Entrepreneurs

Teamwork Makes the DREAM work!

Nowadays, it’s a surprise when I decide to do a personal post for my lovely readers, but I think it’s a great time to provide an update on my life!  For starters, I’m taking each day as it comes and whether it’s a good or bad experience, I can take lessons from it all.  My birthday came and went in a flash and although I didn’t celebrate it as I had originally planned, my family and friends managed to come together and share in my special day.  For those that are not aware, I had a VERY traumatic thing happen to me and without focusing on every single, saddening detail I will just say this: A complete stranger found a way to change my outlook on life by physically harming me in a way that I had never experienced.  What lessons came of it?  I will never underestimate the intentions of others and I will not ASSume that all men know not to hit a woman.  Another lesson?  That I have some of the BEST friends  and family in the world who have been helping me process everything.  Constantly checking on me, being a shoulder to cry on and a set of ears to listen. My TEAM is amazing!


Despite this life-changing event, I have managed to still push forward and take small strides in the right direction.  It hasn’t been easy, but what about life IS easy?  With that said, I reached out to the creator of Shipwrecked on Fabulous Island and wanted to have my pictures taken (she does amazing work, check her out)…WHY? Because I’m building my portfolio for another major move that I am making, but can’t really disclose at the moment!  Aside from the process of having my photos done, it was a chance for me to FEEL pretty inside and out.  My CONFIDENCE was on point and it was just what I needed (FYI, the remaining photos will be published in a separate post)!  As if the past few months haven’t been busy enough, I’m working on my life plan.  I’ve written business plans in the past, but never a LIFE plan to map out where I am, where I want to go and where I want to end up.  I will keep all of you updated on how that goes!


My goal isn’t to bore you so this is it for now, BUT it is extremely important for me to provide updates on where my journey is taking me…afterall, that is the whole premise of Danithedreamgirl.com!  I’m determined to turn my DREAMS into a reality, while helping others along the way.  Keeping this motto in mind, I will continue to share stories of strangers and friends alike, in order to inspire and foster a change among our generation!  If you want your journey, testimony, or even career highlighted in the Dreamworld, reach out and I’d be more than happy to make it happen!  Remember: TEAMWORK MAKES THE DREAM WORK!

***If you are interested in having your very own photo session, please send all inquiries to danithedreamgirl@gmail.com and I will send you my photographer’s contact information. Serious inquiries only!!!***

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Are You Gifted Enough to Start Your Own Business?

I have several friends and acquaintances whom are looking to start their own business.  They want to supply everything from clothing to jewelry and even offer services such as hair, make-up, etc.  I, myself, have never been too big on starting a business, but I’ve always wondered how someone might embark on such a journey.  I came across a hilarious YouTube channel, NeeziieBabiie143 (http://www.youtube.com/user/NeeziieBabiie143),  and for some reason could not stop watching this tiny little thing talk about how to get a bigger butt or what’s wrong with some men (haha).  It was entertaining to say the least!  At any rate, I did some digging and found out that her name is Parneet Kaur and she has her own jewelry line, Pure Karats, (I already brought some fab earrings).

She also has her very own threading salon in Sacramento, CA, Threaded Beauty, where she turns her clients from meek to chic.  Just knowing this, I knew she’d be a great person to gather some start-up business information from and to also share what she’s experienced on her journey thus far.  She’s worked with top selling music groups and artists such as Bruno Mars; Parneet must be doing something right!  I’m trying to stress the fact that all it takes is a dream in mind and the drive to make it happen! Check out what tips she has to offer those of you looking to tap into your entrepreneurial spirit (see the bottom of this article for information about her company and jewelry line):

Where are you originally from?

I am from Sacramento, California. Trying to put us on the map! So much talent out here, but for some reason we as a city don’t support each other like we should!! Trying to change that!! : )

Age?

22 years YOUNG!!

What inspired you to create a jewelry line?

Honestly, I love looking Glam and Fab, jewelry was a perfect way to offer that to all the women out there that want to feel the same way. I want women to feel comfortable in their own skin and accessories can do just that. With make-up we cover up imperfections, but jewelry only adds to US!!…Jewelry is just a way to build my brand PARNEET KAUR INC. I have a corporation and everything falls under that.  Working on “Pure Kosmetics” and soon a clothing line “Pure Klothing”  (S/o to Ms. Nessa creator of Rich Girlz jewelry that is killin the game with all her stuff on VH1 and MTV, my biggest mentor/inspiration).

How much success are you seeing from this venture?

I am gaining so much attention and just confidence to move onto other projects that will give men and women other options to look glam and fab in their own skin and allow them to step out of their comfort zones.  My Pure Karats jewelry has been styled on “The Charlies” who are with ten #1 singles, three chart-topping albums, a best-selling book, a hit reality TV show in Iceland, and having worked with producers such as Bruno Mars, Cee-lo, and much more, Sacramento Fashion week, on our local news station KCRA 3, and in a bunch of local clothing brand photo shoots. I would say PURE KARATS is starting off on the right track. I started this business at the end of December 2011. Pretty new.

How is your salon doing?

The traffic is more than I expected honestly. I was trying to stay on a local level just to gain experience, but I am getting traffic/attention from around the US which is amazing. I currently only have my jewelry online, but I do own a threading salon , Threaded Beauty, as well in Sacramento, CA that I want to expand to different areas. I will have more products in the near future. (Make-up, Skin Care, and Clothing). You can find all this in on my website www.ThreadedBeauty.com

What sort of struggles have you faced along the way?

Struggles that I have faced are HATERS!!! “Who does she think she is” “She hella ugly” “B!tch” blah blah blah. Every business has it’s start-up struggles. It’s not easy, but that’s nothing hard work can’t fix, but what could get to someone the most is the haters. I say f*ck the haters because at the end of the day haters don’t really hate you, they hate themselves cause you’re a reflection of what they wish to be. Straight up. All you can do to succeed is stay true to yourself and stick to what you want.  : )

What advice can you offer those looking to become an entrepreneur in this industry?

One key piece of advice that I can offer is that if you really want success you have to wake-up and go to sleep with that “WANT” everyday until you achieve it and even then you should still strive for more. You can’t want to have a successful business one day and not the next. THINK like you’re always broke and want success, BAD!! Trust me you’ll get it : )

What’s your ultimate goal?

My ultimate life goal is to be remembered for the things that I have done for others. I want to leave a mark in peoples life. Whether it was making someone feel good when they put my jewelry on or giving them a good laugh with my YOUTUBE videos. I just want to be remembered and live a fulfilling life because we do only live once and I want to take all the opportunities I have in life to make something of myself. I am currently writing a book as well titled, “The Men that Made me.” This is being written to share my experience with men and to give women an outlet to understand that they’re not alone in a lot of the stuff they go through in relationships.

What do you think is your God-given purpose in life?

I think my God-given purpose in life is to give to others in any form that is helpful. I’ve always been that person that has looked out for others and am very giving, so being able to share and give people things that can make them happy and maybe even guide them in positive directions is very fulfilling to me.

What’s something funny/quirky that people may not know about you?

Me and my best friend don’t ever sing songs all the way we just sing the damn add libs.. Ex: Trey Songz… all his oooooooos and aaaaaaah lmao just imagine us walking into a store and all you hear is funny ass noises. Yeh that’s us!! lmao I freakin laugh at everything… lol

No matter what your talent/trade, ANYTHING is possible!  Adopt the mentality that you can do whatever you put your mind to and the rest will fall into place.  It’s only a matter of time before you break into your industry of choice and show the world what you have to offer!  Thanks for visiting my Dreamworld!

To check out/purchase some of Parneet’s jewelry, click below:


Threaded Beauty

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Since Danity Kane, Where Has She Been? D. Woods Exclusive!

We all remember the climactic moments from Making the Band and despite the drama that spread within Danity Kane, we can’t help but miss seeing them on TV.  There’s no denying that each member brought something special to the table and stood out in their own right.  Do you ever wonder where they are or what they’re up to?  Well, I decided to find out for myself where they’re at…starting with a fan favorite, D. Woods; the booty, the beauty and the voice!  You’ll be happy to know that, not only is she still singing, but she has a new video and continues to push her way through the industry.



Born Wanita “D. Woods” Woodgett, she has always been a triple threat: singer, dancer and actress.  Hailing from California and Massachusetts, Woods relocated to Atlanta where she began attending performing arts school, Tri-Cities High School.  She would go on to continue building her technique at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and perfecting her acting abilities at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. If you thought that Danity Kane was her first run in the spotlight, you thought wrong.  D. Woods has performed as a background dancer for big names such as, Snoop Dogg, LeToya Luckett, Bow Wow and more.  After surviving the cut of Diddy’s Making the Band 3, the world got a glimpse of this special package on a much larger scale. The dynamic female group toured with powerhouse, Christina Aguilera and had two top selling albums (Danity Kane and Welcome to the Dollhouse) .  Despite the abrupt ending of an amazing group, D. Woods remains strong-rooted in her goals.  Read on to see what she has to say about life after the drama:


How has life, post reality T.V., been for you?

Even better!

What latest project(s) are you currently working on? Any exciting collaborations?

I have my label WOODGRANE ENTERTAINMENT and the first release, THE GRAY AREA EP which is on iTunes and other online retailers NOW. Go get It!

What motivates you to continue on your journey through this industry?

What motivates me is the little girl who dreamed of big things and stages and creativity that was/is, me. I can’t let her down.

What do you think is your God-given purpose in life?

Everyday I ask myself that and truthfully I believe that is the work of each person to find and redefine as they go through this world. I get a feeling of confirmation when Im doing something for GOD’s purpose that is undeniable so I keep search for that feeling.

What advice can you offer others, especially females, trying to make it in this industry?

Learn your craft and the business of your craft.

What is one funny/quirky thing about you that fans may not already know?

I’m a mermaid when I get in the water. I can stay on the beach in the water or the pool all day.

How can we show support, i.e. where can we buy your music, get the latest info on upcoming projects, etc.?

You can find THE GRAY AREA on iTunes or go to www.missdwoods.com for all things D.Woods.

*I asked D. Woods a couple of questions regarding Danity Kane and this is what her publicist had to say:

Ms. Woods prefers not to answer questions in reference to her former label or group.



It’s nice to see her moving in a positive direction and not diving into the D.K. past.  The Dreamworld wishes her nothing but the best and if you want to show your support, make sure to visit iTunes and purchase The Gray Area!  Before you leave, check out her latest video, Foolish Dreamer:


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A Prom Dream Come True!

No matter what path anyone takes in life, it’s so important to give back.  Give back to family, to friends, to strangers…to your community!  That feeling of making someone happy can’t be replaced with anything else and sometimes it only takes a small gesture to make someone’s world a little better.  With that said, it’s no surprise that I was more than happy to volunteer for the Uplifting Sisters “Prom Dreams” event!

I’ve always worked with youth of all ages while living in Philadelphia, so this was right up my alley and something I knew would make a big difference in the lives of young ladies!  I’m open to helping any and everyone, but there’s something about helping young girls that has always been close to my heart and for that I commend Sheena Brown, founder of Uplifting Sisters, because there aren’t enough professional women GIVING BACK to our country’s future.  Attendees were able to shop for dresses, jewelry, shoes, shawls and handbags at NO CHARGE!  Everything was free to them and their families and it was all with a goal of doing something great!

No matter how tired any of us were, seeing the look on their faces was something that even I can’t describe!  If you aren’t seeking to help others, you need to start because it will truly be inspiring for not only them, but for you as well.  Teamwork makes the dream work!

 

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Dysfunctional Friends…Here’s What I Think About It!

I’m going to attempt to share my thoughts about the film, Dysfunctional Friends, without giving away every detail (for those that haven’t seen it).  For those that did see it, I’m sure you can share in my sentiment of it being a good film.  Starting with the opening act, my attention was solely on the screen watching Persia White, who I think is a phenomenal and underrated actress in the industry (formerly on the hit show Girlfriends), involved in some girl on girl action.  The initial plot build-up was great!  Of course, everyone knows by now that the premise of the story involves a friend who suddenly dies from a freak accident and leaves his estate to his close circle of friends.  However, in order for them to cash in, they need to last a week together and work out whatever issues they have and get reacquainted.  This is an amazing storyline, being as though it relates to so many friendships nowadays where life gets in the way, people grow apart and before you know it, years have gone by!

One of the biggest perks of the film is seeing actors/actresses who are super talented, yet haven’t been on the big screen in a while, i.e. Wesley Jonathan, Reagan Gomez-Preston, Persia White, Tatyana Ali.  Another added bonus is that even though there’s a heaviness of the initial plot (death), there is comedy throughout to provide a healthy balance.  What you will find is that each character is probably a representation of someone that you call a friend or whom you know in real life and because of this, there’s nothing phony or “Hollywood” about the film; it’s actually a very accurate depiction of the real world.

One thing that some may find is that the pace of the movie is steady and almost teetering on slow, BUT for someone like me who appreciates character and plot depth it matches perfectly with the story.  For example, there are close to 10 main characters and the basis of the scenario requires them all to remain in the same house for the majority of the film.  So all of the craziness that ensues forces each character to develop in front of one another, which allows the viewer to truly understand each role and get familiar with who is who and what there purpose is.  How many times do we see a film and there is so much going on that we sometimes forget the name or what happened in the beginning of the movie with them?  Not in this case! Corey Grant does an awesome job with the script and the direction.

The ultimate kudos is for the film NOT BEING PREDICTABLE.  There were plot twists, moments of who’s sleeping with who, what secrets are they hiding, who ends up with who in the end…there is so much that will allow you to really appreciate this independent production.  There were some really awesome breakthrough roles, fresh faces (Vanessa Simmons) and finally great representations of black actors! I give it two thumbs up and strongly recommend purchasing the DVD!  Showing support for independent films is key!

Visit www.amazon.com to make your quick purchase!

Here’s the movie trailer:

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New Dreamer Alert!!!

He’s been featured in the Dreamworld before, but he has a new track with Project Pat! A.d! (all.dat!) is on the come-up; catch him while you can!

Click the link below to listen and be sure to leave a comment letting him know what you think:

a.d! (all.dat!) feat. Project Pat “Watch Yo Back”

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Spinning His Way to the TOP! DJ Omega

Through interviews and personal stories, my goal is to highlight individuals that are following their dream(s)/passion(s).  By understanding their journey, it may serve as an inspiration for the next person, thus creating a cycle of goals, hard work, and success!  It’s no surprise that Justin “DJ Omega” Gaines gets the spotlight for this Dreamworld interview.  If you don’t know about him, you’re missing out and I’m here to tell his story so that you can be on the lookout from this moment forward.    DJ Omega has taken the art of spinning and turned it into a lifestyle and I’m not talking about the iTunes DJ that plays music at a friend’s wedding, I’m talking about a true DJ with knowledge of the craft and its history!

His journey through the business began at the young age of 12 while walking through a mall when he saw a DJ performing; from there the rest is an amazing ride to the top.  Getting excited and thinking to himself how cool it was, he put the wheels in motion to make it happen.  Justin began getting advice from other DJ’s, saving his money from allowance and snagging around-the-way jobs until he was able to buy his first turn table.  He started booking gigs at the mall and skating rinks throughout the Philly and South Jersey area, perfecting his skills along the way.  He moved up to booking gigs at teen clubs in Philly, then working/interning at 103.9 for the next three years.  At the age of 17 he landed his own radio show, which aired on Saturday mornings with its intended audience being high school kids.  By the time college came around he moved on to one of Philly’s biggest radio stations, Power 99, and was a regular guest on NBC 10, which turned into a regular program for the next three years.

As if that isn’t enough excitement to last a lifetime, that was just the beginning for this star.  He began working with State Property and while in the studio, ran into Wale; from there, magic happened. Wale dropped his first album and began touring, bringing along DJ Omega for the next two and a half years.  He’s back to the hustle and grind where he started, DJing at clubs throughout the U.S. (Miami, Vegas, Philly, New York City to name a few).  He’s been featured in The Source Magazine, XXL and Complex and is launching his own snap back hat line with Wale, Mitchell & Ness, Meek Mill, Big Sean and Big K.R.I.T.  Here’s some of my interview with DJ Omega where he explains the feeling of so much success, how he landed some of the biggest gigs of his life and how he remains humble through it all.

Who are some of your inspirations?

Kid Capri, Jazzy Jeff, DJ A-Track and I also read a lot.  One of my favorites is the story of Malcom X since it relates to struggle.

How do you remain so humble in the midst of your success?

I’m very humble!  We all sh*t and bleed, nothing separates me from anyone else…I’m cool as hell, I follow my dreams and ambitions.

How do you maintain your drive and hustle?

I’ve been DJing since 12 and I had to step it up to mainstream.  This isn’t a phase, this is a career choice for me!  I could easily go to school, but it’s not for me…if it’s your passion, it doesn’t feel like work.  It was love at first site!  I looked in The Source and said “I’m going to be in this magazine one day…” and I did that!

What now?

I look towards the future.

What’s in your future?

Ownership, franchising…I’m a business minded individual…I want more residual income.

You do work on the East Coast and West Coast, would you ever move to the West?

Depends on the opportunity.

What’s your pet peeve about the industry?

DJ’s back then were known for their record collection. Now DJ’s bring their computer and push a button all night! It’s a slap in the face towards the culture…it’s easy for DJ’s now…they need to leave it to the professionals.

What do you think is your God-given purpose in life?

Self preservation and procreation.  I want to keep the good cycle growing.

Are your parents supportive?

I have the greatest parents in the world! They weren’t supportive at first, but they never hindered me from doing anything.  My mom used to drive me to clubs for work and I grew up in church.

What changed their minds?

Seeing me on TV and being on the radio…they knew I could really do it!

What advice can you offer others trying to do the same thing?

Practice! Everyone has music, but it’s your style that differentiates you from the pack.

Are you in a relationship now and are they hard to maintain with your success?

No girlfriend and absolutely!  A lot of girls can’t deal with the lifestyle.

What do you look for in a partner?

Ambitions. They have to have something going for themselves. They would have to have their own life outside of the union and bond.  It allows you to miss the person.

Where have you traveled (outside of the U.S.) doing what you love?

London, Paris, Japan, Switzerland, Amsterdam

Who are some artists that you have you worked with?

Kevin Michael, Wale, State Property, Beanie Sigel, Killa Mike, Big Boi, Kevin McCall (works with Chris Brown), to name a few.

How do you reach out to big artists; is it all about who you know?

It’s all about who you know and the relationships you build. And musical directors…once artists reach a certain level of prestige, they like musical directors.

So in regards to your hat deal, how did that happen?

I sat with the President and CFO of Mitchell & Ness to pitch the concept and idea for the program and they backed the idea.  It’s going to be $50-$100 per hat and 50 hats per artist will be sold; it will be limited edition.

When will you be able to sit back and say to yourself, “I made it!”?

When I have grandchildren and I’m in a rocking chair (lol). I will just tell them to look on my Facebook page (lol).

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to tell that DJ Omega is a package deal: humor, drive, fortitude and most of all the skills to make a name for himself.  I’m a fan of his work and have been for quite some time, but as you can see I’m not the only one taking notice.  Keep it up and thank you for visiting the Dreamworld!

To check out DJ Omega visit: http://www.djomega.net

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Is This Bad Girl Really All That Bad?

We get to see glimpses, no matter how real or scripted, into the lives of young individuals on television.  Sometimes a  reality star may even stand out to me and I can see past the glitz and glamor of the role they’re dubbed to represent.  Elease Donovan is no exception!  Maybe it was that she spoke with a little more sense than the rest of her cast or maybe it was her smoking hot looks, but whatever the reason, I reached out to her!  I wanted to get an idea of what Season 8 of The Bad Girls Club couldn’t capture with this aspiring entrepreneur.  Welcome, Elease…to the Dreamworld!

Often, we see a pretty face and think that’s where it stops.  Or we may even assume that this is their first go ’round within the industry.  Well, neither of these are true for Elease; she’s been in the industry for a while, gaining popularity and allowing her success to pave a path in the direction toward her ultimate passion for fashion.  She’s been featured in magazines such as King and XXL, with her latest dose of fame on Oxygen’s hit show, The Bad Girls Club.  Check out my short interview with Elease Donovan to learn about her love for fashion, how she was discovered and what new business ventures she’s diving into!

(Source:XXL feature)

1. What was your first big break in modeling/fashion?

My first big break in modeling was being spotted at the mall by a well known modeling agency here in Miami.  From there I was sent on castings and booked roles…

2. What keeps you motivated to follow your dream of being a big-time designer?

What keeps me motivated to follow my dream of being a big time designer is my mom.  My mom has always been a successful entrepreneur and one day I’d like for her to sit back, relax and not have to work anymore.

3. How has Bad Girls Club helped your career aspirations?

BGC has helped me with my career aspirations with worldwide recognition. As my fan base grows, worldwide, more and more people are able to see my swimwear line and are eager to buy it, along with other lines I will be coming out with.

4. What advice would you give to younger females trying to make it, just like you?

Advice I would give my fans is to keep working hard no matter what and you can be whatever you aspire to be. It might be hard at times but keep working and be patient.

5. What do you think is your God-given purpose in life?

To be the best I can be.

6. What advice would you offer the “younger Elease” knowing what you do about life and the business thus far?

Advice I have for the younger Elease is stay focused because it’s easy to get distracted at times.

7. How do you intend on making sure you remain unique and grounded through your journey?

How I intend on making sure I remain unique an grounded through my journey is just to be myself.  No matter how far I go I believe I will always remain humble and grounded.

Elease has launched a brand new swimwear line that you can check out at: http://www.eleasedonovanswimwear.com/

Thank you, Elease!  It’s always nice to know that we can keep dreaming!  She’s made, what most would sum up as just good looks, work for her.  She’s a business woman with a successful brand…brains and beauty are always a good combination!

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