I’m preparing to battle it out at the 2nd Annual Lip Sync for Lungs Live Battle. My work family, aka The Voodoo Dolls, will duke it out with local Charleston celebrities to help fight lung disease. Last year’s performances included Prince, Gwen Stefani and Bruno Mars, so we have to bring the drama!
Over 33 million Americans suffer from lung disease–my mother, Cassandra, was one of them. I was 6-years-old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. It went away, but came back as lung cancer. Eight years later, she lost her battle. If I had to only pick two things my mom was good at–singing and dancing would top the list. So aside from team bonding and adding to my Best Life Summer list, this performance is for my mom.
Due to Hurricane Irma, the event was rescheduled from September 14th to October 11th. More time to raise money and practice our slayage! For $10, you can vote for Team Caroline and the Voodoo Dolls. If you’re in the Charleston area and would like to witness the action for yourself–purchase your ticket here. Make sure to vote and/or buy a ticket under the “Team Caroline” tab! Want to know what song we’re performing? I guess you have to wait and find out. 😉
Have you ever participated in a lip sync battle? If have, or if you could, what song would you perform?
I was born in the 80s (’89 but it still counts) and raised in the 90s. Argue with me if you want, but the 90s produced some of the best entertainment of all-time! Don’t @ me. So when my good friend Ashley started a clothing company, Renaissance Apparel, dedicated to the 90s, I was ecstatic. In honor of #ThrowbackThursday, I thought I’d do a little Q&A with Ashley to get some thoughts on her 90s fave and to learn more about the company.
90s Kind of World – Renaissance Apparel
Donni: Tell the readers a little bit about Renaissance Apparel. How did you come up with that name?
Ashley: A millennial’s favorite tool: GOOGLE! I knew that I wanted the name to represent the era and not me. The era of the 90s represented so much from family, friends, growing up, culture and so much more. I knew I wanted it to be a rebirth of all of those characteristics. I used google to find synonyms for the word “rebirth.” After a few unsuccessful attempts, I finally settled on Renaissance Apparel.
P.S. That gorgeous lady in the middle is my friend Ashley! 🙂 Photo Credit: Renaissance Apparel
D: What was it about the 90s that inspired you to create this company?
A: Being born in the late 80s, I’ve always been fascinated and in love with 90s sitcoms, music and culture. That decade basically raised me on Friday nights and Saturday mornings. Looking through my playlists of music, I discovered that 70% of my library contained 90s music. Seriously, who doesn’t love Biggie, Aaliyah, and Tupac?
D: That’s true. I was just jamming to Aaliyah this morning. If you could bring back one 90s TV show, which would you choose? A: Bringing back one 90s tv show would be awesome! If I had my pick, I would choose The Fresh Prince of Bel Air. That has to be my favorite show of all time. The comedy, underhanded jokes from Will and Geoffrey, and sense of family are definitely needed in 2017. I’d love to see how the characters deal with today’s issues that are prevalent.
D: I don’t know why a Fresh Prince reunion hasn’t happened yet. What are some of your favorite 90s movie(s)?
A: My favorite movies from the 90s are:
Bad Boys
Power Rangers Turbo (don’t judge)
Friday
Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead
Forest Gump
Clueless
BAPS
D: Me, judge? I couldn’t even if I wanted to because these are all good choices. Add The Sandlot and the list is near perfect. Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead is one of my favorites, too. Reasons why we’re friends. 🙂 Okay, here’s a hard one: Tupac or Biggie?
A:Don’t make me choose! I love them both for different reasons. If I had to choose, I’d choose Tupac.
D: I always choose Tupac, so I approve. Magic School Bus or Rugrats?
A: Definitely Magic School Bus! I love Miss Frizzle so much that I made it my IG name 🙂
D: Hmm, ok. Proud Family or All That?
A: I’d say All That. It was basically a younger version of In Living Color. I loved the skits!
D: I miss All That. What about Fresh Prince or Martin?
A: Noooo! My two favorites! I’ve seen every episode from both of these shows. I’ll go with Martin!
D: That’s all I have! I can’t wait to see what new releases you have and don’t be surprised when you see my second order come through.
There’s a 40% off sale going on right now. So if you enjoyed reminiscing about the 90s go grab a few tees. Be sure to follow Renaissance Apparel on Facebook and Instagram!
What are some of your favorite 90s TV shows, movies, or songs? Let me know in the comments below!
It’s that time of year, peeps. In my head/ former life, I just know I was a TV show writer — all hits of course. However, since I’m in this life, I’ll just give you a fall 2017 TV preview. If you’re behind on any of your favorite shows, you may want to skip my commentary and just jot down the dates because there may be spoilers.
Fall 2017 TV Preview: Most Anticipated
This Is Us (NBC)
Premieres: Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 9/8c
I basically needed a box of tissues for every episode last season. So I’ll be buying in bulk before the second season begins. You know the saying about failing to plan. As you may recall, this is how we left the Pearsons:
Back in the past Jack has left Rebecca after a huge fight
Randall threw the idea out to Beth about adopting
Kevin scored a big movie right after winning Sophie back
Kate decided to pursure singing, like her mom
Things I need Answered: HOW DID JACK DIE?But most importantly will the second season live up to the amazingness that was the first season and what kind of narrative tricks are they going to pull on us?
Scandal (ABC)
Premieres: Thursday, Oct. 5 at 9 p.m./8c
This is the FINAL season of Scandal. I was still in grad school that fateful premiere day: April 5, 2012. As sad as I am to see it go and as much as I will miss the Twitter conversations, it’s time. I will have popcorn every Thursday and I will even drink red wine instead of my usual white. I’ll continue to @ Scott Foley – aka Jake aka Pillow Lips – (who has liked my tweets to him several times) and Papa Pope himself, the incomparable Joe Morton (who has also retweeted/liked my tweets).
I’ve read the final season starts 100 days into Mellie’s presidency and we’re going to really see a new side of Olivia as the new head of B613. I’m also very curious to see the new Quinn Perkins & Associates and how that storyline all plays out. Finally, will Fitz and Olivia end up together? I hope not. #TeamJake.
The Walking Dead (AMC)
Premieres: Sunday, Oct. 22 at 9 p.m./8c
The season 8 premiere is going to be the 100th episode of The Walking Dead. That’s crazy! And I have a feeling that the executive producers Scott M. Gimple and Greg Nicotero will pull out all the stops for this episode. The comic-con teaser had me hyped from from the first moment we hear Negan’s voice over about two seconds into the teaser.
Here’s what to expect: ALL OUT WAR
The battle is coming, y’all. Those trash people double-crossed our group to work with Negan and the Saviors, but we’ve got the Kingdom and Hilltop on our side. I say our because obviously I feel like I’m a part of Rick’s group.
Stranger Things (Netflix)
Premieres: Friday, Oct. 27
Y’all I’m geeked. To be honest, I wasn’t feeling Stranger Things the first episode or two. It just started so slow to me, but then I was hooked. Did you know the first season nabbed 18 Emmy nominations? That’s how good it was.
So here’s where we left off: Eleven, played by the oh, so charming and cool, Millie Bobby Brown, sacrificed herself to defeat the Demogorgon. Meanwhile, poor little Will gets rescued only to cough up something. A slug? Will, little man, what did you bring back from the Upside-Down?
I want to see how Nancy handles Barb’s death and what looks like could be a love triangle with Steve and Jonathan.
Fall 2017 TV Preview: Oldies but Goodies
A few of these shows are only four seasons in, but that’s enough to call it an oldie, right?
American Horror Story: Cult → Season 7 premiere; Tuesday, Sept. 5 at 10 p.m./ 9c
You’re the Worst (FXX) → Season 4 premiere; Wednesday, Sept. 6 at 10 p.m./9c
Dancing with the Stars (ABC) → Season 25 premiere ; Monday Sept. 18 at 8 p.m./7c
The Voice (NBC) → Season 13 premiere; Monday,Sept. 25 at 8 p.m./7c
Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Fox) → Season 5 premiere: Tuesday, Sept. 26 at 9:30 p.m./8:30c
How to Get Away With Murder (ABC) → Season 4 premiere ; Thursday, Sept. 28 at 10 p.m./9c
Black-ish (ABC) → Season 4 premiere; Tuesday, Oct. 3 at 9 p.m./8c
Once Upon a Time (ABC) → Season 7 premiere; Friday, Oct. 6 at 8 p.m./7c
The cast got all shaken up for this season, so I’m not sure it’s going to fly. I almost considered putting it in the hit or miss section.
Jane the Virgin (The CW)→ Season 4 premiere; Friday, Oct. 13 at 9 p.m./8c
Shameless (Showtime) → Season 8 premiere; Sunday, Nov. 5 at 9 p.m./8c
The Mindy Project (Hulu)
Premieres: Tuesday, Sept. 12
I love Mindy Kaling and I love Mindy Lahiri. However, the upcoming sixth season will be the final season of the show. Bless Hulu for keeping this one alive after Fox canceled it.
When we left Mindy, she was proposing to Ben (beautiful Bryan Greenberg). I’m interested to see if marriage actually works out for Mindy and what her happily ever after will look like. I follow Mindy on Instagram and it’s been weird seeing her post photos of the final wrap days for some of my favorite characters.
Grey’s Anatomy (ABC)
Premieres: Thursday, Sept. 28 at 8 p.m./7c
Until Shonda makes the sun set on this show, I will continue to watch. No matter how many gallons of tears I shed over these fictional characters, I will keep coming back for more pain (and laughter). Season 14 should bring a lot of drama with Meredith’s promise for new love (R.I.P Derek) being ripped from her. To be honest, I think Alex and Meredith are endgame. Don’t @ me!
My Influenster Shimmer Vox Box arrived, and it’s lit fam. I received these products free for testing purposes for Influenster. Who doesn’t love free stuff–especially free stuff you use on a normal basis? FYI, Influenster is a space for folks to give and receive product reviews.
Influenster Shimmer Vox Box Reveal
What’s Inside
imPress Press-On Manicure
Vera Wang Embrace
SOUR PUNCH Real Rainbow Straws
Nyakio Red Ginseng Line Smoothing Eye & Lip Cream
Eva NYC Freshen Up Dry Shampoo
Briogeo – Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask
What I’ve Tried Before
With the exception of the usual SOUR PUNCH candy found in stores, I haven’t tried any of these products before. Back in the day, I’ve used a few eye creams (which were probably free with a purchase) and face masks–but nothing from the brands included in the Shimmer Vox Box.
What I’m Most Excited To Try
Ya girl loves Sour Patch kids, so I’m more than ready to rip open these Real Rainbow Straws, judge me. Since I needed a new fragrance, I’m also excited to test the Vera Wang scent.
WHAT I’M NERVOUS TO TRY
Dry shampoo has never been on my “things to try” list. I’m not above it, I’ve just never imagined my life without a good wash, condition and 3-hour blow dry session. These imPress nails make me a little nervous too, because the last time I wore fake nails was 2 years ago. I stayed out of the manicure game for a while, so it was a serious struggle.
Stay tuned, because I’m actually going to test all the products from my Shimmer Vox Box and spill the tea on them. If you’re interested in giving Influenster use my invite code by clicking here!
Have you ever tried any of these products? Which Influenster Vox Boxes have you received or reviewed?
We’re trying to live our best musical lives this summer by checking off another musical festival. Being in Gulf Shores for Hangout Festival was so much fun and the music was amazing. Hopefully, Music Midtown 2017 won’t be evacuated or rained out like last year. If you’re close to Atlanta, it’s not too late to get a ticket. However, prices are increasing on September 2nd.
Who We’re Excited to See
Ace
I’m excited to see Bruno Mars, because a small part of me hopes Beyonce will surprise–and they can perform the Super Bowl Halftime show again. I’ve never seen a boring Bruno show, so I’m pumped to witness the funk and soul in person. My ratchet heart is also really excited to see Future in his hometown. Future Radio is my go-to playlist to listen to while getting ready for work. Also, since I didn’t get a chance to see Mumford and Sons at Hangout–they’re on my list too.
Donni
Bruno Mars. The BRUNO MARS. Bruno. I’ve seen almost all of my favorite artists live with the exception of Justin Timberlake, Lauryn Hill, OutKast (I’ve seen them separately, but it doesn’t count) and Bruno Mars. Bruno is finally getting crossed off the list. I may try to jump on stage and touch his hair — or have his baby. I can’t make any promises. I’m actually really excited about the entire lineup. I’m excited AF to scream all the lyrics to What’s My Age Again and All The Small Things. I think the Future, Wiz, and Big Sean sets are going to get crazy. Judah and The Lion remind me of a band that my friends used to have and I hear they put on a great show.
Music Midtown 2017 Playlist
Bruno Mars – Grenade;It Will Rain; Locked out of Heaven; Gorilla; Perm; Versace on the Floor: That’s What I Like
Mumford & Sons -Believe; The Wolf; Babel; I Will Wait; Lover of the Light; The Cave; Little Lion Man; Awake My Soul
Future – Mask Off; Big Rings; You Da Baddest; Stick Talk; F*ck Up Some Commas
Blink 182 -All the Small Things; What’s My Age Again?; Bored To Death; She’s Out Of Her Mind; Stay Together for The Kids
Wiz Khalifa – We Dem Boyz; Work Hard, Play Hard; Roll Up; Black and Yellow; Young, Wild & Free; See You Again
Weezer – Beverly Hills; Island In the Sun; Do You Wanna Get High; L.A. Girlz; Pork and Beans; Buddy Holly
Big Sean – Bounce Back; Jump Out the Window; Blessings; I Don’t F*ck With You;
Haim – Want You Back; Night So Long; The Wire
Young the Giant – Cough Syrup; Silvertongue; Something to Believe In
Bastille – Pompeii; God Grief; Of the Night
Two Door Cinema Club – Something Good Can Work; What You Know; Bad Decisions; Beacon
Tove Lo – Talking Body; Cool Girl; Lady Wood; Vibes
Russ – I’m Here; I wanna Go Down With You
Milky Chance – Stolen Dance; Doing Good
Collective Soul – Shine; December; Where the River Flows
The Strumbellas – Spirits; We Don’t Know; Shovels & Dirt
Oh Wonder – Drive; Technicolour Beat
Judah & The Lion – Take It All Back; Suit and Jacket; Twenty-Somethings; Hold On; Better Man
The Naked and Famous – Young Blood; Rotten
Zara Larsson – Never Forget You; Lush Life
Have you seen any of these artists? Are you planning on going to any other music festivals or concerts? Leave us a comment below!
