Good Help is Simple to Find

It isn't all our fault. It's these guys who are making us so popular. :)

Thank you to Jameka Whitten, CEO of JSW Media Group and her team for their dedication and persistence.  If it snows on October 2nd (yeah right!), we know the exposure will render a great attendance because of their hard work.

With an extensive background in journalism, communications, business and marketing, Renaissance woman Jameka S. Whitten is poised to take the entertainment industry by storm. 

She is the owner of JSW Media Group, a boutique public relations, marketing and brand management firm focused on the entertainment, fashion and publishing fields. Jameka was the Co-Founder and former Executive Creative Director for SOTAC (State of the Arts & Culture) Magazine (now SOTACi) but resigned at the end of 2007 to pursue opportunities with JSW Media Group. In addition to owning JSW Media Group and serving as CEO, Jameka is the Chief Operating Officer for Amped 4-A-Cure, Inc, a non-profit organization that supports cancer research through music. She is also a managing partner with the|FASHION HOUSE, a full service fashion agency. 

Visit www.jswmediagroup.com and learn more about how their services can improve your event and business.

We're in Daily Venus Diva Magazine!

(By the way, we love Maddy!)

What's In a Name?

“The Plus Academy”...let’s dissect this.

plus

- positive; having a certain quality to an unusual degree; more by the addition of; a surplus or gain

academy

- a group of authorities and leaders in a field of scholarship, art, etc., who are often permitted to dictate standards, prescribe methods, and criticize new ideas.

So, essentially...”we are the authority, the dictator of standards in the field of plus modeling which leads and educates women who possess the most positive and unique qualities.

You are that woman. We are the Plus Academy.

10.2.10 Spirit Square, Charlotte, North Carolina...be there.

Who is T. Strong?

T. Strong is The Plus Academy CHARLOTTE instructor of "Who's Your Stylist?" and "Know Your Foundation" for the Fall 2010.  Get to know her...

She is the go-to resource for style advice for the every day, yet chic and fashionable woman. From Red Carpet reporting to reviewing the hottest new fashion trends or answering the age old question “Can I wear black and brown together?” through her blog “StyleMayvin”, T. Strong’s strength lies in the ability to interpret the fashion and style for every woman and the commitment to assist her in putting her best manicured foot forward.

The Source Magazine - Macy's -  Sean John

As early as a pre-teen, T. Strong was intrigued by fashion. This early love of fashion resulted in over 10 years of semi-professional modeling and professional fashion experience in NYC beginning as a buyer for Federated Department Stores (now known as Macy*s Group). This position began the eternal quest to understand fashion from all angles. She later held positions at Nautica Enterprises, Lord & Taylor and Renault Printemps/Redcats USA (parent company of Gucci) as a Buyer/Product Manager which included a position with Lane Bryant's Catalog Division as well as with some of the world’s largest publications; Conde Nast, Essence Magazine (Time Inc.) and The Source Magazine.

Lane Bryant - Essence Magazine - Gucci

While learning the business of fashion, T. Strong “double-majored” in fashion show production and special events by freelancing as well as creating a private corporation to gain the inside track of the industry. T. Strong is the former co-owner/co-founder of Strong Godfrey Burke Allen (sgba) Productions, a fashion show and special event production company founded in 1998. In its day, sgba produced fashion shows and events for The American Cancer Society, The Source Magazine, Gear Magazine, BCBG, Diane Von Furstenberg, Sean John, James Caviello, RocaWear and numerous seminars for the original, Miami based Urban Fashion Week to name a few. The company was later disbanded but the knowledge gained from the experience has broadened the level of fashion expertise T. Strong brings to any project.

Nautica - Lord & Taylor - BCBG

Recently, T. Strong answered the call as a fashion expert for WGIV 103.3 providing regular segments on style and fashion events. She served as one of the red carpet correspondent for the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund Fashion Show “Front Row” (2009), Mistress of Ceremony for the Red Pump/Red Tie Affair in support of World AIDS Day, has been featured on FOX Network’s Morning News segment “Wardrobe Wednesday” (Charlotte) and presently produces the segment “Life & Style Tip of the Week” on FOX every Monday. Currently, T. Strong is the host of the Queen City's very first makeover show, “Speaking Fashionese” which airs on Creative Loafing's website. Her sparkling, energetic personality and knowledge of fashion adds grandeur and finesse to the content of the show. As a blogger, T. Strong continues to keep readers worldwide “In the KNOW…” with weekly updates on www.stylemayvin.com and is presently one of Old Navy's official bloggers providing them with information on shopping experience and personal merchandising choices.  T. Strong resides in Charlotte, NC with her husband and three children.

Old Navy - Fox News - Creative Loafing

She's who you want to know.

Interview with Full Figure Plus: "The 10 Questions Series"

I had the honor of being interviewed recently by famous blogger, Glen Johnson, owner of Fullfigureplus.com.  Go check it out and let me know what you think.  (I labored over the answers to his questions. :)

Read it here.

Also, HUGE thanks to Joy Randall of Flawless Makeup Art, Yeng Moua of YMDezign for incredible looks & photography, and Sparrow Boutique for the hot accessories in my latest photo shoot. 

Anique Brewer, Founder & CEO of Vanity 7 Studio

Anique Sahara was born in New York, NY and raised just a few miles outside of the city in Montclair, NJ.  She has danced for over 20 years and is currently a professional dancer/choreographer whose work has taken her all over the globe.  Anique studied dance at the world renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. An outstanding student, she was chosen to perform at many Ailey Company gala events at venues such as Lincoln and City Centers in New York City.  Under the training of the AAADC’s exceptional instructors, she studied such dance forms as Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Dunham, African, and Flamenco.  While studying at Howard University in Washington DC, she began her professional career as member of the Washington Wizards Dance Team.

After completing her degree in Communications and Theatre Arts, Anique moved to Los Angeles, CA where she signed with premier dance agency Bloc LA.  She has worked with such choreographers as Fatima Robinson, Lauri Ann Gibson, Brian Friedman, Jae Blaze, and Jerri Slaughter just to name a few. She has danced in music videos for P. Diddy, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Mary J. Blige, Drake and other premier recording artists. Her live performances include, but are not limited to, the MTV Video Music Awards, VH1’s Hip Hop Honors, ABC’s American Music Awards, and the World Music Awards along side artists such as The Black Eyed Peas, Jermaine Dupree, Joss Stone and Stevie Wonder.  Anique also danced for Grammy nominated artist Jamie Foxx’s nationwide “Unpredictable” tour, and Grammy Award winning artist Kelly Rowland’s worldwide “Commander” promo tour. 

In addition to performances Anique teaches master classes and workshops. Her technical training and experience in the industry provide her students with an elite professional assessment of their performance. In 2009 Anique developed Vanity7Studio a celebrity style “Glam Squad” service for the ladies of Charlotte, NC where she is based. V7S specializes in Alternative Fitness, Makeup Artistry, Wardrobe Styling and more.

Anique continues to work with only the best that the dance world and music business have to offer and enjoys bringing that knowledge and experience to her Vanity7Studio clients and workshop participants.

More information about Vanity7Studio can be found at www.vanity7studio.com.

Yolanda Zellous, owner of Star Size Studios

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to believe." -Walt Disney.



Yolanda Zellous learned this at the tender age of five when she was introduced to her a career that would pave the way for her passion, Theatre. Yolanda believes in dreaming big and not playing it safe. Her passion, drive, and talent paved ways for Yolanda to work with talented directors such as Tyler Perry.  This optimistic woman of virtue is a firm believer of putting God first in everything she touches.  Her family calls her blessed.  Her work is blessed. Zellyo Productions is blessed.

Because of this drive talent and faith, Yolanda has appeared in several  productions: Tyler Perry’s Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Madea’s Family Reunion and The Gospel, to name a few.

Yolanda's years of experience, talent faithfulness, and zeal inspired her to start Zellyo Productions, Inc., a company created for, presented by, and starring real women with curves that provide real issues, happenings, and solutions. This mission was created to motivate encourage and uplift the plight of “Big Boned Women" and children that are often looked over.
Her years of critiquing her talent, artistry, and incentives to work faithfully inspired her to create.

"

I have developed characters that I carry with me at all times and they a part of my performances. “My strength enables me to deliver the best performances to my audience," Zellous expresses.  Zellous has been an accomplished artist on stage and someday her dream is to have a starring role in a major film.  Culminating her comedy and dramatic style that overtures a blending combination of natural energy, Zellous continues to write, produce, act and direct films.   She continues her quest as she embarks upon a new journey she will share with the world in her self proclaimed book, "Spirit of Big Boned Women: Your Destiny is Bigger than Your Size".

Zellous wears many hats. Some call her an actor, acting coach, talent agent, author, playwright, speaker, mentor, casting director,  or advocate. Those who know her well call her a blessed virtuous woman of God.



Learn more about Star Size Studios.

"Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised."

Jay Jarvis of BLUReverywhere

Ever wondered how one comes up with specific color combinations? Jay Jarvis can explain it! This “visionary of color palettes”, began her attraction to colors and patterns as a young teen. She started sharing her ideas with friends and that led to her budding interest in the styling world.   After her introduction to modeling with Ms. Gwen Devoe at the age of 20, her love affair with fashion took off.  

Jay   has styled shoots featuring both straight size and full-figured women. While styling, she and her business partner Tiffany “Tip” Jones decided to push the “fashion envelope” to its edge!  BLUR Custom Dezigns (now "BLUReverywhere"), was birthed.   BLUR was a customized clothing line designed specifically for the full-figured woman.  Jay had the honor of being the Head Designer of the company.  BLUR has been featured in Plus Model Magazine, in over a dozen fashion shows, Baltimore's Fox 45, Radio One Baltimore 92Q Jams, Richmond 92.1 and 98.3. 

Jay now studies at the world renowned Fashion Institute of Technology, where she will receive a degree in Accessory Design this coming May. Through the sharing of her knowledge of colors, graphics and patterns, she continues to change the minds of unsuspecting “fashionistas” one pattern and color at a time!  Stay tuned for more stylish, color popping items from Jay Jarvis and her business partner Tip Jones in 2011! One word…BLUR!

Yolanda Zellous of Star Size Studios

"All of your dreams can come true if you have the courage to believe." -Walt Disney.

Yolanda Zellous learned this at the tender age of five when she was introduced to her a career that would pave the way for her passion, Theatre. Yolanda believes in dreaming big and not playing it safe. Her passion, drive, and talent paved ways for Yolanda to work with talented directors such as Tyler Perry.  This optimistic woman of virtue is a firm believer of putting God first in everything she touches.  Her family calls her blessed.  Her work is blessed. Zellyo Productions is blessed.

Because of this drive talent and faith, Yolanda has appeared in several  productions: Tyler Perry’s Diary of a Mad Black Woman, Madea’s Family Reunion and The Gospel, to name a few.

Yolanda's years of experience, talent faithfulness, and zeal inspired her to start Zellyo Productions, Inc., a company created for, presented by, and starring real women with curves that provide real issues, happenings, and solutions. This mission was created to motivate encourage and uplift the plight of “Big Boned Women" and children that are often looked over.
Her years of critiquing her talent, artistry, and incentives to work faithfully inspired her to create.

"I have developed characters that I carry with me at all times and they a part of my performances. “My strength enables me to deliver the best performances to my audience," Zellous expresses.  Zellous has been an accomplished artist on stage and someday her dream is to have a starring role in a major film.  Culminating her comedy and dramatic style that overtures a blending combination of natural energy, Zellous continues to write, produce, act and direct films.  She continues her quest as she embarks upon a new journey she will share with the world in her self proclaimed book, "Spirit of Big Boned Women: Your Destiny is Bigger than Your Size".  

Zellous wears many hats. Some call her an actor, acting coach, talent agent, author, playwright, speaker, mentor, casting director,  or advocate. Those who know her well call her a blessed virtuous woman of God.

"Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised."

Joy Tribble of Walking Curves

Joy Tribble is the Founder of Walking Curves™, a plus size women's walking and fitness group dedicated to the health, wellness, fitness and fun of plus size women. She’s been a plus size model for the past 8 years, a contributor on Life Size Radio, a radio show that covers many topics concerning plus size women, the Communications Director for Plus Academy Atlanta, and she’s also the new spokesperson for Plush Boutique, and upscale plus size women’s clothing store in the heart of Atlanta, GA. 

Having been in the plus size industry for many years, Joy felt that there wasn't enough conversation being had about the “fitness side” of being a plus size woman.  Joy says, “Sure, we love to dress well, keep our hair and nails done, and we certainly know how to pick out a fly stiletto, however, when it comes to working out and health related issues, we tend to look the other way, myself included.”

She created this organization as an outlet and a safe haven for women of a particular size that want to be inspired, encouraged, congratulated, and above all SUPPORTED! Please join her in this quest to take a proactive role in becoming more health conscious. The goal is not to be "skinny', it is however, to be healthy…

“They’re you’re curves, be healthy in them”

Angela Pitre of Manners Made Fun

Angela W. Pitre is the Chief Manners Advocate for Manners Made Fun, Inc.  She developed her unique and fun way of teaching manners for children originally, but has expanded her curriculum to include a family based do it yourself program called Homemade Manners as well as classes for Individuals.  Mrs. Pitre is now teaching her manners classes to all ages, was a featured weekly columnist for www.CafeMom.com, is a guest speaker and is rapidly becoming the go-to-source for Individual and Family Manners.  Her philosophy of manners is rooted in empathy and respect.  She can be reached via email MrsP@MannersMadeFun.com or by phone 704-919-1962. www.MannersMadeFun.com

Ashley "Runway Bey" Owens

Ashley Owens, also known as Runway Beyonce or Runway Bey is truly the epitome of a plus size fashionista.  Ashley began her modeling career as a participant in one of Gwen Devoe’s workshops, and has been ripping the runway and representing for the plus sized community since.  

Ashley has worked with local entertainment agencies and photographers, as well as national entities such as Devoe Signature Events and Blur Custom Dezigns.  Ashley’s mission is to break the rules and boundaries that society has set for the plus community and let everyone know that “plus girls can pump too!” 

Ashley is also a freelance makeup artist, and has worked with the My Black Is Beautiful tour encouraging women of color to embrace their heritage, and celebrate their own personal beauty.  

Kamonda Phillips of Geopology Designs

Transforming lives one room at a time by empowering others to discover the beauty within their home is the mission of Kamonda Phillips, certified Design Psychologist, and Spiritual Life Coach.  The owner and principal designer at Geopology Designs; Kamonda demonstrates mastery in translating harmony and balance between the scientific, spiritual and practical applications of interior design.

Since childhood Kamonda has had an innate ability to walk into a room and immediately visualize the transformation of the space.  This gift of being able to sense the energy of a room and the impact on its occupants led her to study Interior Design, Color Theory, Feng Shui and ultimately Design Psychology. 

Kamonda maintains a high level of service, integrity and compassion in her work. She is committed to inspiring her clients to create beauty in their external environment while experiencing peace, harmony and balance in the internal spirit.

Kamonda is a member and featured Columnist in C.H.O.I.C.E magazine. She has appeared on FOX News Rising, serves as a Design Consultant for a spiritually based publication, is the Director of GeoKids Creative Arts Program, hosts a De-Clutter Your Home and Life Seminar and is currently working on a design project for The Ronald McDonald House of Charlotte.

Kamonda is available for appearances, seminars, and guest-speaking events. She can be reached by phone 704.625.0053 or email at designs@geopology.com.  www.GEOPOLOGY.com

Joy Randall of Flawless Makeup Art

Joy N. Randall is the owner and sole proprietor of Flawless Makeup Art in Charlotte, NC, and is one of the industry's best kept secrets! A licensed cosmetologist with over 5 years experience, this young lady knows that it's not always about a product as much as it is about the artist. 

She has worked for companies such as MAC Cosmetics, L'Oreal and Cover Girl to name a few, and has been published in various magazines such as People and Sophisticates Black Hair with covers to her credit! She has worked with major networks like VH1, BET, and TV One! 

Her work can currently be seen on VH1's Fantasia For Real! She has also worked in film, and runway. Basically whatever requires make up, This girl does it! From flawlessly natural to fantasy...she gives it to you mild, spicy, and just plain hot.  www.FlawlessMakeupArt.net

Joshua Craig of Helpful Nerd

This past summer Josh and two friends, Jason McCullough, and Andrew McGouirk founded Helpfulnerd.com a Web Design & Development Firm and educational blog. Josh had become the go-to tech guy for friends and family which inspired him to create his own company around the proud fact that he’s a nerd! 

Josh's unique Web design talents include a keen eye for use-ability, interface design and development standards. Brainstorming, collaboration and creative meetings are what Josh lives for in this industry. Web design challenges him to find a way to deliver a unique Web presence for each client he serves at Helpfulnerd.com. "I like the idea that every business is different and every site needs to be unique, just like its owner."

It is "creating something new each time" that gets Josh out of bed in the morning and keeps him happily tethered to his mouse. One of Josh’s passions is helping first time users realize that putting a website online does not have to be a painful process, it can actually be a lot of fun.

When Josh is not blogging or designing sites for clients he is tinkering with computer parts, cuddling with his MacBook, watching the Science Channel or the latest movie release. Josh also enjoys keeping up with his favorite tech gossip, cold beer, and the company of friends. www.HelpfulNerd.com

Kafi Robinson of Lady Iman Photography

Kafi Iman Robinson is an up-and-coming photographer from North Carolina, showcasing her talents in media and the world of fashion. Under her brand name Lady Iman Photography, Kafi is successfully emerging as a talented visual artist known for her tasteful and very keen eye for photography.

Her journey as a photographer began at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2005. As an undergraduate studying journalism, Kafi successfully completed courses in news writing and photojournalism. Throughout her college career, Kafi served as a staff writer, photographer and editor for various campus publications. These activities have strengthened her skills in many areas of the media industry; however, her passion still lies with photography.

In 2009 upon earning her bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication, Kafi sought out to make Lady Iman Photography a household name both locally and nationally. To date, she has been a contributing photographer for Photographer’s Forum Magazine, Salon News USA, ExpoStyles Exposure Magazine and Haute.lanta Fashion Week in Atlanta, GA.

With her professional work ethic and humble nature, Kafi has built a highly-esteemed reputation for Lady Iman Photography -- a reputation that she plans to carry with her throughout her career.

Jameka Whitten of JSW Media Group

Entrepreneur|Writer|Speaker 

With an extensive background in journalism, communications, business and marketing, Renaissance woman Jameka S. Whitten is poised to take the entertainment industry by storm. 

She is the owner of JSW Media Group, a boutique public relations, marketing and brand management firm focused on the entertainment, fashion and publishing fields. Jameka was the Co-Founder and former Executive Creative Director for SOTAC (State of the Arts & Culture) Magazine (now SOTACi) but resigned at the end of 2007 to pursue opportunities with JSW Media Group. In addition to owning JSW Media Group and serving as CEO, Jameka is the Chief Operating Officer for Amped 4-A-Cure, Inc, a non-profit organization that supports cancer research through music. She is also a managing partner with the|FASHION HOUSE, a full service fashion agency. 

Aside from being an entrepreneur, Jameka is a speaker/spokesperson available for commercial, editorial, event hosting and television/video assignments. Jameka holds a bachelor's in Communication Studies with a concentration in Broadcast Journalism from Northwestern University and a master's in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix. 

Jameka is an avid reader, community activist and also manages to write poetry in her spare time. Jameka is committed to philanthropic causes and embraces the idea of making a difference in the lives of others very seriously.  www.JSWmediagroup.com

Cory Bradley of New Birth - Charlotte

Cory Bradley has served as the Senior Worship Leader and Director of the Worship Arts
Ministry of New Birth-Charlotte for the past 6 years where Bishop Terrell L. Murphy serves as
Senior Pastor.  Having been apart of shaping the worship ministry from the inception of the
ministry, he has acquired a focus in developing pioneering models of worship in the culture. He is
a seeker of the transformative power of worship in the life of the believer; investigating how the
local church translates the corporate worship experience into every sphere of life and ultimately opening access to the life of God for all of humanity.  Cory also has been gifted with a divine energy to facilitate cross-cultural worship experiences.

Sensing a devoted call and commitment to the restoration of the Tabernacle of David, Cory
activates his capacities through teaching, coaching, and leading congregations in worship; he
takes joy in connecting with worship leaders in the local church helping them to discover and
thrive in the unique sound of their specific house of worship. He has traveled globally serving
the Presiding Bishop of the Global Apostolic Council, Bishop Eddie L. Long and Second
Presiding Bishop Terrell L. Murphy. He loves people and values nothing greater than hearing
and communicating the voice and heart of God to this generation.

Fred Braziel of Media Arts Collective

Frederick Charles Braziel a native of Compton, CA, is both a still photographer and film and video production specialist. Now a Charlotte, NC resident, Fred offers over sixteen years of professional experience, specializing in an array of products. Sports, Models, Portraits, Weddings, along with Music video, Corporate Video, and feature film production, if it’s done with a camera, Fred can get it done!

In the spring of 2010, Fred partnered with Photographer John Strayhorn to form the Media Arts Collective, a unique alliance of photography and video specialists. Our mission is to provide the greater Charlotte area and beyond with the best quality photographs and video, while preserving the artistic qualities of life’s special moments. www.MediaArtsCollective.com

Jessica Macks of the stage play, "Ain't Misbehavin'"

Born in Queens, NY but raised in Conway SC, Jessica had a variety of influential people in her life that encouraged her to be the best that she could be.  She has always entertained friends and family members throughout the years. She has an inevitable personality that will always cause you to smile or laugh. 

Jessica had a dream of pursuing a career in the entertainment business which led to her graduating from Johnson C. Smith University in 2003 with a BA in Music Business. She’s currently pursuing her Master’s in Vocal Performance at Winthrop University.   Throughout the years she has been able to work as an A&R director of an indie label and sing background for gospel artist such as Patrick Love, Kenny Curry and countless other artists.  

Jessica’s extracurricular activities include:  member of the National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment (NABFEME), a non-profit professional organization dedicated to the support and empowerment of women of color in recorded music, the media, and related entertainment industry fields; beginner voice teacher; acting with Flipped the Script and On Q Production Agencies; working for JSW Media Group as an account manager and managing artist. 

As a member of Temple Church International, she sings regularly with the praise team and choir. To make sure that the same opportunities, which were granted to her by others, are offered to the younger generation, Jessica also assists as a youth counselor.  Jessica's will is that people are able to come to see Jesus Christ through laughter and joy, also through the encouragement of the word of God. 

Deanna Allen, owner of Vertical Tease Fitness Boutique

DeAnna Allen, a native of Columbus, Ohio is the owner of Vertical Tease (Formerly Tease Fitness Boutique), an exclusive group fitness studio in Charlotte, NC.  She has always been passionate about dancing, and its ability to tell a story as the body rhythmically sways to music. However, she recently discovered the benefits of pole dancing as an extension to her fitness routine. DeAnna loves the art of pole dancing and how it boosts the confidence of those who try it.  Her goal is to empower women, and help them to get in tuned with their own sensuality, while strengthening and toning their bodies through artistic pole dance. www.VerticalTease.com

Shakira Clark of NouriTress Healthy Hair Systems

Shakira Clark is a 21st century styling phenom who’s making huge waves in the hair industry. As a nationally renowned platform artist, Shakira has appeared in Bronner Brothers, Black Sophisticates, Hype Hair,X-Treme Hair, Universal Salons, Salon Sense, Atlanta’s Glory Hair, Abc Stylez (Atlanta, GA), Council Magazine (DC), Lstylez (Alabama), Klipz Magazine (LA), Prestige Hair (Detroit, MI) magazines and other publications.

Her career as a stylist began upon attending and graduating respectively from Dudley Beauty College in Durham, North Carolina. While in school gaining the necessary knowledge and tools needed, Shakira was known for her ambition and determination. She was a part of the Dudley Junior Platform Style Team where she perfected her skills in Updo Styling and Diverse Cutting. During her time in school, she trained under some of the industry’s finest platform artists; Patrick Bradley, Amos Jordan, Harvey Moore and Micheline Barber. After graduating, she continued her education and was privileged to study under the tutelage of Irene and Ralph Parson; International Directors/Platform Artists (formally of Dudley Products). This career choice birthed the desire to become an educator of her craft, traveling the world and sharing knowledge with other up and coming stylists. 

Having been afforded the opportunity to have worked with Soft Sheen Carson Products (a brand of L’Oreal), Shakira is an International Educator for the eastern region and throughout the US. She has worked with celebrities and personalities such as Maria Dunbar (Spunkey from the Flava of Love Season 2), Wendy Wiltz and Sina Serae from America’s Next Top Model, R&B Singer Monifah, Simone Shepeard from BET's Hell Date, Actress Tondy Galant and many more.  

July 2010, Shakira was also apart of the NC Glam squad that worked on the production of Nicci Gilbert's Soul Kittens Cabaret featuring Nicci Gilbert, Fantasia, and Faith Evans. Shakira is currently managed under DUI (Diva's Unlimited  INC) under the leadership of CEO, Rhonda Wilkins.  Shakira is the director of education for NouriTress Healthy Hair Systems. Keep watch for Shakira in 2011, she is definitely THE STYLIST on the RISE!

Todd Albaum of Fashion101Plus.com

After selling a retail business of 18 years, Todd Albaum had the opportunity to re-invent himself and do something he loved. Having taken a trip to Italy with his wife, Robyn, Todd rediscovered his passion for fashion. Once a student at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) in New York, Todd had dreams of being in the fashion industry. But as fate would have it, timing wasn't right. Now, his timing would be perfect.

In September 2006, Todd combined his strengths in retail and flair for fashion to open a plus size boutique in Charlotte, NC. In researching the plus size clothing market in the Charlotte metro area, Todd discovered no boutiques catered solely to the plus size woman.

The need for better styles, choice, and one-on-one service was clear. Unlike anything Charlotte has seen, a refreshingly new, fashionable plus size clothing store would be born. Scarlett, named for the strength and beauty in empowering women, honors the determination of Scarlett O'Hara's character from the Oscar winning classic, "Gone with the Wind." 

Now join Todd, plus size fashion guru, as he brings his expertise direct to you with monthly fashion education video tutorials. You’ll work with your online personal style consultant to help you dress for your shape, shop for plus size clothing approved for your body type, and much more ― all within a custom social network so you can share the experience. www.Fashion101Plus.com

Featured on the "Bella Style's Blog"

Photo: YMDezign
MUA: Flawless Makeup Art, Joy Randall
Accessories: Sparrow Boutique

Early this morning (and I do mean early lol), I received a text from my friend and colleague, Bella Styles about being featured on her blog after she one of the new pictures by YMDezign.  In my sleepy stupor, I typed, "YES!"  I was honored, excited, and now, after reading it, simply humbled.  I was made "The B-Styles Curvy Girl of the Day"! Check it out.

Bella Styles is a Fashion Stylist & Event Planner (www.bellastyles.net), the Fashion Editor with Skorch Plus-Size Magazine (www.skorchmagazine.com) and the Director of The Plus Academy Virginia (www.plusacademyvirginia.com). Here she shares her perspective on everything from fashion, modeling, plus-size info, beauty, traveling and more!!!

Thank you, Bella, for selecting me (and waking me :) to be The B-Styles Curvy Girl of the Day!

NFL veteran, Brentson Buckner, at PA Charlotte Open House

The Plus Academy CHARLOTTE is the epicenter for plus model training and development.  While we will focus on many attributes of the outer woman, we intend to explore and edify the inner woman as well. None other than the famous Brentson Buckner, former NFL defensive tackle for the Carolina Panthers, will be our celebrity special guest at the Open House on October 2nd and will be speaking about the "Beautiful Woman You Are."

Buckner played college football at Clemson University, and was a first-team All-ACC selection in his senior year. In addition to ranking fourth all-time in school history with 46 tackles for a loss, he also set a schoo record with a 1,220 pound lift on a leg sled. Buckner was selected in the second round (50th overall) of the 1994 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. After missing the first three games of the season, he played in the last 13, and started both playoff games. During one game against the Buffalo Bills, he blocked a field goal. The following season, he was a regular starter for the Steelers, and was an integral part of the defense that led them to Super Bowl XXX against the Dallas Cowboys. After one more year with Pittsburgh, he was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs during the off season. He was picked up by the Cincinnati Bengals before the 1997 NFL season. He missed two games that season with an injury suffered against the Steelers, his former team. He signed with the San Francisco 49ers before the next season. He notched his third career blocked field goal against the team he would later play for, the Carolina Panthers. He played with the Niners for three seasons before joining the Carolina Panthers as an unrestricted free agent before the 2001 NFL season. 

Buckner joined with Julius Peppers, Mike Rucker and Kris Jenkins to form what many experts called the most dominating front four defensive line in football. The four led the Panthers defense to Super Bowl XXXVIII against the New England Patriots.

He is now retired from football and hosts a midday show on WFNZ in Charlotte, NC with former NFL Offensive lineman Frank Garcia. The Frank and Buck Show airs weekdays from 11a-3p. He has also been seen on the NFL Network and ESPN as an NFL analyst. He is a minister at New Birth Charlotte. 


(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brentson_Buckner)