Showing posts with label Madame's Notes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Madame's Notes. Show all posts
Friday, June 8, 2012
Dress to Excel Seminar: West Side High School
I had a fabulous time speaking to the students at Edward A. Reynolds, West Side High School. I was the guest speaker for 40 graduating seniors. My lesson for them was about how passion leads to success and dressing to excel. Before the actual day of the seminar, I obsessed over what the students would think of me.
Aiming for students attention is not that easy, some students get bored, feel like they heard it all before or you're simply just a waste of their time. Not to mention, almost every student has a cell phone and/or music player. What will stop them from tuning me out? I remember being a student and I wasn't always engaged with every guest speaker we had in class. However, the ones I do remember inspiring me had relatable experiences to my life or someone I knew and had a personable approach.
As I entered the class room, I said to myself, "This is the beginning of a new venture and a test to see if I have what it takes to make this mission happen". Well, the experience was better than I could imagine. The students appreciated me sharing my life trials and how I used them to get to where I am today. They were intrigued and had a lot of questions. I was excited and felt valued that I can share my time with them. The feeling gave me a rush and motivation to proceed with the launch of Dress to Excel.
xoxo Madame Q
Thursday, May 3, 2012
May Flowers
| Singer Bayiu and I at the Ghubar Magazine shoot for April 2012 |
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| Finishing Touches |
The last five months have definitely gone by quick and I can't wait for what's ahead. It's amazing what one can do with passion, confidence and faith. Accomplishing small goals and turning dreams into reality is my plan for 2012 and I must say things have been going great thus far. As you know, when things just start to seem more clear and more attainable than ever, rain seems to come and try to ruin your parade. Funny, I've had plenty of rainstorms before but I've learned to keep an umbrella and rain boots near. What's success without trial? Life wouldn't be as interesting without all of one's personal testimonies. Make the best of each day no matter the weather, we must live knowing we tried.
xoxo Madame Q
Thursday, February 9, 2012
How It All Started: The Brief History of Madame Q/The Creation of Madame's Mirror
BE YOU NO MATTER WHAT!
I was 16 when I had that conversation with my mom, I loved it so much I wrote it in my journal immediately after she left the room. Mom and I had that talk because I was getting teased by peers in school about some of the shoes I wore and it bothered me. I even tried wearing sneakers just so I could blend in. After walking in Air Jordan sneakers for a day, I immediately returned them and bought 2 pairs of colorful lacy shoes by Diesel. I had to face the fact that being me was more comfortable than trying to walk in shoes that are not made for me. People eventually started to respect what I liked, I guess they realized I wasn't backing down anymore.
Side Bar: Some people may not understand how difficult it can be for artsy teenagers in high school. If it wasn't for my family and close friends, I've would've hidden my true creativity because a lot of people didn't understand it. How many teenagers or adults do you know shrinking who they are just to fit in?
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| This pic is super funny but hey at least I've evolved since then. At SUNY Morrisville in 2003, getting ready to head to the sports party. Our campus theme parties were the best! |
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| At SUNY Old Westbury May 2006. I died when I came across this pic! Smh. Funny thing is I still have those boots. I'll wear them totally different now. Look out for the replay! |
stay tuned for more on Where It All Started: The Brief History of Madame Q and How Madame's Mirror was created.
xoxo Madame Q
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Closet Keepers
This time last year, I was heartbroken and hopelessly dedicated to doing things in my norm. I knew if I wanted to pursue a wholesome me, I had to start doing things fearlessly. I pledged in 2011 to start living and being who I want no matter who liked it. I advise people to follow and encourage others to do the same. Some of us will get hurt or inflict pain on our loved one because of the choices we make. We have to learn to let go and let others live how they desire. I've been guilty of trying to force one to adhere to life as I do and It simply does not work. The person became unhappy and bitter towards me for a long period of time. Although my feedback was coming from a good place, It's not my life to make their ultimate decisions.
This is a problem across the globe and so many relationships go down hill because of it. Who does one think they are to stop another from doing what they want? I don't think anyone like to be told they can't do things they want. Sometimes we may think were saving someone from danger but most times were just pushing them away. We have to let them experience life on their own in order to grow. People share more about themselves when they don't feel like their being judged or attacked. It makes it easier for us to focus on being there for them in time of need.
No Closet Keepers Allowed!!!
Many are in the closet hiding who they are and I'm not just referring to sexual or gender preferences. There are a lot of people keeping secrets about the careers they truly want because their family don't support their true talents. Some are even hiding behind other people and living in their shadows, news flash: FIND OUT WHO YOU ARE :), we need more individuality!! Lots are in lover relationships and want to go out and explore other things but is afraid they won't find someone else. What ever your hiding I suggest you come out or you'll end up missing out on something great. 2012 is all about keeping the fearless attitude and doing you at maximum. Support your family and friends to be who they are no matter what. Stay away from the closet keepers!!!
xoxo Madame Q
Friday, December 16, 2011
Cheers To Being Fabulous!!!!!!!!!!
Last year the girls and I had a blast at our ladies night out holiday party. We brought out the wine, finger foods, delicious deserts and of course good conversation. We each brought a super cute gift for under $25 dollars to keep the flow of the holiday cheer. We can always count on each other to have an amazing time and I can't wait to see what 2012 brings us. Knowing us, it will be more fabulous than the last.
If you're having a holiday party and want to share it on Madame's Mirror, email pics of your event @ madamemirror@hotmail.com and I'll share them on the site!
xoxo Madame Q
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Picture It and It's Yours!!
Sooooo I'm walking and talking on my phone in Columbus Circle, like always I'm chatting it up and looking out for any statement pieces that catches my eye. Funny, you'd think I'll be looking out for street lights! Anyways, I spot this fabulous individual wearing a fierce black fedora, I immediately want to find out where she got it from. I decide to ask the lady about her look, I open my mouth and nothing comes out. I freeze and so does everything around me except for OH MY GOODNESS, right before my eyes, one of the most fashionable on this planet, Rachel Zoe with her baby boy and nanny.
Now I've seen and been around plenty of celebrities, well mostly designers and stylist and I only ask them the questions I need for my articles. I don't go crazy and make them super uncomfortable because I know they want to be treated as normal as possible. However I have a top 20 list that I must meet before I leave this earth and she makes #4, rightfully place after Oprah, Michelle and Barack Obama.
Continuing On....
I tell my friend Tiffany, who I've been on the phone with during the whole fiasco. She's super excited and tells me to go and talk to her because Tiff knows just how inspiring Rachel has been for me. You'd think it's natural for me to approach her but when I really admire someone it's quite the opposite. I got over my shyness and there I am face to face talking with the women who has inspired me in major ways.
The night before meeting Rachel....
Tuesday night I rushed home to watch the Rachel Zoe Project on Bravo. I learn so much from watching her show, she's fabulous yes but more importantly she's building an empire and it all started from her just doing what she loves. Her passion is driving her in the right places and at the right time. If you're a person who is pushing to get what you want out of life, Rachel's testimony is validation that if you believe in yourself and work hard, you'll get what you want. Of course there will be road blocks but finding solutions to get through them is what makes you stronger and unstoppable. That night I asked myself, "If I was ever to meet Rachel Zoe, what will I ask her?". The higher power must of heard my cry because the next day he gave me my chance. We gave each other compliments, I love her hat and she loves my shades. "Your super chic, I'm just saying.... and those Prada shades are to die for", says Rachel. The moment with Rachel was my validation to continue doing what I love best and working towards the big picture.
If there's something you want, go after it. Remember, if you can see it... You can achieve it!
xoxo Madame Q
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Come Sip N Chat!!
No matter where the ladies and I are we love to sip, eat and most of all chat about anything that comes to mind. Literally gagging over issues: from shoes to boobs and out of all topics there is always one or two that gets everyone heated. Although we may laugh at, cry with, love or hate each other in these moments, we learn a lot from the conversations. Our bond becomes greater and it warms our hearts to know that we don't stand alone in the things we face. You wouldn't be surprise that I'm going to launch the Sip n Chat series this fall. I'm super excited and looking forward to your feedback on the stories and hope it will inspire you all.
xoxo Madame Q
Monday, August 8, 2011
Breaking Away...
| Loving the water front scene... |
| My fab cousin Bri |
| Saidah Baba Talibah |
| Were loving carnival |
Before things get too crazy for me in every direction, I chose to take a trip to Toronto to visit Brisette (Bri), one of my favorite cousins. Yes just like best friends, there is also a such thing called best cousins. Well at least in my world there is! The great thing about Bri, she is successful in most parts of her life and I learn a lot from her. With so much on my plate and hardly any real time for myself, I felt another melt down happening and trust me I have too much to loose so that's not an option. I knew my cousin would be the best person to consult with.
In Toronto I was planning on doing little exploring as possible. It's not my first time going and I was just in the mood to lounge in Bri's new condo, lay by the pool side, have some wine coolers, and dish out my concerns to see her outlook on things. Well I should have known better, Bri had other plans to get me back on track. There is no way I was going to be a bump on a log during Caribana, one of the most popular cultural events in Toronto. How could I say no, to caribbean food and soca music? It's in my blood, once the tunes come on my hips start moving on their own.
Carnival is the air...
People from all over the world came to celebrate the culture of the West Indies. Beautiful men and women in fabulous costumes, music blasting throughout the parkway, people dancing and singing everywhere and on anyone. It seems that day everyone forgot about their worries, they focused on celebrating life. I know I did and with the blessing of my cousin pulling me through streets to follow the bands, I realized how small my problems were. If you ever been to carnival in any caribbean island or in cities like Toronto, New York and Miami, than you know following a band through the parkway is pure MADNESS. With so many people packing the streets dancing and following the bands, I thought for sure Bri and I were going to get trampled over but every time we would hear one of our favorite songs we would run back in the street to do it all over again.
There's the beauty in my visit, caribana gave me the healing I needed. I would never forget when I looked over at my cousin who hand is in mine, in the air, waving to the beat, dancing with much spirit and her face is full of joy. I knew in that moment Bri let go the worries of her own and I'm thankful we released them together.
Luv you Bri.
xoxo Madame Q
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
My Fabulous 27
There are plenty of reasons why I feel blessed and fabulous at 27, being alive is the obvious but the ride to this peak time of my life is what thrills me most. Sometimes we focus too much on the destination and not the journey and although both are important, how we get to these places is what makes our testimonies special. I've encountered quite a few road blocks through my passage but with motivation and the support of people, I've managed to pull through. Thank Goodness for those who have helped me along away. I can truly say they are apart of who I've become so far.
You'd think I was a billionaire the way I praise my life but I'm just thankful for everything. I pray I continue to have the blessings of good health, great family and friends. After all, material things come and go but a great support system is hard to fine. I hear lots of stories of people turning their backs on loved ones who are suffering and well that's just sad. What kind of friend leaves others to fall flat on their face? I found out through experiences, the beauty of relationships is because of its ups and downs. I don't need people to be around only when it's time to sip champaign. I also don't expect people to do things for me just because I do certain things for them. All I need is understanding and a shoulder to lean on when shit hits the fan. I'm a piece of work and far from perfect but I'm protective and supportive to the people I love. Although they piss me off from time to time, it doesn't stop me from being there for them.
Kelly Cutrone talks about "The No Matter What Club", in her book "Normal Gets You Nowhere, which you must go and buy after reading this post. Cutrone talks about being picky about the people we call our friends. She said, "Most of us are too quick to call people our friends, too quick to say I love you and to quick to write people off forever." She explains how the people we love may one day let us down or hurt us, but that doesn't mean we cut them off. Instead we need to reach out and be that life jacket when the one we love is drowning in the deep end.
Look at what happen to the talented Amy Winehouse, at age 27 she was found dead in her apartment from a drug overdose. My friend spilled the news as we were on our way to dinner to celebrate my 27th birthday. Now I know Amy chose to do drugs but I can't help to wonder how many people gave up on her. It saddens me to see her life end so short. So many people spoke about her addiction instead of talking about how we can prevent people from ending their lives so soon. There are so many ways we can be supportive without tolerating someone's bad choices. It starts with a simple phone call or text message ( the new way of communication) just to show that you care.To My "No Matter What Club".
Thanks for being there for me no matter what! You all know I'm crazy but sweet and I mean well.
Rest In Peace Amy Winehouse
pic of Winehouse from google images
xoxo Madame Q
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Sweet 16 Dreams
At 16 I visioned that I'll have the career of my dreams, be married with a baby and living in a fabulous house by the age of 26. Did anyone catch that? First and foremost, why was I thinking about being married with a baby at that age? Don't get me wrong I'm happy I wasn't thinking of having a family before graduating college but damn.
No wonder why I never knew how to be single, I've been looking for a husband every since I was 16 and now that I'm 26 and going on 27 in 8 days, I'm nowhere close to being married. Thank goodness!! What a disaster it would be if I committed to another person before committing to myself. Now I'm not saying there is anything wrong with having all of that at 26 or later. I'm just saying... divorce rates are high for some of the silliest reasons. I have no time to be giving anyone a crazy reasons on why "It's just not working out".
Does this mean I regret any of my past relationships? Hell no! I've learned a lot from each of them. I crack myself up on how I use to try and change some of my boyfriends back then. Hey I was on the prow to being married by 26. Who was stopping me? Each time I found "the boy/man of my dreams" I was fixed on going in for the long haul. Even when there was no "official title" I treated the person like they were the only one. Lucky them... silly me. Like I said I knew nothing about being single. There are plenty of things I could've done differently but I guess it wasn't in my plans to do so. I'm happy with my experiences and what matters now is how I love from here on.
Early this year I made a decision to break away from a 5 year relationship which was the best one I've had so far. I feared for a while that I'll may never find someone to love me the same way but right now that's the least of my worries. I know when Love is ready for me again it will show up unexpectedly and this time around there is no rush. I'm taking my time!
Look out... I'm successful, sexy and single. Who gon' check me boo?
xoxo Madame Q
Thursday, June 16, 2011
June: Two Faced
I hope you guys had fun last month shining and meeting new people. I know I did and I will continue to scout for strangers and I know you will too. This month is all about the Gemini and the importance of versatility. Letting your personalities loose may scare some people and you may just be called two faced but trust me, it will improve your development.
Remember that shady term? I sure do! Growing up my friends and I took the word seriously. Whenever someone showed a side of themselves we never saw before they were harshly called TWO FACED. To this day having two sides isn't expected or shall I say accepted. Funny, after the storm of reality TV and political scandal, people still find it hard to believe people could have different personalities.
I find it's best to be yourself even if it upsets some people. If you hide who you are, you'll be around people who don't know you and when you finally decide to show your true side you'll be nothing more than a total stranger. Not to mention if you're not being yourself, your probably doing things that you don't like which hinders your growth.
Quit playing it safe people! It's time to spice it up and put on different faces for different occasions. Being the same person all the time is just too damn tiring. Let that other sides of you break out, there is no need to keep them locked in. Who ever doesn't like it can kiss your backside!
xoxo Madame Q
Friday, May 27, 2011
Memorial Weekend!!!!
| The girls and I at the first day of Sex and the City2 last Memorial Day Weekend |
| Last Memorial Day Weekend at the beach. We had so much fun! |
| Nothing better than a Brooklyn Barbeque! |
I'm super excited to be home in NYC, the weather is beautiful and there is plenty of things to do. Each year the girls and I spend Memorial Day weekend together and boy do we have fun. We hit plenty of scenes: parties, cookouts, cultural events and of course shopping. Most importantly we bond and build memories that will last a life time. Be safe but daring this weekend and of course do it all in style!
chow
xoxo Madame Q
Thursday, May 19, 2011
MAY You Shine!
May you shine and let the world know who you are. Grab your most loved carryall, striking pair of shoes, besties and hit the scene. Spring is here and with summer on it's way, it's the best time to be out and about networking to create new ventures. Go out and talk to total strangers, find out what they do and why they do it. Trust me, you'll meet some interesting people, you may find a new friend, business partner or the love of your life. Hey you never know! Don't be afraid of teaming up with people who are doing it different than you or even bigger, you'll learn so much more.
Remember haters will always hate especially when your on the right track. So... do you and let them hate!
Chow
xoxo Madame Q
Sunday, April 17, 2011
April Showers
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| pics from polyvore.com |
In the month of April we in NY always expect lots of rain but as annoying as it can be, it's much needed. What's growth with out it's most valuable source? Just like the earth we need the nourishment in our own personal lives in order to be at our best. We can go up and down in emotions in a heart beat. Just as things seem so right they can be so wrong and there you are starting from scratch again. Hey it's life but how we learn form our troubles and experience matters most.
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| My friend Althea's new br wall. Fun and uplifting! |
This month I'm focusing on the best place to experience at home, work and play. Trust me if my home does not have the proper energy flowing, everything else dwindles down. This spring I'm adding bright colors and cool decor to keep my spirits high. A simple plant or throw pillow will make a difference in my space. When is the last time you spiced up the color in your home or added an accessory? I bet it will brighten your mood.
Living alone has it perks but I sure miss my family from time to time. My family is the core of who so staying in touch keeps me grounded. My sisters crack me up with their personal stories and although we tell each other from time to time, we love each other dearly. My 6 yr-old nephew lifts my mood elevator all the time with his foolish yet charming personality. He knows what he wants and how he wants it. Kids these days!
Staying organized and focused on my vision at work will keep me aligned with company goals and my associates needs. When is the last time you cleaned out your work mail or connected with your people? Exactly! We all know time management is key and without proper communication well stretch ourselves thin. Stick to the game plan!
What's hard work with out a little play time? Call up your besties and have a girls night in. A best way to unwind, talk trash with a glass of red wine and some great snacks while watching your favorite movies or shows. It doesn't matter if you fall asleep with glass in hand, we all have long weeks and your true friends always understands.
P.S.
This month were dancing in the rain, we need the cleansing to focus on new experiences. Fearlessly of course!
xoxo Madame Q
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
A Positive Mind = A Miraculous You!
We all know March can be full of madness but I think most of us secretly crave it. This craziness can be a great motivator depending on how we look at it or take it on. I don't think anyone is ready for every obstacle that comes their way but on our journey to becoming what we want we have to get our minds batted up. We can want the world but if our thoughts are tuff it will take longer than ever.
For example, I graduated from college in 2008, was working part time and living with my grand mother. There was so much I wanted to do and become and because of the economy's turmoil, fear took over me. Some of the interviews I went to was unsuccessful or did not fit my needs. For weeks I suffered from anxiety and with strong faith I began to come out of it slowly. One day, I said to myself, that in order for me to get anything else, I have to appreciate the things I have now. With a positive mind and attitude everything started to turn around for me.
Prior to graduation I talked about moving out and with my low rate of finding a new job, I hesitated. "What if I can't pay my rent or buy food? Oh hell, buy shoes!" Those were the thoughts that haunt me but as soon as I came into my positive energy that was no longer an issue. Hold that thought....
Now I believe in professionalism and have awareness in many religions. I don't want anyone to think I'm forcing one on to the other but I am going to express my faith about being a Christian. If you feel disrespected in anyway I apologize and hope not to loose you as a reader.
I shall continue....
A manager randomly approached me while working and told me a female associate is looking for a roommate. She had no idea I was looking but was happy to let the girl know I was interested. Now I'm huge believer of God using humans as angels so that day I believed he sent me one. Within a month I moved out on great faith and from there things took off. Now remember I'm starting to appreciate the things that are in front of me. I became a rock star at my part time job just by looking at it as a opportunity to be great while getting to where I need to be. My managers picked up on my ambition and empowered me to do different task at work. Within two month I was promoted full time and with in two years I was promoted another three times. Not only did I stay in the first apartment with a roommate for two years but I now live alone in a one bedroom apartment. One day that would change but for now I'm good :).
My God, Thank You for your blessings!
You see ladies and gentlemen this story yes is about me but more importantly about you. There are going to be plenty of let downs and road blocks but you have to keep pushing. Have faith and believe God has a plan for you, he has done so much for me and the people that surround me and I'm sure he will do the same for you. God gives us nothing we can't handle and only things that will make us stronger. Winners figure it out and can only do it with a different mentality.
It's time for spring cleaning, why not start with our minds?
xoxo Madame Q
Friday, February 4, 2011
Oh, Love
Were 4 days into this crazy month of love and 10 days away from that one day that gets every female going crazy. Cupid has his tricks and treats this year, well at least for me he does. Many of you are in love with that one guy who stole you're heart years ago, some may have just laid eyes on that special one, some are dating for fun and others may be heart broken or in a ruff spot this year. Either way, LOVE is on all of our minds and for some strange reason February is always the highlighted month for it all. WHY? I guess it's because of all the marketing and media overload people always seem to fall into the Valentine craze but if we feel special all year around, Valentine's Day will just be another day. Easier said than done, right?
Love will never be easy and finding the right one comes with a lot of struggle. We just need to get to the bottom of what we want and I think it might clear out a lot of fog. Why should we settle for less? We as females are protective and love to conquer and get high off feeling like we won our lover's heart. My cousin Brisette said something to me the other day that struck me deeply, "Why should we always be the one who works it out and stay around?, Why can't we learn to be the girl that got away?" She's right, sometimes walking away and letting things work it on it's own is best but it's just not that easy for many.
This month for you and I, I'm writing about that four letter word that drives us insane and to the deep end. Stuff people wouldn't dare to write about, I surely will. It's the point of no return and who ever decides to tune it, great, just hold on to your seat. It will be a bumpy road but a much needed destination.
xoxo Madame Q
Monday, January 31, 2011
See You later January, Hello February
Towards the end of each year, many people make a list of what they want to change in the new year. Some list are longer than others but for the most part there is a list. Mines was quite simple, to be sexier than the year before. Yes indeed! I'm not talking about more revealing clothes and higher heels. I'm talking the depth of the soul sexy, something you can't buy but only build. That's the sexy that keeps you going and when stuff gets out of order and upside down, you can kick it right back. Of course before we can conquer our goals there is always a bump in the road.
Jan 1st came and with out a knock, a heartbreak entered my already crowded house. With no where else to go and no open arms, I let it in, with all it's baggage. Feeling overwhelmed with so many different emotions, I ask myself, how am I going to get my sexy now? A few days into the new month, I was already facing challenges that would change an important part of my life. Asking myself the same questions over and over, replaying the last five years of my life in my head like a song you love but forgotten all the words to. How did I get here? How was I living? I'm breathing but am I really living? I thought my life was ok, I was in love, have my family and friends, a career and my own place. What else did I need? Wait! Did I not ask for a new sexy? Did I think I was going to get it just that easy?
God has a plan for me and I know it's best, he makes no mistakes and gives only blessings. That new found sexy will come with a fight and I'm up for it. As the love month enters, I go in with a open mind and a crowded heart. Let's just hope I have a little room for whoever deserves it.
Hello February!
xoxo Madame Q
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Braless For The Day!
This month has been crazy for me... really crazy, I mean to the point I ran out to do errands in a button down top, no bra and skinny jeans. Yes no bra! Don't judge me, I don't know what made me forget or shall I say not care. It felt good and I think I'm going to commit to doing it more often, well at least on my off days. One may ask what's the big deal? Well I'm a push up girl and a firm believer in the support of a bra and the only time I never wear one is if a top or a dress don't require one or if I'm in the comfort of my home. Besides I didn't realize it was missing until I reached in my shirt to get money and to my surprise I didn't have any because I wasn't wearing my hidden purse. I'm so old school but hey it works when you need to ditch your oversize bag to stash money or a card in your bra just to run out to grab lunch or etc. Any who, When I realized my breast armor was gone, I felt naughty and of course sexy. I even unbutton a few notches to give me a little more edge. The funny thing is, no one else knew, it was my little secret which made it much fun. I'll tell you one thing, I got stuff that usually takes me all day to do done in a few hours. I guess I had a little more pep in my step thanks to not wearing a bra.
xoxo Madame Q
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