Save Your Best Shots!

Although we live in a digital world, some things should still be tangible - for me photos are high on the list! Among my friends and family, I'm one of the few who get my digital photos printed and actually place them in photo albums. In fact, I have a weakness for purchasing cute photo books and frames. I never let photos accumulate on my digital camera or computer mainly out of fear of losing them.

A few years ago, my computer crashed and I lost over 1000 photos! I have since vowed to always get my photos printed. Plus, it's so easy to upload them at your local drugstore or even order them online through sites like Snapfish (my site of choice), Shutterfly, etc. Now since the arrival of Ava aka Baby BGG - I'm sure I'll be snapping even more shots!


Here are a few of my own personal photo albums. I buy most of them from stores like Marshalls, TJ Maxx and Daffy's because they're always reasonably priced!

Do you print your digital photos? If so, do you put them in photo albums and frames?

**The winner of the "Michael Jackson: Before He Was King," photo book is K-Bear! Congrats! Please email me your mailing address.

Long Live the King!

For those of you who didn't see Michael Jackson's This Is It while it was in theaters, now you can watch the King of Pop in action in the comfort of your home on DVD and Blu-Ray. The critically-acclaimed compilation of interviews, backstage and concert footage of the late musical legend is available in stores today!



For fellow Michael Jackson fans, I came across an awesome coffee table book entitled, "Michael Jackson: Before He Was King," by African-American photographer Todd Gray. The book is filled with rare, never-before seen photographs of Jackson taken by his personal photographer (Gray) chronicling his rapid rise to solo superstardom during the late 1970s and early 1980s. This book is the perfect collector's item for the true MJ fan.


Michael Jackson: Before He Was King available at www.borders.com for $29.95

Did you see the movie? Would you buy the DVD?

One lucky winner will win the book. Just leave a comment and a winner will be selected randomly and announced later this week.

Baby BGG Has Arrived!

If you were wondering why I haven't posted this week, well it's because I gave birth to my beautiful and healthy baby girl, Ava, on Saturday - 6 days before her due date! As you can imagine I'm incredibly overjoyed and completely in love with her. Until I get the hang of things with Baby BGG - I'll be posting less, but will eventually get back into the full swing of bringing you all the things that chic, brown girls love!



Thanks so much for all of your well-wishes during my pregnancy!! I want to especially thank Kwana for the super cute gift. :-)

Btw, the winner of the Tarte set is Ms. Pocahontaz. Please email me your mailing address, as well as the shade of your choice. Check out www.tartecosmetics.com for the list of foundation/concealer shades.

Sweet on Tarte!

If you're looking for barely-there, flawless makeup coverage, Tarte Cosmetic's new 7-piece Natural Complexion Collection set is the kit for you! Available exclusively at Sephora, this paraben and sulfate-free set includes a primer, anti-aging foundation, 4-in-1 concealer, mineral pressed powder, mineral powder bronzer, foundation brush and travel bag.

Since I'm such a sucker for sets, I was anxious to try this collection because a primer was included - which I've always wanted to test. I wanted to see if applying it really makes a difference when it comes to setting your makeup. To my surprise, it seemed to keep my makeup looking fresh while keeping my oily skin under control too. Because I try to be as low-maintenance as possible, I probably wouldn't use the primer daily, but it seemed to work well. The concealer and foundation were both light-weight, which is always a plus. The bronzer gave my skin a subtle, glistening glow, but wasn't too red like many others I've tried.

I've been a fan of Tarte's cheek stains for years, but had never tried any of their other products, but now I'm a fan of the entire line!


Tarte Cosmetics 7-Piece Natural Complexion Collection in Deep available at www.sephora.com for $54 (a $157 value)

Have you ever used Tarte Cosmetics? One lucky reader will win this set (winner will select the shade). Simply leave a comment and a winner will be selected randomly and announced next week!

Help Haiti

As we all know, yesterday Haiti was hit with a 7.0 magnitude earthquake - leaving behind destruction and devastation. Those left behind are in dire need of aid. Please donate to Wyclef Jean's charity, The Yele Haiti Foundation. Please visit www.yele.org for more information or you can text "YELE" to "501501" to donate $5.

Another option is to simply text "HAITI" to "90999" and a donation of $10 will be given automatically to the Red Cross to help with relief efforts, charged to your cell phone bill.



Our prayers are with our fellow BGs and guys in Haiti.

Philly Fashion!

When one thinks of fashionable cities, New York, Milan, Paris and Tokyo may come to mind. Well, add one more city to that list - Philadelphia. Yep, the Pennsylvania city known for their cheese steak sandwiches and neo-soul sound is making a mark on the fashion scene. With a bevy of bourgeoning boutiques and designers, Philly is becoming the alternate, more affordable location to launch fashion careers on the East Coast.

During my recent weekend visit, I was impressed with the amount of new stores that sold high-end, quality clothing, shoes, and lingerie. Whether you're a vintage enthusiast or a fan of a classic chic pieces, there's a stylish store in Philly that will have just what you're looking for. So the next time you're in the City of Brotherly Love, be sure to check out the Philly fashions!

If you've shopped in the Philadelphia area, what's your favorite boutique? For those not in Philly, what's your favorite local boutique? Please share.


Topstitch Boutique specializes in vintage clothing and accessories. Located: 54 N. Third S. (215) 238-8877


A beautifiul dress at Zahra Saeed Boutique, sells unique, upscale Indian-inspired selections. Located: 1901 Walnut Street, (267) 519-0804


Smak Parlour is a whimsical store that sells clothing and cute accessories for the girly girl. Located: 219 Market Street, (215) 625-4551


Sa Va produces most of their casual and dressy items in-house and are environmentally-friendly. Located: 1700 Sansom St., (215) 587-0004


An eye-catching coat dress sold at Joan Shepp, Y-3, which sells a mix of super high-end luxury brands. Located: 1616 Walnut Street, 215.735.2666

Chic Scarves of the Season!

Even though the holidays may be over, winter certainly isn't. Fashionistas everywhere are staying warm and stylish with infinity scarves this season. This circular new spin on the regular scarf makes it extremely versatile. Most infinity-style scarves can be worn on the shoulders, as a hood and of course around the neck. These scarves create a chunky, yet chic look for those of us who have to brave the cold!

Would you wear an infinity scarf?


Rubbish Button Scarf available at www.nordstrom.com for $20


Shaker Infinity Scarf available at www.thelimited.com for $14.99


Echo Metallic Infinity Scarf available at www.macys.com for $48


Echo Double Infinity Scarf available at www.bloomingdales.com for $48


Everyday Infinity Scarf available at www.thelimited.com for $24.99


Juicy Couture Luxe Cable Knit Scarf available at www.shopbop.com for $175


Leopard Print Infinity Scarf available at www.theimited.com for $24.99


Portolano Cashmere Infinity Fishnet Stitch Scarf available at www.bloomingdales.com for $125

Get Wrapped in Warm Winter Robes!

Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you how much I love to lounge and it's not because I'm preggo! An ideal winter weekend consists of me in a comfy robe curled on the couch watching one of my guilty pleasure DVR'd TV shows. Few things are as comforting and relaxing on a cold afternoon than wrapping up in a plush robe. My obsession with robes makes it difficult for me to have a favorite, but they all get their fair usage!

From short & silky satins to floor-length cozy chenilles, there's a robe that will suit your mood! Do you have a go-to robe for lazy lounging days?

P.S Now is the perfect time to catch after-Christmas deals on robes. :-)

Check out some of these:


Satin Kimono Wrap available at www.victoriassecret.com for $42


Bubbles Short Robe available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $115


DKNY Cozy Robe available at www.nordstrom.com for $39.90 (orig. $58)


Jenni Robe and Boot, Peace, Love, Dream available at www.macys.com $27.99 (orig. $49.99)


Juicy Couture Flounced Terry Robe available at www.nordstrom.com $64.90


Kashwere Robe available at www.boutiquetoyou.com for $120


Satin Robe available at www.victoriassecret.com for $78


Long Spa Robe available at www.victoriassecret.com for $59.50


P.J Salvage Lip Bathrobe available at www.zappos.com for $98


Charter Club Printed Fleece Robe available at www.macys.com for $19.99 (orig. $59.99)


Slouch Robe available at www.topshop.com for $50

**The winner of the PedEgg is Jay! Congratulations - please email me your mailing address!

Happy Feet!

During the Christmas break I finally found the time to try the popular PedEgg. I had heard so many great things about this product, but have always been skeptical about those "As Seen On TV" products and wondered if they really worked.

Well, all of my skepticism ceased after treating my feet to this callus-curing contraption! After using the PedEgg on my dry, winter-ridden feet, I was able to scratch waddling to the nearest nail salon off of my to-do-list. The tiny stainless (and painless) steel files gently chips away old, dead skin leaving heels super smooth and soft!


PedEgg The Ultimate Foot File - As Seen on TV available at www.walgreens.com for $9.99

Have you ever tried the PedEgg? One lucky winner will win one to kick-start the New Year with callus-free feet! Just leave a comment and a winner will be selected randomly and announced later this week.

New Year, New You?

Well, it's that time again when everyone makes their New Year's resolutions. Just like most people, I rarely stick to, or even implement mine after the first few weeks. However, this year I plan on making several beauty and fashion resolutions and actually applying them.

Since I have more black in my closet than Marilyn Manson, I would like to incorporate more colors, patterns, etc. to spice up my otherwise dark wardrobe. In addition, I'd love to get out of my ho-hum hair rut and experiment with a new sexy style or cut. I'm not sure when I'll actually execute these makeover aspirations, but I desperately want to add some variety to my look within the next twelve months. Wish me luck!



What are some of your resolutions this year? Is it to work out more, spend more time with family, etc? Or do you avoid making resolutions all together? Please share!

Happy Holidays!

Hello BGG Readers!

I'm going to take a mini-break from BGG to enjoy the holidays. My energy level is slowly depleting since I'm rapidly approaching my due date - I can't believe Baby BGG will be here sometime next month! Anyway, I'm wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I actually may be back before the New Year, so be sure to check in from time to time next week! Be safe and thanks for all of your love, support and feedback! :-)

Must-Have Holiday Hair Accessories!

With the holiday season in full swing, it's a great idea to add a festive flair to your tresses with super cute hair accessories! From grown-up sparkly rhinestone barrettes to head-turning headbands, these hair ornaments will take your hair from flat to festive in seconds!

Would you wear hair adornments this holiday season?

Check out some of these:


Crystal Patch Headband available at www.express.com for $19.50


Adornment Bobby Pins available at www.forever21.com for $3.80


Double Metallic Embellishment Headband available at www.express.com for $19.50


Juicy Couture Sequin Stone Hair Clips available at www.couture.zappos.com for $55


Ropy Headband available at www.anthropologie.com for $32


Rhinestone Barrettes available at www.windsorstore.com for $6.90


Rhinestone Cluster Headband available at www.charlotterusse.com for $3.99


Tasha "Funfetti" Headband available at www.nordstrom.com for $28

My Favorite Beauty Buys for the Mommy-to-Be and Beyond!

We all know that there are myriad products on the market geared toward pregnant women, but the truth is that some of these products are just as great for non-expectant women. Since I've received quite a few emails from fellow moms-to-be, I thought that it would be a good idea to share some of my favorite products (all of which have been reviewed on BGG in the past) that are good for all, but especially beneficial to us pregnant BGs.

Have you tried these products? One lucky winner will win a bottle of Bio Oil. Just leave a comment and a winner will be announced on Friday!

BTW - The winner of The Princess & the Frog Carol's Daughter set is Mimieyes. Congrats and please send me your mailing address!


Bio-Oil available at www.walmart.com (and most drugstores nationwide) for $11.99


Mask of Magnaminty Cleanser available at www.lushusa.com for $20


Priti Organic Nail Polishes available at www.pritinyc.com. Check website for pricing.


Carol's Daughter Sexy Belly available at www.carolsdaughter.com for $20


Yes to Carrots Body Butter available at www.drugstore.com for $12.99

The Princess & The Frog #1 at the Box Office!

For all of you with little girls (and boys) in your life, Disney's first animated film starring an African-American princess, The Princess and the Frog hopped to the top spot at the box office this weekend grossing $25 million! Oh how I wish Baby BGG was born and already 4-years-old so we could've gone to see this ground-breaking movie together, but oh well, I'll wait patiently for her arrival next month!



As many of you know, my favorite natural bath & body line, Carol's Daughter, has teamed up with Disney to create a special The Princess & the Frog shampoo, conditioner, bubble bath and loofah in a super cute drawstring bag for your little princess!



Gift Set available at www.carolsdaughter.com for $24

Did you take your daughter, niece or little sister to see this movie? If not, do you plan on seeing it this holiday season? One lucky reader will win the Carol's Daughter Princess & the Frog gift set! Just leave a comment and a winner will be selected randomly and announced on Wednesday.

The Best Beauty Sets of the Season!

Now is the time to stock up on limited edition makeup palettes for you or the makeup maven in your life. During the holiday season you can always find great deals on luxury cosmetic sets, from lip glosses to brush sets. My favorites are the lip-gloss sets from Victoria's Secret. Get them while you can because they definitely won't last long!

Happy Shopping!

Do you buy makeup gift sets during the holiday season?


Victoria's Secret Lip Gloss & Balm Gift Set available at www.victoriassecret.com for $21.99


Bobbi Brown Limited Edition Glitter Lip Palette available at www.barneys.com for $40


Clinique Limited Edition High Shine-to-Go set available at www.bergdorfgoodman.com for $30


Lancome Holiday Eye Palette available at www.bloomingdales.com for $39.50


Laura Mercier Limited Edition Palette and Lip Glaze Set available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $48


Laura Mercier Baked Eye Color Palette available at www.neimanmarcus.com for $48


Laura Mercier Limited Edition Deluxe Mini Brush Set available at www.bergdorfgoodman.com for $85


Limited Edition Juicy Tubes available at www.bergdorfgoodman.com for $39.50


Lord & Taylor Beauty Now Face Palette available at www.lordandtaylor.com for $16