On July 25th, I finally made my way to San
Antonio for my AKD and Go Wild! Wear photoshoot. I was so excited to finally
meet Angela and the rest of the AKD staff; Marissa (AKD’s Production and
Marketing Assistant) even greeted me with a gorgeous bouquet of flowers when I
got off of the plane! From the airport, Angela, Marissa, and Sharon (AKD’s
General Manager) and I went to lunch at Boudros, a restaurant along the famous
San Antonio River Walk. Then we walked to the Alamo and visited the Long
Barracks Museum there; I always love to find out the history behind the places
I’m visiting! We then headed to Angela’s home in McQueeney where I stayed at
her guest house on the lake—what a beautiful and peaceful setting! Later that
evening, we enjoyed the water ski show where two of Angela’s children, Gerrit
and Ava, showed off some of their tricks. The show was very entertaining and it
was great to see how supportive Angela and her family were of each other!
The next day was the big day—my photoshoot! I couldn’t wait
to model all of the latest AKD designs, but I was also eager to see which of my
designs Angela chose to make. When I arrived at the shoot, I easily spotted my
designs out of the large rack of uniforms—the vibrant colors immediately caught
my eye and were hard to miss! The four finished sets were identical to my
designs, and it was amazing to see my personal ideas brought to life. 
Here is a behind-the-scenes picture of me sporting my coral one-shouldered design with Angela:
Next, it was off to Pro Action Dance at the Palms in Las
Vegas! I was excited to attend the convention for the second year in a row;
last year I went on behalf of the Honeybees, and this year I was representing
AKD! I loved seeing familiar faces from professional and college dance teams
and meeting new ones as well; the dancers and choreographers alike created a
motivating, positive and fun atmosphere for everyone in attendance. It was also
an honor to learn from the one and only Tabitha and Napoleon D’umo, better
known as Nappytabs! Throughout the weekend, I sported my four designs as well
as Angela’s designs in class. I was unbelievably humbled by the compliments I
received about my designs and grateful that they were well received. The AKD
booth remained busy as well, with Angela, Sharon and Rani (AKD Style Pro) doing
a wonderful job engaging current and potential AKD clients; everyone couldn’t
get enough of AKD at Pro Action Dance!
When we weren’t working in Vegas, we certainly took the
opportunity to enjoy ourselves and each other’s company. From delicious dinners
to a memorable Pro Action cocktail party in the Palms’ Two Story Sky Villa (check out the picture below of us on the
hilarious rotating bed!), it was wonderful getting to know Angela’s
longtime colleagues in the industry. Watching Angela reunite with her closest
friends was an absolute joy; there was a sparkle in her eye and you could tell
she was in her element.
After the final performance at the Pro Action Showcase, I
was sad to leave Angela, Sharon, and Rani. However, I couldn’t help but be
thankful for the opportunities gained and connections made on the trip. Once
again, I cannot thank Angela enough for her hospitality, guidance, and
generosity. She along with AKD have definitely made an impact on my life, and I
can only hope to one day inspire others in the same way she has!
Next month, I’ll be writing about a very exciting
international trip I have in a few weeks with the Brooklynettes! Can you guess
where we’re headed? Here’s a hint—it is known as the “Lion City.” Come back
next month to see if you’re correct!
Dream BIG!
