Time for the “renew”…

Yes, stands it’s been a while but it’s never too late to pick up and stay up to bat :)
I tweet more than I blog and “facebook” these days… However, it’s not part of my manners to deceive and for that I apologize for my absence. This being said, I refuse to make excuses for my lack of postings as it comes with the territory [I’m a busy woman, I can’t help it when life calls me on a mission] :)

Within Essence Productions is far from being lost in translation! The wheels are just turning and it’s such a blessing to see the growth of each seed everyday! It makes the process of this journey worthwhile, easier to expand and build up. To those of you who have just joined "the convo", I welcome you with open arms and hope to connect with you on a deeper end. This is my “PERCEPTION” segment as I call it [I just hate the word blog - If you've visited my webpage you understand what I mean by this]

As the founder and creative director of my company, I’ve been going through an amazing process of change and re-branding. I strongly believe that sometimes we all have to detach and start anew… After all, there’s no need to rush and complete something if you can’t cover the basics properly! Innovation and creativity are always key in business and I take it very seriously when it comes to mine. Every step is a "tabula rasa", a blank page awaiting for a new chapter to be encrypted.

A lot has happened in the past months, [I’m hoping I can wrap my head around and feel you in gradually] wonderful and major wins but none of them would be possible without minor losses yeah? Just know that within each circumstance I remain victorious and willing, because I’ve branded my life as a passion of mine to conquer…

“Whew”… It’s truly amazing to live and see what a few months can do. I take no instance for granted and I’m simply pushing forward.

I will leave it like that for now and let my focus continue to bring you the best of me! Can’t wait to share what’s been stirring in the bowls :)

Till then, keep reaching and aiming as I continue to share my value by bringing the luxuries of your heart to life with a touch of sense and with a touch of fashion :)

Be blessed, Be empowered

Grace Mayele

Within Essence Productions & Gwen Madiba Combining the dots

Within Essence Productions is proud to be bringing you "The Encore"...
If you've read my earlier posts you know about my partnership with Gwen Madiba and know that she has given me the green light as far as the details and managerial aspects of her production are concerned! She's truly a phenomenal woman I enjoy working with!! Being trusted to direct an amazing show of such caliber and purpose is truly humbling. For those who may not know, Gwen and I have known each other for almost a decade and all I can say is that she and I truly know how "to pick" each other’s brain and create magic... I love strong, humble, ambitious women and I believe that's exactly why she and I flow together naturally!!!

Although fashion productions can be rather overwhelming and tiring due to the load of work, I wouldn't trade any of this time spent and invested behind the scenes for anything!!! Not only do I embrace and welcome everyday challenges but I love what I do and enjoy every bit of it...
I am learning so much plus I make it my duty to cultivate and nurture my abilities further!
Seeing the success the show held last year and the level of empowerment it brought upon the local rising talents involved simply reinforced the will to bring this activity forth annually.
See the event details below...

For those who've waited, it's well deserved! Fine wine truly does get better with time... Last year she asked you to "Rip the Fab lane & Rock the dance floor" but this year she's welcoming a romantic breed of new edge and asking you to slay the keys and "Rock" with her...

Giving you a taste of fashion like no other, and taking you on a journey called "explicit fabulousity" with delectable pieces that are set to break you off and keep your mind captivated... Ottawa's own Gwen Madiba, brings you "I AM FASHION: RIP THE FAB LANE" 2010!! The new Spring Collection "Just Gwen" re-defined!! A second annual that is not to be missed!!

The event will feature: Ottawa fashion-savvy designers, special live entertainment not to mention a special guest of honour! The proceeds of the event will be going to the effort relief funds for a project to support women in Haiti and the Micone orphanage in Libreville (Gabon).

THE FAB LANE IS RATED "GS".... Be Empowered, Be Fierce, Be Fabulous :)

Seeing the Light, Not blinded by the Action...

Already in March, time truly doesn't wait!! Hope all of you have been maintaining well... it's been crazy at my end and simply feel like I lost my blogging “spill”! Been setting back taking time to nurture the mind and spirit and did I mention WORK...ha! That word truly never escapes! Back to back it’s been “to & fro”… Yes folks believe it, WEP has been going full force and simply doing what a mentor of mine calls "Birthing the dream"!!!
Gave birth to this baby and now I'm simply taking care of it!! Nourishing her, planting the proper seeds so she can grow and become a powerful force for nations. With such a vision in mind, you know that requires time and space right? Especially at the early stages :)

Nevertheless, exciting things have been in the works and it's truly humbling for me to say that "cloud 9" is understated since the cloud I’m leaning onto is what I call “the infinite”...

I keep on seeing the light and account myself for each and everyone of my actions....

Getting Soulful: WEP's Founder in the mix ....

It's always fun to sit down and liaise with different vendors in the city for different projects! I find myself doing a lot of that these days and I'm always happy when I stumble upon new faces! Ottawa is a small city after all and you soon realize at times how quick you've already met certain people but just failed to know what they actually did behind the scenes...

Last weekend, I had the great pleasure to sit down with XPhotography, a rising couple of photographers in the city for a bit of promo! They are compiling a list of vendors for a series on their blog and I seem to have been their third charm! Meaning the third vendor they got a chance to mingle with! It's always humbling to be approached to partake in these kind of activities so I truly felt honoured! Meeting up with Bridget and Rashaad was truly bliss! They’re fun couple to experience and are truly free-spirited! I Love it when I see a married couple working together as ONE and sharing their visions as ONE!! Can't emphasize on how important that is!

We met up early Saturday morning for the outdoor shoot which I thought was pretty cool seeing I had never done a photo shoot outside before [not to mention in winter]! We visited couple sites to shoot and while on our way to destination they conducted a mini interview; [those are always fun right?? When you totally don't expect the questions ha!] I wasn't sure what to say, I won't lie I was a bit nervous but it didn't bite, I was at ease ;)! The questions were straight- forward and much open for discussion so it felt more like a natural conversation!

Feel free to check out the spread on their blog and must importantly their work and peep what I had to say....

Fast Life...

Isn't it amazing how fast time goes by? Makes you wonder how much we make use of your time...

We're already in February or should I even pause and say March? Sounds silly but how tempting right? February always encloses with a short kiss goodbye “muah bizou”... [talk about a hit and run]…'Tis the season of lovers after all right? Hmm so "they say" ha! But either way, WEP is glad to still be standing! This month has been quite innovating and I’m glad to be around and enjoy every bit of it ;)...

I know it's been awhile since our last chatter! These past few months have been non-stop and the pile just keeps on building up! I'm on cloud nine right now, the number is totally indefinite! “Doing and Being”! Things are picking up! Exciting new projects (yes), new challenges (yes), new partnerships (yes) but the best part of it all is the learning process!!!! I thank God for the solid dose of creativity but also for giving me the courage to keep holding on without driving myself against the wall...believe me the "going" can get tough and overwhelming when your constantly going non-stop but the "reminders" of why I do what I do are what keep me standing....

I mean, here we were talking New Years resolution and now were talking Black History Month, Valentines day and even planning away for Fall endeavours!!! No wonder everyone is running around... But how much running can one do is a question that often comes to mind?

One of my mentors once told me:"It's easier to get lost in opportunities than it is when the doors are closed" ... hmmm tough one to swallow??? But I'm curious to know as I leave you with these questions...

How do you manage your time or live beyond the "fast life"? Or better yet is time managing you?

Wrapping Up!

Hey lovers,

It's been crazy at my end! Were wrapping up a couple projects and signing in with the new :)

We've mainly been touching up on Kayan Aiken's designer launch "HUMBRELLA" Taking the World by Storm. Were four days ahead and I must tell you, we are all boiling with excitement! Planning a fashion show is always fun ;) - It's a great challenge WEP likes to take upon as there are some many holes to fill and so much to foresee!

We're working with an amazing team of creative designers! Our models have been lovely and dedicated; we couldn't be any happier!

The show will be this Saturday at the Arts Court tickets are selling like flies... Got a few errands to run today but will definitely keep you posted! So much has been going on and we are not complaining...

Till then, Be inspired!

http://www.styleathome.com/decorating-and-design/inside-design/inside-design-preston-bailey/a/22822

Coasting With Flair...

That's right everyone, its New Years Eve and you're probably wondering what we're cooking up our sleeves right? Wondering how we will be spending our night? Well then, let me disclose how we will be bringing the luxuries of the heart to life...

I shared with you a couple reflective thoughts that were running through my mind yesterday about the New Year and so on… As you know I tend to get “poetic" and philosophical when I speak of exciting things such as life! Discussing business ventures and sharing my general outlook on life to empower others is so holistic to me! It's a portion that I get across into each of my endeavours that way you get a better sense of my approach and most importantly the kind of person I am! [I think it's important]... but anyhow, not to go astray from today’s blogging edition lol ;)

As I was saying, you guys are probably wondering what WEP is cooking up for New Year's Eve??? Fortunately for us, we're coasting with flair... meaning, tonight we're going to relax and mingle in style! Starfish Creative Events + Inspiration have generously invited us to attend and grace the Red Carpet in good old Hollywood fashion...

This team is such a big inspiration when it comes down to event management and design here in Ottawa and I have no shame in saying so openly! I admire their work!! I know some of you are probably frowning like, isn't this your competition?? I say no, why look at others as a "threat" if they can 1) inspire you 2) help you get better??? Seriously, talking and exchanging thoughts with other experts in this industry is not only a great exercise but always stimulating and encouraging!

To sum it up, I am totally looking forward to ring in the New Year with splash! The event will be taking place inside the Crowne Plaza Hotel [downtown Ottawa if you're unfamiliar] in two stunning penthouse rooms! So many goodies and surprises await but why spoil the beans if you can just read about it yourselves? If you're still wondering what to do tonight I suggest you get to your keyboard and get your tickets fast…

Till then, the countdown begins may you all be extraordinary and beyond verbal measures!!!Happy New Years everyone!

Spicy + Savvy Holiday Party

Last Thursday I was invited to a festive holiday party that was hosted by Bronwyn Hammell, from Cinammon Toast New Media Inc and her wonderful partner Carrie Irvine from Blackbird Communications. Add these two fabulous ladies to your mix and together they’ve joined forces to create “Spicy & Savvy”… (If you recall, Cinammon Toast New Media Inc are the ones responsible for the layout of my beautiful website and all my branding related needs)

This was a fabulous cocktail, I have no complaints! It was cold outside but the atmosphere definitely warmed up my spirit! The “spice” was in full effect! It was a great place to network, sip, shop and mingle with fellow “savvy” mates in business! The signature drink, the punch, the wine and the appetizers were top of the line [If you know me, you know I like “a good drink” with “a good kick” if you know what I mean :)]! Let us not forget, the live entertainment… yes there was a live band [Ahh, let’s not get me started the singer was so refreshing]! The cocktail was held at the HUSH clothing store, the ladies there were so welcoming and graceful

All in all, everything was well organized not to mention a kind gesture to honour each of their clients and let them know how much they appreciated them and their business.

I felt honoured to be invited and totally felt like a valued client!

Thank you :)

Nothing Ventured, Nothing gained...

Hey there remember me :)

"Plenty to share, plenty to tell"! I’m back “in the mix” sorry for my absence...
You can already predict what I'm going to say right??? It's been CRAZY BUSY but it’s all good fun wouldn’t trade it for the world [I love what I do! You wouldn't catch me complaining]…

The fashion shows are coming along GREAT! Time is flying and "showtime" is so near I can’t wait! There have been a few minor changes here and there but nothing we couldn’t foresee nor handle….

I feel so blessed to be part of this and being able to create many different ways to perfect my business is even better! I just want to take this journey to a HIGHER HIGH! As you can see, I’m trying my best to close in and embrace the New Year on good terms if you know what I mean ;)Perfecting some details and shaping different aspect of my life by staying productive! So much is happening and like I've mentioned before: "What a difference a year or two can truly make”…

I was planning on giving you guys a COMPLETE break down of what I've been keeping from you in the past couple days whatnot but I stumbled upon a quote last night that totally described my current state of mind and just wanted to leave you with that for today, and tomorrow I’ll get into more specifics [how does that sound?]….

"You won’t see your pathway unless you use your faith"

With this said,
Nothing ventured, nothing gained! Empower yourself …

Mind In the Muscle, Rolling Up My Sleeves...

We've reached it? The blessed 5th of the week that is and I am sure you have plenty to be grateful for! I know I do because I am still standing by God's grace...
Yup standing indeed [POSTURE] and rolling up my sleeves right about now as I am working away, fine tuning some details [what's new right? lol] to stay in alignment...

On this subtle Friday, I would like to briefly share a little something [told you I would be doing more of that right??? huhuh I am a woman who keeps her word]... So, I had a consultation meeting last night with one of my clients and I can't begin to tell you how mind blowing it felt to discuss the entirety of her Christian book launch! It's something fairly new for me [planning-wise] but being a poet myself makes the process easy to embrace without hesitating [writing is such a deep deep passion of mine!been working on a book myself but that’s for another day]!!!

After hearing my clients vision and attentively taking notes on how far she wants to take this project I can already feel the successful outcome of this production. This will be an amazing outreach for women of God who are yearning for a higher presence in their personal and family lives but also for women in general, who are looking to position and find themselves in their everyday lives! In my opinion, when you create a relevant cause to empower others there's no need to discriminate your audience despite of their background or beliefs… "WE" all need a dose of good sense every now and then and this event will do just that for one's spirit because it has substance! Although I am the planner, I see it far beyond "just that"! Brainstorming for this event has already given me plenty to reflect upon [you guys should know by now, how introspective I am :)]… This launch is going to be quite powerful and God alone can direct me...

With this said, "keeping my mind in the muscle"! you can only imagine how busy it's been and tomorrow I am back at it with the fashion show preps....!

It's Raining: "HUMBRELLA" Taking The World by Storm...

I cannot begin to tell you how excited I am about what I want to share with you... [Yes, I am finally going to divulge just a bit more information about one of the other fashion shows I am presently coordinating]!

Within Essence Productions has partnered with Ottawa's own local talent; Kayan Aiken to bring you her first designer launch titled "HUMBRELLA" [I will definitely tell you more about this incredible woman in the forthcoming weeks, as we count down the opening of her amazing collection]...

We've been working with her for the past months to bring you this event that is set for the New Year [January 23rd, 2010]! Her jaw-dropping couture edge will definitely leave you shook and create a hazard that can only take the world by storm [you've heard it here first; you've been WARNED]...

With this said, don't just sit there and wait to get weathered by "the storm" !!! Grab your umbrellas and celebrate this launch with us. My good friend Marcia said it best: "if you got an itch for fashion, then I suggest you scratch it"...

Full Throttle 2: Addicted to "Busi-ness"

"Alrighty", rather than filling the cup of excuses [notice how quick that word faded] here’s a little taste of my updates as promised:

It has been full speed ahead around here with all the productions I am currently directing; not to mention many of my own personal endeavours...

Reminder...

- Gwen Madiba’s second annual fashion show “I Am Fashion: Rip The Fab Lane”.
As stated in my earlier posts, the model casting is now finalized! Eliminating some of the models wasn’t easy but it had to be done and we are pleased with those who have been selected to strut on the fab lane. We are currently moving onto the next phase with (a) our first meeting with ALL the models Dec 5th and (b) the sponsorship campaign! With this said, we are right on schedule therefore I couldn’t be any happier! Our venue is booked and our vendors are lined up! Couple onsite logistics activities this week … hmm spilling too much but will be giving you “the fashion insight” soon :)

Two other clients have added themselves to my list of fashion shows; however, will keep my lips sealed for now and won’t say too much. Can you say addicted to busy-ness…?
3 fashion shows for 3 different clients - hmm… different lines, different themes, different concepts, can you feel the pressure?? Sing with me..."I'm loving it" [better believe it!!!brainstorm, brainstorm and more brainstorms] I know I am sounding like a freak but nah, I just love being challenged…

Apart from that, I’ve been working away the production of a musical play for a local female singer/song writer! This launch is the ideal thrill and can’t wait to put all the pieces together with a touch of "class, chic and soul"! Hushhh, stay tune for more…

New to my list of duties... a powerful & uplifting book launch for a christian author; I'm truly excited about this project! I was called upon about a week ago and was totally humbled :)... Also lined up, a couple of interesting beauty and empowerment workshops that I am hoping to schedule on a monthly basis in the New Year [yup, look out for my "tricks and bits" segments]...

There is no better time to start planning this out! It may not seem like a lot... [Euuh does that even make sense??? ha-ha] but trust me when I say "the making" behind every detail of an event or a project of any sort is a lot of work! What's going to make a difference in the planning and the process more efficient is... your spirit and however you choose to go about your strategy and knowing what is required to be done at the proper given times! Words like structure, precision, clarity, goals, objectives etc etc etc are crucial in the executing phase!!

The sooner you start the better you finish! “NOW” is always the best time to start planning and getting organized…

Full throttle (1)

Pardon the negligence! It's been crazy, it's been good...
But mark my words, I promise to give you a FULL update tomorrow!

Stay true, Stay blessed :)

Mind-Full

New projects, New Decisions, New Challenges …
In this economy, you can't afford to just sit there and rely on "your own understanding"! Whether you're in business or not you have to "seek to find". This is why; I always find it stimulating and important to nurture my intellectual appetite. Wise man once told me “…When it’s all said and done you can only do what you know” and I couldn’t beg to differ…

I spent my weekend reading and researching some interesting resources on entertainment ideas, beauty tips, current trends and various topics. Considering the wave of projects I am currently handling, it is crucial for me to adapt to any moving trend! This in return will allow me to produce and create something of different substance [rule of thumb: creative juices always have to flow]...

I also took the time to work on my new “vision board” [I’ve vowed to do one every 6 months from now on that way I can keep my ideas, goals and business files freshly updated].

Can’t wait to share some of my new discoveries in the upcoming posts…

Tale of the day: The mind is truly a terrible thing to waste…!

Lights, Camera....Voilà

Shhh...

Happy hour, Happy day :)

Let's hit this off with a little tale of suspense... Tell somebody to tell somebody that our new website is officially DONE and right around the corner!!! We are so excited and truly looking forward on sharing this launch! The website is looking oh-so lovely and is truly the epitome of WEP's "Classic, Chic & Soulful" mantra...

Won't say more nor fill the void, I'll just let the countdown do the talking...!
Lights, Camera .... http://www.withinessenceproductions.com/

Voilà :)

In Focus, In Motion...

Whew....

Thats the emotion you get when you leave room for more excitement in your life! No "if's", No "buts" and No mouth full of "excuses".... Within Essence is 'IN FOCUS'! Leveled up to the hydro :)

I shared yesterday, that a lot of things are moving forth and one that I am pleasantly delighted to announce is the launch of our website! That's right, we are definitely preserving and the look couldn't be anymore sophisticated. Cinnamon Toast New Media Inc are to blame as they thoroughly took the time to not only create and define the brand but understand every bit of what our company is about with their "Spicy & Savvy" method.... Yes, for the impatient "militants" I would love to spoil the surprise for some feedback but not to worry, soon you will see as we are "live" in 5, 4, 3....

In Focus, In Motion - You knew I wouldn't tell! Keep an eye out as the countdown begins :)

Meet N Greet : The word is bliss...

Within Essence Productions wants to take the time to welcome everyone that will be following us as we embark on this journey... "Social Media" seems to have become the new way and tool used to communicate the latest trends and so on! I look at it as a way to explore, share and nurture others... food for thoughts right...right?! But what exactly does that mean? I guess it all depends on what we're looking for in terms of information and what we hope to get out of what is being expressed...

Our value and motto is to "Bring the luxuries of the heart to life"... pretty telling huh? Just wait and see and "see" and "feel" - I'll let that one marinate ;)

For the longest time I sat here thinking... why in the world would I spend time writing a blog?? But then again I thought to myself, why not? Within Essence Productions is going through a maze of total satisfaction and is cooking up so many exciting things (which I will get into very soon)!

With a mind full of ideas and a heart filled with passion.... why not take heed of the “craze” and put it on the map to connect the dots? hmmm....There goes the art of writing and did I mention connecting??? You be the judge...

Join us as we “parlay” into this milestone of bliss... Lights, Camera… Business!

“Rideau”…