Stepping Out on Faith: Cassandra Savage

Today's Stepping Out on Faith feature is on plus size boutique owner, Cassandra Savage.  Cassandra is the proud owner of Curvaceous Boutique in Virginia Beach, VA.

PASSION:  Plus size fashion

FORMER JOB: Finance/International Shipping

 

When did you discover your passion?

I've always had a passion for fashion; I attribute it to my grandmother, Daisy and mother, Lady E. These women of strength were the driving force for my keen sense of style and fashion. I stand on their shoulders as the pillars that were the inspiration and the foundation of Curvaceous Boutique.

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

I worked extensively in corporate America In the field of finance and international shipping. 

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

I worked in corporate America  for over 10 years. During  this  time  I  found  it  very  difficult  to  find clothing  that  was  trendy and  age appropriate.  I was corporately downsized in 2007.  Curvaceous  has  been  a  dream  of  mine  for  many  years. There was a need  for fashionable, trendy clothing and the  current  selections  in  commercial  retail  chains  was  less  than desirable. Fashion is set out the expression of an individual. Most today's trend attracts a majority of smaller size as opposed to plus size. It's a "faux pas" to walk around not looking your best when your are plus size.  After much prayer, I stepped out on faith and opened the doors of Curvaceous Boutique in 2007.

What has been one challenge in stepping out and running your own business?

As a business owner in 2012, I am faced with challenged of relationship clients vs. transitional clients and the unstable economy.  

What has been the best part? 

There is not one story I can pinpoint, but  the  constant testimonials via  email and phone  calls of  women  who have  been  inspired  and  transformed  because  of  me  and  my store has been great. My business is not just a store, it’s a ministry.  You  would  never  believe the  countless  young  girls  who were  depressed  because  they  could  not  fit  the clothes in  the mall  or women who  wanted  a sexy  dress  to  go out with  their  girlfriend, but  could  never  find  that  perfect  dress. I am constantly Encouraging, Embracing & Empowering young women to love their curves. I am constantly asked, "Where do you get your confidence from. I tell them Confidence is a girls BEST accessory!

What advice would you give others ready to step out? And specifically those who are interested in opening a retail store? 

Anyone looking to open a retail store should do their research.  There are 3 things people need to know about your business....Who, What & Where? The bible tell us to' Write the vision and make it clear.'  In other words, create a simple, clear plan of what you want.

For more info on Cassandra's boutique, visit her website here:

WWW.CURVACEOUSBOUTIQUE.COM

Stepping Out on Faith: Andrea Fairweather Bailey

Today's Stepping Out on Faith feature is on celebrity makeup artist, Andrea Fairweather Bailey of Fairweather Faces.  

Passion: Makeup Artistry

Former Job:  Dancer/Actress

When did you discover your passion for makeup? 

I discovered my passion for makeup after college. However I was always interested in color. As a child,I used to draw and play with crayons. As a teen, I would do my nails and my friends' nails. I still get excited when I see colors in any form: sunsets,flowers,makeup colors,nail polishes,handbags,etc.

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

I was a performing artist-dancer/actress, before I started to do makeup as a profession. I was working at a makeup counter in a department store prior to starting Fairweather Faces.

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

The 'breaking point' that moved me to start Fairweather Faces came in the form of frustration. I was tired of having my ideas used and not receiving any compensation or credit. I was also disgusted with the prejudices within the industry. Often times, women of color do not get their fair share of compensation nor accolades within the beauty world. I just had enough and felt it was time to step out on faith and move in the direction God was leading me.

What has been one challenge in stepping out  and running your own business?

One challenge I have faced in running my own business is creating a balance to please others. The challenge to take care of the clients and my artists was constantly on my mind where I just could not allow myself to relax. It was difficult.

What has been the best part? 

The best part of owning Fairweather Faces has been to witness the beautiful transformations of the clients and the growth of the artists. It is a priceless experience when you have made another happy because they look and feel beautiful.

What advice would you give others ready to step out? And specifically those who are interested in becoming a celebrity makeup artist?

The advice I can give to anyone who is ready to step out in their respective field would be to have a strong relationship with God. It is vital to be able to carry out one's purpose in life, have peace and guidance along the way and have a refuge to heal. The best decisions I have ever made came directly through prayer and meditating on God's Word. I have seen the power of it and witnessed my dreams (which I thought at times were impossible) become possible because of my faith in God.

My advice to those who are interested in becoming celebrity makeup artists is you must develop a thick skin. It is never about you. It is always about the client. It is a profession of service.Your talent can make or break their image. Therefore you must stay current and strive to always give your best.  The talent is in your hands.

To check out more info on Andrea and Fairweather Faces, check out her website: www.fairweatherfaces.com

And while you are there, make sure you show support and pick up some of her fabulous Fairweather Faces makeup brushes! I got my set last week and love them!

Stepping Out on Faith: Tiffany Freeland

Today's Stepping Out on Faith feature is on Tiffany Freeland, owner and senior pastry designer of Ilene Miriam Pastry Studio based in New York. Some of her noteworthy clients include: Nicki Minaj, Lil Jon, Terrance J, Jesus Luz, and NFL All Pro Dwight Freeney.

Former Job: Fashion Stylist/Accounting
Passion: Baking

When did you discover your passion for baking? 

I've been baking since I was a kid with my grandmother which is who the business is named after, Ilene Miriam Warren. She taught me how to bake from scratch, so Ilene Miriam Pastry Studio has that homemade taste that most franchised bakeries lack. At the same time, customized designs from popular children's characters to leading fashion inspired items, take your sweets to another level. When you get an Ilene Miriam product, you know it's going to taste as good as it looks. 

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

I have a fashion background. I'm an FIT Graduate (FMM Major) and have worked as a fashion stylist and as an assistant brand manager for luxury brands previously. Surprisingly, my most recent job was in the Accounting field.

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

One day, I posted a picture of some Chanel inspired cupcakes on Facebook and the response was amazing. That's when I realized that I actually had a good thing going.

What has been one challenge in stepping out and running your own business? 
My biggest challenge was growing the business while still maintaining a full time job and raising my one year old daughter. Juggling many things at once leads to a lot of sleepless nights but my eye is always on the big picture. 

What has been the best part?  

The best part is being able to express my creativity. Its exciting to get requests for unique ideas. I enjoy the challenge and put my personal touch on each order. I.M. allows me to also extend the opportunity to other creative women. The business has grown to the point where I can assemble a team. Jo-Laine Duke Collins, a phenomenal Event Designer and Aja Whitaker, a talented up and coming pastry designer. Great women who are talented, dedicated and driven! 

What advice would you give others ready to step out?

Have faith in yourself, your team and your products/services. Its also important to have a great support system. Keeping positive people in your circle will allow you to deal with the many highs and lows of starting a business. A strong team is crucial in small start up businesses. Each member has a specific piece of the puzzle to cover. Collectively, we perform as a complete finished product. Lastly, it's important to stay drama free. There are times where your limits will be tested but if you stay true to yourself, everything will fall into place.

Check out some of Tiffany's awesome work! 

For more info on Tiffany and her pastry studio, check out her website:

www.ilenemiriam.com

Stepping Out on Faith: Fatima Doukoure

Today's Stepping Out on Faith feature is on Fatima Doukoure, owner of Bebenoir Boutique in New York, NY.

Former Job:  Advertising Sales

Passion:  Fashion/Running her own boutique

When did you discover your passion? 

I discovered my passion 10 years ago over dinner with friends at an African restaurant in Harlem. We were talking about dreams and aspirations and my partner mentioned that he wanted to have a fashion house. I thought this was a brilliant idea and I wanted to be part of it.  I am also passionate about educating children, particularly girls in my native country of Mali and also projecting Africans in a positive light. Far too often, we are so accustomed to seeing all the ghastly things about Africa. Yes, we have those things but we also have a fashion conscious and artistic population that is often not talked about.

 

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

My former employer made the decision for me. I was laid off in 2009 when the economy was at its worst. We already had a boutique so I decided to go full force.

What has been one challenge in stepping out  and running your own business?  

There are so many it's difficult to single out one specific challenge but if I had to choose, I would say capital. When I had a job, I could rely on my paycheck. Now I have to work harder for less money. 

What has been the best part?   

The best part is seeing your idea evolve to a finished product and also the amazing people you meet along the way. Best example, I met you Nneka through the business and you have truly inspired me. Thank you!! 

What advice would you give others ready to step out?

I would ask them to take their time. One must make sure they are prepared for it all....the good, the bad and the ugly. The mental readiness is what gets you through the everyday stress that goes along with being a business owner.

For more info on Fatima and her boutique, Bebenoir, check out her website:
www.bebenoir.com
OR
Visit her boutique where they offer cute clothes, alterations, custom work, pattern and sample making, and photo studio/workspace rental!
2164 Eighth Ave
New York, New York 10026
(212) 828 5775

Stepping Out on Faith: Jennifer Lucy

Today's Stepping Out on Faith feature is on author & motivational speaker, Jennifer Lucy. 

Former Job:  Executive Assistant

Passion:  Writing, Speaking, & Empowering people across the nation to live their best life in Christ!

When did you discover your passion? I discovered I loved to write and speak as a little girl. I have always written as a hobby and spoke in front of audiences since I can remember. When I began to live for Christ, that’s when I knew I was to use my gifts to glorify Him. As I began to walk in wholeness, I would write devotionals to myself as the Holy Spirit ministered to me. This is how my first book, Dried Tears, A Woman’s Guide to Overcoming was formed.

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

I was an Executive Assistant for a non-profit organization.

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

When I was laid off from my job for the second time in 2 years! In this economy it became imperative for me to trust God, and step out in Faith while using the gifts and talents He’s given me. Jennifer Lucy Inspires was born, and I completed my first book project!  In addition, to my speaking and facilitating workshops I have launched an Administrative Consulting, Personal Concierge business called “Personally Yours.” This business was birthed out of my professional background having been an Executive Assistant for 9 years! I also enjoy serving others and seeing their dreams and visions come to pass.

What has been one challenge in stepping out and running your own business? 
The greatest challenge has been getting used to a “different” pay schedule. When you have a 9 to 5 gig, you have regular paychecks that may come every 2 weeks. When you are newly self employed, the money may not come every 2 weeks, but the great part is it could come every other day, or every week! Networking through social media and other avenues becomes a part of your daily tasks.

What has been the best part? 

Having control over my time has been the most amazing part!  I set my hours and my rules. This allows me to promote my book freely and help others through my business! My ability to serve and give of my gifts and talents are not limited. I feel as though I’m walking on the moon! J

Jennifer's book

What advice would you give others ready to step out?

Have a relationship with Jesus Christ! Pray, a lot! It gets challenging from time to time, but because of my relationship with God, I have been able to hear from Him. Not only does this bring me comfort but I am guided to make the right decisions for my business and for myself. My relationship with Christ has allowed me to have peace when stepping out in Faith!

Lastly, count the cost! Being self employed is a lot of work! Yes I am in control of my own time, but that doesn’t mean I don’t work 8 hours a day. In fact, I work more! I’m just working my passions now so it doesn’t feel like work at all.

Check out more info on Jennifer at her sites:

www.jenniferlucyinspires.com

www.unleashingyou.org

www.twitter.com/thepurposedr

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! 

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!

Stepping Out on Faith: Tracy Mourning

Today is our first celeb Stepping Out on Faith feature on the beautiful Tracy Mourning, wife of former NBA player Alonzo Mourning.  I was honored to have the opportunity to interview Tracy and learn a little more about how she pursued her passion.  Check it out!

        Honey Child originally started off as a clothing line, when did you discover your passion for fashion design?

As a young girl I would reassemble my clothes when I no longer wanted to wear them and make something “new”. Even now, I will change a skirt into a dress or a top and wear it like its brand new.

When did you know you wanted to expand and get into body products?   What made you decide to finally step out and do it?

 I have always appreciated quality body products. Growing up, my mother made sure we had the best body cleansers, moisturizers and quality food if nothing else. So when the opportunity was presented, I relied on what I like and what feels good to me and created a line that reflects just that. A line made for the GODDESS, SOULMATE, MOTHER and FRIEND that all women are. It has come down to preparation and opportunity connecting at the perfect time. I feel like I’ve been preparing for this all of my life so I just stepped out on faith and I’m going for it.

  

In bringing your vision to life, what has been the most challenging part?

The most challenging part for me is the day-to-day business and not just being able to create. I recognize the importance of handling both so I’m not complaining, I’m growing.

What is the best thing about being your own boss?

The best part of being my own boss, even when I worked for or with others, is that I always felt like I was in control of my own destiny. Not in a disrespectful way, in a way that I knew it was up to me to create my own happiness. I do love working from home because I can interact with the daily activities of my kids and wear flip-flops all day if I want to. On the flip side, I have to force myself to not always be so comfortable and get be in a business state of mind.

What advice would you give other women looking to start a business or a line of products?

I would encourage all women in any business to simply learn and love what they do. There is no need to reinvent the wheel. All of our answers are out there, we just have to look and connect to those resources and simply do it.

If you had to choose your favorite product in your line, what would it be?

My “favorites” in most things change all the time. It doesn’t mean that it’s no longer my favorite, it just means that I may sometime have a new favorite.  Today, my favorite is KISS & LOVER.  Tomorrow, it may be others.

Anything else you want to share? 

I just want others to know that with God, all things are possible and that we have to keep moving forward. Follow your passion and live your purpose.

You can find more info on Tracy's line of products at www.honeychild.net. Show your support! :)

 

My Stepping Out on Faith Journey - Journal Entry #3

Poet William Arthur Ward suggested that the key to success is to:

Believe while others are doubting.

Plan while others are playing.

Study while others are sleeping.

Decide while others are delaying.

Prepare while others are daydreaming.

Begin while others are procrastinating.

Work while others are wishing.

Save while others are wasting.

Listen while others are talking.

Smile while others are frowning.

Commend while others are criticizing.

Persist while others are quitting. 
PASSION is the only thing that will give a person the energy to do all this!!

My husband gave me a book recently called Put Your Dream to the Test: 10 Questions to Help You See It and Seize It. This year my plan is to take time to read more inspiring books. They really do keep you motivated because no matter how passionate you are about something, there will always be moments when the fire isn't burning as hot as it once was.  In those moments, I have to remind myself whats important and why I wanted to pursue this in the first place.  I have to remember how satisfying it is to me to see a pile of fabric turn into something wearable.  I have to think of how happy I get when someone tells me how much they love something I loved making.  I have to recall how humbled and honored I feel when someone tells me I inspire them...little ole me.  That's what keeps me going....what keeps me motivated...what keeps me up until 3 or 4 am working on bags or some other project.  And most importantly, knowing that God has blessed me with a gift and given me this awesome opportunity to do what I love motivates me.   Do I still have days I feel like doing nothing? Absolutely!  Do I fall short some days and give in to that feeling?  Absolutely...I'm human!  But each day is a new day and I'm continually striving to do better and be better!

Stepping Out on Faith: Melissa Mangrum

Today's Stepping Out on Faith feature is on Melissa Mangrum of About Face Beauti based out of Baltimore, MD.

Former Job:  Collections 
Passion:  Makeup Artistry

When did you discover your passion?
I discovered my passion for makeup back in 2005 when I was looking for a part time job and found one as a Prestige Consultant for Ulta Cosmetics & Fragrance. I played around in makeup on myself and figured I should make a little money while doing something I kind of enjoyed. It wasnt until 2007/2008 that I started to take the business of makeup serious for myself.

What career field were you in before branching out and how long did you work in other jobs before stepping out to start your own business? I was a bill collector for about 10 years, working in every field possible to collect payments from consumers and businesses. It wasnt until December 2008 that I finally Stepped Out On Faith to do what I believe is one of my true purposes in life...to beautifully bless someone with the art of makeup.

What was your "breaking point" when you knew it was time for you to do your own thing?
I think the breaking point was just knowing that I had to make time to do the things that I was so passionate about, yet I had all the time in the world  (8-10 hours a day) to work for someone elses dream. I would stay up at night trying to "squeeze" my business(es) in. I found myself not enjoying coming to work anymore.  I wasn't as productive as I had been in previous years, or even months. I prayed and thought, I consulted friends...some said DONT DO IT...while others said if you feel now is the time, then go for it. Ultimately it was my decision, and I decided not to return to corporate America in the next new year, January 2009.

What has been the best part of stepping out and running your own business?
The best part for me is knowing that every day I have choice.  I can either be lazy, lay around and not do anything (which wont pay the bills) or I can get up and build something that belongs to me!  Ultimately, I choose the 2nd option!  I still stay up late and wake up early, but there is not one day that I dread it. I get to see my kids off to school in the morning, and pick them up in the afternoon.  There is no babysitter that has to do that for me...which I LOVE!! In September of 2010, I Stepped Out On Faith yet again and moved from Virginia to Maryland with my dream of being a Successful Makeup Artist (and mommy) in one hand and my faith in the other. Its been 4 months and business is going great! I'm planning the work and working the plan. I have to push myself even harder now because I'm starting fresh, but its soooo worth it to me.

What advice would you give others who are ready to step out?
The advice I would give others who are looking to Step Out is follow YOUR voice. There will be critics, naysayers, etc. but what God has for you is already yours. Fear of the unknown can cripple you if you allow it, so never allow fear to step in. Plan, Pray, & then execute from there. Dont worry about the "what ifs". I have FINALLY done things that I NEVER thought I could do, but I'm doing it...so if it has worked for me...it WILL work for you (with proper planning, prayer & execution-of course) ;)

Check out some of Melissa's awesome work! By the way, she also did my lovely makeup for my wedding! :)

 

Congrats for stepping out on faith Missy (as we affectionately call her)! Keep up the great work! :)

Be sure to also check out her website at www.aboutfacebeauti.com !!

My Stepping Out on Faith Journey - Journal Entry 2

Me at one of my trunk shows in 08

"What goes up, must come down. Starting a company is a roller-coaster ride like none other. You will feel broken inside and figure it's time to give it all up. That might be quitting yourself, selling the company, taking a weak deal, or even calling it quits on a smaller scale. DON'T. Emotions are fleeting and cloud your judgment." -Excerpt from Onstartups.com written by Jason Baptiste

You know its amazing to me how one day you can feel sooo encouraged and positive about the path you are on and the next day feel so hopeless and/or discouraged.  Well I've come to learn in life these moments will always come, especially when you are trying to pursue something.  The enemy will attack so we should just expect it and the first place he usually goes for is our mind. That's why we cant trust our feelings...they are too flighty!  Our job is to fight off those attacks and shoot down those negative thoughts with the word of God and what we know to be true.  There have been so many days when I doubt my work and what I'm capable of doing.  One minute I love something I just made and the longer I sit and look at it, I start second guessing it or myself.  One thing I know for sure is that you have to believe in yourself and your product or no one else will! Even on my bad days when I have negative thoughts, deep down I never completely lose my faith.  I thank God for giving me that foundation.  I often think of successful people like Oprah or Donald Trump...Im sure they have had many discouraging days on the path to get to where they are today.  The difference is they didn't let those moments stop them.  They didn't stay down, they pressed on! And that's what I remind myself of every time I feel discouraged or when nothing seems to be happening despite my efforts....gotta keep pressing!

My Stepping Out on Faith Journey - Step 1

Me @ 5 years old

As I told you guys last week, Im going to start journaling my journey as I step out on faith to pursue my passion!  Remember, I'm a work in progress ....and this is just my experience.... so here goes! :)

God gives us all gifts and although some people have yet to figure out what their gift is.... we ALL have one or two or three! Once we have discovered what our gifts and passions are its up to us to figure out what to do with them.  I have always been big on having faith.  But as the bible tells us, faith without works is dead! (James 2:20) That basically means we can have all the faith in the world...but faith alone wont cut it...we are going to have to put some action behind it. 

Growing up, although I always knew I loved doing creative things, I always thought my career path would involve me working for a company and moving up the corporate ladder.  Funny enough, it never even crossed my mind that I could actually work for myself one day doing something I love!  But time goes on and before you know it, Ive graduated from college, started my career, and am genuinely excited about working in corporate America.  Then years go by and I realize more and more each day I have no passion for what I'm doing.  I used to drive to work with tears streaming down my face some days because I felt so strongly that my time there was up.  But then I felt conflicted because although I discovered what truly makes me happy, I felt I was being ungrateful for the job I had.  By most peoples standards, my job was great....flexible schedule, company car, great benefits, etc.  And in this day and time when people are struggling to find work, how dare I complain simply because I cant do what I'm passionate about.  This is what life is about, right...doing things and working in jobs you have no zest or passion for?  WRONG!

I think Step 1 in stepping out for me (before taking any action) was first realizing and truly believing in my heart that did NOT have to be my reality! And it doesn't have to be yours either!


Stay tuned......

"Believe in yourself FEARLESSLY!"

While chatting with my bestie (Jackie) about stepping out on faith, she gave me a great idea to journal my "journey" in stepping out. I love the idea! So going forward, I'll be sharing my a little of my personal experiences, emotions, ups and downs in stepping out on faith to pursue my passion!! Stay tuned for that! :)

This past Saturday was my 31st birthday! My hubby made this birthday very special and I had a great weekend!  I thank God for allowing me to see another year which lets me know my purpose has not been fully served on this earth yet. Isn't that amazing? Every day we are blessed to wake up, we are given another opportunity to live to our fullest potential.  In church today, my pastor talked about giving your best no matter what you are doing and how we should really do everything as if we are doing it for the Lord.  If you think about it like that, it's kind of hard not to give your best in everything you do!
 
On Sunday, I watched the 2010 Black Girls Rock awards show on BET! I loved every bit of it! I think its awesome that DJ Beverly Bond saw the need for a youth empowerment and mentoring organization for young women of color. The awards show recognized a number of black women who have made outstanding contributions in their careers and stand as positive role models in the community.  It was an extremely empowering show to watch and a great reminder that any of us can truly have whatever our hearts desire is....no matter how BIG our dreams are!! Faith, hard work, drive and determination are all you need.  One thing Raven Symone said that stood out to me was that she has heard more people tell her NO than YES and look how extremely successful she is at only 24 years old!! Just goes to show us just because 10 or 100 people have said NO doesn't mean that YES isn't coming!

Lastly, Nia Long who hosted the show shared this statement in the beginning of the show which stuck with me:  "Believe in yourself fearlessly!"  I love that ...because that's exactly what we have to do!! If you don't believe in yourself, who will?

Stepping Out on Faith: Gray Ellis (Cari & Angela)

Today's Stepping out on Faith feature is on Cari Martin and Angela Henderson of GrayEllis.com.

Former Job: Education 
Passion: Fashion

When did you discover your passion? 

"We both discovered our passion as little girls...mixing and matching pieces.  However, we felt a STRONG sense of community and didn't think fashion lined up with that goal!"

What career field were you both in before branching out and how long did you work in other jobs before branching out to start your own business?  

"We were both educators and that's how we met.  We taught for 3 or so years then branched out and started retailing (8 years) and were working at same boutique and realized we could do this!!"

What was your "breaking point" when you knew it was time for you both to do your own thing?
"We knew it was time when we learned all we could from the boutique we worked at.  Angela was the store manager/buyer and Cari was the visual merchandiser.  One day at the boutique we started changing around the store..merchandise etc...and it just FLOWED and it felt amazing.  It's a POWER we have working together...that was the day!"

What has been the best part of stepping out and running your own business?
"The best part is having a VOICE in the world, letting people get to experience "OUR" point of view, being our own boss, and showing women they can take risks."

What advice would you give others who are ready to step out?
"HAVE FAITH....Papa (that's what we call GOD) always makes a way!!"

Anything else you want to share?
"GRAY | ELLIS is an honor of our grandmothers...our ancestors...the women that paved a way before us...we are grateful...PLEASE...SHOP IT UPPP!!"

You can check out the ladies' recently launched online boutique at www.grayellis.com!! Let's show support!! :)

New Beginnings - Stepping out on Faith!

Last Friday marked the end of one chapter of my life and the beginning of a new one!  After putting in 8 years, I'm officially no longer in corporate America and I'm finally truly stepping out on faith to pursue my passion!

To celebrate this new season in my life, my wonderful hubby planned a lil surprise gathering with a few of my friends.  I was soooooo surprised (can you tell by the pic? lol)!!

I am so beyond thankful to have such supportive family and friends in my life!  I know there will be ups and downs of this journey I'm about to embark on but it definitely makes it all better when you have people around you to encourage you along the way.  Here is a pic of the cake they got me and a pic of all of us!

Stay tuned for my new collection of bags on the way!  :)

Girl Photography

Photography has always been one of my secret loves.  Its amazing to me how the purest moment can be captured in a photograph.  I used to always think photography was easy.  I figured all people had to do was aim the camera and click.  Now I definitely recognize that having a great eye is truly a gift and not everyone has it.

Today, I'm featuring a very talented photographer, Nicole Peterson from Girl Photography (pictured to the left with her hubby).  I've had the pleasure of working with her on several occasions (and her wedding has also been featured here on my blog).  We have a mutual friend, Courtney, who connected us and we have stayed in contact ever since.  She has a great eye and is very passionate about her art.

Nicole got into photography right after her wedding when her husband announced that he wanted to start a photography business and she thought why not take it up as a hobby.  Well her hobby blossomed into a passion and pretty soon all she wanted to do was take pictures.  Originally, she wanted to go into pet photography but found that shooting people is so much more rewarding and interesting. What has amazed her the most through her business is how she has been able to touch people's lives by documenting moments that mean so much to them. It has also served as constant renewal to her faith in man because she gets to witness humanity at its best : love, happiness, joy, and kindness.  She is so excited about what lies ahead for her and feels so blessed to be able to pursue something that gives her so much joy and fulfillment.

It's a beautiful thing to be able to do something you love.  I applaud Nicole for pursuing her passion and I am excited as well to see what lies ahead for her!  Check out a few of her favorite shots!

Nicole is based out of the Philadelphia area (but will travel for events as well.)  Check out her website http://www.girl-photography.com/ for more info!

Introducing: Nneka Saran Decor & Design

As you know, my passion is truly all things creative! I just LOVE the idea of seeing something go from nothing to something beautiful! That is the reason I truly enjoy making bags and started a business from it.  However, making bags isn't my only love.  Making  things and being creative in general is what I really love to do and anything that falls under that bucket makes me happy! So with that being said... I have decided to embark on a new venture in addition to my handbag line, event decor and design!!

Its always a little scary when you embark on something new. But God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7)  So I'm stepping out and trusting what God has for me is for me! And what ever is in His divine plan for my life will come to pass! I believe that with all my heart! 

So now I'm looking for a few (maybe 3) clients in the Philadelphia area to work with for FREE! If you or anyone you know in this area is looking for someone to decorate or help plan a kids party, sweet sixteen, baby shower, birthday party or anything of that nature, email me at nnekah@gmail.com!
 
Thanks in advance for all your support!  And if you are reading this and there is a business or venture that you have always wanted to embark on but fear has gotten in the way,  maybe its time for you to step out too!  :)