Author Archive

Retro Chic with Sandra D

May 14, in *uncategorized*, Beauty, Fashion, by Demita Usher

The popularity of retro TV shows like Mad Men, Boardwalk Empire, Vegas, and the buzz surrounding the summer release of the much anticipated The Great Gatsby, the retro look continues to increase in popularity as more women are sporting the hot fashions and hairstyles from a bygone era.

He put a ring on it, Now what? Part 2: The Guys speak

Mar 19, in *uncategorized*, Relationships, by Demita Usher

After the overwhelming response from the previous post , I decided to pick the brains of some men and collected their thoughts and feelings about their marriage relationships. Before I share those quotes I want to share some information from a book I used in my research called “For Women only: what you need to know about the inner lives of men” by Shaunti Feldhahn. She conducted a series of surveys asking men about
their private lives. (Don’t worry ladies, this book was published in the last few years, not 1955) She uncovered some very interesting insights. I will share some here. (She interviewed 100 men to collect this data.)

SOCIAL GRACES 201: Home Gathering Raises Your Relationship Stock!

Feb 20, in Thriving, by Demita Usher

Small, intimate gatherings give an excellent opportunity for the single men to observe your domestic skills in entertaining and interacting as a hostess (don’t worry, no one is trying to push you back to the 50’s) If you can’t cook, don’t worry,you can always cheat!

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He put a ring on it, now what? The Proper Care and Feeding of Marriage

Feb 7, in Relationships, by Demita Usher

I am beginning to believe that “home economics” (keeping and running a household) ties in VERY closely with the ability to attract a quality mate.

Regarding Broomhilda: Was she worth being rescued and why was she waiting on her man to save her anyway?

Jan 13, in Pop Culture, by Demita Usher

Quentin Tarantino’s new film Django: Unchained has stirred a lot of different thoughts, feelings, opinions and emotions in people; about slavery, Django killing so many white people on screen, gun control, etc. but the feedback I found the most interesting was some of the commentary regarding the Broomhilda character played by Kerry Washington from black women. I want to address three questions/comments that are a conglomeration of the multitude of comments regarding this key character.

The Holidays Are Upon Us. Do You Know How to be a Gracious Hostess or Guest?

Nov 18, in Black Women's Improvement Project (BWIP), Thriving, by Demita Usher

The holiday season is again upon us and during this season many of us will either be hosting a fabulous party or two or the guest of one. Whether you are the guest or the host/hostess, being gracious is the key to having a good time and enjoying the festivities. Regardless on what side of the table you stand consider the following suggestions for smooth flowing festivities.

Role Model Responsibility: When Did It Become Cool to Be a Hot Mess?

Oct 20, in Black Women's Empowerment, Thriving, by Demita Usher

Is Snooki the best we can do for a role model these days?

Etiquette 101: The Art of Paying a Compliment

Oct 5, in Black Women's Improvement Project (BWIP), by Demita Usher

Not only does paying a good compliment reflect good breeding and proper etiquette, studies show it’s sometimes just as good as cold, hard cash.

Etiquette 101: Graciousness in Competition (and life), Part 2

Sep 3, in Black Women's Empowerment, Thriving, by Demita Usher

This post is in response to the overwhelming feedback to my previous post in regards to graciousness in competition. The objective was not to project anyone in a negative light but to shed light on the importance of knowing how to deal with people graciously in competition and uncomfortable situations. The responses that followed expressed a myriad of personal thoughts and feelings on the matter but with the exception of a few, the majority of commenters various responses focused on three areas (as one commenter pointed out) and I find that if we defend these stances they will do us more harm than good.

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Etiquette 101: Graciousness in Competition

Aug 13, in Black Women's Empowerment, Black Women's Improvement Project (BWIP), Sports, Thriving, by Demita Usher

On the national stage, black women must “represent,” not with hair, but with a gracious and refined attitude, ESPECIALLY when it sucks.

Etiquette 101: Sometimes it is ok to be a little “rude.”

Jul 17, in Black Women's Improvement Project (BWIP), Thriving, by Demita Usher

When necessary don’t be afraid to use it.

Etiquette 101: 9 Tips for a more polished appearance at social gatherings

Jul 11, in Black Women's Empowerment, Black Women's Improvement Project (BWIP), Thriving, by Demita Usher

I have learned by experience that because people are always watching you and making internal judgments, it is wise to be aware of your outward presentation. The little things can send a big message.

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Opinion: “You think you BETTER than us?” As a matter of fact yes I do.

Jul 7, in Black Women's Empowerment, Black Women's Improvement Project (BWIP), Thriving, by Demita Usher

“What is this love affair that many black women have with dysfunction and misery? So dedicated to this non-sense that they will not only do anything to defend it, they will attack any woman with resentment and hostility who seeks out more positive alternatives.”

Etiquette 101: Tech Manners

Jun 30, in Thriving, by Demita Usher

Rules to text by…

Vela Kurv: Swirl-Girl Super Hero

Jun 23, in Author Spotlight, Literature, by Demita Usher

Rose Mckesson is a phenomenal writer and friend that I have had the pleasure to know for over 18 years. She is a huge fan of swirling and her own mixed race heritage was the inspiration for her superhero Vela Kurv. She recently sat down with me to share more about this phenomenal Shero! So [...]