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Tag: Lifestyle

  • Amazing Grace Decor: From ICU Nurse to Event Design Star

    Meet Olubukola Grace Adebayo, better known as Amazing Grace! By day, she’s a dedicated ICU nurse tending to critically ill patients. But when the scrubs come off, she transforms into a luxurious event designer and planner, bringing breathtaking visions to life for clients across Staten Island and the NYC area. It’s a demanding dual career, but for Grace, it’s all about balance and celebrating life.

    From Healing to Hosting: A Unique Balance

    Grace works three 12-hour night shifts as an RN, leaving her the other four days to dedicate to her thriving event decor business. This schedule, she explains, provides a unique sense of balance. “Monday through Wednesday I’m seeing people on the other side, and then on the weekend I’m see people on the other side,” she shared. “So to me it just makes my life more balanced.” Witnessing life’s fragility in the ICU fuels her passion for celebrating life’s joyous moments through her event designs.

    Her business, Amazing Grace Decor, is named with inspiration from her middle name and the positive feedback she receives. While she has a team that assists with planning, Grace’s true passion lies in the design aspect. She also recently launched a rental branch, recognizing that many clients enjoy a DIY approach and offering them the chance to rent statement pieces like chandeliers, chairs, and custom furniture.

    Building a Business with Family Support

    Grace emphasizes that building her business from the ground up over the past 12 years wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of her family. As a mother of four and a wife, her husband, children, and mother-in-law have all played instrumental roles. “You need all the support you can get,” she stated. “So I’m fortunate to have an amazing husband. It’s the pillar behind this business.”

    She recalls the early days of building her inventory, working multiple jobs to save up and acquire pieces little by little. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is simple yet profound: “You just have to put the work in. Work hard and then you start building little by little.” She encourages newcomers to ignore the social media noise and focus on their own path, assuring them that steady progress leads to success.

    DIY Decor Tips from the Expert

    For those who love a DIY approach to event styling, Grace offers valuable advice:

    • **Set A Budget:** Always start by determining your budget and prioritizing what’s most important for your event.
    • **Choose A Color Theme:** Selecting a cohesive color palette can make any event look great, regardless of the budget.
    • **Take Advice:** Listen to your decorator or planner; they often have insider tips and shortcuts for achieving a polished look.

    Grace’s business continues to grow, with an expanded showroom in a former funeral home turned luxury display space. This new setup allows clients to see, touch, and discuss their visions, fostering a collaborative and fun planning process. Her dedication to both her nursing career and her event design business is a testament to her strength, passion, and commitment to celebrating life’s moments.

    Have you used Amazing Grace Decor or have a favorite DIY event tip? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below!

  • Hellen Obiri Shatters NYC Marathon Record

    In a moment that truly rewrote the history books, the 2025 New York City Marathon saw an incredible performance that had everyone talking. For the first time in 22 years, a long-standing course record was not just challenged, but absolutely shattered, all thanks to the phenomenal Hellen Obiri. This win is more than just a victory; it’s a landmark achievement in marathon running.

    A Historic Victory for Hellen Obiri

    Kenyan runner and three-time Olympic medalist Hellen Obiri didn’t just win the women’s division of the prestigious NYC Marathon; she dominated it. Obiri blazed through the challenging 26.2-mile course, crossing the finish line with an astonishing time of 2 hours and 19 minutes. This incredible feat makes her the first woman ever to conquer the New York City Marathon course in under 2 hours and 20 minutes.

    Speaking after her monumental win, Obiri expressed her elation. “I feel so great… I actually didn’t know it was a course record until the finish line and they [said] that,” she shared in a press release. “I’m so happy to break the course record… My mind was there … for [a] win or to be a podium.”

    More Than Just a Race

    The NYC Marathon is always more than just a competition; it’s a powerful symbol of human endurance, community, and hope. In a year marked by significant global events, seeing thousands of runners and spectators unite across all five boroughs offered a much-needed sense of collective spirit. It’s a reminder of what we can achieve when we come together.

    From elite athletes like Obiri to everyday runners and individuals with disabilities, each participant carries their own unique story and motivation. The marathon becomes a canvas for countless tales of perseverance, pushing limits, and celebrating the human spirit. It’s truly inspiring to witness.

    A Legacy of Excellence

    Hellen Obiri’s record-breaking performance cements her status as one of the greatest distance runners of all time. Her dedication, training, and mental fortitude are evident in every stride. This win at the NYC Marathon adds another incredible chapter to her already illustrious career, which includes multiple Olympic medals.

    What inspires you most about marathon running? Share your thoughts and favorite marathon moments in the comments below!

  • Michelle Obama: White House Fashion Told ‘Story of America’

    Michelle Obama, the former First Lady, is opening up about the powerful message behind her fashion choices during her time in the White House. In her new coffee table book, ‘The Look,’ set to release on November 4th, she reveals how her style was a deliberate effort to tell ‘the story of America’ and celebrate its diverse population.

    Fashion as a Narrative

    Speaking with Robin Roberts on ‘Good Morning America,’ Obama explained her intentional approach to fashion, particularly highlighting emerging American designers. She recalled choosing a young Jason Wu for her husband’s first inaugural ball gown, recognizing his talent and his story as an immigrant American. “I want to emphasize that in these times, because our fashion industry is very dependent on strong immigrant Americans who come here and do great work,” she stated.

    Obama reflected on the nation’s identity, emphasizing the inclusive spirit that led to Barack Obama’s two presidential victories. She noted that during challenging economic times, it’s easy for people to feel lost and susceptible to blaming others. However, she stressed that the true strength of America lies in its diverse population – “Black, brown, Puerto Rican, Mexican, American, Italian, Irish, Haitian – come on. You know, that’s the story of America, right? And it is the most true in fashion.”

    Evolving Style and Public Scrutiny

    During her eight years as First Lady (2009-2017), Michelle Obama became renowned for her elegant, modern, and accessible style. ‘The Look’ captures many of these iconic moments, from her final state dinner in a Versace gown to a powerful Sergio Hudson suit at President Biden’s inauguration. Her style has evolved since leaving the White House, embracing a bolder, freer expression, exemplified by her viral thigh-high glitter Balenciaga boots during her ‘Becoming’ book tour.

    Obama acknowledged the intense scrutiny that public figures, especially women, face regarding their appearance. She noted that while every First Lady experiences scrutiny, she felt a particular need to be thoughtful and deliberate with her choices, especially in the early days of the Obama presidency. “You can’t afford to get anything wrong,” she explained, adding that she wanted to make mothers and grandmothers proud by showing up with “thought and consideration and energy and light.”

    Key Themes from ‘The Look’

    • Fashion as a tool to tell the diverse ‘story of America’.
    • Intentional spotlighting of emerging and immigrant American designers.
    • Celebrating the nation’s multicultural identity through style.
    • Evolution of personal style post-White House.
    • Navigating public scrutiny and its impact on women’s appearance.

    ‘The Look’ promises to offer a deeper dive into these themes, exploring how fashion can be a powerful form of communication and a reflection of both personal identity and national values. Obama’s insights offer a compelling look at the intersection of style, politics, and cultural representation.

    What are your favorite Michelle Obama fashion moments? How do you think fashion can tell a story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Ami Colé Founder Joins Skims Beauty

    Sometimes, a perceived setback can be the catalyst for an even greater opportunity. Just ask Diarrha N’Diaye, the brilliant founder behind the much-loved clean beauty brand Ami Colé. Following the recent closure of her award-winning company, N’Diaye is stepping into a powerful new role as the Executive Vice President of Beauty and Fragrance at Skims.

    From Founder to Executive: A New Chapter

    N’Diaye shared her excitement about the transition, reflecting on her journey: “I have sat on salon floors, worked eight-hour shifts at beauty retailers, started a company, and am now taking an executive seat at a beauty brand promising to bring a fresh approach to beauty.” She emphasized her extensive experience, stating, “I have been around the block, and I’m happy to bring this vault of knowledge to Kim’s beauty closet to work on a new wave of inclusive beauty for all.”

    Her vision for Skims Beauty is clear: to create a “second-skin experience” for customers, bridging the gap between Skims’ renowned apparel and a comprehensive line of makeup, hair, and fragrance products. N’Diaye aims to ensure everyone feels represented, a mission that deeply resonates with Kim Kardashian, co-founder and chief creative officer of Skims.

    The Legacy of Ami Colé and the Power of ‘Failing Forward’

    N’Diaye left an indelible mark on the beauty industry with Ami Colé, launched in 2021. The brand quickly gained a devoted following, particularly within Black and brown communities, for its commitment to clean ingredients and its focus on shades for melanin-rich skin. Ami Colé pioneered inclusive skin tints and sparked a lip oil trend that continues today.

    However, N’Diaye candidly shared the challenges of navigating the market, where investor focus shifted from inclusion to more conventional standards. Despite the difficult decision to close Ami Colé after nearly four years, she hopes her story serves as an inspiration to “dare to fail forward.”

    A Testament to Talent and Authenticity

    Kim Kardashian praised N’Diaye’s unique ability to blend the emotional and practical aspects of beauty. “She has an incomparable talent at marrying the emotional and tactical sides of beauty, and her instincts and experience for innovation and authenticity will power our brand,” Kardashian stated. This move signifies a significant step for Skims Beauty, aiming to build excitement around beauty rituals while simplifying the process and emphasizing skin health.

    Regardless of one’s personal feelings about the Skims brand, N’Diaye’s appointment is a cause for celebration – another highly qualified Black woman stepping into a significant executive leadership role in the beauty industry.

    What are your thoughts on Diarrha N’Diaye’s new role at Skims Beauty? Share your excitement and predictions for the brand’s future in the comments below!

  • Nicki Minaj Thanks Trump on Nigeria, Sparks Backlash

    Rapper Nicki Minaj has found herself at the center of a social media storm after publicly thanking former President Donald Trump for his strong stance on the alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Trump’s remarks, which included a threat of military action, prompted a mixed reaction, with Minaj’s expression of gratitude drawing significant attention.

    Minaj’s Gratitude and Trump’s Threat

    On Saturday, November 1st, Minaj took to X (formerly Twitter) to share her appreciation for Trump’s condemnation of what he termed the “persecution of Christians” in Nigeria. She reshaped his Truth Social post, stating, “Reading this made me feel a deep sense of gratitude.” Minaj emphasized the importance of religious freedom, adding, “No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion. We don’t have to share the same beliefs in order for us to respect each other.”

    Her comments followed Trump’s forceful statement on Truth Social, where he threatened to take swift and decisive action, including potentially invading Nigeria “guns-a-blazing,” if the Nigerian government did not immediately address the violence against Christians. He claimed to have instructed the Department of War to prepare for such action.

    Nigeria’s Response and Online Criticism

    Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu responded to Trump’s remarks via X, asserting that Nigeria is a democracy with constitutional guarantees for religious liberty. He stated that his administration actively engages with leaders of all faiths and is working to address security challenges affecting all citizens. Tinubu pushed back against the characterization of Nigeria as religiously intolerant, calling it an inaccurate reflection of the nation’s reality.

    However, Minaj’s public thanks to Trump quickly ignited backlash online. Many users criticized her for aligning herself with the former president, with some questioning Trump’s own religious sincerity and others pointing to his policies affecting vulnerable populations. Comments ranged from calling Trump a “charlatan” to labeling Minaj’s fanbase and Trump supporters as “internet terrorist organizations.”

    Context of the Conflict

    It’s important to note that the violence in Nigeria, particularly in the northern and central regions, is complex and involves extremist groups, criminal organizations, and resource conflicts, affecting both Christian and Muslim communities. While Christians have indeed faced severe losses, experts emphasize that the situation is not solely driven by religious animosity.

    What are your thoughts on Nicki Minaj’s comments and the ongoing situation in Nigeria? Share your perspective in the comments below.

  • Ami Colé Founder Diarrha N’Diaye Joins Skims Beauty

    Big news in the beauty world! Diarrha N’Diaye, the brilliant founder behind the celebrated beauty brand Ami Colé, has officially stepped into a new executive role. She’s been appointed as the Executive Vice President of Beauty and Fragrance at Kim Kardashian’s Skims Beauty. This marks a significant milestone for N’Diaye and a major expansion for the Skims brand.

    A Vision for Inclusive Beauty

    In her new capacity, N’Diaye will be instrumental in shaping the future of Skims Beauty. Her responsibilities will encompass product development, driving innovation, and crafting the overall brand strategy for Skims’ growing beauty division. This move signifies Skims’ commitment to expanding beyond its successful apparel line into a comprehensive beauty empire.

    N’Diaye shared her excitement with The Cut, reflecting on her journey: “I have sat on salon floors, worked eight-hour shifts at beauty retailers, started a company, and am now taking an executive seat at a beauty brand promising to bring a fresh approach to beauty.” She added, “The sky really is the limit, and I want every little brown girl to know that.”

    Bringing Expertise to Skims

    Kim Kardashian expressed her enthusiasm for the new partnership, stating in a press release, “I want Skims Beauty to be a place where everyone feels represented, and there was no better person to help us do that than Diarrha.” N’Diaye herself is eager to contribute, saying she’s “excited to bring in best-in-class formulas and a customer-first mentality to Skims Beauty.”

    This appointment follows the recent closure of N’Diaye’s beloved brand, Ami Colé, which she launched in 2021 with a mission to celebrate melanin-rich skin. N’Diaye acknowledged the end of Ami Colé with grace, stating, “I am proud to have lived my dream out loud, failed, and dusted myself off into an amazing new opportunity to continue to do the work.”

    N’Diaye’s transition to Skims Beauty heralds a new era focused on inclusivity, cutting-edge innovation, and authentic representation within the beauty landscape. Her deep understanding of the industry and passion for serving diverse consumers are poised to make a significant impact.

    What are your thoughts on Diarrha N’Diaye’s new role at Skims Beauty? Share your excitement in the comments below!

  • Armand de Brignac: Champagne for Every Milestone

    Life is full of moments that deserve more than just a simple toast. Think about those late-night study sessions culminating in a diploma, or those game-changing boardroom decisions that redefine your career. Each triumph has its own unique rhythm, and Armand de Brignac believes there’s a perfect champagne to match every accomplishment.

    The Liquid Symbol of Success

    When it comes to celebrating success, Armand de Brignac, with its iconic gold, rose, and platinum bottles, has become synonymous with achievement. It’s a brand that elevates the feeling of accomplishment, turning every win into a truly memorable occasion. Let’s explore how different Armand de Brignac cuvées align with specific professional milestones.

    Brut Gold: The Foundational Achievement

    For graduating with a major academic degree (like a B.A. or master’s), the Brut Gold is the perfect starting point. Its tasting notes of fresh biscuits, crystallized citrus, and a lingering finish with refined acidity mirror the foundational success of completing rigorous studies. It’s the most accessible cuvée, setting the stage for future triumphs.

    Rosé: Launching Your First Big Project

    That moment you finally launch your passion project – your podcast, boutique, or food truck – calls for something bold. The Armand de Brignac Rosé, with its bright red fruits and hint of smokiness, offers a complex and creative profile. It’s ideal for celebrating that first major entrepreneurial step beyond the ordinary.

    Blanc de Blancs: Professional High-Points

    Reaching a significant professional milestone, like a major promotion or receiving a prestigious award, deserves a symbol of purity and accomplishment. The Blanc de Blancs, made from 100% Chardonnay, offers notes of green apple, coconut, and lilies with a crisp finish. Its refined character perfectly complements reaching a professional peak.

    Demi Sec: Celebrating Philanthropy

    Giving back to the community is a hallmark of success. For those involved in large-scale philanthropic or community work, the Demi Sec is the ideal toast. Its sweeter profile, with notes of buttered brioche, compote fruits, and chocolate, suggests warmth and generosity, fitting for celebrating service and uplifting others.

    Blanc de Noirs: Elite Accomplishments

    For those rare, elite achievements – think lifetime awards or unparalleled recognition – the Blanc de Noirs is the ultimate choice. As the most exclusive and limited cuvée (100% Pinot Noir), its aromas of dried fruits, roasted almonds, and black fruits like plum and fig embody the rarity and prestige of a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment.

    Limited Editions: Landmark Personal Moments

    While not standard cuvées, Armand de Brignac also releases ultra-limited special editions, such as Vintage 2015 Blanc de Noirs or unique golfer’s editions. These are perfectly suited for celebrating major personal milestones, like significant anniversaries or the birth of a child, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to life’s most cherished moments.

    What professional milestone would you celebrate with a bottle of Armand de Brignac? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • MacKenzie Scott Gifts $118M to Howard & Spelman

    MacKenzie Scott is making waves in the world of philanthropy, and this time, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are the major beneficiaries. In a remarkable display of generosity, Scott has gifted a combined $118 million to two esteemed institutions: Howard University and Spelman College.

    A Transformative Investment in HBCUs

    Howard University is set to receive a substantial $80 million, while Spelman College will benefit from a $38 million donation. These gifts are unrestricted, meaning the university leadership has the autonomy to allocate the funds where they believe they are most needed. This flexibility allows for strategic investments that can address immediate needs and long-term goals.

    Spelman College plans to utilize its portion of the gift to enhance financial aid and scholarship programs, ensuring that talented students can complete their education without financial barriers. Additionally, the funds will support the modernization of its technology infrastructure, aiming to improve the academic experience and prepare students for a digital future.

    Supporting Howard’s Growth and Medical Programs

    Howard University’s $80 million gift will be divided, with $63 million allocated to the university overall and $17 million specifically designated for the Howard University College of Medicine. This significant contribution aims to support the training of more medical professionals, upgrade university facilities, and crucially, help mitigate the financial impact of the ongoing government shutdown, which has affected federal funding.

    Interim President Wayne A.I. Frederick expressed profound gratitude, calling Scott’s investment ‘historic.’ He highlighted that the funds will bolster student aid, advance infrastructure, and build a reserve fund to ensure operational continuity, academic excellence, and research innovation. The $17 million for the medical college is expected to accelerate the expansion of its new Academic Medical Center, enhancing medical education and patient care.

    A Commitment to Educational Equity

    Rosalind “Roz” Brewer, interim president of Spelman, emphasized that the investment is a powerful affirmation of the college’s mission and commitment to educational excellence and equity. The flexibility of the gift allows Spelman to swiftly strengthen the student experience, modernize technology, and expand financial opportunities for its scholars.

    This latest round of donations brings Scott’s total contributions to HBCUs to approximately $381 million in recent months. Her philanthropic efforts continue to demonstrate a strong commitment to investing in historically underserved communities and empowering future leaders.

    What impact do you think these significant donations will have on Howard and Spelman Universities? Share your thoughts on MacKenzie Scott’s philanthropic approach in the comments below!

  • Michael Che Slams SNAP Halt: ‘Really F— Up’

    You know Michael Che from ‘Saturday Night Live,’ right? Well, the hilarious comedian is using his platform to speak out about something serious: the temporary halt of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). He didn’t hold back, calling the situation ‘really f— up’ and sharing his thoughts on why it’s a deeply flawed system.

    Che’s Candid Instagram Post

    On November 1st, as the SNAP program faced a suspension that impacts 42 million Americans, Che took to Instagram to voice his strong disapproval. He pointed out the disturbing trend of people celebrating the inability of families, particularly Black families, to buy groceries. This sparked a larger conversation about how we view welfare and aid in America.

    Che highlighted a perceived hypocrisy in how the country treats poverty. He noted that while wealthy individuals or corporations might be seen as ‘gaming the system’ with fewer repercussions, poor people who find ways to make ends meet are often judged much more harshly. This double standard, he argues, is especially evident when it comes to Black communities.

    Drawing the Line at Feeding the Poor

    The comedian urged people to consider where we draw the line, stating, ‘I [know] the hustle is to hate each other here so we can fight in the comments and up our engagements, but let’s draw the line at feeding the poor.’ He believes that focusing on division distracts from the real issue of ensuring basic needs are met.

    Che’s perspective is deeply personal. He shared his own upbringing in New York City, recalling experiences of relying on ‘free cheese and powdered milk’ and the embarrassment of using food stamps. He emphasized that this wasn’t a glamorous experience, but a necessity that highlights the struggles many face.

    The SNAP Program and Government Shutdown

    This situation arose due to a temporary halt in federal aid, announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture amid the government shutdown. However, there was a glimmer of hope as federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island ruled that the administration must use emergency reserves to continue at least partial payments. The administration was given a deadline to comply or respond.

    • SNAP halt impacts 42 million Americans.
    • Michael Che criticizes the program suspension on Instagram.
    • He points out racial and class disparities in aid perception.
    • Che shares personal experiences with food assistance.
    • Court rulings offered a potential reprieve for payments.

    What are your thoughts on Michael Che’s powerful statement about the SNAP halt? Share your perspective in the comments below!

  • Terrace Martin & Suntory Launch Japanese Whisky

    Get ready for a unique blend of music and spirits! Grammy-nominated producer Terrace Martin, known for his work with artists like Kendrick Lamar and Snoop Dogg, has partnered with The House of Suntory for an exciting new venture. Together, they’re launching a limited-edition Japanese whisky called Toki Black.

    The Inspiration Behind Toki Black

    This collaboration isn’t just about putting a name on a bottle. The project also features Japanese jazz artist Ryota Nozaki, also known as Jazztronik. The resulting composition, inspired by the whisky itself, embodies the Japanese philosophy of ‘Ichigo Ichie’ – the concept that each moment is unique and unrepeatable. The name ‘Toki’ itself means ‘time’ in Japanese, further emphasizing this theme.

    Suntory captured the creative process, releasing both a film and a special vinyl record. Side A features an improvisational session between Martin and Nozaki, while Side B presents Martin’s modern take on the music. Martin described the experience as “beautiful,” noting how music, love, and the whisky brought everyone together despite language barriers.

    Navigating Brand Collaborations

    BLACK ENTERPRISE caught up with Martin after the launch to discuss his approach to brand collaborations. He revealed that his interest in the Suntory opportunity stemmed from the team’s family-like atmosphere and their shared goal of aligning their brands. “Everybody had tons of great ideas. Their ultimate goal was to make sure both of our brands were aligned,” Martin shared.

    When evaluating potential brand partnerships, Martin prioritizes integrity and mission alignment. He also seeks advice from fellow artists like Herbie Hancock and Snoop Dogg, who have shared positive experiences when pairing with the right brands. This collaborative spirit is something Martin values, especially as a Black artist who has maintained long-term relationships with his creative crew.

    Advice for Cross-Cultural Collaboration

    Working with musicians from a different cultural background was a new experience for Martin. His advice for navigating such collaborations is simple yet profound: “expect the unexpected, remove all ego, and go into each situation with an open mind and open heart.” This philosophy seems to have been key to the success of the Toki Black project.

    This partnership between Terrace Martin and Suntory is a testament to how creative collaborations can bridge cultures and create unique products. It’s a reminder that when art, business, and shared values align, exciting new ventures can emerge.

    What do you think of this collaboration between Terrace Martin and Suntory? Are you excited to try the Toki Black whisky? Share your thoughts in the comments below!