You are now Beauty Intoxicated!

Internal Beauty | External Style | You are Under the Influence of Beauty

We Love Natural Hair!

Oh so Beautiful and Oh so NATURAL!

Bringing Home the Bacon Before DinnerTime

Mommies in Business are Running the World in Stilettos!

Great Sex | Good Life

Are you a Lazy, Predictable Lover?

NUBIAN GODDESS | QUEENS | SISTERHOOD

You have been STRUCK by Beauty

BEAUTY ON A BUDGET TIPS BY ROYALBEAUTY VEE

11.10.2013

Women in Business

Women are loving, patient, supportive and kind. 
We are gentle, nurturing and forgiving. 
We are independent, intelligent and respectful. 
We are also organized and use to always being the engine that keeps the ship sailing. 

As a woman entrepreneur, you have to understand that sometimes in this competitive world of business those beautiful feminine characteristics have to be shelved! LOL, yes give them some shelf life honey! 
James Brown, the Godfather of soul said it best "This is a man's world but it would be nothing, nothing without a woman". 
We are soft beautiful creatures doing business in a man's world so we also need to take a page out of uncle Steve Harvey's book and THINK LIKE A MAN. 

Isn't that the nature of business anyway? 
In business, things will get tough and the unexpected will certainly occur but it's not a shot at your womanhood, it's business so don't get emotional.
Being emotional is the way we are wired so it's easy to react with your feelings when things don't appear to be going our way, however, if you want to climb to the next step on your success ladder, check those emotions at the door. 
There will be days that you will have to be tough.
There will be days when you will need to be demanding.
There will be days when being nice won't yield results.
In business you have to be a BOSS. When a woman is the C.E.O in order to keep that position sometimes that requires for you to be emotionally unmoved and strong. 

Learn how direct your energy in productive areas to counter negative vibes by doing the following:

1. Avoid negative conversations.
Yep you have to stay away from complainers. Some people don't offer anything productive but want to always complain. If you want to avoid stress, those people shouldn't have access to your business circle.

2. Think before you speak.
Even when you hear negativity don’t speak on it until you have fully investigated whether it's even worth a reaction! It's better to just remain calm and tackle those types of situations when you are more emotionally prepared or else you are just going to be constantly going off on a tangent. Folks are always going to have an opinion or something to say, if their words don't add "value" they aren't worth anything to you anyway. Be more action driven...use less words and let results speak for you. 

3. Don’t be too hard on yourself.
Avoid negative vibes by not pressuring yourself too much. If something needs to be done allow enough time to complete it so that you are not missing deadlines and further stressing yourself out. Stay organized, delegate tasks and allow your business partners to help and carry some of the weight. 

4. Don't hide behind excuses.
Making excuses is a habit. Deal with situations head on so that you are able to quickly put it behind you. Excuses can easily turn into lies so stay clear of that extra dead weight by operating in honesty. Honesty doesn't aways equate to being a push over either. Sometimes the truth is tough and ugly but it's still the truth nevertheless and it will be respected as such.

When it comes to business you have to take yourself serious so that others follow suite. Some say "you have to lose yourself in order to win the game". Now don't run and take that literally...it simple means that it's sometimes necessary to step outside of yourself to get issh done!
Hmmmmmm,
@royalbeautyV




Natural Hair in the Workplace

"Yes I'm fly and so is my hair!" 

Let's discuss what to wear with your natural hair in the workplace! This will be fun!  

When you arrive to work, walk into the office, approach your work station or cubicle do you feel the onlookers honing in on you from every corner in the room? 

Does it make you uncomfortable and insecure? 

Did you remember to do your "lets go getem" spot-check in the mirror before you walked out of the house? 

If this is your life then we have something in common, let's chat!
The most important thing you can do as a natural woman is STAND ABOVE THE "REST".  Don't give people any ammunition as it relates to your natural tresses. 

Everyone isn't going to like your natural but guess what, they don't have to! Returning to natural wasn't about them...it was solely for you! They don't have to love it but they will respect it! Be sure to take care of your natural hair and give them something to admire!  Being natural is not just a hairstyle, its a life changing experience! Own it!

When you get dressed for work in the mornings dont forget the following:
1. A Smile 
As women, the most beautiful curve you have on your body is your smile. Wear it, everyday! When you wear your smile along with your natural style you better believe the onlookers will notice it. They notice EVERYTHING anyway right? Make it contagious! 

2. Confidence
When you appear insecure about yourself or whatever hairstyle you chose for the day, it's obvious so go the extra mile with your ntaural, keep it maintained and professional. Make your colleagues admirers! 

3. Class
There's nothing wrong with being creative but there's a time and place for everything. A lot of naturals love BIG imperfect hair, "the wilder, the better". Well, the office environment is probably not the best place to sew your wild oats! Work is about "work", aim to be respected and accepted. Carry yourself with dignity and keep it classy! You can be overly creative some other time LOL. 

Do these things and the unwanted opinion of others will be least of your workday worries.  Honey we are loving and "Living the Natural Life"!

article edited by @royalbeautyV


Kids say the Darndest Things!


Your children are a reflection of you: The Good, Bad and the EMBARRASSING! 

Kids will say and do some crazy things and usually at the wrong times!
Yeah you find yourself laughing because they are so innocent and adorable however there are times when those moments are embarrassing and leave you speechless! 

Have you ever been in the store and your child decides that they are going to do what "they " want to do, get to acting all wild and excited and end up knocking down a display, making a complete mess--EMBARRASSING!  

Has your child ever repeated something you said in front of company and then YOU have the nerve to look at them “wondering” where they got it from--EMBARRASSING!

Just about all parents have been in those situations, sometimes more than we like. In my case, each day is a new opportunity for my son to surprise me with an embarrassing moment! As parents we have to be mindful of everything we do ALL the time because our kids mirror us! They are little “sponges” and like to emulate what they see from the people they are around most, YOU!

If you are wondering if you are setting a good example for your child…simply watch them to find out! The good thing about parenting is each day you have another chance to make things right!
Let's laugh together, share some of your most embarrassing stories of what your children have done in public or share stories of things you remember doing to your parents as a child…we all have a story!

I can't wait to see what my little one is going to do next!
THE TODDLER MOM CHRONICLES,
Miisha Clemons 
Edited by @royalbeautyV

Veggie Basics: Simple Vegetables for multiple meals

Taking it Back to Veggie Basics
"In the Kitchen" with Chef Tiffany

Is it really November already? 
Wow 2013 has come and gone in the blink of an eye hasn't it? It has really passed us by! 
Not only does November mean the end of the year is near, but on a lighter, tastier note it also means that it's time for one of the most festive holidays of the year, Thanksgiving! 

Doesn't that get you excited!! I mean really...let's talk about this, who really feels guilty about indulging in the delight of comfort foods and soulful desserts! The sweet herbal smell of sage, cinnamon and pine, ahhhhh.  This is the time of year to bring your loved ones together and give thanks and ohhh yesss we love to thank God for great food!

So, what’s on your menu? 
Every good recipe begins with a solid foundation! Cooking is not as complicated as it appears. The base for your mise en place should be a Mirepoix or a holy trinity. What the heck is that? Just some more culinary terms that will take you a long way in the kitchen. We learned about "mise en place" in my last culinary article and now to take it a little further let's discuss "mirepoix" (meer-PWAH).  Don't let the french pronunciation scare you away lol.  It's just a simple mixture of veggies normally used in broths to enhance flavor. Mirepoix is 50% onions, 25%celery and 25% carrots! Easy right:) 

How is this info useful? Wellllllll, these aromatics can be the beginning of thanksgiving bliss! Duhhh! Start with this simple setup and your turkey dance in your tummy and thank you! Or better yet, you will thank it!  Now this “holy trinity” is going to be the foundation for your leftover fried turkey gumbo. Again as stated before, the holy trinity/mirepoix consists of 50% onions, 25% celery, and 25% bell pepper, just sautee these bad boys until translucent (colorless) and get some roux (equal parts by weight fat and flour cooked) going. Don't worry, we will discuss "roux" later! You learn something new everyday and Chef Tiffany is going to have you prepping with the chef-perts (chef-experts/master chefs) in no time! 

Stay tuned for more treats and surprises as we get knee deep in this fun holiday season!
Everybody loves good eats and savory treats!


You are "in the kitchen" with, 
article edited by @royalbeautyv


10.30.2013

HolidayTreats!


The Big Apple
Ok I needed  a reason to justify my strong craving for some candy, I mean really... who doesn't crave a sweet treat from time to time! 
It is Halloween time right?  Ok, well that's good enough for me! Now so that I don't feel completely guilty about my desire to indulge in a sweet treat, I thought it would be a great idea to add a little fruit to my craving!  So supposedly an apple a day keeps the doctor away, right? Isn't that what "they" say? Well in this case with an ooey gooey, smothered and covered, salted caramel- APPLE ,you  may visit the dentist a little more often but your tastebuds will be satisfied!

As we all know, the weather is changing, the colorful leaves are beautiful, and the warm cider is brewing. At Beauty Intoxicated that means's it's time for some fun holiday gatherings! Let’s keep the party going!

Halloween is just 1day away and with daily Harvest celebrations taking place we all need a traditional favorite to get us in the spirit of the season, right? Of course! One of my personal holiday favorites is Caramel and Candy Apples! Oh so yummy, and oh so GOOD! This fun treat is easy to make and a sure crowd pleaser! 
Follow the recipe below and you’ll be a hit at your next gathering! Tell them Chef Tiff sent ya!! 
CANDY APPLES

Ingredients
Unsalted butter, for parchment paper
2 cups sugar
3/4 cup water
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon red or green food coloring, (optional)
6 medium apples, or 12 lady apples

Directions
Step 1
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; butter parchment, and set aside. In a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, 3/4 cup water, corn syrup, and food coloring, if using. Bring to a boil over high heat; reduce heat to medium-high. Insert candy thermometer (purchase at your local cake and hobby shop) and continue to boil until temperature reaches between 300 degrees and 310 degrees (hard crack stage), about 20 minutes.

Step 2
Meanwhile, insert a wooden stick into the top of each apple, pushing about halfway through; set aside. When mixture reaches temperature, immediately remove from heat. Working quickly, dip apples in sugar mixture until completely coated. Transfer to prepared baking sheet; allow to cool.

 CARAMEL APPLES
Ingredients
9 assorted apples, room temperature
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup heavy cream, room temperature
3/4 cup coarsely chopped cashews, for dipping
Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, for pressing
2 ounces white chocolate, chopped

Directions
Step 1
Insert a 5-inch dowel or nontoxic twig into the stem end of each apple.
Step 2
Combine sugar and corn syrup in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan, and stir. Cover, and cook over medium-high heat until sugar melts. Uncover, and continue to cook, swirling occasionally, until mixture is dark golden, about 10 minutes. Slowly drizzle in heavy cream. Remove from heat, and stir until smooth. Transfer caramel to a small metal bowl. Let stand 3 minutes to let caramel thicken slightly, then dip bottom of 1 apple to test if caramel is thick enough. If most of the caramel runs off of apple, let caramel cool 1 to 2 minutes more, and then try again.
Step 3
Dip 3 apples, including test apple, 1 at a time, into caramel to coat three-quarters of each apple. Let excess drip off, and scrape bottom of apples against the side of bowl (if caramel begins to harden, reheat in bowl over a pot of simmering water). Immediately after coating each apple, dip into nuts, using your fingers to help them adhere. Transfer each apple as decorated to a baking sheet lined with parchment or a nonstick baking mat, and let set completely, about 30 minutes.
Step 4
Coat 3 more apples with caramel as above, this time pressing each with salt flakes along top edge of caramel immediately after coating. Transfer to lined baking sheet, and let set.
Step 5
Coat the 3 remaining apples with caramel. Transfer to lined baking sheet, and let set.
Step 6
Place chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water. Stir until melted and completely smooth. Fill a small resealable plastic bag with chocolate, and snip a tiny hole in 1 corner. One at a time, hold the 3 plain caramel apples horizontally over baking sheet, drizzle with chocolate in a back-and-forth motion, spinning apple as you drizzle. Return to baking sheet to set, about 30 minutes

Now that's what I call TASTY!!!!
article edited by @royalbeautyV

10.27.2013

SuperMom is Tired!

How can I maintain my superpowers if I'm tired! Tired mommies aren't productive mommies.

Why must time work against us? Heck, is it ever on our side? If you're a mommy to one child, two, or three…married or single…it doesn't matter we are all always BUSY and on the go!

It's tough NOT to become slaves to time and that's an awful helpless feeling! Do you ever get the urge to break free!! Well we can't rewind the maternal clock but we do have to steal some time away for OURSELVES every now and then!  We are constantly moving, planning, scheduling, working the 9-5, cooking and blah blah blah. Is there any title that we don't hold?

Tired moms often unconsciously neglect themselves. The family and the children are the number one priority. If we never stop to take time for ourselves then how can we give our all to everyone else? Is it possible? Where's the balance?

It’s necessary that we recharge our internal batteries by doing things that are fulfilling to "US. Our personal lives are important too! Schedule time for YOURSELF each day, it can be 10 minutes! Those moments can make all the mental difference in the world! Go work out,  spend an hour a day in a good book! Attend a pampering party or have your own relaxation day! Chose a few days out the month to go and hang out with friends so that you don't lose a piece of yourself. 

It's ok to have some "you" time supermom! You deserve it!!
Grabbing my cape, 
article edited by @royalbeautyV

Teach your Natural Babies to LOVE their Hair!

Hey there Parents!!
It's Certified Natural Hair Stylist Ms. Nikki J here.....
Can we chat our natural babies?

I love the fact that the LOVE for natural hair is everywhere! We live it and we love it and now it's extremely important that we teach those same hair loving principles to our little princesses!

I'm an aunt, a godmother, a mentor and stylist to many young ladies and I know how important it is to discuss how to completely fall in LOVE with your natural hair with our babies! Drill it in them! 

Choosing this state of hair FOR them is very important! Children have to be taught everything either directly or indirectly. Be sure they are directly learning healthy hair care habits from you! 

Well, how do you teach young black girls how to accept their natural hair? No worries Ms. Nikki J's is here to help you!! 

Here are a few easy focal points that you can follow in your discussions:

1. Start with explaining to them why their natural hair is beautiful!

2. Discuss what makes them so different and beautifully unique from girls with processed hair

3. Share your personal experiences with your babies so that they understand from your point of view

4. Instill the confidence of a Queen into your baby...and target the fact that natural beauty doesn't define "what" you are! It defines "who" you are!

5.Teach her how to hold her head up high and embrace her natural hair because our natural is Napturally FABULOUS!!

6. Explain to her that ANYONE who speaks negatively about natural hair, more specifically, "her" natural hair, lacks the gems (information) that you are giving her right now ♥


Teach your princesses how to fall in LOVE with KNOWLEDGE! Knowledge = Power!

Signing Off,
Master Stylist | Ms. Nikki J.
Article edited by @royalbeautyV