#29BlackTastemakers: Nana Spio-Garbrah

As Founder and Creative Director of Blueprint Africa, I am an interior stylist dedicated to developing a community around African-inspired décor.  As a seasoned art director with an eye for symmetry, printed patterns and contrasting color, I have worked on a number of marketing campaigns.  I have partnered with various brands targeting the African continent, and most recently worked as Set Designer for the second season of hit web series An African City.  I am a creative problem solver, with a background in management consulting, banking and a strong budget planner.  I am always excited to take on new projects!  Besides décor, I love dancing and sarcastic banter, and I am a recovering What’s App addict.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

I am a first generation African-American.  My Ghanaian father and Ivorian mother always instilled in me a sense of pride in where I came from.  I was born in New Jersey and spent the majority of my life in the Washington DC area.  I understand the black experience in America. However, I also got the chance to live as an African living abroad during my primary school and high school years, and now again as an adult.  Black History Month is a time for me to reflect on how far we have come as black people; and also think about the journey of how we arrived here - both literally and figuratively.  I love connecting with the Diaspora, and being able to celebrate black excellence in all its forms around the world.  I use this month to reflect on our identify as catalysts for change, innovation and inspiration, all the while remaining deeply rooted in our heritage.  I wish more of the Diaspora could experience where they come from.  So many countries in Africa are unknown to travelers but there are a number of companies now working hard to present a more modern and authentic African travel experience like actress and producer Maame Adjei's Girl Going Places to tour planning companies like Tastemakers Africa and VisiterLAfrique. 

What Is On Trend Right Now For You?

Non-traditional shapes! A few African brands are leading the trend lately.   Llulo has amassed a huge following with their Africa-shaped cushions.  Priced at USD 62, the Ankara cushion is one that stands out as certified pillow porn, especially the limited edition leather option. Similarly, OT & O Rugs, an African-inspired brand out of London run by a mother-daughter team from Nigeria are selling truly unique carpets shaped like…people.  Talk about walking all over someone!  In the fashion world, brands like Okiki Marinho now available in the US at Shop Oasis NYC have remodeled the concept of the purse shape - introducing a distinct circular construction to their bags. 

 

To Learn More About Nana Visit:

• Facebook:  blueprintafrica
• Pinterest: blueprintafrica
• Twitter: @blueprintafrica
• Instagram: @blueprintafrica

#29BlackTastemakers: Gabrielle Smith

Gabrielle Smith is a Graphic Designer and cultural commentator with a passion for creative collaboration.  She has worked for global companies including Adidas, TEDx and ITV News.

She is also the founder of The:nublk, an award-winning Arts & Culture platform which connects is audience to the often untold and inspiring stories of creativity from Africa, the Caribbean and the Diaspora. Now in it’s 8th year, The:nublk is dedicated to hosting a series of creative and culturally engaging experiences both online and offline.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

Being from the UK, we celebrate Black History Month in October but it’s always great seeing how the US and other countries commemorate the month. For me, Black History Month is a continuation of celebrating our achievements and continuing to build throughout the year.

What Is On Trend For You Right Now?

For me, it has to be #peakblackness. The statement “what a time to be alive” perfectly encapsulates this sense of elation and pride I feel when I see the ways in which black people globally are creating exciting things; and generally achieving greatness without the need of approval - it’s incredibly inspiring.

To Learn More About Gabrielle Visit:

• Website:  www.thenublk.com
• Portfolio: www.heygabi.com
• Blog: flygirlblog.com
• Twitter: @thenublk
• Instagram: @thenublk

#29BlackTastemakers: Courtney & Donnell

Courtney and Donnell Baldwin are a married couple living in Midtown Manhattan. Following their wedding in 2012, both became interested in wardrobe styling for grooms after realizing the lack of attention to detail in the planning and execution of grooms’ wedding day attire. Mixing Donnell’s fifteen-year career in the fashion industry (primarily with Ralph Lauren and as a menswear stylist and styling editor) with Courtney’s fourteen-year experience as an engineer and owner’s representative in the construction industry, Mr.Baldwin Style was born. As a New York City based company, Mr.Baldwin Style focuses on wardrobe styling and image consulting for the modern groom and gentleman, as well as photo shoot production. Understanding that “groom stylist” is a new term and service, Courtney and Donnell penned GROOMS: A Professional Stylist's Guide to Wedding Day Apparel for Every Budget to provide soon-to-be-married couples with expert advice on grooms’ apparel from planning to flawless execution.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

As entrepreneurs and now authors, black history month is particularly special this year.  We are thankful for our forefathers that sacrificed and paved the way for us to pursue our dreams.  We feel an obligation to build a legacy, understanding that it is not only about us but the future generations.

What Is On Trend For You Right Now?

As it relates to groom styling, the color blue remains on trend.  Many gentlemen are opting for navy and true blue in lieu of standard black tuxedos or suits.  Dinner jackets made from materials with texture (including jacquard, brocade, etc.) are also quite popular.

To Learn More About Courtney & Donnell Visit:

• Website: groomsbook.com
• Twitter: @MrBaldwinStyle | @GroomsBook
• Instagram: @mr_baldwinstylegrooms | @groomsbook
• Periscope: @MrBaldwinStyle

#29BlackTastemakers: Andrea Pippins

Andrea Pippins is an artist and author with a background in graphic design. With her BFA in graphic design Andrea spent time designing professionally at Hallmark Cards and TV Land/Nick@ Nite Networks before returning to school to pursue her MFA at Temple University - Tyler School of Art. During her educational and professional careers her work has been published in well-known publications such as Anthology Magazine, Canadian House & Home, Colorlines.com, Creative Quarterly, CMYK, How Magazine, The Huffington Post, and Graphis New Talent. 

While she teaches part-time as an assistant professor of art at Maryland Institute College of Art, Andrea works as a freelance designer and illustrator (having designed for brands like Worth Global Style Network, Free People, Hallmark Cards and the BlackStar Film Festival) while producing content for her fashion, art and design blog, Fly. Andrea’s blog is a weekly resource to inspire young women to pursue their creative passions. 

In November 2015 Andrea’s first book, I Love My Hair, was published by Random House Children’s Books. I Love My Hair is a coloring book featuring her illustrations celebrating various hairstyles and textures. Andrea currently resides in Baltimore, MD.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

I feel conflicted about Black History Month this year. On the one hand, it's a reminder of how much work needs to be done during the other 11 months to recognize the amazing work, talent, and perseverance of our people. On the other hand, it's always an inspiring time of the year to see so much going on (events, features, projects, etc.) celebrating our contributions.

What Is On Trend For You Right Now?

De-saturated color with futuristic/sci-fi vignettes that explore how toxicity influences/impacts humans and nature are on my radar. With technology evolving so quickly, and our environment being grossly transformed as a result; I think people are seeking inspiration on how we can all co-exist while still recognizing that some of the damage is irreversible. So I'm seeing a lot of nudes and pastels with weird pops of hazy color, and the contrast of metal (machines), skin, and earth.

To Learn More About Andrea Visit:

• Portfolio:  andreapippins.com
• Shop: etsy.com/shop/flygirlblog
• Blog: flygirlblog.com
• Twitter: @andreagpippins
• Instagram: @andreapippins
• Video: youtube.com/apippins

#29BlackTastemakers: Rinehardt | Miller

Longtime friends, Leslie Rinehardt and Marvin Miller opened the doors to Rinehardt | Miller Interiors in 2004.  At Rinehardt | Miller Interiors, Leslie and Marvin consider themselves fortunate… everyday they get to do the work that they love!  When they started their company 12 years ago, they set out to work with subcontractors, vendors and artisans that they liked and respected… hoping that pronouncement would translate into clients that they would truly enjoy as well.  And to date...Leslie and Marvin can say that is absolutely the truth!

R|M is a high-end Interior Design and Construction Management firm, serving the NY tri-state area and Miami, with a diverse and interesting variety of entrepreneurs, financiers, doctors, lawyers, and Indian Chiefs as clients!  They create environments that reflect the essence of the people that inhabit the space, with thoughtful design and lifestyle always being paramount.

What inspires us at the moment, is the colors, textures, and patterns of India.  On a recent trip to Mumbai & Jaipur, we were overwhelmed with the warmth and vibrancy of the culture. As well as the ingenuity and craftsmanship that go into the fabrication of so many items we enjoy here in the U.S.  

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

For us this year, Black History Month is particularly important, because we are grateful for our first black President of the United States.  As Barack Obama ends his term in office, we are reflecting on what a joy it has been to see him and his family thrive, grow, and excel under the extreme scrutiny that comes with living in the White House.

What Is On Trend Right Now?

Currently, a pervasive trend for us, is fabricating custom-designed lacquered furniture for our clients.  As seen in the photos, we have a TV/Bookcase unit for a den, custom panels and cabinetry in a kitchen (in progress), and a console with polished nickel inlay, and a custom vanity for His Bath.  Also, we find gold plumbing fixtures to be quite on trend today (as shown), clients are gravitating towards gold accents in unexpected places.

To Learn More About Rinehardt | Miller Visit:

• Website: rinehardtmillerinteriors.com
• Instagram: @rinehardt_miller_interiors
• Twitter: @rinehardtmiller
• Facebook: rinehardtmillerinteriors

#29BlackTastemakers: Elsa Mehary

Elsa Mehary is a creative director with over 10 years' experience having worked as an art director and illustrator for print magazines including: In Style, Travel & Leisure, T,  Real Simple, Harper's Bazaar and Bon Appétit. Elsa has also done branding, creative direction and graphic design for small and nonprofit businesses.  Through extensive travel and study she has perfected a particular aesthetic which incorporates not only beauty, but the importance of a balanced lifestyle through holistic living. Her jewelry line is named MeharyJewel--a tribute to her grandparents and her American and Ethiopian heritage. The brand reminds women to feel beautiful both inside and out. Her pieces evoke the desire to honor the body as temple.  Through her jewelry line, art and creative direction, Elsa has always remembered that life is an adventure. This vision is the foundation of Elsa's inspiration. Life is a story with twists and turns so it may as well be beautiful along the way. By recognizing one's authentic self it is ever more possible to wear one's invisible crown of greatness every day.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

This is one month of public celebration and using my design skills to celebrate all that we as Black people have contributed to the world. I don't limit it to American history either cause Black is Black, and we borrow and appropriate when we need to so why not give credit during this month as well.

What Is On Trend Right Now For You?

On trend right now for me is holistic living, and getting the word out about it through transparent living. I practice what I preach. Everything I do is with a level of beauty inside and out every single day. Taking care of the self which allows the capacity to uplift others and shining bright as our birthright!

To Learn More Elsa Visit:

• Website: meharyjewel.com | elsamehary.com
• Instagram: @meharyjewel | @elsalovesyou
• Twitter: @elsamehary

#29BlackTastemakers: Clarence Gabriel

An eccentric design personality, Clarence Gabriel relies on instinct, not formal training, to create bold, textural and graphic interior and furniture designs.  Born and raised in Los Angeles’ suburbs, Clarence’s aesthetic is influenced by urban city living, historic architecture, bold color and grittiness found in street and pop art.

Modular | Geometry, Clarence’s inaugural collection of upholstered furniture and accessories, embodies geometric shapes, bold pattern and proportions that will suit and define any setting, from the essential and rigorous to the multifarious and eclectic décor.  

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

I feel like the universe has been preparing me to answer this question for the last year.  I almost don’t know where to begin. Though, what resonates at the forefront of my consciousness is the ability to define my own destiny and fulfill my deep desires. That is what this year’s Black History Month means to me. I have found my personal well of happiness in the work I choose to do because of the sacrifices of those who have come before me.  

When I reflect on the legacy of great activists in this country, I know that I cannot merely exist or just get through the day. Quite the contrary, I believe they shed sweat, blood and tears so that we cold cultivate in ourselves, the seeds of desire waiting to be touched by intention.

What Is On Trend Right Now For You?

There is something so very special when what is usually considered the foundation of a room becomes the statement piece.  So, for Modular | Geometry’s first collection I am designing contemporary upholstered sofas and seating systems with graphic pattern and color – the types of pattern you would usually use for pillows and accessories. 

To Learn More About Clarence Visit:

• Website: modulargeometry.com
• Instagram: @modulargeometry
• Facebook: Modular Geometry

#29BlackTastemakers: Ashley Mason-Greene

Ashley Mason-Greene is a publicist in Washington DC who specializes in hospitality, food, beverage, retail, consumer and entertainment industries. She has made it her duty to eat and seek her way through the city (and any other city she visits) and can often be found brunching, discovering and uncovering on weekends. During the week, she’s more low key, probably with her nose in a book, scrolling through social media or en route to a spin class once she clocks out. After visiting Paris, London and South of France in the summer of 2015, she’s also often dreaming of her next travel destination.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

I'm from a small town in Kentucky and I attended a historically black church that always celebrated Black History Month throughout the entire month. The church elders made sure we knew who we were and where we came from. Now that I've moved away, I always use the "extra marketing push" to educate others and continue to educate myself on the accomplishments of black people all around the world. It means so much to me to be a part of such a beautiful, intelligent, influential and amazing legacy.

What Is On Trend Right Now?

What comes to mind for me is: Authenticity. Working with cause. Exploration. President Obama. Rose Quartz. And black. Always black.

To Learn More About Ashley Visit:

• Instagram: AMG_0223
• Twitter: aye_ash

#29BlackTastemakers: Maiysha Kai

Maiysha Kai is a Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter whose critically-acclaimed debut album, This Much Is True: earned her a 2009 nomination in the Best Urban Alternative Performance category —an unexpected feat for an independent artist. Concurrently, she established a long-running career as successful model, commercial actress and voiceover artist represented by some of the top agencies in the world (Ford, Next, Wilhelmina, JAG, Innovative Artists).

Constantly seeking new creative stimuli, in recent years, the Brooklyn-based musician and “single black bombshell” has come full circle, turning her attention back to writing and musical theatre—her majors as an undergraduate at Sarah Lawrence College. She is currently penning both historically-based musicals and personal essays chronicling her attempts at dating—and adulting—on her increasingly popular blog, www.40onFleek.com.

Billie Holiday and Miles Davis, date unknown

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

I’ve always had a deep and profound respect for the past, and throughout my careers as both a writer and musician, I’ve often referenced our history for inspiration. This has been especially true lately, as I’ve been specifically inspired to create new content based on our cultural history. So, for me, Black History Month is simply an amplification of that; it’s an opportunity to collectively celebrate and share black culture in ways that we may neglect to year-round (because…life). But in my life and home, Blackness is an almost constant source of pride and influence upon my creativity.

What Is On Trend Right Now?

I think authenticity is always on trend. For me, that translates to surrounding myself with elements that are equal parts personal and polished. I like my living space to reflect my personality, which means creating a home that is playful, sexy and stylish, but is also reverential. Throughout my home, I’ve created galleries of black-and-white imagery of American-American life, including family and icons alike. It’s my personal tribute to my culture, and a constant reminder of my legacy and responsibility.

To Learn More About Maiysha Visit:

• Website: www.maiysha.com
• Facebook: maiyshamusic
• Instagram: @maiyshakai
• Twitter: @maiysha

#29BlackTastemakers: Jessica Cumberbatch Anderson

Jessica Cumberbatch Anderson is a mom, Brooklynite, and the Site Director at ELLEDECOR.com and Veranda.com, previously serving as Editor for HuffPost Home. She has more than a decade of experience covering women's lifestyle, home design, health and wellness, and travel content for publications such as Martha Stewart Living, Parenting, Essence, and The Huffington Post, among others.

This room, from one of the first house tours I featured on ELLEDECOR.com masters layering, which is, to me, the secret to the most beautifully designed rooms, the most interesting people, and the best told stories.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

This year I'm not looking back or forward as much as into the present. There feels like no better time to tell our stories than in this climate of overwhelming conflict. I have this incredible platform in front of me and a call to bring people a hefty serving of inspiration each day. If I can function as that bright spot on people's Facebook and Instagram and Twitter feeds, help add some color and diversity to it, that to me is a way of honoring those who came before us and pave a way for those to come.

What Is On Trend Right Now?

New neutrals. This is actually something that designer Danielle Colding put on my radar a few months back. She created a bedroom space for us where pastel pink functioned as the neutral element in the design. I thought that was brilliant, and it's cropping up more and more these days -- we even see it with Pantone's 2016 color of the year. Neutrals don't just mean cream and beige anymore -- there are so many more colorful iterations. I'm partial to pink on the lighter end of the spectrum and navy blue on the other end. What I also love is that we're even seeing "global" patterns being reinvented in these softer, new neutral tones. Don't get me wrong, I love a jewel-tone moment, but the neutral version of traditional global textiles is a fresh, welcomed change of pace.

To Learn More About Jessica Visit:

• Instagram: @mrsjesscc
• Twitter:@mrsjesscc
• Pinterest: @mrsjesscc

#29BlackTastemakers: Charles Harbison

Charles Elliott Harbison is the founder and Creative Director of HARBISON founded in 2013. Born in Lincolnton, NC, Charles developed an early interest in fashion while observing the transformative impact that clothing had on his mother’s persona.

Charles studied fine arts, painting, and textiles at North Carolina State University. Following graduation, Charles spent a year abroad studying Central Asian textiles. His next move brought him to New York, where he enrolled in the fashion program at Parsons School Of Design.

Charles began his professional career as a textile designer before moving on to womenswear at Micheal Kors. He continued with stints at Luca Luca and Billy Reid, producing both womenswear and accessories.

Photography by Malick Sidibe

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

 Black History Month is an opportunity to highlight the Black individuals who are continuing to move the arc of our society forward by way of their accomplishments in various fields. For me, it's less about looking back and more about looking forward through the lens of our Black ancestors' dreams for us.

Photography of Patti Smith & Robert Mapplethorpe by Norman Seeff

What Is On Trend Right Now?

"Gender" is on trend, in my opinion. From women's equality to queer liberation, most people have the idea of gender equity and gender norms top of mind in fashion, art, business, and politics.

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To Learn More About Charles Visit:

• Website:   harbisoncollection.com
• Instagram: @hrbsn
• Twitter: @hrbsncollection
• Facebook: hrbsncollection
• Tumblr: hrbsncollection

#29BlackTastemakers: Malene Barnett

Malene Barnett is the president and design director of Malene B, a company specializing in handcrafted custom carpets, inspired wallcoverings and artisan tiles. Her luxe creations have enlivened premier hotels, iconic office buildings, and sophisticated private spaces. A cultural enthusiast and passionate entrepreneur, Malene collaborates with international artisans. She also avidly shares her business sense with creative entrepreneurs via her Malene B Essentials e-guide series, public speaking engagements, her Huffington Post and Design Sponge columns, and her interview spotlights in both national and international press, including print, web, TV and radio. Experience her celebrated collection at www.maleneb.com.

Peru | Shipibo girl. The Shipibo-Conibo are an indigenous people along the Ucayali River in the Amazon rainforest. | © Gregg Woodward

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

Black History Month (which should be a year-round celebration), is a time to connect, discover and acknowledge the accomplishments of the people in our community, both past and present. The stories are sources of inspiration are a good reminder not to be complacent, complain about challenges, or settle for mediocrity. It’s also a time to reflect and think about the legacy we are creating to inspire the next generation. I think about my own accomplishments, and it's great knowing that my work and life are contributing to our history.

Patterned cement tile floors

What Is On Trend Right Now?

I’m seeing many home products/fashion designers outsourcing manufacturing to various countries in Africa. It’s great to see the continent engaging in manufacturing, as opposed to being solely used as a source of inspiration. The “Made in A specific country in Africa” label is not only preserving arts, but also contributing to the economy and enhancing the reputation of a continent that has been portrayed with so much negativity. I hope this movement inspires more creative entrepreneurs to think outside the box when it's time to manufacture collections.   

To Learn More About Malene Visit:

• Website:  www.maleneb.com
• Instagram: @malenebcarpets
• Twitter: @malenebcarpets
• Facebook: Malene B
• Pinterest: Malene B
• LinkedIn: Malene Barnett

#29BlackTastemakers: Rashad Frazier

A visit to the business, PULLEDTOGETHER would lead you to believe that Rashad Frazier is the product of a top-notch culinary school or that he’s been cooking for many years. In reality, Frazier was just a normal guy who was working a hectic job in NYC and decided to learn how to cook to impress a special lady. The Charlotte native rolled up his sleeves six years ago and PULLEDTOGETHER has since grown into a food and lifestyle brand with a curated collection of products and culinary services.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

This year it is an amazing reminder to continue to explore my culinary roots deeper. I grew up in North Carolina, and my grandmother was a huge influence on me at a young age when it came to understanding seasonal ingredients and how to prepare them. In 2016, my goal is to fully embrace the produce and dishes she exposed me to at a young age.  As well as make it a part of my everyday cooking, along with new creative ways to use them. 

What Is On Trend Right Now?

Chef Casual Dining has really taken off in NYC. People want healthy delicious food served fast. Expect to see many of your favorite chefs launching restaurants built on this concept. My two favorites are both in Brooklyn: Saucy and The Food Sermon. 

To Learn More About Rashad Visit:

• Website: pulledtogether.co
• Instagram: pulledtogether
• Twitter: @pulledtogether
• Facebook: PULLEDTOGETHER

#29BlackTastemakers: Mengly Germania Hernandez

 Linea Germania and its creator/designer Mengly Germania Hernandez are one, in the truest sense of symbiotic connection between two forces.  They are the highest mirrors of each other, evoking conscious love of and honoring art, the artist, and the artist's creation process.  One immediately senses this in her specific usage of pattern, color, precision of lines, and generous space for human imperfection.  Mengly's design journey has taken Linea Germania from passionate color splashes, to raw hand-blocking, to pristine polka dots, to self-sketch-inspired patterns, to firm fine lines...

The ever-evolving signature line of Mengly's scarves was perhaps most inspired by the influential presence of her grandmother, the most fashionable and elegant woman she has ever known.  Mengly's designs echo her passion for the strong female essence, appreciation for quirky fun, effortless New York City chic elegance, and her vibrant Caribbean roots in the Dominican Republic.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

To me Black History is a time to acknowledge, honor and highlight all the people of historical and present significance that have contributed to humankind.  It is also a time to acknowledge all the small triumphs we have accomplished and focus on a bright, positive present and future.

What Is On Trend Right Now?

Right now, it seems that the 70s and 90s are on trend. Nothing wrong with some beautiful colorful and patterned scarves and culottes.  However, I don't really follow trends. I follow my intuition on what works aesthetically; this means I am always inspired by many different things and my style is always evolving.  

To Learn More About Mengly Visit:

• Website: www.lineagermania.com
• Instagram: @missmengly / @lineagermania

#29BlackTastemakers: Marcus J. Moore

Marcus J. Moore is an experienced journalist, editor and commentator from the Washington, D.C. area. He's written for the Gazette newspapers in Maryland, and now freelances regularly for Pitchfork, the Washington Post and Washington City Paper, among other outlets. Marcus edits full time for WTOP-FM in the District, and curates nationally syndicated playlists for Google. He discusses music live on the air and publicly discusses art and pop culture. 

In 2009, Marcus launched his own site, called DMV Spectrum, which covered music and entertainment in D.C., Maryland and Virginia. A year later, Marcus was lead editor of AOL's Patch site in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. He launched the outlet, covered local meetings and leveraged his respectable social media presence to build the site's readership.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

Each year, I feel Black History Month is reserved for those who came before us. Those who laid the foundation for the freedom we enjoy at this moment. While that still holds true, I feel it's time to celebrate those who are still living; black people young and old who work diligently to make things better right now. I'm tired of watching people my age and younger not receiving the proper credit for their making their own waves. We must celebrate black creators while they're around to appreciate the adoration.

What Is On Trend Right Now?

We're living in a beautiful time. As a music critic and journalist, I enjoy covering people on the cusp of greater things, artists who deserve national and international shine. Musicians Anderson .Paak and KING are on the come up. In journalism overall, we can no longer sit aside and let others dictate our narrative. It's up to us to set a strong standard for culture-based journalism. I'm focused on building my legacy, one feature and book at a time.

To Learn More About Marcus Visit:

• Instagram: @_marcusjmoore
• Twitter: @MarcusJMoore

#29BlackTastemakers: Beth Diana Smith

Beth is the Owner + Principal Designer of the boutique interior design firm, Diana Studios based in the NY Metro area. She spent several years in corporate finance honing her skills in project management, after attaining a Bachelor’s in Business and a Master's in Accounting. Eventually her love and appreciation for beautiful things, cultures, patterns, and colors led her to her passion of interior design. With time spent nurturing her creativity, building her brand, and attending the New York School of Interior Design, Beth was able to focus on her design aesthetic.  Beth is also the Founder + CEO of Passionistas, a lifestyle organization dedicated to the support and empowerment of female entrepreneurs.

What Does Black History Month Mean To You This Year?

This year, it means a celebration of black people who have made amazing contributions to the lives of others from civil rights, to medicine, to art.  It is also a reminder that creatives have the opportunity to make a significant impact to our culture. Black people continue to face injustices to this day. That is why it is so refreshing to take the month of February to focus not only on the greatness of others, but to remind ourselves that the choices we make have the ability to become our legacy. A legacy that can have a life-changing impact on others. 

What Is On Trend Right Now?

It's all about big art with big sayings in unexpected places. Inspiration should be everywhere for a creative and an entrepreneur.  So I start my day with a reminder to focus on what I want in the long term, and not get sucked into what I want right now.

To Learn More About Beth Visit:

• Website: www.dianastudios.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bethdianasmith/ (@bethdianasmith)
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dianastudios  (/dianastudios)
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethdianasmith (@bethdianasmith)

Day Trip- NYC

This year, I made a promise to myself to stay inspired in 2016 by continuing to do day trips in search of inspiration.  I have learned from working at home that I have a lot of freedom, but it has also turned me into a bit of a creative hermit. I can find a million things online for clients, I can Pin for hours, but nothing beats walking the pavement, and touching and feeling pieces.  I love engaging with people, the product, and spaces. 

I started my morning off with a breakfast meeting with Jeanine from AphroChic.  We discussed business, clothes, and how much we loved the food at Jack's Wife Freda.  If you've never been, and your going to NYC soon, I highly recommend it.  I am still daydreaming about the waffle I ate for breakfast.

First thing on my to-do list was to visit the One Kings Lane Studio.  I'm on the website a million times a day, and I remember being so excited when I learned there was a space that I could visit to see everything in person. I encourage anyone who is looking for inspiration, to go this Studio.  This is a great place to peruse, and to get a sampling of what One Kings Lane has to offer.  There are a lot of design ideas to take back with you for your next design project. Just remember before you go, make an appointment!

Another thing on my list was to go visit Homepolish's HQ. It's not everyday you get to see the place you work with on a daily basis virtually.  To say the least, the experience is even better in person.  Every part of the space is appetizing, and the team behind Homepolish is so down to earth I felt like I could just sit back, relax, and get to work.  

Lastly, I said I was going to spend at least two to three hours walking the streets of Manhattan perusing stores with no goal in mind.  This was the best part of my trip, because it was completely unscripted.  I encourage you to do the same when you can, I won't put a time limit on it.  However when you go, make sure you make time for the unexpected.   

Contributing Writer for Homepolish

 Have you ever been stuck on how to design the perfect shelfie for your home, or are you asking yourself, "What is a shelfie, or did she just misspell selfie?" Well to learn about the shelfie and how to perfect it, read my first article for Homepolish, The Five Keys to #Shelfie Perfection. 

Elle Decor Photo Shoot Interior Stylist

I am excited to share my first photo styling project of the year for Elle Decor.  I had the pleasure of collaborating with AphroChic, Patrick Cline, Kat Flowers, and  Emily Howard Kudva.  When you have some free time this weekend, get inspired by 4 FLORAL TRENDS TO KEEP ON YOUR RADAR THIS YEAR.  

A Short Walk In Your Shoes Series

At the start of a New Year and a new business, I am excited to share A Short Walk In Your Shoes interview series. I haven't blogged in over a year, and I know I am well overdue for an introduction with you.  So let’s take a short walk, and you can get to know me a little bit better.  I am an interior designer, interior stylist, and writer, who has been creating inspirational spaces for over ten years. I have had my work featured in Elle Decor, HGTV, LONNY Magazine, and AphroChic. But that’s just the professional side of me; let’s get a little bit personal.

I am a mother, wife, sister, and friend.  Anyone who knows me well, knows a good Angela story.  I attract weird and funny situations on a daily basis. I am obsessed with prefab homes, and I swear one day, I will live in the flyest prefab home you have ever seen.  Also, my greatest design shame is that I do not own a bar cart. I think its a combination of budget and indecisiveness that has held me back from buying one. 

I live and breathe interior design. This is the type of job I would do even if I didn’t get paid (but I might starve), so I gotta hustle.  I am excited in 2016 to start collaborating with other brands and businesses.  This is the beginning of A Short Walk In Your Shoes interview series. Follow me on Instagram for the next segment @_Angelabelt.