December 2012

style setter

Fashion Uncorked 2013 Kick-off Event

December 21, 2012

Presented by Easter Seals of North Georgia, Fashion Uncorked is kicking off 2013 in style!

This amazing kick-off event will take place on Thursday January 10, 2013 from 6-8pm at Mezlan Shoes located inside Phipps Plaza in Atlanta.

Yours truly will be there to meet & greet guests, co-host the event, and give away a few fabulous gifts. This is an event you don’t want to miss!

Admission to this event is FREE so get your tickets today!

http://fashionuncorked2013kickoff.eventbrite.com/

For more information about Fashion Uncorked, visit www.fashionuncorked.com.

style setter

Celebrate the Holidays in Style with a Festive Dinner Setting

December 21, 2012

I absolutely love the holidays! The aroma of Grandma’s homemade pumpkin pie fills the air, the nostalgic fragrance of peppermint scented candles, the scent of a freshly cut Fraser Fir tree; all are unmistakable scents of the season. I also enjoy entertaining family and friends during the holiday seasons. It’s my chance to transform into the haute holiday hostess, break out the wonderful holiday décor, and dazzle my guests with a fabulous table setting at dinner.

So, will you be entertaining this Christmas? Well, if you want to show off your seasonal style, the Pottery Barn is the perfect place to deck the halls and create a dramatic table setting for your dinner guests. Hey, there is nothing like spending the holidays with family and friends, so why not do it with pizzazz and style!

Here are a few ideas from the Pottery Barn to transform your holiday dinner setting into a festive feast.

1) These Holiday Pillar Candles (Sale $6.99 – $16.99) are a great way to set the mood and create the perfect ambiance for a festive gathering.

2) Add a bit of Christmas chic to any setting with these Clear Glass Pillar Holders ($19.50 – $39.50).

3) Embossed floral motifs and scrollwork elevate the simple, generous designs of these Juliette Serving Platters ($59.00 – $79.00).

4) Set the tone for a fabulous dinner with this Antique-Silver Ladle & Serving Set ($29.00 – $39.00). These heirloom-quality essentials are great for entertaining and also make the perfect keepsakes.

5) Toast to a fabulous gathering with these Café Goblets (set of 12 – $57.00). This fabulous glassware adds a classic touch to any setting.

6) Entertain in style with these vividly colored and eclectic hand-cut Jewel Cut Martini Glasses (set of 4 – $39.50).

7) Shake up the party with this retro, blown glass Gold Stripe Cocktail Shaker ($28.00).

8) Make a personal statement with a monogrammed set of Italian White Dinnerware ($69.00 – $79.00).

9) Add pizzazz to your table setting with this Sheffield Silver-Plated Flatware ($225.00 – $399.00).

10) Impress your guests and lavish your table with these fabulous Antique-Silver Chargers ($35.00 each). Inscribed with the phrase, Good Food, Good Friends, Good Company, this charger makes a gleaming backdrop for any dinner plate.

So drop by the Pottery Barn at Lenox Square for haute holiday home décor and other fabulous decorating ideas to make your holiday dinner spectacular!

arts & entertainment

Enchanting, captivating, and timeless! Cirque’s TOTEM is simply spectacular!!!

December 17, 2012

Imagine… An unbelievably huge tortuous shell sits before you. An organic and colorful landscape of tall marsh grass and lily pads surround the stage as the rhythm of indigenous sounds and vibrations serenade your senses. Your attention is drawn upward where a brilliantly bedazzled and sparkling figure, in a sort of celestial dance, descends from the heavens toward the stage below revealing beneath the tortuous shell skeleton a gymnasium of high bars, crossbars, and a trampoline, as vibrantly colored and spandex-clad amphibians swing, flip, and ricochet in an incredible concert of acrobatic agility, all while in perfect sync with the beat of the rhythm. As you pick your jaw up from the floor in sheer amazement you realize that the show has only just begun.

You have just witnessed the opening act of Cirque du Soleil’s latest endeavor, TOTEM; a fascinating journey into the evolution of mankind. Written and directed by Robert
LePage, TOTEM takes audiences on a magical journey filled with enchantment, excitement, romance, laughter, and sheer wonderment all while performing spectacularly breathtaking feats of acrobatic skill and precision. From beginning to end I was completely captivated and anxious to see what the next act had in store. And did they ever deliver!!!

Here are some of TOTEM’s highlights…

	A “Crystal Man” descends from the heavens to uncover the giant carapace tortuous shell.
	Colorful fish and amphibian acrobats swing, bounce, and leap within inches of each other in a harmonious display of agility.
	Five unicyclists in synchronized unison, juggle bowls back and forth between one another using only their feet and the tops of their heads to catch them.
	A group of ambitious businessmen use long metal poles to push each other to highest reaches in a display of sheer strength and teamwork.
	A trapeze duo, like two love birds perched high above the audience, playfully twirl, lift, and catch one another in a graceful and sensual dance.
	A “Darwin-esque” scientist experiments with the “building blocks” of life as he stands inside a giant translucent cone and spins glowing molecule-like spheres all around in an orchestra of timing and skill.
	American Indian tribal dancers create dynamic shapes with decorative hoops while performing an ancestral ritual dance to the beat of a native drum.
	A duo of “Crystal Ladies” twirl bedazzled squares while on their backs, using only their hands and feet to toss the objects to-and-fro in a synchronized display of coordination and precision.
	A group of 10 cosmonauts flip, jump, and balance atop illuminated beams in a show of strength and acrobatic precision.
	A roller skating duo wearing Native American headdress romantically spin and twirled at breathtaking speeds in a ballet of grace and beauty all atop a narrow drum-shaped stage. Be still my heart!!!!

Some of the transitional acts include a group of monkeys who prance around mischievously throughout the show tossing popcorn at the audience and meddling with several of the acts, along with Neanderthals and Cro-Magnon characters who visually tell the story of mans evolution through time. The show also featured bits of comic relief by way of several clown acts featuring Italian “Love Machine” Pippo Crotti and his compagno Mykhaylo Usov that kept the audience in stitches with their comedic candor and slapstick humor. A duo of buffed beach body boys with boom boxes and their equally fit female counterpart also lent their high flying talents with feats of strength and athleticism.

But, one of my favorite acts featured a matador character called “The Tracker” who effortlessly twirled and spun several sticks as Native American drumbeats and flamenco-inspired rhythms were played by an amazing musical band. My heart was literally pounding with so much excitement that I wanted to get up from my seat and join in the dance.

There were so many visually stunning elements of TOTEM, for example the costumes that the performers wore seemed to effortlessly suggest what each act’s storyline was about, and the amazing stage featured holographic moving projections that seemed to come right off the surface.

Cirque’s TOTEM takes you on a fantastic journey through time and leaves you begging for a second ride;
a ride you do not want to miss!

Nikka Shae at Cirque du Soleil TOTEM in Atlanta

I had a chance to go backstage after the performance for an exclusive tour to see firsthand all the work that goes into delivering this magnificent show each and every night, from the fabulous costumes to the makeup and the artistry of the performers; I was utterly amazed at the amount of effort behind this grand production. Nikka Shae The Undercover Socialite

Cirque du Soleil’s TOTEM plays performances through December 30, 2012 under the Blue-and-Yellow Big Top at Atlantic Station in Atlanta. Tickets for TOTEM can be purchased at any time online via www.cirquedusoleil.com/totem or at the Cirque du Soleil box office, located inside the entrance tent at Atlantic Station. Visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/totemfor the complete performance schedule.

All photos and video courtesy of Cirque du Soleil

Check out this video of Cirque du Soleil’s TOTEM

covets

Mocha Moon’s Perez Beauty Case

December 15, 2012

Well Lovelies, I need an intervention. There, I said it.

I’m beginning to come to the realization that my fetish for makeup and accessories has taken a serious turn for the worst. And, as bad as it seems, unfortunately I’m not alone. Ask yourself this question… Has my mode of transportation become a “mobile makeup station” filled with cosmetics and accessories in just about every available nook and cranny? Well, if your blush and mascara have become your co-passengers then you just might be in need of an intervention too. You see, I regularly attend events so I’m always on the go, and often times I have to become Mimi the Makeup Artist and glam up in the comfort of the front seat of my SUV. So needless to say I have an abnormal stash of cosmetics, accessories, shoes, and clothing (yes clothing) at the ready, scattered throughout my truck, just in case I need a quick fix between events. Yep, I (we) need some serious help yall. 😐

Well, luckily there’s hope for divas like me (us). 😉 That’s right ladies! Help has finally arrived! It’s called the Perez Beauty Case by Mocha Moon. Created by Atlanta businesswoman and on-the-go-preneur, Lori Louis, this versatile and elegant cosmetic bag is nothing short of the ultimate cosmetic organizer (and lifesaver in my case). It features two transparent storage pouches that can easily be removed to conveniently fit inside your handbag or clutch. It also features several slotted sections that can effortlessly accommodate anything from makeup pencils to large powder brushes, to jewelry and even accessories; the possibilities are limitless. Each removable section has Velcro attachments so they can readily return to their place within the case. Too fab!!! No more opening your makeup case only to find that your lipstick has found a new home inside your blush case. 😐 The Perez Beauty Case is wrapped in soft reptile-skin embossed faux leather that gives it a very luxurious presence. It also comes in a variety of colors to suit even the most discerning divas tastes. My color of choice was a haute pink tone called“The Rose of Sharon.” Other colors include Midnight Blue, The Color Purple, Tranquil (deep turquoise), Wine, and Sunset (deep orange).

The Perez Beauty Case by Mocha Moon is a definite must have for any on-the-go diva that requires a little organization of her makeup arsenal. And at under $40 this gem is the prefect gift to give to any woman with style. But trust me, you’ll want to keep it for yourself. 😉

Visit MochaMoon.com to snatch up your very own Perez Beauty Case. If only they made an organizer for my shoes and clothing… Hmmm. Oh well, at least I have one thing crossed off my list…Now, only 11 more steps to go. 😉

Wanna see Mocha Moon’s Perez Beauty Case in action? Check out this video!

style setter

A “Unique” Approach to Plus Size Fashion

December 14, 2012

Hey Diva’s,

It’s no secret that I absolutely LOVE fashion. From the fab styles, to the hot accessories and shoes, you name it… if it’s fashion-related Cupid may wanna stock up on arrows because he’s gonna need plenty of them when it comes muah! Now, being that I’m also a plus-sized diva, it’s often a challenge to find styles for ladies like myself with a few extra and well placed curves. 😀 Finding looks that are not only stylish and trendy AND affordable is like spotting the mythical unicorn; you wanna tell everyone about it but you’re afraid that no one is gonna believe you. And let’s face it; there aren’t many designers out there that can capture the essense of the curvy fashionista, so when I discover a designer (or in this case two) whose styles speaks to my heart, I let Mr. Cupid know that he’s gonna be a little late for dinner with the misses. 😛

Tamikia & Nikia Bell of Unique Sisters Designs

So just who are these fabulous designers that have captured my fashion-ation? Well, let’s just say that these ladies have taken a very “unique” approach to plus size fashion and delivered it with a fierce bravado that grabs your attention and refuses to let go. Unique Sisters Designs, consisting of sister duo Tamikia and Nikia Bell, have definitely stolen my heart and taken it on a journey through Smitten-ville. Founded on the principle of offering plus sized women a fabulous and “unique” alternative to fashion, Unique Sisters Designs creates styles that embody both beauty and confidence, and a whole lot of curvaceous chic! Their custom, limited edition styles merge modern looks with bold ambition creating timeless styles that capture the essence of plus size fashion and delivers it in a way that embodies high style, creativity, and vision.

I had the pleasure of working with these fab divas during CURVES Fashion Week and the Plus Size Fashion Show at CBWW Health & Beauty Expo where they created several custom ensembles for me that made me wanna go and punch in at a time clock cause those pieces were wurkin’ honey! 😉

But, just like finding that fabled unicorn, you have to see it to believe it… So without further ado, check out these haute pics featuring the amazing stylings of Unique Sisters Designs.

Be sure to visit www.uniquesisters.net to see many more fabulous styles from these amazing ladies.

Oh, and don’t be afraid to tell everyone about your unbelievable discovery! 😉

Check out more pics from the Plus Size Fashion Showcase featuring Unique Sisters Designs.

*Photos by A’SPRE Magazine and Auther Rutiff

[fbphotos id=10151247991354182]

arts & entertainment

Parental Guidance… A Holiday Must See!

December 9, 2012

It’s a classic battle of Old School vs. New School in this hilarious film that takes the audience on a crash course of generational parenting philosophies while discovering the many challenges of day-to-day life in suburbia.

Old school grandfather Artie (Billy Crystal), who is accustomed to calling the shots, meets his match when he and his eager-to-please wife Diane (Bette Midler) agree to babysit their three grandkids when their type-A helicopter parents (Marisa Tomei, Tom Everett Scott) go away for work. But when 21^st century problems collide with Artie and Diane’s old school methods of tough rules, lots of love and old-fashioned games, it’s learning to bend – and not holding your ground – that binds a family together.

Cake anyone?

Ooooops…That’s gonna leave a stain

I got a chance to catch a sneak peak of the film over the weekend and I was pleasantly surprised by how funny it was. I’m a sucker for family films wrapped in comedy, and I must say that Parental Guidance is the perfect gift for the holidays. It has something in it for all ages and generations, and I challenge anyone to not shed a tear (or three) in laughter and during some of the films more heartfelt scenes. A definite “must see” for the holidays!!!

PARENTAL GUIDANCE opens in theaters nationwide on December 25, Christmas Day!

happenings

Here comes the bride…. Again!!!

December 3, 2012

♫Goin’ to the chapel and we’re gonna get married…♫

Excited about your Big Day, huh? Well, not so fast ma’am!

Have you picked out a fabulous dress to wear? What about flowers…, and the cake…, and don’t forget about the venue. There’s also the wedding planner, the photographer, the videographer, catering, table setups… the HONEYMOON! Trust me; it’s enough to turn even the sanest person into a raging lunatic by the time the dust settles. Let’s face it; your “Big Day” just became a little “Too Big” for you to handle on your own… Well, fear not because there’s hope for all of you brides to be.

Mark your calendar for Sunday, January 13, 2013 as BlackBride.com hosts its annual Bridal Showcase at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta. This amazing “bridal-palooza” has every detail of your wedding covered with top notch wedding professionals who specialize in turning your wedding fantasies into a dream come true!

Want more? Checkout the highlights from the 2012 showcase: http://www.ohnikka.com/follow-me-fridays-here-comes-the-bride/

Oh! Nikka and the Blog Fab Fashionistas (BFF’s) have partnered with Black Bride to host the Something Blue Café where we will be covering this ‘one-of-a-kind sophisticated wedding experience via live tweets, photo ops, all while having plenty of fun! We look forward to seeing you there!!!

So, if your wedding day is quickly approaching and you need a little (or a lot of) help, come out to Atlanta’s Finest Boutique Style Bridal Showcase and see how you can keep your “Big Day” from turning into a “Huge Nightmare.”

Go to BlackBride.com for more information and to purchase your tickets!

style setter

Dear Santa… My Christmas Wish List

December 3, 2012

Dear Santa,

My name is Nikka Shae and I have been a very good girl this year. You probably already know this, but, I absolutely LOVE to shop! Hey, it’s not easy being a fashionista this time of year let me tell ya. I mean, there are some really great deals out there. And with so many amazing gift ideas to choose from, where does a girl begin on her quest to get the perfect gift for Christmas? Now, I know you’re generally very busy this time of year spreading good cheer and all, but I’ve just discovered several fabulous goodies that will definitely help you to fill quite a few stockings this year (namely mine). And who knows, you may even find a gift (or two) for Mrs. Claus also. (wink)

First on my list of ‘Must Haves’ is Lush Cosmetics’ Bubblegum Flavored Sugar Lip Scrub ($9.95). I can’t think of anything that goes better with lips than sugar, and this bubble-yummy candy-flavored delight is the perfect pucker-upper for a holiday kiss.

And speaking of candy kisses, Lush Cosmetics’ Vanilla Candy Rock Star Soap ($7.95) is sure to get me an offer to sneak under the mistletoe for a spell. This luscious confection-scented vanilla sudsier will leave you smelling absolutely divine and feeling like the “star of the show”.

Next on my list is the Guilty Passions Rose Lip Gloss Collection from MAC ($32.50). It should be a crime for your lips to look this haute, so don’t be surprised if the law comes-a-knocking after wearing one of these fabulous shades.

This Monogram Jewelry Box from C. Wonder ($78.00) is perfect for storing my most prized keepsakes and accessories. With its soft velvet lining, 18k gold-plated clasp, and candy-colored lacquer finish, this beauty is simply too hard to resist buying for everyone you know.

I’m looking to add a bit of sparkle to the holiday season, and Godiva’s Swarovski Elements Luxury Gift Box ($150.00) will definitely do the trick! It’s filled with decadent chocolates & truffles that will satisfy any sweet tooth with utter delight. Adorned with Swarovski Elements crystals, this hand-embroidered keepsake gift box adds ‘twinkle’ to the perfect indulgence.

I can show everyone my “tech-savvy“ side with this gorgeous iPad Case from Michael Kors ($158.00). Wrapped in luxurious Saffiano leather with a signature gold Michael Kors heritage badge, this beauty screams tech-chic!

I’m a “Diva on the go”, so Henri Bendel’s 2013 It Girls Desk Diary ($98.00) is the perfect way for me to stay organized. It features a month & week-at-a-view planner, an address book, and travel guide with a map of the world that will come in handy during my visit to Milan.

Note for NEXT Xmas: Trip to Milan!!!

I love, Love, LOVE fragrances, and Tom Ford’s ‘Black Orchid’ Eau de Parfum ($105.00 for 1.7 oz and $150.00 for 3.4 oz) has my heart in a sling. With its rich dark accords and alluring potion of black orchids and spice, this sensual and luxurious fragrance is both timeless and new.

Well Santa, I hope that you can grant my wish (or 8) this Christmas. By the way, you can find all of these gifts at both Lenox Square andPhipps Plaza. Please remember that I’ve been a good girl this year. Oh, I almost forgot to mention that Mrs. Claus told me about your affection for sugary delights, so I left you a little something by the fireplace. Have a very Merry Christmas… and please be sure to grab some cupcake-flavored-candy-cake on your way out… (smile)

Fashion Uncorked 2013 Kick-off Event

Celebrate the Holidays in Style with a Festive Dinner Setting

Enchanting, captivating, and timeless! Cirque’s TOTEM is simply spectacular!!!

Mocha Moon’s Perez Beauty Case

A “Unique” Approach to Plus Size Fashion

Parental Guidance… A Holiday Must See!

Here comes the bride…. Again!!!

Go to BlackBride.com for more information and to purchase your tickets!

Dear Santa… My Christmas Wish List

Archives

Categories