There have been so many instrumental Black women in the beauty industry, many of whom are just now getting their shine. Take for example the first Black Woman Millionaire, Madam C.J. Walker: who first started selling a hair grower at the turn of the 20th century, was the first American woman to become a self-made millionaire. Netflix came out with her story, but previously you never really heard much about her in full detail.

I have been obsessed with all thing’s beauty, fashion and lifestyle. I blame my mother. I grew up being the only girl and watching my mother in awe when she got dressed to attend a function or a meeting. She had a full walk-in closet with amazing shoes, dresses and my personal favorite, handbags. My mother is beautiful without material things, but these just enhanced her style – I envied it.

My mother has the most beautiful full, long and thick hair. I was blessed as a little girl to have even thicker and longer hair than here. I must admit however, wash day was not my favorite. To this day I am very tender headed. My mother taught me my hair was a source of pride and to always take care of it, embrace it and celebrate it. This was a challenge for me when I was younger because I went to schools where girls did not have the same hair texture as me. I felt different. My hair was thick and curly compared to their straight, wavy hair. 

However, over time I learned to love my hair and my “Hairitage”.   I love my hair texture; I love my curls and I love it straight. I often get asked what my heritage is because of my skin tone and hair. My family “heritage” is comprised of a little bit of everything and I think that makes it truly beautiful. I grew up in a household where my mother kept my hair routine and hers simple.

My grandma (my mom’s mother), the only grandmother I’ve known, Pauline, was a beautician – it definitely must run in my blood! I remember my grandmother had vintage jewelry and beautiful fur stoles/coats. As a little girl I would play in her jewelry, hats and anything I could get my hands on. They were the ultimate images of Beauty to me. Something one day, I would inspire to be like. 

My grandmother’s hair was also so chic. Even in her later years I remember going to her retirement community and helping my mother wash it and set it on rollers. It was a part of her self-care beauty routine, even if she wasn’t going anywhere. She always said, “If you look good, you feel even better.”  My mother taught me the necessity of a great beauty routine: cleanse your hair really well, condition it, protect it and give it some love.
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Black Women and Beauty are truly part of not only Black History but History. According to Essence Magazine, “African Americans spend $1.2 trillion each year, and that number is projected to rise to $1.5 trillion by this year. A 2018 study found that African American women entrepreneurs accounted for 20 percent of all women-owned businesses and had the highest rate of growth in new companies between 2017 and 2018.” Yet, we are often left out of the conversation and representation. That is exactly why Herald Beauty is here and we hope you have enjoyed this far with more to come.

Valentine's Day is coming up, whether you have a special someone or just want to love on yourself, here are some ways to do it.

Health is Love owned by Dr. Anisa Shomo gives health, wellness and self care tips/resources. Health is Love Co. is a brand created by Dr. Anisa Shomo, a family medicine physician who encourages everyone to love themselves, their tribe, and their village better. Remembering to love yourself first is a priority.  3 Self Love Tips:

1. Do the work to change your inner voice from negative commententary to positive. 
     a. Affirmations are a great way to help work on this for example: "I am beautiful, I am worthy, I am magical." (inspired by a line in Finding My Sparkle)
2. Avoid perfectionist tendencies. We are all perfectly imperfect. Embrace your imperfections. 
      b. When you find yourself going down the perfectionist rabbit hole, tell yourself: I am enough, right now, as I am. 
3. Avoid people who are hypercritical, you know, the typical "mean girls" who want to change everything about everyone, including themselves. 
      c. Your tribe should uplift you with love, offer meaningful feedback, and provide therapeutic conversations. 

Check out the new Health is Love Podcast Series: Self Love Saturday for more tips.

Enjoy a special dinner for 2. Choose to enjoy the experience of a private chef in the comforts of your own home or at a provided Airbnb. Select from multiple menu options to create the perfectly memorable meal for you and your loved one. Visit ScratchEatz got more details.

Get or give a sweet treat to all your special Valentine's. Visit here for more details and to order.

Wow your Valentine with this Romantic Room Set Up! Visit Pink Sugar Balloons and Decor for more details.

​New Year, let’s talk skin. I’ve gotten several questions on what is the best skin products for me? What is the difference between them? Do I really need to start using this at my age? Is it too late for me to start using this? I’ve decided to launch a Skin Series and discuss some important “skin talk” to help educate what helps with what, and how/when you should use what. Let’s begin with Hyaluronic Acid. I will preface by saying, if you see a dermatologist please ask them for advice before switching up a skincare routine or your regular esthetician.
 
What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring humectant that draws moisture from its surroundings and can be found in hydrating serums and moisturizers.
 
What does hyaluronic acid do for skin?
Hyaluronic acid hydrates—and actually attracts water to—the surface of the skin. The result? Skin that feels plump, with a visible reduction of fine lines. See what hyaluronic acid creams and hyaluronic acid serums you can add to your skincare routine!
 
How do I use it?

Hyaluronic acid is a versatile ingredient that can be used day and night—just follow the directions on the packaging.
 
What can I pair it with?

The perfect complement to hyaluronic acid is a great moisturizer—it doubles down on the dewy look by locking in hydration.
 
Anything I shouldn’t pair it with?
No, hyaluronic acid is a great addition to any skincare routine.
 
Are there any potential side effects?
Don’t let the word “acid” scare you—hyaluronic acid creams and serums are unlikely to irritate your skin.
 
Establish a routine.
Once you find the right formula for your skin, use it consistently to see results.
 
Layer on a moisturizer.
This essential step nourishes and balances skin so it doesn’t overproduce oil. Plus, it seals in hydration.
 
Say yes to SPF.
Protect your skin against harmful UV rays every single day—it’s a crucial part of a healthy routine.
 

Ralph stays moisturized too.

Did you know Palmers' original solid jar can be used over 101 ways? One of the ways is keeping your dog’s paws moisturized. Ralph during the winter months has a bad habit of licking his paws which dries them out. Palmers Heal and Soften helps with dry skin with @palmers famous Cocoa Butter Formula Original Solid, crafted with moisturizing Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E. This unique concentrated solid melts into skin to lock in moisture. As you can see it's great to use on both my skin and Ralph’s paws.

With over 101 uses Palmers' original solid jar is the perfect skin accessory for the winter and beyond. Make sure you pick up a jar at Target, Walmart, or Amazon and discover what other 101 ways you can use Palmers.

It’s a new year, so that means realigning your goals but also making sure you have all the tools at hand to be successful. As an entrepreneur myself, I know the importance of making sure your business foundation is strong, first and foremost. Herald Beauty has been fortunate enough to highlight so many beauty businesses in 2021, we also want to help these businesses succeed. We will be doing a serious of Beauty & Business pieces to do just that.

I had the great opportunity to sit down with Candace M. Bates who has an insurance agency (Black Woman Owned) The Candace Bates State Farm Agency -that helps with this initiative.  

Please check out these helpful small home business tips Candace shared. For more information, please visit the Chocolate News podcast on thecincinnatiherald.com and also https://www.candacebatesinsurance.com/

Options to Consider when insuring your small home business
Edited By: Candace M. Bates
More than half of America’s businesses are home-based. But setting up headquarters in your home does not mean your homeowners insurance will adequately protect your operation.
A typical homeowners policy covers around $2,500 of coverage for business property. This will usually cover equipment, but it will not extend liability insurance in the event that you are liable or negligent for something pertaining to your business.

1.Adding an “in-home business policy” provides more comprehensive coverage for business equipment and liability than a homeowner’s insurance endorsement.

2.A business insurance policy will cover you for home-based, business related activities that extends your liability should you be responsible for an accident.

3. A “non-tenant” business liability policy is an option for Artisan and Service Contractors that do work outside of their home for their business (i.e., painters, plumbing, photographers, bakeries).

Making sure that you are properly equipped with the right tools to be successful is important when starting any small business. Providing customers with the appropriate data to help them make the best decisions for their business while becoming a new entrepreneur is vital. This is a huge step, and one should not feel like they need to make it alone. Ask your local State Farm Insurance Agent, Candace Bates; She and her team are readily available to assist you!
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Stay tuned for more tips and tools to help you and your beauty business be successful in 2022 and beyond!

2022 is here, now is the perfect time to try something new. The world of Beauty included, treat yourself to one of these luxe beauty treatments at HerMD.

• Laser Hair Removal
• QWO - Get Rid of Cellulite by The Summer
• Explore Botox and Fillers 

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How to WIN A FREE AREA OF BOTOX!
1. Comment on this Blog why you want to try Botox
2. Follow @morganangeliqueowens and @hermdaesthetics on IG
Winner will be picked on Friday!

Okay guys, I decided to try out a filler I've never tried before. 2022 is quickly approaching so I figured why not try out something new and fresh for the New Year. I've been researching more about fillers and what would add some subtle contour and volume to my face. I decided to try out Cheek and Chin filler after discussing it with Rachel at HerMD. Rachel suggested I try Restylane Contour. 

As we age and lose volume in the midface, we also lose definition in the cheeks. Restylane Contour is the only cheek filler with XpresHAn Technology™ that restores your natural contour, frees dynamic expression, and refreshes your look. Balancing the science and art of aesthetics, this unique injectable hyaluronic acid gel creates natural-looking, subtly rejuvenated cheeks that are reminiscent of your younger self, but true to what makes you beautiful today.

Every face is different so make sure you consult with an expert, like Rachel over at HerMD. I also decided to try Restylane in my chin ro help define my jawline and hide some stubborn chin fat. I was very pleased with my before and after results! 

If you're looking for a natural, subtle  definition for your cheeks or chin, I highly recommend you try this. There was relatively no downtown. I was just a little sore afterwards but by the next day I was fine. Results are immediately but improve after several weeks. It did not hurt at all either. Rachel but some numbing cream on the treated areas and I felt just a quick pinch.


So, is this something you would try? Make sure you schedule a consultation at HerMD to see if this is for you!

Holiday travel can be easy or hard to navigate. The key is to stay prepared with all the essentials.

• -Skin/Hair Travel Needs
• -Wardrobe Travel Essentials
• -Airport Essentials
• -Travel Size Products