THE SHADES OF BEAUTY EXPO RETURNS TO ARKANSAS FOR 2018

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Little Rock, AR (9/9/18) - Making its return to Arkansas this September, the Shades of Beauty Expo seeks to celebrate the beauty and strength of women of color through exhibits and demonstrations that embody health and wellness from the inside out while also connecting them with businesses and organizations that acknowledge and appreciate their beauty.

The day begins with the Ambassadors of Beauty Awards which will honor those who motivate women to love themselves from the inside out, fight to eliminate health disparities and work hard to make sure that every woman understands her worth. This year's honorees are Rhonda Aaron, Akissi Brooks Hill, Veronica Neal, and Devyani Shekhawat. The awards ceremony will also feature talented local female artists of color.

After recognizing the exceptional women who have been named 2018 Ambassadors of Beauty Finalists, the day continues with an opportunity for attendees to learn hair tips from industry professionals, enjoy relaxing massages, receive free health screenings, and interact with a diverse group of health, beauty, and fashion vendors.

Experts will educate on how to be beautiful both inside and out through workshops, panel discussions, and demonstrations focused on nutrition, spiritual wellness, fitness, beauty, fashion, and the portrayal of women of color in society. Speakers and presenters include:

• Beatrice Akins, Founder of Beatrice Terrell Therapy & Self Development
• Krameelah Banks, Founder of Arkansas Behavioral Center
• Kimberly Key-Bell, Co-Owner Collaborative Counseling Associates, LLC.
• Alisha Davis, Owner of Real Natural Salon
• Cheryl Jackson-Golden, Founder of Cre8ting Changes
• Kameelah Harris, Founder of WOW fitness
• Sugar Boutique

The Shades of Beauty Expo is also accepting applications for exhibitors with innovative products for hair, nails, makeup, skincare, healthcare, nutrition, fashion, or fitness that would like to showcase in a way that empowers women of color to recognize and embrace their beauty inside and out.

Shades of Beauty Expo
Saturday, September 29, 2018 from Noon-6 p.m.
Statehouse Convention Center, 101 E. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201
Adults $10 presale/ $15 at the door and Youth $5 presale/$8 at the door
Information and tickets for the Brunch and Expo are available online at ShadesOfBeautyExpo.com

Contact: Sherryln Thompson, 612-642-1978, info@shadesofbeautyexpo.com

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2018 Minnesota Ambassadors of Beauty Award Finalists and Keynote Speaker Announced

Minneapolis, MN (7/10/18) - Making its return on Saturday, August 11, 2018, the Shades of Beauty Expo seeks to celebrate the beauty and strength of all women of color through exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations that embody health and wellness from the inside out while also connecting them with businesses and organizations that acknowledge and appreciate their beauty. 

The Shades of Beauty Expo will begin the day with the Ambassadors of Beauty Brunch which will honor those who motivate women to love themselves from the inside out, fight to eliminate health disparities and work hard to make sure that every woman understands her worth.

We are proud to announce that the 2018 keynote speaker will be Dr. Reatha Clark King. Dr. King is an African American administrator, educator, scientist, and philanthropist. She has transcended significant barriers to becoming one of the nation's first African-American women to receive a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Chicago. Her early work in thermochemistry aided NASA's space program. Her many public accomplishments include serving as president of Metropolitan State University where she had a significant impact and as president and executive director of the General Mills Foundation, where she oversaw its philanthropy and citizen programs. She served on numerous boards of several Fortune 500 Companies where she provided leadership in ethics and business. She has served on the board of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and as a trustee of Clark Atlanta University. She is a life trustee of the University of Chicago and the recipient of 14 honorary degrees in addition to many other awards. She was one of the Humphrey School's Hill Fellows in 2004 and continues to participate in the School's Leadership and Management area and on the Humphrey School of Public Affairs Advisory Council.

After hearing from our phenomenal speaker we will recognize our 2018 Ambassadors of Beauty Award finalists: Stefanie G. Asante-Totimeh, Jasmine Boudah, Nicole Foster, Monica Habia, and TraNeicia Sylvester. These women were selected from numerous nominations that were submitted by members of the community and have proven to go above and beyond to empower women and girls of color throughout the Twin Cities. Join us as we hear Dr. King's empowering message and honor these exceptional women.

The Shades of Beauty Expo is also accepting applications for exhibitors with innovative products for hair, nails, makeup, skincare, healthcare, nutrition, fashion, or fitness that would like to showcase in a way that empowers women of color to recognize and embrace their beauty inside and out.

Shades of Beauty Expo
Saturday, August 11, 2018
Brunch at 10 a.m.; Expo Noon-6 p.m.
St. Paul Rivercenter, 175 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. MN
$10 for expo only; $50 for brunch and expo.
Information and tickets for the Brunch and Expo are available online at ShadesOfBeautyExpo.com

Contact: Sherryln Thompson, 612-642-1978, info@shadesofbeautyexpo.com

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The Shades of Beauty Expo returns to Minnesota and Arkansas for 2018

The Shades of Beauty Expo (SOBE) is the freshest and boldest health and beauty event to hit the Twin Cities and Central Arkansas! For 2018, SOBE will feature two events. The first will take place on Saturday, August 11 at the St. Paul RiverCentre in St. Paul, Minnesota and the second will take place on Saturday, September 29 at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock, Arkansas.

SOBE'18 has a five-fold goal:

• Celebrate the essence of women of color
• Inspire attendees by providing opportunities to learn techniques for better general health, hair care, new styling, and makeup application
• Empower women to love who they are and provide information about available products and resources tailored to their unique health care and cosmetic needs
• Educate women on strategies for self-care through healthy eating, physical fitness, regular doctor visits, and more
• Support small, woman, and minority owned businesses

The Shades of Beauty Expo will be a gathering of sisters sharing, discovering, and celebrating their total beauty!

SOBE'18 will begin the day with the "Ambassadors of Beauty Brunch". The brunch will celebrate exceptional people who encourage and empower women while striving to change society's definition of "beauty" for women. We will honor individuals and organizations who have worked to foster beauty by improving self-esteem, reducing health disparities among women of color, promoting self-awareness, and motivating "Every Woman to be Totally Beautiful." The Ambassadors of Beauty Brunch is sure to uplift and inspire all who attend!

Following the brunch, join us in the exhibit area from 12:00 - 6:00 p.m. for:

• A diverse exposition of top health and beauty brands
• Educational workshops and demonstrations led by leaders from an array of health and beauty industries
• Free health screenings
• A kid's corner
• And more!

It is our desire that attendees will leave the Shades of Beauty Expo inspired to embrace their unique beauty and equipped to take control of their health. We want to empower Every Woman to be Totally Beautiful.

Tickets are on sale now at www.shadesofbeautyexpo.com/tickets

For exhibitor and sponsorship information, please email exhibit@shadesofbeautyexpo.com.

Instagram: @shadesofbeautyexpo
Facebook and Twitter: @SOBExpo

Shades of Beauty Expo adds Little Rock, AR to expo schedule

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Little Rock, AR (8/23/17) - Making its Arkansas debut this September, the Shades of Beauty Expo seeks to celebrate the beauty and strength of women of color through exhibits and demonstrations that embody health and wellness from the inside out while also connecting them with businesses and organizations that acknowledge and appreciate their beauty.

The day begins with the Ambassadors of Beauty Awards which will honor those who motivate women to love themselves from the inside out, fight to eliminate health disparities and work hard to make sure that every woman understands her worth. The awards ceremony will also feature talented local female artists of color.

After recognizing the exceptional women who have been named 2017 Ambassadors of Beauty Finalists, the day continues with an opportunity for attendees to learn hair and makeup tips from industry professionals, enjoy relaxing massages, receive free health screenings, and interact with a diverse group of health, beauty, and fashion companies.

Experts will educate on how to be beautiful both inside and out through workshops, panel discussions, and demonstrations focused on nutrition, spiritual wellness, fitness, beauty, fashion, and the portrayal of women of color in society. Speakers and presenters include:

• Tendai Morris, Missouri based veteran hair stylist and creator of Healthy Hair Solutions
• Tracy Sanders, Los Angeles based employment discrimination lawyer and natural hair rights expert
• Kameelah Harris, Founder of WOW fitness
• Sheurika McKeever, Baptist Health staff facilitator
• Iris Golden-Griffith, Case Manager, Central Arkansas Veterans Health Care System
• Leah Patterson, Founder and CEO of Move Makeup and Depression Breakthrough Coach

The Shades of Beauty Expo is also accepting applications for exhibitors with innovative products for hair, nails, makeup, skincare, healthcare, nutrition, fashion, or fitness that would like to showcase in a way that empowers women of color to recognize and embrace their beauty inside and out.

Shades of Beauty Expo

Saturday, September 30, 2017 from Noon-6 p.m.

Statehouse Convention Center, 101 E. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72201

$10 for advance purchase expo only; $20 for brunch and expo.

Information and tickets are available online at ShadesOfBeautyExpo.com

Contact: Sherryln Thompson                 612-642-1978               info@shadesofbeautyexpo.com

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2017 Ambassador of Beauty Award Finalists Announced

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

 Minneapolis, MN (7/10/17) - Making its return this August, the Shades of Beauty Expo seeks to celebrate the beauty and strength of all women of color through exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations that embody health and wellness from the inside out while also connecting them with businesses and organizations that acknowledge and appreciate their beauty. 

The Shades of Beauty Expo will begin the day with the Ambassadors of Beauty brunch which will honor those who motivate women to love themselves from the inside out, fight to eliminate health disparities and work hard to make sure that every woman understands her worth. We are proud to announce that the 2017 keynote speaker will be Miss USA 2016, Deshauna Barber.  Deshauna was crowned the first Miss USA to currently serve in the United States military.  She is a survivor of child sexual abuse and wants to inspire other survivors to fight through the fears of their past. Deshauna has also overcome extreme bullying from a young age but after the recent loss of her mother to cancer, she wants to encourage people to focus on loving yourself and the people around you.  

After hearing from our phenomenal speaker we will recognize our 2017 Ambassadors of Beauty Award finalists: De’Vonna Bentley-Pitman, Taquisha Brown, Princess Nelson, Neda Renee, and Angela Winston Hebert. These women were selected from numerous nominations that were submitted by members of the community and have proven to go above and beyond to empower women and girls of color throughout the Twin Cities. Join us as we hear Deshauna’s inspiring story of triumph and honor these exceptional women.

The Shades of Beauty Expo is also accepting applications for exhibitors with innovative products for hair, nails, makeup, skincare, healthcare, nutrition, fashion, or fitness that would like to showcase in a way that empowers women of color to recognize and embrace their beauty inside and out.

Shades of Beauty Expo
Saturday, August 12, 2017
Brunch at 10 a.m.; Expo Noon-6 p.m.
St. Paul Rivercenter, 175 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. MN
$10 for expo only; $50 for brunch and expo.
Information and tickets for the Brunch and Expo are available online at ShadesOfBeautyExpo.com

Contact: Sherryln Thompson, 612-642-1978, info@shadesofbeautyexpo.com

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Miss USA 2016, Deshauna Barber, to be the 2017 Ambassadors of Beauty brunch keynote speaker.

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Minneapolis, MN (5/1/17) - Making its return this August, the Shades of Beauty Expo seeks to celebrate the beauty and strength of all women of color through exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations that embody health and wellness from the inside out while also connecting them with businesses and organizations that acknowledge and appreciate their beauty. 

The Shades of Beauty Expo will begin the day with the Ambassadors of Beauty brunch which will honor those who motivate women to love themselves from the inside out, fight to eliminate health disparities and work hard to make sure that every woman understands her worth. We are proud to announce that the 2017 keynote speaker will be Miss USA 2016, Deshauna Barber.  Deshauna was crowned the first Miss USA to currently serve in the United States military.  She is a survivor of child sexual abuse and wants to inspire other survivors to fight through the fears of their past. Deshauna has also overcome extreme bullying from a young age but after the recent loss of her mother to cancer, she wants to encourage people to focus on loving yourself and the people around you.  Join us as we hear the inspirational story of survival and triumph which led to her eventually becoming a history making national symbol of strength and beauty. 

The Shades of Beauty Expo is now accepting nominations for the 2017 Ambassadors of Beauty Award. Ambassadors of Beauty nominees are an exceptional group of people who uplift, encourage and empower women while striving to change society’s definition of "beautiful" for women of color.  While some honorees foster beauty by improving self-esteem through esthetics and some work to eliminate health disparities among women of color, others promote awareness or motivate. If you know of a woman or organization that embodies the Shades of Beauty motto, Every Woman . . . Totally Beautiful, nominate them at shadesofbeautyexpo.com/ambassadors.  Nominations are due on June 2nd.  

The Shades of Beauty Expo is also accepting applications for exhibitors with innovative products for hair, nails, makeup, skincare, healthcare, nutrition, fashion, or fitness that would like to showcase in a way that empowers women of color to recognize and embrace their beauty inside and out.

Shades of Beauty Expo
Saturday, August 12, 2017
Brunch at 10 a.m.; Expo Noon-6 p.m.
St. Paul Rivercenter, 175 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. MN
$10 for expo only; $50 for brunch and expo.
Information and tickets for the Brunch and Expo are available online at ShadesOfBeautyExpo.com

Contact Information
Sherryln Thompson
612-642-1978
info@shadesofbeautyexpo.com

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Shades Of Beauty Expo to Debut in St. Paul on August 13

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Making its debut this August, the Shades of Beauty Expo seeks to celebrate the beauty and strength of women of color through exhibits and demonstrations that embody health and wellness from the inside out while also connecting them with businesses and organizations that acknowledge and appreciate their beauty.

The day begins with the Ambassadors of Beauty Brunch which will honor those who motivate women to love themselves from the inside out, fight to eliminate health disparities and work hard to make sure that every woman understands her worth. Dr. Nekima Levy-Pounds, a civil rights attorney and president of the Minneapolis NAACP will give the keynote address. Levy-Pounds has been at the forefront of the struggle for equal rights for people of color in the Twin Cities and beyond. Through her empowering words, Levy-Pounds will encourage women to change society’s definition of beauty for women of color and break barriers in their lives.

The day continues with the Shades Of Beauty Expo, where attendees can connect with top healthcare organizations, learn hair and makeup tips from industry professionals, get mini makeovers, enjoy relaxing massages, and interact with a diverse group of health and beauty companies.

Experts will educate on how to be beautiful both inside and out through workshops, panel discussions, and demonstrations focused on nutrition, spiritual wellness, fitness, beauty, fashion, and the portrayal of women of color in society. Speakers and presenters include:
•    Lissa Jones, Host of Urban Agenda
•    Nekima Levy-Pounds, Attorney, Civil Rights Activist, and President of NAACP
•    Monique Linder, Founder of OMG Media Solutions and Executive Producer of Rock The Schools
•    Sara Rogers, Style Coach and Image Consultant
•    Jasmine Brett Stringer, Lifestyle Expert and author of “Seize Your Life”
•    Melissa Taylor, Owner of The Beauty Lounge Minneapolis
•    Lindy Vincent, Director of Health and Wellness at YWCA of St. Paul
•    Kristy Wilson, Owner of Uptown Curls

A Kids Corner will feature hands-on activities for children of all ages such as:
•    Coloring Contest
•    Story Time and Pictures with Princess Tiana
•    Healthy Snack Making Demonstrations
•    Fitness Can Be Fun Activities

The Shades of Beauty Expo is still accepting applications for exhibitors with innovative products for hair, nails, makeup, skincare, healthcare, nutrition, or fitness that would like to showcase in a way that empowers women of color to recognize and embrace their beauty inside and out.

Shades of Beauty Expo
Saturday, August 13, 2016
Brunch at 10 a.m.; Expo Noon-6 p.m.
St. Paul Rivercenter, 175 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul. MN
$10 for expo only; $35 for brunch and expo.
Information and tickets for the Brunch and Expo available online at ShadesOfBeautyMN.com

Contact Information
Sherryln Thompson
612-642-1978
info@shadesofbeautymn.com

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Shades of Beauty Expo is Seeking Exhibitors & Nominations for Ambassadors of Beauty

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

Minneapolis, MN (6/20/16) - Making its debut this August, the Shades of Beauty Expo 2016 embraces all women and connects them with a day of celebrating beauty and strength through exhibits and demonstrations that embody health and wellness from the inside out.  

Civil rights attorney and President of the Minneapolis NAACP, Nekima Levy-Pounds is the keynote speaker for the kick-off Ambassadors of Beauty brunch at the Shades of Beauty Expo 2016. For the first time, an Ambassador of Beauty award will honor a woman who uplifts, encourages and empowers women of color.  Ambassadors of Beauty fight to motivate women to love themselves from the inside out, fight to eliminate disparities and work hard to make sure that every woman understands her worth.  If you know of a woman or organization that embodies the Shades of Beauty motto, Every Woman . . . Totally Beautiful, nominate them at shadesofbeautymn.com/ambassadors.  Nominations are due on July 1st.  

The Shades of Beauty Expo is looking for exhibitors who would like to be a part of this extraordinary opportunity to connect their product or service with a diverse audience of women from differing backgrounds and experiences.  The connections taking place at the expo will enrich the mind, body and soul in a unique and innovative exposition by interacting with attendees and engagement them in conversations and presentations.

The Shades of Beauty Expo 2016 takes place on Saturday, August 13th at the St. Paul RiverCentre located at 175 W. Kellogg Blvd. in St. Paul, MN.  Tickets are available online at shadesofbeautymn.com and are $10 for the expo or $35 for the kick-off brunch featuring keynote speaker Dr. Nekima Levy-Pounds including the expo.  

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About Shades of Beauty Expo 2016

The Shades of Beauty Expo is the freshest and boldest health and beauty event to hit the Twin Cities! The Shades of Beauty Expo will launch at the Saint Paul RiverCentre in Saint Paul, MN, on Saturday, August 13, 2016. SOBE16 is created for women of color who desire innovative, culturally-focused products and ideas for a holistic, enhanced quality of life. Shades of Beauty Expo is a production of Highly Favored Events, celebrating its 13th year in delivering premier convention and event planning services in the Twin Cities’.