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View from the Top – MISTIFIED (MIST BALTIMORE)

January 9, 2010

Greetings Elevation Nation! RiaRob rising above 2010 style! I am excited to kick off 2010 with the first of hopefully many View From the Top posts. What better way to kick it off than with a new party form Konan! That’s right, 92Q’s afternoon frontman is back with another adventure, this time back in downtown Baltimore, at the new MIST BALTIMORE. So when I received the invite, you know I had to see for myself.

In case you haven’t been to MIST in downtown Baltimore, you are in for a treat. Here ’s a short list cool perks upon visiting for the first time.

1. PARKING/LOCATION – I would be remiss if I did not say that the location and parking are two HUGE positives! The parking garage located above the club is so convenient to fellow downtown attractions. Ticket validation is available at MIST’s front desk or via security. RiaRob is liking this already!

2. LAYOUT – Envision a DC-style nightclub, which is a look that Baltimore needs in a time of renewal, renovation, and revamping. Multiple bars, ample dance area. Cool location for the DJ’s (as well as a prime location for me to blog).

3. STAFF – Excellent staff. Cordial, kind, and extremely service oriented. They worked diligently to make sure patrons including the blogger, enjoyed their experience.

That said, here’s RiaRob’s first taste of MISTOLOGY. Here we go! Time to get it in!

9:20 p.m. – Arrive at MIST BALTIMORE. Park the ride. Happy that I don’t have to struggle to find parking (see Number 1).

9:27 p.m. – Check in with Security. Very impressed. They are well dressed and quite cordial but mean business. Can’t be mad at that at all. Check in with Konan Productions and see the lovely Rokeea, whom I’ve seen at Konan’s different events. Exchange pleasantries, get my validation ticket (so I don’t forget later).

9:28 p.m. – I see the man himself, Konan. Suited, booted and ready to go! He immediately helps me with my bags. Man, chivalry is not dead!

9:30 p.m. – Set up shop, chat with Konan. Pose for a few shots and immediately notice that the photographer is not Maurice, the photographer I usually see at Konan’s events. Ok, am I acting spoiled? I then notice that there are some sharp dressed brothers in the midst. Nothing like brothers in suits.

10:00 p.m. - Officially airing live on 92Q! Let’s go! DJ Rod Madd Flava on the 1’s and 2’s. He wastes no time in getting things rolling! People flock to the dance floor conversating, dancing, and happy.  I now see Maurice, Konan’s official photographer. It’s on now! Let the snapfest begin.

10:05 p.m. – Mingling with guests who stayed around after the initial part of the evening, the jazz happy hour. Hearing rave reviews about the food, the entertinment and all around atmosphere. I think MIST has scored BIG TIME with this event. I now make a mental note that I am going to have to come back with some girlfriends for that. Special thanks to Ivy for keeping me in the loop…

10:14 p.m. – DJ Rod Madd Flava hits the crowd with Frankie Beverly and Maze’s “Before I Let Go,” the paramount celebration song in my book. The crowd approves, the blogger is trying not to cut a rug herself.  A serious two-step is imminent…

10:19 p.m. – “Why you beefing with me, she’s with me can’t you see…” I am officially singing offkey and loving every moment. Rod Madd Flava is taking no shorts.

10:20 p.m. – I now notice for the first time the dancing girls on the stage and throughout the club The men (and some women) in the crowd approve. Wasn’t expecting that but hey, it’s Friday night. I guess it was the boots that threw me off…

10:22 p.m. - Rod Madd Flava ups the ante by dropping Nelly’s “Get Your Eagle On.” The women happily oblige and the men happily ogle. Giggle…

10:25 p.m. – Two men are straight blocking my view trying to hang by the DJ booth. Come on now! Male groupies in 2010? In the words of Ed Lover, “C’mon son!”

10:30 p.m. – I am introduced to the program director for 92Q. Kind brother. I flash a smile and a nod. Back to work Ria!

10:40 p.m. – The inevitable happens. Trey Songz “I Invented Sex” comes on. Say no more…

10:50 p.m. – Rod Madd Flava is an utter beast! This brother is like the Energizer Bunny! Think 5 Hour Energy Drink plus Red Bull plus espresso with a shot…and you would STILL not come close. Oh by the way, it is official. MIST BALTIMORE is officially PACKED!!!

10:55 p.m. – Beyonce’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)” comes on. Females start getting their “inner Mrs. Jay-Z” on complete with hand gestures. Oh, Oh, Oh…

11:00 p.m. - Take a quick break, grab a water, catch my breath.

11:02 p.m. – Back to the grind, updating on Facebook and Twitter. Check out my posts at www.twitter.com/RiaRob or www.facebook.com/riarob

11:20 p.m. – I see my man Larry the Celebrity Cab Driver. Catch up for a few, then back to the action.

11:40 p.m. – Rod Madd Flava is taking it higher while Konan works the room. Well wishers all around. Does it get any better than this?

Midnight – Konan wishes a young lady by the name of Christina a Happy Birthday. Out of nowhere but definitely on cue, a sparkly cake comes out. Cat calls, whistles and screams follow. Happy Birthday Christina!

12:11 a.m. – Rod Madd Flava steps down from the DJ booth to breathe and mingle with the crowd. I think I have just version of the Iron Man. Mentally tipping my Kangol to that brother. He is seriously making moves. Kenny K takes over the 1’s and 2’s.

12:15 a.m. – Did someone turn on the damned air conditioning in here? Are you serious?

12:16 a.m. – It is not a fluke. The air is actually on. For those of us who are not partaking in libations, this is a little much but I keep it moving. BRRRRR…

12:17 a.m. – Jay-Z and Alicia Keys’ Empire State of Mind comes on. The non-New York club anthem right now. Sing with me now…”In New Yooooork…”

12:19 a.m. – Start to wrap up. Even though the party goes on until 2 am, people are STILL POURING IN…

12:20 a.m. – RiaRob waves the white flag. I flag down Konan to let him know that I am about to bounce. Had a wonderful time and will definitely visit on a day when I can chill with some friends.

Another View from the Top under the belt. Special thanks to Konan for the invite. Didn’t have to do it, but I am so glad you did. To the owners, management, and staff of MIST BALTIMORE, thank you for your kind and quick service. People will hear wonderful things from me.

Until then, rise above!

For pictures, log onto www.werunthecity.net

For more information on MIST, log on to www.mistbaltimore.com

For more on Konan, follow him on Facebook by clicking here, on Twitter by clicking here or log on to www.92q.com

For more information on DJ Rod Madd Flava on Facebook click here or via Twitter by clicking here.

To follow yours truly, RiaRob, check me out on Facebook (www.facebook.com/riarob) or via Twitter (www.twitter.com/RiaRob).

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RiaRob Recollects – THE BIG ONE!

November 28, 2009

As I type this, I am in shock, awe, amazement, and humility, as one year ago today, I birthed Aesthetic Elevation. I cannot begin to tell you how many people told me this blog was not going to flourish in any way, shape or form. At times, those voices still play back in my head. In this past year, I have dealt with doubt, fear, heartbreak, hurt, and death. Aesthetic Elevation was at times my only friend. It didn’t chastise, it didn’t judge. It held together a strong woman who would steal away to her computer in the midnight hour to shed a tear or two. It flexed its existence when I noticed I was one in a sea of bloggers.  For that I am grateful.

This blog almost saw the cutting room floor many a day and night. I’m glad I didn’t pull the blog. I survived technical difficulties, and multiple gaps between blogs, as I attempted to navigate my business and this blog, all while being a widowed parent of a school aged child, and partial caregiver to my mother.

As I move forward, I only hope I can build upon what the Most High has allowed me to put together. Call by call, e-mail by e-mail, event by event, sit down by sit down. To the beautiful individuals who took the time to sit down and converse with me, I am forever changed. To those who are waiting for their interviews to be posted, I am working on it (RiaRob is human, after all). To those who wait in the wings and I have yet to encounter, I look forward to engaging with you.

In this time of constant transition, I am at peace with myself. I am proud to call myself a writer and blogger. I am grateful and cognizant of the gift and the curse of the pen (or click of the mouse). I hope everyone who supports Aesthetic Elevation knows that I am only a phone call or e-mail away.

To the Elevation Nation, thank you for taking the time to take a peek at RiaRob. The support is the warmth in my spirit. To the haters, I thank you also as you have forced me to master tuning out controlling, unhappy, hurt, unfocused people like yourselves. Here’s a suggestion.  Live your own life and/or find a hobby.

In closing, to anyone in transition, contemplating their next move. Move in faith and understanding, that what you can contribute is worthy and enough.

The song that comes to mind is Jill Scott’s The Real Thing. Happy Birthday Aesthetic Elevation. Mama is proud of you…

Continuing to Rise Above,

RiaRob

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The Sit Down – Keir “KeKe” Duncan

October 1, 2009

With another New York Fashion Week officially under wraps, I had to wonder: when will we ever get over these really thin women walking down the runway? Will a size 16 ever really get her shine on the runway?  Well, look no further than the Queen City Full Figured Fashion Week!

Orchestrated by Keir “KeKe” Duncan, a former plus-sized model, QC Full Figured Fashion Week aims to reintroduce the world to the average sized woman. Check out this version of The Sit Down. I assure you, the average sized woman never left.

KeKe rips The Sit Down with RiaRob, fashionista style…

On when did the concept of the Full Figured Fashion Week came to her…

It came to me at the conclusion of the last event in July. It was in Greenville, South Carolina and we had a long ride back home. We just got back in Charlotte and the plan basically materialized from discussing how our community was hungry for a fashion event just for them. So as we started planning events for the remainder of this year, models, and other members of my staff, including Stephney and Tangie with I’MERGE PR. suggested we present an avenue that provided innovative clothing options for the full-figured woman that was not just a fashion show but a showcase with additional events will get full-figured women out of the house.  Many women are reluctant to go out because of what people may think of them, but if they were to come out to an event that is for them, created by women who look like them and have their best interest at heart, it will make people recognize us as part of the fashion world too.

On male participation in the festivities…

Although we are not presenting a full line for men, several men take part in the show. Men are more than welcome to come out to the other sponsored events. We have several meet and greets as well as other free . The fact remains that we need the support of the community as a whole, be it male or female, full-figured or not.

About Size Revolution, LLC, her  company…

I started Size Revolution this year to provide avenues for full-figured women and teens. By creating events such as fashion shows, trade shows, and runway events, it will uplift, encourage, and build the self esteem of many full-figured women who would rather not come out to fashion events in fear of being judged or ridiculed.  It is their avenue to take a stand and be noticed.

About her modeling staff…

My modeling team consists of 15 models but for this event we held a model call to expand to 30 models. Outside of Fashion Week, we are still looking to add models to our core team.

If a full-figured model has something that puts her at an advantage over a “standard” sized  model…

In my mind, I hope there isn’t a huge difference. What I find, however, from attending shows to starting my company, is that plus sized models gives more performance because they have that extra “ummph.” It is something that they exude while on the runway that gives off confidence, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. They do not put on boring shows. I have never attended a full figured runway show that was boring. They have a connection with the audience.I’m not sure about you, but as a full figured woman, I cannot relate to the standard sized model on the runway and thus cannot fully connect with her. More people are able to connect with full-figured models because even if you are not full figured, you know someone who is. It could be your mother, sister, aunt, or friend.

On the designers showcasing at the event…first time designers, established, or both?

We actually have some of both. Of course, first time designers are showcasing in order to have the opportunity to present their lines in an actual fashion show. Established designers are making the rounds for additional exposure so more people are aware of their lines. It is also directing  people to the full-figured fashion industry. We are not doing this for fun and we want to be taken seriously. This is a huge industry. Full figured women are getting their clothes from somewhere.  Why not use the various resources to show full-figured women that there is a choice? I have a wide range of designers and boutiques with fashions at various price points.

Ashley Stewart’s participation in this event…

It is a great honor. I have been able to build a relationship with the Ashley Stewart’s regional manager for its North and South Carolina stores. This will be the third show where I have utilized them. Under my company, I have worked with him on two prior occasions. I am pleased to work with hm again for this show. When you create these great relationships, they really go a long way. I love working with them. They make great clothes, I shop there myself. I consider myself a fashionista and try to stay ahead of the curve. I try to utilize stores that I would utilize. I love their product and admire the styles that they carry in the stores.

Considering going back to full-figured modeling…

I’m not modeling now. I miss it. Usually, I will get the bug out at rehearsals. Modeling is definitely for the younger model. I am older now, I’m 38, and I don’t mind sharing that. It just gets to a point where you have to transition to the next phase. With my love for the fashion industry, I knew that it was simply time to stop. Sometimes I may come up with a routine but I am truly happy with this phase because I get great joy from helping full-figured women and teens. At times, people are surprised when they ask me to speak at the end  an event. I sound like Russell Simmons “Thank you for coming out. God bless you. Good night.” I really do not have much to say because I want the events to be about the audience and the participants. I am equally happy behind the scenes as I was in the spotlight.

Where she sees this event five years down the line…

It will be our fifth annual Queen City Full Figured Fashion Week. My goal is that we bring in international full figure designers by that benchmark. I would like to have a night dedicated to up and coming full-figured designers. I will definitely continue to do more shows and events hopefully along the lines of New York Fashion Week where there are numerous events over a two week spread.
Time for the Stats. My favorite part!!!

The Queen City Full Figured Fashion is underway through October 3. Check out the website for various event locations at www.qcfullfiguredfashionweek.com

Make sure you support KeKe’s company, Size Revolution LLC at www.sizerevolution.com

Follow KeKe on Facebook – www.facebook.com/keir.duncan

Special thanks to Tangie and Stephney of I’MERGE PR for arranging this interview. Congrats to you for a great event.

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View From the Top: Part One – Ultimate Networking Soiree

September 25, 2009

 

As we continue to navigate through the remainder of 2009 (and the recession), while rising our business endeavors to the next level, what better way to get the ball rolling than to attend a hip networking event, complete with elegant decor, hip music, wonderful food, and intelligent and eager entrepreneurs willing to discuss their expertise.  Apparently, Linnyette Richardson Hall, Wedding/Event DIVA, decided to take advice from a friend to hold an event at the place they were having dinner. The result? The Inaugural Ultimate Networking Soiree at Si Salsa Restaurant. Top Floor, you may want to take notes on this one…

 LRH headshot 2

Your Host: Linnyette Richardson Hall

Creative Director and Principal Consultant

Premiere Event Management

 

Viva Si Salsa!!!

Viva Si Salsa!!!

 

 

Location: Si Salsa Restaurant, Pomona Square

1700 Reisterstown Road, Pikesville, MD 21208

410.484.4405

I hold such a high regard for Linnyette, who was my first interview for “The Sit Down” section of the blog (check it out here). I always love following her on Twitter and Facebook . Long story short and vice versa, if you want an event that just oozes with good taste and finesse, look no further than this woman. Check out all the cool people, food, and things, I discovered along the way…

6:10 p.m. – I arrive at Si Salsa Restaurant, and I was really impressed by the decor. The restaurant has an equally great space outside. Members of TeamDiva, Linnyette’s event squad, are working the table and directing guests to different parts of the outside space. I ask where I am supposed to set up, and am directed to a beautiful tiki bar laden with lights. I was very impressed indeed (picture RiaRob smiling…HARD!!!)

6:20 p.m. – Si Salsa wait staff bring the tray of margaritas. And yes, I have one. And yes, it’s really good.

6:30 p.m. – I meet the very handsome and very charming, Alexander Morozov, Principal Photographer of Photography by Alexander. Very personable and extremely talented. We get acquainted and he’s starts snapping away. As a photography lover, watching an artist in his element is sheer joy. Check out Alexander’s site at www.photographybyalexander.com. He also has a Photography by Alexander fan page on Facebook. The pics on this site are so beautiful. Very inspiring…

RiaRob Networking Rule #1: Respect your photographers!

6:45 p.m. The butlered hors d’oeuvres come around. Alexander and I take a couple. Ok, blogger and photographer are having a ball at the tiki bar.

 

The Undisputed Event Diva Addressing Guests

The Undisputed Event Diva Addressing Guests

 

 

6:55 p.m. Linnyette formally addresses everyone and gives the background of how the event came to fruition. She shouts out the photographers, the DJ, and oh my goodness, she said my name…and my blog. I am not going to lie, it takes everything in me not to shout for joy and break into a serious dance. I definitely giggle to myself. She tells everyone to come visit me at the tiki bar for interviews and to say hello. I literally float back to the tiki bar.

Ok, Elevation Nation. Apparently, when the Wedding/Event DIVA gives instructions, EVERYBODY TAKES HEED. What happens after her directive is absolutely sublime…

Stay tuned for Part Two!

Rise Above,

RiaRob

 

 

 



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Rhona Rhetoric – Project Run(a)way

August 22, 2009
Korto Momolu

Korto Momolu

As many of you already heard and seen, Project Runway’s All-Star Challenge aired on it’s new network (Lifetime) as an appetizer to its Season 6 premiere. Let’s just say if this episode were an appetizer and I was in a restaurant, I would be asking for the check and a chance to speak with the manager!

Like many who were disgusted at the selection of Daniel Vosovic’s collection over proven designer Korto Momolu, consider this my mini open letter…

My suggestions for Ms. Momolu:

1. Put Project Runway in its rightful perspective/place: only a stepping stone. This stepping stone has been utilized twice now with the same ridiculous yet obviously evident results. So it’s time to step off and step away from this show/entity. Be the first Project Runaway!!!!

2. Do what you do best – design clothing that people will actually WEAR!!! When your opponent writes a book which includes contributions from  Project Runway judges Tim Gunn and Nina Garcia, you were right in your assumption that they were going to pick him. That is not speaking negative feelings into existence. It is actually called, “calling it like you see it.” You are at a crossroads and you have to decide whether any affiliaton with Project Runway is even worth your time in the future.

For those who have been living under a rock and have obviously slept on sisterfriend’s skills: check out her collection from her first stint on Project Runway:

Make sure you check out a recent article on her blog: http://blog.kortomomolu.com/wordpress/

Hopefully, we can schedule an interview with her soon. Note to self RiaRob…hop on that task quickly. Wish me luck!!!

Rise Above!!!

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View From The Top – Greater Baltimore After Work Party

August 21, 2009

RiaRob back in full effect!  Rising above like no other!!!!

In an effort to continuously RISE ABOVE A GOOD LOOK, I decided to do something that I always dreamed of doing: blog live from a cool event. What better way to kick this off than to go to one of the hottest events in the Baltimore area: the Greater Baltimore After Work Party at La Fontaine Bleue!!!

Usually the hottest event every Thursday night, this is a special Friday night edition. I’m blogging from a really cool corner spot in the venue. Feeling like a very stylish voyeur.  I am so ready!!! Are you??? Then here’s the rundown (including updates on Facebook and Twitter). Make sure you look up RiaRob!!!  Let’s go people!!

8:15 p.m. – Arrive at La Fontaine Bleue for the Greater Baltimore After Work Party. Ample parking and with my camera and computer bags in tow. The obvious question from the security guy and the State Trooper at the door, “What’s all that for?” But they were cool. They were just doing their jobs…

8:20 p.m. – In the venue and it’s filling up rather quickly. One dollar drinks are still available and people are really taking advantage. I see tables covered with drinks as to avoid the repeat trips to one of the four bars.

8:25 p.m. - Say hello to a few friends who are regulars. Shout out to Ivett Ennels, Trudi Murray, Gilbert Cuffey, and Karen Johnson. Meet up with Tywana Tyler, Event Planner Extraordinaire. Make my way to my uberchic corner where I set up.

Fly chicas at the Bleue

Fly chicas at the Bleue

8:27 p.m. Two fly sisters named Niesha and Tiff asked if the other seats in my corner are taken. I now have new two partners in crime. Top Floor style indeed. Both ladies are dressed nicely and their shoes are rocking!!! Introduce them to Tywana. The fly chicks pose for a pic.

8:47 p.m. Jermaine Cooper, of Made in the City Entertainment comes to say hi. Give him a hug. That’s an intelligent brother right there. He and busness partner Martin (also his brother) have this After Work Party thing on lock. Martin oversees the After Work Party in Lanham at the other La Fontaine Bleue site. Check out their site – www.madeinthecityonline.com

8:50 p.m. I’m typing and look up and see the host–BIG BROTHER KONAN!!!  That’s right people! You know, you love him!  He is a very nice brother and always immaculate dressed when I see him at events.  Always a kind word. He smiles and waves. Make sure you follow Konan on Facebook and Twitter as well as on his daily show on 92Q from at 2 p.m.

Panana Band8:52 p.m.  – 9:15 p.m. The Panama Band starts their set! If you’ve never seen this group you are definitely missing out!!! They start the set with the birthday shout outs (people celebrating birthdays can reserve tables and the tables are packed tonight!!) then segueway into “Anniversary” (Tony Toni Tone), “Where I Want to Be” (Donnell Jones), “Between the Sheets” (The Isley Brothers), “Outstanding” (The Gap Band), “Ascension” (Maxwell). The sounds cuts out. They get it together and keep it moving.

Top Floor Note: These brothers are not playing! I am trying not to shake a serious tail feather while blogging.

Trudy Murray

Trudi Murray

Karen Johnson

Karen Johnson

9:15 p.m – My friends Trudi and Karen stop by to say hey and pose for pictures. They really cool people to follow on Facebook. No stalkers please (giggle).

Ok, so far so good!!!!  I’ll be back in a few with updates. Rise above …Top Floor Style!!!!


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The Examiner Just Got Blessed!!!

July 29, 2009

DSC_0909

Greetings from the Top Floor. RiaRob is maintaining despite consistent efforts to stop her flow. But what do we do people? RISE ABOVE!

That said in my continued efforts to give haters reason to keep their jobs, I am happy to announce that Aesthetic Elevation supporter and awesome Christian author/blogger, Joy Turner has just been accepted as Baltimore’s Successful Christian Living Examiner for Examiner.com.

A great position for a worthy writer.  Congrats Joy!

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RiaRob Recollects – Technical Difficulties

June 11, 2009

Greetings from the Top Floor!  RiaRob is trying to rise above and stay positive.  

As you can see from the date of this post, I was not able to keep my promise of starting daily posts. This has been due to severe technical difficulties that were beyond my control.  As they say, technology is absolutely wonderful–WHEN IT WORKS!!!!

This is the first official day I have been able to get into the blog in order to make any posts or changes.

To my Elevation Nation, thank you for holding me down and keeping me encouraged as I continue to rise above myself.

Keep Rising,

RiaRob

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RiaRob Recollects…

March 15, 2009

Greetings from the Top Floor! The view up here is so lovely….

It has been an unusual week but I am thankful that things are starting to move. When creative flow becomes clogged or stagnant, it can really cause chaos in the mind.

As I continue to build this blog, I  decided that sitting and blogging just won’t do. After perusing through several events that are coming up in the next few months, I have created new segment for the blog — A View from the Top. In this portion, Aesthetic Elevation has decided to step out from behind the desk, take the elevator down and check out the atmosphere, culture, and most important, the movers and shakers that make my job so easy.

I am at my first location as I type and I promise that I will not disappoint when I spill the goods.

Until then, rise above….

RiaRob

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Rhona Rhetoric: Long Live the Weave

February 26, 2009

Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to believe. –Laurence Peter

But what happens when a tangled weave makes you believe? See this video and tell me what you think…

 

Never underestimate the strength of a tightly sewn weave.  I would not laugh. With this recession, Yaky perm straight may just become the new kevlar.

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