JOIN ME FOR A NO-HOLDS BARRED CONVERSATION ON LOVE, BUSINESS AND LIFE FEATURING @PAULCBRUNSON #BagLadiesLIVE

REAL life. REAL talk. REAL questions. REAL answers. 

Imagine a fireside chat on life, love and business amongst adults keeping it real in the most intimate way. And who better to lend a voice than

YEAH, YEAH, YEAH ...HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

ENJOY CELEBRATING THIS DAY OF LOVE BUT LET IT BE THE NORM NOT JUST TODAY BUT 365 DAYS OF THE YEAR!

How are you celebrating today?

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New season 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.

"THE LOOK OF LOVE", LOOK #3 - CHRONICLES OF THE LBD

"LBD" otherwise known as the Little Black Dress is always a safe bet. But with that being said, the style can be easily manipulated. You can create several different looks with one style. And most of us at least have one LBD in our closet so ...The key is to accessorize! Be it a semi-formal date night or a more casual evening, the LBD always works and particularly if you are looking for a no fuss look to celebrate the day of love with your love …Or whomever. Perhaps even this V Day, it's all about you. Not a thang wrong with it.

I wanted to show the versatility of this Sears Kardashian Kollection Lace Cocktail Dress.

It's true to size with a zip back and a lace neck, back and sleeves. The hemline is just right and after trying my hand at taking a few steps, it doesn't rise which can sometimes be a problem for me "and" these hips. Per previous posts, I am fan of the Kardashian Kollection particularly because of the fit. Most pieces are body conscious and great for those of us who are "ample." Picture pairing with pumps and a clutch as classic. But you can also get a bit more funky and play the LBD down. I love these Lulu*s suede booties especially the peek-a-boo toe and paired with a small bag which can either be rocked as a clutch or across the chest, I played up a more comfy approach to the evening. And I knuckled up with some extra bling on the fingers! But I also wanted a show-stopper, hubba-hubba look. 

Picture your date arriving and you step to the door rocking the LBD with leather thigh-high boots. I've had this Chinese Laundry style for at least a couple of years. I've seen similar styles everywhere. The fit is flattering. I rock over denim, leggings and pair with dresses and skirts all the time. The kitten heel allows me to be comfortable whenever I wear them but pairing them with this LBD just exuded sexy for me. Way to make his jaw drop. 
Do you have a LBD? How would you rock it?

Click here for more looks from my weeklong "The Look of Love" series.

Shop Your Way to maximum savings. Click here for more details. It's quick, free and easy and you earn points for every dollar spent which can then be redeemed so that you can save on future purchases both in-store and online at Sears and Kmart.

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New season 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

"YOU'VE GOT THE LOOK OF LOVE"

The 1st look in what is a week-long series during which I will be serving up one look per day as we approach the "day of love." Otherwise known as Valentine's Day. Dare I ask if you have a "valentine?" Nevermind, let's focus on the fashion. Even if you don't have a "love", you can at least be content with your love of fashion. I am. Get your daily sneak peek by following me on Instagram @bagladies. I am posting one look a day which will be followed up with a post here featuring where to buy.

I pieced this look together because not every date is a night on the town or some lavish affair. This look is casual and very comfy yet still sexy and on trend. Picture grabbing a bite or catching a movie or taking an evening stroll. If you know me, you already know how I feel about leopard but even moreso when worn as a jogger style pant. These Leopard Lounge Pants are a fave piece from the Sears Kardashian Kollection. The pant has a matching zip front jacket but as much as I love leopard, it can be overdone at least on me. I paired the pant with one of my fave pieces from the Kmart Nicki Minaj collection. I know right. I had admitted low expectations of this collection but I have been pleasantly surprised. This Quilted Moto Jacket has cute zipper accents and in a vibrant red (pic doesn't do the color justice), it provides a great contrast against the leopard. 

So onto that which really sets it off, the shoes!!!! The shoes just do it for me. I've had these Zara pumps for at least a year so unfortunately although I checked, they are no longer available. But I still wanted to provide an idea of how you can shape this look. I LOVE mixing prints and going against the norm. I totally rock a look according to my mood and I didn't want to do a solid pump or just a traditional black. Switch it up! These are closed toe so I don't have to worry about frost-bitten toes and the heel is more of a kitten style so even if out and about and on my feet for an extended period of time, no worries. Make this look your own and take from your closet what you have, to create a similar look.

The jacket is still available on Kmart.com and the leopard print pant on Sears.com and both pieces are on sale! And with Shop Your Way MAX, you can order today and have by tomorrow or select the option to pick it up at your local store. 

If not already a Shop Your Way member, sign up!! It's a free and easy members-only program! As a member, you get exclusive discounts and deals and even "big gas" savings. And most awesome, you earn 10 points for every $1 spent both in store and online. The points can then be redeemed at Kmart, Sears and Lands End stores. On a recent purchase, I redeemed accrued points and saved 20 bucks! Trust, it's great incentive and the savings are worth it. Happy Love Day!

What are your V Day plans? Would you wear this look?

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New season 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

WEEKEND UPDATE: Featuring "A Child's Love"

Picture ripping and running from this place to that place. As a Mommy, do you know the routine? From this activity to that activity including my son's first basketball game (I'm hoarse from cheering), shopping, church and that's not all. As a Mommy, do you know the routine? I literally had to drag myself up the steps upon returning home Sunday evening, to change my clothes before preparing dinner. 

I stepped foot in my bedroom and immediately noticed two small envelopes laying on my

bed. I was surprised first and intrigued second. I noticed both envelopes were addressed to me. A smile drew across my face as I read the words from my oldest who is 9. Unsolicited. Un-asked. Un-requested. And most importantly Unconditional. The love of a child is unlike any other. The exhaustion I felt just a few moments before was fleeting and that which felt burdensome was instead a privilege. 

How does your child/children show their affection? What does it do for you?

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Click to Subscribe to #BagLadiesLIVE newsletter and don't miss all that's happening in 2014!

New season 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

OnDemand: "TALES OF SINGLEDOM" feat. Essence Mag's, Charreah Jackson 06/05 by Erin Martin | Blog Talk Radio

Listen to internet radio with Erin Martin on BlogTalkRadio

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

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Click the iTunes button or scroll down to OnDemand and press play.

I THOUGHT IT WAS MY DAY ...

"The Throwdown"

This pic is totally indicative of how I spent Mother's Day ...Throwing down in the kitchen. How on a

My lil' ones and I after church. I love my BFF for this dress. 

day that is supposed to be "my own", did I get tasked with cooking???! Additionally, I was a babysitter. Of course not as it applies to my own three but my brother, who relieved the Mother of his three and came over so they could hang out with my three ...Proceeded to make a b-line to my basement and crash leaving me to watch over 6 lil' ones (my brother and I both have twins + 1). But what can I say, he surprised me in the morning with a touching card ...And he accompanied me to church. My oldest who is 8 played the role of the oldest well. I was so impressed, I gave her an even bigger kiss and hug before bedtime and thanked her for looking out for not just her younger brother and sister but her cousins too. She was my second pair of eyes while I was trying to avoid burning the grub. As I watched while slaving away in the kitchen, the kids playing and frolicking in the yard, I was touched by how close they are and how well they get along and play with no care in the world. It was very nostalgic and reminded me of how my cousins and I used to do the same. When younger it seems like no biggie for family to come together but upon becoming an adult with kids of my own, I realize how much effort it actually requires. It's so easy to become consumed by everyday living, family can sometimes be put on the back-burner.

"The Cousins" My brother and I both have twins + 1

Although, I might've preferred to kick my feet up and be pampered on "my day", all was well and I had a great day and realized as I was "throwing down" in the kitchen, that I'm becoming more and more like my Mommy every day. Who knew I could get as excited as I was yesterday over new-found recipes and a full cooked meal??! I did that! Who knew?

The menu consisted of mini meat-loaf, cornbread, fried cabbage and mashed potatoes. The kids devoured it in no time flat and proceeded to ask for seconds. My Mom asked about leftovers after her and my Dad returned from a late brunch. I told her, "ask your grand kids." My brother eventually wandered upstairs half-sleep to find that the kids were well fed and fine. He betta be glad I saved him a plate. How did you spend your Mother's Day??

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

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Scroll down to OnDemand and press play.

DISH RECAP: FAVE QUOTES FROM LAST NITE'S #TALESOFSINGLEDOM ...

And just when I think I can't be any more vulnerable, candid or transparent when taking dish to the airwaves of Bag Ladies Reality Radio, I surprise myself. 

Last nite's "dish" marked the return of #TalesOfSingledom. A recurring segment based on my life as a single woman. I realized upon introducing #TalesOfSingledom that there are many women who share dating woes and who also seek dating and/or relationship advice. Thus last nite's show tagged as "What's Your "Single" Status?" We sought and welcomed back, Author and Certified Dating and Relationship Coach, Shay "Your Date Diva" Williams of www.lovein30days.com and boy did she brang it! We shared. We testified. We laughed and maybe even cried a bit. I recall passing an e-tissue or two. We approached last nite's show fully prepared to lay it on the line and even as I was fully exposing myself, I felt a total sense of support from not only my listeners but my cast which included my cohost, Trina Smalls of www.thebabyshopaholic.com, my bud Toni of www.tailoredrebels.com and Bag Ladies Contributor, Ro of www.creativelyyoursbyro.com. 

Shay told us about ourselves. Below are some of my fave quotes of the night"

"There is nothing more valuable than love and we should commit to receiving it because we are made to have it."  

"Seeking a relationship/dating coach translates to you being smart enough to seek expert advice." 

"Nature hates voids. You must be ready to fill a void or you will attract another mess." 

The realization that dating has an expiration date just like alot of things was like an "ah-hah" moment. And dishing with Shay served as a reminder that in all aspects of life I should, set my intentions clearly. Define what I want and not settle. We wrapped last nite's show with a heck of a testimony delivered by Trina which was a testament to that although alot of us (myself included), struggle with the challenges of being "out there" on the dating scene as Trina once was, as fast as we are ready to call it quits, your "divine destiny" aka "Mr.", can sweep in and sweep you right off your feet before you even realize it's happening. There is hope.

Did you tune in? What were your fave quotes/moments from last nite's dish?

Connect to Shay Williams and learn more about her latest book, The Value of Your Vagina at www.lovein30days.com. And contact her directly at info@lovein30days.com regarding relationship/dating coaching. It's a smart move!

Catch up on the dish you missed by going to www.bagladiesradio.com/listen. Scroll down to OnDemand and press play.

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And for more on segments, showtimes and more, visit www.bagladiesradio.com.

OUR FIRST #TALESOFSINGLEDOM SEGMENT OF THE NEW SEASON

Wednesday, 3/20 @ 7:30p EST

OUR FIRST #TALESOFSINGLEDOM SEGMENT OF THE NEW SEASON

It's spring ...Love is in the air. Is it a season of change for you as it relates to your relationship status? BTW, what is your status? How do you define it? If you had to describe, which one would you choose ...

• Single and looking for commitment
• Single and just "dating"

Or perhaps 

• Single and afraid

We are throwing caution to the wind and going where few like to with this week's "dish." You claim you want a man yet you can't find a man. What are you actually doing, if anything to put yourself out there? Do you even know how? We are turning to the expert. 

Featuring Shay "Your Date Diva" Williams.

Tweet your relationship and/or dating questions to #BagLadiesLIVE and we'll answer LIVE on air.

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#TalesOfSingledom chronicles the single/dating life and is "loosely" based upon Founder, Producer and Host, Erin Martin's life as single woman.

#BagLadiesLIVE airs every Wednesday, 7:30p EST on www.bagladiesradio.com. 

Weekend Update with Lady Erin ...Series 2, Part 2 #PassionForFashion

Let's be honest. In spite of other activities ...A "Girls Night Out", a surprise birthday party for a dear friend, church and the continuous "hustle and grind", for alot of us (myself included), this weekend was all about getting to Sunday's (this morning) debut of Prabal Gurung for Target collection, tagged as "LOVE." Upon learning of the "collabo" a couple months ago, I immediately sought out the look book and checked those pieces I deemed as "MUST-HAVE." Did I mention that I'm a #Shopaholic? I was armed and ready to go and although I absolutely anticipated being an early riser and heading straight to my local Target this morning, I realized how weary I was last night from all the day's activities and resolved myself to shop what I wanted online. Only to see a tweet from @TargetStyle stating that there was no definitive time as to when the collection would be available online. It definitely wouldn't be available at 12a EST as alot of folks I found who tweeted in response might have thought and/or hoped. @TargetStyle suggested to keep checking ...During the wee hours I might add. I fell asleep thinking the collection would likely be sold out online by time I awoke and I refused to set my alarm.

I got the Nolita print (middle) online

As fate would have it, I awoke about 3:30a because I was rather hot and once insomnia set in, I realized I wasn't gonna fall right back to sleep after getting up to turn the thermostat down. Shopping!!! Of course, that's always therapeutic and will surely cure my insomnia. Upon dashing to target.com, I realized the Prabal Gurung collection was available and none of the pieces had yet sold out. I perused the online collection picking and choosing which pieces I wanted which included a couple, ok a few footwear styles and accessories and although I had chosen a few apparel items, I was hesitant to purchase online because I didn't know the size range and did not at all want to deal with having to return and exchange should the pieces not fit.  I knew I would have to hit the store still which I did immediately upon getting out of Sunday service. I was terribly disappointed to find that not only was there no display of any kind that lent any visual appeal but the already limited collection was terribly limited in store. I counted just a handful of the many pieces available as per the collection and of the handful, very few available sizes. I had a sinking feeling that I should've just taken my chances and ordered the apparel items online. At the time, the store was very quiet. I posed the question to one of the employees as to whether she had seen very many people perusing the collection and she replied, "no, not at all." I thought surely there was another section but alas, "what I saw, is what I got."

Love the inside print of Multicolor Hard Sided Clutch

I did spot one dress in particular that was on my "must-have" list and the size needed. I did try it on to ensure I wasn't wasting time. And it is quite cute and made the trip worth the effort. I also spied a clutch or two or three but I exercised restraint and grabbed just the one. Although the Lace Miniaudiere in Sulfur Spring was calling my name and still is ...Rather loudly. I moseyed over to the shoe section but those styles of interest, I purchased online in the wee hours. But I was that much more surprised even at how limited the styles were. Of all the footwear styles per the collection, only four were available in store. When Target said limited, as per this collection, they REALLY meant it. I was tweeting @GirlMeetsGlass and @DivaStateMind all the while regarding my progress. It was like an in-store play by play.

Scored ...1 of the dresses on my list. The fit is too cute. And it has pockets! Sways like a bell. Reminds me of that scene with Julia Roberts from Runaway Bride. I narrowed down to this one multicolor Hard Side Clutch

Would I refer to those Prabal Gurung pieces purchased thus far as a "score", I don't know although upon delivery of my online purchases, perhaps my tune will change and that is pending an email notification from Target that pieces have sold out since having purchased and won't be arriving until 2-3 weeks from now instead of 2-3 days. It's all my fault though really. Who the hell makes rational purchasing decisions at 3a?! Did I already admit to being a #Shopaholic? And what sold out pieces you ask, do I still want? Shirtdress in Nolita, Blazer in Floral Crush, Dress in Floral Crush, Peplum in Floral Crush, Skirt in Meet The Parents. I said I was a #Shopaholic.
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Did you score? Tweet which pieces to @bagladies or tag me on IG @bagladies.

Let's hope 2-3 days, not 2-3 weeks and nothing has since sold out. I will update the post upon delivery.

P.S. - Literally just saw a Target commercial for LOVE, a Prabal Gurung Collection for Target. Uh, perhaps Target may wanna stop running for the time being. As far as I can tell, there is nothing left of the collection ...At least that I want anyway.

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RELATIONSHIP RECAP!!

Relationships are a topic of conversation that is always relevant so we could think of no better topic, to kick off the NEW SEASON PREMIERE of Bag Ladies Reality Radio!!! We're back baby!!!

Last night's show featured, Shay Williams-Garrett, "Your Date Diva". Shay has joined Bag Ladies Reality Radio previously to lend her expertise and she certainly didn't disappoint last night. Shay is a writer, author, speaker, relationship coach and more! If we had to be specific with the more, we'd say a motivator, a great personality and a source of encouragement and empowerment. Whenever we've featured Shay, she lends attention to not only changes that need to be made as far as one's pursuit and efforts to find a partner but personal, internal changes that one needs to consider making when it comes to themselves and their confidence and the energy that will yield the best results and bring the fulfillment we all desire in a partner and in a relationship even if per Madame Myra, just someone to add some warmth to those cold toes now that there is a slight chill in the air. You can connect with "Your Date Diva" and learn more by visiting http://www.lovein30days.com/.

If you missed some or all of the show which included the "Perfect Partner Meditation" and why piecing together a man ain't always the best option (may yield temporary satisfaction though ;-), please be sure to check out Bag Ladies Reality Radio OnDemand. If reading this, last night's show is likely playing in the background since the player is posted to mybagladies blog but our OnDemand feature enables you to access previously aired shows, 24/7 and download to your iPod via iTunes. Told you, you never have to miss us! Please stay tuned for more details on the new season, new segments, new features and our fabulous guest lineup!! Bag Ladies Reality Radio airs every Wednesday at 7:30p EST. Next week, is our most popular segment, "Beauty Talk". Stay tuned!

Bag Ladies Reality Radio ...REAL Women, REAL Talk!!!

LABOR DAY: Ideas On How To Spend Without Having To ...Spend

As much as we'd all like to hit the road jack, it's not feasible for everyone. So Bag Ladies has a few cool ideas from Madame Myra's weekly Top 10. So if you don't already have plans, perhaps you might after reading this. And if all else fails, forget the cuddling and instead, drown your sorrows about the fact that you are stuck at home by hitting the malls, stores and boutiques for hella discounts and bargains. Have a great and safe Labor Day Weekend! We'll chat with ya Tuesday ...7p EST only on bagladiesradio.com

1. Pull a recipe from a famous restaurant off the Web — try CopyKat.com or RecipeGoldmine.com — and make your own version of a five-star meal together.

2. Have him over for game night. Mad Gab, Uno, and Twister can all be played with just two people.

3. Buy all the fixings for tacos and make your own at home. You need only a handful of ingredients: tomato, avocado, meat, cheese, shells. Download Latin songs onto your iPod to set a festive mood.

4. Head to a casino with $20 in change and play the slot machines. They often serve free cocktails on the casino floor.

5. Have dinner at a bar during happy hour. There are usually drink specials, and you might also score free appetizers (or at least a gratis bowl of chips). Plus, cozying up on bar stools can feel more intimate than sitting across from each other at a table.

6. Teach each other to play your favorite video games, then place a sexy wager (whoever wins gets treated to a full-body massage that night, for example) before going head-to-head.

7. Belt out some tunes at your local karaoke bar. Sing with the crowd in the bar area for free or rent a private room, which usually runs about $6 to $15 an hour. They typically have anything from Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” to Kanye West’s “Love Lockdown.”

8. Go roller skating at a local rink. General admission is usually around $10, including the skate rentals. Even if you suck, you can still have a blast falling on your asses.

9. Plan a date in reverse. Meet for brunch (breakfast is usually cheaper than dinner), then hit an afternoon movie for the matinee price. Finally, make your way back home and spend the rest of the day in bed together.