All set for Phoenix!

So Im officially all set for my Phoenix trunk show now.  After spending the past 3 weeks doing nothing but sewing, Im as ready as Im going to be.  I swear it always feels like there is just never enough time to get everything done.  But I am excited about visiting Phoenix for the first time, meeting alot of new people and definitely excited about escaping the east coast weather for a bit. Although it has been warming up a bit lately... it hasnt come anywhere near the 87 degree days over in Phoenix right now! I may not want to come back! :)

As always, I'll be sure to keep you guys posted on how the show goes along with some pictures!
SN: Check out one of my newer bags I debuted at the NY trunk show.  Such a fun statement piece! I'll be posting it on my website next week along with a few other new bags!  Ciao!

My 1st Office/Work Space!!

Me signing lease

GOD is soooo good! On Friday, I signed the lease to my first office/work space! Words can't express how excited I am about this!  I knew I would move into a space one day but had no idea it would happen so soon!  This is a true testament to the fact that God's plans are better than anything we can dream up on our own.  And when we relinquish our own plans (which can be hard to do often times), and trust in His plan for our lives, He will really show up, show out, and blow your mind! 

I recently started a attending a class at my church called Faith Works.  The instructor made a comment during our first class that really stuck with me.  She said there is a lane through the universe with your name on it and when you are in your lane, things just seems to work out.  I truly believe that God has blessed me with an opportunity to operate in my "lane".  And the beauty of life is that there are truly enough lanes for us all!  Which means there is no need for us to ever really compare ourselves to someone else and what they are gifted to do.  There is a purpose and/or gift God has blessed only YOU to have in this world and that's an amazing thing! 

Here is a picture of my new office.  Its not a huge space but its the perfect size for now.   And you all know I cant WAIT to paint and decorate this space! A blank canvas to me is like being a kid in a toy store! In other words, its extremely exciting! :)   I will be sure to keep you posted on the progress once I start decorating it.  Stay tuned!

Stepping Out on Faith: Tanya of Majormusthaves.com

Since starting my blog, I've had the chance to meet a lot of really great people online.  One of my new friends is Tanya, founder of MajorMustHaves.com.  I ran across her blog awhile back and immediately fell in love with her sense of style and the inspirational words she shares.  In talking to her over the past year, I have learned a lot about her journey in becoming a fashion stylist so I thought she'd be great to feature.  This girl epitomizes beauty inside and out.  Among many things, she's a wife, mother, hair stylist, and friend.  She has such a sweet spirit, caring heart, and a killer shoe game! :)  So with her permission, today's posting is on my girl, Tanya!

Passion: Fashion & Hair

Every since she was a little girl, Tanya has always loved fashion.  In addition to being a hair stylist, she stepped out on faith two years ago to become a fashion stylist as well.  She actually shares an equal love for hair and fashion because they both involve making people feel good about themselves.  She plans on doing both as long as she can.  

 

The idea of becoming a fashion stylist came about after her best friend suggested she try it.  All of her friends would always call her for fashion advice anyway so it just made sense.  Tanya admits she is still learning the ins and outs of the business but the journey is great.  She loves it.

The best part about stepping out to pursue her passion  has been meeting great people.  She figured if she can do something she loves, she'd never have to "work".  She is also a believer in taking chances.  When God has your back nothing can stop you.

In 2009, Tanya started her own blog, Majormusthaves.com where she shares a little of her life and of course all her fabulous clothes.  It has grown tremendously in popularity and has become a favorite blog of many young women who love to see what she will wear next and pick up a little inspiration along the way.  She lives by faith in every aspect of her life.  Tanya is often asked what advice she would give someone aspiring to become a stylist.  She advises to step out on faith in life in everything you do and to never give up.  Also be willing to work for free because it'll pay off in the long run.

Lastly, one of Tanya's favorite fashion tips is to make friends with your tailor.  She can turn trash into treasure with the right vision.

If you would like more info on Tanya, check out her blog here and check out a few pictures of some of her uber cute outfits below! 

Say What? Love at first sight…...

It felt as though I met my soul-mate or something.  I mean, my heart began to flutter, birds began to chirp, and I think I even heard a harp playing soft gentle music the moment we met.  There I was in Borders Bookstore, searching for my favorite monthly magazines minding my own business, when my eyes fell upon: Munaluchi Bridal!! “….for the bride who craves culture and style”.  And that’s exactly what this magazine delivers.

The pretty shiny cover that featured the gorgeous LaLa Vazquez (Carmelo Anthony’s Wife), in her Vera Wang gown, is what first caught my eye.  Immediately I began to flip through the pages and that’s when the indulging began.  Page after page unveiled beautiful women of color in stunning gowns and bridesmaid dresses.  It featured cute shoes, flowers, and of course engagement rings; I couldn’t get enough!

Oh, and Munaluchi also covers venues, cakes, invitations, decorations, and basically all things bridal.  Need I mention, this issue features 78 pages of real weddings, including a DIY wedding they titled “Urban Chic”, which totally reminded me of Nneka ;) 

I so love this magazine!  The only thing is, Munaluchi is published a mere 2 times a year, which is a complete bummer, yet since I adore it so much I won’t complain.  So check it out!  And FYI, they accept real wedding submissions!  Who knows, you may be in their next issue ;)  Maybe I’ll be in there too, then again  I guess I should get engaged first, lol!

Forever Chic,

Crystal Pearl

Guest Bloggers on All Things Creative!

I'm so excited to announce that starting today I will be featuring guest bloggers periodically!  And Im happy to welcome Crystal Pearl based in Chicago to Nneka Saran & my blog! Be sure to check out her postings coming up! :)

My thrift store find!!

Today I decided to stop by the thrift store to see if I could find any furniture pieces I could revamp and came across 2 chairs and a small ottoman!  I got all three pieces for $23!! What a steal!!  Stay tuned to see how I paint and reupholster these! I cant wait! :)

Stepping Out on Faith: Crystal Griffin

Today's Stepping Out on Faith feature is on Crystal Griffin, owner of Crystyles Boutique, in Atlanta, GA.  

Former Job:  Medical field
Passion:  Fashion

When did you discover your passion for fashion?
I discovered my passion for fashion around the age of 11.  I would always watch the runway channel. I loved to see the models walk the runway and check out all the clothing they used to wear.

What career field were you in before stepping out to start your own business?

I was in the medical field.  As much as I wanted to step out, take a chance & leave my job, I was eventually  forced out.  I was laid off of my job on Oct 19, 2010.   Believe it or not,  it was actually 3 days before I launched my business online.

What was your "breaking point" when you knew it was time for you to do your own thing?

I just kept feeling the urge to walk off my job.  Everyday I would go to work and pray to God for a clear answer about what I should do.  Ultimately, the choice was made for me.  Two days before I was laid off, I decided I would call it quits at the end of the year.  But I guess God had a different plan for me that I didn't see which allowed that to happen sooner than I thought.   And from that, I was blessed with my own store front!

What has been the best part of stepping out and running your own business? 
The best part is seeing something you have worked so hard for & dreamed of for years finally come to pass. Having the opportunity to do your own thing & knowing that your success lies in your own hands is great.  No more putting so much time, sweat & tears into another company where you're not appreciated.

What advice would you give others ready to step out?
I would tell anyone to face your fears and just do it!  Be prepared for what can come, the good or bad.  Just know you will never know how far you can go if you never try.  Remain very faithful and determined throughout your journey & keep positive people in your corner.  The road to success is not easy but it is very rewarding at the end.

If you are in the Atlanta area, be sure to check out Crystyles Boutique located at:

2115 Piedmont Rd NE. Suite 3106

Atlanta GA 30324

404-249-9333 or 1-800-558-9975

And be sure to check out her online shop here.  This will also be the location where I have my Nneka Saran Atlanta trunk show on April 9! So be sure to stop by and support her new business! Congrats again Crystal!