Essence Festival 2019 - THE GRIND!!!
New Orleans boasted its usual vibrant, hospitable aura as rambunctious men and women bombarded its bumpy roads and roamed every nook and cranny of its soul. Graphic t-shirts, off-the-shoulder frilly tops, innovative braided hair-dos, and tropical print shirts dominated the streets, sidewalks, and venues. Car horns blared because the city (and traffic) literally froze to witness this glorious, melanin-filled influx. Music was blasting, camera flashes were constantly erupting, and smiles were infectious and contagious as the weekend got underway. This, my friends, is what the 25th Essence Festival Weekend was all about. Hot music, swanky fashion, and beauty galore are just a few reason why this past Essence weekend was nothing short of SUCCESSFUL!!! And did I mention our Forever First Lady, Michelle Obama, was in the building…..AND that I had a front row seat to the Beauty Carnival (thanks to All Things Hair) where experts were on hand to give you tips, products, and foot massages?!? Yup, even the sweltering heat couldn’t keep me away this year. It was my duty (literally) and pleasure to be on the scene!
My Essence weekend was definitely an exciting grind. While I got the chance to experience impactful events and meet intriguing people, it was more strategic for me. My goal was to put myself in some beneficial spaces that would catapult my brand to the next level…..and that is just what I did.
Not only did I get the chance to be in the same city, building, and atmosphere as THE Michelle Obama, I also got the chance (on behalf of All Things Hair) to experience the ultimate celebration of black beauty at The Essence Beauty Carnival!
Since I was attending an elaborate beauty event, I wanted to make sure my hair and outfit were up-to-par. Check out the look and hairstyle I went with below.
Picture Credit: todphotography.com
Picture Credit: todphotography.com
Picture Credit: todphotography.com
When I stepped into the convention center, I was hit with a sea of eager people waiting to bust through the gates of this popular carnival. As soon as I made my way through the entrance, I totally understood their enthusiasm. It was like I walked into a black woman’s dream - a beauty heaven with products made just for our skin and hair!
I partnered with All Things Hair (an informative hair website that gives great insight for all hair types) and Unilever (the parent company of Suave, Shea Moisture, Dove, Love Beauty, Planet, and Tresemme) to capture the happenings at the Dove Beauty Station. Upon arriving at this station, I immediately felt as though I was at the spa. Everything from foot massages, hair stations, to must-have products were being offered at this station. Ladies were patiently waiting in what seemed like the longest line at the Beauty Carnival to experience the treats the Dove station had to offer.
I got the chance to chat with some of the women waiting in line about their experience with Unilever products. One lady couldn’t wait to get her hands on some Dove soap, stating that it never dries her skin out. Another lady was enthused about Suave conditioner because it left her curls feeling hydrated and full of body.
Another aspect of the Dove beauty station (and one of the best parts in my opinion) was the opportunity to sign the petition for the Hair Discrimination Law. This law prohibits any company from discriminating against an individual because of the choice of their hairstyle. The purpose of The CROWN ACT is to Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair. It addresses the discrimination and unfair grooming policies in schools and workplaces that directly impact black men, women, and children. The Crown Act has been passed in California and has passed the New York Senate and the Assembly. To read more about this act and to sign the petition, click here.
The Beauty Carnival and the overall Essence Festival 2019 experience was overwhelmingly incredible. For more on my experience at this event and to check out my interview on All Things Hair, click here.
Also, if you want to see some more of my Essence Festival style, some videos of the entire weekend/beauty carnival, and a segment of me getting ready for the Essence Beauty Carnival, visit my Instagram page and c!ick on the Essence highlights in my profile and check out my Essence Beauty Carnival x All Things Hair IGTV video!
Peace and Blessings,
- Samjah Iman
Outfit Details: Kimono (Forever 21, sold out) // Someone’s Daughter T-shirt (coming soon!) // White Flared Pants (Swank Blue, sold out)
The post is sponsored by All Things Hair; however, all opinions are my own.
