Last night, my fabulous friend Montess Burt of MLBe Talent put on a spring fashion experience at the East Tennessee State University D.P. Culp Ballroom called The Playoffs, sponsored by the ETSU Black Affairs Association. Featuring hot name brands like Buckle, Victoria’s Secret, Charlotte Russe, and JCPenney and independent designers such as Jones’n (Chicago, IL), Tom Edna, Orshads Customs, and FaceLife–The Playoffs was an unforgettable runway show that rocked Johnson City, Tennessee!
The creator of the fashion show Montess Burt has put together nine runways over the past few years, and he is currently working on establishing his talent agency, MLBe Talent. During the final walk at the show, Montess stated, “Y’all know what I say about fashion–It’s not what you wear, it’s how you wear it….MLBe is my initials; however, the ‘Be’ at the end is all about how you can ‘Be’ anything. And that’s one thing I really try to tell people when it comes to expression and fashion and talent.”
During my time at Northeast State, I have gotten to know Montess well, and he is such an inspirational person with a burning passion inside his heart. He is always pursuing and achieving big dreams and goals. Congrats on an amazing show, Monie!
Special thanks to the VIP fans who stopped by the #BekScene event at the Riverchase Galleria + those who “tuned in” to the live social media posts! It was so much fun getting to work with Belk Riverchase Galleriafor this sparkle-tacular event, and I was so pumped that I was able to share it with all of you…LIVE! I mean, come on…how fabulous was that?!
Now, I want to share with y’all the photos I was not able to tweet and post during the live event–because there is only so much time in a few hours *wink* So, without further ado, I present to you the VIP Scrapbook of the #BelkScene Prom/Special Occasion event at the Riverchase Galleria! Whoo hoo–let’s take a view!
AH! The VIP with the fabulous lady behind Luke & Lyla Designs and her daughters Alison Aughtman (standing next to VIP) is such a wonderful artisan, and it was such an honor to meet her! Check out that FABULOUS handmade clutch! Stay tuned to the blog on Wednesday and Thursday for a CLOSER look at its awesomeness *wink* While you wait, check out Luke & Lyla Designs here!The VIP with DJ New Era and model Eva Thomas at the #BelkScene event.The VIP in action *wink*SPARKLES! Love this special occasion dress!And this prom dress *wink* I am all about the gold this year!*passes out* I could just eat, sleep, and work out in this pretty-in-pink Steve Madden heels! GAH–so cute! :)Such a wonderful selection of Steve Madden shoes for every occasion!
Prom, prom, prom! So many selections at Belk!These sweet treats were too-cute-to-handle *wink*DJ New Era at work. He was such a fantastic DJ–I could not help but dance *wink*
COME BACK TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY TO GET THE SCOOP ABOUT MY EASY DIY MANICURE + THE DETAILS ON MY PROM-INSPIRED HOST OUTFIT! :)
I had a lovely time at the Birmingham Home + Garden Show on Saturday, February 14. This particular vendor tugged at my heart strings because it took me back to the days of showing Polled Herefords.I just had to show y’all this photo of me with my heifer and Paw Hathorn. Y’all can see why I had to hang out at the beef vendor. Click here for fabulous recipes and more about beef because “Beef–It’s What’s For Dinner” *smile*
Hello, fabulouses, and welcome back to the blog!
Happy Monday, y’all! Today on the blog, I have a special treat for VIP Home–it is an overview of the Birmingham Home + Garden Show 2015 AND a few sneak peek photos from the interviews I had with John & Whitney Spinks from HGTV’s Flipping the Block + The Fabulous Beekman Boys. I cannot wait to share all the fabulousness with y’all *smile* Did I mention that the sister blogs will also have coverage, exclusive photos, and more from the Birmingham Home + Garden Show? Oh,yes! Be sure to check outSweet Sorghum LivingandSixteen & Successfulall this week–y’all will not want to miss out *wink*
Now, without further ado, let’s take a look at the Birmingham Home + Garden Show 2015!
There was an impressive crowd at the Birmingham Home + Garden Show on Saturday, February 14. I am guessing a few were working on their honey-do lists *wink*
More than 300 companies were represented at the Birmingham Home + Garden Show–many of them offered exclusive show-only deals. There were vendors showcasing everything from home improvement to speciality cookware. From what I witnessed, a lot of folks took home some great deals and ideas!
Hot tubs were a hot item at the Home Show *wink*
The Birmingham Home + Garden Show took over the BJCC for four days with nationally renowned experts in landscaping, outdoor living, home improvement, interior design, instructional how-to-seminars, give-aways, and more. The Western Supermarket was on the upper level of the BJCC, and it had some pretty delicious treats–from ice cream to sweet tea. This year the garden portion of the show was held on the upper level of the BJCC, where the garden designs were enhanced by natural light. Local design experts from Southern Botanicals, Trimm Landscape, Backyard Paradise, and Williams Landscape Services created gorgeous yard and garden displays to inspire the visitors. Hurry up, Spring!
Just enjoying my favorite diet beverage *smile*Lake Guntersville Pool & Patio had some pretty fabulous outdoor furniture and deals at the show. I am pretty sure that the VIP’s mom picked this as a top pick for her blog, but y’all will have to wander over there to find out *wink* A little birdie told me that she will be posting SSL’s Top Picks later on this week.
What’s not to love!I am totally crushing on these tees by ArtWear Tees. Y’all will have to go check out their site! Click here for more info and shopping-in-your-pjs fabulousness. Isn’t is great supporting small and local businesses!
In addition to all of the fabulousness at the Birmingham Home + Garden Show marketplace, I also had the wonderful opportunity to sit down and chat with John and Whitney Spinks from HGTV’s Flipping the Block and the Fabulous Beekman Boys! I am not going to spill the beans just yet–y’all will have to stay tuned to the blog for the interviews *wink* BUT…until then, here are some cute sneak peek photos :)
OH! And don’t forget to stay tuned to the blog for the interview with the Fabulous Beekman Boys to find out why I am taking a selfie–or as they call it a “shelfie”–with pasta sauce…Hm…I wonder why the VIP is doing that??? *wink*
So, I made a one-day, round trip from Johnson City to Birmingham yesterday to meet and chat with another one of my fashion heroes, Rebecca Minkoff! Ah! Seeing the genius behind the brand at Saks Fifth Avenue in Birmingham, Alabama was an absolute dream come true. Not to mention…I got her to sign the front of my MINI MAC crossbody bag. *wink*
Rebecca: Is the inside okay? *asking where to sign my handbag*
VIP: I would like for you to sign it right on the front!
Rebecca: *excited* You want me to sign it right here…on the front?!
VIP: Yes, of course!
Rebecca: You know my handwriting isn’t the best, right?
VIP: I do not care!
Rebecca: Okay–let’s do this!
The blogger Q&A with Rebecca Minkoff was kicked off by Bertha from Chic in Academia with questions bloggers sent in prior to the event. NOTE: B did a great job juggling her toddler (who did not have a babysitter for the evening *sad face*) while asking Minkoff questions.This bag is in the VIP blog color…therefore I need it *wink*
After Chic in Academia finished asking RM the sent-in blogger questions, I had the opportunity to personally ask Minkoff some questions. Check them out below!
VIP Interview Questions with Rebecca Minkoff:
VIP: What is one item in your closet you would never toss out and why?
Rebecca: I wear this jacket more than I wear anything else in my wardrobe [referring to her black leather, West Motto jacket]. It [the West Motto] is one of the first pieces we ever made, and we keep making it every season because it is such a timeless piece.
VIP: I really do love that jacket! It has a really great look that can transit into any season.
Rebecca: If we had a uniform in our office, it would probably be my West Motto [jacket]–two of my girls *pointing to her assistants* are wearing them right now!
VIP: What era in fashion would you say most inspires you?
Rebecca: I think my favorite era [in fashion] is always the one that I am going to reference when starting my research. So, for example, right now, I am working on fall [for 2015], and it very seventies-inspired with the colors and fringe. No–there will be no large bell-bottoms. *laughs*
The VIP with blogger and makeup artist Je’Don Holloway-Talley at the RM event at Saks Birmingham! Check out all of her awesomeness at Life. Culture. People! (click here)MY GIRLS! Ah! No words can express how much I love these two fashionable ladies–I miss y’all dearly! Come to JC so we can get into some makeup fun *wink* (from left to right) Tasha Deyampert, the VIP, and Tamarous Reynolds.The crowd at Saks Birmingham was excited to see THE Rebecca Minkoff.One word–LOVE! If you are in the Birmingham area, stop by Saks Fifth Avenue at the Summit for a FABULOUS shopping experience! And not to mention…they have a lovely selection of RM clothes, shoes, and handbags!I need these heels in my life…and probably the two handbags, too *wink*I love how Rebecca Minkoff can take such a simple concept, like a black handbag, and twist it so many different ways. That’s what separates the true designers from the rest.So much quilting…and so much Southern love *wink*
Oh, y’all! The VIP had such a fabulous time at this Saks event (as she does at all Saks Birmingham events)! It was totally worth driving across three states and going on very little sleep today *wink*
Be sure to stay tuned to my sister blog, S&S, where Rebecca Minkoff will be our Featured Friday cover girl. Her story is so inspiring, and every girl needs to know it! :)
This weekend, I attended the 4U Ultimate Girls Day Out event at the beautiful Charles building in downtown Johnson City, Tennessee. Although it was tempting to stay home because of the snow, I knew I could not miss getting dressed up and shopping all the fabulous booths! PLUS this is the first time this event has ever been hosted in Tennessee–it originally took place in just Atlanta, Georgia.
Oh, I had so much fun at the event and met so many marvelous women that I cannot help but share it with y’all, my lovely readers! Now, join me as we take a little VIP Scrapbook look at the fun time I had at the 4 U Ultimate Girls Day out in Johnson City.
The VIP with Toni Stone, the founder of 4U Ultimate Girls Day Out, at the first ever Johnson City event. On a total fashionista note–I love Toni’s scarf! So cute!These handmade Flower Keepers by potter Michael Gamble are absolutely precious! I wish there would have been something around like this when I was a little kid for my mom :) Check out some more of Michael’s awesome work @ www.michaelgamblepottery.comFunky and fabulous coffee cups handmade by Michael Gamble.Kenya Patterson, a handbag Sales Manager at Dillard’s (Knoxville), modeling a super hot NYDJ frock. Kenya could so be a model–so gorgeous!Tanya Rathbun (Trinity Arts Center, Johnson City), the VIP, and Penny Woods (Penny Woods Skincare Center) at the event. Oh, these two women are absolutely inspiring and positive! I cannot wait to interview them for a hopeful article on www.sixteenandsuccessful.orgReedemables had a precious booth at the Ultimate Girls Day Out event! Their store is so amazing too! Check out their Facebook page for more info + pictures! www.facebook.com/RedeemingThe VIP with one of the lovely ladies from Scarves for Missions from the Dava Lee Russell Outreach (www.davaleerussellministries.org) in Jonesborough, Tennessee. This woman literally gave me chill bumps talking about their work and passion to spread the awesomeness of the Lord, our God. I always get chill bumps when a sweet lady hugs me and tells me “God bless you”. :) Note: the wonderful scarf in the photo above was handmade by Susan Thomas, the scarf crafter for Scarves for Missions.Fellow blogger, Liz Bushong, showing attendees how to make large tissue flowers. SO cute and fun! Check out her blog, www.lizbushong.com, for more DIY ideas.Liz Bushong (Serve It Up Sassy blogger), the VIP, and Valentina (social media coordinator for the event) at the tissue flower workshop.
For more pictures + info about the event, check out the sister blog run by my fabulous mommykins @ www.sweetsorghumliving.com. She had too much free time on her hands, so I put her to work *wink*
P.S.–I am still having a hard time with the fact it snowed in November. This Mississippi-raised gal is not used to snow…much less on the first of November! BUT it was a good excuse to wear my blue fur shawl *wink*
Last night, my fabulous friend Montess Burt of MLBe Talent put on a spring fashion experience at the East Tennessee State University D.P. Culp Ballroom called The Playoffs, sponsored by the ETSU Black Affairs Association. Featuring hot name brands like Buckle, Victoria’s Secret, Charlotte Russe, and JCPenney and independent designers such as Jones’n (Chicago, IL), Tom Edna, Orshads Customs, and FaceLife–The Playoffs was an unforgettable runway show that rocked Johnson City, Tennessee!
vintageinspiredpassionista.com 