Eco-Beauty Basics: Go Green, Buy YAMERRA
Love your skin, love your hair, love you. That's the tagline for 100% natural hair and skin care company, Yamerra. Its founder, Maryam Moma is a 25-year-old fashion model who blends the beauty benefits of shea butter and essential oils with luxurious scents that'll leave you wanting more.
Angel: Yamerra is 4 years old. How did you come up with the concept to start the line and what is your company's philosophy?
Maryam: I founded Yamerra a few years after I graduated from Temple University with a degree in architecture. I enjoyed studying architecture, however- it was not my passion. I have always been immersed in the world of beauty, skincare and haircare, and fashion, being a fashion model in the industry since I was 16. I was primarily inspired to create Yamerra by my own skincare and haircare needs to create functional and useful blends for personal use with affordable and natural raw materials. I discovered that Shea butter is extremely restorative and healing for the hair and skin. I decided to mix pure Shea with essential oils and herbs to even enhance it more.
Angel: As a young entrepreneur, what steps did you take to start Yamerra and what challenges did you encounter?
Maryam: One of the first steps I took when I started Yamerra was to work vigorously to create a nutrient-rich and titillating scent palette for its products. I wanted to restore balance and radiance to my skin and hair using raw shea, and also be left smelling delectable! Closer to Yamerra’s founding, I brought a chemist on board, Victoria O., to make sure Isure herbs and essential oils did not clash to irritate the skin and hair; rather, to rejuvenate, balance and heal.
Organic Yamerra body butters in Sultry Mango and Strawberry Lemon. These luxurious creams are available in 1/2-ounce, 2-ounce and 4-ounce sizes.
Angel: Why did you choose to build Yamerra as an organic skin and hair care line?
Maryam: One of the primary reasons for making Yamerra all natural and organic is because all natural ingredients and raw materials are not only better for the skin and hair but also for the earth and environment. Yamerra is a sustainable brand. It has been an extremely important decision to keep the line organic and all natural so that it can be used and enjoyed by all, safely. Yamerra is recommended for even babies.
Angel: Your products are sold in three U.S. states, as well as international locations, Dubai and Nigeria. How do you manage Yamerra as an international brand?
Maryam: I have managed Yamerra as an international brand by making strong connections with trusted, like-minded individuals, who have used and seen the benefits of Yamerra first-hand. All the distributors/ store locations that carry Yamerra now, locally and internationally, are owned by Yamerra clients who use the product themselves. I deal with these people personally, sending them requested samples and products for retail as needed. Connecting with a store owner that is aware of what the market/ clientele needs and wants are, is easily reachable and communicates efficiently and timely is important in dealing with an international account.
Angel: Tell me about some of our most popular/favorite products. Besides your own line, are there other natural and organic companies or organizations that you support?
Maryam: We have three product lines, a two-in-one hair and body butter, luxurious body soap, and a whipped body soufflé. They come in six, very unique varying scents: Lemon Fire Bliss Lemongrass, Sultry Mango, Home Sweet Home Honey Vanilla, Be Bodacious Tangerine Grape, Sensual Bliss Jasmine Sage, and In Spring Lusciousness Peach Peppermint.
Yamerra also carries a line for mothers-to-be, nursing mothers, and newborn babies (6-12 months), plus unique seasonal creations.
Another organic product I support and use personally is Selara Faces Skincare. I love their face masks- they leave my skin firm, supple and revived. My favorite mask is their Honey Almond Exfoliator and Mask- After a home facial, I follow with another amazing product in their line- Selara Faces Skin Brightening Moisturizer. It’s is high in Vitamin E, smells incredible and leaves the skin feeling moisturized and loved.
Angel: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs, especially those who want to build sustainable, eco-friendly businesses?
Maryam: I advise that young entrepreneurs starting a small business to follow their hearts and stay true to their most original concepts. Innovation, persistence, and determination to succeed in business must factor in. Especially to individuals interested in building an eco-friendly business; do not settle for or include anything that is not from the earth, not natural and chemical-free.
Angel: Do you have any last words?
Maryam: Join the Yamerra Revolution! Enjoy Yamerra’s luxurious, affordable and long-lasting Eco-essential products made with love. Otherwise, stay far away from products containing chemicals- help sustain the earth by using and supporting Eco-friendly brands and do not forget to recycle!
For more information about Maryam and her luxurious, all-natural shea butter products, log on to her webpage or visit her blog. Follow her as she travels to and fro @Yamerra.
Kisses and cupcakes until we meet again,
♥ ✌ ☺
-Angel Lenise
AskHim: Am I being Naive or will he change?
Hi Brian, I recently started dating this guy who is totally awesome. He's really kind and caring and has always been a total sweetheart to me on our dates.The only problem is that he is rumored to be a complete player as my friends keep pointing out to me. I know this can't be good, but I really like him. Am I stupid for continuing this? Is he playing me? Or is it possible that he could change? I'd really like some impartial advice and from a guy too...please help. Thanks, Bianca
Hi Bianca, and thanks for writing in. To be honest, I'm surprised that this hasn't been more of a popular question, but I wanted to get to it this week for sure. It's the 'will he won't he' question that all women want to know and dread the answer to. Quite simply, no. He will not change. It's more likely than not, that he is playing you. Sorry to tell you this. Very rarely do they change, even when they're married. I'm not saying they'll definitely cheat when they're married, but they will definitely 'play around'. It's a game to these so called 'players'. I hear it all the time. Guys don't hide it from their friends, just from the girls. Well, they try to hide it from the girls at least. There are the exceptions, don't get me wrong. There are guys that like to have their 'fun' until they meet that right girl to settle down with, that's just who they are. I'm not saying that your guy is one of these or not, and I'm not saying you couldn't be the girl that he wants to settle with and change his ways, but in all honesty it's highly unlikely. I guess the ultimate test would be time. Take your time with him. Don't rush into anything too quickly. Test the waters a little and figure out for yourself whether the rumors about him apply to you and whether you're just another girl to him. Hope this helps out a little Bianca and I wish you good luck with this guy. I hope it works out to be ok, and he's the guy you're looking for and that what he shows you is what he's really about.
That's all for another AskHim Tuesday. Keep those questions coming in ladies and gents. I'm here to give you a blunt perspective, and for you girls out there, I'm here to give you an honest guy's perspectives. Remember, I'm just an email away. AskHim@cmarchuska.com. See you all next week
I solve my identity crisis with Fast Fashion?
Geek to chic. That tagline was all the rage on daytime television once upon a decade. Has beens and have nots were given the chance to strut their stuff on national television on shows like Jenny Jones (google if you don't know) and throw their new and improved images in the face of their bullier(s). "Bucked toothed Betty" and "Willie the wetter" became "Betty the buxom" and "Willie the sexy warrior" (ok that's a reach) with a matter of a few clap push ups (or whatever workout routine was the craze), hair and makeup changes, and of course a revamp in the wardrobe.
As a teen I ate those shows up, watching every minute in awe and booing the villains who tormented those now sexier-than-sex souls. Although looking at the before and after photos was a hoot (some of those folks put the bust in busted) what was really fascinating was how a few simple changes in ones appearance can make all the difference in how a person is viewed and treated by onlookers, strangers, friends, homies, comrades, bell hops, bank tellers, you get the drift...
We all traverse our own complicated journeys, trying to find who we are and what we want to represent in this world. Although personality, character, and merit do and should be counted for a majority of that image, physical appearances matter far too much to not put at least a semi effort into what you look like before stepping foot outside la casa.
One industry knows too well our need to "image improve." The fashion industry's lifeblood is through hawking images at you faster than a college student can run up debt on a credit card. Every ad is about selling an image, a possible "new you" that looks as sleek, polished and hungry-thin as the models slouching in their pictures. And this new image comes in a seasonal package, for only $19.99 per item. Who wouldn't grab at the chance to reinvent themselves with each fashion cycle? That new skinny jean/sequined vest/high waisted pant is bound to make your legs/waist/arse look as great as the ads say right? Welcome to the world and purpose of fast fashion..
wait fashion, fast?? This vid will explain this interesting buzz word for you...
Did you watch the whole video? And you didn't skip any parts right? Better not or I am one unhappy blogger, and cyber threats should be taken seriously **queue ominous music**
But all joking aside, the video highlights the major problems with fast fashion: waste, exploitation, and of course poorly made clothes, meant to last only through a few wears. Stores like Forever 21, H&M and Zara are leaders in fast fashion, bringing us the latest trends in greatly priced packages. Yet their business models are far from sustainable, and more detrimental if it becomes a shopper's norm. There is no hard and fast answer to fast fashion, nor am I advocating that you never ever buy another item from your fav fast fashion store again. But stop and really think about that next trendy fashion piece. Do you really need it? Will it last a while? What are you going to do with it once you are bored with the fit/color/shape/feathers on it? And when buying it, remembering what you are supporting through your consumption...
So what do you think readers, is there any problems with a constant image change and buying into fast fashion? If so, in what ways do you try to "green" your wardrobe?
-CBlack
Eco Weekend Round-up: Nov 6th, 2010
What to Wear:
Boot season is definitely here and we are onto a super cool eco brand out of the UK called Po-Zu. As our favorite fashionable male, Brian, wrote in a recent AskHim blog, Uggs are still all the rage and are the perfect pairing for a casual day around town. But, we are thinking of trading in those Uggs for Po-Zu Piper Tans which, not only are a lot more stylish than those standard brown suede boots, but are also organically tanned with vegetable extracts. Oh and did we also mention that they give 3% of each purchase to the charity of your choice?? If that doesn't get your feel good shopaholic hearts racing then we don't know what will 
Photo Courtesy of Po-Zu website: http://po-zu.com/eu/
What to Check Out:
Tired of paying $250 for a mediocre hair cut?? Yeah so were we - so we hopped on the 6 train to Union Square to check out the Carsten Aveda Institute. For $19 you get a wash, hair cut, blow dry, scalp massage and hand massage. Apart from all of this, they also use all Aveda products which are composed of naturally derived ingredients. Make your appt today at the 22 East 17th Street!
Photo credit: Christine's Blackberry
What to Eat:
Did you know how many amazing nutrients are in pumpkins? Better yet, did you know how tasty pumpkin seeds can be? Check out this awesome recipe from Emeril Lagasse for some delicious roasted pumpkin seeds with a spicy kick. We made them and now are a bit addicted to this yummy snack 
Kicking it up a notch with Emeril's spicy pumpkin seed recipe
News from C. Mar:
As you end this fabulous first week of November be sure to check out our design process post Monika's Story: The Journey of an Eco Friendly Dress, how to get your guy's attention with this week's AskHim and a Q&A with one of the new member's of our CMar Team, Krystal Williams. Last, but not least, don't forget to turn your clocks back one hour this Sunday as Daylight Savings Time comes to an end for 2010...and luckily gives all of us some extra time to catch up on those much needed Zzzzzs!
Keep it real & keep it eco chic
CMar xx
Monika’s Story: The Journey of an Eco Friendly Dress
If you really know me, you know that I loathe giving up some (note the word some) clothing items, no matter how ratty tat tatty they become. I kept an infamous pair of sweat pants that were such a pain to the eyes my friends wanted to kidnap them and burn them to ashes (because throwing them away just wouldn't be enough). I used to think "Man, if these tweety bird sweat pants could talk, they would yell at me for spilling bleach on them, cry about the hole I let stretch wide across their leg, and pout about the paint stain splashed all over their arse."
Now cyber friend, don't act like you don't have one clothing item in your closet that has seen some better years and should rest in peace. Think about that comfortable wardrobe piece that has never done you wrong time and time again, no matter how much you disrespected it with stains and wear and tear. If that item could tell you it's whole life story, what do you think it would say? As I have said before, clothes shouldn't talk unless they are in cartoons, but I have come today dear reader to shed light on those silent stories, to tell the untold tale of a c. marchuska dress, and why it's journey is starkly different from less eco friendly wares:
Introducing the C. Marchuska Monika Dress
distressed grey Monika dress, fuscia tie dyed hunter scarf and the bamboo fleece julie jacket photo credit: Erik Dong
Monika's journey first began as the brainchild of Christine Marchuska. Frustrated with the lack of clothing options available to wear both to work and outside of the professional office, she was motivated to design classic pieces that held a dual role. The Monika dress, inspired by Christine's ex-finance colleague, Monika Krauze Metzger, was one of those pieces. What set The Monika dress apart from other wares was Monika's entire life cycle from "birth" to finish was an eco-friendly roller coaster ride. I know we keep throwing the words eco friendly and eco fashion around, but let's break down exactly why The Monika Dress epitomizes what eco friendly clothing is all about:
It all began with a sketch..
Step 1: The materials matter
Fashion isn't just about the look and style, it's also about the feel. Remember those Hanes commercials, where whole families were frolicking through fields overly ecstatic over the touch and feel of their cotton undies? Those toothy-grinned- sound bites had some grains of truth in them! We are all want great feeling and functional fabric in our lives, but many of the common fabrics used in our clothes require massive amounts of resources, cause immense pollution, and are extremely hard to recycle. Let's take a comparison:
The Monika Dress materials>>
- Uses micro modal material, a fabric made from
reconstituted cellulose from Beech trees - PROS: 100% bio degradable (won't have to worry about micro modal clothes chilling in landfills for centuries on end), is 50% more water-absorbent than cotton, holds color fast, and is resistant to fading. It seemingly can do no wrong.
- CONS: can be more costly than alternative fabrics.
VS
A dress made from the most commonly used fabrics (like cotton, nylon, and polyester)>>
- PROS: Natural crops like cotton are breathable, wear resistant, and relatively cheap to make. Man made fibers like nylon and polyester are cheap and can resist the wear of many wash cycles, maintaining their color and resilience.
- CONS: cotton is the most pesticide intensive crop in the world, which is not only harmful due to the fumes let off from dousing the crops in chemicals, but pesticides can remain in the fabric and be released during the lifetime of the garments. Cotton crops also take up a lot of land (much of which is needed by locals to grow their food). Nylon and polyester are the evil step sisters of biodegradable fabrics, and will live in a landfill for many years past their wearable dates. They also use massive amounts of water to produce, and emit dangerous green house gases.
Don't let cheesy grins of popular commercials fool you, there are some other materials out there that are far better for the environment and your own health than those popularized in the retail industry. The Monika Dress is one example of great style with even better materials
Step 2: Production Practices
All the design sketches and clothing swatches in the world would only be ideas without the labor of stitching those ideas into reality. As I noted in previous posts (check out Sweatshop til you drop for a refresher;) The retail industry has some of the most controversial labor practices, as a majority of clothes are produced in exploitative sweat shop environments.
After Christine had her ideas sketched by a freelance designer, she sought out a local sewing contractor in NY's garment district, negotiating a feasible cost for each item crafted. The Monika Dress was made in this form, hand crafted by a skilled contracted worker. Although there are many debates about labor laws and what can be done with limited resources in an ever changing economy, knowing where your clothes come from is a step towards better quality overall. And aren't you tired of buying something that dissolves and tears after one sweat-it-out session during a night on the town? Yeah, I thought so!:D
Step 3: Dye it up
Dyeing clothes is no small feat, as it also has large environmental implications. Imagine knowing what color is in season this year by the color of your local river (crazy right? and you thought colored rivers were only willy wonka inspired fantasies). For some folks located near garment production centers, that is reality. I love bright vibrant colors in my wardrobe like anyone else, but at what cost will we pay to have those new hot-double-bubble-pink tights? To minimize the impacts of chemical and dyes, The Monika Dress is hand dyed. This labor of love conserves energy, limits waste, and also protects the integrity of that awesome micro modal fabric.
check some of the Monika hand dyed colors!
In a nutshell Monika is a stylish piece that has plenty environmentally friendly clout. The journey of this dress doesn't just end at a hand dipped dyeing session, pick up your own Monika Dress online asap http://store.marchuska.com/monikadress.aspx, because I know you want to get a little touchy feeling with some micro modal fabric!!
That's a wrap eco lovers!
Til we meet again, as always,
stay fly;)
-CBlack
Behind the c. marchuska Blog: Meet Krystal
For the past month, I've taken time out, each Wednesday, to introduce the c. marchuska community to some interesting folks in the eco world. We've heard from Aaron Goldfarb, an up-and-coming New York author whose first book is available on Kindle. And, I've also had time to feature Amy Ludwigson, the woman behind conscious-shopping sites Pure Habitat and Pure Citizen. Now, it's time to reel it all back and let you all in on a member of the c. marchuska blog team, Krystal.
Krystal's a 22-year-old, Jersey girl, whose self-proclaimed energy, humor and curiosity is taking her to new heights in the Big Apple. She and Christine have a Cornell connection that brought them together for c. marchuska (tongue twister, yes, I know). So pop a bag of (organic) popcorn, pull up a chair, and get cozy with... Krystal!
Angel: How did you become involved with c. marchuska?
Krystal: My roommate and fellow Cornellian, Christina, met her at a conference during undergrad. Christina asked if I was interested in helping out with the blog; and because I love writing and LOVE the idea of fashion, I came on board. I've been loving it ever since.
Angel: You said that living with Christina has helped you become a more eco-conscious person. What have you learned from living the "green" way?
Krystal: It's important for people, especially young people, to become aware of how we are affecting our environment and how we can change basic habits to leave less of a harmful impact on the earth!
Angel: Why do you think eco fashion is important?
Krystal: People will always need clothes, so fashion is always going to be around. It's important for an industry that affects everyone in the world to be environmentally friendly. The fashion industry uses alot of inorganic materials and is extremely wasteful. If we could find methods that reduce that waste and reduce the amount of harmful chemicals and materials, we would be able to greatly decrease the harmful effects we leave on the earth. It's just one step in the process to living more eco friendly, but it is a huge step.
Angel: Besides blogging 
, what can we find you doing in your free time?
Krystal: I love attending culture-focused events such as music shows and poetry slams around the city. I love discovering new places in the city... on any given Saturday you can catch me walking down Madison Avenue, or gallery hoping in Chelsea, or catching a crosstown bus, just to explore!
Angel: Well, it's great you have down time to get out and have fun. Now that you're a working girl in the city, and have two internships on top of working with c. marchuska, what's next?
Krystal: My dream job would be to work at a magazine, or with a news station as a news anchor. I want a communications-based career that will allow me to use my writing and interpersonal skills to make a difference in the world.
Angel: Well, let's give you some room to start making that difference, right now. As always, I like to end my interviews by asking a short, simple question... any last words?
Krystal: Be more courageous than you thought you can and don't worry about the things you can't change.
Keep an eye out for Krystal's Weekly Eco-Fashion Roundup and catch her on twitter @_MissWilliams. See you next week... don't miss me too much
-Angel
AskHim: How Do I Get His Attention?
Hi Brian - I have a bit of an interesting question for you that I am really hoping you can help me with. I have been in a serious relationship with my boyfriend for a little over a year. About a month ago he stopped complimenting me on how I look when I get dressed up for our weekly date nights. I am really worried because I know several people say the 1 year mark is a turning point for most relationships and I am worried my boyfriend might be losing interest. I don't want to be the girl who starts acting insecure around him, but I do want to grab his interest potentially with an amazing outfit for our next date night. I would appreciate any fashion and/or relationship tips you could suggest for my situation. Thank you so much - Sarah
Hey Sarah, and thanks for writing in with your question for this week. This has been quite a popular question over the last few weeks with emails coming flooding in, so I thought this week I would kill a few birds with one stone.
It's that dreaded time of the relationship. The one year mark, and from both personal experience and from others' opinions, it is a very very testing time for a couple. It's sort of like that in between period of 'is this relationship going somewhere, or is it time to move on'. It's the make or break point in a relationship. Couples get very comfortable by this stage and tend to not make as much effort, or if there is effort, it's either one or the other..Very few times do we come across both involved making 100% effort. A lot of the time it's one pulling the other through this struggle.
With your situation Sarah, it looks as though your man is taking you for granted a little. If he always complimented you on how you look, and has now started to fail in that department, it means that he's fallen into his comfort zone with you. He expects you to look good. It's not necessarily a case of him not thinking you still look hot, but more of a case of him being so used to it, that he sees no need, sub-consciously, to make a comment about it. Obviously, for yourself, this can be quite upsetting, because, let's face it, we all love receiving compliments from our loved ones, and when we don't get it, it can be quite disheartening. We fail to realize how much a compliment on how we look can make that huge difference. Trust me, it even get's me sometimes. I've had situations in the past where not getting a compliment from a girlfriend has made me wonder if they are interested anymore, or maybe as much as they used to be. We become a little insecure and look for ways to get them interested. If you outright just dont get compliments at all, or very very rarely, I'd just say dump them. There is someone definitely out there that will appreciate you much more and let you know about it.
Wearing something that just blows him away could very well be something that works. But it also has to be in the right environment. For example you don't want to go wear a ball-gown to your local bar. Maybe wearing something in the confines of your own privacy/home could spice things up a little. You need to re-ignite the spark that was there at the beginning. Changing your hairstyle, changing your wardrobe a little, maybe even sexy lingerie. It's difficult to say what would definitely make the difference. A nice, new dress could do the trick, with matching accessories . Something a little different from the norm, something that makes him stop and take notice.
I have had situations in the past where friends of mine have welcomed attention from other guys, to make their partner jealous, which could make him double his efforts with you. The difference is astonishing. Even the smallest bit of attention would make him come running, and if he doesn't, it's definitely time to move on. You want to be subtle in your efforts to get his attention back and to make him notice you. Remind him of why you started dating in the first place. Unfortunately, it does become easy for both parties, or either party in a relationship to falter a little when that comfortable zone kicks in. It's important to bring your partner out of that zone.
Again, year two of a relationship is by far one of the toughest. Just be sure that the level of effort doesn't falter and cause you to fall into a web of comfortability.
I hope this helps you Sarah, and gives you a little bit of an idea as to what the important factors are with keeping a relationship together and healthy. Good luck.
Remember to keep your emails coming in. Whether you're looking for fashion advice or even relationship advice from a guy's perspective, contact me at AskHim@cmarchuska.com
Check this video out about how one girl managed to get her guy's attention.....
Eco-Pita: Eco-Fashion All Wrapped Up Oct 29th, 2010
This Halloween season don't let bagloads of processed sweets, one-time-use costumes made from non-Earth friendly material, and make-up with ingredients likely to be found in the BP oil spill scare you out of enjoying the festivities. Despite the over consumption that runs rampant during Halloween we eco-friendly fashion lovers can stay true to our roots. This week's weekly wrap up has a frightful focus on keeping your Halloween sustainably SPOOOOKY!
What to Use:
What econista wouldn't want to use make up from a company whose mantra is "You shouldn't have to sacrifice your glamorous side to be safe, natural and healthy!" This natural mineral company is the one-stop shop for long lasting, blendable, earth-friendly makeup with high intensity color. Find out more at: Terra Firma's website. Photo courtesy of terrafirmacosmetics.com.
What to Wear:
Make this Halloween a DIY holiday. Let's face it: The best Halloween costumes as far as sustainability and creativity go are the ones concocted from materials we already have! For ideas about how to create the best homemade costumes head over to treehugger.com Not much of a DIY-er? Doesn't mean you can't show the environment some good lovin' this holiday! Check out Oeuf's line of environmentally friendly mask and tail sets created out of 100% alpaca wool.
Photo Courtesy of oeufnyc.com
What to Eat:
Stumped about how to keep it healthy and green this Halloween? Don't be. Yummy Earth, an organic candy line created by two fathers, features treats that are good for you and your environment. With treats whose ingredients lists are free of glutens, casein, GMOs, Nuts, Soy, Dairy and artificial dyes Yummy Treats is sure to take the fright out of your Halloween.
For more info on these healthy treats check out yummyearth.com
News from C. Mar:
As you end this week with a spooktacularly earth friendly Halloween celebration be sure to check out some of our blogs recent posts Ask Him: Office Attire-Naked Fridays and our lovely Q&A with Amy Ludwigson of Pure Citizen!
xx
KW
C. Marchuska Partners With a Pure Citizen: Meet Amy Ludwigson
The Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines the word "pure" as:
"free from what vitiates, weakens or pollutes... containing nothing that does not properly belong."
Amy Ludwigson, an eco-conscious entrepreneur based in Chicago, took the meaning of pure and developed it into a sustainable online business. Pure Habitat and Pure Citizen are sister sites that Amy developed to bring business to companies that are organic, ethical and eco friendly.
Amy describes Pure Habitat as "a place where you can shop for your life from companies that are making our world a better place," while Pure Citizen is the site where buyers can get exclusive deals on eco-conscious companies.
In honor of my virtual Wednesday meet-and-greets... Introducing Amy Ludwigson.
Angel: For those who may be unfamiliar with your company, what exactly is Pure Habitat?
Amy: We carry everything from fair trade jewelry and accessories to organic beauty products and more... Pure Citizen is its sister site.
Angel: What was your inspiration for founding Pure Habitat/Pure Citizen?
Amy: I had been passionate about fair trade and organic for a long time and I knew of all these amazing companies. Yet, I still found it hard to shop consciously. I had always envisioned a place that brought together all of these companies, and realized that I needed to create it.
Join PureCitizen.com for discount exclusives on from your favorite eco brands!
Angel: How do you go about finding companies whose products are conducive with the Pure Habitat/Pure Citizen philosophy?
Amy: The first requirement that we always look for is social responsibility and if the company makes products that are people friendly. Where are the products made? Are they fair-trade certified? Are they made in the US? Are they handmade? Then we look at the environmental side... we look for things such as use of organic materials and ingredients, recycled materials, and generally just how well it is made. We want to sell products that last, not throw-away pieces.
Angel: What is your favorite eco-conscious company and why?
Angel: That is a hard question, it depends on the day. Right now I am loving Buddha Nose they make these fabulous bath salts which will honestly transform your life.
Angel: You started Pure Habitat in 2009. Now, you're prepping for the launch of Pure Citizen on November 1. Tell me more about this new venture.
Amy: Pure Citizen is a site that will feature daily deals from a different, conscious company everyday. It is a great way for people to discover new brands. Each company will also choose a non-profit to feature and customers can choose to donate a portion of their savings, if any, to that non-profit.
Angel: And what do you ultimately hope to accomplish with your company, now that you're integrating Pure Citizen into the fold?
Amy: I want to make it easy for people to live consciously - I want to create a place where you can shop for your life from 100's of conscious companies.
Angel: Any last words for someone trying to live a more "pure," eco-conscious lifestyle?
Amy: Live simply.
On November 15, C. Marchuska will collab with PureCitizen.com to give all you eco-fashionistas deals on exclusive C. Marchuska merchandise. Stay tuned for updates.
Until our next Wednesday rendez-vous... Love,
Angel
AskHim: Office Attire – Naked Fridays?
As most people who have been following @cmarchuska on twitter know that I have often joked about Naked Fridays (i.e. inappropriate clothing for work). The inside joke really revolves around "What the F@&K is that person wearing to the office?" Now since this started on a Friday I thought it was only appropriate that casual fridays were out and naked fridays were in...
I think this week's question for Brian really gets to the crux of the debate and is quite entertaining as well. Check it out xoxo CMar
Reader: Hi Brian! I work in a pretty casual business environment, but still want to make sure that I always come across professional. What do you think is appropriate for women to wear to the workplace these days while still remaining stylish? xoxo Michelle
Brian: Hi Michelle - thanks for getting in touch with your question.
This is a very popular subject, and one that I thoroughly enjoy getting into debates about. We see it all the time and I know for sure it is a topic that the guys at work love to discuss. This is mainly due to the fact that a lot of women give guys a reason to talk about it. And, as controversial as it may sound, I have seen, and know of a whole bunch of women who love having the guys talk about it.
We see it on a daily basis and we know immediately who is wanting the attention and who is not. It goes to the popular debate of why women are not equal or as successful in the workplace, as men. Quite simply, "stop worrying about what you're wearing, if enough cleavage or leg is showing, and whether you put enough make-up on this morning", and maybe you'll get somewhere.
Inappropriate work attire (picture courtesy of theworkingwardrobe.com)
Yes, very harsh words, but in my opinion women need a wake up call with this. Desperation is sniffed out immediately, and like I've mentioned in a previous AskHim blog, guys are animals that will capitalize on this no matter where you work. Do not undo that extra button to show a little more cleavage, and if you're wearing a skirt, definitely do not wear one that is above knee length. If you're the kind of girl that likes to show cleavage or a little bit of leg, quite simply, guys are now in a race to see who can sleep with you first. It's that simple. You become a piece of meat at the finish line to a pack of wolves. There are some girls that say, "well, I'm not asking or inviting anyone to come after me. I like to feel good and feel sexy for myself". These must be the most naive, if not stupid girls in the workplace. Either that, or they are just looking for an excuse.
Then there are those who are either married or engaged or are in a serious relationship and give the excuse that they don't have to worry because they are taken and everyone knows. These ones are even more stupid. Like a guy cares if you're with someone. They just want to sleep with you and you're inviting them by giving them a reason to come after you. You might as well leave whoever it is you're with because it makes no difference. Also, I'm sure your partner wouldn't want you putting yourself out there for guys to drool over.
Work is not a fashion show either (Christine may disagree with me on this one), unless of course you are working in fashion, so definitely stick to the 'suits' whether it be pants with a shirt and a blazer/jacket, or skirt with the same. This will give you more of a work 'environment' as apposed to anything else, and the right kind of guys would definitely respect you a hell of a lot more for sure.
What to Wear To Work (photo courtesy of corporette.com)
I hope this helps Michelle, and I hope this is an eye opener for all the other women out there. Yes, my response is a little controversial, and I want to reiterate that these responses are my personal opinion and not necessarily fact.
Thank you all for reading I hope these 'AskHim Tuesdays' are a help and give more of an insight. Remember to get your questions in. You can email me at AskHim@cmarchuska.com. Happy working!!