July 06, 2023

Carnival Spice Turns 10

July 06, 2023/ Shakera Martin

Y’all I have a 10 year old!!! Can you believe it? It’s still hard to wrap my head around the fact that a whole decade ago is when I stepped out on faith and began working towards bringing the ideas I had in my head to life. During that time I was determined to share my passion for dance, wellness and Caribbean carnival with the world.

Carnival Spice was launched in 2013 with an intention to bring movement to beautiful mas while also creating space for Black and Caribbean dance artists. The company has now become a global community that empowers artists of colour through training, mentorship and access to opportunities. Through our work, we are also able to educate the community at large about the history of the masquarade and the significance of Carnival in Caribbean culture. We have also unapologetically taken up space in front of a variety of different audiences; from the boardroom, to the classroom, from television to some of the biggest stages in Canada. Carnival Spice is known for it’s high level of energy, professionalism, and unique spin on presenting Caribbean Carnival arts.

Dine and Lime

2023 will be a year filled with a series of events and activations in celebration of this wonderful milestone for Carnival Spice. We kicked things off on Sunday, June 11th with a Caribbean styled food inclusive event called DINE & LIME.

Dine and Lime was such a beautiful experience. There was so much love and support in the room with attendees being a mix of CS training and performance group members, friends, family and clients. It was so special meeting one our first wedding clients since the pandemic who shared the news with us that they are expecting their first child. Congrats to the Dhinganis!

The soca was pumping from the music styling of DJ Undacover and the food as expected was amazing. The Avenue is one of my favourite restaurants in the city so it meant a lot hosting the event there. We also debuted our BTS Documentary from our performance at the 2022 Blue Jays Caribbean Carnival.

Sokah On Di Road

In honour of our 10 year celebration, we will also be on the road as section leaders for Toronto Caribbean Carnival. Look for us decked out in orange, blue and pink in the section SOKAH with Suga Cayne mas. Any remaining costumes can be found here; but be sure to use code: “spicefam10” at checkout to receive a goodie bag from our team. It was wonderful having dancers Kayla and Natalie showcase the costumes through a Carnival Spice dance routine.

Dine and Lime was quite special. Everyone in attendance really brought the spice. Thank you to Anthony Berot for capturing these beautiful photos and Malynne Allya Artistry for the make up work on the dancers and myself.

And a HUGE thank you to Siobhan, Kafi, and Jena for all your help with event logistics.

The celebrations shall continue - so make sure you always have your dancing shoes ready. We still have so more in store!

Testimonial:

September 30, 2022

Carnival In New Brunswick?

September 30, 2022/ Shakera Martin

Shakera on the road — Carnival In New Brunswick?

Event Recap of Carnival Spice at Summer Soulsa 2022

This Labour Day I had the pleasure of spending the weekend in Fredericton, New Brunswick for Summer Soulsa 2022.

Summer Soulsa can be described as “a vibrant and dynamic music festival that celebrates the diversity and beauty of Caribbean, Latin, and African cultures through art, music, dance and cuisine.”

Carnival Spice was invited as performers to bring our Caribbean Carnival flair to a series of events throughout the weekend.

Although the weekend had a heavy workload for the team and I, we managed to find many bright moments throughout our time in Atlantic Canada.

The People

It was quite lovely to see Black and Brown culture and artistry on full display at the festival. It allowed for many to learn and many to feel connected to parts of themselves that they haven’t tapped into for a while. The most common statements I heard was: “we’ve never had anything like this before in our city” or “we are so happy you are here”. You can tell Summer Soulsa was the first event of its kind and executed in such a way simply by looking in the eyes of the attendees. There was such a sense of joy and inspiration that flickered when they heard the music or saw their favourite acts come on.

I have hosted hundreds of classes in my career and have performed on countless stages, yet it NEVER gets old seeing someone hear soca or dancehall for the first time and watching how their bodies naturally respond to it. It’s quite beautiful actually.

I also met a young girl who reminded me so much of myself when I was her age - she was about 10. She was so curious; I’ll never forget the smile she made when one of the dancers let her wear their costume feathers.

The Music Circle

The Music Circle is a dance workshop concept where instructors from across Canada joined together to lead Frederiction through a day full of dance. The room was filled this day with folks of all ages and ethnicities. I vividly remember the first person to arrive - a gentleman who came alone and mentioned it was his first dance class. I loved this for him and appreciated his courage to try something new. I had a great time hosting the event and leading a Carnival Spice dancehall workshop to the excited audience. My fellow instructors were Cherelle from Soca Fit (Edmonton) who taught a soca dance workshop and Zumba with Corey (Fredericton) who taught us a bachata workshop.

Video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CiDp2hBJVc7/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

The Food

Atlantic Canada never disappoints when it comes to seafood. My diet for the weekend was made up of haddock and chips. As a seafood lover, I was in my glory. Everything was so fresh and flavourful. If only I could bring some of those fresh oysters back in my suitcase.

Di Road

Carnival Spice were one of the groups of masqueraders that lead the Fredericton community down di road for the first carnival parade since the pandemic. The weather was perfect, the tunes were running by Dj CJ, and yours truly was on the mic keeping the vibes going. I had the perfect view of hundreds of smiling faces. The children were my favourite - they were so enthusiastic and kept up with us the entire parade.

Video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CjOvV9_q-Ny/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

The Comradery

There were a wide variety of performers from all across Canada present at Summer Soulsa 2022. From latin dancers, to reggae bands, to hip hop artists. I appreciated how everyone supported each other and/or worked together.

Kudos to everyone who was apart of the festival - it truly made a positive impact on the community and I look forward to seeing how it grows.

AND HUGE THANK YOU TO CHEICK FOR CAPTURING THESE PHOTOS!

March 21, 2022

It's Black History Month Everyday

March 21, 2022/ Shakera Martin

Shakera Header — It’s Black History Month

Everyday!

Sending love to you and thank you for tuning in!

I know that it has been weeks since Black History Month - 2022 has ended, but why stop celebrating Black excellence? Why stop amplifying Black voices? Why stop shopping at Black businesses?

There is a tendency to only engage in diverse practice when a topic is trending. Diwali is here, let's engage the South Asian community. Pride Month is here, let’s engage the LGBTQ community. It’s Orange Shirt Day, let’s engage the Indigenous community. All the events I have mentioned (and more) are meant to recognize the challenges these communities have faced historically while continuously celebrating the strides many have taken within these communities to elevate themselves and the community at large.

Cultural recognition or celebration does not need to be limited to a month or a day of action.

I experience this most through my business when working with corporate clients. There is often a sudden rush to book Carnival Spice for events during emancipation month or Black history month to fit a “theme” per say - instead of realizing that the culture and community exists year round. It is okay to have cultural - based conversations or programs at anytime.

As a Black Caribbean woman navigating the arts and fitness industry, a large part of my personal mission is to consistently show up, take up space and ensure people that look like me are always visible - even if it goes against societal norms.

If you follow me on Instagram you would have seen the Black History Month series I did highlighting Black Owned Businesses (& brands) based in the General Toronto Area that I enjoy.

For your convenience, you can find the full list (+more) and their contact information below. May you also shop, support or amplify them; not just because they are Black Owned, but because they are talented at what they do.

allDunamis
Chiropractic Wellness Centre
Their purpose is to educate the church and community at large on the prevention of disease and the maintenance of optimal health. They combine timeless Biblical principles with current research and offer practical relevant solutions.
https://alldunamis.com

Testimonial: “The team at allDunamis facilitated my 60 day plant based journey in 2021. They provided a full meal plan, training facilities and fitness professionals that truly cared. I felt so supported and was able to make great changes to my overall wellness practices. Changes that were based on the specific needs of my body”. - Shakera

Alluring Interior
Certified Interior Decorator, Home Stager/Stylist & Staging Instructor
https://www.instagram.com/alluring.interiors

Bona Fide Organizing
BIPOC Pro Organizer
https://bonafideorganizing.com
https://www.instagram.com/bonafideorganizing

Brickyard BBQ & Bar
BBQ Restaurant with drive-thru in Etobicoke.
https://www.brickyardbbq.ca
https://www.instagram.com/brickyardbbq_bar

Carnival Spice
Caribbean Dance Fitness and Entertainment
https://www.carnivalspice.com
https://www.instagram.com/carnivalspice

**Caryn Parchment**

Toronto Realtor
**https://www.instagram.com/athomeinthegtarealty**

Daniel's Chai Bar
Home of The FAMOUS #LionChai
Located In Bramalea City Center
https://danielschaibar.com

Dessillustrations
Illustrator
https://www.instagram.com/dessillustrations

Fame Holiday
Hip Hop/Rap Musician
https://www.instagram.com/officialfameholiday

**Joseph Osei Bonsu**

Illustrator & Co-Founder of Heroes of the World
https://www.joeoseibonsu.com
**https://www.instagram.com/heroesoftheworld**

Koko Rose Skincare
Spa & Professional skin care products with the finest natural ingredients
https://www.kokoroseskin.com

Kofi Frempong
Artist
https://kofifrempong.com

Leigh Event Group
Event Design & Planning | Social Media Management
https://www.leigheventgroup.com

Michelle Nicholls Counselling
Mental Health Service
https://www.michellenichollscounselling.com
https://www.instagram.com/michelle.nicholls.counselling

**Mintworthy**

Changing the way women relate to money and empowering them to step into a life of financial freedom.
**https://www.mintworthy.co**

NISE
Toronto-based premium streetwear brand made for all ages, genders and sizes.
https://www.niseworld.com
https://www.instagram.com/niseclothing

Noire Girls Plant
A space supporting your mental health through plants
https://www.noiregirlsplant.com

Omi Woods
Contemporary heirlooms that celebrate all of our connections to Africa and her diaspora.
https://omiwoods.com

**Orijin Jewelry**

small batch, quality investment pieces
https://www.orijingold.com
**https://www.instagram.com/orijin_jewelry**

Percy Anane-Dwumfour
Actor, Choreography, Dancer
https://www.plantainpercy.com
https://www.instagram.com/plantainpercy

Phnx Fithouse
An inclusive fitness space where purpose and passion come together.
https://www.instagram.com/phnxfithouse
https://www.phnxfithouse.com

Rebeckah Price
Wellness Advocate and Founder of iriseyoga
https://www.instagram.com/rebeckahprice
https://www.iriseyoga.com

Sam’s Juices
Fresh-made tropical juices and smoothies (located in Scarborough Town Center)
https://www.instagram.com/samsjuices

Sarah-Naomi’s Hair Care & Beauty
Hairstylist & Beauty Supply
https://www.instagram.com/sarahnaomihcb

Siobhan Bent

Legacy Coach & Founder of Mortgages 4 Moms
*Empowering Moms with educational wealth building strategies and opportunities that can help build a legacy for their children.*

**https://www.siobhanbent.com**

The Real Jerk Restaurant
Unique art adorns this long-standing Caribbean-themed bar & eatery boasting a rum bar & karaoke.
https://www.therealjerk.com

The Wedding Group
Professional Wedding Team servicing the World through Photography, Cinematography & more
https://www.theweddingroup.com
https://www.instagram.com/theweddingroup

Tray Arts
Artist and Paint Night King
https://www.instagram.com/trayarts
https://trayarts.ca

Memorable Moment: I highly recommend Tray to lead a paint night at an upcoming celebration or gathering you have coming up. He is mobile and also had a studio in North York. I had the pleasure of celebrating the launch of simplyshakera.com at the Tray Arts Studio. It was such an unforgettable night! Read my blog post recapping the festivities: The #SSPinkParty

**Xaymaca Restaurant**

Jamaican & Caribbean Food In Brampton
High-end service with real authentic Food.

https://xaymacarestaurant.com

When You See It, You Can Be It!

Know them - Support them - Amplify them!

February 16, 2022

New Year Reflections

February 16, 2022/ Shakera Martin

Shakera is in a stand up pose and smiling as the header photo for the blog post — New Year Reflections

What lessons from 2021 am I carrying with me.

Hello? Is this thing on?!

The blog got abandoned ya’ll! OMG - I apologize! All I remember is starting a plant based meal plan back in June and the world became foggy! lol. (ref: https://www.instagram.com/tv/CPZuIL8FQNQ) Like seriously. I was so locked in to the world around me. Although I enjoyed creating monthly recap videos on my instagram, I really did miss how therapeutic writing was. Happy to be back and happy to start sharing here again. Consider this a reflectionary, welcome back post.

2021 ended so long ago but it left us with so many lessons. There were downs, loss and much grief but there was also much to be proud of. 2021 taught me to be present in each moment and celebrate my wins.

Here are a few highlights I would like to share with you from this past year:

Named one of the top 100 health leaders in Canada: https://www.optimyz.com/optimyz-top-100-health-leaders-2021
This was such a nice surprise and felt even better seeing my melanin skin take up space in a wellness magazine.
Partnered with Lululemon on a community wellness event: https://www.instagram.com/p/CSkYXbYlhWy
Selected as a keynote speaker for the CanFit pro fitness conference: https://www.instagram.com/p/CSdEGVfHP-i
Had such an incredible time delivering the opening keynote speech to the beautiful souls at the 7th annual “Women Who Influence” event during the conference.
I went 60 straight days on a plant based meal plan. Thank you to the Alldunamis Wellness Center for supporting me through this experience. It was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences ever. I developed such a strong understanding of my overall health and how to manage it through lifestyle practices for my specific needs.

Shakera is seated on the floor beside a plant. She is wearing a cream sweater and blue ripped jeans.

False Evidence Appearing Real.

“The fears we don’t face become our limits”

— Robin Sharma

2021 reminded me that some decisions may be scary but it is important to push past your fear and bet on yourself. Release limiting beliefs about your capabilities.

Fear is a normal human response.

When we imagine things outside of ourselves that we have little or no control over, we tend to panic.

The thing is, fear can be a great motivator if we redirect the energy in a positive way. Harness that energy to motivate yourself into action.

Cultivate Joy.

“On the healing journey, feeling worthy of joy and rest is a massive step. It requires a consistent practice to be able to surrender into it. Embodying authentic joy can be the greatest challenge faced because of the immense amount of vulnerability required to feel at ease.”

— Devi Brown

2021 reminded me to prioritize joy and do more of what lights me up. Joy raises your frequency causing you to attract similar energy into your life. Joy is a source of light within you.

When you’re not operating in your purpose, you are always going to feel like you are dim… like you’re made to do more. Cultivating joy keeps you plugged into your light so make your best efforts to stay connected.

You can also help keep that light shining by eating bright and nutritious foods, participating in activities that fuel you, and being mindful of your choices for the future. This isn’t always easy to do - but daily consistent practice and intention will help. Stay committed - your future self depends on it.

There is so much to navigate and the world seems to shift day by day… but none of that can stop your greatness. A lot of good can happen in a year so continue to do your best. Sending love and encouragement to you all… plus a friendly reminder that you got this. WE GOT THIS!

Shakera is in a standing pose where she is laughing and wearing a cream shirt with jeans

Photos By: Anthony Berot

April 29, 2021

International Dance Day

April 29, 2021/ Shakera Martin

Wishing everyone a happy international dance day!

Dance is and will always be something in my life that I cherish. It has given me discipline, a way to share my culture, and provided an outlet for me to express myself. So blessed to have transformed my passion for dance into a business, a lifestyle, and a source of inspiration for others. With dance as a foundation of Simply Shakera, I have been able to grace many stages and be featured by: CP24, The Canadian Olympic Committee, The Marilyn Denis Show, Breakfast Television, etc. while simultaneously teaching 100s of women and children dance over the years.

Similar to me, there are other artists in the General Toronto Area who are passionate about dance so much so that they founded companies to share their passions with the world. I have compiled a list of local Black / Caribbean Owned Dance Studios.

Over the past few months I have seen many lists of small businesses and/or Black owned business to support and often I see this group left out. These companies need support just as much as retail stores and restaurants. They provide training, variety and most offer styles rooted in culture.

Support local. Support the arts.

Without continued participation in virtual classes, competitions and conventions etc. these companies will be negatively impacted. Check out the list below and if I missing any, please add in the comments! Support can be in the form of participation or amplification.

Afiwi Groove School

Aifwi Groove aim to empower, educate, and inspire all ages through African and arts and culture. Their programs promote positive self-esteem, confidence and an active lifestyle while educating and connecting participants to arts and culture of the African Diaspora.

400 Monarch Avenue. Unit 11. Ajax, ON. L1S 2G6

https://afiwigroove.com

https://www.instagram.com/afiwigroove

A New DAEI Dance School

A New DAEI Dance School is an award-winning family-friendly community space for toddlers, children, tweens, teens and adults.

1 Nelson St W (Inside the Art of Dance Centre). Brampton, Ontario, L6X 1B6

https://anewdaei.com

https://www.instagram.com/anewdaei

City Centre Dance

City Centre Dance is the hottest drop-in dance studio located in Downtown Mississauga, offering a wide-selection of classes in various styles and levels for people of all ages and abilities.

68-5359 Timberlea Blvd Mississauga, ON L4W 4N5

https://www.citycentredance.com

https://www.instagram.com/citycentre_dance

DOAHL Dance Academy

DOAHL provides a full dance curriculum for dancers age 3 and up looking to make dance as a career, and for those who simply want to enjoy the art of dance, learn new skills, and make life-long friendships.

50 Anderson Ave,Markham, ON,Canada L6E 1A5

https://www.doahl.com

https://www.instagram.com/doahlacademy

Industry House Studios

Industry House Studios an elite dance training facility located in the Stockyards District.

100 Symes Rd Unit 202 & 203

https://www.industryhousestudios.com

https://www.instagram.com/industryhousestudios

Jade's Hip Hop Academy (JHHA)

JHHA is the only all Hip Hop and street dance studio in Toronto, the GTA and one of the few of its kind in Canada.

1310 Steeles Ave E Unit 6, Brampton, ON L6T 1A2

https://jadeshiphopacademy.com

https://www.instagram.com/jadeshiphopacad

Riddim Fitness Wellness Centre

The Riddim Fitness Wellness Centre serves the community by offering fitness programs, personal training and dance classes for children, youth and adults that also want to live their best lives and take the journey to wellness in a fun, welcoming and supportive environment.

845 WESTNEY ROAD SOUTH, UNIT#7. AJAX, ONTARIO

https://riddimfit.com

https://www.instagram.com/riddimfit

Socacize

Socacize Fitness is a creative blend of authentic Caribbean and African dance techniques, in harmony with effective fitness moves, resulting in a unique, non-judgmental and exhilarating dance fitness program.

2811 Weston Road. North York, ON M9M 2R8

https://socacize.com

https://www.instagram.com/socacize

The Space

The S.P.A.C.E. is a full performing arts centre focused on building self-esteem. They encourage students to dream, challenge them to develop determination and perseverance along with technique and give them the confidence both to get up on stage and perform and to believe in themselves.

1324 Danforth Avenue, Toronto, ON M5J 1M9

https://the-space.ca

https://www.instagram.com/thespacetoronto

Lastly, although we do not have a physical studio, I would be remiss not to shoutout my company Carnival Spice!

Carnival Spice is an award winning dance and fitness company that showcases Caribbean carnival arts. We are currently offering a variety of virtual programming HERE . You can also connect on instagram via https://www.instagram.com/carnivalspice

December 11, 2020

Holiday Gift Guide [+Giveaway]

December 11, 2020/ Shakera Martin

YA’LL!!!!! WE MADE IT TO DECEMBER!!!!!

2020 has been rocking all of our worlds since January and does not seem to be letting up chile.

But we are here. Still Standing! Adjusting - Growing - Healing - Learning - DOING OUR BEST!

Normally in December I take a few weeks “off” to unplug from social media and my regular routine. My birthday is also on New Years Eve so the holiday season is often a great time for me to reflect on the past year and recharge.

“When You Support A Small Businesses You Are Supporting Someone’s Dream”

— Unknown

Introducing the “Pink Box” by simplyshakera.com

Another end of year tradition is my annual Holiday Giveaway in collaboration with one of my brand partners. This year will be a little different!
Introducing the “Pink Box” by simplyshakera.com. The color pink represents compassion, nurturing and love. In 2021, I will be releasing a goodie box filled with items that are meant to cultivate joy and practice self love. Stay tuned for when the “Pink Box” is officially released. HOWEVER, just in time for the holidays I will be gifting one lucky winner with a special edition Pink Box filled this time around with items from some of my favourite Black owned businesses. I have each company listed below in my Holiday Gift Guide. Know them - Support them - Amplify them!

The Simply Shakera Holiday Gift Guide

I am so excited to share with you a few of my favourite small businesses offering products and services that you can support today. Grab something for yourself, book an appointment/session, or purchase a gift for someone else. Christmas is exactly two weeks away - happy shopping!

Orijin is a Toronto based brand creating small batch, quality investment pieces that are real gold and guaranteed to become heirlooms. The first piece, designed by founder Candice, was the iconic OM bead bracelet, symbolizing the meeting of a deep connection to self with a nod to a nostalgic trend. Ten percent of the proceeds from the OM collection goes towards supporting the work of BIPOC artists and wellness entrepreneurs. Other notable collections are the essentials collection and the paperclip collection.

Personal Review: I love how sophisticated the pieces are! Simple and stylish! I own the mask chain which also can double as a chain for my glasses!

**Sea Moss N Tingz**

*home of the real wildcrafted sea moss gel*

@seamossntingz
www.seamossntingz.ca

Seamoss N Tingz provides the highest quality wildcrafted gel made with Alkaline water and no additives or preservatives. The gel can be added to your food or drink as well as topically for multiple skin ailments including facial masks to tighten and rejuvenate your skin. Sea moss contains 92 of the 102 minerals that the body requires daily. It is jam packed with Protein, Fiber, Selenium, Iodine, Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium, Phosphorus, Zinc and powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains omega 3 fatty acids, iodine, potassium chloride, antiviral and antimicrobial compounds. Some benefits include: strengthened immune system, improved energy, supported mental health and more.

Personal Review: I am new to the sea moss world! Two months to be exact. My journey started as a means to decrease inflammation in my body. The most noticeable benefit for me so far is an increase in digestion. I eat a spoonful raw once a day; but you are recommended to add it to food or apply it topically for skin care. During this holiday season, SNT will be donating $5 of every purchase to the Pinball Clemons foundation.

Sarah-Naomi’s Hair Care & Beauty

protective & natural hair styling

@sarahnaomihcb
sarahnaomischedule.as.me

Sarah-Naomi’s Hair Care & Beauty “where the beautification of the whole woman is the focus and purpose”. Sarah is a natural and protective hairstylist and has been maintaining crowns for over fifteen years. She believes knowledge and love of self is the key to the unlocking of new and higher levels of our existence. Hair education is also a deep passion of hers. Sarah is currently enrolled at Art & Technique in Oshawa to obtain her hairstyling/cosmetology license with a mission to style, serve, instruct and educate all women about the crown they wear daily.

Personal Review: Sarah is awesome and pretty fast. She is my go to person for protective styles such as single braids or twists. My new favourite style she has done on my hair were the knotless braids I did in October! She’s based in Durham but is also mobile. Kid friendly as well.

gp cakes.jpg — **Georgie Porgie Cakes & Gifts**

*cakes, cupcakes, cookies & sweet tables*

@georgieporgiecakesgifts
www.georgieporgie.ca

Georgie Porgie Cakes & Gifts is a vibrant, rapidly growing company. Founded in 2004 by Georgette and her mom Carol, Georgie Porgie is now famous for their red velvet rum cake with cream cheese filling. Georgie Porgie is your sweet boutique offering homemade specialty and artisan desserts made daily with the highest quality and fresh ingredients. At Georgie Porgie, they believe that every event and celebration should create a story-book ending. They would love to help plan your next blockbuster with their experienced team.

Personal Review: When I have a celebration coming up I purchase my sweet treats from the Georgie Porgie team! Check out HERE the carnival birthday cake that was made for my 30th birthday surprise birthday! I still get chills looking at it.

Koko Rose

*professional skincare*
@koko.rose.skin
www.kokoroseskin.com

Koko Rose Natural Skincare, founded by Marsha Rose, is a complete facial skincare brand for both women and men. The skincare products are made with the finest natural ingredients and made in Canada. They consist of naturally formulated products designed to treat all skin types, address skin conditions and individual skincare needs. All products are paraben free, vegan certified, formaldehyde free and contain naturally sourced fragrance.

Personal Review: Marsha is super knowledgeable in all things skincare. She not only a licensed aesthetician but she also a registered nurse! I have been healing from hormonal acne for years. Since I have been going to her spa for regular facials I have seen a significant change in my skin. There is also a organic line and mens line among her skincare products. She also offers a variety of other services at her spa including waxing!

**In My Own Skin**

*Canadian-made active wear*
@inmyownskinxo
www.inmyownskinxo.com

Founded by Mohogany Brown in 2016, "In My Own Skin" is a lifestyle brand aimed at promoting self-love amongst young women. In partnership with Dance With Me Corp, the brand extended to provide fun, cute and comfy activewear that everyone can feel beautiful in. The company wants their community to not only showcase people of all body types, ages, ethnicities and walks of life, but to also ensure they are a brand that truly represents everyone. They especially hope you fall in love with yourselves all over again, and feel confident... IN YOUR OWN SKIN! Xo

Personal Review: The apparel side of In My Own Skin comes in three different collections - the sizes are body positive too! I work with Mohogany frequently for dance based initiatives and she truly is a force. For good vibes and fitness inspo, check out her personal acccount @mohoganyxo.

Carnival Spice

*fitness & entertainment with a Caribbean carnival twist*
@carnivalspice
www.carnivalspice.com

Carnival Spice an award winning fitness and entertainment company devoted to showcasing Caribbean Carnival. Here aspiring artists of colour are welcomed to a platform where they can further develop their talents through Caribbean dance. Founder Shakera Martin and her team have been featured on Cityline, CP24, CTV, Breakfast Television and most recently Season 12 of the Real Housewives of Atlanta."⁠ The company currently offers a variety of virtual Caribbean Dance & Fitness programming and host initiatives to maintain the connection between their global #SpiceFam community.

Personal Review: Despite a whole pandemic and all carnivals around the world being cancelled until further notice. Carnival Spice has consistently been pumping out content and resources to showcase and uplift Caribbean culture. It is amazing to witness in front and behind the scenes. Tickets are now available for the 2020 Holiday Lime and Workshop event.

Holiday Giveaway

As mentioned, one lucky winner will be gifted with a “Pink Box” that includes a prize from EACH of the brands featured in my holiday gift guide. A value of over $350!!!!

Enter Here Now - contest closes Friday, December 18th!

Happy Holidays To You & Your Loved Ones!! xo

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