A week ago today I was gearing up and getting ready to attend the Black Diamond Ball. Black History Month and the Ball may be over, but some of us (that would be me) are still relishing in the post-event joy as I re-live the memories from the many pictures taken and moments shared on Instagram. Honestly, the event was a success from what I could tell, and good times were certainly had.

the black carpet.

Yes, Black carpet, not red carpet cause we were celebrating all things black. The perfect opportunity for everyone to show off their fancy threads. And boy where some of them ever so fancy. Black carpets aren't a new phenomena by the way as the Golden Globes considered it back in 2018 in honor of the women who started the #MeToo movement. And although that consideration was one birthed out of pain, the Black Diamond Ball's black carpet stood in solidarity with the greatness achieved in the black community which was celebrated that night.

the dress.

Speaking of fancy threads, my dress got a whole lot of love that night and on Instagram as well. And if y'all had any idea of the drama leading up to me leaving my house bra-less, you'd almost feel sorry for me. When I initially bought the dress, I had no intention of not wearing a bra. I mean, I've nursed 3 whole children and each of them for a whole year! I most definitely planned on pinning the cleavage with bobby pins to conceal the bra I was originally wearing. But "Pin-Gate" was a whole nightmare and refused to cooperate and made me even later than I already was. So the bra had to go. But as I said, the compliments certainly assured me that I'd made the right decision, lol. (All in good taste of course. No nipples popped out anywhere, lol)

So the question that only one person dared to ask, (but others where thinking I’m sure) is, "Where did you buy your dress?" The answer: Fashion Nova ladies! That's where I found ‘her’ in the “prom dress” section. But get this. The dress was marked down from $70-something to $47.04. Not bad right?! Well, get this. I bought it on the 40% Memorial Day sale and paid $37.21 including shipping!! But there was nothing cheap about this dress as I was out here looking like a million bucks girl, lol.

the performances.

Leading up to the headliner, a variety of performers took to the stage and I just have to say, that I think I enjoyed them more than the headliner. They got the party started and they KNEW THEIR AUDIENCE. In any and all situations, and certainly as a performer, knowing your audience is crucial. Only then can you actually WOW them. And let's just say, if you perform New Edition at any black function, you're more than good. Shout out to TheRecipee Band!! Side note: I'm all for the resurrection and reminder of our love for New Edition which I feel came about after their BET documentary 3 years ago. And I for one, I’m totally here for it.

then after the show, it's the (after party).

Are we mad at the above R-Kelly lyric reference? Apologies in advance; it was too fitting to not use, lol. The after party was another highlight of the night. Perhaps partially because we were at this time served some delicious food, perfectly and conveniently portioned in miniature takeaway containers. And again, the event planners KNEW their audience. Why? Because they served jerk chicken poutine (fries with gravy for my non-Canadian peeps), jerk pork sandwiches with coleslaw, and mac ‘n’ cheese, just to mention some of the food that came out. I mean you can't lose at a black event with food like that. Cannot lose! So with food in our belly, all that was left to do was dance the night away. And that's exactly what we did until the DJ announced it was time to shut it down which happened just after 2 am. #PartyDONE

the takeaways.

1. If you are ever presenting anything to a crowd of people, know your audience, know your customer, know your client. However you chose to say it, and whatever the scenario, the principle holds true if you intend to have a successful event.

2. Keep an open mind - I mentioned in this Instagram post how life is 90% what happens to you and 10% how you react. I could easily have made the drama surrounding my bra to ruin my night. But I let it go, and had the best night and awesome time.

3. We have to take the time to celebrate each other’s success, big or small. Show up for one another, and be your sis’ biggest advocate. If someone in your community is putting on an event, or hosting a fund raiser, show up! Root her on to success, for therein will you find your own joy and success. #ItTakesAVillage.

And with that ladies and gents, I conclude this event recap. For more on Shawn Cuffie and the Black Diamond Ball, please check out his social pages. There was also an announcement of a Toronto “MET Gala” coming to Canada, called The Vanguard Gala, curated by Shawn Cuffie as well. To get all the deets for that, make sure you check out and follow The Vanguard Gala on Instagram.

Grace & Peace,

/Vi