INSPIRED . . . INTRIGUED . . .INVESTED

These past two weeks I have been blessed! Invited, accompanied by, and participated in some of the best  women in my network and their female empowerment initiatives. We all (yes all) can become so consumed and absorbed in our careers and daily activities that we don't take notice of great movements and how impactful us women can be. Now this won't be a rant on how great women are and how horrible the today's man is, so if that's what gets you going this isn't the read for you. However, I would like to take a moment and acknowledge the smart, powerful, achieved women that are in my network and their organizations, yes I see you! 

"It Never Entered My Mind" (quick plug of my favorite Miles Davis song) to question how or why people start there initiatives, but what did cross my mind these past few days is why did it take so long to lend a listening ear and be a part of their movement.  There is something to be said for the joy you gain from giving and doing for others. . .and we all know that joy outweighs happiness by far, for your joy cant be stolen like a C-Class, it comes from within. The month of November should have been claimed Womens Month after all I experienced. We kicked off with the first ever televised Black Girls Rock! awards show on B.E.T., which was a great achievement for DJ Beverly Bond, L. Londell McMillan and The NorthStar Group, along with B.E.T. for the highest rated show on B.E.T. The high we all got from that show and its success led me through a few weeks of infectious self pride. I then attended the launch event for (Tashera Simmons), award presentations (B.O.S.S. Network), panel discussions (WEEN Town Hall), and sat on my very first panel (Urban League Hudson County 1st Annual Girls to Women Conference). All initiatives that are selfless and geared towards providing mentors and programs for our young teenagers to set better goals and standards that will further empower them to lead the way for the next generation. And if that isn't satisfying enough, to further build network with like minded individuals who are not only in tune with the same cause and message but are actively taking the needed steps to expand the movement and its impact. Kudos to you all. 

Myself,  Shantelle Guyton (Egami Consulting), Jessica Andrews (Jones Magazine)
at the Black Girls Rock! Awards

Dr. Catrise Austin & I (Urban League Hudson County Girls to Women Conference)

Now that I have touched on the cause, there only leaves room for reACTION. Not only am I inspired and intrigued, it is truly my goal to be invested. I send my sincerest apologies to everyone who reads this, every initiative who I didn't give the time deserved, and all those impacted by these initiatives as I as a human and women have done you an injustice. Even if it were only an hour or two to put towards a movement could have made a difference. Knowing is half the battle (so they say) and that means I have a ways to go. Please stay tuned to future posts/tweets highlighting some of these organizations, their programs, my involvement and most importantly the success and lives that we will touch.  

Panelists for the Urban League Hudson County Girl to Women Conference
Senator Sandra B. Cunningham, Michaela Angela Davis, Dr. Catrise Austin, Melyssa Ford,
Saideh Browne, and Najwa Moses

Bubbly yours,


Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

Full-Figured & Fierce

Fed up, I opted to speak out on the Marie Claire controversy for JonesMag.com:

After reading Maura Kelly's post on Marie Claire, EIC Tracey Ferguson's post on JonesMag.com and all of your comments, I felt compelled to chime in as a plus size woman and staff member of Jones Magazine. This topic I hold dear to my heart having struggled with health and weight issues for the past twenty years.

Let's start by addressing the opinion that started it all: Maura Kelly's post. In my opinion, her post lacked direction or a strong stance on one focus.  Rather, it started as a look at the new romance comedy "Mike and Molly," then drifted into her conclusion that the lead characters couldn't be healthy and her confession that she feels disturbed watching PDA between an obese couple. In fact, she went so far as to say she feels disgusted watching an obese person walk across the street. Did her post reveal a true health concern or just a general distaste for their appearance?


When I first read her post, my initial reaction was: How dare she? Would this same disgust be expressed to a couple who were unhealthy and emaciated? Would that be an awful idea of entertainment?

Click Here To Read More 

 

Jones In My Bones by Carmen San Diego

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am proud to announce a new addition to Dana's Bubble (socially as well as to danasbubble.blogspot.com). My new dating and traveling guru for your reading pleasure . . . Carmen San Diego. Please welcome her with your eyes and embrace her with your comments below. This will be the first of many experiences shared. 

Simply put,  I have become a serial dater. Not one who dates randomly just for free meals, however, one who has openly accepted  the fact that I want love and am willing to put myself out there in order to find it. As someone who recently opened herself back up to the idea of love,  I now completely believe that it really is simple, no formula's - no tricks. Just be open, oh and don't forget to make direct eye contact and smile. It's that simple. It won't solve all your men problems but,  it will at the very  least get you a date. You can thank me later for saving you from reading another Steve Harvey-esque book on how to get a man. Same goes for all the specials that basically say if you're black and a woman it's a wrap for you. Don't buy into the hype, don't focus on the statistics. There are tons of beautiful, educated, successful men in New York (yes you read that correctly). I can guarantee you won't find them if you keep going to dinner and drinks with 18 of your closest friends and all you talk about is how men "ain't ish". As I step down from my soapbox I will share this, adopting this new approach has afforded the opportunity to meet some great men like Mr. Adorable, Mr. Established, and Mr. Dimples .


I actually met Mr. Adorable while out on a date with Mr. Never Been on a Plane, let's call him Mr. Loser for short. I met up with Mr. Loser at my local hang out, appropriately called "The Spot". After repeated stupid questions like "Do you take a plane to get to Detroit?" I realized that this date was going nowhere, so I pretended to be tired and ready to go. As soon as Mr. Loser hit the door I turned around and made a beeline back to the bar where my girl and her two friends from college were sitting, one of which was Mr. Adorable. (Side note: it's called GAME ladies, get some; if the dating gods give you lemons, add some vodka and make a cocktails outta that ish). Mr. Adorable was charming, articulate and a consummate gentleman. He noticed Mr. Loser asked for separate checks so he offered to pay me back for my meal and paid for the rest of my drinks and waited up for me to text him that I made it home safely. This was a Friday evening; by Saturday afternoon Mr. Adorable called and invited me our for what he called a "real date" on Sunday.


Sunday arrived and Mr. Adorable refused to have us meet somewhere so he picked me up in a car service in front of my building; so very "Carrie and Mr. Big go to Brooklyn". We went bowling, which is something I had not done since I was 7. At 28 I found it way more entertaining as there is nothing like having a handsome man to help you correct your form. After bowling we went to the movies. Everywhere we walked he insisted on walking on the outside, that's good upbringing folks. A true gentleman never lets the lady walk closest to the streets. We then headed to dinner and drinks where we literally shut the place down. We talked about everything from politics, religion, and past relationships. Mr. Adorable is obsessed with his iPhone in the same unhealthy way that I cling to my beloved blackberry so he thought it would be a great idea to play one of the games on his phone. We settled on truth or dare, which I must say is probably thee best first date ice breaker game, ever. . . in fact I think they should market the game that way. We had so much fun that time escaped us and before we knew it, it was 2:00 a.m. (he picked me up at 6:00 p.m.). We hopped into a cab and headed back to the borough. On the ride back, the sky opened up and it began to pour. Perfect setting for what will forever be the perfect kiss in my book. He caressed my cheek, pulled me close and gave me the most soft, sexy kiss I've had in a long time.  I didn't come up for air until the cab pulled up in front of my building. When we arrived at my place he got out to open my door. As I made my way to the door, he pulled me closed and kissed me again . . . in the pouring rain, with no umbrella and I didn't care. . . .somebody cue Love Jones. Mr. Adorable was definitely trying to be "the blues in my left thigh and the funk in my right".

Is he the man of my dream? Maybe, but probably not. The reality is it doesn't matter. What does matter is that I made myself available, cut the games we sometimes play (if you play hard to get you will be exactly that. . . and some of the best ones will move on to the next), and remembered what dating used to be before I moved into the 25 and up box . . . fun. He made me feel like a teenager again (with better hair and far better shoes). Date #3 is this weekend, who knows? He may even get to third base :-) 

Someones love somewhere,


Carmen San Diego

A Real(istic) Plan B? (The Back-Up Plan)

This past weekend a few girlfriends and I headed to the theatre to support my fave celebrity Ms. J Lo in "The Back-Up Plan". Regardless of any reviews I was going to see it; and after enjoying it I thought why not give it a review myself. 

From the moment the credits finish rolling you jump right into Zoe's (played by J Lo) shoes: mid 30's pretty woman who is single, self sufficient, and conscious of her biological clock. Within the first 5 minutes, she is artificially inseminated and ready to tackle being a single mom. It was a cute story line, more importantly a REAL one -- the issue women face at that age when they are either single and or not a mom but yet wish to be.

You have a established city girl who meets a gorgeous newly maturing hot guy. She finds out she is pregnant with twins, and he sticks by her side. Just like that. . .after a walk in the park and comedic exchange with Anthony Anderson on a Central Park bench, he commits.  While this movie was good and very funny, and of course had not only a happy ending, but an "additional" twist. . . it was a bit fairytale like.

As the movie goes on, in my opinion this real issue wasn't handled or pictured too realistically. Perhaps I was looking for more from this film, as I approach my mid 30's and my inner circle does represent Zoe. But this was just a movie, and not a social thesis. Perhaps the larger issue of middle aged women should be addressed in another post :-)

In all, her supporting actors were believable, comedic, and didn't cloud Ms. J Lo's shine. I think those that would turn their nose at this flick, should think again. If nothing else it was funny and a feel good girlfriend moment. Please feel free to share your thoughts if you too have seen the movie, and if not, what are you waiting for?

Bubbly Yours,

Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo'sWorld The Remix

Spa of the Sea

I may have mentioned in the past that although I love to travel, one thing I have never explored is a cruise. I'm a more experience places by way of land kinda girl. Until now! I was perusing my twitter timeline and came across this great find on ABC NEWS "The Norwegian Epic Will Be Home to the Largest Cruise Spa and Fitness Facility". Naturally I was intrigued as I love spa treatments. Perhaps this is the reason to give in and try a cruise. I read on and oh what treats I did find. The Norwegian Epic plans to debut the following:

*the largest spa and fitness facility at sea, measuring more than 31,000 square feet

*ice cream-themed manis and pedis for kids
*customizable salt scrubs and massages

*39 spa-dedicated staterooms - offering free access to the ship's Hydrotherapy Courtyard and Thermal Suite. There will be eight spa suites with in-room whirlpools.

*feature 24 treatments rooms as well as two "couple's villas" and two "solo villas" for massages (each has a private, outdoor whirlpool), plus two exotic Rasul steam rooms where guests have access to organic muds, exfoliants and oils for rinsing off under the warm, rainforest-style shower. Guests can also create their own DIY sugar or salt scrub. Six treatment rooms feature balconies with chaise lounges.
*a full-service salon and barber shop.
*ME! Bath Ice Cream Social, an opportunity for a group of kids to get together and test out the products.
* mother-daughter and father-son massage options for family bonding.
*the Thai Herbal Poultice Massage, heated herbal poultices (soft, moist, clay-like spreads) are placed on pressure points to augment Eastern and Western massage techniques.

*Bamboo Massage therapists use bamboo shoots soaked in essential oils to work muscles.

* Bliss triple oxygen combines a fruit acid wash, oxygen wrap, oxygen and milk mask, and more to revive spagoers' complexions while Bliss fatgirlslim is a detoxifying, body-toning treatment that involves dry brushing followed by firming grapefruit essential oils, a seaweed mask and heated wrap. 
*a 24-Karat Gold Facial, which we've seen onboard Celebrity's Solstice-class ships. Here, it is a blend of pure gold leaf, rose quartz and medicinal plants.

 For Fitness expect TRX and kettlebell training; group cycling, on Activo spinning bikes; a Gravity reformer, a Pilates training system; and body sculpting boot camp classes. That's in in addition to the more traditional yoga and Pilates offerings. Facility will have 37 treadmills, 18 cross trainers, weights, and special areas for stretching and aerobics. Up on the pool deck, you'll also find the cruise industry's first-ever rappelling wall.
Breathtaking to say the least. . . I can only imagine what the costs will be for this luxury. As soon as I know I will be sure to update you on this great find.

Bubbly Yours,

Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

Flashing Lights

Say it isn't so. To add to the Spring must haves we now have safety Jimmy Choos! The Zap, has a neon heel to guide your steps as you walk in dark nightclubs and other dark spaces. The shoe goes for a whopping $2,495, and the actual light bulb last for 100 hours, leaves me to ask how many steps actually is that???  Please note once the bulb goes it is not replaceable. And yes, you can imagine this shoe is already sold out :-) Read more at NY Post  on the highly coveted shoe. Shout out to Aimstar for the great find. 
Bubbly yours,
Dana Storm a/k/a Elmos World The Remix

Spring (Fashion) Forward

As the cold leaves us in NYC, and the sunny days shine through we are compelled to change up our style. After skimming the latest fashion mags, websites, and everyday New Yorkers (NY-ers can get away with anything), I have chosen a few inspiring pieces for Spring. Seeing the above ad this past Winter, I loved the look and copped my bright yellow strapless dress - now all I need are the shoes :-).   Below are a few more of my faves I wanted to share with you all. . . .let me know your thoughts!

I am a sucker for strapless :-)

Single Printed Jersey

$295

Oscar De La Renta Bib Necklace

            $740

Alexander Wang Twill Trench Dress

                    $595     

Roberto Cavalli Swarovski Frog Ring 

                             $455

Bubbly Yours,

Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix                      

Let's Talk About . . . .

I had the opportunity to attend the wrap show for "Let's talk about Pep" a few weeks ago. Secretly I am a big fan of Pep since childhood, but openly a fan of the show since Episode 1. The wrap party was held at Comix and was quite a delight. We were greeted with a sexy mature crowd, passed cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, and everyone's favorite red velvet cupcakes to end the evening. The music and bottles were poppin' as was the surprise season finale when Pep & Tom made their relationship official on their weekend getaway at the Mohonk Mountain House (which is fab and frequented by yours truly annually).

I am so looking forward to season 2, and what it may have to offer. . . definitely was  good time had by all. Until Season 2 premiere. . . 

Bubbly Yours,

Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

Event Marketing - Blackberry Took It Up Just One More Notch!

1. 

Wednesday night I attended the Blackeyed Peas E.N.D. tour at Madison Square Garden. The concert was good, but as usual my event observation cap was on and I was impressed with two elements that evening. Once thing I loved, and always known it makes SUCH a difference. . .the lighting of the show and arena was fantastic. The concert took us from concert mode to club mode on many occasions that evening and the lighting truly did the trick. It was a concert at MSG and a flashback to a night at the Tunnel years ago all wrapped in one. Will.i.am did his thing on the 1 and 2's to the point we wish the party lasted all night long.

Now, as we entered the arena fashionably late, we noticed Blackberry marketers at the entrance giving handouts. We didn't pay the handout much attention. Well, suprisingly to us mid concert Will.i.am came out on stage and freestyled to whatever blackberry messenger messages the audience sent him on huge screens . . . .DOPE!  Now we have all seen live text displays at shows/concerts, but this knock that out the water. What a great tie-in for audience interaction, mobile marketing and true artistry. Check a clip out of the same performance but in Florida earlier this week. The bright white bars you see are the messages the audience sent, which Will.i.am then took and added to his freestyle.



Bubbly Yours,
Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

Heels N' Kicks ???

I couldn't help myself, when I came across this on Twitter (thanks @BeverlyHillsNY). Instantly, I said no way. Now I'm not a Jordan kinda girl, or any sneaker for that matter unless I'm in the gym or just being really lazy. But I know not only teens, but some females way into their 20's are serious sneaker heads. So I assume these may appeal to them? Especially the Jordan heads. . .who knows. . .but I tell ya this much, when I saw these I instantly thought of my girl Jenny from the Block and when she put Manolo Blahnik's (Timberland style) on the map.

Hey she made them work right? As much as I loved her (and thought this look was cute, I never stepped foot in those ugly things lol.)

People help me if I am wrong, after all who made me the fashion expert. . . Im just sayin' these Jordan's just wreak of Jamaica Ave. Jamaica, Queens to me. If you into it, you can find these Jordan Heels at Nike Stores for $88.

Bubbly Yours,
Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

Love in the air. . . .

 

I came across elaborate cakes on the internet last week, and thought I had to share them. I know I know, its a little late in the game, but hey you are suppose to fill your life with LOVE every day, not just on Valentine's Day. To put the "icing on the cake" not only am I a lover of love, I truly "heart" hearts. Here is another great shot of a V Day Cake. . . .

 

My V-Day didn't include cake of any sort, I actually was in Dallas at the All Star Game. How about you?  Feel free to share what you did and or post links to other great elaborate cake finds. 

Bubbly Yours,

Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

Dana Does Dallas (2010 All Star Weekend)

Ladies and Gents, let me start by saying this was one of the better All Star Weekends I have ever been to. I am not sure if it was the City of Dallas per se, the people in town for the weekend, or just the wiser selection of events to attend. 

I landed promptly 8PM Friday, with attempts to hurry quick fast to the Adidas event for 9PM which DMC's manager, Erik Blam (who just happened to be on my flight), invited me to. I am always late, and therefore needless to say I never made it. All good I thought, because I was on the list for the Kenny Smith party. Checked in, dined, bathed and got dolled up. . . but still waited another 45 minutes before I left the hotel (waiting on your peeps, does it to ya every time). Midnight strikes, we all pile up in the cab to Deux to see what Dallas had to offer. We get there fashionably late, door/line is crazy - nothing less than what's expected for All Star Weekend. After playing the waiting game and calling for "life lines" to pull us from the door, we get in and the party was poppin'. Kenny Smith & Ed Lover were hosting, DJ S&S was spinning, the crowd and venue was sexy; a great way to start the weekend. Somewhere in between "Doin' the Butt" and "Poison" my puppies started to bark - no growl on some 'what you think this is' (in a DMX tone lol). I immediately took a bee line to VIP and bopped the night away in a seat. We considered hopping over to Diddy's party as we left the party, but with an event to host the next day we called it a night. 

Next morning (or all day for that matter) it was set up and final planning for the NBA Player's Association Annual All Star Gala. For the past two years, The Source was the official media partner for this event, which included designing and writing their event Journal, a pop up gaming suite/vip area, and an exclusive media section for in-depth interviews with athletes, celebrities and executives. Held at the Hytatt Regency Downtown, Doug E. Fresh hosted the party with its East vs. West decor (courtesy of A La Carte Events) and theme, DJ Battle between DJ Cassidy vs. DJ Ruckus, sexy dancers on pedestals, a gaming suite hosted by The Source & World Gaming, and a 45 minute performance by the Queen herself Ms. Mary J. Blige. . . what can beat that! Here are a few pics from the night as well as a video clip . . . .

"Help me sing it, Help me sing it " Ms. Mary J. Blige

  

JD & Snoop competing in the Gaming VIP suite @ NBPA Gala

Another great evening and event, and puppies still aching, again I called it a night and passed on the Dwayne Wade party.  Once Sunday came around, all I could think of doing was sleeping in and partaking in a great brunch, oh and of course attending the actual All Star Game. I went with a friend to Dragonfly, a cute restaurant in the Hotel Zaza. Brunch was delightful as was the ambiance, but the mood killer for me was Lebron dining at the same establishment with his uncombed hair. Sidebar, am I the only one offended with how unkempt he is ??? Moving on, the highlight of brunch for me was the bottomless mimosas . . .that's right, never ending! Apparently this hotel is a new hot spot and frequented by Mr. & Mrs. Carter. . . must add contact info to the berry for sure.

 

Dragonfly Restaurant at Hotel Zaza

Eager to see what else Dallas had to offer, from a lifestyle standpoint, I then took a quick tour of The Crescent Spa, and Baileys Restaurant. I tell you, one thing I noticed as I was shown around town, Dallas is big on decor and dining. I truly want a reason to have an event in Dallas to utilize these great venues that I saw. To die for was the Coco Chanel cocktail served at Baileys. . .just exquisite. Dessert in a cup with a Bailey's branded chocolate disc to sweeten the deal. Greatest thing of all, they made a great French Martini (hand clap for Dallas, because Miami totally missed the mark on that one).

Coco Chanel @ Bailey's Restaurant     hhmmmmmmm good!

Relaxed and a little high off of afternoon cocktails, off to the All Star Game I went with DMC, Erik Blam, and Shake a/k/a "I got an app for that" (long story). Grateful to be a guest of theirs, we were en route to see this highly anticipated new Dallas Cowboys Stadium. Well let me tell you, it was a sight to behold. A huge, clean, modern stadium totally transparent. This stadium has a plasma screen every 10 feet throughout the entire stadium, in addition to the largest screen in the world (Mitsubishi 1080p HDTV).              

      Hi Melo, yea that screen is crazy!

 Shout out to DMC . . . a pleasure to have had him as a client

After taking in the scenery of the stadium or shall I say architecture, we went to the NBA suite where we ate, drank, pollied with NBA folks and enjoyed the game. No seat was a bad seat in the arena, regardless of location because of that grandiose screen. Even the performances by Usher, Shakira and Alicia Keys felt like front row seats. Good job Jerry Jones. Once again I am truly grateful for a great weekend and event. Another moment cherished . . . 

Bubbly Yours,
Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

VICTORY!!! (Super Bowl XLIV)

Some of us aren't as fortunate to enjoy victory as often as we should. I am glad to say, last weekend, my Source Magazine & Magic Shave event granted me just that! Any event planner knows there are always last minute hiccups when it comes to a successful event (even the best of them have issues), and last weekend had its small problems that arose but, at the end the two sleepless nights, last minute nuances, and all other variables, the event was worth it. Biz Bash's recognition of my event was the icing on the cake! It has been over 3 years since one of my events got picked up by Biz Bash (the event planners bible) but never say never. 

Here is an overview of my event Super Bowl Weekend. The Source Magazine along with Magic Shave hosted a Rick Ross birthday grooming suite on The Venetian Lady Yacht, in Miami, Florida. The afternoon consisted of open bar, passed hors d'oeuvres, massages and free shaves. The yacht, gorgeous on its own, was adorned with sexy female barbers and a masseuse to pamper the Boss himself and his guests. To top off the event, we had a Rick Ross look-a-like cake, a champagne toast, traveling grooming cases acted as gift bags filled with Magic Shave products, and what was to be a serenade by Chrisette Michelle (who was stuck in traffic and never made it . . . see "hiccup"). At the end,  it was a great event and I am glad that this industry still presents its challenges in attempts to keep me sharp and overcome all things possible. Thanks to The Source team and their help with making this happen.  Who dat!!!

Venetian Lady

 Pop Up Barber Shop

Chad Ocho Cinco

B'Day Cake

Rick Ross

Bubbly Yours,
Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

My First Time . . .2010 Grammy Awards

It all started with an email from my boss, L. Londell McMillan, asking if I was interested in attending the Grammy's. Shocked at the opportunity, but honestly not yet moved to accept, I tossed the idea around (as well as my luggage) to see if I was interested. Remembering my recent shopping spree and cute zipper stitched cocktail dress, I said why not. So in 90 minutes I curled my hair, accented my facial features with some color, and off I was on Wilshire Boulevard heading to the Four Seasons hotel. I know your thinking "but the Grammy's was at the Staples Center" - well sit tight and let me tell you the story of my first time. . .at the Grammy Awards. 

As I walk to the bar in the Four Seasons lobby to meet my boss, I pass Damon John, Vivica Fox, Tichina Arnold, Don Cornelius, and El DeBarge. I'm not easily star struck, after 9 years in the entertainment business.  .  .  at this point all I could think of was the renowned Four Seasons Brunch more so than the celebs :-). My boss soon meets me and announces that we will attend the awards and have the pleasure of spending Grammy night with no one other than Ms. Debra Lee and her lovely daughter Ava. 

Everything from there went so fast. . . .from the limo ride to the Staples Center, to walking/jogging in heels to make the red carpet (traffic was just that bad), to falling on the red carpet (yes that's right, I fell like a stunt man -on the sideline not front and center in the focal point of all media thank goodness - with a scar on my leg to help tell  my story when I'm old), to watching a great show, and then a night of eating and partying with true movers and shakers. Here are some pics from the awards show taken on my phone (I was in such a rush and afraid of security issues with my camera, that I played it safe and am now o so sorry -- i vow it will never happen again, however there is something to be said for average pictures for a first time experience.)

 Bon Jovi

Eminem

Lil Wayne

Taylor Swift

After the awards, we were whisked away to LA Reid's dinner at Ceccino's, and that was a memorable experience for life. It wasn't Jay Z or Beyonce's presence dining at the next table over, nor Rhianna's shine, nor Drake's kiss on my right hand as he greeted me, or the always great to see Gayle King greeting me "well hello Dana Santiago" (email addresses do wonders I tell you -- our paths cross at least 3 times a year and she is always happy to remember the name/email with the face as am I that she does of course). Not that these moments aren't cherished and memorable, along with all the other talented people whose presence I had the honor to share at this intimate dinner including Usher, The Dream, Ashanti, Akon, Justin Beiber, Melanie Fiona, Michelle Williams and others. What did it for me, was when I was standing less than two feet away from MS. J LO! She and the lovely Marc Anthony attended, and needless to say THIS was the highlight of my night (as I am sure most of you know my fascination with 'Jenny from the Block'). I stood still and just absorbed this moment as if we met and carried on a lengthy conversation, but I promise next time we will! Okay, moving on. The family style dinner was quite exquisite, and well done, but what more can you expect from LA Reid. Thank you Mr. Reid from your technically uninvited guest :-) After sharing great conversation, recap of the awards on large plasmas, truly clapping and congratulating the artists who performed and or won a Grammy as they are sitting across from you, I knew the night couldn't get any better. Off to party hopping we went! Next stop was the Maxwell after party at The Mondrian, where we ran into Estelle, Mos Def, Andre Harrell, AJ Calloway, and actually entered the vip area with Maxwell for few hello's and laughs. We ended our night at the Congo Room hosted by Jamie Foxx and my boy Doug E. Fresh's jam session. Surprise guests included Sheila E., Kelly Price, and Lalah Hathaway. 

What a night to remember. . .and definitely and inspiration of things to come. In the words of L. Londell McMillan, "Dana, you can get into anything [any event] and be in these networks if only you really worked the connections and relationships you have" and that sir I do intend to do. 


Bubbly Yours & Inspired,
Dana Storm a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

Basic Instinct

Last Thursday, I had the pleasure to attend Harley Davidson's "Back to Basics" event, which kicked off the bike show at Javits Center that weekend. Using their basic instincts, Harley Davidson took it back to dark themes, metal fences, and custom styled bikes. The new Forty-Eight bike was revealed that evening at the Ace Hotel along with other similar dark custom bikes. Unlike last years more mod and mixed crowd, this years event was totally the bikers scene. Complimenting the goth style decor and event theme, attendees arrived in their black leather get up, spiked hair, tattooed adorned bodies, ready for a good time. I appreciated the gritty pit stop bar motif (simple basic beer, tequila and whisky cocktails) and anxiously awaited the surprise vampire appearance at any moment . . . too much True Blood episodes I guess.

To top off the evening, Harley Davidson's senior stylist Ray Drea was on hand customizing tanks for our viewing pleasure. Check it out . . .

First Lady in Living Color

For those who aren't up on the 6 month waiting process to visit the White House and meet The Obama's (which I am in line for), you can settle for the next best thing and meet the couple right here in Times Square. 

To help kick off Black History Month next week, Michelle Obama's wax figure (previewed on the Wendy Williams Show yesterday) will be available for all to see starting today at Madame Tussauds in NYC. 



It is scary just how real Mrs. Obama looks. . . especially her hair . . . one of the best wax figures I have seen thus far. Check it out and let me know your thoughts.



Bubbly Yours,
Dana Storm
Dana's Bubble a/k/a Elmos World The Remix

Is that your B***h?!?!?

Everyone relax, no vulgar posts here. . . this was a great find (thanks Mia) that I couldn't resist. I am all about presentation, so when I saw this bottle of vino, all I could think of was what a great gift! That's right, Bitch Wine, is a red wine that is sold in stores everywhere. Can't tell you first hand how great (or not) it is, although I do hear it is good. More important to me, is the packaging. Let's start with the lady like soft pink label with cursive writing. Also check out the back of the bottle. . . 

 

Notice the back of the bottle, majority of the text is comedic relief of an "unstable creatures" personality trait. I am inclined to taste a sample, and plan to any day now. The local wine shop downtown by my office charges a whopping $14.99, $6 more than what I found online (starting at $8.99). Needless to say, I plan to purchase at bargain price. One way to gift this wine without the risk of a poor wine choice, is just to give two bottles; one for presentation (or comedic relief) and the other for taste. It's a win win with on the wine and gift front.

Bubbly Yours,

Dana Storm

The Bubble a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix

Celeb's Striking Out Violence

I had the honor of joining forces (on behalf of The Source), with Erica Ford, Russell Simmons,  Angie Martinez, and others in Harlem World for a good cause last night Striking Out Violence. Declared official Peace Week by Governor Patterson last Friday, starting 2010, annually every MLK Holiday there will be week-long events calling for action to stop the violence amongst our youth. Peace Week will include rallies, teen summits & parties, bowling fundraisers, and round table discussions. See below photos of celebs that came out to support . . .

 

That drink Angie is holding, comes with a story only I can tell lol 

(so embarrassing, I picked up/drank her original drink by accident, so round 2 was on me!)

Ms. Rocsi bowled in heels. . . .DIVA!

Bubbly Yours,

Dana Storm

The Bubble a/k/a Elmo's World The Remix