News + Styles

Hey Beauties!

Erin here; better known as @theesperanzamaria on Instagram, I am the creator of The Sunflower Experience and co-founder of Curl Talk DC. I stepped into the blogging world a little over a year ago now and it has been such an amazing experience filled with an immense amount of opportunity, love and support. Taking on this role has commanded a great amount of responsibility and time management skills. I am constantly on the move, so much so, I literally have-to schedule everything sometimes even just hanging with my friends has-to be scheduled down to the minute.

Now that school is back into full spring, I have to factor in school, work, blogging and attending events or doing shoots. All of this sounds like a whole lot, I know, but when you are passionate about something you never allow anything to get in your way. Even if that is sleep sometimes, in the words of Tommy Pickles “a baby’s gotta do what a baby’s gotta do,” although, in this case a blogger’s gotta do… well you get it!

There are so many benefits to being an influencer and blogger from meeting and networking with interesting people to working with incredible brands and being able to hear stories from people of all walks of life! I am obsessed with the support from other influencers as well. I have made so many connections and genuine friends in this industry it’s almost unreal.  People sometimes have this misconception about influencers and think all we do is take pictures and get free stuff, but it’s so much more than that, it’s about creating a sense of mutual support and creativity that goes beyond material things and pretty pictures.

As rewarding as this job is (because it is a job), there are a good amount of challenges that I face as an influencer and business woman. Being taken advantage of is a big problem. What I do is valuable. I create content and spread positive words because I love it but it takes a good amount of time and energy to put into content creation and when people or brands don’t take notice or understand that, it can be frustrating. Finding time throughout the day to do everything is always a challenge because you want to be able to constantly create and talk to every person and brand but the reality is: priorities, priorities, priorities.

My day to day changes constantly, which is what I love about this industry! I have classes two days out of the week and work at my job 5 days a week which sometimes includes weekends. I have the daytime free because I normally work at night so on the days I don’t have classes I am responding to emails, writing a blog post or creating content for my Instagram page. Other than that, I regularly attend networking events, and I love to read; I am currently reading The Alchemist and I love to have wine nights with my girlfriends.

Being an influencer has been an amazing experience thus far and I’m excited to see where I go from here! I graduate in December so once I have my degree I hope that my opportunities will take me beyond the DMV area. I’d love to live in New York for a few years but hey, who knows!

Thank you so much for listening to my story! Feel free to follow me on Instagram and show some love. Also, check to check out my blog click the link below.

You may have spotted the lovely art piece created by artist Brooklyn Dolly for our booth at CURLFEST 2017. Anyone who stopped by the EDEN BodyWorks booth had the opportunity to add a splash of color onto the “color me up” mural, and it was a hit!

The image features three different women and their hair. One with a fabulous afro, another with Fulani-esque cornrows and the other with flowing waves. The ladies are adorned with flowers, leaves, butterflies and more, just waiting to be brought to life with vibrant color. We love this image because it reminds us of the diversity and natural beauty of the community who supports the EDEN family.

In fact, we love it so much that we’ve decided to provide a version of the image that you can download and print out right at home!

Download Brooklyn Dolly's original image

Color it, paint it, do whatever you’d like with it! And if you’re thinking coloring is just for the little ones, think again! Coloring intricate pictures has become a trend, but it’s actually been suggested by a number of psychologists as an alternative to meditation.

In other words, it’s calming, relaxing, and can help to enhance focus and concentration. So if you’re stressed out, bored, or even just looking for a way to get your creativity flowing, try it out and tell us what you think!

You can find more of Brooklyn Dolly’s work at brooklyndolly.com or by following her on Instagram @brooklyndolly

See you back here next week!

French Riviera

I love traveling. Being on the go constantly is my thing as I’m a very adventurous person. There is so much world to see, and I want to experience and learn about it all. I don’t face many obstacles while traveling unless there is weather or delayed flights. I prepare and always plan accordingly and always check the weather before I leave. 

I love traveling. Being on the go constantly is my thing as I’m a very adventurous person. There is so much world to see, and I want to experience and learn about it all. I don’t face many obstacles while traveling unless there is weather or delayed flights. I prepare and always plan accordingly and always check the weather before I leave. 

Part 1

By:Mildred Bean

In honor of Memorial Day next Monday, we thought it would only be fitting to hear from Veronica Parnell, Captain of the United States Air Force (retired) and Senior Aerospace Science Instructor.

How it All Started

Making the Best of a Bad Situation

 

Believe in the Vision

Spending my days with teenage girls has helped me to live a life that’s filled with excitement and gratefulness. My bad days are easily forgotten when a former student sends a text, or calls to tell me something exciting that’s happening in her world. I’m quickly reminded that my labor is not in vain and that I’m making a difference.

Versatility is one of the most beloved characteristics of natural hair, and many of us naturalistas like to take advantage of that by constantly switching up our styles - especially when the seasons change. With this being the first week of May, and for many, a transition into warm and sunny weather, there’s a growing itch to find a new look. The problem is, style switching can be pretty expensive, so we’ve decided to share some tips to help you switch up your hairstyle this spring/summer without breaking the bank.

Looking to try a style like Marley Twists or Box Braids? Make it a DIY project

Why?

• It’s much cheaper than paying someone else to install them for you

• You can control exactly how the finished product will look, and how much or little tension will be put on your hair

• We all know braids and twists get frizzy after a while. If you install them yourself you can touch them up whenever!

How?

• Use YouTube! Tons of stylists and bloggers have uploaded easy-to-follow how-to videos on how to successfully install protective styles like these. It may take a little practice, but it’s definitely worth it! Plus, you’ll get a special satisfaction out of knowing you created your look yourself!

@naptural85

Craving Color? Try Temporary Dyes or Hair Chalk

Why?

• Temporary color provides a significantly cheaper alternative to a salon visit

• Hair chalks and color sprays tend to be much less damaging to hair follicles than the harsh bleaches and stripping processes of permanent hair dye. Some temporary options, like Henna, are actually good for your hair

• If you don’t like the way your color choice turns out, with temporary color, you always have the option to wash it out

• Because these kinds of dyes are so temporary, you may feel more comfortable trying out bold colors that you wouldn’t otherwise (the bright pinks, blues, reds, purples and etcetera)

How?

• Research first! Use the internet, and YouTube! We can’t say it enough! There you will find a number of informative tutorials on everything from the best brands to use, down to application tips.

Looking for a new length? Try a DIY trim, a faux cut using bobby pins, or Clip-in extensions

Why?

• A simple trim can do wonders to refresh your look, and since it’s not a drastic change, there are a number of methods that can be done at home for free

• Haircuts require commitment, and many of us are attached to our strands. Tucking and pinning your ends under with bobby pins can help create the look of a haircut without actually saying goodbye to your length

• If you want to add length, kinky/curly-textured clip-in extensions are a great way to go. They’re more of a splurge than the rest of our list, but still, clip-ins tend to be cheaper than full or partial wigs, and you can get them to match your natural texture!

How?

• Again, we’d advise watching lots of YouTube reviews and tutorials before purchasing clip-ins or putting scissors to your hair; you may even want to try asking a close friend or family member who may have experience with styling hair to help you out when it comes to trimming.

• Research natural hair extension companies for a hair texture, length and price that appeals to you, then just clip them in at home

Check out @heycurlie using Kinky Curly Yaki Clip-ins to amp up her look

We hope our tips help you to save while you switch it up this spring! Let us know how you plan to change your style!

By: April C. Kendall

Outside of becoming a health and beauty blogger, I’ve always wanted to model. Not specifically runway, but I always wanted to showcase my natural hair. It has been difficult because I was always too short and never the right size to do so. When I saw that EDEN BodyWorks was looking for real models I knew that this was something I wanted to do. I have always thought about this and wondered if this could be my reality. It is important to understand that dreams can not only turn into potential careers but more importantly bring happiness to your life. I decided to follow my aspirations of becoming a model. Life brings you opportunities that you cannot pass by. Here are a few tips to help you follow your goals:

• Follow your dreams: No dream is too big or too small to achieve. The only time it is not achievable is when you allow your dreams to remain a thought. Was I scared to submit my pictures to be considered? Absolutely! I have learned that it is okay to do things afraid. The unknown can be frightening, but the action of trying is quite rewarding. A no does not mean never, it can also mean that right now is not the right time to pursue your dream, but one day it will become your turn.

• Stand tall and represent: I love EDEN BodyWorks. Their coconut shea line is amazing. My two favorite products are their Coconut Shea Cleansing CoWash and Coconut Shea Hair Oil. These two products kept my hair moisturized and my curls defined. Before being selected as an EDEN Real Beauty, I was very familiar with the brand. This boosted my confidence because I already knew their products and how it positively affected my tresses. For whatever endeavor you wish to embark on, make sure you do your homework. Understand your dreams and everything that it can encompass for you and everyone involved.

• Be true to YOU: I’ve learned from this experience that  being yourself is more than enough. There was no pressure for me to be someone that I was not. Feeling comfortable, like you are in your element opens you to a different level of confidence. Your personality and poise can stand out in the crowd - because what is meant for you just is.

I was excited when I got the news that I was selected to be one of EDEN BodyWorks Real Beauties. I believe that it is important to understand that no aspiration you have is hard to achieve and it can happen to anyone. Positive self-affirmations are influential for me. It allows you to set your own standards to continue to strive for greater personal depths. Never discredit opportunities such as social media posts. Do not let them pass you by. It can be your next break to fulfilling your purpose.

We're celebrating week 2 of Women's History Month with a few wise words from Ylorie Taylor, EDEN Bodyworks's very own Vice President, and also a proud momma! Enjoy!

In almost every conversation that includes a mom, I’ve heard another one say “I don’t know how you do it all.” The reality is we all wear many hats everyday that potentially place us in different roles, demanding various talents and time.

I love being a wife and mom. I also love running a brand I believe in – and consider my “other baby”. It’s quite the balancing act. Truthfully, I don’t believe in equality of time; balance by definition implies “even distribution” and that just doesn’t exist in my world. Nothing is created equal in my household. There’s a constant tug-of-war that I manage in regard to time. I actually feel at peace that no one – me included – feels neglected. I thank God for showing me how to “do it all” gracefully and with gratitude.

We launched #EDENWonderMoms when we introduced our kid’s collection to help make wash day a breeze for children. As a career mom, we kicked off this campaign to share tips, advice, and mommy-isms from some of our favorite go-to-moms on social media. From the looks of it, they make this mommy-thing look so easy (ha ha)!

@watermeloneggrolls, @naturalista86, @amberjanielle, @bossmomnation

Here’s a few things I know for sure as an #EDENWonderMom:

• Self-care is crucial. I have a standing bi-weekly mani-pedi appointment. Even if I only do one or the other, I indulge. A few times, I’ve even taken myself to lunch after. Also, one weekend day a month, I get the house to myself while daddy takes his kids to breakfast. So much gets done when I’m home alone – and sometimes it’s just binge watching This is Us!
• Fill yourself up as your fill others. You can’t be or give to others when you’re on empty. Start your day with gratitude, prayer, meditation, exercise, or whatever gives you the “get up and conquer the world feeling”. Being “full” is more about the mind than anything else. Peace is important.
• Find activities that both you and your spouse and/or children enjoy. Simplicity rules in our house. We have favorite dinnertime TV shows (Family Feud or Modern Family) as well as board games and/or other activities we can do together (we happen to have a mini soccer goal that both of our children enjoy).
• Multi-tasking only works if you are organized. Become a pro at scheduling – work, home, life, dates, girl chats, emails, to do lists, etc. Plan the work, then work the plan. Adjust and rework as your needs and wants change. When we evolve, things can change. I feel like my son is so much easier to “tote around” now that he’s a toddler. Changes how long I can window shop (yes!).
• Learn the power of No! Best thing I ever did for myself years ago. Gave myself permission to be non-committal to things that just don’t fit who I am, what I want, or in my life right now. Timing is crucial. A year of yes … must include a few no’s along the way.

Having a job that I love, being around people that I enjoy connecting with and working with, healthy, happy kids, a sister circle, and a partner who most days gets me and my idiosyncrasies, definitely make the roles and hats I wear easier on a daily basis. For more tips on balancing it all as a mom, I encourage you to visit the hash tag #EDENWonderMoms on Instagram.

See you back here next Wednesday!

Your hair is such an important part of your identity. When scrolling through Instagram, YouTube and other social media for inspiration it can be really easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others. It’s great to have people who are at a different stage in their hair journey to look to but it shouldn’t take away from the pride that you feel about your own mane. Loving your hair, flaws and all, is the first step to finding new ways to manage and grow it.

What’s more important than long or full hair is healthy hair. You don’t want to sacrifice the health or neglect your hair just for appearances. Our hair is more than an accessory. Our hair is a reflection of the nutrients in our bodies, our stress levels and more. If you start by working to understanding and nurturing your locks you’ll be surprised with what you can achieve in terms of growth and new style options. It can definitely be frustrating to not see the results that you want immediately but like all good things they will come in time. When you have an understanding of what works for you, you can get products that highlight the amazing aspect of your own look instead of ones that may help you achieve someone else's.

I have an ever growing list of saved youtube tutorials, magazine cut-outs and saved Instagram photos where that I can use to find inspiration for what to do with my hair.

This collection contains styles on hair that is similar to mine and hair that isn’t just to mix things up. Whenever I see a style I like, I try to find a way to make it my own. I know that I might not have the time, texture, skills, or patience to attain that style I may have seen but I find it fun to use my creativity to do something I think will suit me and my personality.

While I usually do most of my own styling at home I do occasionally visit salons for haircuts, deep conditioning treatments and for complex and special occasion hair styles. These hair care professional usually can provide more than service. I’ve spent time talking with and learning from them tips and tricks on the best techniques and tools to control my curls. Using my favorite Eden BodyWorks products I have mastered some of my favorite styles that make up my signature looks!