FFFWeek(end) LA - New & Aspiring Plus Model Seminar & Panel Discussion

What's Happening Fam!!!

The countdown to FFFWeek(end) LA has begun!!!!  And that means that once again it's time for me to EDUCATE & ELEVATE!!!

The What:  Full Figured Fashion Week(end)tm Los Angeles/New & Aspiring Plus Model Seminar & Panel Discussion

The When: Friday, October 29, 2010 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm

The Where:  Hyatt Regency Century Plaza, Directors I & II Ballroom
                       2025 Avenue of the Stars
                       Los Angeles, CA


Miss Sharon Quinn, The ORIGINAL Runway Diva 
(Plus Model/Singer/Actress/Columnist)

Star of Mo'Nique's FAT Chance, MTV's MADE, Cash Cab, Throwdown With Bobby Flay and most recently seen on The Style Network's "Ruby"; will be on hand to host and moderate the panel discussion.

Cover: $22.00 in advance, $30.00 at the door

The "All-Star" Line-up of Panelists (Subject to change) include:


*Fluvia Lacerda (Plus Model - "The Brazilian Bombshell")

Plus-size Brazilian model Fluvia Lacerda, is the star of "16", a short film that challenges the stereotypes of beauty currently set by the film, fashion and advertising industries. She was discovered by a magazine editor on a Manhattan cross-town bus and has not stopped working since. The only Brazilian working as a plus size model overseas; she has been called the “plus version of Gisele Bundchen”. Fluvia is one of the most known faces within the plus size industry and has been featured in ads for Fashion Bug, Torrid, Igigi & Monif C. and in Latina & Glamour Magazines.



*Madeline Figueroa-Jones (Editor-in-Chief, Plus Model Magazine)

Madeline Figueroa-Jones is a NY native and former plus size model. After appearing in several magazines, working for numerous designers she began reaching out to the plus size community by serving as a moderator for VenusDivas.com and Empowerment Editor for AmazeMag.com. As Editor for PLUS Model Magazine, Madeline has been producing issues which push the envelope with both exclusive interviews with some of today's top models and edgy fashion editorials aimed at featuring today's plus size modeling industry in it's truest light.

*Vernetta Jenkins-Collins (Reality TV Producer, Mo'Nique's FAT Chance)

A prolific reality/talk television producer, Vernetta has added her talents to a steady stream of engaging and provocative content for network shows including 4 seasons of BIG BROTHER for CBS. Vernetta completed her second run as Supervising Show Producer of MO’NIQUE’S F.A.T. CHANCE, the first Plus Sized Beauty Competition/Reality show hosted and executive produced by Academy Award winning actress/comedienne/writer, Mo’Nique for the Oxygen Network.

*Michael Anthony Hermogeno – (Former Head Photographer, Torrid!)

Michael Anthony Hermogeno began working in nightclubs back in 1996 part time. In 2002, he signed on with Shooting Star Agency in Hollywood photographing red carpet events, and in 2004, got picked up by Torrid.com, the plus size retailer owned by Hot Topic Inc as Head Photographer. Michael Anthony is currently the owner operator of his own photography company 8X10 Proofs Inc.

*Alana Chandler – (Plus Model/Actress, The Janice Dickinson
Modeling Agency): 

Alana Chandler, a plus-size fashion model, reality star, and lawyer. Born in Gary, Indiana. Alana got her big break when, in 2008, she appeared on Oxygen’s hit series The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency. Alana has also appeared on various television broadcasts which include: Tyra Banks Show, MTV’S G’s to Gents, Judge Penny Family Court, BET’S Played By Fame, ABC’S Crash Course, The CW’s Farmer Wants a Wife, and most recently The Dr. Phil Show.


If you are even thinking of starting a career as a plus sized model, THIS is the seminar that you DO NOT want to miss!

Learn from professionals in the plus fashion industry:

How to make it or break it as a plus sized model on ANY level.

Why preparation is KEY!

How to develop a "signature" runway walk.

How to stack the deck in YOUR favor.

Knowing how much money you’ll need to get started.

Getting In Where You Fit In (Other branches of modeling)

Building your skills and using your personal budget

How to PROPERLY prepare for the open call.

How to avoid being put in a box or typecast

About investing in the business of YOU.

And SO MUCH more!!!

So to my West Coast peeps and aspiring models (new, old, pros & amateurs) come on down and get the knowledge.  Get in the KNOW before you GO (to agencies, castings & auditions)!

SPREAD THE WORD.....YA HEARD!!!

Click Here To Purchase Your Ticket NOW!!

Click Here for the full list of FFFWeek(end) LA Events!

FFFWeek(tm) 2010 Aspiring Models Seminar - MORE CURVY CELEBRITY PANELISTS ADDED!!!

Hey Family!

I have updated and added some new guest panelists for my Aspiring Model Seminar for FFFWeek(tm) 2010!!!

This is DEFINITELY the seminar that YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!

Please check out the breakdown below, then tell your friends, post on your sites and spread the word!!!

PLUS KNOWLEDGE = PLUS POWER!!!

FULL FIGURED FASHION WEEK IS JUNE 16-19, 2010

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!!!

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Have you ever seen a live fashion show, watched a fashion on TV or flipped through a magazine and said to yourself: "I wish I could do that?" Well the good news is chances are you CAN do it! Whether you are a new model just starting out or you are a few years into your career, you will benefit from our "Aspiring Model Seminar & Panel Discussion". Learn the secrets to starting a career as a plus sized model from the ground floor up and/or how to take your career to the "next level"....from the people who are making it happen as we speak!

The fashion industry has in general frowned upon the idea of the “plus sized” model, preferring to holding steadfastly to the antiquated belief that fashion begins at a size Zero and ends at a size 6. These days with a shaky economy, 2/3’s of the world’s population wearing a size 14 or larger and growing rapidly by the minute and with February 2010 marking the official end of NY’s Fashion Week at Bryant Park; Seventh Avenue has begun to rethink the notion of the Plus Sized Model in print and on the runway.

Designers are beginning to realize that designing clothing for a small minority of folks is no longer cost effective and therefore a whole lot of them are quietly branching out to other

markets (i.e. plus) to keep their businesses afloat. The issue of size acceptance has been a hot topic over the last few years and is getting hotter by the minute….

So what does this mean for YOU the aspiring plus sized model you ask? It means that a whole new WEALTH of possibilities can open up for you to take advantage of if you are willing to learn how to “play the game” called Plus Sized Fashion!

Sharon Quinn, "The ORIGINAL Runway Diva “ - Actress/Veteran Plus Model/Writer/Singer/Casting Producer

Her recent appearances include The Style Network's Ruby, Oxygen's groundbreaking Mo’Nique’s F.A.T. Chance, MTV’s MADE, Cash Cab & The Food Network's Throwdown With Bobby Flay.

Statuesque, poised, graceful and striking are all adjectives used to aptly describe the attributes belonging to Miss Sharon Quinn, affectionately known as "The Original Runway Diva", due to her presence, style and unbelievable confidence on the catwalk. She has handled the casting for Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance has well as The Bachelor and will be on hand to host and moderate the panel discussion.

Find out from The Runway Diva:

• The 7 Deadly sins for a plus model!
• What the basic qualifications are to become a plus model.
• How to develop your signature runway "Strut".
• How to have maximum success on a local level (the "Underground").
• How to adapt and overcome obstacles without sacrificing who you are.

The All-Star Lineup of Panelists (subject to change) includes:

Anthony Higgins - Director - Goddess/Model Service Agency

Anthony Higgins is a Buffalo native, who became a "New Yorker" in 1995. He started his career in the fashion world working at Karin Models - a French owned agency, as a model booker and assistant to the director.

Anthony has enjoyed being the director of MSA for the past 11 years. He has developed new divisions for this agency and quadrupled their business in the process.

He established Goddess in 1998; a division dedicated to plus size women's fashion. The models he has worked with have graced the pages and covers of many national publications including Glamour, Marie Claire, Essence, Figure, and O Magazine.

In 2001, he helped develop Direct Reps and established the commercial print division at MSA, booking models with Proctor & Gamble, Clairol and hundreds of other products.

Last year, Anthony launched ADAM, a new high fashion men's boutique agency, that develops young talent and services prestigious clients such as Armani and Diesel.

Register NOW and hear from Anthony as he explains:

• What agents and bookers are REALLY looking for at the open call.
• What's happening NOW in the plus size fashion market from an insider.
• The biggest mistakes that aspiring models make at the open call.
• How to avoid being typecast.

Yvette Ray Pinfield - Plus Model/Author (Your Guide to Plus Sized Modeling)

Yvette Ray Pinfield is a working mom and a plus size

model with agencies in both New York and Miami.

Her portfolio of work spans over 7 years and includes theToday Show, Good Morning America, Good Housekeeping Magazine, Motherhood Maternity and many more.

Yvette holds the title of Mrs. Manhattan 2008 and is also an active member of a number of professional organizations including the International Size Acceptance Association (ISAA).

Learn What Works in Plus Size Fashion and Modeling from an Industry Expert....

Your Guide to Plus Size Modeling is a great read for those who want to get into the field of modeling and it also teaches women to believe in themselves through reinforcing their self-esteem and positivity.

Find out from Yvette:

• How much money you'll need to get started.
• Getting in where you fit in (other branches of modeling).
• How to properly prepare for the open call.
• How to invest in the business of YOU.

Aminah Benjamin - Casting Director/Producer (BET's Rip The Runway)

Aminah will be on hand to answers the questions that EVERYBODY wants to know.

Find out from Aminah.....

Everything you wanted to know about Rip The Runway!

Learn he secrets behind the casting process for Rip The Runway!

• How to avoid the mistakes that most models make in their auditions.
• What the producers are looking for when they cast the show!
• Why preparation is KEY in getting selected for RTR.
• What direction the show is going in for 2011!

Larissa Laurel - Actress/Singer/Plus Sized Model &

Industry Editor for Plus Model Magazine

Larissa Laurel is originally from Corpus Christi, Texas. She is an actress, singer, and plus-size model. Her modeling career includes fit, print, fashion and showroom work.

Larissa began her modeling career in 1998 after the urging of her friends and family and by becoming an agent's assistant for a top-notch plus-size modeling agency in NYC. She has worked as a model with several NYC agencies and continues to work with most of her focus on print & fit modeling and acting.

Larissa's acting and singing career is truly a passion of the heart and she promotes and embraces non-traditional casting. She has appeared in several off-off Broadway productions and national tours. Larissa was also a founding member of the The Original "Glamazons", a 5 member plus size dance troupe.

Her face & curves have been featured in Latina, Oprah, Bust, Paper, BBW and Mode Magazines and her television appearances include The View, The Restaurant and commercial work for The Lifetime Channel. She is also a contributing editor for Plus Model Magazine and she writes a monthly column entitled "Q&A with Larissa", which helps aspiring models with the business of fashion.

Find out from Larissa:

• What it takes to make a successful career as a fit model.
• How to make the transition from fit to print model.
• The differences between fit and print modeling.
• How to juggle careers in multiple genres.

**Randi Graves - Plus Model/Aspiring Author

(Alternate Panelist)

Randi Graves was born and raised in Northern New Jersey. She attended Hampton University for one and a half years before starting her 12 year modeling career.

She has graced the pages of Ebony, Essence, Mode and Vogue magazines and she appeared on the cover of Plus Model Magazine's May 2009 issue.

She has two commercials under her belt and her beautiful face has graced the advertisements of Lane Bryant and Catherine's to name a few.

Randi Graves has the awesome distinction of being the first plus sized African-American model to have a billboard in NYC's Times Square (for Ashley Stewart Stores)!

And SO much more!

This is definitely a seminar and panel discussion that you DON'T WANT TO MISS if you are serious about a career as a plus sized model.

So sharpen those pencils, pack those pens and notebooks and come on down and get the necessary knowledge you need to succeed in your career!!

CLICK HERE to register NOW for FFFWeek(tm) 2010's Aspiring Model Seminar & Panel Discussion!

FFFWeek(tm) 2010's Aspiring Models Seminar & Panel Discussion

Friday, June 18, 2009

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

The Hotel Pennsylvania

401 Seventh Avenue @ 33rd Street

The Madison Room / 18th Floor

New York, NY 10001

Tix $22.00 in advance / $30.00 at the door

Seats are limited!!! Get yours now!!

FFFWeek(tm) 2010 Aspiring Models Panel Discussion - Tix on sale NOW!!

Have you ever seen a live fashion show, watched a fashion on TV or flipped through a magazine and said to yourself: "I wish I could do that?" Well the good news is chances are you CAN do it! Whether you are a new model just starting out or you are a few years into your career, you will benefit from our "Aspiring Model Seminar & Panel Discussion". Learn the secrets to starting a career as a plus sized model from the ground floor up and/or how to take your career to the "next level"....from the people who are making it happen as we speak!

The fashion industry has in general frowned upon the idea of the “plus sized” model, preferring to holding steadfastly to the antiquated belief that fashion begins at a size Zero and ends at a size 6. These days with a shaky economy, 2/3’s of the world’s population wearing a size 14 or larger and growing rapidly by the minute and with February 2010 marking the official end of NY’s Fashion Week at Bryant Park; Seventh Avenue has begun to rethink the notion of the Plus Sized Model in print and on the runway.

Designers are beginning to realize that designing clothing for a small minority of folks is no longer cost effective and therefore a whole lot of them are quietly branching out to other

markets (i.e. plus) to keep their businesses afloat. The issue of size acceptance has been a hot topic over the last few years and is getting hotter by the minute….

So what does this mean for YOU the aspiring plus sized model you ask? It means that a whole new WEALTH of possibilities can open up for you to take advantage of if you are willing to

learn how to “play the game” called Fashion!

Sharon Quinn, "The ORIGINAL Runway Diva “ - Actress/Veteran Plus

Model/Writer/Singer/Casting Producer, whose recent appearances include The Style Network's Ruby, Oxygen's groundbreaking Mo’Nique’s F.A.T. Chance, MTV’s MADE, Cash Cab & The Food Network's Throwdown With Bobby Flay; Statuesque, poised, graceful and striking are all adjectives used to aptly describe the attributes belong ing to Miss Sharon Quinn, affectionately known as "The Original Runway Diva", due to her presence, style and unbelievable confidence on the catwalk. She has handled the casting for Mo'Nique's F.A.T. Chance has well as The Bachelor and will be on hand to host and moderate the panel discussion.

Find out from The Runway Diva:

• The 7 Deadly sins for a plus model!
• What the basic qualifications are to become a plus model.
• How to have maximum success on a local level (the Underground).
• How to adapt and overcome obstacles without sacrificing who you are.

Your All-Star Lineup of Panelists (subject to change) include:

Mia Amber Davis - Plus Model/Actress (Road Trip), Television Producer (The Ricki Lake & Star Jones Shows), Stylist and Editor-At-Large for Plus Model Magazine

As a model Mia Amber has worked, with Richard Metzger, Monif C., Queen Latifah for Curvation, Abby Z., Lane Bryant and numerous others. As an

Ashley Stewart campaign model Mia Amber was selected to be the face of The Butterfly Bra designed by R&B superstar/Actress Jill Scott.

Mia has graced the covers and pages of numerous magazines and has appeared on countless television shows. The determined Mia went toe to toe with Janice Dickinson on Oxygen's The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency, as well as Anti-Fat activist Meme Roth in a highly publicized segment of CNN's Campbell Brown. In 2008 she was appointed Creative Editor-at-Large for Plus Model Magazine. In an effort to help aspiring models make an impact on the industry, in 2009 she began a career as a Style Consultant.

Most recently, Mia launched her own blog as a way to keep in touch with her fans and answer the multitude questions asked of her daily by models and model citizens alike!

Register and listen to Mia as she explains:

• How to make it or break it as a plus sized model on ANY level.
• How to develop a "signature" runway walk.
• How to stack the deck in your favor!
• Building your skills within your personal budget.
• How to avoid being typecast.

Yvette Ray Pinfield

- Plus Model/Author (Your Guide to Plus Sized Modeling)

Yvette Ray Pinfield is a working mom and a plus size

model with agencies in both New York and Miami. Her portfolio of work spans over 7 years and includes the Today Show, Good Morning America, Good Housekeeping Magazine, Motherhood Maternity and many more. Yvette holds the title of Mrs. Manhattan 2008 and is also an active member of a number of professional organizations including the International Size Acceptance Association (ISAA).

Learn What Works in Plus Size Fashion and Modeling from an Industry Expert....

Your Guide to Plus Size Modeling is a great read for those who want to get into the field of modeling and it also teaches women to believe in themselves through reinforcing their self-esteem and positivity.

Find out from Yvette:

• How much money you'll need to get started.
• Getting in where you fit in (other branches of modeling).
• How to properly prepare for the open call.
• How to invest in the business of YOU.

Fluvia Lacerda - Plus Model/Actress

"The Brazilian Bombshell"

Plus-size Brazilian model Fluvia Lacerda is the star of "16", a short film that challenges the stereotypes of beauty currently set by the film, fashion, and advertising industries. At her size, Lacerda is an anomaly in the fashion world, which has historically been defined by bone thin, size 00 models. After several models died of anorexia in 2006, a push was made inside the fashion industry to change the unreasonable size standards in runway shows.

Television and print media is also starting to show women who more accurately represent America - where the average woman is a size 14.

Fluvia was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and moved to New York City almost 13 years ago. She was discovered by a magazine editor on a Manhattan crosstown bus and has not stopped working since. She's the only Brazilian working as a plus size model overseas and has been called "The plus sized version of Gisele Bundchen". Fluvia is one of the most known faces within the plus size industry and has been featured in ads for Fashion Bug, Torrid, Igigi & Monif C. and in Latina & Glamour magazines.

To see more of Fluvia's work CLICK HERE to visit her website.

Aminah Benjamin - Casting Director/Producer (BET's Rip The Runway)

Aminah will be on hand to answers the questions that EVERYBODY wants to know.

Find out from Aminah.....

Everything you wanted to know about Rip The Runway!

Learn he secrets behind the casting process for Rip The Runway.

• How to avoid the mistakes that most models make in their auditions.
• What the producers are looking for when they cast the show!
• Why preparation is KEY in getting selected for RTR.
• What direction the show is going in for 2011!

And much more!

This is definitely a panel discussion that you DON'T WANT TO MISS if you are serious about a career as a plus sized model.

So sharpen those pencils, pack those pens and notebooks and come on down and get the necessary knowledge you need to succeed in your career!!

CLICK HERE to register for FFFWeek(tm) 2010's Aspiring Model Seminar & Panel Discussion!

FFFWeek(tm) 2010's Aspiring Models Seminar & Panel Discussion

Friday, June 18, 2009

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

The Hotel Pennsylvania

401 Seventh Avenue @ 33rd Street

The Madison Room / 18th Floor

New York, NY 10001

Tix $22.00 in advance / $30.00 at the door

Seats are limited!!! Get yours now!!

Michelle Obama in Isaac Mizrahi

First Lady Michelle Obama wore a 3/4 sleeved zipped back full skirted dress by designer Isaac Mizrahi to the State of the Union address the other night. She completed her look with her signature single strand of pearls. While I am personally not a fan of the whole purple, plum, eggplant etc....family of colors. I LOVE how our First Lady can rock this often somber color!

Manik Magazine goes up against PETA and their Save The Whales campaign....

Manik Magazine has come up with a saucy lil response to PETA's HUGELY insulting and degrading ad campaign against overweight individuals. Check it out:

This summer M A N I K brought you the news of PETA’s (PEOPLE FOR THE ETHICAL TREATMENT OF ANIMALS) alarming Ad that ridiculed the plus community - equating plus women to whales - suggesting plus women go vegetarian in an effort to lose the blubber. Since then, we have been racking our brains on how to show PETA that we will not stand for their insulting Ad campaigns.That said we produced our very own Ad based on the concepts of previous PETA Ads ( and added our own little TWIST) to take a stand for what we believe in and that is going ethical for ALL.

SOURCE

I know I shouldn't be surprised by PETA's latest billboard campaign in Florida - after all, their brand of activism has proven to be sexist and racist time and time again - why not fat-shaming to boot? (Part of me hates posting this at all because it does just give PETA the attention that they want. But I just had to.)

From PETA's press release on the billboard:

A new PETA billboard campaign that was just launched in Jacksonville reminds people who are struggling to lose weight -- and who want to have enough energy to chase a beach ball -- that going vegetarian can be an effective way to shed those extra pounds that keep them from looking good in a bikini. The ad shows a woman whose "blubber" is spilling over the sides of her swimsuit bottom...

Anyone wishing to achieve a hot "beach bod" is reminded that studies show that vegetarians are, on average, about 10 to 20 pounds lighter than meat-eaters...

"Trying to hide your thunder thighs and balloon belly is no day at the beach," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. (Emphasis mine)

Seriously? This shit is just shameful.

To continue reading this article click here:

Source

Yeah, this ad really pissed me off but apparently this isn't the first time that PETA has done this ish....

Yeah....I'mma just go ahead and have that SECOND PIECE OF FRIED CHICKEN....lol....

Erotic Writing Seminar (For Ladies Only) THIS SATURDAY Nov 7th!!!

I am the "warm up" for the writing seminar.....lol. Hope to see you all there!

The Runway Diva is headed back to Texas this weekend!!

PLUS TEEN USA Presents…

“AN AFTERNOON WITH SHARON QUINN AND FRIENDS"

Saturday, October 24, 2009

11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

La Quinta Inn and Suites- North Arlington

825 N Watson Rd.

Arlington, TX 76011

Come Out and Be Inspired by Sharon Quinn- "The Original Runway Diva" From All Three Seasons of Oxygen's "MoNique's Fat Chance- and Friends

You Will Enjoy:

• Speaker, Sharon Quinn About The Realities of The Plus Size Modeling Industry
• A Delicious Luncheon and Networking Opportunities
• An Empowering Body Image and Self-Esteem Building Panel Discussion
• A "Uniquely You" Fashion Show with Wardrobe Training For Your Individual Shape, Size and Color
• Optional Modeling Training and Individual Evaluations by Sharon Quinn and Make-Up and Photo Session for Portfolio Development

Register online at: www.plusteenusa.com/afternoonwithsharon.htm

Vendor and Business Advertisement Opportunities Available

Now’s Our Time To Shine!

For More Information, Call 817-317-1992

Full Figured Fashion Week Begins Tomorrow !!!!

Are YOU Ready??

See you at Re/Dress & Blvd tomorrow fam!!!

Thursday, June 25, 2009
FFFWeek Welcome Event 12:00 - 4:00PM Thursday, June 25, 2009 Re/Dress New York 109 Boerum Place (bet. Pacific and Dean Sreets) F or G train to Bergen Street stop Brooklyn, NY Description: Kick-off event to welcome our out of town guests. Meet FFFWeek’s organizers and supporters while enjoying premium shopping at the Re/Dress boutique. ***Re/Dress boutique will donate 10% of sales made from the event to our non profit partner, PPWAP (see below). Target Audience: General Public/Press Sponsors: FFFWeek, Re/Dress Boutique Admission: RSVP List Closed NOTE: THERE ARE NO RESTROOM FACILITIES AT THE BOUTIQUE. THE NEAREST RESTROOM IS A STARBUCKS WHICH IS A BLOCK AWAY.
Designers Showcase & Networking Event 6:00 - 10:00PM Thursday, June 25, 2009 Showcase starts at 7:30PM Club Blvd 199 Bowery (at Spring Street) New York, NY Description: Fashion showcase featuring designs by Ashley Stewart and en.v. new york. Networking reception hosted by X’Change Modeling Charitable Gift Giving for Purses And Pockets With A Purpose: Meet Tracey V. Bell (Chairman and President, PPWAP) and Kim Coles (Global Spokesperson, PPWAP) and donate a modestly used Purse (or Pocket Wallet), which will be bundled with personal care products and counseling services for women/children in Domestic Violence Shelters. For all monetary donations of $25 or more, PPWAP will be gifting the donor with a free 100% organic candle made with pure essential oils. We need your support. All major credit cards and debit cards with MC/Visa logo accepted. COME AND DONATE YOUR PURSE. WE NEED YOU!! Target Audience: General Public/Press Sponsors: FFFWeek, X'Change Modeling , Purses And Pockets With A Purpose , Ashley Stewart , Structure Wardrobe & Styling , Corinthia Peoples Designs , Hyperion Entertainment Inc. Admission:$10.00 if you are not on the guest list which closed at 8:00 AM on June 16th. If you are on the guest list, you must arrive by 7:00 PM or pay the $10.00 admission fee. If you RSVP'd before June 16th, we have your name on the list, but you and your party must arrive by 7:00 PM.

***SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL CURVY GIRL!!!!***

FFF Week: State of the Curvy Community-Panel Discussion

If you are concerned (like I am) about what's happening in a curvy girl's world...this is a panel discussion that YOU SHOULD NOT MISS!!!! Read on fam....



If you listen to the news, read the many articles circulating through the internet, the media would have you believe that the plus size woman is losing her retail options, due to the economy. They would have you to believe that we, plus size women, are now a liability to their bottom line, thus defecting us to the only options of shopping online. If you were to buy into the news, all the progress we have made in the last ten years in fashion, community pride, and confidence would all be in vain. We, as a community have already dealt and come to terms with the lack of fashionable selections when we walk into a mall or boutique, only relegated to fashion accessories and handbags.

So, what do we do with this crazy information?

In a year that we have our own Full Figured Fashion Week, Plus- Size Expos, Celebrity Role Models, and High- End Designer Fashions to celebrate our curves, what is a plus size fashionista to do? Talk about it. This year, in conjunction with the groundbreaking Full Figured Fashion Week, The Curvy Collective hosts a panel discussion, “The State of the Curvy Community.” Perfectly timed, in the midst of current news in the media, this panel discussion addresses the current state of the plus-size community and the significance of Full Figured Fashion Week, through the eyes of the industry’s leaders, bringing different perspectives from various experiences and points of view.

Miss Sharon Quinn, “The ORIGINAL Runway Diva,” moderates the panel discussion. Accompanying her in this discussion is:

• Cassy Jones- McBryde- US Director of the Fuller Woman Network
http://thefullerwomannetwork.ning.com/

• Deb Malkin- Owner of Re/Dress NY
http://www.redressnyc.com/

• Glen Johnson- Owner of Full Figure Plus and a Member of the Curvy Collective
http://fullfigureplus.com/

• K. L. Belvin- Author of "Man In Transition"
http://www.KLthewriter.com/

• Mia Amber- Model, Actress, Creative Editor-at-Large of Plus Model Magazine
http://www.myspace.com/mia_amber

• Maddy Figueroa- Jones – Creative Director of Plus Model Magazine
http://www.plusmodelmag.com/General/plus-model-masthead-detail.asp?directory-id=703164775

The panel discussion takes place during Full Figured Fashion Week. If you wish to attend, please RSVP at curvycommunity@gmail.com.

Date: Friday, June 26th
Location: Ripley Grier Studios
520 8th Avenue (bet. 36th and 37th Streets)
16th Floor, Room 17C
New York, NY
Time: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Cost: Free to the public

**Take Note: THE REVOLUTION HAS BEGUN!!!**

Paula Abdul Live Performance on American Idol.....

Whew, I was amazed at Paula Abdul's TOTALLY lip-synched performance on American Idol last night....But in actuality, she WASN'T the worst of the bunch....I LOVE Gwen Stefani & No Doubt but I thought her live performance was painful to listen to.....

If you DIDN'T catch it last night....check out the clip:

Singing? Dancing?




What on EARTH going ON with AI these days? The live performances from the PROS have been ghastly over the last couple of years.....The IDOL contestants are NOT supposed to be better than the established hit making artists....yet in most cases....they are.

Go figure.

Just my two cents.

Queen Latifah to be honored by the NY Women's Foundation

Congratulations are in order for Queen Latifah who will be honored by the New York Women's Foundation.at The Celebrating Women Breakfast in NYC on May 14, 2009

What is "The Celebrating Women Breakfast" you ask?

The Celebrating Women Breakfast draws honors the work of its grantee partners and the accomplishments of trailblazing women, while raising funds that lift New York City women and girls out of poverty. This years honorees are: Ambassador Swanee Hunt, Anglique Kidjo, Lilly Ledbetter, and Queen Latifah.

Congrats Diva!

CLICK HERE for more information on The Celebrating Women Breakfast.

Project Curves & The Runway Diva are coming to Boston, MA!!!

Happy Monday Fam!

Project Curves....The ORIGINAL One-Day Workshop for Aspiring Plus Sized Models is coming to Boston, Mass and bringing yours truly as a featured speaker along for the ride!!!

If you are thinking about starting a career as a plus sized model AND you live in or near the Boston area....This is the one workshop that YOU SHOULD NOT MISS!!!

I look forward to seeing you all there!



For more information or to register for PROJECT CURVES: Boston... CLICK HERE

The Runway Diva is Essence Music Festival Bound!!!!

Good News Fam!

Yours truly has been tapped to appear at this year's Essence Music Festival in New Orleans during 4th of July weekend. I will be guest panel speaker at the Empowerment Seminars this year. The seminar is will be held on Friday, July 3, 2009 and it's titled "Image Verses Reality"....check out my esteemed "panel mates".....

Friday, July 3
LIVING AN AUTHENTIC LIFE

Part I - Getting the Love You Deserve

Image Versus Reality:
Omarosa Manigault Stallworth, Lisa Wu Hartwell,
NeNe Leakes, Sharon Quinn, Malinda Williams

I am TOTALLY excited fam and I plan to blog live from New Orleans with up-to-the-minute happenings....

Click HERE to see the complete list of panel speakers and bios (including mine...lol!!) and there are also group links for forum discussions.

Want to attend and need more info?

Check out the OFFICIAL WEBSITE of The Essence Music Festival.

2009 ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL
CONFIRMS FINAL EMPOWERMENT SEMINARS THEMES
AND PARTICIPANTS
FOR THREE-DAY MUSIC AND EMPOWERMENT WEEKEND

UPDATED LIST OF SEMINAR PARTICIPANTS INCLUDES
BISHOP T.D. JAKES, STEVE HARVEY, BILL COSBY,
ROLAND MARTIN, TOM JOYNER,
JUANITA BYNUM AND REV. AL SHARPTON

ANNUAL NEW ORLEANS CULTURAL EVENT
SET FOR JULY 3, 4 AND 5

Having set itself apart from other music events around the world by including three full days of Empowerment Seminars, the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL can now confirm the final list of Seminar participants. This year’s 15th anniversary weekend-long celebration of music and empowerment is set for this July 3, 4 and 5 in New Orleans will include seminar participants Bishop T.D. Jakes, Steve Harvey, Bill Cosby, Roland Martin, Tom Joyner, Juanita Bynum and Rev. Al Sharpton. The Empowerment Seminars--which are free of charge--are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.

Beyond the daytime seminars, the annual event also features nightly musical performances. This year’s ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL performers include Beyoncé, Maxwell, Anita Baker, Al Green, John Legend, Keri Hilson, Robin Thicke, Salt-N-Pepa, Ne-Yo, Raphael Saadiq, En Vogue, Eric Benet, Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars, Teena Marie, and more than 30 acts.

As in previous years, musical performances are slated for the New Orleans Superdome and Empowerment Seminars will take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The updated seminar list is below.

“As the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL reaches its 15th anniversary, the Empowerment Seminars will commemorate this milestone with in-depth and timely programming to help advance the cultural discussion for Black America,” says Angela Burt-Murray, Editor-in-Chief, ESSENCE magazine. “Over three full days, ESSENCE will tackle women’s issues from the perspective of purposeful living; partner with CNN to explore ‘Black America’s State of the Union’; and celebrate spirituality with an all-star gospel tribute to Bishop T.D. Jakes.”


Friday, July 3
LIVING AN AUTHENTIC LIFE

Opening Remarks: Angela Burt-Murray, ESSENCE Editor-in-Chief
ESSENCE Music Festival Welcome: Michelle Ebanks, ESSENCE Communications Inc. President
Host Remarks: Mikki Taylor, ESSENCE Beauty Editor & Cover Director
City Of New Orleans Welcome: Mayor C. Ray Nagin

Part I - Getting the Love You Deserve
Living An Authentic Life: Carla Harris
HIV/AIDS: Sheryl Lee Ralph
HIV in the Black Community: Marvelyn Brown, Dr. Hilda Hutcherson, Phill Wilson (Black AIDS Institute), Donna Richardson-Joyner, Dr. Celeste Watkins-Hayes
Getting The Love You Deserve: Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook
Image Versus Reality: Omarosa Manigault Stallworth, Lisa Wu Hartwell,
NeNe Leakes, Sharon Quinn, Malinda Williams
Keynote Address: Juanita Bynum

Part II - The Steve Harvey's Love and Relationships Tour
"Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man":
Steve Harvey Q&A
Black Men Unplugged: The Game, The Lies, The Truth: Ed Gordon, Finesse, Malik Yoba
My Message To Black Women On Getting The Love You Deserve: Steve Harvey


Saturday, July 4
BLACK AMERICA'S STATE OF THE UNION

Opening Remarks: Angela Burt-Murray
Louisiana State Welcome: Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu
Host Remarks: Roland Martin
Opening Remarks: Benjamin Todd Jealous, NAACP,
National President and Chief Executive Office
Education: Bill Cosby
Politics - The Next Generation: Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA),
Valerie Jarrett, Tom Joyner, Donna Brazile, Roland Martin
Keynote Address: Reverend Al Sharpton
Economy & Jobs: George Fraser
Finding Solutions: Stephen Stoute, Monique Greenwood, Carla Harris,
George Fraser, Sheryl Hilliard Tucker
State of the Black Family: Judge Penny Brown Reynolds, Malaak Compton-Rock,
Ed Gordon, Dr. Michael Lomax, Dr. Calvin Mackie
Performance: Donnie McClurkin
The Black Church: Roles and Responsibilities:
Conversation with Donnie McClurkin and Roland Martin

Sunday, July 5
TRIBUTE TO BISHOP T.D. JAKES

Opening Remarks: Angela Burt-Murray
Host Remarks: Steve Harvey
Performance: CeCe Winans (Co-Host)
Sermon & Dedication: Bishop Noel Jones
Performance: Tyronne Foster and the Arc Singers
Performance: Ledisi
Tribute: Greater St. Stephens Full Gospel Baptist Church:
Bishop Paul S. Morton and Pastor Debra Morton
Performance: Marvin Sapp
Performance: Smokie Norful
Presentation: Mayor C. Ray Nagin Presents Bishop Jakes with Key to the City
Keynote Address: Bishop T.D. Jakes


A full list of participants can be found at www.essencemusicfestival.com. For additional information about ticket sales, accommodations and the latest news about the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL, visit www.essencemusicfestival.com. General admission daily tickets are available for $51-$200; all plus applicable service charges. To purchase tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com or call 800-277-1700.

Holla at me fam, if y'all are planning on attending!!!

Plus Sized Icon Emme: Today, Plus Size Models Direct Their Own Fortunes

Twice named as one of People magazine's ‘50 Most Beautiful People’ during the 1990s, and the first plus-size model to attain supermodel status, Emme is in fact far more than just a model.

In fact, if she’d never even become a model, her list of achievements would still be incredibly impressive. Aside from her high profile modelling career, Emme has published three successful books (“True Beauty: Positive Attitudes & Practical Tips from the World's Leading Plus Size Model”, “Life's Little Emergencies: Everyday Rescue for Beauty, Fashion, Relationships, and Life”, and "Morning Has Broken: A Couples Journey Through Depression").

She is also a well known figure on US television, having hosted E! Channel’s hugely popular Fashion Emergency show, where she offered fashion advice to women of all ages. In 1997, she even appeared in front of a US Congressional subcommittee to speak about eating disorders.

There is even an Emme doll on the market, all profits from which go to charity organisations.

“Emme is a really inspiring example of how much you can achieve with talent and determination,” says Managing Director at major UK modelling agency Models Direct Damian O’Connor. “More than that, her modelling career just goes to show that there are no hard and fast rules about how a model should look.

In many ways, Emme really shifted the boundaries of the modelling industry, and put plus size modelling on the map.” “Today, we have many clients coming to us to specifically ask for plus size models for a particular job,” says O’Connor. “The public want to see models that they can actually relate to, and more and more advertisers are realising this.”

Source: PR Log.com

FFFW - Full Figure Fashion Week & Gwen DeVoe

Morning Fam!

I found an excellent interview of my NYC Homie & BFF Gwen DeVoe at The Curvy Fashionista! It's a great article and a MUST READ if you are an aspiring plus sized model.

Enjoy!

Have you heard of the groundbreaking Full Figure Fashion Week? Do you know the Plus Size Pioneer making it happen? Curvy.Confident.Chic. Fashionistas, I bring to you Miss Gwen DeVoe, the director behind DeVoe Signature Events and the first ever Full Figure Fashion Week Now, if you have read Top Plus Size Trailblazers, you would know who she is. However, if you have not, do not worry, as I have had the chance to interview this amazing plus size mogul who is making moves!

Click HERE to read the entire interview and be inspired!

Source: The Curvy Fashionista.com