When we see a couple in a healthy, happy relationship, we tend to pin the pair as “relationship goals.” Relationship goals are what many romantic hopefuls, whether single or committed, wish for.
The idea of true love, traveling the world, trying new foods, wearing matching outfits, going on cute dates, taking adorable pictures, buying gifts and all that cute ish with a badder than bad significant other seems to be a thriving social trend that tells the world “N****a we made it.” There is nothing wrong with acknowledging and celebrating Black love, promoting Black love, and encouraging ourselves and others to aspire to have Black love. Usher in the social media platform that focuses on all of the above — @meandsomebodyson_.MEANDSOMEBODYSON is more than just a hashtag or a term we use when we’re trying to be secretive about who we’re dating (you know; no face, no case). Having the opportunity to connect with the person(s) responsible for curating the social content for the popular social media page was exciting for Blavity. Let’s dig into the story behind the brand, the content and the inspiration for @meandsomebodyson_. View this post on Instagram
A post shared by MEANDSOMEBODYSON™️ (@meandsomebodyson_) on Mar 13, 2020 at 11:54am PDT Blavity: What was the initial mission for MEANDSOMEBODYSON and has it changed over the first year? MEANDSOMEBODYSON: The initial mission of the MEANDSOMEBODYSON page was to inspire Black people by showcasing Black love in all shapes and shades. I wanted to see love that I could relate to, and I knew if I wanted that space there had to be other Black women who were yearning for that as well. In no way did I expect my page and posts to resonate with this many people. The mission hasn’t changed, only expanded.Blavity: How has the overall page evolved? What has stayed the same?MEANDSOMEBODYSON: The page has evolved in terms of its reach and influence. MEANDSOMEBODYSON has followers all over the world, which is mind boggling. It’s also evolved in regards to growing beyond a virtual space. I planned to have a few events this year, but Covid-19 unfortunately halted those plans. It’s okay though, because this has granted time to plan bigger and better things for when the time is right. What has remained consistent is posting the love that exists between Black people. I always want to remain true to that, the reason this page exists is to be a hub for inspirational Black love.Blavity: What impact do you feel your brand has on the conversations around Black love, intimacy, relationships and the institution of marriage? MEANDSOMEBODYSON: I think it has sparked conversations about what healthy love looks like between Black people. Often, Black women are taught love needs to be hard, we need to endure pain first to achieve love, and that Black men don’t love Black women etc. But I think MEANDSOMEBODYSON has caused a shift in those narratives. I believe constantly showcasing various couples helps debunk the idea that healthy, happy, prosperous Black Love doesn’t exist, because clearly it does. View this post on Instagram
A post shared by MEANDSOMEBODYSON™️ (@meandsomebodyson_) on Mar 14, 2020 at 1:19pm PDTBlavity: Who is your favorite celebrity couple and why? Have you featured them?MEANDSOMEBODYSON: In running this page, and hearing so many love stories, I’ve come to learn it’s best to admire, but not to compare, so I do not idolize any couple per say. If I had to choose a couple that is inspirational, Khadeen and Devale Ellis. I think they are so transparent about what their relationship and love is like. I appreciate that they’re not a couple who says this is how it’s done, but rather this is how we do it, and it’s working for us. I have featured them, and they responded in the comments, which was really dope to me. In the same regard, I think it’s an important part of the MEANDSOMEBODYSON space that the photos are of everyday people, because that makes it so much more relatable, so I do veer away from posting celebrity couples often. Blavity: How do you curate these beautiful Black memes and what are your top three tips for creating the perfect "Black love" caption?MEANDSOMEBODYSON: I am a visual person, so I curated the memes by what I call a content theme, or series. Every 3 photos match each other, which is very important to me. I want people to enjoy scrolling through the MEANDSOMEBODYSON page. Three tips for creating the perfect Black love caption, speak from the heart, have a flow to your writing style, and lastly it doesn’t have to mention Blackness, because when we are talking about Black love there is recognition beyond Blackness. Blavity: How has your own experience with Black love impacted how you manage the IG page?MEANDSOMEBODYSON: It has impacted what I thought love should be. It taught me “should,” really shouldn’t be used when talking about love. Love is beautiful, but it can get rough. It’s solidified my belief that love isn’t just a feeling, but an action as well. It also taught me self love is key to loving someone else. View this post on Instagram
A post shared by MEANDSOMEBODYSON™️ (@meandsomebodyson_) on Mar 7, 2020 at 11:24am PSTBlavity: These memes turned into a Black love movement. What part does humor play in your life? What part does it play in Black culture?MEANDSOMEBODYSON: Humor plays a huge part in my life. I crack jokes with my friends daily. I love to laugh and bring humor to awkward and weird situations. I think that’s something that Black people just do naturally, Black twitter is the perfect example of that.Blavity: You didn't anticipate your page going viral, but you've managed to maintain its viral success. What advice would you give to social media users who have viral ideas like yours? If they succeed, what can they expect and what are three things they should do to protect their idea?MEANDSOMEBODYSON: I think I’m in a unique position because I didn’t expect this, so I never really have expectations when posting or putting out content. If I like it, I post it, and if people like they like it, if they don’t, maybe they’ll like the next one. I think authenticity is important, while I was inspired by other Black love pages, I found a way to make this my own, and because of that I was able to stand out. In terms of legally protecting yourself, trademark your ideas. I also think being genuine is key. When you are genuine and people resonate with you, that’s protection in itself. People are more likely to stand up for you and be in your corner when you are a genuine person. View this post on Instagram A post shared by MEANDSOMEBODYSON™️ (@meandsomebodyson_) on Aug 7, 2020 at 9:30am PDTBlavity: Is there anything new coming from MEANDSOMEBODYSON (merch, new content segue/sister account- #meandsomebodydaughter/auntie/daddy, etc.)? Any other news you'd like to share with our audience?MEANDSOMEBODYSON: A shirt for the brand has officially launched. I wanted to make something that not only spoke to the brand, but also to Black Love in general, so our first piece of merch is dedicated to how Black people say “I love you” throughout the African diaspora. More merch will be coming soon. I had so much in store for 2020, but for everyone’s safety I will hold off until next year. I’m looking to expand and work with brands, so if any brands are interested, please reach out. Follow @meandsomebodyson_ to keep up with all things...
If you’re interested in sharing your opinion on any cultural, political or personal topic, create an account here and check out our how-to post to learn more.____Music has always been vital in self-soothing and helping to process what’s going on inside. Especially now, in the year that life as we know it changed drastically. These days, I find myself planning my soundtrack more often than my outfits and scheduling jam sessions more than social gatherings.Massive amounts of Afrobeats to preserve my panAfrican joy. Mornings full of hip-hop discourse from thought leaders. Soulful R&B to remind me that there is always a place for deep Black love. Conscious reggae to remind me of the revolution: the who and what we are fighting for. Gospel to cleanse the soul and fill me with the Holy Spirit. And all the alternative genres that I love that helps me untangle my intuitive and often overwhelming Black emotions.Playlists have become as vital to me as a daily planner. I’ve been navigating the days, the uprising, the uncertainty and the unknown less and less with to-do lists and more so focusing on what I want to experience, who I am becoming and all that is evolving within and around me. I find myself listening to more and more music that acknowledges me as a spiritual being having a human experience, but more specifically as a strong Black woman still very much in need of tender words and soothing rhythms. Music that makes me feel seen and intricately known.This led me to wanting to feed myself more songs that addressed my complex emotions as a Black woman during this time. I had the revolutionary playlists, the soundtracks for both love and war, sometimes simultaneously. But what I was missing was a collective of songs to revisit when I just needed a simple love letter. A reminder that I am loved, understood and seen, a kiss from a rose, a four-page letter, a testimony that I am loved because of my Blackness, not just in spite of it and, specifically, as a Black woman.If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a playlist is worth a thousand thoughts. Collectively, I present a love letter to Black women (the Black woman) as curated through the voices of the men and women who love and adore them....
Savannah and LeBron James have been lauded by their peers for the sense of midwestern realness that they emote. Through LeBron’s I Promise School and Savannah’s girls' mentorship program, the pair has made it clear that for them, home is a place to invest in.Here are six things to know about...
When imagining Black love, "the burnt crispies in the macaroni and cheese" might not be the first thought that comes to mind. Yet it perfectly captures the relationship — crispy, creamy, delicious and satisfying.On February 25, networking and dating app Tinder published the mac and cheese analogy along with other Black love descriptions, in a short film called #BlackLoveIs. The project highlights Black couples and singles, who share their experiences on the topic. In the video, participants compare the sensation to everything from "cornbread" and "a party" to "tears" and "understanding."In order to articulate the many variants of Black love, Tinder collaborated with music video and film director Julien Christian Lutz, more commonly known as Director X. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Julien Christian Lutz (@directorx) on Dec 21, 2019 at 9:36am PST"I've always felt it's important to have a range to represent all of us," the famed director told Blavity. "Whenever I can paint that picture properly, I take the opportunity because I know we don't always get those images. We don't always get those moments."Director X has made a consistent effort to break the stereotypical dark-skinned man and light-skinned woman relationship goal that Hollywood has traditionally portrayed. Some of our favorite music videos from the early 2000s such as Mystikal's "Shake Ya Ass," Sean Paul's "Gimme The Light" and Mario's "Let Me Love You" feature distinctly brown-skinned women — all thanks to Director X. With the #BlackLoveIs project, he has once again given a platform to Black groups that Hollywood often underrepresents. The film compiles narratives from diverse genders and sexualities. While listening to each story, we get a sense of the vast differences that shape the Black community. However, there's still a strong connection and underlying current that pulls everyone together. It's complex and simple at the same time."There's a wide-ranging world out there when it comes to Black people, Black love, the Black experience," Director X said. "Even though not everyone is in [the film], you get that the walls are much larger."Creating an art piece that narrows down the assortment of Black love isn't an easy task, but it's one that Director X seems to have mastered. After all, he's had over two decades to do it. When he recalls his two favorite music video projects that capture Black love, Usher's "U Got It Bad" and Donell Jones' "Where I Wanna Be," it's clear Director X knows how to translate the story. He doesn't try to romanticize the experience. Similar to his Tinder project, Director X highlights the ups and downs that general love entails. However, Black love on film has a distinct powerful appeal. Maybe we gravitate toward it because of its scarce representation in media — or maybe it's just that bomb. Whatever the case, Director X's video shows that "Black love is ours."YouTube | Tinder"For me, Black love is learning to love," Director X said. "When I was young the world really told you you were less than...you had to learn to love yourself, you had to learn to love your people, you had to learn to love your history, you had to learn to love your...
If you’re interested in sharing your opinion on any cultural, political or personal topic, create an account here and check out our how-to post to learn more.____Hearing what Black women in their 50s say about real intimacy in dating and relationships is a jaw-dropper and a possible “how to” manual for the future. The mature candidness mixed with the innocence of those who love a world that certainly hasn’t always loved them is intriguing and inspiring for the younger generations. The biggest take-away is that success in dating over 50 is not about exchanging sex for security, doesn't concern itself with making the best lemon cake or banana nut bread, and doesn’t occupy a space devoid of reality as others might imply. It’s not delusional!The dating and relationship connection for Black women over 50 doesn’t have a blueprint, a course or a TV channel. If it did, it would be similar to one with Suze Orman, Chris Hogan and Michelle Singletary — the investment channel. Assuredly, there's a different perspective, but they all say the same thing. You have to make an investment in order to get a return — no matter when you start! If anything, the more gold in your years, the more investing you may have to do in your communication, honesty and creativity pot.Developing quality dating experiences does not include thinking a partner will be emotionally available when football season is over — only to realize the seasons are never-ending. Football protrudes into basketball which finishes at the start of baseball. “This too shall pass,” says the wise, until realizing that baseball season encompasses soccer, overlaps with year-round tennis and returns us to football. Spectator sports are a beautiful part of life for men and women, but existing on the sidelines of a relationship is not for women over 50. Their life experience demands that they be in the game, and playing their best with a partner who is, too!In the 50 age-bracket and beyond, dating is no longer youthfully imitating a celebrity lifestyle. This may have been an enjoyable dating anchor for those in their younger years. However, for the golden year counterparts, stilettos and compromising financial positions are not relationship builders. It's more like quicksand swallowing an inquisitive furry animal who failed to prod the marshland for safe passage.An evening out enjoying a few martinis no longer changes the perception of a budget bungalow into a penthouse suite, enhances intellectual and esthetic appeal or turns a night at the beach into the French Riviera. Our over 50 squad doesn't have to be enamored by each activity or every word, but they definitely have to like and respect their partners when sober or not.From those approaching from a spiritual perspective, it's beneficial if the dating and relationship experience over 50 is in alignment with many of the core principles of integrity and gratitude. Most spiritual doctrines are advocates that a positive dating and relationship experience can reduce pain, enhance peace and reestablish balance through benevolence and joy. There is so much that is said about the favorable effects of healing through spiritual guidance, coaching and the love of friends and family for the younger dating groups. However, the importance of these support systems for the older equivalents, in their mid-to-later years, is significantly underestimated or just overlooked.In many arenas, women dating over 50 are still often seen as the complete antithesis of love and balance restoration. In fact, it is often viewed as advertisement for the development of mental and physical health challenges. There are few, if not many, books, movies and TV shows based on the premise that women dating in their later years will be subject to abuse, fraud, betrayal and possible death. The women depicted as these characters are not suffering from dementia as one might expect. They are in their right mind and living productive lives. Interestingly, a woman of sound mind over 50 who is seeking a rewarding dating and relationship experience is portrayed as being deluged in low self-esteem, loneliness and desperation with an inability to thrive and overcome normal life challenges and traumas faced by everyone.Fortunately, we are moving confidently in an era where we, as women, define our dating and relationship involvement at all ages including our 50s, 60s, 70s and above. Yes, I'm excited to say that I personally know women who are dating in their 80s and pioneering trails for healthy, safe and meaningful experiences while tearing down ageist misconceptions. The 60s are not the new 50s or the new 40s. The 60s are the new 60s and the 70s are the new 70s. The world's view from the millennials to the baby boomers to the silent generation is being implored to expand one experience at a time as we continue to define ourselves and set new boundaries while dismantling old limits.The ante has been upped in our 50s. The challenge is to listen with compassion and judge sparingly, if at all. For some, it's not to get the new confused with the old — respecting that "Judy" is not “Janet," and "John" is not "Joe.” The focus has changed. The paradigm has shifted. If we bring all of our wisdom to the table, it becomes easy to leave any mistakes at the door. We know in our hearts we will be watched and sometimes misrepresented for years to come, and it's up to us to ignite, empower and build our new legacy of...
Written by RontelThere’s no one-size-fits-all approach to getting married. What works for some, may not work for others — and that’s OK! But, have you ever seen an engaged or married couple with fundamental issues that make it hard to wonder why they’re even together in the first place? There are many things that divide couples at all stages of a relationship: honesty, ambition, income, communication, infidelity and the list goes on. When I look back on my dating life, all of the relationships that ended badly had big red warning signs in the very beginning. These warning signs should’ve been an indicator for us to move on and cut our losses early. But instead, I ignored them (we ignored them) and tried to work past them, because relationships require work, right? The truth of the matter is that, yes, relationships do require work. But if you are considering marriage with your soulmate, it’s best to do marriage counseling before getting down on one knee, and here are a few reasons why:1. Many people don’t have a true understanding of what marriage really is.I have so many friends who jumped into relationships with people that they found physically attractive. They had fun together. They went to the club together. They loved to "Netflix and chill." But these things cannot be the foundation for a life-long partnership. A marriage has to be built on something stronger, like communication and mutual respect, along with physical, spiritual and emotional security. These are what help couples power through the imminent storms that we all experience in life.2. If you want to do counseling through a church, many pastors won’t counsel couples who already have a date set.The purpose of marriage counseling is to have a third party help guide a couple through a thorough assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of their relationship. Couples dive deep into things from their childhood. They talk about their desires. They even talk about the issues that they have with their partne — to their face! Many issues that are present in a relationship will surface during counseling and the pastor (or counselor) will help the couple utilize techniques to best guide them through their issues. But, in some cases, the issues that arise may be static, fundamental ones that won’t change, which may give one or both parties second thoughts.Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.3. Marriage counseling before proposing provides you with the assurance that you need.I had known very early after meeting my fiancé that I wanted to marry her. Sometimes in life you just know! When I assessed my own readiness for that serious of a commitment, I was further convinced that asking her to marry me was a good idea. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably been in relationships before where marriage crossed your mind, but the relationship ended before it ever came to fruition. For me, this time would be different. Counseling helped us deepen our commitment and understanding of each other. It strengthened our trust for one another. It assured us both that a lifetime of happiness was on the horizon — all that we had to do was continue along God’s path for our lives.4. Your compatibility will be tested.There are a lot of things that keep couples together that shouldn’t, such as social status, physical attraction, income and the list of shallow traits goes on. Don’t get me wrong, none of these things are bad. However, when these things form the basis for why you love a person, your relationship will crumble when tested. Counseling helped me and my fiancé to have those hard conversations about insecurities. It helped us have those hard conversations about financial expectations. We talked about how many kids we would have and how we think they should be raised. We talked about how we felt about each other’s friends and families, and how our relationships with them affected the other person. We even talked about spirituality and what role our christian faith would play in a potential marriage between us. We left each session feeling even more in love with each other, especially after our pastor informed us that we were one of the most compatible couples that he had ever seen.5. It helps you resist the temptation to get others involved before you are absolutely sure.Social media can trick people into doing things that they are not ready for. Everybody wants to have their engagement photos featured on prominent Instagram pages. It’s normal to want your friends and family to be happy that you are tying the knot. But the beauty isn’t in getting married, it’s in staying married. Marriage counseling helps you to make an informed decision before opening your relationship up for the world to see. It was marriage counseling that gave me the assurance I needed to be confident that my relationship had a strong foundation to build on, that wasn’t based on worldly things that are here today and gone tomorrow (i.e. money, a nice car and physical attractiveness). Instead, I knew that we had something that would last and persevere when tested. And when I finally made the decision to talk to her parents about proposing and buying a ring, I was even more confident in answering questions about why I believed that this was a good idea— marriage counseling forced us to do research and put in the necessary work to feel confident in buying a ring, expressing our love on social media, merging our friend and family circles and so much more.This is not a universal formula that works for every couple, but it worked for us, so I highly recommend it.Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking...
"What do you think makes you difficult to deal with? What behaviors do I exhibit that shut down your desire for intimacy?"These are just a few of many hard-hitting questions included in the new relationship based card game, The Talk: Couple Edition.Joy Fitzgerald, the game's creator, is also an author, motivational speaker, mother and wife. She shared that though she had always wanted to write a book, the process sometimes felt overwhelming and daunting. In 2018, with support from her husband and two adult children, Fitzgerald published The Journey to Joy: 5 Generations Share Stories Every Woman Needs To Hear and The Journal to Joy. Not long after her books were released, Fitzgerald began working on developing the card game.The Talk aims to spark deep conversations between partners. Couples draw a card and read it aloud. After one person answers, it’s the other's turn to respond to the same question. There are five simple rules:Be present.Listen.Reserve all judgment.Remember the goal is not to necessarily agree.Be vulnerable.There is no winner in The Talk, only a better understanding of both participants and hopefully, a deeper connection.Photo credit: Joy Fitzgerald with husband.Blavity sat down with Fitzgerald to learn more about her newly released relationship-focused card game.Blavity: What made you want to create the game, [The Talk: Couple Edition]?Joy Fitzgerald: We love games in the Fitzgerald household. It is one of the ways we connect, spend quality time and have fun. I wanted to create a way in which couples can learn things about each other while keeping the atmosphere lively and enjoyable. Quality time in conversation should be fun and something people look forward to. I want people to get comfortable having The Talk with each other. I feel that many people talk to their friends, relatives, parents, etc. about their partners. I want to redirect those conversations to be with the people in the relationship.Blavity: What inspired the name The Talk?Fitzgerald: The name was inspired by my daughter Taylor Fitzgerald. She is one of the most creative people that I know and I consult with her to get ideas. While trying to come up with a name for the card game, she asked, "What do you really want people to do?" That was easy. I want couples to have deep dialogue around topics that don't come up in everyday conversation. Basically, I want couples to have the talk. Hence, the name was determined.Blavity: Did your husband have any input in the questions?Fitzgerald: Absolutely! We have been happily married for 25-plus years. Our marriage is the inspiration for the game and the questions. The guided questions in the card deck, chronicle many of the things we have talked about over the years. We have a marriage and a best friend relationship because we invest in communicating often and with deep purpose. My husband is my best supporter and thought partner. Blavity: Have your friends and family played the game? What were their thoughts?Fitzgerald: Yes, [they have]. Over the Christmas holiday, I sat down with several couples and observed them playing the card game. It was a blast. I learned so much. It was awesome to see how one question sparked such a deep discussion for the couples. The couple who had been married the longest was shocked at how much they learned in the first three questions. For the couple that was dating, the young lady commented that she learned more in one hour than she had in one year of knowing him. I was delighted to see how the men enjoyed this as much as the women. At first, they were a little nervous. Blavity: What impact are you hoping this game has for folks in a relationship?Fitzgerald: I want them to feel heard and understood in a safe and fun environment. I hope that couples gain skills in better understanding each other through quality conversation and that they keep having them.Blavity: Will there be another edition of The Talk?Fitzgerald: Yes, there will be another edition. I am already working on the next project.Blavity: Where can the Blavity fam find the game?Fitzgerald: Blavity family can find the game on my website speakingjoy.org, [and they can] follow my Instagram and Facebook at @speakingjoy. Blavity: Before wrapping, can you share your top three pieces of advice for a strong relationshipFitzgerald: Quality time. Never stop dating and chasing love. Be intentional in creating moments that make your partner feel special, heard and valued. Develop True Friendship. Being friends is an enduring love that never ends. It extends beyond intimacy and being “in love.” It’s the love that lasts a lifetime. Love the version of the one you are with. When you celebrate the best in a person, they will be motivated to make their best even better. View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Joy Fitzgerald (@speakingjoy) on Nov 5, 2019 at 9:43am PSTWhile love is in the air, take time to sit down with your partner to check-in. The Talk seems like a fun way to learn new and exciting things. It's important to have these complex conversations that at first may feel uncomfortable, but breaking out of comfort zones is what advances relationships to the next...
Rapper Ace Hood married his longtime love, Shelah Marie, on Friday at the Mondrian South Beach in Miami, reports Bossip.In pictures posted to social media, the rapper, born Antoine McColister, can be seen wearing a burgundy suit with his locs atop his head in a bun while Shelah wore a one-shoulder gown accompanied by a long veil. His children, Salior Blu and Antoine Jr., with previous girlfriend, Shanice Sarratt, were also a part of the celebration.2•7•2020 – Photos by the legend.❤️@photosbyreem
pic.twitter.com/MAOGaauure— Ace Hood (@Acehood) February 9, 2020Changing the narrative. Shifting generational curses. My GOD I’m so grateful. #YearOfCompletion
— Photos By: @photosbyreem
#Acemeetsqueen
pic.twitter.com/pM0ZXU8XO6— Ace Hood (@Acehood) February 10, 2020The 31-year-old rapper got down on one knee and asked for Shelah’s hand in marriage back in April after dating for about four years, according to Complex. The couple was surrounded by family and friends while Beyoncé played in the background.His now-wife is a wellness influencer and founder of Curvy, Curly, Conscious, a platform for “women of color to connect, commune, and embark on their paths to self-love and care.”The “Bugatti” rapper says Shelah and yoga have saved him. Shelah first started practicing yoga back in 2013 but had a newfound appreciation for it once Hood expressed interest.“Ace is an open person and he's very smart, so he can tune into when something can be good to you, and he's like I'll give it a try at least. But he was actually really interested in yoga before I introduced him, he just never had the opportunity,” she told xoNecole.The couple started taking private classes so the Florida born rapper could become comfortable.“I think he’s so brave,” she said. “I used to tell him that in the beginning, just being with a Black girl who has natural hair and not being afraid to go out and meditate, I think it’s brave for somebody in his position. He’s going to wake the game up and let them know what time it is!”Yoga has not only helped them individually, but has also allowed their relationship to grow and intimacy to strengthen.“Intimacy happens in the mind first, so I think yoga helps you to become more in tune with yourself. When we’re in tune with our own selves and become more comfortable with ourselves, then you become more comfortable with your partner,” she said.The couple often posts their meditation practices on social media. View this post on Instagram
#acroyoga #couplesyoga #CurvyCurlyConsciousA post shared by theshelahmarie (@theshelahmarie) on Apr 11, 2016 at 1:19pm PDT View this post on Instagram
@liforme yoga mats are the absolute best. -- Photo by the lovely @lbornephotographyA post shared by theshelahmarie (@theshelahmarie) on Apr 14, 2017 at 8:27am PDT
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Handstand practice. ✨A post shared by theshelahmarie (@theshelahmarie) on Jan 21, 2017 at 7:05am PST
We wish them congratulations on their recent...
If you’re interested in sharing your opinion on any cultural, political or personal topic, create an account here and check out our how-to post to learn more.____Fellas, take notes; and ladies, he’s taken. Blakk Tatted, born Cardell Bradley, is known for his unique presence on social media. The 31-year-old New Orleans native is no stranger to the limelight. Many of you may recognize the young artist as the “New Orleans Dip King.” Blakk has been crowned through his pioneering of the “Dip Challenge,” proving himself to be the embodiment of New Orleans swag. Blakk later released a single, “Dip Witchaaa,” that enchanted listeners with the sound of New Orleans bounce music.Be it comical skits or artistry, Blakk is continuously capturing the attention of hundreds of thousands with his everflowing talents. But recently, he captured the internet’s attention for a more romantic reason, as he showed the world Black love is alive and well.When we think of Black love, naturally our minds tend to veer towards that of great celebrity status, pointing to couples like Beyoncé and Jay-Z, and Ciara and Russell Wilson. While, for obvious reasons, these are near perfect examples of endearment, we must not forget that Black love exists beyond the celebrity limelight, and today, I’d like to honor it. On January 14, Blakk posted a status on his Instagram page to his long-time girlfriend, Van Lenore. The status honored the 27-year-old model, showering her with appreciation and recognition. At the end, Blakk revealed he purchased Lenore a brand-new Nissan Sentra, and the internet stanned.Blakk's comments were flooded with congratulations and accolades as viewers commended him for his efforts of affection. Creator of The Crayon Case, Supa Cent, commented, “Yassssss. Let’s roll @vanlenore.” And rapper Briki jokeed, “Cut upppp stakkkkkk @vanlenore come get me.”As the comments continued, nothing less than respect and admiration was directed towards Blakk Tatted.Van Lenore showered Blakk with her own personal post of appreciation, writing, “So I’ve had enough time to sit in my glory and I just want to say thank you to my wonderful man and I love you soooooo freaking much! I’m so blessed y’all...beyond measures.” She continued, “To have someone in my life that showers me with love and knowledge is all I ever wanted. The gifts are nice too, and I’m sooo thankful to have that one that gives me everything I’ve ever wanted and needed...without even asking! A true king indeed ...”Needless to say. Blakk proved himself the man, as many of us caught our breath over the next couple of days.A little over a week later, Blakk stunned viewers again with a similar post, confiding with his followers of conversations he and Lenore had about “back-up cameras,” a feature that the newly purchased Nissan did not possess. Blakk, being the king that he is, shocked the internet again with the purchase of a brand-new Chrysler 200, fully equipped with a back-up camera.Blakk exemplified that love is a constant pursuit. And while the cars were material, the place they originated from was priceless.Love requires a level of patience and thoughtfulness that one cannot achieve if they are not listening. This does not go to say that you have to spend money to showcase the love you have for your significant other, but it does mean that you must love genuinely, intentionally and consistently. Blakk’s gestures did not woo viewers because of the amount of money spent; it was his fervent pursuit of Van’s heart. The pursuit for her did not stop after the children they share, and it didn’t stop after the years they've endured together. Blakk works endlessly to shower Lenore with the same happiness she has given to him. We’ve been told that love is a two-way street, but Van and Blakk have shown us that, actually, the sky is the...
A North Carolina woman is battling a difficult diagnosis, but her husband is helping her to face the music, and it's got our eyes just a wee bit wet. In the video, Ray Singleton is seen singing Daniel Caesar's "Get You" to his wife Rosyln, a Navy vet enduring her second bout with brain cancer, reports Fox Carolina.The two met in November of 2016 when the 37-year-old was cancer-free. They married in 2018, but by October 2019, the cancer returned, reports WSOC. "I wasn't expecting for it to come back because I was young, and I was taking care of myself," Roslyn said. "I don't eat pork. I was like 'I'm doing good.'"Ray has used his love of music to encourage his wife through her diagnosis. While sitting in the waiting room, during Roslyn’s second brain surgery, he created a video of her journey with his vocals in the background. View this post on Instagram
I’m blessed to be stuck with you.... @iamrosroyalA post shared by Ray Singleton, MEd (@willie_qool) on Dec 1, 2019 at 7:54pm PST“I was nervous, and I was bored,” he said. “When she comes out, I don’t know if she’ll be able to see this, but I want to make something for her that will make her smile after having her head cut open.”
The video, in which he sings Daniel Caesar’s “Get You,” hasn't just made Roslyn smile. It's garnered over 26,500 views on Ray’s Instagram page."It got to Shade Room," Ray said. "They've got 17 million followers on Instagram, and it went absolutely crazy. It went crazy!" View this post on Instagram
Still in AWE by the power and strength of this woman...I can’t imagine the weight of what she carries every single day but she does it EFFORTLESSLY. I truly love this woman and I thank y’all for loving her the way that you all do!! P.S. This video is brought to you by WaitingRoomBoredom.com and BarelyAnySleep Inc. She makes me better....A post shared by Ray Singleton, MEd (@willie_qool) on Jan 9, 2020 at 4:12pm PSTEven Caesar’s team caught a glimpse of the video. His management reached out to the couple and invited them to Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, at which the Grammy award-winning artist will be performing. Throughout his wife’s fight against cancer, Ray’s not going anywhere."I told my pastor and God in front of a lot of people, I'm with her through sickness and health and this is just a little part of that," Ray said.Roslyn first noticed something was off while an active member of the military in 2008. By 2013 she received her first diagnosis — brain cancer. But she's somehow been able to find a silver lining."To me, cancer is a blessing because it's my way of telling people that no matter what it is, it's going to be OK," Roslyn said.And clearly her husband helps just a little bit. "He makes it OK," she...
In my honest opinion, there is nothing more beautiful than Black love and Black unions. The impact that visible Black couples have on strengthening the foundation of other Black families is one we should celebrate, cherish and encourage. Whether it has been young, seasoned or somewhere in between, Black love and affection has shown out all 2019. Here is a list celebrating some of my favorite, Black love duos that were on the scene in 2019.1. Idris Elba and Sabrina Dhowre Elba View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sabrina Dhowre Elba (@sabrinaelba) on Jun 4, 2019 at 9:21am PDTActor and DJ Idris Elba stunned the world when he first introduced us to his then girlfriend Sabrina Dhowre. After wooing us with her charm and beauty, we quickly fell for the IMG model too and were elated to learn of their plans for wedded bliss. Idris married his love, early 2019, and it looks like it’s been a honeymoon ever since.
2. Simone Biles and Stacey Ervin Jr. View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Stacey Ervin Jr. (@staceyervinjr) on Oct 23, 2019 at 12:15pm PDTThe 22-year-old Olympic gold medalist has been America's sweetheart for many years, with her winning smile and gymnastics skills. But the one person who is sweetest on Biles’ list is her boyfriend, Stacey Ervin Jr. After Biles won her 5th World Championship, her beau, who is a former national gymnastics champion himself, heartily cheered her on and it was the most adorable moment in sports history! 3. Ciara and Russell Wilson View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Russell Wilson (@dangerusswilson) on Oct 25, 2019 at 11:54am PDTCiara's goodies have belonged to her dear husband Russell Wilson for some time now, but it feels like we saw more PDA from the couple this year and I am not mad at it! Russell has always made a point to publicly acknowledge his wife and Ciara is never too shy to brag on her football star husband. Russell adores Ciara so much that he defers to her when the two step out on red carpets together, allowing photographers to take in the beauty that he gets to experience for the rest of their lives together.4. (The Late) Nipsey Hussle and Lauren London View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Lauren London (@laurenlondon) on Apr 11, 2019 at 6:20pm PDTThough we mourn the loss of The Marathon rapper and philanthropist Nipsey Hussle, we will continue to honor his legacy and celebrate his undeniable love and bond with longtime companion Lauren London. London has spoken on many occasions about the dynamics of her relationship with the man she referred to as "Hustle" and older interviews reveal just how much Nipsey loved and appreciated his woman. Lauren carries on Nipsey's legacy through their son and his service to the community. “The Marathon Continues” and we salute Lauren London for keeping it going. 5. Teyana Taylor and Iman ShumpertYouTube | GQArguably one of the flyest young couples to emerge on the celebrity scene, Teyana Taylor and hubby Iman Shumpert are definitely relationship goals. Earlier this year Teyana played the questions game, quizzing Shumpert on 30 things about her and he got a nearly perfect score! When a man truly loves a woman, he pays attention to all the little things. Shumpert can teach a few lessons on this, for sure!6. Dywane Wade and Gabrielle Union View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Gabrielle Union-Wade (@gabunion) on Nov 28, 2019 at 3:02pm PSTIt’s safe to say that one of the things we love most about The Wades is how they make their blended family work so seamlessly. Gabrielle has treated Wade’s sons from his previous relationship as her own and supports them like a mom should. Plus, their daughter Kavia is the baby shade queen and we cannot get enough of her!7.Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Courtney B Vance (@courtneybvance) on Apr 4, 2019 at 12:50pm PDTClassic love is always worth mentioning. For years we have swooned over how much Courtney Vance and Angela Bassett compliment one another. Both successful actors in their own lanes, this seasoned couple ages like fine wine. I swear, they’re growing younger!8. Sterling K. Brown and Ryan Michelle Bathe View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Sterling Brown (@sterlingkbrown) on Sep 22, 2019 at 3:45pm PDTNo matter where he goes, Sterling K. Brown never forgets to thank his wife, Ryan Michelle Bathe. His adoration for the actress and mother of his sons is like a scene from our favorite romance movie. Sterling ensures that in every room he enters, they know who the woman is that has pushed him to be the great actor and person we all know and love. And justifiably so; Bathe is a beautiful Black actress who deserves the shine.9. Jay-Z and Beyoncé View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce) on Oct 6, 2019 at 3:56pm PDTI’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Hov and Queen Bey. Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s love story is equivalent to a modern day Bonnie and Clyde — the tale of true ride or dies. Lately we see them more as a unit now than before and, quite frankly, we stan. “Bey-Z” is your favorite aunt and uncle showing up at all the family functions and social events in the flyest gear, with the coolest demeanor, and the best bottles of top shelf drank! Bey has Jay-Z out here with the natural hair flourishing and the pastel suits tailored to the "T," complimenting her dazzling glamorous lewks and flare. This couple has overcome some controversy, built an empire, and still always manages to be two of the most important people in any room they...
Actress Lena Waithe discreetly married her longtime partner, Alana Mayo, in San Francisco. The Westworld actress made the revelation to guest host John Legend on The Ellen DeGeneres Show on Friday. "We snuck and did it," the 35-year-old said. "We didn't make any announcements. We went to San Francisco. We went to the courthouse. Got married right in front of Harvey Milk's bust. It was her idea, as all good things are. And she was just driving and she saw the courthouse and she said, ‘We should get married there.' And I said, ‘Cool, I'm down.'"According to Rolling Out, Waithe and Mayo, 34, were engaged for almost two years before they decided to get married. Speaking to Legend, who was recently named People's "Sexiest Man Alive," the actress said she proposed to Mayo during Thanksgiving in Tokyo. Mayo also works within the film industry as head of production and development with the Outlier Society. The screenwriter explained the significance of San Francisco City Hall and the significance of getting married in front of the bust honoring gay rights activist Harvey Milk. She didn't say when exactly the nuptials took place. "It was a humbling day to marry someone so amazing," the actress said. "But also to really appreciate all the work that so many people have put in for us to be able to do that."According to E! News, the Chicago-born actress made history in 2017 when she became the first Black woman to win an Emmy for best comedy series writing, getting the honor for her work on the show Master of None with Aziz Ansari. Speaking to Legend on Friday, the Emmy Award winner said she wants to honor other talented Black women. "I know so many amazing women of color, particularly Black women, who have written episodes that are worthy of winning an Emmy," Waithe said.Waithe credited Ansari for helping her succeed. "He really gave me the floor and was like, ‘Tell your story.' And I had no idea that the episode would take on the life that it's taken," she said. Waithe also talked about her latest movie, Queen & Slim, the story of a Black couple who become outlaws after getting into a fatal confrontation with an...
