Written by A Sista In Mia
Fashion and beauty has been a part of our culture for years that can date back to ancient times. It’s one of the main ingredients that creates a community. As we know black culture is mainly appropriated by other ethnicities, with little discretion or correction. Throughout time, we have always left an imprint in the fashion industry. Attending events that uplift individuals with the goal of encouraging them to be who they are while focusing on their uniqueness, is just amazing! However this attribute becomes a mean for income and independence, that can be even more inspiring. I was able to attend an event this June that catered to and brought aid to those who were ready to monetize their creative passion. The Style Luxe Expo, was held on June 11th, met that criteria and exceeded my expectations.
The Style Luxe Expo was based around fashion and beauty held at the artistic venue in Ft. Lauderdale, Art Serve Inc. Event organizers Nadine Ford and Natasha Wright did a great job with allowing the participants of the expo be seen and heard creatively. “Our goal is to equip industry professionals with the tools to build a successful fashion and beauty brand”, may I say this goal was mastered with elegance. The event featured informative panels about fashion, beauty and social media marketing that include women who have mastered their crafts to become successful entrepreneurs. There were a total of eight panelists three of which caught my attention, by being really informative. The first topic was How to Launch a Successful Fashion Brand with Asanyah Davidson, Martu Freeman-Parker, and Tanya Marie McLendon. These women gave great tips on how to become a successful entrepreneur within fashion. The second was Women and Fibroids with Jennifer Benoit, Nzingah Oniwosan, and Dr. Dione Occend who were all women representing health professions giving much needed tips to women on how to balance their physical and mental health. Last but not least was Blog Your Way to Income and Influence with successful media mavens Lola Chel, Nicky Gellin and Tracy Timberlake who spoke on best ways to monetize your passion when using social media. Not only did the expo have amazing panel discussions but also included fashion showcases from local designers like Zahmazing Bowtique and Hot Gyal Clothing just to name a few. Also, the event had vendors from many beauty and fashion businesses like Garden of Natural Beauty Supply Store and Natural Luva. If that’s not enough to make you regret your decision on not attending this wonderful event there was free makeup sessions and massages for all attendees to enjoy. Yes, all of this was provided by one event in one day.
So much magic was in the room with successful entrepreneurs and those beginners who are anxious to open their startup. I always stress how events like the Style Luxe Expo are important in our community because it allows creatives to congregate, grow and learn from each other. The best motivation comes from a peer who you can actually relate to. One should always set goals and try their best to attain them, however taking one step at a time will surely get you there.
