If you subscribe to my blog, you know that my word for 2022 is cultivate. In my latest newsletter, I wrote that I want to cultivate new and existing relationships.
That’s why when I learned that Dallas Black Bloggers was hosting an event, I knew I needed to be there. This event was in collaboration with The Lip Bar, a vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand. I can’t lie, that sweetened the deal for me. And apparently it did the same for about 20 Black bloggers from the DFW area.
Before I even walked into The Photo Factory, I knew I was in for a good time. As I approached, I could see the other women in the window smiling and laughing.
I’ll admit, at first, I was nervous. Not only did I not know what to expect, but I didn’t know anyone. So, I stepped into the venue and took in everything that was happening around me. I arrived right at the time the host handed out swag bags. As you can imagine, Black women of all hues strutted from one side of the room to the other to view the contents of the bag. Inside were two matte lipsticks, one lip gloss, a tube of mascara, one lip care kit, and a highlighting skin serum. With our products, it was now time to do what we do: create content.
Y’all, I was in awe of the style, beauty, but most of all, the creativity that filled the room. As requested by the host, everyone wore black. You’d think that would make for a boring photoshoot, but nah.
One woman sparkled in a black sequin jumpsuit. Another woman wore dainty knitted gloves over hands adorned with rings. One woman wore a rhinestone-studded blazer set. All black everything, but the variety was endless. It felt good to be in the room because often times, that’s the hardest part of anything.
But I was there so I was intentional about being present. Though I’ve had my blog for years, content creation has changed so much since 2013. So, what better way to learn than to surround yourself with others at varying skillsets?
Not to toot my own horn or anything, but I was ready for my mini photoshoot. I didn’t love the idea of having to be “on” in front of so many other bloggers, but I decided to make it count. The venue featured four scenes: a batten and board backdrop, a luxe couch, a flower wall and a stylish office.
I opted for the cream velvet couch and the batten and board backdrops. Because I’m not the most photogenic, I immediately hopped on Pinterest for inspiration. Photos of the late Eartha Kitt and Sevyn Streeter guided me for my two photos. And if I do say myself, the legendary Ms. Kitt and Ms. Streeter came through for ya girl.
Next Dallas Black Bloggers event, I’m going to do a better job at meeting more of the other women. That’s my goal.
Photos: Ameer Image
