to my blob and stay tuned....the adventure is about to ensue!
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