Minding Their Business: Keilan Fotography

Keisha Walker, President & Lead Photographer of Keilan Fotography

She is freelance photographer who is a native of Maryland. She specializes in event photography. She began taking photographs at a very early age. She started this art as a hobby that was never ending and became the family photographer. As her passion for photography grew, so did her appetite for excitement. This led her to becoming a professional event photographer and she has never looked back since. Her work as been featured in Sister 2 Sister Magazine/ The Washington Post-Kids Post / CBS Radio Inc., WPGC 95.5 Website/ Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Mid-Atlantic States, Inc and more

Contact Information:
P.O. Box 3373
Laurel, Maryland 20709
Phone: 301-537-4685
E-mail: Keilan_Fotography@yahoo.com
http://www.facebook.com/KeilanFoto?sk=info

Minding Their Business: A Touch of Ooh La La

Good Morning World. It's been a minute since I wrote a blog post. I have been busy as a bee. We are going to kick off the the next phase of Minding Their Business with A Touch of Ooh La La Event Planning. Monica is owner and Sr. Event/Wedding Planner and Decor Specialist at A Touch of Ooh La La Event Planning. In addition to event planning, Monica also specialize in customize gifts, invitations, concierge services and much more. Please support this beautiful lady's business. From the looks of her work, Ms. Monica is serious about elegance and beauty. For bookings email her at atouchofoohlala@verizon.net and check out her site at www.atouchofoohlala.com.

Minding Their Business: Beyond The Vision

A few weeks ago, a Facebook friend of mines added me to this group called DCity Life DMV Go Getters. I really adore this group. It's a group where entrepreneurs can network, encourage and build relationships. So, when I posted on the Group's wall that I would showcase any and all businesses, Mrs. Tee emailed me right away. Mrs. Tee's work is absolutely amazing. Its crisp, fresh and simply beautiful! For booking and rates check out her website at www.beyondthevision.net

Mind Their Business:Barrett's Lawn Service

Barrett's Lawn Service was established in 2010 by Phillip Barrett Jr. Mr. Barrett is a motivated young businessman who saw an area of need within the MD/DC/VA area. Many of the areas lawn services focus on the larger areas that need to be serviced. Our philosophy is that of a customer service oriented small business! We service all residential and commercial properties. Service contracts available!

We offer a wide range of lawn care services that include:
Lawn Maintenance
Cutting
Edging
Trimming
Yard clean up
Aeration/Over seeding
Tree/branch removal
Hedge trimming
Landscaping services
Landscape Design
etc.

Phillip Barrett Jr.
Barrett's Lawn Service
240.501.5901
phillipb82@hotmail.com

People You Should Know: Rai Monique

I met this Style Maven a few years ago at a friend's birthday dinner. She was as sweet as a strawberry now-n-later and her style was impeccable. Usually when you meet a pretty girl their attitude sucks but Ms. Rai was so humble and genuine. Even when I text her for style ideas, she happily answers any questions. Her dedication to her craft is breath taking and motivating. So, when I decided to add a new segment to this blog, she was the first person that came to mind. Please support this sister in her pursuit of fashion domination.

Bio:

Rai Monique established the Essence of Style to provide her eye for fashion to those in the entertainment and artistic world.

Rai Monique was born in the cultured and eclectic city of Washington D.C. Though she began her life's journey in D.C. she was raised in various cities across the country. Her diverse upbringing in a Ghanian and Afro-American household caused her to have a greater awareness and love for all things beautiful. In a household where image and the way in which one carries themselves was held to a high priority she learned at a young age how to piece garments together so that one would look their best. Learning skills from her grandmother, a seamstress, she was taught to pay attention to detail and the way in which clothing was assembled. As she grew her infatuation with hip-hop and the arts influenced her style. She relates to the passion of many artists and musicians in the hip-hop and underground world. Rai Monique has found a way to combine her love for music, art, fashion, and expression of one's self by establishing the Essence of Style.

Resume of Work:

Fashion contributor for: www.heelsandhightops, www.daily-pearls.com, Mash Magazine

Additional Info: I am a lover of fashion first. I have an appreciation for the art of fashion and styling. My appreciation is expressed through the images I create when styling. It is also expressed through my words when I write about fashion events, news, and others. I am continually building my portfolio, building my network all while doing what I love.

Fees: discussed per project.
Contact and Portfolio: www.theessenceofstyle.com lrai@theessenceofstyle.com

Grand Opening: Glamm DC

I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of my good friend, Ronne Williams' new Hair and Lash Bar called Glamm. Glamm is a chic full service salon that offers everything from Keratin Treatments to Mink Lashes. The champagne was flowing. The music was pumping and the complimentary cupcakes provided by Spiked Delight was De-licious! The Soiree featured cute giveaways, a raffle and a demonstration on how to properly get the perfect brow shape. Ronne put together a place where ladies and some gents (no discrimination) can come to get beautified and network at the same time. I must say Ms. Williams has work hard to carve out her place in this world and GLAMM is definitely in a class by itself. Please don't take my word for it. Visit her and her fabulous staff. Glamm is located at 1516 North Capitol, N.W. Washington, DC and check out her website at www.glammdc.com.

Photos Courtesty of S&S Photography. For Booking contact Shanda at caligurl1378@gmail.com

Sinsational Spotlight-Kia "Starr" Hutchison

As I sit here trying to think of the right introduction to May's Spotlight. I am speechless. I cannot describe how much I admire this woman's strength and grown. I have known her since middle school and she is a walking example of being a bonafide Go Getter. Kia Starr Hutchison has shown that it is never too late to live your dreams when people think you are down and out. Her motto "feed your faith...& your doubt will starve," has kept her on the path to success. As a single parent, Kia finds time to nature her beautiful daughter while handling her business including volunteering in our community. She marches to the beat of her own drum while remaining loyal, honest, trustworthy, and just downright DOPE! So if you are need of an Esthetician, hit up my girl Kia.

Kia "Starr" Hutchison is a Licensed Esthetician who received her training at Aveda Institute in Washington DC. She specializes in facials, body treatments, lash application and full body waxing. Kia also serves as a Makeup Artist, Model and Fashion Consultant. The native Washingtonian prides herself in offering great skincare tips and regimens. Her magic gives new meaning to natural lash application. You can find Kia at Skin Beauty Lounge 404 1/2 8th Street S.E., Washington DC.
Spa number is (202) 543-6993. Personal contact info is (202) 528-0522 and email KiaHutchison@ymail.com

Just Because vs Just Because

There comes a point in your life when following the crowd becomes a thing of the past and voicing your opinion is the thing of the present and your future. The beginning of doing things "JUST BECAUSE" instead of "JUST BECAUSE". Confused? I know. So let me explain. Someone hit me up on twitter asking me to vote for their blog. I informed her that I needed to check out the blog first before I voted. Now, I am all for supporting my peoples but I will not lend my voice to something that I don't believe in or have any substance of any sorts. The woman I am becoming will not allow me to be apart of the in crowd. I want to live and think outside of the box. No longer will I do things "JUST BECAUSE". "JUST BECAUSE", what you ask?

"JUST BECAUSE"...I want to be liked
"JUST BECAUSE"....You are black
"JUST BECAUSE"...I want girl power
"JUST BECAUSE"...You asked

If I want to do something, I want to do it because I want to not because it was force down my throat. Folks tend to forget the power of free will. The product needs to fit into my world. It needs to be beneficial to the community. It needs to come from a pure place. If I lend my blog, voice, Facebook page, Twitter Timeline to something it will be on the bases of realness. So, when I do something "JUST BECAUSE" it will be because Charvass feels a great deal about the product. Again, let me explain.

"JUST BECAUSE"...It fits into my world.
"JUST BECAUSE"...I believe in the brand and the person
"JUST BECAUSE"...I support honesty and integrity
"JUST BECAUSE"...You have been a factor in my growth as a woman
"JUST BECAUSE"...Hell, because I want to!

So, I will not do something "JUST BECAUSE" you asked and want me to be on some "POWER TO THE PEOPLE" bull. Doing something "JUST BECAUSE" has to come from an honest place like a husband sending his wife flowers "JUST BECAUSE". Come to think about it, the ones asking me to do something "JUST BECAUSE" hasn't supported me in a damn thing. So, hell no I am not going to do it "JUST BECAUSE".

Sinsational Craze: Virtual Parties

If you are a bonafide hustler, you will think of innovative ways to make your money. Virtual Parties have become an entrepreneurs dream; this statement is especially true if you are a student, parent or working a full time job while promoting your business! You can reach the mass without leaving the comforts of your own home. It's a great way to showcase new and exclusive products before anyone else sees them. Virtual parties also are great for meeting new people and expanding your brand! As a business owner, you have to constantly stay one step ahead of the competition; You have to be aggressive, sharp and fearless as a business owner!

Alisha Pean of Domestic Divas Designs (who was always a Sinsational Spotlight) holds a Virtual Jewelry Party at least once a month and she has been successful with this approach. In addition to her holding her own Virtual Parties, she has been booked for quite a few private parties. If you are camera shy, that's ok. You can pre-record yourself showcasing your products and send it out as an email blast. If you need help ulitizing Social Media tools hit up Natalie Gouche the Mogul Mom. She is a guru when it comes to Social Media tools such as email blast, Twitter, Facebook, video marketing, etc. Find her here at http://www.NatalieGouche.com.

So, if you want to expand your brand and reach households across the world then you need to set up an Ustream or Skype account and get to partying....#makemoney

Mind Their Business

I made an announcement on my Facebook page the other day in regards to featuring new businesses on my blog. My inbox blew up with inquires. My friends and associates know me as a hype woman for owning your business. I want to make sure everyone around me succeeds and if it takes my platform to spread the word then so be. Let's kick off my new segment Mind Their Business with my high school classmate James Walker. James owns a jewelry company called DSNS Style. DSNS Styles offers men, women and children jewelry and accessories at wonderful prices. In addition to their competitive prices, DSNS offers a membership feature that allows you to shop all year around without spending an arm and leg. The platinum package is $50 a year for 50% off your purchases or the sliver package for $25 a year to receive 25% off. Shipping is also free with all orders. Don't take my word for it. Check James' site out at this link...http://www.dsnsstyle.com/home

SN: The men's line is not available yet but make sure you check DSNS' website for updates...Happy Shopping!

Sinsational Spotlight-Demond "Arts" Jones

Words cannot describe how much this talented brother means to me. He was introduce to me a little over a year ago thru a mutual Facebook friend. His passion and professionalism knows no bounds. So, it was only right for me to showcase him as my very first male spotlight. Without further ado, I present to you my friend and right hand man....

Full Name: Demond "Arts" Jones - The Red Artist
Facebook: The Red Artist - A more personal and behind the scenes look at the artist behind the red.


Available for freelance/contract work: yes

Things I do/Services I provide:
Identity Design (logos, letterheads, etc.)
Promotional Design (posters, mailers, billboards, etc.)
Publication Design (books, magazines, etc.)
Other Print Design (request available)

Photo Manipulation

Website Design Layouts
Web/E-mail Graphics



Design Style:
Design strong points: Typography logos, marketable slogans/mottos, scalability, recognizable, best interest of the client without compromising their visual goal.


Who is The Red Artist...
The color "red" would describe my passion; my passion goes further than just in my artwork...it is carried into every aspect of my life!
I could go in to some really philosophical type rant but at the end of the day I believe life is very simple and I love simplicity so...

In short, I LOVE MY LIFE!
O yeah...let me design something for you!!



Demond (ARTS)
TheRedArtist.com
http://www.facebook.com/TheRedArtist
Demond@TheRedArtist.com
"...I Just Make AWESOME Designs!"

Sinsational Spotlight-Karla Hall

It's that time again Ladies and Gents. It's time to showcase a new business owner for the month of March. I met Karla thru Facebook and from day one she has been a complete sweetheart. Even though we haven't physically met, I feel a close bond with Mrs Hall. So without farther ado..

My name is Karla Davis-Hall aka “The Lingerie Goddess”;
Born and raised in Washington DC, I am a wife and mom as well as owner/operator of Intimate Xpressions’. After years of doing side businesses, having friends and family in my corner and having that support, I decided to create my own path and follow it! Lingerie became my passion, after doing my research, Intimate Xpressions was born in 2009 as an up and coming online lingerie boutique to bring ladies from all walks of life sexy, intriguing lingerie to build and maintain SEXY confidence!
We carry lingerie in ALL styles and sizes from chemises, teddies, boyshorts, body stockings, costumes and more! Intimate Xpressions books lingerie home parties, we are also do special events throughout the DMV; I produced my very first lingerie fashion show “Peek a Boo Masquerade” July 2010 which was a great success!

Look out for Intimate Xpressions events we have a few projects in the making! Being a business owner of something you love to do can be fun and very rewarding, however, with it comes hard work and long hours as with anything else, but, when it’s something you love to do, it’s all well worth it!
Intimate Xpressions is rapidly growing and we are looking forward to creating a major breakthrough within the next couple years! I have many ideas forthcoming for Intimate Xpressions, so we plan to be around for a long time!

Contact Info:
Intimate Xpressions:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Intimate-Xpressions/206875997560?sk=info
Email us info@intimateXpressionsonline.com or www.twitter.com/intimateX

Sinsational Spotlight: Andrea Griffin Williams

Hello Everyone,
To kick off a new year and a new you. I decide to spotlight a former classmate of mine and all around DIVA, Mrs. Andrea Williams. After being in her presences for a few months, I notice three things about her: 1. This chick's shoe game is SICK!!!!! 2. Her outfits were always on point and 3. Even with her sick ass shoe game, she was a very down to earth sister. I witness first hand what she is capable of and I know many of you have New Year's Resolutions to update your wardrobe in various ways so without further ado....Meet Andrea Williams!

Bio: For as long as I can remember, I've always helped friends or family members dress for special occasions or make-over their wardrobe, only with no compensation. I started modeling when I was in high school. My first fashion show, the boutique, that was supposed to supply the wardrobe, backed out at the last minute. Since the models wore the same size as me, I rushed home and pulled looks for the show.

In, '07, I opened a kiosk where I sold mainly handbags and other fashion accessories. Again, I found myself educating customers on what to pair the handbags with and how to style them differently to coordinate with different outfits. I closed the kiosk when I moved to DC in early '08.

I made the decision to start Style-Eyes Consulting in early '10 when several individuals approached me about going shopping with them to help them to develop more of a personal style. I realized my flair for fashion and styling eye could be bankable.

Now, I work with clients who want to revamp their wardrobe or need to be dressed for special events, image consulting, personal shopping, and I style models for photoshoots. I also write a column for Examiner.com's Baltimore market, entitled "Budget Fashion", where I give advice on how to be fashionable on a budget.

Contact Info: 202-558-5335
GriffinW@Style-EyesConsulting.com
www.Style-EyesConsulting.com
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Style-Eyes-Consulting/142675822439322

Talk about turning a passion for fashion into a money making business...So, please support this beautiful sister....