Archives for September 2019

Q&A with 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Winner, Addlia Edwards

September 26, 2019

Two weeks ago, eight beautiful women from around the country took center stage at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn for their chance to be crowned Finding Ashley Stewart 2019.

After a year-long search for the woman who embodies what Ashley Stewart, the global plus-size fashion brand, stands for: kindness, perseverance, resilience, confidence, and empowerment, there could only be one winner.

That person was Addlia Edwards, a hairstylist and makeup artist hailing from Atlanta, Ga. As the winner, Edwards walked away with a $10,000 prize package including a year-long wardrobe, styling, makeover, photoshoots, and more.

I caught up with the bubbly southern belle to find out what earning the Ashley Stewart title means to her, how she plans to empower women, fall beauty trends and more!

Addlia Edwards, the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart winner. Photo via Instagram.

Read on for our chat.

What inspired you to enter the Finding Ashley Stewart ambassador search?

Ashley Stewart was a household name when I was growing up. I loved the company and what they stood for. I honestly was not going to enter the contest because I didn’t think I could possibly be chosen out of thousands of women. After talking with a friend, I realized I had nothing to lose.

How do you define your style?

I’m a glamour girl. I love anything with sparkles, sequins, rhinestones, metallic and velvet, but I also love a classic look with a pop of edge. I like being trendy but I also like to go against the grain.

Did you always embrace your curves, or did body acceptance take time?

I’ve always been a lover of my curves.

When do you feel the most beautiful and confident? Why?

I feel the most beautiful and confident when the seasons change and when I’m not dressed to go to work. Every season, I change my hairstyle and color so it’s like having a new and refreshed version of myself. I don’t like to look the same for a long time, and I love change when I’m in control of it. At work, I have to wear black everyday so it’s always refreshing when I can wear a pop of color and a pair of heels.

What was the most surprising aspect of being a part of the Finding Ashley Stewart Finale?

I felt taken care of! I am usually the one taking care of others for their events. I’m usually doing others’ hair and makeup, making the desserts or setting up and taking down for events. This time, I was on the other side. I was not behind the scenes this go round. I was one of the people with a spotlight and a story to share.

What do you plan to do now that you have the Finding Ashley Stewart 2019 title?

It is my plan to touch the lives of as many women that I can by empowering them and helping them to walk confidently in their own identities. I want to help shape others to be leaders who are resilient, confident, kind and active in their communities. I want to add even more flavor to the already flavorful brand and help grow the movement of empowerment and public service.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Addlia Edwards (2nd L) receives award onstage at the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Describe how you felt when you heard your name called as the winner?

Wow! I felt relieved, like my time had finally come! I had been trying so hard these past few years. I rejoiced as others got their successes and breakthroughs. I had honestly gotten to a point where I felt like maybe my life as it was. Sometimes I felt like that was all that God had for me, but I still never gave up. So to hear my name being called confirmed what I felt deep down in my soul all along, but had been drowned out by fear. I knew there were amazing things in store for me and that I was called to do great things. I felt like it was finally my time to shine!

What do you love the most about the Ashley Stewart brand?

I love the resilience of the Ashley Stewart brand. I love that with everything the brand has been through, it still continues to bounce back, thrive and give back to others. Not only does the brand thrive on its own, but the brand encourages and empowers women to bounce back, thrive and give back too.

From your perspective as a hairstylist and makeup artist, are there any hair and beauty trends we should be on the lookout for this fall?

I believe a lot of us are starting to embrace our inner queen. I think regal looks are becoming a big trend. Be on the lookout for bold and rich hair colors. Coils, coils and more coils. Sleek and ornate ponytails and up-dos. A ton of hair jewelry and bright and bold lip colors and eyeshadows are coming.

How do you give back to your community? Why is it so important to you?

I love volunteering with the homeless and at young girls’ and women’s retreats. It is important to me that I give the homeless, young girls and women what I wish I had when I was a young girl and when I was homeless and growing as a woman.

How will winning Finding Ashley Stewart 2019 help you empower girls, teens and women across the country and world?

Ashley Stewart is known worldwide. I now have a platform to make an impact wherever I go and with whatever I do representing the brand.

What does it mean to you to be on this journey with a brand that has given more than $300,000 in scholarships and charitable donations, and truly gives back to the community?

It absolutely means everything to me! I love giving back. I love making a difference in someone’s life. To be on this journey with a brand that loves doing the same is so refreshing.

What do you want all women to know?

I want women to know that it is ok to be your true, authentic self. That’s what make you beautiful! It’s not the hair. It’s not the makeup. It’s not the body shapers and the money you have or don’t have in your bank account. No one can be you and that’s your super power. Do not be ashamed of your past or present. All of it works together to create the beautiful masterpiece that you are!

What makes you feel beautiful and confident? Do you shop at Ashley Stewart? If so, what do you love the most about the brand?

Category: Beauty, Fashion | 1 Comment

Recap: Finding Ashley Stewart 2019

September 18, 2019

Every year there are events that I look forward to attending, but none of them are ever as fun as the Finding Ashley Stewart Finale.

This past weekend marked my second year covering the crowd-pleasing show. Part pageant, part concert, the event is a culmination of a year-long search for an ambassador who embodies what the global fashion brand stands for: kindness, perseverance, resilience, confidence, and empowerment.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: A view outside Kings Theatre during the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Over the past year, Ashley Stewart made stops in several major cities including Los Angeles, Miami and Chicago, on the hunt for Finding Ashley Stewart 2019. This year, eight beautiful finalists were flown to New York City to showcase their style, curves, smarts and unique personalities in front of a live audience at King’s Theatre in Brooklyn. No contest is complete without a master of ceremonies and a roster of judges and this year was no different.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Loni Love speaks onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Hosted by talk show host/comedian Loni Love, the event was chockfull of talented judges and special guests including Kid Capri, DJ Olivia Dope, producer and media mogul Yandy Smith, drag queen, performer, and Season 11 contestant of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Silky Ganache, American journalist and essayist Charisse Jones, as well as past Ashley Stewart winners Tiffany Flamer and Theresa Larsen.

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Faith Evans performs onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

After each of the hopefuls strutted their stuff across the stage and answered hard-hitting, topical questions, the audience was treated to an unbelievable concert.

R&B legend Faith Evans opened the show with hits like, “Soon As I Get Home,” and “I Remember (You Used to Love Me).” She ended with the dance party anthem, “Love Like This.” As a diehard “faithful” (the endearing term Evans uses to describe her loyal fans), I was in heaven as the talented singer took me back to the ‘90s with her powerful voice. Hip-hop pioneers Salt-n-Pepa shut the show down after performing classics like “Let’s Talk About Sex,” “Shoop,” and “Push It.”

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK – SEPTEMBER 14: Sandra Denton, Pepa and Cheryl James, Salt of Salt N Pepa perform onstage at 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart Finale Event at Kings Theatre on September 14, 2019 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Finally, after the soul-stirring musical acts, it was time to crown Ashley Stewart 2019. After much deliberation, the finalists which included a teacher, news assistant, makeup artist and other professionals, were narrowed down to one: Addlia Edwards.

The Atlanta native and hairstylist walked away with the title of Ashley Stewart 2019 and a $10,000 prize package including a year-long wardrobe, styling, makeover, photoshoots, and more.

In addition to show’s grand prize, the 2019 Finding Ashley Stewart finale event also awarded over $300,000 in scholarships and charitable donations, partnering with organizations such as Susan G. Komen, Black Retail Action Group, and others.

Since 1991, Ashley Stewart has been a stalwart on the plus-size fashion scene, as well as a positive pillar in the community. With more than 89 stores across the country, and a booming online presence, Ashley Stewart has undeniable staying power and we’re here for it!

What article of clothing makes you feel confident and empowered?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Fashion | Leave a Comment

Don’t Wait Until ‘Pigs Fly’ to Plan a Family Game Night

September 17, 2019

Before there were video games, there were board games.

For centuries, playing games has been a fun bonding experience for families around the globe.

Sure, video games garner a lot of attention with their incredible graphics and action-packed themes, but they’re no match for gathering with family over a good, old-fashioned interactive game.

In fact, my kids can’t get enough of the new Flying Pigs game by Cra-Z-Art. As little plastic pigs whirl around a clear, motorized globe, players try to help the farmer get his piggies back to the barn. By using colorful wands, players try to catch as many flying pigs as they can.

The Flying Pigs game is suitable for children ages 4+ and is available here, for $20.

Not only is the game fun for the whole family, it also helps with hand-eye coordination for young children who are still mastering those skills. While catching plenty of piggies is the name of the game, don’t catch the white one! If you do, all your piggies get placed back into the globe putting you in a not-so-good position. The player with the most piggies/points at the end is the winner!

My son absolutely loves this game. He’s got this piggy catching thing down pat! As a parent, it’s such a pleasure watching my kids enjoy the simple things in life. With all the tablets, gadgets and digital technology that bombard children today, it’s refreshing to just go back to the basics.

This non-tech game is a prime of example of classic fun that creates lasting memories for the entire family. Oh, and who ever said pigs don’t fly?

What is your family’s favorite board game? How often do you plan game nights?

Category: Arts and Entertainment | 1 Comment

Google Photos Adds New Features to Make ‘Memories’ Even Sweeter

September 12, 2019

If you know me, you know there are few things I love more than photos. In fact, I take thousands every year. When I’m not snapping selfies or shots of my two kids on my camera phone, I’m taking a digital trip down memory lane looking through all the wonderful moments I’ve captured over the years.

Today, Google Photos made my photo-loving life even better. Honestly, I didn’t think the already innovative app could get any better, but it has. The Silicon Valley-based tech powerhouse rolled out three game-changing features that will make reminiscing easier and creating tangible memories simpler.

Memories made easy

Like I mentioned, I love sifting through old photos. However, due to the large volume of pictures in my gallery, it’s nearly impossible to sort through them all. Therefore, a ton go into an imaginary photo graveyard likely to never be viewed again. That’s where Memories come in. Now, users can see their photos from previous years that were taken around the same time period. For instance, photos that were taken five years ago this week, can be seen at the top of the home screen. These photos are pooled into “stories” similar to social media, highlighting some of your best shots from that timeframe.

Photo Courtesy of Google

Turn memories into masterpieces

What parent doesn’t have a ton of frame-worthy shots of their children? Well, thanks to Google Photos’ new canvas prints, moms and dads can up their ante and turn their favorite pictures into canvas masterpieces! It’s so easy, even the most tech-challenged can seamlessly navigate and purchase. Starting at only $19.99 and in three different sizes (8×8, 11×14 and 16×20), this makes an affordable and perfect gift for grandparents. Plus, is there a better way to decorate your place than with the faces of your loved ones?

Courtesy of Google Photos

Take memories into your own hands

In today’s digital world, it’s easy to get used to looking at things on screens. Photos are no exception. However, special pictures have an even more powerful impact when we can hold and feel them in our hands. There’s something magical about seeing a memory figuratively come to life. With Google Photos’ photo prints, you can take your best shots and display them in albums, stick them on the fridge or put them in a frame – the options are endless.

Courtesy of Google Photos

And the cost is the cherry on top. There’s not much you can get for under a dollar, but these high-quality prints are only a quarter each! Talk about affordable. Plus, the process is virtually seamless. Select your photos, swipe up, check out and they will be available to purchase at your local Walmart or CVS. In fact, CVS, which offers same-day pickup at more than 7,400 stores, are all supported by Kodak Moments Prints partner program. Nothing says quality quite like Kodak.

Innovation + nostalgia

What’s more? The brilliant minds behind Google Photos have even developed a way to search photos by text. Confused? Don’t be. For example, say you’re looking for a book you snapped in the bookstore, but can’t remember the full title? Simply type the part of the title you remember into the search field and the photo should instantly appear.

In the coming months, Google Photos is also making it easier to share and send photos with family and friends. Now, your favorite photos will be added to a private conversation, making it easy to access all the photos you’ve shared with each other without leaving the app.

What will they think of next?

Do you use Google Photos? What’s your favorite feature?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Gumbo Mix | 4 Comments