IMENA PROJECT

Top 5 Natural hair Products of 2011 / plus the beauty tip for January 2012!

2012-01-26T08:48:00.000-08:00

Beauty Tip for December 2011

2011-12-03T11:06:00.000-08:00

Spruce up your holiday this season with a hair makeover. That's what IMENA Queen of the month Edline did. We gave her natural curls a Michelle Obama bob makeover. We cut a sharp edge at her ends and gave her a few shorter layers in the front to frame her face. While we blow dried and flat ironed, we used a nourisher for added shine and a heat protector. Even if you wear your hair naturally curly, coily or wavy, every once in a while you can go straight without damage. It's all about technique! Edline, you look great!
That's it for now. Be Beautiful!

That's it for now.
Be Beautiful.
Tami C.

Free Photo Shoot Giveaway!!

2011-11-10T14:01:00.000-08:00

Like us on facebook! If you've been to IMENA and received a hair service, makeup service or a photo shoot, please post a picture and a comments or two about your experience with us. Rate us by giving us 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 stars (*) with 5 being an absolutely wonderful experience! When you rate you'll be entered for a chance to win a free makeover and photo shoot. Everyone should have great photos! Here's some pics from a recent photo shoot!

2011-11-10T13:51:00.000-08:00

Purchase today on our website at www.imenainc.com

Beauty Tip for November 2011

2011-11-10T13:36:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies,

This holiday season accessories can add a real punch to your outfit. Glitter and rhinestones are not just for your fingernails. Fancy-up your hair style with glitzy accessories: headbands, clips, pins etc. especially if you're going with a modest outfit. These Jazzy Jewels can really show off your afro, twists, coils and curls. And they can make a week old hairstyle feel new again. They're not just for natural girls. Having a bad straight hair day? Use funky accessories to spice up your ponytail or better yet, instead of a pony, sweep your hair up and to the side and secure it with a fancy accessory :) Having accessories that shine is also a great way to wear flat shoes because the attention is drawn to the head and not the toes. A great place to get some cool accessories is at www.ilovemyfro.com. They have a great collection of hair clips, earrings and more.

That's it for now.

Be Beautiful.

Tami C.

BEAUTY tip for October!!

2011-10-02T07:52:00.000-07:00

This is a great video that shows an amazing protective style for fall. You can get a lot out of this style if you use the right products for your hair type. You don't want to use a moisturizer that will leave your hair too greasy or a gel that will strip your hair and leave it crunchy and dry. Everyone's hair is different so it may take a few tries before you find the right products that work for you. Talk to your stylist. That's what they are there for, to help you through this process.

I hope you like the video and the style. I did! If you want this style give us a call and make an appointment.

Be Beautiful!
Tami C.

Beauty tip for September 2011

2011-09-14T13:36:00.000-07:00

Beauty Tip for September: I found this video on YouTube and I thought it was a great start to caring for your hair. I agree with about 8 of the 10 steps in this video so overall it's really helpful....Can you guess the two steps I would change......? What do you think.......

If you have any tips email them to me along with a picture or video and you and your advice might be featured on our website.

Be Beautiful!
Tami C.

IMENA Salon update!

2011-08-26T14:50:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

I just wanted to write and tell you what's been going on with the search for a salon space. I have been searching all over Harlem and I have found a few viable locations. I'm trying to make a decision within the next few weeks. Looking for commercial space in Manhattan is like hunting for a pair of the perfect shoes on the night of a big event....completely and utterly frustrating! But I am confident and faithful that IMENA will have a commercial salon space very soon.

If you would like to donate a monetary gift to be used toward the cost of opening the IMENA salon you may do so by clicking on the paypal button on this blog page or visiting the IMENA website at www.imenainc.com.

I am so happy to be able to provide a needed service to women who want to feel empowered, appreciated and understood when it comes to their hair. This salon is for you and your help in getting it operational is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

Until Next time,
Be Beautiful
Tami C.

Beauty tip for August 2011

2011-08-15T11:09:00.000-07:00

BEAUTY TIP FOR AUGUST

IMENA was very happy to be a part of the I LOVE MY FRO beauty event on July 24th in Harlem. It was my privilege to cut the beautiful natural hair of Harmony the events coordinator, and creator of the I LOVE MY FRO natural hair products. (www.ilovemyfro.com)

So the beauty tip this month is "Be yourself, fully!" Wear your hair to match your inner style and beauty. Don't be afraid to challenge your sense of style. Some times we think we can't pull off a certain look because our head is too big, or we don't think we have the right face for a certain style. But remember, confidence is the main ingredient to any style. So wear your new do with confidence just like Harmony, and you'll rock it every time!!

That's it for now....
BE BEAUTIFUL :)
Tami C.

Beauty tip for July 2011!

2011-07-02T11:10:00.000-07:00

Your are invited to attend the World premier of BEAUTIFUL the documentary on JULY 14th at the Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabbazz Memorial center in Harlem.

Go to the official website to purchase your tickets:
www.wix.com/tami2g/beautiful

It would be so great to see you there!

The beauty tip for this month is "gratitude". I have been working steadily on adopting an attitude of gratitude. Working on my self in this way has opened my eyes to so many of the blessings around me. My hope is that you will too.

Be Beautiful!
Tami C.

Beauty Tip for June 2011

2011-06-04T16:32:00.000-07:00

Directed By Tami C.

Ok, I'm sorry I missed last month's beauty tip. I was completing my Master's degree program and I had finals and papers and a whole bunch of stuff on my plate to finish.

But I want to share with you a special project I've been working on, a documentary called BEAUTIFUL, a genuine discussion with three women about mental health, societal impacts, women of color and hair. This project was inspiring and emotional and I am very proud of it and everyone who helped make it possible. The screening date will be coming soon. A very special thank you to Initial Wesley, Tamara, Michelle and Felicia.

So what does this have to do with the beauty tip for this month? Well I would just like to tell you that beauty is more than skin deep, as you already know....so I'm going to ask all of you to dig deeper and challenge yourself to complete something outside of your comfort zone. Making a film was not a part of my initial plans for myself but I am so happy I did it and I look forward to sharing it with all of you.

Be Beautiful.

Tami C.

Beauy Tip for April 2011

2011-04-11T06:20:00.000-07:00

So let's talk about this avocado..... A native of Mexico, the avocado sometimes gets a bad rap. For a long time I was told to avoid it because it has a high fat content (which is true) but it has so many other things that are great for your body as well as healthy fats according to www.dietihub.com. In addition to giving your body lutein anti-oxident deposits for your eyes, its great for hair and skin as well due to having a high vitamin content. It's a good source of fiber too! So embrace the avocado. This amazing fruit (yes fruit not vegetable) can also be used as a natural topical conditioner for the hair. go to www.naturesnaturalhealing.com to pick up a natural avocado conditioning recipe.

That's it for now. Be Beautiful!

Tami C.

March Beauty tip / 2011

2011-03-09T11:09:00.001-08:00

Hello!

it's March and we're starting to feel the hint of spring in the air. One thing you can do for your beauty routine is make sure you incorporate more water into your diet. I know that for some of us (me lol), over the winter we survive off of coffee and latte's because they help comfort us from the cold. But now is the time!! Get more water into your body. Your skin and hair will thank you! The body is mostly made up of water so it makes sense to drink more of it to replenish ourselves.

That's it for now.
Be Beautiful.
Tami C.

Beauty Tip for February 2011

2011-02-03T06:31:00.000-08:00

In this cold weather conditioning is a big part of any beauty routine. When conditioning natural hair like mine, which is thick and tends to get dry, I live by Jane Carter's revitalizing leave in-conditioner. Its great for detangling and rejuvenating your hair throughout the day from this dry weather. Its light weight formula can be used on all types of hair. You can pick up yours at: www.janecartersolutions.com

Be beautiful!
Tami C.

Beauty Tip for January 2011

2011-01-10T09:36:00.001-08:00

The wide tooth comb is a natural girl's best friend :)

Be sure to use your wide tooth comb when you need to detangle your tresses. Using it in combination with a leave-in or regular conditioner, will ensure that you will not pull out your delicate strands. The trick is finding a comb who's teeth are far enough apart that it won't pull at your hair, but close enough together to detangle. So getting the right size comb is a must have in your hair care arsenal!

Be Beautiful!
Tami C.

Beauty Tip for December 2010 / HOT PRODUCT ALERT!

2010-12-09T10:11:00.000-08:00

This Loc butter from Carol's Daughter is amazing! It feels great, it smells great and it's highly conditioning to the hair. It doesn't leave hair feeling greasy or over done. Perfect for locs or braiding of natural hair. I've used it for both and have had wonderful results. Use sparingly because it's not cheap! But you definitely get what you paid for. It can be purchased at a Carol's Daughter store near you or ordered online at: www.carolsdaughter.com

I think it would make a great stocking stuffer, or grab bag gift for the natural guy or girl in your life.

That's it for now....

Be Beautiful!
Tami C.

November 2010 / beauty tip

2010-11-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

Hello Ladies!
Natural hair can be fun and flirtatious. Use a combination of braids and twists in an upward style to make your hair draw all types of compliments. Be sure to use a kind setting product like Jane Carter's Wrap and Roll to create a true and easy hold to your style. Don't forget to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize, especially in this brittle weather.

See you next month for another beauty tip.

Be beautiful :)

Tami C.

2010-10-04T18:12:00.000-07:00

Hello ladies!

Fall is officially here. The beauty tip for this month is VOLUME, VOLUME VOLUME!! Create luscious curls with your own hair or by adding to your existing mane. Now that humidity is behind us, have some fun with your hair. Volume and curls make a big statement and draws attention to the face. It's a great look whether or going to work or hanging out with friends.

Be beautiful.
Tami C.

Tip for September

2010-09-07T19:15:00.000-07:00

Well ladies, the weather is changing and so should your style. Be a bit more daring this fall with your hair. A bold, big look will make your personality come to life. Don't be afraid to try something new. Get this hip hop artist Cassey look easily by braiding one half of the head against a waterfall of curls. It will automatically take your style from blah to glam!

Be beautiful!
Tami C.

Tip for August

2010-08-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Here's the beauty tip for August....now that fall is right around the corner all you women who put in weaves for the summer are ready to take them out. Be sure to get a professional to remove your weave so that your natural hair is not cut by accident in the removal process.

Also, be sure to get a deep conditioner and a good trim. Some shedding is normal so don't be alarmed. Be sure to take some time to let your natural hair "rest" before putting in another long term procedure like a weave or braids.

That's it for now.
Be Beautiful
Tami C.

2010-07-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!
Hope you're enjoying this heat. It's a scorching 96 degrees here in New York. For summer it can be really hard trying to find the perfect hair and makeup look to stay cool. Here's a great tip for hair: don't be afraid to go short and natural. Natural hair is a great summer style and you don't have to worry about humidity! Just be sure to keep your hair hydrated with a great conditioner.

Even the best Diva wants to be able to put on a little makeup and not worry about it running down her face. So for a clean fresh summer look try a light powder foundation that allows the skin to breath. For the eyes play up your natural tone with a little shimmer. Keep the lips natural as well with a sun protecting lip balm and clear or light color gloss.

That's it for now

Love and Blessings
Tami C.

Happy 2010 Everyone!!

2010-02-13T18:36:00.000-08:00

2009 was a great year for IMENA!! We look even more forward to 2010 and getting our hands on our first location. This has been a fantastic journey so far with plenty of ups and downs. But we are encouraged, and excited about the future.

I'm going to start something new this month. Every I will give a beauty tip. If you have any feel free to comment and post.

First tip: Don't spend tons of money on buying both, lip gloss and lip stick. You can save money by buying lip stick and buying a clear lip gloss. Use the gloss over the lip stick and make any of your favorite lipstick colors into instant shine!

Be beautiful :)
Tami

2009-02-13T18:04:00.000-08:00

Someone asked me if I do braids and the answer is yes! We don't do extensions right now, but if you need a great style whether your male or female, yes we do great braids. Call for a consultation.

I will be at the Boucarou Lounge on Feb. 19th to support a great designer named Gwen Beloti. She will be showcasing her fall '09 collection "A Smokey Flow". Can't wait! To find out more information about this show go to her website www.gwenbeloti.eventsbot.com. See you there.

HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!

2009-02-09T14:29:00.000-08:00

I know I'm late.....but HAPPY NEW YEAR to everyone! This year holds so much promise for us all.

Already IMENA has had a fantastic year. We were asked to be a part of the NYC Rose A La Mode fashion show under Gorgeous On the Go a fabulous makeup company based in New York. They are fabulous. The fashion show was amazing! The pics and video are coming soon.

Right now Imena is searching for a location to open up our salon in Manhattan. The search for retail space in New York City can be very scary. But also exhilarating. Pray with me that we find a fantastic spot. Keep posted for upcoming news about that and more info about our upcoming events. I'm working on a big event for the summer time, stay tuned for more on that later. Oh so much to do and so little time! But I'm remaining optimistic. Things haven't gone exactly as planned but that's ok. Everything happens for a reason and in it's own time. Thank you for hanging in there with me.

On a side note, people who know me know that I love fiction books, especially vampire and supernatural fiction so if you're post Twilight and need something else to read please pick up the Vampire Huntress Legend series by L.A. Banks. She has a phenomenal series starring an African American huntress, Damali and her love interest a Mexican guy, Carlos. Trust me, it's great stuff! If you get past the third book, you'll be hooked!

For another great fiction read, pick up Midnight by Sister Souljah. This book was enlightening in so many different ways. It's not the Coldest Winter Ever so don't go into it thinking that way. You'll get a rude awakening if you do.

That's it for now. I promise I won't wait too long before writing another post. But being busy is always a good thing. Talk to you guys soon.

Many Blessings,
Tami G.

Shop - n- mingle

2008-12-08T16:37:00.000-08:00

This weekend my team and I did a great event called Shop - n - Mingle. It took place in Harlem New York at the National Black Theatre. We were asked to sponsor the event by providing makeup makeovers to the attendees. We also provided the hair and makeup for the fashion models. It was a great event. We had a lot of fun. There were a nice mix of vendors and the DJ played a nice array of music.

On another note, there were a lot of women at this event with natural hair styles. It was very nice to see so many women sporting natural styles. The clothing and accessory companies were awesome as well. Lots of unique pieces for sale. This event happens every year so be sure to make it next year. You'll be glad you did.

Love and Blessings,
Tami G.