Month: July, 2010
Fish, Grits, Bacon & Dream Chasing
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Inspiration comes in the strangest forms. Mine often reveals itself over food 
The other day, while making fried whiting, cheddar cheese grits and applewood smoked bacon, it came to me… like an epiphany! *music break* “I think I’m just about over…” Shout out to my tweetheart, Chrisette Michelle. If you follow me on Twitter, then you know how much I love and respect her as an artist.
In the midst of preparing dinner for folks at the creative hostel came my realization: I’ve been so excited about the recent growth and development of my career, that I started to get hustle mixed up with stupidity. When you’re passionate about anything, it not only resonates with you, but your circle. Your family and friends will become your support system and personal PR team. I can’t begin to elaborate on the number of clients I’ve acquired and connections I’ve made because of my circle. They are apart of my success.
As a fashion stylist & creative director, one of my immediate goals is to have my work published in a magazine. Instead of letting it happen organically, I began to chase a tear sheet – an example of your work that can be torn from a publication – by any means necessary. *adjusts Malcolm X glasses*
I set up a meeting with a photographer who had strained relationships in many facets of the fashion industry. His reputation and ego proceeded himself – which sometimes is not a bad thing because you know what you’re getting before the train comes. His goal was to start a beach inspired fashion publication and I saw myself becoming an integral part of the staff in the magazine’s infancy stages. Half way through the meeting, my soul was unsettled. At that point I was aware this new relationship would be toxic. However, I wanted that tear sheets so I pressed forward and agreed to take on a number of tasks, despite photographer’s demeaning tone.
So as the grease began to pop, I realized I made it this far from sweat equity, intuition, keen business practices and great support system. My guerrilla approach could have affected my brand, integrity and progress to date. Instead I decided to do what Will Smith so eloquently stated in his video on my previous post, “You don’t try to build a wall. You don’t set out to build a wall. You don’t say, I’m going to build the biggest, baddest, greatest wall that’s ever been built. You don’t start there. You say, I’m going to lay this brick as perfectly as a brick can be laid. And you do that every single day and soon you have a wall.”
Life’s funny that way…wouldn’t you know it, less than a week later, the fashion gods shined their Ferragamos down on me. *bbm party face* I will be working with two publications in August who’s brands I respect and admire. I won’t say much…now. I’ll let the tear sheets speak for themselves. #POW
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Stripes, Stripes & More Stripes
Monday, July 19, 2010
Summer 2010 trends puts a spin on military fashion for men and women. While navy and white stripes are a must for the look, the real key to Summer’s take on nautical stripes is that they dominate the outfit. Check out the 1st look in the pictures below of Brazilian Model, Leonardo who is signed to Wilhelmina Models.
This was Leonardo’s first test shoot, needless to say he was a natural and pulled every look and story we pitched at him. I was enthused to be apart of this process, because Leonardo decided to take a leap of faith and follow his dream. He quit his well paying job, moved to Miami to pursue modeling full time. Leonardo has already booked some amazing jobs. I look forward to seeing how far his career goes.
***Photographer Elton Anderson,
10 Comments
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Vivi
You have definitely brightened my hazy morning w/ this fine ass man! Oh my. I hope he has a great career to ’cause I wouldn’t mind seeing him 24/7. Now back to fashion, I’m so down for the military look. When done right, it can look so classy. Funny enough, I haven’t tried it this summer.
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I love the military look this season! It’s a trend that’s very easy to incorporate into your current wardrobe.
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I really appreciate that your take on the military wasn’t army greens. The Navy would take their hats off to your direction man. These are some good shots. Is the blazer top from Zara?
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Yep, you’re right Jayar. The charcoal suit with the black piping did come from Zara.
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Whitney
Wow, you did a great job with this one! The clothes complimented the models good looks perfectly! Keep up the good work.
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i already told u on twitter, but i thought i’d comment too (i know i love comments). you’re blog is beautiful and this model is a hottie! keep up the great work!
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Lachelle
Apuje! Your passion, work ethic, and talent is sooo very inspiring! The styling and creative direction you have posted thus far is awesome. You can tell that you love what you do, even when there might be times your not loving it! lol…I wish you much success, peace, blessing and positive surroundings! Be easy…
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Thanks so much Lachelle! For someone who has known for since the 8th grade you’ve seen the progression. I appreciate the constant support.
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Ahem…he’s gorgeous. That.Is.All.
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Kerri E.
I want to move to Brazil, lol.
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*taps mic* Testing…Testing, is this thing on?
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
After a few hiccups with a boutique modeling agency in Miami, my team and I decided to take our work to Next Models – Miami to see if we could test some of their models (refer to previous post about test shoots). Next represents some of the top models in the world such as, Malgosia Bela, Anja Rubik, Karlie Kloss and Jamie Strachan. It was a bold move, but not a challenge we weren’t up too.
After meeting with one of the bookers, we were asked to test Lisa M., a 19 year-old model from Colorado. The Miami market is very commercial so I styled her accordingly but added a little edge to the last look. These are some of the images that propelled my team to the top of Next’s list. So much so that we were sometimes testing 3 to 4 times a week.
Now I’m not knocking the photographer, make-up artist, or the hairstylist, but as a fashion stylist you are literally working before, during, and after the shoot. The clothes don’t steam themselves or go back to the store on their own. Let’s just say after 4 months of guerrilla testing, a brother needed a break, lol.
***Photographer, Elton Anderson, Hair/MUA, Jay Fierce
5 Comments
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Jayar Moten
The fourth, fifth and seventh looks are definitely my favorite. The braless red cardigan is more or less me appreciating it from a “MALE” perspective if you know what I mean. I am sure if you were creative director the blue and yellow outfit getting a splash of red with her snow cone and the background is no conscience and a dope addition. You’re still the hardest working stylist I know.
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Those are some of my favorite as well Club. The red is strictly for the agency, not my favorite, but I needed a splash a color for the story. That’s why you don’t see a larger image of it below. Preciate the feedback as always.
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Cortni
the bubbles. Oh the bubbles. LOL
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Jay Allen
Very inspiring….not only to enrich your creativity but to step out on faith to embrace what you truly were created to do…kudos
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Aja Chandler
Dope! I don’t follow all the fashion trends but I am really into wearing neutral colors adding one bright color to make the look pop. So naturally, I loved looks four and five!!
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Chicken & Waffles ◊ Red Velvet That Is…
Thursday, July 1, 2010
I’ve been searching for the perfect first Red Velvet post and by George I think I’ve found it…SCORE!
Scouring the web about a week ago, I landed on my good friend, Jennifer’s Blog, JG Runs the Kitchen and low and behold she had a recipe for Red Velvet Waffles. I literally died and went to food heaven, because if you’ve ever eaten her cooking you know she’s a BEAST in the kitchen. Too late fellas, she’s already boo-ed up with “The Beau”, but I digressed. I suddenly felt inspired; I’ve never made waffles from scratch. I’m a Bisquick man myself, but I decided to give the recipe a try with my own twist. The end result was Double-Dipped Fried Chicken & Red Velvet Waffles with a Pecan Honey Cream Cheese Butter.
This started off as a meal for 3 people at the Creative Hostel where I reside whenever I’m working in Miami. By the end of the night 7 people had consumed every bite of my food. My friends and I were up to 3AM discussing our dreams, obstacles, the journey and defining our dash. Will Smith’s video about Mindset Wisdom provided the perfect background for our conversation. Its a must see…and I’ll leave it at that.
I sit in awe when I look at the talent that surrounds me. We all encourage each other, but most of all hold each other accountable to our dreams. Stepping out on faith is difficult but you have to start somewhere. Have you taken your first step…
***Special Thanks to Tia Smith for helping me style my food and pics. Look for her food blog very soon.
27 Comments
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this is a fat tweet waiting to happen. When I get off of this junk food cleanse you have put chicken and waffles back on my list of things to eat with cheddar bay biscuits, outback cheesy fries and the #8 at Wendy’s. Dude you eat like a fat person
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Josh
LOVE IT!
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Tee
You just bought your friend Jennifer a new blog viewer. I’ve been looking for a place with tasty recipes to try. YES!
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Tia Smith
So since I was there I felt inclined to confirm that the meal was delicious. I have never understood where the phrase “(insert pronoun) put their foot all in it” came from but Apuje did that. Wow – I have been spending too much time in Miami with these guys. The chicken was fried so perfectly we even made a vegetarian have a relapse. JG thanks for providing Apuje with the inspiration for cooking that meal last night, it was a nice catalyst for a ‘creatives’ convo.
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I hope it tasted good. It certainly looks fantastic!!! Thanks Apuje for the shout out! <3 <3!!
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this dude right here!!!! was it effing delicious? got me wanting to play ChefBoyRDeezy too. sheeeit
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The food was amazing. Everybody ate it up and wanted more. I even made waffles this morning…this time it was just Blueberry.
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Yes people, this food was as good as it looked!! Thanks Apuje for the depletion of my six-pack.
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Erik
You know what day of the week it is yet. You right eating like that will turn a six pack into a keg in a ny min.
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Valerie
I can’t keep up with all your many talents! Those waffles looka like da bomb! Bonus: Pics of Publix products brought back such fond memories… Miss you!
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Thanks Val! You didn’t know I could throw down in the kitchen. I don’t do it often but when I do, I does it big lol!
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K.MACK
Bravo. can we wed?…like – now?
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Hahahaha…it would be a match made in Fashion Heaven!
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Whitney
I love this Puje!! Can’t wait for you to make this again for ME! Love the blog!
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You know I down Fav! That would be a good brunch idea. Let’s make it happen when I get back home.
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JB
That looks great…you really get down in the kitchen, man. Congrats on the blog too. It is inspiring to be in the company of creative people because you soak something up from one another.
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BLAST!! I left Miamai a few days too early. Clearly I needed to share in this glorious occasion of gluttonous fancy! #ohUFancyhuh!?
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Got to tell you this hit home. Time to start really working towards the movement. Wish I was there for the 3am convo. You know me and food, I might of had to pass on the fried and smother, but who knows.
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This video hit home for me as well E, that’s why I had to post it and hope others were inspired. Idk, I think you might have taken a piece of the chicken. It was so good even a vegetarian ate some lol.
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OMG Dude!!! That just made me so damn hungry!!!!
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I promise the food was dope! *pats self on back*
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drew
That looks really really good! u might have to make that when u actually come bak to DC…
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I got you Drewche! Tell Grandpa to clear the kitchen lol.
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Elliott Kiadii
So…. I tried the reciepe and Boy am I glad I did!!! Really enjoyed it w/ the bacon reciepe! It turned out great!!!
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Attayah Ali
OMG, Apuje…what can’t you do! In the kitchen too?! Looks stuuupid delish. *bbm can’t look face* Pissed I couldn’t sample… (did he say pecan honey cream cheese butter?)
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I definitely said “Pecan Honey Cream Cheese Butter!” It was awesome Cousin, you have to try it. Maybe I’ll make on my next trip to Philly.
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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by A. U. Kalu and J Danielle , Brittany Lauren . Brittany Lauren said: I want some RT @Apuje: Making the infamous Red Velvet Waffles. Check my blog for the recipe http://bit.ly/bnejcK http://twitpic.com/34g6p5 [...]
19 Comments
Apuje that is so exciting! I cannot wait to see your tears and I am so glad to hear of this opportunity! It was only a matter of time because your talent is tremendous. Congrats for being someone who believed in your dream enough to persevere through the hard times. You inspire me.
Great job thus far Apuje! Stay hungry both literally and figuratively (maybe one day ill get to sample these dishes). Continue to go with your inner instincts and it will never steer you wrong.
-Snow
Im not gonna lie.. I didn’t read the post just yet, but its lunch time and I’m on the grind in the dungeon. You gotta post recipes.. I’m hungry as (insert something) now..
Congratulations!!!
My man 100 grand!! You are always an inspiration to my life bro.
That’s awesome! You were patient and believed in yourself that your hard work would soon pay off…and it did! Can’t wait to see the spread in the two publications.
Meanwhile, you’re making me hungry with that picture.
I totally get the fish & grits, but bacon? why can’t you leave the other white meat alone??? ..Praying for your arteries and heart
Keep on pushing Twin! You know I’ve got your back and support all that you do. Let’s make the magic happen!
This is so great Apuje! You continue to inspire me!
Apuje, I am SO proud of you and your continuing success!! As someone who is looking to do something different and follow a dream I use you as my inspiration! Keep on keeping on, and never sacrifice your integrity for a paycheck; the right opportunity will always be on the horizon!
That’s such a blessing! It’s not just about the work that you do, but how you do the work. Perfect example of how keeping steafast, focused and grateful will guide you to your dreams
This post spoke to me man! I’m in this place currently in my career, learning to take steps that are of the highest integrity, and that serve others as well as myself. Trying to discern next steps in this business is not always the most clear. I’m learning to trust the passion and the gift God has given me while also working hard and efficiently towards my goal…hustling! Keep it up Apuje, I love these posts
That food looks so good! Twin, your epiphany seemed to be right on point. Always go with your instinct; like you said it has gotten you this far.
I think we talked about this friday. I am very glad to see your dreams come to pass. In the short time that i’ve known you and elton you guys chase your dreams with all of your might and that within itself is powerful. I will glad to see the post this month.
Wow..what a pic, what a dish, what a blog. The Will Smith quote is so on point. Patience, hard work, and dedication go along way. It’s good to see you/someone succeed in something they enjoy and worked so hard for. Our best quality shows when we Enjoy and Appreciate what we do.
Side note…..you should get some of your food pics published too….Yummy!
Thanks LaTonya! I never thought about getting the food pics published. I guess I was trying to stay in my lane and focus on styling people and not food lol. Who knows what God has in store for me next.
I find this post so ironic….I had a similar experience with which whom is mentioned here. Nonetheless congratulations on all your success! Obstacles plentiful meaning the victory will be grand. (I need to hire you before you get too famous….*seriously*)…I support you 100! *hugs*
I was skeptical about posting this story, but I knew others could benefit from my experience. I look forward to working with you soon Allana. I love the new twitter avatar. Thanks for the continued support.
Perseverance pays of.. I’ve been following your journey for some time and I just want to say congratulations! you deserve the success.