J.Styles' (Founder of FAB) 2008 Reflections!

To all my FAB readers,
As 2009 fast approaches and the New Year’s resolutions begin to surface, don’t forget to be grateful for what you have, what you’ve accomplished and what great things are to come in the New Year. As I reflect on the last 12 months, I begin to notice that so many things have changed and many of my thoughts have come full circle. What does all that mean? It means that the more time I meditated on what I want and what truly makes me happy, I felt closer to finding complete inner peace and a sense of fulfillment that no one can take a way from me. The journey is far from over but at least the process has begun. What exactly did I take away from 2008? My vision seems to get clearer as times goes by…I can value all the hard times and laugh at the good ones, I have finally breathed life into FAB, I am starting to live in the “moment”, continuing to find the “agh hah” moment that sheds more light on what I was put here to do, realizing that maybe the small stuff isn’t really that important, learning that the big picture is truly the main concern, understanding my likes/dislikes even more, appreciating the power of positivity (and negativity), learning that who I surround myself with feeds my mind subconsciously and unconsciously (who you hang around affects you more than you realize!), and the biggest lesson of all is that my search for personal and career fulfillment is not a contradicting, contrary or conflicting desire – it is a right that myself and FAB members will attain! We must! After all, we have to be the change we desire!

2009 HERE WE COME!!!

"...everyday I'm hustlin..."

Graduate Finance Student. 2 Jobs: Full-Time Retail Supervisor. Part-Time Retail Sales Associate. Member of AKA Sorority. Member of Young Professionals of Urban League. Whew....and the list continues...

Cami Morrison certainly knows a thing or two about how to stay busy... Most mornings, Cami wakes up at 6 a.m. and goes to sleep around 1 a.m., with little sleep she is able to conquer the world and still find time to be involved in extracurricular activities. She puts in the extra effort now, knowing that all her hard work will pay off after she graduates from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master's Degree in Finance, after which she plans to pursue a career in Corporate Finance where making the BIG bucks comes easily. So yes, Cami is putting in more than 12 hours of studying/work everyday but it will all be worth it (and that's all that matters!) Cami's story doesn't come without trial and error, as she was concerned about being accepted into her graduate school of choice, confused about her future career endeavors, and was stressed about work and money. But, she persevered and got accepted into graduate school with an unexpected scholarship and has been able to successfully manage school and 2 jobs. Cami exemplifies what it takes to build a solid foundation for success. FAB can't wait to see what the future holds for this academic graduate student turned financial corporate executive!

Profile Snapshot:

Undergraduate College: Washington and Lee University

Graduate College: Virginia Commonwealth University

Interests: Fashion (loves to shop!), Volunteering, Reading, Running, Reading the Wall Street Journal

Future Goals: To start a program catering to young women focusing on safe sex practices and pregnancy prevention

Career Aspirations: To start my own Fashion Boutique!

Why did you join FAB?
I love to read FAB articles, they are always so interesting and touch on an array of topics. I always take away something!

Stay tuned...Cami is sure to have more FAB updates soon!

FAB Rocks with MTV!!!

WHO SAYS DREAMS DON'T COME TRUE?!

Ever since Lynzee Saperstein could remember she wanted to work at MTV...she graduated from college and made that dream a reality!

FAB dreams coming into fruition...JUST HOW DID LYNZEE DO IT? FAB wants to know!

1.) Working at MTV must be the coolest job ever! How did you land your"dream job"?
I was an intern my last semester in college with the Music and Promotion Group. It was a few months after my internship ended and I was now looking for a job. One of the managers knew someone in Affiliate Marketing who was looking for a temp for MTV Tr3s; the job was only suppose to be for a month but then I was asked to be the Full-Time Temp. Then, I was offered a staff position on the sales side and the rest is history.

2.) In only 2 years, you went from Temp Coordinator to Partner Marketing Coordinator and now recently promoted to National Accounts Coordinator. How have you been able to work your way up through the ranks so quickly?
Just hard work and dedication. I put myself out there as much as possible and ask questions to show that I want to learn and want to be here.

3.) Cool job. Travel often. Meet celebrities. Promoted twice. Ever experience any envy from your friends? If so, how do you handle the caddy competition that comes with success and friendships?
I don't think I have experienced any caddy competition from friends or anything but I do think that when I was asked to be staff some others who were stuck in the positions for a long time were like why was offered this when I have been there forever.

4.)I know you are also interested in fashion and beauty, yet you work in the entertainment industry. Perfect FAB member! Why did you decide to join FAB?
I love fashion, I love entertainment and I love beauty. Yes I am in the entertainment industry but my interests are fashion and beauty and would love to meet others in that industry.

5.) As a young professional, what have you learned about the corporate world?
It can be a scary world but if you learn from the right people you will be fine.

6.) As a follow-up question to #5, what advice do you have to college students looking to find their "perfect job"?
First there is no perfect job. Every job has its negative side but if you have a passion for something don't give up.

7.) What's your biggest challenge right now...what keeps Lynzee up at night? Anything?
What keeps Lynzee up at night is making sure she is doing a good job and is respected.

8.) In 10 years, where can we find Lynzee Saperstein?
Lynzee will be CEO of MTV Networks.


FAB Key Takeaway:

There is no perfect job...but with hard work, perseverance, and dedication you can achieve your goals! Take Lynzee's advice, "don't give up." FAB agrees!

Fashion for Food Event!

Snapshot of the event:

What: Fashion for Food event, designed to raise money for the Food Bank of New York...'tis the season to be fashionable and full!

Where: National Arts Club (NYC)
When: Thursday, December 18th, 2008
What to Wear: Be a fashionista in every since of the word!

Hosted by the talented and fashion genius, Malcolm Harris, of Malcolm Sirrah, Inc. and Founder of "DesignersForDarfar"

Check out event pics! Fashion Designer, Malcolm Harris, and FAB's, J.Styles

Malcolm Harris (in red)

Who is Malcolm Harris?

Malcolm is a designer and social activist. He is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, as well as possesses a Master's Degree in English Literature from New York University. He is the Creative Director of Malcolm Sirrah, Inc. (www.malsirrah.com) and Founder of DesignersForDarfar. Malcolm has successfully found a way to pair his love of fashion and dedication to social change into a career - who said fashion was in vein?!

Malcolm Sirrah, Inc. is an upscale domestic and international fashion house, serving celebrities such as Academy Award winning Actress Reese Witherspoon, actress/singer Jennifer Lopez, actress Lindsey Lohan, and Mega Superstar MADONNA! Malcolm Sirrah designs are chic and fashion forward being sold in a number of boutiques and upscale department stores around the world.

DesignersForDarfar was created in 1995 for Fashion Designers and and the wider fashion community who collectively have a commitment to end the genocide in Darfar via the efforts of Save Darfar Coalition.

ICED MEDIA's 2008 Christmas Party!

INDUSTRY ELITES CAME OUT TO BE MERRY!

Def Jam's own, STERLING SIMMS, blessed us with his voice...

"Your's, Mine, and The Truth" is a MUST-HAVE!

Drops December 23rd!

Check out Sterling Simms' HIT new single, ALL I NEED feat. The Dream

(this one's for the ladies and for the guys who want to romance his woman!)

Sterling Simms hits the mic!

J.Styles and ICED Media's, Sowmya Krishnamurthy, share a holiday moment!

ICED Media Staff

ICED Media's Founder, Leslie Hall (in white)

ICED Media's General Manager, Rob Sokolowsky, and J.Styles

Sterling Simms and FAB's own, J.Styles

Industry Peeps

Gifting by PARISH!

DJ Charlie Brown plays the hottest tracks, including Sterling Simms!

Liquor Sponsored by Diddy's own, CIROC!

What is ICED Media? ICED Media is an online marketing, research, and publicity company working with clients in the areas of music, film, television, and traditional corporate.

In Corporate America, DOES RACE MATTER?

Corporate Graphic Designer + Entrepreneur + Small town boy with BIG ideas + Dedicated to giving back + Black Male = ROLON SULLIVAN!

Rolon Sullivan is more than a talented graphic designer with a resume that speaks for itself, he is a man that understands what it takes to be successful and how to overcome the hurdles that so often stomp the "black community."

How the journey began (in Rolon's words)...

"I’m from Greenville, SC. I attended Lander University in Greenwood, SC and received a B.A. in Visual Arts (concentration in Graphic Design). I accidentally became a graphic designer in elementary school. In third grade there was an art contest and all the winners would get to go on a field trip to the art museum. I wanted to go so bad! I found a good book cover deep in the library shelves and I traced it and turned it in knowing that they would pick me. Well I did get picked but along with that I was asked to be in the art club. Lol..so after that I had to learn how to be an artist or get in trouble. Well here I am 22 years later and I’m still doing graphic design. It just goes to show that a little lie can last forever!"

Career Profile:

Slazenger Golf - Dec. 1999 - Feb. 2001, Greenville, SC, Graphic designer
Ernst & Young - Feb. 2001- Aug. 2001, Atlanta, GA, Graphic Designer/Document Specialist
Gerber Childrenswear, Inc. - April. 2003 - April. 2008, Greenville, SC, Senior Graphic Artist

Carters / OshKosh- April. 2008 - Present, Atlanta, GA, Graphic Artist

My Artist Side - 2000 - Present, Founder/Graphic Designer

Rolon speaks to FAB about the journey of a "Black MAN in CORPORATE AMERICA." FAB asks what most people are afraid to...we know YOU want to know...

1.) Before I could even dive into highlighting your graphic design career, you were eager to talk about motivational speaking and giving back to the community. Tell FAB about your passion.
My passion is to encourage young African American men & women to put themselves in positions to push & pull each other up. As I began my journey through corporate America I noticed that I was never interviewed or hired by anyone of any minority ethnicity. I’m also usually the only African American male at a company along with a couple other minority women. This was a very discouraging sign. I would like to go around to universities and high schools to speak with students and let them know that we must keep. The question I would ask them is “if you needed to get a job today, is there someone that could give you one today”? Most of us as African Americans don’t have anyone to turn to when we are in need of employment. We need to get ourselves in a position that we can hire others and stop letting mainstream America tell us that we’re only good enough for call centers and factory jobs. Not there’s anything wrong with that, but even if you go into the factory jobs the managers are usually not minorities. I would just want to let them (minority community) know that they can be the leader and in control too, just like our new black President!

2.) Does race matter?
Yes RACE MATTERS! It’s the main reason we still have to work 5 times as hard and still get a little lower pay. It’s the same reason why a Harvard law school student that graduated at the top of his class and is pushing for equality for all had to work so hard to beat an old angry, stuck in the old days, with views that only involve the wealthy, graduated fourth from the bottom of his class senator. The funny thing about race is that it’s coming 360. The same reason it hurt minorities will be the same reason it will help us excel.

3.) Coming from a small town myself, I can understand the difficulties of pursuing a career path with little opportunity in my area of interest. Aside from your full-time job, how were you able to start your own company (My Artist Side)?
Coming from a small town it’s difficult to pursue a design career. But my company is able to be successful because I understand that African Americans saturate the economy in many ways, so I am able to utilize my talent and provide a service to the minority community . In return, I try to focus on getting business with minorities and giving them the best deals possible.

4.) I can see that clocking in from 9-5 doesn't totally fulfill you, what more do you need in order to feel professionally complete?
In order to feel more professionally complete I will need to grow and expand My Artist Side and began employing people. I want to be the person that the people can depend on to give them that opportunity to be more than they thought they could be.

5.) Here's your chance to speak to FAB readers, what message do you want to leave behind?
I want to tell FAB readers that I’m not your usual suspect! Parrhesia (phrase used by Cornell West, meaning speak your mind!) is going to be my way of life. My ability to think critically for myself & common sense means more to me than any amount of money.

Check out Rolon's art designs...

Check out Rolon's websites for more info, http://www.myartistside.com/ OR www.myartistside.com/rolonresume.html

Never Burn Bridges.

FAB Reader Weighs in...

Fashion. Relationships. Small world. Play Nice.

She'd like to conceal her identity (as she recently got a new job) but for the sake of this article, let's call her "Susie". Susie wanted FAB readers to know the importance of treating people with respect everywhere you go and never leave a job on bad terms. Small world.

Susie's situation: received a new job and on her 2ND day of work, the receptionist says, " I remember you, I used to see you at Bloomingdale's with your interns. You were always so nice. I put in a good word for you when I heard they were considering you." All the time, Susie thought it was just her great interview and charm, but little did she know someone was watching out for her. So, just how does the little 'ol receptionist know Susie?! The receptionist used to work at Bloomingdale's and would often see Susie as she came in to check on her account. 6 months later, they're working together!

Moral of the story: NEVER BURN BRIDGES!

Will you have lunch with me?

Perfect question that has many "hidden agendas" that your lunch date never has to know about (but I'm sure they're up on the game too!)

Lunch Date Rules:

1.) Go for it! Ask your prospective out, "would you like to have lunch, I'd love to catch up with you."

2.) Always suggest a lunch location closest to where your "lunch date" will be that day. It's all about them, remember?! Not about us...

3.) Bring all your necessary tools for success (just in case) ---> cover letter, resume, work samples, etc.

4.) Ask questions about them, let them ask about you.

5.) Try to make a personal connection, that'll get them every time. Make it seem casual, even if you're dying to talk about work. Let the person get to know you before you dive in.

6.) Offer to pay, c'mon just common courtesy!

7.) Send a nice note to say thank you!

Easy enough, WRONG! Such an easy task that we sometimes take for granted. The $100 or more you spend a year smoozhing "lunch dates" will be worth it in the end!!!

Calling all Dream Chasers!

FAB: Fabulous Dreams Coming into Fruition

This message is to all my FAB readers who are serious about pursuing a dream, serious about it coming into fruition and serious about taking steps to make it happen.

You have a dream, a goal...what do you do now?

Write your dream down.

Write everything that comes to mind with regards to your goal.

Put it out of your mind, meditate on it and come back to it.

Share a part of your goal to a supportive friend (never share every detail!)

Make a list of all the things you can personally do yourself.

Make a list of all the things you need help with.

Make a list of people that can help you with your goal.

Contact the people that can help you and ask if they know others.

Create a timeline of short term and long term goals.

Network, put the word out so others can chime in with ideas and contacts.

Start the work. Do what you can.

Research how others achieved your goal, but add your twist to it!

Hold yourself accountable and make sure your friends do too.

When you start to feel frustrated, go a way and come back to it with a fresh attitude.

Don't give up, success is never easy!

Read, volunteer, work, ask, talk, research...tackle every angle of your goal.

Get a mentor.

If your Plan A doesn't work, revise it. Plan B may be even better.

It's okay to keep reinventing your dream, as long as the core idea is the same and you haven't compromised your target goal.

Be creative, dare to be different and step outside the box.

FAB HOMEWORK!!!!!!!!!!!!!

***I dare all my FAB readers: Put your dream in writing and flush out all your ideas. Tell someone. Make a short and long term goal.***

Interested in the ARTS?

FAB Pro Clue:

New York Foundation for the ARTS is a well of knowledge for the Arts community... Up and coming artists. Job seekers. Art connoisseurs. Art literature. Learning workshops. Sponsorship opportunities. And much more! Visit the website, www.nyfa.org for more information.

***FAB Pro Clues give FAB readers a quick career clue, just for you!***

Stay tuned for more FAB Pro Clues...

FAB's, J.Styles, SCREAMS Beauty Tips (that you can afford!)

As a make-up artist, I understand the need to look FAB on a budget...you'll appreciate these exclusive tips!

***Want to fill in your eyebrows and have them stay in place? Apply some good 'ol vaseline before the eyeshadow or eyebrow pencil. Use an eyebrow brush to soften the color if you'd like. ***Mix your foundation with a little body glitter, to get a dewy shimmery finish ---> great for a night on the town!

***Rub a small amount of lipstick on your eyelid before applying shadow (lipstick acts as a primer/eyeshadow base and will intensify eyeshadow color)

***Smear a bright colored eyeshadow all over your lips, color will serve as a lip stain ---> brightening lip color and keeps color on longer!

***NEVER scrub your face with a towel, always massage your face in circular motions whenever applying or removing product. The skin on your face is the most susceptible to wrinkles (especially around your eyes), be gentle!

***Don't use cold or hot water to wash your face, either extreme will shock your face and can irritate your skin. Use luke warm water.

***If using an SPF product, make sure it is at least SPF 15. If the percentage is lower than 15%, the chances of protection are very slim!

Interviewing Tips

The popular question that seems so easy..."TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF?"

WRONG ANSWER! (Funny for us, bad for interviewee)




RIGHT ANSWER! (Knowing what to say)

Need Some Inspiration? Listen to KEVIN LILES, Executive Vice President of the Warner Music Group!

KEVIN LILES is the MAN!!!

Hard worker. Takes initiative. Goes above and beyond. Desires to succeed. Strategic.

These words were my key take away when I heard Kevin Liles speak in 2007 at MTV. He definitely knows a thing or two about how to beat the system, how to go to work and not become complacent, how to stand out, how to overcome adversities in the workplace and turn them into triumphs, how to get there early and stay late - his work ethic led him from intern to Executive Vice President of the Warner Music Group.

...everything that happens to us is the movie script of our life... - Kevin said this in his inspirational chat and it has stuck in my head. We're filming our life's movie everyday, when you say it like that, it sounds amazing! No film crew needed, no cameras, no lights, camera, action - just us trying to scrounge around with a script with no words on it (we gotta wing it, I'm assuming) with the actors and actresses we surround ourselves with. Sounds like we'll all have an interesting movie. How will your movie turn out?

Irv Gotti, Kevin Liles, Jay-Z

Kevin doesn't just make these power moves up the entertainment corporate ladder in hopes that the rest of the world will somehow be just as successful, he's actually taking out the time in his busy schedule to try and help us...but we have to be grateful to him and LISTEN!

The book, Kevin's book, the book to survival, the book that states how to "make it happen", the book you must read. "FROM INTERN TO PRESIDENT, MAKE IT HAPPEN" written by Kevin Liles with Samantha Marshall.

Enticing quotes (from the book) that make you think and want to continue reading this page turning easy read...

"You've found your will, now you have to find a way. Make sure it's the right way. Find the knowledge, hone the skills and learn the lessons you need to execute the plan."

"Once you find your niche and a way to brand yourself, expand on it, full-blown."

'" Put your head down, work and check your ego at the door.'"

"Work is the Fun Part."

"Suffering is just another form of education. Failing a few times makes you less afraid of making mistakes. You take more risks."

"My ass could have been fired."

"If you can fix it, fix it. Next issue."

"It's important for our culture to give back."

In Kevin's Words...press play!!!

10 Steps to Getting What you WANT without Sacrificing Your Values!

Pet peeve: I hate when people think they are the key to our success...WRONG! We hold the key to our own destiny!

A CODE TO LIVE BY...

(in my opinion)

1. Remember someone will always be there to test you and what you stand for, so don't give in - stay you and PASS THE TEST!

2. Don't let money, status, or power dictate your actions or intimidate you - good will always prevail!

3. Have a strong work ethic, be confident and go the extra mile even if you're working alone - someone will take notice!

4. Don't be afraid to speak up, that's what will set you apart!

5. Dare to dream, they are the foundation of every success, failure and life lesson - what's life without a dream?!

6. Be DiFfEReNt! Enough said...

7. Be exactly who you are, despite situations or circumstances - BE YOU!

8. Smile at your weakest moment, one day it'll be your strongest!

9. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and genuinely want you to succeed - positivity is contagious (so is negativity)...

10. Believe in yourself, love yourself, trust yourself - if you don't, how can anyone else?!

FAB goes inside the corporate walls of Fashion Guru, NICOLE MILLER!

Account Executive, Kristen Devine, gives FAB the scoop...

What do fashion designer, Nicole Miller, and FAB have in common? Both love Kristen Devine!

Kristen Devine is not your average smart, driven southern belle...she is all that and much more! But what's most interesting about Kristen is that she often takes the road less traveled and is seemingly rewarded every time. Graduate of an elite, private liberal arts university (Furman University)- check!, successful career- check!, happily married- check!

Just how did Kristen take her fashion dream and make it a reality? Read below! FAB has ALL the details...

Profile:

Hometown: High Point, NC
College: Furman University - Greenville, SC
Major: Communication Studies, emphasis in Art
Employer: Nicole Miller
Job Title: Account Executive
Personal Goals: To be successful in fashion sales, and possibly own my own boutique one day

FAB asked, she answered!

1.) There are stereotypes that women in fashion can be caddy and bitchy, would you say this is true or false? Why?
I would say it is true for the most part. Fashion is a cut throat industry and not for the faint of heart. Many girls and guys want to be in the industry and there are only so many positions available. For some reason, fashion tends to attract girls who either have a sense of entitlement or have a bit of an attitude. In general, the industry is not for people with a thin skin.

2.) Why fashion? Why not music or cosmetics or engineering?
I've known I wanted to be in fashion since I was in middle school. I have always had an interest in clothes. To me, make up has always been more of a chore, and not something I take much pleasure in. I love putting together an outfit, and helping other people put together an outfit that flatters them.

3.) What is your biggest accomplishment so far?
I'd have to say my biggest career accomplishment so far is becoming an Account Executive at Nicole Miller. Nicole is a huge name in fashion, and those in and not in our industry know who she is. She's famous for flattering women's bodies with her beautiful dresses, and making the woman wearing one feel amazing.

4.) What do you say to the nay-sayers that may think you had it "easier" because you were married and had help settling into the city?
Getting where you want to be in your career solely depends on you and how hard you're willing to work to get what you want. Any connection can only open a door; you have to be the one to walk through it, however hard or easy that may be. While my husband has been supportive of me in every decision I've made in my career, I have made the decision to pursue exactly what I want in my career, and will continue to do so.

5.) You have worked at a couple of well-respected fashion houses and have experienced a "not so fun" relationship with some of your co-workers. How has this lesson helped or hindered you and your career?
These lessons have helped me. They have helped me to develop a thick skin (which you'll need in almost any industry in NYC); and they've also taught me how to handle challenging people. Lastly, they have taught me how not to treat people. Always treat people the way you want to be treated.

6.) One thing that I have always respected and loved about you is that you have a strong set of values, you always stay true to yourself - great quality to possess! What keeps you so grounded in your faith and morals in a city with so much temptation and negativity?
Throughout my life, like many Christians, I have been close and felt far from God. Each time I shift away from God, somehow things tend to not work out exactly how I'd like them to. I know that with every success I have, it's because God has blessed me.

7.) You're happily married, just bought a beautiful brand new home, successful career, what's next for Kristen Devine?
Getting our couch delivered!! Only kidding...Purchasing and moving into a new home was (and still is) quite an adventure. While I am always looking for a new challenge, being content is important. I am very happy with where I am in my personal life, and in my professional life. So as of now -- no new plans.

Kristen's picture diary!

Kristen (in Nicole Miller) and co-worker at 2008 Las Vegas trade show.















Nicole Miller's booth at 2008 Vegas trade show (Nice collection colors!)















Kristen and husband, Eric. Smooches!

Informational Interviews!

Informational interviews can deepen your passion or prevent you from making a huge mistake, either way - find someone you admire and pick their brain, it'll be worth it!

What is an informational interview?! Watch this 30 second video, it'll tell you all you need to know in a nut shell...

Fashionista, Event Planner, Make-up Artist, Black Bride Enthusiast, Blogger!

Ayana Lateef - the bold and the beautiful!

If you look at Ayana's interests, you may be a bit confused, but no need to be. She is proud of the fact that her ideas are scatter brained and that she is passionate about more things that you can count on one hand! But that's okay, because that's the precise reason why FAB loves her!

Ayana is originally from Maryland, right outside of DC. She moved to New York 3 years ago to pursue her dreams (all 20 of them!) and that's just what's she doing! She has a BS in Fashion Merchandising from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and well as an AAS in Advertising and Marketing from FIT. Her artistic nature is evident in that fact she worked as a makeup artist for 3 years with Estee Lauder. And for the past year, she has worked with the notable and extraordinary designer, Zac Posen, as the Jr. Account Executive. Ayana has a few years of experience under her belt and some huge names on her resume that will get her foot in the door to other opportunities, but it's her zeal for success that will make her the STAR she is destined to be!

Ayana chats with FAB!

1.) What makes you happy?
I love fashion, meeting new people, the arts and planning fabulous parties.

2.) You recently started a blog focusing on "black brides", what inspired you to do this?
I've always had an interest in wedding and event planning. Recently I was helping out a friend with a few wedding ideas and I noticed a lack of resources for African American women. I also noticed that we are absent from many of the bridal magazines and books. Soon after Fabulous Black Bride was created. I want black women to know that our special days are just as important and we can have fabulous weddings too.

3.) As your blog continues to grow, what can readers expect to see from you and your blossoming blog?
Readers can expect to see profiles on makeup artist, hairstylist, designers, wedding planners, and other industry professionals throughout the country. In the upcoming weeks I will be attending a few bridal trade shows and reporting on them for brides that are not able to make it.
Many of my readers are brides to be, so I would like to feature a few of their wedding photos and report on their fabulous wedding experiences.

4.) You are the perfect definition of a FAB member - you are a young professional with a multitude of interests trying to make it ALL happen! You don't sit by the sidelines, you jump right in! What are you most passionate about these days and what are you working toward achieving?
There are so many things that I want to do. I really want my blog to grow and expand my daily readers. That's my baby right now and I'm trying to nurture it and watch it grow. I also love fashion, that's my full time career. I love the excitement of the fashion industry. There's always something new; new ideas, new trends, and new designers. I also love planning weddings and events. My ultimate goal is to somehow mesh all of my passions into one business idea. To help me with me with my ideas I've been doing a lot of networking, talking to a few mentors, and going to a lot of informational interviews.

5.) How do you see FAB being a catalyst in helping you to connect the dots and achieve success in your areas of interest?
I love the idea of FAB. I know so many people with great ideas and experiences that could help each other out. I know I am not the only person out there with a multitude of interests and I'm happy that FAB is a meeting place that will allow everyone to expand their ideas. I will use FAB to connect with people that can help me with my ideas and I hope that I will be able to help out and encourage someone else.

6.) Describe yourself in 3 words.
Creative, Passionate, Fabulous

***Check out Ayana's blog at www.fabulousblackbride.blogspot.com***

You've just heard from the FABULOUS Ayana, stayed tuned, you will hear more from this diva turned entrepreneur. Trust me!

WHAT IS FAB?

FAB: Fashion, Arts, Beauty

FAB is a career and personal resource for college students, beginner and seasoned professionals to interlock in ideas, inspiration and in person. The organization serves as a platform to meet professionals in an array of industries, with the goal of breaking free from meeting people in your own respective industry. What if you work in beauty, however desire to meet someone in entertainment?! Congratulations, FAB is the answer to your prayers! Many of us have side interests but never have an opportunity to explore our goals because we aren't sure who we should speak with or don't have the resources available or don't have a mentor that supports us.

FAB Network is whatever you want it to be...a resource for networking, volunteering, inspiration, information...utilize the site for your own purposes, but whatever you do - stay FAB!

Mentoring!

The definition of MENTORING (in my opinion):

Mentoring is the conscious effort of an individual to build a relationship with another person with the intent of providing various levels of advice, support and leadership that will enable the mentee to become a better person in all facets of his/her life.

What does that definition mean? There are different ways to become a mentor and/or mentee - sometimes we specifically seek and desire a mentor and other times a natural connection is apparent and the relationship develops into a mentor/mentee situation. Either way, having a mentor is just as important as networking or volunteering! In my experiences, the 3 keys to success are NETWORKING, VOLUNTEERING, and MENTORING (having and being a mentor)!

Do you just need 1 mentor? It is a good idea to have various types of mentors, to support us in our personal and professional lives. If you're lucky, you'll find one person that can mentor you in both arenas.

How do you find a mentor? Career Mentors: Seek out someone that is well established in his/her profession and research them, find out their success story. Find someone that has reached the level of success that you aspire to achieve and/or has experience in your area of interest. Try to make a connection, whether it be in person or over the computer - don't be intimated! Once you find your STAR SUSPECT, contact the person! Advice: be personable, excited and well-versed on who you are speaking with. Point to remember, people love to talk about themselves, so when you finally get your chance to speak with your potential mentor, have an attitude like what can I do for you, not what you can do for me! Humility will take you far! After your initial meeting, continue the contact by sending a thank you note and further along the relationship by continuing to reach out without being overbearing. Only after you feel comfortable enough to ask, do you mention the magic question...WILL YOU BE MY MENTOR?

I have a mentor, now what?! Once you have successfully secured a mentor (by the way, congratulations!), don't start to slack off. Continue to work hard and show your mentor that you are worth the effort and they should take pride in the fact that you are their mentee. It is YOUR duty to ensure that your mentor doesn't forget about you. So how do you make sure this doesn't happen?! Be sure to send cards, emails, offer to take him/her out for dinner or drinks, blah blah blah...you get the point. Basically, you have to work twice as hard to prove you're worthy (this is worst case scenario). If you have a mentor/friend relationship, then the constant contact will be more casual and natural but either way, don't let a good mentor slip through your hands because of laziness!

What do you need a mentor for? Mentors provide advice, gives you real life stories that can be applicable to your life or aspirations, a listening ear, support, the willingness to let you name drop (aghh the power of name dropping!) - basically you have to decide what you want from your mentor and go after it!

Get a mentor, Have a mentor, Be a mentor!

Sowmya Krishnamurthy: In love with the Music Industry and Destined to be in CHARGE!

The real story behind Sowmya Krishnamurthy!

Sowmya and I have been friends since 2005. We met through a mutual friend while both of us were living in NYC as Bad Boy interns in two seperate offices, so we actually never had the opportunity to meet (until our friend introduced us). Over the years, our friendship has flourished and we've been able to share in each other's hard times and successes, cause no one understands unless you've been there - and trust me, we've been there and kind of still there! Whether it's moving to NYC with only two suitcases fresh out of college, having not so favorable roommates (that we'd both like to forget), understanding how everything in the city is a project, like washing clothes or going to the grocery store or deciding to buy a TV with no way to get home so you and your friend carry it up the street, or when something breaks and you have to fix it yourself. Sowmya and I often laugh and cry at our triumphs, but as Sowmya likes to say, "this middle class thing was fun for a while, but I'm over it." With that thought in mind, we both share the desire to overcome our obstacles with the intent of looking back one day and being proud - that despite all, we perservered! We did it! And that's all that matters...

PROFILE:

Age: 24
Employer: ICED MEDIA (http://www.icedmedia.com/)
Title: Senior Project Manager
Employer Details: ICED Media is an online marketing, research, and publicity company working with clients in the areas of music, film, television, and traditional corporate.
Occupation Details: Recently worked with: The Game, Nelly, Lil Wayne, Carnival Cruise Lines, and CNN.
Previous Experience: Prior to ICED, Sowmya was in the William Morris Agency's Agent Trainee program in NYC. Originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan, she is a graduate of the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan ('06).

10 Questions with Sowmya:

1.) Being from Michigan is completely different from living in Manhattan. When did you decide to move to NYC and more importantly, why?
I always knew I would work in the entertainment industry, especially in the music industry. I think I was 13 or 14 when I decided to move to NYC. NYC is the mecca of urban music and I knew I had to be where the action was.

2.) Some people move here with a job and others take the more independent route and decide to begin their hustle when they are actually New Yorkers. Which route did you take and are you glad you made your decision?
As cliche as it sounds, I moved to NYC with little more than two suitcases. I had no job and spent about a month interviewing. From Craigslist to Monster to calling on every little favor I could think of, I job hunted and interviewed literally everywhere. To pay the bills, I had took random temp jobs. Eventually after 4 rounds of interviews, I was accepted into the prestigious William Morris Agency Trainee program.

3.) Why the entertainment industry, what intrigues you the most?
Apart from the obvious love of music, growing up, the music industry in particular always represented to me, a way for young, minorities to empower themselves and create their own destinies. From Puffy at Bad Boy to Kevin Liles at Def Jam, I grew up admiring these young people who were able to be successful on their own terms. That entrepreneurial spirit always attracted me to this industry.

4.) There are a lot of negative stereotypes that surround the music business. Because the entertainment industry is predominantly dominated by men, many say it is harder for women to "break into the industry" based on their experience or intellect; instead, it becomes a question of what can you do for me? Do you find this stereotype to be true?
Although women have made great strides in this industry (in fact one of ICED Media's founders is a woman), stereotypes do persist. As a woman, you have to work twice as hard as your male counterparts to obtain the same level of respect. You are held to different standards of morality and decorum; in other words, you can't do what the boys do.

5.) If so, how do you handle these uncomfortable situations without ruining your career or your reputation?
I think at the end of the day you have to stay true to yourself, regardless of gender, race, etc. "To thine ownself be true". You have to be cognizant of the double standards of the industry but you can't let them control you. Do you.

6.) What has been the most unpleasant situation so far?

Haha. Well without getting into sordid details, probably the most unpleasant experience has been assuming people in respectable positions are just that, respectable. There are people in all levels with ulterior motives. Just because the industry has moved into more corporate environments does not mean that old habits and practices have died.

7.) As a young professional, you have been able to successfully balance the male dominating presence of the industry while also moving up the latter, what advice do you give other young ladies entering into the circus of entertainment?

Like I mentioned before, you have to stay true to yourself. Know BEFORE you enter the industry, what your morals and ethics are. Your mom isn't here and there's no one to hold your hand. If you're lost and looking for guidance, this is not the place to find it. If you are confident in yourself and keep your priorities straight, 90% of the bullshit doesn't affect you.

8.) What is your average day like (who do you interact with on a daily basis and what type of hours do you work)?

I start my day around 11am and work until 8pm. On the marketing side I deal with clients including record labels, artist managers, film studio executives, etc. On the publicity side, I work closely with online writers and bloggers; pitching them content and press opportunities. Luckily because my clients are varied, no two days are alike. One day I might be in front of the computer for the majority of the day, the next I'll have artist meet-and-greets and off-site meetings. I have a short attention span and get bored super easily, so I love having a diverse client roster to work with.
Because my job is based in relationships, after work I attend industry parties and events at least 2-3 times a week. It's important to physically "press flesh" with the people I do business with. The great part about living in NYC and working in entertainment is that there's always something fun to go to!

9.) When is the last time you cried?

Oh boy, probably about a month ago. I can't even remember what triggered it.

10.) On a personal note, are you living a "Sex and the City" lifestyle? Give us the juice on what goes on with a pretty, single and professional young lady living in NYC.

Man that show ruined it for everyone didn't it? Seriously, NYC dating is a very peculiar beast. People are very focused on themselves (their careers, their lives) and therefore aren't looking for a relationship. I'm a busy girl but totally open to meeting a good guy. So to all of you guys out there, feel free to drop a line! Ha!


Sowmya and The Game at a BET 106&Park taping














Sowmya and Nelly during a press day