My Bag Ladies Radio: The Reality of Life, Living and Being a Woman: October 2013

Thursday, October 31, 2013

HAPPY HALLOWEEN FROM BagLadiesRadio.com!!

HOPE YOU HAVE A HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! MY KIDS ARE ALL "HALLOWEEN'ED" UP AS THEIR FAVE CHARACTERS. THEY MADE MY MORNING AS THEY TOTALLY EMBODIED THE CHARACTERS. MY DAUGHTER (AKA, MINI ME) ESPECIALLY. I USED PICMONKEY.COM TO ADD SOME FUN HALLOWEEN THEMED OVERLAYS AND A LIL' BIT OF "SPOOK."

ARE YOU DRESSING UP? IF SO, AS WHO OR WHAT?

-- Erin

All new fall lineup soon to come to the online airwaves of Bag Ladies Radio. In the meantime, OnDemand/iTunes are 24/7. Check out my fave show picks and access recent shows and the full archive at bagladiesradio.com/listen. Follow on Twitter and Instagram @bagladies.

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

IS THIS YOU? I'M LOOKING FOR CONTRIBUTORS TO #BAGLADIESLIVE.

The new season launch of Bag Ladies Radio is fastly approaching! And we have a lot to talk about be it dish on fashion, beauty, relationships, celebrity news and more. And I could use some help (can't we all from time to time.) I'm always looking for women who love to dish "aka" talk with a lineup of stellar guests. And women who can lend a new and witty, funny yet candid perspective to the reality of life, living and being a woman which is what Bag Ladies Radio embraces. It's "my" reality, "your" reality, "our" reality. I don't front. I don't sugar coat. I don't put on airs. Bag Ladies Radio is "real talk."

Click here for previously aired shows.

It's not a requirement but particularly if you blog/write specific to any of these topics, email me today and please include a link to your blog and/or writing samples. Otherwise, if you just have a sincere interest in contributing, please email me regarding why. I look forward to hearing from you!

Friday, October 25, 2013

Foodie Friday: Featuring A "Me-Approved" Foodie Quote

Julia Child

This week's Foodie Friday is in the form of an inspirational quote from the late Julia Child. What do you think of the "me-approved" quote? Have you ever seen the movie, Julie and Julia released by Sony Pictures in 2009 and starring Meryl Streep? It's very good. It's all about how Julia Child (remember her), made a name for herself as a chef/cook and a Blogger who spent like a year attempting all her recipes. The movie includes a hilarious Saturday Night Live sketch with Dan Akroyd mocking Julia Child's voice and tendencies. If you are my age (I ain't telling how old I am), you surely remember Julia Child shows from like PBS or some other network back in the day. She had a VERY distinct voice. I remember my Grandmother and babysitter used to watch her cooking show regularly.

Anyway, are you a foodie? And does this quote apply to you? It does me and on that note, Happy Foodie Friday!

Follow Foodie Friday via hashtag #ImAFoodie and on Pinterest.

-- Erin

Friday, October 18, 2013

Foodie Friday: Featuring "The Diva Chef", Madison Shannon Kelly #ImAFoodie

Today marks the launch of Foodie Friday, a recurring feature chronicling my #ImAFoodie tales. I like to eat good. I love to dine out. I adore discovering new cuisine and/or hidden gems. And I'm often extended invitations for new restaurant openings, product launches, festivals and "foodie" events. So why not ~~dish~~ write about it. I hope to turn you onto something new in the process or at least make you drool.

This week's Foodie Friday features "The Diva Chef" herself, Madison Shannon Kelly. An Atlanta, GA based up and coming chef, Madison is a self-made pastry chef and owner of Diva Delights.

I've known Madison for a couple of years but only recently upon a trip to Atlanta did I have the absolute pleasure of sampling one of her signature treats, Banana Pudding Cheesecake. Not just a pudding but more than a cheesecake, each Banana Pudding Cheesecake is handmade and made from scratch. Per Madison, "it became a top-seller overnight." I now know why. It's the perfect combo. It's light like pudding but less the "richness" of a cheesecake which can sometimes overwhelm the palette resulting in one taking two bites and being done. Whereas Madison's Banana Pudding Cheesecake can easily be polished in one sitting.

I devoured that which Madison hand-delivered to my hotel with a note as an added personal touch, for breakfast while preparing to depart Atlanta. Each "delight" is clearly both made and packaged with love. The graham cracker crust was a pleasant surprise and so moist and sweet. I literally made sure every bite had a bit of crust. As I continued to indulge, I felt like I was treating myself. Of course I deserved it! As I was ~~eating~~ devouring I mean, I noticed a hint of something that I couldn't quite put my finger on. Per Madison, "Cinnamon is my secret weapon!" And safe to say it totally breaks the mold of traditional banana pudding. Madison also offers strawberry and oreo cheesecake, red velvet cupcakes with the most adorable packaging I've ever seen, cheese balls and individual salad varieties but it's easy to see how upon ordering the Banana Pudding Cheesecake, customers instantly become regulars. I've been craving more ever since. You can catch a glimpse of Madison's swoon-worthy offerings via her Instagram account @mskenterprises.

Madison is working on her website and expanding her brands. In addition to other endeavors which include a reality show, Stiletto Bosses and new food business, Madison is currently working to open a bakery in Lithonia, GA and authoring her first cookbook, "I can cook, DAMMIT, MARRY ME!", which goes on pre-order November 1st 2013. To inquire about ordering and shipping outside of GA which I'm excited to say Madison now offers (be prepared to get in line behind me), contact Madison at Diva Delights via email at mydivadelight@yahoo.com.

Follow Foodie Friday via hashtag #ImAFoodie and on Pinterest.

-- Erin

Thursday, October 17, 2013

#HeelsToTheWheels: Kia Ride & Drive at #Blogalicious5

Did you know? I'm a bit of an automotive enthusiast. And you better not be thinking, "but you're just a girl." I had a monthly automotive column in the print edition of Sister2Sister for 3 + years. I loved and still love putting my "heels to the wheels" of new cars. I'm not a grease monkey by any stretch but I do love keeping in the know about what automotive brands are doing. How brands are incorporating technology and making vehicles more functional and amongst Bag Ladies Radio listeners, the style of a vehicle is big topic of dish. You know, the aesthetics. The same as I want my heels to make me look good, I want my vehicle to do so also.

One of the most popular events held during #Blogalicious5 was Kia's Ride and Drive. Kia was this year's Blogalicious 2013 Title Sponsor. And for the entirety of the 3-day Blogalicious weekend, Kia made three of their models available. Attendees could literally take their pick and cruise the streets of downtown ATL accompanied by a Kia Motors rep who offered tidbits about the functionality and pointed out key features.

I put #HeelsToTheWheels of the 2014 Kia Sorento. I literally had to ditch my responsibilities as this year's Blogalicious 2013 Social Media Partner for just a bit ...Shhhh. A 2013 Top Safety Pick, the Kia Sorento is extremely spacious with third row seating yet from the exterior, amazingly compact. It definitely has a distinct look and feel that dispels the notion you might otherwise have of Kia. As I navigated the streets of downtown Atlanta with my assigned Kia rep and my backseat driver and friend Dorothy Redmond (an auto enthusiast also), the ride was smooth. The features, fuel economy and size make the 2014 Kia Sorento a world-class crossover.

I particularly loved the Panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade which allowed me to open and close with the push of a button. It was a gorgeous day (see the blue sky and the view was gorgeous. The audio system had me at the first jazz tune. I hadn't gotten my fix while at Blogalicious so to relax to the sounds of some good jazz was heaven for me and come to find out, the accompanying Kia rep was a jazz fiend also and we had good dish regarding some of our fave artists. The Bluetooth, Back-Up Warning System and Push-button start were just a few of the other features which caught my eye. I am always on the go and never not busy so a vehicle which allows me to stay mobile yet not miss a beat and look good too, always lends appeal. And even better at a preferable price point. The 2014 Kia Sorento starts at $24,100.00

I won't name names. But I wasn't the only attendee swooning over Kia

Kia got much love as you can see upon closing out the 2013 Blogalicious weekend with a cocktail reception. I wasn't the only one swooning over their 2014 lineup.

What do you think of Kia? Which Kia vehicle do you like most? Could you see yourself putting #HeelsToTheWheels in the Sorento?

P.S. - Thanks to Kia for the goodie bags. Upon Social Media Manager, Marissa Lorenzo's insistence, I grabbed three bags for my kids. They most love the stuffed animal and the pen/stylus.

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

#Blogalicious5 Sneak Peek at I'm In Love With A Church Girl Starring Adrienne Bailon

Based on the real-life story of Writer & Producer, Galley Molina, I'm in Love with a Church Girl is a faith-based romantic drama hitting theatres this Friday, October 18th and starring Adrienne Bailon and "Ja Rule" as we all know him but preferable to this film, Jeff Atkins. Had it not been for his image on display, I would not have recognized Ja by his gubment (aka government), name.

Day 3 of #Blogalicious5 kicked off with a very intimate morning Q&A with Adrienne Bailon who most of us know from 3LW and The Cheetah Girls. Also Rob Kardashian's girlfriend and most recently as part of The Real cast.

Adrienne was very candid almost testimonial in a sense about treading her way in the industry and her modest and humble background. But she was also very assured and confident about her efforts to distinguish herself from what we all know her as which is a member of two former girl groups. Thus her lead role in I'm in Love with a Church Girl which is Adrienne's most dramatic film role to date. She is clearly proud of her role in this film. She said "Ja Rule" also brought an unexpected element and the chemistry between the two of them is great and that he really executes the role well. She spoke to her faith and that being what attracted her most to the role.

Tweed, check! Booties, check! Hair, check!

Oh, lest I forget, Adrienne's hair was swoon-worthy "laid" and her tweed mini was too cute paired with hot black leather booties! Totally on trend for fall. Adrienne made a conscious effort to pose for pics on her own time with each and every person in attendance (myself included). I had to put on my paparazzi hat for a minute.

We dined while listening to Adrienne dish on the film and her album in progress. Adrienne also dropped a tidbit about The Real much to my dismay which doesn't appear as though it will be picked up. So surprising. Everyone I know is a fan. But you never know. Adrienne also dropped a bit of news regarding her nail polish line, Fingertip Fetish. I particularly love to dish fashion and beauty so I was hanging on every word regarding this luxury line. I can't wait to try it for myself and rock some #nailswag.

We dined. We dished. And got some goodies too.

After all was said and done, the intimate dish was great and I got some goodies. The dish provided insight into the film which typically you aren't privy to when it comes to new releases. I'm in Love with a Church Girl hits theatres Friday and also stars notables Stephen Baldwin and Vincent Pastore who you may know from Sopranos. I can't wait to see it. And this is one of my fave quotes of #Surrender from Adrienne's character, Vanessa Leon, "God doesn't care about what you've done in your past, or what you're in the middle of right now. He wants you to come as you are."
For more on the film, the novel and soundtrack visit, www.iminlovewithachurchgirl.com.

Don't you just love Adrienne Bailon? Are you planning to see the movie?

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Wells Fargo Made Me Look Good at #Blogalicious5

#Blogalicious5 has now come and gone. I came. I saw. I went for the 3rd time and participating as Social Media partner lent an entirely different perspective to one of the largest annual social media events celebrating diversity in Blogging. Some of my fave moments were both connecting with old friends and making new ones. Blogalicious is non-stop learning and non-stop laughing. The event sponsors further enhance the Blogalicious weekend experience and just foster more opportunities for engagement. Not only did Blogalicious 2013 sponsor Wells Fargo hold one of the liveliest conference events, The Perfect Pitch Contest but they also afforded attendees free head shots. Yes, I said free! If you know anything about the cost of sittings, you know head shots are not cheap. For what was supposed to only be an hour although Photographer, Zach Porter stuck around for far longer, attendees could drop by and get their shot(s) for free!

Nothing can touch the work of my beloved Tiffany Josephs and our recent photo shoot of which I dished about here but to not have had a MUA on deck and no opportunity to touch up my makeup or pull together a more preferable look (call it the vain in me), the shots were great. Of the two, this one is my fave. Zach was great at identifying best angles and making you feel at ease. Thank you Wells Fargo for the take-a-way and for making me look good at #Blogalicious5.

I've tasked myself with catching up on all posts related to the 2013 Blogalicious Weekend experience so hold tight. I had to unplug for a sec upon returning home. But I've got much to share including this year's swag haul. I've barely touched my goodie bag.

Saturday, October 5, 2013

THERE'S STILL TIME TO ENTER!! CONTESTS END SUNDAY, 10.6 AT 12A EST

Who wouldn't want to win an entire line of hair care products?! And even moreso from one of the most awesome brands, EDEN Body Works?! I'm totally smitten with their Peppermint Tea Tree Oil and Edge Control Glaze. And if that isn't enough, how about a gift card to Lulus.com? Hurry up and follow me on Instagram and check the images for entry rules. Good luck!!!

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For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

#BagLadiesLIVE at #Blogalicious5: MY DISH WITH EBONY MAGAZINE E-I-C, AMY DUBOIS-BARNETT

Me pictured with Amy Dubois-Barnett, Ebony Magazine Editor-In-Chief

Responsible for the complete overhaul of Ebony mag, Amy Dubois-Barnett set the tone for day 2 of Blogalicious 2013 by delivering a candid and honest opening keynote that was less a keynote and more a testimony! Although her fab shoes proved to be a bit distracting, those of us in attendance hung on every word as she shared branding and business insights but most engaging was the personal journey of her life thus far (the good and the bad), and that which she has gained. I was particularly struck by Amy's transparency and vulnerability. She joked while behind the mic even about her hair not being done for such an occasion as if anyone noticed. Her outfit was fierce in spite of and she looked gorgeous! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Amy Dubois-Barnett and dishing about an ever present challenge for those of us who work in social media in some capacity particularly Bloggers. Oh, and don't think I didn't ask Amy about her shoes. Press play to eavesdrop on the raw and uncut dish.

Dishing with Amy Dubois-Barnett, Ebony Magazine Editor-In-Chief

xoxo to T Heyward of missprettyasapeacock.net for snapping pics of me in action!

Follow me on Twitter and Instagram. I've got some great give-a-ways on behalf of my sponsors EDEN Body Works (check out the site makeover), Lulu*s, FabKids and Flat Out of Heels. Contests end on Sunday, 10.6. You can still enter. Don't miss out!

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For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

Friday, October 4, 2013

1st Day Down: #Blogalicious5 VIP Breakfast and Registration Activities

One day down. We've barely begun. But the party has already started. The 5 year anniversary kicked off with a bang and we still have two days left. We're going strong! Check out some of the footage captured. See anyone you know?

Follow me on Twitter and Instagram. And follow the dish at #BagLadiesLIVE & #Blogalicious5. I've got some great give-a-ways on behalf of my sponsors. Don't miss out!

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For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

We're On Our Way! #BagLadiesLIVE at #Blogalicious5

3rd times a charm! Yup, this is my third Blogalicious conference. This year is extra special because my Co-Hosts, Danielle Gray and Trina Small are in tow. Yup, I'm dragging them along with me. Did you know? Trina and I first met at Blogalicious when the conference was held in DC. And we would've never thought upon meeting that she would end up holding it down with me on Bag Ladies Radio. A testament to the power of connections facilitated by Blogalicious. This year is also special because I am participating as opposed to just attending. Bag Ladies Radio is this year's media partner!!!! Be sure to follow me on Twitter and Instagram. I will be chronicling this years Blogalicious and tweeting and posting my you know what off in addition to airing on-site shows. Follow the play-by-play at #BagLadiesLIVE & #Blogalicious5.

And thank you to our sponsors, EDEN Body Works, FabKids, Lulu*s and Flat Out of Heels, for making this experience that much more amazing and for supporting our efforts. I'm looking forward to sharing some goodies with you on their behalf. You can still get your tix. See you in the ATL!!!

Bag Ladies Radio is the "official media partner" to this year's #Blogalicious5. For an exclusive Blogalicious 2013 ticket offer for Bag Ladies Radio followers, fans and listeners, click here and enter BLRfriend (case sensitive), for a 20% discount.

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For #BagLadiesLIVE segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com. Click to follow me on IG and Twitter @ bagladies.