December Soiree Calendar

This month is all about networking and enjoying holiday festivities!  The Urbanistas social calendar is booking up quickly, so I am sure you all will see us everywhere representing.  Some of the highlights of the month include our 1st Annual Holiday Fete, Who's Who in Black St. Louis, and B Free's Simply Pleasures 3.  Of course we will be out and about during NYE so stay tuned for a list of special events going on that weekend.

Simple Pleasures III "Internationally Chic Edition"

Thursday, December 10th

Café Cioccolato

816 Olive Street

St. Louis, MO

7:00 p.m. free admission before 8:00 p.m. ($10 after)

Now this is an event I am definitely looking forward to.  Teddy "B Free" Blackett will be hosting Simple Pleasures, a networking event that caters to St. Louis’ urban socialites. It encourages networking and socializing in an atmosphere where diversity flourishes. They have combined diverse people, Neo Soul & Classic Hip Hop, decadent chocolate and wines with a sexy & unique venue to create an extraordinary networking environment. Not only is Simple Pleasures a seductive journey into classic style & timeless taste, it is an introduction to a lifestyle. Simple Pleasures will feature: red carpet treatment (including a red carpet picture area) $30 bottle service, a hip hop inspired belly dance performance, exotic martinis, complimentary massages, attendance prizes from sponsors, and much more. Come mix and mingle with the who's who in St. Louis and enjoy some Simple Pleasures. For more information visit: www.bfreepaparazzi.com 

8th Annual Platinum Christmas Party

Saturday, December 12th

Lights On Broadway

8344 N. Broadway

St. Louis, MO 63147

Networking-7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Entertainment-8:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.:

Tickets: $20 advanced purchase, $25 at the door

Jacque and Leata Land one of St. Louis' top event planners will be hosting their 8th Annual Platinum Christmas Party.  This is definitely a "Who's Who in Black St. Louis" type of party, so make sure you swing by and show the Platinum Group some love during the holidays!

Who's Who in Black St. Louis
Monday, December 14th
America's Center
701 Convention Plaza
St. Louis, MO  63101
Networking-6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (include hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar and entertainment)
Book unveiling program-7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
$50 per ticket includes a copy of Who's Who in Black St. Louis 6th Edition

Speaking of Who's Who, this is a "must" attend event if you are big on getting your networking game on with everybody who's anybody in St. Louis.  I did attend this event back in the day when the book was first published, I was featured in the 2nd Edition in 2005.  I tell you, it was such a positive experience being surrounded by so many accomplished African Americans.  It's sort of like attending the St. Louis American's "Salute" events!

Urbanistas Annual Holiday Fete
Thursday, December 17th
7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
private affair/invite only


In between remodeling my home and hosting Thanksgiving, needless to say, I didn't get around to planning the Urbanistas Holiday Fete.  I attempted to kick things off before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season began, but I got caught up!  Anyhoo, the Urbanistas will be hosting our first holiday fete at one of St. Louis' newest, hottest restaurants downtown, which will also include a few special guests that have supported Urbanistas throughout the year.  

Urban League Young Professionals
Christmas Holiday Explosion
Friday, December 18th
6:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.

for ULYP members only

Mom Me Makeover Fashion Show
Friday, December 18th
7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
Paul Mineo's
333 Westport Plaza
Tickets-$50 includes gourmet hors d'oeuvres

Entertaining Urbanistas-Holidays

Now that my fashion and beauty kick is resting (for awhile), wanted to settle down and post about entertaining for the holidays.  As I mentioned before, I am an entertaining junkie, so this is about the time I plan a fabulous holiday fete for both friends and family.  This year I am hosting Thanksgiving at my home.  I am planning for close to 25 people, and I am a little nervous.  Since I am not enthused about cooking for this many people, I decided to make this a family affair so everyone will bring a dish.

The following day, I plan to host a tree trimming party. Since everyone will still be in town, they can help me put up my tree and decorate the house for Christmas time.  I'm gonna put on my Motown Christmas hits, bring out my decorations and let everyone have at it!  Since there will be several children, I decided to put together a smores station so they can make smores in the fireplace.  We will then bake cookies and make hot cocoa for all to enjoy.  For eats, we'll nibble on leftover turkey and sweet potatoe pie!

Whatever you decide to do this holiday season, please remember the purpose of it all.  It's about giving thanks, and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ!!

For more ideas on how to entertain during the holidays check out my top 3 entertaining blogs/sites:

Hostess with the Mostess
Stem (a local St. Louis gal)
The Party Dress

Photo from The Party Dress

November Soiree Calendar

This month you will find the Urbanistas out supporting our communities.  As the fall winds down, and the holidays draw nearer, this is a time to reflect on all of the wonderful things we are blessed with, but it's also a time to care for others who are less fortunate.

Caring for Kids-Night at Moulin
When:  Friday, November 6
Time:  6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Where:  Moulin at Vin de Set, 2017 Chouteau

Join Caring for Kids for the 3rd Annual A Night at Moulin featuring hors d’oeuvres, wine tastings and “Martini Jazz” music by Kevin Mitchell 4. Rouge Attire Encouraged.
 Tickets are $35 in advance ($45 at the door) your can purchase tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com (use key phrase “Night at Moulin”). A percentage of your admission is tax deductible. For more information, visit www.caringforkids-stl.org. 

CUREiosity

When:  Friday November 6

Time:  7:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. 

Where:  Lumen

You've raced, pedaled, and walked... now dance, induldge and party for a CURE! One of the most unique events in St. Louis, CUREiosity celebrates the "Rock Docs" making a difference at the Alvin J. Siteman Cancer Center.

Tickets are $120 for the VIP Event or $40 for the after-party only ticket. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.cureiositystl.org. Cocktail attire is suggested. 

10th  Annual Salute to Excellence in Business 

When:  Tuesday, November 10
Time:  11:00 a.m. Networking reception; 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. Luncheon program
Where:  Ritz Carlton, Clayton 


Join the St. Louis American as they salute African-American corporate managers and businesses, and to enhance awareness of the opportunities available for African Americans in business. This year's honorees include Todd Weaver, President and Founder, Legacy Building Group, Ann Marr, VP Human Resources Worldwide Technology, and Flint Fowler, President, Herber Hoover Boys and Girls Club of St. Louis.  Kelvin Simmons, Commissioner of Adminstration, State of Missouri will be the speaker.  
Tickets are $75 each for general seating and may be purchased online at stlamerican.com.  For info call 314-533-8000, ext. 305

25th Anniversary Celebration:  Women United for Change Event

When:  Saturday, November 14

Time:  10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

Where:  Missouri Athletic Club

This event is hosted by the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Metropolitan Saint Louis Chapter
Honoring Past Presidents: Dr. Queen Fowler, Jacquelyn Harris, Ruth Smith, Ernestine Thomas and Freida Wheaton, Esq.  Selected Community Awardees include: Sheila Little-Forrest and Thelma Steward

Entertainment: CoCo Soul • Silent Auction
Tickets are $50, for more information contact Daffney Moore at 314-622-3400 ext. 610

“Mind of an Entrepreneur Forum and Showcase”
Hosted by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 
Omicron Eta Omega Chapter

When:  Saturday, November 21

Time:  10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 

Where:  Cultural Art Center (Regional Arts Commission Bldg.)

Urbanistas, I am proud to announce that the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Omicron Eta Omega Chapter (my initiation chapter) will be holding a small business owner showcase.  This event is a free, open educational program and exhibition for the metropolitan St. Louis community. 

This event will also include a business forum panel featuring minorities who are business and entrepreneurial leaders within the St. Louis community.  The panelist’s topics will include seizing the reins of entrepreneurship, becoming a part of the business landscape, growing the enterprise, and facing challenges of new venture management and expansion.  Our panelist will also discuss strategies for making small businesses even more successful, including access to capital and expansion tips.  The goal of this session is to build a strong foundation for minorities in business through creating economic expertise, and success in business and networking opportunities for the non-traditional entrepreneur.

To RSVP for the event, please visit:  http://akabusinessforum.eventbrite.com.

Urbanistas Annual Holiday Fete

Invitation Only 

When:  Friday, November 20

Where:  TBD

Time:  7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. 


It's been an entire year since the Urbanistas joined together for the first time to network and fellowship.  Throughout the year we have supported and encouraged one another, developed strong bonds, supported various philanthropic organizations, and attended some fabulous events.  During our holiday fete we will celebrate our accomplishments for the past year, discuss plans for the new year, and come up with even more exciting opportunities for networking and having fun for 2010!  

Alive Magazine Fashion Week Wrap Party
When:  Wednesday, November 25
Where:  Red Kitchen and Bar (in the Hyatt Regency St. Louis Riverfront Hotel, Downtown)
Time:  8:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. 


Celebrate a successful Saint Louis Fashion Week with the cast and crew at the Wrap Party at Red Kitchen and Bar. Enjoy Bud Select, food specials and music by DJ Steve Meier while partying with St. Louis’ most stylish set. No cover. For more info, go to stlouisfashionweek.com.

Urbanista In the City-Shan Keith Fashion Show

Last Friday night I decided to check out the Shan Keith fashion show featuring his latest line, Nēché Collection.  Nēché Collection by Shan Keith is a line dedicated to his late sister Ms. Santonya Nēché Oliver. Shan lost his sister last year due to a brain aneurysm. He dedicated his entire show in memory of her.  For those that don't know, Shan Keith also won Project Design at St. Louis Fashion Week this past Spring.  This also happened to be the first STLFW show I had attended and can truly say he deserved the title!

The show was held at Windows on Washington downtown, and was the perfect spot to host this fabulous show.   As I entered the lobby I was greeted by a gentleman serving complimentary champagne, and a beautiful rain fountain with glass flowers that sparkled under the light.  The ambiance was truly and urban experience.  I then proceeded to the freight elevator which took me to the 8th floor where the show was being held.  Once upstairs, I nibbled on cheese, crackers, and fruit then chatted at the bar until they announced for everyone to take their seats.  Before the show started, I wanted to check to see what goodies I got in my VIP bag thanks to my girl Nikole!  I was happy to see a small bottle of Pearl Vodka, Aveda samples, and various coupons to local downtown businesses.  


At about 8:00, the show began.  The host for the night was P-Dub, fomerly known as Pretty Willy.  As the music pumped up, the photographers got in place, the models came strutting out in some sharp ensembles.  I have to give it to Shan, he has talent.  He featured about 60 different looks that evening and everything was on point!  I loved his models too.  There were all shades of brown and sizes modeling his line, which is what I appreciated.  He gets it...Shan realizes that the all types of people love fashion, and we are all not 6 feet tall and a size 0!!  I can't wait to head down to NV Showroom and Boutique (1909 Washington Ave) to see if I can get one of the pieces this plus sized woman was rocking down the runway.  

During and after the show I spotted Kenya Vaughn of St. Louis American, Ma'at, blogger for Outtown, Attilio D'Agostino and Jill Manoff of Alive Magazine, and Nikole Shurn-Perkins who did the PR for the event and just opened up NV Showroom and Boutique.  There were also a host of socialites including my Sorors Rachel Westerfield and Trenell Billups (Skee Wee Sorors)! As with most of the events I attend, I had a fabulous time and I will definitely look for future shows from this up and coming designer!  Click here for all the pics

New Feaure--Fabulosity Tips!!

About a year ago, I decided to purchase Kimora's book "Fabulosity."  Now I have to admit, I really wasn't a big fan of Kimora, not that I didn't like her, I just didn't know much about her.  It wasn't until I started watching her reality show "Life in the Fab Lane" that I became intrigued by her.  I loved the fact that she was so "extra", but confident, down to earth, and in essence a "true sista"!  I loved her book.  She discusses everything from beauty and fashion, and work and family life, to self-confidence and wellness, and lifestyle and sustainability.  I thought this book captured the epitome of what an Urbanista is all about.  So with that said, I decided that I would include a few tips from Kimora's book from time to time.

Since this month I have been engulfed with all things beauty and fashion, I'll start with *Kimora's five-point fashion manifesto:

1.  Style is a form of self-promotion
2.  Developing a style is like your brandmark; it'll get you noticed and remembered.
3.  Fashion bestows autority and power on the wearer:  dress to impress, and you will be taken seriously.
4.  Great style says, "Here I am!  Pay attention to me!" I value myself enough to put effort into this, and you should too.
5.  Style is invididual.  Style is subjective.  Nobody can grade you on it.

*Excerpt taken from the book Fabulosity: What It Is and How To Get It, by Kimora Lee Simmons.

St. Louis Fashion Week--All Access Pass!!

Hey Urbanistas, I know you all have been waiting so patiently to get a recap on STLFW, so here it is!  This is the 2nd time the Urbanistas attended STLFW this year and we were not disappointed.  In addition to attending shows, we also decided volunteer for STLFW through The Raymond Experience.  We kicked of the fun by attending Emerge on Friday night which featured Bolongaro Trevor, Love Brigade, and TRIM.  We started at the bar as there were complimentary Budweiser products and the bartendars were mixing up batches of Borbatinis for guests to try.  Then we headed to check out some of the vendors. Spotted were PR mavens Pamela Raymond, Cheresse Pentella, Amit Dawan, and Dwight Carter, STLFW Producer Attillio D'Agostino, media gurus Debra Bass and Gilberto Pinela, Alive Mag crew Sheniqua Faulkner, Jason Nichols, and Christy Miller, Jeff & Mary Clark of Mother Model Management, and Steve & Chena Garnett of Solique Modeling.  After the show, we hit up SleeK for the afterparty, but didn't stay too long as we had to be back in the morning to work behind the scenes. 

Working backstage was awesome despite the fact I had to be downtown at 6:30 am!  I was back there hustling too.  Although I have a full time career in HR, I didn't have a problem getting down with some of the young bucks and doing some of the grunt work! And fashion director Jill Manoff was ready to put me to work.  I dug through boxes of Baker's shoes for the designers, steamed clothes for designer Paul Gibson's collection Reign, then folded and packed up clothes for Bolongaro Trevor.  I loved everything they had, but one dress was so tiny it was like I could fit one thigh in it!LOL 

Here is Stuart Trevor, 1/2 of the Bolongaro Trevor design team posed with Attillio in Hotel Lumiere's lobby on his way back to London.  While backstage I chatted with models Christian Coffield, Madison Bradley (who just got signed to Ford), and Jade about their experiences as models in St. Louis.  After all my hard work, I did get a chance to enjoy the 1:00 Evolve show to check out some of St. Louis' up and coming designers, Michael Drummond, Laura Kathleen, and Michael Shead.  During the show I spotted Hostess Danielle Lee of the Fete Society in the front row bobbing her head to the funky beats the DJ was mixing.

After I went home to rest, I headed back downtown later that evening for Surface, the final fashion show of the week.  I had the best time!  I was a little late to the show as I was waiting for my fashionably late partner in crime, Ms. Brandii, but it all worked out as I ended up in the front row and finally got to see all the action I was missing.  I was near the media section which was great as I saw the models strutting down the runway then posing which provided for great picture opportunities (click here for all the pics)! 

After the show we chatted with Sande Stevenson who was doing a piece for STL-TV and will be featured as our Ultimate Urbansista in a few months, Ma'At, blogger for Outtown, Gilberto Pinela, Ola Hawatmeh with Mom Me Makeover (and this month's Ultimate Urbanista), Jennifer Neal, whose designs were featured in Project Design, the fashion show that kicked off STLFW, and Kyjuan and Murphy Lee who were also in the house. 

Some of my favorite designers featured at STLFW include Bolongaro Trevor, Jennifer Neal, Laura Kathleen, Michael Shead, and Trashbiscuit.  Who would've thunk that I would like the punk look of Trashbiscuit, but I really loved the creativity of this line! Overall, we had a fabulous time and have a lot more respect for all those that work to put on this great event for us Midwesterners!

Urbanistas Give Back-Big Pink Blast @ JBucks

Urbanistas, we are entering the last days of breast cancer awareness month.  If you haven't done so already, please do something to support this cause; even if it's purchasing some of the products I mentioned below.  I am planning to attend the Big Pink Blast @ JBucks this year to support breast cancer awareness in honor of my mother-in-law.  I first heard about this event last year and didn't get a chance to attend.  I heard nothing but great reviews and told myself that I wouldn't miss it again!

KLOU radio personality Julie Buck is hosting St. John’s Mercy’s second annual Big Pink Blast at Buck’s. The event takes place on Thursday, October 29, 2009, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at J.Buck’s Clayton. Tickets are $50 per person, and proceeds will benefit St. John’s Mercy Foundation in support of breast cancer services for underserved women. Your entrance fee entitles you to a $25 Studio Branca gift card. This event is selling out quickly as tickets are now only available at the door. 

Make sure that you put on a touch of pink before you arrive.  During the celebration, they will announce the winners of their Makeover Contest for Breast Cancer Survivors in partnership with Studio Branca Salonspa. In addition, Michael Genovese Jewelers will present a custom-designed jewelry collection to promote breast cancer awareness. A portion of the proceeds from the jewelry sales will support breast cancer services for underserved women. The evening will also feature live entertainment, pink cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and special attendance prizes.

Ultimate Urbanista-Ola Hawatmeh

Ola Hawatmeh is this month’s Ultimate Urbanista for several reasons. She is a wife, mother, business owner, socialite, fashionista, and involved in several community projects. She was recently recognized in Alive Magazine as one of St. Louis’ Most Influential Women; not to mention she is Mrs. St. Louis! I met up with Ola for lunch at Companions in Ladue to discuss her many endeavors and how she juggles it all.


Entrepreneur
Ola owns Mom Me Makeover. M3 is a makeover company that provides makeovers to mothers to help them feel more confident about themselves. Ola has recruited a five-star team consisting of a Beverly Hills Hair Stylist, personal shoppers, makeup artists, and others to help women (and men) look and feel their best.
Ola also just wrapped up producing the first ever St. Charles Fashion Week. She was inspired to start this as she is from NYC and has attended both New York and St. Louis Fashion Weeks. She thought it would be great to bring in exclusive designers from New York such as Indashio, but also give local designers a chance to showcase their fashions.

Fashionista
Ola’s favorite designers include Patricia Fields (loves), Versace, and Isaac Mizrahi. She usually makes her shopping rounds in NYC and LA, but while she is in town, she can been seen shopping in local boutiques like Courtney Gene and Jecca, and Bronx Diba for shoes. Ola loves couture, luxury, mixing and matching, but likes simplicity. She pairs neutral clothing with fun accessories like big watches which are her fave! Ola also loves layers in the winter and said that high-waters and pleated pants are a no-no!!

Socialite
Ola’s “must” attend events include Nelly’s Black and White Ball, St. Louis Fashion Week, and St. Louis Magazine’s Fever Fashion Shows. If there is a hot event in St. Louis, you are bound to see Ola. Like all Urbanistas, Ola is always on the go and she loves to venture out with her closest friends. She is always found supporting them, their business and their events on a daily basis.

Philanthropist
Ola started Makeover for a Cause which provides makeover services to several non-profit organizations that assist homeless, battered, and sheltered women, as well as cancer victims. In addition, Ola coordinates teen fashion shows exclusively for Macy’s to help young ladies feel and look good, while helping raise their self esteem.

With work and community service, I wondered how Ola could handle it all. I found out that she has a great staff and delegates a lot! She stated that “you must have a vision, and be creative”. Though Ola is a busy woman, her main priority is spending quality time with her husband and children.

Soiree Spotlight-MIX: A Celebration of SLM's Top Singles

All the SINGLE LADIES, all the SINGLE LADIES, now put your hands up!!  Urbanistas, if you are looking for a boo to snuggle up to this winter, go and check out Mix hosted by St. Louis Magazine as they reveal the Top Singles in St. Louis and launch their November issue. Enjoy music from DJ Steve Meier and delectable hors d'oeuvres from Eclipse as you mingle with St. Louis' most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes tomorrow!!

When:  Tuesday, October 20

Time:  7:00 - 9:30 p.m.

Where:  Moonrise Hotel

TICKETS ARE ONLY $20 AND ON SALE NOW!

Space is limited so reserve your spot today! Tickets are $20 and a $5 donation per ticket benefits Angels' Arms. To reserve your ticket CLICK HERE to order online or call 314.918.3026.

Take the elevator home! Special Moonrise Hotel rate for the evening - only $99. Call 314.721.1111 and mention SINGLES09. www.MoonriseHotel.com

Urbanistas Give Back-Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Urbanistas, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  St. Louis does a good job supporting the cause with events such as the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Pink at the Rink with the St. Louis Blues & Picnic in Pink (both events on October 23rd).  In addition, there are several resources available for breast cancer patients such as the Gilda's Club and the Siteman Cancer Center (stay tuned for more info on Curieosity, a fab event coming up in November that will benefit this center).

As Urbanistas we should not only care about our outside appearance, but should take good care of our bodies.  Start by eating a well balanced meal (I know it's not easy), getting regular medical checkups, and performing a monthly self breast examination.  Breast cancer can happen to anyone, young or old.  I have a Soror who is in her 20's and although she was not diagnosed with breast cancer, she has Hodgkin's Lymphoma, a form of cancer.  I decided to mention her so we can realize that this thing is real and just because you are young, doesn't make you exempt.  My Soror is so brave and I am so proud of her.  If you can take some time, read her blog about her journey and if you could make a small contribution to her, she would be beyond grateful.  Here is the link:  http://dionasjourney.blogspot.com/

Urbanistas, you can do your part and support the cause too!  There are several beauty companies offering products that when purchased, a portion of the sales will go to breast cancer research.  Here are some of my faves:

Pink of Hearts Nail Lacquer was created by OPI exclusively to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure. You can buy it for $8.50 on OPI's website. 

Brighton has created a Power of Pink Bracelet.  If purchased, they will  donate $5 to support Breast Cancer Research and Awareness.  Visit Brighton @ the St. Louis Galleria.





Elemis is donating a portion of the proceeds to Breast Cancer Care when you buy their Essential Beauty Secrets Kit, $95. You can get it at Nordstrom or Nieman Marcus.

Ciao Urbanistas!