Sonjeproductions's Blog

Everyone has been asking me: “What is your New Year resolution?” When asked, I didn’t really have an answer. I think I stopped committing to frivolous resolutions and started committing more to concrete personal goals. Usually I start out with a list of things that I want to get accomplished, some of which that could be completed within the year, others a lot longer; however, I am always keeping a growing tab of things that will develop me personally.

This year two people influenced my New Year goals – Arianna Huffington and Sean Parker. Two very different people, but each of their stories sparked my interest. A few months ago, I was fortunate enough to be invited  to a women’s conference where Ms. Huffington was the guest speaker. I have seen Arianna on the news many times but her personal story that day struck a chord with me. It was a story of overcoming fear. Fear is something that always holds us back; whether it is a fear of love, failure, rejection, or success. We doubt if we have the capability to love someone right, handle the success, be accepted for who we really are, or not having our vision or dreams be understood by our peers. So in turn, we doubt. Then that doubt turns into deferred dreams because most don’t have the courage to say f-the world, I am here to do what I was put in this world to do. Arianna spoke from an ex-US woman’s perspective and of all of the doubters, including herself.  She overcame them all to establish the forum sensation- The Huffington Post.

Most of the women in that banquet room felt her message was right on time. However, I knew very few of the women in that room understood her message of overcoming doubters of competency from the perspective of gender AND race.  It causes you to question whether you can really prove all of the stereotypes wrong…

So, this year I decided to personally develop my courage to do things out of the box. Socialize and network with people who I normally wouldn’t, do things I normally don’t to push my own limits.

And that brings me to Mr. Sean Parker…..

He is the ultimate dare-devil and risk taker. From the age of 16, Mr. Parker has pushed the envelope. Napster, Plaxo, Facebook, etc. to name a few. His mantra is to always think the impossible and make it possible. Even though he is a controversial figure, no one can deny his pulse on the next big thing that changes the world.

Thinking out the box has always been a goal of mine. Now coupled with Arianna’s lessons of fearlessness, I think I can confidently try my ideas, while curbing my fear of success or failure. For many, the feeling of complacency is tied to just sticking to what they know. Never trying anything but also not learning anything new either. I think everyone should strive to personally develop themselves by a challenge. Once we give up on those challenges or obstacles we are settling to be what we’ve been and not to live for what can be. The fear within us cripples our want to experience something new and our insecurities hinder our will to just do it.

This year I challenge everyone to be the best you. Learn what it takes to develop your attributes to society. It takes hard work to battle that inner voice that doubts your capabilities, but we shouldn’t fear ourselves. Sometimes we are our own biggest hurdle.

When most people look at someone like Kanye West, we cringe at how arrogant and egotistical he is, but he may be the most insecure person and he has to self-promote to counter that doubter in his head and the doubters in society. At the end of the day, he had the “cojones” to creatively do what he wanted to.

The person quivering in the corner doesn’t get the job done. Making yourself a confident person takes a lot of personal development but if we look the best that we can, if we put forth the best work that we can,  and we accept who we are nothing can be against us. When we walk through life without trying to progress, we are shorting ourselves of our possibilities. I don’t get up to go to the gym because it is fun for me. I get up because I care about being the healthiest me. I don’t constantly read or force myself to watch the news because I love to hear those dreary stories of war, politics, and death, I do it because it sharpens my comprehensive skills and keeps me informed about the world outside of my world. And I give to charity because we, as people, are all connected. If one person in our tribe is down, we will all be affected, directly or indirectly. These things help me, personally develop me.  It helps me to be kind, to be generous, to be worldly, to be informed, to be healthy, and not be so self-absorbed.

I am a work in progress.  My New Year goals will always reflect that progression.

CAUSE: TOYS BENEFITTING THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE

HOSTS: LT. GOVERNOR ANTHONY BROWN AND BALTIMORE RAVEN RAY RICE

DATE: TUESDAY DECEMBER 13, 2011

LOCATION: MANSION NIGHT CLUB

SPONSORS: GREY GOOSE, COORS LIGHT , SAVANT MARKETING GROUP, AND MURPHY PA

For the Mr…..

Aubin & Wills Cashmere Scarf

I’m always a sucker for a man with a gorgeous scarf. I end up borrowing it to smell his cologne all day. This cashmere scarf can me found at www.net-a-porter.com for $160.

Memory Master 2 Turntable

Does he have any old vinyl or cassettes that he wants to record to cd? Well this is the way to go. Such a cool gift for $400. Find at www.neimanmarcus.com

Key Pad Ultra for the Ipad

Make your Ipad experience a little easier with this all leather keypad. Priced at $150 and found on www.neimanmarcus.com

Golf Lessons

Tons of deals get made on the golf course. So if your guy needs to brush up or just even learn get him private lessons at the Laurel Golf Center. Private lessons  for 30 mins are just $50 and a beginner series for 5 hours of lessons is $295. www.laurelgolfcenter.com

Uniform Wares 100 Series Classic Steel Watch

For your guy who is simple but stylish, this Uniform Wares watch is great gift option. For just $175, you can find this on www.net-a-porter.com

Geneva Lab Series Model XS

Perfect for the Ipod and a guy who loves his music. Just $249 on www.genevalab.com

Merona Olive Green Men's Jacket.

Just for $64.99 at Target. Very chic coat for everyday wear.

Fuji Instant Camera

Just like a Polaroid Camera, Fuji has produced an instant party starter. Priced on www.neimanmarcus.com for $154.

For the Ms…..

Brian Atwood Cohen Borchie

FIERCE! www.brianatwood.com

Versace for H&M

Versace for H&M

Loving these dresses. Each are priced at $149 on www.h&m.com

Cul-de-Sac Glitter Ipad Case

Cute and only $18 at Lord and Taylor. It even includes a kickstand.

Oversized necklace by Kenneth Lane

Gorgeous oversized necklace by Kenneth Lane. 22k-gold plated for $90. Found on www.net-a-porter.com

Keep it Bracelet by Louis Vuitton

Love this bracelet. Only $195 at any Louis Vuitton Store

BE & D Cosmetic Bag

Very chic Cosmetic Bag found at www.shopbop.com for $98.

butter LONDON Duo Set

The butter LONDON nail polish set is completely adorable. It is the new craze with celebrities and it is just $25 at Nordstrom.

On Sunday, Sonje’ Productions had the pleasure of producing a birthday brunch for the talented Ms. Ikea Roxi. She is a new pop/r&b artist to hit the music scene and she’s from Baltimore. Besides turning 18, she also launched her new music video for her first single “Mirror”. Her talents vary from playing both the piano and the saxophone, acting, dancing, and singing. Everything That Sparkles was a joyous event at Milan Restaurant to celebrate a wonderful young lady; a star is born!

Decor by Sonje' Productions

The beautiful Ikea Roxi (In the middle)

Great turnout for brunch!!

Natalie from Dollhouse Boutique and Porkchop from 92Q

Fab Friends!

Ikea with momanger, Ms. Tonya!! She is the wind beneath the wings!

Thank you to JP Events, for our balloons, Pretty-n-Pink Cupcakes, Kelson and Porkchop from 92Q, and Media Minds for all your help.

Check out her single, “Mirror” and the behind the scenes of the making of the video…..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yfa2FUh7kbk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDzb6XmtTlg

Come join Maryland Transit Administration as they celebrate 40 years of service. Next week, November 16th,  we will be giving away goodies at two MTA locations. Cupcakes, popcorn, gift bags, cds, etc.

Johns Hopkins Metro Stop (8am-9am)

Cromwell/Glen Burnie (5pm-6pm)

Thank you for riding MTA!

DJ lil Mic spinning some tunes for our loyal riders!

Gift bags of goodies!

Me and Julian Benson

I was out of town when I got a frantic call from my assistant, in the wee hours of the morning, on Thursday saying, “Julian is dead!” Those were not the words I expected to hear; when I heard them, they cut right through my dazed sleep, to my heart, and the tears started to flow. He had just texted me on Tuesday to tell me that he missed and loved me, and had a vision for his “Where Is Julian?” campaign that he wanted to share with me.

You see Julian was a former 92Q intern that I took under my wing. His charismatic spirit was evident the first day we had him in the studio. I was always tough on Julian, because he was a fearless college student, bright-eyed and busy-tailed, ready to face the world head on. He reminded me of myself at his age- presumptuous and driven.  My tough love was to show him that he didn’t know everything, and that hard work was necessary to reap the benefits in any profession. He took a liking to me because I saw through the charm and demanded substance.

After radio, Julian helped me grow my company. He saw the harsh realities of the industry when he came to work one day and there wasn’t a morning show to intern for anymore. He was devastated. We had become a part of his life, and he was learning so much from each personality on the show. We had made such an impression on him that he talked about us all the time to other Morgan students, and they began to want to intern with me, because they wanted the same learning experience. Over the course of three years, I pushed and encouraged his ambition, but also brought him back down to Earth when I felt his head was getting too big. He was not just my mentee; he was my little brother. He would often talk about the future; he couldn’t wait to be successful, often saying to me, “Watch! I’m going to grow up and be like the guys you and your friends date.” I would smirk and reply, “Gotta get your weight up, youngin’.”

My humbling comments never deterred Julian; they made him strive for more. When Morgan State crowned him Mr. Morgan, he was determined to make an impression during his tenure. Bursting with ideas, he would sound them off to me on the phone to get my opinion and approval. He always wanted to check with me because he had so much respect for me, and vice versa. I always knew he was a star and that he would go far. He just needed a little guidance. His supercilious behavior was often deceiving to most, but underneath the façade was a young person hungry for direction.

Being Mr. Morgan was important to him, and he wanted to continue to build on that platform by creating his own lane to succeed. Thus, he created his “Where is Julian?” campaign to get the ball rolling. No one was going to hand him his stardom, so he was determined to pave his own way. Piggybacking on the momentum of his popularity, he began to put in the work. Part of me chastised him for not staying in New York to work with the NBA, but also I understood that Julian was a natural born leader. He wanted to make his own rules on his quest for fame and fortune.

Over the last few days, I’ve struggled to make sense of his untimely death, but I also know Julian wouldn’t want us to be sullen. He was a GOOD kid; quick to crack a joke and make you laugh, because he never took the hardships of life too seriously. He saw the positive of every situation. His death is still somewhat surreal to me, but my heart goes out to both families who lost their children. I’m sure Zoey Crumpton (18) was a smart young girl with her future ahead of her, and my Julian was one of the sweetest guys I knew. However, we never know what God’s plans are for our friends or us. Both students touched the lives of their friends and families, and that can never be taken away. It was an unfortunate, unforeseen accident. All that is left to do is honor both children with the good memories they bestowed on our lives. Celebrate them, because both are in heaven, looking down, with their hearts glowing for us.

Below is a link to the “WHERE IS JULIAN?” vlogs. A natural talent.

http://vimeo.com/28484200

I have to admit I am a product junkie. I have drawers full of perfumes, lotions, products that I really need to get rid of. What can I say, I like my options. Anyhow, the fall season is here and I have been in the stores trying on and collecting samples of  some of the new “stuff” out there. My friends and I share our secrets, so here are a list of my favorite products for Fall 2011!

Chanel Eye Lift Cream

Price: $100

Found at: Nordstrom, Saks, Neimans, etc.

Yesterday I fell in love with Chanel’s National Make-up Director, John Fussell. I spent a day learning Chanel tricks and about their wonderful products; one being this eye lift cream. Overnight I saw the difference. Place it on your cheekbone, right underneath your eye,  and see the difference. When you are over 30, and that means men and women, you need to take care of your eyes. We both get those horrible bags and circles. So men do not be afraid to purchase eye cream,  it shows your age big time when you don’t!

Another Chanel tip for my ladies:

Mr. Fussell gave me a tip about choosing a blush. “The best blushes for your skin matches your fingertips.” Who knew!!

Clarisonic Cleaning System (The Mia)

Price: $119

Found: Nordstrom, Sephora, etc.

One of my good friends put me up on this product. It has worked wonders for her skin, since she and I both have gotten spurts of adult acne,  so I’m purchasing mine next week. It deep cleans your pores and it’s like you’re getting a facial everyday. The price was originally $149 but it has dropped to $119. They have even come out with a gray version for men.

M.A.C Holiday Brush Set 2011 (Mineralize set)

Price: $49.50

Found: M.A.C store, Nordstrom, Saks, Neiman, etc.

Everyone knows the highlight of the holiday season is the MAC Holiday brush sets!!!! They will be available Oct. 27th and I have already pre-ordered mine because this season they are giving away a Mineralized Brush Set, which will be one of the three sets. The perk of mineralized brushes is that it gives you an airbrush look like the celebrities you see. One rep told me she has been with MAC for 11 years and this is the best brush set  of  all seasons.

Body by Burberry

Price: $55-$95

Found: Sephora and Nordstrom

My nose is super sensitive to perfumes. It has to be the right scent or I feel nauseous. Body, however, does the trick. It has hints of peach, sandalwood, rose, and vanilla. This delicious combination has Body flying off the shelves this Fall.

Prada Amber Pour Homme Intense

Price: $75

Found: Sephora, Saks, Bloomingdales, etc.

I am as sensitive on women’s perfumes as I am on men’s colognes. I can tolerate only a few. The last cologne I’ve loved was YSL’S Nuit De L’homme but Prada’s new fall cologne is a close second. Great to snuggle up to!

For the record, All Saints is officially my favorite store for men. The pieces, the style,  and the cut are flattering for a man’s physique. So my selections for my favorite fall pieces may be a little bias, but at least you will be fly. This season it is all about plaid, cord, and hiking boots. From every price range, men can look slick.

PLAIDS, SCARVES, CORDS, BOOTS…….

Phobia Leather Jacket

Found at www.us.allsaints.com for $649

Burberry Crinkled Scarf, Fig

Found at www.neimanmarcus.com for $325

LIC Graphic Tee

Found at www.target.com for $12.99

Salvatore Ferragamo Baires Back pack

Found at www.saksfifthavenue.com for $1700

Prada Nappa Sneaker

Found at www.neimanmarcus.com for $295

Ernst Cardigan

Found at www.us.allsaints.com for $150

Corduane Shortkick

Found at www.us.allsaints.com for $120.00 (various colors)

Hunter Boot Bomino Combat Boot

Found at www.neimanmarcus.com for $150.00

Plaid Shirt

Found at www.gap.com for $49

John Varvatos Barrett Lace up

Found at www.neimanmarcus.com for $275

Armitron Multi-Dial Croc Strap Watch

Found at www.target.com for $54.99

Dodgem Leather Jacket

Found at www.us.allsaints.com for $695

Merona Woven Plaid Scarf

Found at www.target.com for $24.99

Tod's Norvegese Sport

Found at www.saksfifthavenue.com for $465

Gucci Black Plus Backpack

Found at www.saksfifthavenue.com for $950

This Fall has some of the most gorgeous pieces this season. Whether it be the colors or the styles, it has definitely taken on a elegant but chic palette. 70′s chic has exploded! Even though I am not a fan of the flare pant for my physique, I do like a wide bell. Jeweled toned tops, hint of leopard print, wedge boots, capes, leather and fur tickle my fancy. Below are a few of my favorites for women from all price ranges. Men faves sure will follow….

JEWELED TONES, COLOR BLOCKING, CAPES, 70′s, LEATHER….

Missoni Scarf

Found at www.neimanmarcus.com for $200

Raoul Graphic Combo Skirt w/leather trim

Found at www.shopbop.com for $295

Burgundy Snood

Found at www.topshop.com for $40

Christian Louboutin Miss Clichy Suede Pump

Found on www.neimanmarcus.com for $895

H&M Bow Blouse

Found at www.hm.com for $9.95

BCBG color block skirt

Found on www.bcbg.com for $148

Salvatore Ferragamo Vara Chic Color Block bag

Found at www.neimanmarcus.com for $595

Floppy Bow Fedora

Found at www.topshop.com for $50

Bow Tie Trilby

Found at www.usa.frenchconnection.com for $78

Stamped Check Cloche

Found at www.anthropologie.com for $58

Merona Tonal Alligator Scarf

Found at www.Target.com for $14.99

The London Coat

Found at www.usa.frenchconnection.com for $198

Alice and Olivia Java Suede Wedge

Found at www.saksfifthavenue.com for $395

Bella Storm Coat

Found at www.usa.frenchconnection.com for $388

Fendi Jaguar Print Canvas Tote

Found at www.neimanmarcus.com for $495

This and That Cape

Found at www.anthropologie.com for $278

Long leather gloves

Found at www.zara.com for $69.90

BB Dakota Hadley Pants

Found at www.dakotacollective.com for $90

Faux Leather Pleated Skirt

Found at www.bcbg.com for $278

Pasco Shearling Jacket

Found at www.us.allsaints.com for $1450

FELA KUTI

I feel so late writing this piece, but it took me a year to see the Broadway musical FELA!  Having been a fan of Fela Kuti’s music for some time now, the Broadway adaptation only enhanced my love and admiration for the passion, the courage, and vision of this musician and revolutionary. From beginning to end, it captivated me. I left DC’s Shakespeare Theatre inspired. One man, through his music, made a change. He wasn’t perfect. He loved his sex, marijuana, and lawlessness; but he cared about his land and his people. Through this musical, I learned things about Fela Kuti that I never knew before. His strength and his persistence; his raw energy and showmanship moved a nation to revolution, and made the world take notice.

Prior to Fela’s life and music becoming an artistic phenomenon in the big apple, I had stumbled across his music. I think an old friend of mine, world-renowned chef Marcus Samuelson, mentioned him to me one day over dinner. I eagerly went to find his music at the Tower Records on Broad Street, in Philly. I was anxious for something new and his music, The Best of Fela Kuti, quenched my desire. After the first listen, I instantly fell in love with the rhythm. After playing the CD over and over, I did a Google search and discovered “the man.” His life was a motion picture. So when I heard that Jay-z and the Smiths signed on to co-produce the stage play, I was elated. Their fame would help shine light on a man who was an influence to many of the artists we listen to today. All of Beyonce’s booty-shaking dance moves suddenly have a history and meaning, once you see Fela!

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to converse with the play’s producer, Steve Hendel, afterwards. We shared a moment about how he, too, was moved by Fela’s album, The Best of Fela Kuti, and that that CD is what inspired him to even produce the musical. I told him that seeing the performance made me understand the music more. He said that his desire to understand Fela’s words lead him to do the research, and that after reading about his life, he wanted to share Fela with the world.

I won’t give the whole play away, but there is a moment when Fela says, “The music will live forever.” Even though Fela is long gone, his music does live on, and still leaves more to be discovered. Through watching the musical, I learned about a force that educated and changed Fela’s life- an African-American woman named Sandra Smith (now Sandra Isidore). The love they shared fueled the revolution, and transformed him from a popular musician to an icon. For opening night in Washington, D.C, the real Ms. Isidore, humbly, made an appearance.

To me, life is all about exposure and experiencing new things. This play was an experience. It will be like no other play you have seen, particularly ones the Black community typically embraces. Anyhow, that is another conversation! If you are interested in seeing this play, it will be showing at the Sidney Harman Hall, located in Washington D.C, thru Oct. 9th. Click here for more info: http://www.theatreindc.com/playdetail.php?playID=479. 

Also, if you want a 20% discount on tickets, use code Feladc20.

Click here to see an original performance from the real Fela Kuti in 1971. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-SQH94Pifc