Sharing my dreams...

A few days ago I posted something on my facebook page that seemed to resonate with several people. My post stated, "Be careful who you share your dreams with." I'm speaking for myself when I say I have learned that everyone will not be happy with the decisions you make in your life. There have been several people in my life that have not agreed with the things I've done like quitting my "good county job" (although there was nothing really good about it) to run BSJ full-time, or about my decision to go natural and dreadlock my hair because I realized the chemicals in perms were destroying my hair among other things, and choosing to move to Nigeria when my husband received an amazing job offer there (a once in a lifetime type of experience). These experiences have shaped my life, not theirs and so I've learned to let God guide me in my journey, and not the opinion of others.  When I say be careful who you share your dreams with, I'm speaking of negative people, naysayers, people who smile in your face and talk behind your back, and most importantly people who believe your dreams are too big because they are afraid of dreaming big and living outside the box!

I've learned over the years who will and will not judge my aspirations. I know who I can share certain information with, and who I can't (even in my own family). I've realized that everyone doesn't get the artist, self-employment, bohemian, spur of the moment person that I am, and that's okay with me. But what I will not tolerate is people who try to stunt my growth and my journey with their words and opinions.

I'm not letting anyone steal my dreams...

{Image Source}

{Image Source}

be free,

Myisha

Bohemian Biz Spotlight

It's that time again! Are you all ready to meet a gorgeous woman who has the personality and demeanor to match her beauty?!?! She's ROOTED in her faith, and her brand exemplifies that! I've known Lauri Michelle for approximately 5 years and I've seen her business soar to new heights. Her apparel line "Deeply Rooted" can be seen on television, on the runway, and on Faith Foward Fashionista's throughout Southern California and beyond. Let's check in with her to see how she was lead to create an apparel company with such powerful, and inspirational messages.

* Please comment and let Lauri know that she's welcome here at the Free to be Bohemian Me blog :) I'm sure she'd LOVE to hear what you think of her interview!

1. I won't ask your age, but what was your favorite t.v. show to watch growing up? 

Brady Bunch (stop laughin!)

2.  What gave you the AUDACITY to start a business?

My need to always create something, then the response to the first cuts of what I thought would be just a simple tool of motivation for the young women of my local church.

3. Out of all the creative businesses you could have chosen to start, why did you choose 

Deeply Rooted Apparel (DRA)? I have always been a creativehead. I used to make gift cards. Then I created a business called Flyrags when the blinged out scarves were popular. When I first started, DRA, I began with a partner. I had the relationship with the young women as a mentor in the church and she had the fashion sense. We both had MASSIVE creativity. The idea for the company came about when we received the overwhelming response to the first samples of tees we made for our youth. Our goal was to create an inspirational t-shirt which would allow them to express their individuality, yet have enough versatility for them to add their own fashion twist when coordinating an outfit to wear to service. Deeply Rooted Apparel, is a faith based apparel brand. We encourage one to be DEEPLY ROOTED in God's Word by having the confidence to wear something that expresses love, life and the benefits of being one of God's children. T-shirts are a staple in American Culture. They will forever exist. Now that there are fashionable options for t-shirts and tops, offering an alternative to popular (and at times offensive) t-shirts in today's marketplace allows Deeply Rooted Apparel to have a niche in the marketplace by targetting men and women of faith.

4. Lots of people want to be their own boss, however they don't understand that it really Is harder then it seems. What's your typical work day like?

I start my day off with a large breath. Then I take a look at the large mirror by my bed which has sticky's all around it with words of encouragement and empowerment. "God Loves You!", "You can do this!" "You are an OVERCOMER!". EVERY-DAY I read this! I still have a 9-5 job, but with alot of flexibility. I work from home 6 out of 20 days out of the month. Those are the days when I can dedicate my time to DRA. Outside of that, afterhours and lunch breaks is where the magic happens. ; ) I also have a 4-year old son, so when I say afterhours, its really once I get our time in. Over time, I have learned not to place too many constraints on myself. I utilize the internet ALOT as well as 800# services when I am unable to take calls. On each break, I check and return calls and make Post Office runs. IT IS HARD WORK. Which is why dedication is a MUST. When the numbers don't reflect your level of effort, you need that self-motivation to keep on pushing, knowing the blessing will come.

5. How do you find the strength to persevere when the challenges seem to outweigh the rewards?

(I think I addressed this while I was yappin away above) But...in a nutshell...I LOVE WHAT I DO! When I even think of stopping, there is always a customer or a facebook fan who asks where is Deeply Rooted? When are your new products coming out? or just a note telling them how much they love how wearing DRA makes them feel!

6. What inspires you?

I am inspired knowing that people besides myself, love wearing something that is cute and expresses God's love. I believe God has a purpose for this brand to touch the lives of many. 

7. What's your go to wine when it's time to unwind? :)

A fellow entrepreneur friend of mine (Myisha McCarthy of Springcart) "hipped me" to Stella Rosa red wine which I really like. Its light, sweet and with a slight sparkle. But when I am in the mood, I like Sutter Home Moscato which I can find at the local market.

8. When it comes to the following words, what advice would you give?

*Work: Ethics. Care about the people you serve. How would you want to be treated?

*Self: Love yourself. Know that you are special and equipped with ALL the tools to accomplish the task that God has set before you. Sometimes you just have to GO DEEP to get it done. Also...learn to let go sometimes and DELEGATE (still working on this one.)

*Life: Balance. That's what it is for me. Women (I think) are natural multi-taskers. We serve our men, ministries, jobs, children and our businesses. The trick is making time for yourself. Sometimes I just STOP. I make sure everyone is taken care of then let them know its all about ME. Then I go do something for myself. It may be as simple as getting a pedicure or going to a movie, but I do ME. Then I feel refreshed and ready to tackle what is before me.

*Love: Have someone on your team who encourages and uplifts you. Someone who at least has a glimpse of your vision and doesn't compete with you, but complements what you are doing. That means, with action. That "What can I do to help?" kind of love.  Also, someone who isn't afraid to tell you what you may not want to hear. No "yes" man for me. I happen to have an overabundance of "blessing" in that area. LOL! Love you, Babe. ; )

*Friends: Ironically enough, your friends have to be to you similar to what your love is to you. Encouraging and willing to jump in and help when needed. They believe in your product so much that they support by telling their friends about it. Friends that want to see you succeed. Anyone else should not be permitted in your circle. You need NO negativity. Only positivity and encouragement. Even if its advice or something counter to what you may see or feel, a friend will express that in love. 

9. I define a Bohemian Spirit as someone who is free, unique, and unafraid to make her own stamp on the world. Why are you a Bohemian Spirit?  

If that's the definition of Bohemian Spirit, then that is ME to a Tee!!! (No pun intended!) ; ) I have always been one who loves everyone. I try my very best to do so without judgement or partiality. I am indeed a free spirit who isn't afraid to be who I am. The older I get, the less I care of what others think of me. I work at being in good standing with He who created me, realizing that none are perfect, but perfection should be the goal. I am a Bohemian spirit because I believe that I am one of many of God's good and perfect gifts and I strive to encourage everyone to find that good and perfect gift within themselves.  

Lauri Michelle

Deeply Rooted Apparel

 deeplyrootedapparel.com

 Design tees and tops which make the perfect fit for the faith forward fashionista

Bohemian Style Spotlight

Actress Sienna Miller has a bohemian style that mimics great actresses from the 70's and early 80's like Ali Macgraw and Goldie Hawn. Sienna's clothing always has a vintage bohemian look that she pulls off quite well. Not only does she wear boho clothing often, but her hair always has that tousled and unkept look, and for some reason it looks so put together on her. Hmmmm, I don't know how she pulls it all off so effortlessly, but she does the whole boho - messy thing quite well. No wonder Jude Law can't stay away from her ;).

{Image Sources}

be free,
Myisha

Continued...

Hey there! I realized this morning that I promised more pictures from my Saturday and Sunday outings, and I failed to post a darn thing. It just totally slipped my mind. My apologies :) So below are pictures from an event I attended on Saturday benefitting women's health, and my fun time on Sunday with my girlfriend Moneca at the Pamper Me Fabulous event and lunch afterwards.

Me & Lauri at the Red Affair

My Display

Red Affair Decor

At Pamper Me Fabulous

Rooftop

Lunch at Urth Cafe'

be free,

Myisha

Monday love

I love Monday's because it's always a chance for me to start off on the right foot (or at least that's what I tell myself). Lol! I have a long list of things to accomplish this week, but that's okay because as long as I write them down and prioritize, I should be able to get most of them done.

The weekend was great! I had a show on Saturday that went very well and I met several cool women. Then on Sunday my girlfriend Moneca and I attended the Pamper Me Fabulous shopping event which turned out to be really fun....Especially once we had a few glasses of champagne :) Below are some of the fun pictures we were able to take at the event. I also took several pictures with my personal camera from my show on Saturday, and my Sunday outing. I'll post more pictures a little bit later on today, but now I'm off to work on a history project with my little guy. Be back later ;)

{click pictures to enlarge}

be free,

Myisha

The Weekend...

Yay! The weekend is here! I'm excited about a few things going on this weekend. First, I have an amazing show that I'm participating in tomorrow where I'll be displaying all my BSJ spring collection to a great group of women who will be attending in support of women's health. Second, I'm going to have some unwind time on Sunday and do a bit of bead shopping Downtown Los Angeles, and then attend a shopping bazaar with fashion vendors, pampering stations, and culinary treats.  It's nice every now and then to attend an event instead of participating as a vendor, so I'm really going to enjoy it! Speaking of shopping and shows...I forgot to post pictures of my trunk show last Saturday, so I've posted a few pictures below.

Anyone have any fun plans for the weekend? I'd love to hear about them.

*I actually wrote this post early this morning but blogger was down all day...sorry for the lateness.  :(

Happy Customer wearing New Burst of Bling bracelet

My trunk show buddies

Happy Customer wearing her Bad Girl Bracelets

be free,

Myisha 

Chunky Fun from BSJ...

New to the Bohemian Spirit budget-nista bin, the Chunky Tag line bracelets. Stack all 5 for the perfect look. Choose from: Journey, Unique, Genuine, Courageous, and Wonderful.

Available HERE

{Photographs by M. Croom-Turner}

be free,

Myisha

Bohemian Business Spotlight

Today's spotlight is a sweet one! Lakia Pearson has all the makings of a successful entrepreneur. Not only is she the talented business woman behind Pamper Me Sweets desserts, but she's also a very positive, motivating, and driven woman who just happens to wear many other tall hats (ahem...mother & wife), and she manages to juggle them all just fine. Can you say superwoman? I've had the pleasure of tasting some of her sweet treats and all I can say is "Yum!" Let's see how Lakia turned her love for sweet treats into an "Irresistible Spa Boutique."

1. I won't ask your age, but what was your favorite t.v. show to watch growing up? 

Martin was hands down my favorite show of all time, it still is. :)

2.  What gave you the AUDACITY to start a business?  

I came to a point where I was ready to quit my stressful job and become an entreprenuer MUCH MORE than I feared the journey!  My faith in God and knowing that my husband and son supported me 100% made that step much easier to take!

3. Out of all the creative businesses you could have chosen to start, why did you choose dessert? Pamper Me Sweets~The Dessert Spa Boutique because I've always had a love affair with desserts.  My love for baking began as a young novice in my grandmother's kitchen.  She showed me how to bake from scratch and since then I've always made desserts for family, friends, special occasions, until recently I decided to start my own baking business:)

4. Lots of people want to be their own boss, however they don't understand that it really Is harder then it seems. What's your typical work day like?  

I always start my day with prayer, reading my Bible, and inspiring music!  I check my emails, social media inquiries/marketing, and begin to return phone calls.  Throughout the day I'm either baking, delivering orders, or engaging in business building activities (i.e., chamber, networking events, business workshops, etc).  Then my day ends with family time and preparing for the next day's activities.

5. How do you find the strength to persevere when the challenges seem to outweigh the rewards?  

I always remember why I started this journey in the first place, to help brighten someone else's day and to give them an organic & natural option with their sweets!  This is what I wanted to do, there is no quitting because this is my calling in life.  So I take the focus off of me and I think about my husband and son who need me to succeed and all the people whose lives will be positively touched by the work of my hands.  When I put things in that perspective it helps me to see the rewards outweighing the challenges.

6. What inspires you?  

I'm inspired by people who defy the odds, who succeed when everyone else told them their dreams were impossible.  To see the God-given talent in those peolple who ignore the naysayers and just go for it, that inspires me and reminds me that with faith ANYTHING is possible.

7. What's your go to wine when it's time to unwind?   

Moscato, definitely moscato!

8. When it comes to the following words, what advice would you give?

Work: You have to decide that you will not be outworked by anyone else, do the things that others aren't willing to do!

Self: "Me Time" is not a luxury it is a requirement, take at least 10 minutes a day to rejuvenate yourself!

Life: Live life to the fullest do the things you've always wanted to do starting right now, time waits for no one!

Love: Love with all your heart and soul, love never fails and once you give love I promise it comes right back to you!

Friends: Friends are a blessing, they support you love you laugh with you and tell you the truth, we all need great friends!

9. I define a Bohemian Spirit as someone who is free, unique, and unafraid to make her own stamp on the world. Why areyou a Bohemian Spirit?  

I'm not afraid to be different, take risks, and try new things no matter what others may thing about it.  I just do what I like and what makes me happy.  I love to study & read, I love all genres of music, and I enjoy learning about different cultures & try new foods.  I'm free to be me:)

Lakia Pearson

Pamper Me Sweets~The Dessert Spa Boutique

www.pampermesweets.com

We create gourmet cupcakes, pies, and specialty sweets from scratch with spa inspiration using organic and natural ingredients.  We add a little "ooh-la-la" to your special occasion with our sweet treats!

Bohemian Apparel...

I want to thank Michaela of Myla's Bags for sharing this wonderful site with me. So I can't lie to you all (not that I would have ;) and say I accidentally stumbled upon Mamie Ruth an online clothing and accessories boutique. This adorable shop incorporates bold patterns, lively colors, and just the right amount of bohemian flair to their designs.  I'm so in love with Mamie Ruth right now....I've already emailed the owner about purchasing the Sara Jumpsuit. What do you guys think....would you wear such bold patterned bohemian clothing? I know I would and I think Mamie Ruth designs will compliment Bohemian Spirit Jewelry quite well ;)

{jumpsuit I'm ordering in the middle} :)

{images source}

Be free...

As you can imagine I was over the moon when I found these "be free" charms (I'm easily excited y'all), and I couldn't wait to create a piece of jewelry for myself. So last night I was in my studio filling orders and I decided to create a personalized bracelet for myself. I'm really thinking about adding personalized jewelry to my BSJ summer collection.  I think it's always nice to have something with your name, birthday, or something special that is dear to you on a piece of jewelry. What do you think? 

be free,

Myisha

Let your light shine!

Happy Monday! Hope you all had a great weekend. The BSJ trunk show on Saturday was amazing and I want to thank those of you who came out and supported the event. Fun times!!! My Sunday was all about relaxing, although I did attend church, pick up a few items for the house, and complete a few orders, but I spent most of the day in bed in my pajama's.

Anyhow, I wanted to share a wonderful project with you all. It's called The LightCaster's Project and was created by the effervescent and incredibly talented Akilah S. Richards.  I became familiar with Akilah a few years ago when I read an article about her in Essence Magazine and I've been following her light ever since. If you are interested in knowing what The LightCaster's Project is all about....go here.  I was so touched and moved by this project that I knew I had to be apart of it somehow. You can view my LightCaster video below, and see more amazing LightCaster's and why you should care about this movement here.

* I have something fun to show you, so I'll be back with another post later today :)

be free,

Myisha

Happy Friday!

And yet again it's Friday! Whoot whoot! I'm excited about this weekend because I'm going to have some very much needed "me" time on Sunday. What am I going to do you ask?....Absolutely nothing! :) This week has been crazy busy (orders, meetings, fundraisers, prepping for my trunk show tomorrow) and I can't wait to have a breather.

Anyhow, I hope you all enjoyed the Bohemian Business Spotlight this week! I have plenty more fabulous business owners to spotlight for the next few months and I really think you all will enjoy them and be able to relate to most of them on some level...especially if you too are a business owner or want to become one.

Wishing you all a Peaceful weekend :)  See ya' Monday with a new post, and pictures from the trunk show and maybe a photo of my lazy Sunday in bed ;)

{image source}

New Peaceful Bracelet from Bohemian Spirit

be free,

Myisha 

Bohemian Business Spotlight

I'm very excited to kick off the first Bohemian Business Spotlight with an amazingly charismatic, driven and hardworking woman. Mrs. Toushonta Hogan the President and owner behind Scentsational Soaps creates delightful bath and body products that make you feel good and smell great! Toushonta started Scentsational Soaps in 2007 after receiving a college degree and not being able to find a job. At the time it seemed like a let down, but what a blessing it turned out to be! Check out what this creative had to say about her journey!

1. I won't ask your age, but what was your favorite t.v. show to watch growing up? 

O, my goodness, that’s just like telling your age….LOL! I loved the “Dukes of Hazzard” when I was growing up, I watched it religiously!

2.  What gave you the AUDACITY to start a business? 

After completing college, starting a business was never on my agenda. What I wanted at the time, was to have a job and start a career in Human Resources. It’s what I went to school for, so it was the only right thing to do. After countless interviews and no call backs, I had to find my purpose in life. Being creative was something that I’ve loved since my childhood years, but did not know how to incorporate it into a business until I attended the Strawberry Fest and saw many vendors with their Soaps for sell. I was intrigued, by the colors and especially the smell. So, I immediately went home to make soap with my kids. Later I began to sell them to family & friends and my business was born.

3. Out of all the creative businesses you could have chosen to start, why did you choose bath and body products?  

I love being creative. A bath & body business allows you to do just that. Furthermore, the aromas intoxicate me…..I love mixing, and incorporating new and exciting scents for my customers.

4. Lots of people want to be their own boss, however they don't understand that it really Is harder then it seems. What's your typical work day like? 

My work day is different each day, but for the most part, I check and respond to all emails, answer voicemails, print orders, make product, market on social media sites, confirm meetings, etc.   

5. How do you find the strength to persevere when the challenges seem to outweigh the rewards? WOW! Great question! I find strength in prayer. I pray often and it makes me feel so much better. There are definitely some challenging days, but I would have it no other way! 

6. What inspires you? 

My kids DEFINITELY inspire me. With the economy being at an all time low, it’s important that I teach my kids how to be successful entrepreneurs.

7. What's your go to wine when it's time to unwind?  

I love SHOPPING!!! So, with that said, I  like to go to the mall, or my favorite boutiques.  My next favorite is working out. It helps with stress, etc.

8. When it comes to the following words, what advice would you give?

Work: When working, give it all you’ve got. Be the best and let your light SHINE

Self: Take time for you and Love yourself…..pamper, reflect and examine yourself

Life: Go all out when Living. We only get one shot at it.

Love: Show love and embrace others.. You may be the VERY person that they’ve looked up to and your words, actions, and personality should reflect “Love”

Friends: Be careful of who you call your friends. Surround yourself with positive & genuine people. People, who will cheer you on, encourage and motivate you.

9. I define a Bohemian Spirit as someone who is free, unique, and unafraid to make her own stamp on the world. Why are you a Bohemian Spirit?  

I’m a Bohemian Spirit because, I absolutely, LOVE to encourage, motivate, cultivate and enrich the lives of others. 

Toushonta Hogan

Scentsational Soaps

www.scentsationalsoaps.biz

Handmade Bath & Body Business 

be free,

Myisha

Bohemian Style Spotlight

She's talented, her voice is magical, and her style just oozes boho! Singer, producer, musician, and advocate India Arie puts the boho in bohemian. Her eclectic fashion sense is always right on point with big earrings, natural hair, chunky bracelets, and colorful separates.  BSJ thinks she is an ultimate free-spirited bohemian chick!

* Don't forget to stop by tomorrow to read our 1st Bohemian Business Spotlight interview!!!!!

{images source}

be free,

Myisha

New BSJ Display!

Some of you may know that I changed my business name a few months ago to Bohemian Spirit Jewelry. It was a huge risk, and not everyone was excited about the change, however it was the best move for ME! Sometimes we just gotta go with our gut on things. Anyhow, with that new name change came several other changes, including how I now display my jewelry. Below are a few pictures from an event I showed at yesterday and a look at my new Bohemian Spirit Jewelry display. I was shooting for a complete earthy vibe and I think I accomplished it! My girlfriend Moneca attended the event to assist me (and boy did I need assistance!!!) and she also helped me set up my display.

* The lighting was really bad, so please forgive the darkness. You can click the image to enlarge.

Pictures by M. Croom-Turner

be free,

Myisha