We are only a few days into 2025 and the announcements keep coming. Not only did we receive one pregnancy announcement, but two on the first day of 2025. Let’s dissect this!

            After scrolling on social media, post of Hip Hop Artist Coi Leray continued to appear. The 27 year old New Jersey Native blessed our screens with a pregnancy announcement. Fans were shocked to hear the news, but even more shocked to see Leray reconcile with her former boyfriend, Music Artist Trippie Redd.

            Redd and Leray have had an on and off again relationship for years, so to see them together again building a family was news we were not prepared for on the first day of the New Year. After continuing to scroll on social media, another pregnancy announcement popped up.

            Hip Hop Artist and Reality TV Star Dream Doll shocked her audience with not only a pregnancy announcement, but a beautiful video that truly captured her Joy and excitement for motherhood. The difference with Dream Doll is that she did not include her child’s father like Leray did.

            So fans began to speculate and become FBI detectives to discover who is the father of Dream Dolls child. Dream Doll has not disclosed who her child’s father is, and the viewers should respect her privacy, but when it comes to celebrities people tend to want to know every detail.

            In the last few months more and more Young Black Stars have been announcing their debut into motherhood. Skai Jackson, who is a popular Black actress, mostly known for her role on Disney Channel Shows like “Jessie” and “Bunk’d.” Viewers had mixed feelings on Jackson’s pregnancy announcement. Jackson’s pregnancy was revealed through photographers following her and noticing her visible baby bump.

            It was later revealed that Jackson’s Child’s father is a Content Creator by the name of “Yurkky Yurkky.” There was a lot of controversy surrounding this announcement due to the viewers not feeling like Yurkky Yurkky was on the same tier as Skai Jackson. Jackson is a beautiful Actress with a boatload of accomplishments, while Yurkky Yurkky has multiple children with different women and has been jailed previously. When the viewers discovered Yurkky’s past and saw a few disrespectful comments he made about Jackson and Jackson’s deceased friend Cameron Boyce, the sound of happiness for Jackson’s pregnancy turned into worrisome.

            A child is a blessing no matter the circumstance. The viewers will always have an opinion. As long as the mother is content with her family and new bundle of joy, that should be the only thing that matters.

Research Credit: Tik Tok

It was one of those nights that felt like a quiet celebration—a gathering of people who believed in something more than just talent. We were seated around a table in an intimate Atlanta venue, the kind of place where the energy feels warm, like a shared secret between friends. The crowd wasn’t huge, but the air was electric with anticipation. Tonight wasn’t just about Shoniqua Shandai, the actress. Tonight, we were here for Shoniqua the artist, the singer—someone we were about to discover in an entirely new light.

As Shoniqua entered the space, there was an undeniable glow about her, but it wasn’t the kind of glow that comes from the spotlight. This was different. It was the kind of warmth that comes from someone who has truly embraced their journey—the kind of warmth that tells you, “I’ve struggled, I’ve grown, and I’m here now, unapologetically myself.” And that’s exactly what we were about to hear, from the very first note.

She opened up to the crowd, speaking in a way that felt like we were confiding in an old friend. There was no pretense. She was real, raw, and fully in the moment. “In 2020, during the pandemic, I decided to get into the studio,” she began, her voice soft but steady. “I was playing a recording artist in Harlem, but I was terrified of the studio. I can sing without a mic, but when it came to recording, it never sounded the way it did in my head.”

Her vulnerability struck a chord with everyone in the room. She wasn’t just talking about a song; she was talking about something deeper. She was sharing the journey of self-doubt, growth, and perseverance that led her to this very moment.

“You can’t play a recording artist and not actually get into the studio,” she continued. “So, I decided to do the work. I got intentional about what I wanted to create. And with everything happening in the world, I knew I had to write something that spoke to me—and to the world around me.”

What followed wasn’t just a performance—it was a story. It was a reflection of everything that had shaped Shoniqua over the last few years: the challenges, the growth, and the deep, undeniable belief that we all have the power to manifest the lives and love we deserve. 

“I believe life and death lie in the power of the tongue,” she said. “So I wrote something that would bring into existence the kind of love I deserve, even though I hadn’t experienced it yet. Something God-fearing, passionate, and healthy. This song… it makes me want to tell a man, ‘Boy, I know your momma is proud of you!’ And that’s “Feel My Love.”

The song, four years in the making, was about so much more than melody or lyrics. It was the product of a journey filled with patience and growth. She’d started writing it in 2020, but it wasn’t until now, in 2025, that she was finally ready to release it to the world.

“I wasn’t the singer I wanted to be when I first started,” Shoniqua admitted. “I was comparing myself to legends like Aretha Franklin, and I wasn’t sure if I could ever measure up. But I kept pushing. I couldn’t let that stop me. So, I went through a cycle of home, train, and record. Home, train, record. For four years. And that’s how I became the singer who could finally sing this song.”

At that moment, I understood. This wasn’t just about singing, it was about the power of persistence. The power of not giving up, even when the path isn’t clear and the results don’t come easily. For four years, Shoniqua worked through her insecurities, her doubts, her fear. And the result was more than just a song, it was a declaration of strength and self-love.

As she played Feel My Love for us that night, the room fell silent. The music didn’t just fill the space, it resonated deep within everyone who was fortunate enough to be there. It was an anthem for anyone who has ever had to fight through their own limitations, for anyone who has ever doubted their worth, for anyone who has ever felt that the vision they had in their mind couldn’t possibly match up to reality.

But it can. It does.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others, especially in the world of social media, where the highlight reel is everything. But Shoniqua reminded us of something simple yet profound: Growth takes time. It’s okay to stumble, to feel uncomfortable, to take things slow. It’s okay to not have everything figured out right away. But as long as you keep pushing forward, trusting in yourself and your process, the results will come.

That night, I left with something more than just a new song to listen to. I left with a renewed sense of what it means to truly believe in yourself, to trust in the process, and to embrace every moment of growth along the way.

Shoniqua Shandai isn’t just a talented actress or a gifted singer—she’s a woman who has learned to love herself through the struggle and triumph, a woman who continues to teach us that the journey is just as beautiful as the destination.

And so, as the night ended, I realized that Feel My Love wasn’t just the title of her song—it was the energy that she had brought into the room. Love, in all its forms. And it was something we all felt, something that left a mark on every heart in that intimate space.

Today, tomorrow, and forever—Feel My Love.

The proud parents put careful thought into making Halo’s birthday extra special. Halle expressed the importance of celebrating Halo’s birthday as a unique occasion, separate from the holiday season, to ensure he feels cherished. The party was said to reflect Halo’s personality, possibly inspired by his favorite show, CoComelon, with playful decorations, vibrant colors, and a delightful atmosphere filled with laughter and warmth.

Chloe Bailey, Halle’s sister and devoted aunt, was equally excited for the big day. She revealed her plans to spoil Halo with gifts and her deep affection for her nephew. “He’s such a special baby—kind, attentive, and curious,” Chloe shared, emphasizing the love that surrounds Halo in their close-knit family.

The celebration was a heartwarming event filled with joy, love, and unforgettable moments. Surrounded by family and close friends, Halo was the star of the day, lighting up the room with his bright smile and cheerful personality. Halle and DDG took a moment to reflect on their journey as parents, expressing gratitude for the happiness Halo has brought into their lives.

As Halo begins his second year, Halle and DDG remain dedicated to providing a nurturing and loving environment for their son. Their commitment to creating lasting memories for their family was evident in every detail of this milestone celebration.

Halo’s first birthday was a beautiful reminder of the love, joy, and unity that family brings—a day to celebrate not only his first year but the exciting journey ahead.

Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant, Senior Pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, and Dr. Karri Bryant, an accomplished pastor, entrepreneur, and theologian, celebrated their union on November 14, 2024, at the Waldorf Astoria in Atlanta. Their wedding was a radiant reflection of love, faith, and shared purpose, marking the beginning of a powerful partnership in life and ministry.

The couple’s nuptials were a vibrant celebration of their unique personalities and mutual faith. Dr. Karri Bryant stunned guests in a custom pink jumpsuit adorned with crystals and a flowing chiffon train, symbolizing her bold and modern approach to leadership and ministry. Pastor Jamal Bryant complemented her with a deep green suit featuring sequined accents, embodying the couple’s spirit of elegance and individuality.

Their ceremony, attended by close family, friends, and members of their congregation, was filled with heartfelt vows, personal touches, and an overwhelming sense of unity. It was a day that celebrated not only their love but their shared commitment to uplifting their community through faith.

A First Lady Who Inspires

Dr. Karri Bryant is now the First Lady of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, bringing her unique perspective and passion to this esteemed role. An ordained clergywoman with extensive academic and professional achievements, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Morris Brown College, a Master of Divinity from The Candler School of Theology at Emory University, and a Doctorate in Ministry.

Beyond her pastoral work, Dr. Karri is an entrepreneur and the owner of Shop180West, an Atlanta-based online women’s boutique. Her creativity and vision extend into every aspect of her life, making her a dynamic First Lady who is not only a leader in the church but also an innovator in business.

Together, Drs. Jamal and Karri Bryant represent a modern-day power couple in ministry. Pastor Jamal Bryant, known for his dynamic leadership at New Birth, has transformed the church into a hub for spiritual growth, social justice, and community outreach. With the addition of Dr. Karri Bryant, the church is poised to further expand its impact.

As First Lady, Dr. Karri will play a pivotal role in the church’s mission, focusing on initiatives that empower women, strengthen families, and promote faith-based entrepreneurship. Her leadership will complement Pastor Jamal’s vision, creating a unified front to serve their congregation and beyond.

Drs. Jamal and Karri Bryant’s union is a testament to the power of faith, love, and shared purpose. Their marriage symbolizes a new chapter for New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, with the congregation embracing their First Lady as a beacon of inspiration and service.

As they step into this journey together, the Bryants are committed to fostering growth, uplifting their community, and spreading the message of love and faith. Their partnership is not only a celebration of their love but a powerful example of how united leadership can bring transformation and hope to the world.

Erica Elle Miller is not just a name—it’s a movement. From her humble beginnings in Chicago, Illinois, to building a thriving six-figure empire, Erica has become a beacon of inspiration for women striving to elevate their careers and personal lives. As an author, motivational speaker, career coach, and entrepreneur, she seamlessly bridges the gap between professional success and holistic self-care.

Erica’s determination lead as her compass, she pursued education as a tool for empowerment. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in English from Tennessee State University, she continued her education at Grand Canyon Christian University, securing two Master’s degrees in Special Education and Elementary Education, along with eight certifications. These achievements are a testament to her relentless drive to exceed expectations.

As a celebrated author, Erica’s work delves into themes of personal growth and resilience. Her writing is more than just words on a page; it’s a lifeline for readers seeking inspiration. Testimonials from her audience speak to the emotional depth and motivational power of her books, with one reader stating, “Chapter 12 made me feel the most emotion because I’ve experienced it.” Erica’s storytelling uplifts, challenges, and connects.

In her role as a career coach, Erica channels her experiences to mentor others. With a deep understanding of professional growth, she equips entrepreneurs and professionals with the tools they need to achieve their dreams. Her coaching philosophy is rooted in practical strategies, compassion, and a belief in limitless potential.

Erica’s talents extend into lifestyle curation, where she combines elegance and intention. Her self-care line, featuring luxurious body butters and hand-poured candles, is a reflection of her commitment to helping others prioritize their well-being. Erica understands that success isn’t just about professional achievements—it’s about creating a life filled with beauty and balance.

Featured in platforms like Shoutout Atlanta, Canvas Rebel, and Gothamology, Erica’s expertise and perspective resonate far and wide. Her voice is a powerful addition to conversations about career development, resilience, and self-care, making her a trusted figure in these spaces.

Erica’s brand, “The Pretty Professional,” captures her essence: poised, driven, and unapologetically authentic. She represents a modern approach to ambition—one that embraces grace and grit in equal measure. Erica’s story is proof that success is accessible to anyone who dares to dream and put in the work.

Erica Miller is more than her accolades; she’s a symbol of what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. From her beginnings in Chicago to becoming a six-figure entrepreneur, her life story inspires others to overcome, thrive, and make their mark on the world. Whether through her words, her coaching, or her lifestyle products, Erica’s influence continues to grow, proving that the best journeys are the ones shared with others.

Philadelphia native Charron Monaye is a powerhouse of creativity, resilience, and empowerment in the entertainment industry. With over two decades of experience, she has carved out an unmistakable legacy across the arts, literature, and media. A writer, playwright, book publisher, and ghostwriter, Monaye’s multifaceted talents have earned her widespread recognition. However, it is her latest venture—the creation of The Adventures of Michelle children’s book series—that truly highlights her commitment to storytelling as a tool for positive change and inspiration.

Charron Monaye’s journey into the world of writing and entertainment began in 1992, driven by her fierce determination to address societal issues through her voice and storytelling. She quickly made her mark, contributing to well-known platforms such as CNN iReport, The Philadelphia Association of Paralegals, and Hype Hair Magazine, where she fearlessly tackled topics ranging from legal rights and lifestyle to financial education. It was in 2008, when she signed her first book deal, that Monaye’s literary career truly took off. Her ability to navigate diverse subjects became evident as she embarked on a journey that would ultimately result in more than twenty-five books across six genres. As her career blossomed, Monaye sought inspiration from renowned playwright and filmmaker Tyler Perry. This influence prompted her to adapt her first book, My Side of the Story, into the theatrical production Living Your Life, which starred D’atra Hicks. However, it wasn’t until her acclaimed stage play, Get Out of Your Own Way, hit the iconic stages of Hollywood, CA, and Off-Broadway that Monaye truly cemented her reputation as a master of both the written and performed word. Audiences were captivated by the play’s honesty and impact, praising its powerful narrative and solidifying Monaye’s position as a force in the entertainment world.

When the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a standstill, many struggled to adapt, but Charron Monaye saw it as an opportunity to inspire the next generation. Out of the uncertainty, she created The Adventures of Michelle, a vibrant and empowering children’s book series designed to open young minds to a world of possibilities. Through the lens of a curious young girl, the series tackles important themes like travel, politics, entrepreneurship, and history, encouraging children to dream big and recognize their potential. The colorful illustrations and heartfelt stories quickly made the series a staple in homes and classrooms, building confidence while celebrating diversity.

Monaye’s creative endeavors didn’t stop with her children’s books. As the founder of Pen Legacy and CM Writes, she extended her passion for storytelling to help other writers find their voices. Her companies became a haven for emerging authors and established figures alike, including names like Evelyn Braxton, Ty Johnston-Chavis, and Precious L. Williams, Esq. Monaye’s publishing and scriptwriting services have been instrumental in shaping the careers of countless writers, providing them with the platform they needed to share their stories with the world. In addition to her role as a publisher and mentor, Monaye has quietly worked behind the scenes as a ghostwriter, helping individuals, organizations, and celebrities bring their ideas to life through books, media content, and screenplays. Her contributions to storytelling extend far beyond her own work, leaving an indelible mark on the literary and entertainment worlds through her unwavering commitment to amplifying diverse voices.

Charron Monaye has proven herself a force in storytelling, both through her own work and her commitment to helping others share their stories globally. Her dedication to literature and entertainment has not gone unnoticed, earning her numerous prestigious awards. Among these honors are her designation as a “Fellow of the Most Excellent Order of International Experts (FOIE)” by the United Nations, an Assembly Resolution from the New Jersey General Assembly, and a Citation from the New Jersey Senate. She has also been awarded an Honorary Doctorate from CICA International University & Seminary and inducted into Marquis Who’s Who of America, a recognition that highlights her significant contributions to the literary world. Further affirming her influence, Monaye has served on the NAACP Image Awards’, underscoring her ongoing commitment to advancing African American culture. Her diverse background, coupled with mentorship from industry giants like Shonda Rhimes and Victoria Christopher Murray, has shaped her approach to storytelling and fueled her success across multiple industries.

Charron Monaye’s journey is only gaining momentum. Her unwavering dedication to telling stories that uplift, challenge, and inspire continues to open doors for countless others, solidifying her role as a trailblazer in the literary and entertainment industries. She is living proof of the transformative power of storytelling—not just as an art form but as a catalyst for cultural influence, empowerment, and change. With each project, Monaye builds an enduring legacy of creativity and opportunity, leaving an indelible mark on the world.

To learn more about her work and impact, visit www.charronmonaye.com.

This weekend our March 2021 cover star Sierra Gates blessed us with food and business gems courtesy of her Dinner for Breakfast Business Brunch. Guest mixed and mingled over Gates’s curated menu which featured her best-known dishes which are highlighted on her Ghetto Girlz Eat platform. Our absolute favorite was “ Sierra’s Shrimp Pasta”.

The brunch was a collision of Sierra’s brands Money Monsters and Ghetto Girlz Eat. Attendees got business strategy from panelists Pastor John and Aventer Gray, Trishonna Helm, Candace “ Six Figure Spa Chick” Holyfield, and Rasheeda Frost.

For more information on Sierra Gates and her brands, you can follow her on IG @sierra_glamshop_

Photographer: @rarifilmz
Hair: @tytheglamking
Styling: @troy_clinton
Chef outfit: @seni_chic
Glam: @makeupbybarbee
Creative Direction/ PR: @iameboyne @divineinfluencepr

The Trailblazer 

Every so often you meet someone whose presence not only impacts their community, but impacts the world. And that someone is none other than Ebony Austin, renowned restaurateur, serial entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Ebony has dedicated her entire life to giving back to others, and from her recent milestone, she is just getting started! Ebony’s highly acclaimed grits line, Nouveau Creations by Nouveau Bar & Grill, is now available in 45 Food Lion stores throughout Georgia, with an incredible initiative to support HBCU students by contributing 100% of all proceeds to scholarships, making higher education more accessible to aspiring scholars.

Most recently, Ebony celebrated her 2 year anniversary for Nouveau Bar & Grill by shining a light on HBCUs at her yearly Stomp the Yard event with all proceeds from her grits line going to rewarding students with over 30 scholarships ranging from $500.00-$5,000.00! In addition to the numerous scholarships, Ebony also gave away comforters, air fryers, and refrigerators; to help students get acclimated with college living. For her timeless and classic beauty, and most of all her genuine heart for the betterment of others, Ebony Austin is undoubtedly Hype Hair’s illustrious Woman of the Year. 

In honor of Black Restaurant Week, Hype Hair sat down with the iconic trailblazer to discuss her heart for HBCUs, the legacy and soul of Nouveau Bar & Grill, and of course, all things beauty and style.

We are super excited to feature you as an exclusive digital cover story during Atlanta’s Black Restaurant Week! Congratulations on having your best selling grits being sold in over 45 Food Lion Stores in Georgia! What’s equally as amazing is that all proceeds from your grits go to helping HBCU students go to college! You are  making such an impact in the community, and in the world! What inspired you to do this?

It was all inspired by my struggle in college. I attended an HBCU–I attended Langston University in Oklahoma. But I struggled so much from the time I registered. I struggled until the end, and I think that God blessed me and put me in a position to be able to help other students not go through the same struggles that I went through. I think that’s why my grits line is so dear to my heart because actually all of the proceeds go back to HBCU students. And I think my college experience was the hardest time of my life, but yet it was the most fulfilling time of my life. I am just so grateful to be in this position to give back, and it’s so important to dedicate your life to the lives of others. Like the Bible says, ‘to whom much is given much is required.’ 

You’re absolutely killing the restaurant game right now, and looking flawless while doing it. So tell us about the conception of Nouveau Bar and Grill, and the staple bestsellers on your menu?

I come from customer service, and I worked as a business development manager for years. And so for me, when I went into real estate, it was a great idea. But I learned that I was missing something. I love cooking, and I love people. I realized that I was missing the two things that I cared about the most. So while I was successful in real estate, there was still a void there. And so literally, I would just pray like God, and ask Him to show me what it was. And I will come down to Atlanta for the weekend and I was like, ‘Hey, I should open up a restaurant in Atlanta, because I love Georgia.’ And it literally took me three years. It took me three years to find my location. Wow. Right. And that’s why they say ‘God bless the plan.’ It took me three years. And it’s crazy because the same realtor that I met three years prior to me opening, was the same realtor that I opened my first location with that year, and she was actually retiring. So everything was really just in alignment with God’s plan. But it really brought me back to what I love, and what I’m most passionate about. Because success is one thing, but if you’re doing something and you’re not passionate about it, then at that point, I feel like you’re not really living your best life; and your best life should be being able to help people. If you’re just doing things solely because of you, I feel like you’re losing, you’re not winning because you have to be able to help people along your journey.

What we love about you Ebony, is that you really are visionary, Nouveau Bar and Grill both locations in College Park, a personal favorite of mine and Jonesboro,are always jam packed and full of excitement. Your R&B Thursday’s always bring out some of the biggest names in the industry. We’ve seen Rick Ross there, we’veseen 2 Chainz and so many more. How do you continue to keep your restaurants so innovative and fresh?

You know what? Outside of prayer….I’m just going to be honest, I pray for my restaurant every single night. I pray for my team name by name every single night. So outside of the prayer, I just think that it’s always been about being able to create an experience. People will always remember how they were treated, right? No matter what celebrity is in the building, no matter what’s going on, what they care about most of all, is that experience and how they felt. The fact that we lit 20 candles and we released 20sparklers for someone’s grandmother’s 80th birthday, like they’ll never forget that. The beauty of it is we bring families back together. We bring coworkers in for a good time in a great environment where they can just back, relax, and unwind. So for me, it is the experience that we’re able to create for the families. I also think that I had to learn that during the pandemic that we took so much stuff for granted, something as simple as having dinner with your family. So for me that just kind of lit a fire underneath me to say ‘hey, every time a guest comes to Nouveau it should be an experience for them everytime. We make sure that we cater to our customers’ needs. But most importantly, we make sure that we give them an experience every single time.

It definitely is. Every time I have been to Nouveau, it’s kind of like its own universe once you walk in the door… Like its own complete entity, and it’s always a good time. It’s always a huge vibe.

Yes, thank you. I literally tell my team all the time that it’s important that you get to know our guests. I tell them to get to know our guests and get personal with them. When I opened up Nouveau, I said that I wanted to be like the ‘Cheers’ in the community…To be the place where everybody knew each other, and I want that type of relationship with my staff and our customers. I also feel that it’s important to have that same relationship like I do with my customers and also with the schools. And those are reasons why I made sure that Nouveau would be in partnership with the school systems in Clayton County with the surrounding school systems. We’re not only sending kids to college, but we’re still doing groundwork. Again, just having that relationship and being in a community, being in the school systems, understanding what’s going on and how we can help, is one of the reasons I got on the Board of Education to be able to help as a director to be of help so that we can help our children excel in college without the financial burden.

Atlanta is full of so many amazing restaurants, especially with that Southern flair. What do you think that makes Nouveau stand out from all the rest?

That’s really a hard question for me, because all my friends are restaurant owners. But I thinK for me, what sets us apart, in my mind, is the fact that I’m in my restaurant 24/7.So I know when something’s wrong, and I know how to coach at that moment. And I think that being able to coach my team in the moment is different and sets us apart. I think that having that one on one with my team, and being able to coach them in a moment and show them different things has helped us. Literally, the difference is I’m behind my bar, making drinks with my team, I’m in my kitchen cooking with my team, and I’m hosting that door. So I get to see where some mistakes are made and correct them, encourage them and coach them in a moment of how to do things… So yes, I think that’s what kind of sets us apart.

You are a true mover and shaker! I hear you are expanding Nouveau Bar & Grill! What can you tell us about that?

Yeah, I’m getting ready to expand and we are actually getting ready to go to Texas, which we’re finalizing this week. So we’re super excited about that! I also just started a vegan concept that will open at the end of September in Atlanta. And Nouveau will also be expanding soon to Tennessee as well. We’re visiting some locations in Tennessee now, but Dallas is definitely pretty much signed, sealed and delivered. So Nouveau Bar & Grill will officially be heading to the Dallas market location!

At Hype Hair we are all about hair, style, and beauty! You always keep it classy and fun, and might I add, we are loving your new look, that Barbie Pink on you is everything! What are some of your favorite beauty must-haves?

Well, my Nouveau Bar & Grill attire is my go-to! Outside of that I am a Louis Vuitton Queen though. I think most of my closet is Louis Vuitton! (Laughs) So between LouisVuitton and GoYard… I would say, those are my two favorites that I’ve been rocking for like a long time. But most of the time I do not leave my house without one or the other. And I definitely don’t travel without them…Those are my two must haves.

What is your favorite hairstyle and why? 

I love a really, really cute blonde hairstyle…Okay, blonde with brown tones. So most of the time with my hairstyles, I have a good full lace wig on. I love with my hair long. In my recent photo shoot it took me completely out of my comfort zone. I’ve never put my hair up in a ponytail. And then the Barbie pink dress with the chef’s hat–I absolutely loved it, and it was very new to me….Thanks to Eboyne and the team, because that was fun and was such a very different look for me. I am very, very basic. You will always see me with a 26 inch, long straight full lace wig with a middle part…Sweet and simple. But this lookactually took me completely out of my comfort zone and I really loved it.

What die-hard hair products can you absolutely not live without?

I love Kaleidoscope hair products. Literally. I love it. I also love Mielle Organics, so those are definitely my top two go to products that are in my house.

OK…Ebony, now let’s get into some rapid-fire questions. Are you ready?

I am ready.Let’s do it! (Laughs)

What’s your favorite Hype Hair cover?

Definitely Ari, Kendra and Joe…Those are my favorite colors and they are fire.

What’s your favorite dish from Nouveau?

Our seafood and grits…I’m a grit lover so I love my Ultimate Cajun Seafood and Grits.

Who is your celebrity crush?

God forgive me for saying this but listen, I am a Jay-Z lover. (Laughs) Beyoncé, I love you but I love Jay-Z. (Laughs) I went to the 40/40 club when he first opened it. I’m a fan, but he’s taken. So for somebody that is not married, I will say Tyler Perry.

What was the last song you listened to?

Jay-Z ft. Beyoncé “On the Run.”

What has been the greatest highlight in your career as a restaurateur?

I have so many amazing highlights. I definitely think one of the greatest highlights for me was when we celebrated and one of the young girls who is my intern now, who lost her mom due to COVID-19. She was one of the students who sent me a video for my scholarship program and I think having a relationship with her every year and doing a scholarship dedicated to her mom’s name and honor, is it for me. So for me, I think it was meeting this young lady named Savannah and being able to be a part of her journey. I think that was one of the best. I stay in touch with her; she comes to all of Nouveau’s events. Creating memories, creating impact, I am so blessed that God allows me to be able to experience that.

Who was your favorite artist for R&B Thursday?

Ohhh, Tank! Yes, Tank was my favorite. 

What is next for you?

Expanding Nouveau Bar & Grill into major cities is definitely coming next. I want Nouveau to be an experience all around the world so when people are traveling they can also experience Nouveau. So we’re in talks right now about some things and expanding into a few airports right now. I also want to continue building my real estate portfolio so that I can build communities for underprivileged and low income families which is another project that I’m working on now. I feel so blessed and I am so grateful for all that God is doing in my life right now.

Keep Up with Ebony Austin of Nouveau Bar & Grill: @nouveaubaratl @ebonyakira

http://www.nouveaubar.com

Written By: George Newman

About The Boosie Fade:

When it comes to iconic hairstyles in the world of hip-hop, one look stands out as a bold and unforgettable statement – the legendary Lil Boosie Fade. Named after the renowned rapper Boosie Badazz, this haircut has become a symbol of confidence, individuality, and self-expression within the rap culture.

The Boosie Fade is characterized by its unique combination of a low skin fade on the sides and back of the head, coupled with a longer, more textured top. This contrast creates a striking and eye-catching appearance that commands attention and exudes attitude.

Boosie Badazz, formerly known as Lil Boosie, rose to fame not only for his musical talents but also for his distinct sense of style. The Boosie Fade quickly became synonymous with his persona, inspiring legions of fans and fellow artists to adopt the look as a way to pay homage to the influential rapper.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Boosie holds a deeper significance within the hip-hop community. It represents a celebration of authenticity and the courage to be true to oneself, regardless of societal norms. For many, the haircut embodies the spirit of breaking free from conformity and embracing individuality.

The legacy of the Boosie extends far beyond its association with the rapper himself. It has become a symbol of empowerment and a statement of belonging to a vibrant and ever-evolving culture.

In the ever-changing landscape of fashion and style, the Legendary Boosie Fade continues to thrive as a timeless icon, reminding us of the power of self-expression and the impact of a daring and confident statement