eyeInspire: Break!

"My sacrifice [the sacrifice acceptable] to God is a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart [broken down with sorrow for sin and humbly and thoroughly penitent], such, O God, You will not despise." Psalm 51:17



Whether it's a broken heart or the fact that you're "broke", almost everyone can relate to being broken in some aspect of life. Often times when we think of being broken in a negative light; however, when speaking spiritually, being broken is a great thing. When we allow ourselves [flesh] to break, we are in full submission to God. Our sacrifice gives Him an open invitation to come in and heal us in the areas we need most.

When something is broken, we have choices as to what we'll do with it: Leave it broken, try to fix it ourselves, or call someone to fix it. How many of you have had a toilet that was broken? Maybe you tried to fix it yourself, and in result you end up with a flood; leading you to call the plumber. Why not call the plumber in the first place? Maybe it's too expensive, but the plumber knows what to do best. In addition to fixing the initial problem, the plumber also has the power to fix the mess you made in result of trying to fix the problem yourself.

Apply this example to your own life. Let God take control. Sure, it may cost you a few "friends" or bad habits, but those are the things you can afford to give up. When you allow yourself to be broken, you give way to a breakthrough. God will fix you and make you better than before. He will take all that was Out of Order, and put things in order! Hard hearts are easier to break.


Have you been broken? Do you feel yourself breaking?
Feel free to comment and share your experience/breakthrough.

Spread Love. Live life. Be Inspired.

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eyeWalked for Breast Cancer Awareness

Team elleELLEeye has been increasing its philanthropic efforts! Our latest act has been taking part in the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk with the American Cancer Society. We created a team to walk for the great cause in Central Park in NYC (with DANiE as the team leader), and ♥ t i f f a n y took part of the walk in Atlanta, GA. Arissa & KareemaBee were in NYC as well, and Kareema put together a wonderful video that captured the love that was in the air as we all made strides against breast cancer! Although our team goal was to raise $500, we raised over $140 through our team page and also had team members donate on site.

Shatika Parker, founder of Bee Young, Bee FAB, Bee You joined team elleELLEeye and also raised ~$130 for her team. It's great to see people come together for a great cause and support the survivors, those living with the disease, and those who have moved on to a better place. We all walked with a purpose, as we showed that off with out exclusive buttons. Enjoy the slide show and photos below - we hope to have you join us in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer next year!

Thank you to everyone who walked with us and donated!
Spread Love. Live life. Be Inspired.

Video Link

♥ TEAM elleELLEeye
*Video produced by KareemaBee
*Photos by KareemaBee, ♥ t i f f a n y, and DANiE

eyeWalk for Breast Cancer Awareness NYC

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED

JOIN TEAM elleELLEeye at the annual American Cancer Society walk
OCTOBER 17, 2010
CENTRAL PARK
72ND STREET BANDSHELL
NEW YORK CITY

If you are interested in:
Walking with Team elleELLLeye
and/or
Making any monetary donation

You can sign up HERE

Also send me a quick e-mail at DANiE@elleELLEeye.com
Just saying that you signed up so I can keep an accurate headcount
and keep in touch with you regarding
meeting times and locations.

Hope to walk with you,
Deuces,

DANiE
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eyeInspire: Be Worry Free

"Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today has enough trouble of its own." - Matthew 6:34 NET

Many of us go through life and our daily activities concerned, scared and worried about what will come of it. But why do we worry so much? If we trust and believe in God, what are we concerned for? He says that if we believe in Him, He will not leave or forsake us. It is hard to be worry free, especially when things always seem to go wrong, but if God takes care of the lowest form of creation, like the birds in the sky, why wouldn't He take care of His most highest creation, His sons and daughters?

If you have little faith and worry about how you will eat tomorrow - you won't be - for you are not trusting God. If you speak things into existence like "I'll never find a job" or "I'll never get approved for that loan", all you're doing is putting power into your tongue. Instead of speaking out our worries, speak the Word of God. God knows what we need before we know what we need. He hears our prayers, and will answer them according to His will and when He knows we need them answered most. Seek God before everything else and the things we once worried about will be given to us. Once you put God first, everything else will fall into place.

So once again, do not worry about tomorrow. Today has enough trouble of its own. Tomorrow isn't promised to anyone, so why worry about it? Whatever you need, ask God for it and leave it to rest. Worrying will not make you richer, healthier or happier. Let go and let God!

Agree? Disagree? COMMENT!
♥ t i f f a n y
"Spread the love and live your life, while seeking to inspire and be inspired."
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

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Next Stop, London

There's a saying that says "A tree grows in Brooklyn". In so many instances this saying is true, but none more so than the one at hand. As a singer, songwriter, artist, friend, sister, Christian and person, one would believe that there is room for error; or lack of concentration with so many hats to be worn. On the contrary, her embrace of innate qualities coupled with her grandmother's inspiration, and support of family and loved ones is her motivation, her drive. Hardworking and honest, down-to-earth and ambitious, are some of the best served adjectives for this up and coming artist. Even then, these words may act as an understatement because as reality stands, she is here. Wait no longer. Brought to you by Distinguished Men Entertainment Group by way of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, elleELLEeye presents, London.

elleELLEeye: In terms of a stage name, why "London"?
London: I was supposed to visit London and I was so anxious and excited about it that I changed my twitter name to "NextStop_London". From there people began saying "Hello London" numerous times, and it was frustrating to tell each and every one of them "Hey, but my name isn't London, its Tara.” so I just went along with it. A close friend told me the name was actually cool so I stuck with it.

elleELLEeye: If you had to describe your background in 100 words or less what would it be?
London: I grew up in a rough neighborhood where I was forced into maturity. I wasn't the kind of girl who always asked for anything I wanted because being 1 of 8 children; I knew I wouldn't get it. Nevertheless, I stayed in my books and blossomed into a beautiful young woman. The end.

elleELLEeye: What were some of the pros and cons of growing up in such a big family?
London: Cons: A lot of disagreements and no privacy.
Pros: Big events, memories, laughter and you always have someone to talk to.

elleELLEeye: What inspires you to sing?
London: I always loved singing. I grew up in church where I HAD to be EVERY Sunday, under the influence of my grandmother. I really didn't mind because I knew I would be singing. I had that drive and ambition since I was a young girl until now.

elleELLEeye: You started singing in church, any aspirations of getting back to those roots?
London: Church would always remain in me. I would like to recite a verse that says "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of the prophecy, and keep the things that are written therein: for the time is at hand." - Revelation 1:3.

elleELLEeye: What are some of your jazz influences?
London: To be honest, I have to look into that. I'm an R&B, Soul, Hip-Hop type of girl.

elleELLEeye: Who is the influential person in your life when it comes to music?
London: Myself. Before it was celebrities, but as I got older I realized it was my determination, my voice, my swag, my family, my style, my songwriting that influenced me. I consider myself my own Influence.

elleELLEeye: Is there an artist that you would want to shape your career after?
London: Not necessarily, because everyone has their own goals. It’s about setting that goal and achieving it and some much more. Artists like Whitney, Brandy, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, and Aretha Franklin, just to name a few, are great role models to me. They each set different paths so choosing one would be hard.

elleELLEeye: What makes you love music?
London: The fact that it allows you to become open, opinionated, brave, indifferent. It brings forth so many hidden characteristics and you’re just like "Wow". It’s amazing.

elleELLEeye: Besides music, what are some things you can't live without?
London: My phone (laughs). Seriously, I'm pretty sure I'm FAR from the only one who would say that. Everything is in it, even my songs! It’s a MUST HAVE! Of course my Family because they are my Life and last but not least, God. Without him NOTHING is possible! NOTHING!

elleELLEeye: What do you think is missing in R&B today, and what’s your strategy to fill that void?
London: R&B is missing that old vibe. You could listen to R&B and clearly understand what the artist is portraying. Now you probably would have to listen more than twice to understand; which isn’t a problem, but clearly shows that a lot of people don't have an ear for it anymore. I love slow songs. They are often easy to learn and understand so that's my writing technique even though I can expand. I just want to bring that old "Brandy and Monica" type feel back. The type of songs as soon as the beat drop you’re already in tears.

elleELLEeye: Are you signed to a label?
London: I work with a company named "Distinguished Men Entertainment Group", but I haven't officially signed any contract. They are great people to work with and I'm honored to be a part of their family.

elleELLEeye: Is it important to you that you write your own music? If so, why?
London: You can express your feelings. You can say all the things you wanted to say, and didn't know how to.

The world is waiting to hear your story and only you can tell it.

elleELLEeye: There's a cliché that says, “You're only one hit away.” Many people have achieved that one hit, and their careers, in some cases, have been just that. Why should we count on you to stick around?
London: My destination has no end. People who are often "One hit wonders" are people without a plan or destiny. Legends don't stop and that's what I want to be.

elleELLEeye: What would be London's dream come true?
London: To be Legendary. Period.


Check out London at DME Group

Team elleELLEeye
Interview by: Basquiat & ♥ t i f f a n y
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

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elleELLEeye Recap

365 days, 991 posts (and counting), 95 followers (and counting), 1146 Facebook friends (and counting), 553 Facebook fans (and counting), 6 interviews, and a zillion eyes (and counting) later, who would've thought that elleELLEeye would be what is today? Honestly, I'm not surprised. I've been a humble and modest individual my whole life and for the first time this blog has been something that I've started on my own, and has opened (and closed) a lot of doors for me. I've had the opportunity to work with, meet, and interview people that may not have crossed my path otherwise; and for that, I am grateful.

I'm happy and proud to work with a staff that continues to grow. Although I go blog crazy at times, they have been played significant role in the number of posts, topics, and writing that you see on the blog. And for the person who coined the phrase, "There's no I in team"; let me introduce you to the eyes in mine...

Kareema Bee - My buzy bee who is doing so much and still makes time for elleELLEeye. You're an extremely talented person and I'm glad to have the pleasure to know you as a friend and team member. You bring a lot to the table, along with constructive criticism that I take in and digest, advice & a growing expertise in the "business" world. I'm sure with you on the team, elleELLEeye's buzz will soon become....ummm....a bigger buzz?!

Aliciia - My little Fashionista, if I never knew one before. You know it was only right that you joined the team, I mean with a tattoo that says "Be inspired", how could we not have asked you to?! You've been a great help and I'm glad to have seen the growth of your writing before my own eyes. Keep on "Zoin' it" and Stay Couture!

Perlita - Thank you for what you have contributed. I can't wait until you have more free time on your hands so the elleELLEeye world can see more from you. Keep it HOT Perlita =)

Basquiat - You're the newest addition to the squad, and you've already become a force to be reckoned with. I appreciate your writing and your opinion on the different topics you choose to write about. You know, those "things that make you go hmm"...Looking forward to what the future has to offer you and us as a whole!

DANiE - You've been there before DAY 1! When I was testing out graphics, trying to figure out a name, to when I finally started publishing, you were elleELLEeye's #1 fan. You commented and made pictures for me, and it was only right that you joined me in this quest. You're the Kelly to my Beyoncé, the Bleek to my Jay-Z, the branch to my Michelle, and the Deuce to my Ace. You've had some crazy ideas that I've hated, and said "okay" to, and some that were great, but just didn't work out for us. The ideas of "FASHiON FiGHT", "WoRD UP", "ToP THiS" started with a thought from you, and now they're some of my favorite things about elleELLEeye. You've dealt with me being nervous as ever on our first interview with Shanelle Gabriel; which turned out great, and countless other worries. Without you, elleELLEeye would still be here, but would be missing something that it has today... Love you sis!



A special thank you and appreciation goes out to those that have associated themselves and their name with elleELLEeye; Skye Townsend, Shanelle Gabriel, Ayindé, the Oxymorrons, Iran Ortiz, Parlé Poets (Kevin Benoit, Kesed, and Marcus Wright) and all of our readers. For those of you who read, comment, share and enjoy or dislike the blog, thank you! I appreciate everyone that was and is a part of this process. See you next year ;-p


...and to think, it all started with this post, "Welcome to elleELLEeye"...
♥ t i f f a n y
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

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elleELLEeye Highlights: Inspire

If you haven't caught on by now, or if you're just tuning in to elleELLEeye's blog, the "eye" in elleELLEeye stands for "inspire". Once again we have gathered some quotes from our past interviews with Ayindé, Iran Ortiz, Shanelle Gabriel, the Oxymorrons and the poets, Kesed and Marcus Wright, of Parlé. In addition to their responses and comments on the subject of inspiration, the eyes in our team ♥ t i f f a n y, DANiE, Aliciia, and Perlita gave their own personal quotes on inspiration. We have a quote from a friend and supporter of elleELLEeye, Keemie Heart and singer, Priscilla Renea - who we hope to work with in the future. We hope that our words inspire you, as you all have us within this past year. If you are nothing else at this moment, Be Inspired.

"It is an amazing feeling when you produce something that is actually BETTER than your BEST work. That's what inspires me!" - Priscilla Renea

Three things that inspire Ayindé:
1. Good instrumentation
2. Conversation
3. Looking around and looking at buildings and what’s going on around me.

"I am inspired by plenty; and they are all different when it comes to my writing, fashion, role models and such. I'm inspired by classic pieces such as Mrs. Dalloway and magazines such as TIME magazine. They help me relax and come intact with my personal writing skills and form of writing. With Fashion I am not inspired by a particular person, but by

eras and different aspects of it; such as the 90s or the 50s. I am also inspired by brands such as American Apparel that offer the overall. I'm inspired by those that succeed in life, and use their knowledge and connections to help out the community." - Perlita

There's so many people in this world. Everyone different, with different lives and different agendas. However, when I close my eyes, I'm in a Me and Myself moment with I alone. I see dreams of success, love, and happiness. How will I get to that place, you ask? By living for my own desires, loving God and others and being inspired by the images which take hold of my heart. L.L.I. - Aliciia

"I'm inspired by tragedies and mind boggling obstacles. Something about a challenge makes my fingers tingle...bad news has a way of making me work that much harder, because when I succeed my accomplishments feels so much more rewarding." - Keemie Heart

What are 5 Things that INSPIRE you?
Kesed: Water because it can take any form, gentle or rough.
Kesed: Nature, in humans. I'm amazed by creativity and stupidity. Sometimes you have to do something stupid to get something creative.
Marcus: Everything I see, that's why I really feel [bad] for blind people.
Marcus: People who have thoughts and don't speak their mind.
Marcus: Parlé

One designer that does inspire me is Kerin Rose. I heard her story through a friend of mine and soon after was following her on Twitter. She inspires me because she goes the extra mile in everything that she does. Not only are her products beautiful but they are also of high quality. Kerin Rose is a true hustler. - Iran Ortiz

elleELLEeye: What inspires you guys?
Oxymorrons: Ony - Life. K.I - Anything we do is an extravaganza. D - Everywhere we go something is happening to us and we're like "Why is this happening?" Ony - Being an artist is a lifestyle within itself. If you're not inspired by life, you're not you! I remember K.I. was having a bad day and he came to me and I made the beat - just from that situation... But we're inspired by everything, life, fashion...

What inspired you to want to become a performer? I graduated in 2006 from Utica College with a degree in Communication Arts. I like working with kids and I worked at Harlem Children’s Zone. After working there, I worked at a financial company for 9 months and that just put me to sleep so I needed something that would keep me going. You should do something you love rather than what other want you to do. I didn’t fall asleep on stage so I knew that performing was it. I knew that I could write but I had to ask myself,"Can I write for people to listen to me?" and that's when I began slam poetry. - Shanelle Gabriel

"I'm so blessed to be constantly be in the midst of inspiring individuals. Our very earthly existence is awe inspiring and this world that we live in is full of things that provoke our senses. I am inspired by God, nature, colors, art, and love. Those elements, paired with family and friends (who have become family) are the very things that inspire me to inspire others." - DANiE

"In creating the elleELLEeye blog and brand, it has become my way of inspiring others that "Love to dream, Live to create, and hope to Inspire", to do what they love. No matter what their craft is, no matter male or female, teacher or dancer, we are all here for a reason. God has a plan for everyone and through Him anything is possible - if you believe. In me overcoming obstacles, being dedicated, creative and passionate, others will see that and want more for themselves. As said by Horace Bushnell, 'The more difficulties one has to encounter, within and without, the more significant and the higher in inspiration his life will be.' That's why I know that I can inspire others." - ♥ t i f f a n y

What inspires you?

♥TeAM elleELLEinspire
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

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elleeELLEeye Highlights: Live

The second "L" (ELLE) in elleELLEeye stands for "Live". We've put together some answers from the eyes in our team, as well as Shanelle Gabriel, Iran Ortiz & Ayindé. As you take a look at what lives within us and what we live for, think about what it is that you're living for. Always remember to Live Life, before it passes you by.

What separates Endless Noise NYC jewelry from the rest?
Iran Ortiz: It has a personal touch. I work on every piece myself so it feels like every piece has it’s own personality. Two different girls can have the same piece but it lives differently with each person.

Name three things you live for:
Shanelle Gabriel: I live to:
1. make people smile.
2. prove others wrong by following my dreams.
3. enjoy life.

What are 2 things you live for?
Marcus Wright: The Advancement of African American people and making art known to the world.

Three things Ayindé lives by:
1. Put God first
2. Stay persistent
3. Know when to relax

Kareema Bee: I live to help others. I think one of the greatest rewards someone can have is when they first give wholeheartedly.

Basquiat lives for:
1. Respect
2. Family
3. Success

♥ t i f f a n y: eyeLive to be creative, put a smile on the faces of others, come that much closer to reaching my goals, tell at least one person that I love them everyday, and become more comfortable with myself, no matter how imperfect I am. I live in the hopes of inspiring someone to see what they never saw in themselves before. That's all worth living for.


♥TeAM elleLIVEeye
Spread Love. Live Life. Be Inspired.
Proud supporter of The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society