Book Review: Smart Money Woman

Friends can really be annoying, I begged for a copy of Arese Ugwu’s The Smart Money Woman for months and no one answered my pleas. I kept asking people travelling here to help me purchase it. In case you are wondering if I am some sort of cheapskate or ‘awoof’ loving individual, I am but that was not the case this time.
You see, I prefer to read hard copy books not e-copies and I could not get one abroad. I was eager to get started on this book. Anyway, I had to settle for the e-book.
After reading through, I found that The Smart Money Woman by Arese Ugwu lived up to its hype. I read some reviews that the book is like an infomercial for some Nigerian brands, I could see that too but I had no qualms with it.
The characters in this book are set in Lagos high society scene. I mean, they dine regularly at RSVP and have exclusive discounts at designer retail outlets. The truth is most young women aspire to the lifestyle without thinking of the funds or the hard work and strategizing that comes with living that life.

Every year for my new year’s resolution, I talk about buying land and owning assets. This book describes the first place to start especially considering how meagre our pay checks can be compared to our dreams. The major characters in this book represent people almost everyone has in their lives. There is almost a Cinderella story waiting to happen with a rich handsome man appearing in the cast but Arese Ugwu proves to us that every woman can be her own hero.
There are action points and active lessons at the end of each chapter which I can say for certain if put into good use would improve anyone’s financial management skills.
If you have not read the book, go out and get it.

Movies to watch this January

Welcome to 2017! I hope this Year is filled with pleasant moments and memories for you and all yours.
While working hard to make your dreams come true this year, remember to relax and have a little fun with your friends and family. Here are a few movies to watch this month.
1.The Wedding Party

I know this was part of the movies to watch in December, but I need to remind you to watch this movie. I watched this movie, and I had fun throughout, I loooove this movie. If you have watched it already, watch it again!
2.Brother Jekwu

This movie depicts a village champion with bad English who travels from Nigeria to Kenya to work for a female boss. This movie has been showing at the cinemas since last year, so watch it now.
3.Hidden figures

Three brilliant African-American women (Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae), serve as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit.
I love anything about Women empowerment or Women making waves, so this is a must watch for me. It starts showing on the 13th January at cinemas nationwide.
4.Saving Dreams

A naive girl with dreams of stardom marries a powerful man, who abuses her while running a foundation that protects abused women. This drama unfolds the power of hope and willpower. The movie will start showing on the 20th of January, 2017.

How to Know When Your Menstrual Cycle Is Abnormal

At one time or another, every woman suspects that her menstrual cycle is abnormal for one reason or another.
However, what we often think is an abnormal period is actually regular menstruation.
It is vital to know when you are having an irregular period because an abnormal menstrual cycle can be a symptom of a health issue that needs attention, including pregnancy, uterine cancer, and uterine fibroid tumors.
Now, how do you know when you’re experiencing abnormal periods?
Signs and Symptoms of an Abnormal Period

You are likely to be experiencing an unusual period, abnormal uterine bleeding, or an irregular menstrual cycle if:

The time between your menstrual cycles is longer than 21 to 35 days,
You need to change your tampons or sanitary pads after only one or two hours,
Your period goes beyond days,
You suddenly begin to experience severe menstrual cramps
You are younger than 11 or postmenopausal or and you have any amount of vaginal or uterine bleeding.

Other Symptoms of Abnormal Menstrual Cycle
While a small amount of cramping during your period is normal, it’s not normal to experience severe menstrual cramps.
If you suddenly start to experience severe cramps, you should see your health care provider to determine the cause of the increased pain you experience during your period.
Some young women experience more intense cramping during the first few years after their first period.

Vacationing with Kids

Traveling with children (even if it is one child) takes careful planning and lots of positivity. When traveling with kids,
(a)You need to pay attention to their needs at all times during the vacation
(b)You have to make plans for lots of activities and play, so they don’t get bored
(c)You will have to find the right balance between rest and play, so they don’t become overtired as this could eventually lead to crankiness and tantrums
Here are a few tips to help you plan the perfect family getaway.
1.Define your likes and interests as a Family
 Sit together as a family to discuss and choose where everyone would like to go for the trip.
2.Decide on a budget
Your budget will determine your destination so put this in mind. Your budget will have to include transportation costs, accommodation, food, entertainment, activities, and souvenirs or gifts.
3.Pick favourable dates
I know I don’t have to say this, but just in case you don’t know; pick your vacation dates to fall during the holidays since your kids will be on holiday and free to have fun. Also, check your schedules to confirm there are no conflicting appointments.
4.Settle Logistics
If you are traveling out of your location, you will have to make plans for transport and accommodation. Try to book them as early as possible to save costs.
5.Plan activities beforehand
Plan child-friendly activities to do on your vacation; ask your kids what they would like to do and make plans for the activities.
6.Build in Private time
Though it is a family vacation, try to make out time for a private time with your spouse; it could be a romantic dinner or movie just to keep the spark alive.
7.Capture memories
Don’t forget to take your cameras so you can take lots and lots of pictures during your vacation; you will be happy you did so down the line.
8.Remain Positive
Above all, stay positive. Things are bound to come up such as a child getting sick or throwing a tantrum or transportation issues but no matter what happens, try to keep a positive attitude for your kids.

Side Hustle: Digital Marketing

Last night I started to write this article but slept off. I, however, woke up to news that one of my guilty pleasures, a relationship page on Instagram after reaching a hundred thousand followers has decided to monetize. This brings me to my point; since we all spend some much time online, there has to be a benefit of doing so. This year, we have to look at things with new eyes and see the cash cows in every situation.
You may be thinking at this point, how do I get started? I am recommending digital marketing to you across the internet, talking about blogs, social media platforms; Facebook, Instagram, Twitter even Snapchat. This is not a new thing; we all remember how the number of blogs rose when Linda Ikeji bought her Banana Island mansion. I am going to teach you how to tailor your online business to suit you.

• Choose a niche
Yes, gossip blogs are a big business, but it is a saturated market so except you can bring in something totally fresh, I suggest you stay out of it. Instablog9ja is new, but they came with a twist, instead of a regular blog they are on Instagram using catchy sarcastic delivery lines making the most mundane news funny.
• Choose a platform
Decide if you want a blog or to use any of the social media platforms. I suggest you use the one which you enjoy the most. The self-acclaimed Nigerian king of Snapchat has started placing adverts and promotions on his page
• Grow your audience
Before you start asking people to come and advertise on your platform, make sure you have some very impressive numbers. A very good friend of mine currently has 413,000 followers and advert subscriptions enough to cover her monthly expenses and luxuries. I am sure you are wondering how to get the numbers?
• Be Consistent
Whatever you decide to do, don’t stop even if it starts out really show. There are many ways you can build your audience; the first being great content. If you decide for instance you want to review Nigerian Make Up artistes, have solid content voicing your opinions and offering valuable information for potential customers. You can also connect with those who have a larger audience through contributing content, partnership even placing an advert to publicize your new business.
2017 is the year to make your dreams a reality. I am looking forward to your success stories.

Trendy Short Hairstyles to Rock In 2017

Back then, people believed that short hairstyles did not offer us much freedom and variety.
Today, the versatility of short hairstyles has become so impressive, especially those stunning styles for African women, whose hair is naturally thick and dense than their counterparts from other continents.
Some of us simply start blooming with short hairstyles, while longer hair makes us look ordinary.
The fact is, practically every woman has once dared to try a chin length or shorter haircut.
To wear short hair in the previous century was rather a sign of manliness. Today short female hairstyles look very feminine and sexy.
A beautiful short hairstyle begins with the correct choice of a short haircut, optimal for you. Short hairstyles tend to highlight the shape of your face and your facial features, especially your eyes so it wouldn’t be appropriate to claim that short hairstyles suit everyone.
However, if you have beautiful, healthy skin and an oval shaped face, you will be gorgeous with literally any short hairstyle, starting from an extremely short pixie to a chin-length bob.
Also, if you know you have something to conceal, you should be more exact about the choice of the right short haircut.
If the shape of your face is not as perfect as you’d like, you can still correct it with a short hairstyle.
If you have a round face, you will benefit from hairstyles with the volume on top and thinned sides.
If you have an oblong face, you require volume on the sides (waves work very well) and long bangs, blunt cut or slanting.
If you are looking for short hairstyles to do, check the photos below.
 

 

 
Image source: Pinterest

Gorgeous Hairstyles For Round Faces

Weave-on hairstyles are stylish and quite versatile. They are a great option if you’re looking for a refreshing change from natural hairstyles. However, when considering hairstyles, the shape of your face must be regarded if you desire to look your best (who doesn’t?).
Your choice of hairstyle can do wonders not just for the shape of your face but also to boost your confidence and sex-appeal. Today, we’ll take a quick look at styles that flatter round shaped faces. Round faces are quite different from other face shapes, and often times ladies blessed with this face shape are troubled with thoughts like – Will a bob make my cheeks look wide? Will fringes fit me? Which is better: a side part or middle part?
The secret to a great hairstyle for a round face? Create the illusion of length instead of roundness. With forehead, cheekbones, and jaw line roughly the same width, choosing styles that won’t make your face rounder can be somewhat tricky. So here are some hairspirations…
Long hair is gorgeous on round faces because it lengthens the face. If adding layers, be careful not to have layers too short. Try not to have layers above your earlobe, such cuts will add volumes to the sides of your face and make them appear even rounder. Angled outward and not inward, layers should ideally fall at your chin or below, with the end of each layer blending so well together one won’t be able to tell there’re layers.
I’ve got a round face and centre partings are not my thing so I avoid them. I usually opt for side parts and long side swept bangs covering one side of my face, this works tremendously in making my face thinner. Want to try it? Keep your hair down and in front of your ears to narrow your face.
Considering a bob with bangs? Layered shaggy long bobs offers a bit of edge and are best on full cheeked round faces. Bangs help round faces look oval so make sure the bangs are trimmed to suit your face shape. A fringe no shorter than slightly below the eye-brows is recommended.  And if you’ve got a larger forehead, long-side swept bangs and a short bob to your chin is the ticket you need to balance your face with an elongated look.

Thinking waves? Long wavy weaves works excellently in helping your face appear elongated instead of round. Side swept waves are very flattering for round faces as well, and bouncy curls worn loose and long will also elongate your face.
Desire a sassy short cut for a change? Bearing in mind that not all short cuts fit round shaped faces, sporting a deconstructed pixie with disheveled cropped cut will give your face an oval look. With good asymmetrical lines and volumes on top, you’re set to rock your world.
 
 
 
 

Trending Peplum Inspirations

They come in different types and styles of waist cuttings and flares, and are a must have and an all-time classic. Peplums are outright statement pieces that flatter any body shape. Curvy, slim, or tall, peplums can be worn by all and being really stylish, works for any occasion – work, cocktail party, date night or casual weekend.
Made to give the illusion of a slim small waist, peplum styles do wonders for the silhouette of a plus sized curvy lady. A well placed peplum will hide a thicker midriff, so if plus-sized, it’s always advisable to carefully make your selection of peplum tops when making a purchase.
For the bold and beautiful, pairing A-line skirts with peplums won’t give a right balance for your body proportions. A peplum top with a midi or knee-length pencil skirt remains the vintage combo for any body shape especially for formal events but that’s not to say peplum tops can’t be paired in several other ways.
If you’ve got a petite frame or a slim silhouette, peplum with a flared skirt or a pair of palazzo pants is certainly a head-turner. If you’re trying to be a bit more fashionable, match with a pair of skinny jeans. Gunning for that casually stylish look? Then pair it with a pair of distressed jeans, and for a more relaxed impression, a pair of plain or pleated shorts.
For accessories, belts have a way of enhancing that classy effect of peplums. However, an over-sized belt is a NO NO.  A thin metal belt or any with contrasting colors is preferably best when aiming to accentuate your look. Thinking of ways to add more class? Adorn a simple but elegant neckpiece and you’re good to go!
Interestingly, you can wear a jacket or blazer on your peplum top as well, and if you are wearing pants, pointed toe shoes will not just lengthen the line of your legs but also add that touch of grace. For more choice of shoes, high heels – ankle strapped, pumps and platforms are great options. Ballet flats are also excellent choices.
Don’t have a peplum piece in your wardrobe yet? Now you’ve got more than enough inspiration to get one!
 

Beautiful Ankara Jumpsuits You Should Rock In 2017

Jumpsuits are everywhere and are the perfect all-in-one piece.
Ankara jumpsuit can be sewn into different kinds of styles; it all depends on what suits you.
Designs of this fashion type will add some style and attitude to your wardrobe. However, you need to note some style tips before you get your Ankara jumpsuit sewn and these tips include;
To add a little femininity to your look, you should tailor your jumpsuit in a way that it will define your waist; this adds a little more femininity and sex appeal and helps avoid the funny oblong butt look that happens on loose and slouchy jumpsuits.
Ankara wears are pretty cool and fabulous but you should go for a more feminine African print especially if you have a masculine silhouette. This print will soften your look.
Ankara jumpsuits can be sewn mixed with other materials like chiffon, satin, lace etc.
Below are a few photos of Ankara jumpsuit that will awaken your senses.
 

 

 
Images via woman.ng

Natural hair care tips

Many people are going natural and loving it. Here are a few tips to having great natural hair, they are also useful to everyone who is growing her hair; natural or not.1.Eat wellA healthy diet is a key to beautiful hair. Include proteins and vitamin A rich foods in your diet. Vitamin A promotes hair growth and foods containing vitamin A include green leafy vegetables, carrots. Also consume fruits, vegetables, vitamin C, zinc, iron and healthy fats e.g. olive oil.2.Drink lots of waterDrink 8 – 12 glasses of water per day for healthy hair. Water helps the body to flush out toxins faster. Drinking lots of water will make your body feel better as well as help your hair get strong.3.Stay away from harsh chemicalsUse of harsh chemicals will spoil your hair in the long run, so it is advisable to use them rarely or avoid them altogether. Instead, use natural hair products such as aloe vera gel and coconut oil.4.Avoid heat stylingAvoid frequent use of flat iron and blow dryer. If you have to, make sure you use a heat protectant before you style.5.Get your beauty sleepYou need 7-8 hours of sleep per day; this will leave your hair feeling silky and smooth. While sleeping, protect your hair with a silk scarf.6.Treat your hair gentlyAvoid combing or styling your hair harshly, being harsh can damage your hair.7.Use cold/ lukewarm water to wash hairWhen washing your hair; avoid using hot water, use cold or lukewarm water instead.8.Deep Condition and MoisturizeAfter washing, moisturize your hair with natural products such as Shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil and so on.Also, deep condition your hair weekly, if possible.