Friday, August 22, 2014

30 for 30


 Going to college is a special time. You learn how to balance your education (on your own), make "adult" decisions (like paying bills, figuring out your career moves, time management etc.) maneuver the ups and downs of relationships, and make lifelong friends. While attending Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, FL I met some AMAZING people who I call friends! One of which is Jamaris G.,  an incredible, intelligent, ride – or – die friend who truly made an impact on my life. On August 9, 2014 Jamaris held an epic 2 part  30th birthday extravaganza in Tampa, FL. So of course you know I had to go down to celebrate with my big bro during this special occasion. I am only going to cover part 1 of the festivities the "30 for 30 luncheon." 

Jamaris invited 30 of his closest friends to celebrate with him at a swanky, artsy venue called the "Oxford Exchange" downtown Tampa, FL. The vibe was incredible, the food was delicious food, the conversation was great, and the entertainment was 1 - of - a - kind ( I along with Trumaine and Shannon sang background vocals for the talented Tamara Chauniece a Top 20 finalist on Season 5’s “The Voice” accompanied by Jabari on the guitar). Everyone dressed up (per request of our host) in their best interpretation of “Boardroom Chic” and we all looked great! The experience was one I will never forget. I'm so honored that Jamaris thought of me during his special day. Here are a few pics from the event (Photo Credit: Some of the photos seen below were taken by the official photographer of the weekend: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo while others were by my awesome Ali's Fashion Sense photographer - my hubby). 


Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo

Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo

Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo

Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo

Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo
"The Birthday Boy"
Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo
Photo Credit: Derrek Anderson
Photo Credit: Derrek Anderson
Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo
Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo
Me and The Birthday Boy...Fashion Killas!
Photo Credit: Derrek Anderson
Photo Credit: Derrek Anderson 
Photo Credit: Derrek Anderson 
The Entertainment for the Afternoon
L to R: Trumaine, Me, Tamara Chauniece, Shannon, Jabari
Photo Credit: Derrek Anderson
Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo 
The Entire "30 for 30" Crew
Photo Credit: Christopher "Visuals" Garofalo

Here's a special treat. Tamara Chauniece accompanied by Jabari on guitar and background vocals from Me - Soprano, Shannon - Alto, Trumaine - Tenor, singing Interested Cover by India Arie. 



*Outfit Details: Jumpsuit (Forever 21), Cream Blazer (Forever 21), Sandals (Forever21), Statement Necklace (Forever 21), Gold Bangles (Forever 21)*

This was such an awesome experience. It had my wheels turning on how I would celebrate my own 30th birthday in 2 years! Let the planning commence lol. Do you go all out for your birthday celebrations like Jamaris did or do you keep it chill? Let me know in the comment section below.

TGIF,
-Ali

2 comments:

  1. I absolutely love this! Thank for being a part of such a special experience for me. Love you dearly!!!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks again for everything J! I had a blast during your bday weekend. Great food, good people, and celebrating a milestone with you was amazing. Love ya back ;)

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