ClassyBlackGirl.com

Santa Claus is Coming to Union Square! #MacysBelieve

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 3 Dec 2015 00:23 GMT

"This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all excitement and holiday cheer expressed are my own."

When it comes to Christmas, Santa is definitely one of my favorite things and favorite people! His smiling face and promise of gifts in his jolly, red suit help me fight the cold days of Winter and prepare for my own gift giving events! I mean who doesn't get crazy excited when you hear "Ho, Ho, Ho!" Santa will be sliding down chimney's and making his way along with his 8 reindeer (hopefully Rudolph too!) right to San Francisco's posh Macy's in Union Square! As if the Christmas Tree Lighting was not amazing enough good old St. Nick will be taking our Christmas list requests (and checking them twice) and should you be so inclined you can go and grant your own Christmas wishes right over at the Macy's!...I know that I will be. Right after chopping it up with Santa I will be on "Shop Til You Drop" status! This is most definitely a family friendly event, so bundle up the kiddies, nieces, nephews and bring your positive spirit. Here is the Santa Claus is Coming to Union Square Info: Santa Arrival Time: 2 PM Santa's Location: Union Square, Macy's Don't Forget: -Your Christmas List and your whole family! -Please arrive early because there is always a line for the most popular man of the season!Take lots of photos and tweet using the hashtag #MacysBelieve I will of course be giving my Instagram Holiday Life, so please follow me @ClassySharelle In case you want to be MY Santa Baby this year on my Personal Christmas List I am requesting: A Nice GuyRuby Woo Lip Stick by MACRachel Roy Wrap DressMichael Kors anythingOf course for more information on this event and for the rest of the holiday season, please check out Macys online!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/santa-claus-is-coming-to-union-square-macysbelieve

Santa Claus is Coming to Union Square! #MacysBelieve

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 3 Dec 2015 00:23 GMT

"This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all excitement and holiday cheer expressed are my own."

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/santa-claus-is-coming-to-union-square-macysbelieve

Santa Claus is Coming to Union Square! #MacysBelieve

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 3 Dec 2015 00:23 GMT

"This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all excitement and holiday cheer expressed are my own."

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/santa-claus-is-coming-to-union-square-macysbelieve

Santa Claus is Coming to Union Square! #MacysBelieve

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 3 Dec 2015 00:23 GMT

"This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all excitement and holiday cheer expressed are my own." When it comes to Christmas, Santa is definitely one of my favorite things and favorite people! His smiling face and promise of gifts in his jolly, red suit help me fight the cold days of Winter and prepare for my own gift giving events! I mean who doesn't get crazy excited when you hear "Ho, Ho, Ho!" Santa will be sliding down chimney's and making his way along with his 8 reindeer (hopefully Rudolph too!) right to San Francisco's posh Macy's in Union Square! As if the Christmas Tree Lighting was not amazing enough good old St. Nick will be taking our Christmas list requests (and checking them twice) and should you be so inclined you can go and grant your own Christmas wishes right over at the Macy's!...I know that I will be. Right after chopping it up with Santa I will be on "Shop Til You Drop" status! This is most definitely a family friendly event, so bundle up the kiddies, nieces, nephews and bring your positive spirit. Here is the Santa Claus is Coming to Union Square Info: Santa Arrival Time: 2 PM Santa's Location: Union Square, Macy's Don't Forget: -Your Christmas List and your whole family! -Please arrive early because there is always a line for the most popular man of the season!Take lots of photos and tweet using the hashtag #MacysBelieve I will of course be giving my Instagram Holiday Life, so please follow me @ClassySharelle In case you want to be MY Santa Baby this year on my Personal Christmas List I am requesting: A Nice GuyRuby Woo Lip Stick by MACRachel Roy Wrap DressMichael Kors anythingOf course for more information on this event and for the rest of the holiday season, please check out Macys online!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/santa-claus-is-coming-to-union-square-macysbelieve

2 Fast Ways to Include Self Care During the Holidays! #BecauseMoment

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 26 Nov 2015 04:00 GMT

This post was sponsored by Massage Envy as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central. My day is GO from the time that my phones goes off, I mean I have an alarm on my phone, but it usually rings before then. Where are my GIRLS at?....you know what I mean. Nope, I'm not a Mom, not a a home maker. I makes homes. I am going 24/7 to make sure that my people are paid and that it all gets done before the Turkeys get on the table.

However, one thing that I can NOT forget it to take care of myself. People seem to think that single women have it all. We are Free, Rich and have a LOT of TIME. While parts of this are true...the TIME part...I can assure you from my perspective is most definitely not true. So when it comes to taking care of myself I schedule it just like any other task. Because I have a lot of people who rely on me: Nieces, The Mom and the people that I serve at my company I cannot squander on the time that I give to myself. It's not a luxury, its a requirement. A few of my Single, Envied Girlfriends have asked me "Girl, how do you stay so cool during the holidays? So since they were asking I wanted to share my tactics: Watch Video on YouTube1. Schedule Your P-Time! Now get your mind out of the gutter. P-time is "Personal Time." This is time that I do not allow anybody else to jump in ON. Put it in your calendar like you would an appointment with your doctor (its THAT important).

2. Make a Massage a Regular Activity! I like to grab a massage with my girlfriends, Mom or solo. Massages allow you to turn your phone off and become ONE with your body. Those text messages and email will be there when you get back, so give yourself that much needed #BecauseMoment. -Because its Tuesday -Because you are Fabulous -Because you dropped the ball at work -Because you didn't want to date that nice guy We all have #BecauseMoments and they are all reasons to look in the mirror and remember how fierce you are and how much you need P-Time! I suggest that we all roll up thru Massage Envy because of reasons! You can get 60, 90 and 120 minute sessions so that you can better for the world...and for yourself. Some basic benefits of massage:Relieve StressRelaxationHelps Manage PainRelaxes MusclesLowers Blood PressureI don't skip on Yoga, Drinks with my Girls OR Massage Envy ... #BecauseMoments are Major! Thinking of Making some P-Time and scoring a massage of your own? Check out my Fave #BecauseMoment locations online so that getting some of your OWN P-Time will be easy! Schedule Your Massage Envy Now!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/2-fast-ways-to-include-self-care-during-the-holidays-becausemoment

5 Tips for Attending the @Macy's Christmas Tree Lighting on Black Friday!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Tue, 24 Nov 2015 04:38 GMT

"This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own." When most people think of Black Friday they have visions of sugar coated Big Screen TV's and new laptops dancing in their heads. I think of long lines and early morning visits to retail stores and frankly...that's just not where I want to spend my day after Thanksgiving. I want to spend my holiday weekend with my family, coloring with my Niece, enjoying warm apple cider with my friends for Friendsgiving and above ALL else heading on over to Macy's in San Francisco at Union Square to watch the Christmas Tree Lighting! Its the 26th year that Macy's is hosting the tree for Union Square! Date: Friday, November 27th, 2015 Time: 6 PM (But Get There Before!) Location: Macy's San Francisco, Union Square Can you feel the excitement in my words? Christmas is my favorite time of year. People are nice, the turkey is Fried and the Christmas Tree at Macy's is going to be 80 feet tall!!...Ekkkk...can you believe that its finally here? 20,000 lights twinkling and sparkling all at once! San Francisco, especially in the upscale Union Square, can have its people and parking challenges so there are a few Tips that I want to share with you so that you can enjoy your time over in "The City" as much as possible: 1. Arrive Early! The Christmas Tree Lighting in Union Square is a San Francisco Tradition that many people are looking forward to so be EARLY! There will be music and fun for the families and the couples alike! 2. Score Great Parking in the Lot Across from Macy's. 3. Dress Warmly! Although we DO live on the West Coast it can get a little chilly and who doesn't love the opportunity to wear a holiday sweater or a Santa scarf to share your festive spirit! 4. Have a hearty breakfast! Also get ready to walk around Macy's and see all of the new fashion and beauty offerings. You will be hungry too so bring a little lunch money because there is a neat food court inside of the department store in case you get a little hungry! 5. Come with Family and Tell a Friend. Don't rob anybody from the Ultimate Christmas Experience by not telling them about the Christmas Tree lighting. 6. Come Prepared to Take Amazing Pictures! Weather you are using your big digital camera (like I will be) or using your mobile phone (like I will be) to capture impromptu moments this will be a precious time to make more family memories. If you are using your phone don't forget to Instagram or Tweet using the hashtag #MacysBelieve so that we can all share our pictures together and celebrate the magic that is Christmas. We will all be using it and sharing!! For More Information Visit Macy's online!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/5-tips-for-attending-the-macys-christmas-tree-lighting-on-black-friday

Once again it is WINE TIME with Columbia Crest!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 06:43 GMT

"I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Columbia Crest. I received a promotional item to thank me for my participation." Once again it is WINE TIME here at ClasyBlackGirl.com HQ! As we are getting into the fall and recipes are getting richer its Red Wine season, personally my favorite season of the year. Columbia Crest does something super amazing, that no other winery is doing...it allows you to basically make your own wine. WHUT...stop the presses (the WINE presses)!! #TBT to last week at our winery with the #CrowdsourcedCab ECO and where we did a tasting of the #ColumbiaCrest 1986-1990 Cabernet Sauvignon. A photo posted by Columbia Crest Winery (@columbiacrest) on Oct 1, 2015 at 11:30am PDT Right now the Blending Process has begun and you too can have your say on the taste and fragrance of the 2014 Columbia Crest Cabernet. I have personally tasted the previous years and the richness of this wine is impeccable!...and talk about full-bodied! The Cabernet Sauvignon is exactly the type of California Cab that makes any meal sing. Have you voted? VOTE NOW! If not, there is still time to add your opinion to the 2014 Vintage!...be sure and vote simply by clicking here! I cannot wait to open my bottle and sit around the fire with friends and family!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/once-again-it-is-wine-time-with-columbia-crest

Full Figured Fabulous @SuperModelEmme is Coming to San Francisco!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Sat, 17 Oct 2015 22:54 GMT

"This post is sponsored by Everywhere Agency; however, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own." Being a Curvalicious girl has been a permanent part of my life. Its a part of my talk, walk and fashion. As I began getting older and I started loving my own body and stopped trying to be skinny but focused completely on being healthy and fit...I started following power chicks like Emme and Marie Denee, The Curvy Fashionista (who I have had the privilege of working with and knowing). Being curvy is what we all have in common. So you can only imagine the excitement that I felt when I heard that Plus Size Super Model Emme was going to be in my town of San Francisco serving her her fashion, flyness and unapologetic curves. I was delighted. I have always enjoyed fashion shows, but where are the really classy, curvy fashion shows? At Macy's, of course. Next Saturday, October 24th, Emme will be in the Building at Union Square in Macy's! If you want to come, score your tickets by clicking here! What it meant to be a Model was always super skinny and unattainable-for me anyway. Being that models are synonymous with all things beautiful, when I discovered Emme and understood her history and her passion for all of us to love our own bodies, I knew that I became an instant fan, "this lady understood my pain and curves." On October 24th this upscale fashion show is going to showcase: Melissa McCarthy Seven7, Calvin KleinINC Michael Kors & More...all for the Plus Sized Girl! Can you feel my giddiness? So I hope that this has you as geeked up as it has me, if so go ahead and meet me for selfies at Macy's Union Square in San Francisco and we can oogle all of the chic fashions! Get Your FREE Tickets Here! http://www.eventbrite.com/e/emme-fashion-event-tickets-18252786576 We can also shop, meet Emme AND get a fly beauty bag if we spend $75 bucks or more! Ask me ANY fashion questions, I will be there to give you my #ClutchThePeals opinion on being pretty and plus sized for the Fall!...remember to use and follow the hashtag #MacysEmme and lets take some curvy pics together!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/supermodelemme-in-sanfrancisco-macysemme

Cleaning Up Before the Big Game!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 05:42 GMT

I was compensated to write about my experience at Lucky's with Procter & Gamble but ALL opinions are strictly classy and my own!Yup...I hate cleaning up. Even before the big game on Sunday! I know, it's not exactly the classiest thing to admit, but hey. Fortunately I was invited to Lucky's to meet the uber handsome Mr. Roger Craig and I got a ton of Procter and Gamble goodies to encourage me to clean up before the Big Game!.... ....because now that its football season, Sunday is always around the corner! And when friends and family come over I want my house to be squeaky clean and smell nice and fresh!

There was a LINE through the parking lot of the San Bruno shopping center in front of the Lucky Supermarket.

Bay Area folks were all a BUZZ to see NFL Legend Roger Craig and of course to "spin the wheel!" and get cleaning goodies from Procter & Gamble! The entire grocery store was full of excitement and all of the employees were rocking 49ers gear.

Me and a few bloggerista friends of mine and my main squeeze (My Mom!) had the opportunity to snap some neat photos and ask Roger Craig a few questions about his award winning football career and of course what he thinks about the team now!

A Few Quick Tips on keeping your house clean and classy on Pre-Game Days:

Clean Up Daily for 30 Minutes, that way you do not have to stress on game day, since most of it will already be done! Make cleaning up like exercise so that you can kill two birds with one stoneUse Tide Pods to make washing your clothes a CLEAN and easy snap!...my Mom loves these!I received an awesome care package filled with goodies from Procter and Gamble and you can receive the same exact package AND a $25 buck gift card!

Yes, its football season....so ya girl is in a sharing mood (courtesy of P & G)! You can get yours too! I am giving away a pack just like the one that I got! We will also send you a prize pack to give to one of your readers that includes: $25 Visa Gift Card Tide PODSCascade Action PacsFebreze Air EffectsPantene 2-in-1 Shampoo/ConditionerCrest Toothpastea Rafflecopter giveaway Holla back and let me know how YOU clean up before the big game!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/cleaning-up-before-the-big-game

An Easy Way to Give Good Skin!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Tue, 13 Oct 2015 02:11 GMT

"I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for AVEENO POSITIVELY RADIANT . I received product samples as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation." When you put on make-up and especially eye make up and take it off as much as I do really effective wipes can be hard to come by. And.....when you find really effective wipes, they are sometimes so harsh that they dry your skin out. For a girl like me that already has dry skin, this is a no go. Dryness causes premature aging, lines, wrinkles and all of the BAD things! Then I stumbled upon Aveeno Positive Radiant wipes. Channel the Harps.

When it comes to beauty and beauty products, there are tiers (or levels) to this. And these Aveeno wipes are most definitely TOP TIER.

When I wipe my face with these wipes, not only is my skin clean from all of the makeup and dirt that I have encountered for the day...but these are the softest wipes that I have ever had the pleasure of using on this skin. I mean, I have over used these wipes. It is like beauty-pleasure. Target is a great place to score yours!...and even MORE Aveeno Positively Radiant products! I am super particular about my skin, I drink gallons of water so that I will maintain my youth for as long as possible...but life does happen. However, the importance of moisturizing cleansers, SPF's for brown skin and great moisturizers are more important than any lipstick or make-up tricks. I love the thickness of Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Radiant daily moisturizer. While I rock an SPF daily I LOVE the fact that the daily moisturizer already has an SPF in it. You can never have too much protection from the suns strong rays.

AVEENO Positively Radiant AET When your skin becomes a little older you require more moisturizer than when you were 21 and Aveeno Positively Radiant does it! Special Secret....the SOY!! It improves Texture, Tone and Tautness! Go ahead...score some great skin!!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/an-easy-way-to-give-good-skin

The Beauty Report: How to Get a Fly Eye!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Mon, 5 Oct 2015 04:24 GMT

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #LorealBeauty #CollectiveBias The Beauty Report is a new installment of the Classy Black Girl Brand, its easy fun and I am checking out and reporting on beauty products JUST for you!

Today we are going to be talking about a few products that I have recently been trying out and loving!: L'Oreal's new mascaras! I am in love! My lashes are long, sexy and saying something. POP!

I have added these two new Mascaras to my Fly Eye Kit and I cannot imagine a FLY LOOK without either of them. On work days when I need to look beautiful and conservative I rock the Voluminous Butterfly Mascara! On those days when I want my eyes to do ALL of the talking: like date nights and photo shoots, I use Voluminous Million Lashes! First Stop: Safeway Health & Beauty Aisle!

Luckily, L'Oreal was giving me Fly Eye ideas!

Snagged! Voluminous L'Oreal Mascara - CHECK!

I created three different looks to showcase how I wear my L'oreal! The Office LOOK!

When getting ready for work a pretty eye sets up your entire look and your entire day! The Date Night LOOK - with a Tutorial!

The Cat Eye - For Fun with the Girls!

To make a regular eye a "Cat Eye" or Cleopatra Eye simply elongate your eye line and give it some thickness. And my Bonus Mascara/Beauty Tip: Use your mascara to cover up those bothersome grays! I am not going to dye this ONE gray hair that I have, but putting a little mascara covers is right up, tames that wiry hair AND is a quick DOUBLE use for my mascara!

What is in your Fly Eye Beauty Kit? What are your must haves? Holla back at your Classy, Black Girl and please continue to check out more L'oreal Paris looks and ideas here at Facebook!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/the-beauty-report-how-to-get-a-fly-eye

5 Classy Things That You Need to Know About Sprint!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 24 Sep 2015 02:04 GMT

"I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Sprint. I received product samples to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for my participation." Sprint has really bridged the gap in giving the consumer (me) what they want. From the busy business owner (me) to the person who hates being confined to a contract (me) Sprint has really impressed me with some new programs that make life more convenient-and classy. One of the things that I dread, is going to the mobile phone store: It that it is probably packedThe agents are unknowledgable about the phones that I might wantI will end up spending WAY more than I budgeted forIn the end, I will probably be hanging out for hours until my number is finally called I will end up Tweeting, liking instagram photos (okay taking Instagram photos) and wishing that I were somewhere else I know, a mobile mess. What Sprint is doing DifferentlySprint now has a new program called Direct 2 You!

This totally means that I do NOT have to even think about going into the store to get a new phone. So all of that stuff that I was just fussing about, with Sprint, it is now a thing of the past. Now check this out, you go to Sprint Direct 2 You or call 844-DIR-2YOU and just like magic, a Sprint Guy (or girl) appears. They are actually mobile techs and are powerfully trained mobile phone techs to help you: transition into your new phonemove all of your contacts and data (yes photos) into a new phoneGet you up and talking all in the comfort of where ever you would like to meet. Yes, that means that they have everything in their cars to get you into your new LG G4 or whatever you need.This is THE most convenient way to upgrade your phone or get a new phone. ...oh and its FREE! 5 Things That You Need to Know About SprintI was invited to a Radio Shack Store to learn more about Sprint and how they are making the mobile phone process a more pleasurable one. Here are some flicks of the fun and here are 5 things that you need to know about my NEW Carrier, Sprint!...they are all about MORE!

MORE STORES: Sprint just joined forces with 1500 Radio Shack stores and they now have "Store within a Store" locations all over the nation! Radio Shack is a neighborhood store, so we have more access to our mobile store when we need to!MORE OPTIONS: If you have some credit challenges, there are some awesome pre-paid options that you can even get an iPhone on! No credit checks, no drama.MORE TIME: If you do not want to spend time in the store you can get cell phone delivery anywhere you want with Direct 2 You!MORE LG G4 LOVE: Yep, I got one. Takes the BEST Selfies and Periscoping on this phone is the business. The internet/data rocks on this device and its most definitely at Sprint!MORE CLASS: Their customer service team JUMPS at the opportunity to answer questions and doesn't put you on forget when you DO come in the store!

Me & Brandi Riley posing for awesome selfies at our Lunch with Sprint! All around Sprint treated us like rock stars, I even won an iPad!

The really cool part about all of it is that they are committed to treating each customer who walks in their front door with they same respect. I Follow Sprint on Twitter for Tech Updates!

I am pleased with my new service and I cannot wait to experience more and more with Sprint and my awesome LG G4 device!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/5-things-that-you-need-to-know-about-sprint

When Gifts Last Longer Than Your Relationship... Toss or Return?

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 3 Sep 2015 00:25 GMT

When a relationship of any type comes to an end it can be difficult. Be it romantic or just a BFF that no longer is. Even when it is best for us, separation hurts. As loving people we exchange gifts and have little reminders and photographs around our homes of people that we love and loved because they were a part of our lives. However, when we hit the delete button on that relationship the "things" and the "gifts" are still there. Gifts can haunt and taunt you, so I have a very clear and straightforward way that I deal with the end. I put a period on it. Beyonce said, "to the left, to the left. Everything you own in a box to the left."

That also goes for any gifts. If I have received some very precious gifts like a necklace, I will keep that in my jewelry box. Photographs belong in a treasure chest with love letters and the like, but everything else that reminds me of that person...I will just give it to a less fortunate person. If you left me then we are official Black History and I don't want your sh*t around to remind me of the rejection. Instead of making me sad, that fragrance can make the next girl happy. Give it Back, Turn It LooseLet me just go ahead and say right now that I am no Indian Giver, so I don't ever want to be in a relationship with one. If you cared about me enough to give me a gift I am not giving it back. Not a purse, not a piece of jewelery, not a car. Don't even ask. It is MINE now. The only time that I would give a gift back would be if I were engaged and called it off. That is a promise to fulfill a contract, and you are not going to see me on Judge Judy. No Sir-Ma'am. So two snaps for class and toss those memories in the trash.

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/when-your-gifts-last-longer-than-your-relationship-etiquette

Be A Wine Maker With Columbia Crest!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Mon, 24 Aug 2015 22:46 GMT

"I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Columbia Crest. I received a promotional item to thank me for my participation." I dig wine to the fullest, but this is probably something that you already know-right? See My Wine Posts Every new bottle of wine can become like a new experience. Sometimes there are some wines that you wish that you could have added a hint of this and a touch of that or left this after taste out all together. As a girl who loves her wine I love full bodied, bold, red wines that dance all over your palate. I'm not all into the notes of this and the bouquet of all of that. I just like good wine! I am super excited about the Columbia Crest Crowdsourced Cabernet. So what all of that means is that you actually get to have a hand in how the new wine is actually made! You get to vote on if the vines should be irrigated or stressed if the harvest should happen at night and even when the grapes should be crushed. Its so cool because its a whole bunch of people voting and deciding what happens to create the outcome of the finished vino! (GO VOTE NOW!) ...and anybody can join and do it, you do not have to be some wine connoisseur, but if you are thats cool too! Its like wine went and became a party for all of us to join. You get to learn more about the wine making process because you have access to information like real wine makers do such as: Weather AnalyticsSeason by season dataTime-lapsed camera

You also get help and advice from Juan Munoz-Oca, the head wine maker at Columbia Crest. Its totally interactive and a social way to be a part of the wine making experience. For More Information on how you can join the party visit them online in several places: On the Web Facebook Twitter Instagram https://www.youtube.com/user/ColumbiaCrestWinery You can also check out more about Columbia Crest by using the hashtag #CrowdsourcedCab What would be YOUR suggestion on how to create the perfect Cabernet?

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/be-a-wine-maker-with-columbia-crest

How to Make Sure that Your Black Doesn't Crack!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Wed, 19 Aug 2015 04:02 GMT

"I participated in a Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for RoC Skincare. I received product to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for my participation." Between coffee in the morning, wine at night and all of the delightful stress demons that we are exposed to wrinkles are a fact of life. I know that as Black women we like to use the mantra, "Black Don't Crack." ...but I am 37 (which means that I can be honest with myself) and from time to time when I take a real, hard look at myself in the mirror I see a few gray hairs and oh yes...some of those fine wrinkles...they would be called cracks.

RoC has always been an upscale product that women in my family used when they were actively looking good and keeping it together effortlessly. The truth is, we simply cannot stop aging and quite frankly I cannot tell you that I would want to. I have learned a LOT as I have matured and lessons that are unforgettable and very necessary to being the Fabulous woman that I am today, but it doesn't mean that I am not not on the hustle to look as young as possible! There are a few Black Girl Beauty Secrets that I was taught by my mother and my grandmother:1. Have a regular bedtime. You can always tell the women who have failed to rest or who get to bed at all different hours, wrinkles, dark circles and dry skin. 2. Drink water infused with lemon. Drinking water is important but you must make sure that you use lemons so that you get the benefits of lemons to clean your system out and flush out all of the impurities so that you do not keep the bad stuff in. Okay so I also use Green Tea, Cucumbers & Oranges!

3. Switch up Cleaners. Switching up cleaners is great for your skin and never allows build up because you aren't using the same cleanser. 4. Always remove all of your makeup every night no matter what! I am super guilty of not taking my eye makeup off, especially if I was partying late into the night. But I was taught that every day that you don't remove your makeup you actually age 2 days! Ekkkkk!!!!!.....that could be a LOT of aging! So I take off my make-up no matter what! 5. Use the BEST moisturizers. Skimp on ice cube tray holders, not good skin care. I personally love the RoC skincare line, it has been a family tradition. Thick creams for the day and night time that seal in moisture and prevent those fine lines that make us look older than we should.

I love the way that my face feels in the morning time after using RoC Multi Correction 5 in 1 restoring Night Cream products before I retire and it gives my face and skin a springboard for a natural day or date day glam!! I really like the Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizer because it has SPF of 30 and I DO NOT have to wear an additional sunscreen with it!

Check out the RoC website for more information about ALL of their products! Although my family is from Texas we are California girls now and we do NOT do wrinkles!

You know that I am a Target girl, so I encourage you to buy some online at Target! If you want to know more about RoC in general visit them online! What do you to keep your fine lines and wrinkles at bay?

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/black-dont-crack-roc

ClassyBlackGirl is Losing Weight with Freshly Meal Plans!

Posted by classyblackgirl — Wed, 12 Aug 2015 23:19 GMT

I have gotten too comfortable being uncomfortable. My under ware is NOT fitting right (yes...I am talking panties), my clothes have not been making me feel sexy and my belly is getting too big. I need a food intervention. I need Freshly...like now. I'm not Klumpish (I still got it!), but being a former fat girl I know that it's a slippery slope to going from thick to fat. I work from home and I have been starting to rock yoga pants and college t-shirts instead of the high heeled shoes and the tight, white outfits that I have been known for. So when I went to put on my famous Lisa Raye "whites" (my all-white sexy outfits)...I knew that some things had changed-drastically. I have been too busy to make time for my best friend so healthy cooking has not been on the calendar frequently. I know, "who can be that busy?" well when you work for yourself you find yourself living on coffee and fast food drive thrus. Super Unhealthy.

I saw Freshly on Facebook and I like the concept for a couple reasons: * Freshly is Fresh food, * Freshly is high protein AND low carbs * Freshly is Gluten-Free * there are NO preservatives * Freshly is delivered direct to my DOOR! * I would not have to continually ask myself, "What am I going to have for dinner?" I am so looking forward to preservative free food, portion control and high protein and Gluten Free eating! I have been eating like I don't have any shame...and that's just not like me.

I am going to give real feedback and real thoughts on my Freshly food experiences and if you want to join me, please feel free to use the CODE "Classy" in this post they will pay me a few pennies for my honest review when you purchase using this link AND the discount code "classy" you will also get a 50% discount on your first week of food! Just Visit Freshly.com and when you check out...use the Code: CLASSY and get 50% off on your first week!So I invite you to join me and get your physical life back together too and get Freshly Fine for the Fall. Now I need to get my exercise life together! Find Out More About How I Will Be Getting Back to Fit and Fine right here at CurvyGirlGetsFit.com

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/freshly-meal-plans

How Early is Too Early to Call?

Posted by classyblackgirl — Sat, 18 Jul 2015 00:30 GMT

Etiquette and Class are learned. There is a lesson that absolutely MUST be taught: "How early is TOO EARLY to call?" No, I do not mean early as in after a date, I mean too early in the Morning! There are times of the day that are inappropriate to make a call. There are two types of phone calls that we are talking about: Personal Calls & Professional Calls Personal Calls As far as I am concerned there is never a reason to call somebody before 9 am on your personal friendship list. “I mean at 8:30 am, what do you talk about?” — Sharelle D. Lowery I am just having my second cup of coffee and trying to get my mind right at 8:30 am. This rule of course does not include the short list of Mama, Man or BFF. *Mothers have a wonderful knack for calling you when you are getting those last 15 minutes of REM sleep.* But everybody else is severely overstepping their boundaries if they call at even 8:59 am. Professional Calls I do NOT receive professional phone calls before 9 am under any circumstances and I advise people in business to do the same. When you start taking "emergency" calls because you just had to, you will start receiving calls as early as your CEO opens her eyes. No can do. However, there are the pesky "in the middle" type of people who you have generally professional relationships with BUT you all have each other's personal mobile phone numbers. Use your Do not Disturb Settings on your phone and handle that call at 9 am so that you can be completely caffeinated when you chat up the folks in your life both personal and professional. All that I have to say on this matter is that it is not classy to answer your phone at 6:20 am in the morning (probably on your day off) with a frog in your throat. As a side note, I also do not take professional calls after 8 pm nor to I take personal calls from a gentleman caller after 11 pm... “Your Not My Man, Your Not Ralph Tresvant.” — Jigga...Kinda Boundaries are okay. Set some. via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/how-early-is-too-early-to-call-etiquette

What Can Celebrity Mother's Learn From Kimbella's Lack of Class?

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 18 Jun 2015 03:37 GMT

The internet is a dirty, icky place. However, as an adult I can roll with the punches. If I post a picture of myself I can fully accept the consequences of what that picture means. But Kimbella, she knows better. There are of course a LOT of photos that I choose NOT to post because I look too fat, too silly, too ugly...or too much like a slore. I think about my image constantly because at the end of the day it is all that I have. Kimbella, most well known as one of the crazy chicks on Love and Hip Hop NY and longtime chick of rapper Julez Santana is clearly in need of money. In the footsteps of Kris Kardashian Kmibella is pimping her daughter for affiliate cash. Girl for real? A few hours ago Kimbella took this instagram photo of herself and her daughter posing in mother-daughter bathing suits to promote a brand that she makes money from. Hmmm.... So I guess that could be innocent enough if Kimbella didn't pose like a THOT and her poor daughter pulling her swim suit down while looking obviously uncomfortable. See for yourself. Don't we look cute & ready to show out in our matching swimsuits?! ???????? I found these cute matching mommy & daughter swimsuits on ???????? @eve.jnr get 20% off using my Code BELLA & check out the site www.evejnr.bigcartel.com for exclusive Mommy & Daughter swimwear sets?????????? A photo posted by KIMBELLA (@kimbellasworld) on Jun 17, 2015 at 8:53am PDT I actually hurt inside for this little girl because this picture will live in infamy and its almost child pornography. Her mother is a Men's Magazine Model and has now introduced her daughter into a lifestyle where her young nonexistent sexuality is being exploited. Even Kim Kardashian was an adult when Kris started pimping her. What Mother's can learn from Kimbella's lack of class is that children are not for sale. The internet is a very dirty and gross place. There are perverts looking at this photograph who have no intention of purchasing this swimsuit, but maybe purchasing a little girl who looks just like little Bella Monroe James. It would be naive for Kimbella or anybody else to say that this pose is innocent. She better not.

Is Julez really taking such poor care of his family that this form of prostitution is what Kimbella is forced to reduce her family to? Note to Mothers: Make Better Fathering DecisionsKeep Your Half Naked Daughters off of InstagramYou would look more respectable in a McDonalds uniform than having your daughter in a 2 pieceDon't pimp your children outWhat say you about Kimbella's lack of Class and Mothering skills?

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/what-can-celebrity-mothers-learn-from-kimbellas-lack-of-class

Is It Still UNCLASSY for Your Phone to Ring in a Meeting?

Posted by classyblackgirl — Tue, 16 Jun 2015 19:16 GMT

I am in meetings about two to three hours per day. I know, it's crazy. However, that is not an uncommon experience....you know...being in meetings all day long. In every meeting that I am in somebody's phone always goes off. Like always. *rolling my eyes* I function with my phone on vibrate almost 90% of the time because a ringing phone is rude and I check my phone enough to catch most calls within a few moments of the call. I work with my Mother and I always reminder her, "Turn your phone on vibrate." before we go into meetings because, well I don't want us to look unprofessional. But lately I have been sitting in meetings and people's phones just go off. Sometimes they even answer them. Yes, yes y'all....in the meeting. I was in a presentation when the presenter answered the phone! Would I do this???....never. Is it still seen as gauche, not so much. Taking the high road and being courteous means that your phone does NOT go off in the middle of a meeting. Taking the "average folks road" means that if your phones goes off, most people are not going to turn their noses up like people did just 5 years ago. Social nuances and acceptable behavior may change with technology and the times, mobile phones ringing are now more of a part of the American Business meeting as opposed to an irritant. We all need to be connected and if there is somebody more important on the other end of the phone, they are going to let it ring and answer it. Final Classy Points: Don't YOU have your phone on in the meeting!Absolutely do not answer your phone in a meeting weather it vibrates or ringsDon't be all huffy if somebody doesn't have the class and phone etiquette that you do!For More Classy Tips and Social Mindfullness be sure and check out more of the my etiquette articles!

via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/is-it-still-unclassy-for-your-phone-to-ring-in-a-meeting

What To Get For Your Mom for Mother's Day! #euphoria4moms

Posted by classyblackgirl — Thu, 30 Apr 2015 02:32 GMT

"I participated in an Influencer Activation on behalf of Influence Central for Calvin Klein. I received product samples to facilitate my review as well as a promotional item to thank me for my participation." Its almost Mother's Day, one of my favorite holidays. It is all about my Mommie and celebrating how wonderful she is! My Sisters and I do a pretty good job every year praising her Mommie-ness AND getting her a gift that she loves. Upscale fragrance is always at the top of her list. This year "the three sisters" (Me, and my two little Sisters) are going to Macy's (you might call it Dillard's in your neighborhood) to pick up a NEW Fragrance, because when I went to Macy's to pick up euphoria Calvin Klein for my Mother...I actually enjoyed the smell and the beautiful Orchid gift with purchase so much that I started secretly using my Mothers gift-eeeeekkkkk!!! I know, I know...bad daughter! But the orchid was so beautiful on my table that I just could not help testing out the fragrance which is inspired by the shape and fragrance of an Orchid Bulb! Its frankly addictive...I never want to stop spraying it.

The awesome thing is that she actually really liked how euphoria smells on me, so I know that she will like it! I can't wait for my Babe to get a whiff of euphoria Calvin Klein its a positively sexy, sultry "grown woman" scent! What are you getting your Mom for Mother's Day? via: http://www.classyblackgirl.com/lifestyle/what-to-get-for-your-mom-for-mothers-day-euphoria4moms