Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Hostess Elixirs

I love this time of year so much in part because of all of the great festivities! I admire the folks who work to make sure that party attendees enjoy themselves. Charity holiday events, work parties, and the home-based affairs all take plenty of planning from the menus and decorations to the games and party favors. Here are some helpful hints to help you have a great party this year:

1. Many of the company and charity Christmas, Kwaanza and Chanukah parties are done but friends will be having Kwaanza observances for each of the seven days and New Year's Eve is just around the corner. And because the focus of the former is on the children, you'll want them to definitely be learning as well as enjoying. Chatham Hill has great board games like Nguzo Saba to help everyone reinforce the principles.

2. If you are monitoring purchases, why not set up a chess board? Children love the game and it gives them needed alternatives to video game entertainment.


3. When guests offer to help, graciously accept by mentioning that Whole Foods has a great salad bar with a dish that can be brought or other pot luck dish. Your guests won't think any less of you, I promise :).

4. Buy items in bulk if you can. Many grocers, wine distributors and other retailers will give you a discount that makes the larger purchase worth it.


5. Get a great playlist that will last as long as your guests; ask a friend with a talent for song to perform a tune to help entertain...and oh yes--have fun!

Wednesday, December 08, 2010

Mizani Supreme - The Name Says It All



We love Mizani for always keeping us in mind from our busy work days to our fun-filled nights. Their products are great for helping us maintain natural curls. Just the right amount moisturizes the hair thoroughly. It's awesome for blowouts too. And the less time we spend on hair, the more time we have for those fun-filled nights. Definitely a must-have for your winter bag!

Thursday, December 02, 2010

We Got The Jazz!


I love love love jazz music, the whole era of the artform during the 30s and 40s. I found these pics and wanted to share them as many of our favorite tunes for the seasons are from the genre. And...okay...uh...like I said I just love the music. For the parties on your list for the season, be inspired by the great style of jazz cocktail and formal dresses. Sequins, shimmering beading, glossy ribbons are all approved. H&M has a new catalog for more ideas. And they're free in H&M stores. You will even score some steals from the Fall Collections. With all the money you save, start a savings for long-term goals to be met now!

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Thursday, November 18, 2010

What I Listen 2 When N Superheroine Mode

Super Sista

I love African-American superheroines; the context is super surreal to me. Like, sista's probably just going to the store for soy milk or something but she's got to exert superheroineness just to keep her flyness safe from ne'er do well folk who would believe they could tax..Again, love it!

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Sunday Brunch with Tia Williams, Essence.com, and Maybelline

Beauty Editor, Essence.com

Well not quite.  Tia and I were both ready for a just a quick bite to eat on Sunday afternoon after a busy morning of writing fashion pieces (me) and taking a flight that morning for an Atlanta in-store (Tia). But the day just got busier. I was however, able to talk beauty biz with Tia while I got a make-up application (The Maybelline Dream Mousse is a must-have) before she headed back to NYC and I to a matinee staging of Pearl Cleage's Nacirema Society!

Tuesday, November 09, 2010

Autumn Leaves



I love the great outdoors just as much as anyone but the cooler seasons are nice for enjoying the indoors too. Above? A few faves to make this time especially nice!

Saturday, November 06, 2010

Black Girls Rock!

Beverly Bond has successfully parlayed her love for the art of dj-ing into an organization that helps uplift the consciousness of Black girls. Positive images, music, and movements. Can't wait to see the awards ceremony tomorrow night on BET with hostess Nia Long and a array of performers and honorees who...well, rock!

Speaking of Black girls who rock...Chrisette Michele has a new video out. Let us know what you think. It's not a short film like the latest Kanye joint but just as artistic :)

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Eat To Live

Back to the farmers market to get the best of Indian Summer goodness from the Earth!

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Eastern Dining Delight


I made the absolutely delicious vegetarian dinner recently. I made a trip to my local farmer's market for fresh broccoli, cous cous, and tofu. I seasoned the aforementioned with a great sweet chili garlic sauce that I also bought from the farmer's market and had a great meal without any fuss.

Saturday, October 09, 2010

Pursuit of Financial Happiness: Finance Guru Chris Gardner Gives Some How To's

Who doesn't remember the gripping tale of Chris Gardner--the once homeless brokerage firm trainee and young father who--beginning in the Reagan era--began a new trajectory toward entrepreneurship and multi-millionaire status as portrayed in the movie Pursuit of Happyness and starring Will Smith?

The movie was of course, based on the script that came from the New York Times bestseller with the same title. Well, not only does Gardner have a new book--Start Where You Are--he's teamed up with Mastercard to teach the art of becoming and staying financially fit. He is appearing in urban centers around the country. Check the Mastercard website and your local African-American publications for news on when Gardner may appear in you city.

I also have an article on Lynn Richardson affiliated with Russell Simmons's Hip Hop Action Network's financial literacy component on http://thinkandgrowchick.com/

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Double Dutch Madness

We're officially in Indian Summer everyone. Let's enjoy the last of the Italian ices moments, rooftop parties and in the case as depicted here--wall sports? I love it!

Wednesday, September 08, 2010

FNO OMG!

Charitable, fashionable, fun. Mercedes-Benz has a new location--Lincoln Center--and new ways to keep your dollars fueling a stabilizing American economy with this planned extravaganza. Look for more on the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week 2010 right here @ shakirahightower.blogspot.com. 


Saturday, August 28, 2010

Bulletproof Diva

When I was an undergrad, I got this book and it was like a map for the intersections of race, class, and gender. The writer is a daughter of poet Amiri Baraka...you're right in thinking it must be well written. It is!


Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Beautiful Works We Can Wear






There's nothing like a great pair of earrings to accessorize an outfit for the office or for play. Montez Diamond--law school student  and jewelry designer--creates the most beautiful pieces of wearable art. I met Montez a while ago while doing work for a government social services agency. She's especially cool people. Read why and send inquiries about purchasing her work at montez_diamond@yahoo.com!


1) What's your academic, professional, and creative background?


I attended Howard University and majored in English. Currently I prepare documents for Bankruptcy litigation by day and I am an interpersonal communication coach by night.


2) What is your inspiration?

My inspiration is my parents. My parents meet each other through a mutual friend as students at Clarke College which is today the Atlanta University Center. They initially had a true disdain for each other which transformed into a loving and compatible relationship. They as an amalgam inspire me because they are constantly conversant about politics, career challenges, social adversities and more. They epitomize the sheer example of friendship and delight in each other's company even when they are being a nuisance to each other. That is true love....which inspires me to have the same depth of connection in my future relationships.


3) What books are you reading?

The Bible, Who Moved My Cheese, The Shack, and Midnight


4) Favorite comedian?

Saturday Night Live Eddie Murphy and Dave Chapelle


5) Most recent fashion indulgence?

Trenton and Diadora tennis shoes



6) Favorite way to unwind?

Mimicking the vocal mannerisms of singers

[shakirahightower.blogspot.com:   LOL!]

7) Who would you love 2 C wearing your jewelry?

Janelle Monae, Betsey Johnson, Angela and Vanessa Simmons



8) Favorite new must-have snack?

Almond milk


9) Do u prefer Friday nights with the girls or a hunky guy?

A hunky guy will come and go and [while providing] adventurous encounters but Friday nights with the girls are likened to refuge for the soul of a woman.

10) Favorite play list?

The Foreign Exchange, Fred Hammond, From From, Ernest Push, MIA, Janelle Monae, The Roots, Incubus, Born, Peaches, Esthero, Eric Roberson....oh my the list goes on and on.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Nu Card Action!

Only $3 per! Adorable right? Put your own messages inside. I have them for sale now. Giveaways too! Post your comments ASAP. The 17th comment wins! GO!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Wednesday Adventures

The Game, Girlfriends, and Harlem Heights are in syndication or at least on Youtube. But for something new this Autumn on the small screen that will do double duty in the inspiration department--giving us positive images of African-Americans in respectable and important positions and encouraging us to travel, daring paths in life for the greater good--view NBC's Undercovers starring Boris Kodjoe. He plays a CIA agent--who along with his beautiful wife--comes out of retirement to take on the bad guys who mistakeningly thought it was safe to do their dirt. The show's inaugural episode? September 22!

Tuesday, August 03, 2010

Mango Caramel Yogurt!

Not vegan but definitely vegetarian! After a busy day of getting law school preps together and then getting ready for work, I chilled a little with one of these. It's easy to recreate. Let me know what you think!

Monday, August 02, 2010

Nu Music

Les Nubians--the return. So glad to know the latest offering is due for Autumn. Also, Goapele just perfomed with Common in Atlanta this past weekend. Her album Milk & Honey dropped earlier this year.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Lynn On Life

Lynn Richardson is about 5'3 but her perspective and wisdom on life is mega-sized! She's the lady who helps Russell's Hip Hop Summit attendees get their finances in perspective. She can help you too as she's also a life coach.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Summer Fun

I'm back after spending time on freelance writing projects (still in production), event planning, and growing other business ventures. I'll post more data soon.

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Fela On Broadway!


C this!

Radcliffe Darling!


Are u guys weary of Radcliffe posts yet? I ran N 2 him and his brother at the Castleberry Hill art stroll. This piece is quite moving. Speaking of art:   get ready for the National Black Arts Festival...Phildanco, Roy Ayers...need I say more? Also, John Baker's book on the Wessyngton Plantation in Tennessee is a must-read. Went on an educator's study tour there on Saturday. Moving!


 


And I Promise It Only Took 30 Minutes!


It was so hot on Sunday but I wanted a little dessert to go with this awesome herbal iced tea I concocted. I had some sweet potatoes, organic brown sugar and turbinado. I also had some soy margarine and what I came up with looks a lot like this. My plan was to entertain Melanie (Fly Girl #1) Tishana (Fly Girl #2) before returned to that fly Manhattan pad that she just moved in to but our schedules are insane! Next time ladies!

Guess Who Came 2 Chill?

I plan to chill hard to this brother's groove when I'm on the Vineyard with the boys this summer! First got hip to him via my Esquire magazine! oxoxoxoxoxoxo!Still feeling the vibration he left during his ATL visit!



Okay, wow! The boys and I had an amazing time checking out this lady's show! Lots of hip hop in her ATL performance! And we're loving this ad! Banana Rep folk know what they are doing...



This man was also in the ATL recently and what can I say? Hope 2 C U N D.C.!

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Event Success!

My Sex and the City 2 event featuring the wne and art sampling @ Ludacris's Atlanta Straits restaurant location was fun! Luda's precious daughter and coolie-most mom were in the house and just as charming as ever. My new friend--Will--is Luda's personal chef. Though he failed the SATC quiz on the series, he's cool peoples LOL! The ladies and gents also enjoyed luxe gift bags from shakirahightower.blogspot.com!
Some featured goodies were from H&M, the Body Shop, YSL and Ralph Lauren . Didn't get a chance 2 join us? Don't worry the next event will be held soon!

Thursday, May 20, 2010

This Is Adrene...


And This Is Adrene's Boutique...

We met on set for the upcoming My Black Is Beautiful taping. While I'm an extra who closely shadows hostess Alesha Renee, Adrene's featured for her dynamic styling techniqes.
The episode airs on BET on Sunday, May 30, 2010. But join us for the red carpet grand opening of the Atlanta location of the store. The rompers and jewelry are truly off the hook and nicely priced!

Fab 5 Event - We're Meeting @ Ludacris's Straits Restaurant for Sex and The City2, Art, Wine, and FUN!

FAB



5







Celebrate




 

Sex AND THE City 2


and

 

shakirahightower.blogspot.com







An evening of



Fabulousness and fun



To usher in the latest adventures of Carrie and The Girls



We’re joining Ludacris and friends



at his



Atlanta Straits Restaurant location



For Wine and Art Wednesday



May 26, 2010 from 5:00-7:00pm



The first Fab 5 to RSVP enjoy



a complimentary drink special

Monday, May 17, 2010

Casting Call 4 All Glamour Girls

Glamour Magazine wants u to help pub the brand. Go to http://www.glamalert.com/glambassador/  for details. Thanks Quia Querismatic for the info! This dynamic lady blogger can be found at http://www.google.com/profiles/querismatic...

Nanny She Is Not


If u mistake Veronica Chambers for anyone's nanny, it will more than likely be the last time u do. She explains in the June 2010 40th anniversary issue of Essence that the mistake however, is made all too often when she is out with her daughter, born to Chambers and her white husband.

She's such a gifted writer. Get this one in along with the other items on the reading list!

Emily's New One


We all loved to hate the selfish specialties, she's so astute at spinning. Hopefully, she won't disappoint us with the recipe that has consistently put Giffin @ the top of New York Times bestseller's lists. We look forward to the Q&A @ this week's ATL reading!

More Than A Beach Read!

 
I couldn't be more excited about this work from the root.com writer. She's adorable as you can see and we all get insight on her thought-provoking perspectives on the state of African-American dating and relationships.Marieclaire's most recent issue gives us an idea of what to expect as the book does not debut until next month. I look forward to reading my advanced copy this week courtesy of Harper Collins. The publishing team there is forwarding the tome as we speak as well as details on the book tour. Studio Museum of Harlem and Spelman College's Fine Art Museum are my votes New York and ATL dates, by the way. Cheers Joanna!


Thursday, April 15, 2010

Rachel Roy Madness!

Just checked out a runway show @ Neiman's and Rachel was on hand to chat about her line. Surprised to see that she's super tall. Not surprised to find she's superstunning--like her latest collection!