All Posts - Blogs - Black Business Women Online

Do you have an inner critic? Meet mine.

Posted by Ananda Kiamsha Madelyn Leeke on August 20, 2008 at 4:51pm

Inner Critic by Ananda Leeke (excerpt from That Which Awakens Me: A Woman's Poetic Memoir - iUniverse, Inc, - December 2008)Copyright 2008 by Madelyn C. Leeke. All rights reserved.Welcome to my world. Let me introduce you to my inner critic. Her name is Broomhilda. She has no fashion sense whatsoever. Personal grooming ain’t even in her vocabulary. Common courtesy is a foreign word in her world. Compassion, loving kindness, affirmation, and support are nonexistent. Her only concern is to wreak outrageous havoc in my life. She preys on my vulnerabilities as a writer. She belittles my ideas. The truth is that girlfriend totally disrespects me. How dare her? Who does she think she is? I got things to do. No matter what I say, she adamantly refuses to hear me. Instead she launches endless campaigns to attack each and every creative cell of my being. She tries to scare me into not doing what I am called to do which is complete my poetic memoir by October 6, 2008.Her mission is to make sure that I abandon my efforts. That’s why she proudly wears the title of Chief Officer of Naysaying in my head. She defines herself by the extreme level of criticism she offers each time I step outside of my comfort zone and begin to write my thoughts down. She directs her willpower to defeat me so that it will extinguish the fire of my passion. If she had her way, I would remain in a standstill with a negative cloud of despair hovering over me.The things that Broomhilda hates to see are what I am doing right now which is telling her business and the rallying of my inner sanctum affectionately known as my board of directors. She detests these chicks because they represent five fierce, fabulous feminine forces of my persona that she cannot conquer when they unify and become one. Let me introduce you to these lovely ladies.Chief Officer of Spirituality, Mindfulness, Yoga, Go Green Efforts, Service to Humanity, and Other Life Practices that Promote Emotional and Physical Well-Being is Ananda.Chief Officer of Creativity, Dancing, Culture, Music, Pleasure, Femininity, Oshunability, and Vegetarianism is Kiamsha.Chief Officer of Achievement, Business, Communication, Discipline, Education, Health, Financial Responsibility, Law, Order, Organization, and Social Etiquette for the Urban Debutante is Madelyn.Chief Officer of Silent Switzerland-like Diplomacy and Neutrality is Cheryl.Chief Officer of BAP Living, Joie de Vivre, Laughter, Play, Shopping, World Travel, Unplanned Adventures, and Spontaneous Expression is Puf.These five personas protect me from Broomhilda’s World War 3 tactics. They are my force field of positivity. Together they strategically shine light into my full existence. They rise beyond Broomhilda’s reach. She can’t stand that they beat her ass with no effort. These mujeres don’t even sweat. Their hair is natural and perfectly coiffed. Their skin is caramel candy flawless with lips decorated by MAC and L’Oreal. They take care of their business in matching ensembles and accessories compliments of Ann Taylor Loft, Moshood, Trade Secrets, Diane Goran, Cindy Williams, Eileen Fisher, Target, Marshall’s, Nine West, and Enzo. They do it all with phenomenal grace, faith, and dignity. When their work is done, they offer Broomhilda a kind sentiment. You know the one that church folks utter: “We gonna pray for you honey chile cuz’ you need Jesus.” Their words melt her mean exterior as they walk on by. Their sudden departure leaves her in a standstill. The only thing she can do is inhale the unforgettable scent of urban debutante BAP living style. Without warning, a sense of peace overwhelms her. It depletes her negative energy. She has no choice, but to surrender and retreat into her cave of darkness.Reflection QuestionsDo you have an inner critic?What does he/she look and sound like?Does he/she have a name?What does your inner critic do to you?Do you have other personas that live inside you?What are their names?What roles do they play?How do they help protect you from your inner critic?

Etsy Store Feature of the Week

Posted by Kamilah Campbell on August 20, 2008 at 4:38pm

Many of us have heard of “The Lady in Red,” well meet the Lady in Pink. Now is the chance to decorate your life. Wraynes Den has a unique collection of ACEOs (Art Card Edition and Originals). My personal favorite is…well I’m sure you can guess. Created with a combination of stamps, colored pencils and pastels this beautiful piece of artwork would definitely look great in The Pink Locket showroom. Check out more of Wraynes Den work on http://WraynesDen.etsy.com.By: Kamilah C.The Pink Lockethttp://thepinklocket.com

The Akua Magazine - August Issue Newsletter

Posted by Shanise B. on August 20, 2008 at 4:24pm

No.37/ 20 Aug 2008Good Early Morning,Check out our new issue:In The Writer's Corner - Mrs. Keisha Brown;Chatting with Shanise B. - On Location at Ocean City. MD;In The Kitchen - Summer Pantry Party;Plus Size / Full Figured Model of the Month;Chatting with Shanise B. - The State of Me in World will start it's 'Healing Our Family' Series.;Memorial Tribute to Personalities Lost the Month of AugustNew articles in the News section;and much more.The Akua Lounge Podcast Channel with be Showcasing Archive Editions of Chatting with Shanise B. on it's ITunes podcast. Now that Chatting with Shanise B. is on Blog Talk Radio, will no longer have it's ITunes location. We broadcast all archive shows on The Akua Lounge Podcast Channel. To subscribe, visit http://akuamagazine.net.Starting Monday, we will have a sale on our Organic and Recycled Plain Apparrel and Totes in The Akua Shops. The Akua Shops serves as the sole source of financial support to the Akua Projects. Presently, we have novelty items available.Would you like to show your support of the Akua Projects, then carry one of our news widget engines.A web widget is a portable chunk of code that can be installed and executed within any separate HTML-based web page by an end user without requiring additional compilation. They are derived from the idea of code reuse. Other terms used to describe web widgets include: gadget, badge, module, capsule, snippet, mini and flake. Web widgets often but not always use DHTML, JavaScript, or Adobe Flash.You can obtain one or all, by clicking here. Anyone can submit there press release or media alert, please pass this on.We are looking for contributors to the magazine. So if you are a commentator, photographer, etc...I am looking for you. Contributors to the Akua Magazine submissions must be significate to African Women's Diaspora. This means women around the world of African/Black decent. There are examples of the types of contributions acceptable in the News section. We are also looking for contribution to our business journal at Designs By ASH Ezine.The Akua Magazine Mobile is still up and running. This allows you to get special updates via your cell phone or pda. You can also sign in, to leave your comments.Have a great day and remember...'Do It B.I.G., Beautifully, Intelligently & Generously!'

We create websites to meet your budget.

Posted by Paula Moffett on August 20, 2008 at 2:22pm

We create websites to meet your budget. Anything you want your web media to accomplish. We get it done. Hassle Free.As the website is basic. Each website is created with a marketing and creative perspective. For samples please go to: http://www.speedywebsolution.com/Portfolio.html Then contact me and let me know how I could be of service to you. paula_moffett@yahoo.comhttp://www.megansteaplayhouse.com/http://www.playyosong.com http://eternityrecordscompany.com/http://www.ynita.com http://www.westernstatestransportation.com/http://www.greenacres-cafe.com/index.html http://www.corvetteofchoice.com/home.html

New Book and New Page to my website! Check it out!

Posted by Dominique on August 20, 2008 at 1:50pm

“The Tension Reliever”Volume 1A Poetry CollectionBy: Dominique L. WatsonMy 3rd book coming this fallview a sample of my poems on my bloghttp://blog.myspace.com/mrs_creative_divaMy Magazine, From A Writers POV has started new message boards and I am one of the contributers. My article this month was on the Ten Commandments in the bible. So I started my forums off with that. Come stop by and get and give encouragement. You never know who is reaeding and looking for some support.To join the forums and website is FREE!So stop by! I would love to read your posts!Here's the link: http://fromawriterspovmessageboards.webs.comLastly...My new column" D-determined L-live W-woman" has been moved to http://dominiquewatson.webs.com/todaysthoughts.htmBe sure to check it out! More postings to come!Don't forgetIf you haven't purchased my new book, "How to keep God in our life" you can get it at www.amazon.com for $9.95 or go to my website and look for Dominique's books.I truly appreciate all the support!!!I wanna hear from you on the forums!!http://dominiquewatson.webs.com

Knock-Off Chronicles

Posted by THE BADDEST BAG™ on August 20, 2008 at 4:23am

Hey Ladies!Since it is a federal offence to buy or sell "knock off" designer bags, we thought it would be fun to start a chronicle of "knock off" disasters and follow up with "knock off" education!For all you unashamed diva's who once was given or "un-knowingly" purchased a "knock off", we would like to hear your story. We will give a nice gift to the best story submitted! I am a recovering "knock off" wearer... I now find healing in providing authentics through THE BADDEST BAG™.Stay tuned for upcoming blog, "HOW TO SPOT A KNOCK OFF FROM A MILE AWAY!"Nicci Butler

Meet Actor & Comedian Mark Christopher Lawrence

Posted by Sharvette, Radio Host on August 19, 2008 at 11:39pm

Authors With a Passion Book Tours

Posted by African Americans on the Move Book Club on August 19, 2008 at 10:06pm

Authors who have that niche, the drive, and most of all the passion to write phenomenal books are coming to a city near you. Authors With a Passion is a newly created tour group featuring today's prominent new and seasoned authors. Each tour will consist of music, open mic, poetry, gift bag giveaways, direct contact with each author, open discussion, and after party dinners. Five Authors who are determined to bring you a new writing style and a new book tour experience.Be among the many businesses, organizations, and groups who have decided to sponsor these writers in the effort to reach thousands of readers. AAMBC is among the sponsors contributing to a new literary movement. The promotions for each business will be out standing for you all. Each sponsor will be promoted through the book tour for an entire year. Want to contribute and become a sponsor. Contact the Authors With a Passion Book Tours at sponsors@authorswithapassion.comThese authors are ready for the world want you join them on the journey. Visit them at www.authorswithapassion.com

How Many Missed Opportunities?

Posted by Pastor Aminata on August 19, 2008 at 9:55pm

How many missed opportunities did you have today? Umm? How many times did you missed a chance to be about your Father's business today? Umm? In our fast-paced, busy, busy, daily please move out of my way, cause I've got-to-get-things-done-ness, we often times forget that we are to be about our Father's business, in the midst of the no see-ums.What about when you were standing on the check out line in the department store, and you saw that mother struggling with her young child who was having a serious temper tantrum? Did you say a pray for that mother, or did you watch in judgement?What about when you were stuck in that traffic jam on the highway, and when the traffic finally started to move again, you passed by that accident, and saw the ambulance and fire trucks? Did you say a prayer for who ever was in the cars, or did you just drive by relived that the traffic was moving again?How about when you were at the ATM waiting for your turn and someone was yelling at the elderly lady who was a bit confused on how to use the ATM? Did you say a prayer for both the yeller and the one being yelled at, or did you suck your teeth in insensitivity?What about the time you saw that woman walking down the street, crying? Did you say a prayer on her behalf, or did you shrug it off as mere curiosity? These are just a few examples of the many no see-ums we experience in our daily lives. We see them, but we don't see them because there is no emotional connection, so we just move on.But these are precious opportunities to be about our Father's business. Opportunities to be ambassador for Christ. True, nobody will know that you said a prayer, nobody will say thank you, nobody will praise you, that is except God. God knows all and sees all and God is the one who will reward you for being about His business today.John 14:14 - "If you ask anything in my name, I will do it."Pastor Aminata

Online Shopping Mall Grand Opening Event starts tomorrow

Posted by Maureen Daniels on August 19, 2008 at 6:27pm

With door prizes, fun, and lots of shopping...that’s what the Online Shopping Mall Grand Opening Event promises for all.Come on over to The Ultimate Ad Spot www.theultimateadspot.ning.com for this Grand Opening event and let's grab door prizes and have some fun. Please tell your friends and family or repost on your blogs.When: starting tomorrow Wed-Sat, August 20-23rd from 8am-7pm each dayWhere: www.theultimateadspot.ning.comSee you there!Information by Maureen DanielsCreator of the Online Shopping Mall “a gathering spot for merchants and shoppers”www.onlineshoppingmall.ning.com

Coming up on LE Radio

Posted by Margaret Salmond on August 19, 2008 at 4:00pm

This Sunday morning we will have a conversation with Travel Agent Maureen Daniels of MarLee Travel will be our guest on BlogTalkRadio’s show “LE Radio” (http://www.le-radio.net) with host Margaret Salmond on Sunday, August 24, 2008, at 10 a.m. Pacific.During our conversation, we will discuss her travel business as well as her Honeymoon Registry. Callers are welcome to join the conversation during the show by calling (646) 200-4451. The live, Internet talk-radio show will stream from the host page at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/LE-Radio

Have You Added Your Business To Black Business Search?

Posted by Rhonda Jai on August 19, 2008 at 3:55pm

Add Your Business Link, Banner and Description For Free To Our Black Business Search This is a great way to get an instant backlink to your site. Major search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and MSN take into consideration the number of backlinks sites have when calculating their search engine rankings. So go ahead and get an instant backlink to your site now - click here Black Busines Search - is also a great way to support Black Businesses. When you are in need of a service or product start with Black Business Search and support a Black Business.

10 Reasons Sampling Works

Posted by Karma on August 19, 2008 at 3:53pm

If for some reason the button doesn't work, please visit: G.P.C.

Jewelry Feature of the Week

Posted by Kamilah Campbell on August 19, 2008 at 3:16pm

What little girl doesn’t like jewelry? I know when I was younger my sister and I use to dress in my mom’s high heels and put jewelry and lipstick on because we thought it was fun. This seems to be a common trend from generation to generation because little girls still do this today. Well, why not let your little princess dress in her jewelry? The Pink Locket has created a collection exclusively for little ladies who love to dress up along with the color pink. The Little Miss Pink collection has a line of jewelry including necklaces, bracelets and earrings just for the little lady. One of our signature pieces for this collection is the Darling Little Purse necklace, but also check out Cinderella’s shoe, a little lady’s dream. Shop PINK today!Kamilah C.The Pink Lockethttp://thepinklocket.com

Check Out Soula

Posted by Candice M. Mosley a.k.a "Can" on August 19, 2008 at 11:55am

Hi,My name is Candice, but all my friends and loved ones refer to me as Can, feel free to call me the same. I'm a young 26 year old woman, on a journey to bring all my dreams to reality, and shine creatively doing it.What's Soula you may ask? Well it simply is a dialouge, a conversation that began in a dorm room I shared with three of my best friends from college. There was no real structure nor rules, just a warm, friendly and nurturing exchange that supported four young women of color striving to succeed. No topic was too taboo, and we had a no hold bars rule. Some discussions brought tears, others combustions of laughter, but such is life, (so I'm learning.)Years have passed and I've traded my dorm room, for a one bedroom apt. in Brooklyn, yet memories of Soula still linger in my thoughts, as well as how many young woman of color need the opportunity to have a platform where everything under the sun is discussed that affects their daily journeys through life.Hence, I've extending Soula beyond the confining dorm room walls of my past out to the masses.Check it out and join the Soula fam! www.soula.typepad.comCanFounder and Publisher of Soula Magazine

SmartTechPeople - Press Release

Posted by Simone Y on August 19, 2008 at 2:50am

PRESS RELEASEAugust/18/2008Contact Information:Sarah Neary, Public RelationsPhone: 570-301-8970E-mail: public-relations@smarttechpeople.comwww.smarttechpeople.comOpportunity In Just One Click.The New Way to Get a Career Makeover"SmartTechPeople.com effectively merges community with opportunity. To give our members extra options to get ahead in their careers. "BKLYN, NY-- Smart Tech People.com is one career site that takes innovation to a new level. This website has features that can't be found on an ordinary site and helps commit both givers and takers of the job world together in one place. There are dozens of diverse openings from different companies nationwide as well as blogs and live chat format.This career website also helps recruit perspective students and makes it easier for people to exchange ideas, job searching tips, and can be topped off by networking tools that everyone can use. Comprehensive video resumes set up by the job seekers can be viewed by companies as much as they'd like. With technology growing like it is , many career sites have already started to diversify their qualities and Smart Tech People is growing everyday to be that future. For more information on how you can recharge your future , please drop by Smarttechpeople.com and learn how you can change your future dreams, into goals of the here and now.Benefit to EmployersAt SmartTechPeople.com we are aiming to develop well-informed highly-targeted audience/community. Our Community is full of passive candidates, open to the suggestion but not necessarily on the hunt for new, innovative opportunities.Employers can promote jobs at your company to our members, view their Interview Videos, online portfolios, current and past projects, and form relationships that will help you make educated hires. Though our partnership with Simply hired (Jobomatic) Employers jobs will also be posted across the entire simply hired network, which includes sites like MySpace Jobs, LinkedIn, MyWay , Simply Hired.... and hundreds of other sites.Free Job Posting till Oct 08* All Employers that post their position with SmartTechPeople.com get a spotlighted in the "Featured Employers Section" of the members homepage and a company profile page that includes with a brief description of your company, logo and link to your companies website.Benefit to Job SeekersWe want to help Job Seekers find their next employer. SmartTechPeople.com gives members free access to create online portfolios, upload video interviews, get career, education, and certification information as well as possible placement, and advice from our expert RecruitersSmartTechPeople.com effectively merges community with opportunity. To give our members extra options to get ahead SmartTechPeople.com also runs a complete job board exclusively for SmartTechPeople members which features Job Posting from Smart Tech People featured employers as well as thousands of other employment opportunities posted from major job boards, newspapers, associations and company career pages across the web.Our community features the who's who of in the Tech (IT) Industry. We put the spotlight on innovative, progressive, inspiring Tech Professionals, up and coming Tech Start-Up Companies, and Established Tech Companies that are becoming big players in the industry.SmartTechPeople.com is owned and operated by Melendez - Yard Multimedia Inc. which is a corporation dedicated to achieving ultimate social development and economic advancement for our community through various media outlets and creating tools that provokes progress.Mission StatementSmartTechPeople.com is dedicated to upholding continuous social development and economic improvement for our expanding community through various media outlets as well as creating programs that encourages progress and inspires our members to reach beyond their most daring expectations.Additionally, our site allows members, clients, and participating sponsors to enhance their abilities as well as experiences with , video resumes, social, and corporate networking programs embedded in this site. It is our personal mission to unite technology specialists of all levels with employers within their field of expertise. We strive to foster this mission with an open mind and expanding viewpoints to better assist our growing and knowledgeable communityMain Site - http://www.smarttechpeople.comCommunity - http://smarttechpeople.ning.com# # #

DOES YOUR HANDBAG HAVE PROPER UNDERWEAR?

Posted by THE BADDEST BAG™ on August 18, 2008 at 9:22pm

Hello Bag Carriers!Did you know that there is a proper way to carry a handbag? Well as we all know there is a right and a wrong way of doing everything... right? Well, this includes handbag carrying too! Allow me to give a series of lectures in handbag carrying 101. Please take good notes!1. DON'T BE A BAG DUMPER!I've seen many women at the check out stand of a grocery store and/or department store "digging for gold" at the bottom of their bag when it's time to give change. I've even seen girlfriends receive change from a cashier and just "dump" the change in the bottom of their handbag. One of the worst, is the sistah who "dump" and allow uncovered ink pens to roam around her bag and mark up everything it touches... including her cash. But the dumper who should receive a lifetime sentence to carrying a fanny pack (lol) is the sistah who dumps her cosmetics! LADIES... STOP!!!! THIS IS SO UN-DIVA! All of the above mentioned violations can and will be stopped.Did you know that properly carrying a handbag can save money, time, and stress? First, let me tell you how proper handbag carrying can save money.1. Get a coin pouch!Keeping your change in a coin pouch, saves time, money and energy! The coin pouch is a women's triple threat. Knowing where your change is allows you to whip out exact change to that impatient cashier and keeps you from having to turn around and tell the waiting customers behind you a thing or two about patience. Coin pouches saves money because at the end of the year if you keep all your change, you will have close to $400 saved.2. Keep up with the tops to those ink pens!Keeping your ink pens covered, helps the bottom of your bags to remain spotless. You should utilize the side zipper for your phone, ink pen, and keys at all times. Nobody likes the stress of searching for a ringing phone or car keys on a rainy or dark night. Using your side zipper will help keep your stress level down and save time as well. Coincidently, you'll also same money because we all know, time is also money... right!3. Conceal your concealer... and lipstick... and eye shadow oh my!How many eye shadows have you had to replace because you dumped it in the bottom of you bag, and it broke into a million pieces? How many eyeliners have you replaced because you thought you were out, but in actuality, you dumped it in the bottom of purse #1021 of 3500 in your closet? This is another triple threat! By having two things... ONE spot for all of your cosmetics (a vanity, or a shelf in your linen closet) and a cosmetic bag which holds ONLY the cosmetics you are wearing for that day, you save both money and time. You save money because you have a better since of inventory control, you save time because once again... you eliminate countless search time. You will definitely spend less time stressing over where that M.A.C chestnut lip liner is!Properly carrying a handbag is not just about rather you choose to drape the strap over your shoulder or in the crease of your arm. How you choose to carry your handbag on the outside is clear. However, if I asked you for $1.93 exactly, how long would it take you to give it to me? If I asked you if I could see what the container of your eye shadow, or lipstick you're wearing looks like, would you be too ashamed to show me? Or, would you be delighted to whip out that fabulous cosmetic bag and show me your comsmetic selection for the day? A true diva takes pride in what you see and don't see. What's in your handbag is a lot like underwear.... Though it may be unseen, it is still a reflection of who you are. Invest in yourself! Save yourself some time, stress and money and buy that cute little make-up bag you've always wanted. Stop dumping your change at the bottom of your bag and get a coin purse divas!I hope you enjoyed this lecture... See you at the next class!Visit: www.thebaddestbag.com for all your "handbag undies".Nicci ButlerOwner/CEOTHE BADDEST BAG

Accepting Registrations - Autumn 2008 Pay It Forward Boot Camp Begins October 1, 2008

Posted by Alive Inc & ALIVE Magazine on August 18, 2008 at 8:36pm

Alive Incorporated will be offering our Pay It Forward Business Boot Camp beginning October 1, 2008. Alive Inc. wants to assist aspiring entrepreneurs in making their dreams a reality, providing you with the financial independence you always dreamed of. Through our Pay It Forward program, clients will provide the idea, the hard work and $249. This $249 will be your investment in the services provided through the Pay It Forward Program.For a six month period, the team at Alive Inc will work with you for 1 -2 hours a week. This is time will be used to advise you on your business plan, your marketing strategy, developing your goals and coaching you along the way. Throughout the week you will work on the established goals. If you need to, you will email the team for feedback and guidance.The team at Alive Inc wants to see you succeed. All we ask is that you allow us to share your story with the readers of our magazine, ALIVE Magazine, as well as post information about you on our website and various blogs. Think of this as a way to get exposure for your business before you even launch!Think of all the benefits you will receive over the next 6 months for a minimal investment. Make your dreams a reality. Start your business today! In the end, our hope is that once your business is established, you will help another aspiring entrepreneur and Pay It Forward!This special rate is being offered for a limited time. You must enroll by September 15th to take advantage of the $249 rate. After September 15th the price will return to $399. Contact us at coach@aliveincorporated.com for a registration and payment information.Alive Inc. Coachseed. plant. grow.coach@aliveincorporated.comwww.aliveincorporated.comALIVE Magazine™www.alivemagonline.com

Latest posts and giveaway on our blog plus launching new website

Posted by Maureen Daniels on August 18, 2008 at 5:28pm

Just posted some new posts on our blog.Visit one of our blogs at www.recreationforall-marleetravel.blogspot.com for travel tips, travel specials and the latest features of businesses owned and operated by women. I am happy yo help anyone looking to start a new business at home with minmal or no set up costs. Please leave a comment here or email me.My new website is mostly finished and I would love to have your feedback so please check it out. It features companies that I rep or distribute for, and has WAHM resources, networking and business opportunities. The url is www.theonlineshoppingboutique.webnode.comBest Regards,MaureenOwner and Creator of The Online Shopping Boutiquewww.theonlineshoppngboutique.webnode.comPS-If anyone has contests or giveaways, I'd love to feature these on my blogs. Please comment or email me on this as well.

Radio Interview- Gain The Courage to Become a Black Business Owner!

Posted by blacksynergist on August 18, 2008 at 4:05pm

Hello Sistapreneurs,Many of us are constantly encouraging others to start businesses, but it seems like so many individuals are afraid. I recently had an interview with Real Talk Real Women where I discussed the importance of black business and how any of us can start a business with almost nothing more than the drive to do so. If you have the opportunity, I would appreciate your feedback.

Crystal Washingtonwww.black-marketexchangewww.blacksynergist.com(In the event that you can now listen to the attached audio file, you can listen to the interview here; I am the first guest.)

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.

Note: this page contains paid content.