A couple of weeks ago, I decided that I wanted to add some upgrades to my bedroom. There was a particular comforter that I was eyeing that y'all, when it arrived, it's like I never want to get out of my bed again! Then I added some shams and new drapes and it's like…everything changed.
That's kind of what inspired me to write this. Every year, there are décor trends that pop up. So, I figured that since we're only a few weeks away from it officially becoming spring (March 20), you might want to make some additions at your own place. Ones that won't cost you an arm and half a leg to get. Are you ready to check out 12 home décor trends that are currently all the rage?
1. Yellow and Grey Color Palette
As far as color trends go, a combo that is pretty big this year is yellow and grey which I actually think is pretty dope.
The reason why I decided to put it on this list of décor trends is because, when a color trend is happening, it's pretty easy to find it, just about anywhere. You can put a yellow blanket over a grey bed or couch. You can find grey coffee mugs to go over yellow placemats in your kitchen. The possibilities really are endless.
And personally, what I find to be cool about yellow and grey, is it's just the right blend of masculine and feminine energy if you happen to be someone who doesn't like anything that is "too girly" or you share your space with your boo thang.
2. Plush Accessories
I've got some plush pillows that I'm looking at right now in my living room, that I absolutely adore. They literally look like clouds and sometimes, when I lay on them, I feel like I am on one. Plush accessories are everywhere in 2021, so if you're looking for something that's super comfy and not that expensive, this trend totally has you covered, from Walmart to the more high-end spots.
3. Wooden Furniture
Whether it's a nightstand, a bedframe or even a footstool, wood always adds a really nice touch. Not only is it aesthetically appealing but it's durable, versatile, easy to maintain, eco-friendly and is pretty timeless too (meaning, if you get it now and take care of it, you can probably hold onto it forever). The key is to not get the cheap imitation stuff. Nah, the best woods for furniture include mahogany, walnut, maple, cherry and ash. Real lasts. Remember that.
4. Vintage Pieces
It wasn't uncommon that my mom would stop by antique malls or estate sales when I was a kid. As a direct result, I now have a flare for picking out vintage pieces. What I like about this particular décor trend is 1) you can find one-of-a-kind items that no one else will ever have in their own home and 2) oftentimes, they aren't expensive at all. If you make a day of it to go thrift store shopping, you might be surprised by the mirrors, picture frames and trinkets that are super vintage and come at a really low cost.
5. Plenty of Plants
Did you know that there are actual scientific reasons why it's a good idea to have houseplants? They reduce stress. They increase empathy. They help you to recover from illnesses faster. They increase productivity. They also can help to strengthen your immune system, thanks to the phytoncides and other airborne chemicals that they contain. While having plants in your home is something that never really goes out of style, what makes this trend stand out this year is the more you've got, the better off you'll be. I mean, plants in the kitchen, plants in your home office, plants even in your bathroom if you want. If you're down and you're wondering which ones you should add to your collection, Aralia Fabian, Burgundy Rubber Tree, Jade, Ficus Alii, Spider Plant, Ficus Bonsai Tree, Devil's Ivy, Areca Palm, Heartleaf Philodendron and Air Plants are some that can make you feel like you're in your own little oasis.
6. Canopies
Although I've never had one in my bedroom before, I've always liked canopies. To me, they look really romantic and can also give you an extra bit of privacy. The thing that I like about this particular picture is it shows that you could create a canopy with fabric or even with faux greenery. Anyway, if a canopy bed is something that you're open to and money is tight, this is something that you can take out a day on the weekend to do yourself. BuzzFeed published a DIY article on how to make several different kinds a few years back. You can check it out by clicking here.
7. Darker Hues
If you're someone who leans towards darker colors, you're in luck because that is something else that's a hot trend right now. Navy, brown, aubergine (which is kinda sorta like an eggplant), sunset (which is a really dark orange) and hunter greens are all popular and would look great as an accent wall, a sofa cover or the accent for the bathroom accessories that you've got in mind. Since they are all trending, they are currently in abundance. Have a ball.
8. Indoor Gardens
Have you been saying to yourself for years that you should start a garden, but either you live in a space where there isn't a backyard or the mere thought of doing all of the work to start and maintain one totally wears you out? In either case, an alternative is to cultivate a garden inside of your home. All you need are some seeds, some jars, some water, and a little bit of TLC.
Indoor gardens are actually really big this year, especially when it comes to growing your own herbs. So, if this is something that you're down for at least considering, Home Hacks pushed an article that features 40 different herbs, houseplants and veggies that you can grow inside. Click here for some inspiration.
9. A Taste of Africa
Whether you've been to Africa before or it's currently on your bucket list, you can feel like you've got a little bit of it with you year-round if you add some African-inspired elements throughout your home. Afro-chic art, animal print throw rugs, wooden utensils, African-printed pillows and cushions can make your space feel more cultural and yet super modern at the same time. Etsy is one space that has many options to choose from. Just go to the site and put "African" along with whatever you're specifically looking for in the search field for some affordable items that you'll absolutely adore.
10. Ocean Blue
Let's touch on one more color that is a big décor trend this year. I don't know about you, but to me, blue is a very soothing hue. And ocean blue it definitely brings a calming effect like no other. It actually makes sense when you think about the fact that blue represents things like relaxation, tranquility and even dependability. Ocean blue bedding. Ocean blue dinner plates. Ocean blue towels in your bathroom. Ocean blue chairs for your deck. Ocean blue picture frames for your office. I can't think of anywhere this color wouldn't fit in beautifully. I really can't.
11. Upgrades to Your Backyard
If you're blessed to have a backyard, devote some time this year to sprucing it up a bit. An outdoor rug. Stringing some lights. Making your own stone path. Planting some flowers. Adding a comfy seat. Painting a mural on your wooden fence. Creating a space for outdoor dining. These are just a few things that you can do that will make it so much easier to spend hours out in your backyard this coming spring, summer and even autumn without you looking at your watch one time.
12. Drink Trolleys
Drink trolleys. Bar carts. Whatever you wanna call them, they're going to round out this installment of 2021 décor trends. I like them because they offer up a classy way to store your alcohol, plus they're convenient if you're hosting a dinner party (you know, whenever we get out of this pandemic) because all you've gotta do is roll 'em out.
As far as where to find one, home improvement stores have them. So do Target and Etsy. Just go to your favorite search engine, put "drink trolley" (or "bar cart") in the search field and you're all set to have one of the best décor trends this year has to offer. Enjoy!
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It's kinda wild that, in 2025, my byline will have appeared on this platform for (what?!) seven years. And yeah, when I'm not waxing poetic on here about sex, relationships and then...more sex and relationships, I am working as a certified marriage life coach, helping to birth babies (as a doula) or penning for other places (oftentimes under pen names).
As some of you know, something that I've been "threatening" to do for a few years now is write another book. Welp, October 2024 was the month that I "gave birth" to my third one: 'Inside of Me 2.0: My Story. With a 20-Year Lens'. It's fitting considering I hit a milestone during the same year.
Beyond that, Pumas and lip gloss are still my faves along with sweatshirts and tees that have a pro-Black message on them. I've also started really getting into big ass unique handbags and I'm always gonna have a signature scent that ain't nobody's business but my own.
As far as where to find me, I continue to be MIA on the social media front and I honestly don't know if that will ever change. Still, if you need to hit me up about something *that has nothing to do with pitching on the site (I'm gonna start ignoring those emails because...boundaries)*, hit me up at missnosipho@gmail.com. I'll do what I can. ;)
Claudia Jordan, Demetria McKinney & Jill Marie Jones On 'Games Women Play' & Dating Over 40
What do you get when you mix unfiltered truths, high-stakes romance, and a few well-timed one-liners? You get Games Women Play—the sizzling new stage play by Je’Caryous Johnson that’s part relationship rollercoaster, part grown-woman group chat.
With a powerhouse cast that includes Claudia Jordan, Demetria McKinney, Jill Marie Jones, Carl Payne, Chico Bean, and Brian J. White, the play dives headfirst into the messy, hilarious, and heart-wrenching games people play for love, power, and peace of mind. And the women leading this story? They’re bringing their whole selves to the stage—and leaving nothing behind.
From Script to Spotlight
The road to Games Women Play started over 20 years ago—literally.
“This script was written 20 years ago,” Jill Marie Jones said with a smile. “It was originally called Men, Money & Gold Diggers, and I was in the film version. So when Je’Caryous called me to bring it to the stage, I was like, ‘Let’s go.’” Now reimagined for 2025, the play is updated with sharp dialogue and modern relationship dynamics that feel all too real.
Demetria McKinney, no stranger to Je’Caryous Johnson’s productions, jumped at the opportunity to join the cast once again. “This is my third time working with him,” she shared. “It was an opportunity to stretch. I’d never been directed by Carl Payne before, and the chance to work with talent I admire—Jill, Claudia, Chico—it was a no-brainer.”
Claudia Jordan joked that she originally saw the role as just another check. “I didn’t take it that seriously at first,” she admitted. “But this is my first full-on tour—and now I’ve got a whole new respect for how hard people work in theater. This ain’t easy.”
Modern Love, Stage Left
The play doesn’t hold back when it comes to the messier parts of love. One jaw-dropping moment comes when a live podcast proposal flips into a prenup bombshell—leaving the audience (and the characters) gasping.
Demetria broke it down with honesty. “People don’t ask the real questions when they date. Like, ‘Do you want kids? How do you feel about money?’ These convos aren’t happening, and then everyone’s confused. That moment in the play—it’s real. That happens all the time.”
Jill chimed in, noting how the play speaks to emotional disconnect. “We’re giving each other different tokens of love. Men might offer security and money. Women, we’re giving our hearts. But there’s a disconnect—and that’s where things fall apart.”
And then Claudia, of course, took it all the way there. “These men don’t even want to sign our prenups now!” she laughed. “They want to live the soft life, too. Wearing units, gloss, getting their brows done. We can’t have nothing! Y’all want to be like us? Then get a damn period and go through menopause.”
Dating Over 40: “You Better Come Correct”
When the conversation turned to real-life relationships, all three women lit up. Their experiences dating in their 40s and 50s have given them both clarity—and zero tolerance for games.
“I feel sexier than I’ve ever felt,” said Jill, who proudly turned 50 in January. “I say what I want. I mean what I say. I’m inside my woman, and I’m not apologizing for it.”
Demetria added that dating now comes with deeper self-awareness. “Anybody in my life is there because I want them there. I’ve worked hard to need nobody. But I’m open to love—as long as you keep doing what got me there in the first place.”
For Claudia, the bar is high—and the peace is priceless. “I’ve worked hard for my peace,” she said. “I’m not dating for food. I’m dating because I want to spend time with you. And honestly, if being with you isn’t better than being alone with my candles and fountains and cats? Then no thanks.”
Channeling Strength & Icon Status
Each actress brings something different to the play—but all of them deliver.
“I actually wish I could be messier on stage,” Claudia joked. “But I think about my grandmother—she was born in 1929, couldn’t even vote or buy a house without a man, and didn’t give a damn. She was fearless. That’s where my strength comes from.”
For Jill, the comparisons to her iconic Girlfriends character Toni Childs aren’t far off—but this role gave her a chance to dig deeper. “If you really understood Toni, you’d see how layered she was. And Paisley is the same—misunderstood, but strong. There’s more to her than people see at first glance.”
Demetria, who juggles singing and acting seamlessly, shared that live theater pushes her in a new way. “Every moment on stage counts. You can’t redo anything. It’s a different kind of love and discipline. You have to give the performance away—live, in the moment—and trust that it lands.”
Laughter, Lessons & Black Girl Gems
The show has plenty of laugh-out-loud moments—and the cast isn’t shy about who steals scenes.
“Chico Bean gets a lot of gasps and laughs,” Claudia said. “And Naomi Booker? Every scene she’s in—she’s hilarious.”
But the play isn’t just about humor. It leaves space for reflection—especially for Black women.
“I hope we get back to the foundation of love and communication,” said Demetria. “A lot of us are in protector mode. But that’s turned into survival mode. We’ve lost softness. We’ve lost connection.”
Claudia agreed. “We’re doing it all—but it’s not because we want to be strong all the time. It’s because we have to be. And I just want women to know: You can have peace, you can be soft. But stop bringing your old pain into new love. Don’t let past heartbreak build walls so high that the right person can’t climb over.”
Final Act: Pack the House
If there’s one thing this cast agrees on, it’s that this play isn’t just entertainment—it’s necessary.
“Atlanta is the Black entertainment hub,” Claudia said. “We need y’all to show up for this play. Support the arts. Support each other. Because when we pack the house, we make space for more stories like this.”
Games Women Play is more than a play—it’s a mirror. You’ll see yourself, your friends, your exes, and maybe even your next chapter. So get ready to laugh, reflect, and maybe even heal—because the games are on.
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It’s officially Miss Keri, Baby season again—and if you ask us, it’s been a long time coming. After 15 years away from the music scene, Keri Hilson has returned not only with a brand-new album, but also a captivating new role in Lifetime’s Fame—the latest installment in The Temptations film franchise.
Between the album We Need to Talk: Love and her leading role in Fame, this isn’t just a comeback—it’s a rebirth. The Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter turned actress is letting us into her world like never before, unpacking themes of vulnerability, healing, and inner strength with grace, grit, and raw artistry.
Now streaming on Lifetime, Fame follows two superstar sisters—played by Keri and singer/actress Keshia Chanté—as they navigate the cost of stardom, sibling rivalry, and the dark side of desire. The film also stars Romeo Miller, Ecstasia Sanders, Nathan Witte, and Sophie Carriere, and is executive produced by Derrick Williams and Adriane Hopper Williams of the Seven Deadly Sins franchise.
As for the music? We Need to Talk: Love is a three-part album (Love, Drama, Redemption) that tells the story of a woman who’s been through it—and has risen from the ashes. “It was time to speak for myself,” Keri says.
We sat down with Keri to talk about her return to music, her passion for acting, the emotional depth of Fame, and how she’s learning to care for herself amidst the chaos.
From R&B Queen to Drama Star: Keri Gets Into Character
“Even though she’s famous—as am I—it was really her humanity that I wanted to portray.”
Keri plays Cherish, one half of a superstar sibling duo who must confront their fractured relationship in the wake of a traumatic robbery. For Keri, the role was more than a character—it was a psychological study.
“I enjoy departures from reality. That’s why I love acting,” she shares. “Psychology is one of my favorite things in life. I became a writer because I’m an observer of human nature, emotion, and behavior. I think I did a good job showing her humanity.”
The Fame Isn’t Always Worth the Price
“Keep the main thing the main thing.”
Keri doesn’t sugarcoat the industry. When asked about what Fame reveals about the dark side of celebrity culture, her answer is clear:
“It’s a cautionary tale. It reminds you to keep your family close and not allow anything to come between them—especially in pursuit of success. Keep the main thing the main thing. For me, that’s family, love, spirituality, and values.”
Three Chapters, One Story: Love. Drama. Redemption.
“I’ve shed the fear. It was time to tell my own story.”
Released April 18th, We Need to Talk: Love is Keri’s first album in 15 years—and a deeply personal one at that. The three-part project (Love, Drama, Redemption) represents a timeline of healing and growth.
“I’m finally in a place where I’m able and willing to open up more,” she says. “For a while, I became really guarded—shell-shocked, even—after making mistakes in the public eye. Whether it’s all your fault or not, the scrutiny takes its toll. But now, I’ve shed that fear. It’s time to tell my story.”
Cooking, Walks, and Recalibrating in the Chaos
“I’m not doing the best job—but I’m doing what I can.”
Between eight-hour rehearsals, press runs, and music releases, Hilson admits she hasn’t quite figured out the balance yet—but she’s trying. For her, the key is carving out small rituals of normalcy.
“I enjoy cooking. That’s my sanctity,” she says. “I’ll go home, take my makeup off, put on my rehearsal clothes, and cook a meal. I take walks. I run. These little things help me feel like myself again.”
Art Imitates Life (and Album Tracklists)
“Cherish goes from Love… to Drama… to Redemption.”
Asked which album chapter her Fame character would fall into, Keri doesn’t hesitate. “She fits into all three,” she says. “You see her go from love, to drama, to redemption. That arc mirrors the journey of so many women who’ve had to navigate pain and find their way back to themselves.”
No Pressure, Just Art: Keri Wants You to Feel Something
“Just enjoy the art. That’s it.”
After all the time, patience, and healing, Keri isn’t asking for much. She just wants fans to press play—and feel something.
“I just want people to enjoy what they’re seeing and hearing. Enjoy me on screen. Enjoy me through their ears. People have waited, and I feel blessed by that. That helps me keep it all pure and simple.”
As Keri Hilson steps boldly back into the spotlight, it’s clear this era is all about alignment, artistry, and authenticity. With Fame airing on Lifetime and the first chapter of We Need to Talk: Love setting the tone, we’re more than excited to see what’s next.
As she continues to unfold the album’s next two chapters—Drama and Redemption—one thing’s for sure: this isn’t just a comeback. It’s a reintroduction. And we’ll be watching, listening, and cheering her on every step of the way.
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