The Warholian Questionaire: Wendy Brandes
Christie’s Inc – June 15, 2013
Andy Warhol had a thing for jewels. He famously said he thought ”it would be very glamorous to be reincarnated as a big ring on Pauline de Rothschild’s finger.” And as fashion designer Carolina Herrera recounted to Christie’s recently, she once scored a portrait from Andy in exchange for her gold-mesh-and-diamond-encrusted Van Cleef & Arpels clutch. Jewelry designer Wendy Brandes barely missed her one chance to meet Andy in person; but, like Andy, the designer has a knack for marrying the chic and ironic in profoundly beautiful ways (look no further than her silver and ruby “Mudflap Jill” necklace). Ahead of Christie’s gay pride-themed online sale of Andy’s drawings and photos, Brandes dishes here about queens, bling and Diet Coke. Because, really, what else is there?
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What’s Eating Harlem? – Harlem Arts Festival
What’s Eating Harlem – June 12, 2013
What’s Eating Harlem, interviews Neal Ludevig, Executive Director of The 2013 Harlem Arts Festival. Neal explains how and why the festival came about and where and when the festival will take place.
Watch the Interview
Real Gems: The People That Make the Jewelry Sparkle
JCK Online – June 6, 2013
We spend a lot of time lusting after sparkling jewelry and discussing the latest trends, but those things would be nothing without the hard-working people behind them; those who work tirelessly to create the jewelry, the passionate writers and promoters that share it with us, and the behind-the-scenes wonders that really make the magic happen.
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Harlem Arts Festival Hosts Fundraising Gala
Amsterdam News – June 6, 2013
The Harlem Arts Festival (HAF) held its second annual fundraising gala last week at MIST, Harlem’s newest cultural entertainment space. “What the Harlem Arts Festival has done over the last year to showcase a variety of talented artists in Harlem is phenomenal,” said Keira Wesley-Busher, the coordinating director at MIST Harlem. “Both of our organizations are new and growing, and this alliance will benefit the artistic community in Harlem and provide a platform for artists to express themselves and be seen by the world.”
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Harlem Arts Festival Gala
UPTOWN Magazine – June 3, 2013
The Harlem Arts Festival executive committee hosted its second annual fundraising gala on May 29 at My Image Studios (MIST) in Harlem.
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5 Best Jewelry Blogs Online
Jonathan’s Fine Jewelers – May 30, 2013
Wendy Brandes is sharp, witty, irreverent, talented, funny and a non-conformist and I adore her site, jewelry and her style. She has one of the most prolific jewelry blogs that I have seen and she covers everything from business to the fabulous parties she attends and what she wears to them. She has quite a loyal fan base and if you read her, you will find out why. Also, I happen to love those emoji earrings she has and purchased some for my daughter, along with a ring.
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A Star Stylist Shows Off Her Fearlessly Fab Wardrobe
Refinery29 – May 21, 2013
[I love the designers] that tread the line of balance seamlessly. I am drawn to the work of designers who have a constant juxtaposition of strength and fragility, the sensual but structural, the feminine but masculine, odd but fantastically just right. It is always about a dual story, one that is so fine-tuned that it becomes a mono voice. I love the strength but feminine beauty of Wendy Brandes, who does fine jewelry.
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Harlem Arts Festival Annual Gala May 29, HAF Forms New Partnership with MIST Harlem
Harlemgal-Inc.com – May 15, 2013
Building on the momentum from their inaugural year, the Harlem Arts Festival will hold their second annual fundraising gala on Wednesday, May 29 at MIST Harlem, a local cultural entertainment center located near 116th Street and Lenox Avenue. The fundraising event is an opportunity for the organization to raise money and awareness about the talent that will hit the festival stage in June through preview performances. The Harlem Arts Festival has also formed a new partnership with MIST Harlem that will create opportunities and provide an ongoing platform for local artists.
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EDO Guest Editor: Wendy Brandes
Shop eDrop-Off – May 10, 2013
Fine jewelry designer Wendy Brandes is our fabulous guest editor today! She is the 2012 winner of Fashion Group International’s Rising Star Award for fine jewelry. Her jewelry has been worn by Rihanna, Britney Spears, Hayden Panettiere and “Impossible” singer Shontelle; it’s also been featured in magazines including British Vogue and InStyle.
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Express Yourself with Wendy Brandes Jewelry
The Kit – May 9, 2013
At the punk-themed MET Gala in New York City on Monday night, all eyes were on Anne Hathaway and her new blonde ‘do and spectacular Valentino gown, but what you may have missed was her choice of jewellery: a four-finger letter-ring spelling out “PTFO.” While we may not recommend showing up to the office with accessories echoing this particular sentiment, we are all for the idea of jewellery that doesn’t take itself too seriously–and so is designer Wendy Brandes.
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Spikes Galore, Pops of Pink, and a Mohawk at the 2013 MET Gala
JCK Magazine – May 7, 2013
The punk rock theme of last night’s 2013 Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala Benefit offered television viewers a unique visual feast. An ode to this year’s grand costume exhibition, “Punk: Chaos to Couture,” which runs at the Met from May 9–Aug. 14, the prickly theme (think Elizabeth Hurley’s famous Versace safety-pin dress from 1994) was a sharp departure from past points of view (like last year’s tribute to Miuccia Prada and Elsa Schiaparelli, and the Alexander McQueen retrospective in 2011). Nevertheless, many guests rose to this fashion occasion, channeling their fave punk rock influences, from pops of pink (said to be the color of the anti-establishment punk movement) to spikes, tartan, blackened metals, and more.
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Silver Interview: Wendy Brandes
National Jeweler – May 6, 2013
Taking inspiration from powerful women in history, social media and a fondness for evoking intrigue, Wendy Brandes likes to tell a story–an intricately designed, gem-laden story, that is–through her jewelry.Designing under her eponymous brand since 2008, Brandes has a fondness for movement, color and extreme originality in her work. Here, Brandes opens for National Jeweler the door to her design past, present and future.
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101 for the Money: How Jeweler’s Capitalize on Kickstarter
JCK Magazine – May 2013 Issue
When designer Wendy Brandes began making texting-inspired pieces in 2010—things like LOLand OMG ring sets—she knew she was on to a good thing. But like many jewelers, she didn’t have enough cash to make the collection a reality. “I sampled the designs in New York City, but if I produced them here, they were going to be expensive,” says the New York City–based designer. “I wanted to produce them in Asia, but, of course, if you’re getting a lower manufacturing cost there’s going to be a minimum order.”
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Wendy Brandes Cleopatra Earrings on the May Cover of JCK
JCK Magazine – May 2013 Issue
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Luxury Brands & Social Media: Who’s Getting it Right and Who’s Getting it Wrong?
PoqStudio – April 26, 2013
Wendy Brandes is a New York based designer selling beautiful high-end jewellery, and it’s fair to say, she has a marketing budget slightly smaller than Cartier’s. But with times tough for small designers and the price of gold rising all the time, she turned to social media to promote her products – more specifically, blogging.
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Why Say It When You Can Wear It – Wendy Brandes Gives Us Emojis You Can Wear
The Curvy Fashionista – April 17, 2013
When you think of fine jewelry, or when I do, I think dainty, girly, and feminine overtones. However, since 2005, Wendy Brandes has been making fine jewelry quite cool for some time. Asides from the fan girl moments I have when she leaves a comment on my blog, Wendy is an all-around crazy cool jewelry designer who gives us inspiration, fashion, and the jewels that pulls life together.
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Emoji Jewelry
Hearty Magazine – April 17, 2013
Who needs words when you have emojis? Succinct and expressive, there’s one for pretty much any occasion. Blogger turned jewelry designer Wendy Brandes has been turning your favorite emoticons into studs and rings since 2008, back when emo hearts <3 reigned supreme. With the birth of the iPhone, emojis are more detailed than ever. Keeping up with the times, Brandes releases a line of intricate hand-gesture emoji jewelry, including thumbs-up, a peace sign, and an OK symbol. A pair of these would make the perfect gift for any child of the internet.
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OMG! Emoji Jewelry is Here
Style.com – April 10, 2013
Well, this is clever: In the wake of the obsession with emoji—which we’re pretty sure perplex and bemuse all who encounter them—designer-cum-blogger Wendy Brandes has come out with some virtually inspired baubles to match your favorite decals. Brandes first began her adventures in cyber-symbol wares in 2008, when she crafted a series of four Swear Rings that read, “F@#!.”
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Editorial: Come as You Are
British Vogue – March 2013
Jewelry designer Wendy Brandes’ Memento Mori earrings featured in British Vogue’s grunge editorial.
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10 Things Rocking the Industry
JCK – March 2013
Sure, ogling celebrity engagement rings is fun. But you know what’s even more fun? Ogling real people’s rings! That’s why we can’t stop clicking through the Twitter/Instagram photo feature “Show Off Your Engagement Bling!” at yourturn.people.com. We found solitaires upon solitaires; princess, Euro, and trillion cuts; black, cognac, and canary diamonds; vintage and heirloom settings; pink sapphire center stones; blue sapphire side stones; and enough halos to make Beyoncé’s head spin. (We even found a couple of Wendy Brandes originals, posted by the designer herself.) Next, may we suggest a “Show Off Your Statement Earrings!” gallery?
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What’s in Your Bag: Wendy Brandes
Imperfect Concepts – March 29, 2013
Fine jewelry designer Wendy Brandes chats with Imperfect Concepts about her greatest accomplishment, how long it takes to be an overnight success, design inspiration and what’s in her bag in this fun interview.
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Harlem Arts Festival hosts Open Mic Session at MIST
Harlemgal-inc.com – March 26, 2013
According to Neal Ludevig, the executive director of the Harlem Arts Festival, organizing a festival is no small task. “The Harlem Arts Festival presented 33 artistic acts on two stages to more than 1,000 people over the course of two days last year and we’re excited to do this again in 2013,” said Ludevig. “The money we raise tomorrow night at the open mic jam goes directly toward providing our artists with the best equipment, promotion, and resources.”
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Teenage Dream: How to Dress Like Your Favorite TV High Schoolers
Bullett Media – March 6, 2013
Jewelry designer Wendy Brandes’ Vampire Stake Necklace featured.
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Q&A: Wayetu Moore, Social Entrepreneur on Increasing Literacy Through Multi-Cultural Content
amNY – February 11, 2013
Wayetu Moore, 27, is founder and publisher of One Moore Book, a publisher of culturally sensitive children’s books that snared the award-winning writer Edwidge Danticat to write a Haitian-themed children’s book. Moore lives and works in Prospect Heights.
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Anti-Valentine’s Day Goodies
AOL Shopping – February 8, 2013
This Valentine’s day, don’t get sucked into a self pity party. Instead, celebrate you. You can go it alone with your favorite movie, head out for fizzy, fruity drinks with your girlfriends, call your BFF to vent or go on a platonic date with a friend. While you’re at it, splurge on a little something for yourself.
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CLIQUE GALLERY: The Haiti Series Launch
UPTOWN Magazine – February 6, 2013
One Moore Book, a boutique publishing company hosts an art exhibit featuring the work of popular Haitian artists for the launch of their second collection of children’s books ‘The Haiti Series’ on January 26, at Space on White Gallery.
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Blacks on the Brink of Greatness
BET News – February 6, 2013
Wayetu Moore is a writer and literary entrepreneur. She started her own publishing company, One Moore Book, to send books to underprivileged children around the world. Her first two series focused on children in Liberia, her native country, and Haiti, in commemoration of the third anniversary of the 2010 earthquake.
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Jewelry Gift Ideas for the Love of Valentine’s Day
Pricescope – February 6, 2013
We know it’s trendy to hate on Valentine’s Day, but you’ll only find love here. Here’s why. Valentine’s Day breaks up the winter doldrums, and frankly any excuse for new jewelry is good enough for us! Who cares if it’s a day sanctioned for romantic-themed gifts? Some folks need that reminder! So in the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here are a few jewels to incite some passion and offer a little gift inspiration.
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Bling Beyonce Should Have Worn During the Super Bowl XLVII Halftime Show
JCK Magazine – February 5, 2013
“If you’re wearing black leather, it’s not the time to be shy, so I’d go for big, bold jewelry,” says jewelry designer Wendy Brandes. Leather has been a hot trend this year. But how can you accessorize the bold statement without looking like a 50 Shades of Grey fantasy? (Unless that’s the look you’re going for, of course.) “A blackened, satin finish would give either silver or gold a beat-up, edgy, biker look. I’d actually pile on a mix of necklaces in both metals with just one pendant with a large, rich-colored, gothic jewel like a garnet as a centerpiece,” Brandes says.
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Watch: Wayetu Moore talks about ‘The Haiti Series’ on ABC’s Here and Now
ABC – January 27, 2013
Wayetu Moore, founder of One Moore Book talks about her publishing firm’s mission to combat low childhood literacy rates and their newest children’s book collection ‘The Haiti Series.’
Watch the Clip
Children’s Books, The Haiti Series, to Benefit Haitian Children and Teach Others Around the World
Madame Noire – January 14, 2013
Wayetu Moore, founder of One Moore Book, is doing her part. Starting January 26, her publishing house will sell The Haiti Series, a collection of six children’s stories that draw from the Haitian culture. Among the talent involved in the writing and illustration of these books are world-renowned author Edwidge Dandicat and artist Edouard Duval-Carrie.
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Entrepreneur Gives Haitian Books to Haiti’s Children
BET News – January 11, 2013
When writer and literary entrepreneur Wayetu Moore got the notion to send books to underprivileged children around the world, she didn’t just dust off a few of her childhood favorites and ship off a box — she created books for children that speak to their unique cultural experiences.
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Edwidge Danticat: Haitians are Helping Themselves
BET News – January 11, 2013
As Haiti and the rest of the world reflects on the progress the country has made in the three years since the devastating earthquake hit, there is bound to be more discourse and finger-wagging about things like foreign donors, foreign-based organizations and government accountability to the financial backers of Haiti’s recovery. But among the chatter, award-winning Haitian writer and activist Edwidge Danticat says it’s important to consider the important work that Haitians have done on their own behalf to stimulate recovery.
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Tastemakers Talk: Best Gifts Given and Received
Rue La La – December 21, 2012
In honor of the holiday season, I asked a few of my favorite tastemakers to share their best holiday gifts (both given and received). Their answers may surprise you.
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Holiday 2012 Gift Guide
Ocean Home Magazine – December/January 2013
It’s not easy coming up with new ideas for the man whose tastes and interests run the gamut, or the woman who deserves something uniquely memorable, or th friend whom no gift ever seems quite right. Here are a few thoughtful options for your holiday shopping list, be it for the fashion-forward toddler in your life or the music star at heart.
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Preterm Birth: We’re All Vulnerable
Huffington Post – November 30, 2012
The preterm birth rate in the United States is high, and alarmingly so for African-American women in particular. Despite the upward mobility of women and specifically African-American women, the disproportionate increase in preterm birth has not dissipated. Preterm birth not only takes a physical toll on the infant but an emotional toll on the entire family, beyond the hospital stay.
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Reducing Preterm Birth in the Black Community
BlackHealthMatters.com – November 14, 2012
Preterm births are the leading cause of newborn death in the United States, with nearly half a million babies (just less than 12 percent) born too soon each year. Even babies who survive an early birth often face lifetime health complications such as blindness, breathing difficulties, cerebral palsy and hearing problems. And though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes an overall decline in the number of preterm births nationwide, African Americans still have double the rates of prematurity. We spoke to Gerson Weiss, M.D., chair of the department of OB/GYN at UMDNJ, about what causes preterm birth and what’s being done to reduce risks.
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JCK Asks…Wendy Brandes
JCK Magazine – November 2012
We’ve all felt the urge to tell someone to STFU. But Wendy Brandes put it on a chain. And that busty pinup girl you see hanging off the tire of your typical tractor-trailer? Presenting Brandes’ Mud Flap Jill Necklace with ruby nipples. Superstylish singer Rihanna was recently spotted wearing Jill.
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Bold Jewelry Sparkles at the CMA Awards
JCK Magazine – November 2, 2012
“I feel like pop and country are converging. Look at Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood. The look for the big crossover stars has more in common with mainstream Hollywood glamour than it might have been back in the day,” says jewelry designer Wendy Brandes. “But I think they still love putting on a show with voluminous hair, sequined dresses, dangling earrings, and clinking bangles.”
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Halloween Baubles
W Magazine – October 25, 2012
Halloween is probably one of my favorite days of the year—the one time when being deemed “over-the-top” is quite a compliment. I probably won’t be adorning my head with run-of-the-mill cat ears to celebrate the holiday…instead I would love to show some macabre enthusiasm with something like Elephant Heart’s wisdom teeth cufflinks or howling wolf earrings from Wendy Brandes. And holiday or not, you can never go wrong with diamonds.
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Jennifer Aniston’s Engagement Ring: Gaudy or Gorgeous?
JCK Magazine – October 11, 2012
America’s favorite friend flashed her sparkler (or should I say firework?) while out with fiancé Justin Theroux last weekend. Although the designer of the gem hasn’t been revealed, the hefty 8-9 ct. emerald-cut ring is estimated to have cost $500,000 to $1 million and has fueled criticism in the blogosphere. According to a poll on People StyleWatch, more than 31 percent of readers aren’t thrilled with the style.
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The Way to Sell Luxury Jewelry? Make It Special
JCK Magazine – October 2012
Chastened by the still-wobbly economy, luxury consumers are thinking twice before spending. Nevertheless, they’re willing to pay a premium for one quality above all others: uniqueness.
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Wendy Brandes Heart Jewelry in Aventura Magazine
WBJ – September 20, 2012
South Florida’s Aventura Magazine included Wendy Brandes’ 18K-gold Diana heart necklace in the September/October issue. The necklace is on the upper right side of the “Jewelry Box” feature on page 52.
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Jewelers Weigh in on Blake Lively’s Lorraine Schwartz
JCK Magazine – September 19, 2012
According to People magazine, celebrity jeweler Lorraine Schwartz helped Reynolds design the rose gold sparkler and corresponding wedding band featuring a series of diamonds. Jewelry designers like Wendy Brandes weigh in and give their thoughts on the ring that has become the talk of the Web.
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Shontelle Shows that Two Clemence Rings are Better Than One [Photos]
WBJ – September 16, 2012
Quite a few people have stacked two of my Clemence rings together, but I’ve never managed to get a picture. Gorgeous singer Shontelle (“Impossible“) ended my photo drought last Wednesday when she performed and modeled at the “Real Fashion, Real Women” show benefiting Bottomless Closet. She wore my 18K-gold Clemence ring in rock crystal and black spinel with my Clemence ring in amethyst and citrine on one finger.
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Entrepreneurs Gather in DC for Mutual Inspiration
ABC DC – September 14, 2012
Panelist and Howard Alum Sakita Holley, who is the CEO of House of Success, a PR and Lifestyle Branding Company, advised entrepreneurs to “Guard your Energy.” Holley initially went to work for Prudential Financial but left to start her own business, which she said was ultimately a tough decision.
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What Shontelle Wore to NYFW: Wendy Brandes Jewelry [Photos]
WBJ – September 12, 2012
Singer-songwriter Shontelle Layne wears the Wendy Brandes Onyx Skull Ring and Clemence Amethyst and Citrine.
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Really Red: Wendy Brandes in M.A.C
Style It – September 9, 2012
Really Red is a photo project celebrating red lips and the women who love them. For this installment we interviewed fine jewelry designer Wendy Brandes.
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83 Inspiring Street Style Snaps From the IFB Conference
Racked – September 6, 2012
Racked National’s editor stopped by the Independent Fashion Blogger Conference, aka IFB Con, to speak on a panel titled Journalism vs. Blogging. Beyond the thrill of chatting with some of our favorite content creators—Susan Cernak of Glamour, Eva Chen of Teen Vogue, Kelly Framel of The Glamourai, Lily Mandelbaum and Elisa Goodkind of Style Like U, Kim France of Girls of a Certain Age, Meaghan Mahoney Dusil of Purse Blog, and HuffPo writer and Jewelry designer Wendy Brandes—we loved seeing all the impressive personal style of the internet gathered into one conference room.
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I’m Obsessed, Thank You Very Much – Wendy Brandes Fine Jewelry
Lucky Magazine Blog – August 21, 2012
I’ve become obsessed with Wendy Brandes Fine Jewelry. I first learned of Wendy through her writing. She writes regularly for the Huffington Post. She’s an award winning jewelry artist. I love the beauty and edginess of her designs. They’re fantastic! I’ll have to start saving or as Wendy says, “time to start playing the lottery.”
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The Jewel of the Day – “Empress Wu Dragon” Ring
Vogue Paris – August 20, 2012
Inspired by Chinese astrology, fine jewelry designer Wendy Brandes created an 18k gold dragon ring with diamond eyes and a globe of lapis lazuli between his fangs.
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Harlem Power Brokers Brainstorm Ways to Stem Small Business Closures
DNA Info – August 15, 2012
As Harlem grows in popularity and new restaurants and bars open on Lenox Avenue, several established black-owned businesses have begun to close. Among the businesses that have shuttered recently are Hue-Man Bookstore, the bowling alley Harlem Lanes and Mobay Uptown, a Caribbean soul food restaurant along 125th Street. House of Success CEO Sakita Holley is quoted.
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Cool Online Find: Wendy Brandes’s WendyB Diffusion Line
Fashion Bomb Daily – July 31, 2012
Wendy Brandes has always been in tune with the ever-changing social climate and has perfectly captured it in her fun WendyB Diffusion Line full of rings and necklaces capturing all of our most-used symbols.
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Unique Jewelry by Wendy Brandes Creates a Bold Statement
Just Luxe – July 18, 2012
Luxury jewelry designer Wendy Brandes first got her start in the industry when she designed her own engagement ring and wedding band in 2001. Just a few years later, she followed her calling and switched career paths after several years working in the media and marketing industries. Chasing her dream in the industry that she’s passionate for is paying off—just this year, she won Fashion Group International’s Rising Star award for fine jewelry.
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5 Cool Jewelry Industry Blogs You Should be Following
JCK Magazine – July 14, 2012
Wendy Brandes is…a kick-ass jewelry blogger. Her blog is just so much fun. Her writing style is hip and clearly shows how much passion and dedication she has to the industry. If you’re a jewelry designer and you’re looking to start blogging to get people attracted to your brand, you’d be wise to follow Wendy’s example.
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20 Power PR Women to Follow on Twitter
The Daily Muse – July 13, 2012
In the PR world, it’s all about connections. And what better place to make those connections than the Twitterverse? So, we’re bringing you the public relations gurus you should be hanging out with online. If you’re in PR (or you want to be), follow these women to learn, be inspired, and keep your ear to the ground of what’s happening in the PR world. House of Success CEO Sakita Holley made the list at #16.
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A Journalist Turned Jewelry Designer on the Challenges of a Radical Career Change
The Grindstone – July 6, 2012
“All I wanted to do with my life was be a journalist,” Wendy Brandes said a few days ago. After graduating from college in New York, she went on do just that, becoming an editor at the Wall Street Journal, and moving on to other top journalism jobs. But this isn’t a straightforward story about a woman achieving her lifelong dream and then staying put. Somewhere along the way, Brandes decided to radically switch gears and become a jewelry designer.
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Harlem Arts Festival Will be Start of Something Big, Organizers Say
DNA Info – June 29, 2012
The organizers of the festival, which kicks off at Marcus Garvey Park Friday afternoon and runs through Saturday, said they are excited about being able to provide a showcase for Harlem artists that they hope will endure through the years.
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Crowdfunding Campaigns to Watch: “Jabari Presents” Season Two
Televisual – June 21, 2012
Fans of hip hop might be familiar with talk show host Jabari Johnson, whose show Jabari Presents documents the creative lives of rising and established artists in the genre. Johnson might be better known as the host of BET.com’s Face to Face, where he interviewed such celebrities as Justin Bieber and Nicki Minaj. After pitching the season season of Jabari Presents to networks and not getting any bites, Johnson decided to go the route so many filmmakers are going these days: crowdfunding!
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Ultimate Summer Guide 2012: Street Festivals
New York Daily News – June 17, 2012
Summer just wouldn’t be the same without the sounds and smells of the city’s lively fairs and festivals. With food, music and even fireworks, these seasonal favorites promise the ultimate outdoor experience.
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‘Jabari Presents’ Kickstarter Campaign is Jabari Johnson’s Road to Capturing the Essence of Music
Global Grind – June 15, 2012
Since birth, Jabari Johnson has loved music more than anything in the world. Turning his dreams into reality, Jabari began his career in digital documentaries and filmmaking with an interview of hip-hop duo The Clipse – rappers Pusha T and No Malice (formerly Malice). Waiting countless hours outside of a DC nightclub, Jabari sprung into action and captured the hip-hop duo like never before.He’s interviewed every celebrity imaginable. From role-playing with Nicki Minaj to hanging with Justin Bieber, Jabari’s made it a point to keep all of his interviews unique yet relaxed.
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Chasing the dream with ‘Jabari Presents’
The Smoking Section – June 5, 2012
Lost in the day-to-day shakings that is the growing age of digital media is the fact, at its very core, a lot of people do what they do out of love with the hopes of one day opening a door that could change their life. And just like any industry, there are those who are involved for all the wrong reasons and then there’s people like Jabari Johnson – a straight up, genuine and all around good dude.
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Documentary Web Series ‘Jabari Presents’ Launches a Kickstarter Campaign for Season 2
Black Web 2.0 – June 4, 2012
Jabari Johnson continues to dominate the digital world . He recently launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund the second season of his documentary web series Jabari Presents. Jabari Presents is an online documentary series Jabari created in response to getting turned down by numerous television networks. Instead of giving up he decided to create his own show profiling some of the most influential entertainers today that has been watched by over 200,000 viewers around the world.
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Fine Jewelry Designer Wendy Brandes Joins the House of Success Client Roster
Pitch Engine – June 1, 2012
House of Success, a lifestyle/brand relations firm, has added Wendy Brandes Jewelry to its client roster.
Since 2005, Wendy Brandes has been designing fine jewelry with couture craftsmanship and unexpected details that include pieces that open up, twist into new shapes and even whistle. In 2012, Wendy won Fashion Group International’s Rising Star award for her creations and received an honorable mention in the American Jewelry Design Council’s New Talent Contest.
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Harlem Arts Festival Gala a Huge Success
Harlem Condo Life – May 27, 2012
The Harlem Arts Festival gala fundraising event on May 16 at the Alhambra Ballroom was a smashing success raising over $6,000 with all proceeds going directly to artists.
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Harlem Arts Festival Gala Raises Over $18,000
Amsterdam News – May 25, 2012
Wine and laughter flowed easily at the Harlem Arts Festival gala fundraising event on May 16 at the legendary Alhambra Ballroom. Harlem Arts Festival Executive Director Neal Ludevig reminded attendees that all proceeds from the event would go directly to artists; the gala raked in $6,000, bringing the total amount of money raised for the fest to over $18,000.”
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Clique Gallery – Harlem Arts Festival Gala
UPTOWN Magazine – May 25, 2012
Fundraising gala held on May 16 to raise money for the inaugural Harlem Arts Festival in summer 2012.
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Premature birth: A preventable worldwide problem
Amsterdam News – May 11, 2012
Why so many preemies in the Black community? “The disparities in preterm births that African-American women experience is a very complex issue involving social, medical and behavioral factors, and we still have much to learn in order to understand the root causes of these disparities and develop effective interventions,” Dr. Diane Ashton, deputy medical director for the March of Dimes, told the AmNews.
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Top 100 Branding Experts to Follow on Twitter
EvanCarmichael.com – May 10, 2012
House of Success Founder + CEO Sakita Holley (@MissSuccess) appears on the list at number 21.
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Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait
Frugivore Magazine – May 3, 2012
A new program, Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait, launched in Newark by the March of Dimes, local health officials, and Johnson and Johnson to help give babies a healthier start in life. The program seeks to prevent premature births to provide a service to new mothers who may be seeking education about healthcare and the consequences of an early birth.
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Too Many African American Babies Born too Soon
Huffington Post – May 2, 2012
Nearly one out of every six African-American babies in the United States is born premature. In Newark, New Jersey it’s one in five. I am a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, and every day I see women who are at risk of delivering early.
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What’d You Do This Weekend, James Shields?
Brooklyn Based – April 9, 2012
Interview series featuring Brooklyn residents. This week’s interview featured artist and Hip Hop Coloring Book author James Shields.
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Premature Birth Rates for African American Women Remain High
MadameNoire.com – March 29, 2012
Preterm birth is the number one cause of infant mortality in the United States and African American women are twice as likely as women of other ethnicities to deliver their babies too soon.
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UPTOWN Magazine Spotlight: LaVerne Council
UPTOWNSocial – March 27, 2012
LaVerne Council was only five years old when she began collecting dimes to help her mother support one of her favorite charitable causes. She didn’t know it then, but that early volunteer work for the March of Dimes would eventually lead Council from a career as a global information technology executive to chairman of the foundation’s board of trustees.
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Arts Festival for Harlem on the Way, Organizers Say
New York Daily News – March 20, 2012
A trio of Harlem artists have taken a big step in making their dream for a summer arts festival showcasing local talent come true. And they’ve successfully reached their online Kickstarter fundraising goal of $12,000.
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3 Things you need to know about the inaugural Harlem Arts Festival
Uptown Flavor – March 14, 2012
Harlem is going through another renaissance. Whether it’s prime real estate, good food or arts & culture that you’re looking for, you no longer have to leave the neighborhood to get it.
To celebrate this revitalization and to capture the energy and essence of what’s going on Uptown, a group of local residents have created the Harlem Arts Festival.
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The Hip Hop Coloring Book
NBC NY Nightly News – February 20, 2012
James Shields, the Bed-Stuy based artist behind the Hip Hop Coloring Book Series, tells New York Nightly News viewers how he came up with this unique book that teaches kids to draw and about the history of hip hop.
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Giving Ideas a Kick in the Wallet
New York Times – February 17, 2012
When Christine C. Quinn, the City Council speaker, announced a partnership between the Council and the Manhattan Internet company Kickstarter during her State of the City address this month, there may have been some head-scratching in the room. We did a little browsing and present here some New York City Kickstarter dreams.
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Organizations take action against high premature birthrate for black Newark babies
The Star-Ledger – February 16, 2012
More than 12 percent of children are born prematurely in the United States. That increases to about 17 percent for African-Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control. But among Newark’s African American population, that portion shoots up to about 20 percent. It’s alarmed officials for years, and now a public-private partnership is taking action.
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Making sure baby arrives at the right time
Patch.com – February 16, 2012
Damali Campbell did everything an expectant mother is supposed to do: she exercised, improved her diet, and took an appropriate mix of nutrients, including folic acid, a vital supplement for gestating infants. But despite her efforts, Campbell — a physician at the University of Medicine and Dentistry — still found herself on the “roller coaster ride” that many parents of preterm babies take: surgeries, long vigils at hospitals with her husband, hopes raised and dashed again.
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Focus on African-American babies born too soon
PRNewswire – February 16, 2012
Nearly one in five African-American babies in Newark is born too soon, and a new community-based program announced today aims to help more of these babies be born healthy and full-term. Today, the March of Dimes launched Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait®, a program to reduce preterm births in Newark.
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Sweet Philanthropy! Harlem Arts Festival is a DailyCandy Favorite
DailyCandy – February 15, 2012
DailyCandy has chosen the Harlem Arts Festival Kickstarter project as one of their 12 favorite philanthropic causes this month.
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Jabari Johnson: Eyes on the Prize
Jenesis Magazine – February 15, 2012
This year looks to be a benchmark year for Jabari Johnson. He is working as a host for BET’s “Face to Face,” a one-on-one talk show program on the network’s website and he is also working on a documentary profiling the celebrity stature of Tinie Tempah.
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My Take on Tanning: James “Creative” Shields
Tanning of America – February 9, 2012
Artist James “Creative” Shields talks about his ‘tanning’ moment, and how hip hop culture inspired him to create his Hip Hop Coloring Book series on Steve Stoute’s blog.
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Inaugural Harlem Arts Festival Organizers Want to Showcase Local Artists
DNAInfo – February 6, 2012
When Neal Ludevig promotes the Harlem Arts Festival he’s planning for the summer in Marcus Garvey Park, the first response is usually: “I missed last year’s.” It’ll be the inaugural event — there was no last year — but Ludevig still sees the positive in the innocuous mix-ups.
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HBCU Buzz Artist Spotlight: James Shields of Howard University
HBCU Buzz – February 6, 2012
James ‘Creative’ Shields, a 2008 Howard University graduate has made headlines recently with his unique take on hip hop and artistry. He has a gift for drawing, and has combined that with his love for hip hop to give the children of today another way to express their creativity.
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A career outside the lines
Stockton Record – February 5, 2012
Ordering culinary pans and “crunching numbers” for a major corporate retailer wasn’t quite getting it for James Shields. So, the graduate of Stockton’s Bear Creek High School fell back in love with his “dope art” and married that with a hip-hop vibe and his entrepreneurial talents.
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UPTOWN Magazine Spotlight: Jabari Johnson
UPTOWNSocial – January 17, 2012
Growing up, Jabari Johnson could always be found near or in front of a computer screen. Now, he creates digital documentaries for them. Recently, UPTOWNSocial caught up with the up-and-coming filmmaker to discuss his humble beginnings.
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House of Success adds the Harlem Arts Festival to its Culture & Entertainment Client Roster
Pitch Engine – January 17, 2012
House of Success will primarily focus on strategic media and influencer outreach in addition to alliance and partnership development with Harlem businesses and community organizations.
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March of Dimes Hires House of Success for Preemie Campaign
PRWeek – January 16, 2012
The March of Dimes has hired House of Success, a lifestyle brand relations firm, to launch a strategic PR and brand campaign for the “Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait” program and to educate African-American women about the risks of pre-term births.
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House of Success adds the March of Dimes to its Client Roster
Pitch Engine – January 11, 2012
House of Success will spearhead a strategic public relations and brand campaign designed to increase awareness about the Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait program and educate African American women about the risks associated with preterm births.
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James Shields Helps School the Youth with a Hip Hop Coloring Book
Global Grind – January 3, 2012
With the way that hip-hop is evolving now, sometimes it’s easy to forget the music genre’s important roots. Not knowing where you come from is the easiest way to forget where you are going. So thankfully, Brooklyn artist James Shields has come up with a fun way for the kids to learn about their rich history in hip-hop.
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Coloring in Hip Hop: An Education Story
LivingCivil.com – January 3, 2012
Great news for all of the hip-hop heads with kids. Instead of indoctrinating your child with censored music, child-sized DJ sets, or God forbid, Hip Hop Harry, we now have The Hip Hop Coloring Book.
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Brooklyn artist James Shields combines his loves of music and art to create a ‘Hip Hop Coloring Book’
New York Daily News – January 2, 2012
By his own admission, James “Creative” Shields can’t dance, can’t rap and can’t deejay. But he sure can draw. And now he’d like to teach a younger generation to draw as well.
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Learn the History of Rap with ‘The Hip Hop Coloring Book’
Complex Magazine – January 2, 2012
Looking to teach the youth about hip-hop but just don’t know how? Well, Brooklyn artist James Shields is here to help.
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‘The Hip Hop Coloring Book’ Exists
Prefix Magazine – January 2, 2012
With plans of teaching children about being creative and hip-hop culture at large, artist James Shields has released the first of five volumes of his Hip Hop Coloring Book series.
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Frustrated Painter Leaves Corporate America to Pursue Art Full-time
Black Enterprise Magazine – December 20, 2011
James Shields traded in his stuffy desk job for a more fulfilling career as an artist; has art gallery opening for new hip hop coloring book.
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Jabari Johnson: Adding a Twist to Documentary Films
Limerance Magazine – December 20, 2011
Taking his passion for music, he interviews famous people in the industry and makes documentaries of them. This simple yet undeniably brilliant idea is one of the reasons behind Jabari Johnson’s rising popularity.
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The Hip-Hop Coloring Book
SoJones.com – December 15, 2011
There is a new hip-hop coloring book on the market that promises to bring old school classics to new audiences, a perfect gift idea for your hard-to-buy-for somebody or fun-lovin’ hip-hop head.
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The Hip-Hop Coloring Book
The Audacity of Color – December 14, 2011
James Shields (a.k.a Creative Shields) has released an amazing coloring book just in time for the holidays.
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Hip-Hop Coloring Book Brings Old School to New Generation
DNAInfo – December 12, 2011
Graphic designer and Brooklyn-based hip hop artist James “Creative” Shields is the mastermind behind “The Hip Hop Coloring Book,” recently released in paper form and in an interactive program designed for iPads, computers and smartphones.
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Hip-Hop Coloring Book “Colored Only”
Hip Hop Connection – December 8, 2011
James “Creative” Shields is a contemporary artist with the intentions to promote creativity and give a quick Hip Hop history lesson through his new Hip Hop Coloring Book.
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My Take on Tanning: Jabari Johnson
Tanning of America – December 7, 2011
Jabari Johnson talks about his ‘tanning’ moment, Jay-Z lyrics and the only time race matters on Steve Stoute’s blog.
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How Brands Can Use Rihanna’s Career Strategy to Create Engaging Content
Madame Noire – December 6, 2011
Sakita Holley, a lifestyle brand strategist at House of Success, identifies audience, consistency, and relevance as the keys to creating engaging content. “People that aren’t fans of Rihanna’s may feel that she’s over-saturating the airwaves, but her fans are perfectly fine with her output. The key is for brands to really focus on their audience,” she said.
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Maino Talks Overcoming Career Expectations
BET.com – December 5, 2011
In between expanding his growing brand and prepping his upcoming sophomore album, The Day After Tomorrow, Brooklyn rapper Maino found the time to chop it up with BET.com’s Jabari Johnson for another episode of Face to Face.
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J. Cole Talks International Markets, Sophomore Album
HipHopDx.com – December 2, 2011
BET’s Jabari Johnson caught up with Roc Nation star J. Cole while on tour with Tinie Tempah in the United Kingdom.
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5 Questions with PR Specialist Sakita Holley
iMeet – November 22, 2011
We’re continuing our ongoing series of posts called “5 Questions With…” where we talk with real folks about what they do and how iMeet is helping them do it.
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Every Child Deserves a Family
NYU Tonight – November 14, 2011
Exploring New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand’s proposed legislation opening adoption up to LGBT couples nationwide.
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Gillibrand to Introduce LGBT Adoption Bill
DNAInfo – October 28, 2011
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand will introduce legislation into the U.S. Senate that would help eliminate discrimination against LGBT families who want to adopt.
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From Justin Beiber to Nicki Minaj: How Jabari Johnson Landed Interviews with Music’s A-Listers
Grind & Thrive – October 13, 2011
Most of us grew up big fans of music and dreamed of being a part of that life, whether it be an artist or producer. Today’s guest is no different and took his love for music and created a popular web series interviewing the biggest names in the game.
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Pioneering Restaurant Society Coffee to Close
DNAInfo.com – October 7, 2011
Society Coffee, one of the pioneers of the restaurant boom on Frederick Douglass Boulevard, is closing its doors after seven years on Monday.
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Harlem Restaurants to Suit Any Mood
DNAInfo.com – October 6, 2011
Ever since the hotspot owned by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson opened late last year, more attention is being paid than ever to Harlem’s burgeoning restaurant landscape.
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Life Coach Helps Gay Couples Answer Marriage Questions
DNAInfo.com – September 19, 2011
After Albany legalized gay marriage in New York, gay couples suddenly had a whole new question to grapple with — should they get married just because it’s legal?
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Jabari Johnson Attends Steve Stoute’s Tanning of America Influencer Dinner
TanningofAmerica.com – September 15, 2011
Fresh off the star-studded The Tanning Of America book party at Julian Schnabel’s Palazzo Chupi in New York that Jay-Z and Graydon Carter hosted earlier this week, Steve hosted an intimate dinner for bloggers and influencers.
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Crisis Preparedness Key as Hurricane Irene Approaches
Ragan.com – August 26, 2011
Businesses, officials and other communicators dust off plans for reaching employees and the public as Hurricane Irene descends.
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Recap: Kevin Storey & Jabari Johnson Present: Surprise Part Part II
Jungle Gym Magazine – August 19, 2011
Kev Storey and Jabari recently threw their second surprise party in New York City. The parties are mainly focused on fun and bringing the city’s influencers together.
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PRSA: Industry lists should ‘reflect the great diversity…of the profession’
PRDaily – July 19, 2011
The problem with most-powerful lists in business publications is the inevitable omission of someone
(or several someones) of note. But when the list leaves out an entire race, one can expect a certain degree of uproar.
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‘PRWeek’ Catches Heat for Lack of Diversity on its Power List
PRNewser – July 14, 2011
PRWeek’s editor-in-chief Steve Barrett has published a column on the publication’s website in response to “a number of comments” they’ve gotten about the lack of diversity on this year’s Power List, specifically, the lack of African Americans.
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Jabari Johnson Featured in Nicki Minaj’s E! TV Special
Rap Radar – July 14, 2011
Last night, E! aired their Behind The Music-esque special on Nicki Minaj’s rise to stardom with interviews from family, friends as well as Lil Wayne, Swizz Beatz, and even her 5th grade teacher.
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Hip-hop legend’s sons make debut with a new album
NY Daily News – June 24, 2011
Their dad is hip-hop legend Doug E. Fresh, but these two brothers insist nothing has come easy – and they’re ready to show the world what they’ve got.
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Doug E. Fresh & Square Off NY Daily News Feature
Rap Radar – June 24, 2011
Doug E. Fresh and his sons Square Off are featured in the Harlem edition of the NY Daily News. The duo recently released their new album, Money, Moet & Memories with hopes of carving a new sound.
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Square Off on who influences their music
ThisIs50 – June 15, 2011
Square Off sits down with ThisIs50 to talk about musical influence and their new EP, Money, Moet & Memories.
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Skipping the Media
inVocus – June 8, 2011
inVocus asked some PR folk why they still needed traditional means to communicate, and found that when it comes to pitching news organizations, many PR pros are in agreement: you can’t beat the credibility that comes with placement in a traditional medium. Meanwhile, using the two means of transmission hand-in-hand seems to be the evolved way to pitch.
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Jabari Johnson Dominating the Digital World
Black Web 2.0 – June 2, 2011
Jabari Johnson wears many hats but overall has made a living from creating online content in the form of digital video. He knew he wanted to be an on air personality, but after auditioning and being denied by numerous networks, he decided to create his own show, which would later be named Jabari Presents.
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How She Made It: Co-Founder of Magazine Targeting Brides of Color
Atlanta Post – June 1, 2011
Jacqueline Nwobu, along with her husband Chike Nwobu, did not have experience with magazine publishing prior to launching their swiftly successful magazine, but they did have a sense that the market needed their vision. While planning their own nuptials, they noticed the lack of resources for African-American brides and other women of color. In came the idea for Munaluchi Bridal magazine.
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‘Most Likely to Succeed’ Burden
Wall Street Journal – May 11, 2011
More high schools are eliminating senior-class polls, a long-standing tradition for graduating classes, in part out of concern for their effect on recipients. Research suggests most winners of the most-likely-to-succeed label will do well later in life, based on their academic ability, social skills and motivation.
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Doug E. Fresh’s Sons Forge Own Path in Music World
DNA Info – May 4, 2011
Ask Harlem rap group Square Off who their influences are and the answer might surprise you. Brothers Solomon “Trips” Davis, and Dayquan “Slim” Davis, drop names like Grandmaster Caz, DJ Hollywood and Big Daddy Kane, hip-hop pioneers that their contemporaries may not have even heard of.
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Stressful Superlative: Is there a ‘Most Likely to Succeed’ Curse?
TIME – May 2011
It’s the time of year when thousands of high school students around the U.S. will be voted “most likely to succeed.” But is such an accolade actually a curse?
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Jabari Johnson Debuts New BET Web Series
Pitch Engine – April 28, 2011
Jabari Johnson kicked off season one of his new BET digital web series with three back to back episodes featuring a bold roster of who got next in the music industry.
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Sakita Holley to Serve as Moderator at National Action Network 20th Anniversary Convention
Pitch Engine – April 6, 2011
The panel, “Social Engagement – Entrepreneurial Strategies that Lead to Success,” hosted by Donald Coleman, CEO of GlobalHue and Vice Chairman of the National Action Network, is a thought leadership discussion that will focus on how entrepreneurs, influencers and thought leaders can use new technologies to build their brands in today’s social media dominated business environment.
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Interview with co-founder and Editor-in-Chief of Munaluchi Bridal Magazine
Candy Chat Radio – March 31, 2011
Jacqueline Nwobu is the co-founder and Editor in Chief of Munaluchi Bridal magazine, the leading authority of bridal inspiration for women of color. Multicultural women are major contributors to the $160-billion wedding industry however their presence is visibly absent in most bridal publications. Munaluchi Bridal fills this void and provides the truest example that love comes in more than one shade. Nwobu will share industry tips regarding amazing honeymoon destinations.
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Diverse Start-ups Connect at SXSW Technology Conference
Black Enterprise – March 25, 2011
South by Southwest (SXSW), Austin, Texas’s annual music, film and technology conference which just wrapped this past Sunday, is known as the birthplace for some of the most innovative ideas in the world. The interactive portion of the conference is where Foursquare was founded and where Twitter took off.
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Making Black Tech Entrepreneurs 100% Viable
Atlanta Post – March 18, 2011
In the past year, the lack of African-Americans in Silicon Valley has been well-documented. But no one needs a report or study to really understand how much Blacks are lacking in the behind-the-scenes action of the tech space. It’s a deficiency of sorts that doesn’t make sense considering our capacities to tap into the market.
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Minority New Media Entrepreneurs
MBE Connect – March 18, 2011
SXSW is traditionally not known for its diversity, but organizers seem to be working to reverse that trend. One intriguing panel idea came from travel blogger Kiratiana Freelon and her panel entitled 100% Viable, 1% Visible – Minority New Media Entrepreneurs in which she asks why minority entreprenuers are not creating businesses in new media.
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Munaluchi Bridal Magazine Brings Luxury to Life at Atlanta Launch Event
Pitch Engine – March 18, 2011
Atlanta’s wedding industry tastemakers and bridal brand influencers are invited to an intimate gathering to celebrate the latest issue of Munaluchi Bridal and to learn about exclusive partnership opportunities.
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HBCUs Awarded Grant to Enhance Global Opportunities
Atlanta Post – March 4, 2011
In a world where our everyday lives are influenced in some way, shape or form by the governments, businesses and individuals that are beyond our borders, it’s essential that educational institutions establish the roles they are going to play in preparing students to be global citizens.
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Diversity Related Panels at SXSW
Black Web 2.0 – March 1, 2011
Since the SXSW organizers have noted the importance of diversity, efforts have been made to select diverse panels and speakers. Here are seven interactive panels and one film panel that explore various types of diversity.
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House of Success Signs Two New Clients
Pitch Engine – February 17, 2011
House of Success, a growing public relations and brand management firm today announced the addition of new media entrepreneurs Jabari Johnson and Kiratiana Freelon to its diverse client roster.
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Celebrity Nail Stylist Tracylee Percival Gives Us Insider Winter Handcare Tips
Poshglam – February 15, 2011
Celebrity nail stylist TracyLee Percival has been in the beauty industry for over twenty years and has worked with celebrities including Natalie Portman, M.I.A, Nicki Minaj, Karolina Kurkova and Olivia Wilde. Here are some of her winter handcare tips for having fresh and smooth skin all season long.
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Munaluchi Bridal’s Spring/Summer Issue is Available Online Now
Pitch Engine – January 26, 2011
Wedding planning is in full swing as brides across the country prepare for one of the most important days of their life. This third issue of Munaluchi Bridal provides tons of ideas for dresses, reception décor and food and an intimate peak into some real life weddings.
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How Important is Purpose to a Start-up
EpicLaunch – November 17, 2010
When Steve Jobs came back to Apple he came back to a mess: little to no market share, declining revenue, and almost on the verge of bankruptcy. He turned the company around simply by focusing on what the company had long overlooked: their core purpose.
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