Press Releases
Raquel Riley Thomas, Fashion and Beauty Expert, Recaps the 2022 Emmys Fashion
The Emmys 2022 were a night of fabulous speeches and glamourous fashion. Raquel Riley Thomas, Beauty and Fashion Expert, recapped her favorite moments on the red carpet on Fox5 Good Day Atlanta.
13 Sep 2022 Atlanta, GA The Emmys 2022 were a night of fabulous speeches and glamourous fashion. Raquel Riley Thomas, Beauty and Fashion Expert recapped her favorite moments on the red carpet on Fox5 Good Day Atlanta. See the photos from the show segment! Click here to watch the full video.
Cobb County Student Oversees “Birthday in a Bag” for Homeless Youth
Maria Raquel Thomas, a cosmetic brand owner and Junior at Walton High School, is the National Youth Ambassador for StandUp for Kids. StandUp for Kids is a non-profit that focuses on combatting youth homelessness. Recently, Maria, her friends and family came together to work on a project called “Birthday in a Bag.”
Maria Raquel Thomas, a cosmetic brand owner and a Junior at Walton High School is the National Youth Ambassador for StandUp for Kids. StandUp for Kids is a non-profit that focuses on combatting youth homelessness. Recently, Maria, her friends and family came together to work on a project called “Birthday in a Bag.”
“Birthday in a bag" is project in which peers make birthday bags for at risk youth participating in the StandUp for Kids mentoring program and for kids on the street.
“Everyone deserves to have something extra special on their birthday and many of our kids don't have home support. What's most important about the idea is not how much it cost...but the feeling it conveys. We are excited to have Maria Raquel and her family and friends joining in on the project!” states, Kelly Fields, Executive Director.
The bags included hair trinkets, body creams and candy. The girls also wrote encouraging notes and put them in the bags.
“Our goal is to give them a gift to let them know that we as teens are thinking about them and we are here to help. Every teen deserves a chance in life,” state Maria Raquel Thomas, National Youth Ambassador.
For interviews, please contact pr@aoagwllc.com.
Maria Raquel Thomas oversees Birthday in a Bag project with friends and family.
Maria Raquel Thomas, a Junior and Kaamillah Rich, a Senior, both at Walton, write uplifting notes to homeless youth for the Standup for Kids “Birthday in a Bag”Project.
Maria Raquel’s family member writes a sweet note to put in the Birthday bags.
Mother and Daughter Cosmetic Founders Nab Magazine Cover Making History
We are excited to share with you the cover of the July 2022 edition of La Dolce magazine. The International magazine headquartered in Spain, features army veteran Raquel Riley Thomas, founder of Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty and her 16-year-old daughter Maria Raquel Thomas, founder of Maria Raquel Thomas cosmetics. The duo recently collaborated on a new makeup collection r ^2. This is an historical cover. This is the first time the magazine has featured an African American mother and daughter on the cover simultaneously.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 8/1/2022 New York, New York
We are excited to share with you the cover of the July 2022 edition of La Dolce magazine. The International magazine headquartered in Spain, features army veteran Raquel Riley Thomas, founder of Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty and her 16-year-old daughter Maria Raquel Thomas, founder of Maria Raquel Thomas cosmetics. The duo recently collaborated on a new makeup collection r ^2. This is an historical cover. This is the first time the magazine has featured an African American mother and daughter on the cover simultaneously.
The magazine features several photos of both mother and daughter in their makeup collections. The magazine, which is predominantly a fashion magazine, highlighted the duo’s new collection R^2.
“The R^2 collection is a blend of retro-futuristic colors that represent the diversity in all of us. Mix and match the long-wear palettes with the lipliners and be free with your creativity!
About Raquel Riley Thomas: Raquel Riley Thomas is an Entrepreneur, Military-Veteran, Pageant Queen, and Humanitarian. And she has a love for all things beauty and fashion.
On June 5, 2020, Raquel launched a new business venture, Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty. The brand is performance based, designed to stay on longer for those in fields that need it. Those such as pageant queens, dancers, singers, and cheerleaders.
Raquel is also involved in giving back to her community. A portion of Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty proceeds have benefited non-profits such as: Operation Renewed Hope, Victoria’s Voice, Standup for Kids, and No Kids Hungry, to name a few. Raquel is on the advisory board of the Veteran-focused non-profit, Operation Renewed Hope. She is a diamond-life member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc, and a member of Veterans of Foreign War. She also supports the American Foundation of Suicide because unfortunately, her mother took her own life in 2013.
About Maria Raquel Thomas: Maria Raquel Thomas is an entrepreneur, model, and humanitarian. And she is determined to uplift the world around her. Her brand, Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics is is a minority-owned cosmetic brand founded and owned by Maria Raquel Thomas.
After struggling with her personal lip care, she began mixing her own products to help with chapping. She then tried samples out with her friends to see if it helped them. It did and so she began mixing more products and Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics was born!
Maria Raquel Thomas continues to give back to the community by donating a portion of her earnings to children's charities including Victoria’s voice, se4k, and standup for kids. She is the first-ever national youth ambassador for standup for kids, a non-profit organization dedicated to ending youth homelessness. Maria Raquel Thomas has assisted standup for kids in raising over $150,000 in their virtual run/walk race fundraisers. She has put in over two hundred hours of volunteer work with standup for kids and other non-profits. She has been awarded the 2021 President's Volunteer Silver Medal.
Follow Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty on Instagram @raquelrileythomas.
Follow Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics on Instagram @mrtcosmeticsofficial.
Veteran Army Captain and Daughter Release New Mashup Makeup Collection for Teens and Adults.
Raquel Riley Thomas, founder of Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty and her daughter, Maria Raquel Thomas, founder of Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics, have launched a new makeup collection together. The R² collection is a blend of retro-futuristic colors that represent the diversity in all of us.
7/7/22 New York City, New York Raquel Riley Thomas, owner of Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty and her daughter, Maria Raquel Thomas, owner of Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics, have launched a new makeup collection together. The R² collection is a blend of retro-futuristic colors that represent the diversity in all of us.
The R² collection features high-pigmented, 9-color eyeshadow palettes, liquid-matte lipsticks and matching lipliners. The mother and daughter duo designed the collection to offer a variety of glamorous looks from soft glam for teens to sexier glam for adults.
“We worked for months to perfect the products. My mom and I wanted to make sure customers from different age ranges, could have a wonderful experience mixing the collection to create unique makeup looks,” states Maria Raquel Thomas.
Both brands currently produce products that are not tested on animals and the packaging is printed on recyclable paper. This also applies to their collaborated collection.
“When we started making this collection, one of our goals was to make sure we put forth an effort to protect Earth and keep it safe for future generations,” states Raquel Riley Thomas.
Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty was founded in 2020 by Raquel Riley Thomas, who is a United States Army Veteran turned Beauty and Fashion Entrepreneur. Now, with over 20 years in the beauty and fashion business, Raquel wanted to produce glamorous cosmetics that could be applied quicker and easier than traditional manners. She mixed military disciplines with her makeup products and produced a formulated concept 3GL: Glamour Lashes, Glamour Lids, Glamour Lips. Recently, the brand was selected as a finalist in the Fashion Group International Awards 2022 Beauty Category.
Maria Raquel Thomas is an Entrepreneur, Model, and Humanitarian. And she is determined to uplift the world around her. She is the founder of Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics. After struggling with her personal lip care, she began mixing her own products to help with chapping. She then gave samples to her friends to see if it helped them and it did. When COVID-19 hit the world, Maria Raquel Thomas wanted to find a way to help girls keep up with their self-care and stay positive during the crisis. She started Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics in June 2020 to help ease the stress on teen girls.
For interviews, please contact L. Nelson at pr@aoagwllc.com.
Newly Crowned Miss DC USA and Teen 2022. Will Represent DC in National Miss USA and Miss Teen USA.
Faith Porter was crowned Miss District of Columbia USA 2022, and Asia Hickman was crowned Miss District of Columbia Teen USA on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at Renaissance Washington DC Downtown Hotel. The pageant was produced by Brains and Beauties, LLC.
The District of Columbia has two new Queens!
Faith Porter was crowned Miss District of Columbia USA 2022, and Asia Hickman was crowned Miss District of Columbia Teen USA on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at Renaissance Washington DC Downtown Hotel. The pageant was produced by Brains and Beauties, LLC.
Faith Maria Porter, Miss District of Columbia USA 2022, will represent the District at the upcoming Miss USA 2022. Faith Maria Porter is a Casting Assistant at Grant Wilfley Casting. She is also the Host of Sash Facts on VIP Pageantry and Co-Founder of Tribe Of Hope Shop.
Asia Hickman, Miss District of Columbia Teen USA will represent the District in the upcoming Miss Teen USA 2022. She is founder of a non-profit, Asia Hickman Music. Asia was born in Ansbach, Germany into a military family. She is a classically trained musician, playing the piano, saxophone and violin.
Here are the results:
Miss District of Columbia Teen USA Awards:
3rd Runner up- Anya Beltran
2nd Runner Up- Nia Lacey
1st runner up- Jade Ridout
Winner-Asia Hickman
Congeniality Award- Anya Beltran
Fitness Award- Asia Hickman
Evening Gown Award- Asia Hickman
Interview Award- Nia Lacy
Miss District of Columbia USA Awards
4th Runner-up- Kleo Torres
3rd Runner-up- Chelsie stevens
2nd Runner-up- Cassie Baloue.
1st Runner up- Woodley Park Shawna Melvin
Winner-Faith Maria Porter
Congeniality Award- Ebony Acton
Interview Award- Shawna Melvin
Swimsuit Award- Cassie Baloue
Evening Gown Award- Faith Porter
For interviews, please contact L. Nelson at pr@aoagwllc.com. Thank you.
Miss District of Columbia USA and Teen USA under new leadership. 2022 Pageant to be held in June.
Miss District of Columbia USA and Teen USA under new leadership. 2022 Pageant to be held in June.
5-12-2022 Washington, DC. Mark your calendars and grab your most stylish evening attire as the District of Columbia sets out to crown new pageant queens!
The 2022 Miss District of Columbia USA and Miss District of Columbia Teen USA Pageants will be held on Saturday, June 4, 2022 at the Renaissance Washington DC Downtown Hotel. The winners of both divisions will move on and compete at the nationally televised MISS USA® Pageant and nationally streamed MISS TEEN USA® Pageant, respectively. The 2022 pageants are produced by Brains & Beauties Productions headquartered in Washington, DC and will be hosted by Miss District of Columbia USA 2001, Liane Angus Whinfield and Voice of DC Podcast host and producer Rick Bernstein.
The pageants are now under new leadership. The new Executive Director, Chelsey S. Rodgers, Esq, is a former Miss District of Columbia USA (2008) and has been involved in pageantry as a contestant, judge, pageant coach, consultant, and volunteer for more than a decade. As the new Executive Director, she understands the importance of empowering young women to share their community passions and professional aspirations while teaching them life skills, healthy self-confidence and public speaking skills.
The Miss District of Columbia USA Organization has had four former titleholders win the MISS USA title: Bobbie Johnson (1964), Shauntay Hinton (2002), Deshauna Barber (2016), and Kára McCullough (2017). The reigning Miss District of Columbia Teen USA 2021, Hannah Gilliard, placed First Runner-Up in the 2021 MISS TEEN USA Pageant.
Time: 2022 Teen and Miss Preliminary Competition- 1:30 p.m.; Finals Show and Crowning- 6:30 p.m.
Advance Ticket Costs: $35 for preliminary competition tickets; $55 for finals show and crowning
At Door Ticket Costs: $40 for preliminary competition; $60 for finals show and crowning
Dress Code: Black tie optional
For interviews, please contact public relations at pr@aoagwllc.com.
For media passes, please click here.
Veteran-Owned Cosmetic Brand Partners with Miss DC USA
Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty has partnered with Miss DC USA as an official cosmetic brand sponsor. The cosmetic company will provide makeup products to the 2022 winner of Miss DC USA at the upcoming pageant being held June 3-4, 2022, in Washington, DC.
Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty has partnered with Miss DC USA as an official cosmetic brand sponsor. The cosmetic company will provide makeup products to the 2022 winner of Miss DC USA at the upcoming pageant being held June 3-4, 2022, in Washington, DC.
Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty (RRTBeauty) is a minority-owned and Veteran-owned cosmetic brand that supplies a quick and easy solution to the way women apply and wear cosmetics. Today's women are balancing their personal, professional, and community lives at a faster pace and their glam makeup application should not slow them down. Army-Veteran turned beauty and fashion expert Raquel Riley Thomas produced the formulated concept 3GL: Glamour Lashes, Glamour Lids, Glamour Lips. By using Raquel Riley Thomas Cosmetics plus using this formula, glamourous looks are now easier and quicker.
“We are so excited to partner with Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty! Every queen knows time is of essence and Raquel Riley Thomas products deliver that glamorous look in a short amount of application time!” states Chelsey Rodgers, esq, Director of Miss DC USA and owner of Brains & Beauties Productions.
Miss DC USA is produced by Brains & Beauties Productions. The owner and Executive Director, Chelsey S. Rodgers, is a former Miss District of Columbia USA and has been involved in pageantry as a contestant, judge, pageant coach, consultant, and volunteer for more than a decade.
“Miss DC USA and RRTBeauty both believe in uplifting and empowering women. Working together, we can continue our mission of helping women build their confidence in the way they look, and the way feel about themselves. It is a win for everyone involved, states Raquel Riley Thomas, Founder of RRTBeauty.
Follow the brand on Instagram at @rrtbeauty. You can also shop products at www.raquelrileythomas.com.
For interviews, please contact Sandahl Taylor at pr@aoagwllc.com.
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Army Veteran Raquel Riley Thomas Selected as 2022 CGT Visionary
Raquel Riley Thomas, a former Army Officer turned Entrepreneur has been named as a 2022 Consumer Goods Technology (CGT) Visionary for 2022. Raquel, alongside 11 other executives, were selected for this year’s prestigious list.
4/29/2022 Washington, D.C. Raquel Riley Thomas, a former Army Officer turned Entrepreneur has been named as a 2022 Consumer Goods Technology (CGT) Visionary for 2022. Raquel, alongside 11 other executives, were selected for this year’s prestigious list. CGT is the leading resource for consumer goods executives looking to connect with a community of industry leaders who empower business growth through the use of technology. It is part of the EnsembleIQ portfolio of brands.
“We are excited to have Raquel Riley Thomas on our list of this year’s CGT Visionary Awards. Her company has an impressive growth story and an inspiring mission, and we're thrilled to recognize her," states Lisa Johnson, Senior Editor at CGT.
Raquel is the founder of Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty, a minority-owned and Veteran-owned cosmetic brand that supplies a quick and easy solution to the way women apply and wear cosmetics. The company’s values are represented through HEART: Honesty, Engagement, Accountability, Responsibility, and Teamwork. Raquel points to the growing value in product discovery platforms like RangeMe, to bring retailers and brands to the virtual table together.
RRTBeauty also prioritizes sustainability — its products are made on recycled paper — as well as community support by donating a portion of its product proceeds to such non-profits as Operation Renewed Hope, Victoria’s Voice, StandUp for Kids, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Raquel served as an Ordnance Officer in the U.S. Army before founding the company, passionately believing it was important to serve her country before becoming an entrepreneur. And this was for good reason, as serving is in her blood — her grandmother, mother, and aunt were all in the U.S. military.
Raquel is an alum of Hampton University. She graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate from the Reserve Officer Training Corps at Hampton. She simultaneously graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She also has a Mastery of Negotiation certification from Harvard University.
Raquel's accomplishments have been noted in both her military and civilian career. In the Army, she was awarded the Army Commendation Medal (2x) and the Army Achievement Medal (3x). Raquel was selected as the "Veteran of the Year" 2011, by Women Veteran's Rock. She was recently inducted into the Library of Congress under the "Veterans History Project" where her military history is now stored in video and pictures.
Raquel is married to West Point graduate Ron Thomas, Esq. with four children, a cat, a dog and 2 robots in their blended family.
For interviews, please contact pr@aoagwllc.com
15-Year-Old Founder of Cosmetic Brand Partners with Miss DC Teen USA
15-Year-Old Founder of Cosmetic Brand Partners with Miss DC Teen USA.
An exciting partnership has been made!
Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics has partnered with Miss Teen DC USA.
“Founder and teen entrepreneur Maria Raquel Thomas embodies everything we desire for the girls who come through the Miss District of Columbia Teen USA Pageant. Her company works to empower and uplift girls by providing products that enhance their natural beauty and build upon their self-confidence. And that’s not all, Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics gives back to the community. A portion of the company’s sales goes to a nonprofit organization that provides aid and resources to homeless youth. So, it’s a no brainer that we wanted to partner with this teen who is a Queen in her own right,” states Chelsey Rodgers, esq, Director of Miss DC Teen USA and owner of Brains & Beauties Productions.
Miss DC Teen USA is produced by Brains & Beauties Productions. The production company is a Washington DC-based pageant and lifestyle consulting and productions firm. The owner and Executive Director, Chelsey S. Rodgers, is a former Miss District of Columbia USA and has been involved in pageantry as a contestant, judge, pageant coach, consultant, and volunteer for more than a decade, so she understands the importance of empowering young women to share their community passions and professional aspirations while teaching them healthy self-confidence and public speaking skills.
Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics is a minority-owned cosmetic brand that supplies a quick and easy solution to the way girls apply and wear cosmetics. Today's girls are balancing their personal, professional, and community lives at a faster pace and their makeup application should not slow them down. By using Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics plus using this formula, glamourous looks are now easier and quicker.
“I look forward to working with the Miss Teen DC USA organization. Our goal is to uplift and support these young women coming up just like myself. With us uplifting each other, we can create more unity than division and my company is here for it!” states Maria Raquel Thomas, Founder of Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics.
Follow the brand on Instagram at @mrt_cosmetics. You can also shop products at www.mariaraquelthomas.com!
For interviews with Maria Raquel Thomas, please contact pr@aoagwllc.com.
An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC Receives 2022 Best of Clinton Award. Enters Business Hall of Fame.
An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC has been selected for the 2022 Best of Clinton Award in the Theatrical Production category by the Clinton Award Program.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC Receives 2022 Best of Clinton Award. Receives Business Hall of Fame Award for have being a winner for three consecutive years.
CLINTON February 2, 2022 -- An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC has been selected for the 2022 Best of Clinton Award in the Theatrical Production category by the Clinton Award Program.
Each year, the Clinton Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Clinton area a great place to live, work and play.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2022 Clinton Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Clinton Award Program and data provided by third parties.
About Clinton Award Program
The Clinton Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Clinton area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value.
The Clinton Award Program was established to recognize the best of local businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize the small business community's contributions to the U.S. economy.
SOURCE: Clinton Award Program
For more interviews, please contact pr@aoagwllc.com
AOAGWLLC Partners with Miss DC USA. Serves As Chief Consulting Officer.
An Officer and Gentlewoman LLC, a Veteran-owned media and entertainment company, is the new Chief Consulting Officer for Miss DC USA/Miss Teen DC USA, a franchise within the Miss USA pageant organization.
An Officer and Gentlewoman LLC, a Veteran-owned media and entertainment company, is the new Chief Consulting Officer for Miss DC USA/Miss DC Teen USA, a franchise within the Miss USA pageant organization.
“My goal is to empower girls and women through this new endeavor, and I immediately knew I needed to reach out to AOAGWLLC because they embody women’s empowerment through their multi-faceted focus on growing and managing female owned businesses,” states Chelsey Rodgers, Executive Director of Miss DC USA/Miss DC Teen USA.
AOAGWLLC award-winning company has over 10 years of experience in producing, directing and managing pageants in Washington, DC, Delaware and Pennsylvania. The Veteran-owned company currently specializes in production, brand management, talent management and public relations.
“Our team at AOAGWLLC is very excited to join the team of Miss DC USA/Miss DC Teen USA. We believe in the philosophy behind the Miss USA organization and Miss DC USA,” states Raquel Riley Thomas, owner of AOAGWLLC.
The team for Miss DC USA/Miss DC Teen USA currently consists of Ms. Chelsey Rodgers, Executive Director; Ms. Cordelia Cranshaw Skeete, Managing Director and AOAGWLLC/Raquel Riley Thomas, Chief Consulting Officer.
Contestants interested in applying for Miss DC USA/Miss DC Teen USA can learn more at missdcusa.com.
Emani Hill Weds Baseball Player Taylor Trammell in Lavish Star-Studded Event
Emani Hill, a legal assistant in Atlanta Georgia has wed her high school sweetheart, Seattle Mariners outfielder, Taylor Trammell. The wedding was held on Saturday, Jan 8, 2022, at 6:00pm at the Biltmore Ballroom in Downtown, Atlanta. Celebrity Wedding, Planner Eliana Boucicault, oversaw the nuptials.
ATLANTA - Jan. 10, 2022 - PRLog -- Emani Hill, a legal assistant in Atlanta Georgia has wed her high school sweetheart, Seattle Mariners outfielder, Taylor Trammell. The wedding was held on Saturday, Jan 8, 2022, at 6:00pm at the Biltmore Ballroom in Downtown, Atlanta. Celebrity Wedding, Planner Eliana Boucicault, oversaw the nuptials.
Celebrity guest list included: Kyle Lewis, Seattle Mariners outfielder; Tyler Stephenson, Cincinnati Reds catcher; Akil Badoo, Detroit Tigers outfielder and Ron Thomas, former Allstar Army Football Receiver.
About: Emani, from Acworth, GA, is a graduate of Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science and a minor in Psychology. She has experience in Entertainment law, as well as Family law. She currently works as a legal assistant for a Family Law firm in Georgia. She is studying to become a mediator and practicing attorney. Emani Hill cares deeply about the next generation and is a mental health advocate. Since high school, she has volunteered her time as a mentor to young girls. She has been awarded the 2017 and 2018 Noonday Church Association Scholarship.
Taylor Trammell from Powder Springs, GA, is a professional baseball player for the Seattle Mariners. Taylor was first drafted out of high school in the 2016 Major League Baseball Draft. He was selected as the 35th overall pick by the Cincinnati Reds. He quickly progressed in his career and in 2018 was selected to represent the Cincinnati Reds at the All-Star Futures Game. His homerun and triple won him MVP of the game. The following year in 2019, Taylor was selected again to represent the Reds in the All-Star Futures game. On July 30, 2019, Taylor was traded to the San Diego Padres where he was assigned to their Double A team, the Amarillo Sod Poodles. He excelled during his time there and hit a grand slam in the ninth inning of Game 5 of the Texas League Finals, winning the championship for the team. On August 30, 2020, Taylor was traded to the Seattle Mariners. He was added to their 40-man roster on November 20, 2020. Taylor made his Major League Debut on April 1, 2021, playing centerfield with the Mariners.
The couple plans to honeymoon in St. Lucia.
For interviews, photos and media request please contact AOAGWLLC, at pr@aoagwllc.com.
12yo Tween Chef Makes Magazine Cover History
Sophia J. Thomas, a 12-year-old Tween chef has just made history. She is the first person of color to grace the cover of Teen HiLife magazine. Sophia is an Entrepreneur, Humanitarian and Philanthropist.
Sophia J. Thomas, a 12-year-old Tween chef has just made history. She is the first person of color to grace the cover of Teen HiLife magazine. Sophia is an Entrepreneur, Humanitarian and Philanthropist.
ATLANTA - Dec. 15, 2021 Sophia J. Thomas, a 12-year-old Tween chef has just made history. She is the first person of color to grace the cover of Teen HiLife magazine. Sophia is an Entrepreneur, Humanitarian and Philanthropist.
Sophia "SJ" Thomas has been cooking since she was 3 years old. When COVID-19 hit the world, she saw a challenge. She realized that kids who were at home during school hours, needed to know how to make meals for themselves. She started SJ Savory Kitchen, a business that focuses on providing food recipes and tips to families. Since the start of the company, she has received praise from celebrity chefs such as: Rachel Ray, Carla Hall, and Sugar Chef! She has also received praise from Oscar winner, Octavia Spencer!
Sophia "SJ" Thomas also wanted families to be safe in the kitchen, so she started SJ Cookware. Her first line of kitchen safety products includes aprons, chef hats, mittens, and potholders.
Sophia "SJ" Thomas gives back to the community. Her parents are military Veterans so she makes it a point to work with Veteran non-profits to send care-packages to military overseas. She also gives to charities such as Victoria's Voice and No Kid Hungry. Recently, Sophia collaborated with her sister to help raise over $150,000 in a fundraiser for Stand Up for Kids, a non-profit that focuses on helping homeless youth. Sophia "SJ Thomas has been awarded in the community for her leadership achievements. She was awarded the National "Girl of Merit" award in both 2018 and 2019.
Sophia "SJ" Thomas has had guest cooking segments on Fox5 "Good Day Atlanta," Fox5 "Good Day DC," ABC7 "Let's Talk DC" and ABC7 "Good Morning Washington." She has been featured on several podcasts and in print articles such as Authority Magazine and Teen Cruze Magazine (2x). She recently made history in Teen HiLife, as their first person of color on the cover.
In her personal life, Sophia "SJ" Thomas enjoys spending time with her family and watching scary movies. She lives with her father, mother, older sister, and a British Shorthair she personally named Logan.
Jeron Davis Selected Finance 30 Under 30 Forbes List
Jeron Davis, a Senior Associate at RLJ Equity Partners has been selected as one of the top Financiers by Forbes magazine. He made their annual list of 30 under 30 for 2022.
12-2-2021 Washington, DC Jeron Davis, a Senior Associate at RLJ Equity Partners has been selected as one of the top Financiers by Forbes magazine. He made their annual list of 30 under 30 for 2022.
Jeron, from Maryland, has evaluated hundreds of investment opportunities and closed over $100 million of transaction value for RLJ Equity Partners, whose founder Robert L. Johnson is the first African American billionaire.
Other notable deals include the $60 million leveraged buyout (LBO) of Pro-Vac, and the $31 million TechMedia acquisition. Before joining RLJ, Davis was an investment banker at Citigroup Global Markets Inc. where he completed a $4.6 billion LBO of Petco, and $2.2 billion divestiture in which CenturyLink sold data centers to BC Partners and Medina Capital.
For interviews, please contact pr@aoagwllc.com
Our Client, Jeron Davis has been selected as Forbes 30 Under 30 in Finance for 2022!
15-Year Old Cosmetics Brand Owner Pays Homage to Rock Bands With New Lip Shine Collection
9-1-2021 Atlanta, GA Maria Raquel Thomas, a 15-year-old cosmetic brand owner, has launched a new collection of lip shine cosmetics. The lip shine collection is entitled “RockStar”, giving ode to her parents musical background and to rock bands all over the world.
9-1-2021 Atlanta, GA Maria Raquel Thomas, a 15-year-old cosmetic brand owner, has launched a new collection of lip shine cosmetics. The lip shine collection is entitled “RockStar”, paying homage to her family’s musical background and to rock bands all over the world.
“Music runs in my family. My mother, Raquel Riley Thomas, was a drummer in an R & B band when she was a teenager. My grandmother was a drummer in a band and a piano player. My great-grandmother, Shirley E. Cartman was a violin virtuoso, a piano player, and a music teacher. She actually was the music teacher of Tito Jackson of the Jackson 5, in Gary Indiana” states owner, Maria Raquel Thomas.
The Rockstar lip shine collection includes five highly pigmented, long-wear lip shines for girls and women of all skin tones. They are called: Lead Singer, Piano Player, Guitarist, Bassist and Drummer. Each lip shine retails for $7 and are sold at www.mariaraquelthomas.com.
The Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics brand has been worn and loved by celebrities. Tony Award-winning actress, Anika Noni Rose, the voice of Disney Princess Tiana, wore Maria Raquel Thomas’ Girl Power Collection. Also, teen influencer, Brooklyn Queen wore her cosmetics and shouted out how she loved it. Several national pageant queens have given the products lots of positive feedback to include Ebony Acton, Miss DC for America 2021, Lakeisha Brown, Miss DC for America 2020, and Chelsey Rogers, Miss DC USA 2008.
To shop the products, visit www.mariaraquelthomas.com and sign up for emails and text messages for new product launches.
PENNSYLVANIA RESIDENT SELECTED AS LITTLE MISS NORTH AMERICA 2021!
Bettis Bierenbaum is Little Miss North America 2021. She was selected on June 11, 2021, and was officially crowned on June 16, 2021. Her pageant platform is No Kid Hungry.
Bierenbaum is Little Miss North America (LMNA) 2021. She was selected on June 11, 2021. She was officially crowned by Tiarah Williams on June 16, 2021. Her pageant platform is No Kid Hungry. This is the second time that Bettis has won this title. She also holds the 2019 title.
The crowning was a virtual crowning and it included the passing of the crown from Tiarah Williams, LMNA 2020. Participants in the virtual crowning included Bettis’ family members, Tiarah’s family members. Queens from other systems surprised the young ladies to include, Mrs. America 2011 (1st RU), Raquel Riley Thomas, Mrs. Germany World 2020, Sandahl Taylor and Mrs. DC American 2021, Cheryl Burghart.
Bettis Bierenbaum is 10 years old and resides in Fox Chapel, Pennsylvania with her parents, sister Layne, and brother Harris. She is a member of PYLAX Lacrosse team and one of two girls who plays on the local NFL Flag Football team. She enjoys swimming, golfing, and riding horses. She is currently learning to play the guitar.
Bettis works with several local charities to include: The Bus Stops Here Foundation, Best of the Batch Foundation, JMD Cancer Resource Center and Numerous Veteran’s Charities. She now works alongside LMNA organization for No Kids Hungry Foundation.
A fun fact: Bettis is named after Hall of Fame football great Jerome Bettis and she shares his passion for never quitting as well as helping others.
“We are extremely excited about having Bettis as our new Little Miss North America 2021. I am so excited for her!” states Sophia J. Thomas, the Director of Little Miss North America.
The Little Miss North America (LMNA) contest officially recognizes children ages 7-12 years of age who live in the United States of America who have obtained personal and community achievements. The virtual pageant welcomes girls from all ethnic backgrounds to compete in a yearly competition for the national title of Little Miss North America.
The organization is now accepted applications for the 2022 reign at www.aoagwllc.com/littlemissnorthamerica.
Follow Bettis’ reign on Facebook at www.facebook.com/littlemissnorthamerica and www.instagram.com/littlemissnorthamerica.
For interviews and appearances, please contact Sandahl Taylor at pr@aoagwllc.com.
An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC Departs from Mrs. America. Inks Television Production Deal.
After 10 years in the role of producing and directing pageants in the Mrs. America, Inc organization, An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC (AOAGWLLC) has announced the company is stepping away from the job to focus more on television productions.
After 10 years in the role of producing and directing pageants in the Mrs. America, Inc organization, An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC (AOAGWLLC) has announced the company is stepping away from the job to focus more on television productions.
By: An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC
WASHINGTON - May 10, 2021 - PRLog -- Within the Mrs. America organization, an Officer and Gentlewoman has created and directed 17 pageants in the states of Delaware (2017-2019), Pennsylvania (2016-2019), and the District of Columbia (2011-2021.) The organization has crowned 25 state pageant queens and over 100 local titleholders as a result of its efforts. In addition, the company has received more than 20 awards, including the prestigious "Director of the Year." AOAGWLLC made history as the first, black-owned and Veteran-owned production company to produce a pageant at both the French Embassy in Washington, DC, and the John F. Kennedy Center of the Performing Arts.
Mrs. America's owner, Elaine Marmel, sent an email to AOAGWLLC's owner, Raquel Riley Thomas.
"We've been proud and honored to have you in our Mrs. America family these many years. We wish you much success and happiness in all her endeavors. Please remember that our door is always open for you." Mrs. Marmel stated.
AOAGWLLC is branching out into the world of television production. Nubian Television has signed a contract with the company to create a new daytime television series. The company will also specialize in documentaries and made-for-television films.
"We at Nubian Television are extremely excited for the collaboration with An Officer and Gentlewoman LLC. Their style and professionalism are a perfect match for the Nubian TV audience," Darrin Leverett, President Nubian Television.
AOAGWLLC also manages the following brands: Raquel Riley Thomas Beauty, Maria Raquel Thomas Cosmetics, AOAGWLLC Casting, Sophia "SJ" Thomas brand, and Little Miss North America contest.
For more information, please contact Sandah Taylor at pr@aoagwllc.com
Three Winners: The District Crowns 2 Authors and a Style Influencer to Represent DC at National Pageants.
The District of Columbia has three new queens! On this past Saturday, May 1st, the Miss DC for America Strong, Mrs. DC American and Mrs. DC America pageant was held in the heart of Washington, D.C. Due to COVID- 19 Pandemic, the pageant was held without an audience and streamed for public viewing.
5-3-2021 District of Columbia. The District of Columbia has three new queens! On this past Saturday, May 1st, the Miss DC for America Strong, Mrs. DC American and Mrs. DC America pageant was held in the heart of Washington, D.C. Due to COVID- 19 Pandemic, the pageant was held without an audience and streamed for public viewing.
Ebony Acton, representing Lincoln Heights, was crowned Miss DC for America Strong 2021. Cheryl Burghart, representing Georgetown, was crowned Mrs. DC American 2021. And Anchyi Wei, representing Capitol Hill, made history as the first Chinese-American to win the title of Mrs. DC America. Each lady will move on to the National pageant in November to represent DC in the Miss for America, Mrs. American and Mrs. America pageants, respectively.
“The judges chose women who exemplify class, style, and grace, and who will proudly represent D.C. Our team is very happy for them," states Raquel Riley Thomas, owner of AOAGWLLC.
Ebony Acton, Miss DC for America Strong 2021 is an author, speaker, and model. Ebony spearheads the platform the Bold ‘n’ Bookish Campaign which empowers others to be dauntless trailblazers while reigning in knowledge. After conquering different phases in life such as homelessness, Ebony passionately extends her stories to showcase living without limitations and fears. Ebony studies ministry and marketplace strategies through VOUS College’s Leadership Program. She enjoys social Latin dancing, discovering new, yummy nutritional meals and all things pertaining to Jennifer Lopez.
Cheryl is a Duke Ellington School of the Arts Alumni, where she was an instrumental music, violin major. She is a 2020 Honors graduate from, Liberty University and was inducted into the Golden Key International Honor Society and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars in that same year. She is currently finishing up her first year of Law School, where she is currently ranked in the top 5% of her class. Cheryl has chosen OneSight as her platform, and she hopes to help, ‘eradicate the global vision crisis’, in her lifetime. She has served as an Ambassador for the Global OneSight Campaign, and with the help of this Non-Profit Organization, she hopes to bring free exams and eyeglasses to underprivileged cities around the world.
Anchyi Wei, Mrs. DC America 2021, has been a resident of D.C. for over 10 years. Her love of the arts has led her to a variety of careers in architecture, fashion, photography, and digital media. Originally a Civil Engineer, she combined her technical skills with her passion for fashion and digital content development to create Web User Interface design. She is known for her unique talent and out-of-the-box approach to style, having been named one of the trendiest women in Washingtonian, Washington Life, DC Modern Luxury, and Washington Post Style magazines. She promotes female empowerment and remaining true to one's self-identity, as well as raising awareness about critical global issues like sustainability and environmental concerns.
The winners of all three divisions Miss D.C for America and Mrs. D.C American and Mrs. D.C America will move on to their respective national pageants, Miss for America Strong, Mrs. American, Mrs. America. The national pageants are scheduled to be held in November at the Westgate Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The pageant was produced by An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC, a veteran-owned media and entertainment company, headquartered in Washington, DC. The company received a congratulatory letter from the Mayor of DC. Representatives from her office, Alma R. Candelaria, Deputy Secretary of the District of Columbia and Emily Martin, stopped in to read the letter to Raquel Riley Thomas, the owner of AOAGWLLC.
For interviews, please contact Sandahl Taylor at pr@aoagwllc.com
Here are the pageant results:
Miss DC for America Strong 2021:
Winner: Ebony Acton-Miss Lincoln Heights
1st Runner-Up: Faren Campbell-Miss Northwest
2nd Runner-Up: LaKimbria Penn-White-Miss Capitol Hill
3rd Runner up: Ny’Zhea Green-Miss Southwest
Mrs. DC American 2021:
Winner: Cheryl Burghart
Mrs. DC America 2021:
Winner: Anchyi Wei
Special Category Awards:
Miss Fitness: Faren Campbell-Miss Northwest
Miss Photogenic: Ebony Acton-Miss Lincoln Heights
Miss Fabulous Face: Ny’Zhea Green-Miss Southwest
Mrs. Fabulous Face: Cheryl Burghart-Mrs. Georgetown
Congeniality Award: Ebony Acton-Miss Lincoln Heights
Sponsorship Award: Anchyi Wei- Mrs. Capitol Hill
Judges:
Stacy Dykman-Owner, Fitness Together, Georgetown
Dr. Afsheen Ather-Owner, Nova Derm Institute
Kara Allan-Owner, Styling by Kara Allan
LeeAnne Locken-TV Personality
AOAGWLLC Announces the Contestants for DC Pageant 2021
Mark your calendars and grab your popcorn as the District of Columbia sets out to crown 3 new pageant queens!
4-13-2020 Washington, DC Mark your calendars and grab your popcorn as the District of Columbia sets out to crown 3 new pageant queens!
There are 10 contestants who will vie for the title of Miss DC for America Strong, Mrs. DC American and Mrs. DC America 2021. The pageant will be streamed to the public on May 2, 2021 at 5pm. The winners of each division will move on to compete at their National competition Miss for America Strong, Mrs. American and Mrs. America, respectively.
The state level pageant is currently produced by An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC, a Veteran-owned media and entertainment company headquartered in Washington, DC. The pageant event is presented by BlackKnight Medical, and it will be hosted by the “Voice of DC”, Rick Bernstein.
Contestants in both the Miss and Mrs. divisions, will be scored in the categories of: Interview, Swimsuit and Evening Gown. Due to COVID-19 restrictions the contest is being filmed and will then be streamed to audiences all over the country. The next day, May 3rd, the reigning Miss DC for America, LaKeisha Brown, Mrs. DC American, Helene Meister, and Mrs. DC America, Jeananne Roberts will each crown their successors live, in downtown, Washington, DC.
Here is the list of the contestants for both Miss and Mrs. divisions:
Mrs. DC American and Mrs. DC America Contestants 2020
Mrs. Capitol Hill-Anchyi Wei
Mrs. Georgetown-Cheryl Burghart
Miss DC for America Strong Contestants 2020
Miss Capitol Hill-La Kimbria Penn White
Miss Friendship Heights-Nicole Marie Johnson
Miss Lincoln Heights-Ebony Acton
Miss Logan Circle-Yvette Ilechie
Miss Near Southeast-Eunice Hicks
Miss Northwest-Faren Campbell
Miss Southwest-Ny’Zhea Green
Miss Takoma-Elisa Garcia
For tickets to watch livestream, click here.
For more information, please contact pr@aoagwllc.com.
Tinted Glam Selects Miss DC for America 2020 as Brand Ambassador
Lakeisha Brown, Miss DC for America was selected to represent Tinted Glam Subscription Box. Tinted Glam is a beauty subscription box whose mission is to always, and wholeheartedly “Celebrate glam in every tint.” The boxes contain five to six products (full and deluxe) which highlights minority owned businesses and products. Every box will have makeup, skincare, haircare, and the owner's favorite tools.
WASHINGTON - Nov. 30, 2020 --Lakeisha Brown, Miss DC for America was selected to represent Tinted Glam Subscription Box.
Tinted Glam is a beauty subscription box whose mission is to always, and wholeheartedly “Celebrate glam in every tint.” The boxes contain five to six products (full and deluxe) which highlights minority owned businesses and products. Every box will have makeup, skincare, haircare, and the owner's favorite tools.
Candy Finsley, Owner of Tinted Glam, stated “I chose Miss DC for America, Lakeisha Brown, to represent Tinted Glam for several reasons. Lakeisha is out in the community teaching our children. She is also focused on health and wellness, all while celebrating the skin she is in. It made Miss Dc for America, Lakeisha Brown the perfect choice for us. Our goal will Tinted glam is also to bring awareness to our community, and black and minority business with every box.”
Lakeisha C. Brown is Miss DC for America 2020. She has dedicated her life as a life-long educator and advocate for HIV/AIDS in the community. She has lived in Durban, South Africa teaching and designing HIV/AIDS prevention programs. During her 15-year career as an educator, Lakeisha has taught in several states and countries. She has taught English as a second language internationally in China, Malaysia, and South Korea. She currently teaches kindergarten for District of Columbia Public Schools in Washington D.C. She was awarded the 2019 District of Columbia Teacher of the Year and named as a finalist for the 2020 Washington Post Teacher of the Year. When Lakeisha is not volunteering in the community or teaching in the classroom, she is playing with her four-year-old son, Noah.
“I am excited to represent this company that celebrates and promotes self-care and beauty for all shades of women, through black owned businesses. I will be revealing the new products every month and where you can get them, “Lakeisha stated.
To find more information about Tinted Glam Subscription box visit : https://tintedglam.com/
Follow them on Instagram: @tinted_glam
For more information about Miss Dc for America or to request an appearance visit: www.missdcforamerica.org.
Follow Miss DC for America on FB and Instagram @missdcforamerica.
Miss DC for America 2020, LaKeiasha Brown, has been selected as a brand ambassador for Tinted Glam
Tinted Glam is a beauty subscription box whose mission is to always, and wholeheartedly “Celebrate glam in every tint.”
Miss DC for America 2020, LaKeisha Brown is the new Brand Ambassador for Tinted Glam!