The Power of Belief and Music

The one hit wonder Rapper M.I.M.S (This Is Why I'm Hot) said that his name stood for "Music Is My Savior" which I thought was great. Music certainly is my (and no doubt many others) savior as words are extremely effective (no matter who tries to deny it). Words can motivate, destroy, convince, manipulate, encourage, reward, build or break you, whether they be spoken directly to you by someone, seen in writing or heard from a Motivational Speaker/Preacher/Politician/Cult Leader or in a song. When words touch you, they touch you and in many cases really hit home so to speak. 

The past year I have been travelling around Africa (East and South this time) and much took place while I was working on my new book and considering a new country to plant roots. It became extremely adventurous and tumultuous as one can imagine, for me as a solo female traveller being extremely ambitious with my goals between very different countries. So much so that spiralling events began to take its toll, push me to the limit and have me seriously doubt myself, which is dangerous as much as it is scary especially for a Creative Freelancer and what have you.

Words and events often control what we think and believe. Despite all the wonderful things that I have experienced on my travels, recent events and bad words in my head including some from opposing folk whom I know personally, have lead (led to some of you) me to think the worst of the situation and truly disrupted my faith in my mission. Naturally this was soul crushing and was stopping me from moving forward or moving at all, because I had to get my mind right by putting sensibility before sensitivity in order to do what I came to do.

Never in my life have I become so spiritual (although still not religious) as my faith had to carry me through alot of sh*t, plenty of unforeseen sh*t and miracles that took place as a direct result of my faith and it was amazing! I have been left truly awe inspired in amazement at the great turn of events that worked out in my favour due to my new found heightened amount of FAITH & BELIEF, in what I wanted and needed to happen and it has just been astonishing. 

There were quite a few moments where either my life or my livelihood were in serious jeopardy; I panicked, refocused, believed in the seemingly impossible and got it together. With the help of those who love and support me but overall it felt spiritual on more than one occasion. In any case, regardless of the practical things that unfolded, I knew that I had to BELIEVE in my ability, my determination, zest and zeal to make it happen in order to even have the opportunity for my resources to become available to me. 

There was a particular stressful week when I was in Rwanda that was just unbelievably difficult, especially considering certain things that happened prior thus it felt completely unjust, I was in disbelief at what was transpiring and at a complete loss of patience. To take myself out of my stagnant sorrow I needed some inspiration and soul soothing words to basically hug and encourage me. 

Beyond playing my 'Uplifting/Motivational Playlist' that I think many people should create if and when in need, lucky for me I had my very own (written) self-help book to turn to of well thought-out, empowering,  motivational and inspirational quotes that I just published. Of which I wrote so passionately that I could quite literally turn to it myself when in need AND IT F'IN WORKED! By the way, I keep swearing because I'm excited, my vocabulary is emotionally driven at present, not decisively crass.

The quotes that I randomly read hit home so hard that it wasn't funny, but it was wonderful. Wonderful and necessary 'motivational quotes' indeed! The one I wrote about believing in one self by investing in one self, was what I needed to reconcile with to myself.

I had to remind myself that I didn't come this far, to only come this far. Nor was I going to allow myself to just rely on others to invest in me, or for me to half-step how much I was emotionally investing in myself when I knew that it wasn't enough. I knew that I had to fully invest in myself and my goals not just financially but physically and emotionally no matter how weak I felt at the time, and I sh*t you not my strength came right back! 

On more serious occasions I had to remind myself that I can move mountains and come out of the situations that I felt stuck in. It was this self-coaching mentality that got me by and believe it or not it was also certain songs that kept my goal-getting adrenaline pumping (not meant to rhyme).

The songs that I have been listening to on repeat lately due to my new need and new found attraction for them, are by Whitney Houston of all people! Specifically Step by Step and When You Believe featuring Mariah Carey (and written by Babyface!!!). I have a new found respect for Whitney's music catalogue of being so much more than just ballads, rest her wonderful soul. This was briefly echoed in my tweets and Facebook posts from last year for the same reason, as I came to realise that there were at least three songs that I can name (including the two previously mentioned and The Greatest Love of All which was taught to me at primary school in order for us to see our potential and develop self-esteem, which I took for granted at the tender age of six years old).

I had to laugh through my anxiety when I found myself breaking into song from a random lyric of Step by Step with 'Come on baby got to keep moving, come on baby...' and had to play it on YouTube immediately when I remembered where the lyrics came from. Yet nothing, can compare to the emotional response that I have in my adult age whenever I listen to the lyrics of When You Believe, of which I cannot believe that I only recently discovered was written by the same lyrical genius who wrote the Waiting to Exhale soundtrack oh my days!

'We were moving mountains long, before we knew we cooooouuuuld......Though hope is frail, it's hard to kiiilllllll.....Who knows what miracles you can achieve.....when you beliiieeeeevve....somehow you wiiillll, you will when yooouuu belieeeeeeve........and it's easy to give in to your fears.....but when you're blinded  by your faith.......'

Oh my goodness those diva's, TRUE DIVA'S- GONE ARE THE DAYS! Sang the f**k out of that song. Their brilliant range of vocals singing passionate words of reason, fill me with such optimism. Words and the gift of song are so damn powerful. That song in particular, as well as my 2021 mantra of "Faith above fear," made me check myself and elevate myself accordingly, on what became a literal journey of self-discovery. It was beautiful you should've seen it, I MOVED MOUNTAINS! Miracles happened and it brought me plenty tears of joy. Overwhelming joy.

Those instances affected me both personally and professionally in the best possible way. However, the song in the soundtrack to my life since that's what they are appearing to be lol, was Believe by Raheem DeVaughn which you will understand more when you follow my Instagram video link below. I heard that song differently a particular morning of an immense amount of unnecessary stress that had been piling up for weeks (in Namibia) on an empty stomach. Via YouTube's algorithm that song came just on time- and with no interrupting ads. It was a very mindful moment and reminded me to believe in myself as I stated in my quote book and to trust in my purpose, period.

I say all this to remind others in similar situations whose faith is shattered or on the verge of being so, perhaps dwelling in self-doubt and pessimism for whatever reason and generally feeling overwhelmed with discouragement and negativity- IT WILL PASS. YOU CAN COME OUT OF IT, STARTING WITH YOUR MINDSET. Just breathe....focus, reboot, reset, restart and HAVE FAITH in what you are doing and what you want the outcome to be. I'd like to redirect you to the video recording that I did the day that I came to that realisation and decided to share how I was feeling with my audience.

Watch my video clip on my Instagram

#WellnessWednesday

As this month of Mental Health Awareness marks nearly a full year since the limited release of my exclusive quote book from Infiniti Promotions merchandise, I will give readers a 25% discount for you to order a CUSTOM VERSION of personalised #ILoveMyselfBecause quotes for me to create for you (normally £100). Just put the discount code MHAM2225 in the subject line in an email, give me a brief of your request and send it to LKsamuels@infinitipromotions.co.uk. Making these quote books is one of the best things that I've ever done so I am more than happy to keep making them for those who need them most.

Love Lauren

International Shelves

 

What do you see? Do you notice it? Have you found it yet? This is like looking at a giant page of a Where's Wally book isn't it lol.

My book poeple! I'm All In is stacked on the top shelf YAYYY! I'm so happy (smiling with all teeth emoji).

I would have taken a picture of me next to the shelf or had the staff do it but not only is that too ostentatious for me but the staff were not that enthusiastic so it was out of the question, BUT THEY WILL NOT BRING DOWN MY HIGH! 

MY BOOK- FIRST BOOK, IS ON SHELVES PEOPLE! And not just the shelves of customers within their homes although that is the greatest honour, but it is on retail shelves which is the goal of many Authors. Especially for self-published Authors as we have a steeper hill to climb in order to get given half of the same opportunities for distribution and exhibition thus sales, considering our limited resources of not publishing our books with a (commercial) publishing company- BUT I DID IT! BY MYSELF I would like to point out. No publishing house, no distributor, no Publicist, no Assistant just my persistence (meant to rhyme).

I would also like to point out that not only did I forget this year that it was the publication anniversary this month seeing as August is usually a miserable time of year- ANNUALLY KMT. That aside, this opportune time of year in 2021 had the first exciting news of my debut book on retail shelves in July, when I sold copies of it to The Ankh Centre in Willesden (North-West London)! That made my year you don't understand. Simply because it is was full of simplicity, ease and a welcoming attitude. It was the beauty of simplicity and clear communication, no nonsense, just details exchanged, money explained and respectful honest correspondence which was all I needed. THIS IS A RARE OCCASION PEOPLE! Usually in any case it's nonsense, hesitation, an unnecessary attitude from an unprofessional individual, misinformation or contradictions and misleading. There was none of that crap here, everything was what it was AND DONE. Along with the positivity of productivity that came at just the right time.

I'm smiling now at the progress and lack of stress (wasn't meant to rhyme) granted from that experience.

So now, my book is not only easily distributed online and of course sold at the biggest retailer in the world right now (Amazon) but the paperback is also available in hard copy at a store in London (with whom I coincidentally performed at their flagship branch 10 years prior!) More excitingly thus far, that same book is now stocked at a bookshop in Kigali- RWANDA how exciting is that! And not just at any bookstore people but a renowned iconic store of the region, Ikirezi Bookshop. They have lots of great material there I must say; their art supplies, range of text books, business books, history books, self-help, fiction, great children's books and multi-lingual stock by the way (French, English and Kinyarwanda). 

Please note that many retailers set their own prices which does not reflect on me, that goes for some of the ludicrous prices that have been reported to me recently (I would not ask or expect you to pay the far fetched £39-42.00 offensive fee for just one paperback book) given by associated online retailers via Amazon. THAT IS NOT MY DOING. My price is £8.99 as sold on Shop Infiniti and in person at performances and appearances. Furthermore the only price that I agree to on Amazon is the £9.85 listing when it is sold directly through them as the Seller.

 

The pictures were taken at Ikirezi Bookshop, Kigali. Years later and I'm still in love with my cover design. I'm so proud. B*tch don't kill my vibe.

New Book With a WELLNESS Special!

 

I recall a Chef once saying that his father taught him "Whatever you do in life, make sure that you're proud of it." And man, I am so unbelievably proud of this new publication as its purpose is so positively wonderful and its effect is immediate, it even works on me!

Such as my first book (a poetry collection), this came sudden and was prompted by the sad attitudes that rare their ugly heads around Valentine's Day. This year, I particularly found that alot of the hate and anger from those bitchin' about Valentine's Day was largely out of shame and bitterness for happy couples or towards those that had someone to love and was loved. 

At the end of the day, the common denominator from those vocal individuals, in my observational opinion, was that they did not love themselves. This is a common problem among many people regardless of the event, the country or generation and it's sad. Many of us do not truly, love ourselves, thus act like an arse and spew out negativity and hateful behaviour towards others and sadly ourselves as a result. I am not here for it!

Hence how the average grown bully or trouble-making child, are mostly found acting up because deep down they need a hug, have been bullied themselves, been made to feel unworthy and feel the need to take it out on other people with their foul actions and hurtful words. I am SO NOT HERE FOR IT. Especially the old ones that still want to carry on with such foolishness because they refused to work on themselves. YOU NEED TO HEAL. 

Certain reality TV stars come to mind as I express this and recall some dreadful, 'asking for a slap' behaviour that I have witnessed on television (rightfully deemed as "the idiot box" quoted by Spike Lee) but I shall not credit or shame them on my post of excitement. What I have to share is honestly coming from a positive place my loves, I just have to explain myself to bring more context for you to understand why and how it came to be.

Now I know that many people talk sh*t, preach at you and like to judge while reprimanding others about their short-comings without offering to assist, that's not me. I am offering to assist, my book was made to assist you with that struggle (if you have it) which does not need to be as 'uphill' as it may seem. 

Naturally, as a Writer I know for a fact that words are extremely powerful and can be very healing, uplifting or damaging, which is why my purpose is to reduce the negative and malicious words being put out there or lingering in your mind about how you value yourself (during any season that may make you feel otherwise) and to increase, better yet replace it with positive inspiring words to engrain in your brain and thrive with emotionally. Your mental wellbeing is everything, EVERYTHING I tell you.

This book is about encouraging people with a low self-esteem, those with any level of self-hatred, those dealing with any sort of depression or self-pity, whether you are a man, woman, single, boo'd up, promiscuous, married or divorced. This brilliant book which I very much consider it to be, is to get you to believe in yourself, think highly of yourself (humbly), to generally feel better about putting mindful practice into your personal growth! Pick yourself back up, correct yourself, check yourself, comfort yourself mentally as opposed to beat yourself up (too many of us do that, I've been there) and most of all LOVE YOURSELF! 

Love yourself, respect yourself, know yourself, better yourself, hug yourself with your kind words instead of criticism. Certain messages that I wrote in this book came with the aim to stop you (some people I know personally) from the bad habit of rejecting yourself of feeling better about yourself, and subsequently stop pushing others away because you have a habit of doing as such out of fear of being accepted or not being worthy. YOU ARE WORTHY IF YOU ACT AND ACKNOWLEDGE YOURSELF AS SUCH.

Ahh! You have no idea how much this means to me. I put alot of energy- POSITIVE ENERGY into this my lovelies. This self-help book of motivational, inspirational quotes and affirmations has also enhanced my own personal wellbeing. This is due to all the primary and secondary research gone into it, writing, re-writing, editing and proofreading drafts of the somewhat spiritual (it hit me spiritually) content that helped me keep my own mental health in check, during the process of indecisively selecting and more so repeating said quotes back to myself consciously. 

By the time I got to the final draft, I was shouting them out like I was in the last round of a group therapy session being cheered on by fellow participants, theoretically speaking. I felt great, and proud of what I had achieved emotionally in my own life from what I had written. I always like to practice what I preach so to speak, and if I am going to publish something that has a certain type of message or strong influence, it is important to me that I believe in it too or I won't release it. I have to feel as good or just as inspired as I want my audience to feel. And I do! It feels wonderful. Yet again, I was working on another book project which was long-awaited and no doubt angry with me (I humanise my projects such as many others humanise their cars etc), then I spontaneously released this project replacing its priority....but it was and is worth-it as it will help many (not meant to rhyme).

So in honour of Mental Health Awareness Month of which I only became aware of far into the month by the way, I am offering an added discount off of the books' pre-release price. It has yet to be released on my Infiniti Promotions website of where it will be on sale as official merchandise, hence the branded colour scheme. Appropriately titled #ILoveMyselfBecause, of where the hashtag was additionally intended to contribute to the social media conversation and the lack of social conversation in this regard.

To get your hands on your doubly discounted copy or to buy one for someone you know in need, simply message me via email, comment or DM me on my blog or social media pages; Twitter, Instagram, Facebook quoting the discount code! I will then send you back an invoice with secure payment options applicable for any currency, just as I would do for my card service and post the book out to you. Get your orders in people and regardless of the month or celebration; better yourselves, be kind to yourselves and take care of yourselves mentally and physically.

Love Lauren

ORDER NOW

#ILoveMyselfBecause

(PRE-RELEASE PRICE) £17.99

EXTRA 25% OFF DISCOUNT CODE: MHAW25

Fabulousness of Feb '18

This has been a damn good month let me tell you. I can't help but smile, hence the ever so subtle emoji.

Life was just getting so good in general; health, wealth (spiritually and financially), I got certain things that I wanted, plenty of what I needed and for the most part things have been on the up and up, of which I am so abundantly grateful for. My main goal was to sell books and cards of which I met! These products of mine are subject to peak seasons such as Valentine's Day so one must capitalize #BossMoves.

One of my cards was not even sold through my custom service, it was through reading the poem of an exclusive card that I made for the upcoming special edition of I'm All In, as part of my performance and a lady liked the card so much that she wanted to buy it on the spot. Although I was reluctant to depart from that beautiful unique design, I knew that it would make her happy to have it which is the whole reason why I began making cards in the first place and she was a paying customer so I obliged. I put a lot into that card so it pleased me a great deal when the audience oooo'd and ahhh'd upon reveal. I also had to brush off my shoulders in pride when another lady pointed out how much she loved the presentation of my card sale when I presented it with a gift bag that I handmade the ribbons for. Presentation is everything and the appreciation from others makes it all worth-it.

It was that same event where two grown men were fighting (a friendly argument) over who could buy the last copy I had of my book. It blows my mind when I see or hear of people getting possessive or excited over my creations, it's unbelievable, humbling and pleasing all at the same time. I remember feeling this way when a fellow Poet told me a couple years ago that after shortly buying my book she borrowed it to a friend but her friend wouldn't give it back. That's the sh*t! For me to hear but not for her of course lol.

I performed at a new show in Hampstead and unbeknownst to me, Hampstead is a very artsy vibrant area of which I shall make more use of it in the future. It was that same event where a mature woman (older and graceful) said to me "You're a young Shakespeare" OH SH*T! Excuse my repeated profanity for anyone that's offended but I will always express myself in an authentic way. Can you imagine being given such a compliment!? I mean that's HUGE, she didn't compare me to just anyone or someone more contemporary to better suit my generation, she compared me to SHAKESPEARE. And I'll stress that she is of a certain age therefore, she has lived and has clearly heard many poets and read plenty poetry yet feels that I'm worthy to be compared to such a legend.

Those words had me smiling all afternoon, much like that Maya Angelou comparison I got last year from performing at Beyond Words. I wish I recorded them saying so (both times). I also wish I had a picture of me performing at the Victorian inspired Hampstead venue with the piano in the background. I hate missing out on the opportunity to capture the moment with a nice backdrop or pleasant memory in general. Kmt.

[Photography by Aleksandra Wozniak]

This month has really been full of surprises, eclectic events some pre-planned some unprompted, performing to very different crowds each time and meeting new people- lovely people might I add. One charming fellow Artist, I think he was a Singer from Scotland if not Ireland, let me know that I had to change the picture on my flyers. I believe his words were "What (the woman) I just saw up there (on stage) is not what I see here. There's no sassiness, you're gorgeous but you're picture looks like you're at home eating cookies in your PJ's!" Well. That was quite the statement. Had me laughing hysterically as I could not believe he was so blunt, but then again many people get shocked at the things that I say and respond with the same laughter sometimes.

Although I disagree with how the picture looks, I do agree that it doesn't match up with my image today as it was taken a long time ago regardless of the fact that I haven't changed much physically. Even though I'm photogenic and have even been with agencies off and on since I was eleven, all till now I struggle with profile pics and pictures of me in general (especially for the public) hence my lack of uploads online. What was really nice was the way this moment took place, the Host had just announced that we've reached the end of the show then this Singer as well as female Singer, came to sit with me at my table to say Hi and introduce themselves which was very nice. I love it when Artists are social and interact with each other like that.

[Photography by Aleksandra Wozniak]

We all spoke about each other's performances, exchanged business cards which was flyers in my case and subsequently focused on my inappropriate photo. The female Singer who also could not help but to laugh, tried to convey his message in a more polite way and concurred by saying "You're picture does not look as sophisticated as you do in person." I completely understood where they were coming from and much appreciated the advice from one, or should I say two, Artist(s) to another. I'd hate to go on thinking something is good and well when it's not. Constructive criticism is necessary.

They spoke, I listened and have since changed the profile pic on my flyer! One of the many nice things that the female Singer said about my performance was "English is not my first language so it was hard for me to understand everything but I just loved listening to the sound of your voice." Yet another sweet compliment that warmed my heart. It really is amazing that you do not know how good you are making people feel as you are performing to them, whether they fully comprehend or not. It's great that the connection between you and the audience is still there regardless of language barriers.

From Black Heroes Soul Café, I met a Musician who was releasing his latest single Are You A Slave and hosting a private screening of his music video the following night. We both appreciated each other's work, got into an in depth discussion about the industry and politics which led to an invite for me to perform at his private event in Docklands. It's funny how so much of my bookings in the past came from spontaneous sightings or conversations, but that does validate their interest so I am not complaining at all. The screening was a very pleasant, intimate, entertaining affair at an ideal venue- as someone who runs an event company I am extremely fussy about venues and this one fit the bill perfectly.

There were some familiar faces present, as well as community leaders and industry folk including Judith Jacobs who I met on my book tour in 2016. The event just so happened to be the debut of live shows hosted by DJ Elayne who unexpectedly interviewed me on camera, thank goodness I was dressed for the occasion although I am one to be 'camera ready' most of the time anyway ;-)
Despite having to rush between locations of a double booking I'm very glad I went to that one as it was very positive and uplifting. For the footage that was recorded throughout the evening with interviews and all, I am sure it will be available between YouTube and Facebook within the next few months. I'll add links when I can. Additionally, Noel McKoy (the Musician) has launched a crowdfund for his upcoming album so you can check that out for more information.

I returned to Once Upon A Mic again which would make it my third appearance now much like with City Link Up. I love small consistent events like those that have their dedicated audience and passionate Poets & Artists eager to share their creativity for the sake of doing so. It's nice. I particularly liked that way Math Jones (their new Host and fellow Poet) introduced me by saying something about me being one of the most "classy" or "glamorous" he knows, wish I could remember verbatim but it was some adjective to that effect, emphasizing on how I carry myself. Either way his kind words were much appreciated. I noticed three girls recording me that night which always makes me blush or feel uneasy but I know it's a good thing when people want to record your performance....then again people also want to record you when you do something embarrassing so I may just retract that last statement and say; I know that they were recording for a good reason lol.

There's been so much love in more ways than one I am so here for it! I continue to meet some of the most fabulous people in regard to both customers and those I network with. A few of my last minute open mic appearances led to features. Not all of this month's progression was poetry related by the way, what really made me feel elated (wasn't meant to rhyme) was all the production opportunities that have been coming my way from last month till now. My media production work has taken a back seat to my publishing, performing and other business for the sake of preference, convenience and opportunity but I am extremely excited about these production projects. I'm getting my feet wet again and ready to dive!

The past 4-5 weeks have been full of progress and positivity with very little to complain about so I just have plenty to smile about, look back and grin, look forward and beam.


@LK_ReelDeevah

Great Interview with Croydon Radio

The weekend leading up to Valentine's Day was absolutely wonderful. I just wanted to perform, spread love and immerse in all the joy of it and sell books- goal accomplished!

I had a fantastic time performing at The Dial Up in Watford at a pleasant cozy venue, with a very pleasant audience- who bought my books. The Hosts were great and accommodating, so much so that they wanted me on again in the second half! Another Poet gave me the best compliment I've received of late by saying something like "Mind if I put you in an analogy? If poetry were football you'd be Manchester United and I'll be a small team that no one knows!" What a comparison, he's actually a good himself he's just playing himself short, but I have to say that compliment had me feeling good about myself all weekend. It was just a great vibe all night, worth the journey yes indeed.

Some of my readers may recall that I posted information about appearing on Croydon Radio last month, it actually ended up being rescheduled but it was for the best. I feel jinxed when it comes to radio interviews however, at the same time I feel extremely lucky as this is the second time that the second time (booking) worked out fantastically well. I do not think that if I was able to be a guest for the original scheduled appearance that it would have turned out so well or not nearly as fun.

This was a fun interview and it was a pleasure to participate alongside another Poet Ruth Smith, reading our poems and being interviewed. Naturally this was an opportune time to promote my book of love poems with Valentine's Day approaching, but it was nice to read some poems that I normally don't get to such as Unpack which was received very well and I was also happy to read a poem by one of my favourite Poets Tupac Shakur (yes I mean 2pac the Rapper). Much like a couple of my previous interviews, I appreciated being asked questions about my publishing journey and advice to give to others. Always happy to inform and info-tain.

LISTEN to the radio's podcast featuring several of our performances via the link. I know that the second picture is blurry, I apologise but I still wanted it to go to use as I am cuter in that one than the clear wide-shot despite it not being my best day.

Remember that I am performing back at Once Upon A Mic in East London this Friday. Follow the previous link for more info.

You can also follow me on Twitter @LK_ReelDeevah and like my Facebook page Miss Lauren Kaye #Happy2connect #Network

Valentine's Performances

For those that have read my book I'm All In you'll know that Valentine's Day is one of the things that it was intended for. Therefore, I'm glad to say that I will be performing around this day of romance, selling and promoting my book while I am at it. Sales aside, this is exciting for me as these events and topic in question are usually a great deal of fun for both me and my audience. As I had such a good time performing at Once Upon A Mic during my book tour last summer, I am more than happy to return to their friendly crowd among a diverse group of performers for this occasion. More information is below, hope to see you there.

THE DIAL UP

Saturday 11th Feb, 7:30pm-10pm   

@ Hidden Bar

2 Market Street  

Watford   

WD18 0PD  

 FREE ENTRY

 ONCE UPON A MIC
 Friday 24th Feb, 8pm-11pm  
@ Upstairs at The Castle
44 Commercial Road
Aldgate
E1 1LN
£4 Eventbrite, £5 OTD

In the meantime time I will encourage you to compliment your gift or flowers with the perfect, impressionable card which so I have seen and hear, DOES NOT get any more personal, impactful or impressionable than my Custom Poetry Greeting Cards™. Find out for yourself if you don't believe me, I am not one to just toot my own horn I go my feedback and experience. The greatest achievement of even creating this service was not just the satisfaction of making quality products but the happiness that it has brought to my customers- it's simply priceless! It is a fact that personal gifts leave the best impressions. Anyone can buy something generic however, it does not mean that you will be remembered or admired for it. Just saying ;-)

I shall #SpreadTheLove!

Appearance on Croydon Radio

Quite a few appearances on radio have been made by me the past year and some, mainly pertaining to my book tour which included Conscious Radio with Judith Jacobs in October 2015, Poets & Poetry Show in June 2016 and The Talk in July 2016, followed by The Food Show on East London Radio a few months ago. It was refreshing to do the food one as I was there to talk about my food writing and my Deevah's Cravings blog as opposed to my poetry book. It is so nice to get recognised for your other work.

I personally love radio, when I was at college studying Media I always saw myself as a Radio Presenter interviewing others as opposed to me being the interviewee for the most part but life has its own way of going against your plans lol.

This time I will be on Croydon Radio Sunday 12th Feb 2017 at 2pm, where I and another guest will feature on the Poets Anonymous show, discussing and performing our poetry. I will also be discussing the upcoming special edition of I'm All In.

Listen out for me on the show and if the opportunity permits itself feel free to call in and ask (polite) questions ;-)

@LK_ReelDeevah

A Special Offer for BLACK FRIDAY

Today and throughout most of the weekend, is all about the SHOPPING SALES of Black Friday so I expect people to go mad (but please be safe) while they shop for their favourite things and Christmas presents for others. I appreciate a good deal as much as the next person and take good advantage of most discounts available so in saying that I have an offer for my readers....

For THIS DAY ONLY you can buy my high quality therefore highly priced, hardback copy of I'm All In for 25% off ONLY ON SHOP INFINITI (available on Lulu and Amazon at regular price). Not only that but my 'can't find anywhere' 'best cards ever' so I've heard it to be described, Custom Poetry Greeting Cards™ are also having a 24hr flash sale of 25% off!

This means that you'll have two fabulous gifts to give or even get for yourself, in time for Christmas!!! This is making me so happy! I have two card orders that I am making right now, one is a group of wedding invitations and the other is a Christmas card that I can't wait to share with you but moreover, I cannot wait to design and write YOURS for you!

I understand that not everyone can afford the bespoke service of my custom cards or the price of your typical hardback book and I want people who have felt that way to be able to enjoy these things, especially if they are products of mine. This is exciting for me too! "Get to ordering as the sale only lasts for 24hrs!"

Buy your card or book by following the embedded links and entering the discount code: BLKFR16.

#BlackFriday #LKcards #ShopInfiniti #ImAllin #Happy2MakeMyAudienceHappy

My Mission

It has been a while since I last blogged although that DOES NOT mean that I have not been active, please don't get it twisted. I have been more active on my Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn pages the past month than on here, my food blog also I suppose.

My book tour was meant to officially end in August but marketing a (lifelong) product never really ends and fortunately for me the demand was there so extra dates mounted up- I'm not complaining. My extended tour has taken me to Watford, different parts of London and soon Bristol. There are many literary festivals taking place this month that I hope to take advantage of but that takes extra time and money that my circumstance does not permit.

Speaking of which, that leads me to explain my mission that I have mentioned before to my audience more so via my mailing list and social networks, as some may know I am raising funds to further market my book and publish the special edition by Christmas. This is a much bigger mission than it sounds as that takes plenty of funding. Further marketing in regard to my book means; videos, online ads, print ads, staff, travel and accommodation for extra tour locations. The cost of all this is in the thousands but EVERY LITTLE HELPS! And I need help from my audience and corporate sponsors to reach this goal. Book sales are wonderful but not enough to raise what is needed for what I am trying to achieve. There are also rewards granted in return of your sponsorship.

The feedback and reviews that I have received so far from audiences as well as Radio Presenters and Promoters over the course of my tour, has been absolutely wonderful. I am so pleased that my writing has given so many people so much pleasure, and I intend to do the same with the special edition. I'm stepping up! Like I said this is a mission dammit. Not one that I can't achieve either, just one that I would be needing extra help with, a crowdfund per se. Sponsorship is imperative here. I appreciate your assistance even if that is just through the means of reviews, endorsement, buying my book, sharing and liking my social media posts or attending my promotion events, if not financial sponsorship. Taking the time to fully read this post with the consideration of helping me in some way is also greatly appreciated.

Full details about my requested sponsorship can be found via the link. I have formal proposals available for corporate sponsorship and funding of significant amounts, simply contact me to find out more.

To know more about my book you can see to the Amazon page which contains some amazing, authentic five star reviews (THANK YOU SO MUCH READERS!) and to hear some of the content you can watch the following videos taken from my book tour this past year. Please note that the special edition will include pictures (such as the hardback edition) and an audio CD.

 

I hope to see an increase in my sponsorship or even readership with your participation shortly. Thank you in advance. In the meantime you can sign up to my mailing list to remain updated with my projects as my newsletters also have the occasional sponsorship options click here.

Until Next Time,

SPONSOR MY PROJECT

#ImAllin

SELAR 'Dating' and Change in Tour

After I appear on Talk radio show on East London Radio 1-2pm this Saturday, I will perform at SELAR in South London. The theme of the night is dating which goes very well with my current poetry book as you can imagine so I'm very much looking forward to bringing my tour to their audience. Come down it's open to everyone and I'll be selling books!

SELAR SPEAKEASY
Sat 23rd July, 7:30pm
@ South East London Art Rooms
17b Dartmouth Rd
Forest Hill
London
SE23 3HN

ENTRY £3
www.selar.co.uk


RANDOM UPDATE: The last performance that appears on my tour for 29th July has been rescheduled to August! I will keep you updated

Updated Tour Dates

Plenty has gone on since my last post, some good things and some bad things (personally). Thankfully, many good things came out of the bad so I'll shut up in regard to that- for now. What I will say is; one of those bad things was me not being able to attend my scheduled performance at BAC a couple weeks ago which saddened me a great deal. This was because I had a sudden emergency that threw me off everything that I had lined up over the days that followed. Sh*t happens. The situation could have been much worse, I am beyond thankful for that not being the case and extremely thankful for all the assistance and concern from others at the time. I had a revelation that day of 'everything happens for a reason.'

Moving on, things are much better now and are returning to a calmer state where I can refocus my energy back into my work, while being smarter with it as oppose to just relentlessly working harder. I am continuing on with my book tour as it comes to an end (I don't really want it to end as I'm having too much fun!), finishing off the special edition of I'm All In and doing preparations for my next book. See the July listing in the updated book tour poster below, these include more performances and a radio interview. Please note that more dates will follow regarding August.

What is also great, is the new cards that I made recently which made the recipients VERY happy. Naturally it makes me VERY HAPPY in return. Images will be seen from those cards in my soon to be released newsletters, sign-up to mailing list to receive it. To find out more about my Custom Poetry Greetings Cards click here,

Follow me on Twitter @LK_ReelDeevah and connect with me on Facebook.

Book Tour cont/Muzikal Seduction

After a fantastic experience at Poet's Corner's 1st year anniversary last night where I performed for the sake of participation and celebration (and smashed it), I will continue on with my book tour with an appearance at Muzikal Seduction tomorrow evening.

The event name is very much like the poems from my latest collection- particularly the chapter of Lust, as I intend to verbally seduce the audience with my poetry.

Performing and selling books on site. Come see me, get a signed copy and enjoy the show.

If you can't make it but still want a signed copy simply order through my sponsors website Infiniti Promotions.








I'm All In Book Tour

MUZIKAL SEDUCTION
Thursday 12th May, 7:30pm
@ The Masons Arms
665 Harrow Road
Kensal Green
London
NW10 5NU

£5 Entry Fee

World Poetry Day 2016

I have never seen so much appreciation for the art and literature of poetry as I see today. World Poetry Day and National Poetry Day, although both old (ish) now, only came to my attention the last couple of years due to its popularity. I'll gladly celebrate World Poetry Day today as a Poet, as an Author of poetry, a lover of poetry and because poetry is my lover, period. I wrote a poem some years ago to prove that last point, as will be featured in my next book.

In celebration of this day I encourage you to indulge in my poetry products whether it be my Custom Poetry Greetings Cards™, my book or my performances (including bookings).

Love poetry!

Good News of Global Distribution

GOOD NEWS INDEED!

My impressionable poetry book I'm All In is now available not only on Amazon but Barnes and Noble, as well as from both Lulu and my official sponsors Infiniti Promotions of where you can buy my beautiful hardback copy .

I still make sales directly when I perform or have an appearance and if requested you can receive a SIGNED COPY when purchasing via Shop Infiniti (Infiniti Promotions) .

This book is PERFECT for Valentine's Day I must say, partly the reason why I compiled my unforeseen love poems in the first place. You would have to read it to understand.

So happy and elated :-)

My Ideal Gift to You

My newly released book is on the promotion train as the latest and greatest project to come from me this year. I still re-read it from time to time myself and it's great to genuinely love a product that you put out for the world to see.

What is even better is when your audience loves it too and they do! I couldn't be more pleased with that. Even family members of mine whom I was hesitant to share it with due to some of the sexual content, can't get enough and repeat lines from their favourite poems in the book back to me it's so wonderful and strange at the same time.

It is the Christmas season of course and I am keen on making Christmas sales, of course. I am happy to share that I have made some already :-)

What is great about having I'm All In as a Christmas gift for someone or even for yourself mind you, is that it is quite unconventional yet appropriate, unexpected yet wanted by those who appreciate such things, heartwarming, entertaining and most certainly memorable. If you know someone who likes to read, likes poetry or simply loves love then why not buy my book that ticks the check list of all the above. For those of you that have read the book already, it might also be a good gift for someone that you may want to dedicate a particular poem to. Just a thought. Buy now.

Here are some lovely endorsements and feedback of my book that I received online not too long ago:

Ainsley Carter likes a link.

29 November at 03:41 · Super collection from Lauren L Deevah Kaye....A must buy....grab your copy now you wont regret it ....

I'm All In (Paperback) by Lauren Kaye (Paperback) — Lulu IE

Buy I'm All In (Paperback) by Lauren Kaye (Paperback) online at Lulu IE. Visit the Lulu Marketplace for product details, ratings and reviews.

WWW.LULU.COM

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Carmen McDonald I would urge you all to buy a copy of this book of insightful Poetry and Lauren also does personalised poetry cards for any occasion. Fantastic! 

Unlike · Reply · 2 · 19 August at 15:10

'I’ve only had time to “dip in” to your book but just those quick glimpses make me wish I could have heard you perform your work'.- V. Sproule 

'...(Poems) Heaven, Wonderland was sick....' -Anonymous friend of via email after receiving his copy.

Many Thanks to everyone who has endorsed, supported, bought and shared my book so far.

* I'm All In *

BUY NOW

How I Worked My Stall

I got exactly what I wanted regarding having a stall or exhibition stand at events to promote my book and card services post book launch. No complaints here, especially since I made a book sale within 5 minutes of my arrival of my very first stall experience- who gets to say that?!

The stand (stall table area) itself was half the size that it was advertised to me as being but as it was offered as opposed to bought I just worked with it and made the best out of the situation. I have worked with many people in the past at various events and on various types of projects so I know to anticipate these things and prepare for a contingency.

Bear in mind that I spent nearly 48 hours learning and achieving to make fondant roses for my cupcakes that was meant to compliment my stand as I had slightly achieved with the theme for my book launch. Not only did most of my beautiful sugar roses get crushed in the box I carried them in but the few good one's remaining did not get the exhibition they deserved because the table was so small that it could not fit a cupcake stand. That effort went to waste but at least I can add that to my food blog so not all is lost there.

Many thanks to those who came out to support like you said you would, every sale counts! And to those who came up to my stand to see my cards, check out my book and complimented my designs and poems. I also appreciate the networking Entrepreneurs who came up to me, particularly after my performance, to speak about potential opportunities.

I networked plenty as one would do at such events. Clearly, I now have to top up my stock of flyers, it's all good. In the past I have pitched and sold things, organised and hosted events but to host your own stand and practically sell yourself per se (brand and products that reflect you) while trying to grab people's interest and attention in a surrounding of competition, is a different ball game and quite the challenge at the end of the day.

Anytime I go to an expo, fair, festival, market place or even anytime I see a Charity Rep stopping people on the street, I admire the patience and stamina in the Sales Rep/Sole Trader that stand around or walk about all day trying to engage strangers in order to sell something. This is done with the anticipation of rejection after their pitch or to just be blatantly ignored from the beginning. I did not think that I had it in me to participate. Needless to say, my respect for those hard working, persistent people has grown. It is not the most fun job in the world but it can feel very rewarding especially when it is for your own products. If you are not selling you are at least marketing yourself. I was fortunate to do both on this occasion and I'm proud.

One of the best parts of the day other than the sales was when a friend of mine texted me early in the morning to see if I needed any assistance with my stand and that was such a life saver as that is exactly what I needed. He helped, we did what we set out to do, I was not overwhelmed and all was well. THANK YOU SO MUCH!

You can order my poetry book I'm All In in time for Christmas on Lulu or Shop Infiniti. If you want just a taste of my poetry, written especially for you instead a book written for others then you can order one of my Custom Poetry Greeting Cards™ on Shop Infiniti also.

Look out for future stalls and performances from me via my twitter updates @LK_ReelDeevah