Archives for May 2012

Fantasia Talks Motherhood & Beauty with BGG

Since becoming the American Idol back in 2004, Fantasia Barrino has experienced many triumphs, as well as her fair share of trials and tribulations.

From a highly publicized suicide attempt to controversy surrounding her alleged affair with a married man, Fantasia has risen above the drama.  The Grammy-nominated singer, 27, chooses to focus on what’s the most important aspect of her life — being a mother.

Mom to infant son, Dallas Xavier, and daughter, Zion, 11, Fantasia will celebrate this Mother’s Day, Sunday May 13th,  here in New York City where she’ll be performing in concert with Charlie Wilson at The Paradise Theater in the Bronx.

I caught up with the busy mom to talk motherhood, beauty, and if she still watches the show that made her a household name.

Check out the Q&A:

I know that your son is only a few months old, but so far, how has motherhood been different this time around since having your daughter, Zion?
“Motherhood is amazing! I love it! Being a mother you learn something new about yourself everyday. Having an older daughter, I have gotten comfortable in the way I was raising my child. But having a new addition, it’s the start of new ideas. I’m nurturing both of them and in return they are helping me continue to define who Fantasia is. I love my babies!”

Can you describe your ideal Mother’s Day? 
I feel like my ideal Mother’s Day is everyday. Zion and Dallas both make me smile everyday without there being any special occasion. They are both still very young so there isn’t much they can give but their love and the special card’s Zion makes at school, which always warms my spirit.

Being a mom myself, I know that it’s the hardest, yet most rewarding job in the world. What would you say has been the most challenging aspect of motherhood being an entertainer? 
“I think the most challenging part of being a mother and working not just in the music industry, but any industry would have to me managing your time. I have done a great job at managing my time between work and making sure I am around for every significant moment in my children’s lives.”

You’ve had many hairstyles throughout the years. With so many women going natural lately, would you ever consider it?
“I would consider going natural. I do what makes me feel good at that moment. If going natural so happens to be it, then so be it!”

What are a few of the beauty products that you absolutely can’t live without? 
“I love Pink Luster products not only because I have worked with them, but because I’ve used it since before anyone ever knew who I was. They make great products that not only make your hair look good, but also keep it healthy which is important.”

You’ve overcome so much in your life. What do you do to stay above the drama and as stress-free as possible? Do you do yoga or meditate?
“Praying and keeping God first has always helped me over come any difficulties in my life. I don’t allow myself to stress because it doesn’t change anything.”

Do you still watch American Idol
“I still love American Idol and I am spilt between Joshua Ledet and Jessica Sanchez. I love both of them!”

What’s your favorite Fantasia song?

NYC Event Alert: Get Free Skin Cancer Screening

If you’re in the New York City area today, be sure to stop by The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Road to Healthy Skin Tour bus presented by Aveeno and Rite Aid for a free skin cancer screening. The bus will be at Lincoln Center on 62nd Street between Broadway and Columbus from 11am – 4pm.

Although we BGs are less likely to develop skin cancer due to our darker skin complexions than other groups, doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t take the proper precautions toward preventing this deadly disease.

Far too often we BGs fail to get screened for melanomas until it’s too late. That’s why it’s important to wear sunscreen, be cognizant of new and existing moles, and get periodically screened.

Have you ever been screened for skin cancer? What’s your favorite SPF moisturizer?

Get Rihanna’s Met Gala Updo

While there were many head-turning looks at last night’s Met Gala, Rihanna really got tongues wagging. Her unique updo raised eye-brows in the blogosphere, but I thought the multi-bun look complemented her crocodile Tom Ford gown and fit her cutting-edge vibe.

Celebrity stylist, Ursula Stephens who styled the pop diva for fashion’s big night says that the style was “inspired by an illustrated cartoon character.”

If you’re eager to emulate the Barbadian beauty’s eye-catching updo, follow Stephens’ tips below:

Start by sectioning the hair into three ponytails:

  • One at the front of the head, slightly off to the side 
  • One at the crown of the head, slightly off to the opposite side 
  • The last one at the nape of the neck, slightly off to the same side as the section at the front of the head 
  • For each ponytail, twist from the end and wrap around itself into a loose bun, pinning to secure and gently tugging on pieces to achieve an “undone” look. 
  • Hold the look in place with Motions Light Hold Working Spritz (SRP: $3.99; most mass retailers)
Did you like Rihanna’s hair last night at the Met Gala? Who would you crown best tressed or dressed? 

Allison Samuels Celebrates Michelle Obama in “What Would Michelle Do?”

It’s hard to believe that it’s been nearly four years since Michelle Obama (aka FLOTUS) became the first African-American First Lady. Since that groundbreaking moment she has single-handedly changed how we BGs view ourselves. Prior to her appointment, we had never seen any first lady look even remotely like us.

That’s why award-winning journalist and author, Allison Samuels’ new book, “What Would Michelle Do?” is a must-read for women of color who have been inspired by her elegance, fierce fashions, off-the-charts intellect, or more.

In the style of a detailed guide, “WWMD,” serves as the ultimate form of flattery toward the first lady while providing readers with insightful ways on how to be more like, well, Michelle.

From loving one’s own unique beauty to effective parenting tips, “WWMD,” brilliantly chronicles and highlights Obama’s personal and professional achievements while allowing them to serve as examples of excellence for readers.

Perfect for Mother’s Day, this book is a great gift for your Michelle-loving mom, BFF, soror, or you!

Available in bookstores nationwide, as an e-book, and www.michellewould.com

What do you most admire about our first lady?

Oprah’s Stylist Andre Walker Talks Hair

While most wish they had Oprah’s wealth, many also covet the media mogul’s gorgeous mane. For over 25 years, hairstylist Andre Walker has made sure that the talk show trailblazer’s tresses are always camera-ready.

Now, with the help of his haircare line, Make Peace With Your Hair, we can all get a taste of one of Lady O’s many luxuries.

I recently caught up with the stylist to talk natural hair, humidity, and his favorite Oprah ‘do.
Walker styling Oprah’s lovely locks on set.

Check out the Q&A:

What are your thoughts about the natural hair revolution amongst women of color that seems to be sweeping the country? 
I’m happy to see women make peace with their hair. I believe it came about because women of color want more freedom than they get going straight. Going natural you can swim and exercise without the worries of wetting your straight style. Not to mention that all of the processes of straightening (chemical, pressing, blowdrying) are all very damaging when not done correctly.

Now what is needed are great products and expert care for natural hair, which is very fragile due to coarse texture and dryness. It is important to keep your ends trimmed, and get salon-quality deep conditioning into the hair. I created my TKO Deep Conditioning Keratin Treatment for all hair that needs moisture infusion. I am also developing new products that will respond to the needs of natural hair in a way we’ve never experienced before, so stay tuned!

What advice do you have for someone who wants to transition from relaxed strands to non-processed tresses?
The best way to transition is the BIG CHOP. If you are courageous and ready, this is the best way. To gradually change – you can continue blow-drying your hair straight until it becomes too difficult to continue this type of styling, or the relaxed hair starts to break. By doing the later, you must condition, condition and condition.”

Now that spring is in full swing and summer is rapidly approaching, what are some of your tips for avoiding the dreaded “poof” during wet and humid weather? 
There aren’t many ways to avoid the “poof.” Humidity is straight hair’s biggest enemy. During this type of weather the best style is one that is natural. If your hair is relaxed, don’t try to style it as usual. Try pulling it up in to a cool pony or ballerina’s knot. You can add hair to your pony to make it longer and more fun or make a messy knot for a more updated ballerina.”

Of your haircare products, what’s the most universal for all hair types? 
“All of my products can be used by all. Everyone needs a good shampoo and conditioner. My TKO is an intensive conditioning mask that is perfect for a little extra care. My Q Oil is loved by people with very straight hair to aid with styling, to those with kinky hair to add shine and lock in moisture.”

You’ve created countless hairstyles for Oprah Winfrey, but what’s your personal favorite look for her?
“My favorite changes all the time. I love her hair curly and I love her most recent long luxurious loose wavy look. We just shot the cover for September O, The Oprah Magazine where I gave her a completely new look that may be my new favorite. You’ll have to wait to see the cover because I can’t reveal it.”

What do you think is the single most important key to the maintaining healthy hair? 
“The single most important key to healthy hair is very basic:
1. Shampoo regularly – never go more than a week without shampooing at least once.
2. Condition after every shampoo and do a deep conditioning treatment at least once a month.
3. Get regular cuts/shaping every 6 to 8 weeks to do away with any split damaged ends and to keep your style.”

If you missed my post on his Q Oil, click here for a full review. Also for more haircare tips from Andre Walker be sure to check out: www.andrewalkerhair.com.

Whose hair do you admire the most in Hollywood?

Let’s Celebrate!

As many of you know, I’m a huge Oprah fan. Even my 2-year-old daughter says, “Mommy watching Obrah?” whenever I turn on the TV. That said, I was glued to the tube during her Lifeclass series; I was even lucky enough to watch the show live during her tour stop here in New York last month.

During one particular episode she and life adviser Tony Robbins touched on the importance of celebrating. They said that far too often we don’t take the time to savor and appreciate precious life moments even if they aren’t grand occasions or huge milestones.

Ever since that “Aha” moment, I decided that I’d take heed and revel more in life’s successes with my friends and family. So today, which happens to be my birthday I plan to live it up even if that means just going out to dinner with my sister, hubby, and daughter.

Life is a gift, why not celebrate it?

My dear friend, Cocoa Popps gave me this lovely birthday card. You guys know that I’m such a sucker  for cute stationery! 

Do you have any celebrations coming up? 

11 Great Gift Ideas for Mom

Mom is the original beauty icon, first teacher, and the most inspiring role model of all, so why not shower the woman who gave you life with gifts that will keep her smiling this Mother’s Day?

From delectable cupcakes to delightfully smelling candles to personalized wall canvases, treat this incredibly special woman to a wonderful day filled with love and adoration.

Although I’d be grateful to receive material items, I’d also be just as happy to get a couple of thoughtful homemade coupons (a day to sleep-in, breakfast in bed, dish-free day, etc.) to cash in at any time.

Check out some of these gift ideas:

Satisfy mom’s sweet tooth with this 6-pack batch of mouthwatering Crumbs cupcakes, $27

The word emblazoned on this lovely gift set says it all, Victoria’s Secret, $50


Give mom wow brows with this on-the-go grooming Satin Etched Petite Tweeze Set from Tweezerman, $30


Reminiscent of Caribbean summers, this sweet-smelling Aruba candle from Archipelago will surely enliven your mother’s senses, $29

Slipping into this luxe, silky kimono-style robe will be a welcomed treat for mom, Victoria’s Secret, $49


Mom will be so fresh and so clean with Aveeno’s Positively Nourishing Body Wash. Create a gift basket with a variety of scents so she can soak up all the fragrant benefits, Drugstore, $7 


Have mom carry her iPad in style with this chic Michael Kors case available at Nordstrom, $128



Diamonds are definitely mom’s best friend and this Victoria Townsend Diamond Bracelet, 18K Gold Over Sterling Silver will be a BFF that stands the test of time, Macy’s, $90 


Bring out your mom’s beautiful peepers with this pretty palette of complementary shadows, Urban Decay, $50 

For the original Top Chef in your life, this stylish collection of cookbook masterpieces will standout on your mom’s countertop, AhaLife, $350

Celebrate your mom’s favorite pic with an HP Faux Canvas Print 11×14 or 12×12 (similar to the one I had made of my daughter, Ava), Walmart, $20
**One lucky reader will win a personalized HP Faux Canvas Print (11×14 or 12×12) via an online voucher. The winner will be randomly selected from Twitter by using #BGGMothersDay, Facebook comments under the Mother’s Day status post, or by simply leaving a comment below. The winner will be announced on  Tuesday, May 8th. 

What would be your ideal Mother’s Day gift? If you aren’t a mom, what do you plan on purchasing for your mom this Mother’s Day?