Stop Holding Your Talent Hostage
Friday, July 8, 2011
“Well, well, well … fancy seeing you. I was beginning to think a creative professional no longer lived here.” This is what I imagined my blog would say if it could talk. Many moons ago, I asked you to join me on my creative journey. However, it’s difficult to be a passenger when I’m not walking, when access has been denied, or when I’m holding my talent hostage.
While in NYC a few weeks ago, enjoying fish, grits and my signature bacon, the topic of my blog came up. *bbm can’t watch face* As I devoured the last bit of @ellegee47′s grits and body rolled with @jovizi the conversation got real. *cues opening from MTV’s series, Diary* “You think you know … but you have no idea.”
My issue was two-fold. For months, I’d been working on some amazing projects with great teams. (Judging by the October date of my last post, you wouldn’t know.) I felt growth with every shoot and saw the depth and range of my portfolio increasing. As a fashion stylist, I was elated! Then I thought, “I’m going to wait until after this next shoot before I update my site and blog. No, no, wait … after I get THESE images back from THIS shoot, I’m going to post.” By the time I got a handle on everything, it was May. All I could do was shake my head. I had become paralyzed by perfection. #Shoutout to Tia Smith.
Secondly, the more I hustled to build a stronger portfolio, the more I compared my work to other fashion stylists who’d been in the industry for YEARS. I started to think my portfolio was not on par with those I admired. It had reached the point where I actually could not stand looking at my work. It was a vicious cycle.
After completely revamping my website (coming soon), I had to take step back and have a few conversations with my family from the Creative Hostel. They helped me put my artistry in perspective. You can never measure your success by that of others. Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk. Suddenly in the background, I heard a voice. Is that you Kirk Franklin?!?! Is the storm over now??? You sure, because I’m putting away my trench coat, umbrella and galoshes. I’m finally ready to release my talent from bondage.
In an earlier post, I discussed the goal of getting my work published and the pitfalls of chasing tear sheets. Well, a lot has happened since that post. My work has been featured in a several publications, with more on the way. *bbm party face* I want to share my very first tear sheet from the December issue of T&M Magazine. Shot by Joao Carlos in a penthouse on Miami’s South Beach, Perdida De Amor (Lost Love) delves into the soul of a woman whose husband has gone astray. I hope you enjoy viewing the images as much as I did styling them.
Special thanks to @lmoney21, @L10_MIA, @ellegee47, @HewbieMac, @carmtasticc, @Dino_Teme, @jovizi, @EUmphery & @ELLEvation.
***Photographer, Joao Carlos, Model, Marie Charlotte (Next Miami) Hair/MUA, Sindy Perez & Jenna Marie Streitenfeld
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Young, Struggling and Styling
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
As I cooked breakfast for myself this morning, I decided to check my bank account. *thinks* If I could just add one more zero behind that one, I’d have ten whole dollars. iKID, iKID. But in all honesty, since starting my journey as a full-time fashion stylist and creative director, I’ve had to make numerous sacrifices for my craft. It’s rare I’ll go into a store and shop for myself anymore. The days of purchasing a $250 pair of jeans are over.com/whatwereyouthinkinganyway, and I can no longer financially justify my love of Ferragamos. *deep sigh*
Instead, all my money goes to sustaining my business, which of course includes PORK Bacon and Red Velvet. #NOM! As a stylist, you always need working capital for shoots, especially when styling agency-signed models. It’s the never-ending, buy-and-return process. Purchase merchandise for the shoot, pray to Sweet Baby Jesus, who lies ever-so peacefully in his manger that the model does not damage anything, then steam, re-tag, fold and return the merchandise to the respective stores. *bbm whew face* Talk about risky business!
If you continue to buy and return in the same stores, your face becomes familiar to the staff. Some stores have the right to refuse returns, so you have to be strategic. I look at returns as if I’m going to war. My battleship WILL NOT be sunk. I often purchase at one store’s location and return to another. If that’s not an option, I change the shift of when I return the clothes. I know of some stylists that have been stuck with hundreds of dollars in merchandise because the store refused the return. What’s an up-and-coming stylist to do?!?!
Well, some stores will allow a stylist to pull (borrow) clothing and accessories and pay a 20-30% restocking fee of the total. *bbm talk to the hand face* Did I mention that I’m an up-and-coming stylist??? LOL I need ALL of my dollars returned to me. Another option is pulling from designers and showrooms. Depending on your relationship, the pull could be free, come with a rental fee, or result in signing your life away for $30,000 worth of merchandise on a loan agreement. Not to mention, if the designer is located in a different city or country, the shipping fees you will incur. Essentially, you have to spend money to make money. You don’t want all your looks to be off the rack as you progress in your career.
To sum it all up, being a fashion stylist is not always glamorous, but it’s rewarding if you’re willing to put the work into building your brand. One cannot have tunnel vision when pursuing their creative passion; you have to look at the bigger picture. Most importantly you have to do it because you’re passionate. Sometimes that’s all you have…
Check out my video interview with WA2 for his Young, Fly & Broke series. I go into a little more detail about my life as a stylist. If you would like the recipe for my brown sugar cured bacon, shoot me an email. Enjoy!
28 Comments
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Raw, Authentic and honest. I like…don’t ever wait this long again to post. Good job my broda!!
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I know I’ve been slacking the past month or so, but I’ve had some great projects in the works. Hold me accountable broda. I need it.
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[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by A. U. Kalu, A. U. Kalu, FAST by Ferracci, Elton [L10] Anderson, M.B.B. and others. M.B.B. said: RT @Apuje: NEW BLOG POST: Young, Struggling & Styling -> http://bit.ly/9IU2Wq I know its been a month, but check me out and comment tweeps! [...]
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Thank you for a new post (finally)! If you’re passionate and continue to work hard, you’ll definitely reap the benefits of your hard work. We all see nothing but success in your future!
I want to also share that b/c of you, I am now reading the Alchemist (I saw your recommendation to Bianca on twitter). I’m on that journey to find and truly understand my Personal Legend! There are some great lessons in that book.
If/When you have some free time, check out new posts on the blog
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The Alchemist is thebomb.com. Let me know your thoughts when you’re done.
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Arminta
You continue to inspire me and crack me up
I love what you’re doing! -
This hit close to home for me. I’m a young, developing photographer & money doesn’t grow on trees where I’m from either. I get paid for shoots, just to turn around & put that money into getting quality equipment. I also have to buy clothes for models from time to time. It’s a nasty game of give & take, but passion… that makes it aaaaaallll worth it.
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You can say that again…money does NOT grow on trees. It seems like you have the right idea Jai and you’re on the right path. Surround yourself with the right people and things will continue to progress!
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Chandia
Great post bro! I LOVE and respect your honesty. Its a reminder that the current sacrifice that I’m making for my dreams is the right thing to do. I wish you blessings and success. I’m cheering from the sidelines!
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Nice post…minus the bacon s/o.
D Anywho, you’re heading in the right direction. You had a passion, you went for it and I believe pretty soon, you’ll be rewarded back in dividends. Keep your head up. I think your broke days will soon be over.
Question: The shoot in Nigeria, was that your first time there? I haven’t been in 2…going on 3 years. *weeps* I’m feening for another visit.-
Gotta give Bacon a S/O! Speak it into existence…my broke days will be over! It was my 1st trip to Nigeria, but it won’t be last. Hopefully I’ll be able to get back next year. This Christmas would ideal.
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Mike
Great post. It was an interesting behind-the-behind of the scenes to styling. So do you stock up before shoots, or just get things as you see them, in hopes of using them later?
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I have a kit full of Men’s and Women’s accessories that I bring to every shoot. They always come handy. I stock up during clearance sales on re-usable pieces.
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Damon
great post! really shines a spotlight on your commitment to you craft. you can borrow a dollar or two anytime.
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Dr. Kathy Kane
Big Bro! I LOVE that you’ve decided to follow your passion, despite the hardships. This post should’ve come with a PayPal donation link…..and less pork bacon pics…. -_-
Anyways, you know that you have my support 100,000%! Wish I could match it with $…lol -
Kris Watson
Very enlightening and beneficial to someone whose been out of the circuit for a long time.
- Kris
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Right Place. Right Time.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
After a two-month hiatus from Miami, I returned to the Creative Hostel to continue work on launching my website and blog. Unbeknownst to me, Toye Adedipe, a fellow FAMU alum and celebrity stylist, had taken up residence at the Hostel for the weekend. He was in town to style Island Def Jam recording artist Git Fresh Crew’s debut album artwork, and video for their hit single, She Be Like. *singing* Bom Bom Bom…1st round!
While on location styling the seven looks for the album, Toye called and asked if I could come on set to help out for awhile. At that point, I had been up all night putting the finishing touches on my site and blog, but nonetheless, I obliged and hopped in a cab to downtown Miami. It was a great opportunity I was not going to pass up. Besides, sleep is for the weary, and I have moves to make, lol.
After a $20, three-pack cab ride (Sidebar: As a freelance stylist, I count every penny, and equate it to packs of bacon or a meal. $20 = 3 really good packs of bacon or 3.5 meals), I arrived on set and immediately asked Toye how I could be of assistance. Tape shoes? Don’t mind if I do! I have a patent pending technique that will ensure most shoes can go back to the store after being worn. *bbm lips are sealed face* In the middle of my fourth pair of shoes, Toye comes over and tells me the creative direction for tomorrow’s video has changed. He has to stay on set to finish styling the other looks and needs me to go shopping. Toye hands me the keys to a rental car, $2,500 in cash, and gives me a brief description of the three-member group’s aesthetic.
Can we say OVERWHELMED? It was the middle of rush hour traffic, and I had just been tasked with getting three looks apiece with options within a specific color range for each member of Git Fresh Crew. With a smile on my face and book bag on my back, I headed to the mall to GET ‘ER DONE. Needless to say I shut the mall down. I wanted to make sure Toye was in good position to style tomorrow morning because there would be no time for mall runs.
Back at the Hostel, Toye reviewed my pulls and was extremely pleased. A number of looks, including the literal shirt off my back were used in the video. It goes to show that when you’re destined to do anything, your steps are ordered. You just have to be quiet, watch for the signs and follow the path. I could have stayed in DC until I launched my website and blog, however something told me to go to Miami, and I listened.
Check out some behind the scenes pics and the video below….Bing Bing Bing…It’s going down!
13 Comments
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You are such an inspiration!!!!
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Dope. Ok Cuz, I see You. “Doing BIG things.” keep up the good work!
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Hey Cuz! Its good to hear from you. Thanks for the support. More “Big Things” on the horizon, so stay tuned.
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Veronica
What a blessing! Continue to be inspired and work hard the way you do! It will alllll pay off in the end! You are an inspiration to those that are pursuing their dreams as well!
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Mr. FineBoyNoPimple
My broda has done it again!!!!! Keep up the good work nwanne’m. The sky is the limit for you. Question, what happens with the clothes when the shoot is over? I could use a few donations lol. stay blessed bro!
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That is the best story I have read all summer. I am a big fan of both you and Toye. I like when people work together.
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The FAMU Connections runs deep. You never know where we’re going to be. Thanks for the comment big homie.
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Congratulations on the opportunity! Sorry I missed you in Miami but that’s ok, you were working hard down there!! I agree with Arminta, you are definitely an inspiration! Keep up the GREAT work!
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Attayah Ali
Love love love it Puje. Your steps are definitely ordered. But you know I’m dying to know which shirt was yours, lol. You definitely shut the mall down…who but you could pull a rabbit tail as an accessory. You are sick wit it.
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LOL…its in the all black look. Penny (with the Caesar) has on my black shirt with the gold snake on it. It’s actually the same shirt that I have on in my Facebook avatar.
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Jen
I continue to be impressed by your hustle and professionalism. Can I be the President of the Apuje Kalu fan club? Please and Thank you.
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Have I told you I love you today Jen? Sure you can be the President, lol.
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Aja Chandler
Apuje, your Epicurean! days gave you great preparation to find pieces within a short time frame on a specific budget,
. Great job as always.
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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
41 Comments
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Tia
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.
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Snowman
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
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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..
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Congratulations!!!
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Cortni
My man 100 grand!! You are always an inspiration to my life bro.
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Vivi
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
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Keep on pushing Twin! You know I’ve got your back and support all that you do. Let’s make the magic happen!
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This is so great Apuje! You continue to inspire me!
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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!
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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
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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
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Cassie (Twin)
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.
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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.
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LaTonya
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.
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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*
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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.
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LaTanya B
Perseverance pays of.. I’ve been following your journey for some time and I just want to say congratulations! you deserve the success.
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A Leap of Faith ◊ A Chance on Life
Friday, June 18, 2010
One of the hardest things to do in life is to start. It has taken me some time to get to this point on my journey, but I’m finally here. Prepared to share my experiences with the world, I hope you’re ready
Over a year ago (with some help), I decided to leave Corporate America and pursue my passion, fashion. It was not an easy decision, but in my soul it just felt right. To some, 6 years of being an Engineer & IT Consultant may not seem long; however for me, it was a creative eternity.
Now, I am freelance Fashion Stylist & Creative Director with a love for PORK Bacon and all things Red Velvet. On my blog, I will be taking you on the hunt for the most savory bacon, delectable red velvet cake, behind the scenes of photo shoots, posting images of my work and whatever inspires me in between. We all know… “what really matters is how we live and love and how spend our dash.” – Linda Ellis
Come with me on this journey…somewhere between fashion and food. Welcome to my blog. Welcome to my world.
51 Comments
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Darius Beckett
Apuje the outfits / pics are great… keep following your Dreams…. The Sky is the Limit..
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Whitney
Love the new site and blog! The styling i so you and looks amazing! Can’t wait to see each and every new post. So excited and happy for you! Love you sweetie
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Calvin
Great Site Man – Loving Everything on it ! and i need to get whatever camera you used the pics are amazing ..
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Tim
Fashion and food… Two of mankind’s greatest expressions! Love it man.
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I mean I always knew you were talented, it’s in the genes!! Or should I say jeans?
But seriously, you are a marvel and fashion genius! I am so proud of your evolution as an artist and visionary. From UaU to Apuje Kalu (period). You continue to amaze me. Gosh, I’m going to cry…Congratulations. Without doubt, the industry is your to conquer. Love you cousin. -
b.
ahhh, juju, you are amazing. so happy to see how far you have come and to envision where your journey will lead. {{hugs}} congrats on the site…it’s fantastic.
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Mike
DOPENESS! This site looks fantastic and I know your blog is gonna be fantastic as well! I’m proud of you homie!
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BFF!!!!!! I’m just too proud of you right now! You’re on your way good sir…you’re on your way!
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Puje! I must say, I am so very proud of you. I was with you soon after you left your job and remember telling you (over food, of course) to get focused because you had an undeniable talent. To see this come to fruition, makes me tear up (literally…pass me a tissue). Best wishes…and I look forward to working with you again!! Would love to add more of the Kalu flair to my port. *smooches*
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Danielle Cotten
OMG Apuje, your website and portofio is BEAT! I am so very proud of you for following your dreams. Keep pushing forward my friend, you are destined for even more success.
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Very dope…especially the pics from the motherland!
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James
Spec, GREAT site and even better camera, lol. I’m in the market for a new one, help a brotha out. But seriously, the site is a real good look. Good luck w/it! I’ll be following along for the journey
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J. Bland
Puje. Site is amazing my brother. I’m excited for you, your future and to have another amazing blog to follow. Keep me entertained. No “one note” post please.
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Chimére L. Smith
Apuje: I am so elated to read and view the images before me. Yet, somewhere in my mind’s eye, I am not surprised. You have always held an affinity to lead and create wherever you are and I am just so insanely proud of your accomplishments and courage to allow what you love to take you to extraordinary places. Not a fan of red velvet but I encourage you to let your creative nature, the aroma of great bacon, and the batter of red velvet cake lead you to sights and sounds your heart, ears, and mind could only imagine. I am inspired to take this makeup business to the very next level! Thank you!
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Congrats…..
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Liven, Loven Life bro! Truly proud of you for getting out your dreams. I can DEF see Apuje all over this blog/site. I would say one thing that could make it better…..maybe a lil Gucci Mane on the playlist? Buuur! LOL
Much Luv Bro! -
JDove
Apuje..J’adore the website..I am highly impressed…Keep up the excellent work and may all your hopes and dreams come true.
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I very happy for you Apuje; way to follow you dreams. It is not easy to do what you are doing but then nothing worth having is easy. This is inspirational! Here’s to the future and all it holds.
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Apuje I am so proud of you and congratulations on your success!!!! I know you will have a wonderful career just keep striving for success and always think positive…..KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!
W/R
TORYA -
Uju
Stylin in Abuja (lol@the green taxi)! I see u Apuje! Congrats! Looking forward to more from u, and seeing your journey through your lens. God bless you
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Proud would be an understatement! Your work is exceptional. I am super elated that you are pursuing your passion! Because it is your passion, everything you are apart of will turn to gold! You will be successful! Many blessings. The pictures are amazing! PEACE
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Yo frat, really felling your work and will definitely be checking in on your blog. Keep up the good work homey.
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Carmen
What about….red velvet clothing??? Proud of you puje!
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Teewhy
Kalooh!!!!! thats wasup homie; keep up the great wk, everytime i see your wk, i get more and more inspired!! ima holla @ u asap
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…Excellent! You’re baby sister is very proud of you…GX!!!
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I will blame my excitement for you for the misspelling in my previous post (excuses, excuses)…*your*. Again Congratulations honey!
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Faris Abdelmuti
My Brother,
I just wanted to say a few words about how proud I am of you……
During our Corporate America days, I’ve come to realize that you’re a dedicated and diligent man, who’s prepared to work hard to achieve his goals. You also encouraged me to rock brown shoes with my black pinstriped suit…, pushed me to explore colorful “Pocket Silks”…, and much more valuable men fashion advice that you Concluded with the phrase “DUUUUUUUUUH” ……….The result was great and I’m now a better, sharper, and “fly” outfitted man thanks to you… My fiance concurs BTW I wish you all the best on your pursuit for greatness, your efforts will pay off the ultimate accolade and I will be your biggest fan following your success and cheering you on.
~Much love and Respect
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Rosie
Apuje!….WOW…Congratulations! You are an inspiration. I am so proud of you…impressive! This is amazing stuff…and I did not expect less from you…This is perfection…Continue to allow the Lord to use you…we are not ready! The Apuje Kalu is on the loose! Keep up the good job my Igbo brother!
…Wishing you continued blessings and pray that the Lord continues to use you and allow you to continue to express and share your eccentric juices and creative impulse…WOW!! #justsaying -
JG*
I’m so proud of you. Your love for Pork Bacon concerns me, but together we shall enjoy the fruits of all things Red Velvet. I will go work on creating a catalog of such items. I can’t wait to read your blog and see all the awesome shoots and adventures your life has become. I’m so proud of be your friend, sister in Leoness, and now fellow writer. Congrats and let the good times roll!
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Henry
Apuje- The word teaches us that we will have what we say…so keep speaking into existence the success and brilliance that is embedded in you. I am encouraged by the courage that you have shown by taking this step and am proud of the way that you have let yourself be used to produce work that is artistically splendid. I have no doubt that the best is yet to come for you, and that your blessings in this arena will be more than you were ever able to ask for or think of. You have been endowed with a dogged determination and undeniable spirit that leaves an indellible imprint on all those you come in contact with that I am sure will serve you well. Be Blessed and Congratulations.
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Kennard Goodman
Congratulations on making your vision coming to life! I pray all the best…keep pushing forward…the site looks great!
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Congrats on taking the leap, love your site and more importantly your work. Proud of ya
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I’ll be checking in Daily!
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Tamra Nicole
SM!!!!!!!! To say that I’m impressed, I mean those words are on such a small scale of how I feel when I look at the blog and website! I am sooooooooo inspired by you! I love that you are chasing your dreams, you are truly made for this honey! Your work pushes me as an artist! I’m just do damn proud of you and to think of how we met on a whim! God def places people in your life for a reason! SM let’s continue to push each other for our goals and please don’t ever stop creating! I absolutely love everything about ur work…esp the love for bacon and red velvet! I’m beaming over here from joy, I mean my cheeks are hurting from smiling so much!!! I love to see my people getting it!
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Twin! I’m SO proud of you for making this official! Your talents and business acumen will undoubtedly lead you to a place of greatness that only a strong-willed and heartfelt vision could take you. I look forward to seeing more of your great work and you know if I can help it at all I am first in line to support your greatness.
Onward and upward!
/hf
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Phil P
Super proud of you bro… still remember you on the sewing machine for hours on end before an E! show… good to see ur following your dreams. Good luck. God bless
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This post just gave me chills. Seriously. I have been struggling with this for quite some time now, such a difficult choice to make. I’m so happy for you and your decision to pursue your dreams.
Much success.
Krys. -
Your site and blog are great!! So many of us are too scared to step out on faith and follow our dreams so congrats to you on taking that step! Good luck and I wish you much success!! I look forward to reading the blog and seeing more of your work!
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Words can not express how overwhelmed I am by the support of my family, friends and folks who don’t know me. Its good to see this post was able to inspire many and evoke emotion in others. I will continue you bring you updates from my journey.
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yikes those are coffin nails in a box!!!
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29 Comments
“You can never measure your success by that of others. Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk.” AMEN!!! This is something I have to remind myself of daily.
Congratulations on having your work published! The photos from the T&M Magazine look great; definitely feeling the Lady Gaga inspiration. Glad to see you’re back on the site; can’t wait to view more!
Dopeness! Was Truly inspired by your blogpost! Congrats on your tearsheet!
GREAT imagery. Joao is an amazing photog and Gina is a kick ass retoucher.. Love those images!
Great Stuff Apuje! Way to Go For Your Dreams! Big Congrats
Doper than Dope!!
So proud of you and hoping we cross paths again soon!
Those are terrific shots! Keep up the good work Apuje!
Your work speaks for itself. You have a gift! I am inspired. Keep it up! Also, thanks for being transparent in your post. I think everyone can relate to the paralysis you spoke of. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the constant support Yarb!
Insanity!!! Once again my broda has delivered. The shoot looks amazing. I can see the growth and I am so very proud of you. You are sure on your way there my friend. Please remember the journey once you reach the destination. It is pivotal you continue to share these types of stories….inspiration comes in all forms.
WOW Apuje! This shoot is amazing! I love every single thing about it. Just gorgeous!
Thanks so much for the shout out! I have been waiting on a new blog post. I am so glad you have allowed yourself to be released from your self imposed bondage. Accepting that we are constantly on a journey and never perfect can sometimes be a challenge. Your work however is amazing and always has been, I am glad that you are continuing to progress. Congrats on your tear sheet, I am sure many more will follow because your talent is unmatched.
I like Beyonce’s music but I am finally starting to respect her as an artist because NOW I am believing/ relating to what she has to say. I say that because I have heard her say several times now, that she doesn’t compare/compete w/other artists she competes against herself. she strives to elevate to a new level in all that she does. That’s how we have to be. Because people love different things. Have you ever noticed how many small businesses thrive because people have preferences. Think about all the Ereaders out there! Its a matter of personal preference. so from one creative person to another, I am glad you are tossing the shackles away and letting your creativity flourish.
I completely understand what you’re saying Kia. I gained more of an appreciation for Beyonce once I saw her special on VH1.
Welcome back bro. and the work looks AMAZING! I see Apuje in these shots but on a whole different level. The class and elegance in the accessories is SO you. but the visual Eclecticism…. brand new level of Gordon Gartrell outchea! Major Props bro.
Nice! Keep up the good work.
So happy to see that you are back! I missed seeing your posts! Awesome work as always!
Apuje great post man! Eyes have not seen… the things you will create for the world with your talents! I believe that. I’ve seen tremendous growth in your work and I know I haven’t seen half of what you’re capable of. And lets talk about these one-liners in this post… “I had become paralyzed by perfection.” “You can never measure your success by that of other” “Everyone has a different journey and ordered steps; you just have to be prepared to walk.” “I heard a voice. Is that you Kirk Franklin?!?! Is the storm over now???” — You gave me four great tweets just like that. Keep up the good work! Proud of you!
This was AMAZING!!! Definitely inspiring and beauty images!!! Love everything about this. Congrats
This is DOPE! Proud of you homie. Keep doing your thing. Soon the stylists that you look up to will be blogging about you.
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