Music industry veteran Michelle Stokes celebrated her birthday in style on Saturday at a star studded event for the opening of her newest concept The Lyric Lounge. Friends, family, and music industry influencers came out to celebrate the event at the Well in the center of Hollywood. Owner of The Well Vincent Riverside attended the event and told guests he was looking forward to the opening of the Lyric Lounge which will be hosted Saturday nights at the Well. Stokes described her concept as celebrating the history of the building which had previously served as a place for Motown performers such as Smoky Robinson while bringing new voices into the industry and updating it for modern day music. Check out my full interview and red carpet coverage of the event in the video below!
Thursday, July 17, 2025
Tuesday, May 13, 2025
MOCA Gala 2025: BVLGARI Partners with MOCA to Celebrate Art, Innovation, and Legacy
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual Gala on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA in Los Angeles’ vibrant Little Tokyo. This year’s event, presented in partnership with luxury brand BVLGARI, promises to be a landmark occasion as MOCA introduces its new MOCA Legends format. The evening will honor three transformative figures—Theaster Gates, Frank Gehry, and Wendy Schmidt—whose contributions have shaped MOCA’s legacy as a global leader in contemporary art.
Honoring MOCA Legends
The 2025 Gala marks the debut of the MOCA Legends initiative, a new tradition celebrating individuals who have profoundly influenced the museum’s mission and the broader cultural landscape. This year’s honorees are:
Theaster Gates, an artist whose multidisciplinary practice spans sculpture, performance, and urban planning. Gates’ 2011 solo exhibition at MOCA Geffen was a milestone, and his work continues to redefine how art engages with community and history.
Frank Gehry, the legendary architect whose 1983 renovation of The Geffen Contemporary pioneered adaptive reuse and set the stage for MOCA’s bold exhibitions. Gehry’s innovative designs, from dynamic buildings to sculptural furniture, remain iconic.
Wendy Schmidt, a philanthropist whose transformative support has fueled initiatives like the Eric and Wendy Schmidt Environment and Art Prize, launching at MOCA in 2025 with projects by artists Cecilia Vicuña and Julian Charrière.
As MOCA Board President Carolyn Clark Powers notes, “We’re proud to position the MOCA Gala moving forward as a platform to recognize legends like Theaster, Frank, and Wendy, who have radically transformed everything we do.”
A Night of Art and Celebration
The Gala will bring together artists, philanthropists, and luminaries from the entertainment and fashion worlds for an unforgettable evening. Guests will kick off the night with a cocktail reception in the Aileen Getty Plaza, where they can experience a special viewing of Olafur Eliasson: OPEN, an immersive exhibition exclusive to the event. The evening will culminate in a seated dinner, accompanied by a performance from GRAMMY-nominated artist Tierra Whack, whose critically acclaimed 2024 album World Wide Whack has solidified her as one of today’s most dynamic voices in music.
MOCA’s collaboration with BVLGARI underscores a shared commitment to creativity and innovation. “MOCA’s bold spirit and dedication to contemporary creativity mirror our own passion for craftsmanship,” said Herve Perrot, BVLGARI North American President. This partnership not only elevates the Gala but also reinforces BVLGARI’s long-term support for Los Angeles’ thriving art community.
Funds raised at the Gala will directly support MOCA’s ambitious programming, including its world-class exhibitions, education initiatives, and operational needs. With nearly 8,000 objects in its collection and a history of groundbreaking shows, MOCA remains a vital hub for contemporary art, thanks to the generosity of its supporters.
Wednesday, March 1, 2023
Taking BarbieCore to the Next Level: World of Barbie is Coming to LA This Spring
Kilburn Live
BarbieCore is one style trend that is still going full force especially as the new Barbie movie premiere date gets closer. This spring BarbieCore fans will get a special treat when the World of Barbie experience opens in Santa Monica.
This one-of-a-kind immersive experience is produced by leading global toy maker Mattel, live entertainment company Kilburn Live, and global sports, fashion and events giant IMG. The 20,000 square-foot attraction will allow fans of all generations the unique opportunity to step directly into an inspiring world where they can explore a life-size Barbie Dreamhouse, try out several Barbie careers displayed in various interactive rooms, and even sit behind the wheel of a full-size Barbie Camper Van.
The executives working on the project shared their thoughts on what the Los Angeles stop will look like for fans.
“We are thrilled to bring this attraction to Los Angeles after a wildly successful, extended run in Toronto,” said Julie Freeland, Senior Director of Global Location Based Entertainment, Mattel. “As the number one doll property worldwide and the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie is a global phenomenon. At World of Barbie we are excited to offer guests of all ages a larger than life, inspiring experience that reminds fans why they fell in love with Barbie and that they can do anything and be anything.”
“From day one this was much more than your typical experience. This is a world, a world built specifically for Barbie fans so they can experience what it is like to walk into a life-sized Barbie playset.” said Mark Manuel, CEO of Kilburn Live.
The immersive experience is a dream come true for Barbie fans but it will be even more interesting to see the different BarbieCore fashions that emerge since guests are encouraged to wear pink to special events such as Pink Carpet night and Sunset cocktail hour. LA is a unique location that will most likely influence the experience and have guests thinking about iconic Malibu Barbie or Surfer Barbie looks from the 90s and 2000s. The combination of the Barbie movie, new Barbie product lines, and iconic California inspired Barbie looks from the past is something fashionistas everywhere wont want to miss!
According to the website:
World of Barbie will feature many interactive installations including:
- Barbie Dreamhouse: Visitors will be able to explore the exquisitely designed rooms of the life-size Barbie Dreamhouse, complete with a patio and pool, a DJ kit for guests to mix music, and walk-in closets filled with garments from decades of iconic Barbie fashion history
- Barbie Camper Van: Fans can take the driver’s seat in this full-size camper van, built by leading car customization shop, West Coast Customs, or simply relax in a hammock
- Fashion Studio: Guests will have an opportunity to walk the pink carpet and pose inside of one of the six Barbie boxes
- TV Studio: Visitors can step onto the set and become a news anchor delivering headlines in front of various TV studio backdrops, interviewing their guests or giving the weather report
- Space Center: Visitors will be able to board a Barbie space shuttle to interact with mission control and travel to several interstellar destinations
- Salon: In partnership with Professional Beauty Brand, Paul Mitchell®, World of Barbie will feature a salon where guests can interact with Paul Mitchell products
- Movie Theater: Guests can also step into the neighborhood movie theater where classic Barbie content will be played.
- And so much more!
Thursday, December 23, 2021
OxeFit Holiday Launch Party: Celebrating in Ugly Christmas Sweaters in DTLA
After the Lakers game Tuesday night, celebrities, athletes, and more celebrated the OxeFit launch event. Magic Johnson, Dwight Howard, Lamar Odom, and more celebs came out for drinks, music, and some holiday cheer! The Oxefit workout system celebrated its commercial launch and even had one of the Oxefit workout machines at the event for guests to try out! Oxefit also celebrated the season of giving by donating to the Shields for Families Foundation. The event featured live DJ music, festive holiday drinks, and Lakers star Dwight Howard even performed as co-DJ for VIP guests! The event sponsors Www.Balance7.com and www.Aquahydrate.com also provided drinks for guests!
The event had a Christmas-themed dress code and many guests got into the spirit of things and showed off their favorite ugly holiday sweaters on the red carpet. It was so much fun to see everyone's outfits! I spoke to celebs about their looks on the red carpet. Check out my Youtube video below to see all the fun and outrageous holiday styles!
Monday, September 20, 2021
LAFW Returns With a Focus on Diversity on the Runway
After a long hiatus during the Covid pandemic LAFW has officially returned with in person shows this October at the Peterson Automotive museum. With a line up of exciting up and coming talent as well as some established Hollywood names the runway shows this year are making a splash in the LAFW comeback season. This season the runway also has a special focus on diversity with the, LAFW Diversity & Disability initiative. This year's events feature current and former Paralympians and athletes who will be closing out the season with an exclusive runway sports show unlike any other. Led by Disability & Diversity Advocate Steven Tingus, this promises to be a highlight of the entire season.
"LA has become the streetwear & Red-carpet fashion capital of the world. As part of this cultural renaissance, we're excited to be leaders behind this movement into a premier hub for fashion, art, design and entertainment. That's why the event has become more experiential than ever before," says Arthur Chipman, Executive Producer of LAFW.
The season promises to be an exciting return to in person events with partners such as Stella Artois, L'Oreal, and held at the iconic Peterson Automotive Museum. You can find out more at www.lafw.net
Friday, August 27, 2021
A New Life Premiers at the Landmark Theater in Los Angeles
On Thursday August 28th the independent film directed by the famous Los Angeles acting coach Choice Skinner premiered at the Landmark Theater in Westwood. This long anticipated film has a special message for people after a year of change and uncertainty according to director and creator Skinner. The premier was a celebratory event where cast and crew from all around the country reunited to see the film finally come together. Red carpet attendees included the cast of the film: Daffany McGaray, Clark Chris Rouse, Kailah Ami, Danny Royce, Daniel Joo, Joan Moten, Ambyr McWilliams, Josh Butler, Kyndra Mack, Janessa A. Morgan, Jessica Cymone. Additional Celebrities who came out to support the event were: Torrei Hart, McKinley Freeman , Geno Brooks, Thai Edwards, Michael Cory Davis, Stephanie Charles, Dylan Flashner, Mezou, Erica Dasher, Hiram Murray, Mike Strong, Reid Ewing, Freckles (Jason Greene), Bree Winslow, Marcus Dupree , David Hillenbran, Antonio Ramsey, and Derek Dominique.
I spoke to several cast members about what they were most looking forward to as well as their red carpet looks.
Actress Sophia Perez who played Amy Johnston in the film told me about her look by Auntie Funky's closet. She said, "Her name is Michelle she's a designer here out of LA and she's amazing. She can make an outfit out of anything!"
Actress Kyndra Mack who played Brenda in the film explained her custom look telling me, "I am wearing LaVogue it's by one of my childhood friends and she actually designed it and wanted me to wear it on the red carpet."
I spoke to Director and Creator Choice Skinner about the story of this film as well as what went into creating it during such a challenging year. His story of persevering to finish this film is incredibly powerful and such an inspiration for anyone who has felt like their Hollywood career was put on hold due to Covid. After writing the film and directing it through multiple setbacks during over a year of filming he edited the film himself and was finally able to see it all come together at the premier.
I also spoke to the producer of the film who showed up for the red carpet in a custom tailored suit and hat giving serious Boss vibes. She also had a great message to share about working on this film and what made this project so unique. She told me, "Having a majority African-American cast that was a strong cast, that's what I think makes it superbly unique"
Finally we all headed inside to watch the movie for the first time on the big screen. There was a Q and A with the audience and then the film began. This film was truly an all hands on deck project and most cast and crew contributed multiple talents during the filming and post production of the movie. It truly came out looking professional and had an amazing soundtrack as well. The story was captivating and had twists and turns that made me want to watch all the way through to the end. I would highly recommend checking this movie out if you get the chance. There were some great funny moments, as well as some heavy moments that felt incredibly relatable.
Saturday, May 8, 2021
Getting Glam for the first time in a year! My Exclusive Interview with Gretchen Rossi
She shares her take on fashion, updates on family and more! Watch the full interview in the video below. You can read more about this exclusive fashion event here
Saturday, March 21, 2020
CerisesduMatin Corona Virus Update: Quarantine Self Care Survival Guide
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| Celebs love the SHRD products! |
The ultimate indulgence this protein cream from Taiwanese haircare brand SHRD is the perfect way to relax and pamper yourself. The cream is a luxurious new leave-in treatment that combines gold leaf and deep-sea water sourced off the Eastern waters of Taiwan to provide essential nutrients to the hair and scalp. The SHRD brand are the experts in Taiwanese beauty and have just launched this exciting product in the US so don't hesitate to try it! You can order and find out more here https://shrd.us/
5. Watch Powerful U’s Award-Winning Documentary titled Perception: Seeing Is Not Believing.
This is a great time to practice self care for our body as well as our mind! There are some great documentaries and books that we can be reading to contribute to self improvement. I know for me I love feeling productive so reading or watching a documentary can be a great way to get your brain working! The award winning filmmaker James Purpura has just released a great documentary called Perception: Seeing is Not Believing. The film explores ways we can take control of our life and gain confidence. You can check out more on his Powerful U platforms! This film is FREE to watch all month long too!
Wednesday, September 11, 2019
The Ultimate Wellness Party Hosted by Completely Bare in Beverly Hills
The Completely Bare SummerHouse threw the ultimate weekend pool party high above Los Angeles on the hills of Mulholland Drive last weekend where I got to experience a full day of self care and wellness with a little partying mixed in too! The amazing day started off at the gorgeous BH mansion filled with fun photo ops perfect for showing off the priceless view from the house.
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| Photo Courtesy of Innovative PR |
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| Photo Courtesy of Innovative PR |
Friday, August 16, 2019
BeautyCon LA 2019: Pink Carpet Trends
This year I headed back to BeautyCon LA to spot all the latest new trends in the makeup and beauty industry straight from the pink carpet and now I'm bringing them to you! This year was all about color and several celebs showed up in their brightest neon looks with matching make up and accessories.
The festival has always been a place to put the spotlight on changemakers in the beauty and influencer industry and this year was no exception with a lineup of influential speakers including Tina Knowles Lawson, Priyanka Chopra, Kelly Rowland, Ariana Huffington and more! The theme coming from this year's speakers this year was "keeping it real" and many addressed the social media driven space beauty and influencer businesswomen work with reminding aspiring influencers in the audience that social media doesn't always reflect real life. Even the successful speakers and female business owners admitted that the hard work doesn't stop once you reach success and that women still have a long way to go when it comes to equality in leadership roles.
The main message everyone could agree on at the conference was that no matter who you are and what you're doing it's important to practice self love.
Check out my interviews with these up and coming stars below to hear about the latest makeup trends Hollwyood is loving right now!
I also love attending Beautycon because it is the perfect place to discover new brands and products! I have found some of my favorite beauty tips and hacks from Beautycon! You can read all about my favorite new brands and products in my article over at Hollywood Glam magazine!
http://www.hollywoodglammagazine.com/2019/08/12/beautycon-la-day-2/
Friday, July 5, 2019
Live the Blonde Life: My Tips for Getting the Perfect Summer Beach Hair
This summer I decided it was time for an update to my hairstyle. Summer is definitely the time for a cut if you've been thinking about it because a shorter style can do wonders for keeping you cool on those hot summer days. I know I was ready for a style that could be quickly ready to go since I have a ton of summer travel plans and need an easy low maintenance do! I went to the experts at Kasai hair salon located in Manhattan Beach for the perfect playful beachy summer cut. Read all about my experience at the salon below to see how it came out!
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I headed down to Manhattan Beach and arrived at the beautiful Kasai Salon where I got the full VIP treatment.
The salon has such a relaxing atmosphere and even has ocean views from their outdoor patio. My stylist gave me a great cut with these fun bouncy layers that made my hair feel so much lighter without looking too short! You can ask for this cut at Kasai by showing this picture and they will be able to easily recreate it!
They styled my hair giving me a blowout that lasted for the rest of the day as well and kept my hair feeling full! The salon is also launching a new line of products by celebrity hairstylist and owner Kasai. I got a sneak preview of the line which is currently only available in the salon but will be launching online soon! The line includes shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks for all hair types!
I use the Blonde Life line to wash and condition my hair and love how this line works with my new haircut! Plus it smells amazing so that's an extra bonus! Blondes really do have more fun!
Check out all the new Joico products here and don't forget to tell Kasai I sent you if you decide to drop in!