We are 3 weeks into Women’s History Month, and I hope you’re inspired by ALL of the Phenomenal Women-Owned brands we’ve spotlighted lately! 

I can’t stress this enough —Support FEMALE Businesses, daily! Why? Because the system won’t support us. Did you know that 80 percent of women-owned brands fail within the first 18 months of business due to lack of resources? 

So we all have to do our part by continuing to share more stories about women who decided to dream big and leap into entrepreneurship even though the odds are stacked high against them.

We couldn’t celebrate Women’s History without shining a spotlight on our girl, Jesseca “Judy'' Dupart. Sis is the epitome of, “Don’t Believe Me, Just Watch!”

Jesseca Dupart has been doing hair for as long as she can remember. After obtaining her license Jesseca’s hustle went into overdrive. She did hair out of her home and had a constant stream of clients knocking on her door at all hours of the day and night looking for Jesseca’s creative touch. She was the queen of the big, tall, spritz molded styles that were hot back then. Jesseca was in her element and she loved creating new and unique styles and exploring color. So in 2013 she started her own salon called Kaleidoscope Hair Studio. Within six months business was booming. Not only did she learn how to leverage social media and marketing to increase visibility for her business, but she launched her own line: Kaleidoscope Hair Products. Jesseca’s first viral campaign was called Edge police and was a remake of cops. Her and her friends ran around the city slicking down edges in party city cop uniforms recorded from a cell phone. This campaign eventually lead to millions of dollars.

When Jesseca’s products were grossing six figures a month she continued doing hair. She remained behind the chair until March of 2017 well after she saw her first million dollars.

Today Kaleidoscope has retail distribution in Target, Walmart and Sally Beauty. As Jesseca’s vision continues to grow so does Kaleidoscope. Her goal with Kaleidoscope is to continue to grow and expand the brand and the ways in which she uses God’s gifts to help others on their health growth journey and in life period.

Recently, Kaleidoscope launched Da Brat Collection, which is inspired by the amazing protective stylings worn by Da Brat throughout the year thats promotes healthy and happy hair for an afforable price! You can keep your hair slayed and protected, who does not want that?! 

Even this woman with all the businesses, creativity and loyal supporters comes from beginnings so humble that her message to you today and everyday is “if I can do it, you can do it.”

Did this inspire you? Trust us, we are inspired too! So inspired that we got our girl Judy to offer up a discount! Use code YELLE20 for a special discount. 

Stay tuned because we have a lot more in store. We will close out Women’s Month with a banger! Let’s YELLE together. 

It’s happening, folks –the hormones are raging and as a parent, you’re also about to lose your mind! Let’s all calm down for a sec and remember puberty is an uncomfortable and challenging part of life for adolescents. As a parent, you want to make sure you have all of the necessary tools to ease this transition for your kids.

Did you know that in the early 1900s, puberty was around 15 and 16, today it sets in between 11 and 12. To best support your children through puberty, you must ensure they are eating a nutritious diet, getting plenty of exercise and outdoor time, avoiding toxins when possible, and learning to manage stress.

Let’s talk about how to effectively support your child through puberty. 

OFFER WHOLE FOODS AND ENOUGH DIETARY FATS

From the moment children are born, offering whole and minimally processed foods sets the stage for healthy hormone levels and lifelong balanced eating habits. Even babies are given processed foods that come in plastic packaging, and this pattern often continues as kids get older.

TEACH AGE-APPROPRIATE STRESS MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES

Learning age-appropriate stress management techniques can make a major difference in a smooth transition through puberty.

Adrenal hormones have a powerful effect on all other hormones, and high levels of ongoing stress in kids and adults predispose them to hormonal imbalance. High stress can cause hormonal issues and increase discomforts of pre-existing hormonal problems. Stress management is essential for downstream hormones like thyroid and sex hormone production, transport, and processing.

Today, children are much more tethered to screens and are less physically active than previous generations. Paired with increased school, family, and societal pressure, these lifestyle shifts can impact adolescents’ transition into adulthood. Helping your children manage stress is vital to preventing an uncomfortable puberty experience.

ADDRESS NUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES 

Adjust your child’s diet to address any nutrient deficiencies, and speak with your child’s integrative doctor about supplementation if needed. Common deficiencies that can exacerbate puberty discomforts include omega-3 fats (EPA and DHA), vitamin D, dietary cholesterol, and B vitamins. All these nutrients, except vitamin D, are naturally occurring in wild fatty fish, dark leafy green vegetables, and eggs.

SUPPORT ADEQUATE SLEEP

Adolescents need more sleep during this developmental stage, and it’s important for parents to allow this. Inadequate sleep can lead to hormonal imbalances, trouble managing weight, an unhealthy circadian rhythm, and poor insulin and blood sugar control. According to John Hopkins, teens experience a natural shift in their circadian rhythm during puberty, making them more likely to stay up at night and sleep late into the morning. Most teens require at least nine hours of sleep per night.

STAY HYDRATED

Plenty of water is essential for detoxification and hormonal balance, and adolescents tend to prefer high-sugar beverages to water. As a parent, encouraging water consumption and incorporating fruits and vegetables into each meal helps build this healthy habit from a young age.

Remember, kids are entering puberty earlier, and their physical, emotional, and mental well-being could suffer the consequences. As a parent, understanding how to best support your children is key for helping make this transition as smooth as possible. Another big part of this lies in physical support. With all of these changes, your child is likely to experience changes in their skin. Building out a healthy skincare routine, or hygiene routine in general can support their skincare needs and create healthy habits that they maintain as young adults. The Fresh Start collection is perfect for teens entering puberty; it’s a preventative treatment skincare regimen created especially for youthful skin.  It includes: 

• Fresh Start Milk & Honey Cleanser 4oz.
• Fresh Start Daily Moisturizer 2oz.
• And One (1) Mask - Fresh Start Blemish Away Mask or Fresh Start Mattify Mask

Hey Family! We are KNEE DEEP into Women’s History Month, and let me just say that the support is REAL. Last week we were able to shine a spotlight on a woman-owned brand, Boujee Hippie and the response was spectacular. 

Did you know that 42 percent of businesses in the US are women-owned? While that number is extremely high, women owned businesses still fall extremely low on the resource list, with just 2.2 percent of all venture capital going to their businesses.

Needless-to-say, it’s time to shake things up for our girl-bosses.

That’s why we are bringing you, not one, but THREE women owned businesses to support this week. Let’s dig in: 

Black Women’s Lives Matter

There’s no way to celebrate Women’s History without shining a spotlight on Black Women’s History. Our friends over at Black Women’s Lives Matter are doing JUST THAT. In fact, every day their mission is to pay tribute and to celebrate and honor the lives of black women through cutting edge fashion. A portion of all proceeds from this product line will be donated to reputable, social justice organizations that support and uplift black women's interest. We aim to provide a memorable experience when you shop on our online store, offering quality products with a top rated customer service.

The founder, Dr. Jamila T. Davis, has a true ‘major comeback’ story that surely inspires the masses. Davis is an author, educator, community activist and entrepreneur. Featured on the hit shows “Love and Hip Hop” and VH1’s “My True Crime Story,” the CBS series “Pink Collar,” BET’s “Sister Circle,” Black Enterprise, Forbes, “The Breakfast Club” with Charlamagne tha God, as well as The New York Times, USA Today and a myriad other print, digital and broadcast media. Davis has used her real-life experience and story of redemption to create a platform to empower others.

Their noteworthy streetwear fashions have a crossover of making a statement while unapologetically making some folks uncomfortable. Each piece, strategically designed to empower and speak the truth about the Black Woman’s narrative will quickly make you question if you need a piece of merch in your own wardrobe. Check them out, we absolutely adore this brand. 

Laurelle Nail Color

Next up, Laurelle Nail Color; an exclusive woman-owned nail brand that provides quality ingredients in a market that you can’t always trust. The truth is for many woman, our nails is a form of expression. We love to show off our style through nail art, and pops of color; unfortunately that love can be jaded by chemically-toxic ingredients that do more harm than good. 

Owner Lakisha Laurelle saw that problem and decided to address it head-on. Growing up in Harlem, nail care was and remains a priority to self-care and expression. She spent many weekends running to the salon for a manicure to upgrade her style. Harlemites are known for not being afraid to wear bold colors that incorporate style and grace. So she decided to translate that same energy over to building a brand that offered the same stunning colors and styles that she grew up loving in Harlem, but with integrity through a vegan-formula that won’t harm your nails. 

Laurelle took things a step further by also incorporating a kid’s collection that was accompanied with scented nail polishes, emoji themed polishes, and a fun mommy & me collection. Take a look at all of the fly-girl colors Laurelle Nail Color offers here.

Luxury Snob

Now ladies –who doesn’t want luxury brand items, but with the not-so-luxury costs? We all do, right? Our girl and CEO Lynda D wanted to create a one-stop shop for fashion lovers who love to enjoy shopping for luxury items. Why is this so important? The truth is, we know that shopping for pre-owned luxury items isn’t easy –and nothing will ruin your day faster than finding out that the handbag you bought on an untrustworthy website turns out to be a replica. Owner Lynda D doesn’t PLAY when it comes to authenticity. Authenticity is the cornerstone of Luxurysnob. She even staffs in-house professionals and apparel experts that ensure every item sold is 100% authentic and in excellent condition. 

Why is this brand so dope? While you’re shopping for the most fabulous fashion items,  Lynda D is able to provide clients with some hard to find pieces or items that are no longer available in stores at remarkable prices. Another great factor is that they are able to help so many people get over financial humps with the ability to sell their items. Some people consign their items with Luxurysnob to help pay off debt, Pay for weddings, Buy a new home, & many various other reasons. Now that’s what we call taking care of your own. Go on and browse for yourself, friend … we know there’s something over there with your name on it. 

Stay tuned because we have a lot more in store. We will continue to highlight women-owned brands each and every remaining week of March with a sound understanding that we all continue to YELLE together. 

Happy International Women’s Month! While we love a good holiday to celebrate being women, it is always a good idea to support women-owned brands 365 days of the year. Women on average earn at least 30 cents less to every dollar a man makes, even less if they are a woman of color; on the women drive up to 80% of shopping decisions, so it’s important to put our money where it matters and back in the hands of those driving the culture. Let’s put main energy behind supporting women owned businesses! This is why we’re spotlighting 4 trailblazing female-founded companies we love for Women’s History Month. Let’s dig in:

Meet Boujee Hippie. - Serving BAWDY Since 2019. 

Boujee Hippie’s mission is to help every woman love and accept every version of herself. The brand does this by offering a diverse range of products that support women‘s wellbeing (mind, body, and soul). Established in 2019 by Black female entrepreneurs Tiffany Obryant-Mims and Ashley Antoinette, Boujee Hippie is a multimillion-dollar business that continues to grow. What started as a small idea between friends has transformed into an entrepreneurial anomaly founded by Black women and its success proves that Black women create magic. Black women can do it all, and their celebrity endorsement roster from B Simone, Supa Cent, Yandy Smith, and DaReal BB Judy, to name a few, proves just that. 20% Off their entire site. Use Code "IAMWOMAN". 

They have identified spaces where Black women didn’t exist like the health and fitness lane, the shapewear industry, and the reproductive care markets. Their new goal is to provide self-care for Black women in all areas we have been neglected by mainstream companies. They created a total body detox. They launched a sensual and shape reforming shapewear line that contours your problem areas and increases confidence. They developed a natural Apple Cider Vinegar supplement that gives you energy to tackle life at your best. They even developed a Period Panty that makes that time of the month easier for women of color who are known to suffer from longer and heavier periods. In a nutshell, they are taking up space and building tables that make their Boujee Babes better.  20% Off their entire site. Use Code "IAMWOMAN". 

Trimdown Transformation System

The Trimdown Transformation System is the ultimate weight loss kit.  It includes the IGNITE Fat Burner, Boujee Hippie Meltdown Detox and the Boujee Hippie Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies! The purchase of the system will also include the Downloadable 21 Day Transformation Meal Plan for FREE to jump start your new healthy lifestyle. See the benefits of each product below:  20% Off their entire site. Use Code "IAMWOMAN". 

IGNITE Fat Burner: A metabolic fat burner that doesn’t just incinerate unwanted body fat but helps align your mind with your body goals. Infused with ketones that keep your body in a calorie burning state, it helps reduce appetite and gives increased energy to help you tackle your day.  

Boujee Hippie Meltdown Detox: Weight loss detox that will jump start your weight loss journey.  The detox is designed to cleanse the body of unwanted toxins and provide visible results within 15 days.The Meltdown Detox supports digestive health, helps reduce bloating, and supports weight loss.

Boujee Hippie Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies: Apple Cider Vinegar is a natural energy boost without the jitters that come with caffeinated alternatives. It supports Immune function and improves weight management by curbing your appetite and promoting healthy digestion. It helps reduce bloating and encourages water intake as well.

If you think Boujee Hippie only has weight loss products, think again! Here is our favorite body shaper to help you shape and contour your midsection while you're losing all those pounds!

Made with super stretch material they mold even the most curvaceous figure while the ultra-compression keeps all your assets in the right place. Whether you’re working out or just in need of a super cute legging to finish off your casual day look, the Boujee Hippie yoga pant is for you.

Hey girl, hey! Yandy here –Happy Women’s Month! 

This is OUR TIME –Let’s recognize each other for our efforts; because frankly, we are doing the dang-thang! 

As a working mom myself, I know the workload is a lot, and finding a balance is nearly impossible –but sis, we have to keep the stress away!

Most working moms look to their networks of mentors, coworkers, and even loved ones for advice on balancing the competing demands of work and home. Unfortunately the advice that most get  isn’t always helpful. With so many professional women depending on this common wisdom, it’s no wonder the workforce isn’t budging and so many working parents report feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. Although loved one’s share their insight, it’s not  always the most useful resource for the modern working woman. 

So let’s dig in. As a true BOSS MOM, I’m here to tell you –sis you can do it. Go girl, you can balance work, family, and maintain your stress levels and here’s how: 

Play into your strengths. Whatever skills and traits have made you successful at work (Is it organization? Creativity? Resilience? The ability to assemble a team?) will help enable your success as a working parent. A strong organizer juggles the demands and endless details of their dual role effectively with task lists on their phone; the creative thinker comes up with an unusual but happy child care arrangement that accommodates their frequent last-minute business travel. Think about what you do best and most naturally on the job, take confidence in that strength, and then use it when you are faced with parenting challenges. 

Have a vision of what your parenting goals are and insert your career into that equation. The reality is, family will always come first, remember that! So like your job, having a defined mission and clear goals enable you to set priorities, use resources, measure success, and be confident you’re on the right path. Keep that same energy in parenting. Having that clear vision for how you want to parent gives you the feeling of being in the driver’s seat — and gives you confidence in your daily decisions.

Bring efficiency home. Repeat after me, use your calendars and the shared work tools should be used at home. Downloading apps that help you maintain your schedule, or demands onto your phone can help you move from “overwhelmed and exhausted” to “busy but managing.”

Create flexibility –and sell it to your boss. This is where you work smarter and not harder. Create the lifestyle that you need to sustain both work and home. Telling the boss that working from home on Mondays and Fridays would save enough commute time that you could deliver the weekly reports early is more compelling than simply asking to work from home because “it’s a lot easier for me with the kids.” You have to paint the picture so that it benefits them.

Why is this so important to me? Because sis, I’ve lived it, and I am still living it! The more stress you have, the more damage-control you have to do. Your health declines, your skin breaks out, and you are no longer your normal self! No one wants those problems. If you’re struggling to find balance and you think the stress is taking a toll on your skin, then sis you need to run –not walk, run, over to yelleskincare.com and snag our 5 Piece complete system. This premier collection has everything you need to experience top tier skin while calming and soothing breakouts with its plant-based ingredients like Aloe, Chamomile, and Honey.

Working through motherhood is a tough management, leadership, and personal challenge for anyone, regardless of how gifted or hard-working they are — and it lasts for a full 18 years, or more. The reality is –you must create the life you want to live. With healthy boundaries you can say no to stress and yes to structure. Let me know if this was helpful, I’ll try to keep sending you monthly notes. Love yall! 

Xx, Yandy