I am so excited to announce the opening of The Boss Babe Merch Store! You can preorder your boss babe tee TODAY and say it loud & proud to the world!
Are you a boss babe?
boss babe [bäs bāb] n.
1. a woman who is authentically and unapologetically herself wherever she takes up space.
2. she is an ambitious business owner that is driven to succeed; she is an entreprenHER.
The Dean of Fashion & Beauty will select an entreprenHER to be featured in her “Boss Babe Spotlight” Series. This series has been curated to shine some light on the small businesses of women who are unapologetically and authentically being themselves while leaving a footprint behind in the world that they live in.
WHO’S UP NEXT?
Today, I am featuring Erika King! Recently, I had the chance to interview Erika of Business + Brunch and learn some new and exciting things about her. I want to thank her for taking the time to speak with me so that I could shine some light on all of her dopeness and share it with you all. I certainly look forward to continuing to curate, collaborate, create and celebrate with her in the future! You can shower her with your love by supporting this entreprenHER in all of her business endeavors! Sit back, relax, pour a glass of wine and read about what she shared with me:
What do you want people to know about you and your business?
I would like people to know that Business & Brunch is not “just another women’s empowerment group” that hosts brunches and events that will look good on Instagram. Yes, we care about the experience but even more than that, we go into each event asking ourselves” What opportunity are we affording our guests?” And that’s what most important! WE believe in showing up, not just theoretically via quotes and inspirational posts, panels and words, but actually lending our voice and our talents to help. Giving is the basis of our platform and we use that to guide in this crazy entrepreneurial journey we are one.
What drives you as a business owner?
I would have to say giving back! I love when my services have made a difference in someone’s life. I love when a small piece of advice has been a game changer for someone. I’m always highly aware of the story that I write for myself. The things I want people to say about me when I’m not in the room.
What kind of legacy/footprint do you want to leave behind?
I want to leave a blueprint of how you can wholly enjoy your life and be selfish a little with your time and energy, but still give in so many ways. A lot of people think you have to choose either or and that’s not true. Both giving and receiving go hand in hand. You can’t have one without the other.
What knowledge would you like to impart on other small business owners, both new & aspiring and old & experienced?
Geez! There is so much advice, but here are a few things my experience has taught me. 1) Continue to work on your mind and your craft. I’ve changed my train of thought from fearing and loathing competition as a new business owner to viewing competition as a positive sign of market growth! Look at the opportunity in everything that you do. Spending the weekend and sacrificing fun nights out means I’ve saved a few hundred dollars and made some money, not that I missed out. Someone copying your ideas or doing exactly what you’re doing, means that you are doing something right. Just changing my perspective on negative things and looking for the opportunity. Continuing to work on craft is essential, don’t think you can learn something in five minutes and then think you’re an expert on it or buy an ebook on marketing and think that makes you a marketing guru. Intern, ask questions, get experience by doing pro bono or extremely discounted work. This will help you work out all the kinks in your business plan and your work processes first starting out. 2) What’s for you is for YOU. You cannot be envious of the blessings that other people will reap because while you are focused on that, you are neglecting the work you need to do to reach your blessings. 3) For experienced business owners, you cannot be afraid or apprehensive about lifting as you climb. It’s kind of your duty to enlighten and share your experiences and knowledge with new and aspiring business owners. It keeps you relevant, relatable and sharp.
What does being a “boss babe” mean to you?
A boss babe is a woman who is confident in her ability to get shit done. She’s successful or on her way to success but more importantly she shares that success with others. She leaves the door open behind her and in some cases holds it open, saves a seat at the table and even helps set the table. Anyone can put Boss Babe or CEO in their title but a true CEO has a whole board of directors that helps them make wise decisions. A CEO has the best interest of everyone invested in the company, the employees that depend on the company and the clients/customers whom the company services. It’s more than just “ownership” It’s how you use that ownership to uplift, empower and promote.
If you had to pick a phrase to serve as your words of affirmation, what would it be?
I would pick ” I like who I’m becoming” because this phrase has not always been true. I see my future self and I do the work to be her every day.
Are there any other special gifts or talents that you have that you’d like to share?
I’m an avid Taco Tuesday-er, an aspiring Sommelier and I’m really good at finding the best places to eat with the best food! I also love to write!
Photo Credit: All photos were taken by Shekeidra Booker
Each & every Wednesday for “Woman Crush Wednesdays”, The Dean of Fashion & Beauty will select an entreprenHER to be featured in her “Boss Babe Spotlight” Series. This series has been curated to shine some light on the small businesses of women who are unapologetically and authentically being themselves while leaving a footprint behind in the world that they live in.
WHO’S UP NEXT?
Today, I am featuring: Courtney Arlett. Recently, I had the chance to interview Courtney and learn some new and exciting things about her. I want to thank her for taking the time to speak with me so that I could shine some light on all of her dopeness and share it with you all. I certainly look forward to continuing to curate, collaborate, create and celebrate with her in the future! When you get a minute, shower her with your love & support! Sit back, relax, pour a glass of wine and read about what she shared with me:
What do you want people to know about you and your business?
My business is content creation. I am a writer and producer living in the Atlanta area with over 15 years of experience in entertainment. A few years ago I start my production company, The Lockett, LLC. It stemmed from being a plus size actress in a entertainment industry that didn’t see the value in representing people who see like me. Hence the company motto, CREATE FOR YOURSELF! I wanted to see more people who look like me, so I created projects that reflect who I am. One the many projects I am currently working on is a original scripted series titled, “Pretty For A Big Gurl.”
What drives you as a business owner?
As a business owner I am driven to create lasting memories. Telling beautiful stories, empowering others to become visionaries, and fostering greatness in young talent.
What kind of legacy/footprint do you want to leave behind?
It is my desire to leave a legacy of storytelling that inspires hope, love and determination to future generations. Hope for a better future, love for community and determination to allows be better than your past. It is my desire that everything I touch, every story I create inspires change in the lives of the people who experience them.
What knowledge would you like to impart on other small business owners, both new & aspiring and old & experienced?
What does being a “boss babe” mean to you?
Being a “boss babe” to me means being fearless. Nothing is impossible!
If you had to pick a phrase to serve as your words of affirmation, what would it be?
Your biggest obstacle is YOU.
Are there any other special gifts or talents that you have that you’d like to share?
The gift of imagination. Our dreams are like blue prints to what can actually be. A child only sees what can be and not how hard the journey is. The focus is on the goal period. Higher than the human thought can reach is God’s ideal for his children. Dream higher and live out loud! 
May I set clear intentions that carry me toward my goals.
When opportunities arise, may I evaluate them with a clear mind and open heart.
May compassion for myself and others reside within me.
At the end of each day, I will forgive myself for the things I didn’t get to.
I will forgive myself for judging myself as “not enough” when I feel challenged.
Instead of focusing on my perceived shortcomings, let me celebrate who I am.
I will give thanks for all the connections I make both in my business and without.
May I focus on the present moment and give my attention to what is in front of me.
Let me always remember to be in service to others, consciously sharing my gifts.
Even when things don’t work out as planned, let me remain mindful that I am always on my right path.
May I learn from every experience.
Allow me to trust my intuition to know what’s best for my business.
Let me have the courage to take risks, and the wisdom to accept when something isn’t right for me.
I will remember to take time for myself and for those I love.
Give me the peace of mind to know that the work I do will provide financial security.
May I nurture my body, mind, and soul.
Let me view my business through heart-centered eyes, seeing abundance in all things.
Each & every Wednesday for “Woman Crush Wednesdays”, The Dean of Fashion & Beauty will select an entreprenHER to be featured in her “Boss Babe Spotlight” Series. This series has been curated to shine some light on the small businesses of women who are unapologetically and authentically being themselves while leaving a footprint behind in the world that they live in.
WHO’S UP NEXT?
Today, I am featuring: Chenese Lewis. Recently, I had the chance to interview Chenese and learn some new and exciting things about her. I want to thank her for taking the time to speak with me so that I could shine some light on all of her dopeness and share it with you all. I certainly look forward to continuing to curate, collaborate, create and celebrate with her in the future! You can shower her with your support by booking her to host your next event or listening to her podcast! Sit back, relax, pour a glass of wine and read about what she shared with me:
What do you want people to know about you and your business?
Chenese Lewis Productions, LLC is a media company established in 2007. My company has produced a television pilot, numerous events, and body positive products. The company also handles my bookings as a national personality, host, and speaker.
My podcast, The Chenese Lewis Show, launched in 2008, is also managed by the company. The Chenese Lewis Show has served as an oral history of the plus size community, with extensive interviews documenting the rise to fame of many of the plus industries top stars. The podcast has unmatched quality content for its niche market, making it a stand out platform for not only plus size women, but for all.
What drives you as a business owner?
I initially started in the industry through my passion for body positivity, which became the catalyst for my brand and business.My brand’s mission is to empower every person, especially women, to have healthy body image and self-esteem, which Iadvocate by being a positive role model and influencer, promoting body positivity through my podcast, and hosting events that celebrate what our society doesn’t deem as the ideal of beauty, rather its natural hair or plus size fashion.
What kind of legacy/footprint do you want to leave behind?
2020 will mark my 20th anniversary of being active in the plus size community. Prior to the social media boom, I was making waves as an advocate through being a visibly plus size person breaking ground as a plus-size model and actress that didn’t fit industry standards, as well as producing body positive events and campaigns that gained national and international media attention. I hope to leave a legacy of love and passion by being a trailblazer that helped bring exposure to a community, to set the next generation up to achieve things I could only imagine.
What knowledge would you like to impart on other small business owners, both new & aspiring and old & experienced?
I would like business owners to always present their brand in a positive light and to always be professional. Social media can be a gift and a curse. Although it is a wonderful marketing tool that is cost effective, unprofessional use of the platforms can be harmful to brands. Unless your brand is provocative on purpose, using profanity, posting inappropriate pictures, and anything else that does not present you in the best light is not helping to build a success respectable brand.
What does being a “boss babe” mean to you?
Being a boss babe to me means I’m authentic, ambitious, confident, and talented. I’m in charge of my life and make no apologies or excuses for who I am.
If you had to pick a phrase to serve as your words of affirmation, what would it be?
“Blessings have your name on them. It’s not a competition.” Sometimes people are so busy trying to compare their business with others that they can’t enjoy their own journey or celebrate their own accomplishments. Some get so competitive that they can become mean spirited and lack integrity to get ahead. Everyone’s path to success is not the same. Focus on your own business and not what others are doing.
Are there any other special gifts or talents that you have that you’d like to share?
I have strong leadership skills, great at networking, and enjoy being philanthropic with charitable organizations in the community.
For more information about Chenese and her current projects visit https://www.CheneseLewis.com and follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @CheneseLewis
Each & every Wednesday for “Woman Crush Wednesdays”, The Dean of Fashion & Beauty will select an entreprenHER to be featured in her “Boss Babe Spotlight” Series. This series has been curated to shine some light on the small businesses of women who are unapologetically and authentically being themselves while leaving a footprint behind in the world that they live in.
WHO’S UP NEXT?
Today, I am featuring: Alicia of APY Blog! Recently, I had the chance to interview Alicia and learn some new and exciting things about her. I want to thank her for taking the time to speak with me so that I could shine some light on all of her dopeness and share it with you all. I certainly look forward to continuing to curate, collaborate, create and celebrate with her in the future! You can shower her with your support by restocking your beauty kit with her beauty line that she recently dropped or reading her blog or subscribing to her YouTube Channel! Sit back, relax, pour a glass of wine and read about what she shared with me:
What do you want people to know about you and your business?
Hmm that’s a good question. I want people to know that I am a mom and wife who had a vision on how to expand on my enthusiasm for cosmetics! With there being such a lack of plus visibility in the beauty industry; I didn’t want to have to beg to sit at anyone’s table. So, I created my own and anyone can come sit!
What drives you as a business owner?
The desire to challenge the beauty standard in the industry and provide affordable cosmetics for ladies who want to shop beauty on a budget!
What kind of legacy/footprint do you want to leave behind?
I just want people to remember how I made them feel; and hopefully that feeling be a good one! Whatever comes of my business is not nearly as important as the interactions I have with people.
What knowledge would you like to impart on other small business owners, both new & aspiring and old & experienced?
Do your research. Learn your market. Know your target audience. Have a business plan. Get licensed. Operate like you take yourself seriously. Do not worry about the millions of other businesses that might be just like yours; remember your passion and what inspired you to start your business to begin with. Don’t have expectations of overnight success (while that’s nice in theory) rather, focus on creating a brand that will have longevity.
What does being a “boss babe” mean to you?
Being a woman with determination, ambition and resiliency who has the strength to do what’s needed to get things done.
If you had to pick a phrase to serve as your words of affirmation, what would it be?
Breathe deep and take one moment at a time.
Are there any other special gifts or talents that you have that you’d like to share?
Hmm…well lets see! I am a poet; I’m super gifted with word play.
What is TCFStyle Expo you might ask…
It is only one of the largest plus size and big & tall shopping events in the south! Since 2015, TCFStyle Expo has served as a body-positive fashion fashion event that takes online conversations about plus-size fashion and advocacy, offline. Many independent and mainstream fashion brands are represented here, and women & men bond over style, entertainment and empowerment. TCFStyle Expo has created a safe safe for plus bodies to authentically and unapologetically be themselves! It’s an event that if you already haven’t made it a point to attend in the past, present or future, you definitely should!
This year Marie Denee aka The Curvy Fashionista celebrated year five of her annual event! It was held at The Omni Hotel CNN Center located in downtown Atlanta. The 3 day event commenced with a Blogger Mastermind Day that I did not attend this year. I did have the opportunity to go last year and sooooooooo many jewels were dropped that I have since applied to my brand and they have brought me much success!
Day 2, began with a Blogger Brunch that had a panel that included Project Runway’s plus size favorites: Kenya, Liris & Ashley and hunti they spill all sorts of tea!
Immediately following the brunch, the doors of the expo were opened. There you could find plenty of vendors, fashion shows, photo ops, etc. Each and every year, my favorite part of attending TCFStyle Expo is ALWAYS the “family reunion” aspect of it! I get to run into old & familiar favorite faces and I also get to meet new ones!
And I’d be remiss if I did not mention the dynamic duo that is Chenese Lewis & Big Ray! They have been the expo’s hosts & MCs for the past two years and have done an amazing job with their ability to keep attendees engaged and laughing!
Unfortunately, I fell ill on Day 3 of the Expo, but I heard that Coffee & Conversations with Tasha Cobbs was insightful and nothing short of amazing!
Before the conclusion of this amazing event, Marie made the announcement that she would be taking TCFStyle Expo on the road in 2020! Pssssssssst….. she is coming to The Chi! You guys will be in for such a treat, so be on the lookout for “save – the – dates” & tix drops soon! Shoot, I may have to book myself a flight so that I don’t miss this!
As a blogger/influencer, I look forward to attending TCFStyle Expo and other events like it in order to make significant connections with people that could potentially lead to business opportunities. While it is fun to get dressed to the 9’s and take a bunch of selfies, I have been very intentional about building relationships that will help me grow as a entreprenHER!
Til next year…
I’m my own damn WOMAN CRUSH!
Shoutout to Voyage ATL Magazine for featuring me as an “Hidden Gems: Local Businesses & Creatives You Should Know” yesterday, which happened to be Woman Crush Wednesday!
You can read all about it here ——> My Voyage ATL Feature
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Each and every Wednesday for “Woman Crush Wednesday”, The Dean of Fashion & Beauty will select an entreprenHER to be featured in her “Boss Babe Spotlight” Series. This series has been curated to shine some light on the small businesses of women who are unapologetically and authentically being themselves while leaving a footprint behind in the world that they live in.
WHO’S UP NEXT?
Today, I am featuring: Precious Belle, the owner of Wrap Girl Magic! Recently, I had the chance to interview Precious and learn some new and exciting things about her. I want to thank her for taking the time to speak with me so that I could shine some light on all of her dopeness and share it with you all. I certainly look forward to continuing to curate, collaborate, create and celebrate with her in the future! You can shower her with your support by shopping her collection of amazing & eclectic head wraps! Sit back, relax, pour a glass of wine and read about what she shared with me:
What do you want people to know about you and your business?
I’d love people to know that my business is a reminder that anything is possible. If they have a dream or idea….pursue it! Do it! Go for it!
What drives you as a business owner?
I’m driven by my desire to be able to create on my own terms. So much of life is dictated by others opinions and rules….this is my space to be free.
What kind of legacy/footprint do you want to leave behind?
I’d love for the Wrap Girl Magic legacy to be one of love and creativity. I want every person I come in contact with to walk away feeling a bit more loved and accepted. I also hope they feel empowered to be themselves, unapologetically.
What knowledge would you like to impart on other small business owners, both new & aspiring and old & experienced?
Remember why you started. It’s not all about likes and reposts. It’s about your desire to impact the world. One new follower is a win because one more person has seen what you have to offer the world.
What does being a “boss babe” mean to you?
It means being bold enough to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new…..Facing the unknown with faith.
If you had to pick a phrase to serve as your words of affirmation, what would it be?
Selfishness is pointless; love is essential to humanity.
Are there any other special gifts or talents that you have that you’d like to share?
I am an actress by trade. My first love is performing….the stage inspired my creative beginnings, it gave me the confidence to try and experience things I would have been afraid to try.
Each and every Wednesday for “Woman Crush Wednesday”, The Dean of Fashion & Beauty will select an entreprenHER to be featured in her “Boss Babe Spotlight” Series. This series has been curated to shine some light on the small businesses of women who are unapologetically and authentically being themselves while leaving a footprint behind in the world that they live in.
WHO’S UP NEXT?
Today, I am featuring: Melissa Wright-Frazier of Girl It’s Mel! Recently, I had the chance to interview it’s creator, Melissa and learn some new and exciting things about her and her brand. I want to thank her for taking the time to speak with me so that I could shine some light on all of her dopeness and share it with you all. I certainly look forward to continuing to curate, collaborate, create and celebrate with her in the future! You can shower her with your support by scheduling a shoot with her or setting appointment to have her upgrade your brand! Sit back, relax, pour a glass of wine and read about what she shared with me:
What do you want people to know about you and your business?
I am mother, graphic designer, photographer and educator (in that order) with a passion for helping female-owned business create their brand story to make an impact. I’m an introverted creative whose shy at first but once I warm up to you, you ‘ll be asking me to be quiet, lol. I love to make people laugh till it hurts which makes it easy to build great relationships in my industry. Most people are surprised by the amount of information I share about building a brand. As a designer, you have to listen to your client and ask questions to understand their needs.
What drives you as a business owner?
The responses and feedback I get from people who I’ve inspired that motivates me more and more each day. I meet several friends through this journey. I’m passionate about design and helping people launch their brands so they stand out in a crowded market.
What kind of legacy/footprint do you want to leave behind?
I want people to know you can still have a professional-looking brand on a budget and when the times presents itself, you go full throttle and invest in your brand’s image using the tools and tips I provided.
What knowledge would you like to impart on other small business owners, both new & aspiring and old & experienced?
I’m still learning after having years of experience. Learn as much as you can so you can earn more and understand your value. You must have patience and the temperament to deal with people who make not understand your idea. Never give up, accept the NO’s cause they will eventually turn into YES. I look at Melissa Butler of The Lip Bar as a testament for overcoming her obstacles.
What does being a “boss babe” mean to you?
Being in control of how your story is being told. Learning from your mistakes and sharing how you overcame the obstacles. A boss babe doesn’t have to a millionaire she represents a someone who made a difference.
If you had to pick a phrase to serve as your words of affirmation, what would it be?
Anything is possible when you believe. Shoot for the moon, not the stars.
Are there any other special gifts or talents that you have that you’d like to share?
One thing people don’t know is I love to cook from scratch if I wasn’t designing I would definitely be a personal chef.
