Blog 2 - Page 11 of 14 - AlexandriaWill

Surprise Announcement!

April 14, 2016

I have been working hard on building The FitHair company and also expanding my expertise in communications, travel and wellness communities. — While I can go into a long post about everything, I am doing, I know you are probably reading like just get to the announcement please. Blah blah blah.. A few months ago, I applied to be a Women’s Health Action Hero. The Magazine dubs this title as a person who is a kicka** trendsetter who is a top influencer in her community, a social media maven and a go-to for the latest finds in fitness, beauty and style. THOSE SELECTED WILL HAVE THE CHANCE TO: Become a voice for Women’s Health and our partners See yourself in the pages of our magazine Drive the message for nationwide advertising campaigns Get a sneak peek at the hottest new products and gear Give your social following the inside scoop on what’s trending Help change the world with RUN 10 FEED 10 After the third time seeing this ad around the internet and from fellow bloggers, I figured I would apply. I honestly didn’t think much of it as I literally was just in the magazine this time last year. (#Blessed) I filled out the application in three minutes and went on about my day. A few weeks ago, I received an email, reviewed loads of paperwork (Big Thank you to Bex at Bexlife for reviewing with me!!!) and today finished up with our first conference call, which I revealed on a few snaps (SnapChat Alexandria-will) sooooooooo you know where this is leading to right… AHHHHHHH FAINTS!!! I am so honored to be involved the program as there are a lot of other things that will happen outside those few perks. For you my readers, this means more goodies and latest information from the fitness, health and beauty industry. I will be posting on here and The FitHair website so make sure you signup for my newsletter, and follow me on social media in order to stay to date for announcements, prizes and much more. Now back to the grind of my other full-time job. XOXO PS: Thank you continually to those who have supported me and my FitHair mission. From emails to text messages or working with you for an event and buying tickets your support matters and I truly do love you all.

Learn How to CornRow And Save $$$$

April 7, 2016

I am so excited to announce I have teamed up with The Natural Cole and my hair stylist Ashley Danielle and The Natural Cole for this hands on How To Event: The Cornrow Series. This class will teach you the proper way to corn row, provide hair care education and discuss products to help with this styling technique. My new company The FitHair will be hands on sponsor making sure your feed with a few appetizers, drinks and more that are aimed to help both your body and hair from the inside out. I founded The FitHair as a way to chat about the latest in wellness and help inspire a healthy hair from the inside out. From hairstyles to the gym to healthy recipes and foods you should eat, TheFitHair.Com will keep you in tip top shape from the inside out. Don’t miss the unique hands on class as seating is limited. Registration: $55 + Receive a Swag Bag full of Hair Products and Styling Tools and more. Click Here To RSVP EVENT DATE & LOCATION: THE KOWORK Saturday, April 23, 2016 11am to 2pm 400 North St. Paul St. Suite 900, Dallas, TX 75201 EVENT SPONSORS INCLUDE More sponsors to be announced WATCH THE LAST HOW-TO EVENT RECAP VIDEO!

Going Gluten Free

April 1, 2016

Happy April! I am celebrating the start of the new month by going gluten-free with Bex of Bexlife.com. It’s a great way to start a habit of researching the ingredients and see also see if you have any unknown gluten allergies. The best part about the series is it’s free! Check out Bex’s Blissed Detox Healthy Nutrition series where she is offering members – An invitation to her private Xen Bliss Facebook group – Her official “Gluten-Free Detox Tool Kit” shopping guide – Exclusive access to interviews with top wellness experts – Several chances to win some amazing prizes – and much more.. Even if you aren’t joining on Day 1, it’s perfectly find to start at any time. A few great items to grab on the detox are “Go With Your Gut” and “Eating Clean: The 21-Day Plan to Detox, Fight Inflammation, and Reset Your Body,”and Grain Brain books and my new favorite supplement, Greens Blend. Bex gives you a lot more so sign up for more information and guidance.

Beyonce Releases Athletic Line

March 31, 2016

Beyonce just released her new athletic line called IVY PARK. IVY PARK is merging fashion-led design with technical innovation. Creating a new kind of performance wear: modern essentials for both on and off the field. Their motto? Strong beyond Measure. Hit the video to find out more background and information on the brand. IVY PARK will be avaliable in the following stores worldwide starting April 14. TOPSHOP topshop.com NORDSTROM shop.nordstrom.com ZALANDO zalando.com

Made Beautiful Presents Dallas Textured Hair Marketplace

March 28, 2016

You all know, I had a great time at the first Dallas Textured Hair Marketplace so it’s no surprise the 2nd event was event better. The event featured bloggers, Romance of Heycurlie, Charlene Walton of Textured Talk and Textures Natural Hair Care and Doni of The Doni Brown. This month featured the Made Beautiful TRUE products, live music from Q Moore, a local Dallas jazz musician and a whole lot much more. You can review a few photos in the gallery and also don’t forget to check out next’s April’s event here. Made Beautiful Presents Dallas Textured Hair Marketplace A photo posted by Textured In DFW? #DallasTHM (@dallastexturedhairmarketplace) on Mar 13, 2016 at 8:06pm PDT

Clinique Play with Pop Review

March 1, 2016

Lately, I have been attending a few beauty events thanks to Bella Kinks. This past weekend she invited us to attended Clinique’s Play with Pop event in Dallas to learn more about the brand and obviously checkout some makeup. The company launched there pop lipsticks, which include a range of colors that compliment a variety of skin tones. Clinique Play with Pop Review The event took place around a food truck. The truck went to a variety of popular malls within the Dallas metroplex. At each stop, the event had product giveaways, popcorn, music and the latest lipsticks from Clinique. I brought along my fried Alexandria Gillard, who is a stylist within the DFW area for some beauty and girl time. With great weather, I let my hair be free in the wind thanks to using a few products to Nunaat’s StraightFromBrazil #patauaoil line. A lot of the colors compliment a variety of skin tones including darker ones. After playing in makeup, we grabbed a complimentary box of Uptown Popcorn then had some fun. We did a little karaoke thanks to this cute mobile dubsmash. Hot-line Bling Anyone… It’s true, lip color can change not only your look, but your mood too. Case in point. The popcorn and singing was a blast but I have to be honest, the event didn’t have a big “pop.” The giveaways weren’t from the actual line, which was a major disappointment. I liked a lot of the colors from the line but only two really stood out from what other beauty companies have had for years. Regardless of this downside, it was great to learn about the brand and enjoy a little fun in awesome weather.

Just Alex Life | Brunch, Beauty and Blushing(ton)

February 23, 2016

This weekend, I got a chance to have a intimate brunch with other natural hair business women and blogger in the Dallas area. Julian aka Bella Kinks, kicked off her first Brunch and Build event. Attendees included Tia, Marrica, Jaleesa, Charlene, Vashti, Adaeze, Cole, Ciara, Kala, I’sha and myself meeting at CBD Provisions for brunch then some pampering at Blushington. BRUNCH AND BUILD SERIES After a long morning run, I headed over to meet the other ladies at CBD Provision, which is located in the fabulous Joule Hotel. After grabbing a few appetizers we learning about the goal of the Brunch and Blog series. The goal of the group was to bring influential natural hair bloggers together, build memories and also help support each other. What I loved about the group is that we are not competing against each other but collectively collaborating to make an impact and enhance lives. I left more motivated to work in my passion and continue to create content surrounding my love hair, wellness and much more. BEAUTY AND BLUSHINGTON After brunch, we headed to Blushington in Highland Park Village. Blushington is a gorgeous place offering professional makeup application at affordable prices. We sipped champagne, learned new makeup tips and relaxed for a bit. Since our makeup was so amazing, we decided to do an impromptu photoshoot and then head out for another “brunch round” at Papadeaux’s. Photography by: I’sha Gaines Photography AFTERHOURS If you didn’t know I love me some Papadeaux’s! 🙂 We had a great bar table chat about dating and natural hair industry at Papadeaux’s for hours. With great cocktails, friends and 70 degree weather, what a perfect Saturday. Don’t forget to scroll the gallery above to see all the visually of my day. Many thanks to Julian of Bella Kinks for setting up the Brunch and Build series, the entire staff at Blushington Makeup & Beauty Lounge in Dallas for hosting and my creative boo I’sha Gaines for always being ready for an impromptu photoshoot. Check out the #brunchandbuild hashtag on Instagram to see more of how we spent our day. PS: If you noticed my photography skills improving, you can credit I’sha for teaching me some graphic and skills. What’s even cooler is your wanting to flex and improve your graphic skills I’sha and Veepee Jay are having a live hands on workshop “Make It Pop” here in Dallas on March 19th. You can check out the details HERE.

Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine Review

February 18, 2016

A few weeks ago, I went to the new Julia Pearl restaurant in Plano, Texas. It’s a unique restaurant offering favorite southern staples with a twist. The restaurant is a Southern-inspired restaurant from chef Tre Wilcox, the creative director, will feature dishes such as deviled eggs topped with crispy chicken skin and the famous shrimp and grit signature dinner. According to the release: Leading the kitchen as Culinary Director is renowned chef Tre Wilcox. With experience helming some of Dallas’s best restaurants, Wilcox is providing his expertise in menu and recipe development, pricing, food cost, staff training and restaurant operations. The menu reflects the team’s dedication to serving fresh meats, produce, bread and dairy sourced from local farms and ranches whenever possible…With an open layout featuring a range of materials including exposed bricks, wood and leather, Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine boasts 6,000 square feet of space, complete with a main dining room, private dining room and a spacious bar showcasing a vast selection of local beers and craft bourbons. The warm and hospitable environment is perfect for relaxing with family and friends for lunch, dinner or weekend brunch. Local art will adorn the walls to complete the atmosphere as diners linger over good food and good drinks. Now that the formalities are out of the way, here is my quick review of Julia Pearl and recommended foods to have at the restaurant. Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine Review Cocktails: Jazzy Belle or any wine The restaurant has a unique list of handmade cocktails but my pick was the Jazzy Belle. If this isn’t your cup of tea, I recommend the wine as they have a nice selection. Appetizers : Devil eggs We choose the gumbo and fried green tomatoes but after speaking with multiple people the devil eggs seems to be the winner. Note: Anytime I see fried green tomatoes on the menu I get it because I love them. Being blunt and honest, I was disappointed the fried green tomatoes. Biting or cutting into the appetizer should result in one flavor combustion but it didn’t. Simply adding extra sauce from the shrimp might solve this issues. The gumbo, my friend really liked it but I am stickler on gumbo due to my family being part cajun so it’s no Bueno for me. Meals: Anything… One of the signature dishes is the shrimp and grits. I can’t say much more than you guys have to try this dish and then thank me later. There isn’t much I can describe except go have it now and again in a few weeks. It’s just that damn good. I tried the catfish dinner because the photos on the site looked good and I wanted a non-signature dish to test the restaurants flare. Let me pause to give a round of applause for the perfection of this piece of catfish. From the crispy batter to the oozing flavored packed juices made each bite down-right heavenly. The mashed potatoes and green beans served on the side become optional dipping sauce for the fish in my plate. By the way, Chef Jermaine, the executive chef, answered a lot of questions regarding the concept, restaurant, food and confirmed this perfection of fish was fried not baked. LOL I also gave feedback regarding my dish as well. Major Kudos to him. Desserts: TBD Since I was told they had exceptional desserts, we had the lemon pound cake with ice cream and berries. Unlike most traditional lemon cakes, the lemon flavor is mostly drizzled onto the cake instead of being being mostly baked into the cake. You may or may not like this depending on your preference. Other options are bread pudding and velvet cake. There is a third option, but I don’t consider vanilla ice cream and fresh berries a special dessert if you get my drift. I am iffy on the dessert options so I am returning at a later date for dessert and wine. Brunchin For my brunch loving folks, Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine, is now serving brunch. The menu will include house-made biscuits, sausage gravy, parfait with yogurt, fried catfish with cheese grits and scrambled eggs. Do I recommend the restaurant. Yes. I do. Will I be back? Yes. Especially for brunch. Make sure you hit the gallery for my quick pics or secure reservations on there website juliapearlsoutherncuisine.com

LET’S HANG | Dallas Textured Hair Marketplace

February 10, 2016

Dallas Textured Hair Marketplace Each month in the heart of D-Town, The Dallas Textured Hair Marketplace will offer three workshops to provide solutions for your hair care challenges led by industry veterans. Join us on Saturday March 12, 2016 in Deep Ellum to meet the brand and the people behind the brand, Made Beautiful. Shop their products along with other hair care and body care vendors, bloggers, textured hairstylist with complimentary workshops from 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM. 10:30 AM – Doors Open Swag bag sponsors: True By Made Beautiful, EDEN BodyWorks, Creme of Nature, Sally Beauty Supply, Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils and more. To make the marketplace a true one of a kind monthly event, there will also be fun raffle giveaways, opportunities for you to network with industry professionals that are on the horizon, and mingle with fellow naturalistas that are living and thriving in the Dallas area. Click here to RSVP for this event. To learn more about the Dallas Textured Hair Market Place visit www.dallasthm.com Previous Event Come out and join me along with amazing bloggers and creatives in the textured hair community such as @ayeciara, @jaleesacharisse, @iknowleee and many more. There will be amazing workshops hosted by @thenaturalcole and brand amabassador, @thekglifestyle! I am hanging out at the Uncle Funkys Daughter’s Booth and will be chatting about my favorite products and crazy signature alone so grab a ticket and head on out this weekend.VIP Sold Out but General Admission still available! Come out to Dallas Textures Marketplace 1st February event with our title sponsor, Uncle Funky’s Daughter. Get your tickets now at www.dallasthm.com to RSVP .

3 Reasons I Love Huetiful Salon in DFW

January 29, 2016

“We are client and customer centric. Everything we come up with inspired by the needs of our clients.” -Ken of Huetiful and Huetiful Salon This past weekend, I was able to attend the gran opening of Hueitful Salon in Dallas Ft. Worth. It was a great night with awesome company and tons of information. I am very excited to see the new textured salon here within the DFW area. If you are considering booking an appointment, here are three reasons why you should head out to Huetiful Salon. Huetiful Salon in Dallas Ft. Worth Staff: The staff at a salon can hinder or excel a shop’s reputation. Within the salon are some of the top industry stylist individually but collectively in the salon they work as a single unit. At Hueitful, stylists are not competing against one another but instead a big-fun-loving-educational-curl-team. Everyone is an hair educator and edge slayer. Nina Christmas, Creative Director of Huietiful noted, “Think of the staff as the staff at your dentist office. You take care of your teeth daily with brushes and flossing daily, but the dentist assist with structure, deep cleaning and to address other issues beyond what you may see.” Everyone works together and since Ken, owner Hueitful and Hueitful Salons, picks the best you don’t have to worry about, which stylist is the best colorist or blowouts. Just book , enjoy and get ready to stunt on the gram. Salon: From focusing on textured hair to the modern simplicity decor, Hueitful is not the typical salon. They offer over 50 services from bantu knots, color to nano treatment and deva cuts. “We are client and customer centric. Everything we come up with inspired by the needs of our clients.” says Ken. How client centric is Huetiful Salon? Upon arrival, you will immediately notice a very small lounge/sitting area, which is due to their focus on minimum to no wait time from the moment you walk through their doors. (*Raises hands!) Since there is only one stylist per person, the process is client attentive. The salon boost clients can book an appointment for a blow out at 7am and be able to make it into the office by 9am. Steam Treatment – By now you should know the importance I place in water especially within the body. The entire salon understands the same importance with the focus thanks to the Huetiful Steamers. The Huetiful Steamer is specifically designed for the unique needs of curly and wavy hair, restoring moisture 5x better than deep conditioners alone. Ken states “the steamers allow the opening up the cuticles of your hair to allow any conditioner you choose to penetrate better and work more effectively, replenish moisture lost and reducing breakage and split ends caused by dry hair. ” This treatment is heightened thanks in part to their new and expanded product line. I have to admit, I was a huge fan of their shampoo and conditioner, which I was able to try last year at The Natural Cole’s How-To Event in Dallas, Texas. After chatting with, Tasheara Neshell, Senior Stylist at Hueitful Salon in Dallas – Ft. Worth, I am itching to test out the steam and their latest foam mousse, which is formulated to wrap, style and sleek a variety of different hair textures and styles. If you are not in Dallas, you can check out the salons in Chicago and Atlanta. http://www.huetifulsalon.com/about.htm. Don’t forget to check out more salon grand opening pictures above in the gallery. Huetiful Salon Dallas-Ft. Worth is located 2410 W Abram Street Arlington, TX 76013 866.708.7015