Atlanta Mayor's Ball

Hey guys, Two-Way Tuesday will be back next week, because I had to take the opportunity to share with you my adventure this past weekend. On Saturday I covered the most important event of my blogging career so far; the 29th Annual UNCF Mayor's Masked Ball.  This event was the highlight of the social season and was hosted by the Honorable Mayor Kasim Reed. The "Who's Who" of Atlanta's black elite were all in attendance of this grand affair. Because this event was a fundraiser, entry came with a hefty price tag. Thankfully the powers that be took a chance on me and extended the opportunity for me to cover this event as an official member of the press.

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, I was unable to keep you guys abreast in real-time as I normally do, but I had my fabulous photographer Phillip Dockery of MOBOC Productions capturing part of the night with me. The Atlanta Marriott Marquis served as the stage for this fabulous affair and perfectly executed the elaborate setup for this amazing event. Because this was the biggest event of my career, I decided to make a weekend of it and stay at the hotel. I was able go score a great deal on the room and have luxury of just walking down stairs when it was time for the event.  As you know from my Makeup Monday post, Celebrity Makeup Artist Shalawn Willis dolled up my face. As far as my attire, I wore a custom made Lavender's Jungle ball skirt from Twelve 24 Boutique and was adorned with a custom 

Enjeanious by Rean Fisher statement necklace. 

Me in a Lavender's Jungle Ball Skirt from Twelve 24 Boutique & Enjeanious by Rean Fisher Necklace

When I finished getting dressed, I headed to down to the Mezzanine Level to meet my photographer and begin covering the evening. After receiving my press pass, and grabbing a shot with my mom (she dropped by to wish me luck) in front of the Marriott's Christmas tree I officially entered the VIP Reception. Once inside I was greeted by a lovely group of UNCF Hostesses who were very and charming. We chatted about my amazing Rean Fisher necklace and I even shared with them some pics of me in previous looks. 

My Mom & Me

Grabbing a shot with a UNCF Hostess

Sharing some pics with UNCF Hostesses

Gorgeous UNCF Hostesses

As the evening progressed, the room to began to fill with celebrities, dignitaries and other distinguished guests. Although the Mayor's Ball is official place to see and be seen, the true purpose of the ball was to raise money for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). The UNCF is the largest minority education organization. By providing operating capital to over 38 HBCU's and extending scholarships and internships  to more than 900 other institutions, the UNCF over the last 67 years has raised over 3.3 billion dollars and helped more than 400,000 students. 

After everything was said and done, more than 1 million dollars was raised at the ball . These funds will benefit four Atlanta HBCU's as well as he other's that UNCF supports. Covering this event has really effected me in a positive way. Seeing so many African American men and women in positions of power all working together to support something that is benefiting so many was absolutely awe-inspiring. I am truly thankful to have had the opportunity to cover such an inspirational event and hope to be able to do so again. For more information on the United Negro College Fund, visit www.uncf.org . 

xoxo-

Parker S. <3

Therese M. Badon, UNCF VP of Development and Me

Me & 2012 Miss National UNCF Brittany Taylor

Me & Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed

Dawnn Lewis & Me

Me & Angela Hargro, Co-Owner of Twelve 24 Boutique

Mr. Fonzworth Bentley & Me

Makeup Monday: Beauty Revealed

Saturday I had the opportunity to spend a couple of hours with one of my favorite makeup artists, Shalawn Willis, The Beauty Architect. For those of you who aren't in the know, Shalawn is arguably one the best celebrity make up artists in Atlanta and a consultant for Lamik Cosmetics. I met Shalawn about 3 years ago when she delivered her mobile glam services to my suite at the St. Regis before an event I was attending. Because she is so amazing I try to support her whenever I can. Therefore when I received an email from Lamik about a "How to Wear Red Lips" at Macy's, I knew I had to be there.

When I arrived at the Lamik Cosmetics counter at Macy's Greenbriar Mall, I saw the The Beauty Architect in action very intently transforming and defining a customer's brows. There is nothing I love more than watching makeup being applied because it educates me on my technique and helps me to look photo shoot ready, when I can't afford to pay a makeup artist. As I waited for Shalawn to finish her client, I decided to get a refresher course on Lamik. 

Shalawn Willis in action. 

Lamik is self defined as:

Lamik Cosmetics are all natural and contain vitamins and antioxidants that are beneficial for all skin tones. From facial care, to the actual makeup and everything in between, Lamik believes that "Beauty is revealed, not applied". I really love that mantra, because there is absolutely nothing wrong with enhancing your beauty. After getting my refresher course, it was my turn to jump in the hot seat. 

During this holiday season I will be attending various events, so Shalawn decided to try out a #HauteHoliday look on me. Because I was a blank canvas when I arrived, we started with the Full Coverage Foundation, which is great for covering any blemishes or dark spots,  and Mineral Powder, when applied with a Kabuki brush acts as a finishing powder giving your face a flawless look. After that, it was on to the brows. Thankfully, I have naturally full brows, but the Celebrity Brow Kit, took them to the next level. Shalawn made sure to emphasize not to go overboard with the Purdy Brow Define Powder, only fill in the areas that are lacking. She also highlighted under my brows with the Brightening Cream using the Lamik Brow Brush. 

After finishing my brows, she went on to create a subtle smokey eye using the Dazzle Black Eye Decor and Lamik Eyeliner in Black. Up next was the universally flattering Contour Blush. I don't remember the exact shade she used, but I think it was I-20. Finally, the coup de grâce was my red lips!! To create the bold look, Shalawn used the Really Red Lipstick, which alone has a matte finish, coupled with the Cajun Red Healthy Lip Gloss which gave it shimmery shine. 

My Lamik Look

When I finally took a peek at myself, I was completely blown away. I looked effortlessly chic and not overly made up. My beauty truly was revealed and I instantly remembered why I fell in love with Lamik Cosmetics. To reveal your inner beauty, visit www.lamik-beauty.com. 

"Make the world your personal runway!"

xoxo-

Parker S. 

Me & Shalawn