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Hi, My Name Is…

by afrobella

I’ve been writing posts more-or-less five days a week for five years right here at your friendly neighborhood Afrobella.com, and over time I’ve assumed a certain familiarity. But lately I’ve been hearing from brand new bellas who discovered Afrobella by hearing about me via The Michael Baisden Show, or from the news about the MAC Bloggers Obsession collection. So allow me to reintroduce myself! My name isn’t Hov. My name is Patrice, but often people call me Bella or Afrobella — I respond to any and all of those names. Whatever you feel most comfortable with (quite a few people tell me they prefer Bella!) And this is exactly where I sit and write these blog posts every day!

Photo by Errol Dunlap, makeup by J. St. Jaimes

I was born and raised in Trinidad, migrated to Miami where I attended the University of Miami for my undergrad (film scriptwriting!) and my masters (creative writing. Clearly my mind was not on finding a moneymaking career). I spent a spell working at the coolest bookstore in Miami and then I worked in the calendar section (initially as assistant editor and then eventually as editor) at the craziest newspaper in Miami for almost 5 years.

While I was there, I started my blog because I had views to express that didn’t fit into the parameters of my job, and also at the time there were no other blogs really speaking to natural hair and black beauty and plus size fashion. I’m by no means a professional, but I have high standards, strong opinions and I have always been beauty obsessed, since I was a little girl. I couldn’t find a reflection of my beauty in mainstream media. On one wine-fueled whimsical night, one of our best friends suggested I start a blog, my husband suggested the perfect domain name, and the rest as they say, is history.

Afrobella started out as a personal expression intended to fill a void, and that void proved to be so much bigger than I could have dreamed. Seriously. 5 years ago when I wrote my first ever post, I couldn’t have imagined that Afrobella.com would become THIS!

Afrobella is now my full time occupation. I’m a full time blogger and freelancer for a variety of publications — click here and here to learn more about me. I love writing about hair, beauty, makeup, fashion, spa treatments and of course Caribbean culture. I love traveling and travel writing. On Afrobella you can find a mix of articles about hair, beauty, culture, music, travel and more — always intended to be positive and informative, friendly and fun.

I’m married to an amazing man named Steve, we have a cat named Max who’s a handful and a half, and we live in Chicago. I love summer music festivals and street festivals, purple is my favorite color, and I love all kinds of music but classic reggae and calypso are extra close to my heart.

Enough about me, I wanna know more about you! Where are you from? What do you do? How did you discover Afrobella and how long have you been reading my blog? And most importantly, what would you like to see more of on Afrobella.com? Lurkers, come out and say HELLO!

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Filed Under: Ask Afrobella, Featured, Randomness Tagged With: About Afrobella, Beauty, Becoming AfroBella, natural hair

« Afrobella Interviews Jill Scott — Wisdom, Wit, and Light Of The Sun
How Do You Clean Your Makeup Brushes? »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. pets

    at

    Hi Patrice/Afrobella/Bella/Hov *grin*

    We here at Villa Aura have your blog as our homepage and know your work and capabilities very well and hope that more people get to know and like you – maybe even love you as much as we do.

    Keep be being bright, positive, engaging and inspiring.

    Hugs

  2. Antonio

    at

    I met you in NYC when I hailed a cab for both you and Luvvie after BasseyWorldLive last year! Though that interaction was all of, say, 5 seconds, your spirit was – and is – very palpable. Congrats on everything Patrice! You rock!!

  3. Shen"SoulFlower"Scott

    at

    Hi, Got your tweet to introduce ourselves to you! I’m Shennan (aka Soul~Flower). Recent Greensboro NC transplant by way of Brooklyn, VA and PA! I’m a Licensed Natural HairCare Specialist and I Love my Natural. I’ve been Natural for 13 Years! Happy to Meet You AfroBella!!!

  4. Michelle of Chellbellz

    at

    Michelle here from DC! I run a lifestyle blog. I’ve been a lurker this whole time, and didn’t start making comments until a few weeks ago! I absolutely love you lipglass from MAC and Anytime i do a style post i’m going always post it! I love it, and think that i want to get more since i know how fast i go through lipglass!

  5. Rocquelle

    at

    Hey Patrice!

    I am Rocquelle, I live in Houston, Texas, where I write a style blog http://www.considermelovely.com and have recently started working on a Masters degree in Digital Media Studies. I’ve been reading Afrobella for about 2 years, but I don’t know how I found your fabulous blog, lol. I am so proud of Afrobella and all that it stands for; may many more blessings come your way!!!

  6. Akaziaj

    at

    You first came to my attention on Twitter. I’ve been reading your blog and vlogs for about a year and half now. Because I am a person drawn to good energy, it was your wide-eyed smile and enthusiasm that kept me coming back for more. I got completely hooked on your posting one you did on Chrisette Michele, when she cut her hair.

    I look to you as a mentor of sorts. Though I am quite a bit older, I am inspired by what you have been able to accomplished as a writer, blogger and entrepreneur. I hope to some day model that success in my own unique way. I guess you could say, I wanna be like you when I grow up. LOL.

  7. Iris

    at

    Hi my name is Iris lol,
    Im from Miami Fl. Im a Mary Kay Beuaty consultant. I found you about 3 months ago on youtube when I did my Big Chop. I needed help before i went crazy adjusting to my natural hair lol. Your site has been very helpful. Im learning and embracing myself, loving who i am, hiding behind nothing. 🙂

  8. Samri

    at

    Hi, Bella

    I came across your website few months ago while i was checking Essence megazine on line. Ever since, i’ve been a fun of your blog. I think its very inspiring, refreshing as well as educational in so many level. Keep up the hard work and stay bless…..

    All the way from London:)

  9. nyc/caribbean ragazza

    at

    I found your blog when I did a Google search for information about hair care products for natural hair. I’ve been reading your blog for years.

    My real name is Arlene. I was born on the island of Manhattan, but my parents are from the island of St. Martin (the French side).

    I moved to Rome, Italy three years ago and I write full time. I received my first screenplay credit in May when the film I co-wrote, JUMPING THE BROOM was released.

    I’m working on a novel now and I try not to get depressed about the lack of $$$ in my bank account.

    Writing for a living is very rewarding on a personal level. Financially, it’s another story. You’re an inspiration to other writers who are trying to keep on keeping on.

  10. Bronya

    at

    Hello Ms Bella so happy to have found your blog and I also discovered you with all the buzz about MAC’s Bloggers Obsession collex, well now I’m hooked and have been looking through, feeling like Im on a treasure hunt.

  11. Jada

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    Hi! First of all, I’d like to say that I love your blog! Congratulations on your success and many blessings on future endeavors. My name is Jada, and I’m from MS. I have two daughters that I adore. I’ve been fully natural since December and a make up lover since I was 13. Congrats on your contribution to MAC. I love the color and name! Prince lover in the house! LOL! I wanted to order it but it’s sold out. 🙁 Do you know of any plans to restock?

  12. MJ

    at

    Hi Patrice!!

    I found your blog about two years ago when I started my blog and I was searching around for other bloggers who wrote about the things I liked. I’ve been a reader ever since and I love your blog! Congratulations on the MAC lip gloss, the Baisden show – I mean that is amazing! As I come up on my two year blogiversary, I’m trying to make major moves to take my blog to the next level and seeing you do your thing keeps me inspired!

    btw: It’s soo cool you went to college in Miami because so did I! 😉

  13. nolagirl

    at

    Hello I have been a reader for 4 years, I do not remember how Ifound this blog, but I was tired of reading gossip blogs and I wanted something ” nice” . I am a new orleans resident. I still love the positive nature of the blog. and as a natural bella for the past 15 years I’ve found you got me out of my product rut and now I look for new, better products.

  14. Cassandra

    at

    Hi Patrice, I cam across your blog when I was searching for trailblazing women bloggers for my Our Blogs are Beautiful series that I wrote for Black History Month this year. Since that time, I have been a follower on FB and Twitter and love the work that you do.

    If you’re interested in seeing what I wrote about you, here is the link to that post:

    http://www.soulfulsandstone.com/2011/02/our-blogs-are-beautiful-patrice-yursik.html

  15. Isele

    at

    Hey Patrice

    Your brother introduced me to your blog and God will bless him for this I know. Used some of Ms. Jessie’s products for the first time, specifically the curly pudding and was really impressed with the results. Just wanted to get your views on that range of products. Keep doing what you’re doing.

    Isele

  16. Glam

    at

    I’m from Houston. I discovered you from a link from my friend Crys, who is blog reading queen, almost 5 years ago.

    To be honest I cant think of anything I want more from you or the site. I think you are great at giving me a variety of posts, articles & products that are relevant to me. Keep up the good work!!

    -OG

  17. muze

    at

    *waves*

    when i started my own personal blog She’s So Flyy way back in 2007, i began researching natural hair, as i was transitioning. when you linked an article on BlackVoices that featured a post of mine on natural hair, i discovered the awesomeness that is afrobella. and being on nappturality and fotki and such, this blog was always talked about. loved it then, love it now. i think this may be only my 3rd time commenting, but i’ve been reading since then.

    funny thing is, i started a fiction blog based on a girl with natural hair at the encouragement of the masses on nappturality, and it was a hit. now that it’s being published as a novel, i will definitely be sending you a copy! so incredibly proud of all the natural girls that i have seen and interacted with blossom from just recording their hair journey and chit chatting about hair with each other to being big time bloggers and what not, like Mae and Chicoro. it’s great.

    congrats and many successes moving forward!

    i’ve never worn lipglass but i tried it to support and it’s fab.

    #naturalgirlsrock.

  18. Natasha "NaturallyTrini75" Strickland

    at

    Natasha from MD. So pleased to meet you Bella. I’ve been a lurker for a few months now, since I BC’d in January. I LOVE my natural hair and I am learning (slowly) what it likes and dislikes but I am enjoying the journey. I too am a Trini, moved to NY back in the ’90s and moved all over the place before finally settling down in MD. Your blog is one of my favs so I decided now’s a good time to introduce my self and quit lurking in the background. Have a blessed day!

  19. Moni

    at

    Hey Bella!

    I found your blog I think in late 2007/early 2008 when I was on a temp assignment that was boring me to death. I can’t even remember what or how I got to your site, but I was happy to see a sista with a fro doing the darn thing . I’ve commented on your blog on and on for years.

    I remember one time you got into it with a blogger about the content you decide to write on your blog and I responded by saying that what you said was just that, your opinion. I remember you saying that you weren’t going to censor yourself and I was hooked after that.

    I remember when you changed your blog look, and I remember when you left Miami and came to NY and traveled to another location before you went to Chicago.

    I’ve enjoyed reading all about your adventures and I’m so happy to see how you have become a brand and also when I read your articles/statements in various magazines/blogs. I’m also happy to say that I received “All My Purple Life” on Saturday (I bought 2 tubes) and I plan on making a video this week and send to you. I love it!

    Afrobella is a permanent bookmark that’s for sure! : )

  20. Patrick Grell Jnr.

    at

    Hello little sister!

    I’m just dropping in to show you some love, and to let everyone know how proud I am of you! Keep doing what you do lil sis!

  21. LaQueshia Jeffries

    at

    Hi Patrice!

    I truly, totally love you site, your energy, and your look. I’m from North Chicago (about 40 min north of the City). And I decided to go natural back in 2006, while living overseas with my family.

    When we came back I had a perm hiccup, but started again fresh and have been respecting my locks ever since.

    The thing I love most about AfroBella is that although fun, the site is completely professional and appears to be the result of your continous efforts.

    I started my blog just to release all the thoughts swirling around in my head. They needed a permanant home :o).
    So keep on keep on because you inspire me; with your purple self :o)

  22. LaQueshia Jeffries

    at

    Hi Patrice!

    I truly, totally love you site, your energy, and your look. I’m from North Chicago (about 40 min north of the City). And I decided to go natural back in 2006, while living overseas with my family.

    When we came back I had a perm hiccup, but started again fresh and have been respecting my locks ever since.

    The thing I love most about AfroBella is that although fun, the site is completely professional and appears to be the result of your continous efforts.

    I started my blog just to release all the thoughts swirling around in my head. They needed a permanant home :o).
    So keep on keeping on because you inspire me; with your purple self :o)

  23. LaQueshia Jeffries

    at

    Hi Patrice!

    I truly, totally love you site, your energy, and your look. I’m from North Chicago (about 40 min north of the City). And I decided to go natural back in 2006, while living overseas with my family.

    When we came back I had a perm hiccup, but started again fresh and have been respecting my locks ever since.

    The thing I love most about AfroBella is that although fun, the site is completely professional and appears to be the result of your continous efforts.

    So keep on keeping on because you inspire me; with your purple self :o)

  24. LaQueshia Jeffries

    at

    Hi Patrice!

    I truly, totally love you site, your energy, and your look. I’m from North Chicago (about 40 min north of the City). And I decided to go natural back in 2006, while living overseas with my family.

    The thing I love most about AfroBella is that although fun, the site is completely professional and appears to be the result of your continous efforts.

    So keep on keeping on because you inspire me; with your purple self :o)

  25. LaQueshia Jeffries

    at

    Hi Patrice!

    I truly, totally love you site, your energy, and your look. I’m from North Chicago (about 40 min north of the City).

    The thing I love most about AfroBella is that although fun, the site is completely professional and appears to be the result of your continous efforts.

    So keep on keeping on because you inspire me; with your purple self :o)

  26. Dominique

    at

    Hi Patrice,
    I am a newbie to your blog. I’ve read about it before, but never took the time to investigate UNTIL I read that MAC had selected you to partake in their Bloggers Obsession event. I am so excited for you and hopefully I can snag All of My Purple Life once I get paid.

    I live in Chicago as well, so hopefully one day we may cross paths.

    Much continued success with Afrobella!!!

  27. MrsCottonCurls

    at

    Hi Bella!
    I’ve “lurked” on your site in the past but haven’t been a loyal follower. However, another blog I do loyally follow (kisforkinky) did a piece on your MAC lipstick & when I saw the color I was in L.O.V.E. It made me come back for more & I plan to stalk your site just like I stalk kinky’s site…lol.

    About Me:
    I’m originally from Savannah, GA, lived in ATL for 7 years where I went to GA State Univ. I now live in Charlotte, NC with my hubby. We’ve been married for 2 years and have a little mixed terrier puppy named Sumo. I received a BBA in Real Estate/Marketing and I currently work for a large property management company. I am also a NC Real Estate Broker. I am obsessed with natural hair and began my natural hair journey back in June of 2007. As a plus sized woman all of my adult life, I’ve come to love my body and accept it as it is. I believe in good health and I am striving to lose 50 lbs (15 down so far!) but I still know that I need to love me as I am. So, I’ve also recently began a journey to find my personal fashion style. So excited to start following you again. Good luck with MAC! I can’t wait until your color comes out 🙂

  28. Likumbi

    at

    Hi Bella, My name is Likumbi, looked up your site after it was mentioned in Essence. LOVE IT. As a newly natural sistah from Zambia, I am still feeling out my hair. I am learning it’s quirks likes/dislikes and hang ups. Really diggin this site!

  29. Stephanie V.

    at

    Hey Bella,

    I recently came upon your website while browsing another blog (Michelle Phan). I read your story about Janet Mock and became intrigued with your website.

    About me: About seven years ago, I moved from Los Angeles, California to Atlanta, Georgia. I teach middle school language arts in an urban area. I love culture, new adventures and dance.

    Your energy and enthusiasm are apparent and that is why I subscribed to your blog.

  30. Embraceurcrazy

    at

    Hello Patrice:

    My name is Bree (@embraceurcrazy) and I live in the DC area, I’ve always loved your blog, and I refer everyone who’s newly natural, or overwhelmed natural to it. Your honesty, and fun attitude always come through. But now that I follow you on twitter, and know that you’re a pisces! (March 9th!!) It makes me love you even more!

    Since I’ve followed your blog for so long, I’m like a proud sister and when I see all of the big things you’ve accomplished, your lipstick, your bathing suit, your radio show, and the love that you’re following shows you, it makes us adore you even more!

    Keep up the great work!!

    About Bree:
    I’m married, have two boys and I reside in Maryland outside of dc. I work full time, go to school part time, and am starting my own site http://www.embraceurcrazy.com to document some of the craziness, and fun that inhabit my day to day existence. I wish you the best of luck!!

  31. Mia

    at

    Hey Patrice! New reader (and lurker) waving hello! I found your blog through the MAC Bloggers Obsession collection — love the color you created, and the posts of yours I’ve read so far! <3

  32. Dad and Mom

    at

    There is absolutely no doubt that you are a true professional. Your body of work is testimony to that……. inclusive of the high standards you mentioned in this post. Your best days are yet ahead. Stay healthy and strong.
    Love always,
    Dad &Mom

  33. Karen

    at

    Hello Bella,

    I discovered you through my cousin Donna Marie Coles-Johnson who operates the Indie Beauty Network. I started reading your blog a few months ago. I’ve worn my hair naturally since 2004, and reside in the DC Metro Area.
    Keep up the great work you do.- Karen at karenbowlding.net

  34. Jasmine

    at

    Oh, Bella.

    I’ve been lurking on this blog since you made your very first post 5 years ago. I was 16 and at my wits end – I had no idea how to do my hair or makeup, and no idea that beautiful comes in all sizes and colors. Your beauty tips followed me throughout high school and college, all the way to my very first job. You have no idea how much you’ve inspired me. You’re like the big sister I never had.

    By the way, congratulations on the release of ‘All My Purple Life’! It looks absolutely stunning. I ordered a tube of it for my 21st birthday. I’m really looking forward to wearing it out this weekend 🙂

  35. Shan

    at

    Is All my Purple Life really sold out? Noooo!!!

  36. Kenya

    at

    Hova! Hova! Hova!

    Okay, Bella! Bella! Bella!

    I’ve been a lurker for the past 10 months, which was when I did my BC. I’m a closet writer and an avid reader, but I have to figure out how to get out of my own way and chase my passion. I don’t wear makeup. Primarily because I don’t know how, but I like to pretend I do by reading your beauty features!

    During the day I am a scholarship and grants administrator for a nationally-recognized nonprofit, a wife and a volunteer recruiter for my beloved alma mater–Bennett College. I live outside of Washington, DC in MD where I dream daily about the ocean and sand betwixt my toes.

  37. Anjuan Simmons

    at

    Hi Patrice!

    I had heard about your blog long before, but I became a regular reader and fan after meeting you at Blogging While Brown last year. You are an inspiration, and I love the great beauty that comes through every word you write!

  38. curlsR4ever

    at

    Hi Patrice,

    I have known about your blog for a while. I am in Chicago, too! I love natural hair, music (singing/writing lyrics), writing, fashion, fine and performing arts, politics, architecture/interior design and summer festivals in Chicago 🙂 I am trying to keep my creative life going, and your blog is inspiring. I got my tube of All of my Purple Life, and I love it! Thanks!

  39. royalmommy2

    at

    Hi there! I’ve been a fan of yours for years. I check your website for the latest trends and products for natural hair. I’ve been natural for over 7 years and your site has been very beneficial. You’ve been a major inspiration and motivated me to start blogging. I thought about it for years but was never confident enough to do it. I stepped out of my shell this March and I started a blog about my experiences as a Make Up Artist and products I use personally as well as on clients. Im so proud of you and happy for all of your success. I know that you are a busy lady, but it would be nice if you went on a nation wide tour and in particular came to Houston to do a workshop on Beauty blogging.

    Thanks for all that you do!

  40. dee

    at

    Hey Bella, My name is Dee from the DC area(But most of my family is in Chicago 🙂 ) I’m an office manager for a pre college program…it sounds nice but it isn’t where my heart lies. I love makeup, and have been known to spend hours at my local MAC and Sephora(there’s one 10 minutes from the job lol). Because I love makeup so very much I decided to stop playing around and start a blog, http://myignorantbeauty.wordpress.com/ .

    I’ve been reading your blog for what seems like forever. I have no clue how I found you, but I was a reader when you still lived in Miami and whatnot. I’ve been reading the blog since before I went natural, and I have to say, you and all your resources were ridiculously helpful before and during the process.

    I could always use more makeup reviews(because I’m obsessed!) but I love the balance you’ve struck.

  41. Cam

    at

    hey there! I’m Cam. I’ve been reading off and on for a while now. It was the natural hair talk that got me here! I’m a writer/producer and blogger living in LA. Nice to meet ya – formally and all. 🙂

  42. Babs

    at

    I’m Babs from Atlanta. Been reading since about 8 months ago when I decided to transition to natural. Not sure how I found you.

  43. Viv B

    at

    Hello Afrobella,

    I am Vivian from Kansas and I am a natural bella also. I have been natural for nine years. Initially, I wore braids and twists, then in 2009 I decided to get the official “Big Chop”. I maintained a TWA up until May 2011 because I decided to grow my hair out. I was going to a beautician to maintain my cut, but my hair stopped growing; I was devastated. So I figured I could do better myself, so I started surfing the web for great natural hair care products and maintenance techniques…and there you were, doing a product review of WEN (which I purchased)! I have only been familiar with Afrobella for about one month, but I love this site. Not only have I found great info for hair, but I just had to buy your All of My Purple Life (this is the first vibrant lip color I have worn in years) lipglass…I usually do browns.

    I don’t have a blog and up until recently I didn’t even go on youtube…Thank God for friends who do:)

    I am in the Air Force and love being one of the few natural Diva’s on the installation.

    Well, enough for now…Congrats on all of your success!

    Viv B

  44. Larenee

    at

    You, Luvvie, and Prince led me here. However, in my searching specifics about natural hair, I have read and enjoyed quite a bit of your material. Thanks for the intro!

  45. Kia

    at

    I heard about you on the Michael Baisden show. I currently live in Dallas, Texas. I recently received my first two tubes of All of My Purple lipglass. I love it! I am wearing it everyday.

    I enjoy all of the different aspects of the site! Thank you for introducing me to new products that actually work!

    Keep doing great things!

    Kia

  46. Sandra Yvette

    at

    I discovered your website through a YouTube search about natural hair. I have been natural for 5 years now. This is second time I’ve gone natural, and I don’t plan to ever go back to a relaxer. Even though I have been natural for 5 years, I kept my hair relatively short until a year ago this month. Although I’m interested in more information about growing out my natural hair, I’m far more concerned about keeping it healthy. I know if it’s healthy, it will grow. I also love more information about product reviews.

  47. Sandra Yvette

    at

    Oops. I forgot to mention that I live in Greenville, SC.

  48. Justice

    at

    Hey there Bella the beautiful! I am a stay-at-home Mom from DC that discovered you from the Clumps of Mascara site. I’ve only been active in the blogosphere for a few months since creating my own blog at http://www.iamnotmychair.com.

    I started my locs from double-strand twists over 6 years after becoming paralyzed. I’d love to read more about natural hair for children, especially toddlers. I’m on the hunt for great styles and stylists in the DMV (DC-Maryland-Virginia) because my hands aren’t up for the challenge.

    Keep up the great work!

  49. Pia Morrison

    at

    Hi, My name is PierAngeli and I live in MD. I have been rocking natural hair for quite some time and I have been am afrobella “lurker/stalker” for a few years now. I truly enjoy the insighful articles and the daily reminders about how beautiful we are as a people. Thanks for all you do and keep up with good work.

  50. Shones

    at

    Wow, that is beautiful! 🙂

  51. Shones

    at

    Hello Bella Patrice! My name is Shoni, but I go by Shones on blogs and boards. I found out about you four years ago through NaturallyCurly.com’s 4a board around the time I lopped off my locs in favor of free-form natural hair. Your blog resonated with me for three main reasons: gifted writer/journalist, curvy natural lady, and positively real. In a world full of stilettos, you are comfortable in Toms — how cool is that!

    I graduated from UT-Austin with a Bachelor of Journalism and then moved to NYC to work for one of the networks. Charles and I married in NY (nine years ago tomorrow, praise God!) and then moved to our current home in Raleigh where we live with our *ahem* plus-size cat, Cleo. We’re both active in ministry and we love our new home state.

    I currently work as a recruiter for a major tech company, but I recently started writing/blogging again in my spare time. I think it’s important for us to be creators and not just consumers. I can tell you *love* to write, and you have inspired me to stick with it. You have also shown me how one blog can be an effective platform for a wide range of concepts (not solely make-up or hair, but a variety of topics). You can find my catch-all of thoughts at curlysweetlife.blogspot.com. Thank you so much for all your hard work, dedication, and consistency. Congrats on the AMPL MAC lipglass as well.

  52. M. Michele

    at

    hello Afrobella,
    Thanks for sharing!
    I live in Brussels, Belgium. I came accross your blog after the ad for Creme of Nature, with Sunshyne from Hairlista (I’m part of that network)

    kisses.

  53. Denise @How Mama Got Her Swag Back

    at

    Hi, I’m Denise! I live in the DC area and I’m a web designer AND minister. Been a a lurker for quite some time (I’ve been natural for over 13 years and of course came across your blog for ideas and perspectives many times over the years). Great to “meet” you!

  54. Alean King

    at

    Hi, I’m Alean and I have been following your blog for about 6 months. I put you in my favorites. I live in Detroit and I am a school Dept Head. I found out about you from another blogger, I just don’t remember which one. I’ve been wanting to develop my own blog for a while now and today motivated me to give it a shot. Thanks!!!!!

  55. Audrey

    at

    Hi Bella!
    I’m a lurker as well, coming out to say hello! You are such an inspiration to all of us! Though I am a natural newbie, I thoroughly enjoyed your blog as a relaxed chica as well. I’ve also been trying to find a way to send a copy of The Science of Black Hair to you– I think you’d really enjoy it! Don’t want to take up too much time- but, I love what you are doing, and again you are such an inspiration! – Audrey

  56. DeeDee

    at

    Hi Bella,
    I stumbled upon your site while researching some natural hair products, and I just loved all of the information I found here. I trust your reviews and opinions and just love the sense of inclusion I get from your site. It doesn’t hurt that you are a great writer and talk about all the things I love! Keep up the great work and congrats on your MAC lipglass!

  57. Vaughnette Bigford

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    Hi
    My name is Vaughnette and I am a musician and Health and Safety Practitioner living and working in Trinidad and Tobago. I found out about you from Outlish Magazine on Facebook and I’ve been addicted to this space since. This place is beautiful and I have very proud to be part of it.

  58. Keisha Streeter-Clark

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    Hello my name is Keisha, I live in Washington, DC and I am a Real Estate Agent who sales in the metro area (DC,VA,Md) I am married and a mother of 3 and one due in September. I’ve been a Natural hair diva for 14 years. I am always looking for new styles, products and techniques on how to maintain my coif. I believe I stumbled upon your name on Essence or twitter. I love your website and blog, the make-up and hair tips are a treasure. The stocking top is one tip I practice faithfully lol! Congrats on All my purple life. I ordered mine right away and just received it two days ago. I love it. My best friend Renee tried to steal it last night I told her to get her own alas it’s sold out! Wow thats great for you bad for us,lol. Wish I had bought in bulk! Hopefully Mac will be wise enough to recognize a good thing when they see it and produce more. Your very talented and gifted and your work is appreciated. Keep up the good work.

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    i live in des plaines, il. i grew up in chicago, but lived in atlanta and phoenix before deciding to move back to chicago. i work with disabled adults and paint in my spare time. i’ve been married for 18 years and have a lovely dog and cat. i found your blog years ago through concreteloop.com. i fell in love with your blog because it covered topics that i have been searching for. i’ve been natural for about 6 years now.

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    Hi Patrice! My name is Kim…and I live in TN… and I love your blog. Yes, I have been a lurker LOL…but your posts are the best. Keep doing what you are doing. 🙂

  61. Trinita

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    Hi Afrobella!

    I came across your website about a year ago when I started transitioning from my relaxer. I was desperately searching for information so I could make an informed start to my natural journey. I appreciate not only your articles on natural hair but also fashion and news in general. Thank you for such a professional and informative blog!

    Trinita aka NaturallyNita

  62. LV@Foodfashionandflow

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    Hi Bella!

    My name is LV and I live in Los Angeles. I love reading blogs about beauty and fashion and I came across your blog after my cousin told me how awesome it was. I have been lurking ever since. I really enjoy your blog and love all of the natural hair tips.

  63. Paris

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    My name is Paris and I live in Chicago. I discovered this blog looking at another blog site. I work in Sales & Marketing. Love hair, music, fashion and makeup and meeting people of various cultures

  64. Roses Daughter

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    Ok, I’m a lurker coming out to say hi! Congrats on All of My Purple Life! I wish it wasn’t sold out!

  65. chocolate_peach

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    I guess I would consider myself a lurker. I’ve followed you from just about the beginning. I remember when you were still in Miami and I remember when you redesigned your site w/the new logo. I just wanted to congratulate you on your success with this blog. I wanted to also thank you for starting this blog as well. I discovered you the second time I went natural and this site was a great resource. The first time I went natural there just weren’t that many resources for us online and I got frustrated. This is my first time leaving you a comment, but I felt compelled to do so. Also, I supported your MAC venture & now I own the “All My Purple Life” gloss. Take care & best wishes!

  66. Andrea

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    Hi! I’m Andrea, from the Detroit area, and I’ve been lurking for a while! I found your blog when I was trying to figure out how to work with my natural hair. I’m still trying to figure it out, Lol, but I’m also loving your beauty and fashion stuff too! And I LOVE All My Purple Life!!! I wish I had gotten more than one before it sold out!

  67. Lauren

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    Hi! I’m a lurker who loves your tips and insights! I’m a doctoral student in Chicago who is a makeup newbie, but longtime naturalista (loc’ed for 5 years). Keep the beauty coming!

  68. Sherry Blossom

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    My name is Sherry Blossom. Im a freelance MUA, beauty blogger and vlogger in NYC. I have been a lurker for almost a year and just recently began commenting. I discovered your blog around the time I started my career as a MUA…you constantly sprang up in my google searches of “best darn beauty bloggers ever”. It was LOVE at first site(lol pun intended!). Seriously, your awesome and meeting you in Chicago was literally a dream come true. All of my friends knew how nervous I was..kind of similar to the sweaty palm feeling you got when you sat next to Russell Simmons..but you definitely calmed my fears and talking with you was such a breeze…and like Cinderella you had to go before the clock struck 12..lol…I will continue following your blog you’ll have to tear me away kicking and screaming other wis. Thank you for paving the way and being courageous enough to do what your heart desired. It is because of you many of us have the courage to do it too! XOXO, Sherry Blossom

  69. Jahmella

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    I found out about you froman article in Ebony magazine about the new product. I thought any blogger in Essence is worth taking a look at. Ever since then I check at least once a week to see the latest. I have my own blog afrohaircentrik.wordpress.com and like you my favorite color is purple. I really enjoy your site!

  70. shadid

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    Hi Bella!

    I’ve been lurking off and on for years. I found you through someone on the Nappturality website. I was so happy to see the news of “All of My Purple Life”! Congrats on the success.

  71. Khyrra

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    Hi Bella, I’m from Covington, Ga & I’m not sure how long I’ve lurked but I’ve been lurking for a minute. 🙂 And I dont even remember how I found your site but once I did I was hooked! I am a customer service supervisor by day & writer in my free time. I wish you continued success! Stay blessed! 🙂

  72. Yolli

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    Hi Bella. I am a new to your site but will now become a regular. Found you after a YTuber demo-ed your MAC lipglass. Love your vibe. I now reside in Acworth GA.

  73. NaturalBeauty4Real

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    Hello Afrobella,
    My name is Ericka and I recently discovered you on Youtube. I went natural 3 yrs ago due to damaged hair that broke off nearly to the scalp. I hid my big chop under half wigs and lace fronts. Now I have the courage to be free and this liberation led me to youtube to get more tips for styling natural hair and I love it. I joined last month, NaturalBeauty4Real…please feel free to subscribe. I’d be honored. Anyways, I love your warm spirit it oozes from the screen. I’m going through a transformation phase in my life and looking at different options to increase the quality of my life and I definitely get inspiration from all that is shared on the blogs and youtube. So please keep it coming. Continued blessings with your success, from a fellow Chicagoan.

  74. Nicole

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    Hi Bella,

    I just recently discovered your blog about 2 weeks ago when I was reading Essence magazine online. I am a newbie when it comes to being natural. (2 weeks to be exact). This has truly been an experience. I didn’t realize how much work going natural would be. I love reading your blog. It gives me hope that one day my hair will do what I want it to do. 🙂

  75. Goddesslily

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    Hi, i’m Goddesslily on the Internet. I’m in my early 50’s and live in Los Angeles with my husband of 25yrs. I’m a dedicated Youtube follower of yours and recent Blog follower. Hope you visit my Blog!

  76. Roxanne

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    Hi Afrobella!

    I discovered your site via twitter and Blogging While Brown. I’m a New Yorker, currently living/working in Beijing, China as an educator. I’ve been reading your blog for about a year now. Keep up the great work!

  77. Tiffany

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    Hey Bella!!
    I’m Tiffany and newly natural. I came across your blog 6 months ago searching for other naturals. It has truly been a blessing. Thanks and keep up the good work.
    Stay Beautiful
    Tiffany

  78. Colleen

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    Hi Patrice a.k.a. Ms.Bella,

    I love your website and I have been visiting the website every chance I get. Its lovely to know you are a Miami native and studied at UM. I am a Miami native as well, and currently a freshmen at FIU. I am proud to find another fellow natural blogger;I say this because I will be starting a blog with the intent on documenting my hair care journey and other things as well.

    Take Care, Colleen 🙂

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