VIP Viewing

Hello and Happy New Year!

It’s been a busy past few months! I hope you’ve enjoyed the final moments of 2013 and have welcomed 2014 with open arms!

Have you made any new year resolutions? Well, my resolve to myself and to you is to try new things, go on new adventures, travel more and share the highlights of those experiences with you.

I’m looking forward to being very active this year, but before I jump in head first, I decided to start simple. Here’s to a fabulous year for all of us.

So…

Thinking of visiting the movies anytime soon? Then Regal Cinema’s new 21 and up VIP lounge located at Atlantic Station just may be the perfect venue for you.

The area opened in early November, just in time for the holiday season. I’d noticed the “under construction” area during my last visit to the cinema, but had almost forgotten about it until I came across the promotional sign just outside of the ticket counter.

It was three in the afternoon and after showing my id (you must have id to enter) and directed toward the rear of the main lobby, I arrived at a quiet, posh and inviting lounge which was mostly empty except for a few couples placing orders at the fully stocked bar.

The architects did an excellent job of giving the illusion that you were indeed in a completely separate location from the main theatre. Without the distraction of children and teens, the environment set the perfect atmosphere for a date or a night out with friends.

The spacious dining area is great for those who prefer to eat their dinner outside of the main viewing rooms. The menu offer premium cocktails for a little under $10 and some of your favorite finger food items like wings and quesadillas. Traditional popcorn and chips are offered as well.

“American Hustle” played in a perfectly clear image across the big screen. You select your seat at time of ticket purchase so there’s no need to rush for seating, but once you sit down, you’ll have to do your best not to fall asleep. The spacious reclining seats were so relaxing, I felt as if I had the entire theatre to myself.

This was definitely one of the best movie experiences I’d had in a long time. Do yourself a favor. Check it out. I’m glad I did!

Party Professional

Atlanta is great place for professionals at any level. With a steady increase in population and new job openings in and around the city, there’s plenty of opportunity for ambitious minded people.

Well, no matter the profession, the level or the industry it’s important that we look and feel our best in order to be the best.

I’m always searching for fun things to do in the city and on Sunday I made my way to Bloomingdales at Lenox mall for the Beauty @ Bloomie’s event. Jodi Bigby, “The Professionista” and hostess for the event pulled together an afternoon of beauty tips, fall fashion and surprise giveaways.

At 2:30 a panel of professionals in the beauty and health industry shared insider tips to keep your mind, body, skin and hair at its best. Experts from Henry James hair salon, Catalyst fitness center, and It’s Your Skin.Co, were clear about what do look for in a hairstylist, personal trainer and dermatologist and how to maintain during the interim.

It was pretty good stuff. The real fun began though when those same companies offered special treats and giveaways for the guests. I was hoping to get my hand on a free massage but my girlfriend walked away with the prize, a free gift set from Stress Relievers, LLC and a discount on her next visit.

After the raffle drawing it was on to a fall fashion display and since the event was catered for the professional women, cute displays of working office held me attention for the rest of the evening. Learning of the season’s hottest colors and seeing some must have pieces, brought on some inspiring looks. I thought it was a perfect end to until I won a prize!

Let’s just say, my closet will thank me.

Thank you for reading!

Fashion and Fortune

Back to Kool

Eventually I’m going to make my way to New York Fashion Week. My social media feed was swarmed with photos of celebrities, models, designers and socialites all in one place to take part in the festivities.

Well, I’ve learned you can’t let distance, weather or a busy day interfere with whatever it is you love. That’s why my friend and I decided to head to the “Back to Kool” fashion event at the Rose Bar near midtown.

The event was hosted by Kickboard Kouture an independent fashion design company that creates urban apparel for a generation of entrepreneurs, trailblazers, dream chasers and of course trendsetters.

The crowd was young, hip and trendy. Rose Bar was a great location with it’s patio seating, leather sections, sophisticated bar and raised DJ booth with DJ Ferrari Simmons playing musical influences helming from Texas and South Florida.

We had a great time, purchased a few shirts and mingled with the creators and promoters of Kickboard Kouture. Atlanta did experience a little rain on Labor Day weekend but that didn’t hinder anything, except for maybe the barbequed wings being grilled Saturday. I didn’t get a chance to taste any but they did look pretty good.

Although Atlanta has a great musical reputation, I get the feeling that the city is creating space to be big contenders in the fashion industry as well.

Speaking of music, The OneMusicfest is this weekend. Last year was great show. You can read more about it here:https://seenatl.wordpress.com/2012/09/04/one-musicfest-2012/

James Fortune and FIYA live recording

Atlanta has been on “FIYA” over these past few weeks pulling in capacity crowds.

By being a recognizable force in the music industry, it’s a great time for fans of almost every musical genre including, rap, house and inspirational. On a Friday night when I could be normally spotted at one of my favorite spots, I navigated my way outside of the city to hear one of my favorite artists perform.

I wasn’t the only one. In a building that holds over 2,300 people, not an empty seat was in the place. Gospel artist and group, James Fortune and FIYA were doing a live recording in Atlanta and from the throngs of people heading towards the building, it was easy to see, they had a few more fans besides me.

The Fortune and FIYA entourage know how to put on a great show! The high energy, honest and captivating Fortune performed new music on his forthcoming album expected March 2014. I can tell you now that’s going to be an awesome album with plenty of guest appearances from gospel favorites.

Each performance put audiences on their feet, but there was one performance brought us to tears.

During a tribute to Trayvon Martin, we listened to a heart-filled melody and watched and the victim’s mother push back tears and sit motionless until the end of the song. Afterwards she stood and thanked everyone for their support giving us an encouraging smile.

I was Fortunate to share in that experience.

Girl on Fire

Last summer I was blown away by a local band I’d seen perform at Loca Luna. The name of the band is Josh Bias and the 360 band. I was so impressed by their musical style, the performance and their energy.

Since then I’ve seen this group perform all over the city. If I wasn’t familiar with them then, I am now and I’m sure most anyone who enjoys live music is as well. Josh Bias and the 360 band perform all over Atlanta and I was pleased to hear them again last week at Frank Skis Restaurant.

I arrived at Frank Skis at 9:30 for a friend’s birthday dinner. The upscale lounge/restaurant was alive with music, people and good vibes. Inside was a mature crowd; career professionals enjoying a glass of wine, cocktails and private dinners. I was headed for the patio when I noticed the stage and of course the band.

Band member Angelica Tucker was giving a great performance. She’s the only woman the group and holds her position perfectly. She’s a petite woman with a powerful voice and moves that rival some well known performers. I realized that I’d been enjoying the ambiance of the place for awhile before even making it outside to join my friends.

The restaurant proved to be a great Thursday night option. Between sets the DJ kept the vibe going and by 11 the place had filled up. There’s no cover and valet is available. Make reservations for tables if eating.

Nakato

If you’re looking for a nice place to celebrate your next birthday , then Nakato Japanese restaurant is a great choice. I’ve been a couple of times, recently went for my friend Faith’s birthday, and as always had a great time.

Nakato is located on Piedmont road which is connected to the city’s Midtown area. Since it’s pretty centrally located, there won’t be much of a problem gathering family and friends for your special occasion.

Faith decided to do Hibachi which to me was a great choice. I love sitting around the Hibachi grill and watching the chef prepare everyone’s meal before their eyes. It’s a very interactive experience. I also love the warm feeling you have seeing the facial expressions when the first initial flame goes up before your eyes. It’s an something I’ve come to enjoy even though, I’m never quite prepared. See my expression.

Nakato provides a very elegant and very inviting atmosphere for dining. You have the choice of being seated in the public dining area or inside the private dining rooms which are typically set aside for special occasions. We went with private dining room.

The food was delicious. I ordered the steak and shrimp combination and everything was served to perfection. Our chef was very accommodating and the waiters very attentive and courteous to our needs. It was great experience which is probably why I enjoy visiting.

Overall, it was great way to spend a rainy Sunday afternoon and Faith enjoyed her special day. Happy Birthday Faith! Hugs!

Truva and PrivÉ

Restaurant Week Atlanta

Truva

Downtown Atlanta Restaurant Week was the perfect opportunity to go exploring for something new, something different and something delicious to eat.

The city comes alive with forks clicking the edges of fine china and enthusiastic chatter over white linen graced tables. I enjoy this time of the year. I’m always with new or old friends and I’m always looking forward to seeing what’s on the menu.

This time I tried Truva Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge.

During restaurant week, chefs look over the menus and create several combinations for you. The goal is to give you several options of a full course meal for no more than $25. Smaller servings are $15 but you still get a nice dinner for less than you would on a regular business day.

Truva’s Lamb, hummus, rice/bean combination was a popular selection at our table although I ordered the lentil soup with dinner bread. The soup was delicious. Peeking over I could see friends enjoying the lamb and a few of the cocktails circling around the table.

Truva’s staff was courteous with our questions about the menu and the wide 2 level venue is perfect for small dinners or an intimate evening with a loved one.

PrivÉ Nightclub

The nightlife club scene can become pretty mundane at times, but when done right – you can really find yourself having a great time.

This past Friday, my friends and I went to Prive for the first time to celebrate a friend’s birthday. Prive has been advertising its venue recently as the premier spot for your Friday indulgence. That’s a pretty strong statement considering its competitors include Vanquish and Reign, both drawing in capacity full crowds.

A private section will be your saving grace at Prive. We were welcomed to cushioned white seating, choice alcohol beverages, roped off sections, courteous wait staff and hookah for the birthday girl and her friends. We had a great time. “Lifestyle Specialist” and DJ Kenny Burns played a great set. When we weren’t sitting down posing for pictures, we were up and dancing to a musical mix of classic Hip Hop, Rap, Reggae and throw back favorites.

The crowd comes in after 11:30 but fills up pretty quick and the women are not shy to show. Prive party goers range from 25-35 and celebrity guests are there every Friday. Kelly Rowland, Kerri Hilson, and “Like a Man” actor Terrance J have gotten their party on at Spring Street. So if you’re planning on going, you want to bring your “A” game. That doesn’t mean suit and tie though. Prive substitutes that with labels, platforms and expensive watches. That’s just how it goes in the ATL.

Ultimately it was a great night out with Friends.

Let Me Explain

Kevin Hart is a Global brand.

Period.

You know he’s funny. You know he’s an actor. You know he’s short. But you may have not known that’s he’s global and Major.

Well, he is and in his film, “Let me Explain” he lets you know that he’s not an ordinary comedian, he’s an Extraordinary comedian.

On a Tuesday night when I’m normally hanging out at Cafe Circa for their Tuesday night social, I was getting ready to head to Atlantic Station in midtown for a movie night with a few of my girlfriends.

I’d heard many people looking forward to the film over the weekend, so when I received the text about a 10pm showing of “Let me Explain” I immediately started getting dressed.

Kevin Hart is a funny guy on stage, behind the scenes and in movies. He’s also a very personal guy, pulling much of his stage performance and material from life experiences dealing with relationships, fatherhood and fame. That was his set when he visited Fox threatre a few years ago during his Laugh at my Pain tour. That was before the movie, before the DUI and before audiences would be aware of just how big of a deal Kevin really is.

That’s pretty much the synopsis of the movie. The film starts with a personal recording of Kevin hosting a mix and mingle party. It’s pretty much the Kevin we’ve all come to know, loud, animated and outrageously funny. It begins to get scripted when you see guests from the party confronting him about rumors and stories they’ve read in newspapers and magazines or seen on the popular gossip source TMZ.

“So you don’t like dark-skinned women anymore?”

“What?” Kevin responds in reply. And from there Kevin gets bombarded with other accusations about his divorce, his relationships and finally his fame. When verbally confronted about his lack of fame, his “local” reach, Kevin decides to shut the party down and explain all the rumors for him self – at Madison Square Garden.

In front of 30,000 people.

It’s an amazing story to absorb. We’re accustomed to seeing performers, singers, bands sell out doing world tours, but how often do we see that with comedians? With clips from his visits to Toronta, Cananda and London, Kevin Harts explains to all of the world that he’s pretty much a big deal.

The film is personal and intimate is it’s documentary style approach, but it’s also worth seeing on the big screen. My friends and I had a great time laughing hysterically at Kevin’s storytelling, animated expressions and downright outrageous humor. Simply put, the man knows how to tell a good joke.

Towards the end of the film you get to see a side of the comedian that you don’t see often when he’s performing his routine. He sold out Madison Square Garden a defeat that not many peformers get to brag about and that’s the one moment you see Kevin humbled, honored and grateful.

“Let me explain,” it’s worth it.

Park’s Edge

I am a true Southern girl.

Sunday mornings always included big country spreads of grits, eggs, sausage, lemonade, orange juice and fresh fruit. The list goes on. What I loved most was coming home from church and sitting at the table for a nice hot biscuit to accompany me as I waited for my meal to be served.

Not much has changed. I still love a great Sunday brunch and for the past few weeks I’ve been sampling some of Atlanta’s restaurants to discover just who has the best brunch menu in town.

Park’s Edge…

…and those biscuits.

On Sunday, I met with the Atlanta Bookworms book club to discuss our most recent read, “The Round House” and to enjoy a warm conversation over brunch.

Park’s Edge is located in Inman Park which is a really nice area of town. It’s perfect for discovering nice, intimate dining spots off the beaten path. The was my first visit at Park’s Edge but as I approached I could easily see the venue had a quite a following.

“When you come in, go to the left.”

I spotted my group just alongside the center of the floor. The room isn’t very large, but it was comforting and embodies a lovely classic southern ambiance.

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I found combinations like chicken and waffles, pancakes, bacon and scrambled eggs inviting as I toured the menu, but settled on a simple waffle and fruit combination. However, it was those "grandmother" styled baked biscuits and fresh strawberry jam that really pulled at my heart. When you can connect great childhood memories with food, then you know it's good.

The only downside to the experience was the wait. Good thing we came to chat on account of reading. I may return but waiting over an hour did disappoint. The search continues.

Wear Something White

I love going to events that require you to dress outside of the norm.

That’s probably the reason why I was excited about getting out on Saturday to attend the 2nd Annual Energ All White Day Party. The event was held at Bottle Bar & Bistro in Buckhead.

But first, “What’s a Day Party?”

Day parties are nothing new to Atlanta but are mostly held in the summer because of the great weather and having access to the city’s most beautiful rooftops.

These gatherings are great because they allow the more conservative people the ability to get out and have a nice time without being out considerably late. People also tend to dress a little more descreetly at these events because it’s more of a social gathering as opposed to a club scene where it’s strictly dancing, music and drinking.

My friend and I arrived and Bottle Bar around 6. It was a nice feeling approaching the venue seeing everyone dressed in their finest white ensembles. The weather was perfect. It was summer defintely, but the cool breeze on the patio was very welcoming and so were our Sangrias.

The music inside was fabulous and it was so refreshing to see everyone having a good time. It was really a great event and I trust there will be plenty more before the summer is over.

So if you think you want to head out, consider atteding one of the Day Parties over the weekend. I hear Opera Gardens on Sundays is nice.

Loews Hotel

It felt like a scene from “Sex in the City.” The streets were busy, the air was cool and crisp and fashionably dressed people were pacing the sidewalk to get into the night’s most artful events.

It was the Hebru Brantley Penny Candy event hosted by Allways Open Creative and Loews Hotel. The event took place Friday night on the C floor of the Loews Hotel on Peachtree St.

Viewing for the display began at 7pm and by 8 the line stretched from the room entrance all the way to the back elevators. This by far was one of the most popular events of the night.

Hebru Brantley is a nationally recognized artist whose works depicts much of his 1980’s upbringing. He currently resides in Chicago, but has close ties to Atlanta. The artist earned his B.A. in film from Clark Atlanta University. His work tackles both political and social issues, with a child’s eye. Friday night exhibit was a reflection both of his artistic genuis and Atlanta’s of upscale interest.

Although unfamiliar with the artist’s work, I quickly became intriqued with the unique blend of comic book heros, afrocentricity and exaggerated expressions. I didn’t see one piece that didn’t catch my eye. I wasn’t the only one. In a very social setting, I noticed people pausing and taking pictures of the work. I took a few myself.

The atmosphere was great. It was the type of event the city needs aside from it’s popular bar and club scene. I stayed for a good while. The music was great and the people were buzzing with energy and enthusiasm.

Afterwards we headed downstairs to the hotel Lobby which is the perfect scene for a few cocktails and cathching up with one of youre favorite girlfriends. Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda would be proud.

Kouture Lounge

Friday nights in Atlanta. It’s sort of a big deal.

One area that’s always alive with energy is 10/12 Street near Peachtree. This area has three of the cities most popular nightclubs all within walking distance of one another, two side by side. So it’s no wonder that one any given Friday, you can expect to see people piling in line to party.

There’s the clubs and then there’s Kouture Lounge.

Formerly Leopard Lounge and then Fins restaurant, Kouture offers the same energy and music you’d find in your usual nightclub but with a much more laid back and mature atmosphere. Recently re-opened about two weeks ago, I decided to check it out for myself.

Kouture lounge is located at the corner of Crescent and 12th and is surrounded by other social spots like Luxe Lounge and Opera nightclub. It’s a great location because it’s also a block away from Vanquish and Opera.

Since it’s re-open, Kouture has been free entry for all. Friday my friends and I arrived a little after 11 and enjoyed the split level venue for a few hours. There’s the patio, the inside main room and the more posh lower level with white seats and flat screens. There are DJs in every room and surprisingly you don’t hear much of the same music repeatedly.

Kouture is open Thursday through Saturday and just recently opened its doors for a Monday night crowd. Alone, on a date or with a few friends this place is a good landing spot.