Brittany West is an elopement and destination wedding photographer who helps plan, coordinate, and capture the most important days of a couples married life in scenic locations.

For most people, a wedding day is one of the most important days in their lives, and for 54 percent of men and 60 percent of women, it is the only wedding day they will have. So, making sure everything runs smoothly from having the best wedding cars, wedding reception, and of course the best photographer is essential.

Choosing the best photographer who will capture every important moment of the wedding and turn those images into a thousand words can be difficult. The trends of just having a wedding photographer have changed, and now people are hiring destination wedding photographers who will travel all the way to the wedding location. One elopement and destination wedding photographer who has become one of the best in the business has traveled all of the world helping the bride and groom have the best day of their lives.

I sat down with Brittany West to learn more about life as an Elopement and destination wedding photographer, this is what she had to say.

Can you share a bit of background about yourself and how you got into photography?

I got into photography after opening a Best Buy credit card account and being told I needed to use it, or it would be closed after about two years of never buying anything. I bought a DSLR camera and learned to use it to document my life and my children’s life. I enjoyed it and started second shooting for a local photographer capturing weddings and Bah Mitzvahs. Before becoming a photographer my husband and I were both active-duty army and we were business owners.

Ok, can I stop you there. What is a destination elopement photographer?

Essentially, it is a photographer serving domestic and international locations for couples wanting to elope. Some photographers only service a certain area or state. I do not set boundaries on the couples wanting to elope, I want them to have the exact location they want and the elopement photographer they want with the artistic style that they desire their wedding images to have.

Can you remember the first picture you ever took, and the first professional picture you took?

I can’t remember the first picture I ever took but I do remember my grandparents allowing me to play with their old, cedar trunk that sat at the end of their bed with vintage old polaroid cameras in it, there was a wooden tray in it with storage space underneath. This is where the real treasure was; I can still smell that woody fragrance when I think about it but there were probably around a hundred of images dating all the way back to civil war era to around the 1960s, all the people in it were my ancestors. I loved rummaging through old tin types and the discolored, fading images on thick stock paper and imagined what these people were like.

These images were so old that my great grandmother couldn’t tell me much other than their names, but it was nice to put faces to those names and pick out the family facial features that were passed along. So, I guess you could say the most earliest influencing photography memories didn’t come from using a camera but more from enjoying the pictures from so many years ago.

What made you want to pursue photography as a career?

I love working with couples and giving them something a bit different that still has a timeless style. I want to not only document them on their wedding day, but I want to document it in a creative way. Thinking about the generations to come that will love those images feeds my soul. When I am posing a couple, I think about how I could portray them to show future generations their deep connect. I like to think of myself as a historian for future generations and my lens is the medium that tells that story.

And why did you choose destination weddings & elopements as your focus?

Elopements are always small and destination weddings usually have a smaller guest list as well. I can really capture the connection between the couple, a traditional wedding goes by so quickly and there is a large emphasis on the family including extended family. It’s hard to make a wedding about the couple when the guests in attendance make it seems more like a family reunion. If family does attend its usually immediate family or people that have a really meaningful connection to the couple, and I always feel more inspired when there is a real story and bond between these people.

Was it hard to get established as a destination elopement photographer?

It took about a year to develop a decent portfolio that really showed that I am skilled in location scouting and it took some time to develop the best way to educate my clients on the differences between a traditional wedding photographer and an elopement photographer and how they are both different.

How did you manage to get your first booking?

A wedding photographer friend of mine had a couple change their original date and decided the stress of a wedding with a 200-person guest list wasn’t worth it so she asked me if I could help her out because she was booked on the new wedding date that they wanted. The new location was an 8-hour drive away and she didn’t want to travel that far. Ever since then I knew that elopements and destination weddings were my niche.

What is the advantage for the couple of having a destination photographer?

Destination wedding photographers are usually very adaptable and can adjust quickly to changing circumstances that deviate from the initial plan. Whether that’s a change in weather or wedding timeline. There is a greater emphasis on their style because there is an understanding that clients want you based off your artistic talents and not because of the proximity to the wedding location.

When you are hired to take photographs for a wedding, what research is needed on the location of the wedding?

Sometimes restrictions are in place at certain times of the year. Accessibility can be a big issue and that’s why I always check out the location the day prior to the elopement and keep additional locations in mind if there is a circumstance like bad weather that might need me to change the location.

How many images do you take during a typical wedding, and how many of those pictures do you use for the final wedding album?

That is all dependent on how long I am booked. My packages range all the way from 6 hours to two days. For a 6-hour elopement I usually deliver around 400 images. It can be more depending on what is going on. During the ceremony I’m constantly shooting, and that specific event will always have more images. The number of images within an album is always determined by the album size that the couples decide upon. I send all my images to the couple through an online gallery, so it is up to them what goes into the wedding album.

What do you find most challenging about wedding photography?

If I could clone myself and be in two places at once, then 99% of my problems would be solved. Marketing could be a whole 40 hour a week job and there is always a list of things that I need to get done to market my business.

What tips would you suggest for couples looking to have a destination wedding?

I have so many, and I feel like this question is the ongoing topic of my blog. My best tip is to utilize your vendors and wedding party, even if you need a favor that isn’t within the typical job description it never hurts to ask. There have been times when I needed to meet a florist to pick up a bouquet or made a run to the store to grab a bride some false lashes. They are there to support you and as a wedding vendor I want the couple to have the least amount of stress and really enjoy the process including the planning.

What do you wish people would understand better about hiring a photographer for their wedding?

Choosing a photographer based off their style will lead to a more satisfying outcome. Most photographers on vendor preferred lists at resorts, hotels and venues have simply paid to be there. It’s unfortunately another advertising medium and another way for venues to make money.

You must have been to some magical places, what has been your favourite?

I love Yosemite National Park and Iceland. The locations and light in Iceland are just amazing and Yosemite National Park has so many epics but accessible locations so going to several different locations within one day is possible.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Various movies, typically love stories. Water for Elephants with Reese Witherspoon is a great movie to watch and see how the characters connect in the romance scenes. There is an indie film named To the Wonder with Ben Affleck that has amazing cinematography and I have used many movie stills from this film as inspiration, pretty much any movie directed by Terrance Malick captures light and connection beautifully.

Is there any picture you have taken that sticks in your mind?

Of course, there are the ones that are artistically pleasing and have gotten quite a bit of social media attention and shares but the ones that speak to me the most have an element of human emotion behind them. It’s a bride embracing her mother that is sick with cancer or the groom helping the 4-year-old ring bearer tie his shoes that is about to become his stepson that are my favorites.

What is the secret to taking a good picture?

Most photographers would say good lighting is the first element in every genre of photography and angles are important as well but anyone that is taking a picture should ask themselves what they are trying to communicate to whoever is viewing the image and make a decision based upon the answer to that question. I’ve taken pictures in all types of lighting situations where it wouldn’t be considered traditionally beautiful but because a message and mood were communicated through the image it worked out well.

Can you describe when you use flash and natural light during a wedding?

I only use flash for receptions with dark rooms otherwise I use natural light or am working with the ambient lighting that is available.

And how important is natural light for taking a great picture?

It’s one of the most important elements of a great image but it’s more important to know how to make the best of it. While there are other aspects that are important lighting is so much more than just a tool used to flatter a subject. Lighting can communicate and help to set the scene so much.

What are the most challenging situations you have experienced in your professional career?

The decision to become a destination elopement photographer meant that I would be traveling more and away from my family. I am lucky to have a supporting family and extended family to help with my children when I am working. It took me about 10 months to come to the conclusion that I would best serve my clients if I loved what I did.

What has influenced your style and work the most?

I love color in pictures, it’s very rare that I decide to edit an image in black and white and of course connection, intimacy and the dynamic between a couple gives me inspiration.

Is there anywhere in the world that you would love to go to as a destination elopement photographer?

Bali and Santorini are definitely on my bucket list and there is actually something in the works for Santorini so right now I am crossing my fingers and hoping next year I will get to capture a beautiful wedding in Greece.

Do you have any tips you could share for aspiring elopement photographers out there?

Yes. Try to focus on creating a great experience for your client and brush up on your communication skills. Help them to make their wedding day the best day possible

Learn more about Elopement and destination wedding photographer Brittany West here https://brwest.com/

As a first-time buyer, there are so many things to consider when trying to get onto the property ladder. The world of mortgages can be incredibly daunting for new buyers, as there are so many varieties and clauses to understand to find the best mortgage for you. Employing the services of a mortgage broker Wolverhampton or West Midlands based can help you find the perfect mortgage for your first home.

A mortgage broker helps you find lenders who will offer you a mortgage to fit your needs and requirements. Mortgage brokers are qualified to provide you with advice. They can recommend mortgages most suitable to you, explaining complicated jargon in layman’s terms and helping you make sense of repayment options and lender’s fees. Reputable mortgage brokers are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and are qualified to manage and complete your mortgage application on your behalf.

Perhaps the most significant benefit of using a mortgage broker to find the right mortgage for you is peace of mind. When you are buying your first home, you are entering an unknown world, and it isn’t easy to know where to begin your research. Mortgage brokers have an intimate knowledge of the lender’s priorities and current offers. They can even bring you deals that are not available to the general public due to their relationships within the market. By employing a mortgage broker’s services, you have an expert working on your behalf, which can save you a significant amount of money in the long run by finding you the best deal at the start.

Moreover, many people seek out the services of a mortgage broker for convenience. First-time buyers are often overwhelmed by the sheer volume of legal documents they have to complete when purchasing their first home. As mortgage brokers are experienced to work on your behalf, they take away a lot of the stress associated with a first-time purchase and complete the complicated paperwork on your behalf. For many, knowing that an experienced broker is looking after their mortgage application is a massive weight off their mind.

Working with a mortgage broker will not only help you secure an appropriate mortgage, but they will also offer their expertise in related fields and consider your mortgage alongside other critical aspects of your life. For example, a mortgage broker will advise you on building and contents insurance for your new home, as well as payment protection and other related aspects associated with purchasing a house. Mortgage brokers also recommend insurance that will ensure you are protected in case of illness or redundancy, two fundamental aspects of life that can cause issues in the future for mortgage repayments.

Overall, employing a mortgage broker’s services can help take a lot of the stress away from completing your first house purchase. First-time buyers already face many challenges, and mortgage brokers are industry experts who help match buyers with the most appropriate lenders who will provide them the best mortgage for their needs, considering a vast array of criteria. 

Top NHS Doctors and Doctors’ Association UK have called on Boris Johnson to sack Matt Hancock after it was reported that he had an affair with Gina Coladangelo and broke Covid Rules.

Matt Hancock has caused uproar after it was revealed he cheated on his wife while at the same time insulting the hard-working NHS team by breaking Covid rules that he helped to implement. After he refused to resign, and after spineless Boris Johnson refused to sack him, the Doctors’ Association UK has called Matt Hancock a hypocrite.

The Doctors’ Association UK which is the voice of frontline doctors has said that Matt Hancock does not appreciate the gravity of the situation that the front line has faced over the last year and a half.

Senior NHS doctors are appealing to Boris Johnson to Sack Matt Hancock and have said the Heath Secretary has shown utter contempt.

Matt Hancock has refused to resign as Health Secretary even though NHS Doctors and Nurses and members of his constituency have called for him to go.

The Health Secretary has said in a statement that he is sorry but denies breaking any rules. He also claims that his relationship with Gina Coladangelo is a private matter.

Dr Rachel Clarke, a palliative care specialist based in Oxford, said: “I think it’s absolutely risible of him to pretend that a) this is a private matter and b) that he has not broken the rules.

“He’s the actual architect of the very rules he’s broken, for heaven’s sake – his hypocrisy is breathtaking. And that’s even before you consider his previous sanctimoniousness in condemning [Imperial College professor] Neil Ferguson for similar rule-breaking.

“If he won’t do the decent thing and resign then the Prime Minister simply has to sack him. It was bad enough to treat the public as fools over Dominic Cummings’ rule-breaking. To do it again now with the actual Health Secretary would be treating the public with utter contempt. None of this is about infidelity per se, it’s about public probity – and Matt Hancock has demonstrated he hasn’t a jot of it.”

Boris Johnson is sticking by Matt Hancock by saying the ‘matter is closed. However, according to NHS Doctors and nurses, the matter is far from closed.

A survey we conducted with our readers also found the matter was far from closed. We asked 1000 of our readers if they felt Matt Hancock should be sacked or should resign. 95% said he should go. When asked if the Conservative Government has lost the trust of the British Public 85% said yes.

Boris Johnson may not be worried about losing at the next General Election, especially if the stories are true that he intends to step down within two years. However, if he does decide to stay on as Prime Minister and lead his party at the next General Election, by not sacking Matt Hancock will put his party in serious danger of becoming the opposition and giving Labour the key of Number 10.

Providing an experience of a lifetime, 100 brides-to-be in white wedding gowns exited the New York Marriott Marquis located on Broadway and 45th on Memorial Day. Wearing a tuxedo, actor, and social media influencer, Juhahn Jones led 100 women to the infamous red stairs located in the center of Times Square, swaying to Jagged Edge’s “Let’s Get Married-Remix”. There he dedicated a public speech expressing his sincere gratitude and appreciation towards all women while acknowledging how beautiful and valuable they are. He then went down on one knee and asked all 100 women to marry him.

“Without the women there would be no humans on this earth.” – Juhahn Jones

Stopping traffic and joined by social media influencer and fellow cast mate Tonio Skits, they turned the corner of Broadway and 44th St. where the lit 48- foot billboard of the upcoming film “You Married Dat???,” starring Juhahn Jones, alongside leading castmates Apryl Jones and Audra Lachelle Kinkead. Joining this star-studded cast are LisaRaye McCoy, Michael Colyar, Deshae Frost, Red Grant, Big Jah and more. In the movie, Juhahn finds himself engaged to more than one woman at the same time and has to find a way to get out of the situation in one piece as the entanglement unfolds from Vegas to LA. “You Married Dat???” is the climax from Juhahn’s YouTube series “You Hittin Dat?”, which has over 45 million views to date.

Although this is a parody imitating the comedic film “You Married Dat???,” Juhahn Jones teamed with a diverse selection of women ranging from ages 18-78 years old from various locations to ensure that women from all walks of life are given an opportunity to wear a wedding gown while embracing their confidence and beauty and understanding that marriage has no limits regardless of age, shapes, size, or color.

With the help of his marketing team and movie producer Timothy Christian of Motive Movie Group and Clifton Alexander of Brits Marketing, Juhahn used the movie concept to devise an eye-catching “flash mob” for the social media marketing event making it the 1stflash mob to take over the center of Time Square amid pandemic. Teaming up with costume designer Oketo Burks and fashion model Destiny Bess, Juhahn, and event manager Ronda Cox secured 100 gowns from local bridal shops such as Brownstone Bride located in Brooklyn, New York.

“You Married Dat???” produced by Juhahniverse Films, Motive Movie Group and You Married Dat Productions, LLC, will hit theatres and Clustr.TV streaming service in Summer 2021. If this display by Juhahn and his team in Times Square is any indication of what viewers have to look forward to, this movie should certainly be added to your summer to-do list!

Check out the trailer for “You Married Dat???” at www.YouMarriedDat.com.

For the past twelve months we have been in lockdown thanks to COVID19, but now summer is here, and we are free. So, if you are looking for what to wear for summer for young people then have a look at our summer fashion ideas.

To celebrate our freedom from the COVID19 lockdown we have put together summer casual wear ideas for young men and women that will make them stand out from the crowd. And, as you will see from our summer casual wear, all our items are very affordable.

So, check out our summer casual wear for young people, and get ready to enjoy summer and visit your local boozer, or head out with your family and friends to the seaside and have fun. After all, after the year we have had you have deserved it.

Lagoon Tie-dye t-shirt

If you want to feel relaxed and stand out this summer, then check out the Lagoon Tie-dye t-shirt from Stigma Clothing UK. The Lagoon coloured tie-dye shirt which features a double needle stitched neckline and comes in a range of vibrant colours is priced at £24.99. https://stigmaclothing.co.uk/collections/whats-new/products/laggon-tie-dye-t-shirt

Black Blazing Angels Graphic Oversized T Shirt

A black short sleeve blazing angels graphic t shirt in an oversized fit Currently priced at £5.90 from Missguided.

Mesh stripe tee

Another great offering from Stigma Clothing UK is their Mesh stripe tee priced at just £24.99.

This is a great summer look for summer. The Mesh Stripe Tee is a classic t-shirt that really does stand out. It provides the perfect fit for summer while standing out in the crowd. It is 100% Polyester and comes in different sizes from XS to XL. https://stigmaclothing.co.uk/collections/whats-new/products/mesh-stripe-tee

Jersey Denim Leggings

Made from a cotton-rich blend with added stretch for extra comfort. With a high-rise fit in a simple pull-on style. 61% Cotton, 27% Recycled polyester, 12% Elastane. Priced at £22 from NEXT

Organic Sustainable Fringer

This is a great summer fashion wear for young women which is also PETA – Vegan approved. It comes from the Stigma Clothing UK summer range. Priced at just £39.99 it is a great buy.

The T-Shirt is made from 100% Organic ringspun combed cotton and comes in sizes from XS to 2XL. https://stigmaclothing.co.uk/collections/whats-new/products/organic-sustainable-fringer

There are a lot of exciting new fashion brands out there that have launched their summer fashion range for women. One of those is Stigma Clothing UK. They have managed to catch the attention of what young terndy women want this summer.

So, come on. The sun is out, the heatwave is on, and we are now out of lockdown. What are you waiting for. Get your summer fashion clothing sorted and head out in the sun and have fun.

The world has been going through some very strange times this year. Some people have said the world has not experienced anything like this since the second world war.

The Covid-19 pandemic has been one of the biggest challenges in recent history. It has costa hundreds of thousands of lives, and it has left others with serious mental health issues. It has basically changed the way we work, and the way we feel, and how we interact with friends and family.

Lockdown has turned our lives upside down. People have been living on top of each other while tens of millions of people have been forced to turn their home into an office. Working from home can be a strain, and working in cramped conditions can result in stress, and not to mention how messy the home can become.

With all the upheaval the Covid19 pandemic has caused, people being forced into lockdown have accumulated more stuff than they had before the chains went on the doors. Now, with lockdown over, the home needs some TLC. It is now time to declutter and turn the home back into a home and the state it is currently in.

We spoke to Marla Stone who is a decluttering and lifestyle expert who is the founder of I-Deal Lifestyle about decluttering after lockdown. The author of The Clutter Remedy: A Guide To Getting Organized For Those Who Love Their Stuff, talks about decluttering and how it helps with our well-being.

Covid19 Pandemic has been a traumatic experience and lockdown has resulted in a huge increase in the number of people who have and are suffering from mental health issues. It was recently reported that a lot of people who were struggling with stress turned to decluttering their home, does that surprise you?

No, it does not surprise me since people all over the world started Decluttering during Covid. Prior to Covid people were moving at a rapid pace. There was a frenzy about working, shopping, going, and going and massive amounts of traffic. Life was a blur. With lockdowns, and many working out of their homes, and kids being home schooled the house could be deemed a haven or a horror story. Depending on the space within the house, the amount of adults and children, furniture placement and the amount of clutter one could be happy at home or living in hell. Everyone in the world finally had an opportunity to declutter. I think they chose my book because of my background as a former psychotherapist, and my strategies are quick, easy and long-lasting.

Can decluttering your home really help with stress and mental health?

Responsible Decluttering starts with organizing the internal self, healing trauma/wounds, improving communication and being able to share your feelings. Then Decluttering your environment is freeing, and helps you keep up the spirit of a whole self. Stress decreases when there is peace within and in your outer space. When your home is clutter free and starts looking aesthetically pleasing, you look forward to being home.

Talking of stress, tens of millions of people around the world cannot believe how much stuff they have accumulated during lockdown and this has caused them a great deal of stress, how has that happened?

The focus on accumulating so much stuff has been going on for decades. With cheap goods coming in from foreign companies, quickly delivered, and a push by consumer marketing to buy everything imaginable it is easy to end up with more than you can store in your home or office. I believe stress is a trigger for shopping, and then buyer’s remorse kicks in causing even more anxiety. I see people get into the human hamster wheel, going round and round. Lately, I think everyone found out they had way too much stuff, and none of it relieves stress.

Tens of millions of people worked from home during the COVID19 pandemic, but now that they can return to work they are struggling to turn their house from an office into a home with all the mess. What first steps people should they take to declutter their home?

The first step is to figure out what you value in life. You will find that some of your belongings don’t match your current lifestyle. Then categorize all your things into broad categories and ask yourself 1. Will I use it? 2. Does it serve a purpose? 3. Is it sentimental 4. Do I love it? Making good decisions, about what you keep is based on what you actually do in life. Then, storing your stuff based on how often, and where you use it.

One of the most things people collected during lockdown was plastic bags, what should people do with them instead of throwing them away?

You can either recycle plastic bags, or better ideas for plastic bags are using them to donate items you don’t want. Bags can also be used as trash liners, or you can share them with neighbors/friends encouraging them to donate their unwanted items.

Instead of throwing something away, is it possible to give it a new lease of life?

I love helping people upcycle and repurpose everything they want to keep. I don’t believe in throwing anything away that can be used, gifted, sold or donated. The only things that go in the trash are recyclables, toxic and ewaste, and things that are ruined and cannot be salvaged. Always trash things responsibly.

People hate getting rid of things, why is that? Mostly sentiment. Things can symbolize experiences you’ve had, people, places you’ve been. Sometimes it’s about how much money you spent on a particular item. Also, most of us since childhood were taught not to be wasteful, and to appreciate what you have.

Prince Charles recently spoke about how we easily throw things away and he has asked that we stop doing that and find a use for things, what do you think about his statement?

I agree with Prince Charles. These junk trucks picking up perfectly good things is tragic for our dumps and the environment. There are so many deserving charities, and people who will pick things up for free. Stop and think about how much inanimate goods are strewn across our beautiful planet. One person’s junk is someone else’s enchantment.

Decluttering is not just about putting the home in order.  Decluttering can also help people to earn money from the things they no longer want. Where can people sell their unwanted items?

Online marketplaces, consignment stores, garage sales, and auctions. Many people barter with their stuff, and you can also gift your belongings instead of buying a new gift.

A scientist claimed in a recent report on human behaviour that decluttering is less about tidying up and more about focusing on what really matters to you, do you agree with that and can you explain more?

 Yes, I always say matter matters, yet your life, the people you love and that love you are the most important aspects of life. Stuff is just stuff. You can have strong feelings of attachment to your lot in life, yet things will never create or make your life better.

If lockdown happens again, what tips do you have to maintain a better home during lockdown?

With more lockdowns get very, very creative with your space. Move furniture around until there is great energy and flow. Get more shelves, racks in the garage, and cabinets to hold everything you own. Create the best possible space you can imagine.

Your book ‘The Clutter Remedy: A Guide To Getting Organized For Those Who Love Their Stuff’ has become a big hit, can you tell me more about the book?

It is not your ordinary get “neat and tidy” book. It starts with cleansing your inner processes, and learning how to self heal to get clarity. Then it focuses on how you communicate with yourself and others. Next, the actual clutter remedy step by step, and room by room. Also, seasonal organizing and working through anything that will block you from getting and remaining organized.

How will people wishing to declutter their home find your book useful?

I studied people for 17 years as a social worker and psychotherapist. The past 10 years I’ve owned my Decluttering business www.i-deal-lifestyle.com I’ve organized over 2500 properties. I understand clutter, because I had some of the same challenges most of my clients have, prior to understanding how to stop the clutter cycle. I figured out solutions for what I call perpetual organization. I’ve helped 1000’s upon thousands of people in my life. The book is filled with everything to help declutter and then remain organized for good. The book really does replace me as a professional organizer.

To learn more about Marla Stone, please visit https://www.i-deal-lifestyle.com

Check out her new book The Clutter Remedy: A Guide To Getting Organized For Those Who Love Their Stuff:

https://www.amazon.com/Clutter-Remedy-Guide-Getting-Organized/dp/1608686299

Elena Bobkova, an ex-Russian lawyer and now author who left the harsh reality of Russia and moved to Australia and then to the USA reveals all in her new book.

The author who took the brave step to leave Russia and head to pastures new has written a book to explain her struggles. The book looks at what life was like in Russia and how she left Russia to move to Australia for a new and better life.

There are more than 145,934,462 people live in Russia. According to Rosstat federal statistics agency, they estimated 377,000 Russians left the country in 2017. However, according to The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, six times more Russians arrived in 2017 than Rosstat recorded. Elena Bobkova paints a true picture of what life was like living in Russia, which may explain why so many people are moving to the UK, and to the USA for a new life.

I sat down with Elena Bobkova to learn more about her life and her book Russian Lawyer, Australian Immigrant: A Moscow Mom’s Everyday Struggle for A Better Life.

1. Why have you decided now is the time to write about your life in Russia? As soon as I continue to open the new world of English language and all the exciting details of etymology of words, similarity of idioms with Russian language, I was eager to translate my books to English. The only problem was to find a translator who will have English as native language and could keep my style of writing. I’ve tried so many translators and 3 years later I found one who was not only clicked as a soul mate but also was willing to go through re-editing through so many details of Russian traditions, idioms and superstitions to make it understandable and still funny for readers.
2. Your new book which is available on Amazon is called Russian Lawyer, Australian Immigrant: A Moscow Mom’s Everyday Struggle for A Better Life, what is the book about? The book is about one and a half years of my life in Moscow, Russia. The time when we decided to move to another country. It also looks at why we did it and how hard it was to apply for the skilled migration visa. A big part in this book is about my son, he was 3 years old back then, so there are a lot of funny parenting moments.
3. We hear so many stories about Russia and how some Russian people believe freedom of speech is a luxury they don’t have; can you paint a picture of the real Russia? Unfortunately, it’s true. It was quite bad when we decided to leave the country and now it has become even worse.
4. So, what was it like growing up in Russia? There are a lot of things that surprised my colleagues which I never thought would be even interesting. I’m from Siberia, so my childhood is very different from those people who grew up at the same time in Moscow. The first time I saw and heard Western music or Hollywood movies was in 1990. But at the same time, I was really lucky to study in the Law School in Russia in 1993-1999. the only time when it was no censorship in the country, and we study the real law and history.
5. You were a lawyer in Russia, what made you decide to go down that career path? I grew up on the local airfield and wanted to be an astronaut or test pilot. But when I was 12 years old, I was told that “girls are not accepted to any colleges” you can be an astronaut (cosmonaut) in those times only though the army. I did not want to go into the army. So, I decided to go to law school and defend my rights to be an astronaut. Down the road, I became a corporate lawyer and was defending in the court companies and businesses from the government (yes, it’s actually used to happen in Siberia, when you can go to court and win the case against government).

6. In the USA and the UK and most other countries around the world, people appearing in court can get fair justice, but many have said that some Russian lawyers are frustrated that does not happen in Russia.? Unfortunately, it’s true. My mum works as a lawyer in Russia and from her I know that now it’s the common situation when you cannot get a fair trial. Back then I was in Russia, it was mostly true for Moscow and for businesses, if a corrupted official wants to have your business or put you in jail – there is pretty much nothing you can do. I admire people who stay in the country and fight for their rights risking their lives.
7. You left Russia and moved to Australia, why did you decide to do that? We decided to leave because at some point it became clear that you are on your own, helpless, unprotected by law or by police (from police actually) and all social institutes including medical and education system became corrupted and censored. You can turn the TV off, but you cannot leave without proper medical or education system especially if you have kids. At the same time, the climate in Australia was so appealing.
8. How hard was it for you to settle into a new life in Australia? Considering that I couldn’t speak and understand English and thought I’d have a full “reset” with my career and spent one month in hospital upon arrival it was… easy comparing to the settling in Moscow after relocation from Siberia. I was shocked how nice and friendly all the people were and the medical system with free translation services and friendly empathic people. It was shockingly different experience after Russia! I felt in love with Australia from first days and it’s still in my heart as my second homeland – just more warming and accepting.
9. Can you explain how different you found life in Australia compared to Russia? The first thing that come into my mind and don’t take me as the most boring person – it’s taxes! Taxes in Australia is high, but you gladly pay it because you see where all money goes. We traveled a lot across the whole Australia, and it was strange to see nice roads in villages or in the countryside – far away from the city. When I started working as an auditor I was impressed with the reasonable rules towards small businesses, no bureaucracy, no corruption. I absolutely loved the Australian multiculturism: authentic Indian, Chinese, Japanese restaurants, different national community at school – we didn’t have that in Russia.

10. Although your book covers serious topics, you have written it in a humorous way, why did you decide to do that? I guess, I didn’t decide it – it is just my style. I like to make people laugh and I believe that my purpose in life is to motivate and inspire people. If I see comments or reviews where readers are saying that they were laughing on every page – this where I feel that I achieved my goal.

11. In your new book you talk about the struggles that you faced, can you share with me a couple of the topics that you cover? The biggest struggle I’d say is the stress and pressure. You live in the survival mode all the time. If you have a full-time job (I was also a business partner in the consulting company), you have a small child and spend 4-5 hours in traffic each day – there is no energy for anything else. When we decided to move to Australia, we were well aware about that. The hardest part was to pass the English test (IELTS).

12. What was the best thing about being a lawyer in Russia, and what was the hardest? The best thing that I liked about my job in the last year – our consulting company was working for non-profit organizations and this was rewarding. You feel you are helping people and making work a better place. I had a dream to help as many non-profits as we could by organizing educational seminars for lawyers and accountants. Once we had more than 500 attendees on our seminar, I was the coordinator and one of the speakers – it was such an incredible energy when you speak in front of all these peopl

The hardest thing is to not being able to help or to do anything because of a corrupted system. You know the legislation and you are doing everything right, but it doesn’t change the result. It’s hard to see where the best intention of people, great businesses are being ruined by not only absence of government support but also endless obstacles.

13. Do you believe we see the rea Russia on TV? Depends on the news channel. There is a lot of censorship in Russia and affiliated by Russian government tv channels. But for example, the BBC and German channels are doing great work to highlight the real news from Russia. Most of uncensored news from Russia now is on Twitter or YouTube.

14. In your book you talk about why people leave Russia for a new life; can you see a time where those people who have left Russia would like to return? I’m trying to be optimistic here, but it became harder and harder. I guess if people who left will see that there is the fair election and true democracy – they will seriously consider returning. But there are so many people who are making the same choice as we are – to leave and start new life abroad.

15. You cover an important topic in your book, and that is how the Russian legal system has many flaws, did it surprise you how different the Australian legal system was to Russia? I was surprised that it was light and not fall as a heavy burden on the businesses. Now, working in America and in with a UK company, I am more impressed how people can influence the legislation system. How it’s open and transparent and all comments or improvements are welcome from anyone. People do not read the primary source of legislative acts because it’s boring, wordy and complicated, for me it’s like an interesting and exciting novel.

16. You left Australia and moved to The United States, why did you do that? My husband always wanted to live in the US. Australia is a beautiful country, but it’s crazy expensive. Especially real estate. We had this idea and my husband’s company where he worked offered him a transfer to USA. I started to work with a company in the UK after relocation and I feel like I know the British culture much better than US. I love the US and happy we moved here. I hope we will have a chance to explore it after the coronavirus and we can travel again.

17. What would it take you to return to Russia? I’m the person of the world, but I don’t think I’ll have enough motivation to return to Russia. My son, Mike (the half of the book is about him) grew up in Australia. He is 16 years old now and he considers himself as an Australian. it would be harder for him to live in Russia. He has a dream to become a NASA engineer and he is doing great at school going through all advanced classes with high marks. He speaks Russian, English and Spanish, so, I guess, we are staying in the US.

18. So now you have left Russia and moved to the USA, what job are you doing now? I was hired as a quality engineer in a British company – BGB Group. We are making slip ring for wind turbine (renewable energy sector). I was promoted almost at the beginning and now I’m working as a QHSE (Quality Health, Safety and Environment) Manager. Don’t be surprised by the name of the position – “engineer”, I’m doing the same job as I did in Russia and in Australia. It’s certification and compliance. I also manage the department which manly resides in Grantham, Lincolnshire. I love my job and have been with BGB for 4 years already, leaving sometimes by UK time, listening to UK news and reading UK legislation. It’s another discovery that I made – how the mentality of two English speaking countries could be so different! Before, I thought, that only language could create barriers, but even with the same language it still a lot of differences and this is really interesting to explore it.

To Check out the new book, please click here

A recent study found that those living in America were saving on their special during the pandemic. The average cost of a wedding in the USA is around $28,000. However, during the pandemic in 2020 and early 2021, those getting married were saving around $10,000.

The study found that 61 million couples are married in the USA and each year more than 2 million people tie the knott. Although the COVID19 Pandemic has been one of the most traumatic experiences in recent years, it hasn’t stopped happy couples from getting married.

In 2019 2.02 million couples got married in the USA. Experts believed that this number would drop in 2020 due to the Pandemic. However, that was not the case, and the number of people who got married increased.

Couples planning to get married were forced to make alterations to their wedding day, which meant they could reduce the amount of money they spent. Due to the pandemic, less money was spent on wedding parties, transport, and also the wedding venue.

The research also found that due to the pandemic couples were more focused on why they were getting married instead of putting on a big show for other people.  Those getting married said the pandemic made them look at life differently and made them understand they did not need a big event to share their love.

With the cost of a wedding being reduced in the USA, it allowed those couples struggling to save for their big day to get married quicker.

With an estimated £2.2 billion spent at the retail level on flowers in the UK, the global gift retailing market is expected to make £56 billion by 2022; Velvet Rose has launched a premium collection of luxury floral gifts.

Recreating and preserving the magic of a couple’s first kiss to a baby’s first cry, the slow dances in the kitchen, the UK based supplier considers that capturing a special moment should last a lifetime, engrained like a handprint on the heart. Their work is lovingly crafted from luxurious, sustainable materials or hand-selected from only the best roses by their talented flower artists’ team. The team then conserve each product with eco-friendly preservatives and colourants that can maintain a lasting, fresh, colourful bloom for up to three years. This is done without otherwise costly and cold storage techniques, which typically cost £150 to £600 to produce a single freeze-dried bouquet. Each gift is offered with its own complimentary presentation box and distributed in eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging.

Retailers and customers are invited to choose from a wide range of stunning, beautifully prepared bouquets. Each one is specially handmade by their team of flower artists at Velvet Rose in a choice of elegant, timeless colours, which can be further customised, especially for the wedding and events market, interior designers, and window or set dressers. The company aims to provide a growing catalogue of designs throughout the year. They are committed to growth and innovation and have witnessed first-hand an increase in demand for tailored and personalised gifts, which account for £1 billion of the UK gifting market. Many Velvet Rose products can already be made to order, from the seasonal and unique rose colour combinations, gift box colours and sizes and a range of delicious confectionery, and the option to create personalised messages which can be tied to the box.

Velvet Rose believe that the gift of “a lasting smile” is key to retaining and building connections in a world that has become more reliant on social distance and screen restricted conversations. As of March 2021, they have already attracted 18,000 followers on Instagram, with numbers expected to bloom with their partnership ‘Rosette’ Scheme already attracting influencers and celebrity endorsement from Geordie Shore’s Abbie Holborn.

Products are available with next day delivery Monday-Friday, across mainland UK, and across Europe. For further details and to discuss your requirements, contact: support@rosebox.co.uk, call 020 305 15537 or browse from the current collection at www.rosebox.co.uk/ or follow via Instagram at @velvetrosebox –

Since it was announced Boris Johnson was only willing to offer our hard-working NHS workers a 1% pay increase, we have received more than 6,000 emails asking In2town Lifestyle Magazine to back our NHS workers. We have listened to you and we are backing our readers and our NHS workers and have now launched a campaign to show our disgust in Boris Johnson.

We want all pubs, restaurants, and entertainment venues to ban Boris Johnson, Matt Hancock, and all Government Ministers from their venues. In2town wants to unite the entertainment sector and call on them to show Boris Johnson and the Government that the UK will not allow how Nurses to be treated in such a shocking manner.

In2town Wants all venues to put a poster in their window supporting the NHS and making it clear that all Government Ministers and Conservative MPs who support the shocking pay rise that they are not welcome. We also want to go a step further. We want all our readers to get on their Twitter account and repost our story. And it does not stop there. We want you to send a message of support for the NHS workers who put their lives on the line and send the following message to Boris Johnson and Matt Hancock, “Respect Our NHS and Increase The Pay Offer or Resign”

More than 230 NHS workers lost their lives fighting the COVID19 pandemic, millions of NHS workers suffered from high levels of stress. Boris Johnson has shown those NHS workers that their lives mean nothing, and it must stop.

It was not Boris Johnson who helped win the battle against COVID19, it was those NHS workers who thought the battle on a daily basis. Boris Johnson and Matt Hancock are the ones that feel it is right to take the credit. Boris Johnson and Matt Hancock have shown all the way through the pandemic that they were not qualified to deal with such an important issue, and they were out of touch with the public.

Let us all show our support for the NHS and for all those that work within the NHS and force Boris Johnson to either resign or increase the pay offer for NHS workers.

Great abs and a fit stomach are two of the most sought-after items by health-conscious individuals. Getting great abs has always been difficult. Most people who are not genetically gifted have to spend hours in the gym working their core while cutting calories to ensure they don’t add weight around the midsection. Technology is changing the way people workout, however. Electro muscle stimulation is one of the newest pieces of technology allowing you to get a fit stomach and lose inches off your waist without sacrificing your diet or spending more time working out.

You may be asking yourself, what is EMS? An EMS device attaches to the body or touches specific muscle groups – like the abs. The device sends electrical impulses into the muscles. The impulses make the muscles contract, which works them far more strenuously than exercise alone. Slow twitch and fast twitch muscle fibers contract and expand. Not only can EMS improve your look, but it has benefits for injuries, allowing the muscle to rehab. Developed by NASA, the muscle stimulation method can also:

• Strengthen muscles
• Improve physical performance in sports
• Promote muscle growth
• Increase blood circulation
• Relax tight or tired muscles
• Reduce soreness
• Cosmetically tone muscles
• Prevent muscle atrophy
• Helps bladder control
• Beneficial for building muscle in the elderly
• Post-natal strengthening of the abdominal and pelvic floor
• Reduces cellulite
• Detoxify the muscles
• Improve immune system
• Lowers stress and fatigue
• There is no downtime from workout fatigue

Toronto’s Slimwave has been using EMS technology to help clients lose inches off their waists and tone core muscle for years. According to the company, the technology safely and effortlessly creates slenderness, inch loss, firmness, and strength in the body. The electrical current’s stimulation also increases the circulation of the skin which improves texture and tone, while reducing the appearance of cellulite. Slimwave combines EMS treatments with an infra-red wrap. Along with toning your muscles during sessions, the body is being detoxified and improvements in circulation, cellulite reduction, and lymph drainage are made.

One of the most common complaints individuals have is that no matter how much exercise they do, inches are not lost around the stomach and waist. Slimwave’s EMS toning sessions have been praised by clients. Individuals do not have to change their diets or exercise routines as the EMS sessions work wonders to the body and muscles. In fact, EMS is its very own workout and can be used on the arms, legs, chest, back, and stomach to improve the overall muscle definition.

Clients at Slimwave have a variety of sessions to choose from to improve their body tone. Based in Montreal, Canada, Slimwave is a leading global non-surgical aesthetic device company. Its technology creates solutions for individuals seeking a cosmetic or physical improvement to their bodies. EMS treatments not only prevent you from spending hours working out, but the treatment sessions are safe. Slimwave’ devices provide a non-surgical option to individuals looking for treatment that meets their aesthetic needs.

Studies show that EMS devices provide the support needed for individuals to achieve their cosmetic goals. In the future, adding muscle stimulation to exercise sessions could become the new norm. Until then, Slimwave offers clients the chance to use EMS technology to reach their goals and look great.

For more information, please visit www.slimwave.ca

2020 was a strange year and 2021 seems to be going the same way thanks to COVID19. With more than 3.26 million Covid19 cases around the world and over 85,000 deaths, it has become the biggest threat to human life since World War 2.

COVID19 is not just killing people, it is also killing businesses and putting people into debt while leaving millions starving on a daily basis. One business that aims to stop people from starving is Drexell and Honeybee’s Restaurant in Alabama.

The donation’s only restaurant is doing an incredible job of feeding the local community. They want to make sure that no one goes hungry, and everyone no matter who they are, or how much money they have, can have a proper meal.

With 75% of the local Alabama community struggling with the Covid19 pandemic, Drexell and Honeybee’s Restaurant has become a vital community hub. Now, after the local heros have launched a fundraising campaign to continue with their good work.

Owners of Alabama Drexell and Honeybee’s Restaurant Lisa and Freddie McMillan have teamed up with singer songwriter Maximiliano Nealon, to raise money by releasing a song. The song “I was Hungry (and You Fed Me)” which is available for download will raise $1 for the donation’s only restaurant each time it is downloaded.

We wanted to learn more about the good work Lisa and Freddie McMillan are doing in Alabama and how their local community is coping with Covid19.

• You run a popular restaurant called Drexell & Honeybee, how has the COVID19 pandemic affected your business? Since COVID19 we have had to close for a while due to State law and reopen several times depending on the spread of the virus. We are used to having visitors travel from all over the country to visit our restaurant…since COVID19 that has dropped 95%. We are open right now doing ToGo orders only.
• When did you first open your restaurant? We opened on March 26, 2018.

• What percentage of the community do you feel are struggling because of COVID19? 75% from either the virus itself or the isolation and restrictions put on them because of the virus.

• How would you say moral is in Alabama at the moment? Pretty much the same as it is all over…everybody just wants COVID19 to go away. We in the south may be a bit more patient than some in other parts of the country.

• Your Alabama restaurant is at the centre of the community, has your local community changed since the pandemic began? Yes, it has changed a lot of people who were once very outgoing to staying at home waiting on this to go away. A few other restaurants such as ours have opened back up since the shutdown to take out only.

• Instead of fighting for survival, and making sure you get through the struggles that the COVID19 pandemic has caused, you are instead fighting to feed your community, can you tell me more about that? The main purpose of our restaurant is to be the center point of our community doing good and especially bad times. People are struggling in large numbers and it is our main objective to be there to provide that hot meal that may be needed for them and a perfect stranger that may be travelling through town. We provide our meals as a free service to anyone that comes to our doors.

• So, let me try and understand this, your restaurant is now a donation only restaurant, how does that work? We opened and have always been a donation’s only restaurant. Anyone can come into our restaurant and get a meal without paying a penny. We have a donation box set up in the corner where people can go and privately leave a donation or not.

• So, if someone who has been laid off work because of the pandemic came into your restaurant hungry and could not pay, they would still be welcome? Absolutely, they are most welcome…we do not handle money in our restaurant at all. Our restaurant is called: Drexell and Honeybee’s Donations Only Restaurant…All Are Welcome.

• I have heard people becoming emotional because of the great work you have been doing to feed the community, how does it make you feel knowing that you are making a real difference in Alabama? It makes us feel like we are making a difference in the lives of so many people either through our hot meals or as an example. We get so many people asking how they can do the same thing in their community and as we share our story…we always stress to them that money cannot be their main objective. The needs of the community must be the primary focus and the desire to serve others as humbly and loving as possible.

• You are launching a fundraising campaign to raise much needed funds; can you tell me more about that? We know so many are struggling right now, and we thought this would be a great way for every one that wanted to contribute this would be a great chance to do so. $1 is all it takes to download this wonderful meaningful song written especially for our restaurant and what we are trying to do.

• Why did you decide to raise money through releasing a song? We are always trying to come up with fundraisers that many people can participate in…this song is a win win…a $1 donation to us to help us continue to help others and a wonderful song to listen to for the person that downloads it.

• So, who wrote the song and how did they get involved? Maximiliano Nealon heard about our work at Drexell and Honeybee’s on facebook…he also ordered our book “Living Fulfilled…The Infectious Joy of serving Others and wanted to help us raise funds so he wrote a song especially for us.

• You are looking to raise $1 for each time the song is downloaded, how much do you hope to raise? We are hoping hundreds of people will download the song…we know they will love the song…it is a beautiful song with a strong positive message to the world. We are hoping it will become everyone’s message of hope and love.

• So where can people download the song from? https://maximilianonealon.bandcamp.com/track/i-was-hungry-and-you-fed-me

• Do you believe businesses in Alabama are receiving enough government support? The state of Alabama is in the process now of distributing 200 million dollars…like so many we are hoping to get a share of those funds.

• Have you looked at your business differently since the pandemic started? The pandemic has made us realize that we are indeed an important part of our community. The pandemic came out of nowhere…took all of us by storm and it has been a struggle and still is, but we are proud to still be standing and able to serve our community.

Lottoland is a company that was founded by David Rosen, based in Gibraltar. It is an online platform that enables players from all around the globe to bet on the official, national as well as international lotteries. This company provides a vast assortment of slot games, lotteries, and gambling with fantastic bonuses and promotions.

Procedure to earn the lottery:

When you visit the official site of Lottoland, you need to follow these elementary and effortless steps to get into the match.

1. Signup
2. Fund your account
3. Fill in the tickets by choosing your lottery.
4. The DoubleJackpot Feature
5. The NumberShield Feature
6. Stow Your Draw & Duration Options
7. Stow your participation options

Now, you are done!

Oh! Are you the one who has already won the lottery jackpot of £1 million and wants to know how you can spend your winnings on wearing?

Ok, you are on the right article.

How to dress if you won a £1 million lottery:

According to research, 92% of Americans have claimed that money makes them strong and more confident. If you’ve recently won the lottery, then you need to be managing your winnings properly. It is essential to spend your worth wisely on wearings.

Dress To Impress

The first thing you should do is to go shopping. Buy yourself some graceful and elegant clothes. Women look amazing when they wear new clothes. Grab some ideas on how you can look dignified. It is all about High heels, playful accessories, tasteful dressing, stylish hats, and sunglasses in your wardrobe.

●      Sky High Heels:

For gaining exclusive Self-confidence, having good posture is essential. The first thing people notice about you is your footwear. By wearing high heels, you are better aware of your stature, which amazes your movement. Get yourself some stunning heels that can include Loafer Heel, Cone Heel, High Block Heel, Cuban Heel, or Stiletto. And the brands you can follow to get these significant heels are Boohoo, River Island, Love Culture, Lulu’s, etc.

• Dresses

By following the trend, you can have up to date, and modish clothes that will enhance your looks and look alluring.

Have you ever seen these beauties Kiernan Shipka, Kaia Gerber, and Camila Morrone? They always wear such adorable and comfortable expensive clothes. These queens are correctly showing their confidence by wearing impressive color mixture with such natural gleaming skin all the time.

Think to wear expensive sunglasses, dark party dresses, and statement outerwear. It would be best if you bought clothes that fit your body well. The expensive brands you can follow for your expensive self can be Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, Burberry, and Fendi.

• Accessories

No look can be correctly completed without accessories. Women should have some playful accessories with their outfits. So, invest your money wisely and buy lavish accessories. Accessories compliment your looks, and they have the power to enhance your beauty within seconds. So, women should have some necessary accessories.

• Bags: This is something that every lady carries, whether she is going to a party, dinner, shopping, almost everywhere. So go for a classy bag that is able to contain your stuff and looks elegant when you wear it. You can follow these brands to get purses and bags to complete your daily look, Bennett Winch, Zoe Darling, Billy Tannery, River Island, Gucci, and Ottely.
• Watches: An expensive watch can beautifully enhance your appearance. You look so punctual when you wear a wristwatch as it is the most portable thing a person can have. Women look so decent and respectful while wearing costly wristwatches. So, invest in watches that go with many of your outfits. You can invest in these brands Pinion, Graham, Arnold & Son, Bremont, and Speake-Marin.
• Jewelry: Wearing a piece of good quality jewelry can make women feel elegant, wise, pretty, and self-assured. Wearing stones(diamonds, pearls, rubies, platinum)also makes a lady feel comfortable and close to nature. Wearing bracelets makes you feel slim and amazing. They have a positive impact. It’s a great idea to invest in a good pair of gold and diamond earring sets. Invest in good quality stuff so that you may look incredible. Here are some unique brands you can go to for jewelry Taylor & Hart, Tatty Devine, Monica Vinader, Pandora, Harry Winston, and Tiffany & Co.
• Hats and Sunglasses: Hats and sunglasses together make a gun combo. Women look so adoring when they wear hats, especially in summers. They accentuate your face’s shape as hats are closer to your face, so you need to pick some perfect hats that look perfect with your face and face tone. And sunglasses also riches your look. The brand that will make you classy is Goorin, New Era, and Barbour. And for sunglasses, you should spend your money on brands like Bvlgari, Giorgio Armani, Oakley, Oakley, and Prada.

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When I interview people, it is very rare to come across someone who inspires me, but that is what happened when I interviewed Deion Campbell.

The 27-year-old professional photographer, author and host better known online as King Legend 757 has interviewed many celebrities and influencers on his all new podcast. Although there were many positive things that happened for Campbell in 2020, ultimately this will be one of the most challenging year of his life. The successful photographer had to adapt to a new life after contracting COVID19. After spending a long period of time in the hospital fighting for his life and surviving 12 days on a ventilator machine to keep him alive, he managed to overcome COVID19, unlike tens of thousands of other people around the world.

When he left hospital, he was thankful that he survived, but COVID19 had left its mark. The dreaded virus had caused the young man nerve damage to his right arm which meant he could no longer hold a camera and take the stunning pictures he is known for. Instead of throwing in the towel, and getting down beat, Deion decided he would grab his new life with both hands and now runs The King Legend Talks Podcast available to listeners on the iheartradio app.

King Legend Talks has become a very popular and successful podcast, so we decided to find out more about the Podcast and Deion Campbell, to see what motives him and his life as a professional photographer/influencer.

First of all, please introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us a little bit about yourself? My name is Deion Campbell, and I was born October 28, 1993 in Hampton, Virginia. I have always had the heart of an entrepreneur and started my own photography brand known as King Legend Photography. As a photographer I would become well respected and known online as King Legend 757. I have taken photos of celebrities, weddings, events and I also do videography as well. Besides my career, I am a huge fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and I love to travel. 

Deion Campbell, you have many bows to your strings, like you are a podcast host of King Legend Talks, Photographer, and an author, wow, where do you get time to sleep? Well believe it or not, before the pandemic I actually had less time on my hand. I was on the go seven days per week and still had to try and balance work with time with family. Due to my encounter with covid-19 my life has changed tremendously because of nerve damage to my right arm. I am currently not taking photos or video until further notice. That’s where I get the time to do stuff now.

Just looking around the room and it is just me and you, social distancing of course, so while there is no one here, tell me something that only your mother knows about you? Something nobody knows about me; I have always wished to have that one childhood friend that grew up with me all the way from diapers to graduating high school. I never had that in my life and thought how cool it must be to have a brother or sister that is actually not family but feel like real family because of how far the timeline dates back to when you first met.

Before we touch on your many accomplishments, and I am dying to talk about your podcast and who you have photographed, is it true you caught COVID19? In short, duh lol. If I hadn’t caught covid-19 I wouldn’t have wrote a book on it.

You went through a very traumatic time with COVID19 back in March, and you ended up on a ventilator in hospital for 12 days, and a total 40 days in hospital, has that experience changed the way you look at life? It forced me to realize that all the dreams in the world don’t matter at all if you are able to be alive to make them come true. Health is wealth and without it, nothing else matters but your faith in God and family.

How does it make you feel seeing the tens of thousands of people around the world claim COVID19 is not real? It irritates me to my core. I understand ideas may be different from a person mind who has not directly had a impact in their live other than the lockdown due to COVID-19, but to say the virus is not real is completely disregarding everyone who had a bad encounter with the virus and almost in a sense, calling us a liar or trying to tell us we are the ones who have been lied to.

Donald Trump claimed he had COVID19, but a lot of people have questioned that and believe it was a political stunt. Even when the doctors on the steps of the hospital where he was treated seemed a bit nervous when talking about him, do you think he had COVID19? I wouldn’t know if it was a political stunt or not because I am not a part of those conversations with the president.

Sadly, with the complications with COVID19 it has caused nerve damage to your right arm, so you can no longer pick up a camera, do you see a future where you can do what you love and continue taking pictures? For the record, I will be taking pictures and video again once my nerve damage cease to exist. I am not giving up hope that one day it will be back to normal, and when that day comes, so will my business. In fact, my arm is healing more each month. 

Talking of taking pictures, you are a very successful photographer who has taken pictures of lots of celebrities, who is your favourite celebrity that you have photographed and who was the most famous? My favourite celebrity I ever took pictures of was rapper Dave East. That was because he was my first celebrity I ever had the opportunity to snap photos of. I would say the most famous would be DaBaby. He just recently received the #1 New Hip Hop Artist Award

Your friends told you that you had a voice for radio, sorry for laughing, but in the UK if we say you have a face for radio it means you are unlucky in love and you could do with a bit of cosmetic surgery. Looking at you, I’m sure you have no problems with the ladies, so when your friends told you that you had a voice for radio, what were your immediate thoughts? My only thoughts were, I agree with them and I thought it would be cool to do that as a career if it was for the right platform.

So, you started a podcast “King Legend Talks”, can you tell me more about the podcast? On the podcast I discuss with celebrity special guest or influencers about their journey to success. We to often see the end result of people we look up to, but don’t know enough about the path they took to separate them from the crowd. What about them mad them unique from everyone else that was doing it? The reason I came up with the question is because I know so many talented people that try hard to pursue their dream but eventually give up because they don’t make it. On my show hopefully we can get the answers that so many people need to know regardless of their walk in life about making their dreams come true. 

Your podcast “King Legend Talks” has become a huge success, what do you put that down to? I must be doing something right and people are truly benefiting from the show and the content is providing good value to their life.

What celebrities/influencers have you had on your podcast? Fat Joe, JrSportBrief, Mohamed Elzomor, Cupid, Boston Scott and more.

You must do a lot of research when you have celebrities on “King Legend Talks”, but has any celebrity on your show said something that made you think, wow, I never knew that? Fat Joe explained to me how one time he almost passed out from his body overheating from the heat while riding his bike. He told me, in that moment he was on the ground looking up at the clouds thinking to himself, all the money and material things in the world didn’t matter because the only thing that mattered in that moment was his health. Health is wealth, if you don’t have good health, you don’t have nothing.

You want through your podcast to encourage people and motivate them and show them that they can achieve their dreams; do you really think that everyone with the right mindset and tools can achieve their goals? Yes, I believe if you work hard enough and put your mind to it, all your dreams can come true. All success comes with sacrifice, what are you willing to lose to gain what you want? That’s the true question. That could be time with family, it could be money, it could be friends or even family.

If you had the choice to invite any celebrity in the world on your show who would it be and why? I would love to have Jay-Z on the show. Not sure there is one person on this planet who wouldn’t be interested in picking his mind.

For people who want to listen to your podcast, what do they need to do? My podcast is easily available on many platforms, but I only promote iheartradio because it’s a way to track my audience better.

Lets get back to COVID19 again for a minute, you have just written a book about your experience, why did you do that? Honestly, after my encounter with Covid-19 my perspective of the virus had changed. Like, I knew the virus was bad, but I had no clue it was THAT bad. I was used to seeing it blasted on the news and think as long as I stay out of the way, I would be fine. Mentally I asked myself, what are the chances of me catching the virus? I thought, slim to none just like everyone else out still partying having a good time. Whenever a crisis happens in another country, we always think subconsciously that it won’t affect us here in the USA the way it did to them.  I was wrong, and I even took minor precautions to prevent myself from catching the virus. If that wasn’t enough to stop me from catching the virus, then the youth was in trouble. Even after I caught the virus, I kept hearing people saying the virus is not real. The world was in need of a wake up call from the perspective of someone who could speak from experience. That was the motivation I needed to write my book Ventilator. I refuse to let people think that I almost died on a ventilator to a fake virus. The virus felt very real to me.

How emotional was it writing your book? There were moments when I was writing where I had to ask myself, do I really want to include that detail? Or is this too much information? I would always bring myself to the conclusion. The whole truth, and nothing other than the truth. No sugar coating the reality of the situation to make it sound good. I also knew people truly respect ones ability to become vulnerable. There are many details in my book where I become completely vulnerable to the reader with my thoughts and emotions.

Your book Ventilator has gained a lot of exposure, is there going to be a follow up? I believe the purpose of the book is being fulfilled and at this time there is no need for a sequel to it. I simply wanted to raise awareness to a virus that has changed my life forever, to enlighten people on the reality of it not being a fake virus.

For more information on the Podcast, check out www.iheart.com/podcast/269-king-legend-talks-73262104/

A typical person has between 50,000 and 70,000 thoughts per day, this is approximately 35 – 48 thoughts per minute. As many as 98% of these thoughts are exactly the same as the day before and it is believed that 80% of these thoughts are negative.

Negative self-talk is a powerful and constant running commentary in our mind. While we go about our daily lives, we are always thinking about what we are going to do and about the situations we are in. We have this internal voice that is there in the background perceiving every situation. If that little voice is providing us with positive thoughts and encouraging us, then that is great. But what happens when we have that same little voice which is constantly negative?

Having a negative voice in our minds is like having a friend who is always doubting you and your ability. If you have someone always telling you that you cannot do this, or you will not be successful at that, you are going to start to believe them. If your friend shows you no encouragement then you are not going to achieve the goals you want to achieve or go for that job you really want. That negative friend is the same as self-negative talk.

It is not something we talk about much, but according to Shanesha Scott, a Master Mindset Life Coach who helps people overcome Negative Self-Talk; we should do. According to Shanesha Scott that little negative voice can have toxic effect on our life.

In life you have successful people and then you have those people who are not successful. You also have people who have brilliant ideas but fail to progress them and make them a reality. Those people who are successful have managed to overcome their negative self-talk and remove the obstacles in their life, and those who fail are struggling on a daily basis.

Self-negative talk can be overcome. Those annoying negative thoughts can be sent packing with the right help. One of the those people who helps people to become more successful in their life and remove those annoying obstacles is  Shanesha Scott, so I wanted to catch up with her and find out how the Master Mindset Life Coach can help people remove those obstacles from their life.

Here is what Shanesha Scott had to say

1. First of all, can you please introduce yourself? Greetings! My name is Shanesha Scott. I am the owner of Beauty 4RM Ashes, LLC.  I am a Master Mindset Life Coach.
2. You are a licensed Master Mindset Life Coach; can you explain what that means? As a Master Mindset Coach, I focus on my client’s eliminating negative self-talk using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques (CBT). I also focus on shifting my client’s root beliefs using Rational Emotive Behavioural Techniques (REBT).  The end goal for me is for my clients to come out seeing the glass as half full instead of half empty.
3. So, as a Life Coach what areas to you specialize in? My main speciality is Master Mindset; However, I am certified in multiple areas including Emotional Intelligence, Confidence, Cognitive Behavioural, Goal Success, Life Purpose, and Happiness.
4. You are the founder of Beauty 4RM Ashes, why did you decide to start your own business? Prior to Beauty 4RM Ashes, I was a Makeup Artist for 10 years with my company Beauty By SMAQ. In 2017, I tragically loss my Nephew and did not have the passion to do makeup anymore.  My soul had a different calling.  I wanted to help people. That’s when I created Beauty 4RM Ashes.  I went to get my certification as a Life Coach in 2020.  This is my soul’s purpose.
5. There are some people in life that sail through life and achieve all the dreams they want to achieve, and then there are people who struggle on a daily basis and fail at every hurdle, why is that? I think there are multiple factors. For some they can already have a head start.  What I mean by that is they come from a supportive family, financially stable, etc.  Now, with that being said, any person can overcome adversity.  I am a living example.  I did not have the best childhood or even early adulthood, but I didn’t let that stop me from accomplishing my dreams and goals. It is all in us- we just have to have the ‘can do’ attitude. Even if there are obstacles.  This question is kind of explaining what a Master Mindset Coach does.  It’s about eliminating the negative thought process. We can do anything we put our mind to…good or bad.
6. Can you explain what is meant by negative self-talk and how that can impact a person? A person that may have negative self-talk has the mindset that the thing they want to accomplish or do will not happen. People aren’t born like that.  I believe it’s the environment they have been around.  Unfortunately, many people often fall victim to toxic relationships which can ultimately lead to that defeated mentality. Example if a child brings home a report card with All A’s and maybe one B and the parents scold them and say they will never be smart enough to bring home all As- that child will start thinking that they are not good enough or smart enough.
7. I have to be honest, before I met you, I did not even think about negative thoughts and how it does impact people’s lives. However, after reading a report I found that we have around 70,000 thoughts a day and 80% of them are negative thoughts, to be honest that does not sound good. To be it seems like a lot of obstacles to try and overcome, can you help with that? Wow- those statistics are alarming. I think that we are all human and will experience all emotions, however when negativity consumes a person that’s where I will be able to assist. I want people to live their best life.  Yes, there will be times where there will be trials and tribulations, but ideally, I want people to ‘be happy’ and content 80% of the time.
8. When a person is knocked down time and time again for a promotion or even a job interview, the negative thoughts start to rear their ugly heads resulting in negative self-talk, how can a person combat that? I have been that person. Where I felt I deserved the promotion but got looked over time and time again. Yes, I was disappointed, however the thing I always tell myself is what’s for me I will have.  Fast-forward years later I got an even better promotion. Things will happen in due time, try to remain positive.
9. So, positive self-talk can have a real impact and allow a person to overcome obstacles in their life and achieve their goals? Yes- I believe positive self-talk really can change one’s outlook on life and even manifest a person dreams and desires. Again- that does not mean everyday will be perfect but rewiring what you say will have a positive impact.
10. 85% of people in the world have low esteem, are you shocked at that figure? I am not shocked- especially with social media. everyone is comparing themselves to each other instead of focusing on their own life.  People have to realize social media is a façade.  People can create the personality they want online, and when they log off it is totally different.  As the rapper J. Cole says, “No such thing as a life that’s better than yours.”
11. Is it true to say, if a person suffers from negative self-talk and they have a job interview then the chances of success is low? In my opinion yes. If a person’s energy is off, I think that will display in the interview. Now with that being said I know everyone has different personality types. Some people are bubbly and cheerful all the time, some are laid back, and some are somewhere in-between.  I recognize that, but again think of the glass as half full.
12. So, basically, if a person knows they have a problem with negative thoughts and they have an important job interview lined up, it stands to reason they should come and seek your help? Yes! If they have a big job that they are going for and they are ready for a change I recommend them seeking out my assistance. I offer a free 30-minute consultation.  Even in that 30 minutes I may be able to jump start them to a positive mindset.
13. Would you say, low esteem could be the reason why so many women hook up and marry the wrong man and end up in an abusive relationship? I think that plays a huge part in it. Or if it’s not low self-esteem it can again be the environment, they were brought up in.  That may be all they know.
14. What type of people come to you and use your services? The everyday person that is looking for a positive change in their lives. As a Life Coach, we will focus on moving forward and not so much the past. I like to say keep it moving forward.
15. When a client comes to you looking for help to overcome obstacles in their life and overcome their negative self-talk, what is your first approach? I first like to get to know them on a high-level basis. So, I will have them fill out a questionnaire.  That is the starting point. We unpack the questionnaire in the 30- minute consultation. Usually after the 30-minute consultation I can see what direction we need to go.  Again, overall, this will be about changing the client’s mindset.
16. What does success mean to you? I feel that I am successful when I can look at my vision board or journal and mark off each one as completed. I would also like to add that even if I don’t actually accomplish it, I have peace in knowing that I tried.

For more information, please visit https://www.beauty4rmashes.org

In 2019 there were 782,038 divorces in the USA, and 90,871 in the UK. According to recent reports, the divorce rate is continuing to rise and in the UK the divorce rate has increased by more than 18%. That is the highest increase in 50 years. One person who is not surprised by the increase in divorce rates is Katie Lucantonio, who is a Relationship and Transformational Coach.

Katie Lucantonio who has launched a Soul Mate Attraction program, which is a one-on-one coaching program for women who want to attract a high quality man and transform their lives, said she is not surprised about the high divorce rate According to the Relationship and Transformational Coach, some women are attracting the wrong men.

There are many reasons why women choose the wrong man to live with or to marry. One of those reasons is down to low self-esteem. According to a report in 2016, 4 out of 5 women suffer from low self-esteem. This does not just affect relationships; it can also affect careers.

In the USA 1 in 3 women are in an abusive relationship, in the UK that figure stands at 1 in 4. Sadly, low self-esteem has been linked to abuse within a relationship, which is why it is so important for women to overcome obstacles in their lives and gain the confidence they need to be happy.

Katie Lucantonio is trying to reduce the divorce rate by working with women to become more confident and help them find Mr Right, instead of Mr Wrong, or Mr Maybe. She has become very successful in changing people’s lives, so we decided to sit down with Katie and find out more about how she helps women overcome obstacles for true happiness.

1. Katie Lucantonio, for people who don’t know you, can you introduce yourself? Sure, so I’m a rapid transformational therapy practitioner, spiritual counsellor and energy healer. I help women from all over the world to transform their lives using my unique gifts and healing tools to clear old belief patterns and attract the life they desire – my speciality is helping women to attract their soul mate but my work spans to money, career, weight loss and self-esteem.
2. So, you are a life coach, what aspect of coaching gives you the most satisfaction? I love it when my clients email me out of nowhere telling me they have attracted the perfect guy or have lost the excess weight they have been carrying for decades that has affected their self-confidence. Women come to me when they are at their lowest point in life, sometimes suicidal and after our work together they completely transform their lives, gain confidence, go after the career they want and find love- I never get tired of the success stories my work brings.

3. What is a Relationship and transformational coach and what type of people do you help? So, I help women specifically, although men do come to me from time to time. But I mainly help women to overcome where they are blocked in their relationship patterns so they can stop attracting the wrong types of men and toxic relationships or even undo narcissistic abuse. Many of the women come to me desperate to find the “one” but are attracting completely emotionally unavailable men that lie, cheat and use them, which leaves them feeling used, tired, with low self-esteem and blaming themselves. I help them to clear their old relationship patterns and raise their energetic blueprint to be able to attract exactly the type of guy they want. I also get clients that come to me when they are stuck in business or around attracting money to help them get the success they want. I use a lot of esoteric and shaman techniques to help my clients get extraordinary results.

4. Is there a difference between a life coach and a therapist? Yes, coaching is tailored more toward goal orientated strategies and is unregulated. So, there are a lot of techniques available to a coach to get the results the client wants. A therapist uses structured techniques to help a person work through layers of trauma, using specific tools. Both are great, but its important to know when to use what, in what you are trying to achieve.

5. You have just announced your new Soul Mate Attraction program, can you explain more about the program? I’d love to- so the new program spans over three months of intensive healing and coaching to help you heal your old relationship wounds and patterns, reprogram your subconscious beliefs and raise your energetic vibration so you are magnetic to a high-vibe, high-value man. Each woman is different so there is no set “curriculum” I follow, it’s very bespoke to each individual. I have a huge tool box that I use in my own life and on my clients which get unprecedented results, I use Rapid Transformational Therapy, coaching, Quantum Energy Healing, Theta Healing and more to clear out your blockages. I provide a high touch, on-going support for my clients so they have me in their back pocket every step of the way. The results are phenomenal.

6. Who is the program aimed at? Its aimed at women who have low self-esteem who are struggling to attract love or have been attracting the wrong guy over and over again and are ready to attract their soul mate. It’s also for the woman who is stuck and unhappy with where she is in her career/relationship/business/money and wants to shift things so she can have the life she dreams of. I find that no matter what area of life we work on, there is a flow on effect that improves every area, its extraordinary.

7. So, your program helps women attract a high-quality man, what do you mean by that, and what would you describe as a high-quality man? Men and women complement each other beautifully when both are right for each other. A high-quality man is a man that is loving and a strong support for his partner. He has integrity, his word is worth more than his signature on paper, he is generous and forgiving, he provides a calm stability to a woman’s life. Women are like storms and it takes an emotionally matured man to be calm through a storm.

8. You say that your program helps women overcome emotional issues, does some of those emotional issues include a woman being cheated on? Yes, absolutely. Unfortunately, cheating is so common now in relationships and leaves a lot of damage if its not healed. A lot of my clients come to me when they have tried “everything”. Sadly talk therapy can only take you so far and that’s where you need to employ more powerful techniques to help overcome and heal emotional issues so you don’t get stuck in the same relationship patterns as before or attracting the same guy with a different name.

9. Talking of cheating, why do you think some men continue to cheat on their partners? I find there is no one size fits all with cheating, every case is different-but the majority of cheating occurs because men feel that the relationship is stale and that the grass is greener on the other side. Emotional intimacy is the glue that holds a relationship together. Men need to feel needed and wanted, not in a needy desperate way but in a way that he can support his partner and is valued for it. That he is able to be her rock and protector. Men need to feel in their own masculine power in order to grow and feel loved. I always use the analogy that the man is the boat, and the woman is the rudder. If a man does not get his emotional needs met, he will look to other ways or another to fulfil him.

10. I read an article that claimed some women attract men who cheat, would you agree with that statement? This is a loaded question (laughs). Some women definitely have a pattern of attracting the wrong guy that cheats yes. This is only because subconsciously she is attracting a certain type based of her conditioning. She may have had a critical parent growing up and felt unloved and not worthy of being treated in a loving way, so if that’s the case when these parental wounds are not healed she will fulfil her own limiting belief patterns that she is unworthy and unlovable by attracting the wrong guy. You see what we believe internally on a subconscious level is projected out into our outer world. Until we change it of course!

11. You help women to overcome obstacles in their lives, so are you saying that by not being able to overcome the negative problems they have it could result in a relationship not working out or finding the wrong partner? Yes – negative relationship and self esteem patterns keeps you stuck in the same loops that replay over and over again until they are broken and healed once and for all. That is why you keep attracting the same person or the same relationship issues. I had a teacher once say to me “have you ever noticed that when ever there is a problem your always there?” Its funny, but very true. Until we break out of our negative subconscious pattern’s we can’t change our lives.

12. Sadly, a lot of women with low esteem end up in abusive and violent relationships, can you explain why that is? Sadly, this is all too true, and I see this in my practice far too often. It’s because these women don’t feel good enough and worthy of a high-value man that treats them right. Low self-esteem is learned in childhood from parents or caregivers and childhood experiences. Our beliefs are formed by the time we are seven and we carry these beliefs into adulthood. If we aren’t praised as children or are constantly criticized, ridiculed or teased this forms the belief within us that “I am not good enough” so “I don’t deserve a good man or someone that treats me right”. Often children who witness abuse in the home grow up to attract the same kind of partner as the abusive parent. This is due to unresolved parental wounding, when a pattern is unresolved you repeat it until you break the negative loop. This isn’t because they are attracted to their parent, its because the parent treated them so badly and made them feel so unloved that they want to somehow prove to their abuser (and themselves) that they are worthy of love by recreating the conditions.

13. So, improving self-esteem is a route to a successful relationship and finding the right person? Absolutely, it is the magic key for the very fact when you believe you are worthy and deserve to be treated as such, your boundaries wont be compromised and you can attract a high quality person that will treat you how you should be treated. Our world is created by what we tolerate, so if we are always putting up with lying, cheating, emotional unavailability we signal to the universe or our outer world “this is ok, bring me more of this because I am ok with it”. Change your unconscious programming and it will be reflected in your life.

14. What is the most common relationship issue you encounter with your clients? Unable to communicate their wants, needs and desires and lack of intimacy is huge. Women have huge issues with asking for what they want clearly and openly. Also, a lot of women struggle with sexual intimacy and this can cause major problems in a relationship.

15. Are there any issues you feel you wouldn’t be able to help with? Yes, women who are still living with their abuser or if their partner has been diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder. Also, people who aren’t ready or willing to change one hundred percent.

16. What would you say are the four most important things to a successful relationship? Communication, friendship, common goals/wanting the same things, physical & emotional intimacy!

17. There were 782,038 divorces in the USA in 2019, and 90,871, in the UK, do you feel people are too easy to end their marriage instead of seeing a relationship coach to try and fix their problems? Unfortunately, yes. Too many people give up on their relationships and head to divorce court because they believe that there’s “something or someone” better outside of the relationship, rather than communicate and work through it. A lot of relationships could be saved if both parties were willing to do the inner work.

18. There are millions of women around the world who are stuck in a loveless relationship, but for some reason they don’t leave that relationship when they could have a happier life with someone else, why is that? Fear is huge. And people are hard-wired to avoid the unfamiliar and cling to the familiar. Even though a relationship isn’t what you want or makes you unhappy, it is familiar and comfortable. There is no risk of failure, so we can live in comfort even though we are miserable because we are used to it. If you leave a relationship, there are so many unknowns and the first thing I hear clients say to me “what if I don’t find someone else”. The fear of being alone is very real for a lot of women.

19. Would it be too late for a woman who is in a relationship that is not working to use your services? Definitely not, I help women in every aspect of their lives. Its never too late to want to transform yourself!

To learn more about Katie Lucantonio visit www.coachingwithkatie.net

Remember when Boris Johnson first announced the country was going into lockdown, it was a shock to the system. I have never seen so many people queue up outside supermarkets buying toilet paper and visiting DIY shops. Then we had the second lockdown, barely enough time to get over the first one and the time to declutter the home.

For many of us, we promised ourselves to declutter the home during the first lockdown, and the second lockdown, so how is that going. If like me, your home has accumulated so much stuff thanks to Amazon and working from home. Well now, it is time to sort it out.

Instead of the bedroom drawers being crammed with stuff, and kitchen cupboard bursting and not to mention the living room being turned upside down, we can now start to get our home back to normal thanks to Marla Stone and her book The Clutter Remedy: A Guide To Getting Organized For Those Who Love Their Stuff

Maria Stone said decluttering the home and can-do wonders for your wellbeing. She says it is a great way to get over lockdown and to keep positive.

The decluttering expert who has worked with well-known people to help them declutter their home said that decluttering is not just about making the home tidy. She explained that as well as having a tidy home it can also help keep a tidy mind. And, if that is not a good reason to buy her book and declutter your home, then how about making some money.

Decluttering the home is a great way to find things that you no longer need or want, and instead of throwing them away you can make money from them.

We wanted to learn more about decluttering the home after lockdown and sat down with Maria Stone to learn more.

1. Why did you decide to write a book about decluttering? I wanted to put all my thoughts down that we’re coming to me. I realized that my clients were having a difficult time remaining organized after their Decluttering project. I wanted to give them all my knowledge so they will remain organized independent of my services. I wanted my customers and the world to know that staying organized long-term is possible.
2. When writing your book, did you uncover the links between mental health and clutter? Yes, I realized that if there is emotional clutter negativity and chaos will manifest in your outer environment. People who suffer from add, ADHD, depression and any significant mental health challenge will benefit from the book. I give examples by telling stories about people with mental health challenges to help people remove their emotional blocks.
3. So, can a person destress while decluttering? The Decluttering process relieves years of built up stress, as long as you also address the inner chaos.
4. Do you believe that a tidy home results in less stress in a person’s life? The outer is a reflection of the inner. When your home is neat, and everything has a home life is much more pleasurable.
5. What is your favorite room to tidy? My most favorite room to declutter and categorize is a home office. I love to help people with a clear and concise criteria for choosing the items in their office based on what will help them become more focused and productive.
6. For someone moving home, what should they do with their unwanted books? The local libraries love any books you want to donate to them.
7. Is it possible to sell the stuff that you don’t want? Selling your unwanted items is easy. Use online neighborhood groups, or sell through garage sales, and with consignment shops.
8. Can you tell me five ways a person can make money decluttering their home? Well-advertised Estate sakes are great for pricey stuff, bartering has become popular, auctions for very expensive items, garage sales for home goods and clothing, and consignment stores for furniture works well.
9. What age should parents teach their children the importance of decluttering their rooms? As soon as children can walk, they can be taught to put away toys and books. At 4-5 years old children can learn to donate items they no longer want to play with. Also, they will then be able to categorize their toys as well.
10. Plastic bags have become a huge problem, what can we do with plastic bags instead of throwing them out? Use them for trash cans around the house. Also, simply recycle plastic bags. Don’t use bags to store items because you end up forgetting what’s in them.
11. When going through the wardrobes during your decluttering campaign, how can you decide what items to keep and which items to get rid of? Use my clear and concise criteria that I describe in my book The Clutter Remedy: A Guide To Getting Organized For Those Who Love Their Stuff. Ask yourself: Will I use it? Does it serve a purpose? Is it sentimental? Do I love it? Making good decisions about what to keep versus what to toss is the key to responsible Decluttering.

Check out her new book The Clutter Remedy: A Guide To Getting Organized For Those Who Love Their Stuff:

https://www.amazon.com/Clutter-Remedy-Guide-Getting-Organized/dp/1608686299