When I select what my ensemble is for a speaking engagement I really drop down and ask myself what I need my look to accomplish for myself that night. Yes, of course, everyone wants to look sexy and youthful, stylish and on point, but I need my choices to deliver on a deeper level. If I’m feeling insecure or unsure, as I was on the night of the 13th of June,

I summoned all the power pieces in my wardrobe. I wanted the dress to be flattering and comfortable, something that wouldn’t bind or constrict but flow and provide the proper message of sophistication and drama. Each aspect of the ensemble has to be factored into….all of the years of dancing and modeling have wreaked havoc on my feet and I know that a super high shoe will not work for me now. All eyes are on me when I come on stage and I have to walk on with confidence, not a tentative walk that looks like I am in pain!

My footwear is very important. I choice a low heeled gladiator sandal. I chose this Igigi dress which is a maxi dress but colorful and fun with movement and ease. It doesn’t bind me anywhere and distract me as I know I have to keep things moving throughout the course of the event.

I hadn’t had any rehearsal or even a walk through with any of the people involved so I was “winging” it at best. Sure enough, my doubts were substantiated when fifteen minutes before the show they handed me a sheet with written corrections in bad handwriting and a list of things that I needed to write on there myself for raffle items and audience participation monents. Also, the speakers whom I had to introduce were listed and I had to make sure I pronounced their names and gave them their proper introductions. It was a tense and nervous night and I had dreaded it for a few weeks in advance.

My jewelry choice was probably the MOST crucial of all. I wanted the necklace to be a statement necklace, something that was a conversation starter and made a declaration just by looking at it that I was FIERCE and had the power to hold my own. I can honestly say that I made all the right choices and when I went into my jewelry boxes and saw Corinthia People’s piece there with the carnilien and that huge oversized pendant with the beautiful silver fastening, I knew I was going to be better than okay.

I received so many compliments on the piece all night long and from designers and artists in the crowd who came up to say hello and congratulate me for a hosting job well done. I saw them zero in on my necklace, engaged and examining it and really commenting on the quality of the necklace. I know it’s a little thing, but if you gain strength and confidence from a piece of jewelry like that, it made my evening complete. I had to reach out to Corinthia and tell her how grateful I was for her designing that piece and how it had truly saved me that night. I was overwhelmed with how useful that piece became in my life. I had to reach out and express my gratitude for her artistry in design and for how she so lovingly sold me that item and told me that it would give me a lot of power. I remembered that and heard her words echoing in my head when I chose it. I knew it was going to be okay when I had such an exquisite piece that gave me a wonderful sense of centeredness. Mission accomplished and in no small thanks for Corinthia Peoples and her brilliant design aesthetic. Talk about being priceless!!