In our Take 5 series, sponsored by Verizon, we ask women in business about unexpected challenges, their inspirations, recent wins, and how the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program has helped propel their business forward. Here, we meet Rita Suzanne, a marketing strategist for health and wellness businesses who learned to network, connect with other entrepreneurs, and build her business online and IRL.
What's an unexpected business challenge that you've had to face and how did you overcome it?
The hardest thing for me was my sister passed away and I ended up taking custody of my nieces. I ended up being a single mom of four kids. This is the thing that transitioned my whole entire life. I stopped doing web design and started my podcast Mom Owned and Operated. I wanted to reconnect with other moms and figure out how they were able to run their businesses and raise a family and take care of themselves because I wasn't able to do all three at the same time. Through that journey, I realized that I really needed to connect with other people and how important it was for my business. It helped me to create that community that I was yearning for that I didn't realize that I needed.
What's a recent small win for your business?
For me, the win was just pivoting back to something that I actually wanted to do. Also, I’ve started to say no to things that I no longer want to do.
Who is a woman in business that you look up to and why?
I have always admired and looked up to Amy Porterfield [author of Two Weeks Notice]. I listened to her all the time when I was starting out. I think that she's amazing and I love her stuff. She just seems like a very genuine person.
Is there a resource that has made an impact on you as an entrepreneur?
I listen to a lot of audio books. One of my favorites that has been huge for me is You Are A Badass by Jen Sincero. I was told when I first started my business, by a friend who was a business coach, that I have a mindset problem. Ten years ago, I had no idea even what “mindset” was. Sincero’s book helped me to see what she meant by “mindset” and helped me adjust that mindset and fix some of the things that I didn't realize were broken.
How has the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program helped propel your business forward?
There are a lot of things that I have loved about it. There are local networking and training opportunities, and that has been great, and the online training is very valuable. It's a great resource. I find that marketing needs a three-tiered approach, meaning you need to network it locally, socially, and then also have a very comprehensive online approach to your marketing. One of the Verizon Small Business trainings that I took was all about taking advantage of your local resources. I found that to be extremely valuable because often people think they need to just focus on social media. I don't think that people focus enough on their local community.
Learn more about the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program and Rita Suzanne.
Illustration by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces
One thing every girl needs in her wardrobe is a good, reliable black dress. It's that comfort piece that can carry you through so many seasons, events, and milestones. Whether you're headed to a wedding, a funeral, a bridal shower — truly, you name it! — a classic black dress has you covered.
However, not every black dress is THE black dress. Since there are so many out there, I scoured through hundreds of dresses to find the best of the best — and the ones that are the most loved by fellow shoppers! So, keep reading to see which black dress should be your next trusty purchase!
Ann Taylor
The Scoop Neck Sheath Dress
This is a quintessential little black dress! Between the scoop neck and the knee-length skirt, you could wear this just about anywhere! I definitely see this as your next office siren slay, but I wouldn't blame you if you pulled it out for date night, jury duty, or anything in-between!
J.Crew
J.Crew Fitted Knit Mockneck Dress
A mockneck dress is so perfect for transitional seasons like fall! It covers just enough, while still allowing you to layer your outfit appropriately for the weather. I especially love that this J.Crew dress could easily be worn on your stroll through the farmer's market, or in your next boardroom meeting.
Dôen
Dôen Ischia Dress
If you ever wondered what my most worn item of clothing was, then here you have it! This Dôen dress genuinely makes me want to get dressed every morning — I'm not even kidding. It's an easy outfit to throw on and not have to think about, plus it's insanely comfortable! I honestly feel like I'm wearing pajamas, and I'm sure it'll easily become your most worn piece of clothing as well!
Reformation Arabella Dress
Black midi dresses are a great way to create a solid, comfortable, and cozy outfit for the fall and winter. You just need to accessorize it well with a coat, belt, boots, and slouchy bag. This one from Reformation is super well-loved by many, and I can see why. It's great quality — and it's actually one of their lower-priced items! Score!
Nordstrom
Reformation Mayve Black Dress
A little, cutesy mini dress is all a girl really needs in her wardrobe. Well, that and some adorable accessories to go with it! A mini dress with a matching bag and boots combination is one of my favorite looks in the fall, because it's just so fashionable, and so easy to style.
Target
Wild Fable Women's One Shoulder Maxi Slip Dress
Target never lets me down, so I'm not surprised they have a fantastic black dress for us to pick from today! I love this elegant neckline — it's so sleek and sophisticated! This dress sizing goes up to a 4x, making it a great option for a wide range of bodies, too.
Madewell
Madewell Ruffled One-Shoulder Midi Dress
I can totally picture this little ruffled number at a Friday night wedding! It's a flowy, feminine look that would pair so well with some black heels, silver jewelry, and a sleek low bun. It gives you something elegant to wear with enough movement to totally take over the dance floor throughout the night.
Free People
Free People Butterfly Maxi
I love a good patterned dress, and I've seen this one all over social media lately! It went pretty viral for being extremely flattering, and I've seen it look good on so many different body types. I'm currently been debating picking this one up, and seeing all the rave the reviews for it makes me convinced!
Anthropologie
Anthropologie Somerset Maxi Dress
This dress from Anthropologie has a ton of reviews, so it's safe to say that it is definitely a popular "little black dress" contender. I love how elevated yet casual this dress is at the same time — it gives you so much versatility! You can style it up with heels, or even style it down with sandals, depending on the occasion. The velvet is also fabulous given how perfect it is for the fall transition into winter — it'll be here before we know it!
J.Crew
J.Crew Collection Lace-Trim Slip Dress
This screams "date night dress" loud and clear! I love how sexy and mature this black dress is, complete with lace trim, spaghetti straps, and sleek satin. Grab your strappiest heels and a red lipstick to make it a night to remember!
Anthropologie
Significant Other Long Sleeve Dress
This dress is for all my ladies on the hunt for a modest dress option this wedding season! This long sleeve, maxi dress is a great option — and has plenty of reviews to prove how incredible it is! Personally, I would pair this dress with some statement, sparkly heels to go with the matching clutch as pictured above. You'll be sure to shine in this stunner.
Ann Taylor
Ann Taylor Boatneck Pleat Front Belted Sheath Dress
This is another fantastic, classic black dress. I'd throw this on for a big presentation in front of the C-levels at your office, or accessorize á la Blair Waldorf for a preppy everyday look. Either way, you're sure to look gorgeous!
Reformation
Reformation Rayana Dress
I love having one good, reliable wedding guest dress that can be used just about every time. It seriously helps divert the impending stress of buying a new dress every time you get invited to yet another wedding. Trust me: the invites just keep coming as you get older. This dress is that perfect option, giving you something silky, luxurious, and flattering to wear every time!
Nordstrom
Zoe and Claire Midi Dress
This under-$100 dress is well-loved over on Nordstrom for being insanely versatile and insanely affordable. It could take you straight from the office with its professional and chic cut, right into dinner with the girls after work. I'd pair this with a trench coat and flats, or with heels and a clutch!
Reformation
Reformation Petite Mini Dress
Okay, Kacey Musgaves, we see you! The country star's collection with Reformation has been a hit all over social media, and this dress has been all I'm thinking about for the past couple weeks since it dropped. The coquette, cottagecore style has me in an absolute chokehold this fall and winter.
Amazon
Memoriesea Black Dress
This black dress has over 1,400 reviews singing its praises for how form-fitting and flattering it is. It's seriously ideal for so many different body types, because the slinky and stretchy fabric will accentuate your body and make it look fabulous! I think this is the perfect for any occasion, from a nice date night to a fall wedding.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations
We love a good beauty hack, from time-saving tips to discovering new beauty finds that make us feel confident and glowy for the season.
The B+C edit team recently swapped out our summer lip routine for City Beauty’s new plumping gloss, City Lips Sparkling Cider, and City Lips Night Oil, a smooth exfoliator that hydrates your lips while you sleep. I’m literally obsessed with it! They’re both Leaping Bunny-certified (AKA cruelty-free), and made without irritants or harsh chemicals. Plus, they plump more and more over time.We all agreed the color looked great on our respective skin tones and the plumping factor didn’t sting like other plumping glosses. “I seriously can't believe it doesn't tingle when you apply it!,” said Jasmine, our staff editor. Read on for our full review of the City Lips Sparkling Cider plumping gloss and City Lips Night Oil, plus other City Beauty products!
Mallory Levy, Editorial Social Lead
The Cider lipgloss is great to have on hand in your car or on your desk for those last-minute touch-ups before your next Zoom call. “I love the soft sparkle. It’s not too flashy for work or casual outfits,” says Mallory. “It’s a great daytime shade to wear on no or light makeup days so I don’t look dead on Zoom calls.” LOL. It looks great layered on top of a base shade too. “I wore it on my anniversary and my husband loved it, “ says Mallory, who celebrated her first wedding anniversary. “He never notices my makeup!” She also found it less sticky than other lipglosses, which is a bonus when you have long hair on windy days.
Jasmine Williams, Staff Writer
Jasmine, who tends to avoid color on her lips, loves the color for fall. “I usually rely on clear lip oils whenever I wear makeup, but I can't get over how much Sparkling Cider reminds me of a golden sunset.” SAME. “Considering it's a plumping lip gloss, I'm shocked at how moisturizing it is. I only needed one coat to get the job done, but the smooth application made me add a few more.”
We all agreed there was no tingling effect, which was awesome. “It's not super sticky like some lip glosses tend to be,” adds Jasmine. “I can see myself reaching for Sparkling Cider no matter which fall outfit I choose to wear.”
Meredith Holser, Affiliate Writer
“I love the plumping component,” says Meredith. “I can definitely tell it’s working when I put it on, but it’s not overly distracting or painful. Plus, I notice a difference in the volume of my lips after applying!”
The color is also an ideal match for Meredith’s skin tone and lip color, though a bit more shimmery than the lip products she typically uses. I personally love the shimmer and it’s not too overwhelming. Meredith also really liked the City Lip Lip Oil. “The scent is very unique, almost floral,” she says. “The oil is definitely thicker than other lip oils I’ve tried, which is nice for the long-wear since you’re meant to apply it at night and let it soak in.”
Theresa Gonzalez, Branded Editor
As someone with naturally thin lips, I love the lip oil too and agree it feels weightier than other oils, which is part of its appeal. The gloss color is super pretty over my neutral base, especially for a fall look.
As the only (tired) mom on the edit team, I appreciated the Lid Lifting Treatment and was surprised how quickly I noticed a lift! I applied it at night and in the morning with a small dab on my lids, and I felt that I looked visibly more awake! It nourishes your skin too to soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It makes a great primer for eye makeup too.
Want to try it yourself? Upgrade your lip routine this fall with City Beauty’s new City Lips Sparkling Cider plumping lipgloss, and City Lips Night Oil!
Photos by B+C Edit team
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
It’s only mid-October, but I already feel my skin severely drying out. These days, I never let a tube of Aquaphor out of my sight, but what really saves my dry skin is a solid night cream. I’ve been loving thicker, slug-worthy formulas (like the few I’ll mention in this list), but there are a ton of different options to choose from when it comes to the best night cream for you. No matter what, late fall and winter are surely going to bring on more dryness than you’re used to – so stock up on one of these effective hydrating night creams now. They’ll put in all the work for your dry skin while you sleep peacefully, so you can wake up looking rejuvenated and moisturized to the gods!
Best Tested & Reviewed Night Creams:
- Versed Sweet Relief Night Mask + Face Balm
- Youth To The People Superberry Glow Dream Mask
- CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
- Aveeno Positively Radiant Moisturizing Face & Neck Night Cream
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo Night Cream
- Cocokind Resurrection Polypeptide Cream
- Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream
- Dieux Instant Angel Moisturizer
Amazon
Versed Sweet Relief Night Mask + Face Balm
This is my absolute favorite night cream, and honestly, one of the best skincare products I've tried in my life. I've repurchased the pot three times now. Why do I love it so much? Well, for nighttime, it's exceptionally hydrating. I am a huge fan of the slugging technique (AKA slathering your skin in a thick jelly or cream to prevent water loss), and this pick really gets the job done. I wake up looking super hydrated, especially living in a dry climate! Plus, this product is very fun to scoop up and put on. The formula is also boosted with bacuri and kokum butters and apricot kernel oil to support the skin barrier, which is always welcome.
Amazon
Youth To The People Superberry Glow Dream Mask
Not only does this mask hydrate, it also brightens – we love a multi-hyphenate! The formula has a very rich texture that soaks into the skin while simultaneously sitting lightly on top to lock in moisture. It's like a fresh gulp of water for your dry skin – with a subtle fruity scent that makes applying it very fun.
B+C’s VP of Content, Alison Ives, is a big fan of the Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask.
“Believe the hype, people! I’d heard amazing things about Youth To The People for years, so when I saw a mini version of this for sale, I couldn’t resist ordering it to try it out. The jar was the ideal size for frequent travels when you want to keep up with your skincare routine while away, and the formula felt really luxurious on my dry skin. I use it a few times a week when I need an extra boost of hydration overnight. Plus, squalane is great for anti-aging concerns and reducing the little lines I have in my eye area.”
Amazon
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
If fine lines and wrinkles are your primary skincare concern, this is one of the best night creams for you. CeraVe products are commonly recommended by dermatologists for any and all skin types, since they're often gentle, yet effective! This cream in particular is fragrance free, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating, so those with sensitive skin can enjoy its hydrating benefits. It has hyaluronic acid and 3 essential ceramides to boost the skin's hydration and elasticity, which can help reduce the look of those pesky wrinkles.
Amazon
Aveeno Positively Radiant Moisturizing Face & Neck Night Cream
Dealing with uneven skin tone and texture? Opt for this night cream that still gloriously hydrates your skin. It features niacinamide, a skincare hero for reducing the look of dark spots. The brand reported that 91% of users had softer, smoother-feeling skin in just one week after using this product!
Amazon
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo Night Cream
Made to soothe and hydrate, this night cream also purifies the skin, drawing out excess oil overnight to minimize blemishes and clogged pores. It has a gel-cream texture to it, so it doesn't feel overly heavy on the skin – but is still nourishing! The fragrance-free formula is safe for sensitive skin types, and works most effectively in conjunction with other La Roche-Posay products.
Amazon
Cocokind Resurrection Polypeptide Cream
This rich moisturizing cream lets you easily get the look of plumped skin overnight. It includes polypeptides that aid in collagen production, improving firmness while combatting fine lines and wrinkles. The formula has a "dreamy" and "cushion-like" texture that hugs the skin so it can deliver all the goodness!
Amazon
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream
This cream is a true staple in my skincare routine, morning or night. It sounds unreal, but my skin truly looks more alive after I slather it on. It's somehow rich and creamy, but still lightweight enough that I can wear it throughout the day under my makeup. The 4.5% squalane helps maintain the skin’s moisture, while the glycoproteins (derived from glaciers – so fancy!) boost hydration even more. It helps your skin feel balanced and healthy, no matter what time of day you apply it.
Dieux
Dieux Instant Angel Moisturizer
This is another one of my beloved night creams that I use on a weekly basis when my skin really needs quenching. Dieux's Instant Angel Moisturizer is a total expert at providing your skin with moisture and protecting its barrier. Supporting your skin barrier can help it maintain healthy hydration levels, so you won't have to overcompensate with more creams and products that may not work 100% of the time.
Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-loved skincare picks!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
With Halloween coming up, now is the time to get planning and prepping those costumes. Why not get the whole family in on the fun this year? It will be exciting for you and the little ones in your life. From classic storybook characters to throwbacks from your favorite movies, we've got ideas for every type of family costume this year.
Brit + Co
The Cat in the Hat + Goldfish
This costume was completely DIY for the little goldfish, and the Cat in the Hat was super easy because we purchased the accessory package that made this look come together.
Brit + Co
Trolls
We are still in love with Brit's pregnant troll costume — nude body-con dress, YASSS girl! We updated this costume for the whole family — it's pretty simple, and all you'll need is tan colored clothing and wigs for you and your family.
A Beautiful Mess
Peter Pan and the Lost Boys
Harness that rebellious spirit as a whole family this Halloween. All you'll need are some PJs , cardboard swords and a Pan getup.
Brit + Co
Big Bird and Elmo
We decided to go ALL IN on DIYing Big Bird's costume, so we felt it was best and more realistic to just purchase the Elmo costume for your mini. Real talk: Who has time to make BOTH costumes? :) It's okay, because your mini will lose their minds when they see the life-like Elmo 'fit in person!
Brit + Co
Outerspace: If you need an awesome and easy family costume for Halloween — we've got you. ICYMI, the Morin Fam is kind of a big deal around here (obvi), and they never disappoint when it comes to creative Halloween costumes. This year they really hit it out of the park (or rather, the atmosphere)!
Costume Works
Beekeeper + Bees
Keep it light and sweet this year with an adorable beekeeper-themed costume.
Tell Love and Party
Monster Family
Take a little inspiration from the famous Munster family this Hallows' Eve. We're sure your little mummy and bat will approve.
Brit + Co
Sriracha and Taco
This one is a show-stopper! The popular hot sauce will give you an excuse to turn your mini into a teeny tiny taco!
Say Yes
Disneyland Tourist
Okay, this one might be a little confusing to the kiddos, but just tell them you are just practicing for that trip later this year ;).
The Rollins Ruckus
Superheroes
Let your little ones choose their favorite superhero for this year's costume. They'll be full of all kinds of powers and fun once they get into character.
Brit + Co
Pac Man
Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, and the cutest little ghost you ever did see? Yes please. This retro family Halloween costume is colorful, fun, and super affordable to DIY.
Vintage Revivals
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
It's never too early to break out those Christmas socks. Whoville won't know what hit it with this family costume.
Brit + Co
Toy Story
Get ready to go to infinity and beyond this Halloween. Feel free to add more characters depending on your family size.
Tell Love and Party
Circus Family
Everything about this costume just screams cuteness. We can't decide which we like better: the cute lion or the super strong little man.
Brit + Co
Labyrinth
Okay, to be fair, this isn't a full tutorial, but take this fam costume as some seriously adorable inspo.
Brit + Co
Princess Peach and Toad
Forget Mario and Luigi. We all know *these* were the fastest characters in Mario Kart.
Brit + Co
Paw Patrol
Kiddos love PAW Patrol? This is the cutest group costume for you, paws down! Click to learn how to DIY costumes for everyone — like firedog Marshall, high-flying Skye, recycling Rocky, and police pup Chase.
See Vanessa Craft
Care Bears
Perfect for busy moms and dads, this tutorial is even no-sew, so you won't be up all night before trick-or-treating.
Monkey Mash Button/Flickr
Pirate Family
Excuse us while we try to get over how adorable this baby parrot is with his pirate dad.
Brit + Co
Queen Bey[oncé] and Blue Ivy
Go for a punny pop culture costume with this playful look at the Queen and her kin.
Loft 3 Photography
Addams Family
Get creepy and spooky with your favorite scary family this Halloween. “Thing" required.
A Beautiful Mess
Raggedy Ann Dolls
Dressing up like your mom is one of the best parts of being little. Plus, making these yarn wigs is an activity you can do together. Feel free to add another parent to the mix with a short (or long!) wig.
Coolest Homemade Costumes
Simpsons
Believe it or not, your fave dysfunctional family can be achieved with yellow long underwear and lots of foam.
Kickcan & Conkers
Clowns
Any costume with pom poms is a winner. Give your family the carnival-chic vibe with this amazing costume.
The Fickle Pickle
Shark Attack
The kiddos will definitely be into this under-the-sea-inspired costume.
Brit + Co
Incredibles
Not only is this one super easy, but it's also perfect for all those Pixar fans.
Life Among Pirates
Minecraft
A little Minecraft action never hurt anyone. This costume would be a fun DIY with the little ones.
1337 Mom
King Kong and Empire State Building
How hilarious is this costume? Monkey costumes are pretty easy to find for kids, and you can make the Empire State Building from cardboard boxes.
Brit + Co
Beetlejuice
Throw it back with this '80s classic. While this costume costs $3000 on Etsy, you could probably DIY something just as rad with foam.
High Heels to Sneakers
Monsters Inc.
What family member doesn't love Monsters Inc.? Not only do you get to dress up as one of your favorite Disney characters, but you get to dress up as a monster too!
Stevenson Insider
Nightmare Before Christmas
No wonder this was a costume contest winner! The attention to detail here is totally on point.
Pink Suede Shoe
Rainbow Brite and Twink
One of the '80s best BFFs also make an amazing family costume.
Brit + Co
Top Gun
Looking for an easyfamily Halloween costume that works for years to come? Yeah, we thought so. '80s babes, we have you covered with a simple holiday look that works for you, your boo, and your little one too.
Brit + Co
Russian Nesting Dolls
A group of Russian nesting dolls is the perfect group Halloween costume for families of all sizes. The key is to dress every member of the family the same and include a piece with an intricate pattern.
Have you ever done a group costume with your family? Let us know @BritandCo!