​The greatest lessons can be learned from our little people, our children. In my case, they’re not so little anymore (ages 15 and 17), but over the years my children have enriched my life in so many ways, including teaching me some very important lessons.  In general, children see possibilities where cynicism has caused us to go blind. They find hope in circumstances that life’s upsets and fumbles would cause us to give up. They dream big. They have fun. Unfortunately, “adulting” and all that comes with it has left some of us jaded and it may become necessary for us to take a step back and look at life through the hope-filled and unadulterated eyes of our children. 
My son, Zy, is currently in the last semester of his senior year in high school. Yes, a SENIOR!  It blows my mind to think about it.  My daughter, Chris, is 15 years old and a freshman in high school. They have grown up so quickly on me. I often find myself thinking about our journey, the wisdom that I have strived to instill in them, and the ways in which they have made me a better person.  Here are a few lessons that I have learned from my children.  

​

1. Chris is my explorer. She is not afraid to travel and to experience new things.  Where did she get this from? I have no clue because I am such a home body. She has always inspired me to get out, travel more, and to not become complacent with my current situation. 
2. Zy is my competitive child and a team player. He has been an athlete since giving soccer a try at the age of 6. However, once he got that first try at football (age 7), it was football all the way.  He loves competition, loves winning, and has always shown great loyalty to his team. I gave him the option to switch high schools when he was on the way to 10th grade, but he said “no, this is my team. I have to stick with my team”.  Proud mommy moment. 
3. Chris has taught me to love my natural self.  A major priority for me, as a parent, has been to teach my children to know who they are and to understand their worth.  It’s a beautiful thing to see your daughter grow into her confidence. Chris embraces her natural beauty.  She is my favorite naturalista and she has inspired me to ‘go natural’ after having my hair relaxed since the age of 9.
4. Zy does not give up.  For those who are not familiar, check out the story of my son’s accident HERE.  Prior to his accident, we all just knew that Zy would be highly sought after by colleges to play football, but sometimes life throws curveballs.  I have always impressed upon my children the importance of having a plan B, but Zy has not missed a beat. He never fell victim to self-pity, always remaining optimistic about his future. Though he has not given up on the idea of playing college football, he has fully embraced his plan B, becoming a fitness expert and opening a fitness center.  It’s always hard when you see your children having to experience major setbacks, but this is when they get to put in action all of the lessons that we teach them as parents.  

​Because of my children, I travel more and I have become more open to new experiences. I was motivated to take my goals off of the backburner and pursue my blogging and modeling careers. I am more confident in my own abilities and beauty. I could go on and on about the ways in which my children have caused me to widen my horizons and to check my perspective when it comes to certain things in life. I look forward to witnessing their growth into adulthood and their bright futures. I know that a lot of you who are reading this are parents, educators, aunts, uncles…in what ways have the children in your lives taught you lessons? Comment below.  

​What is the cloud? “The cloud” is anything that interrupts life, anything that keeps you from wanting to do the things that you must do in order to thrive, including the things that you enjoy doing.  “The cloud” threatens your quality of life. For you it could be naysayers, negative people in your circle, or your own negative self-talk.  In my case, I deal with the dual burden of anxiety and depression.  I have dealt with this for many years, but a name wasn’t given to my struggle until I was diagnosed with chronic depression in 2006. 
I had no idea of the number of people who also live with these conditions until I became transparent and began to talk it.  Most days are fine. On my worst days, it feels like a battle just to get out of bed—as if I’m being held down by a boulder.  It takes so much resolve and an iron will to thrive in spite of the pitfalls of anxiety and depression.  Maybe your cloud is the same is mine, maybe not, but here are five ways to say no to any cloud and claim your charmed life! 

​

1. Put a name to your cloud. You can’t plan your defense without knowing exactly what you’re working against. Take inventory and identify those things or people that put a damper on your spirits and keep your from living your best life.
2. Get rid of the cloud, ASAP.  In the case of negative people, thoughts, and atmospheres take the steps necessary to remove these things from your inner circle. It’s not always easy, but when your quality of life is threatened, removing those roadblocks to optimal well-being is necessary. As in the case of chronic conditions such as depression, it is not always possible to completely eliminate the cloud. However, there are steps that can be taken to gain control of your life.
3. Prepare in advance. For those situations that cannot be permanently removed from your life, get your defenses up so that you remain in control.  Wake up a few minutes earlier for meditation or to reflect on positive thoughts. At the beginning or end of the day, make a list of things or moments that make/made your smile.  It seems simple enough but reflecting on positive thoughts can make a world of difference.  Imagine how much better you’ll be prepared when facing that ‘negative nelly’ coworker who’s in the cubicle next to yours or the family member who always makes it a point to put a damper on your goals. 
4. Recognize that you are not the problem. Do not internalize your cloud or define yourself as a bad person. This will only leave you feeling hopeless and defeated.  I had to evolve to the point of not characterizing myself based on my circumstances.  I now acknowledge that I have to be resolved to live my life despite those thoughts and feelings that threaten the opportunities placed before me.  It’s not always a simple task, but I have to push forward despite the cloud. I do have to say that I become stronger with each battle that I win against anxiety and depression.  You will find that, over time and with the strengthening of your resolve, you will become more in control of your own cloud.
5. Prayer changes things.  It may sound cliché, but I know it to be true. God placed you and me in our respective places with a purpose. I am certain that neither my purpose nor yours is rooted in misery. Make it a point to build a close relationship with your Creator so that His voice becomes very clear to you. There is no greater defense against those things that would otherwise keep you from claiming your destiny.  

​I hope that this post helps you in your effort to push forward and live a happy, healthy, and prosperous life. Never allow negativity or any other hindrance to stop you! Let’s claim our charmed lives. Comment below and let us know how you thrive despite the clouds of life.  

It is no secret that I am a huge fan of performing arts, so, last month, I was nothing less than pleased to attend the Pee Dee Community Arts Team’s performance of Restored III: An Inspirational Dance Musical Production.  The Pee Dee Community Arts Team is comprised of a diverse group of young people who are immensely talented. The group is headed by the very inspiring Minister Leya R. Elijah-Eller.  I had been looking forward to this production for a while and I was oh so glad that I attended.  

​As described on PDCAT’s Facebook page, Restored III is “a moving and soul-stirring story of life and living in a very real world”.  It was exactly that. Segments of the production addressed a variety of relevant issues, including personal salvation, police brutality, domestic violence, and more.  There were very touching moments. There were through-provoking moments. There were humorous moments. One thing is for sure, there was not a dull moment throughout the show.  One of the many highlights of the evening: award-winning vocalist Carlett Martin performed and brought down the house.

​

Read on for tidbit and pics...

Michael, a member of PDCAT's musician team, got the show started very nicely.  

Restored featured the music of Take 6, Sounds of Blackness, Karen Clark-Sheard, John Legend, Kirk Franklin, and more. Very entertaining! 

Watching these young people perform reminds me of my own daughter on stage when she was enrolled in dance classes. She studied tap, jazz, and ballet from the age of 4 until she was 9 years old. I was overjoyed to see the poise and confidence in my baby and the other students.  Though she decided on sports instead of dance, the benefits of dance have stuck with her until this day.  This is why I strive to support the arts in my community.  

I am certainly looking forward to PDCAT's next production which is expected to premiere in April 2017! Follow Pee Dee Community Arts Team on Facebook for future show dates.  

Are you a fan of performing arts?  How did your love of the arts begin? Comment below!  

On Saturday September 17th there was nothing less than sheer power in the room at the Beautiful Sisters United Meet and Greet Luncheon.  Beautiful Sisters United is an empowerment organization based in South Carolina founded by Audra Blyther. Audra orchestrated the event with the intent to bring awareness to breast cancer and domestic violence, issues that require our attention year-round. The luncheon featured inspiring speakers, spoken word and liturgical performances, and a fabulous fashion showcase.
​
I had the honor of participating in the event in two capacities: official event blogger and as a model for Outter Wear Boutique and Infinity Boutique during the fashion showcase.   

I won't go into detail about each individual speaker for fear of leaving anyone out. One thing is for sure: each story was awe-inspiring. There are so many women who have endured and found the courage to escape domestic violence relationships. There are so many of us who have either directly or through a loved one, witnessed the fight against various forms of cancer. The women featured at this event are those who had the insight and courage to champion for others who may be experiencing the struggles that they once endured.  

​My Take-Aways from the Event

1. We must have faith when facing even those situations that appear hopeless.
2. Never judge a book by its cover. Do not assume that you know a person’s journey.
3. As women, we need one another. No one will understand and advocate for those issues that affect us more passionately than we can ourselves. 

The fashion showcase featured fall looks from Infinity Boutique and Outter Wear Boutique.  
Congratulations to Audra Blyther on a successful event. 
Follow Beautiful Sisters United on Facebook!

​There’s always that one coworker.  I was walking across the office one afternoon, returning from my afternoon break and a male coworker (one who seems to pay attention to my every single move) looked at me and said “it can’t be that bad”. This immediately annoyed me because I already knew that he was referring to my facial expression, but I humored him anyway.  I asked “what are you talking about?”  He said “well you should smile more. It will make you feel better”.  So, yea I had to school him on a few things. 
I pulled him aside and let him know 1. I am not here for your entertainment, so there are no smiles on demand (yes, this had to be said due to other comments that he’s made). 2. You’re assuming that I am upset/angry/sad based on a facial expression which is a terrible assumption to make.  3. If you’re truly concerned about how I am feeling, just ask if I’m ok. I know that, to some, this response may seem overboard, but this wasn’t his first time and this whole “you should smile more” “put a smile on your face” thing is a pet peeve of mine. Here are a few reasons why: 

​

1. You probably interrupted my daydreaming. I am the poster child for introversion. It takes nothing for me to get lost in my own thoughts. I am totally unaware of it but I’d bet that this comes with some interesting facial expressions on my part. 
2. This is my natural disposition.  It doesn’t mean that I’m not happy.  Telling me to smile only makes things awkward. 
3. The moment in which you witness me not smiling is only a slice of life, fleeting moment. Rest assured, I do have my ‘smiley’ moments.
4. By telling me to smile you are likely to get the exact opposite of a smile.  Why?  Because you just annoyed me.
5. If you really want me to smile.  You should smile and, more than likely, I will smile in return. 
6. A smile is not a good barometer of a person’s overall happiness.  It’s ironic that comedians have some of the most tragic realities. It is true that many people smile despite their inner pain, struggles, etc.   
7. Maybe I am having a bad day and I just don’t feel like smiling.  It happens and it’s ok.  

I’m not saying that you shouldn’t show concern or care for a loved one when they seem to be feeling down, but what I am saying is that is so unnecessary for you to tell a complete stranger to change their facial expression.  We have no need for self-appointed captains of the smile brigade.  It’s irksome…it’s annoying.  Just stop it because I'm truly ok! 

What are some of your pet peeves?  We all have our hang-ups and idiosyncracies.  It's ok.  Comment below!  

This post is the first in a series entitled The Gems Before Us.  We should take great pride in our history and the legacy of those who came before us. In school, you learn about only a few of the figures who played transformational roles in black history.  This series will focus on those who made major impact but who are not talked about as often. 

​Born in Charleston, SC in 1898, Septima Poinsette Clark rose to become a respected educator and civil rights activist. She played a pivotal role in the education of both youth and adults. Clark was committed to increasing literacy among African Americans. Through the establishment of citizenship schools, Clark took on the task of informing African Americans about citizenship and the democratic process. When you hear people speak of important figures in African American history, hers is a name that should come up more often.  Today’s educators, community organizers, and social activists stand on her shoulders.  Read on to learn more about the iconic Septima Poinsette Clark. 

​

• Septima Poinsette was born to Peter Poinsette, a former slave, and Victoria Warren Anderson, a laundress. Septima was the second of eight children. 
• Education: Avery Normal Institute (high school diploma, 1916); Benedict College (bachelor’s degree, 1942); Hampton Institute (master’s degree, 1946)
• In 1919, Clark joined the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). She was instrumental in the organization’s efforts to force the state of South Carolina to allow black teachers to teach in public schools. Their goal was accomplished in 1920. A year later, Clark began teaching elementary school in Charleston, SC.
• Septima Clark later moved to Columbia, SC, where she taught elementary school for 18 years.
• At the request of Wil Lou Grey, head of the SC Adult Education Program, Clark assisted with the education of illiterate African American soldiers stationed at Camp Jackson (Columbia, SC).
• In 1954, shortly after the Supreme Court ruled that segregation was unconstitutional, the state of South Carolina passed a law prohibiting public employees (including teachers) from becoming members of the NAACP.  Clark refused to renounce her membership.  She was subsequently fired from her teaching position and was denied her pension. 
• Septima Clark relocated to rural Tennessee and was hired as director of workshops at Highlander Folk School. Highlander Folk School was established to educate African Americans on civic issues such as voter registration and community organizing. State authorities saw the school as ‘dangerous’ due to its acceptance of integration and, after many unsuccessful attempts, revoked the school’s charter in 1961.

•  In 1961, Septima Clark accepted Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s invitation to become the director of education and teaching for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC).
  
• Clark coordinated citizenship classes through the SCLC’s Voter Education Project. The mission of the Voter Education Project was to eliminate illiteracy and to teach voter education and registration. Clark believed that it was crucial to address illiteracy due to strict voter suppression laws present throughout the south (e.g. literacy tests and poll taxes). 
•  It is estimated that close to 100,000 African Americans received instruction through the SCLC’s Voter Education Project. Septima Clark retired from the SCLC at the age of 72.
•  After her retirement from the SCLC, Septima Clark continued to make an impact in her community. She became the first black woman to serve on the Charleston School Board. 
• Recognition and Awards: In 1979, President Jimmy Carter presented Clark with a Living Legacy Award. In 1982, Governor Carrol Campbell honored Septima Clark with the Palmetto Award, the highest civilian honor in the state of South Carolina. 
• Throughout her lifetime, Clark wrote two autobiographies: Echo In My Soul (1962) and Ready from Within: Septima Clark and Civil Rights (1986). Clark won an American Book Award for Ready From Within in 1987.  
• Septima Clark came to be known as the “Queen Mother” of the civil rights movement.

 
There’s so much more to her story and I hope that this post has sparked your interest in knowing more about Septima Poinsette Clark. I will definitely be ordering the autobiographies!  

Stay tuned to Truly Charmed for the next post in The Gems Before Us series!  Subscribe HERE

There is no doubt that MC Lyte is a pioneer in the hip hop game and she has always been a favorite of mine.  It is rare that you will not see Lyte’s name on anyone’s “best of…” hip hop lists. She has a flow like none other and it stands to this day.  So, of course I follow MC Lyte on Instagram…and I was so excited when she announced that she has her own app.  Sorry that I’m just now getting around to telling you all about it, but you should definitely check it out. 
The MC Lyte app features a link to sign up for fan mail and you’ll be the first to receive announcements about Mc Lyte’s upcoming events and projects. Subscribers to the app also gain access to Mc Lyte’s latest studio album Legend (2015).  The MC Lyte app is available to both Apple and Android users. 
Get the app here!
Let me know what you think! 

The word legend is thrown around lightly, but MC Lyte has definitely earned the title.  Not only has she established a long list of ‘firsts’ in the music industry, but she has maintained a long-standing and admirable place in the industry as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, inspirational speaker, actress, voiceover artist, and so much more.

• In 1988, MC Lyte became the first female rapper to release a full length studio album, Lyte As A Rock.
• She was the first female solo rapper nominated for a Grammy (Ruffneck, 1993).
• MC Lyte was the first African-American woman to serve as president of the Los Angeles chapter of the Recording Academy (Grammy organization).
• She reigns as the CEO of Sunni Gyrl, Inc., a management company focused on artist development, creative services, and consulting.
• MC Lyte founded the Hip Hop Sisters Foundation, a non-profit foundation that promotes the empowerment of women across diverse ethnic backgrounds. The Foundation awards two annual scholarships to high school graduates attending the University of Wisconsin. Learn more at www.hiphopsisters.org
• Did you know? MC Lyte is starring alongside a stellar cast, including Music Soulchild, Chisette Michelle, Dave Hollister, and Marsha Ambrosius, in the stage adaptation of the iconic movie Love Jones.  Catch the production as it tours across the US beginning Fall 2016.  

Are you an MC Lyte fan?  Comment below!  
Subscribe to Truly Charmed and stay tuned for more posts about your favorite artists! 

​After months of planning, my very first Charmed Life Artist RoundUp was held on Saturday June 25, 2016 in Sumter, SC.  If you missed it, you missed a treat! As many of you may know from prior posts, art has a very special place in my heart.  I came to know writing as a love of mine way back in middle school. It’s only natural that I would use my platform, Truly Charmed, as a way to support other artists.  So…on Saturday, 14 local artists decided to share their talents at the RoundUp!  I am still in awe of all that took place...the transparency…the cool way in which all of the artists related to one another…the display of undeniable talent.  It was a blast. 
Emcee, Lady Ty, did a great job of introducing each artist and keeping the crowd energized.  

​I have to send a HUGE, heartfelt 'Thank You ' to everyone who contributed to the success of the Charmed Life Artist RoundUp. I definitely could not have pulled this off without the artists who took a chance on this brand new platform and decided to participate.
The visual artists displayed their beautiful works and were vulnerable enough to tell us about their inspiration, the ups, downs, and passion that make up their creative process. Thank you Linda Avery, LaToya Thompson,Tony A. Brown, and Earnest Hampton.

​The authors intrigued us with snippets and run-downs of their latest novels. Thank you Rod Ballard, Monica Sumter, and Otiti Uwagbai Wright.

​The spoken word artists sat quietly at their table, taking in the atmosphere, and then came roaring on the mic during the spoken word session. I was in AWE and so was everyone else! Thank you D Anntonette Sistrunk, Jajuana Smoot, Rian N. Jenkins, and Sequoia T. Gillyard.

​Thank you to hip hop artist KuuL for bringing it! Not only did you perform twice at the RoundUp, but you were gracious enough to perform again at the after party. Thanks, Shanika Davis , for making that connection.

​Thanks to Young Blaze and J Killa ( Mike Sumter Jkilla Streetera )for performing at the after party. The talent is so real. I hope that you all will come back and perform at the next installment of the RoundUp.

​Thanks to CoolCee ThaDj for holding it down in the music and sound dept. I couldn't have done it without you.

​Thanks and much love to my family and friends for being a HUGE help to me so that I could focus on the event. My sister, Tameka Williams-Holmes, my daughter, son Zaire Cain, niece, and friends Charlene Frazier and Jilita Johnson.
Thanks to the vendors Ma Connie's Creations and Exotic Appeal Exotic Appeal Fashion & Accessories.

​Thanks to every single person who came out to enjoy event. I appreciate you.
Thanks to the sponsors and those who made donations toward the event:Natural Nora's Beauty & Wellness Apothecary, Kari Fraser-Farthing Independent Scentsy Consultant, Ragin Preparatory Christian Academy,SHEAR GLAMOUR SALON, Tiffany Holmes 1K Photography, That Natural Chick , Joyce Pringle of ItWorks! , Kimberly Suber of National Kidney Foundation Team SC

The creative energy and networking that took place in June was amazing, so we must do it again! Join us at the Charmed Life Artist RoundUp...Winter Session on Saturday December 3, 2016. For details and to purchase tickets, visit theartistroundup.eventbrite.com. The theme for this session is "Shout!". With so much going on in the world, we all need the space and opportunity to let our voices be heard. This is that opportunity! Whether it be about social injustices, concern about the welfare of our children, a celebration of love, or one's personal circumstances, we will Shout!  Join us!
Follow the event on Facebook for all updates!   HERE! We'll see you at the RoundUp!

Truly Charmed will continue to show appreciation for artists and their precious work. Check out this POST about local musicians Black Alley Band and Tiffany J. 

​Singer and songwriter TiffanyJ will release her debut album, EVOLving, on Friday May 27, 2016. The project includes 12 tracks (including the prelude), all of which are written by TiffanyJ (co-writer with Bruce Robinson, Jr. on track # 12, “One & Only”). All songs were produced by Bruce Robinson, Jr. of ZamarMuzik (with the exception of the track “End of Time”, produced by Rodrick King of Regal Aftermath and Bruce Robinson, Jr of ZamarMuzik). In writing this review, my focus isn’t so much on vocals because it’s already established that TiffanyJ can ‘sang’.  On this album, she gives her all from prelude until the very end of the last track.  I mean…she scats…and kills it each time (displayed BEAUTIFULLY on track #8, “Human”). Ella and Sarah (Fitzgerald and Vaughan,that is) would be proud, no doubt.  Simply put, TiffanyJ’s talent is undeniable. No debate there. So, let’s talk about the album. 

​Stylistically, I would call EVOLving an ode to throwback vocal Jazz mixed with the best of neo-soul.  There are several intensely jazz-inspired moments that I love in the album (check out track # 5, “Scaredy Cat”).  Many artists would be afraid to even attempt it out of fear of sounding dated. However, in EVOLving, it’s finessed in a way that keeps the sound fresh and contemporary. 
The album is a rollercoaster ride through so many of the emotions and phases that we experience while growing in love, searching for love, and all of love’s ups and downs. The tracks are ordered perfectly, mimicking the highs and lows of love’s journey.  Hence, the title EVOLving.  From “Patiently Waiting” to “Movin’ On” to “Being Me”, the dynamics of the album are definitely rooted in reality. We can all relate to at least one, probably most, of the songs on this album.  

​It’s hard to choose one track as my favorite.  There are two that I have played over and over, “Being Me” and “End of Time”.  “Being Me” is that up-tempo, uplifting track that you play whenever you need an extra boost of motivation, very much like Jill Scott’s “Golden” and Mary J. Blige’s “Just Fine”.  It’s not that the sound is similar to these songs, but the songs have a common spirit.  “End of Time” is TiffanyJ’s soulful duet with singer, Marcus Allen.  Their voices are in perfect harmony and the result is a beautiful song.  “End of Time” is the sort of song that we all imagine singing once we find that right partner, “the one”.  

​Honestly, no.  I listened to the album repeatedly, with a critical ear, and found that EVOLving is not your typical neo-soul album.  It’s not cliché at all.  There are tracks on the album that are unexpected…welcomed…but unexpected. In addition to the jazz track “Scaredy Cat”, already mentioned, Track #6 “Science” addresses undeniable romantic chemistry in a very unique way. “New Side Chick, track #9 is a no holds barred anthem for the ladies. EVOLving addresses an old, familiar topic (love) in a very cutting-edge way. This is what makes the album a definite hit.  The songwriting on this album is A-1.  Without hesitation, I would recommend that you cop “EVOLving” as soon as it’s released on May 27th. 
Don’t forget to come back and let me know if you agree with my review of the album.  

Connect With TiffanyJ
​www.IamTiffanyJ.com
www.facebook.com/iamtiffanyj
​www.instagram.com/iamtiffany_j

Did you miss my first write-up about songstress TiffanyJ? Read it HERE

Don't miss a post! Subscribe HERE!

.AC: Tell me about E’toshia, the woman.
EM: I’m originally from Newark NJ, where I attended a performing arts high school.  I came down here (to South Carolina) in 2003 when I graduated from high school. I attended Morris College for two semesters and then I transferred to USC after my mom suggested that I continue to pursue my dance career. I became a dance major.  I changed my major and decided to teach. That’s what I’m doing now. I’m a teaching assistant at a preschool. I wear many hats. I am a self-taugh make-up artist, blogger, and I host events through my business, Events by E’tosh.
 
AC: When did you decide that entrepreneurship was the move for you?
EM: It was about two years ago.  I decided that the same way that I’m putting so much time into someone else’s business by going to work every day, I could be using my own talents.
 
AC: As you said, you wear so many hats, building each of your businesses. What is your passion?
EM: They all tie in to each other. I like the production part of things because I’m able to execute my ideas and see them come to life. This is how Bow Ties & Heels came about. I wanted to create something unique for people to do, so in 2012 my boyfriend and I coordinated the first Bow Ties & Heels.  We’ve held the party annually since then.  I see it as a home brand that I’m trying to build.
​
AC: I’ve heard about your Musical Beauty Circuit class. Tell me more about it.   
EM: I’ve been doing makeup for a while (Faces by E’tosh). I love being a make-up artist because it allows me to creating eye-popping beauty looks for women. My Musical Beauty Circuit class is an extension of Faces by E’tosh.  I came up with this idea when I participated in a six-week business program for women entrepreneurs at Columbia College (Columbia, SC).  The idea of the Musical Beauty Circuit was influenced by my background in dance.  I wanted to make a production of it. The class is composed of three segments, like an exercise class, the warm-up, the routine, and the cool down.  The warm-up is  me discussing skincare. The routine is the part of class when I instruct about make-up, whether I focus on eyes or whatever the clients wants. During the cool-down we review what was taught. 

AC: How often are the classes held?
EM: The first one was held in January of this year. I decided that they will be held every other month, unless someone wants to host a class in their home. This allows me time to re-up on supplies and advertise. 

AC: Is there a certain business person who inspires you?
EM: That’s a hard question. I have loved ones who I can always go to for advice and encouragement-my sorority sisters, my mom, my boyfriend. They're always there for me.  They will also bring me back down to earth when needed.   

AC: What has been your most challenging obstacle as a business woman and how did you push through it?
EM: My biggest obstacles: keeping my confidence where it needs to be and being consistent. We all have our moments when we doubt ourselves. I’ll find myself thinking about how my business is not growing as expected.  Sometimes we compare ourselves to others and that causes doubt.  The way that I deal with those moments is by going back and reflecting on all that I have done and not measuring myself by what someone else may be doing. That’s a mistake a lot of us make…comparing ourselves to others. You have to stay in your own lane…celebrate your own accomplishments.

AC: What advice would you give to other women who are considering entrepreneurship?
EM: The advice I would give to a female entrepreneur comes from two quotes. The first quote is from Pinterest and reads "she turned her can'ts into cans and her dreams into plans." The second comes from a recent read, "Girl, Just Quit!," where the author refers to a quote by Grant Cordone. It reads "as long as you are alive, you will either live to accomplish your own goals and dreams or be used as a resource to accomplish someone else's." With these two quotes I would encourage future female entrepreneurs to go for whatever dreams they may have.

AC: What has been your proudest moment in business, so far?
EM: I’m proud of the collaborations with others and relationships that have been built through those collaborations. I love that there is an awareness of my businesses. It makes me feel good when I’m out and about and someone may say “I’m looking forward to the next Bow Ties & Heels, when is it?”

AC: What’s up next for you?
EM: The next Bow Ties & Heels will take place on April 23rd in Columbia.  I also co-authored an e-book. The title is “After Why Comes How”.  It can be found on Amazon and www.divaswithapurpose.com.   

Thanks to E’toshia for this great interview.  I definitely wish her continued success in all of her endeavors.  Follow E’toshia across social media!

Blog: EtoshXperience.com
Faces By Etosh: Facesbyetosh.com
Events By Etosh:https://www.facebook.com/EventsbyETOSH-264527200290334/
After Why Comes How: http://bit.ly/23mxiKi

Until next time...let's continue to claim our charmed lives!

​-Antoinette 

Truly Charmed is all about celebrating the accomplishments of women who are determined to make their dreams reality. Have you met Kierra Jones, owner of The K.Jones Collection?  Read her story HERE.

Interested in being featured? Email TrulyCharmedOne@gmail.com