Brides-to-be are always searching for new ways of doing old wedding traditions. Those who want to offer their guests something other than the usual wedding cake can take some inspiration from Southern Girl Desserts.

Two native Floridians, Catarah Hampshire and Shoneji Robison, started Southern Girl Desserts in Los Angeles almost three years ago, but they're already serving up scrumptious delights for the who's who of L.A. What sets them apart? They replace everyday reception desserts with southern favorites - such as red velvet cake, pineapple obsession, banana pudding and their signature sweet potato pie cupcakes - and make them elegant enough for a wedding.
Hampshire and Robison found themselves in the national spotlight last year after their red velvet cupcakes were served at the wedding of Essence Atkins and soon they will be shipping their creations nationwide.

Courtesy of Zoeica Images

- by Erica

Kathleen and Ollie Johnson are the power couple behind Dr. Miracles hair care products. I recently had the chance to talk to them about how they’ve managed their business and marriage partnerships so well while also homeschooling their three children. Rather than parse out their words, I'm giving you the entire interview. A very interesting and funny couple!

Me: Do you find that working together so closely enhances or challenges a marriage?
Kathleen: For us, it’s an enhancement because we have a mutual interest outside of the marital norms. It is hard for men and women to find things to share that they can both be passionate about. This is something that means a lot to both of us.

Ollie: Working together has given us an unusual opportunity to share in the Dr.
Miracle’s journey. Since we are not performing the same job functions, we bring unique perspectives to working together.


Me: How do you handle disagreements?
Kathleen: Yelling, violence and generally being irrational. Ha, Ha, Ha...just kidding.

Ollie: We talk out our positions when there are disagreements. Usually there is room for compromise.

Kathleen: After 26 years of marriage we know we have different views and have learned to listen to each other and take time to consider the other's point of view. I respect Ollie's viewpoint based upon his years of hands-on experience while I may bring a "looking at the forest outside of the trees” view. Each view has value to us.

Me: Is it difficult to create "alone time"?
Ollie: We manage “alone time” when we feel we need it. Sometimes taking a trip to the country is a good remedy.

Kathleen: Since our children are grown-up, we are enjoying the freedom that comes with not having to be regulated by meals and bedtimes. It's great being able to travel together more and be spontaneous.

Me: Do you feel the media does enough to show the reality of black love and black families?
Kathleen: I feel that the media does “very little” in the way of positive affirmation of the Black family or Black love. The positive aspects of the Black family are rarely highlighted and not enough media attention is spent on those couples who represent positive family values.

Ollie: Television doesn't do much to show the reality of most things. It just doesn't sell advertising. What people want is drama. To see a family at peace with one another and living normally is not exciting, but it is a blessing.

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Beads in the Belfry We love cufflinks as a gift for a groom.



Tissage Pure glam.



SarahBethDesigns Adorable earrings for bride or maid-of-honor.