Diva in the Spotlight: Autum Hairston

What is the greatest piece of advice that anyone has given you?

Never give up on your dreams!

What is your favorite quote?

The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want.

If money were no object what would you do?

I would start an organization for female runaways. I want them to have a safe place to go and someone to love them. I would Give them that validation that girls need and let them know they are not alone . Oh there is so much I want to do with this!

Why did you join the Diva Movement?

I joined diva movement because of the empowerment and the love and encouragement. And the like minded positive business women.

If you could talk to your 18 year old self what would you say?

Stay at OSU on that full ride scholarship!

Want to be in the Spotlight? Learn More Here

About The Diva Movement

The Diva Movement provides resources, tools, information and support to women leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals. Our supportive network empowers, motivates and inspires ordinary women to live extraordinary lives. The Diva Movement is changing the way women connect!

 

Diva in the Spotlight:Diana Amison

Meet Diva Movement Inc member Diana Amison. Diana is the owner of Studio4one9,llc and the founder of the Beauty Barber Gala. This annual charity benefit showcases the latest trends in beauty, hair, and fashion.

Why did you join the Diva Movement? Networking opportunities and the opportunity to be around like minded people

If you could go back and talk to yourself as an 18 year old,what would you tell yourself?  Put God first and don’t sweat the small stuff

What drives you as an entrepreneur? Control-I like being my own boss

What advice would you give a woman who wants to start a business? Stay focused, learn all aspects of your business, shadow someone and learn as much as possible.

Who has been your inspiration as a business owner? Reverend Woods and Ms. Lori Fisher

Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years? In 5 years, planning the 10th annual beauty and barber Gala.  In 10 years, I plan to be retired, traveling and planning events

What motivated you to start a business? Making my mother proud

Learn more about The Diva Movement Inc here

The Power of Positive Female Connections

One woman can make a difference but together we are unstoppable.

As a woman business owner, I have experienced firsthand the power of female connections.  From mentors, to teachers to youth leaders-these women have made a significant impact on my personal,spiritual and professional development.

We live in a world where women are often objectified. Leading us to believe that our lives,roles and identities exist for the pleasure, enjoyment and judgment of others. Naturally, it can lead to fierce competition. We must resist the urge to compare our lives,bodies,job titles,etc. to other women.  When we let go of the need to compete and decide to combine forces-we become unstoppable.

Connecting is a powerful skill.  But most importantly,it helps you become a more fulfilled individual, a more caring friend, a more loving partner, a more successful parent, a more productive colleague and a more effective leader.

One of the best moves you can make is one toward strengthening your positive female connections.  When women connect great things happen.

Be Empowered:Find a supportive and uplifting network of women like the Diva Movement.

Be Inspired:Connecting with like-minded women will provide a pool of inspired and empowered women.

Be Motivated:The right circle of positive female connections will motivate you to become the best version of yourself.

Connect with The Diva Movement.  Join us for one of our upcoming events.

For more information visit our website

S-T-R-E-T-C-H Yourself

As the year comes to an end, I encourage all of you to join in me in my year end routine.  I reflect on the goals that I set for myself, review my high and low moments and ask myself the tough questions.  It’s a time to have the hard conversations.  As Iyanla Vanzant says “You got to do the work”.  Through these yearly conversations I have uncovered some hard truths and false realties.  But if I wanted next year to be better, I had to be open and honest with myself.

I guess it’s like doing a personal performance evaluation.  In my years of management, I have come in contact with numerous employees that were unable to truly give themselves feedback.  They were reluctant to give themselves praise or criticism.  I often wondered how someone can be so detached from themselves that they are blinded by the good or bad of who they are.

But 7 years ago, I was there.  I would rather turn on the television, criticize my co-worker, church member or friend, instead of working on myself.  Right now, if you focused on someone in your life, I can guarantee that you could find 10 things that were “wrong” with them.  But when you stop focusing on people and problems, you can start working on what you can control-YOU!

Here are some lessons that I’ve learned from 2014:

Being knocked down in life is a given.  Getting back up is a choice.  I have had setbacks.  Things have not always gone as planned.  I always try and drill down to the root of what went wrong.  There were some things that I had the power to change.  And the things that were out of my control, I let it go.  I live by the motto of –what is meant for me is for me.

All my failures are laying the foundation for the life of my dreams.  Failing is a sign that you are trying.  Some of our greatest leaders, innovators and inventors have failed thousands of time.  So I don’t mind being in the failing circle, because I know that my failures are propelling me into the winners circle.

Everyone in life is a teacher for me.  I always ask myself why at this time and place this person has crossed my path.  Some of the most difficult people in my life have been my greatest teachers.  At the time, they were a major pain in my backside. But when I took a minute to stop complaining, I allowed the truth to be uncovered about the purpose they served in my life.

I am worthy of the best my creation has to offer.  Say it with me “I am Worthy”.  You were created for a purpose.  It is your assignment on the Earth.  It is grand and just for you. Never settle for less then what you can be.  I am a living witness that when you open yourself up to your purpose and passion the world opens up for you.

As you begin to reflect on 2014,please share your life lessons with me.  Let’s make 2015 the best year yet!

You Know You Need a Girls Night Out When….

10 Signs you need a Girls Night Out

1. You have become your children’s personal assistant, concierge and personal chef and darnit you deserve a day off
2. You’ve been looking for an excuse to wear those fabulous heels
3. You can’t remember the last time you got together with a group of women to laugh and have “girl talk”
4. You can’t remember the last time you did anything fun
5. Your last group outing consisted of 6 sweaty and smelly boys from your son’s basketball team
6. You repeatedly watch episodes of Sex in the City wishing you had a group of friends to hang out with like Carrie Bradshaw
7. You forgot what it feels like to be pampered and act silly with the girls
8. Most of your “friends” you would not recognize in a crowded room because their all on Facebook
9. You can’t remember the last time that you caught up with your girlfriends
10. You feel overwhelmed and are in need of a new perspective

 

Join is for the Ultimate GNO Expo on Saturday September 20, 2014. The Sugar and Spice Expo provides women of all ages to enjoy a fun evening of everything that a girl needs to have fun. From belly dancing to shopping to wine tasting. We have it all under one roof. For additional information visit our website http://www.thedivamovement.com

Reconstructing the DIVA-Divas by Design

The nature of a woman is very cyclical. Our lives our in a constant state of change. But there are times when the impact of change has a deeper impact then others. In 2014, the DIVA Movement will focus on the theme of reconstructing the DIVA. The art of taking the wreckage of your life’s disappoints, failures and hurts and building something beautiful.

Remember Failure is not fatal-You’ve heard the saying,”What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”. Well, guess what! If you’re reading this, it means you are not dead. You can dream new dreams. You can rebuild and regain momentum. If you failed that only means that you are trying. Don’t let failures from yesterday determine your tomorrow.

Stay Motivated-Find something that speaks to your soul. Something that makes you feel alive. Wake up each morning and do something that makes you happy.Reward yourself when you accomplish one of your goals. Allow your dreams,purpose and goals motivate you.

Be grateful-No matter how bad it gets remember to be grateful. There is something that you should give thanks for daily. Just the fact that you wake up every morning , is a good place to start.

Join us on our journey of reconstruction! Visit our website for upcoming events,seminars and workshops.

The DIVA Movement is a personal development organization that empowers,motivates and inspires ordinary women to live extraordinary lives. Let’s rebuild together!

Travel Like a DIVA

 

 

Road trips are a staple of summer.  Each year millions of people load up their cars and embark on road trips. They can be a fun and affordable way to see the country.   This summer I have numerous road trips planned.  Personally, I will not commit to a road trip of over 400 miles, after that I become a Mile High Diva!  Here are some of my tips for all of you divas hitting the highways this summer.

 

1. Book early for the best deals-you get some of your best deals and discounts when you book ahead for all of your travel needs.  Many hotels offer significant discounts if you pre-pay for your stay.  On one trip to Washington D.C., I received a $75. VISA Card rebate for booking a 3 night stay at a popular hotel chain. Car rental and airfare can also be more economical when booked in advance.  Be sure to read the fine print.  Many pre-paid deals are non-refundable.
2. Plan Ahead-I am notorious for being an “over-planner”. Take time to research the best methods of transportation. Learn about any special events during the time of your visit, the best places to eat, and research any recommended attractions.  I start each day with an itinerary with some flexibility built into the schedule. 
3. Deals and Steals-visit the Department of Tourism’s website of the state that you are visiting, they often have many helpful hints, tools and tourist itineraries.  Visit the websites of the places you want to visit, you can often find special rates and visiting tips on these websites.  Sign-up for discount sites like Group-On for the city you will visit.  Often times, these sites have applications for your smart phone.
4. Snack Pack-I always pack a bag of snacks and fruit.  I also fill a cooler with bottled water and other beverages.  Stocking up at every pit stop can add up quickly. 
5. Prepare your vehicle-if you are not renting a vehicle you will want to get your vehicle inspected and have the oil changed before you go.  If you are not already a member, enrolling in a roadside assistance program is also helpful.  Clean your vehicle before and during your road trip.  Keep small plastic garbage bags in the trunk to help with cleanup.

Enjoy the ride!

The DIVA on a Dime is a Lifestyle Series.  We are committed to providing fashion, beauty, travel and home tips for the budget savvy Diva.  This series is presented by The DIVA Movement.

The DIVA on a Dime Lifestyle

On Saturday September 14, 2013 we will launch our DIVAs on fashion portion of the DIVAs on a Dime Lifestyle Brand.  Despite popular belief, you can be budget conscious and fabulous.  You do not have to sacrifice your fabulousity.  As a DIVA you must learn how to be flexible and adaptable.  This series will teach you how to be a budget savvy Diva. 

This lifestyle series will provide tips and trips on how:

• To look like a million dollars without spending a fortune
• To enjoy travel, culture and arts on a Dime
• To Entertain on a dime
• To be a DIVA Mom on a Dime

Many of you have asked me how I juggle it all, here are a few of my DIVA Mom on a Dime tips.

• Budget and prioritize-at the end of each year, I sit down and plan for the upcoming year.  I set a budget for work, play and the household.  Have your kids do the same.  This teaches them the value of budgeting and achieving their goals.
• Plan for success-my kids know that I am big on planning.  I usually have the next 1-3 months planned.  However, at the start of each week, I review the upcoming week.  Kids are notorious for adding unplanned items to your schedule.  My boys know that if they want to do something they need to plan and to prepare for it ahead of time.  This teaches them valuable time management skills
• Routine-I run my household on a fairly set routine.  I like to have fun and embrace spontaneity, but during school-we’re on a routine.  Kids find comfort and stability in a regular routine.
• Regular Learning Opportunities-I discuss world and local issues with my boys on a regular basis.  I am known for using travel time during our activities to quiz them on geography, world leaders or history.  They also know if they get it wrong, I will have them research it when we get home.  I keep a hard copy of a dictionary and have the boys look up words they don’t know.  I keep a large library of books and encourage them to read on a daily basis

Here are some of the strategies, I use to incorporate these tips.

Weekly Meetings

I have four sons, so you can imagine sports lingo is big in our home.  I schedule weekly “huddles”. These huddles serve as a training/mentoring opportunity for the kids.  I usually select a topic and have a short discussion about it.  Resisting peer pressure, etiquette/manners and pursuing your purpose-are just a few things we’ve discussed during our huddles.  We also use this time to coordinate any extracurricular, school and social events.  The kids look forward to our weekly session.

Well-Rounded Kids

I desire to have well-rounded young men.  I look for affordable or free opportunities to expose the boys to a variety of art, culture and food.  I regularly take them to ballets, musical performances and cultural events.  There are numerous venues that offer reduced student tickets.  We also visit many of the free cultural festivals around the city.

I look forward to bringing you more affordable and fabulous tips to be a DIVA on a Dime.

DIVAs on a Dime Series

You can be frugal and fabulous.  You don’t have to spend a fortune to look like a million bucks.  The DIVA Movement will launch its DIVAs on a Dime Series this summer. The DIVAs on a Dime series teaches women how to be frugal and fabulous.  This comprehensive and interactive series teaches you how to enhance and embrace your style without breaking the bank

You will learn how to:

1. Discover your fashion personality. Define and embrace your style. Need help developing your signature style? Our team of professionals will teach you how to buy clothes that fit and flatter your body
2. Use what you have to enhance your look. Learn styling strategies to create new looks, discover thrifty ways to enhance your closet, and identify 10 staple pieces every women needs in her closet
3. Incorporate the latest trends in frugal and fabulous ways.
4. Learn fabulous and frugal beauty tips, tricks and product essentials

Join us for our Frugal Fashionista Field Trips to local boutiques, salons, co-signment/thrift stores and more. 

DIVAs you will walk away from every workshop or frugal fashionista tours with real solutions, tips and tricks to feel and look great!

Through a collaboration with the hottest local fashion and beauty professionals the DIVAs on a Dime Series will offer a gold mine for Frugal Fashionistas, including:

• DIVAs on a Dime shopping directory
• Personal Frugal Fashion Guide filled with resources, information,checklists and more
• Group personal image, fashion and beauty coaching services
• Personal shopping and styling services
• Hands-on and interactive workshops and demonstrations
• Sensational frugal and fabulous events
• DIVAs on a Dime YouTube channel featuring local professionals bringing you the latest in fashion and beauty tips and trends
• DIVAs on a Dime Frugal and Fabulous blog

Stay tuned for more information.

Diva Moments Series:Learn how to Wear Your Crown

We are bombarded with images of dueling Divas on our television screens, in movie theaters and social media.  The word DIVA is often synonymous with the word drama.

Crown Controversy

The queen of Soul,Aretha Franklin and the Queen of Rock,Tina Turner exchanged heated comments when Beyonce referred to Tina Turner as the “Queen” during a Grammy tribute.

Obviously both of these DIVAs deserve a crown.  Aretha Franklin has received over 20 Grammy Awards and has sold 75 million albums worldwide.  She is the undisputed “Queen of Soul”.  Tina Turner has sold 200 million albums worldwide,overcame a publicly abusive relationship and is recognized as the “Queen of Rock and Roll”

Both of these women wear notable crowns and have been recognized world-wide for their accomplishments.  So why would either of these DIVAs have an issue with one another?

Do you know women who feel that when another DIVA is recognized or celebrated, it takes away from their accomplishments,notoriety or status?

Let’s get over it DIVAs!

Here’s some help.

1. Every DIVA wears a Crown-your crown is what makes you as unique as your DNA and your fingerprint.  It is the sum of your gifts,passions,personality and style.  When you embrace and celebrate your uniqueness, it makes it easy for you to appreciate and celebrate your fellow DIVAs.

2.Know your Worth:  You cannot allow another person’s opinion of you to define you.  Self-worth is what enables us to believe that we are capable of doing our best with our talents,passions,fulfilling our purpose and living a rewarding life.  Your self-worth cannot be determined by someone else’s opinion of you.

3.Allow criticism to motivate you.  One of the hardest lessons for kids to learn is that not everyone is going to like them.  But the sooner they understand this the better.  This is a lesson that some adults still refuse to learn.  Allow your critics to become your motivators.  Use crticism as fuel to strengthen your character and build your resistance to adversity.

These two “Queens” continue to have very profitable and rewarding careers.  In the end, it proved to be a waste of time and energy.  DIVAs let’s learn to celebrate each other’s successes and give credit where credit is due.  We all can wear a crown and be the “Queens” of our dreams.