Who says that Atlanta isn’t always POPPING? This past weekend Essence hosted “MY CITY, FOUR WAYS here in Atlanta. It was a Culture Festival Presented by Ford.
Essence, the number one media company dedicated to African-American women, curated an amazing weekend event that brought together many of Atlanta’s most notable taste makers, innovators and leaders during their My City, Four Ways – Atlanta culture festival presented by Ford on this past Saturday, December 10th at the Mason Fine Art Gallery.
The Atlanta event showcased the culture from the perspective of four amazing African-America influencers that represents both the city’s social and cultural landscapes: Designer Kenya Freeman [Style Influencer]; Visual Artist Kashmir Thompson [Art Influencer]; Grammy-nominated Singer-Songwriter Anthony David [Music Influencer]; ATL Food Blogger Erica Keys [Food Influencer].
Guest were treated to a Q&A with the influencers which was moderated by Essence Lifestyle & Relationships Editor Charreah Jackson–the curated experiences included culinary demonstrations, interactive art installations, pop-up fashion from local designers, “Ride & Drive” with Ford vehicles, wine tasting and more. Singer-songwriter Tweet closed out the event with a sultry performance.
Comedian Loni Love, Chef Akhi, wine experts The McBride Sisters, and music industry trailblazer April Walker.
Did someone say wine? The McBride Sisters were in attendance sharing their amazing heart warming story of how they first met and created their brand. Yes The McBride Sisters are actual sisters. The dynamic duo, Robin and Andrea, who were raised on two different continents but raised around vineyards hence creating their love for winemaking. In 1999 the sisters were reunited and created a successful wine brand.
Just imagine having a cultural dose of music, art, fashion and culinary delicious bites. Let’s take a small journey and our first stop is Food Avenue! The guest was welcomed with delicious bites from some of Atlanta’s well know culinary artist. Those is attendance were Chef Mark Phillips, Chef Virgil from Suite Lounge, and Executive Chef of Southern Temptation. Needless to say the tasty bites had a smile on everyone’s face.
Next we head to the Down Art Street area where guest were invited to take part in the interactive mural collaboration. Cool Right? Kasmir Thompson designed the visual artwork.
I’m sure the Fashionista’s had a ball down Style Ave! Guest were all invited to shop and meet the amazing owners of several local Atlanta shops. Some of the shops included: Sylvia Mollie Collection, Suakoko Betty, Tracey Nicole Clothing and Ford Warriors in Pink.
As always its a pleasure working with Essence & Ford! It’s another amazing event!