Opt for Intimacy
Although everyone who is invited to the shower should also be invited to the wedding, the reverse is not the case. As fellow TFL’er Eve points out, you’re not required to invite all of the women who are invited to the wedding to the shower. Some keep their bridal shower cozy by helping their maid of honor put together a guest list that included only those females closest to them — plus the relatives their mothers made them invite!

There’s nothing wrong with keeping a shower small and intimate. Otherwise, it may begin to feel like the wedding itself. However, the bride and the hostess may want to consider adding some of the wives or girlfriends of the groom’s good friends. The bride will no doubt be spending a good deal of time with these women in the future, and if she’s not close with them already, her shower is a good opportunity to begin building friendships.

Be Group Savvy
The all or none rule applies to the bridal shower guest list just as it does to the wedding guest list: To avoid offending anyone, it’s best to invite everyone who is part of a specific group instead of singling out just a few of them. For example, if you invite a group of women from the bride’s office or a group of her mother’s friends, you have to invite all of them or some will feel left out. One exception: The boss. You can invite the bride’s boss without inviting her co-workers, but never vice versa – inviting co-workers and omitting the boss!

Go Co-Ed
Also known as a Jack and Jill shower, co-ed showers (a shower for both the bride and the groom) are growing in popularity. The guest list is co-ed, and gifts are chosen with both the bride and groom in mind. If the bride is a true traditionalist, a co-ed shower is probably not the way to go. Most co-ed showers feel more like regular parties because they tend to lose that just-the-girls-sitting-around-gossiping feeling. On the positive side, many brides and their friends as well as the men involved get a real kick out of co-ed showers. TFL Spokesperson Kelli Sturm says the co-ed shower she attended was the best one she had ever been too. “It wasn’t stuffy, it was very relaxed and the games and interaction with the other couples was fun!”

Double Up
Some brides have friends and family in different, faraway states, and trying to plan one shower to accommodate everyone can be a logistical nightmare. Fortunately, having two or more showers is perfectly fine. If there is more than one person ready and willing to throw the bride a shower, great! In fact, as Kelli points out, having more than one shower is definitely a good way for everyone to be covered. “If the bride’s mom is having one and the bride’s workplace is organizing another, everyone can be included.” Plus, as Eve adds, if there will be a shower in a location far from where the wedding will take place (for example, a shower in the bride’s hometown when the wedding is being held elsewhere), guests who may not be able to make the wedding because they live too far away will be able to join in the shower festivities.

Having more than one shower is also a great way to avoid any personality conflicts. For example, if the bride has a mother and a stepmother and the two don’t get along, inviting them to different showers will make for more enjoyable parties.

By the way, some guests should be included on more than one shower guest list. The female members of the bride’s and groom’s immediate families plus the bride’s attendants should be invited to any and all showers. Don’t worry, they’re only expected to give a gift once.

Flowers being ordered to another love interest isn’t a problem, but tolls are. Records for electronic toll collection systems, like E-ZPass, are now being used to prove infidelity. Your boyfriend may have said he was in Pennsylvania, but E-ZPass may prove he was really in New Jersey.

Sadly, stories like these are hardly uncommon. Almost 50% of people admit they have been unfaithful at some point in their lives, which means sooner or later many of us will have to deal with a wandering eye — ours or our lover’s. But don’t lose hope just yet. There are ways to avoid infidelity as well as repair a relationship already damaged by an affair.

When He Breaks Your Heart
Discovering that your significant other is having an affair is a nightmare. Suddenly, your world is crumbling, but it doesn’t have to. Maybe that hubby who was caught sneaking deserves the worst being handed to him, but that isn’t the only answer. Sometimes, you can rebuild your trust, and you can fall in love all over again:

Preventing an Affair
Relationships will always ebb and flow, and inevitably, there will be moments when temptation beckons your partner. But if you’re worried he might give in, you need to determine the root of you suspicion and communicate your fears to your man. Are these your issues left over from a previous relationship? Or is your lover really straying? Find out:

When You’re the One Who’s Tempted
Studies show that women are just as likely as men to cheat, which means you may have thought about it. First of all, don’t feel guilty if you’re having naughty thoughts about the UPS guy who delivers packages to your office. He’s cute, and those brown shorts look really good on him! Instead, snag your ‘him’ his own UPS uniform, and role play. But even if you have more than a harmless crush on another man and are on the brink of having an affair, you can still find alternatives to jumping into bed with that other man, whom you didn’t promise to love, honor and cherish.

Stretch marks are often red or purple at first, before gradually fading to a silvery-white color. Stretch marks may also occur as a result of abnormal collagen formation, or a result of medications or chemicals that interfere with collagen formation. They may also be associated with longtime use of cortisone compounds, diabetes, Cushing disease, and post-pregnancy. Stretch marks also may occur if a person uses steroid-containing skin creams

There are many treatment options for stretch marks. Dermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser surgery can be used to address surplus stretch marks.

Laser Treatments for Stretch Marks
Laser treatment for stretch marks is a new and rapid way to get rid of stubborn scar-like lines running across your belly, thighs, and upper arms after pregnancy. Laser surgery uses a narrow beam of light that transmits through the skin helping to stimulate the cells in the dermis to produce new tissue. Laser surgery for stretch marks work by repairing the collagen layer under the thin layer of skin.

Vitamins for stretch marks
Vitamins are also significant in helping the appearance of stretch marks. Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals that maintain hale skin is thought to prevent stretch marks. These vitamins and minerals include: Vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and silica. Vitamin E is useful both inside and outside of the body. When taken as a supplement it is a powerful antioxidant for protecting and healing the skin. Use vitamin E oil on your stretch marks. Massage it into your skin after a shower.

Cocoa Butter and Stretch Marks
Cocoa butter is widely recommended. Cocoa butter has been touted as a possible solution to getting rid of stretch marks. It is natural and safe. Cocoa butter is useful because it can penetrate the top layer of the skin, and it can reach down to the dermis, which is also known as the second layer.

Exercises to get rid of Stretch Marks
Exercises that keep the skin firm and fighting stretch mark outbreaks. You can do biceps curls and shoulder rotation exercises in water which should help you.

We caught up with the Brittney — who is filming (as of April 2013) the indie film “Skin” — to talk self style and the pros and cons of maintaining the tough demands of Hollywood.

The Fame Life: You moved to Los Angeles to take advantage of the resources towards your acting career. How did you come to that big decision and was there any fear with such a move?
Brittney: When I was approaching my final year in college, I knew I had to have a game plan, and I knew that if I really wanted to have a successful career in Entertainment, I HAD to move to a bigger market, no question about it. So what better place than Hollywood! I originally was supposed to make the big move when I graduated, but doubt struck me as I didn’t have any money saved up. So I made a goal to give myself one year to save up to move, and EXACTLY one year later, I kept my word to myself and made the move. Of course I was scared; I was leaving my comfort zone… My family, friends, and a great job, to go chase the unknown. It was the biggest leap of faith I’ve ever taken.

Body image plays a big role in the TV world of acting. How have you dealt with that and other weight issues on a personal level?
Living in LA has made me realize that your appearance is EVERYTHING! When it comes to acting and being on screen, talent serves a very small percentage of the total package. Fortunately, I haven’t had a lot of issues in regards to my weight; I’ve always been naturally thin. However, being thin still isn’t good enough. You have to be thin, toned, and have extreme sex appeal in entertainment. There have been times that I was told that I was too skinny. So to keep up with my competition, I had to change my eating habits, work out at least three times a week, and make sure my hair and makeup is on point no matter where I go.

What inspires Ms. Brittney Qúianna the businesswoman and who inspires Brittney Q. Hill the person?
What inspires Brittney Qúianna the business woman is the understanding that it’s not all about me. Nothing is better than being able to fulfill my dreams and purpose while inspiring others. I don’t believe acting or modeling is my purpose, it’s just my platform. But I do believe I’ve been placed in a position to be a POSITIVE role model in an industry that is thought of as everything but “Good.” I want people to see me and know that you can still be successful without having to compromise who you are spiritually, mentally, physically, etc. As for what inspires Brittney Q. Hill the person, my family. Everything I do is for them.

What is your secret to maintaining good skin?
It’s definitely been trial and error for me. Maintaining good skin has always been a challenge for me. I have really oily skin, so blemishes come all the time. What’s worked best for me is making sure to remove all make up at the end of the day no matter how tired I am, and then using an exfoliating facial cleanser with a Clarisonic brush. It gets all the residue out of my pores and removes all dead skin. At night I make sure to apply a Retin-A serum which tightens and brightens the skin; and during the day I use an oil free moisturizer with a low SPF for protection against the sun.

Do you feel like what you eat affects your skin at all?
Absolutely! For me, sugary foods make me break out, as well as too much caffeine. I try to avoid sweets unless it’s for a special occasion, and I drink as much water as possible.

What is the one product that you can’t live without?
Moisturizer. Keeping the skin moisturized and replenished is the key to looking youthful. I think your skin takes the most stress because it’s constantly exposed, and it’s the first thing people notice about you, it’s your outer layer. It’s important to keep it hydrated and beautiful.

What are some of the little things women (and some men) forget about doing before stepping out to a party or event?
I think the difference is always in the details! For both men and women, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of networking, make sure you carry some discreet breath mints and lipstick (or chapstick for gentlemen) to stay fresh. And a nice perfume or cologne doesn’t hurt. Also remember, you are constantly branding yourself, so never ever leave the house without your business cards!

Where is one destination you still need a stamp for on your passport?
Rio de Janeiro!! I actually plan on attending the next 2016 Olympic Games there. Can’t wait!

What are your summer must haves?
Bright neon color nail polish, plenty of ripped bleached shorts and a variety of wedged heels! I’m by the beach so I’ll be showing plenty of leg this summer!

What are 3 things you absolutely HAVE to HAVE to walk out the door with for an event outing:
Definitely my iPhone, MAC lipstick and business cards!

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Stripes

(Oscar De La Renta, Michael Kors, TopShop)

Strips are literally everywhere! From the runways of Lanvin to Michael Kors, this trend will add a cool and casual touch to your spring wardrobe. Weather you decide to choose horizontal or vertical stripes, thats strictly up to you but remember to choose wisely. Horizontals will make you look wider while vertical stripes will elongate your body.

Ruffels

(Gucci, Gucci, Chloe)

Ruffles are not only girly and fun but super fabulous! If you are looking to make a stunning statement this spring, pick up a few pieces and remember, with this trend bigger is better!!!

Black and White

(Givenchy, Alexander Wang, Jason Wu)

When someone thinks of spring, floral prints and pastels usually comes to mind but not in 2013! This year, designers are all about black and white (ok, some floral and pastels too but you get my drift). This trend is extremely sleek and easy to pull off. Wheather you are at the office or on a hot date, this trend will carry you through.

Leather

Leather in the spring? Absolutely! A luxe leather piece is essential to your spring shopping list. This sturdy fabric comes in ligher weights and rich colors just for warmer weathers. Oh and remember, leather is an investment item so not only will they be great for the spring but they are also great trabsitional pieces for the other seasons as well.

Prints

Regardless if its animal, floral or global, prints are a must have in every fashionistas wardrobe this spring. You can mix and match them for a funky look or if you are a little more reserved, wear just a print dress or one piece with a solid item.

Cropped Tops

(Derek Lam, Peter Som, Balenciaga)

If you’re a fitness nut or just simply blessed with great abs, cropped tops are for you! You can rock them with anything from boyfriend jeans to high waisted skirts. Fab!

Bermuda Shorts

(Rag & Bone, DKNY,  Chloe)

These slouchy shorts are ultra chic and very flattering. They are perfect for fashionistas of every shape and size. Paired with a cute top and your favorite flats for a very cool spring look!

Flats and Low Heels

(Peter Som, Marc Jacobs, Peter Som)

Ok lets be honest, high heels will always be sexy (I am definitely a fan of those 5 inch stunners) but back in style again in a big way are flats and low heels. What I love about these heels are the fact that they provide a nice option to have especially during the daytime. They come in all colors and pattern so they will compliment any spring outfit. So why not leave those uncomfortable high heels for night time fun and choose a more practical and comfortable shoe (still stylish!) for the day?

Short Suits

(Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Matthew Williamson)

This look was all over the runways here in New York. It’s very versatile and office-appropriate, and the best part? It comes in all price points!

 Sheer Panel

(Chado Ralph Rucci, Christopher Kane, Emilio Pucci)

And last but definitely not least, the sheer panel trend. This look is ultra feminine and gives you a sexy look and a beautiful silhouette without being too sexy. Sheer panels can be found in pants, dresses, tops etc. Paired with a solid piece, this look will work for both days and night.

So now that you know what the top trends are, it should make it easier for you to update your wardrobe and enter Spring…fashionably. Till next time

I’ve often found it useful, especially during stretches of professional or personal frustration, to think of my life as a long strand of pearls. Each precious little orb is connected to the next one, and to the next. Let’s say each pearl represents a desire, or a goal to meet. The only way to keep your life moving forward is to seize life by the pearls.

How can this strand-of-pearls metaphor work for you? Envision something you really want to be or do, and make that the last pearl at the end of a strand. And the great thing is, you can wear lots of different strands of pearls.

We are all subject to the same risks despite the differences in us.

The Fame Life: What’s the biggest misconception people have about operating a boutique store, regardless of specialty?
Samantha: That it’s easy lol. I think people think that it’s a fun and fabulous job and it can be but it’s so much work. I am always working.. Regardless if I’m in my store or not. I’m always answering emails, sending out packages, doing the accounting, marketing, etc..it’s never ending. Also dealing with some customers can be trying at times.

What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of owning a boutique is that I am my own boss. I make my own hours and come and go as I please. I also love being surrounded by fashion all the time. Can’t beat that!

If you could only buy one new piece of clothing for the fall, what would it be?
A great pair of high boots.

How does style change you from the outside in?
Depending on what I’m wearing affect my mood..I love comfort and usually dress comfortably but when I’m glammed up, I feel beyond fierce.

Name an item of clothing that would put you into a state – of – horror if you were FORCED to wear it. I’m talking out of the house… To work, meeting with friends on a date…
Flared pants..I hate them!! I really, really do lol

Many women can’t make peace with the size on the tag. Why is it so important to give up waging that inner battle?
Oh I see this a lot! What women have to understand is that no 2 company or designers use the exact same measurement. I can wear a 6 from one store and a 10 in another. On top of that, you have to take into consideration the country that the clothes were made in. Italian sizes differs from French and so forth. It’s best to go up or down a size for the best fit instead of being stuck at a number you think you should be and wearing an ill fitted garment.

What’s the craziest thing you ever did to get a guy to notice you?
Honestly I’m shy and a little introverted so I always wait to be noticed or for a guy to approach me. I’m never the pursuer lol.

What are some of the little forgotten things women (and some men) forget about doing before stepping out to a party or event?
To pack small essentials such as mints, small perfume/cologne, tissues, powder, etc. When you are going to an event, you want to make sure you have these items just in case you need to freshen up a bit.

Five items that MUST be in your handbag AT ALL TIMES?
Lotion (anyone who knows me knows I have serious OCD with lotion), lip stick, business cards, my Mac Powder, and a notebook (with a pen..I know that’s technically 6 lol).

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For nearly 30 years, no black woman was cast as the lead of a major network drama. That’s all changed within the last 18 months, as two shows with black female stars now appear on prime time, and more appear to be in the pipeline.

She has been deserving of this for such a long time, but there’s always someone else who gets it. Well now it’s Meagan’s time to shine!

Now NBC has been trying to push Meagan Good for a long while. Is this their chance to finally do it? My answer is yes. This will elevate both her and Kerry Washington (of ABC’s series “Scandal”).

Now honestly, Meagan Good has everything NBC looks for in a top actress. According to most broadcast nets, a lead actress needs general acting talent, good delivery, and some sex appeal. I believe that Meagan has all of these qualities.

As far as it comes to the battle for ratings I think it’ll be a great sell point: Meagan is one of the most talented actresses in the “Black Hollywood” community.

Something I am afraid of though is that there might be the perception of Meagan’s show coming off as a copycat of the ABC series, which is not the case.

I know the ‘community’ wants to start a feud between Meagan and Kerry, but they are insulting her and us because I know I’m not the only one who wants her pushed right?

Let me sum it up.

Meagan Good is an amazing actress who deserves a push. She has just received a spot on primetime television on the biggest network and is looking to win it.

She is just ready to break out, but if NBC is just temporarily putting her in there to push viewership to a choice between Meagan and Kerry then that is just like a big slap in the face to Meagan. Basically I hope the show gets pushed sooner than later.

Whether its a backless dress or a J.Lo-style plunging neckline that creates a head-turning effect, there’s always a need for a little backup when it comes to making sure all of our goods stay–well–in the right places.

So we’ve put together a few essentials to have on hand so you can tackle the problem before it ever becomes an issue. Here’s our list of products that can help prevent that ever-dreaded wardrobe malfunction. Hollywood’s most fashion-forward stars depend on some of these gadgets and tapes on the red carpet, and you can too!

After all, it’s not easy getting glam!

And oh, how caring he is—the most understanding man and the best listener you’ve ever met. He sends you flowers, calls to check in with you throughout the day, just because. He places you on a pedestal so high you can touch cloud nine. He satisfies your needs—at least one or two of them—until he’s forced to leave skid marks in your doorway to get home to “them.”

In his eyes, you’re perfect. Not quite perfect enough to immediately leave his wife and sweep you off the market so no other can have you, but perfect enough to be his mistress for like ever—or until his wife figures out he’s cheating—whichever comes first. Of course this isn’t an issue because you didn’t want a monogamous, committed relationship with a man who puts you first anyway or you have had trouble keeping men who are not married. God forbid both of you have kids. Sheesh.

Do you believe that you can achieve the happiness you are seeking out of a relationship with a married man? That question is almost rhetorical, since if the answer were yes, then you would not be seeking advice to begin with.

If a married man knew how to handle a woman, and the relationship, would not his own marriage be happy? Often, a married man seeking a woman will comment that they are not happy in the marriage. To put it bluntly, happiness is what you make it. If that man put forth the effort into his marriage that he is putting into finding a new woman, things might be different.

Simply, if that man knew how to handle his relationship, why would he have a problem with his wife? What makes you so sure he is serious into you at this time?

By saying the kind of things you want to hear, they trap your imagination and make you a product to satisfy their lust. Think about this. If honesty in a relationship is important to you, then how could you be dating a married man? While he is dating you, everyday he must lie and deceive his wife. At what point would you begin wondering if he is lying to you? Before you comment that he would not, think about it. God forbid you are giving out relationship advice or participating in blog discussions criticizing others relationships.

One thing that is common in extra-marital relationships is the married man sets all the rules for the relationship. Are you willing to lose your individuality and personal freedom for someone that may not be able to be there when you need them? The reality is you will never have personal freedom. He will set all the rules and let you know when you can call or see him. In the meantime, you will wait as the world, and honest men, pass you by.

If two of the top criteria for finding a partner are honesty and reliability, then how does a married man fit into the picture? Love should never include dishonesty. If your partner is in a relationship and has to lie or sneak away to be with you, then love does not truly exist. If the relationship is purely sexual, then how do you expect to survive in a full relationship?

Even better, these theories that others have of women who date married men are “bulls@#t” in your eyes. But in reality, these are things that people have already declared in their minds upon hearing excuse #46549 why your ‘boyfriend’ wasn’t able to make it to your social gathering:

You have low self esteem… and you’d like to keep it that way. Let’s face it, nothing says “I hate me” more than to willingly accept the second-class stepchild status you’ll be relegated to for the entirety of your relationship with this man.

You’re no “ho”—hos do it for free. You’re so right. There’s another term for women who do it for pay. Hey, he’s wining and dining you, buying clothes and jewelry, paying a bill or two (maybe even the mortgage). Way to blow the kids’ college fund. It’s all good though because fair exchange is no robbery. Just be thankful you can’t put a price tag on character. That would really suck.

You just want sex and don’t want or need a commitment. Hmph. Too bad his wife did. Still, it’s great that you found someone who gives you exactly what you want. Thank goodness you’ll never need more.

The unexpected doorbell ringing at 10pm. Perhaps he’ll leave after his wife after she finds out about your affair and throws his stuff out onto the street, you know, kind of like quitting your job after you got fired. Then you’ll have a real prize on your hands. A man who can appear at your doorstep with some of those belongings thrown out to him, as he is now ready to devote his attention to you full-time.

You, did want him enough to date him, right? If so, what’s wrong with him finally ditching his wife to wear off his wedding ring tan with you full-time? Is it still worth the game-playing, even if the single men on the market ‘play too many games?’

If so, that’s too much work for a come-up.