When and how did the vision hit you to start the LA in A Day Fashion event?
Being a native of Los Angeles, I’ve been immersed in fashion since a very early age. I noticed that there was a great disparity in representation for our community fashion events and designers being recognized for their work. My goal was to allot aspiring urban designers an opportunity to showcase their talents that might not otherwise be acknowledged.
What role do you see LA in a Day playing in our community?
LA in a Day provides an opportunity for unknown talented artists and designers that may not otherwise have a platform to showcase their incredible talent. The experience instantly affords them a portfolio, video, print and publicity that they may not otherwise have the opportunity to receive.
Describe the goal-setting methods you use and how you evaluate your success?
My motto is, “Always keep it fresh and new.” This applies to my daily life and most importantly my personal style. My goal is for people to leave my event feeling as if they experienced something they have never seen before. I take the temperature of the event as it’s in progress and make last minute changes if I think need be. I want the participants as well as the audience to feel as though this isn’t your average L.A. fashion show or exhibit. My ultimate validation is seeing the designers excited at the recognition of all their hard work.
Name 3 business people (corporate or entrepreneur) that you admire for their business acumen.
1) Gabrielle Coco Chanel – Although no longer living, I am fascinated and empowered by her story. She created an empire from humble beginnings while revolutionizing women’s fashion from the constraints of colonial silhouettes. Women did not wear pants during that era, but she had the vision and the courage to eliminate the limits and boundaries of femininity. Unapologetic about how her fashion sense at the time would offend the status quo.
2) Bill Gates – Such a cliché but can’t take anything away from a man who spends millions of dollars every year on philanthropic activities. I admire those who are great and innovative in what they do, but recognize with that power comes great responsibility and try to help thousands of people in need.
3) Robert F. Smith – He is a black billionaire who made his fortune investing in companies that design software to help businesses. He is my daily reminder of how important and vital financial literacy is.
Technology plays what role in your daily life?
I use technology everyday. It changes the game when you can reach people instantly. The hashtag trends also allow you to connect with people you don’t know, which is great for events. I use it to keep abreast of the latest fashion trends, political events that affect urban communities, and sometimes just for laughs because we know social media can sometimes be entertaining, but also thought-provoking.
What software and/or technology apps help you stay ahead in your career?
I always try to stay innovative when it comes to planning event details, whether it is live streaming of tweets, IG photos or ways to keep track of all necessary line items for event planning (e.g. ticket sales, actual attendance, contact information for guests). I don’t want people to leave the event with just the actual experience. There needs to be something they take with them, which we are working on for this next photo exhibit.
Which ones help you in your personal life?
I like Facebook and IG. I’m starting to get in to Snap Chat, as well. Photos and videos are the fastest, easiest way to stay abreast to what’s going on in your friends’ lives. Since going to law school out of state, I have friends and old classmates all over the country. Without social media, we would have totally lost touch. Now, they’re just a click away, which helps maintain relationships as well as fosters a great network of business professionals across the country.
Who is the LA businesswoman who wears the flyest biz outfits/evening wear?
I would have to say with all modesty, I am the flyest businesswoman that I know. My day job as an attorney requires a certain decorum of professionalism; however, I continuously push the boundaries and add an edge to my daily look. Most of my colleagues fall into the Brooks Brothers uniform (No offense. I love a good BB 100% cotton shirt). Personally, however, if I have to wear a suit to a meeting, I’ll add a pop of color with my heel or blouse. I’ll do anything to push the limit just far enough, all the while maintaining the corporate persona.
Describe how making hard choices has factored into your success.
Life always has times where you have to make a decision that may be difficult. I think that when you have a great foundation, including supportive family and friends, you can trust that decisions you make will only help you. Even if they may be hard. Nothing worth having comes easy so sometimes you have to bite the bullet to move forward.
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
I think the experiences I have had embracing other parts of the world have transposed how I see myself and the world of fashion. I am convinced people need to experience the world outside of their neighborhoods and more importantly outside of the United States. I realize this option isn’t feasible for everyone, which is what drove me to create LAinADAy. Los Angeles means so many different things to many different people. From the beaches of Malibu to Hollywood and everything in between, there is so much this huge city has to offer … for the few. If possible, I would love to expand the vision and color of fashion to a wide mass of people. We should try our best to start here in Los Angeles, a culturally rich and diverse place, and learn and embrace the various and amazing cultures that make up this city, but share so much common ground at the same time. This only creates acceptance and understanding.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I was just talking about this the other day. I can see myself being bolder in the things that I want. I constantly and continuously want to make certain all the participants in LA in a Day receive the proper platform and recognition that they deserve. I tend to fall back and play my part in the background.
This years event is Thursday Nov 12 at Loft 453 S LaBrea Ave 7:30 – 11:30pm Music by DJ Sceanie For more information, visit www.lainadayfashion.com
