Events
HERE'S OUR NEXT EVENT! WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!
REMEMBER ITS FREE & ITS A FAMILY AFFAIR!
Our Mother:Daughter photoshoot event was a success! We'd Like to thank everyone for participating!
Pictures will be posted soon!
In honor of Women's History Month in March we featured different women with a variety of backgrounds and industries to show our appreciation and love for what they are doing in the community. These women were chosen by other women in the community who admired and supported the TRAILBLAZING moves these women are making in society! Check out their stories!
TODAY'S TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY IS .....KIMBERLY MCCARTER!!
A native of New York City, Kimberly moved to Philadelphia,
PA in her early childhood years where she was raised by her family to be a
strong and independent woman. With this mindset, Kimberly was able to graduate magna cum laude at DeVry University-Fort
Washington with a Bachelors of Science degree in Business Administration. As a
plus size woman, Kimberly has always had an eye for plus size fashion and an
interest in businesses that cater to the plus-size community. Although never having an interest in and/or
being the fashion model type, Kimberly decided early on that if she were to
play a role in the plus size industry, it would be one behind the scenes. Kimberly first tried her hand at the plus
size industry when she co-founded The Curvy Spot, a fashion and night life blog
for plus size women. . It was after its
inception that opportunities in the industry began to peak her interest.
Kimberly has held high positions in a number of endeavors through the plus
community. Positions like “Executive Assitant and Event Editor” for SKORCH
MAGAZINE, “Merchant Advertiser” for Diane Brille Cosmetics, and a host of event
participation with major events like Full Figured Fashion Week and The Curvy
Revolution.
Currently, Kimberly is the Public
Relations Coordinator for Bigger And Better Thangs
Entertainment, Inc. ("BBT"), a New York based entertainment company
that was formed in May of 2003 and provides the plus size community and businesses with a
positive opportunity to mix, mingle and network through various social, and virtual
events! Although Kimberly has a few exciting projects that she is
currently working on, what she holds dear to her heart is her work with Project
Curve Appeal (“PCA”), a membership based organization whose mission is to
uplift and empower plus size women to reach their full potential and become
comfortable in their own form while maintaining active and healthy lifestyles
(a philosophy Kimberly also lives by). She
currently holds the position of City Movement Manager and Chapter Owner for
PCA’s NYC chapter.
(this biography has been edited)
TODAY'S TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY IS....EDDWINA GREG!!!
Eddwina
Gregg is a dynamic fashionista that currently balances her spare time
between being a Plus Model, Entrepreneur and On-air Radio Personality.
She hails from Baltimore, Maryland, but since moving to New York in
2008, she has pursued her passion for all things couture. She has
strutted down the catwalk during The 2011 Curvy Revolution and 2010 Full
Figured Fashion Week in the Full Figured & Fabulous Runway
Competition; she was a finalist in the Goddess by Juanita Kelly Model
Search, and has appeared on the Tyra Banks Show. In addition to her role
as a plus model, she also co-hosts an online radio show, Chocolate
Sundays (
As equally important as her high-fashion fancy, however, is her
dedication to academic and professional success. She graduated #1 in her
Baltimore City Community College class and motivated to continue
her advanced education; she enrolled in Morgan State University and
graduated with honors in 2008 – earning a bachelor’s degree in Finance.
Last Fall, she left her burgeoning corporate career to pursue her dream
of opening a boutique. The boutique, Eddy and Bri (www.eddyandbri.com) launched in October 2011 and focuses on trendy and affordable clothing for plus size women. Eddy
and Bri sells garments that allow plus size women to be fashionable and
feel good about what they are wearing by offering new and resale
clothing for plus size women sizes 14+. The company focuses on plus size
women that are constantly in search of fashionable clothing that is
both affordable and well made.
The
boutique offers unique finds that can be worn all over town. Garments
are carefully selected to accentuate the curves of plus size women.
Balancing affordability and quality, Eddy and Bri brings you fashion for
your curves!
TODAY'S TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY IS....THE LOVELY SHANDA FREEMAN!!
Born and
raised in Newburgh, NY Shanda Freeman was destined to do great things! Becoming
a young mother at the tender age of 15 did not stop her from believing she
would achieve all her dreams!
Beginning her career in HIV/AIDS Services in 1996, Shanda worked as a
Case Manager and Counselor for over 8 years. This rewarding and life changing
career allowed her to overcome and leave an emotionally and physically abusive
first marriage. In helping others she gained the strength to help herself! In
2002, Shanda met and fell in love with the “love of her life” and current
husband, Fatman Scoop! In 2007, they created their sex and relationship advice
podcast Man and Wife! With a combination of their wit, charm, and life
experiences they are able to provide their 5 million plus audience with real
and unabashed “love” advice! Man and Wife debut on MTV in 2008!
In
branching out on her own, Shanda created Shanda Says! Shanda Says vlogs and
advice column offers her audience a place of experience, compassion, enjoyment,
and fashion! Shanda has contributed her advice articles to numerous media
outlets such as; Essence.com, AOL BlackVoices, The New York Post, and Straight
Stuntin Magazine to name a few. She has served as Empowerment Editor at Plus
Model Magazine and contributes her Love and Life column at Venus Diva Magazine!
Shanda Says vlogs can also be found on HELLO BEAUTIFUL.COM, and MOUTH TO
EARS.COM and is currently writing her first book! Shanda has also made a name
for herself in the plus size community advocating for women of size to be
treated with the love and respect they deserve. She tours the country
delivering speaking engagements at different schools and colleges offering
young people and women her life story of strength and overcoming obstacles. Her
love of fashion will have her branching out and conquering her dream of
Clothing Designer and as well! She continues to be an “All or Nothing” woman!
For Shanda, there are no limits, only opportunities!!
CONGRATS SHANDA....OUR TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY. NEVER FOLLOWING TRENDS...ALWAYS SETTING THEM!!
TODAY'S TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY IS....JEANNIE FERGUSON!
Who says you have to be six feet tall with a gorgeous mane to make it as a model? Not 5'3 close cropped, Plus Petite Powerhouse Jeannie Ferguson. Jeannie, always a go getter, with over a decade as a fixture behind the scenes as a Buyer, Merchandiser, Allocator, and Product Development Coordinator and in her present position as Product Manager is an asset to the fashion biz. However, while taking notice of fashion industry standards in comparison to "real women" she recognized a desire to see something different. Jeannie made the decision to be the difference. As one half of the burgeoning Plus Fashion House, Big Girls United (BGU) Jeannie, took over the runway as a last minute replacement for a no-show model. As soon as the crowd laid eyes on the 5'3, size 14 strutting her stuff they took to their feet and the roar was deafening. At that moment, Jeannie knew there was no turning back. In the batting of a lash, Jeannie has knocked down many barriers and has overcome tremendous obstacles in a land of glamazons. Having a career as a runway and print model is any mannequins dream but Jeannie wanted more. She is now one of the most sought after Plus Petite Fit Models in the industry. Her great rapport with her clients such as South Pole, Rocawear, Coogie, Beveryly Hills Polo Club, Dereon, Bootylicious, Ed Hardy, American Rag, Karl Kani, Fit Logic, and of course BGU, leaves them speaking highly of her inside knowledge and perfect curves. With her expert knowledge, print, runway, and fit experience, it seems as though suddenly the industry is dreaming of Jeannie.
CONGRATS JEANNIE..OUR TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY. CLEARLY NEVER FOLLOWING TRENDS...INSTEAD...SHE SETS THEM!
Queen Latifah!! Born Dana Owens in the Newark, NJ area Queen Latifah had humble beginnings straight from the start. In a household with a mom as a teacher and a dad as a police officer Dana was raised in a Baptist Church. Can you believe she found her stage name "Latifah" in an Islamic book at the tender age of 8. Dana was always known as a "round the way girl"....and still is. That is one of the many reasons we love her. She's endured her share of tough times from her parents divorcing when she was ten, being carjacked in 1993, and loosing her closest friend, her brother Lancelot Jr. in later years. The Queen has never allowed personal tragedies and the media's constant ridicule of her being a woman of SIZE stop her from claiming her place in this world....ON TOP!! Queen Latifah is doing her name much justice by succeeding in everything she do. From making history in the music industry in a number of different genres (hip hop, R&B, and even Jazz) to blowing up the box offices in some of her most noted films "House Party", "Set It Off", "Bringing Down the House", "Ice Age", "Hairspray", & "Chicago". Let's not forget her starring role on Fox's television sitcom "Living Single"and her recurring role on Fresh Prince of Belair. The Queen even has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. But the Queen was just getting started. She now dominates EVERY aspect of entertainment & pop culture. Not just in music and film but she also now has her very own clothing line "QC: Queen Collection" sold exclusively via HSN. And lets not forget she IS a COVERGIRL and has her own cosmetic line also titled "Queen Collection". She's a producer, and owner of Flavor Unit Record Label. I don't think we need to tell you that Queen Latifah NEVER followed trends....she sets them (but of course...you know this already) TODAY WE HONOR QUEEN LATIFAH! Our TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY! JERSEY LOVES YOU!!
Today's TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY (everyday woman edition) is GWEN DEVOE.
Gwen DeVoe!! A celebrity in her own right, Gwen is a former athlete and party promoter who later became a plus model. Her frustrations in trying to advance as a plus model led her into turning her passion for plus modeling into a business whose mission is to provide education, consultation, and opportunities to women who are interested in the industry. Gwen has been a long time advocate and supporter of increasing the visibility of fuller figures on fashion runways. In 1998 she successfully opened
Always willing to share the gift of empowerment with other women of
size, Gwen is a highly sought-after motivational speaker on the topics
of body image, plus modeling and fashion consultation for plus size
women and teens. Her television credits include the nationally
syndicated Ricki Lake Show, Fox 5's Good Day New York morning show,
Insider's Edition and New York 1 News. If you are indeed interested in being a successful plus model...do your homework because Gwen DeVoe is definitely a name, face, and BUSINESS you should know of. Aside from being a phenomenal businesswoman Ms. DeVoe is an amazing human being. You can always find her giving back to a local organization or charity. For this we honor GWEN DEVOE!! Clearly not following trends, but SETTING them!!
Today's TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY (celebrity edition) is OPRAH.
OPRAH WINFREY!! A woman consistently making history. Oprah was born in Mississippi and later migrated North to live with her father. After working her way through college Oprah became interested in Journalism. One thing led to another and she was blessed with the opportunity to have her very own show...The Oprah Winfrey Show. The show has broken many cultural and political barriers. Oprah is no stranger t having weight issues. However, she never allowed what the media had to say or even her own insecurities prevent her from being one of the most powerful women in the world. Did you know Oprah was also nominated for an Oscar for "The Color Purple"? Most recently Oprah has retired the Oprah show and went on to bigger and better things. She now owns her very own cable network called "OWN". These are just a couple of the many accomplishments and accolades given to Oprah. Thanks for being a confident, strong, and determined woman. Most importantly thank you for being a trailblazer and making history for the generations to follow.
Today's TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY (everyday women edition) is our very own Vice President...FELECIA!!
Felecia Crute was born in Newark, NJ during the 1967 Newark riots. It seemed to be destined for Felecia to be a soldier in this war we call LIFE. Felecia has always been known as a go getter and a peoples person. At the age of 20 Felecia gave birth to a beautiful baby girl and dedicated her entire life to making sure her daughter was well taken care of. In and out of schools and always holding a great job she even worked for Newark City Hall. Being a career professional and an amazing mother wasn't the only things she was good at. Fee (as her close friends and family would call her) went on to complete Cosmetology school and opened a hair salon in the Ironbound section of Newark, NJ. However life for Ms. Crute hasn't always been a crystal stare. In the beginning of a new century Felecia slipped into the dangerous life of drugs & alcohol. For 3-4 years her entire world came crashing down around her. But by the grace of God she relocated to Philadelphia, PA and was able to come out of that darkness and has transformed herself to be ten times better then who she was before. She tackled earning an Associates, Bachelors, and currently working on a dual Masters/Ph.D program at Drexel University all in 5 years!! She is living the NA program and is never too proud to share her story with others. Currently she is a mentor to many in the Philadelphia community and she has chosen a career in the field of Drug & Alcohol rehabilitation. She is changing lives each and every day and this is truly only the beginning. WE ARE PROUD TO HONOR FELECIA CRUTE!! OUR TRAILBLAZER OF THE DAY. A woman who refuses to follow trends....instead...SHE SETS THEM!
The women of Elite Plus are looking for strong, curvy, and confident women in the NJ, NY, & PA areas to join our team!! Inquire by filling out the "contact us" form.
ALSO .....we are working on providing all of you beautiful women an opportunity to MODEL!! That's right!! No experience necessary! As a matter of fact...WE'LL SHOW YOU THE ROPES! Photoshoot parties is coming to a city near you in NJ, NY, & PA!!! STAY TUNED!!
ONLY $10 UNTIL 9/5 $15 AFTER
SHELTER STUDIOS PENTHOUSE #1
224 W. 54TH STREET
NEW YORK, NY
"Bottles & Models" is a networking event catering to plus size women with interest in entering into the world of Plus Modeling. There will be five different sessions with presentations given by Curvy professionals. Here is the line up:
Session#1: "Model 101"- Learn the ins and outs of being a successful plus model from a noted Plus Size Model in the industry. Find out the necessary steps you have to take to get to the top. BRING YOUR PENS AND PADS!
Session#2: "Your Angel"- A photographer will school you on knowing your body and understanding what angles will speak to the camera lens and produce amazing shots!
Session#3: "Make Up: Make Down"- Want to know when enough is enough? Are you tired of walking around looking like a clown face? Need to know the best products to use? Get great tips on make up applications. (TWO LUCKY LADIES WILL RECEIVE 60 SECOND MAKEOVERS)
AND MUCH MUCH MORE!!
Meet Our Curvy Professionals for this event:
 |
Mike of Bigger & Better Thangs (BBT_ENT)
Entrepeneur & CEO of BBT, Host of Chocolate Sundays radio show
|
|
 |
Crystal Carmen
Make up Artsist, CEO of Glam R Us/Pink Stiletto Cosmetics
|
|
 |
Jeannie Ferguson
Plus Model *fit, print, & runway* (BET RIP The Runway, Plus Model Magazine, Face of BGU, Rocawear, E!)
|
|
 |
Shanda Freeman
Fashionista, Vlogger, Co-Host of ManandWife of MTV, Host of FFF Week
|
|
 |
Gwen DeVoe
CEO, Creator, & Executive Producer of Full Figured Fashion Week (FFF Week), DeVoe Signature Events, Plus Academy
|
| |
NEW VENTURES | LAUNCH DATE |
E+ Exclusives Newsletter | September 2011 |
"Bottles & Models" A Plus Model Pow Wow | October 8, 2011 2pm-5pm NYC |
The POWER of M.E. (Miniature Elites Workshop) | November 2011 New Jersey |
Bigger is Better- Speed Dating Event | November 2011 NYC |
Toy Drive | December 2011 New Jersey & NYC |
Diva of the Year Competition | Spring 2012 |
DANGER: Curves Ahead Fashion Show | Spring 2012 |
Etiquette Class (Miniature Elites) | January 2012 |
Miniature Elite F.A.T. (Fabulous and Thick) Camp | Summer 2012 |
And Much Much More... |
|
